Mated

AUTHOR'S NOTE:

This is a work of fiction. All characters and places are of my own creation. All characters are over 18 years of age. Copyright 2022. This story contains Supernatural/fantasy elements: Werewolves and other Werebeings. This story contains homosexual activity/themes between males. If this offends you, please do not read. If it is ILLEGAL where you are, please do not read.

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Thanks to everyone who have read the previous chapters.

Mated Chapter 16- Post Reunion by mjwolfwriter@gmail.com

October 13, Sunday -- After lunch

Dylan had been pacing several feet in front of that Mundane, Billy, for the last several minutes, seething. His mind was racing. He scented the fear off of the man easily. His hands were fists jammed into his pants pockets by necessity as he crossed slowly back and forth, glaring at the man the whole time. He wanted to cause so much damage. Only two thoughts were stopping him: Foremost, Zack would not be happy with him; and secondly, this guy was not the mastermind of what happened to his mate. A foolish participant for sure, but he didn't instigate it. Coming to a halt a couple of feet directly in front of Billy, he leaned down so that his face was close. His eyes would certainly have red in them. There was a distinct gravely growl to his voice as he said "I have not handcuffed you as a courtesy. I'm going to step away for a moment, but I will be back. If you try to leave, fuck, if you even get up...there will never be anything to find. Do you understand me?"

The young man paled even more than he had already and the scent of full terror rolled from him. The man's bladder emptied. Dylan snarled "Son of a bitch," and stalked off. His mate was in the house. He didn't buy that he was just thirsty. He couldn't pin down what was up, but Zack obviously wanted to be alone for now. It hurt and confused him, his Alpha brain. If his mate needed the space though, he wouldn't interfere. Ben though, he could use his company before he lost control while continuing with the Mundane. Because everything in him roared to bite and rip and tear the man to bloody shreds with teeth and claws. And his mate would hate him for it. How his mate could not want the Mundane dead eluded him at the moment. Definitely needed Ben.

Dylan tracked his friend to the kitchen. Another pinprick of hurt stabbed him. A tiny sliver of his mind thought that his mate could be in the kitchen...water or some other drink, right? Benjamin was mixing sugar and half and half into a mug of coffee. "Benjamin." He managed a calm voice.

Ben smiled. "All done interrogating that guy?" He set the spoon down on the saucer on the counter and took a sip of his coffee and nodded.

"I could use your help, if you don't mind."

Benjamin looked puzzled. "Oh? Is he not forthcoming with information?"

"Oh, he's talking well enough. I just want to hear it all again. And I'm concerned that I'll tear him apart if I'm with him by myself one more moment. Since Zack promised the guy that I wouldn't kill him..."

"You want someone else to do it?"

"No!." Dylan took a breath to try and calm himself and spoke again. "I'd like you to help make sure that my mate's promise to make sure the man lives is kept. Please?"

"Not to inflate that Alpha ego or anything, but just how do you think I can stop you?"

Dylan snorted. "By getting him away, of course."

"Flawed logic, but I"ll play along."

"Fine. We'll get to it in a few. I need to see Ethan off first."

Ben arched a brow. "Really," with a questioning tone as if he wasn't sure if bullshit or not.

Dylan just growled softly in frustration. "Yes. Civility to contacts matter, you know." He growled again at the light chuckle he received from that statement. "Asshole. You are entirely too smug," he said without heat.

As Dylan exited the front of the house he saw Ethan near one of the catering vans. He waved as he walked over. "Ethan, thanks again for an excellent job." Dylan hoped his face matched his words.

The Bear smiled. "Now Dylan, ya know ahh appreciate all yer business. An twas a special treat meetin' yer mate. Feisty lil thang ya got there." His laugh was full and his amusement reached his eyes.

"He means the world," Dylan replied, his expression showing the sentiment.

"Course he does, he's yer mate," rumbled the Bear.

"I'm, uh, still trying to figure all that out," Dylan said, hesitantly. "I never really thought..." He trailed off, a hand rubbing at the back of his neck. Maybe he shouldn't say anything to Ethan about this. The man is a vendor he uses frequently, he probably shouldn't know that Dylan had never actually believed in mates until now. Not the way others do. He had always seen it as people found someone they wanted and just committed to be with them, nothing life changing. But how wrong he was...

