Chapter 43

My haw dropped. “Wh–”

“That would keep her close to Alec if he is her mate.” Marc stated.

“Mate or not, I’ll die protecting what is right.” Alec vowed.

“Please, Ice? Stay with me?” Everyone looked at me.

“I won’t force you but I do believe that will be best.” Dad looked at me in the eye.

“We would be happy to have you.” Marc smiled at me.

“Guess I’ll go pack.” I said slightly moody as I got up and walked inside. I expected Emmy to follow me but I didn’t think Colt would let her. We made it to my bedroom before he spoke.

“I’m sorry I can’t protect you here.”

“I know you are.”

“Please use your manners.”

“Obviously, Colt.” Pulling out my black duffel, I grabbed everything I needed for the week.

“You can leave your dress. Dad has a whole day planned for you.”

“And you?”

“Yes but completely different type of day.” Colt smirked. He was leaning on the wall by the door.

“Do you think Alec is my mate?” I asked as I picked out my shoes. I kept it basic.

“Looking that way.”

“And Ace?”

“Ace needs to move on. What Alec said about the fight was right. Even if it was a low blow.”

“I’ve been dealt a shitty hand since day one. I wouldn’t be surprised if Jacob was my mate!”

“Ew, don’t say that.” Colt scrunched up his face.

“Man whore is going to catch something one day.”

“True. I’m serious though, Darin is bad news. He killed his own mate.”

“Here’s a thought, what if Alec isn’t my mate?”

“Then at least you get a change of scenery for a week.”

Colt was trying to make it better. “Maybe even help Emmy with adapting. Alec said it’s not going as well as they hoped.”

“What?” That surprised me. Stopping packing, I looked at him.

“Yeah, she has been forgetful. Alec thinks she is homesick.”

“It’s only been…”

“I know but change isn’t always easy.” Colt walked over to me. Putting his hands on my shoulders, he looked me in the eye. “I truly believe this will be good for both you and Emmy. Please try and have a good week.”

“For you, I will.”

“Maybe something good will come from this.” Colt grabbed my bag and pulled me towards the door.

“You were always the positive one.”

“I’m usually right.”

“Why aren’t you more concerned about your mate?”

“I’m more worried about you. I’m nervous for sure but I know my path in life.”

“Damn first born.” I tried to joke.

“I did get the better looks and body.” I had to roll my eyes at Colt. He shook his hips as we walked out the front door. Handing my bag to Alec, Colt gave me a big hug.

“See you tomorrow at school, sis.”

I hugged him back like my life depended on it. “I love you.” I said in the mind-link.

“Can’t say it out loud?” Colt responded as I gave dad a hug.

“I have an image to uphold. People can’t know I’m soft on the inside.”

“Ready?” Alpha Marc asked.

“Yes, sir.” Alec already headed to put my bag in the trunk.

Giving one last look to my dad and brother, Emmy grabbed my hand and pulled me along. “I love you TOO Ice!”

I tried to glare but I couldn’t fight the smile that forced my lips to move upward. Alec opened the back door for me. Emmy sat in the middle with Jasper on her other side. Alec and Alpha Marc were in the front. Alec was driving so his rearview mirror was pointed at me.

“We usually have supper at seven as a family. You are invited to join us this week.” Alpha Marc looked back at me.

“Thank you, sir. That would be appreciated.” I gave him a polite smile.

“Alec will show you where you will be staying and give you a tour of the house.” It dawned on me that Angela will be there.

“Th-thank you.” I hesitated when I realized this.

“Something wrong?” Alpha Marc asked.

My eyes met his as I struggled with my words. “I have a personal rule that I refuse to lie. Although the truth to my hesitation is juvenile, I rather not bore you with teenage drama.”