The Alpha and His Hunted Kitsune Princess

Normal Times Pt. 2

Odette laughed, “It’s a joke on my mom’s side of the family at this point, but I thought they were running the mob scene. I actually thought everyone I met was in it and I related them to the characters because obviously I was Connie and Keaton was my Liam.”

I laughed, “That’s hilarious! I love it. I could see why you thought that though. I’ve been around this family for a hot second and they definitely do things their own way. Melanie called herself murder-y and as established she’s a bad liar.”

Odette agreed, “It’s tragic. She thinks people can help her.” I shook my head, “No one can. It would take a miracle to make her slightly better at it.” We laughed for a bit and talked about the book again before joining the guys.

Odette said, “So, bowling.” Preston smirked. Keaton laughed, “Whatever you want, my Song.” He swooped in to kiss her and I saw the initials on his neck, with a crown and a song note. The initials must be Odette’s.

We ended up driving together in Keaton’s truck. I asked, “What about your car?” Preston said, “Someone will get it. William, Anastasia, Valentina, and Julian are joining us for bowling.” Odette cheered, “YES! We will take you all down.”

Preston laughed, “I don’t doubt it.” It was like he knew Melanie suggested bowling. Odette flew out of the truck when we got there and gestured wildly to me. I hopped out and we ran in. Odette said, “GIRL STRATEGY SESSION!” I couldn’t help but smile as she led us to a back room.

Odette announced, “This is soundproofed so they can’t hear us.” I asked, “How do you know that?” Valentina and Anastasia answered, “Melanie.” Odette said, “Ok, we are changing this is step one to us winning.” I asked, “What?”

Odette grinned, “Haley had outfits put for us here.” Melanie must have planned this out. Anastasia grinned, “We are distracting them then. Just so you know, I’m amazing at bowling.” Odette cheered, “YES! WE HAVE A RINGER!”

I went and looked at the outfits and immediately started laughing. I asked, “Has Haley ever gone bowling?” Odette waved, “Who knows? What I do know is that Haley knows what outfits distract men.” I had to agree.

I picked out the literal shortest skirt known to man when Remi burst in. Remi screamed, “OH MY GOD YES! Look at that.” I laughed, “The whole thing is crazy. Remi threw a top at me with a waist high fishnet pairing.

The top was a black cut off the shoulder sweatshirt at my waist with a yellow V highlighting my boobs and a yellow crisscross pattern down the long sleeves. I gasped, “Anastasia! WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN HIDING ALL THIS?! Damn!”

Remi clapped, “I agree.” My friend whispered, “I threw it at her to wear.” I laughed, “You’re just going all out.” Anastaisa was in a snake printed bodysuit with cut outs on the side with a gold belt and snake printed fishnets. I didn’t even know those existed. Valentina was in a long brown sleeve bodysuit with mesh material in spots.

Odette had won a lime green short skirt like mine and a black top with fake lime green sleeves. Remi grabbed a white long sleeved crop top with red words and a short red pleather skirt with a slit and thigh high red boots.

I said, “Yeah, we’re going to destroy them in bowling.” Remi jumped up and down, “We really are.” Anastasia, Odette, and I grabbed black high heeled clunky boots and Valentina grabbed brown ones.

I said, “I don’t know why we have these shoes on, we can’t bowl in these. Even though they feel like flats.” Odette winked, “One thing you accept and learn around this group Piper, is that they do anything they want. Bowling in the shoes is like the least crazy thing that will happen around here.”

We walked back out and growls filled the air. Remi giggled, “They think we look awesome.” Keaton was on Odette faster than I could blink. Before I could question that a loud pop sounded and Preston was behind me. I asked, “How did you get…?” Then his lips were on mine.

My boyfriend’s hands were cupping my ass and I climbed him like he was a dang tree. A rumble in his chest told me he definitely approved. Preston attacked my neck. I managed to say, “I take it you like the outfit.”

Preston growled against my neck. I was definitely getting a hickey. Remi said, “Alright, let’s bowl. It’s the battle of the sexes, people.” Several people, including Karl, growled. All our names were already entered in on the lanes computer. We were next to each other.

Anastasia was first and sauntered up and bowled a strike. Odette jumped up and down clapping for her. Anastasia winked, “Beginners luck, I’m sure.” William snorted, “Uh huh.” Anastasia blew him a kiss while his eyes raked up and down her outfit.

Preston was up first. I had a wicked comment ready in my head. When he arched his hand back I asked, “Remi, is my n****e popping out?” Remi’s draw dropped and all the girls' eyes went to me. I heard the ball practically slam into the gutter.

