Chapter Sixteen
After three agonizing hours of making ourselves presentable, Cassie finally deemed us ready to go. She looked like a model in her gold dress that dazzled in the light. Her hair was tightly coiled up to look like a princess. A diamond necklace and earrings rounded out the effect. Bree was more subtle in her royal blue dress and half up hair style. She wore a necklace made of geodes, a stone that heightened an omega’s ability to heal. Not having seen it before, I asked where it came from, and she said Hunter had it made for her. While Hunter and I had our differences, at least he had a soft side when it came to Bree. I wore the silver dress I had tried on with most of my hair up, with a few tendrils trailing down to frame my face. I didn’t want anything fancy, but Cassie assured me the style was elegant. I didn’t wear earrings but did wear my necklace from my mother. It was a nice reminder to know she gave it to me, that I had a brother, a family. Something I sorely needed when walking into the den of wolves ahead.
Bree got dressed on our side, so I had no idea what Hunter was doing for the three hours it took for Cassie to deem us ready. When we exited our rooms and walked out into the hallway, even I had to smile at Hunter’s reaction to seeing Bree. Of course, Bree blushed and smiled shyly at Hunter as he stood gaping at her. He finally snapped out of it and took two huge strides to wrap his arms around her and kiss her fiercely.
“Hey now! Don’t mess up her hair! Or makeup! I worked hard on that!” Cassie protested, but her words didn’t seem to faze the two lifemates. After a few more moments, they came up for air and my heart melted at the warm look they shared between them. That was what I wanted someday.
“Geez, you’d think you haven’t seen each other in days,” Cassie mumbled, shaking her head and moving towards the elevators. Hunter just smirked as he held Bree’s hand and followed behind. We made small talk on the way down and when the elevator dinged, we stepped off to see the rest of our group gathered off to the side. My steps faltered when I found Cade, his eyes glued to me. I took in his frame encased by the tux, fitted snugly over his body. His hair was slightly damp yet from his shower but knew when it dried it would lay perfectly. My eyes traveled back to his face and found his heated gaze raking over me. I shivered, but not because I was cold. He walked slowly towards me. Only then did I realize I had stopped walking. Cade stopped right in front of me and reached up to cup my cheek. I leaned into his hand unconsciously, then met him halfway in a kiss.
There was so much meaning in that kiss. An apology, longing, happiness, and need. He pulled back slightly and rested his forehead against mine.
“You are so beautiful,” he whispered. I smiled and kissed him lightly again.
“I could say the same about you,” I teased, and he quirked a lip in response.
“Come on you two, we have to drive up to the lodge.” Liam’s voice rang out and shook us from our moment. Cade turned, offering me his arm with a smile, and I gladly took it, still unsteady in the heels Cassie insisted I wear. I handed my phone to Cade for safe keeping as we made our way through the resort. Liam and Mica led the way, Cade and I followed behind. The rest fell in line after us. We all piled into the vehicles again, this time Cade and I sat beside each other. Once settled, he took my hand and held it in his lap. I looked over at him and smiled.
“Did you get everything done you needed to?” I asked, referring to his training duties. His smile dimmed slightly, but he nodded.
“Yeah, we did a sweep of the area and everything seemed safe.”
“What kinds of things were you looking for?” I ask curiously.
“Anything that might be a risk to people attending tonight. We have most of the higher society for shifters coming tonight.”
“You mean wolf society.” I pointed out.
“You do seem to favor your non-wolf friends,” Cade breathed out, a little of his annoyance showing through.
“I would think so,” Cassie added from the backseat. I turned to look at her quizzically. “She better since she’s living with them.” My eyes widened and Cassie realized the moment she misspoke. “You didn’t…”
“Nope.” I answered her unspoken question. Cade let go of my hand and turned to face me fully.
“What does she mean?” His voice was low and angry. I took a deep breath and looked up for strength before letting it out and facing Cade.
“I’ve been rooming with Amber and her brother Clint since school started.”
“I didn’t know about Clint,” Cassie mumbled. Then she whispered, “Is he cute?”
“And you didn’t tell me?” Cade ignored Cassie, looking directly at me.
“Because I knew this was how you would react.” I pointed out calmly.
“Kendra, we talked about this last spring. It’s not safe to be around them. You promised me-”
“I did no such thing.” I defended. “You are basing your opinion on wolf bias. You don’t even know them.”
“I know them well enough,” he growled.
“Doubtful.” I scoffed. Then, just to rub more salt into the mix, I added, “I also made friends with another panther, cougar and tiger.”
“A tiger!” Cade exploded. “What the hell, Kendra. Do you have no sense of self-preservation?!”
“What’s wrong with tigers?” I countered, heatedly. Thinking Ian was great, and my brother, and that Cade better get over his issues quick if he ever wanted to meet him. “Do you even know any?” I challenged.
“I’ve run across a couple in the past few months.” Cade ground out.
“Ran across them. So, you don’t know them.” I pointed out, maybe a little too smug.
“I didn’t care to,” Cade bit out.
