The Alpha Meeting

The week started off with a bang. Zion was ill with tonsillitis, and that meant Saphera had to stay at home for the week at least, as he was not permit-ted to go to school. Demetri was out early Monday morning due to a breakdown at the factory. Saphera called in to let Celix know that she would be working from home that week.

“Zion has tonsillitis, and he’s on meds. I have to stay home with him.”

“No Problem Saphera, I will send the boys over with all your office gear and everything you will be needing to work from home.”

“Thank you Celix, I really appreciate it.”

Zion was calling from the bathroom where he was in a tub of hot water, playing with his toys. She decided to message Ralph—they hadn’t spoken for about a year, except when Zion was ill or something dramatic happened. Due to them being natural enemies, a law was written in blood that no wolf and hunter could ever pair up.

She sent a short message:

Hey Ralph, Little Zion is ill with tonsillitis. He’s on medication for humans.

Regards, S

She sent the message to the last number she had from him.

Ralph replied back in minutes:

Thank you Saphera, please take care of him and lots of love for him. R

Saphera just smiled. He would have been the best father had he been given a chance, and if the laws of the supernatural were different. She actually missed the fun and exhilarating times they’d had together, and how she could share all her secrets with him and have no worries that he would tell someone else or betray her. They loved each other so much and saw each other in secret for two years. Then she got pregnant and every-thing went south from there on.

“Mommy done, done!” Zion pulled her back into reality.

She dressed him and gave him a healthy breakfast, and made him comfortable in his room with his stories on the TV and some healthy snacks and juice. Saphera decided on doing some yoga, and after that she opted to work in the garden, planting some flowers and fixing the landscape around the house. Zion came waddling out asking for a nap. She took him straight to bed and made him comfortable. He fell asleep quickly. Around 12pm the guys came around and helped her setup her home office, making some small talk and being as quiet as possible to not wake Zion. After they were done, they left saying they would bring documents back and forth between the office and her house. She watched them leave, and set to work immediately as she had some appointments to make and she wanted to get them done before Zion woke up.

Zion woke at around 3pm, and Saphera immediately gave him his meds and checked his temperature like the doctor had told her to do. She gave him some baby food to eat. Demetri notified her that he wouldn’t be home before 10pm. She sighed.

At dinner that night Celix phoned to check up on her and Zion. “How was your day and how is Zion?”

“My day was good, thank you, and little Zion is doing okay. The meds will start working within the next three days I hope.”

“That’s good news, I’m very glad. Then I’ll let you enjoy your evening. Goodnight.”

“Thanks Celix, goodnight.”

At around 9pm Zion fell fast asleep and she decided to take her bath. She got out and went to bed at around 10:30pm. She wondered where Demetri was—maybe working late. She decided to turn in, and at around 1am she heard Demetri enter. She sensed he was tired and weary. He fell asleep in his work clothes. She felt sorry for him.

Zion was a bit difficult through the night, but Saphera managed to help him. Demetri was so tired he lay motionless whilst sleeping in bed. She crept in next to him and fell asleep.

***

Tuesday morning was a rush, Saphera packed a lunch box and an extra box for dinner in case he worked late again. They had a quick talk that morning. Demetri left around 7am and quickly asked about Zion.

“I hope he feels better my love.” He kissed her on the cheek and left his colleague was outside waiting.

Zion was still sleeping, probably because he was sick. She exercised for an hour before he woke up. She fed him and bathed and dressed him in clean clothing. He watched TV and Saphera started the laptop up to get working. Zion was keeping himself busy with his building blocks. Saphera worked the morning away, and decided at around 11am to take Zion out in the garden and let him play a while before lunch and his midday nap.

At around 4pm, Zane came by with some documents from the office, a box of chocolates and some new toys for Zion.

Saphera was surprised. “And the toys?”

“They’re from all of us at the office,” Zane stated. “Tell the others thanks from me.” “I will do.” Zane left.

Zion was just starting to wake as Saphera was finishing up her work. Her phone rang. She saw the number and her blood went cold. Ralph. Why would he be phoning her? He was putting them all at risk.

“Saphera, I can’t talk much, but we are heading your way due to a rival pack with an Alpha named Reon.

He is busy making drastic moves, and it’s cost us three hunters.”

Saphera almost chocked on her own tongue. “When will you be arriving?”

“Later this week, around Friday maybe. Are you alright?”

