The Married Alpha and His Arrow

Tangled Web Pt. 2

        He gave me a knowing look. I panicked on the inside. Could he know about me and Chase? Haley popped us to my house. Haley said, “I can come back here after I pop Ted to Matt. We could spend time together if you want Lex.” I shook my head, “No, I’m just going to decompress and shower. I’ll text you if I change your mind. You spend time with those babies. Give them a hug from me.” Haley frowned but nodded, “Alright. You’ll text me though if you change your mind?” I nodded, “I promise.” I felt a tinge of guilt. She was worried but I was going to ask Chase to come over. I needed him. I shoved that aside and hugged Ted. Ted said, “You are stronger than I ever knew Lex. I don’t know how you saw what you did and survived. I never understood why you took pills. That was one of my first thoughts when the healer said he couldn’t do anything. I literally thought…. I know why Lex needed to not feel. I am so sorry I never understood.” I nodded, “I’m glad she’s ok.” Ted shivered, “Thank you Haley.” He hugged her. She smiled, “My pleasure. Let’s get you to Matt. Once he comforts you, he’ll go crazy. You will smell like your brother, and he hasn’t met Tate yet from what I gathered.” Ted wiped a tear from his eye, “You’re saying he’s going to get possessive?” Haley nodded, “The second he feels you are ok. He’s going to be all over you like pepperoni on a pizza.” I laughed, “It’s white on rice.” Haley said, “UGH! That’s it we are going. I conjured Sally’s things to her house. I assumed the stuff outside was hers.” 

    Haley popped out with Ted. I stood there for god knows how long. I was letting everything back in that I had pushed aside to be there for Ted. Heath had texted me.

Heath: If you feel the need to go numb. You call me. Promise me Lex, or I’ll bring you home.

Me: I promise.

Heath: Call your string.

Me: Texting him right now.

Heath: Call me if you need anything. I’ll drop everything and be there.

Me: Love you Heath.

Heath: Love you too

I sent Chase a text. He immediately replied he was coming. I felt gross. Haley had snapped me clean, but I could still feel the blood on my hands. I turned on my shower. I took my clothes off on autopilot. I scrubbed my hands for a moment before the dam burst inside me. I sank to the floor and curled into a ball. I sobbed for seeing Anne that way. I sobbed for Ted seeing it alone. I should’ve gone with him before I went to Heath. We could’ve had Haley there sooner. He shouldn’t have had to see that alone. I cried that seeing Anne reminded me of seeing my mother. This one had a happy ended though, and that was good. It hurt though at the same time. I was spiraling when I felt sparks on my skin. Chase put me in his lap. He must have shifted and run here because he was already naked. There was nothing s****l about this though. I sobbed probably unintelligible words to him.  Chase turned off the water and picked me. I felt numb. Not the drugged kind of numb, but the spiraling hurting kind of numb. The kind I took pills because I wanted to avoid this feelings. I knew I’d have a flashback tonight. Chase dried me off. I could make out his features were tinged in anger, but he was pushing that down for me.

            He carried me to the bed. He looked through my drawers, and I couldn’t bring myself to ask what he was looking for. He walked back over with a comfy sports bra and underwear. He grabbed his hoodie that I had been wearing off the floor. Haley had snapped it clean thank god. He put it over my head once I’d put on my bra and underwear. “I’ve got you Lexi.” I cried, “Why would he hurt her?” Chase said, “I don’t know.” I said, “She’s so sweet and kind. She’s never hurt anyone. She’d never even hurt a fly. They had a mouse once, and she refused to let Tony get a trap that would kill it. She set up this elaborate cheese pot and stick trap. It took weeks. The mouse could get in and eat the cheese without tripping it. She would just laugh, and say they had a smart mouse. When they finally caught it after several months she cried when they let it go outside. Said she would miss the little rascal.” Chase slid into the other side of my bed and pulled me to him. “She’s ok. Haley healed her.” I cried, “I wish she could’ve saved my parents. I wish I’d known her then. I HATE the fairy’s! I would’ve known her if she was with her Hackura family.” Chase kissed my head as I cried. For myself, for my parents. For Ted and his family. I wiped my tears, “Ted’s not meant to see that type of stuff.” Chase said, “Matt has him. Derrick is holding down the fort.” That triggered me to remember Chase was going to the wedding that was going to be attacked alone.

