Surfaced (Hidden Trilogy #2)

Chapter Two

“You little hellcats! Get your butts back here and help me move this couch!” The feminine voice rang out across the yard as I stepped out of my truck and saw two streaks of black headed teenagers round the front edge of the house disappearing from sight toward the backyard. Which was the opposite direction from the girl left holding one end of the couch at the back of the moving truck. I recognized her as my new roommate, Amber.

“Here, let me help.” I offered as I rushed over to grab the other end. Amber gave me a tight and tired smile as we juggled the couch.

“Thanks.” Amber replied. “Glad you found the place.”

“Yeah, GPS does wonders.” She was walking backwards as I helped carry the couch down the sidewalk leading to the front of the house. I thought we would have been in an apartment complex with other people around, or at least a larger house so we weren’t on top of each other. This one-story house had to have maybe two bedrooms but at least the yard space seemed large enough to host at least fifty people. The other houses along the street looked to be about the same size. I noticed our side of the street had a looming forest that butted up to the backyard. I assumed that would come in handy for any shifter wanting some space to run.

I saw the two teenagers peeking around the corner of the building watching me intently with interest. “Those two with you?” I asked, nodding at the two observers. They quickly retreated behind the left side of the house but not before I heard their giggling.

“When I have to claim them, they are my younger brother and sister, Zach and Kenzi.” She sighed before adding in a louder voice, “If you don’t pull your weight, I’m not buying you pizza and ice cream when we’re done!”

“Jeesh,” a voice replied from my right, making me jump even holding the couch. I glanced over to see both Zach and Kenzi had appeared. Apparently, they had stealth in spades. The boy stepped up and grabbed my end of the couch. “You’d think by your tone that we haven’t been helping move your mountain of stuff all day.” He stressed the ‘all day’ and added an eye roll for effect.

“Well I’ll remember that when you go off to college and need help moving in,” Amber replied with sarcasm.

“If I get to go,” came the mumbled reply. I’m sure Amber heard him if I did, but she didn’t say anything to her brother’s offhand comment.

Amber nodded behind her and looked over at Kenzi, “Get the door, please?” Kenzi gave one of those big put-upon sighs only young teenagers can pull off and moseyed up to the door to prop open. Amber looked at me before she disappeared into the doorway and said, “Just follow us in and I’ll show you around.” I nodded and stepped toward the front door that was still held open by Kenzi. She gave me the once over again and seemed about two seconds from fleeing, so I quickly stepped through before the door caught my foot.

Once inside, the space didn’t improve much. You walked directly into the dining room that had a small kitchen at the other end, then there was a short hallway straight in with multiple doors. Not much space at all. There wasn’t even a living room. There was a doorway at the side of the kitchen lining the hallway that must have led downstairs as Amber and Zach disappeared from view while arguing over the best way to hold the couch and not lose their grip. Seconds later, I heard the couch drop and scampering feet as Zach hightailed it up the stairs and without a glance, passed me and was out the door. I looked back at Amber to see her emerging from the stairs with a scowl on her face.

“Annoying siblings,” she mumbled before looking around and locking eyes with me. We studied each other for a few seconds. Truthfully, we didn’t know that much about each other or talk all that much leading up to this day. Amber was willing to teach me how to reach my wolf and I was in desperate need of a teacher in that regard. Someone that wasn’t going to hold back and worry about the High Council.

“I see you didn’t back out.” She commented from across the room.

“Nope. Thanks for not taking away the offer.”

“Don’t worry, that was out of my control.” She replied offhandedly, causing me to wonder what she meant exactly. She sighed and motioned to the room. “Well, this is it. Kitchen, dining room are here.” She walked toward me and motioned to the door on my left. “This is Clint’s room.”

“Uh, what?” I asked, surprised. I knew Clint was her older brother, but no one said anything about him staying with us.

“Yeah, Clint got kicked out of his apartment and needed a new space. So, my parents found this place from a friend of a friend and got it for us.”

She rubbed the back of her neck before continuing, “I’m not thrilled about it either, but at least it will help with the rent and bills. Each of us will probably be spending around $300 a month to cover the costs.” She eyed me before adding, “There’s another converted bedroom downstairs that we could rent out if we wanted things cheaper. Just thought we would try the three of us first and see how it goes.”

“Good idea.” I answered, thinking it was going to be weird enough staying with two strangers, let alone three. Shifters by nature were territorial. I gathered that much from spending so much time with the McCoy pack this past year. I wasn’t sure if panthers were any different, but I thought I could safely assume they needed just as much space as wolves.

“So, the next room is yours, I wasn’t sharing a wall with my brother.” She made a face of displeasure at that thought and I suppressed a smile. I can’t say I was all that happy with sharing a wall with him either, but beggars couldn’t be choosey. We’d just have to lay down some rules about sleep overs.

I stepped forward and opened the door to my new room. Amber had said the place came furnished, though I’d have to ask her about the couch later, so at least I had a bed, dresser, and desk. There was even a small closet tucked into the far corner. It wasn’t much but growing up in the foster system made you used to such arrangements.

“This will be perfect.” I smiled and glanced over at Amber who was frowning.

“I’m sure you are used to better accommodations at the McCoy Pack but us lowly non-wolf shifters have to make do with what we have.” She didn’t let me say anything before she walked farther down the hall, forcing me to follow. I swallowed any comment for the time being.

“The next left door is my room, the door straight in from the front door leads down to the basement for a small den and that other spare room.” She continued down the hallway with one last door on the right before the door that lead outside at the end of the hall. “The door on the right is the bathroom. Only one for all of us so we have to share.” She pointed that out like I was a shower hog or something. I crossed my arms and looked at her.

