The Alpha and His Childhood Sweetheart

Here To Stay Pt. 3

            I agreed, “It’s not. You avenged what happened.” Alexander asked, “Dad? You knew right.” My dad sighed, “I did. I came and tortured her too. I figured out she wasn’t dead. The letter she wrote your mom after she died….it didn’t make sense. Not after your mom found out she was a part of the promised siblings. That letter she couldn't destroy no matter how much she tried…. told your mom to run from us all. After the other one told her to stay by my side.” Who wrote it then? It clicked for me. I’d found that note before. I looked at my Grandma Veronica, “You wrote it. The final letter from Alania when she died….You can imitate people’s penmanship. I’ve read that letter….it is too nice for Alania to have written.” 

            My grandma Veronica nodded, “Yes, I did write it. I kept the important things Alania told her. The note before was not worthy of your mother. She deserved better. Alania’s letter was a pittance, and I couldn’t stand that for my little girl.” I asked, “Why doesn’t mom know? Alexander and I figured it out, but it’s clear you don’t want mom to know. She won’t be upset with you.” My dad frowned and pinched his nose, “Your mom….” Uncle Marcus said, “Would blame herself. Alania emotionally abused your mother. She would feel guilty that we took revenge for what happened to her. She would think it was her fault. We don’t want that for her. I’m tired of seeing my little sister re-victimized by fairies. I will NOT allow Alania to do more damage. Your mother has come such a long way, but Alania and Fabian REFUSE to leave her alone. I won’t add this to her conscious.” I nodded, “Ok. None of us will tell her.” Alexander nodded. 

            My siblings were nodding right along with me. I added, “I’ll tell Cass though. She looked into it with us briefly. She’s curious.” My dad nodded, “That’s fine, son.” I stood and hugged my Grandma Veronica, “Thank you. For being you Grandma.” I hugged my Grandpa. All my siblings did. My mom popped back in. She was smiling. My heart tugged. I still didn’t understand how anyone could hurt her. I hugged her tightly. She laughed and hugged me back. She stepped back, “Have no f*****g fear. I fixed the disaster they were planning. Honestly brother….no one is allowed to plan a party here without me. It was literally a f*****g disaster.” Uncle Bjourn laughed, “Of course it was.” Max went stiff as a board. I cut a sharp glance at him. Angela clapped, “YAY MAXY!” Micah walked around the corner. He smiled, “Hey dad….” He trailed off when Max roared, “MINE!” He jumped over the table and ran to Micah. Uncle Gunner gaped, “No way.” My Uncle Harper clapped him on the back, “Now we know why you always felt drawn to have kids with your co-parents. Max and Micah were meant to be.” I knew my Uncle Harper considered Micah his own too. It didn’t matter to either of them who the biological parents were. Gunner’s kids were Uncle Harper and Aunt Calista’s kids. Uncle Gunner considered their kids his too.

            Uncle Gunner smirked. Max kissed Micah. He pulled back, “How have I never met you?” Micah wiped tears away, “I...well...you’re….hot and I…..” Max titled his head, “You’ve seen me?” Micah laughed, “In pictures. I just….I was always with my mom’s if you were here. I didn’t want to see the girls fawning over you. My dad said you’re bisexual which….would’ve been harder to see you with another guy...because I always wanted you.” Max kissed him again. Micah whispered, “I thought you weren’t coming today.” Max turned, “Angela….you little minx!” Angela giggled, “Maxy is happy!’ Max turned back to Micah, “My little sister said I had to be here. Now I know why.” He started kissing him. My dad said, “Go upstairs son.” Max didn’t need to be told twice. He led Micah out of the room. Uncle Gunner laughed, “He’s just so shy.” Uncle Harper said, “He takes after his moms and dad. He’s just as good at computers.” Gunner laughed, “He’s better. I learn things from him.” Uncle Harper kissed him. Uncle Gunner’s phone rang. He laughed, “His moms are calling.” He answered and went out into the hallway to explain the feelings they felt. I smiled, “Micah’s sixteen birthday was a few days ago right?” Uncle Harper nodded, “Yesterday actually.” I smiled. I looked around. Alexander was missing. Elise was too. 