"Never thawt wut?" Ethan had a curious look on his face.

"Uh, nothing...never mind." Dylan couldn't seem to meet the Bear's eyes right now, casting his gaze just beyond him. "Oh...sorry if Zack caused any, uh, annoyance? I've never seen him get in anyone's face like that. He's usually so friendly."

Ethan chuckled and gestured as if to wave the comment away. "Awww, taint nuthin'. Ah'd be a might concerned if he hadn't."

"What do you mean?"

"Well, ah mean...must be purty new, yer bond?"

"Not that new.." Dylan suddenly felt super defensive of Zack. "We've been seeing each other for awhile now."

The Bear sighed softly. "Ah don't mean yer relationship, ah mean yer Matebond."

"I'm, uh, not comfortable discussing this right now..."

Ethan chuckled lightly, winking. "Nawt a problem. Ah'm shore yew'll sort it out."

"I'm sure Zack will have something to say about it in any case," murmured Dylan.

"Mates usually dew," Ethan nodded.

The ancient Sage's mind cleared as he settled into a meditative trance after several minutes. The only concession he had made to the modern world in this space was the CD playing calming music to aid his mental state.

As he has done almost daily for centuries, he sits unclothed on a woven hemp mat in the lotus position. The meditation chamber is uncluttered, having only the mat, several candles, an alter and a small CD player with a handful of discs. The alter has some crystals, some small candles, matches and an essential oils infuser. Lavender fills the room with it's calming scent from the infuser.

Visions flash into his mind after a time: A young auburn Wolf filled with pain and fear and despair being terrorized by a dark Wolf monster. A big, dark Wolf warrior in turmoil, full of pain and rage. An army of mixed warriors...Wolves, Tigers, Bears mostly, assembled near an ocean that looked familiar. Like most of his visions, he knew that whoever these people were, he was supposed to find them for something. The Great Spirit was not usually forceful in directing him. It was a dire thing when it happened. No, this was just a call for his service. He would give it a little more time. The vision didn't seem particularly urgent. Sometimes further visions occurred that helped clarify a direction. Meanwhile, his mind set to the task of sorting and interpreting what he saw. What he was sure of was that the Wolves were local.

After lunch, in the midst of answering some emails, the sage had another vision. It was just a quick flash. Red furred Wolves beside a great river. The young one from before, a slightly older one, and an older one still, lighter in red coloring. He now recognized them. He has had visions of them before. Especially the oldest one. He has met him before, many times. The context of the water confirmed their identity. It also set in his mind that the youngest Wolf was one of the ones from his previous visions that he needed to contact. And the oldest, since he knew the man was a pack Alpha. Actually, the Alpha first, since he would know where the youngest was to be found.

Having had multiple visions in the same day about the same Wolf, he decided that maybe he should start looking into things today. He closed his email and reached for his cellphone. He opened the phone book and scrolled to the correct contact.

Lunch was winding down and Cassius was sipping an espresso, chatting with his mate and daughter-in-law when his cellphone trilled. Like always during meals, it sat face down on the table. As much as he had hoped for an uninterrupted lunch hour, Alphas had to be available at any time. There were certain exceptions, but today did not have one of them.

He picked up the device and looked at the Caller ID:RHEYNOR. Arching a brow Cassius held up a finger to pause the conversation and answered "Cassius." He listened for several seconds and responded "I am well and yourself?" More seconds passed and he furrowed his brow. "Is this an urgent matter," he asked.

Cassius listened to the sage for another moment then replied "How about Bitter Bean?" More listening, followed by "Within the hour, then." Disconnecting the call, he looked up to see his mate and his daughter-in-law watching him with their heads cocked to the side slightly. Unsure if they had followed the accepted etiquette and tuned out his conversation he raised an eyebrow and asked "Did you hear?" There was no heat to it, just wanting to know how to form his next words.

"Only your side, dear," said his mate. His daughter-in-law nodded "What she said."