“You do realize I grew up in the foster system, right? Small spaces, short showers, limited food. I get it. I’m no stranger to those things.”

Amber scoffed. “We’ll see.” She brushed past me toward the front of the house as the sound of another person on the front porch caught my attention. I watched as Clint walked through, followed by three other shifters about his age. Discerning the difference between other shifters and wolf was simple now, and I didn’t know how I couldn’t tell the difference before. I knew they weren’t wolves but knowing exactly what they were was another story. Up to that point, I had limited experience with other shifters.

“Well, well, look what the cat dragged it.” One of the others laughed at his own joke before slapping Clint on the shoulder. Clint smirked as he gave me a once over then stepped a few paces toward me. His brow furrowed like he couldn’t figure something out, looking at me intently and taking a deep breath. If I wasn’t used to shifter pulling scents in all the time, I might have found him a bit creepy, but I understood he was trying to identify a scent. He looked like he was going to ask a question, but then one of his friends jostled him and he turned back to them.

“Jason,” he motioned to the one who spoke before, “I’d like to officially introduce our resident latent wolf, Kendra Jennings.” He glanced at me before adding, “The other two are Patrik and Ian.”

I took a moment to take in all four of the men who were standing in front of me, waiting for my response. Clint and Jason had the same build, lanky and tall, easily towering over me. Clint had the trademark black hair like the rest of his siblings. Jason’s hair was a golden brown, surfer style look. Patrik was a little shorter than Clint or Jason by a few inches, but he made up for it in build. When I glanced at Ian, I could feel a sense of wildness coming from him. I didn’t know if that meant he was close to shifting or if he always appeared to be like he was ready to pounce. Ian was between Clint and Patrik in height, but wider across the chest. I couldn’t hold his stare for long, not wanting to call attention to myself.

“Nice to meet you all.” I replied politely. None of the newcomers said a word at my response but all three kept studying me like I was a new specimen. Well, I guess I was in their eyes.

Clint cleared his throat and looked to Amber who had watched the whole exchange with what I could tell was mild amusement on her face. “Need help moving the rest in?”

“Yeah, that would be great. Zach and Kenzi lost interest two minutes after getting here.” Amber grumbled.

“Typical.” Clint laughed. He turned and pushed his friends out the door, directing them to the moving truck at the end of the sidewalk. Amber moved toward the door to follow before glancing at me.

“Get used to the stares. Non-wolf shifters will know what you are, but they aren’t going to trust you. Being a wolf and all.” She delivered her message with a carefree shrug and walked out the door. Yeah, this was a great start to my college career. I sighed and took a deep breath before following the cats outside.

I bypassed the sidewalk and made a beeline to my truck with all my possessions. I figured with as many hands as they had, they’d have the truck unloaded in no time. I dropped the tailgate of my truck and untied the straps I’d added to keep everything in place and from flying out on the drive over. As I worked, I listened to their banter and light conversation since I was only a few car lengths away. None of them brought my name up, though I could tell with the glances my way, I was on their mind.

I gathered that Jason and Patrik worked at the same outdoor recreation business Clint did, since they were talking about the next river run they had scheduled in a few days. They were taking a group of twenty on a two-day whitewater rafting trip. My ears perked up that there was that option in the area. I’d never been before and thought it would be a cool thing to check off my bucket list. Ian was lugging boxes and other items into the house quickly, not really engaging in much conversation. From the way they were talking, I figured he had a thing that night he had to be sure to make on time. From the sounds of their discussion, it didn’t sound like a date.

“Need a hand?” I startled as Clint appeared at my side as I was reaching for the first box to take inside. Stupid cats were so stealthy.

“Um, sure,” I replied quickly. He gave me a small smile before grabbing a box then waiting for me to do the same. I picked up the closest one and headed toward the house across the lawn.

“So how was your drive over?” Clint asked. I sighed internally, I just loved small talk.

“Good. No one tried to kill me, so there’s that.” I joked. Clint faltered in his step before catching up to me.

“Is that a common theme for you?”

I laughed, thinking of my current predicament. “I’m basically on the High Council’s hit list. The order just hasn’t been given yet.”

“Well, at least the wolves haven’t blindly let you believe you are safe,” he replied.

“Is anywhere truly safe?” I commented as we reached the porch. “The High Council seems to think I shouldn’t exist, another pack has threatened my pack member just to get back at me, and I’m lying through my teeth to my pack about living off-campus.”

“Panthers, if you want to get technical.” He paused to let me go through my bedroom door before following me in with his box. “Though if Jason moves in like he’s talking, then you’ll have a cougar here too.” I stopped in my tracks and turned to look at him.

“You’re serious?” I asked, eyes wide. I’ve never met a cougar before.

“Can’t tell the difference between us?” He cocked his head to the side like it should be obvious to me. I shook my head no and he took a deep breath before answering. “Guess we have a lot to teach you then.”

“And Patrik?” I asked curiously since we were on the topic.

“Panther.” He smirked as he set the box down. I did the same before asking my other question.

“And, Ian?” I asked hesitantly. He had to be something different, dangerous. He just gave off a different vibe than the rest of them.

“Tiger.” He smirked at my dropped jaw. “Ian always gets those reactions. But don’t worry, he only flips out every other week.” He winked at my appalled look, before remembering something else I said.

“What’s this about another pack threatening yours?”

“Oh, remember the night you showed up at my house?”

