Surfaced (Hidden Trilogy #2)

Chapter Five

The next morning, I woke up late and had to hurry to get to work on time. Sleep didn’t come to me very well, and I think some of my dreams were closer to nightmares, but it was one of those things where you couldn’t remember any of them when you woke up. It just left a bad feeling in the pit of your stomach, but you couldn’t really define it.

I didn’t hear or see Clint last night if he came back to the house, but I knew from talking to them yesterday that they were supposed to be in the store an hour before it was open in order to ensure everything was in order before their group arrived. I took the truck since I knew there was parking around the building, and you know, running late and all.

I pulled into the parking lot to see two cargo vans with supplies piled high with the trailers behind them. Patrik was behind a truck, loading more supplies. He waved as soon as I got out of my truck.

“Great timing! We could use your help when the group starts showing up to get all the papers signed.” He led me inside to the counter where he pulled out a few clipboards with papers. He proceeded to show me what papers needed signed by each person, or by a parent if the child was under eighteen and gave a brief overview of the trip in case anyone asked me questions while waiting.

“So, they stay out in the wilderness overnight?” I asked skeptically.

“Wait,” Jason strolled up behind us, obviously listening in on our conversation. “You mean to tell me that you’ve never been camping?”

“Uh, no?” I answered hesitantly. Was that a job requirement?

“Alright,” Clint slung an arm around Jason’s shoulder in mock sympathy. “First free weekend we have we are going camping.” He looked directly at me. “You have to come. Non-negotiable.”

“Think of it as on the job training.” Jason added with a smirk.

“That mean you’re going to pay me?” I quipped.

Clint scoffed. “Well, I’ve never had to pay a woman to spend time with me,” he sighed dramatically. “But I supposed there’s a first time for everything.”

Laughing, I replied, “That’s not what I meant, and you know it.”

“Got you to laugh though, didn’t I?” Clint winked and turned as the front door chimed. Our group had arrived. Clint and Jason put on their professional faces and greeted the group, then shuffled them over to Patrik and me as we handled the paperwork. For a group that size, the time flew by and we soon had all the people through. I could tell everyone was excited for this trip and it made me want to try rafting even more.

Soon all the clients piled into the two vans and all three vehicles headed out to their launching point. I looked around the store, which seemed suddenly empty after all the chaos that morning. Sarah appeared from the back of the store with a box load of small things and I smiled at her as she approached.

“They just leave?” She asked, setting the box on the counter. I’d only interacted with Sarah a few times that morning, but she was friendly and good natured.

“Yep. They all seemed excited.”

“Wait until they get back.” She chuckled. “A few extremely excited individuals wanting to book the next one, some who loved it but won’t try it ever again, and then there’s the non-outdoorsy types that are just glad to be back to indoor plumbing.” I laughed, nodding. I might be right there with them. Peeing outside did not seem like a fun thing to do.

“I’ve never been before so I’d love to go out and camp for a night.”

“Oh, if you’re going camping, you have to make it a long weekend. At least make it worth all the time and energy setting up camp.” She winked.

“True.” I nodded at the box. “Do you want me to put those on the shelves?”

“That would be great. I have some organizing to do in the back yet, but feel free to yell for me if you need anything or if a customer comes in. I can walk you through the register.”

“Okay.” I nodded and grabbed the box. When I was close to her, I could scent her animal, but it was one that I wasn’t familiar with. So that ruled out panther, cougar, and tiger. Before she turned away, I hesitantly asked, “Hey Sarah?”

“Yeah?” She looked over at me.

“What’s your animal?” I asked hesitantly.

She smiled before answering, “I was wondering when you’d get around to asking. It’s a fox. Must not have many of them around where you’re from.”

“No, the pack’s territory covers-” I stopped myself, thinking it was inconsiderate to elaborate on how big my pack’s territory was when other shifters weren’t even allowed that.

“No, don’t worry. Foxes are more solitary anyways. We don’t have the urge to form groups like some animals.” She smiled reassuringly at me.

“I was pretty sheltered regarding shifters growing up.” Understatement of the year. “I’m still learning the scents of different kinds, so I’m sorry if it was rude to ask.”

“I understand. Just be sure we are alone whenever you bring up shifters. Don’t want the humans hearing any crazy tales.” She smirked.

‘I know,” I reassured. It was weird to think that I wasn’t human, after all these years, and to talk about them like I wasn’t one.

“Oh, and if a shifter were to come in that you don’t know, listen to your wolf. Your animal will guide you on how you should act.”

“Okay.” I nodded, but I was cringing inside. Well, that was problematic, seeing as my wolf and I weren’t exactly on the same page. But Sarah smiled and disappeared behind the double swinging doors before I could ask any more questions. I took a deep breath and picked up the box to put the items on the shelf. I’d just have to hope no shifters came into the store when I was alone.

The day flew by and Sarah kept me busy for most of it. I was glad to have something to occupy my time, it at least kept my mind from wandering too much. I had one more free day before school officially started. I was both anxious and excited because I wanted to learn more about art but at the same time, there was a lot of things I was dealing with. Things were never going to be simple, but it would have been nice if something easy or good would come my way for once.

My shift ended and I waved goodbye to Sarah who said she would finish up before locking everything up for the night. I drove the short distant back to the house and parked. I was halfway up the driveway before I noticed someone waiting on the front porch. I stopped dead in my tracks, waiting for the person to identify themselves or to come into the light. Whoever it was, the shadow they cast was huge. My mind instantly went to the shifter shadowing me yesterday.

“Kendra.” A deep voice greeted me as the figure stepped more into the light. I felt my body relax as I recognized Ian. I let out a breath and shook myself free from my frozen stance.

“What are you doing here?” I asked, continuing my way toward the porch.

“Clint wanted me to check in and make sure everything was good.” That was the most Ian had ever spoken to me and I was a little surprised. Then what he said registered.

“Clint?” I asked, puzzled. I reached the top steps and turned to face Ian. Seeing his face, I gasped. “What happened to you?” Ian’s face was a mottled mess of faded purples and yellows. From the little I remembered from Bree, shifters healed exceptionally fast. Whatever happened had to have been painful and recent.

“Nothing.” Ian shrugged my concern off, turning slightly into the shadow so I couldn’t see his face as well.

“It’s not nothing.” I countered, unwilling to drop it. I wanted to reach out and turn his face so I could see it better but knew he would hate that. Ian wouldn’t meet my eyes and cleared his throat.

“How was your first day?” Ian asked, attempting to change the topic. I studied him for a minute, seeing how uncomfortable he seemed to be just standing there, talking to me. I gestured to few chairs setting on the porch.

“Do you want to sit down?”

He looked uncertain, but then nodded. I took the one farthest away and plopped down in the seat. I watched as Ian slowly lowered himself into the seat, as if it was painful to make any sudden movements.

“Is anything broken?” I asked hesitantly. Ian shook his head once in the negative but didn’t say anything. I had a feeling there were bones broken before, but with their healing abilities, those at least had healed.

“How’s living with the panthers?” Ian asked, clearly moving on to other topics.

“Never a dull moment.” Thinking back to yesterday morning’s pop tart escapade. I glanced at Ian and found a small grin on his face in response.

“And the shop today? Everything go okay?”

“Yeah, smooth sailing.” I answered. I narrowed my eyes, suddenly suspicious. “Why are you asking?” Ian glanced down at his feet and folded his hands, ignoring the question.

Before he could respond, the sound of a car approaching caught both of our attention. I saw Ian’s body tense up as the vehicle pulled up at the curb in front of the house. I recognized the car as my own and immediately started smiling. It had to be Bree or Hunter bringing my car by to exchange it for the truck for Steve and Nicole. Then, realization hit, and I jumped out of my seat.

