Page 67 of Protected Promise

“Do the others know?”

“Oh yes. Everyone is well aware of our guests.” He snickered and I knew there was more to the story.

“What aren’t you telling me?”

“They are she-wolves with aspirations of being your Pack Mother.”

“Shit.”

“Will you be sticking to the old code, sir?” Dereck asked.

“Is it even an option?” If there was any way to keep Kaitlyn out of the Challenges, then I wanted to hear about it.

“You might want to have a chat with Kyle Westin before a formal announcement is made.”

“A formal announcement? That was about as formal as we get around here, Dereck.”

He scowled and shook his head. “You’re part of the Council now. The Grand Council will expect a formal announcement that signals the start of the Challenges. There are several Packs that are rebuking Challenges for true mates now. Talk to Kyle.”

I nodded. “Thank you.”

“I am not a fan of interfering with true mates, but you already have a pack of she-wolves ready and willing to stake claim. I have no doubt that each of them will make the challenge if you allow it.”

“I need to warn Kaitlyn.”

It took me nearly half an hour to finally find her because I kept getting stopped by well meaning wolves with questions, concerns, or congratulations.

“Hey,” I said feeling my wolf finally relax with our mate in sight.

“Hey,” she said beaming back at me.

“If you need anything at all Kaitlyn, you have my number.”

Kaitlyn hugged Mina. “Thank you for everything.”

Mina squeezed my bicep in silent support before leaving us standing in the hallway.

“Did she show you everything?”

“I think so?”

“Even our home?” I asked, knowing she wouldn’t have dared to enter my personal quarters uninvited.

Kaitlyn waved her hand over the balcony looking down on the main community area. “I mean, yeah, look at this place. It’s amazing.”

My heart swelled knowing she liked the Lodge.

“Yes, it’s great, but you haven’t seen our room yet.”

I took her hand and headed up to the top level. It was far more space than the two of us needed, but as Alpha, it was my right, or so the others had insisted.

I opened the door and then swooped her up into my arms. She giggled as I carried her across the threshold. I knew it was cheesy, but I liked how happy the little things made her. I could get used to little cheesy moments if they continued to please her.

“This is your place?” she asked as I set her down.

“No, this is our place,” I corrected.

I watched as Kaitlyn looked around the place wondering what she saw as she wandered from room to room.