“Yeah. You threw away flowers a wolf had left you.” Clint replied. That night when I got home, Dusty had been by to leave me flowers and let me know his attentions were now focused on me and I would be hearing from him again. “This is related to that?”

“Yeah, but I don’t think he can do anything. He’s at Enforcer Training.” I shrugged.

“Still, I’ll keep an eye out like I said I would.” Clint nodded before he turned and walked back out the door. I hurried after him and inadvertently ran into the very subject of our conversation earlier in the hallway. Ian was just passing my doorway when I saw him and tried to skid to a stop, but my momentum didn’t slow. He turned lightning fast to stop me at an arm’s length from crashing headlong into him. The sudden stop was jarring and gave me a slight whiplash.

I shook my head slightly and slowly looked up at Ian who was just letting go of my arms as I found my balance. We stared at each other for a weighted breath, before he dismissed me and continued on his way out the door for another load without saying a word. I let out the breath I was inadvertently holding and slowly followed him back outside. Clint was standing at the backend of my truck and I could see he was trying to contain his laughter.

“Nice.” I muttered, and hip checked him as I grabbed another box of my things.

“Seriously though,” he chuckled as he kept pace with me back to the house with another load. “You are safe here. I’ll be here most days, or Jason, when we aren’t working. Patrik might be an addition to our humble abode so there will be another layer of security. Ian’s usually around too.” We walked through the front door and into my room. “How did your pack take it when you told them you’d be living with a bunch of feline shifters?”

“I didn’t.” I mumbled, setting my box down on the bed.

“You didn’t what?” Clint asked from behind me.

“Tell them?” I added softly, but Clint heard me loud and clear. The box dropped to the floor of my bedroom with a loud thunk as he rounded on me with a wide-eyed look.

“You didn’t tell them?” His voice seemed to go up a notch with his incredulous look.

Instantly on the defensive, I put my hand on my hips. “What was I supposed to say? ‘Hey, just so you know I’ll be living with a bunch of cats you don’t know for the next year. Don’t worry, they don’t hate wolves too much.’ Yeah, they’d totally go for that.”

“What happens when they find out? I don’t want my family in the crossfire.”

“The McCoy pack wouldn’t do anything to you or your family.” I argued.

“Oh really? You do realize they are an extension of the High Council. They find out you are hiding your current living conditions from your pack, and they will think you’re hiding other things.”

“I’m not hiding other things.” I protested, getting more and more angry.

“Aren’t you forgetting?” Amber popped her head around the doorframe and invited herself inside my room and the conversation without asking. “We are supposed to teach you how to reach your wolf.”

“I don’t see what the big deal is with me being able to shift.” I threw up my hands in exasperation. “So, what if I’m a latent. Other shifters have them, why does me being one have to be such a big deal?”

“It’s a big deal because of the prophecy attached to your fate.” Clint said folding his arms.

“That’s only if I’m a white wolf.” I pointed out, still wondering how the news traveled so fast about me being a latent when it was supposed to be a closed meeting with the High Council. “Besides, it’s a stupid prophecy.” I muttered and kicked at the floor like a two-year-old. I was fed up with not being able to control my future. I just wanted to have a normal college year. Clint crossed the floor in two seconds and was in my face in a flash.

“The prophecy is NOT stupid.” He said through clenched teeth. I stared wide-eyed at his expression and eyes which had turned a feline green with slit shaped pupils.

“Clint,” Amber warned in a low voice. I could see out of the corner of my eye that she no longer held a casual pose and was coiled to pounce if needed.

“I’m fine.” He took a deep breath and stepped back, but his eyes remained that eerie slit shaped as he regarded me. “You’ve only seen shifter life through a wolf’s eyes. You don’t know what the rest of us have to deal with. The prophecy means something to us. It’s hope that a time is coming that will be better. Something to live for and if needed, die for.” He pursed his lips before adding, “don’t ever talk down about it again.”

I nodded hesitantly, afraid to make a sudden move. Clint abruptly turned and stalked out of the room. Amber gave me a parting glare before going after her brother. I let out another long breath and sat down on the bare mattress in my room. Could this day get any worse?

“It’s not my place to say,” Patrik’s voice floated toward me from my doorway. I looked up to see him hesitantly looking through the doorway. “But I think you’re missing a crucial part of the backstory here.” He stepped through my door and partially closed it to lean against the wall beside the door. I waited for him to elaborate on his cryptic response.

“Clint and Amber lost their uncle a few years back. It involved the High Council and their Enforcers. It was a bullshit charge, but there was nothing we could do. No one could stand up to them for justice.” He sighed. “It’s something we’ve had to deal with for a long time.” I didn’t think he was just talking about their uncle.

“I’m sorry, truly.” I hedged softly. “And you’re right that I have no idea what’s going on. I’ve only known about shifters for a little less than a year. There’s a lot of things I don’t know.” I let my head fall into my hands and rubbed my temples.

“Just,” he paused, and I looked over at him to see him glance over his shoulder before continuing, “keep an open mind around here. Things are going to be different than what you are used to.” I nodded, and he gave me a parting half smile before backing out of the room and walking away. I rubbed my hands over my face and stood back up. No sense in waiting around, I still had a truck to unload.

Right about then Ian walked through my door with three of my boxes stacked up, and they weren’t light even by shifter standards. He set them down without a word and walked back out. I followed him out the door and to the back of my truck.