“Well, that’s your problem, not mine. Ian is perfectly nice to me.” And my brother, I wanted to add, but didn’t feel it was the time to mention that.
“Ian?” He seemed to be searching his memory, then his eyes widened. “The tiger at the fight?!”
“One and the same.” I agreed smugly.
“That’s why you were there. To watch him fight?”
“Just once. I was being a supportive friend.”
“And if your friend jumped off a bridge, would you be a supportive friend and do it too?” Cade practically yelled at me while looking very angry.
“Chill, Cade,” Cassie interrupted before I could rebuke him. “That’s a little harsh. Ian’s a pretty good guy. Seems like he has Kendra’s best interests in mind.”
“What? Her best interest? You mean he put the moves on my girlfriend?”
“Oh, relax and stop acting like a territorial alpha,” Cassie replied, with a sigh. “That’s not what I meant and if you were thinking clearly and rationally, you would realize that.”
“This is fucked up.” Cade muttered, rubbing his hands with his face. “Why can’t you just stay low and safe?” That seemed to be a rhetorical question, but it still irked me.
“Well excuse me for wanting to have a life. Sorry I don’t fit into your little box, all wrapped up neatly and obediently doing whatever you say. I never signed up for that.”
“Kendra, I didn’t mean it like that-”
“Save it. I’m done talking to you for a while.” I huffed and turned my attention back to the window. An awkward silence permeated the enclosed space and I couldn’t wait to get out. Thankfully it was just Brody and Cassie in the backseat, and two pack enforcers in the front. I’m sure they loved hearing all about my issues.
Finally, we reached the lodge and as soon as the vehicle stopped, I opened the door and stepped out. Preoccupied, I didn’t notice at first all the faces turned toward my sudden appearance but when voices started carrying toward me, I realized just how awkward it was to be the center of attention. Shit.
Other doors popped open behind me and Cade was soon by my side, tension radiating from him in waves. I looked up and was surprised to see him smiling at all the people standing around. I could feel the hurt, anger, confusion, and frustration radiating off him, but none of those emotions showed on the surface. He turned slightly to look at me so only I could hear him.
“We have to put on a brave face and smile. We can’t show any weakness. Our pack must be strong.”
I was miffed he was telling me what to do, yet again, but knew it was for the benefit of the pack. I steadied my nerves and pasted a smile on my face as Cade turned and followed Liam and Mica who were making their way into the lodge, greeting people along the way. I kept my gaze up, knowing looking down would be a sign of weakness. And it afforded me an opportunity to study people as we went by. None of the faces looked familiar, which I guess was a good thing. Maybe the High Council decided to skip this shindig.
We made it inside the lodge, and I gazed around the extravagant building, noting expensive tastes everywhere. I wondered who owned it and what kind of people would be able to afford to spend a weekend at a place like this.
“Alpha McCoy,” a voice rumbled from ahead of us and I saw a man reach out to shake Liam’s hand. Cade steered us to Liam’s side as the man shook Mica’s hand as well. “Glad you could make it.”
“Wouldn’t miss it,” Liam was all smiles as he turned toward us. “You obviously know my son, but this is Kendra. A new member to our pack.” Liam gestured to me before adding, “Kendra, this is Enforcer Kane, Cade’s training leader.”
Oh. Oh! My eyes widened at the realization and I reached out to shake his hand. “It’s nice to meet you, Sir.”
“Likewise. I can see why Cade’s been distracted being away. Quite the beauty, aren’t you?” Enforcer Kane smiled ruefully, and I blushed, not used to the attention.
“Sir,” Cade held out his hand to pull the attention off me as Kane switched his focus.
“Cade,” Kane nodded and shook Cade’s hand in welcome. His eyes traveled over us as he added, “I was sent to notify you as soon as you arrived that Councilor Cora would like to see you upon your arrival.” His gaze included me in that news.
“Thank you, Enforcer Kane. We’ll make our way to her.” Liam responded, while nodding and leading us away. Kane caught Cade’s arm gently and whispered in his ear.
“Tread carefully tonight. Don’t draw attention.” Again, his gaze traveled to me before he smiled and headed off in another direction. Cade pulled me along after his parents as I watched Kane walk away.
“What did he mean?”
“He meant do the opposite of what you normally do,” Cade grumbled, and I scowled.
“I don’t draw attention to myself,” I hissed.
“Not intentionally no.” He glanced down at me, eyes skating over my dress before mumbling, “You won’t be able to help it tonight.” Before I could respond, we stopped in front of who I now recognized as Councilor Cora. She was dressed in a deep red dress that hugged her figure. Her hair was piled on top of her head in an elaborate braid that, to me, looked painful. Her eyes scanned our group before finally landing on me.
“Ah, I see you’ve brought…her.” She seemed to want to call me something else but changed her mind at the last minute. Her tone implied it wasn’t going to be anything complimentary.
“Kendra, yes. Enforcer Kane mentioned you wanted to speak with us?” Liam asked politely.
