Chapter 3 #4
“But I’m not an Alpha,” Rafe countered. “I’m a wolf with vampire tendencies. And it sucks. Literally. In every way possible.”
Xavier glanced at Greyson then quickly focused on Rafe. “I’m sorry this happened to you, my friend, but we really need you to come with us.”
“I’m sorry too, but I’m not it. I’m not your person.
” Rafe turned to Xavier and Kenji. “Look it’s great seeing you both.
I know you guys can handle it. You’ve got an ancient.
A dragon. And you, Xavier. You’re a skilled warrior.
” His lips pressed into a tight smile. “I’m gonna go now, put on a podcast and chill.
Listen to some music. If you really need me when you get there, shoot me a text.
” Rafe sighed. “So yeah, that’s where I’m at with this. ”
Greyson crossed his arms and shook his head in disapproval. Rafe brushed off the guilt. Everything he’d said had been true. He’d been through hell and back and needed a break from the fighting.
Life now depended on blood, and the struggle to control his constant thirst had been his priority. He owed himself a slice of happiness in this giant shit sandwich he’d been given. He didn’t need Greyson to tell him he shouldn’t court a human.
Nothing mattered but taking a long vacation.
And when it was all said and done, when he’d had his fill of women and dive bars as he drove across the country, when he’d kissed Skylar’s lips one more time, he’d consider Ilsbeth’s offer.
If there was a chance he could have his life back, he’d be a fool not to entertain it.
Greyson growled. “Come with me to Las Vegas. We must control the situation. The wolf pack that operated in Vegas appears to have division as well.”
“Did you hear a word I said?” A knock on the door interrupted the conversation. Rafe jumped to his feet. “Saved by the bell.”
As he swung open the door, the power of the Alpha, the familiar yet overwhelming energy, pulsed through him. Wolf. His beast responded. Submit. Though instinct begged him to avert his gaze, Rafe locked eyes with the Alpha and he challenged the wolf before him.
“Sorry. Hey, Logan. Would you like a bagel?” Rafe forced his body to return to submission. What the fuck is wrong with me?
“I’m good but thanks. Good to see you, Rafe. Sorry I’m late. Catch me up...”
“We were just talking about the situation,” Xavier said.
“Greyson.” Logan nodded and sat down across from Rafe.
“Alpha.” Greyson returned the nod.
“I was just sayin’ that I’m not sure why Xavier needs me for this.
I’m just sorta getting to a good place now.
We’re just coming off that fight in Japan.
And you know what happened before that. I just had a chat with the witch.
” Rafe ignored the glare on Greyson’s face. “Chill. Dude. I didn’t say it.”
“I’ve talked to Hunter,” Logan began, ignoring Rafe’s refusal. “I’m sorry he couldn’t be here today but he’s going to meet you in Vegas. He’ll get you set up and—”
“Did you hear me? I said I can’t go.” Rafe’s stomach clenched. Though he talked with Hunter on the phone, conversations with his trusted longtime friend and Alpha had grown less frequent.
“Rafe.” Logan locked on the wolf. “I’m not your Alpha. But I can feel your strength.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about. That thing back there? No. I’m just tired.” Rafe tried to play off the trouble that brewed deep within him.
“I know this has been a tough time, but you’re gonna get through this. Forget the job. This is a chance to see Hunter in person. Connect with the pack again.”
“Hunter and I both know coming back home isn’t going to work long term. I’m changed.” Rafe shook his head, his mind spinning.
“What do you think happened to the coven? The leader?” Logan asked Greyson.
Greyson shrugged. “Their previous leader, Armand, was a problem for a while. Too many accidents with humans. But it’s Vegas so P-CAP let it slide. To be honest, the guy was a bit of a douche. We had a disagreement of sorts a few months ago.”
“I thought you didn’t get involved in things in the states?” Rafe asked.
“I go to Vegas every now and then. I had a delicious young Elvis the last time. You know I favor the ladies, but he was quite tasty,” Greyson commented. “I digress. I saw Armand roughing up a donor. A she-wolf. I didn’t like it. So, we had a conversation.”
“And the results of your conversation?” Logan asked.
“I beat the shit out of him until he submitted. Which he deserved. To be honest, I’d have killed him myself. But that night I was in a hurry. He got lucky.”
“Clearly, his luck ran out.” Rafe blew out a breath and plowed his fingers through his hair.
“So, as you can see, we need your assistance.” Logan stared at Rafe.
“But you have Xavier. Greyson. Kenji. You don’t need me.”
“The pack that was out in Vegas has been a mess for a while. Many are transplants. It would help to have an Alpha there. They will be calmed with your presence.”
“What about Jake?” Rafe asked, ignoring his comments about him being an Alpha.
“He’s not available.” Logan shook his head and pinned Rafe with a serious stare. “This is an opportunity to find any stray wolves, stabilize the pack. Hunter will meet you there later. You should at least see your Alpha.”
“He’s not my Alpha anymore.”
“He will always be your Alpha, Rafe. You know this in your soul. Your pack may change but your Alpha will always have that bond with you.”
Rafe stretched his neck as his thoughts raced. Damn if Logan didn’t know how to lay on the guilt and it was working. His stomach turned in knots. I know I’m gonna regret this. “Fuuuuck. Okay. I’ll do it.”
“After you talk to Hunter and things are settled, you can take that trip,” Logan promised.
“I’m not staying long. I’m serious about taking a vacation. Hunter better sort things.”
“It’s settled then,” Xavier said.
“Boys trip.” Kenji smiled and nodded. “Vegas baby.”
“When are we leaving?” Rafe asked.
Greyson held up another bagel and laughed. “Tonight.”
Rafe took a deep breath and pinched the bridge of his nose. Maybe he needed a distraction from his perseverating thoughts.
His cell phone buzzed, and he dashed across the room to the kitchen to answer. Locating it under a box of empty bagels, he slid his finger across the screen. Rafe’s heart caught in his chest as he read the text.
Thanks for last night. See you in L.A. And your wolf. ~Sky