“Yes, it’s just I know this Reon. We had a run-in the other day, and let’s just say I murdered some of his pride.”

“What?” Ralph was angry. Saphera could sense it. “What happened? How does he know about you?”

“Well Ralph, there are two packs here, the Silver Tongue and then The Riviera. The Riviera is Reon’s pack, and the Silver Tongue is Celix.”

“What? There are two major packs in such close proximity?”

“Yes, but Celix’s pack is not a threat. I am actually part of the pack and Zion is as well. It’s the Riviera pack that is causing trouble here.” Zion was coming up to her. “Say hi to daddy,” she said, picking him up.

“Hello my son!”

Saphera could hear the tears in his voice. “Hello dada.”

“Thanks Saphera. I have to go, but I just thought I should give you a heads up, all the hunters know you are off limits.”

“And the Silver Tongue pack as well?”

“I will talk to the hunters and see what I can do.” “Goodbye Ralph, see you on Friday maybe to fill you all in.”

“Will do, bye you two.” And the call ended.

That night Saphera was overthinking everything in her life, whilst Demetri lay asleep next to her. She was so worried yet so confused with emotions. She would tell Celix first thing tomorrow morning about Ralph and the hunters. She did not sleep at all that night.

When morning came, she was overtired; Demetri was just heading out the door when she got up.

“See you tonight love.” He kissed her and left.

She went over to Zions room to check on him. He was still fast asleep. She opted for some quick exercise and a quick smoothie. Just as she’d finished, she heard Zion. As routine went this week, she bathed him and dressed him in clean clothes, gave him some baby porridge and afterwards his meds. Almost done, just three more days. Her thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. Celix—she sensed him. He was tense. She opened up and could see something was horribly wrong. He looked as if he slept last year, and he was dressed in scruffy clothing. Not like him at all.

“Morning Saphera, can I come in?”

“Morning Celix. Yes of course, looks like you could use a strong coffee.” She switched on the kettle and took the chair opposite him.

“There are hunters coming this way,” he told her. “Reon killed some hunters last night. He didn’t know they were part of the Stronghold Hunters’ Group.”

The Stronghold Group was one of the most famous hunter groups in history. They were known throughout the land for killing off large packs in one night, and were led by the most fearsome leaders ever born. They were savage—this much Saphera knew, as she sat there quietly.

“The thing is we are in for one huge fight. It will be all-out. With Reon and the hunters, it’s going to be a bloodbath.”

Saphera cleared her throat. I better tell him. “Celix, the hunters you are referring to… they’re coming for Reon’s pack.”

“How do you know?”

“Well, I know the one hunter—Ralph. He’s one of the leaders, and he phoned me yesterday.”

“How are you familiar with a hunter from that group?” Celix was a bit angry.

“Well, Celix… my son Zion, he is Ralph’s son. The hunter is his father.”

Celix almost chocked on air. “What?” He could not believe it. This Alpha female had a son with a hunter from the strongest group—how the hell was this possible? “You are joking.”

Saphera could see the worry in his eyes. “No. Me and Ralph, we go way back. The Silver Tongue pack will be safeguarded by me and my alliances. Ralph will never put his son’s life in danger—or the mother of his child.” Saphera could see that nothing she said now could reassure him in any way.

“I have to go.”

Celix got up and left, Saphera could sense he was not himself, and that he was confused.

The rest of the day Saphera heard nothing from Celix or the group at the office. She was a bit concerned, she silently admitted to herself.

Back at the office, Celix was confused and dumbfounded. How is this possible, what is this female capable of? First, she has a mortal as a lover, and now he finds out her son is the child of one of the most feared hunter groups of all history.

Josh and Leon noticed something was terribly wrong when Celix returned from Saphera.

“Celix, is everything okay?” Josh asked.

“No Josh, everything is a huge mess. A complete screw up!” he almost yelled the words at Josh.

Leon looked at Celix and asked if he’d told Saphera about the hunters.

“Yes, I did, but turns out she already knew from last night.”

“How is that possible?” Josh asked, a bit confused. “Well, it gets better. Her son is the child of one of the hunters. A man named Ralph.” The two almost fainted. “What?!” Josh exclaimed. “How do you know?”

“She told me herself this morning.”

“Dammit we are fucked in so many ways,” Leon exclaimed.

“She is full of surprises, this one,” Josh said, thinking out loud. “So what’s the plan?”

