The Golden Prodigies

Chapter 21

The next day, Hunter and Jacota kept their suspicions about Phoenix to themselves, even though Margo knew there was something unusual. Phoenix Flame didn't exist.

"Are you meeting your dad's pack today?" Hunter asked his mate as they sat together on the couch.

Jacota shrugged, hugging a cushion to his chest.

"I don't want to."

"I understand," Hunter 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 Jacota. Though his mind is open in regards to mental health and being with Jacota has made him more aware and able to help. He knows what not to say and what not to do.

Today, Jacota 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 Hunter, someone other than his family who cares about his well-being.

"Wanna go for a walk?" Hunter asked.

Jacota 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?"

Jacota smiled, and Hunter 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," Jacota sighed, fidgeting with his sleeve.

"I know," Hunter said and stood up. "Maybe myself and Sam should go and trace Phoenix. Spend time with William, he can keep you company." He leaned down to kiss his mate's lips but Jacota moved his head, and Hunter 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?"

Jacota nodded, knowing heat was hurting him, but he was in no mood to cope with the affection.

"I'll see you soon." Hunter then left to fetch William but found Sam when he reached the kitchen. "Oi."

The Beta wolf bounced over with a respectful grin. "Yes, Alpha."

"Where's William?"

"College."

"Oh," Hunter said tapping his chin. "When will he be back?"

"I don't know," Sam shrugged.

"I should talk to Scott about Jay," Hunter 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," Sam chuckled. "Okay, but Scott already spoke to me about Phoenix. His Beta wolf followed him home last night."

"Really?" Hunter didn't look happy.

"Yeah, he's on the field, discussing it with his pack."

Hunter grabbed Sam's shoulder and shoved him towards the garden.

"Why didn't you come straight to me?"

Sam 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 Scott's pack who sat with Margo and Anthony.

"Before you say anything," Hunter said, sitting in between his parents. "Phoenix is now a member of my pack. You shouldn't do things which involves him behind my back."