I turned, “Aww, that’s too bad.” Preston growled, “Piper.” I winked, “I just needed to check that the girls were in place.” Remi whispered, “LEGEND!” Valentina laughed, “Oh god, that was so good.”

Preston came up behind me, “So it’s like that, huh?” I hummed, “I don’t know what you're talking about, but if I did I’d say it was Melanie’s advice.” Odette spit out her drink while my boyfriend growled and trailed his fingertips over my top as if making sure my n****e wasn’t out even though he could see it wasn’t.

The whole game was spent that way. We handily won and the guy barely hit any pins by the end of the tenth frame. Odette grinned, “I think we found our sport, ladies.” Valentina grinned, “Did we ever.”

Remi laughed, “Pipes and I could own them on a volleyball court.” We laughed and the guy joined us. Preston said, “Pizza is waiting at my mom’s place.” We loaded back up in Keaton’s truck.

I said, “That was fun.” Keaton growled, “So fun.” I teased, “You should tell your tone that.” Odette teased “He’s about to go all Aussie on us.” I asked, “Huh?” Keaton said, “Mate, you are in for it.” I laughed, “Preston does that too! You guys need the accent.”

Then I sobered, “No, don’t do the accent.” I’d drown Preston in my juices for sure and I just couldn’t have that conversation with the cops. We pulled up to the pizza place and I couldn't remember when I laughed so much.

All us girls were teasing our men and eating pizza. It felt like such a normal moment where no one wanted me to remember anything. Hell, where I didn’t desperately want me to remember something. Just a pure moment in time I don’t think I could ever forget.

Nor was I going to forget what followed when Keaton dropped us off at our apartment. I waved, “It was nice meeting you guys.” Odette waved, “We’ll have to do it again sometime! I can’t believe I found something Keaton isn’t amazing at. He solders, Piper.”

She held out her necklace, “He made this and I’m convinced it was with the creatures of the forest.” I threw my head back and laughed. Odette said, “You should see my bookshelf too! I had it moved to our room in his house.” She lived with him?

Hey, who was I to judge? I basically lived with Preston too. I said, “He definitely made it with woodland creatures.” Odette cheered, “This is what I’m saying!” Keaton said, “When you’re not bending over in my view I’m not bad at bowling.” Odette cooed, “Of course you are.” Then the truck took off.

Preston took me upstairs and my brain actually stopped working. I didn't have coherent thoughts or words. I had blinding orgasms until I cocooned myself in a comfy blanket Preston had put on me to go clean himself off.

I woke up and found my poor outfit had been destroyed. RIP my amazing fit, you will be missed. I went to class and fell into a fun routine. Of volleyball, meeting new teammates because we were losing others to “Transfers.”

After my class with Melanie she grabbed me and Remi. I grinned, “What fun thing happens now?” Melanie said, “So… there’s a picnic….you’re coming…because Beckett and Braxton are coming.”

Remi cackled, “Oh yeah?” Melanie nodded, “Yup… so it.. Fits in your schedule… right after practice… I mean if I knew…” I cut her off, “It’s fine that you know what works in our schedule and it was nice of you to schedule that.”

Melanie blushed and took off. I said, “Is it me, or is she just really fast?” Remi said, “No, she’s freaky fast.” I snorted, “Like Keaton.” Remi said, “Different ways but similar, yes.” I snorted and we went back to our place.

Our chef had left out food. We ate, I took a nap, then went to practice. Once that wrapped we headed to Preston’s house. I asked, “How did you know it was here?” Remi answered, “Duh, Melanie lives here. Plus, Beckett told me.”

I got out of the car and a man came over. He nodded, “Piper.” f**k. I said, “Uhh, hi.” He winced, “I knew you didn’t remember me, sorry. I'm Braxton. You call me Brax.” Preston appeared at my side and pulled me against him.

Then a growl filled the air, “MINE!” I looked and saw a woman barreling to Braxton. He growled, “MINE!” They met and collided in a mess of limbs. I said, “We should probably give them privacy.”

Beckett laughed, “Congrats, man.” I asked, “Who is she?” Remi answered, “That is Tory. She’s very close with Cassie Conners.” Beckett said, “Yes and…” He trailed off, his nose went into the air, and he took off.

Remi squealed, “COME ON!” Then dragged me around the corner. Beckett was making out with a different girl. I asked, “Who is she?” Remi didn’t answer because her jaw was on the ground. Preston said, “That is my cousin, Misty Kruthers.”