“Well, according to her, our pack is safeguarded due to her asking Ralph to eliminate the rival pack, as it spells danger for their son.”

“So basically, our pack is going to fight against Reon alongside the hunters? Never in my life did I think I would ever see the day when hunters and wolves fight together.” Leon sat down, thinking.

“Josh, we need to get the whole pack together and get Saphera here when possible, to discuss a working strategy—one that will mean the end of Reon’s pack, and also maybe create an alliance with the hunters.”

“Wow. That’s a tall order. But I think we can come up with something.”

***

Thursday was a fast day. Saphera was running at a hundred miles an hour. Zion was getting better, but Demetri’s hours were getting longer and his work was getting more demanding. On Friday Demetri was all packed to go. He left with his colleagues, and was to return on the following Sunday. A whole week was long, he complained, but he had to go. At around 2pm Saphera received a call from Ralph. They had arrived in town, and he wanted to see his son. She opted for the park where he loved to play. Seeing that he was feeling a lot better, she decided to let him get some fresh air. Upon arrival, she sensed the hunters—about thirty or more of them. She parked her car and got out casually, collecting Zion from the backseat. Ralph immediately made his way over to them, reaching for his child first. She handed Zion over and saw the hunters sizing her up. She also saw some new faces—females, as a matter a fact. She had not expected that. Ralph greeted her and some of the hunters acknowledged her, and she could literally smell the envy on the five females.

Then she sensed him. Celix.

She turned around and Ralph followed her look. “He is the Alpha, correct?”

“Yes he is.” She walked over to him.

Sensing his alertness, Celix’s four friends got out as well. They all greeted Saphera. They surrounded her, almost as though they were protecting her as their Alpha Queen, Ralph and the hunters noticed.

***

Ralph had done some reading up about the Silver Tongue pack. Saphera was speaking the truth, and clearly this was not the pack they were here to destroy. Celix went straight up to Ralph, having identified him by Zion in his arms.

“Good day. Ralph?” Celix extended his hand.

Ralph greeted him. “Yes, and you must be the Alpha. Celix, Saphera told me about your pack.”

“Oh she did?” Celix looked over at Saphera. Damn, this woman is beautiful.

“Yes. She told me you’re the pack that took her in. By the looks of it you are protective over her as well.”

“Yes, we are protective of her and her son. Not so much her mortal mate, but we don’t have a choice.”

Ralph just laughed. He didn’t like Demetri that much either, but it was her choice—he could do nothing about it. “So, we would really like to talk about a plan and get some more info on the rival pack.”

“I was just going to suggest that. I have a fashion mansion here, Saphera works there. If you like, we can organise a braai or something—and no funny business, I promise you that.”

“I’ll talk to the rest of the group.”

Ralph moved over to some of the main members of the group and laid out the idea for the evening. Some of them were against it, but Saphera calmed their stress by stating that there would be no fighting between these two groups—only with the Riviera clan, as they were problem, not Celix’s pack. Ralph backed her on this. After spending some two hours at the park drinking soda and eating ice cream, they all left on their way to the Fashion House.

****

Arriving at the house, the hunters parked in the front yard and Celix and his group parked alongside Saphera. Although she and Ralph might be past lovers, Celix was not letting her get out of reach.

Ralph noticed how they guarded Saphera. Probably because they know her, he thought, and that she is a strong Alpha who will definitely breed a line of Alphas. Ralph was interrupted by Zanel; one of his huntresses who he’d noticed seemed a little too flirty with him.

“Are you sure this is a good idea?” she asked.

“Yes Zanel, now stop worrying. Saphera will not put us at risk. Trust me, I know her.”

Zanel wanted to argue, but his look stilled her. Zanel hated Saphera—she was the only woman that Ralph could think of, and now that she had a child with him he would not let any other woman into his life. And that made her angry.

Saphera sensed some tension coming from the blonde female who followed Ralph like a puppy. She definitely did not have any good intentions. Celix caught her eye and he nodded, showing that he also sensed this.

“We must keep an eye on her,” he told her softly as they went into the building.

Saphera nodded in agreement

***

Entering the mansion, Celix noticed the sharp inhales by the hunters. The place was huge. As soon as the hunters entered, Josh went to the kitchen and Zane went to assist. The twins carefully took Zion from Ralph, who was a bit taken a back until Saphera smiled and said, “They are his babysitters, you should see them play with him. They are the best-ever twins.”

