The Future King and the Commander's Daughter

I Like Him Pt. 2

I left them after eating the delicious food. I needed these recipes. I went to scout Alpha Max’s pack. In a stark contrast to Alpha Eric, his people feared him. They’d obviously lost respect for him though. What did shock me was seeing his beta chained in a silver collar to a pole with his Gamma. His pups were locked in a room with each other. They were quite young. I made sure they had sustenance and would be fine until tomorrow. They had plenty of nice clothes, toiletries, and food. So he was caring for them or ordered someone to.

His Luna was in the dungeon and it was guarded. I’d have to kill them to get to her because she was their Luna and they clearly had orders to guard her. Hearing her cry made me want to act, but I could tell those guards didn’t want to do what they were doing. The allies would meet soon and there would be a battle. If Alpha Max died I didn’t have to kill these men guarding this woman.

I could easily kill them and would if they were doing this willingly. It was clear nothing in this pack was done willingly though. Rogues were roaming the pack freely which concerned me. I found Alpha Max’s room which was a serious cry for help. He had snapped. It even looked like he’d tried to kill himself a lot. His room was covered in his blood both old and new. He didn’t even bother to clean it up. Every single picture of him and his mate was slashed, but not her picture. It was his. He hated himself. What the hell happened here?

By the time I stopped observing the pack I was filled with more questions than answers and it was the next day. I made tracks back to hear this meeting. I was in time to hear Alpha Eric speaking. He was pissed and not hiding it. I could also tell he knew this meeting was a waste of time. I frowned when I heard Alpha Max say, “Alpha Eric Conners, I have heard about you. You are said to be quite cruel.” They knew each other. Why was he acting like he never met him? Was he that far gone? Did he have amnesia?

Alpha Eric responded evenly, “So we meet again. You are one to talk about being cruel, Alpha Max. How’s your Luna?” I would never treat my mate as you have.” Alpha Max growled possessively, “You want my mate, don’t you? She is quite beautiful. Too many males looked at her, and she smiled at them. I had to teach her a lesson.” I saw his eyes, they were mad. Which didn’t surprise me based on his pack and room. Something had broken this man. The person Kashe thought he was at one point was long gone. His eyes were vacant and insane.

Alpha Eric scoffed, “I assure you; I don’t want your mate. If she had been from my pack, I’d have killed you long ago and taken her back so she could find her second chance mate. What you have done is despicable.” He appeared to mean that.

Alpha Max growled, “She’s MINE!” I decided to let out my aura and see if he noticed. People would come for Haley and he needed to be alert for me to agree he was the top choice. He didn’t disappoint. He sat back and one eye subtly moved to where I was. He was also the only who noticed for quite some time. His brother, Alpha Jackson, was the second.

He kept pressing Alpha Max, “Yet you treat your mate like dirt. She was yours to protect and love. Even if you didn’t want her physically you could’ve let her live her life. Instead, you’ve locked her away and taken the pups she’s borne for you after you r***d her. You don’t deserve a mate or anyone really. As for her being your mate, it wouldn’t have mattered to me had I been her former Alpha. I would never allow a pack member, former or current, to be treated that way by anyone let alone their f*****g mate.”

Alpha Max mocked him, “Spoken like the Alpha whose mate is probably dead since you haven’t met her yet.” Alpha Eric was furiously growling and stood up. He ground out, “Whether I meet my mate or take a bride; I will treat her with respect and honor. You disgrace the moon goddess with your treatment of your mate.” It was good he felt that way. It boded well for his ability to continue breathing.

He dismissed Alpha Max, turning his back on him. In doing so he missed the man quickly turning his head side to side as if arguing with himself. Was Alpha Max possessed? Alpha Eric said, “Alpha McDermont, let me know what’s decided here. I cannot stand to be in this scum’s presence a moment longer.” He left with his brothers.

I grinned realizing he was coming for me. I could stay faded and not let him find me, but I was too curious about what he’d do. My mom already felt smug in the bond. She knew I liked him. I wanted to meet him so I faded in.

I debated how close I’d let him get to me. I wondered if he actually thought I didn’t know he was coming. I decided to test his reaction to threats. I pulled a sword prepared to meet him head on. He didn’t even flinch. So far, he was impressive.

He growled, “Who are you? And why are you here?” I decided to put my sword away. I didn’t want his wolf to come out. Plus, I instantly liked him. Astrid shot curiosity at me because my feelings meeting him were exactly how I felt about my brother’s mate. Holy f*****g s**t. I greeted, “Hello Alpha Eric, that was quite a moving speech you gave for the mate Alpha Max is keeping locked away. I am curious, did you mean it?”