“Oh no, oh no oh no oh no,” I mumbled under my breath but Ian, and I’m sure the individuals getting out of the car, heard me too. Shit, it was my pack. How was I going to talk my way out of this one?

“Kendra!” Cassie’s voice rang across the lawn as she bounded towards the house. Ian sprang to his feet and stepped in front of me, blocking my view of Cassie.

“Whoa, buddy. Take it down a notch,” Cassie stated sarcastically. “We’re just here to see our friend. You know, the one you’re hiding behind you?”

“Come on, Ian, move. They’re my pack.” Ian shifted his weight and slowly moved so I could see Cassie, Bree, and Hunter standing there gawking at Ian protecting me. Well, Cassie and Bree were gawking. Hunter was scowling and standing a step in front of the girls, trying to be intimidating, I assumed. Hunter and Ian were similar builds, but honestly, my money was on Ian. The silent, deadly type.

I moved to walk around Ian and his arm shot out and gently grabbed my arm. My eyes immediately went to his face, since I was surprised by his actions. Two growls sounded from the porch steps.

“Let her go,” Hunter ground out, surprising me. I didn’t think Hunter cared that much about me. But maybe it was just because he knew Bree would be sad if something did happen to me. So really, he was just doing it for Bree, not because he cared about me. Yeah, that sounded about right.

“You better remove your hand if you want to keep it,” Cassie threatened, taking a step toward Ian. Threats from Cassie weren’t really surprising. I was part of her pack and she’d do anything to protect them. But they didn’t know Ian. I wasn’t sure what he was doing, but I was positive he wasn’t holding me back because he wanted to hurt me.

“Ian, it’s okay. Really. I’m fine.” I tried to sound reassuring, but not sure I managed it. I was so thrown by his behavior. Why was he being so protective? That was something I’d expect from Cade, not Ian who I met two days ago.

“Sorry,” he muttered, letting me go. “Sorry.” He took one step away to give me space and looked down at his feet again. I turned and jumped down the steps into Cassie and Bree’s arms. Hunter looked on from the side while keeping an eye on Ian.

“I can’t believe you’re here!” I exclaimed happy to have them near but also worried about their visit. I pulled back and looked at them. “Why are you here?”

“We missed you silly.” Cassie said with a squeeze to my arm. “And we figured it’s a Saturday night, so, why not hang out?”

“But, what about security, escorts, and all that?” I asked with a raised brow. That was standard procedure any time Cassie left pack territory. I was sure Liam would not allow her to leave without an escort.

“Oh, they’re here, just can’t see them. I threatened to prank their asses for eternity if they didn’t stay out of sight.” Cassie grinned. I glanced around the growing darkness but of course, I couldn’t make out any figures. Creepy to think they were listening in on our conversation right now. I glanced at Ian who was watching the shadows silently. Knowing him, he was tracking them in the dark as they moved about.

“Besides, we have Hunter.” Bree smiled wrapping her arm around her lifemate. He didn’t hesitate to close his arms around her in return.

“But how did you find me? I never gave you guys the address.” I was so confused. And they didn’t seem mad I left out quite a lot.

“Well, that’s a bit of a story. Seeing as you left out the interesting bit,” Cassie looked around me at Ian and the house. “By the way, who is this guy? Cause if he’s your new love interest I’m going to kick your butt because, while he’s a pain in the ass to me, Cade’s my brother and your man. Not,” Cassie nodded up to Ian who still loomed on from the porch, “this guy.” She leaned into me and whispered, though everyone there could still hear her with their shifter hearing, “though I can definitely see the appeal,” she winked while giving Ian the once over. I was surprised to see Ian blush slightly. I, on the other hand, couldn’t keep a straight face.

“What? No, of course not. Ian’s a friend. That’s all.”

“So why are you two sitting so cozy out here on the porch?” Cassie asked with a raised brow. I rolled my eyes in irritation.

“Seriously Cassie. Tame that imagination.”

“Then explain.” Cassie demanded, in a friendly tone but you could tell she was the daughter of an alpha. She stood across from me, hands on hips, waiting for my response.

“I met Ian the first day I moved in here. He’s friends with, well, everyone else.” I finished lamely, gesturing at the house.

“Everyone else being shifters?” Bree asked. I sheepishly nodded. How did I ever think they wouldn’t find out?

“How did you all find out?” I asked curiously.

“Oh, Dad and Mom knew from the beginning.” Cassie waved my question off. I was more shocked to hear that than anything. “I just overheard them today talking about it so that’s when we decided to see for ourselves.”

“How did-” I started to ask, but Cassie interrupted me.

“They did a little digging, I guess. Saw that you weren’t registered to stay on campus, so they found out you were renting an apartment with others. Course then that prompted an investigation into your roommates and their backgrounds, and well, the rest is history.”

“And they are okay with everything?” I asked incredulously. I couldn’t imagine Liam or Mica would be too thrilled with the idea. They seem so protective of Cassie, not that I was of any importance to the pack, but I figured by omitting certain details they would question my motives.

Cassie shrugged. “I guess. They weren’t mounting a full-scale retrieval party, if that’s what you’re asking. Think they said something about it being your decision. I’m sure they thought the idea had some merit.”

“Gee thanks.” I replied sarcastically.

“Why didn’t you tell us your plan, Kendra?” Bree asked hesitantly. This was the part I wasn’t looking forward to. I really had no good reason, besides trying to keep everyone out of the loop and safe in case it all backfired.

“I thought the less people who knew the better. So, less people could get hurt.”

“But that’s not how packs work.” Bree argued with her hands on her hips. “We stick together, no matter what.”

“Yeah, listen to her.” Cassie nodded approvingly, then turned the conversation to another matter. “So how are your roommates? Anybody interesting?”

“Meaning?” I asked confused. The change in topic was a whiplash, but with Cassie, you just had to go with the flow.

“Man, you do have it bad for Cade,” she sighed. “Cute friends or brothers of your roommates. Come on, I need the details.” She urged, looking all too eager. Internally I was cringing because I knew Cassie could come off a little aggressive. Yeah, the guys were cute, okay, very cute, but I didn’t think more of them than that. I guess I really did have it bad for Cade.

“Oh, well,” I bit my lip and glanced up at Ian. This was so awkward.

“Say no more, we will save it for girls’ night.” Cassie held up her hand to stop me from saying anything else. She side-eyed Hunter. “You’re not invited, in case you were wondering.”

“Yeah I got the hint, thanks,” Hunter replied dryly.

Smug, she smiled and glanced at Ian, then did a double take. “Hey, what happen to your face?”

“Cassie!” I exclaimed, shocked she would point out something like that to a total stranger.

“Sorry,” she actually managed to look a little sheepish. “I know it’s not my place but looks like you got in a major fight with a meat grinder.”

“Let me see,” Bree, ever the healer, took a step toward Ian and Hunter hauled her back against him.

“No way.” Hunter growled. His firm grip prevented Bree from taking a step forward and he didn’t look like he was going to release her any time soon. Especially to help another unknown male shifter.

“Hunter.” Bree stated firmly but calmly. She waited, we all watched to see what he would do, and I could see him physically warring with himself as he slowly released her from his grasp. Bree didn’t say anything else, but the small, triumphant smile said a lot. She took a few hesitate steps towards Ian and Hunter mirrored every step.

“I’m fine,” Ian balked as he watched Bree, who was probably half his size, make her way up the stairs towards him. He held up a hand to try and stop her progress. “I don’t need anyone. It will heal on its own.”

“See, listen to the tiger. He’s fine. You don’t need to heal him.” Hunter tried to coax. Bree gave Hunter a disparaging look over her shoulder before returning her attention to Ian.

“I happen to study healing and you will let me heal you.” Bree said forcefully. She stood in front of Ian with her hands firmly on her hips, staring him down, while looking a foot up at him. Quite a feat actually. I glanced over at Cassie to see her smirking. Apparently she thought this whole encounter was very amusing.