Ralph handed Zion over and gave a look of warning, which the twins acknowledged. Soon the three of them were all over the place, playing every game possible.

Celix poured some red wine for Saphera whilst she explained to Ralph where Demetri was, and that he still did not know anything about this business. Saphera accepted the glass of wine from Celix. He smiled down at her, his eyes turning sapphire. Saphera looked up at him, nodded and left. He started to mingle with some of the hunters, wary of not creating ruptures.

“He’s in love with you, you know that?” Ralph stated. “Yes, I know.” She smiled at Ralph. He has not changed a bit. Still lean and with muscles in all the right places, white hair like Zion and striking blue eyes.

“You know he is your type. He’s the man you should have in your life, not a mortal like Demetri.”

“Yes Ralph, we discussed this way-back-when. Remember you are also a mortal.”

With that she turned and left, only to walk into Zanel. “Hi, I’m Zanel.”

She extended her hand reluctantly, but Saphera accepted it and met her eyes full on. “Saphera is the name.”

She turned around and walked over to the Kitchen where she smelled some delicious flavours. Celix explained to the hunters the reason for the house as a place for his pack to work and put back into the community. The hunters were somewhat impressed with this set-up, Saphera noticed. Some of the hunters who knew her due to Ralph talked freely and asked about almost anything.

She was still sad inside that the community had not allowed her and Ralph to be united as one, for they said her marrying a hunter would create more chaos than her marrying a mortal with no knowledge of her true form.

Zanel was following Ralph around like a puppy—he seemed annoyed, she noticed.

Celix came over to her side. “The hunters are not really that bad. Well, it might be because of you two, but I think with their help we will definitely have the upper hand in this war to come.”

“Yes, we probably will—but to what extent?”

“Have you notified your pack about all the stuff that has been going on?” Celix probed the question.

“Yes, I did, but they have rivalry matters of their own to worry about. They only suggested I send Zion to them, as they are more fit to protect him and he would be safer there, as well as because the pack is larger.”

Zanel is acting weird around Saphera, Ralph noticed. He also noticed that Saphera had changed a lot in the past year. She’d matured mentally and physically, so much in such short time—but he knew Zion had something to do with it. When she was pregnant… Damn, she was beautiful. She’d glowed as if the sun shone through her. Being a mom-to-be fitted her well. He knew what she was after three solid years of dating, and never feared her. He did, however, fear her folks and family, as they were not very fond of the hunters. But somehow the two had fallen in love. Her pregnancy had had some complications, but nothing too major which an Alpha wolf couldn’t handle. She was perfect. Although she had a quick temper and a mouth with no filter, he loved her.

He wasn’t perfect either, but he’d tried his best to be there for her and help her. Somehow their personalities did not fit well—not because of their backgrounds, but because they were both hard-headed and somewhat arrogant. He still thought they would be the most perfect super couple ever to exist. Even though the Law of Supernatural Beings prohibited them from being together, he still wished sometimes that things were different. And he was certain she felt the same—he could see it in her eyes when they looked at each other that love was still there.

Celix noticed Saphera was in her own world, miles away. What was she thinking? He couldn’t read her mind and that bothered him—she had that dreamy look in her eyes.

“Saphera,” it was Ralph coming up from behind him, making his way over to her.

“Yes?” She turned to him and gave him a warm smile, warmer than any Celix ever received. She was still in love with this hunter. “Where is Zion going to be when all of this is going down?”

“Well, I’ll send him to my pack at home. They are more powerful, and he will be the safest there,” she said without hesitation.

“Okay, I can agree on that for sure. Will your parents come pick him up?”

“Yes, they’ll be here on Sunday.”

“Okay that’s great news. Now another thing. Where can we all book in to sleep before tomorrow’s preparations begin?”

“Well, if you don’t mind being around wolves at the moment you are more than welcome to sleep here,” Celix offered. “We have about twelve rooms open. Some of you can share if you want?”

There were some talking, and they all agreed it would be the best. “I will stay with the mother of my child at her house. If that’s okay, Saphera?”

“It’ll be fine, no problem. I’m happy with that idea.” Celix wanted to howl. Saphera noticed the tension building and locked her look on Celix. “Zion will be glad to have his daddy stay a few days, won’t you?” she asked as Zion came into the room.

“Daddy, yes, yes.” Zion reached his arms out and Ralph picked him up.