“Thanks for your help,” I offered as he grabbed another armload. He didn’t say anything but did shrug halfheartedly before taking his load to the house. Okay, a man of few words. I picked up another box and hauled it into the house. After a few more trips, and with Patrik and Ian’s help, all my things were in the house in no time. Amber had finished unloading their items when I was about halfway done. Both her and Clint had kept their distance in organizing the common areas and their rooms. I went back in my room and partially shut the door for a little privacy. I glanced around at the small room and the boxes lining every surface. I smiled, thinking this was all my own. I made my way to the first box and started unpacking.

A half hour later and three boxes unloaded, I heard my phone ringing. I scrambled to find where I’d put it last and finally found it buried on the desk under other things. Glancing at the screen, I saw that it was Cassie calling.

“Hello?”

“Hey stranger!” Cassie giggled over the phone.

“Hey,” I laughed, “long time no see.”

“Just thought we’d check in and see how the unpacking was going.”

“Who’s there with you?”

“Bree and Hunter. Oh, and Tanner’s been by three times asking if we’ve heard from you yet.” I could hear the grin from Cassie. I had a feeling Tanner was the same as Cade would have been at that age.

“Oh, yeah, I’m just working on unpacking and organizing my room now.”

“How’s your roommate?”

“Great.” I replied, trying not to let any of the recent drama come through in my voice.

“Just great? Uh oh, already running into roommate issues?” Bree asked. Cassie must have me on speaker phone to make it easier for everyone to talk and hear.

‘No, more just testing boundaries. It’s a small space with a new person.”

“Yeah, I’m sure your wolf is really happy with that.” Cassie chuckled. I suppose my wolf would have issue if she ever decided to make an appearance, but it wasn’t much of an issue now.

“It’s going to take some getting used to.” I figured it was safer to let them think that was the issue rather than who my new roommates really were.

“Dad and Mom were also wondering how you were adjusting.” Cassie asked.

“Tell them I’m fine. I’ll give them a call in a few days after I settle in, so they have something to tell the High Council on the next report.”

“You know they don’t really give them anything, right?” Cassie asked, her assertiveness coming through loud and clear. “It’s more of a formality, and to reassure them that none of your senses are strengthening.”

“Yeah, but what if my senses do get better?” I countered. I glanced out the partially open door but didn’t see or hear anyone in the common area. I pulled my legs up underneath me and cradled the phone next to my ear, waiting for a response.

“They still won’t say anything.” Cassie reassured, talking about her parents. “And if you manage to shift, then they still won’t let them know.”

“You think we can keep that a secret?” I asked skeptically, thinking of how fast word of a latent wolf traveled last time. If I shifted, and people found out I was a white wolf, there wouldn’t be a place on Earth that would be safe enough for me. The High Council would hunt me down. And I wasn’t sure what the other shifters would do. If you believed Clint, they seemed to think the white latent wolf would be a blessing. I wasn’t so convinced.

“It will be fine.” Bree assured. “You’re a bit from shifting yet anyways, so don’t worry.”

“Besides,” Cassie added in a light-hearted voice, “You have college to worry about first. And all those hot college guys you are bound to meet.”

“Yeah, so not happening.” I closed my eyes and shook my head. Trust Cassie to have boys on her mind.

“Just because Cade has laid claim to your heart, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the view.” Bree added, and I heard a growl before she squealed in delight and there was commotion on the other end.

“Hey, you two, stop making a mess of my room!” Cassie yelled at what I could only assume was Hunter showing Bree what he thought of her comment of ‘enjoying the view’. Scuffing ensued and I held my phone away from my ear as I listened to yelling and wrestling from the other end. I smiled, laughing internally at the commotion. Finally, Cassie came back on the phone. “Sorry about that. Hunter got a little out of hand.”

“Did not!” Hunter growled from the background.

“Whatever.” Cassie scoffed and I imagined her rolling her eyes at him. “So, when you coming home next?”

“I just left like five hours ago.” I laughed.

“Five hours too long,” Cassie groaned. “This is going to be hard. Having you there, Cade and Brody gone…” She trailed off but I knew exactly what she meant. They were a tight group, having grown up together. I was just lucky enough to have run into them last year and be accepted into their pack.

“Hey, we’re still here.” Bree argued.

“Yeah but you two are together. Like, All the Time. I don’t get any girl time.” Cassie replied.

“Just tell me when.” Bree responded promptly.

“And what am I supposed to do during your girl time?” Hunter grumbled.

“Whatever you did before you were attached at the hip.” Cassie quipped.

“Not as much fun,” Hunter mumbled, clearly laying it on thick.

“Well, suck it up, buttercup. I’m demanding partial custody of Bree. I can’t stand this much time in my own head.”

“Hey, I’m not your child in the divorce.” Bree laughed.

“Might as well be because I want you part of the time. Hunter can deal with 40%.”

“90%,” Hunter countered quickly.

“Pfft, yeah right.” Cassie replied. I could just imagine her rolling her eyes at Hunter.

“85%,” Hunter conceded.

“Are you two really arguing over how much time you get to spend with me?” Bree asked in exasperation.

“55%.”Cassie offered.

“80%.”Hunter countered.

“Oh my God, you guys are ridiculous.” Bree huffed. I started laughing out loud and laid back on my still unmade bed.

“Look, I’m being generous here. 75%, take it or leave it.” Cassie offered.

“Deal.”Hunter pounced.

“Can’t believe I have to bargain for my friend’s time.” Cassie grumbled.

“Who exactly is going to keep track of this?” Bree laughed. “Cause I’m still going where I want to go, when I want to go.”

“Hunter’s job.” Bree said primly.

“What?”He exclaimed.

“Anyways,” Cassie changed the subject, “Let us know when you’re headed back here. Like next weekend?” Cassie asked hopefully. It was Thursday.

