The next day, Zayn and Liam kept their suspicions about Phoenix to themselves, even though Eirene knew there was something unusual.
Phoenix Flame didn't exist.
"Are you meeting your dad's pack today?" Zayn asked his mate as they sat together on the couch.
Liam shrugged, hugging a cushion to his chest.
"I don't want to."
"I understand," Zayn smiled, but he didn't.
His mate's anxiety and panic is something he has never had to deal with before. Well, not as intensely as Liam. Though his mind is open in regards to mental health and being with Liam has made him more aware and able to help. He knows what not to say and what not to do.
Today, Liam woke up in a dark part of his mind.
He felt empty and sad for no reason, but he is used to these days, the days where he feels emotionless,.pointless to the universe, and lacks any form of motivation. Even though his mind sank into a black hole, he has Zayn, someone other than his family who cares about his well-being.
"Wanna go for a walk?" Zayn asked.
Liam shook his head.
"We could crawl into bed and watch a film?"
The God shook his head once more.
"We can make a picnic and have it in the garden, eating until our heart's content?"
Liam smiled, and Zayn knew he forced himself to show it.
"Or..." he continued, "we could sit right here."
"I get that you're trying to help, but I'm just not in the right frame of mind," Liam sighed, fidgeting with his sleeve.
"I know," Zayn said and stood up. "Maybe myself and Louis should go and trace Phoenix. Spend time with Haz, he can keep you company." He leaned down to kiss his mate's lips but Liam moved his head, and Zayn kissed his cheek instead.
"Hey," he cupped his chin. "If you need me at all, just tell me, and I will come straight home, okay?"
Liam nodded, knowing heat was hurting him, but he was in no mood to cope with the affection.
"I'll see you soon." Zayn then left to fetch Harry but found Louis when he reached the kitchen. "Oi."
The Beta wolf bounced over with a respectful grin.
"Oi Oi."
"Where's Green eyes?"
"College."
"Oh," Zayn said tapping his chin. "When will he be back?"
"I don't know," Louis shrugged.
"I should talk to Vincent about Li," Zayn said, running a hand down his face as if to clear his thoughts. "We're going to find out where Phoenix is staying, and who he has been staying with."
"Who's we?"
"Me and you, idiot."
"Right," Louis chuckled. "Okay, but Vincent already spoke to me about Phoenix. His Beta wolf followed him home last night."
"Really?" Zayn didn't look happy.
"Yeah, he's on the field, discussing it with his pack."
Zayn grabbed Louis's shoulder and shoved him towards the garden.
"Why didn't you come straight to me?" Louis hurried in front, not wanting to get a slap on the back of his head.
The boys jumped over the garden fence and almost landed in the middle of Vincent's pack who sat with Eirene and Ares.