"Alright," Cassius replied, "well...it seems Rheynor has had some visions and he feels that he needs to speak with me about them."

Constance looked thoughtful before asking "Does he think there's something with the pack?"

Cassius huffed. "Blasted sage was as vague as ever."

His mate smiled and laughed softly. "I think it's all a ploy to ensure your presence for his words."

He scowled at her statement. "I am always there when he needs something from me."

She looked at him fondly. "My love, you may always be there, but you are not always present."

Furrowing his brow he asked "And just what is that supposed to mean," sounding annoyed.

She smiled again and informed her mate "Just that my Alpha frequently has much on his mind and may, at times, not have his full attention on someone he's with in the moment."

Cassius grumbled "I'd like to see you try and focus with a whole pack to be thinking about all of the time."

He realized his error immediately when he heard a low growl and saw his mate's eyes narrow. His eyes popped wide and he pointed at her. "You...you know what I mean."

Constance crossed her arms over her chest and arched a brow sharply. "Of course...because only Alpha Cassius knows how to lead a pack.?" Her voice pitched up just a bit at the end.

"No, of course not." He sighed and bent his head a moment. Looking back up at his mate he said "I'm sorry dear, that wasn't what I was trying to say. I know my lovely mate is very capable herself. That man just...frustrates me sometimes." He clenched his fists in clear aggravation.

Constance winked and nodded. "Okay then," she replied, sounding satisfied. "I guess you should be on your way. It won't do to keep the sage waiting."

The Bitter Bean was perhaps half full when Cassius entered. He looked around the establishment, noting details as any Alpha would, before progressing further inside. The rich, dark textures of the place were still aesthetically appealing. And the aroma of the coffee, roasting and brewing, filled the air in a most comforting manner. A more focused scenting brought the rare one he expected to find coming from the upper area of the cafe.

Purchasing and receiving two coffee beverages, he made his way to the loft section. It took under 30 seconds to locate and join the sage in a far corner. The sage was sitting on the floor cross legged in front of what looked to be a comfortable easy chair. The coffee table had been pushed forward to make more room to sit. What does that blasted man have against chairs, Cassius huffed to himself. Not seeing any beverages on the table, he figured the sage either just recently arrived or was waiting for him before getting any. He wasn't sure if he should be irritated at the man because of his drink purchase. I'm definitely over thinking this.

"Rheynor," Cassius greeted, extending the hot beverage seconds before noticing that the sage's eyes were closed. He huffed again. Spirit! Why did this man vex him so?

Rheynor's eyes slid open slowly and he exhaled, a small smile forming on his lips. "Alpha Cassius," he said softly with a nod of greeting. "Always so good to see you. I take it that that chai spiced coffee is for me," he said with a perked brow. It sounded somewhere between a question and a statement. He reached a hand up to accept the offered drink. Taking a sip, he hummed in what sounded like approval. "Very tasty, thank you Cassius."

"Consider it a gift, nothing binding," Cassius enunciated clearly. Those in the Supernatural community had to be careful of perceived favors or bindings.

"Really Cassius," Rheynor sighed. "After all the years, can one not just share beverages as friends?"

"Surely you know the importance of proper etiquette?"

Rheynor made a chuffing noise. "There's etiquette and there's having a stick so far up..."

"Fine. Enjoy the drink as my friend. Then perhaps we can get on to why you needed to see me?"

"Are you well, Cassius? You seem very unlike your usual self."

"I'm fine."

The sage's gaze lingered over Cassius for a couple of moments and he hummed softly. "Your words say one thing, but your energy tells me other. Tell me, what troubles you Alpha?"

Cassius growled and clenched his fists. "You have no right to read me like that!"

Rheynor 'tsked' the Wolf. "I am one of the very few who do. Now drop your Alpha pride and tell me what troubles you. I have the sense my visions may be connected to it.

Falling into a close chair, Cassius let out a deep sigh. "Recently my ba...baby boy, Zackary, went missing for several days. His new mate, an Alpha, informed us. He was quite upset, as you would expect. I had the sense something was terribly wrong. Zackary is not the type to just disappear in such a fashion. He has recently returned, but I have not seen him or had any sort of explanation. He also has recently left the Pack and I don't know what to do. I know another Alpha is responsible for him now, but he's still my boy and I feel almost useless."