                I waited and faded back. I used my bond to find Alexander. I could feel his guilt. His excitement for our brother, but also some bitterness. I found him crying with Elise. I spoke softly, “Alexander….” He looked up, “I’m happy for him EJ.” I hugged my little brother, “I know you are.” He cried into my neck. Elise rubbed his back in a sisterly way. I told him, “You will meet your mate Alexander.” He snorted, “Will I?” I nodded, “Yes, you will.” He stepped back and wiped his eyes. He shook himself, “Sorry guys.” Elise smiled softly, “You don’t have to be sorry.” He nodded and composed himself. He whispered, “I just want her so badly.” I waited hoping this was the moment he’d admit everything to me. He didn’t though. I wanted to groan in frustration, but I still had a little bit more space to give him. He stepped back, “Let’s get back to dinner.” I took his hand and Elise’s. He popped us back into a room off the dining room. We walked back in. My dad was the only one who noticed we’d left. Well….all my uncle did too. Angela looked sad. My mom was trying to cheer her up which had to be how she didn’t notice our absence. All of us ate together. When we left Alexander went to our gym. 

            Elise and I were sitting together when Angela popped to us. I smiled, “Hi Angela.” She sat down with tears in her eyes. I picked her up and put her in my lap, “What’s wrong Angela?” She cried, “I can’t help Alexander! I’m trying but...his paths are blurred about certain things. I don’t understand! Everything else is clear.” I frowned, “What’s blurred?” Angela sighed, “His mate….I’ve looked for her, but it’s like….there’s this block. I don’t understand EJ. He’s so sad. He wants her! He cried and I can’t help him.” I rocked her back and forth, “Hey Angela….it’s ok. You’re still working on your sight. Leave helping Alexander to us.” She kept crying. Elise had tears coursing down her cheeks too. I grabbed her hand and popped us to the gym. Alexander stood mid jab when he heard Angela crying. He popped to us, “Little one….what’s the matter?” He took her from me and looked her over. He frowned, “EJ didn’t you tell me to heal….what’s wrong?” She cried, “I can’t help you. I can’t figure out why your mate is blurry.” Alexander frowned, “Hey….that’s not your fault. Look at me.” 

            Angela refused until he tilted her chin up. He said, “I will meet my mate one day Angela. When I do isn’t up to you to fix. You do so many good things with your sight already. You saved Cassie last year. You’re only four. We all had to work on mastering our fairy powers. You’re doing so good. My mate and I aren’t up to you little one. You do not have to meddle with all you see.” She frowned, “I fix things….not meddle.” I laughed, “Micah and Max would’ve met if they didn’t meet today.” Angela sighed, “But Maxy was so happy! Micah too.” I smiled, “Of course they were. Alexander is ok.” Alexander nodded. She frowned, “He’s upset.” Alexander said, “Not with you.” Angela got a stubborn look on her face, “With your friend….I’ve seen….” Alexander frowned, “Seen what?” Angela said, “You get very upset. EJ is upset too. You guys fight but...I don’t know when. He tells you he’s out of space.” Alexander and I’s eyes met. Alexander’s jaw clenched, “EJ and I will figure things out Angela. We may fight, but we are brothers. I will always be by his side, and he will always be by mine.” I nodded, “That’s true Angela. No matter what….all you guys are my brothers and sisters. I’ll always have your back.” 

            Angela sighed, “You won’t stay mad long?” Alexander laughed, “Like he could stay mad at me.” Angela giggled, “Yes he could, silly! It’s me and Cassie that none of you can stay mad at.” I snorted, “I have no doubt that you two would cook something up if Alexander and I stayed mad at each other too long.” Elise added, “Count me in. I’d help them.” I sighed, “Of course you would.” Alexander said, “See Angela? It’s all good.” She sighed, “I want to help you though.” Alexander smiled, “Because not unlike mom….you love helping people. You have a heart of gold, little one. I’ll be ok.” She sighed, “Ok...I’m going to figure it out though….I’m meddling when I do.” Alexander laughed, “Don’t stress out about it.” Angela stood up smiling. She walked away then turned, “You didn’t say not to meddle.” She popped away. Alexander snorted, “Cute little stinker.” I asked, “Are you ok, brother?” Alexander shrugged, “I’m physically fine.” I sighed, “She’s right you know? I am running out of space to give you, little brother.” Alexander nodded, “I know.” My dad walked in, “Boys...I’d like to chat in my office.” Elise asked, “Do I need to go home?” My dad smiled, “No, you’ll be EJ’s Luna. I have no problem with you hearing the discussion.” 