Zanel was fuming. Knowing that she would not be invited to stay there as well, she stalked out of the room, making it too obvious for the rest.

“She really likes you?” Saphera nudged Ralph.

“Yes, she does, but I’m not interested.” He cuddled Zion and disappeared to help the hunters settle into different quarters.

Celix came over to Saphera. “You are one mysterious Alpha, I must give you that,” he said. “I’m jealous, yes, but you have amazed me every day since you came to my town.”

Saphera smiled and gave him a friendly nod. “You are one handsome single Alpha, ruling a huge pack, but stuck on one female when there are so many females who would kill for you.”

Saphera bade everyone goodnight when Ralph came downstairs, indicating that they had all settled in and everything was in order. She took Zion from him, and their eyes met for a second. They both still felt that deep connection of five years ago. She broke contact first, and said goodnight to the wolves.

“Ralph I know you will keep her safe. But remember she is our strongest player in this battle.”

Ralph smiled, knowing full well what Celix meant, as he’d also felt the full extent of her powers about one year ago. Zanel came over to Ralph, gave him a long and deep hug, scowling at Saphera over his shoulder.

Saphera just laughed and walked out to the car. “Please be safe.”

“Being with her is the safest I can be.” Ralph turned on his heel and followed Saphera out.

***

Driving to the house, Ralph noticed how lovely the area looked. “This is a beautiful place, you live in.”

“Yes, it is a lovely place. We loved it here until the rival pack arrived. They came and messed up everything.”

Zion started to make sleepy noises. They both looked back and noticed his eyes fluttering shut. He was sleeping.

At home Ralph carried him into the house and took him to his room.

“I am going to shower now Ralph, please make yourself at home.”

“Thank you Saphera, I will make some coffee.” Saphera left for the main bedroom to fetch her

sleepwear. Ralph looked around the place and saw a lot of her tastes, modern and streamlined.

She did not think where he was going to sleep. She couldn’t expect him to sleep on the couch. Shit.

She turned on the shower and climbed in, and all her worries slipped away. The water was warm and welcoming. Her thoughts slipped away, back to Ralph and her in the first year of their relationship. It was hectic, and had been somewhat dangerous at times. She was swallowed in the thoughts of their lovemaking sessions. Their sessions had always been steamy and hot. Ralph was a freak in the bed. He was magical with his hands, and his tongue was amazing. She started touching herself in the shower. Man, she loved his hands on her— they were so soft and big. She felt her blood boiling and every drop of water was sensual. She became aroused and her clitoris started hardening.

Ralph sat on the couch thinking about the battle ahead. This is going to be a tough war—harder than ever, and for the first time we’ll be united with wolves against an enemy of us both. Saphera looked worried, he noticed. Probably due to their son’s safety and the rival pack being merciless. Saphera was going to be the main target for the rival pack’s Alpha. He wanted to claim her—Celix made that clear tonight. Then this Celix man, he had a huge crush on her. Ralph would prefer Celix over Demetri, due to the fact that Celix was more stable and more of a man than this Demetri guy who he didn’t like at all. Ralph got up. Seeing Saphera today with Zion had opened up old wounds and awakended his feelings for her. If only the laws of the supernatural could be bent, then he would have married her. Ralph made his way over to the bathroom, knowing that this might go well, or he might be faced with a pissed off Saphera. He undressed before entering the bathroom.

What’s Ralph doing now? Saphera wondered. Oh, the passion they’d shared in the shower was mind-blowing. He was always a treat in the shower due to him being strong enough to lift her with one arm. She turned and saw him standing there in the bathroom, looking at her through the shower door. He was naked—and damn, he was beautiful. Golden brown tan, defined in all the right places, and his erection immediately drew her attention.

Ralph noticed her hand position. She’d the same thoughts as him. He opened the door and stepped into the steaming hot shower. Immediately they met one another’s eyes. He stepped closer and pressed her against the wall. The water glistened on his skin as it touched him.

Gosh, this man is gorgeous.

He lowered his head and licked his lips. She exhaled hard and he seized her mouth.

***

She felt alive again, like the last time they were intimate. She did not have this connection or this sensual desire with Demetri. He kissed her hard and deep, claiming her in every kiss they shared and every movement of his tongue. She felt ashamed, but her wolf side would not stop—she was drunk with lust for him. Ralph knew exactly what made her tick and what made her climax so hard that she would howl with pleasure.