Laughing, I replied, “I really don’t know yet. Depends how this first week goes. I also have to find a job too, so I can pay for expenses.” I looked up at my bare ceiling, thinking of the $300 Amber mentioned, and other bills I’m sure I’ll be helping with too. I needed to get a job, soon.

“Oh, don’t worry about that,” Cassie shrugged off my reply. “Dad put 25 grand in your bank account to help with things.”

“Uh, wha…he did what?” I exclaimed, glancing toward the door to see if anyone heard me. I couldn’t quite comprehend what she just told me.

“You’re part of the pack now, Kendra. Everyone gets a living expense if they are working for or working to improve the pack. Your college education is part of that.”

“But, how…why…where does that kind of cash come from?” I asked perplexed.

“Remember we’ve been here a while? My family has invested well for generations. We’re not poor by any means.” She replied. She wasn’t smug about it, just stating a well-known fact in her perspective. It made me think of Amber and her family. Did they have anything like that?

“Yeah, but holy cow Cassie. That’s way too much. How come they didn’t tell me?”

“It’s common place for them. Uncle Darren would have taken care of it anyways. Standard procedure.”

“So, all of us got that amount?”

“Yep. No big deal. Really.” She tried to reassure me. “So, you don’t really need a job, unless you really want one.”

“Wow. It’s going to take a bit to wrap my head around that.” I glanced back up at ceiling, thinking I needed to pull up my bank account and see that kind of cash for myself. I couldn’t imagine that amount just showing up. Good thing Cassie mentioned it, or I would have had a heart attack the next time I checked my account.

“Well, with the scholarship you got, Dad thought it was the least he could do to help you out. Campus living isn’t cheap.”

“Right.” I agreed, even though it seemed like our house was a little off-campus. Not that any of them knew that…

“Hey, Mom’s yelling for me. Looks like we have to go.” She sighed like we wouldn’t talk again for months. I smiled but nodded even though she couldn’t see me.

“Okay, I’ll talk to you guys later then.”

“Yeah, have a great first day and don’t worry about your roommate. Anyone would be lucky to room with you.” Cassie assured.

“Yeah, take it easy Kendra!” Bree piped in from what sounded across the room. “Sit back and enjoy this new adventure.”

“I’ll try. Miss you guys already.”

“Miss you too!” Chorused from the phone before we hung up. I sighed as I put my phone down. I couldn’t believe Liam and Mica put that much money into my account. No way was I going to just live off their money and not earn my own. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciated their help, but I also wanted to prove that I could make my own way. I’d have to start job hunting soon in order to do that.

“Hey wolf girl!” Jason’s voice rang from the common area outside my room. I stood up and walked to my door and leaned out around the edge.

“Yeah?” I asked, catching his eye. Everyone but Ian sat or lounged around the dining room and kitchen, some items still unpacked.

“We were thinking of ordering pizza for supper, you in?”

“Yeah, sure.Sounds good.”I nodded.

“What kind you want?”

“Anything, I’m not picky.” I shrugged.

“Well get out here and help us decide.” Amber demanded. “Clint would get four meat lovers if he had his way.”

“Meat is all you need.” Clint replied good naturedly rubbing his stomach fondly, all previous moodiness gone. I walked out to a spare chair around the table with an empty to my right and Amber to my left. Amber gave me a polite smile before throwing her two cents worth into the conversation. I let the conversation flow around me, getting used to their banter and the way they interacted with each other.

Clint and Jason were the loudest by far, boasting about different things and arguing who could do it better. Patrik interjected a few times but mostly let his friends have the spotlight. Amber was more of a quiet storm; brewing just off the coast and waiting for the right time to strike. Zach and Kenzi were both engrossed in their phones across the table so I couldn’t get a read on them. I snuck a few glances around the room but didn’t see Ian hiding in a corner. He must have left while I was on the phone.

Finally, they agreed on ten pizzas with different toppings. It was a good thing I was used to Brody’s appetite since these shifters seemed to eat just as much.

“So, Kendra,” Jason drawled, leaning back in his chair. “Tell us. What was life like at the famous McCoy Pack? All ritz and glamor I’m sure.” He laughed while looking around the table and seeing if the others would join in.

“I don’t know what you want to know. It all seemed normal to me.” I shrugged, not sure I wanted to get into the differences between pack lives. I could tell already they had a particular view of how pack life was run, and I didn’t know if it was my place to argue the point.

“Ah that’s right. Life of the rich and famous. Everyone knows about that.” Clint said sarcastically.

“I don’t know what you’ve heard, but they don’t live like that.” I frowned, taking the bait. “They are just a normal pack with jobs around town.”

“They let you leave the pack lands without bodyguards?” Amber asked.

“They are called Enforcers and I was told it was for our safety.” I replied, matter-of-factly. “So, another pack wouldn’t try to gain the upper hand.”

“Wolves and their constant hierarchy.” Clint mumbled. I looked over at him curiously.

“You guys don’t operate like that?”

“No, we can’t afford to.” Clint replied. His comment was said with bitterness and I was hesitant to ask about it. I didn’t want to get into another argument with him, but I needed to understand what non-wolf shifters were like.

“What does that mean exactly?” I asked politely. Clint eyed me, probably judging to see if I was truly interested in hearing his answer.

“It means that even though our animals want to prove our dominance over other shifters, we aren’t allowed to.” Clint clarified. “Like your pack has an alpha and order, we can’t do that even if our animal instincts war with us to do so.”

“Who says?”