Rheynor reached over and grabbed one of Cassius' hands. "My dear Cassius," he sighed, "You Alphas are sometimes so...locked into what you think an Alpha has to act like or even feel. However, I have rarely met a single one who did not profess similar insecurities in private. And so you should. It is natural. Yes an Alpha must be strong to guide their Packs forward, but at the end of the day an Alpha is still a Wolf. It is the wise Wolf that listens to their heart and soul and knows their place in the world. Even for an Alpha, that sometimes means asking for help or just for someone to listen who is not attached to their Pack. Mates and Betas are great resources of support, but they are still sometimes too close for what an Alpha may really need."

Cassius furrowed his brows. "What does that have to do with my concerns?"

"That perhaps this problem is not yours to solve. As for your son, you say he is returned, yet not come to you. I would imagine that what he needs most now is his Alpha mate. When he is ready I am certain he will want to see his father. If the seriousness of my visions are accurate, he has gone through a trauma that his mate will be best suited to confront. As I indicated on the phone, it is regarding your son and I believe his mate that I needed to contact you. For whatever reason, I must see him and I was hoping that perhaps his father could direct me where he may be."

"I do have his address, but I felt that since he has made no indication he wished to see me that I should not go to him. If he were still Pack I would have no such concern, I would simply go to see him. I am finding it to be particularly difficult to be a father and Alpha in this situation."

"I understand that. If you could give me that address, I will take responsibility for contact."

"I suspect his mate will not be terribly happy at any intrusions."

Rheynor chuckled. "My friend, I have yet to be overly concerned at any Alpha Wolf's rages or threats to my being. All will be well, I assure you."

"I'll remind you of your words when you've been punched in the face by a pissed off Wolf."

"If I am ever punched in the face by a pissed off Wolf it will be because I let it happen. Though I do expect some growls, I'm sure."

"You have an answer for everything, don't you?"

The laugh was a deep rumbling thing. "I've certainly been around long enough to have seen just about everything. Now, address, please."

"Look at me...sitting in a bathroom staring at my phone." My mate's upset at me and all I want is my mom and dad right now. Not very adult. I'm probably overthinking everything. Certainly by Wolf standards I am still quite young, I know that. Mundane's are adult at this age, but we Wolves live so much longer that the scale really doesn't match up. I know I'm not a child, so why do I feel like it now? Probably because of what Christoper...

I shake my head to try and clear those thoughts away, at least for the moment. I sigh and grip my phone tighter as I search for mom's contact. I jab the CALL symbol, holding my breath as it rings. After just a few rings it picks up. I don't even recognize myself with the low whimpering sound I make when I say "Mommy."

"*Zack...what's wrong son?"

"Can I see you and dad, please?"

"Son, you know you never need permission to visit your family. Where and when would you like to meet?"

I think about going to a cafe in town, but I'm sure that would upset Dylan even more than he already is. "I...I can't leave the property just now..."

"Why? Is your mate...treating you poorly?" Zack thought he heard a gasp from his mother.

"N...no, nothing like that. It would just be better if I didn't go off of the property right now. He's still...growly, right now. Can you come out here?"

"Your father is out right now, but I will message him immediately."

"Thanks mom. See you soon?"

"Of curse son. Spirit forbid something gets in your father's way. We will see you soon."

Ending the call, I feel better that mom and dad are coming. I just hope I haven't done something to make Dylan even more upset at me. Deep down, I really don't think my mate is too angry with me. But I'm too afraid to bother him right now, what with the Mundane and all. I really hope he won't hurt the guy. They say stupid should be painful, but I really can't fault someone for all of their mistakes under the influence of love. Especially in his case when it's obvious it was so one sided.

Gathering my courage, I slip out of the bathroom and head as quietly as I can to the kitchen. As I get close I can scent Benjamin clearly, with fainter traces of my mate. It feels stupid moving so cautiously in my own home, but I'm really not ready to confront Dylan just now.

