Page 54 of His to Claim

Gregor huffed twice before taking two steps away. “You’re making a mistake if you bring the human here.”

“If that is the case, she will be dealt with, but only when I say,” Max stated as he glanced in my direction. “At this point, we need to find answers regarding the rogue wolf and only the councilmembers may have an answer. Then we will know what we’re possibly dealing with. You will both be at my side. You will both accept your position as leaders.”

I nodded out of respect, even as my hackles continued to be raised.

Gregor laughed softly before answering. “I’ve come to respect you, Max, including your style of leadership, but I will not stand by and allow our pack to be compromised. That is something both of you need to keep in mind.”

“Always the threats,” I said, half under my breath.

Max threw out his arms, as if prepared for both of us to fight. “As I said before. Enough. I fear the two deaths are only the beginning.”

The slight increase in the breeze allowed the leaves in the surrounding trees to shimmer, enough so a slight whistle occurred. In my mind, the moment was telling.

Danger was all around us, sweeping through our ranks in the form of fear. Even if only a few of our pack knew about the murders, it was only a matter of time before everyone realized what we were facing.

“We will form a plan,” Max said after sighing. I could see the concern on his face, his eyes no longer holding the same glow as before. “We need to make certain the police don’t find some reason to direct their investigations here, including because of what the press has already distributed to the world.”

“Then we need to find answers. The tests we ran will be finalized tonight. Maybe then we can understand more of what we’re dealing with in order to find the manufacturer of the bullets,” I said, reining in my anger.

“Excellent. I’ve already sent out a few feelers to buddies of mine in the CIA to see if there’s any chance the bullets I’d heard were being manufactured were released, including the formula,” Max said before taking a deep breath. “It’s time we find out what the elders know.”

“That’s a good start.” Nodding, I walked closer to the stairs.

“You’re willing to risk our pack for this human?” Gregor asked again.

“Whether you like it or not, Vanessa is my mate,” I stated calmly. “You will honor my destiny.”

“Destiny,” Gregor countered. “You made a choice and one that could cost you everything.”

“You will learn one day that the mating process isn’t necessarily by our choice,” Max hissed, slowly locking eyes with Gregor. “I only hope you will find someone to tame your beast.”

Snarling, Gregor snapped his head in Max’s direction. “Neither one of you seem to understand the importance of keeping the Wolfen protected.”

Turning quickly, I wrapped my hand around Gregor’s neck, my rage off the charts. “As if you would understand protecting your mate.” The argument had come full circle, my need for retaliation something I found difficult to control.

Max merely moved by my side, his aura exuding the full power of the Wolfen. “What has occurred in the past will stay there, Stone. Do. You. Understand?”

I dug my nails into Gregor’s skin, wanting nothing more than to snap his neck. Exhaling, I pulled back, taking three long strides away from both of them. “So be it. You are no friend of mine, Gregor.”

Gregor laughed. “As if I care.”

The fight was petty, similar to the sparring Gregor and I had done as young men. The three amigos. I’d missed the closeness we’d shared for years, being able to rely on each other no matter the circumstances. While renewing a friendship with Max had proven easier than I’d believed possible, I honestly wanted no part of Gregor’s life. He’d proven he trusted no one, cared for only himself and while his conviction for the pack was strong, I had to wonder if there were ulterior motives.

“There is to be no discussion of Vanessa as your mate at this point. Am I clear?” Max snapped, cursing under his breath.

I continued to stare at Gregor, the animosity refusing to go away.

“I said. Am. I. Fucking. Clear?” Max repeated.

“Fine,” Gregor commented.

“Yep. Agreed,” I answered.

“Christ. We’re supposed to be friends. I suggest you two bury the damn hatchet before your bullshit gets you killed.” Max stormed up the stairs.

Gregor tilted his head, his eyes gilded in gold. He wanted nothing more than to take me in a sparring match, trying to prove he was the best wolf in the forest. I also laughed at the realization.

Then again, was I actually any better?

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