“I wanted a good look at the girl to see how she was progressing.” Her eyes scanned my form before returning to my face and scowling. “Her scent is stronger. I can smell her wolf now. That was not in your last report.” Her gaze zeroed in on Liam and Mica. Mica choose to respond.
“No, it is a recent development.” Mica stated. “Something we are encouraged to see. We would love to see Kendra shift and run with the pack.”
“Yes,” drawled Cora, eyes once again drifting over to me. “Any other developments?” She was looking at me, but I knew the question was not addressed to me.
“Minor. Slight improvements in scent but other than that, nothing notable.” Mica stated conversationally.
“Pity,” Cora replied, even though her tone implied something else entirely. “Well, go mingle with others. I need to speak with some important people.”
“Of course.” Liam nodded and added, “Have a good evening,” before turning and leading us away. I didn’t look, but I felt Cora’s eyes boring into my back as we walked back toward our group.
“She’s awful,” I whispered, to no one in particular, but Cade heard me.
“Shush,” he glanced around us. “You don’t want anyone to hear you.”
“I can’t be the only one that thinks that,” I commented dryly.
“Probably not, but still, don’t mention it here.” Cade murmured.
Liam stopped by another couple, this one was at least nice, and we made small talk with them for a little while. I nodded and smiled in all the right places, acutely aware of all the looks I was still getting. And I thought the silver dress would let me blend in. Should have went with the red.
I spied another Councilman across the way, talking to a man with his back to me. It was Councilor Blaine, and a shiver went down my spine remembering how cruel he was back when I first met him. I could still feel the malice coming off him in waves as he glared across the way at me. I knew he wasn’t a fan of latents, but I was still appalled at the outright hatred he seemed to harbor just for me. The man he was talking to suddenly turned and I caught my breath. It was High Councilor Anton, leader of the High Council. His penetrating gaze froze me to the spot and Cade had to shake my arm to get my attention as we continued making the rounds in the room.
“What’s wrong?” Cade asked softly, concern lacing his voice.
“Nothing,” I mumbled, glad to have broken eye contact with Anton. He also hated latents. Oh wait, was there anyone on the High Council that didn’t?
“Come on, I think we are going to make our way to our seats.”
“They serve us at this thing?” I asked, distracted by the other people headed in the same direction as us.
“Yes, it’s a gala, fundraiser after all. We had to pay a bundle to attend, we might as well get food out of it.”
“Do we have to sit with anyone we don’t know?” I asked apprehensively. Thinking that would be the last straw, being forced to sit at a table with one of the High Council members.
“Doubtful. We have a big enough party that they would have put us at two or three tables next to each other.”
“Okay.” I nodded, still following everyone into a huge dining area. The round tables were all set, with at least twelve to a table. We approached ours and the first real smile of the night crossed my face.
“Kendra, guess we are table mates.” Seth grinned, with Jake sitting on the other side of him. I felt Cade tense beside me, but he still had a smile on his face as he pulled out my chair. Jake seemed nervous, glancing at Liam and Mica sitting down across from him and straightening his tie. I shrugged and smiled at Seth.
“I see you made it.”
“Yeah, this place is huge. Can’t believe Jake got us in.” He elbowed Jake good naturedly and Jake scowled at him, before smoothing his face and smiling at Liam.
“Alpha McCoy, thank you again for allowing us to travel with you.” Jake said politely.
“Of course, no trouble at all.” Liam smiled in return.
“I wondered if you could introduce me to some of the High Council members.” Jake asked eagerly. “I hope to be working for them after graduation and think it would help to put a face to a name.” I wasn’t sure if he was thinking about him remembering them, or vice versa.
“What will you be doing for the High Council?” Liam asked, reaching for his glass to take a drink. I noticed he didn’t answer Jake’s question, but Jake was only too happy to be talking to a well-known Alpha. Jake went on to explain his schooling and role in finance, all of which I understood two words. I tuned him out and looked around the room to see most everyone was seated. There was an empty table near the front, on a raised dais. I had a pretty good idea who that was for.
Once everyone on the main floor found their seats, a man stood near the raised dais with a microphone. He asked everyone to take their seats, even though I could see everyone already had, and then motioned to the spot behind him and asked everyone to welcome the High Council to the gala. With that, everyone stood up and started clapping. I was slow to my feet, surprised we had to participate in this much fanfare just so the High Council could walk in with style.
I clapped along with everyone, although my clapping was few and far between. Once all the High Council members were seated, the whole room settled in at their tables again. High Councilor Anton picked up his fork and tapped it against his glass to get everyone’s attention. The noise grated on my ears, and I winced at the sharp sound. He stood up with a smile, looking around the room.
“I would like to welcome you all to this annual event where we mingle and support charities.” He raised his glass and seemed to toast us all. “With your generous support, we have already raised over one hundred million, and we haven’t even had dessert yet,” he laughed and a few around the room joined in. My jaw about hit the floor. How expensive was this place? Did people buy tickets or was it a bribe per person to gain an invitation?