I’d offended him on purpose to see his reaction. He didn’t disappoint, “I don’t say things I don’t mean. Who the f**k are you?” I should lie, but I didn’t want to. I wanted him to know who I was. I answered, “Who am I? Such a question. I suppose I’ll give you my real name, though I do not often do that. I am Prince Bjourn Cambridge.”

He stalled knowing the significance of what I’d just said. He was staring at me evaluating everything. I just observed him. The longer I stood here the longer I thought he very well could be Haley’s fated. How would she react to that? I had no idea. It could also be wishful thinking. He’d protect her and kill anyone who hurt her even if he chose to be her mate.

Eventually he asked, “Why are you here?” I toyed with him, “Hmm how to answer… Let’s go with to make sure justice is served.” He pressed, “Whose sense of justice would that be?” I was impressed further. He was pushing me knowing who I was. I could also tell he was ready to fight if I was here to aid Alpha Max.

I responded, “Let’s just say that if a battle is fought… I will be on your side. Should you all agree to peace today then I will have to get the girl and her children another way.” I’d shocked him with my honesty and he let it show for a solid five seconds before he gathered himself.

He asked, “Someone hired you? After all this time to finally bring his mate back home?” His own mother going behind his back like this made me feel bad for him. I studied him intently to see he was actually surprised that someone paid us. He really didn’t know. This Cassandra must be quite shady to pull one over on him. Or he truly trusted her as his mother which was sad for him.

I answered, “We don’t talk about who hires us, Alpha Eric. I am here and that’s what matters. The girl will soon be free along with her children.” He told me, “Alpha Max is insane. There will be a battle. He will not give the pups back. That has been made abundantly clear since we are all here.”

I knew he was insane before I saw his face, but they hadn’t seen his room like I had. How that had been argued among these wolves baffled me. I also felt bad for Alpha Eric wanting to act and not being able to. As the Crown Prince I’d have been able to, but werewolves didn’t have royalty.

I told him, “That would make it easier for me.” He came closer to me with his hand out in a peace offering gesture. He told me, “You are welcome in our camp, Prince Bjourn. I am sure you are used to getting your own supplies and what not; however, we have food and tents set up on the other side.”

I replied, “I know you do. The food is delicious. I snagged myself some yesterday when I arrived. I let my power be felt by you and your allies to see who would come to me. After observing you all, I can’t say I’m surprised it was you. You do not disappoint.” He obviously had no idea what I meant, which was fair. He had no idea why I wanted to meet him to figure out if he was good enough for my sister.

I took his hand agreeing, “Alright, Alpha Eric, I will return with you to your camp, I would just have to steal your food later anyway. Did you know you’re the only Alpha who brought provisions? Very sloppy of the other wolves.”

He looked disappointed and sighed, “I didn’t know that. I’ll have to look at our rations and see if we can provide any for our allies.” I laughed, “They should suffer their incompetence. How else would they learn?” I could tell he agreed but was going to help anyway. I had to admit Iblis would let them suffer their stupidity, but my sister never would.

He replied, “They are still my allies. If we have enough to provide them with food; I will offer the option to them.” He made sure to mention allies. He was no pushover, but he provided for those that he allied with. There was a balance in him that could rub off on Haley.

I admitted, “It seems you are the man I have heard you are. You are fair and you seem to respect women.” He smirked, “Oh, I respect the hell out of women.” I pushed him again to see his reaction, “Have you ever hurt one?”

I’d offended him and he let me know. He sharply told me, “Only to protect my family and my pack. In general, no. I would never harm a woman and I’ve never hurt one that didn’t betray my pack with ample proof. I resent the question, Prince Bjourn. I have always been a fair man. I pride myself on my reputation. I have never harmed a single person that didn’t deserve it.”

I assured him, “No offense was intended. I just needed to know.” He was confused and that was fair. I was lying, but he couldn't know that for sure. Nor could he call me a liar. I had to know and see his honest reaction to hurting people. I also knew my comment would offend him. I just cared for Haley more than I did for him. Despite feeling a comradery with him, my sister meant too much to me.

He questioned, “Why?” I admitted, “In a few years Alpha Eric, should circumstances not change, you will understand.” I could be wrong. Haley might not be his fated and if he met his then Iblis would be our choice for Haley. If he hadn’t though, I’d agree with my mom. He would match her and be a partner. I felt her smugness wafting through the bond. Astrid was amused.

I also felt Marcus’ surprise and excitement. Good. That was going well. I followed Alpha Eric back to his brother Alpha Jackson. He greeted me, “Prince Bjourn.” I was jealous they could communicate telepathically. It would be handy skill.

I replied, “Alpha Jackson. It is nice to meet you.” He asked, “You know me?” Of course I did. I’d read the file about his brother that grew every day as we vetted him for my sister. I told him, “I know who many people are. Including your brothers Alpha Darrin and Alpha Harold.” The brother’s stared at each in silence.