“Ian,” I tried to add my two cents, “Bree is a healer in the pack, and she can probably take care of-”

‘I said I don’t need any help.” Ian snapped and stepped back as he continued to hold up a hand to halt Bree from following.

“Watch your tone.” Hunter growled, clearly on the protective streak where Bree was concerned. Suddenly the door opened behind Ian and Amber popped her head around the door.

“What’s all the commot-” she suddenly stopped and looked around at the tense group. “Oh.” She caught my eye and asked, “Pack?”

“Yep.” I nodded. Her attention was drawn to the shadows and her gaze narrowed.

“How many did you bring? An army?” Amber asked incredulously. Cassie sighed.

“A few Enforcers. Otherwise we couldn’t go out.” Cassie admitted. Amber nodded then glanced at Ian as she surveyed the darkness. Her gaze whipped back to him in shock.

“Jesus, Ian. What the hell? I thought you said it wouldn’t be that bad.” She said accusingly.

“It wasn’t.” Ian defended, not meeting her eyes.

“How come you still look like shit?” Trust Amber to be as blunt as ever.

“I heal slow.” Ian was clearly regretting his decision to come check on us as a favor from Clint. He looked about two seconds from bolting.

“Bullshit.” Bree stated, surprising the heck out of me. “That is at least a day old. Your injuries had to be much worse to still be at this stage now.”

“How would you know?” Amber crossed her arms and challenged Bree, clearly siding with Ian in all of this.

“Bree’s our healer.” Cassie said, coming up beside Bree to enter the mix. At this point, I was the only one still on the path leading up to the porch, while everyone else faced off on the front porch. “She can take care of your injuries in a heartbeat if you’d let her.” Cassie added, looking at Ian reproachfully.

“They will heal in time.” Ian replied stubbornly.

“Oh, for Pete’s sake,” I exclaimed. I stomped up the steps and maneuvered myself into the middle of the group. “Ian, quit being a stubborn ass and let Bree help. If your injuries are a day old, you’ve been in pain long enough and you have nothing else to prove. Amber, do you mind if we move this little party inside for a little more privacy? And Hunter, calm your shit down. You can’t fight with anyone here.”

“So you say,” Hunter mumbled, and I glared at him.

Laughing, Cassie shook her head and brushed past everyone without waiting for Amber to reply. Amber rolled her eyes and followed Cassie inside. Hunter placed himself between Ian and Bree before ushering Bree inside the house. Ian and I were left standing on the porch looking at each other in the wake of everyone else.

“If a fight gave you those injuries, I hate to see the other guy.” I quipped to lighten the mood.

The corner of Ian’s mouth quirked up before he took a deep breath and steered me inside following close behind. With the six of us in the dining room and kitchen area, there wasn’t a lot of space for the territorial shifters. A few measured glances and shuffling until Amber and Ian were on one side of the room, Cassie, Bree and Hunter were on the other. I awkwardly stood between them all.

“Right,” I cleared my throat and nodded toward the table. “Ian, sit down in that chair over there and Bree can do her magic thing.” I said, pointing at a chair around the table. Ian grumbled but did as I asked. Once seated, I nodded at Bree. Hunter mirrored her movements again, apparently not liking Bree near the other shifters.

“I’m not going to hurt your mate, wolf.” Ian ground out as Bree approached.

“I know you’re not.” Hunter stated matter-of-factly, still pacing Bree. When Bree was within reaching distance of Ian, she abruptly turned and placed a hand on Hunter’s chest.

“Babe, I need a little space. Just wait here, okay?” She looked pleadingly up at him to understand. Hunter let out a small growl but nodded. He stood stock still, watching every move as Bree turned back to Ian, who was almost as tall as she was even sitting in the chair.

Bree blew out a breath and glanced quickly over Ian’s injuries again. “You really did a number on yourself, didn’t you?” She said absentmindedly as she brought her hands up to hover around Ian’s head.

“Doubt he did it to himself,” Cassie said under her breath.

Ian didn’t say anything, but his ridged stance said a lot about how he didn’t like this turn of events. We all watched enraptured as Bree closed her eyes and concentrated on healing Ian.

She tried explaining it once to me, but I still didn’t really understand the process. It had something to do with the energy within a person and directing it toward the injured area, but other than that, I didn’t get it. About thirty seconds had passed and I could already see the discoloration retreating from Ian’s face.

“I thought you said it would take a heartbeat?” Amber, who stood with her arms folded near Ian, glared in Cassie’s direction. Of course, Cassie was unruffled by Amber’s mood and shrugged.

“Some take more than others. Your boy was obviously one of the bad ones.”

Amber opened her mouth to respond with what I was sure would be a smart-ass response when Bree opened her eyes and dropped her hands. She looked into Ian’s eyes, assessing.

“How do you feel?”

It took a moment for Ian to respond, and he moved his arms and torso, stretching almost, before answering.

“Much better.” He stood up and ran a hand along his face before adding, “thank you,” almost under his breath.

“You’re welcome.” Bree smiled and turned to usher Hunter back so they could stand a few feet away.

“Well, now that that’s done,” Cassie stated, looking around the room, “What are we doing tonight?”

“Tonight?” I asked, caught off guard. Ian had moved to the wall to watch and observe, Amber was stoically standing to the side, none too happy to have wolves in her space. Not that I could blame her after everything I’d learned over the last two days.

“Yeah. It’s Saturday.” Cassie answered, like that explained everything. “There’s got to be a party around here somewhere. Like, pre-gaming before school starts?” She looked around like we would have all the details. I glanced at Amber who still didn’t seem all that impressed having a houseful of wolves around her.

“We could just watch a movie or something?” Bree offered. Or go out to eat?” I could tell she was trying to offer an easy out for all of us. Suddenly I remembered the piece of paper that had Seth’s number on it. Wasn’t his group talking about a party this weekend?

“I might be able to find out where one is.” I replied slowly, and all eyes turned in my direction. Amber with skeptical brows and Ian didn’t look very happy about the prospect of a party. Clint probably instructed him to lock us inside and throw away the key.

“Awesome! Who we gotta ask?” Cassie was almost jumping up and down in her excitement.

“Well, I met some wolves when I was on campus yesterday-”

“Did they recognize you?” Hunter jumped in, stepping aggressively towards me waiting for my answer. This was Hunter’s normal routine, intimidate while asking questions. I was used to it after a year, but apparently others in the room didn’t like his behavior.

“Back off, man.” Ian stated, taking a step in my direction. “Give her a chance to respond.” Hunter glowered at Ian and then looked back at me crossing his arms waiting for a reply.

Glancing around, I continued, “Like I said, I ran into two guys whose group was talking about a party this weekend. I don’t know if it was an open invite or private party.”

“And you got their number? On the first meet? You go girl!” Cassie exclaimed with approval in her eyes. “Tell me, were they cute? How old were they?”

“Seniors. I guess they were good looking,” I shrugged. I wasn’t really thinking about their looks at the time. They came off a little crazy for me to be paying attention to those details.

“Text them! Let’s see if they respond.” Cassie encouraged. Smiling and shaking my head, I turned and motioned Cassie and Bree to come with me to my room if they wanted. Hunter, thankfully, stayed in the dining room. I don’t think I could put up with his moodiness anymore tonight.

“Cool room, Kendra,” Bree commented, looking around my newly decorated and organized room.

“Thanks.” I rummaged through the laundry basket where my jeans from yesterday were and found the number. Pulling out my phone, I typed in the number and a quick message.

Hey Seth, it’s Kendra. Weird question, but I have some friends over this weekend and we were looking for a place to hang out. Any ideas?

There, that would open the door for him to invite us without openly admitting that I was eavesdropping on their conversation when I passed them on the sidewalk the day before. I closed my phone and looked up at Cassie and Bree, who were watching me eagerly.