I step into the kitchen and see Benjamin leaning against a counter with a mug in hand, sipping coffee. He looks over at me and grins. "He's out front seeing off the caterer."

Nodding I say "Oh, okay. Thanks," as I walk to the fridge and open it. Yes, I think as I see the Night Wolf on a shelf. Taking a bottle I twist the cap off and take a long drink. Sooo good. "How, umm...how is he?"

Benjamin's brow arches. "You'll have to clarify that just a little, Red," he chuckles.

"Dylan, of course."

"Ah, yes. Well, I suppose 'murderous' would be an apt description. Your mate is not a happy Alpha right now.

I can't help the wince at those words. "Do...do you think he'll be angry at me for long? He hasn't seemed to be before, but you have known him so much longer." I take another good drink of ale.

Benjamin looks puzzled. "Why would you think he's angry at you? He has you home again. I'm sure the last thing he'd be is angry at you."

"I think I made him mad when he was with Billy. Maybe made him look like a bad Alpha. Or a weak one."

"Zack, no sane person who has ever met Dylan would associate bad or weak Alpha with him. I'd say it's the lack of understanding everything that's happened that has him upset. Alphas like to think they are always in control, even if sometimes they aren't. It's a fact that we Wolves like to think that our Alphas always have everything together, but the real truth is that even Alphas have moments that they can't control. It's just the way it is. He loves you, have no doubt of that. He's just in unfamiliar territory right now and trying to make sense of it. He is much better now that you're home."

"Are you sure..."

"I am. Though that Mundane is definitely on his shit list. He says you promised the guy safety? Why would you do that?"

"Yes. Billy explained everything to me that he knew, at least from his perspective. I have my reasons for being forgiving with him. By time it's all said and done he will have a major life lesson and will hopefully never repeat this mistake in judgment. He should definitely not die or be permanently maimed for it."

"I don't think any Alpha would see it that way."

"They don't have all of the facts. Not even Dylan knows everything yet."

"Are you saying that the Mundane hasn't told the truth?"

"No, I'm saying I told him not to tell some things to my mate. Not lie, just be a little vague in areas. Or to ask me about it. And I'm sure Dylan could tell that the guy was not being one hundred percent with him. That's my fault." I gulp down the last of the ale and set the bottle down. "You guys are in security, right?" A idea has formed.

"Yeeees," Benjamin drew the word out, "Why?" His brow arched up.

"I have a huge favor to ask. Maybe too big, but I hope not."

"What is it?"

"Get him away from here."

"You really think Dylan is going to leave here for anything? You're crazy if you do."

"No, not Dylan, the Mundane. Away from Dylan and somewhere safe. And maybe watched until I say it's okay. I know it will cost, so I'll try and cover it."

"Zack, if that guy goes missing Dylan will definitely be pissed. Can you say Manhunt? Because that's what will happen."

"I would rather he be upset with me than kill that guy, Ben. Billy doesn't deserve that. Can you help me? I know two Alphas that will certainly want to harm him once I tell the whole story. I can't allow that."

"I'm sure it's more people than two Alphas, Zack. Lots more. Some Betas, too. I obviously don't know everything and I want to rough him up."

"Then consider me a client and he's the job. Will that work?"

"You realize this may strain friendships if I agree?"

"I won't let Dylan ruin your friendship Ben. I know he may get upset, but when he knows I asked I don't think he will be so for long. So is it a yes?"

Benjamin sighed. "You have a deal, Zack. Though it is going to take some maneuvering to get the guy away before Dylan finds out."

"Yeah. I'll send him on an errand real quick to give you time to get Billy away."

Benjamin shook his head. "The shit I do for friends."

I run over and hug Benjamin. "Thanks Ben, so much. It will all work out, you'll see." I got a grunt in reply.

My phone chirped a message alert. I want to ignore it and get Ben and go at that Mundane again. I have a feeling that I'm missing something, but not sure which button to push to make the man spill what I need to hear. Instead, I take my cell out and check the message. It's from my mate. Why didn't he just come find me?

[ZACK] Hey babe...I have a serious craving...