As he kissed her, she gave in completely. Ralph sensed this and pushed her up against the wall.

“Just like the first time, Saphera. Do you remember?” He was referring to their first time together in her shower. She was younger and more flexible then, and her wolf side was stronger than ever. She was a true Alpha; she was dedicated and goal driven. Ralph started to kiss her down her neck. His one hand caressed her buttocks, and the other made lazy circles around her nipples. “Gosh, I love your body. So strong yet so alluring at

the same time,” he whispered in her ear as he started to tease her clitoris with his one hand, slipping one finger in and out whilst the palm grazed her clitoris firmly yet softly.

“Loving the body more than the mind. Sounds like the old times,” Saphera smiled, aware that he knew exactly what she meant.

She was somewhat hard-headed, but with a firm belief in herself. She was not afraid to stand alone.

Her personality really put the males in her life on edge, as she was a very assertive lady.

“Well, you were a bit bossy then, and also not so sexual, I must say. But yeah, the body is still amazing as ever, even after childbirth.” He smirked and pushed two fingers in so deep and quick she gave a soft growl.

He looked her dead in the eyes. “Does Saphera want to play?” he asked as he consumed her mouth again, mixing their body essence.

She clawed his back in response. “I want to play, but I play rough. Sure you can handle it?” she pushed him off of her and lowered herself so she could take his full length in her mouth.

He gasped as he felt the all-too-familiar heat and softness around his erection, which missed these days, he admitted. She started to suck and lick him so hard he had to stop her before made him reach climax. And he did not want this to end right now.

He pulled her up by her shoulders, turned the water off and carried her to the bedroom still dripping with water from the shower.

Strange, she is engaged to this Demetri, but yet here I am claiming her in their bedroom. The adrenaline made him more aroused.

She sensed he was more aroused, and when she met his eyes, she knew. He was going to make her howl again tonight.

The evening was filled with so much passion. Ralph was not a kisser, but he was great in the bed and she knew this. He laid her down on the bed and settled in between her legs. He started sucking her breast as he traced shapes on her naked skin, making her flesh warmer with every touch. She started to moan a bit as her climax built under his soft and cunning hands. His lips felt amazing around her breast and she remembered their time together—the nights they’d spent in each other’s arms and all of their past came rushing back. They’d been a strong couple, but there were just too many external factors that crippled their chances of marriage and being a happy family.

He suddenly moved up and consumed her mouth. She traced her hands up and down his bare back, feeling the familiar heat of his skin. She flipped him over so quickly he was shocked at first, but relaxed. She climbed onto him and let her hips do the talking.

“Man, I always loved this about you, Saphera. You’re an Alpha in the bed as well, and that to me is a great turn on.”

She thrusted hard a few times just to show him she was in charge now. He was really starting to enjoy this; she saw in his eyes.

He grabbed her hips. “Oh, someone is enjoying this way too much.”

She smirked as she clawed her nails into his chest, feeling her own climax building in her.

That night they came together more than once, as old lovers reunited. It was wrong she knew, but it felt so right lying there naked in his arms, the father of her child.

Saturday morning Saphera woke feeling guilty for what had happened here last night. She turned around and looked at Ralph peacefully asleep next to her, and then she saw that Zion was lying in his arms. Strange she hadn’t heard him come in—he probably missed his daddy.

Zion started to stir, and Saphera knew that was her sign to get some milk and make some home-brewed coffee. Ralph loved filter coffee. After they’d all woken up, they joined in making a quick family breakfast. As Saphera cleared the table the doorbell rang.

“Who is it?” she called out, alert.

“It’s Christine. I wanted to borrow some sugar?” Saphera went to open the door to let Christine in.

Just then Ralph came out the bathroom with a towel around his waist. Christine’s eyes immediately did a double roll.

She looked at Saphera who blushed crimson red. Saphera went to the kitchen to fetch some sugar. Ralph came over to meet Christine.

“Hi there, I’m Ralph, Zion’s father.”

“Uhm.... Yes, you are. I mean, sorry. Hi. I’m the neighbour next door.”

Saphera saw Christine was flabbergasted. “Here’s the sugar you came for.” Saphera handed her the sugar and ushered her to the door. “We’ll talk later, okay?”

“Yes, we will. You never told me the father was so handsome?” Christine exclaimed as she left.

Ralph finished getting dressed and heard Saphera talking to Demetri over the phone about work and how his plans were going so far. The conversation was short.

