Taking after my father

Chapter 12: The Unexpected Visitors

The days following the destruction of the artifact were filled with a sense of relief and cautious optimism. We had averted a major crisis, but the tension between the packs remained. We knew that the Bluestone Pack and Sarah's family would not give up easily.

One morning, as we were preparing for a meeting with the Shadowclaw Pack, a group of unfamiliar werewolves arrived at our territory. Their presence was imposing, and I immediately sensed that they were not here for a friendly visit.

My father and I stepped forward to greet them, our pack standing close behind us. The leader of the group, a tall man with silver hair and piercing blue eyes, stepped forward.

"Greetings, Trey," he said, his voice smooth and authoritative. "I am Marcus, head of the Blade family."

My father nodded, his expression guarded. "Marcus. What brings you here?"

"We've come to discuss recent events," Marcus replied, his gaze shifting to me. "And to meet Nakita."

I felt a chill run down my spine. "What do you want with me?"

Marcus smiled, but it didn't reach his eyes. "We want to ensure that there are no misunderstandings between our families. We had no intention of causing harm."

I exchanged a glance with my father, sensing his unease. "Your actions say otherwise," I said, my voice steady. "You manipulated Cain and Ryder, and nearly caused a catastrophe."

Marcus's expression hardened. "We did what we thought was necessary to protect our family. But we are willing to put the past behind us and move forward."

I felt a surge of anger. "You can't just sweep this under the rug. Your actions have consequences."

Before Marcus could respond, Lucian stepped forward, his presence commanding. "If you're here to make amends, then prove it. Show us that you mean no harm."

Marcus nodded slowly. "Very well. We are prepared to discuss terms."

As the meeting continued, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. Marcus and his entourage were too smooth, too rehearsed. I kept my guard up, watching their every move.

After the meeting, Marcus approached me. "Nakita, may I speak with you privately?"

I hesitated, but nodded. "Alright."

We walked a short distance away from the others, and Marcus's demeanor shifted. "You are a strong leader, Nakita. Your pack is lucky to have you."

"Thank you," I said cautiously. "But flattery won't change what you've done."

Marcus's smile faded. "I understand your anger. But we truly want to make things right."

Before I could respond, I felt a sharp pain in my neck. My vision blurred, and I realized too late that I had been injected with something. I tried to call out, but my voice failed me.

Marcus caught me as I fell, his expression cold and calculating. "I'm sorry, Nakita. But this is necessary."

When I regained consciousness, I found myself in a dimly lit room. My hands were bound, and I could feel the cold metal of restraints around my wrists. Panic surged through me as I struggled to free myself.

The door creaked open, and Marcus entered, followed by a few of his men. "You're awake," he said, his tone almost casual.

"Why are you doing this?" I demanded, my voice hoarse.

"We need leverage," Marcus replied. "Your father and Lucian are powerful, but they will listen if we have you."

I felt a surge of anger and fear. "You won't get away with this."