Quickly I tap out "Are you still hungry?"

A few seconds later a reply came:

[ZACK] Could really do with a big coconut latte and piece of blackberry pie (heart)

I think about his request for a few seconds. "And when do you want this?"

[ZACK] Right away would be so awesome!

Okay, my mate is acting weird, but if it made him happy I will see he gets his treats. "I'll see if Benjamin can go pick them up."

[ZACK] I'm visiting with him right now, would you mind going?

[ZACK] Pleeeaaseee? (seconds later)

Growling softly I send back "Yes, mate. I will be back as soon as I can. And then maybe we can talk?"

[ZACK] (kiss)(hugging)(heart)

Continuing with that Mundane was clearly going to have to wait. At least Benjamin was here to look after my mate while I'm gone. Sending a quick text to Ben, I run to the Blue Beast and am on my way down the drive in moments, planning where I need to go to get the things Zack wanted. Maybe even a stop for some flowers...because really, my mate deserves roses. The thought brings a smile as I go.

Leaning against my motorcycle, I gaze toward the ground as I wait for mom and dad, I'm musing over the situation I've gotten myself into. I have sent my mate away from home in a plan to remove a Mundane from his presence. That's a shitty thing to do to your Alpha. And not just your Alpha, your Alpha mate. I can only hope he will understand my reasons why when it's all over and forgive me. I think he will. Eventually. It's not like I don't trust him. He usually does things I ask, and I try not to abuse that. I know he loves me like a mate should. And I'm beyond pleased that I can feel that he understands who I am to him now. It really does radiate off of him to me.

Father will probably be disappointed in me. The disrespect to my mate, let alone an Alpha. Maybe he'll understand that there are extenuating circumstances that come into play. Like being happy I am safe and home. I'm sure my parents will defer to Dylan's word over any reprimand since I'm under his rule. And truthfully, I will deserve any discipline my mate gives me. Obviously not about being kidnapped. I know I'm a handful for him. I really did mean it when I said I try to be good. Sometime the line between good and playful is awfully close though.

Benjamin was definitely not thrilled about my plan to get Billy away. But he understood my thinking (I think) to keep the man safe. I made sure to reinforce to the Mundane that he will still need to speak with Dylan more. Which is why I"m having someone watch him until then. I don't need him trying to do a freaked out runner. Benjamin was right, it would be a manhunt. Irritated Alphas and assorted other Wolves? Yeah, not good. I trust Benjamin though. He's Dylan's best friend and probably only doing it because Dylan's mate asked. I will beg my mate to understand if I have to.

My hearing perks up at the sound of a vehicle turning onto our driveway. I Listening for a few seconds,it sounds like one of mom and dad's vehicles and the timing would be right. They must be traveling with their windows down because I eventually catch their scent on the wind. The comforting scent of my parents starts to untie the knot in my guts until I catch another one that, okay, scares me right now. It isn't rational to be worried at Haley's presence. We normally get on so well. She really is like a big sister. But she's Nicodemus' mate. And I know he hates me. I don't care what mom says, he's said so. If Haley gives me her usual big sister hug, he will know she was with me. Spirit! What will he do? Yell at her, punish her? Find me? She can't hug me. Best if she didn't even come close. That's a ridiculous thought, as I know I can't really stop her.

I watch the car park and then the doors open. As my family gets out I wave and head into the house. I know they are probably wondering why I'm not meeting them at the car. It's not really rational, but I feel better in my home. I go into the kitchen and pull down mugs for coffee. And of course bring out the half and half and make sure the sugar and spoons are close. By the time I hear the family enter the house (there were gasps and a growl) I am seated at the kitchen table in a chair by a wall holding a mug of coffee. "There's coffee here in the kitchen," I call out."

Aside from their regular scents, I can smell their worry., mixed with relief. Dad was the first one into the kitchen, though I saw them all at the same time due to the floor plan of the home. I didn't expect to see dad dressed as he was though. I expected him to be all Alpha suited up for business not the at home dad in jeans and a tee shirt. Mom and Haley were similarly casual.