“As always, after the meal we will have an auction to raise additional funds. Once the auction concludes, please join us in the ballroom for festivities. Food and drink will also be available for those with a hearty appetite,” he grinned at his own joke and I had a hard time not rolling my eyes. “So, without further ado, let’s enjoy our meal!” Cheers rose up around the room as waiters appeared with platters mounded with food.
I turned to Cade, who was watching me curiously. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen him smile.”
Cade snorted but recovered quickly. “No, probably not.”
“Kendra, eat up,” Brody said as he was piling his plate with food. “You don’t want to have to pick through what’s left.” I grinned at Brody’s never-ending appetite and filled my plate with a variety of items. There were a few I couldn’t identify, and I made sure to stay away from them.
Once the meal was completed, the auction was mind blowing. There were trips to Europe, world cruises, Caribbean beach houses, mountain resorts, private jets, penthouse suites, any expensive thing you could imagine, it was up for auction. Liam and Mica bid on a few things, but they didn’t go high enough. I think they were participating for show only.
After the auction, we moved to the ballroom where a full orchestra was playing. They really did go all out for this event. We gravitated to the side where other packs came to speak to Liam and Mica. I could tell by the looks and difference given to Liam, that the McCoys really were important in the wolf shifter society. Cade turned to me and grinned.
“Want to dance?”
“Um no, no way,” I shook my head, ignoring the crestfallen look on Cade’s face.
“Come on, this is a slow song. We’ll just stick to the edges.”
“Do you see the ballroom dancing going on?” I said, motioning to the elegant couples moving around the dance floor.
“That’s why I suggested the edge,” Cade grinned. “We won’t be the only ones.” I looked where his eyes led and found Hunter and Bree oblivious to everyone else as they swayed side to side. They weren’t the only ones, but we would be in the minority.
“People will see,” I protested, thinking I needed to keep a low profile.
“Let them.” Cade said, as he tugged me along and pulled me into his arms on the edge of the dance floor. It took me a minute before my heart slowed and I noticed that while there were some eyes on us, it wasn’t as bad as I thought.
“You okay?” Cade whispered in my ear.
“Now you ask?” I replied sarcastically. Cade laughed softly.
“I’m just glad to have an excuse to hold you in my arms.”
“How is that any different from what you’ve been doing the rest of the night?” I asked, referring to how he had held me close to his side all night.
“This,” he pulled me close so my front was flush with his, “is so much better.”
“This is too close,” I hissed, looking around at the other couples.
“I don’t care. I want them to see.”
“Staking your claim?” I joked but caught my breath at the serious look in his eye.
“Yes,” Cade replied with conviction. I lost a moment in his eyes and was sure he was going to lean down and kiss me when something caught the corner of my eye. I turned us slightly and saw Dusty Rhunes, watching us with a smirk. My heart skipped a beat, thinking of our last encounter. He was slightly disheveled, as if he’d dressed in a hurry. His friend beside him elbowed him and they disappeared into the crowd.
“What are you looking at?” Cade followed my gaze but Dusty had already left.
“I guess I should have known Dusty would be here.” I replied sourly.
“Dusty? He’s supposed to be out on assignment with his team.” Cade frowned. I turned, trying to see where he and his friend would have gone.
“Why would he be here then?” I asked confused.
“I don’t know,” Cade mused. “Come on.” He stopped dancing and we weaved our way back into the crowd. “Which way did he go?”
“That way.” I pointed and Cade turned to walk in the direction I said. I followed, curious more than anything. We finally caught up to him and his friend hanging out by the drinks.
“Well if it isn’t our favorite boy scout.” Dusty laughed and his friend joined in.
“What are you doing here, Dusty? I thought your team was out on assignment?”
“What do you care? Not like I have to answer to you.” Dusty spit out with obvious disdain. Apparently there was a back story there that I wasn’t aware of.
“Technically you do. I’m ranked higher.” Cade crossed his arms and glared at Dusty. He scowled in return.
“That scoring is bullshit anyways. Of course they are going to favor the boy scout. Always following orders.”
“Always delivering, you mean. Something you seem hard pressed to match.” Cade commented. I had no idea what they were talking about, but I could see Cade had hit a nerve.
“I completed tonight’s mission,” he sneered, his gaze slanting over to me. “It wasn’t just any kitty cat either.”
“That guy could fight.” Dusty’s friend joked and slapped Dusty on the back. “But he wasn’t a match for the darts.” My heart started pounding, my imagination jumping to conclusions.
“Shut up, you idiot,” Dusty punched his friend on the arm. “That’s classified information.”
“Who’d you bring in?” Cade asked, getting right to the point. I was leaning into the conversation, praying that I was wrong.
“Like I’d tell you.” Dusty’s gaze slid to me again. “Besides, you’ll find out soon enough. Enjoy your time here, Kendra. You won’t have the protection of the pack when you get home.” He laughed with his friend and they wandered off, Cade glaring after them. His comment struck a nerve. Had he been following me the last few weeks? Was he watching everything I did? What about the cat they said they arrested? It couldn’t be Ian, could it? I started hyperventilating, unwilling to believe as I pieced together what Dusty had said. But already a pit was forming in my stomach. I knew, I just knew.