“High Council.” At my bewildered look, Amber sighed and took over the explanation. “Part of the problem with the edicts the High Council rains down on us is the bias. Wolves can operate as a hierarchy, other shifters cannot.”

“It leaves us without a solid base for leadership. No alpha, no leader, no way to maintain control over a group.” Jason offered.

“Which is why we mainly run in family groups.” Clint said. “We may get together occasionally with fellow shifters, but we don’t share pack lands as wolves do. There’s just no way for us to function that way without the High Council finding out.”

“What would happen if they did?” I asked skeptically. I wondered if Cassie knew about this. She never talked about it, or anyone else in the pack for that matter. Surely, they wouldn’t agree to something like this.

“Find out that we were operating like a normal shifter group should? The High Council would probably murder the leader saying it was an infraction of the laws in the first place and we’d be right back at square one.” Clint answered.

“That’s it? They’d just flat out murder the leader?” I asked appalled. I didn’t have much respect for the High Council after their treatment of us last spring, but I didn’t think they had that much unilateral force to do whatever they wanted without repercussions.

“Oh, they’d justify it and call it treason or something. Just so they could get by with it.” Amber replied.

“And the other shifters don’t have a problem with that? They don’t see that it’s wrong?” I asked, skeptical. I looked around the table at everyone and realized I was the only one unaware of this and they had long accepted their fate.

“What do you expect the shifters to do? Complain to the very people who are laying down the law?” Amber replied skeptically.

“There has to be someone with sense that would listen.” I argued.

“Not while wolves remain in control of the High Council,” Clint replied.

“Liam.” I thought out loud. “My alpha wouldn’t stand by and-”

“Your so-called alpha is cut from the same cloth.” Clint said with venom and shook his head. “We went to him, because some people believe he was decent, could see reason. We told him what my uncle was facing and your alpha,” Clint ground out, “turned us down flat. Wouldn’t even try to take our case to the High Council and plead my uncle’s innocence. For that, my uncle was murdered for a crime he didn’t commit.”

“I’m…I’m sorry.” I said softly. What could you say to that? Nothing would bring his uncle back, and anything I said would just hurt more.

“It’s done.” Clint replied curtly. “Just remember that when you put your alpha up on a pedestal.”

“What about that guy you were with at the mall,” Amber started asking, referring to when we had first met. “Isn’t he the alpha’s son?”

“What about him?” I shifted nervously, not sure where this conversation was going.

“Well, he’s got to be in Enforcer Training now, right? All alpha heirs are required to attend. If you want an inside scoop of what that crazed, messed up society is all about, ask him. If you trust what he says of course,” Amber added the last jab with a smirk.

“Of course, I trust him!” I replied heatedly, but then reality reminded me of the distance and communication issue. I sighed and shook my head. “Cade isn’t allowed to tell us anything.” I commented.

“Don’t you find that suspicious?” Jason asked sarcastically. He had a point, but I didn’t like being attacked from all sides. I needed more facts to argue my case.

“Look, I never said I was on the High Council’s side. I’m just trying to lay low and not draw attention to myself.”

“You do that just by breathing,” Clint mumbled. I looked at him sharply, thinking I’d misheard him, but Patrik pulled my attention away.

“The High Council knows who you are already,” Patrik added. “It’s not like you have to hide your existence from them.”

“No but I have to keep any progress in shifting to a minimum. I’m not sure what they’d do otherwise.” I mean, I had a pretty good idea based on their intense looks and general feeling towards me being a latent, but I wasn’t one hundred percent positive they’d kill me. Right?

“Do you want to shift?” Jason asked, bringing me back to the conversation.

“Of course.” I thought that was obvious since I decided to room with Amber.

“Even with everything else that goes along with it?” He asked. I glanced over at Clint to see him eyeing me while waiting for my answer.

“The rest is yet to be seen. One thing at a time right now,” I muttered. Jason nodded like that was a good enough answer for him.

“What do you know about shifting?” Amber asked, changing the tone of the conversation.

“Not much beyond it happens in a flash and you don’t retain your clothes.” Hearing myself talk, I realized I knew next to nothing about shifting. Maybe the High Council had nothing to worry about. At my current pace, I wouldn’t be able to shift until I was ninety.

“Your pack didn’t help much, did they?” Clint muttered offhandedly, looking at me with pity.

“We didn’t really talk about it,” I defended. “They said for them it’s all natural and wolves just shift when they are ready. They don’t really prepare for it.”

“Yes, because wolves are all superior,” Clint scoffed. He rolled his eyes before adding, “Believe me, they had to think about it when they first shifted, but it’s probably all instinct now.”

“Do you, or did you, have to think about it?” I asked the room in general. I was surprised when Kenzi spoke up first.

“The first time it just kind of happens. You don’t know when or why, just suddenly, you’re in your animal form. The times after that take a little concentration to force the change until it becomes natural.”

“How do you not shift in front of humans if it just happens?” I could just picture myself losing control in the middle of campus in front of a hundred humans. Just the attention I needed and the proof the High Council wanted to show I was uncontrollable.

“We are talking about regular shifting, and we have some clue its coming on based on higher levels of aggression, so we can isolate ourselves away from humans before it happens.” Amber provided.

“Latent shifting, however,” Jason added, “is a completely different matter. Usually it takes a lot of work and concentration to make the shift the first time. And it hurts, a lot.”

Oh goodie. My life just keeps getting better and better.

“Of course it does.” I replied sarcastically. I turned to Amber before asking, “So, is there a place or time when we are going to practice or…” I left that hanging because I didn’t know if there was another option.

