Galis Epilogue
Days Later…
The morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the bedroom. I lay awake beside Norri, watching him sleep, marveling at how peaceful he looked. The weight of responsibility pressed heavily upon my chest, a reminder of the duties that awaited me today.
After El Lobo's death, the power vacuum within the cartel left many factions vying for control. Some wanted to avenge their fallen leader, and others sought to carve out new territories for themselves. Chaos reigned supreme in the underworld of New Haven.
But I had bigger concerns than petty turf wars. I needed to ensure the safety and security of my family, no matter the cost. That meant taking charge and asserting dominance over those who might threaten what I held dear.
Rubbing a hand over my face, I slipped quietly from the bed, careful not to disturb Norri or Orion. Padding naked down the hallway, I made my way to the bathroom, needing a moment to gather my thoughts before facing the day ahead.
Under the spray of the shower, I let the hot water beat down upon my back, trying to wash away the lingering unease. Taking command of the Nightshade Wolves was a daunting prospect. They were a volatile bunch, prone to fits of violence and brutality. Maintaining order among them required a firm hand and unwavering resolve.
But I couldn't afford weakness, not if I hoped to protect Norri and Orion. I had to be the alpha they respected, feared even. The one who set the rules and enforced them without mercy.
Stepping out of the shower, I toweled off quickly before dressing in dark jeans and a black Henley shirt. In the kitchen, I brewed a pot of strong coffee, the rich aroma filling the air.
Norri stumbled in a short while later, yawning widely as he made his way toward the coffee maker. He poured himself a mug, leaning against the counter as he took a long sip.
"Morning,"he greeted me sleepily, a small smile playing about his lips."Sleep well?"
"As well as could be expected,"I replied, pulling him close and pressing a kiss to his temple."You?"
He nodded, nuzzling into my touch."Like the dead. Guess all that stress finally caught up with me."
I snorted, running a hand through his tousled hair affectionately."Guess so. Though I have a feeling you won't be getting much rest today, not with everything going on."
Norri tensed slightly in my arms, his eyes clouding with worry."What do you mean? What's happening?"
Sighing, I released him reluctantly, moving to pour another mug of coffee."The Wolves are fracturing. Factions are popping up everywhere, each wanting a piece of the pie now that El Lobo is gone."
"And you need to take control,"Norri surmised grimly, understanding dawning in his expression."To keep us safe."
"That's right,"I confirmed, handing him his mug."It's the only way. I can't risk some hothead deciding to come after us out of spite or greed."
Norri's fingers tightened around the ceramic, his knuckles turning white."Gali...I don't like the idea of you putting yourself in harm's way again. Not after everything..."
I cupped his face in my hands, forcing him to meet my gaze."Baby, I know. Believe me, nothing would please me more than to walk away from this life completely. To take you and Orion and disappear somewhere far away where none of this matters."
"But we both know that's not possible,"I continued softly, brushing my thumbs over his cheekbones."Not when the Wolves are still out there, when there are men who want to see us dead just because of who we are to each other."
A single tear escaped down Norri's cheek, but he didn't look away."I hate this,"he whispered brokenly."Hate knowing you're putting yourself in danger for our sake."
"I'll be fine,"I assured him, even as doubt coiled in my gut."I've dealt with worse than a few rogue wolves. This is temporary, Norri. Just until I can establish enough authority to make threats and promises they understand."
He searched my face intently, looking for any sign of deception or false bravado. Finding none, he released a shaky breath, nodding with a jerk.
"You'd better come back to me,"he warned."No heroics, Gali. Promise me."
"I promise,"I vowed solemnly, sealing my oath with a deep, searching kiss."No matter what happens, I will always find my way back to you. Back to our son. That's a bond no force on earth can break."
Norri clung to me then, burying his face in the crook of my neck as he trembled against me."I love you,"he choked out, the words muffled but no less heartfelt for it."So damn much sometimes it scares me."
Chest tight, I held him close, letting his fear and love wash over me."I love you too,"I murmured."More than anything. And I swear to you, omega, I will move heaven and earth to keep that love alive. For you, for Orion, for the future we're building together."
We stayed like that for several long moments, drawing strength from our embrace. When we finally parted, Norri looked determined, his jaw set with resolve.
"What do you need from me?"He asked, all traces of vulnerability vanished behind a mask of steely determination."How can I help?"
I smiled then, fierce pride swelling in my chest at his show of courage. My omega, my partner, ready to stand by my side no matter what challenges we faced.
"We stick to the plan,"I replied, grabbing my keys from the hook by the door."Keep Orion safe and secure here at home. Don't open the door for anyone but me. And if something feels off, if anyone tries to contact you... Call me immediately. Understand?"
Norri nodded, though his eyes flashed with frustration."Yes, love,"he agreed."But Gali... Please be careful. Come back to us whole and unharmed. Our family needs you."
My heart clenched at the raw need in his voice, the naked desperation. But I couldn't let it show, not now. I had to be strong for both of us.
"I will,"I promised, capturing his mouth in one last hard, claiming kiss. Then I was out the door, striding toward the waiting car and whatever trials awaited me beyond its doors.