            “You’re going to Lacy’s wedding alone!” I sobbed. Chase said, “It’s ok that you can’t come sweetheart.” I cried, “No, you think there’s going to be an attack here and there. You’re going without Matt or Derrick.” Chase said, “Hey, I’m not going alone. My brother is coming, and I’ll take warriors with me.” I sniffled, “Kincade and Kevin. You’ll take them?” Chase stiffened, “So they can’t be with you?” I said, “No, but they can be with you.” Chase laughed, “Sweetheart, even if they couldn’t come, I wouldn’t be alone. I’ll be with my allies. Haley will be there too.” I relaxed. That was right. Haley was going, and she knew I was his string. She wouldn’t let anything happen to Chase. We laid there for a while, “I’m going to cook us some food.” I held him tight, “I can’t be alone right now Chase.” Chase said, “Are there pills in the house?” I shook my head, “No, but I’m fast. I could leave.” Chase held me to him, “I won’t leave you. I’ll link Kincade and Kevin for pizza. Matt and Ted want to join. Do you want to go to his place, or bring them here?” I said, “Let’s go to them.” Chase smiled, “Ted’s worried about you.” I said, “I’m worried about him. He’s never seen anything like that before, and it was his mother.” Chase said, “He’ll be alright. She’s ok.” I said, “He said he understood me.  He finally understood why I took pills.” Chase said, “Matt will handle him. Anne seems like the type who would hit him over the head with a roller pin if he did drugs.” I laughed, “She is.” 

            Chase said, “What male was comforting Ted besides his father?” I laughed, “Haley said that would get Matt’s possessive juices going.” Chase said, “He did it on purpose?” I said, “No, Haley told us when we got back here the unknown male smell would drive Matt up a wall once he knew Ted was alright.” Chase laughed, “He’s growling in my head demanding I ask you because he doesn’t want to upset Ted. Is it an ex?” I laughed, “Nooooo. It’s Tate’s scent.” Chase said, “I’m going to need more information. Who is Tate?” I smiled, “Ted’s older brother.” Chase laughed, “Oh really?” I nodded, “He just got back from a mission, and walked into that s**t. It was a fine welcome home.” Chase sighed, “I’m sure that wasn’t easy for him.” I said, “His string should be home by now. Their dad walked in while Haley was healing was Anne. It was bad, Chase. Her brains were literally on her lamp along with her blood. I feel like it was to punish Ted and I, but… that kind of rage. Why would Noah feel rage for Anne? She’s nice to everyone, even him.” I think that was the first time in a long time I’d said his name. Must be the shock. Chase said, “I don’t know, but if he comes to my territory or Alpha Conners he’s dead.” I said, “He’s working with witches. I just don’t understand what’s going on. Part of me worries he’s going to betray Heath in some deeper way. I just don’t understand it. For what purpose would he do that? Our people would never accept him as a leader. They wouldn't follow him.” Chase said, “Sure they would.” I said, “They wouldn’t.” Chase growled, “If he had you by his side they would.” 

            I said, “Then he’d have to have Heath killed, and I would never be by his side. It would’ve been Sally.” Chase growled, “I’m not saying it makes sense Lexi. It doesn’t, but we don’t have the full picture of what’s going on.” I said, “Noah isn’t smart enough to do this. That’s not a dig, he’s just not a leader. He’s more of a numbers guy. If he’s doing this the numbers somewhere tell him he’s going to be successful.” Chase held me close, “He will NEVER have you Lexi Scott. You are mine! He is an ant that is going to get squashed. My allies would go with me anywhere to bring you home back to me. He can’t have you. I won’t let him.” I smiled, “I’m just yours Chase Daniels.” Chase smiled, “Damn right sweetheart.” He kissed me then pulled back, “The food is as Ted’s.” I got up and grabbed some black yoga pants. I threw water on my face. Chase was waiting in my living room. He held out his hand and we walked together to Ted’s place. Ted’s arm reached out and grabbed Chase pulling him in. I laughed because I could see it happening. Chase was momentarily startled but recovered quickly. Matt smiled, “How are you Lexi?” I shrugged, “Ted are you alright?” Ted hugged me, “We don’t do that deflecting s**t in this house. I let you do that before. Never again. Are you ok?” I said, “I’ll have a bad dream tonight I’m sure. Chase came over and he stayed with me. I’m ok. How are you?” Ted nodded to Chase, “You’ve got my girl, tonight right?” Chase nodded, “Yes, I’ve got her always.” Ted bumped my hips with his, “Wolves, right? Haley was not wrong. Matt got all possessive.” I laughed, “I know.” 

