Unexpected

PROMISE

It's only been a few days since my pack, and I killed Ricco along with his men. I'm prepared for any retaliation from his allies or family members.

For now, it's business as usual. I'm not worried at all.

Today is our annual Phoenix Wolf Pack appreciation day. This is a way I show gratitude to my pack for their unwavering support and loyalty to their alpha.

It was a big catered dinner in our hall with a DJ and an open bar. The pack gets to dress in their best attire, eat, drink, and dance the night away.

I know my pack looks forward to this every year, and so do I.

"Baby, this is amazing," Nova said after tasting the sirloin on her plate.

"Yeah?" A smile was on my face.

She gave me a nod with a mouth full of food. I enjoyed watching her.

Nova has been the best thing that's ever happened to me. If I didn't have her as a mate, this alpha shit would suck. She keeps me focused, motivated, and optimistic about life.

I hope I do the same for her.

After we finished eating, Nova and I roamed the room. Many of the pack members weren't properly introduced to her, so I made my rounds.

"Ah, so this is the lovely mate of Alpha Knox."

Tony was an older pack member and used to be 2nd rank back in his day. He had a thing for young women...he didn't hide it either.

"Nova, this is Tony. He was Beta when the pack was first put together."

"Oh, cool. Nice to meet you, Mr. Tony."

Nova put out her hand for a shake, and he kissed the back.

"Call me Tony. It's really a pleasure to meet you."

I was used to him being extra, but the fact that he couldn't care less that she was my mate made me feel highly disrespected.

Damn, I already got a bunch of bodies for the month.

Noah, please don't.

Nova grabbed my hand and squeezed it. She's probably seen enough violence to last a lifetime.

"Tony, let me talk to you over here."

I wanted to move the destruction away from her.

"For what?"

"To catch up on some things."

"Okay, but can't we do this another time. I'm enjoying my little conversation with Nova."

I was about to put my fist through his face.

"Aye, Tony... we need to talk. Right now."

My father interrupted at the right moment. I'm sure he senses my body language, and he knows his son very well.

"Je vais m'occuper de lui," (I'll take care of him)

My father said to me, and I gave him a nod.

"Well, aren't I popular." Tony smirked.

"You're about to be dead, too. Let's go."

My father pushed him toward the opposite direction. I knew Tony wouldn't give him any problems. Yes, my pop is about that life.

"Merci, père." (Thank you, father.)

"I wish I knew how to speak another language." Nova wrapped her arms around mine as they walked away.