I teased, “Looks like they are hitting it off.” Preston laughed, “So they are.” We went back and joined the picnic area. I gasped, “Grandpa Ralph!” I jumped up and hugged him. Then I saw a woman I’d never actually met.

I waved, “Hi, Anne. I’ve seen your picture and Grandpa Ralph bragged about you.” Anne blushed, “He did about you as well. Hello, Piper.” She hugged me and I met her husband. I asked, “Is anyone else coming?”

Melanie answered, “So… no…it’s just this group.. It felt like a good group…. For today.” I asked, “You’re having more picnics?” Melanie answered, “So many… so very many… with lots of people….from well everywhere.”

Preston took me further away and we sat down. I asked, “So, what’s new?” Preston said, “I have this thing coming up that I go to with my family. There’s a concert but that’s a secret from Melanie.” I asked, “Isn’t she in the band?”

Preston laughed, “Yes, and her friends are having a lot of fun getting around her on that. It’s never happened.” I believed that. Preston said, “I want you to come.” I agreed, “If that works with my schedule, I’ll be there.”

Preston nuzzled me and we ate a little further from the group. I didn’t see Beckett or Braxton before we left, but that was ok. At my next scrimmage, my dad came with Kenko. I waved at them and couldn’t help but smile.

Mom hugged me afterward, “You were so great.” Nathan McD agreed, “You were.” Preston hugged me and then my dad cleared his throat. Remi deadpanned, “Joy. It’s Pernell.” I shot her a look that she stoically ignored.

Pernell said, “I’d like to take you dinner.” I agreed, “Sure. Preston has a thing.” He was at the conference thing with his family. Preston kissed me and gave me a squeeze saying, “I’m so proud of you.” I blushed then he took off.

Pernell said, “Let’s go.” Kenko stayed back to my surprise and dad took me to a place that was oddly vacant. I teased, “Did you rent the place out?” Pernell asked, “I did.” I gasped, “To talk to me?”

Pernell said, “You’re my daughter and I wanted to talk to you.” I grinned, “About what?” Pernell answered, “Whatever you want to.” I said, “I’m so sorry, I never said thank you for the car.” Pernell smiled, “It’s not a big deal.”

I disagreed, “No, it is. Thank you.” Pernell shrugged it off. I asked, “So, I can’t really tell you things but you could tell me.” Pernell said, “Of course I can. I’m so proud of you.” I asked, “What?” Pernell said, “You are so amazing. Your mom did such a good job with you.”

I agreed, “She’s the best.” His statement implied that he didn’t do anything to raise me and that confused me quite a bit. I said, “Do you ever feel like there’s something everyone knows that you don’t?”

Pernell admitted, “I didn’t used to think that. I thought I knew everything. I prided myself on being on top of things, but now I find there’s quite a bit I don’t know.” I teased, “So, you met Melanie.” Pernell threw his head back and laughed, “Yes, she seems to know so much for one so young.”

I agreed, “She does.” Pernell said, “I hate that an evil man is after you and I can’t find him.” I asked, “Are you trying to?” Pernell nodded, “Yes, I am. I’m seeking the damn man out and he’s all but vanished.”

I reasoned, “That’s a good thing. It means he’s not around me.” Pernell sighed, “It means he’s planning and I don’t like that.” I shrugged, “Round one might have gone to him, but I’ll win the next one.” I was confident in that.

Pernell said, “As you are not with him, round one went to you.” I disagreed, “I have a traumatic brain injury and lost something important to me.” I blinked, “Sorry, I just…” Pernell said, “No, I understand.”

I whispered, “Do you know Sora?” Pernell was quiet for several minutes. I was certain he wasn’t going to answer me. To my surprise he said, “I wish that I did and I can’t wait to meet her.” I rubbed my face, “Do you know who she is though?”

Pernell nodded, “I do.” I pressed, “Can you find her?” Pernell sighed, “I tried but I think this has to be done on different terms. Which I don’t really care for. I’m more of a man of action. I have problems that I solve.”

I laughed, “I think a lot of men are like that.” Pernell smirked, “I suppose they are.” I asked, “Do you know the conference that Preston’s at?” Pernell nodded, “I do. His family is vital to it. That’s actually why they are having it. There was news with their family and lots of people that stepped up to do a job similar to theirs. They are basically a new group now and they needed to meet up.”

I groaned, “Somehow that makes no and perfect sense at the same time.” Pernell laughed, “That is because your mother raised you to be like her. Hazel has always been very accepting. It’s one thing that drew me to her.”