Dad came right to me and opened his arms wide. "Son," he said. I could hear the emotion in his voice and I'm sure I see tears forming. Standing up, I step into his embrace, which is tight and comforting. I didn't even realize I needed my dad's hug so much. Almost as much as I had needed my mate's. I felt dad's deep breath and exhale. And the obvious scenting around my neck Once he releases me, mom and Haley quickly follow doing the same.

After they all had coffee in hand and were seated around the table a few moments of quiet passed before dad started the questioning. "What happened, son? And where is your mate?"

I stared into my coffee. "I'm a terrible mate, dad."

His brow arched. "I find that hard to believe. You have always been a fine example of a Wolf."

"No, I really am a bad mate. I disrespected my mate terribly. My Alpha mate. He's not happy with me and I don't know what to do."

My mother reached over to lay a hand on mine. "What horrible sin have you committed, dear?" She was smiling softly, but I heard the slight quiver in her tone.

"You're going to be so disappointed in me. I questioned his actions in front of a Mundane he was questioning. And I contrived to move the Mundane away from him after I sent Dylan away on an errand to give someone time to take the man away. What kind of mate does that?"

Dad looked at me for a moment before saying "Son, you may not know this...but a mate is one of the very few people who can have a right to question their Alpha in some situations."

"I didn't think an Alpha was supposed to be questioned, ever," I say quietly.

Dad sighed, but it was mom who spoke next. "Zack, an Alpha never likes to have his words questioned, it's in their nature. But a good Alpha, a true one, knows when he should listen to others who may have need to question them. That is especially true of an Alpha's mate. Do you think your father never got questioned by me? Or never changed his mind after I questioned a decision?"

"I guess I just thought dad was always right because he was the Alpha."

"Oh son," dad said softly. "I wish I was unfailingly wise enough to have never made a wrong or questionable decision. But the truth is, if it hadn't been for your mother and some Betas...even Haley...I could have made some terrible choices just because I was the Alpha. Fortunately some of the worst were when I was much younger," he chuckled.

"So, you think he'll forgive me then?"

"If he's the loving mate I'm sure he is, he's just glad you're back home with him." Mother patted my hand.

"I...I don't question that he loves me. Still doesn't change the fact I upset him."

A light laugh erupted from dad. "Welcome to couples life, son. Your mother and I are deeply in love, but that doesn't mean we don't argue from time to time. And I recently stuck my giant Alpha foot in my mouth with your mother."

I don't think I had ever seen dad blush, but he certainly is. I must have had some kind of shocked expression because mother chuckled and winked at me. "As an example of Alphas sometimes saying the wrong thing, son. But your father is a good Alpha and mate, he saw his error in a timely manner." She grinned brightly.

Dad grimaced then sighed. "Son, from one man to another...don't ever infer or imply that your mother can't understand anything. It will be by the Spirit's grace I won't be sleeping on the couch."

"Oh, don't be so dramatic," mom said. "Why would I lose my Alpha cuddle pillow?"

"Well, it's good to see the old Wolf still has some value," dad smirked.

Haley cleared her throat a couple of times. "Yes, well, moving on..."

That got a laugh from both of my parents and the tension I had been feeling lessened. "So you don't think I need to worry much about Dylan?"

"No son," replied dad. "Just tell him how you feel and say sorry if it upset him. But he's probably just more upset that you were gone. We Alphas take protecting what is ours very seriously, whether it's Pack or mate. Especially mate. If anything happens to those we protect, we feel it strongly. In some cases, it feels as if we have failed as Alphas. I'm sure the worst will be him being very hesitant to have you out of his sight for awhile."

"True," mom said. "How did you ever get him to go without you with him?"

"Uh," I looked down at the table as I spoke, "I told him I was visiting with Benjamin and asked him to get me a couple of things out."

Haley arched a brow and said "I take it Benjamin is the one you used to send the Mundane off with?"

I could only nod affirmatively. All three of them sighed at me.

After a few moments of quiet, dad asked "So, care to tell us what happened to you son?"