“We’ll have to wait until I hear back. I don’t want to seem pushy or too eager.” Bree nodded but Cassie seemed put out.

“Well if we have to wait, tell us everything that’s been going on. I feel like we haven’t talked in ages.”

“I just talked to you yesterday,” I laughed.

“See,” she nodded sagely. “Ages.”

“Fine.” Laughing, I motioned them to join me on the bed to relax. I told them about moving in with the help from Amber’s family, Jason, Ian, and Patrik, the weird exchange between Clint and me about the prophecy.

“Wait, how much do they…” Bree trailed off, not wanting the shifter ears in the other room to hear.

“They know I’m a latent wolf. Clint thinks that if I turn out to be a white wolf, then the prophecy is coming true and shifters will see an epic change to their current way of life, yada yada yada,” I laughed trying to dispel the tension. It was as close as I could get to telling them that they were still the only ones that knew I was a white wolf, according to Elder Nicolas anyways.

“So, are they going to help you with shifting?” Bree asked curiously. She sat cross legged on the bed with her arms resting on her knees.

“Amber has a family friend who was a latent, not a wolf shifter, but the concept should be the same. In theory.” I added, hoping it was all true. I picked at a loose thread on the bed to dispel some of my unease about meeting a total stranger and learning shifting from them.

“Yeah, totally.”Cassie agreed.

“So, otherwise things are going okay?” Bree asked.

“Yeah, I have a job at a local outfitter. Clint, Jason and Patrik work there so that’s nice to already know others.”

“And Ian?” Cassie asked. “Where does he work?”

“I’m not sure.” I admitted, remembering most conversations about him have been hushed up.

“His injuries were bad.” Bree commented softly. “It was a major fight to cause that much damage and still be showing.”

“You think he’s into something bad?” Cassie wondered, a little excited.

“What else would do that kind of damage?” Bree asked, clearly still concerned about his wellbeing.

“I don’t know much about him. He’s quiet.” I whispered. Fully aware of who all stood in the other room. I wanted to elaborate on the meeting with Enforcer Carver but just then a notification came across my phone.

You’re in luck. We have a party at our place tonight. Open to all. Bring anyone. Let me know when you get here.

He included his address and I replied letting him know we’d be there in a while. I looked up to see the hopeful expression on Cassie’s face. Laughing I nodded.

“Got our invite.” I waved my phone in the air for emphasis.

“Yeeeeee!” Cassie yelled, I winced, and I can only assume I wasn’t the only one. She rushed out of my room and told the room in general we would be leaving in an hour. Leave it to Cassie to demand everyone be ready. Bree and I followed her out the door just in time to hear Amber’s denial.

“I’m not going.” She stood leaning against the sink, eating another pop tart.

Cassie put her hands on her hips. “And why not? Just cause we’re wolves and you’re a cat doesn’t mean we can’t mingle on neutral territory.”

“Panther.” Amber ground out. “And if you got invited by wolves, how do you know it’s not a wolf party?” Amber had a point and I looked to Cassie.

“He said bring anyone, right?” She looked back at me.

“Yeah,” I hedged, not wanting to be dragged into their argument. Amber and Cassie seemed to be cut from the same stubborn cloth.

“But we want to keep a low profile.” Bree argued, with an apologetic look at Amber and Ian. “We can’t be seen hanging out with non-shifters right now.”

“Bree’s right,” Hunter agreed, and I had to keep my eyes from rolling. Of course he’d agree with Bree. “It’s not safe for Kendra since the High Council is watching her every move and it’s not safe for you all to be seen with us.” He added looking at both Ian and Amber.

“And why’s that?” Amber challenged, clearly not liking being told what to do.

“People will think you’re trying to fit in with wolves.” Cassie shrugged. “That’s never gone well.” Amber seemed to deflate with that comment. Apparently that one hit home.

“That’s so unfair.” I mumbled, flashes of previous conversations on the same subject going through my head. Why did the shifter society ever get so divided? And would it ever be possible to bridge the two again?

“That’s our life.” Ian growled. “But that doesn’t mean that we can’t approach the party separately from you four.” I looked up at him in surprise.

“So, you’d still go?” I asked, hopeful. While it would be fine for just the four of us to go, I wanted to be able to spend time with Amber and Ian to get to know them better.

“I told Clint I would watch out for you. Can’t do that if I’m not there.” Ian stated. This left me speechless and my brain scattered, trying to understand why Clint would ask and Ian would agree. Just because I was a latent and possibly a white wolf? Or was there some other reason? Before I could think of something to say, a slight knock sounded at the front door and we all shifted our attention to the door as Patrik walked through. He took two steps and stopped dead in his tracks as he looked at the group around him.

“There’s an army of wolves hanging out in the shadows.” He glanced over Cassie, Bree, and Hunter. “I assume they are with you?” He asked casually. Cassie nodded. “Guess I missed the invite.” He looked tired, but I suppose I would be too from carting rafting supplies and dealing with a variety of clients all day. He closed the door and regarded us before looking at me. “Friends of yours?”

“Yeah, sorry.” I quickly made introductions. Cassie and Bree were friendly, Hunter was his usual self.

“You live here too?” Cassie asked.

“No, I was just dropping by to see how things went today.” Patrik replied. There seemed to be a lot of that going around today.

“What things?”Cassie asked curiously.

“With Kendra’s job. It was her first full day.” He looked over at me questioningly.

“It was fine. Everything went smoothly.” I assured.

“Good.” He paused and looked around at everyone spaced around the room. “Why is everyone standing around?”

“We are debating a party outing.” Amber stated, still looking like she didn’t think it was a good idea for all of us to go.

“Oh?” He perked up at that. “Where at?”

“Some wolf house.” Amber glowered. Patrik visibly deflated.

“Oh.” He looked around at my pack and asked, “You four going?”

“Absolutely.” Cassie nodded, answering for all of us.

Patrik turned to Ian and asked, “Is it safe?” Before Ian could answer, Hunter growled.

“I don’t need your help to protect the girls.” Hunter glowered at Patrik. He ignored Hunter and waited for Ian’s shrug. Apparently Ian wasn’t convinced yet.

“Besides,” Cassie added. “Our Enforcers are hanging around here somewhere so there’s extra security. It’s not like we are going to get out of control. It’s just a little party.”

“You have to understand that when shifters mix, there’s always trouble.” Patrik sighed. “Especially where wolves are concerned. No offense.” He added, looking around the room. Hunter scoffed. Patrik sighed and looked at Ian. “So, what’s the plan?”

Ian, Patrik and Amber debated going at all. I think Amber secretly really wanted to but was trying to be subtle about it. Ian and Patrik were worried about safety if it was a wolf party. I put that issue to rest by asking Seth if it was only shifters or if humans would be there too. He was kind enough to offer up it would be a mix of all shifters and humans, since humans didn’t really know the difference and were friends with more than one shifter on some occasions. I laughed out loud at that one. Point to the humans for being unwittingly indiscriminate towards those different than them.

Ian and Patrik were less than pleased to attend a college party with mixed company. I could tell both wished Clint and Jason were there to weigh into the conversation, not that their opinion would have stopped Cassie. She was dead set on going and if the Enforcers outside weren’t going to stop her, the cat shifters had a snowball’s chance in hell.

Of course, once we got all the details sort of figured out, Cassie then fretted over her appearance and raided what little supplies I had for makeup and hair projects. Not that she really needed any in the first place. Cassie was classically beautiful. Bree and I humored her and tried on different clothes until we got the okay from her.

Hunter, Bree, Cassie and I ended up in the truck. Ian, Patrik and Amber took one of their vehicles. To keep up appearances, we decided arriving separately would help create a little separation and lessen the suspicion should anyone be watching us. Which I doubted anyone would care, but what did I know?

The drive was about twenty minutes, just enough time for me to fill my pack in on Enforcer Carver’s surprise visit.