When they stopped they led me back to their camp. Their younger brothers raised an eyebrow seeing me. Alpha Eric introduced me, “This is Prince Bjourn Cambridge.” They accepted that but seemed alert. This family just had to keep impressing me.

Alpha Darrin announced, “Peace could not be reached. We will be fighting in the morning.” Alpha Eric was happy, “Good. Then we can go home.” I chimed in, “I must admit that makes me happy too. I look forward to going home as well.” I needed this to wrap up and be there for Astrid, my boys, and little Brenton.

Alpha Jackson blurted out, “There are rumors that you have a little sister, Prince Bjourn.” Normally, I’d tell him to go f**k himself and neither confirm nor deny his statement Something they all seemed to know. Given the circumstances I’d like Alpha Eric to garner some curiosity in the situation. I answered, “I do. She joined us a few years ago.” They nodded.

I observed Alpha Eric. The news interested him though he tried not to show it. I couldn't help my smirk. I knew he sought out information on Haley. He just had no idea the Fairy Princess was also my sister. Gunner and Harper found that tidbit out when Gunner’s mate died not long after Haley started speaking to us.

Alpha Eric showed me to a tent. He even had spare tents with him. I called my dad. He answered, “How’s it going?” I replied, “Bonus est. Paratus, acerbus, egens, misericors, fortis officiorum sensus habet (He is a good man. Prepared, harsh were needed, compassionate, and has a strong sense of duty).

He replied, “Movit ergo (He impressed you then).” I admitted, “Annoyingly so. I’ll keep an eye on everything. This will go smoothly. Something is very wrong with that other Alpha.” My dad replied, “Do we need to look into it?” I replied, “Maybe Dawson should, for Kashe.” He pointed out, “He’s a guard, son. He had his training to do.” I replied, “It could be a low priority for someone.” He agreed, “Ok. Come home quickly.” I confirmed, “I will.” Then hung up.

My tent came complete with a sleeping back. I grabbed three hours of sleep then got up to observe. Rogues were creeping up on Alpha Eric and his allies. The only reason they didn’t get closer was because Alpha Eric’s warriors were running patrols around everyone’s camps. The man was cautious for good reason.

I wanted to curse and cheer when I saw the man doing the same thing I was. Iblis was my friend, but he did have a mate out there. Even if my sister intrigued him more than the offers he’d received.

I joined Alpha Eric. I questioned, “What are you doing out here so early?” He replied, “I’m evaluating. We are being surrounded. Alpha Max is crazy, but he’s not completely stupid. He’s also not honorable. He’s going to come from behind us all during an agreed to fight. I need to send a messenger to the other packs and split up my warriors.” I acknowledged, “You are a smart wolf. That is good.” He was confused but left to give his orders.

If werewolves had a King, it would be him. That was obvious to me. They should just name his King and fall in line. Or he should make them but he probably wouldn’t. The battle wasn't even that hard. I killed wolves and was still able to watch him. His wolf was bigger than every other Alpha there. They were all massive wolves, but his even stood out among them.

Haley would like his wolf. She loved animals. His dual nature would appeal to her. Maybe that was perfect because she’d be comfortable with the animal side of him and the human side would have an edge over other males.

Because of the promise I made Kashe, I got to Alpha Max first. He saw my sword coming down and I saw his gratefulness. That might have stalled another’s sword, but not mine. This man wanted to die. It was weird.

I decided to use my hands in battle ripping spines out. After the battle was over I complimented my sister’s potential mate, “You are an excellent fighter, Alpha Eric. I wasn’t sure if you would be, but you are somehow exactly who I did not know I was looking for.”

He asked, “How could I be who you were looking for? I thought you were here for Max’s Luna and her children.” I acknowledged, “I am. I just stumbled upon something else in the process. See you soon, Alpha Eric.” I left to go to the pack house.

First, I gathered Luna Stephanie. I grabbed clothes for her and several baby wipes that were laying around. I couldn’t let her shower like she should before we got out of here, but I could let her clean herself up a bit before we got to her children.

The posts guarding her cell had been abandoned. I ripped the door of her cell and gave her the things I’d gathered. I said, “I know you’re hurting because your mate died…” She whispered, “I barely felt it. It feels as if he’s been dying for years. It hurt the most after the funeral. We actually thought he had died until he came back. He’s not the man I married.” I agreed with her there. I said, “I’m getting you out of here. We will get your pups next.” She scampered up to the clothes and scrubbed herself with baby wipes. It wasn’t perfect, but she looked better.

