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Instead, William was furious. He’d lectured me until I was reduced to tears, scolded me for sullying my pristine recordat school and making myself look like an uncontrollable,badkid. He hadn’t cared about my reasons for intervening—all that mattered was that I put myself first before anyone else.
I blinked away the memory, a pang of sadness spearing into my heart for the little girl who’d just wanted her father’s approval. As I refocused on the present, Jaxon finished his conversation with the group and made his way over to me.
“Hey there, kiddo,” he said, his eyes crinkling with warmth. “How are you?”
“Good,” I said, steady despite the rush of emotions swirling inside me. “I just wanted to say, I think it’s great what you’re doing here, helping people get settled.”
“Thanks,” Jaxon said, a hint of surprise flickering across his face. “I just want to do my part, you know?”
I felt that familiar tug in the pit of my stomach, the one that told me this was where I truly belonged, with family and friends who cared deeply for each other, bound by more than just blood.
“Ridge is lucky to have you,” Jaxon said, catching me off guard. “You two make a great team.”
“Thank you,” I said as I glanced over at Ridge. He was still chatting with the other shifters, but our eyes met for a moment, and a tingle spread through my body. We might not have claimed each other yet, but our bond was already strong enough to withstand any challenge that came our way.
“Hey, Tori?” Jaxon’s voice brought me back to the present. “If there’s ever anything you need, or if you just want to talk, I’m here for you. Always.”
“Thanks, Jaxon,” I said. “That means more to me than you’ll ever know.”
The memory of William’s harsh words still stung, but as I stood there, watching Jaxon help the other shifters, I thought of my mother. After that long-ago incident in third grade, she hadbeen the one to comfort me after my father had stormed off in a rage.
“Hey, pumpkin.” She’d wiped away my tears with her gentle touch. “You know, if you’re going to throw punches at other kids, maybe you should do it after school when you won’t get caught.” She winked at me, and despite everything, I giggled.
“Mom, why did Daddy get so angry? I was helping.” I didn’t think she’d answer my question, but she did.
“Listen, Tori,” she continued, her eyes softening. “You were born to be a fighter. It’s good to defend people who need it. Just remember to pick your fights instead of letting them pick you.”
I bit my lip as the words settled into my chest. As I looked back on all the advice and memories of my mother over the years, I realized that Heather was far better suited for someone like Jaxon rather than William. My father—stepfather, I guess—had only grown worse after her death. He’d never been as loving or as kind as Jaxon.
“Hey, so…” I ventured, soft but strong. “Um…ifyouever need someone to talk to, well, I’m also here for you.”
“Thank you,” he said, his eyes shining with unshed tears.
As we spoke, I gradually relaxed in his presence. Jaxon was easy to talk to, and there was something comforting about his genuine kindness. It reminded me of my mom, how she, too, had been so caring and understanding.
My thoughts drifted to Ridge and his responsibilities as both alpha and mayor. It struck me then that perhaps Jaxon could help ease some of that burden. I glanced around, making sure Ridge was out of earshot before broaching the subject.
“Jaxon, have you ever thought about getting involved in local politics?” I asked, watching his reaction closely.
He blinked in surprise. “Politics? Not really, no. Why do you ask?”
“Well,” I said, a little unsure of how to phrase my thoughts. “The elections are coming up, and I think you’re such a charismatic, good person, and you naturally excel in leadership positions. You’re an alpha without a pack to lead right now, but if you wanted to join the Northeast Pack and stick around in my life for a while, would you consider running for mayor?”
Jaxon’s eyes softened as he processed my words. “I never really thought about it before. If it’s something you think I could do well, and if it would help you and Ridge, then, yes, I’d consider it.”
“Really?” I couldn’t help the smile that pulled at my lips. “That’s great, Jaxon. I think you’d be incredible at it.”
He cleared his throat. “It means a lot to me that you believe in me like that.”
“Of course,” I said. “You’re family, after all.”
Maybe, with Jaxon’s help, Ridge could finally let go of some of his stress and find the balance he so desperately needed.
“Make sure it’s what you want, though” I added. “I don’t want you to do this just because I asked. I’m here to support you, no matter what.”
“Thanks, Tori,” Jaxon said, his eyes shining with gratitude. “I’ll give it some serious thought. Whatever I decide, I promise I’ll be there for you and the pack, one way or another.” Then a broad grin spread across his face. “You want me to stick around? Be a part of your life?”
My cheeks warmed as I nodded. “Yes, I do.”