“I don’t get that guy,” Cassie commented after I explained Carver’s comments about the underground fighting and the High Council’s response to the events. I also included his thoughts on learning to be a shifter and keeping a low profile.

“He comes off as a hard ass when you first see him with the High Council, but then he’s leaving warnings and tips behind the scenes.”

“Just like his grandfather, Elder Nicolas.” Bree observed.

“Have you talked to him yet?” Cassie asked, looking out the window and taking in everything. I’m sure it was hard on her to not be in college with other similar aged teens, but I had to hand it to her, she was handling it pretty well.

“Nicolas?” I asked and she nodded still looking out the window. “No, I haven’t called him since I got here. Things have been a little hectic lately.”

“You should reach out to him soon,” Bree commented. “He would have a better handle on what the High Council is doing and how much effort they are putting into watching you.” She added.

“The fact that Carver stopped by to check on you, is concerning though,” Hunter commented out of the blue. He was driving, and usually he was a silent witness to our girl conversations. Hazards of being mated to one of us and outnumbered.

“Do you think those were his orders, or was he just in the area?” I wondered.

“I know Dad and Mom had a meeting this weekend, so maybe it was scheduled with him and he dropped by to see you since he was in the area?” Bree offered.

“Could be.” I added. “But I still don’t like how they are handling the underground fighting.” I was thinking about the carefree position the Council seemed to have form Carver’s perspective. “It’s like they don’t care why the other shifters are doing it. They just don’t want shifters to be exposed in general to hurt their standing.”

“Sounds about right,” Cassie sighed.

“Nothing has ever been fair when it comes to the other shifters.” Bree added quietly.

“And nobody wants to do anything about it?” I asked, feeling anger and frustration taking over.

“What do you expect, Kendra?” Cassie asked sharply, taking on the defensive side. “The High Council has such a hold over everyone, no one can barely sneeze without them finding out. Going against the High Council is suicide.”

“Is that why your dad didn’t stick up for Amber’s uncle?” I asked, not able to keep the question to myself any longer. Cassie looked back at me confused.

“What are you talking about?” Cassie asked bewildered.

“Clint was telling me that a few years ago, his uncle was accused of doing something that went against the High Council. It was a bullshit charge, but he was being brought up on charges for it anyways. His uncle apparently went to Liam to ask for help in dealing with the High Council, and Liam refused.”

“I don’t know anything about that.” Cassie shook her head. “I’m sure if that were the case, Dad would have said something on behalf of their uncle. There must have been some reason he wouldn’t take it to the Council.”

“Would he though? Would he go up against the High Council?” I asked softly, and Cassie looked torn. She wanted to believe her Dad would do the right thing, but the High Council’s reach was far and came swiftly.

“I think I remember Dad talking about that,” Hunter muttered. I whipped my head in his direction.

“What about it?” I asked quickly.

“It was some charge about trying to buy land for his family and neighboring panthers. Said it was for the group to roam, since their current land was too small for more than two or three panthers to be running on any given night.”

“Sounds reasonable.” Cassie shrugged. “I mean, we have thousands of acres to run on so the whole pack can go out at once if they want and never run into a human.”

“Yeah, but other shifters aren’t allowed the pack lifestyle.” I pointed out.

“What?” Cassie asked, shocked.

“That’s what Amber and Clint explained to me.” I went into the details that they had shared with me regarding their small family allowance and how they weren’t allowed to form what wolves considered packs.

“I always thought they were solitary creatures and didn’t want to live in groups.” Cassie replied.

“I guess not.” I said. I looked at Hunter. “So, he wanted more land to roam?”

“That was what their uncle claimed, but from what my dad said, the High Council found evidence of him trying to pull together a pack to strengthen the panthers.”

“Is that so bad?” Bree asked.

“It is when you want to remain the strongest and unrivaled pack in the area.” I commented dryly.

“So, you think the High Council…” Bree trailed off, almost too afraid to say the words out loud.

“I say there’s a high chance they planted evidence to frame Amber’s uncle.” I replied.

“But just so they couldn’t get land?” Bree asked, clearly thinking that was a bogus charge.

“From what I’m gathering, non-wolf shifters have little to no rights under the High Council. They even have to apply through the High Council to attend college and get their major approved. They scrape for everything to make a living and being under a wolf-dominated government doesn’t do them any favors.”

“Be careful you don’t say that stuff around other wolves.” Hunter warned, glancing at me in the rearview mirror. “You don’t want that getting back to the High Council in any form.”

“Yeah, I know. I’ve only voiced these concerns with you guys.” I conceded.

“Is that why Amber was frosty to us?” Cassie asked. “Because of their past history with our pack?”

“Possibly,” I shrugged. “She also takes a bit to warm up to people.” I added, thinking of my first two days in the house with the panthers. “I don’t think it’s in her nature to trust wolves.”

“Can’t say I blame them, not with those things hanging over your head all the time.” Bree shook her head. Hunter pulled up near the house Seth said the party was at, and even from this distance, we could see the number of people coming and going through the area. Apparently, this was the place to be.

“Well, let’s try and put this aside for now and just enjoy ourselves tonight!” Cassie exclaimed with excitement in her eyes. Not that I could blame her. She was missing out on campus life being stuck at home with online courses. This was as close as she was going to get to experiencing college life for herself.

“One rule,” Hunter turned in his seat and met each of our gazes. Cassie let out a huff, crossing her arms but waited for Hunter to continue. “We stick together. No one wanders off. I’m not answering to our alpha if one of you disappears on me.”

“What if you disappear?” I quipped.

“I’m harder to lose in a crowd than you three.” Hunter smirked. True, he had me there.

“Fine.” Cassie agreed. “Let’s do this!” She threw the door open and gestured for us to exit quickly. We followed her down the path toward the house as the noise level increased exponentially. I glanced around at the other houses and wondered why they would put up with that level of noise, then realized that most of the houses on this street were for college students, based on the individuals hanging out on each porch. I sent off a text to Seth letting him know we were there as we walked up the porch steps. I glanced back in the direction we came to see if I saw Amber and the others but didn’t see them anywhere.

Once inside, it took a minute to adjust to the noise and number of people crammed into the small space. I wasn’t on speaking terms with my wolf, but I was already feeling the need to go outside and breathe. Thankfully Hunter was as big and broad as he was. He plowed a path through the crowd, with one hand pulling Bree along behind him, and Cassie and me bringing up the rear. I felt a hand clamp down on my shoulder and quickly turned around, tugging on Cassie’s hand in the process. As I spun with my hands up, ready for anything, the hand dropped off my shoulder and I met Seth’s apologetic look.

“Sorry to scare you.” He said loudly over the music and voices around us. “I wasn’t sure you’d hear me over the noise.” I nodded in understanding, trying to calm my racing heart. I saw Jake standing just off Seth’s shoulder with a grin on his face. “Follow us, it’s quieter outside.” He nodded toward the back of the house and he walked past us, sizing up Hunter on his way by. I motioned to Hunter to follow the two other wolves and we finally found a corner on the porch that was less crowded and noisy.

“Glad you made it.” Seth grinned at me and looked at my pack. “Who are your friends?”

“Some of my pack. Hunter, Bree, and Cassie.” I motioned to each one. Then pointed back at Seth and Jake to introduce them. Hunter reached out and shook both their hands in a manly show of strength by the looks of the exchange, while Cassie and Bree nodded their hello.

“Do you guys want a drink?” Jake asked. He nodded over to the coolers sitting a few feet away. “We have all kinds, anything you want.” We each requested a different drink, to which Jake went and picked them up and handed them out.

“So, where are you guys from?” Hunter asked. I think he was feeling more comfortable being with more guys and having wolves around. He leaned back against the railing and took a sip of his drink.