I urged, “Tell me about when you met mom.” Pernell smiled, “Well, I actually ran into her at the library.” I snorted, “The library?” Pernell winked, “Hey, don’t knock my brilliant way to meet the right kind of women.”

I threw my head back and laughed then admitted, “That actually is kind of brilliant.” Pernell winked, “I know. The young men were out at clubs and bars, I went to the library during the day. It was illuminating.” That was pretty smart.

Pernell said, “I met your mom in the mythology section. There was something deeply enchanting about her. The way your mom thinks is not like many people. Especially…” He trailed off.

I tried to jump start his thought, "Especially what?” Pernell sighed, “One day, I’ll say the end of that sentence but not today. Anyway, I took her out that evening and things happened.” I held up my hands, “I don’t need to know about those things.”

Pernell laughed, “You weren’t conceived that night, Piper.” I groaned, “I regret all my questions that led to this moment.” Pernell laughed, “We were together most of the nights and parts of the day until I was taken.”

I snorted, “Taken is a nice way of saying kidnapped.” Pernell hummed, “I suppose it is. I don’t often talk about that time in my life. Your mom and helping those young boys and girls got me through.”

I pointed out, “That doesn’t sound like you dealt with the trauma you suffered there.” Pernell agreed, “I suppose I didn’t. I buried it and moved on to protecting Kenko.” I shrugged, “I think Kenko would want you to take care of yourself too.”

Pernell grinned, “Yeah, she definitely would. It’s just something I don’t think about. The things done to me and the days that past. I was saved and went directly to your mom. That’s when you happened.”

Pernell admitted, “I didn’t plan to leave, my dad showed up because people needed me. I never meant to leave Hazel to be a single mother.” I stared at him then said, “I believe you.” Pernell added, “But I should’ve done more.”

I reasoned, “You’re here now though.” Pernell said, “That I am.” I asked, “Do you have some sort of teleportation device?” Pernell choked on his food then asked, “What?” I explained, “Melanie said you live in Maine.”

Pernell said, “I do, yes.” I pointed out, “That doesn't answer how you get here so quickly.” Pernell grinned, “I have ways.” I surmised, “That you won’t share.” Pernell said, “You’re not exactly off base with your thoughts.” I raised an eyebrow but let it pass.

We talked about other things then he dropped me off at my apartment. Remi squealed, “it’s time to get ready!” I asked, “For the concert?” Remi nodded, “Yup! Beckett and Brax will be there with their women!”

I laughed, “Alright. Where’s Karl? I haven’t seen him.” Remi answered, “He’s at the deal with Preston.” I hummed. I asked, “Grandpa Ralph?” Remi nodded, “Also at the deal with Grandpa Kyle.” I see.

I went upstairs and grabbed a white t-shirt crop top and a tan skirt. It was short, but that seemed to be how these guys rolled. I quickly did my hair and makeup. I found Remi downstairs in a long sleeve off the shoulder black crop top and black shorts.

Remi grinned, “We look hot.” A knock sounded and we opened the door. Marie and Aguste showed up with food and we ate it. I said, “Wow. I’m so sleepy. Wake me up for the concert.” Then I laid on the bed.

I woke up to Preston whispering, “Time to get up sleepy head.” I jolted and realized we were in a box with a bunch of people. I gasped, “What?” Remi said, “You slept the whole way here.” Then cackled like she told a joke.

I got up and went to Preston. The band was just as impressive. I asked, “Bad pack leadership song?” Preston swooped in and kissed me. It only ended because I started laughing hearing the lyrics.

I said, “Tell me Melanie made this an anthem for men who needed to shut up and not tell her what to do. You know what, don’t even say I’m wrong. That makes me happy.” Then they started another song where everyone was dancing. Preston kissed me again and I heard that loud pop sound.

Preston grabbed my hand and we went out the door and ran down the dance floor. I laughed, “Was there some secret tunnel to this dance floor?” Remi said, “Man, I’m out of breath. This is the worst.”

I laughed, “What’s the worst?” Remi said, “Not going the secret tunnel way.” I caught on the dance steps with Remi. Preston caught on easier than we did. Poor Karl was a fish out of water. I teased Remi, “You married the stereotypical white boy who can’t dance.”

Remi busted up laughing. Karl said, “Har-har.” I waved to my mom who was out here with Nathan McD. Beckett came over with Misty wrapped around him and hugged Remi and Karl. I waved at Braxton which caused his woman to kiss him hard and Preston to slam his lips onto mine. What in the world?