Chapter 31: Reunited

WILLOW

Jenna and I are making our way back to Alpha McCall’s pack. As we pass, pack members greet us with friendly waves and warm smiles. I keep my eyes peeled, scanning the crowd as we move through.

“Have you noticed any of the returnees showing a particular interest in our training or the functions we’re here for?” I ask Jenna.

“Hmm, a couple come to mind. I thought they were just flirting, trying to get close to some of the warriors. Why do you ask?” She glances around, as if expecting to spot the ones I’m referring to.

Deciding to keep our conversation private, I choose to link with her.

~“Andrei suspects that the vampires might have human spies among the returnees. Humans who’ve been enthralled to keep tabs on us and report back to their vampire masters. It’s an old trick, but it gives them a way to gather information without having to be here themselves.”~

“Wait, he thinks the humans who’ve returned are spying on us? Why would they do that?”

“Because Mihai doesn’t like being outsmarted. He’ll want revenge on this pack. And this time, he’ll be among them. His pride won’t let him forget how we denied him the pack and took one of his favored generals.”

“Okay, that changes things. There are two women who’ve returned and seem to be around a lot. I thought they were just being flirty, but now… I don’t think they’ve managed to gather much information, though.

“Our team doesn’t really share much. Only Thorne and Alpha McCall are kept in the loop about our operations here. We never write anything down and we only talk when we’re sure we’re alone. We even use sentries during our meetings.”

“I want them watched more closely. I have to make a small detour tonight. I need to visit the caves. Have Reuben and Thorne ready to assist, just in case I need backup.”

“I’ll link them now. Your tent is ready for you. I’ll arrange for some food to be sent over and have Victor show you the new tech and cameras that have been installed since you left. I’m sure Alpha McCall will want to brief you as well.

“Training has been going really well. Many of the pack women have started to step up and learn to fight too. I’ll point out the two women I think you’re talking about.” Jenna grins. “And congratulations on the mate bond with Andrei. You two are a good match.”

“Willow!” Reuben calls out, rushing over to give me a tight hug. “So…?”

“So, what?” I’m confused.

He leans in closer. “Did you find a way to save your mate without killing him?” He snickers.

I nod and grin. “But the day isn’t over yet,” I respond, laughing.

I step into my tent and toss my duffle bag under my cot. Reuben and Jenna follow me inside, taking seats while I sit on the cot.

“Tonight, I’m going on a reconnaissance mission. I want you and Thorne to join me, Reuben. Jenna, keep an eye on those two women. Don’t let them out of your sight. In fact, check with Victor and review the video footage from the past week. See if they’ve left the pack at any point. I want them watched at all times from now on.”

“Who are we watching?” Reuben asks.

“Beth and Selma,” Jenna answers.

“The two humans who are always hanging around?”

“Those are the ones. Andrei thinks they might be enthralled to spy on us,” Jenna explains.

Reuben’s eyes widen. “Okay. What exactly does that mean?”

“It means they’re being used as spies. They haven’t been turned, they’re just being used to gather information for the vampires. Once they’ve served their purpose, the vampire will kill them.

“They’re puppets, lured in with false promises. They’ll never be turned. The vampire has enthralled them, hypnotized them, to do his bidding. In the end, because he’s fed them his blood to control their minds, they’ll die when he does, or he’ll drain them dry and kill them himself.”

“And you think Beth and Selma are the targets?” he asks Jenna.

“Ever since they’ve been back in the pack, they’ve been hanging around a lot. Always nearby, asking questions, watching the training, trying to be close when we have security meetings.” She raises her eyebrows. “Haven’t you noticed?”

He shrugs. “I thought they were just looking for a mate. They seemed harmless.”

“That’s the perfect cover. They’re unassuming, but always nearby, always watching, always listening,” I answer.

“Okay. I’ll… I’ll go tell Thorne we’ll be on backup duty tonight.” Reuben stands. “Alpha McCall will be here soon to talk to you.” He turns to leave, then pauses and looks back. “Is your mate joining us this time?”

“He’s already here. He’s with Eros and the Fae.” I smile.

“They won’t know what hit them, will they?” He grins.

“They won’t see what’s coming.” I grin back.