“The McClain Pack, east of here.” Seth offered. “This is our senior year before we head back home to Klamath Falls.” Seth took a drink before regarding me with a smirk. “Kendra never said what pack she was from.” He looked expectantly at the four of us.

“The McCoy Pack.” Cassie replied, not offering any more information. My attention was drawn back to Jake when he choked on his drink.

“Really?” Seth regarded me with renewed curiosity before returning his attention to Cassie. “I’ve never met anyone from your pack. Ours is fairly small in comparison.” Jake was equally surprised and looked over at me with some admiration in his eyes.

“I understand why you didn’t say anything before,” Jake said. “Your pack is well-known. I’m surprised they let you go to school here without bodyguards.”

“I’m not that important.” I shrugged, thinking of Cassie’s restrictions. If someone got ideas and kidnapped me, I’d tell them that I wasn’t high in the pack and they picked the wrong girl.

“I don’t know about that,” Seth muttered. I glanced up at him. “Probably better you don’t advertise where you’re from. Smart on your part to avoid the question the other day.” I nodded along so we could change the subject faster. “You guys must be the reason for the increase in the wolf presence around the house then?”

“Yeah, sorry about that,” Cassie sighed. “They insist on escorting us.”

“No problem. Just explains a few things. I don’t think anyone else will really notice. It is a party after all.” Seth grinned. He took a drink before asking my pack, “what about you three? You going to school here?”

“Nope, just visiting Kendra tonight,” Cassie offered. “Thought we’d check out the college life.”

“Ah in that case, don’t let us stop you.” Seth grinned. “Mingle, and if any of the humans get any ideas, just flag us down. We’ll handle them.”

“What about other shifters?” I blurted and all eyes went to me. Bree was suppressing a grin, Hunter was glaring at me again, and Cassie was already looking around for other people. Jake and Seth gave me a curious look.

“What about them?” Jake’s eyes narrowed.

“Was another one of them following you?” Seth asked concerned. “We never did catch up to the one the other day.”

“What shifter?” Hunter asked coming to attention. He focused all his energy on me. “You didn’t tell us you were being followed.”

“Uh, it was no big deal,” I shrugged, trying to calm him down. “I didn’t even see him or her.”

“It was a he,” Seth answered, “and he was following you, but as soon as we started towards him, he disappeared.”

“Scent?” Hunter asked, clearly not letting this go until he had all the details.

“Not wolf. Maybe fox, I think.” Seth shrugged. “But it was faint and a lot of foot traffic that day. I can’t be sure. We don’t run across many of them in our area.” He looked back at me. “Did you see someone following you again or something?”

“What, no, I was just asking about other shifters here, at the party.”

“What about them? There won’t be that many.” Jake waved off my question, clearly dismissing my curiosity.

“Well, I’m gathering that.” I said, glancing around. “How come you don’t mingle with them?” I really wanted to get a feel for their opinions regarding other shifters. If they were prejudice against them or just misguided.

“You really were sheltered at your pack, weren’t you?” Seth commented offhandedly, then realized who he was surrounded by and his face turned slightly pink. “This is neutral territory. All shifters are welcome to come and go as they please without interference. But none of them would dare mess with a wolf. Too many repercussions for them.”

“From who?” I asked, feigning ignorance.

“The High Council’s Enforcers for one,” Jake answered. “They keep all shifters in line.”

“Non-wolves more than most,” Seth mumbled. And right there was my answer. They were at least aware of the unequal treatment, but were in the same boat as Cassie, Bree, and Hunter. Not sure what, if anything, to do about it.

“I made some non-shifter friends.” I offered offhandedly, looking down at my drink and waiting for their responses. Both Jake and Seth looked at me sharply. Cassie just rolled her eyes. “I think they are pretty cool people.”

“Where did you meet them? Are you sure you trust them? You haven’t been here long.” Seth said and I almost rolled my eyes. I just met them but somehow meeting other shifters made it worse?

“Met them through school and work. They seem very honest and nice. Took me a bit to break through the barrier of me being a wolf and them…not.”

“I bet,” Jake muttered, taking a huge swig of his drink and looking out over the crowd.

“Is that why you asked earlier about who was invited? You wanted to bring your other friends?” Seth asked. He seemed genuinely curious about my motives.

“Yeah.” I nodded, just then catching sight of Ian’s tall frame across the lawn. He was standing beside Amber with Patrik and they seemed like they were debating something.

“Well I’m not opposed to other shifters.” Seth commented, shrugging. “Just with the way things are, makes it difficult to make any lasting relationships. Most times if you go to school with them here, you won’t ever see them again after graduation. Your paths just don’t cross again in this world.” Seth replied. I nodded, totally getting where he was coming from.

I was suddenly pulled away at the sound of my phone ringing. I reached for it in my back pocket and caught my breath. Cade was calling. I looked up and my excitement must have shown because Cassie immediately perked up.

“Answer it!” Cassie demanded, smiling. Grinning like a fool, I stepped away from the group to take the call.

“Hello?” I said excitedly. God, I couldn’t wait to hear his voice.

“Kendra.” Cade seemed to sigh as he said my name. I let out the breath I didn’t know I was holding. Hearing his voice was like a balm to my aching heart. I knew I missed him, but I must have pushed it down to not feel just how much it hurt to be separated from him. Hearing his voice brought it all back to the front.

“Hi Cade. How are you?” Cassie was pressed against me, clearly eavesdropping. I didn’t mind, she was his twin after all. The others faded into the background as I focused on the call.

“Better now that I’m talking to you.” He paused before adding, “How have you been? Are you settled in at college?”

I updated him on moving to campus and getting a job at the local outfitters. I wasn’t sure how much time he would have since they were usually pretty limited, so I tried to keep things short.

“How about you? How’s training?” I asked, biting my lip. I remembered what Carver said about the training, and I was worried about him and Brody.

“It’s tough.” He sighed. “Glad I have Brody here. Things are…different than back home. We’ve had to adjust and learn to keep our opinions to ourselves.” I frowned at his response. Cade wasn’t opinionated by any means and usually only spoke up when it was for someone else or for something that was really important.

“What things can’t you comment on?”

“Everything.” He said quietly. “When I see you next, I’ll have to tell you more.”

“Yeah, sure. I understand.” I paused before adding, “I hear you’ve been checking up on me.”

“Oh yeah?” He seemed a little sheepish. “Just making sure you’re safe, that’s all.” He coughed.

“Uh huh. You know I’m fine. Liam and Mica are keeping tabs. You don’t need to worry about me too.”

“I always worry about you.”

“Well I’m fine. I start school on Monday so that will keep me busy.” A rambunctious group burst out of the back door and rushed past us.

“What was that? Where are you?” Cade asked, seeming more alert. I could just imagine him sitting up straighter and trying to hear more on my side of the call.

“Oh, we got invited to a party.” I replied casually, waiting for the reaction I knew was coming.

“Who’s we?”

“Well Cassie, Bree, and Hunter surprised me tonight and they wanted to go to a party. I ran into some other wolves yesterday and they invited us.”

“Who’s the other wolves?”

“Two guys from the McClain pack, I think?” Trying to remember what pack they said.

“Names, Kendra. Who are they?” Cade was using his domineering alpha voice. I wasn’t falling for it.

“Oh, no. No, you don’t.” I denied. “They are friendly and perfectly safe. You don’t need to go checking into them.” He huffed in my ear. Apparently, he didn’t like that idea. “Besides, Hunter is here and seems to approve of them. He’s been chatting them up for the past ten minutes.”

“Hunter? Chatty? What has Bree done to him?” We both laughed at that thought. “How are other things going for you? Your drawings coming along?”

“About the same. Nothing too earthshattering there. Maybe I’ll get some inspiration from my classes once they start.”

“Uh huh. I’m sure you’ll learn some new techniques. Although, you pretty much are perfect already.” I blushed but smiled.