            Ted laughed, “You linked Chase to ask Lexi about the smell on me?” Matt kicked a rock with his shoe holding four boxes of pizza. “Well, I couldn’t ask you. You’d been TRAUMATIZED. Lexi was the best person to ask.” I laughed, “Tate wants to meet you.” Matt said, “Now that I know the smell is Tate, I would like to meet him too. I had other plans for the owner of said smell, but luckily for him… He’s my mate’s brother. No plans necessary for taking advantage of my mate in his grief.” I laughed, “Tate’s string is super sweet. She’ll want to meet you too.” Matt laughed, “Oh Anne told me all about her.” Ted burst into tears again, “I wouldn’t have gone…” I said, “You did go. Be honest Ted, you couldn’t come to my meeting with Heath. Where would you have ended up?” Ted wiped his eyes, “I’d have swung by...to see mom.” I said, “Exactly. You would’ve gone to her because I was Heath. You wouldn’t have left the Shroud without me.” Ted said, “Hell no I won’t leave you where you could run into the troll without backup.” 

        Ted faltered walking in the house, “This was about us….” Ted’s eyes filled with tears again, “He hurt her because of me.” I shook my head, “I don’t think so. I think that might have been the intent at first, but she said she saw something. He would’ve knocked her out or drugged her to get back at us. That aggression though...It’s something else Ted.” Ted frowned, “I wish she could remember what she saw.” I sighed, “Maybe it will come back to her. Or maybe it will be buried in her mind for years to come.” Ted rubbed my shoulders, “Let’s eat pizza and have some alcohol. Haley left all that stuff here.” I laughed, “She won’t take it back. She can just conjure what she wants.” I took out my phone texting Haley that I was fine. She reiterated she’d come spend time with me. I really should just tell her about Chase. I wasn’t ready for the consequences of that. I wished she didn’t know the situation he was in. I’d love to talk to her about him. I told her I was still good and thanked her for the offer.

            We sat and ate pizza. Ted had designated himself the bartender. He was aggrieved that Chase and Matt only wanted beer. He didn’t ask me what I wanted he just made us both old fashioned. I took a sip, “Damn Ted. You make a strong, but good old fashioned.” Ted took a bow, “I already made two more and put them in the fridge. It’s mandatory after the day we had.” I laughed, “Whatever you say.” Ted said, “So about Halloween.” I shot him a look then remembered, “Right. Ted said your pack doesn’t do anything for the kids. I was thinking before today got sideways… We could set up a haunted house type thing in the school. Different classrooms are different rooms. They could get candy and have fun at the same time. It wouldn't be super scary. Not an adult haunted house, just a fun one.” Chase and Matt smiled. Chase kissed me, “That’s a great idea.” Matt said, “Very Luna and Beta Male of you both.” I smiled, “Good. I was thinking I could coordinate with Nadine and Ted. Ted could do the setup, but I thought Nadine might have some good ideas. She knows the kids better than Ted or I do. I could do a phone call meeting with her tomorrow at some point.” Ted nodded, “Our schedule could accommodate that. We could work her in since it wouldn't be a super long call.” Chase smiled, “Ted will have to tell her he set it up with you for the kids.” I nodded, “That’s fine.” He kissed me again, “I’m so damn proud of you. You’re already so good in your role as Luna.” I laughed, “It’s just a Halloween event.” Matt said, “Haven’t had a Halloween thing for the kids since…” Chase said, “Since before my mother died. Nadine never felt it was her place. Reagan didn’t either since she wasn’t my mate.” I smiled, “Well, we will throw them a fun little Halloween party. They can all get costumes.” Matt said, “You know you could come Lex. It would be a chance for you to meet people without them knowing you are their Luna. Chase won’t be there to give it away.”