“We can work on the small things here. Concentration, connecting with your inner animal, things like that. When we think you are strong enough, then we will take you to a friend who was a latent that can walk you through the steps.”

“I’m assuming I won’t get it the first, or even second time, so how many trips to your friend do you think it will take?” I was hoping to have this experience done and over with by Christmas so I could focus on school.

“He told us from when he started to when he actually shifted was about eighteen months.” Amber replied casually.

“Eighteen months?!?” I exclaimed. There was no hope for me then. Things might as well stay as they were. I put my head in my hands and sighed loudly.

“It isn’t that long,” Amber reassured. “Just think that once you do, you can run with your pack.”

“Or us.” Jason added with a grin. I lifted my head and shook it in frustration.

“Yeah, cause a wolf running through the forest with panthers, a cougar, and a tiger isn’t suspicious at all.” Patrik commented.

“Speaking of the tiger,” I asked, glancing around the table. “Where’d Ian go?” Silence met my question for a few beats until Patrik offered a response.

“He had a meeting to get to tonight. Couldn’t stick around any longer.”

“Oh.” I responded, seeing that I wouldn’t get any other explanation by the avoiding eyes around the table. Just then the doorbell rang. Zach sprang out of his seat.

“I’ll get it!” He yelled over his shoulder, racing towards the front door.

Clint sighed and followed his little brother who was already taking the armful of pizzas from the delivery guy. I walked back to my room and grabbed a twenty and met Clint shutting the door after paying for the pizza.

“Here,” I held out the twenty-dollar bill, “put this toward the cost.” He eyed me, then the bill, then his eyes rose back to my face.

“You think I can’t pay for pizza?” He asked with a straight face. Shit, I didn’t mean for it to be offensive, I was just trying to be nice.

“What? No, of course…” I trailed off my denial at his smirk.

“Just messing with you, wolf.” He pushed my hand back towards me. “Keep it. I hear you’re going job hunting so you’re going to need the funds to get by until then.” He walked past me and reclaimed his seat around the table. I slid the twenty into my pocket and followed him to the table.

“Eat up,” Jason thrust a plate toward me before diving for another pizza box. “You gotta eat quick if you’re going to get your pick of toppings.” He already had five pieces on his plate. I snatched up two pieces from the nearest box and watched the ravenous shifters around me. My appetite had increased, but not nearly to the extent of those surrounding the table.

“Hey, so what’s your major anyways?” Amber asked around a mouthful of food.

“Art,” I replied hesitantly. People were quick to judge based on my choice. Art was important to life just as much as the sciencey majors. It just contributed to life in a different way.

“What kind of art?” She asked, with surprisingly no judgement in her tone. I relaxed my shoulders, realizing I wasn’t going to get the usual criticism.

“Mostly drawing, illustrations.” That was the best way to explain the uncommon way the ideas came to me. I mean, how do I tell this new group of shifters that I’ve actually been drawing their shifter forms for the last month?

For some reason, my latent powers include me being able to tell the past, present, and future through drawings. At least most of the drawings have been mundane. No violent, wide scale massacre, prophecy stuff. End of the shifter world averted…for now.

“Oh, sounds…fun.” Amber finished lamely with a shrug. I didn’t mind, art wasn’t for everyone.

“What about you?” I asked. Amber opened her mouth to answer but Clint beat her to it.

“Our sister here has big dreams of becoming the next big scientist.” Clint grinned at Amber, partly proud big brother, partly teasing. I could tell by the scowl on Amber’s face that this topic had been discussed at length several times.

“Just because I love working in a lab, doesn’t mean I’m a mad scientist.” Amber protested.

“I didn’t say mad,” Clint smirked.

“It’s implied with you.” Amber snapped back.

“What kind of scientist?” I asked, trying to head off any sibling quarrels.

“Biochemistry,” Amber replied, meeting my eyes like she was daring me to question her choice.

“That’s amazing,” I replied impressed. “Sounds challenging, I was never into science in school.” I commented, seeing my non-judgmental comment threw Amber for a loop.

“Oh, well, I’ve always liked genetics and figured the shifters could use a scientist on their side.”

“No doubt,” I agreed. I looked toward Clint, Jason and Patrik and asked, “Are you guys in school? I’m not sure how much older you are than us.” Clint scoffed at my question.

“No way. I had enough of school in high school. Barely made it out of there with my sanity intact. Who wants to sit at a desk all day learning nonsensical facts that I’m never going to use again in my life?” Being an art major, I could understand his point to some extent.

“Right,” Jason hit Clint on the shoulder in agreement. “All we need is the great outdoors, a paycheck coming in to pay for our-” his eyes glanced over to Kenzi and Zach before coughing and adding lamely, “essentials. Like food, and a place to stay.” Patrik smothered a laugh and Zach rolled his eyes.

“You know we aren’t that stupid, right? We,” Zach waved his hand to include his teenage sister, “know you go out partying on the weekends. Not to mention all the women you date.”

“Revolving door this one,” Clint slapped Jason back good-naturedly.

“Can’t help it if the ladies love me.” Jason preened.

“Doesn’t count if they are three sheets to the wind,” Amber teased.

“I don’t take advantage of drunk girls.” Jason argued forcefully. Then a smirk fell over his face before adding, “Where’s the challenge in that?”

“Anyways,” Amber chimed in to change the subject. “The three of them,” she waved at her brother and two friends, “work at Wild Rockies, a local outfitter for outdoor recreation.”

“Yeah, we leave in two days to take a bunch of humans on a two-day rafting trip down the Rouge River.” Jason clarified, excitement gleaming in his eyes. He seemed to be looking forward to the trip.