Strange, he thought. Usually she would stay for hours on the phone with him, literally talking about anything and everything. Maybe she doesn’t love this guy as much as I thought.

On their way to the Fashion House, Ralph sensed Saphera was getting more nervous and tense. Maybe it was the coming battle that was scaring her. As they drove up to the house, they both could sense something was wrong. Saphera immediately went into defensive mode, and her Alpha senses peaked.

Ralph grabbed his weapons, keeping Zion and Saphera close by him.

“Celix, what has happenend?” Saphera asked. “Come in, we need to have an urgent discussion.” Upon entering, they both could see the house was in chaos and people were scurrying all over. Immediately she smelled the blood. Her eyes flew to Celix as he came down the stairs.

“Celix what happened here?” Saphera exclaimed. “Reon took one of the girls with force,” he answered. “How can this be? This house is crawling with wolves and hunters! How did he just come in and take one?” Saphera was mad.

“He did not have to come in. She was outside smoking and the next thing we heard a yell, and when we got to the balcony, she was gone. All that was left was her gown and a message saying, Bring me Saphera or she will die a most painful death. It was signed by Reon.” Saphera was now fuming. Her hair started to glowand her black nails came out.

Ralph immediately pulled her to him. “Saphera, calm down, we need you stable and thinking straight. And Zion can see you.”

Saphera looked over to Zion whose was staring at his mummy. She never wanted him to see her this mad. She retracted her claws and Ralph let her go.

Celix and the rest of the pack were in awe. How could this hunter calm that storm in her with just a touch? Celix was baffled. This is one strange situation.

Saphera picked Zion up and snuggled him. He licked her back, and she laughed. “My prince.”

Ralph spoke next. “Okay, so what’s our plan now? This youngster is one step ahead of us, and I am saying now to all: I am not giving Saphera up.” he sounded angry and possessive.

“We will not give her up, either,” Celix added.

As he came close to her, he smelled it: the scent of the hunter hung on her like perfume. “You slept with the hunter?” Celix asked as he looked at her.

“Yes I did, but I don’t answer to you, do I?” She stalked past him and swung her hair so that the scent filled his nostrils and he sneezed.

The room looked at him.

“Allergies.”

Josh and the rest of the gang looked at her and at Celix. Josh just smiled at Saphera.

“Who is the girl that was taken?” Saphera asked, getting back to the current business.

“It was Zanel, one of Ralph’s hunters.” Zane answered.

Saphera immediately looked over at Ralph, and noticed him tensing. She was his best friend’s sister.

“We have to get her back, she is like family to us,” one of the hunters said.

Immediately the pack surrounded Saphera and Zion. Ralph noticed and assured them that Saphera would not be handed over by any means. They would find another way.

A hunter whose name Saphera never got came up to her. “If anything happens to her, you’re next.”

Celix heard this and immediately stepped in between. “You will have to go through our pack first.”

“Okay gentlemen, let’s keep this together. No one is hurting anyone. You got it, Jack?” Ralph said in the hunter’s direction, his voice stern.

“Bloody wolf bitch,” Jack mumbled and stepped out for some fresh air.

“Apologise to her.” Ralph came up to him.

“I won’t. She is not my leader, nor part of my pack.” Saphera waved it down and Ralph let it go.

Celix was unnerved. “Keep an eye on that one, Josh.” Josh nodded in silent agreement, and Saphera noted t as well.

***

That day they spent making plans and coming up with ideas on how to lure Reon out into the open without having to use Saphera as bait. Saphera could not see any other way than her being the bait, and being the one to lure out the joke of an Alpha. She felt sorry for Zanel. What was that girl going through at the hands of those wolves?

***

In Reon’s den, everything was more rigid and rough, more natural—not as modern as this Celix guy’s place. Zanel smelled the wolf stench and fresh blood that burned her nostrils. This would teach her to never smoke in secret again, if she got out of here alive.

“So, you are the female huntress, Zanel?” Reon asked her.

“Yes and you just kidnapped the wrong girl, you dick,” Zanel spat at him.

Reon slapped her so hard she fell backwards a few feet. “Don’t you ever speak to me like that. I am an Alpha.”

“So? I’m a mortal, not a wolf. I don’t answer to you!” “Oh, you are just as hardheaded as Saphera?” “Don’t ever compare me with that bitch, got it?” she got up steadily and straightened out. “I’m nothing like her, nor would I ever want to be anything like her.”