Pulling up to park close to the house, my initial thoughts are irritation and puzzlement. I'd grudgingly left my mate at home because Ben was here to look after him. But his vehicle is not here now. Zack's parents seem to be though. Things feel...tense. The irritation and puzzlement continue after a further scenting:

Mate-check

Mate's parents-check

Mate's sister in law-check (why)

Ben-fading (why)

Mundane-fading (why)

PSS personnel-varied (still present)

My initial desire is to storm inside and demand answers. After taking a few breaths to calm down I figures that's probably not the best course of action. Senses are telling me things are tense enough without my going in all Pissed Alpha from the start. Especially knowing a more powerful Alpha is here. And one who's at least as important to my mate as myself. Still...my Alpha needs answers.

With a rapid exhalation I exit the Blue Beast, leaning back in to retrieve the coconut latte and pie, as well as the "bouquet" of dark red roses. The nursery called them a bouquet bush because it was specially crafted to be like a living bouquet of roses. It could be planted and kept that way. The guy told me that the magik only shaped their form. They would still need care to keep going. I really hope Zack will like them. No cut dead roses walking for my mate, no sir.

I hip-check the door closed and walk to the house, acknowledging the PSS Wolves preparing to install the new front door. Going through the doorway I call out "Sweets for my sweet," in what I hopes is a cheery tone. Glancing to the left I see Zack and his family at the kitchen table with mugs before them. Everyone's looking at me and I can "feel" them thinking. And the mix of emotional scents is all over the map.

Zack is quick to reach me, while the others are more measured. I can see the indecision on Zack's face as my mate's eyes go between the hand with the treats and the arm of roses. I arch a brow. It's Haley that breaks the stalemate by reaching over and grabbing the treats. As soon as my hand is free I grasp the pot of roses and push them towards my mate. Smiling, I say "For you, mate of mine." I can somehow feel my mate is overcome with emotions as Zack takes the flowers and takes a deep inhale of them, then quickly hands them off to his mother. Then I'm instantly in a tight embrace.

There's a soft "cough" and Cassius says "We'll just see these to the kitchen then," as the three of them leave Zack and I in the living room. I fully join in the embrace, one arm around Zack's back and one hand cupping his neck.

"Love you," I hears from Zack in a soft, wavering voice.

"I love you more." The earlier irritation is sent to the back of my mind, my mate needing attention more.

"I'm sorry if I haven't been a good mate," Zack whispered.

I glance into the kitchen at Zack's family, now seated around the table holding coffee mugs and obviously trying to give us a moment. "Why do you think you have been a bad mate?"

"I questioned my Alpha in front of someone you were questioning."

"That's technically the truth," I softly say with a smile, "but you were right. I was too busy being the intimidating Alpha and not actually asking any questions. Pointing that out to me was not being a bad mate." I lean to give him a short, soft kiss, mindful of his family in view. "Any more perceived crimes?"

Zack frowned. "I...exaggerated...my need for sweet treats right away to get you to go and enlisted Benjamin to get Billy away ..."

"Okay, so...I'm not thrilled about that, but I'm sure you have a reasonable explanation for why you did that." I can't help the soft growly timbre. "And there's probably a trust conversation to be had at some point here. Even so, I still don't think you are a bad mate. Hell, I'm still getting used to the truth of mates and that I have one. Are these crimes why your family is here, by chance?"

My beautiful mate sighs and nods. "I needed to talk face to face and didn't want to leave home."

I couldn't stop the low growl the thought of him not being here caused. I'm pained by the small whine it gave my mate. Pulling him tighter to me I nuzzle his neck and scent deeply. "Mine." It must have been the right thing to do, because Zack squeezed just a bit more and hmmm'd into my chest.

I'm enjoying having Zack so close again when I hear him quietly say "Spirit really knows what It's doing when it comes to mates."

Maybe I need to re-evaluate some beliefs. Later though. Right now is family time. "Hey, how about we go to the kitchen and get to those treats before they're ruined?" Everything else can wait.

Comments are appreciated, so let me know what you think. However, flames are not constructive. If you didn't like the story because it just wasn't your taste, just let it go. Feel free to contact me at mjwolfwriter@gmail.com.

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Thank you to all who commented on previous chapters.