“How long have you all been working there?” I asked curiously.

“Three, four years now?” Clint answered looking at the other two.

“Four.” Patrik answered. “It’s a pretty good deal.”

“What do you guys do in the off season?” I asked. I figured the tourist demand and water safety would decrease entering the fall and winter months.

“We help out at- oomph,” Clint glared at Patrik who looked unabashedly down at his food.

“We do odds and ends jobs around town to make it through the season.” Jason added, bringing my attention back to him. I could tell there was something they weren’t telling me, but I got it. I was an outsider, a wolf, and they couldn’t trust me. Yet, I was determined to change their opinion, of me, if not the whole wolf world.

“Well,” Clint rose and stretched his arms above his head. My eyes couldn’t help but appreciate the muscles under the tight shirt he wore on display. He dropped his arms and my eyes rose to his face to find him smirking at me. My face instantly flamed in embarrassment. “See something you like, little wolf?”

“Uh, no, sorry.” I coughed and looked away, not meeting any eyes around the table.

“Don’t waste your breath, Clint,” Amber huffed as she gathered the empty pizza boxes. “You know that alpha heir has already claimed her.”

“You mean Cade?” I asked. How would they know about him and our relationship?

“Don’t act all surprised.” Amber replied. “You being a latent wolf traveled almost as fast at the McCoy heir falling for an almost human.”

“He may have claimed her,” Clint replied slyly, “but there’s been nothing about her doing the same.” I was at a loss for words. How did Cade claim me? How does news travel within the shifter world when it seems like wolves never speak with other shifters?

“Now you’re just confusing her,” Patrik sighed, noting the lost look on my face.

“I’ll explain it in one of our lessons, later.” Amber assured. “For now, these two hellcats have to get home.” She motioned for Zach and Kenzi to get a move on.

“Can’t we just stay here?” Kenzi asked. “This place is so much more interesting than home.” Her eyes briefly flicked over to me before back to Amber.

“Nope,” Clint answered for Amber. “I’m responsible for you two, and you both are going home. Tonight. My babysitting hours are ending.” Clint herded his younger siblings towards the door with minimal grumblings in his wake. As they went out the door, he turned back and looked at Amber.

“Make sure the doors are all locked before you go to bed.”

“Yes Father.” Amber replied sarcastically and rolled her eyes. Clint pursed his lips before looking over to Jason and Patrik and nodding in their direction. His last glance was at me. He studied me for a moment, and looked like he was going to say something, but then shook his head and shut the door behind him.

“I’m heading out.” Patrik said standing up and sharing a look with Amber and Jason before looking at me. “It was interesting, to finally meet you, Kendra. I look forward to seeing you again.”

“Um, thanks. It was nice to meet you too.” I replied, not sure how to take that comment. He waved at Amber and Jason before leaving out the front door as well. I gathered up the remaining boxes and followed Amber out to the garbage can at the side of the house. Wordlessly, we dumped the empty boxes in before she turned back to me. I waited for her to say whatever was on her mind.

“I’m not totally sold on this whole rooming together thing.” She folded her arms across her chest.

“Then why did you offer?” I asked bluntly.

“Because my parents convinced me it was a good idea to teach you.” She eyed me and looked around us at the quiet neighbors.

“Teach me to shift?”

“Among other things.”

“Right.” That was clear as mud. I was pretty limited on who I could ask. Amber and her family were the only shifters I knew outside of the McCoy pack. Meeting Jason, Patrik and Ian were bonus and a few more I could add to that list, but I didn’t think any of them would take on the task of teaching me. I really needed Amber to stay on my side.

“Look, neither one of us are comfortable with each other, yet,” she added, before continuing. “I don’t trust wolves. None of us do.”

“I understand,” I started but she held up her hand to stop me.

“Let me finish,” she sighed. “But you seem different. Are different. You don’t act like a typical wolf. I don’t know if that’s just you not being around them all your life or part of your latent gifts.”

“I don’t really have latent gifts.” I argued. I wasn’t ready to share my drawing abilities with any of them yet. It didn’t seem like the right time to mention it anyway.

“You do, you just might not be aware of all of them yet.” Amber said offhandedly, still looking around the darkening sky.

“I know I don’t understand everything, yet, God knows I’m way behind on that curve,” I shook my head in frustration. “But I really do want to learn shifter life from you. How to bring my wolf to the surface.” I paused before adding, “I’ve never belonged anywhere before, and I finally feel like I’m getting close to something. Something worth all my past…issues.” I finished lamely.

“Good to know where you stand. We might just be able to get along, you know?” Amber smiled looking back at me.

“I hope so. I think there is a lot I can learn from you and your friends.” I nodded back towards the house.

“No doubt. Spend a week with us and you’ll be begging to go home for your own sanity.”

Laughing I replied, “You know, you guys remind me of my friends back home a little.”

“Now, wait,” she held up a hand, “comparing us to wolves is just cruel. We are way better than that.”

“I didn’t mean-” I started to back pedal but then saw the smirk on her face.

“I’m just messing with you wolf.” Amber laughed. “If you’re going to survive around here, you’re going to have to lighten up.”

“Yeah,” I laughed nervously, “I’ll get right on that.” Amber smirked and walked back inside.

I took a deep breath before letting it out and looking up. The sky was still in that pre-dusk stage, with a burnt orange color. It wasn’t late and the stars were barely out yet, but I could see the moon peeking out over the trees. This was my new home, at least for the foreseeable future. I survived my first encounter, surely tomorrow would be better, right?