Page 22

River, once more in his human form and fully dressed, is sitting on a sofa between Devon and Frankie. I’m perched on the arm of the sofa, still partially standing just in case I need to move quickly.

Were gathered in Charless office with Elias, the Alpha of the northern pack, as well as both of Rivers parents. Elias is sitting in a chair across from us while Charles and his mate are seated behind the desk.

This is absurd. Elias shakes his head as if still confused about what just happened. Im not gonna sit here and listen to this nonsense.

Actually, you will. Charles speaks in a calm and even tone, but the power in his voice vibrates through the room. There are witnesses from both packs who watched my son defeat you with his fangs to your throat. They are already calling your authority into question. If you want any hope of keeping your pack, youve no choice but to listen.

Elias growls softly and narrows his eyes at Charles. Explain to me how this is even possible. Your son is an omega. And youve just ceded control of your pack to him?

Its a little-known secret that our pack is, and always has been, led by omegas. My mate is the official leader of our pack, but she stepped into the background many years ago and has allowed me to take over in the day-to-day operations. Charles looks up at his mate with an unreadable expression. She has always disliked being the focus of attention, and we were matched as more of a power play than a love mating. But our relationship has allowed us to highlight our strengths and shelter our weaknesses.

So, youre saying your omega mate is the true Alpha? Elias asks, raising a brow at Charles.

I’m the Alpha, but she’s the leader. Charles smiles and corrects himself. Was the leader until she decided to pass that role on to our son. So, as you can see, you really are at our mercy.

Why?” Elias looks at Rivers mother with suspicion written all over his face. “Why would you do that?

Because Im tired of this life. She sounds as defeated as she looks. Ive been trapped in this cycle of power and politics for too long. Charles and I have been trapped in an arrangement thats made us both miserable. The threat of your packs hostility drove a wedge between me and my son and forced me to make a decision for him that I never wanted.” She turns to River with tears in her eyes. “I’m so sorry, sweetheart. We never should have kept you prisoner in your own home. We were wrong.”

River’s eyes are glassy as he nods to his mom. “It’s okay, Mom. I understand.”

Her gaze hardens as she looks back at Elias. But River and these three alphas have taken matters into their own hands. They forced a solution to a problem I thought was hopeless. So, really, its my son you should be speaking to.

Elias turns his gaze toward River.

He’s sitting up straight with his chin raised, clearly trying to appear confident and in control despite the slight tremble in his hands. Weve already told you our demands. River keeps his shoulders square. Leave this pack alone. Never return. Otherwise, Ill assert my claim on your pack and your territory.

Eliass gaze narrows, but hes silent as he turns the situation over in his head. Even if he wants to dispute the claim, both packs saw him with Rivers jaws around his neck. His life was literally in Rivers hands. If he tries to fight this, the chances of his own pack turning against him are high.

Fine, Elias says, his voice tight. I accept your terms.

Good, River says, nodding slowly. You have until sundown to leave our territory.

Elias nods, his expression sour. I’m leaving, but I won’t forget this.

Im sure you wont. River is the most confident I’ve seen him. It’s pretty hot, actually. And Im sure the rest of your people wont forget either. My claim against your territory still stands. I can assert it whenever I want.

Youre making a mistake. Elias growls as he stands up. “One day, youre gonna regret this.

I dont think so. River shakes his head slowly, not dropping his gaze for a second. Im pretty sure Im gonna enjoy watching you slink back to your territory with your tail between your legs.

Elias turns to leave, his steps heavy and angry.

Don’t get cocky, Son. Charles looks at River once Elias is gone. That Alpha is dangerous. Hes not gonna let this go.

I know. River exhales deeply and nods. But unlike you, Im not gonna let a complete stranger force us to give up everything weve ever worked for.

Charless expression softens slightly. Youve proven yourself far more resourceful and resilient than Ive given you credit for. Im proud of you, River.

River looks up at his father, his eyes wide with surprise.

Im sorry I didnt believe in you. Charles clears the emotion from his throat. Im sorry I didnt listen to you. And most of all, Im sorry I didnt protect you like I should have.

I know. And…thank you, Dad.

If theres anything I can do to make amends, Charles says, his gaze shifting across all four of us, just name it.

You can start by being one of my advisors. River chuckles lightly as his new reality sets in. I dont know the first thing about leading a pack.

I think we can manage that. Charles looks at his son with pride that brings a tear to my eye.

In the meantime... River looks at his mother. You should go find Jenna. Annul your relationship with Dad and follow your heart.

His mother looks at him with wide eyes, then glances at Charles.

Its alright, dear. Charles reaches for her arm and gives her a squeeze. Ill sign whatever you need me to.

Her eyes well up with tears as she places her hand over her husband’s. I...I...

Ive always known. Charles shakes his head with a sigh. Its why I never pushed you for more pups. We had River as our heir, and that was enough. Youve fulfilled your duty to your pack. Now its time for you to look after yourself.

Thank you. She stands up and gives him a firm hug. “Thank you for the life you gave me, and the life you’re giving me now.”

Now, if youll excuse me. Charles rises from his seat and turns to the rest of us. I need to go inform the pack that theyre no longer in danger and that theyve got a new leader. He looks at River and smiles before leaving the room.

Rivers mother lingers for a moment, looking at her son with an expression of mixed pride and sadness. Im so sorry, she says, her voice cracking. I shouldve been stronger. I shouldve protected you better.

Its okay, Mom. River stands up and approaches her. You did what you thought was best. And...it worked out. Im safe. Im happy. Im finally free.

I love you, Son. So much. Tears spill down her cheeks as she embraces him. Im so proud of you.

I love you too. River turns his head into her neck, hugging her tightly.

She pulls away and looks at him with a smile. Im gonna go find Jenna. Ill see you later.

Finally, at long last, the four of us are alone.

I guess thats it. Devon huffs out a long breath like he’s been holding it the whole time. We did it.

Yeah. River crosses his arms over his chest and laughs nervously. I guess we did.

So...what now? Frankie looks at each of us in turn.

Weve been running for so long. I honestly didnt think Id ever want to stop.” I pace slowly toward the window, looking out at the compound with a furrowed brow. “I cant believe Im saying this after everything thats happened over the last few days, but for the first time in ages, I feel like weve found somewhere we could potentially make a home.

I glance back at Devon and Frankie. What do you guys think?

Im with you, Devon says with a nod. This place could be good for us.

I agree, Frankie says with a smile. And I think Rivers gonna need all the help he can get.

What about you, River? I turn to face him, hoping he agrees. Do you want us to stay?

River looks up at me, his eyes wide and uncertain. I dont know... He looks between the three of us with a quiet expression. I mean, yes, of course, I want you guys to stay. But I think I want more than that. I want you to be my mates. All three of you.