            I said, “I can’t. I won’t be around.” Matt frowned. Ted said, “And the Halloween party lets me not think about that while staring at my phone like it’s a time bomb ready to go off. I swear to god lex… Your SOS sent chills down my damn spine. I’ve had too much excitement lately. TeleTed needs some calm.” I laughed, “I don’t anticipate my missions being too difficult.” Ted said, “Excuse me girl. MISSIONS? Plural?” I smiled, “I’ll be busy. It’s doable. If I run… very fast.” Chase was tense. Ted sighed, “If I didn’t know that brother of yours like I do…. I’d tan his hide. He must think you can handle it. I’ve never seen him as worried as he was when that went down.” I said, “Yes, well. I’m fine.” Ted said, “If you send out your SOS… I’m revolting, no missions for you.” I laughed, “Heath wouldn’t agree. I’m too good.” Ted snorted, “Sometimes girl, you do not have the brains you were born with. He would absolutely agree. He loves you more than what a mission could get him.” I stuck my tongue out at him and drank the rest of my old fashioned. I got mine out of the fridge. Ted said, “Mine too please.” I laughed and grabbed his drink. Matt and Chase were tense but trying not to be. After we’d hung out for several hours Chase and I left for my house.” Chase said, “I wish you’d take Kincade and Kevin with you.” I smiled, “If this was a mission like where I’d used my SOS, I’d take them. I won’t be seen more than likely on either mission. I’ll be alright Chase.” Chase sighed, “I have a lot of feelings about this.” I said, “Trust me. I’m going to trust you.” Chase laughed, “You only relaxed about the wedding when you heard Haley would be there.”

            I smiled, “Guilty. I know she won’t let anything happen to you. Do me a favor and watch her too.” Chase nodded, “I’ll do my best.” I smiled, “It’s harder than you think. She’s a fan of popping away.” Chase said, “I gathered that. I’ll do my best to make sure your little sister is ok.” I smiled, “I really do see her that way, but both of you. Nothing can happen to either of you.” Chase laughed and said, “So many reasons to protect the little fairy princess. No one wants to be around Alpha Conners if she gets hurt. They are all willing to testify to the fact that he was worse than they’d EVER seen him be when she was taken. That’s not a low bar either. His scary, angry, murderous scale was off the charts. He needs her. Which means we all need her to be fine. Then there’s you. My whole world. My sweetheart. You’d be devastated if something happened to her. I can’t have that.” I smiled, “You’re so sweet.” Chase and I got ready for bed, and he slid into bed beside me. I stayed away as long as could. I didn’t want the dream I knew was coming. Finally around two in the morning. I couldn’t keep my eyes open any longer.

Dream/Flashback

Lexi heard arguing. It woke her up. “You all BETRAYED ME!” Boomed my father’s voice. I sat up and clutched my comforter. “I never betrayed you! I’m asking you to trust me. I’m not your enemy!” The male voice shouted at my dad. “I’m trying to save your damn life! LET ME HELP YOU!” My dad shouted back, “You didn’t want me with Allison. She’s my string, and you didn’t accept her!” Something broke, “It wasn’t about HER and you know it! It was her ex-boyfriend!” Their screaming match got louder. I got out of bed. I went to the edge of the stairs. It was the man who’d been at the front door. “Mommy!” I shouted. My mom came running up the stairs as the man turned to me. My dad shoved his shoulder, “You woke up Lexi!” The man scoffed, “I’d say it was a group effort.” My mom grabbed me and took me back to my room. She said, “Sorry about the shouting Lexi. Just grownup stuff. We will be quieter. Let’s get back in bed.” I said, “Daddy sounds so angry.” My mom’s hand shook, “Sometimes Lexi, family is complicated. Hurt runs deeper with family.” I frowned, “We don’t have any family. It’s just you, me, Heath and Daddy.” My mom looked away, “That’s right sweetie.” I heard something break, “THEY DON’T EVEN KNOW!” My dad shouted, “LOWER YOUR VOICE!” I cried, “Why is that man upsetting daddy?” My mom hugged me, “Just got back to bed sweetie. We will be quieter.” My mom kissed my forehead and left the room.