            I smiled and kissed her. I popped us to my dad’s office. Alexander and my dad popped in a second later. My dad sat, “I spoke to Cassie about this.” I smiled, “She’s back?” My dad nodded, “She’s in the Hackura realm. She’ll be back later. You boys are ready to take over.” I gaped, “Really?” My dad nodded, “Yes, really.” Alexander looked at me. I knew he would leave it up to me. I asked, “What did Cass say?” My dad said, “That she could help out as she could.” I nodded. I sat forward, “I’ve thought about this a lot dad. Our pack does things differently. I know you’d be there for us, but I think that would open us up for fighting about dominance. I know that happened with you and grandpa and Alpha Chase and his dad. Any Alpha that took over younger had that problem.” My dad frowned, “I’m not your grandpa.” I held up my hands, “I know that, but we’d lean on you. I think….” Elise took my hand smiling. I smiled back at her. I said, “Our pack has always been different. I think we do a hybrid style. Alexander and I take on tasks of the Alpha with you still being the Alpha. I think Daisy’s ready to do this too.” My dad smiled, “How would that work?” 

            I sighed, “We’d handle disputes and some paperwork on our own. You’d review our decisions. I think if we did a year of that with us slowly taking over more and more…..when we were nineteen we’d take full control.” My dad nodded, “You can take that plan to your cousins. I’m sure Daisy is ready.” I sighed, “Saied doesn't want to be an Alpha. I won’t make her.” My dad smiled, “No would I. I want her to do what she wants. She wants to be the female warrior. Encourage her to challenge for it. We want all you kids to do what you want. Austin can take over for your Uncle Jackson if he wishes to.” I nodded. We walked out of his office. Alexander smiled, “It’s a good plan EJ.” I smiled, “Glad you think so brother.” He hugged me, “I’m with you brother. Always.” 

            We went in search of Daisy. We found Dana and Saied instead. I smiled, “Where’s Daisy?” Dana laughed, “Ohh….she’s on her way back. She’s in a tizzy.” I frowned, “Why?” Dana smiled, “The omega she thinks is gorgeous’ birthday was this week. Their family got back an hour ago. Daisy just can’t stand to think of her with a mate.” I raised an eyebrow, “Zoe didn’t find her mate.” Elise smiled, “Mrs. Blanch’s little protege? That’s who Daisy likes?” Dana nodded, “Oh yeah.” I laughed, “Did you tell her Zoe didn’t find her mate?” Dana said, “I would’ve but she refuses to talk about it. She’s taken a page out of Alexander’s book. They’ve been in the gym training this week.” Alexander smirked, “It’s effective.” I rolled my eyes. I asked, “Saied, when are you going to challenge to be the female lead warrior?” She gasped, “What?” I raised an eyebrow, “You want it. You’re old enough. Challenge for it.” Saied shook her head, “No….I’m...I’m the oldest. All those girls fought for the right to take over their dad’s spot. I can’t just turn my back on that.” I said, “You’re not turning your back on it. You’re following your dreams. We aren’t about traditions here, Saied. As your cousin and your one day Alpha….I want you to pursue your dreams. I’d better wake up to news about your challenge for the tournament.” Elise added, “That will happen the day after my birthday.” I laughed, “Whatever my girl wants.” Saied blushed, “Thanks EJ.” I nodded, “Of course. Your dad and mine know your goals. Just talk to him, Saied. He’ll be so proud.” She smiled and walked off. 