“Cade give me my phone,” I said quickly, hand held out waiting impatiently.
“What?” He asked distracted, gaze still on Dusty’s retreating form.
“My phone. Now.” I demanded. Cade’s gaze snapped to me as he reached inside his jacket and handed me my phone. I quickly dialed Amber’s number, noticing I missed a few calls from her already. She picked up on the second ring.
“Kendra?”Amber’s voice was shaky.
“Amber, what’s going on?”
“Oh my God, Kendra, we don’t know what to do, Ian’s missing and not answering his phone and we are worried about him and don’t know what to do,” she was rambling, but I caught most of it.
“When did you last hear from him?”
“Yesterday morning. He stopped by after you left for classes.”
“He didn’t answer any of my texts yesterday,” I offered, pacing a few steps before turning and pacing back. Cade followed my movements like a hawk.
“He was dealing with the details for the next fight, he seemed pretty distracted.”
“When did you find he was missing?” I started moving toward the exit, Cade on my heels.
“He was supposed to help the guys today at the store, but never showed up. They went to all his usual places but didn’t find him.”
“You checked where he lives?” God, I was his sister and I didn’t even know where he lived.
“Yeah, but no one was home. They even broke the lock to check inside. Ian’s going to be so pissed.”
“Was his fight last night?” I asked, worried.
“Yeah, but they moved the location, so it should have been,” Amber gasped then said, “You think the Enforcers picked him up?”
“I don’t know, maybe,” I looked around, and caught the grim expression on Cade’s face. He could hear most if not all our conversation. “I’ll see what I can find out.”
“How are you going to find out?” Amber asked.
“I’m with the majority of the stuck-up wolf society tonight, someone has to know something.” I muttered into the phone, getting a few looks as I passed said wolves.
“Okay, just call me when you do know something okay? The guys are worried, I’m worried, we haven’t talked to Luke yet-”
“Don’t,” I cut her off. “Don’t worry him until we need to. I’ll call back in thirty minutes unless I find something before then, okay?”
“Okay.” Amber whispered. “Just be careful.”
“Always. Talk to you soon.”
“Bye.”
We hung up and I stopped by the doors to look around the room, trying to calm my racing mind to organize my thoughts. Who would know about recent captures? I couldn’t ask Dusty. He’d be no help. Maybe-
“Kendra, what the fuck is going on?” Cade growled, stepping close to me.
“Ian’s missing.” I replied, eyes darting around the room looking for someone that might have information.
“The tiger?” He ground out, clearly pissed I was worried about a tiger.
“Yes.” My look dared him to make a comment.
“Why are you so concerned over him?”
“Cade, he’s my friend. If he’s been arrested, I want to know.” I didn’t think this was the time to tell him Ian was my brother, not until I knew more.
“Fine,” he ran his hand through his hair and looked around too. “Dusty’s team was sent to raid another fight location last night-”
“You knew and you didn’t say anything?” I whispered-yelled, incensed. A few people nearby gave me a dirty look.
“I thought I’d made that clear last time. I can’t break protocol.” His sharp look dared me to contradict him. Good thing common sense had already left the building.
“Oh my God, Cade, I swear if you were anyone else, I would throat punch you right now.”
“Kendra, it’s not my call. I can’t go around telling people-”
“Save it,” I held up my hand, “I don’t want to talk to you right now. I need to find Carver.”
“Enforcer Carver?”
“Do we know another Carver?” I replied sarcastically, scrolling through my phone and finding his number. I dialed and held the phone to my ear, ignoring the look Cade was throwing my way.
“Kendra, what a pleasant-”
“Are you here?”
“You’re going to have to be more specific.”
“At this stupid gala. Are you here?”
“Yes, I’m guarding my grandfather.”
“Elder Nicolas is here? Where are you guys?”
“Near the balcony doors, west side.”
“Don’t move. I’m coming to you.” I hung up and started moving toward the doors.
“Kendra,” Cade growled, trailing behind me.
“Cade, you either support me in this, or go find something else to do. I don’t need you breathing down my neck.” I pushed my way through the crowd, weaving through the throngs of people until I spotted Elder Nicolas smiling with his head tipped toward Enforcer Carver. His gaze slid to mine as I approached.
“Ah, Kendra. Lovely to see you dear.” He reached for my hand and laid his other one on top to pat my hand. “Are you having a good evening?”
“I was until I spoke with a friend.”
“Oh, and what was said to put a damper on your evening?”
“I need to know if a friend was detained.” Detained sounded less harsh than arrested. I couldn’t handle arrested right now.
“Recently?” Enforcer Carver asked, stepping forward.
“Within the last forty-eight hours,” Cade replied, I stiffened at his response but kept my gaze on Carver.
“What would it be in connection with?”
“A fight.”I stated.
Carver’s gaze landed on me before asking, “Like the ones I told you to stay away from?”
“Yes.”
“I see,” Carver’s eyes narrowed.
“Is there a way you can check?” I asked, grasping at straws to find out any information.