Reon saw the anger and jealousy in this mortal, and he knew exactly what his next move was going to be. “So you’re telling me that you don’t like her?”

“I despise her. She might be an Alpha, but she is not mine. Although she has a hold on the hunters due the father of her son being a hunter. That’s the only reason we are not killing the other pack as well.”

“You say you are planning on killing off my Riveira pack by combining the forces of the hunters and the Silver Tongue pack, with the help of Saphera?” Reon laughed out loud so did the rest of the wolves that stood there.

“Well, that’s our mission. Not everyone is happy with it, but we have to follow our Alpha. He calls the shots.”

“Who is the Alpha then?”

“We have two leaders: Jack and Ralph.”

“Two leaders. Wow, that must be difficult sometimes,” Reon said.

“Yes, well. They are both born hunters. The only difference is that Ralph is the father of Zion.”

Reon left the room through a wooden door and left Zanel in a cave-like room with no windows and just one light at the far end of the room.

Damn you, Saphera, Zanel thought to herself.

***

“Did you hear what that huntress said?” Reon directed the question to his right-hand man, Luke.

“Yes, about the leader who is the father?”

“Yes, that part. We can use him to lure Saphera out. She would not let the father of her child get hurt.”

“Yes, that’s so, but I was thinking maybe we could use this Zanel as well. You saw how she hated Saphera. Maybe we can use her to turn the hunters against Ralph and the others. She said it herself—some of them don’t agree on the terms.”

“Yes, then when they’ve finished killing off the other pack they’ll turn around and hunt us?”

“No, we’ll kill them off before that happens.”

“It does sound like a good plan,” Reon admitted.

***

“Saphera, how late will your parents be arriving tomorrow?” Ralph asked.

He was tense, and she knew why. “They’ll be here early because they have to get back. Dad has a meeting with the other Alpha. They came to a compromise.”

“That is great news.”

“Yes, I just wish this shitstorm was over. I hate battle and war and bloodshed.”

“I know you do,” Ralph said and pulled her in close to him. She felt safe in his arms.

Celix saw them from the corner of his eye, sighed, and went to get some fresh air.

“Hey, is everything alright?” Zander came up to Celix on the balcony.

“Yes and no. I just don’t understand her.”

“You will never understand women, Celix. Never.” Zander leaned on the ledge. “I’m not looking forward to this battle, to be honest.”

Celix picked up on a hint of fear in his voice. “We’ll be fine, Zander. We have the hunters and also Saphera, who is an army on her own.”

Zander smiled and went back inside.

I hope we’ll be okay, Celix thought to himself. He had seen the Riviera pack in action years ago—it haunted him to this day. They were merciless and vicious in ways he never knew possible.

Saphera was gathering up Zion where he fell asleep on the couch. “I think I’m going home. This little guy needs some sleep, and my head is hurting with all of this planning.”

Everyone acknowledged her.

“I think that will be a great idea,” Ralph opted to join, but Saphera suggested he stay and help with the final planning. He agreed. Celix walked them out.

“Is everything alright?” he asked her.

“Yes, you can say that. I’m just not happy with the current situation and all the uncertainties hanging in the air,” Saphera said.

“Yes, I understand, the Riviera pack is something else, that I can say. But we will get through this.” Celix gave her a swift squeeze on the shoulder and opened the door so she could put Zion in his car seat, and then went around to open her door.

“Thank you for working with the hunters,” she said. “I know it’s a weird setup, but in the end it will all be worth it.”

Celix nodded and closed her door, and watched her drive away.

***

“Zanel, we have a proposal for you in order to gain your freedom,” Reon said.

“What proposal, and what makes you think that I’ll trust you enough to keep your end of the bargain?” Zanel said wary. She did not like this.

“Luke and I thought about what you said earlier, about how you don’t like Saphera. But we noticed in your voice that you’re in love with Ralph?”

“That’s none of your business. And anyway, he loves Saphera and always has.”

Zanel was feeling hurt inside. She really loved Ralph. “Yes okay, but how about you help me get Saphera? Then it will leave the path open for you to get Ralph.” That sounded like a good idea, but there had to be a

catch somewhere. “How do you suggest we do that?” Zanel asked.

“Well, sit down and have a drink, and we can tell you all the details,” Reon said, offering her a glass of whiskey.