            Dana smiled, “Austin will be all ‘I’ve said all that. EJ says it and you listen.’” I laughed, “Well, you know.” Dana laughed, “I do.” We heard a growl. I turned. Daisy had walked in the front door. She passed us as if she was on fire. She ran to the kitchen, “MINE!” I smiled, “It looks like Zoe found her mate.” I heard crying. Mrs. Blanch clapped, “OH! I just knew it! Oh…” I walked in to see her fanning her face as Daisy kissed Zoe. Alexander sighed, “Guess your chat is going to have to wait until later big brother.” I turned, “Alexander…” He walked off. I stopped Elise from going after him. I whispered, “Give him a minute. This is….two close together.” Elise frowned but nodded. My dad, Uncle Jackson, Harold, and Darrin ran over. My Uncle Darrin smiled, “My little girl found her mate.” I nodded. I saw my dad put a hand on Darrin’s shoulder then go after Alexander. My Uncle Darrin said, “Daisy….take her upstairs...I’m still your dad and I don’t need to see this.” Daisy turned and blushed. She grabbed Zoe and took her upstairs. I told Uncle Jackson, “Saied is looking for you.” He nodded and took off. 

            My Aunt Shana walked in. She asked, “What happened?” Darrin kissed her, “One of our babies found her mate.” Shana looked around, “Please god be Daisy and Zoe….Daisy will mope…” Darrin laughed, “It’s Daisy and Zoe.” My Aunt Shana clapped, “Thank the moon goddess! I nearly threw a party when Zoe came back without a mate.” Darrin laughed and they walked out. I popped Elise home. I kissed her, “Soon. Your birthday is so soon.” Elise smiled, “I left a suitcase in your room.” I kissed her. I pulled back, “Our room babe.” She blushed and whispered, “Our room.” I smiled, “I’m thinking we have your Luna ceremony after I fully take over the pack. It will probably be around your nineteenth birthday. What do you think?” She smiled, “I think that’s nice. I’ll do what you guys are doing. I’ll spend time with your mom figuring out the Luna position.” I kissed her, “That’s a good idea.” Elise laughed, “Of course it is. I’m just stealing yours.”

            I whispered, “I want to have our mating ceremony soon though.” She shivered, “Ok.” She seemed nervous. I frowned, “If you want to wait that’s fine Elise.” She shook her head, “NO! NO….it’s not that. I just. I’ve been thinking a lot about….” I prompted her when she stopped talking, “About?” She sighed, “Pups.” Her tone confused me. I knew she wanted kids, but her tone was saying something else. She rushed, “I’m not ready for pups.” I smiled, “Is that all? That’s fine babe. Whenever you’re ready….we can have pups. It’s your body, and it’s your choice.” She sighed in relief, “You aren’t mad?” I laughed, “We have centuries, Elise Kyle. I won’t rush you. I’ll give you anything you want. We are going to be busy taking over the pack and figure out our balance. You’re also making a big move. I understand that’s a lot at one time, babe. I do. I know we are excited for you to finally be with me. It’s still a big change…” I trailed off then turned, “We still have time. You can change your mind. If you want to run things here. I’m all in Elise. I’ll be by your side.” She kissed me passionately. I groaned. She pulled back, “You’re perfect EJ Conners. My place is as your Luna. I know it’s our destiny. My brother's destiny is here.” 

        I smelled Melanie McAlister. She ran onto the porch panting. Elise laughed, “Mel?” She looked nervous. She looked around then handed me a present. She didn’t say anything then took off. I saw her climb back into her house. To her window and quietly shut it. I laughed, “Is she still grounded?” Elise nodded, “Still from the same thing….they told her if she admitted it she could get out early, but she refuses because…” I sighed, “She didn’t do it.” I looked down. I smiled, “It’s for Alexander.” Elise laughed, “I’m shocked.” I smiled, “I didn’t get one.” Elise laughed, “You did. I brought it to your party.” I smiled, “Why didn’t she have you bring this one?” Elise sighed, “I’m sure she wanted to give it to him personally.” I nodded. I kissed her and popped home.