“Give me a moment.” Carver pulled up his phone and started swiping across the screen. “Was this friend a wolf or…?”
“No, tiger.”
“Ah,” Elder Nicolas said. “A good friend, I take it.” My eyes shot to Nicolas.
“Yes, yes he is.” Nicolas and I watched each other for a moment, neither of us saying anything. How much did he already know?
“Have you, by chance, talked about his family history?” My gaze sharpened on Elder Nicolas but before I could answer, Enforcer Carver spoke up.
“Garner’s team raided an illegal fight last night, arrested five, and detained four for questioning.” Carver looked up at me and added, “A tiger was one of the ones arrested.”
“Where is he? Can I see him? What’s going to happen to him?” I fired rapidly at Carver.
“Kendra, you have to realize by now these things are hardly fair.” Carver said softly, clearly leading up to talking me down. That was so not happening.
“So, what? You’re saying just leave him there? No trial? Stay in jail? What?”
“Shifters don’t have a jail,” Carver said softly, eyes traveling past me to Cade.
“So, what do you do with the ones you arrest?”
“If they are found guilty, they are eliminated.” Carver said softly, willing me to understand without saying the words. Cade put an arm around my back in support.
“Wha…What?” I breathed, my knees suddenly giving out. Cade caught me and supported my weight while I took a couple deep breaths. “No, no.” I shook my head. “That is not an option.” I denied.
“That is the High Council’s law.” Nicolas noted quietly.
“Well then someone needs to fucking change the fucking law.” I growled, gaining my balance and glaring at Nicolas.
“Kendra,” Cade growled in my ear, “you have to keep your voice down.” I shrugged out of Cade’s arms and rounded on him.
“This is all your fault,” I ground out. “If you would have told me about the raid, I could have warned Ian. But no, your precious protocol is more important than someone’s life.”
“Kendra,” Cade started but then I rounded on Carver and stepped into his personal space.
“Where are they keeping him?”
“I can’t give you that information.”
“Carver, I am about three seconds from nailing you in the balls. Where the fuck are they keeping him?” I ground out, fire burning through my veins. I saw his eyes widen and noticed Elder Nicolas give a nod to Carver before he cleared his throat.
“There’s a compound in Idaho. In the mountains, remote, you’ll need GPS to reach it.” He rattled off an address. I committed it to memory then wheeled around and headed for the exit without saying another word. Cade was on my heels.
“Kendra, you can’t go off halfcocked on a rescue mission. You have no idea what you’ll be walking into.” I whirled back around so suddenly, Cade ran into me and knocked me off balance. He caught my arms to steady me as I glared up at him.
“Ian is more than a friend, Cade.” I saw hurt, anger, and sadness rush across his face before I added, “He’s my brother.” Surprise was the last emotion.
“What? How is that possible?” He breathed.
“I’ll explain on the way.” I said softly. “If you’re with me?”
“Always,” came his immediate response. I smiled swiftly, relieved to always have Cade to count on. We moved quickly towards the door, and I noticed Cassie, Brody, Hunter and Bree making a beeline for us as well.
“You told them?” I asked, referring to their telepathic ability.
“Of course. You think Cassie would let me live otherwise?”
“Absolutely not.” Cassie replied, keeping pace with us as we exited the ballroom. I’m sure we garnered a few looks, but there were a lot of other people moving about, so hopefully no one would notice our swift exit. “I probably wouldn’t kill you. Mom would miss you after all. But I could maim you for a while. That would be fun.”
“Love you too, sis.” Cade replied dryly.
“Right back atcha, bro.” Cassie mock saluted Cade as we spilled out of the lodge and to the driveway.
“Hunter, which way?” Cade asked. Hunter pushed on something in his hand and a car beeped.
“After you,” Hunter gestured toward the car we were about to borrow.
“How’d you get the keys?” I asked as we all piled into the car, Hunter at the wheel.
“I offered to drive home.” Hunter shrugged and steered us off the property back to the resort.
“So, what’s the deal?” Cassie asked. “Cade didn’t tell us much beyond your friend was arrested and we were going to help.”
“You guys remember Ian?” A chorus of yes’s rang out except Brody said no.
“The fighter.”Cade said.
“Oh, yeah, him,” Brody said, but still looked confused.
“Well apparently there was a fight last night, Dusty’s team made the raid, and they arrested Ian,” I explained.
“Oh no.”Bree breathed.
“So, we are doing what exactly?” Cassie asked.
“I have to figure out a way to break him out.” I replied. A gasp followed by a bunch of arguing made any more conversation impossible. Each one had a theory on what to do, or not to do, and it was hard to hear any one plan. I gave up and dialed Amber back.
“Kendra, what did you find out?”
“He’s being held in Idaho. We need to figure out how to break him out.”
“Idaho? Where?” Amber asked. I told her and then heard Clint’s voice.
“Kendra, where do you want to meet? We can help.”
“I’ll text you a place, just pack up and head our way.”
“Okay. Should we tell Luke?”