“Yeah well, you have to say that.” I chuckled.

“Because I’m your boyfriend?” He asked, and I caught my breath. I paused before responding.

“So, we are labeling it now?” I asked hesitantly, biting my lip. I lifted my necklace out and ran the pendant back and forth on the chain.

“What? Of course, we are. I thought that was clear when I left. I’m yours. I thought you felt the same.” His voice trailed off questioningly.

“I do. I do. It’s just with the distance and not being able to talk, sorry. It’s just confusing.” I shook my head even though he couldn’t see me. Cassie gave me a supportive hug before Cade started talking again.

“Kendra. That’s one thing you never have to doubt. Even if I’m not there, I’m always with you. I think about you all the time. I’m counting down the hours until I can see you again.” My heart melted at his words. This, this was what was so special about Cade and me. We had a bond, it may not be a lifemate bond, but it was something special and to be treasured.

“When are you coming back?” I asked.

“Not definitive yet, but when I do, I’ll let you know. Who knows, maybe I’ll surprise you on campus,” he chuckled.

“No!” I coughed thinking that would be disastrous. That’s all I needed. Cade showing up and finding out the hard way I’ve been rooming with a bunch of panthers. When he specifically told me not to. I scrambled to come up with another solution. “No if you only have so much time to visit, just go home and I’ll meet you there. That way you can spend time with your family, and I’ll catch up as soon as I get there.”

“But I kind of want to see where you study. I don’t think I’ve ever actually been to that campus since I knew I always had to come here.”

“It’s a great campus, but really. I know time is going to be an issue, so just let me know when you are coming home, and I’ll be there. I’m not that far away.”

“Yeah sure. Just thought surprising you would be more fun.” Thinking of him showing up at the house and scenting all the cat shifters, yeah, that would so not end well.

“Hey,” Cassie interrupted, “Can I say hi for a sec? Put him on speaker.” I was sure Cade heard his sister, so I pulled my hand down and pressed the speaker button.

“Hey Cade! You miss us?” Cassie yelled into the phone.

“Jesus, Cassie.” I could tell he was wincing from the volume. “Now that you mention it, no, I have not missed you.” Typical brotherly response. I grinned at Cassie’s put out face.

“Aw come on. Don’t be like that.” She play-pouted. “Just cause you miss little Kendra doesn’t mean you get to ignore the rest of us.”

“Ignore you? I don’t think that’s possible.” He scoffed. “Besides, I just talked to you, Dad and Mom. It’s been ages since I’ve talked to Kendra.”

“He’s got a point.” I agreed, earning a mock glare from Cassie.

“Course you’d agree with him.” Cassie rolled her eyes even though I could tell she agreed with us. “Hey, have you seen that little shit Dusty since you’ve been there?”

“Why, worried about your future husband or something?” Cade teased.

“Oh, don’t even kid about that.” Cassie shuddered. “Even saying his name makes me cringe.”

“Then why are you asking?” Cade laughed.

“Just curious. Figured he’d be bowing out if he could by now. Can’t believe he’s going to take over his pack someday.”

“Yeah, me neither.” Cade sighed. “We’ve trained some together, but he’s in a different unit than us. We don’t see him much unless we are doing drills all together.”

“Sounds like boot camp.” I commented. My knowledge of Enforcer Training was very limited, and I think the High Council wanted to keep it that way.

“It basically is.” Cade agreed with my comment.

“Hey, where’s Brody?” Bree chimed in, obviously listening in to the conversation. “Can’t believe he hasn’t offered his opinion on things yet.”

“I heard that.” Brody’s voice floated in from a distance on the phone.

“He’s resting. Delicate flower that he is, you know.” I could hear Cade smirking. “Hey!” Cade exclaimed. “Watch it!” I imagined Brody throwing something at Cade for his comment. He chuckled before turning his attention back to us. “Practice was a little rough today. Brody got hit pretty bad, so he’s taking some much-needed rest before we head back out.”

“Do they have a healer?” Bree asked, ever the healer, and concerned about Brody’s wellbeing.

“Nah, they want us to learn to battle through our injuries and not depend on a healer if none are around,” Cade replied.

“How beat up are you?” I asked, my hackles raising at the thought of him and Brody suffering for no good reason besides toughening them up. Who does that? Don’t they always want them fit in case of an emergency?

“I’m already healed. Superior wolf genes, you know? Ouch! Dang-it Brody. If you’re good enough to throw things at me then you’re good enough to get back out there.”

“Five more minutes,” came the mumbled response.

“I thought your training was about learning more about how the High Council worked and how they oversee their territory?” I asked.

“Yeah, all you’ve mentioned so far is fighting.” Bree noted.

“That’s because that’s all we’ve been doing.” Cade sighed. “Some days I wish I could go to college like a normal high school grad and not be stuck here.”

“I hear you.” Cassie muttered. I glanced at Cassie in sympathy.

“Sorry sis.” Cade replied. “I know being home taking online classes isn’t all that glamorous.”

“We all have our roles to play.” Cassie stated, sounding like she was repeating that line from somewhere. I didn’t hear what Cade responded with because I was distracted by a commotion from across the lawn. The conversation continued around me as I narrowed my eyes, trying to figure out what was going on. A circle of people stood around two people in the middle, and I could tell the ones in the middle were arguing about something. Finally, I realized it was Ian and some other guy.

“Shit,” I mumbled but should have known every shifter ear would hear me.

“What?” Cade asked, instantly on alert. “What’s wrong?”

“Um, no biggie. Just going to pass you off to Cassie for a second.” I quickly handed her the phone with Cade yelling for someone to tell him what was going on. I weaved my way through the group, noting that both Seth and Jake were watching the circle of people with interest as well. I rushed past them toward the group and heard Seth call out my name. Not wanting to waste time, I ignored him and barreled through the throng of people to see what Ian was up to.

Once inside the circle, the voices around me were egging on the two inside the circle. There was a lot of yelling and I still didn’t know how Ian fit into all this. I looked across the circle and locked eyes with Patrik, who was holding Amber back with an arm around her middle. Amber was also screaming at Ian and the other guy, Dan apparently, in the middle.

I shifted my eyes to Ian and looked just in time to see Dan land a punch to Ian’s face. The impact shifted his face slightly to the side, but otherwise Ian gave no indication that the hit hurt. Dan was about the same size as Ian, if not a little beefier, probably why he thought he could take Ian on. I took in the scents around me and realized the crowd was mostly human. One or two shifters scattered throughout the spectators, but otherwise, human. What was Ian doing fighting a human?

One solid hit and he could lay the idiot out flat, but watching the fight, Ian seemed to relish the fight. He toyed with his opponent to get him to swing, then dodged the flailing fist before lightly tapping the guy in the ribs. At least, I figured he had to be tapping the guy because otherwise the human would have broken ribs if Ian put his full strength behind his hits. Dan was still wincing even with Ian pulling his punches. I skirted the circle to reach Patrik and Amber just in time to hear Amber scream at Dan.

“You lousy piece of shit!” She looked up at Patrik and ground out. “Let me at him. I can teach him a lesson.”

“I don’t think being beat up by a girl half his size is a good idea.” Patrik drawled while keeping a tight hold on Amber.

“I’ll let him get a few hits in before taking him down.” Amber offered, clearly thinking this was a rational plan.

“Any man that hit a woman doesn’t deserve to breathe the same air we breathe.” Patrik replied. “Anyways, I let you in there for a few good punches, the other men around here will feel obligated to come to your rescue, and we’ll have a bigger fight on our hands.” While logical, a part of me had to side with Amber. She should be able to settle her own fights.

“But why does Ian get to punch him?” Amber almost whined.

“I don’t think he’s really having fun. Ian looks bored.” Patrik commented. I was listening to Patrik and Amber argue but was watching the fight at the same time. I looked closer at Ian and he did indeed seem to be placating the man opposite of him.