They weren’t quieter though. I fell back asleep only to hear more shouting. That’s when I went to Heath’s room. I heard the man say, “So it’s more important that you die for your pride than accept my help!” My dad snorted, “I won’t die. I kicked all those who betrayed me out of here!” The man said, “We DIDN’T betray you! Why won’t you listen?! Allison, please.” My dad yelled, “DON’T YOU SPEAK HER NAME!” My mom cried, “Please lower your voices. Lexi needs to sleep.” The man said, “Yes, heaven forbid you explain this to your daughter. I’m her…” His voice faded. I looked around. I was in the house where Noah and I had s*x the one and only time. Something hit me from behind. “You think you can escape me? You think you can humiliate me?” Noah shouted. I turned, “Sally!” I tried to get to her, but I couldn’t move. Sally was crying. Noah laughed, “You should’ve accepted your wolf Sally. He could’ve saved you.” Sally cried, “I do accept him. I just wanted time!” Noah laughed, “Now you have no time.” He slit her throat. I screamed. He tossed her behind the couch. Just like mother had been. I gagged. 

End dream/flashback

            “Lexi! Lexi! WAKE UP!” Chase’s voice reached into my subconscious. I shot out of bed breathing hard. Gasping for breath. Chase said, “Lexi…” I put my hand up. I called Haley, “Lexi? Are you alright?” I said, “Sally, she’s… she’s still in your realm?” Haley said, “Yes. My brother Benjamin texted about how amazing her and Cindy’s food is.” I said, “Ok…” Haley said, “Lexi?” I said, “A dream. It was just a dream. Noah had her… he said she should’ve accepted her wolf. That it could’ve saved her.” Haley said, “Sally has a wolf?” I said, “I don’t know.” Haley said, “The troll won’t get his hands-on Sally, Lexi. We won’t let that happen.” My voice shook, “No… we won’t. Sorry to disturb your night or god… it’s morning.” Haley laughed, “Haven't made it to bed yet. Eric and I just fell apart.” I snorted, “You damn bunny rabbit you.” Haley said, “Why do people keep saying that? I’m a fairy. He’s a wolf. I swear you people make no f*****g sense.” I managed a weak laugh as we hung up. 

Chase looked at me, “What happened?” I said, “I think Derrick is Sally’s second chance. I think if she doesn’t let him mark her soon after they meet…. I think Noah will get her.” Chase said, “I won’t let her get hurt. Even if she’s not Derrick’s, but I strongly suspect she is.” I cried, “I want her to have the time she needs.” Chase said, “Shh…. sweetheart we will handle it.” I said, “I remembered something… I think… I think Heath and I have more family.” Chase pulled back. “My dad was arguing with someone. They were mad I didn’t know who they were. My mom told me family hurt cuts deeper than normal hurt. They didn't want my dad together with my mom because of her ex-boyfriend. What…. What if someone set the rest of my family up to take the fall for something? To isolate my mom and dad to murder them?” I started to cry.

            Chase said, “That’s a long time to wait. You don’t remember any family around ever?” I shook my head, “No… Heath wouldn’t either He would’ve told me.” Chase said, “I think you should call Heath.” I nodded. A memory was trying to come through my mind. Something I was missing about last night. I shook myself. I couldn’t remember. “Lexi… Could your string not stay with you? Do you need me?” I said, “My string told me to call you. I… I remember something Heath. About that night.” Heath said, “What do you remember?” I said, “Do you remember us every having family on mom or dad's side?” Heath said, “No, we don't’ have family.” I said, “I think we do.” Heath was quiet, “Why?” I told him what I remembered. Heath said, “I don’t understand. Mom never mentioned an ex-boyfriend.”