“I don’t know. That’s your call. You know him better than I do,” I offered.
“What’s your plan to get him out?” Clint asked.
“Still working on that. Just start moving and we can finalize plans when you get here.”
“Fine. Text me a place to meet. We’ll be there,” Clint responded quickly.
“K, See you soon.”
“Bye.”
We hung up and that’s when I noticed the car had gone silent again. I glanced around and saw everyone was looking at me.
“What?”
“Bringing backup?” Brody asked with a smirk. I shrugged.
“Couldn’t hurt, right?”
“Who was the guy talking?” Cassie asked.
“Clint, Amber’s brother. Why?”
“Have I met him?” She asked with a quizzical look.
“Um…” I thought back to when they visited and shook my head. “I guess not, he wasn’t there when we went to Seth’s place for that party.” Hunter pulled into the resort and we all rushed to the elevators. Once inside, Bree was the next to point out the obvious.
“We know where we’re going, but beyond that? What are we going to do?”
“I’m working on that.” I replied, rapidly forming a plan in my head. “Just change clothes and meet back down in the lobby in ten.” We split off at our rooms and I rushed to my suitcase, ripping off my dress in the process. I dug through my bag for jeans, then a shirt, and hooded sweatshirt. Socks were next, along with tennis shoes. I threw my hair up in a knot with a hair tie and looked at Cassie. She was just putting her shoes on and then stood up.
“Ready?”I asked.
“As I’ll ever be.” An excited gleam shown in her eyes, probably because this was the first time she was really getting out without supervision. And a rescue mission at that.
“Let’s go.” I headed toward the door and was met in the hallway by two men in tactical gear. I pulled up short and Cassie ran into me. My wolf wasn’t worried, and that’s when I looked closer at the two men and realized it was Cade and Brody.
“Dang, guys, you look hardcore.” Cassie whistled. I scanned down their frame, okay, just Cade’s, and took in the black on black look. His cargo pants were filled with pockets that had various bulges with unknown items. A black long sleeve shirt covered more of him and was very tight across the chest.
“And sexy,” I breathed, finally raising my eyes to meet Cade’s smiling ones. Realizing I spoke out loud, I cleared my throat and nodded toward the elevators. “Come on.” Hunter and Bree exited then, Hunter in much the same outfit as the other two guys, and we piled back into the elevator.
“How come you guys get the bad ass gear?” Cassie complained.
“They don’t come in female sizes.” Brody explained.
“This is your Enforcer gear?” I asked and Cade nodded. “You weren’t wearing it the night of the fight.”
“We were blending in then.”
“Oh.”
“How come Hunter gets an outfit?” Cassie pointed out.
Hunter grunted. “It’s not an outfit.”
“Whatever.” Cassie rolled her eyes.
“We have extras with us.”
“In his size?” Cassie asked skeptically. I had to agree. Brody and Cade were fit, but not as built as Hunter.
“We may have filched extra clothes for him.” Brody said, looking slyly to the side.
“Well, get a small for me next time,” Cassie said as the door opened to the lobby. “I don’t care if it’s baggy, I want it.” Cade scoffed and led the way out of the elevator. I followed close behind but ran into him when he stopped suddenly.
“Sir,” Cade said hesitantly. I peered around him and saw Enforcer Kane standing there, observing all six of us. His gaze took in the three men decked out in gear and the three of us girls standing awkwardly beside them.
“Don’t tell me I have to remind you that those uniforms are not for recreation.”
“No sir.”Cade replied.
“They are for special missions or training only.”
“Yes sir.”
“Lucky for you two, I have a training opportunity that needs attention.” He turned and motioned us to follow. “Since they are already here, Hunter and the ladies will be crucial to this training. Let’s move.”
I glanced at Cade, but he shook his head and we followed Enforcer Kane out the front door with other onlookers watching us leave. My nerves were shot. I knew we were wasting time, but how were we going to lose Kane now? We needed to meet Clint and the others. Kane motioned us to jump into his SUV. Cade sat in the front, the boys crammed into the back, which left us girls in the middle. He started driving down the lane and turned onto the main highway.
“Now, which one of you had the bright idea to storm out of the gala en masse?” Kane asked, side glancing at Cade, who looked chagrined.
“That would be me, Sir.” I replied, taking the heat for the group.
“Well thank God it wasn’t one of my men, otherwise I’d be wondering what the hell you’ve been learning the past few months.”
“Sir, I know I should have-”
“Let me stop you right there. You all made a big mess leaving like that and now I have to clean it up.” He sighed. “Where are we headed anyways?”
“Sir?”Cade asked.
“You left in a hurry. I assume it wasn’t for a backyard barbeque.” His eyes caught mine in the rearview mirror. “Your friend’s in some trouble?”
“Yes. I need to get to Idaho.”
“That’s some distance from here.” He looked at Cade. “You tell your Alpha?”
“Some. I didn’t have time to elaborate.”
“Liam just going to let you go?” Kane asked skeptically.
“I’m sure he’ll have questions when I see him next.”