I portaled to the children. The oldest screamed, “MOMMY!” She cried, “My pups.” I picked up the youngest out of a bassinet. He couldn't be more than a month old. She reached for him and cried, “I finally get to hold you.” I regretted my promise not to torture the man, but he was dead. This was done. I opened a portal to a safe house and took them through.

She asked, “Where are we?” I answered, “Alaska. We have an agreement with a pack here. I have a choice for you. In this bag are identities for all of you. Your oldest can go back when he’s older and run the pack. The Alpha here will train him as his own. His father’s territory will be returned to him when he’s ready.”

She winced, “They will come after us. They won’t just let us go.” I replied, “These are new identities you’ll live under. We will make sure that it’s known your oldest will have the pack one day. Or I can return you home and live as you once did.” She scoffed, “No, I considered him a second dad growing up. I’m his Beta’s daughter and he left me there. My love for him died quickly when Max told me my mother died. He’d shown compassion those days, but I heard she died because of a broken heart knowing what happened to me.”

I handed her a phone, “Your dad’s number is on here. This is also a file stating your father’s financials were walled off by the Alpha. He wasn’t able to pay us to come get you. We didn’t know he wanted to try, and for that I’m sorry.” Tears filled her eyes, “Maybe he could join us here.” I agreed, “I’m positive he would. Is that your choice? To stay here?” She nodded.

I gave her the identities. I told her, “That Alpha is aware and will be by to accept you in the pack with his Luna. He’ll give you time to grieve and heal before you’re required to come to things. He starts slow. My number is in there if you need anything.” She hugged me, “Thank you.”

I continued, “There’s food in the fridge and the rooms are all set up for your children.” She started to sob. I waited until she calmed down. She nodded, “I’ll be ok.” I replied, “I’m sure that the Luna has set up some help for you with the kids.” She nodded looking over everything. I offered, “Call you father. I can get him as well.”

She instantly took out her phone. He answered, “Hello.” She whispered, “Dad?” He cried, “Stephanie? Where are you sweet pea? I’ll come to wherever you are. Alpha Eric’s men didn’t find you, but he told me to answer any unknown number that called. He implied he had reason to believe someone saved you.” He had to make me like him more, didn’t he?

She replied, “Someone did. He said he’d come get you if you want to stay with us.” He agreed, “Of course. I won’t stay in the pack with that man. Your siblings are grown and don’t live here. Your brother is only sticking around as the Beta for his best friend to become Alpha. Your sister’s mate was one of the first to cut ties with us.” Her sister was mated to an Alpha. He added, “Your second oldest brother’s Alpha was in the group too. Alpha Eric told everyone to cut ties with us at the summit a while back. Some hesitated but none of the packs your siblings were mated into did.”

She whispered, “We are going to live under new identities.” He replied, “I understand. That’s fine. Let me help you, sweet pea.” She nodded to me. I called Gunner, “I need a trace on the location of the number Stephanie’s new one is talking to.” He answered, “A mountain overlooking Alpha Max’s pack. I texted you the exact location.” I opened a portal and grabbed him, yanking him through.

Once he was there and they calmed down. I said, “I’ll be leaving. Remember, if you need me you can call. I will help you.” She wiped her tears, “Thank you.” She started introducing her dad to her children and I opened a portal to my home.

I felt in the bond Astrid was asleep and went to her. She was with Aaron’s mate, Ashlyn. They waited no time starting their family. Astrid introduced them, they left mated, marked each other, and returned pregnant. She was pregnant with the future commander of the armies. They decided his name would be Cayden. They were thrilled about it.

Ashlyn woke up wincing. I asked, “Are you ok? She admitted, “I think I’m in labor.” I opened a portal and gently picked Astrid up so I didn’t wake her. I inclined my head, “In you go, Ashlyn.” She walked through.

Doris, the OB, asked, “Really? A portal in my office!” I answered, “Ashlyn thinks she’s in labor.” She nodded, “Let’s get you to a room since the Crown Prince forgot where they are.” I shook my head at her. I called Aaron as I sat down on a large couch with Astrid.

He answered, “I can’t talk now. I need to find Ashlyn.” I replied, “Since I know where she is, I could probably help. You’re going to be a dad.” He opened a portal into the hospital and I pointed the way they took Ashlyn. He took off yelling, “ASHLYN!” I rolled my eyes. Astrid murmured, “You’re just like him when I’m in labor.” I wasn’t really ready for that again. If she bled as much as she did last time I might lose my mind.

She groaned, “Is this like period syncing?” I stiffened, “You’re in labor too?” She nodded, “Uh huh.” I stood with her. Kashe yelled, “YOU TOO?! I KNEW ONE DAY WE WOULD GIVE BIRTH AT THE SAME TIME IF WE KEPT UP OUR TIMING!” Dawson shook his head. Astrid winced, “I want to be there for Aaron.”