sure what was whispered between the two, but the look on the young man’s face was priceless as he blanched and visibly straightened in his chair. I tried not to giggle when Devlin turned to me and winked. There was a story there, one I couldn’t wait to uncover.
“Is everyone here?”
All eyes focused on Mason as he stood by his chair, waiting to bring the meeting to a start. If I thought the intensity of power in the room was overwhelming before, now it was stifling. Yes, these were men, but I was also surrounded by predators-hunters desperate for retribution and answers.
The air crackled and each body instantly tensed. Placing my hand gently on Mason’s leg, he looked down at me and smiled.
“By now, you would’ve all heard about the attack last night,” he paused, his voice cracking slightly. “Jasmine was taken from us, but thankfully, Darcy was able to take care of the situation and return to us safely.”
All heads turned my way and I struggled not to flinch or sink deep into my chair. Stiffening my spine, I met everyone’s gaze before returning to Mason.
“Not all of us are familiar with the events.” The voice belonged to the vampire newbie, and he wasn’t able to hide his cringe when the full focus swung to him. I think he even squeaked the next part of his sentence before remembering where, and what, he was. “I’d appreciate hearing the account from Darcy herself.”
“Who the hell are you to ask anything?” The question came from Wade, one of the younger pack members, and a gentle hand on the shoulder from Eric reminded him that outbursts wouldn’t go down well.
“I’m Vlad, and I come on behalf of my king to see how we may assist.” There was a hint of indignation in his voice as he sat up taller, seemingly developing his courage. “I accompany Devlin today to determine whether last night was an isolated event or something more.” Having finished his speech he leaned back, looking proud he’d been able to spit out the mouthful.
There was a brief second of confusion as each pack member glanced up toward Mason for direction, but before he could respond Wade burst into laughter, his throaty chuckle mocking.
“Vlad? Are you kidding me? Who the hell names you damn vampires? Don’t tell me, your last name is “the Impaler?” He shook his head, and seemed confused when Eric’s hand returned to his shoulder, this time with a more visible squeeze. The message was clear-shut up or he would do it for him.
“What? Seriously, you don’t think this is even remotely funny? We’re here to discuss what happened, and Mr. Dracula wannabe over there is speaking like he has a say in anything that goes on here. It’s a joke.” Wade slammed his body back against his chair, blowing out a breath of disgust. “Why are they even here?” He glared hard towards Devlin and Vlad.
“Wade, you’ll learn to curb your tongue, or find your ass tossed out of this meeting. I saw potential in you, an opportunity to bring you into pack business, but if you can’t control yourself, there’s the door.” Even I was surprised by the edge in Mason’s voice. He didn’t show his temper, but everyone knew he wouldn’t be pushed.
“Sorry.” The apology came out as a quiet murmur. Slouching down in his seat, Wade looked embarrassed to be called out in front of everyone. After a few moments, attention shifted from the chastised wolf back to the Alpha.
The room was silent, waiting to see what happened next, and a quick cough interrupted the pause.
“Maybe I should step in now?” Devlin said, and you never would’ve thought anything was wrong judging from the relaxed way he held himself. We could’ve been discussing the weather for all he revealed. Only those who knew him, who knew what to look for, could sense any kind of agitation from him. He was the master of concealment.
I watched him stand, pushing back the chair, and give a slight bow to those around the table. Always one to offer small tokens of respect, Devlin showed his age as he placed his hand over his heart and extended his condolences.
“First, may I speak on behalf of Zane, my King and share how deeply disturbed we were to hear about last night and the profound affected it’s had on your pack. It pained him to learn vampire blood was involved and he has sent me to provide whatever assistance you may need to uncover the truth. I’m therefore at your disposal and carry the authority of my liege.”
Devlin turned his focus to me and I couldn’t help but flush at what I found in his eyes. To everyone else, they were bottomless pools of black, but I saw fury, compassion and concern.
“Darcy, please accept the relief felt by our people to know you are safe and unharmed. We too hold our females in high esteem, and the way you dealt with the threat shows the incredible woman you are. You bring great honor to your pack as a warrior of worth.”
I was stunned by his declaration and almost missed the slight wink he offered.
Lastly, facing Mason, Devlin bowed again, and his voice took on a hint of sorrow. “Mason, Alpha of the Mystic Wolves, please accept the deepest of regrets for the loss of your sister, Jasmine. She truly was a beautiful creature, and the world is a darker place for having lost her. My liege understands there’s nothing that can replace her, but asks for you to notify him should he be able to help in any way. He has two beloved sisters himself, and the news has stirred him greatly.”
Mason’s hand squeezed mine as we listened to the Enforcer relay his messages. We had a strong alliance with the Vampire King, so his condolences were heartfelt and greatly appreciated. Nodding his approval and acceptance, Mason peered over to Vlad and raised his eyebrow.
Devlin, missing nothing, chuckled. “With protocol complete, may I introduce my outspoken companion?” Turning to the side with lightning fast reflexes, he reached out and slapped the back of the other vampire’s head, causing him to grumble loudly.
“This fool is indeed called Vlad, but please don’t hold that against him.” Shaking his head, he laughed out loud, flashing a hint of fangs. “At our rebirth, we are given an opportunity to truly take on a new beginning by reinventing ourselves. Apparently, he believed the name Vlad gives him a touch of notoriety.” Looking down, Devlin continued. “Me, I think it makes him sound foolish, but he is here solely in the role of an observer. He’s still trying to find his place within our ranks, and I am his guardian. I apologize for his interruption, but the young one does have a point. If it wouldn’t be too much of a hardship, Darcy, could you share your experience from last night?”
I knew this moment was coming and had prepared for it.
Mason leaned in and whispered, “You can do this, baby. Just share the facts and remember… no guilt.”
I nodded at his words and pushed myself back from my chair. On my feet, I looked around, meeting everyone’s gaze.
Drawing in a deep steadying breath, I began going over everything-the trip to town, running into Gary, the gunshot, the change and hunting him down, then returning to find Mason and everyone by Jasmine’s body. It seemed to pour out of me, and the more I spoke the easier it became.
I didn’t need to see Mason to know he was beaming at me with pride. I paced as I shared the burden I’d been carrying and a tangle of emotions filled the air. There was so much of it, and when I was finished, I realized tears were not only steaming down my cheeks, but down several others as well. It was gut wrenching to share the horror and uncertainty, but I also felt stronger. I had been so worried of being judged and found unworthy, but all I could see was love and compassion.
Walking back to my seat, I entered into the embrace of Mason and stood there, soaking up his strength as he stroked my back tenderly. Tears flowed, but they were different this time. In voicing the events again, I realized I’d done my best, and although it didn’t lessen my grief, it did calm me.
“I’m so proud of you, Darcy.” His hot breath brushed against my ear before Mason kissed my forehead and helped me sit down. Standing tall, before leaning forward to brace himself on the table, he looked every inch the Alpha.
“Questions? Concerns?” he asked.
It was hard to breathe, and I think others felt it too because the room went deathly still.
It was Daniel who finally broke the silence. “I think I speak for everyone here, Darcy, by saying how proud we are, and just how much we love you. You’ll find no condemnation from us.” He looked around and each person nodded in agreement.
Gasping, I choked back a sob. There it was-acceptance, and a tremendous weight lifted from my shoulders. I covered my mouth with my hands, trying to rein myself in before I became a blubbering mess in front of everyone. Tears filled my eyes again, and all I could do was smile in gratitude.
Mason also relaxed, his muscular frame having tensed while waiting. As Alpha, his word was law, but he knew