“He’s probably smoothing over your departure.” Kane glanced at me again. “It probably wouldn’t have been as noticeable if she wasn’t with you.”
“Kendra?” Cade asked, looking back at me.
“Someone let slip her latent status. It was all anyone was talking about tonight.” Well, that explained all the looks.
“Then Dad will use that as the reason we left.” Cade nodded.
“Idaho huh? I imagine it’s the compound we have there?” Kane asked.
“You know where it is?” I asked. Then realized how stupid that question was. Kane’s look confirmed that. “How long will it take to get there?”
“Twelve hours by car.”
“Twelve hours?!”I almost yelled.
“I can probably push it to ten.” Kane answered, shrugging.
“Do it. We have to get there.” Cade answered.
“Can we fly? I mean the plane is right here.” Cassie reasoned.
“Flying would be too easy to track. Flight logs and it would announce our landing. I’m sure you’d rather do this under the radar.”
“Yeah,” Cassie sighed sitting back.
“So, who’s this friend we are rescuing? He, or she, better be in for something minor because I’m not risking my career for anything more.”
“Why are you helping us?” I asked, waiting to answer his question.
“A friend called in a favor.”
“What friend?”Bree asked.
“That’s between me and a friend.”
“We are rescuing a friend of Kendra’s. A tiger.” Brody offered, I glanced back at him and scowled. He didn’t need to add that last bit.
“The one in the illegal fights?”
“One and the same,” Cade sighed.
Kane looked at me through the mirror. “Fighting is illegal you know.” I chose to ignore that statement.
“He shouldn’t have been arrested,” I replied. “It a bias system, prejudiced against non-wolves.”
“Hmm,” was Kane’s only response.
“Besides, he’s also my brother,” I added, figuring now was as good a time as any to share the news.
“Wait, what?” Cassie yelled. “When were you going to tell us that?”
“Now seemed a good time.”
“How long have you known?” Bree asked.
“Since Thursday,” I answered, which seemed to mollify them some.
“A tiger is your brother?” Kane asked skeptically.
“Yes.”
“You’re sure?” He was still skeptical.
“Positive.” I answered, narrowing my eyes at him.
“Do you have proof?”
“You want a blood test or something?” I countered, getting annoyed.
“Just wondering how you figured it out. Far as I knew your parents were gone.”
“They are. But Ian and I share memories,” I offered, but didn’t elaborate. Never mind those memories were half on paper and half in his mind.
“Those can be faked,” Kane argued.
“Not these.”I countered.
“All right, all right,” Kane gave in and sighed. “If he’s truly your brother and the High Council finds out, they won’t need to wait until you shift.”
“What do you mean?” Cade asked, suddenly tense.
“Think about it. She’s a latent, first offense in the High Council’s eyes. Second, if her brother is a tiger, then her parents were different shifters. One a wolf, the other most likely a tiger. That pairing should never have existed or been allowed.”
“But her parents are already gone, what more can they do to her?” Cassie asked, then said to me, “Sorry.”
“Don’t worry about it,” while the comment stung as a reminder, I’d dealt with my grief long ago.
“Doesn’t matter if their parents aren’t alive anymore, the offspring should have been taken care of as well, to avoid any talk in the future.”
“You’re saying the High Council sanctions murder?” Bree asked pointedly.
“They see it as preemptive action against traitors.”
“I’m not a traitor.” I said softly.
“Have you shifted yet?” Kane asked after a few moments of silence.
“No.”
“That’s what the High Council is waiting on. Since you came to light, they’ve been itching for a reason to end your life. They don’t want the knowledge of a white latent wolf becoming public, and honestly, you’ve handed yourself to them on a silver platter if they find out what you’re planning to do.”
“No one besides us knows what we are planning.” Cassie argued.
“And Amber. They’re meeting us,” I added.
“Who’s Amber?” Kane asked sharply.
“Clint and Amber Malkin are friends of mine. They are meeting us in Idaho with Jason and Patrik, a few other friends of mine.”
“Malkin sounds familiar,” Kane mused, finger tapping the wheel in thought.
“The High Council ordered their uncle’s death a few years ago for daring to ask for more land,” I offered.
“Ah. Now I remember,” Kane nodded.
“You were there?” I asked curiously.
“No, I was stationed on the other side of the country. But I heard bits and pieces. How did they get involved in all this?”
“Amber and Clint are friends with Ian as well. I actually met Ian through them.”
“I see.” He glanced at the clock which read ten after ten then back at us. “Look, it’s going to be a long night. Why don’t some of you try to sleep?” I looked at him like he was crazy. “It’s over ten hours before we meet up with your friends. At least rest your eyes. It’s a long drive.”
“Fine.” I muttered, and Cassie, Bree, and I tried to make ourselves more comfortable. Cade and Kane talked in low voices in the front, while the guys in the back were already closing their eyes. I looked over at Bree who was smiling sadly at me.
“I can help you sleep if you want?” She offered. After getting more comfortable, I nodded as she laid a hand on my arm. The last thing I remember was thinking what the hell was I going to do when we reached Idaho?