“What happened?” I asked, still watching the fight.

“Stupid oaf came on to me and wouldn’t take no for an answer.” Amber grumbled, clearly still miffed she didn’t get to punch the guy.

“And Ian stepped in?”

“He’s always up for a fight.” Patrik added. I watched as Ian continued to dance around the other guy with minimal effort. Myself, I wouldn’t have had the reflexes to miss the wild swings from the other guy even with shifter genes. Ian made it look easy.

“How long is he going to let it go on?” I asked. I felt the crowd close in as Ian lightly popped the guy in the face forcing him to step back and cup his bleeding nose. I didn’t think it was broken, it still looked straight, but what did I know?

“Ian,” Patrik called. I saw Ian tilt his head to the side, listening to Patrik but he didn’t take his eyes off his opponent. “Finish it.”

Ian nodded and with one quick move, came up behind the guy and put him in a headlock. The crowd around us were screaming with excitement, you’d think they were watching a professional fight or something. Ian’s mouth was moving near the guy’s ear, saying something that over the noise around me, I couldn’t pick up. I saw Dan nod his head once and Ian slowly let the guy go. Both watched each other wearily, Dan trying to catch his breath while Ian regarded him with a steady gaze. Ian didn’t have a mark on him, but his opponent was going to have a black and blue face for a few days. Not to mention a few bruised ribs. Sensing the fight was over, the crowd slowly dispersed, with the guy’s friends supporting his weight as they shuffled off to a nearby area. One of the faces in the crowd caught my attention, but he disappeared too quickly to be sure. I could have sworn it was the same guy in the store that morning. As soon as I looked in his direction, he ducked behind someone else and disappeared. Ian turned back to us, but I could tell he was still tuned into his surroundings.

“I could have taken him.” Amber huffed. I turned back to the group as Patrik let her go.

“I know.” Ian agreed, without saying anything else. Ian’s attention shifted to movement behind me.

“What the hell was that?” Seth’s voice floated over to our group as he approached with Jake and my pack on his heels. I could see Bree had my phone up to her ear. She must have been still talking to Cade. Seth stopped right in front of Ian and glared at him. While Ian was taller, Seth was holding his own against the annoyed look on Ian’s face.

“What was what?” Ian asked, not giving an inch.

“Why were you fighting?” He looked around and noted only our small shifter group before adding, “a human at that.”

“He wouldn’t leave me alone.” Amber piped up. Seth looked toward her to give her his attention. “They wouldn’t let me fight him.” She groused, clearly still miffed she didn’t get to put the guy in his place. Seth regarded Amber for a few beats before asking her a question.

“He was harassing you?” Seth asked, clearly backing down now that he understood what started it. Amber nodded. Seth sighed and shook his head. “Sorry about that. We’ll make sure he doesn’t come back.”

“Don’t know if it matters,” Amber scoffed. “It’s not like we’ll,” she gestured at her, Ian, and Patrik, “be invited back anytime soon.” Seth pursed his lips but didn’t contradict Amber. He looked over at Ian. “Thanks for not calling the cops.”

“That would be a bit overkill.” Patrik stated before Ian could reply. Ian just shrugged.

“He just needed some manners beat into him,” Ian growled. Seth nodded his agreement.

“Where did you learn to fight like that?” Jake looked curious. “You seem like you’ve got some practice under your belt.” Ian turned to Jake to answer his question.

“Kendra,” Bree’s voice pulled me from the conversation. I looked over at her and she had a strained look on her face. “Cade wants to talk to you.”

Oh. Right. I nodded and took the phone from her, walking off a few feet from the group so I could hear him better. I braced myself for what was coming.

“Yeah Cade?”

“Kendra, what the hell is going on? Bree said a fight broke out and you went into the middle of it?” I could hear the worry and anger in Cade’s voice. Frustration that he wasn’t there to help mediate the situation and keep everyone safe.

“A little exaggeration, but the fight’s over now. A guy was being a douche to a girl and another guy stepped in.”

“Bree said it was a shifter.”

“Yes.”I replied hesitantly.

“Who was all involved?”

“The girl and the guy protecting her were shifters, the idiot was a human.”

“What kind of shifter?”

“Tiger and panther.” I replied. Cade paused before continuing.

“Do you know them? Is that why you went into the fight?”

“I didn’t go into the fight. I was just seeing what was going on.” I argued.

“Kendra. I’m not stupid. They had to be shifters you knew.”

“So, you’re saying I wouldn’t step in to help a random person in a fight?” I asked, a little annoyed with him.

“You’re twisting my words.” Cade huffed. “All I’m saying is that you have too much riding on remaining under the radar. You can’t afford to be seen involving yourself in shifter matters, especially fights.” He paused before asking again, “Did you know them?” My silence must have been answer enough for him. “Promise me you’re not doing anything to jeopardize what we talked about.” He sighed tiredly.

“What do you mean?” I hedged, trying to buy me time to think of a way out of this conversation.

“What we talked about in Dallas. With shifters.” He was talking in code, probably worried about being overheard on his end. Of course, I knew what he was talking about. He wanted me to stay far away from other shifters and learn how to shift at my own pace. He was worried about the High Council finding out and what consequences would be in store for us if they did. I think part of him was worried about me learning to shift without him around too, though he would never admit to it. He probably thought the minute I shifted I would find my lifemate since he wouldn’t be there.

“Everything’s fine. Don’t worry about me. I’m just going to focus on my art studies.”

“Kendra,” I could tell he didn’t believe me. “I really think you should-” His voice cut off when a loud voice sounded from his side of the phone in the background. I couldn’t make out the words, but it sounded demanding. “Sorry, we have to go. Promise me you will keep your head down.”

“Always.”

“Okay, fine.” He sighed heavily. “Look I have to go-” The line cut off and I looked down at my phone to see the call had ended. I looked up at the rest of the group. Seth and Jake had moved on to talk to the human and his friends. My pack and Amber, Ian, and Patrik were standing awkwardly around each other, with no one talking. I put my phone away and walked over to the group.

“Cade okay?” Cassie asked, worry written over her face.

“Yeah, he had to go suddenly.” I shrugged and changed the topic. “I’m not really in the party mood now. Anyone want to grab a bite to eat on the way home?”

“Yeah sure.” Cassie readily agreed. Bree and Hunter nodded. I looked over to the other three who were giving each other questioning glances.

“No, you guys go ahead. I think we’ll call it a night.” Amber replied, pulling Patrik and Ian along with her toward the front yard.

“You sure? We can-” I started but Patrik interrupted.

“I think it’s best if we aren’t seen spending a lot of time together.” He looked around before adding, “You never know who’s watching.”

Well, that was a comforting thought, my mind picturing that face in the crowd. Was I being followed? Or just paranoid? I took a deep breath and nodded as the three of them left. Shortly after, we said our goodbyes to Seth and Jake then found a small diner still open. I had a great time hanging out with my pack, but my mind was still on conversations from before.

Cade was worried, with good reason. I needed to stay off the High Council’s radar as long as possible, but I was running blind. How much were they watching me? How much did they already know? I needed to call Elder Nicolas soon. Maybe he would have more information for me.

Then there was the weird conversation about Ian. How did he know how to fight? Jake seemed to think he learned those skills somewhere. A chilling thought occurred to me. What if Ian was involved with the underground fighting? It would explain his fighting skills, the bruises, his unknown whereabouts. I mean, what did he do for a job? No one ever told me, and Ian certainly never offered up the information. If he was involved with the fighting, that would be horrible if the High Council found out. I imagine nothing good would come of that. I didn’t want to see Ian put into that situation, ever.

I needed to focus on my studies, and school hadn’t even started yet. With all this other stuff going on, I wasn’t sure how I was going to be able to juggle everything and still keep my head above water.