Marcello was still standing in the kitchen when he heard Klaus Centauri's familiar voice. "Zeiden," Klaus exclaimed as he walked inside. "We were so worried. Are you okay?" He opened his arms and hugged Zeiden.

Marcello saw as Zeiden lightly patted Klaus's back. "I'm fine," he said. But was obviously lying. Marcello just knew.

Marcello left the kitchen and walked over to the foyer where he saw the entire Centauri pack. They really were a strange crowd. Resilient and stubborn was just the beginning of what he'd say about them. These wolves were reckless, overly confident but undoubtedly loyal to their alpha. He had never met wolves quite like them, but that was to be expected from Gabriel Centauri.

Gabriel was a man that everyone had something to say about. He was a formidable wolf, no doubt. But more than his ferocious nature, he was a dutiful leader and a responsible big brother and friend. He stood between the group, but he drew most of the attention. Perhaps, it was his threatening appearance, or maybe it was those severely strong pheromones that stopped every wolf in their tracks.

Like he had sensed Marcello, from across the room, Gabriel's sharp golden eyes turned and locked with Marcello's gaze. An unsettling rush poured down Marcello's body. His wolf stood onto his feet and was ready to fight this raw power against them. However, Gabriel didn't attack. In fact, his expression was appeased and he even smiled.

Marcello nodded in response because he couldn't manage a smile right now.

Beside Gabriel stood his gorgeous mate, Sabrina Sinclair. The supermodel had a smile that made everyone in the room stop and look. She had chocolate-brown hair, that was set in bouncy curls to frame her angular face. Her sharp aqua-green eyes were surrounded with dark lashes and appeared as if a wild cat and not a wolf. She was a beautiful golden skin-tone and it contrasted against the egg-shell blue dress that she wore today. She definitely matched Gabriel's vigour and power with her own angelic grace. Sabrina had also successfully harnessed her role as the alpha-female of the pack. They all adored her and Marcello knew that she loved them too.

Standing near the mated couple was Hunter Centauri who was the beta of the pack. He looked exactly like Gabriel, but Hunter wasn't one to show a calm expression at any moment of his life. The man had a constant scowl, that was frightening. However, Marcello had seen Hunter smile and laugh too, it was when he was with his mate, Hailey Swan.

She was a woman who didn't stand close to Hunter's towering height. But her bright smile was enough to light up the room. Hailey was a lovely woman, with lush red hair that was wavy and tumbled down her back. She stood in black strappy sandals and a short red dress to match her plump red lips. In her arms was a toddler who had everyone's attention now.

Marcello had heard the news that she had a baby boy. He was small, chubby like all babies were at that age. He wore red like his mom, but he held a stern expression like his father. The kid had black hair and baby-blue eyes like his mom. Gideon Centauri was the precious first nephew of the massive pack. So, it was safe to say that he was doted on all day and night.

Zeiden was quick to grab the pup from Hailey, it seemed that he was overjoyed to see the baby. Marcello slightly smiled that Zeiden was such an affectionate uncle.

He'd make a great father, he thought. Marcello stiffened and couldn't believe he had just thought that.

Right now, the last person who Marcello had any right to think about was Zeiden. But he couldn't help it. Ever since that night of the attack, Marcello couldn't get that image of Zeiden pale and bloody from out of his head.

Marcello gave up all pretences and hadn't moved from Zeiden's side the entire time at the hospital. Marcello didn't know what he'd do if he lost another person that he cared about. That was the main reason he even moved to the Iron Blood pack residence. Otherwise, he'd never do such a thing. But for Zeiden, he'd swallow the annoyance and stay here as long as he had to just so he could get Zeiden back.

More voices rolled in and the commotion grew. Marcello saw that Gabriel's siblings started berating Zeiden for getting hurt.

Vincent Centauri who was elegantly handsome and he dressed like he belonged on the Vogue cover for men's fashion. He stood tall but was a little leaner than his older brothers. He wore a crisp light-blue shirt, the sleeves rolled up. The buttons around his neck were opened and he wore khaki trousers with Italian caramel-brown boots. Vincent had dirty blond hair that was always done to sit raked back. But today, it was tousled by the wind, nevertheless it still looked flawless. Vincent's hazel green eyes were vibrant and kind as he smiled at Zeiden.

Marcello knew that the woman standing next to Vincent was their only sister, Viola Centauri. Many called her the princess of the pack and Marcello believed it. She stood tall, like her brothers and had the same commanding aura. Viola had sharp features, not soft like Hailey. She had green eyes, long rich blonde hair and lean muscles, like she was trained to kill just like the rest of her brothers were. She wore a linen white shirt over a pair of denim capris and sneakers. Viola looked ready to have fun and play with the kids.

Marcello didn't even begin to understand where Gabriel found wolves like Azura or the twins River and Ryder Drakov. However, Marcello knew all about these loyal wolves. They were beside Gabriel until death, which was rarely found. Those three were machines from the simple way they just stood beside their alpha. Their alert eyes were always watchful of their surroundings. The twins had powerful builds, they certainly worked-out every day. River wore dark colours like his dark character. His twin Ryder was the one who smiled and conversed with others.

Marcello wasn't close to them though. He barely knew any of them, so it was kind of awkward for him. The only person in that group he could relate to was King Vitiello. The infamous don who had mated with a Centauri was the gossip for quite some time. And not just any Centauri, he mated Gabriel's precious baby brother. Klaus Centauri who was probably the prettiest man Marcello had ever seen, as embarrassing as it was to admit, it was undeniably true.

Klaus was tall and had lean muscles, like his brothers. But he held himself with a relaxed manner. Klaus was dressed in dark jeans and a hoodie, but his mate who was standing in black trousers and a black and white striped shirt looked extremely conspicuous.

Out of everyone in that group, King Vitiello was the one who hadn't disguised his dangerous demeanour. He stood tall, broad shoulders and he showcased all his dark tattoos. His arms were covered in ink, and it was all out in the open as his sleeves were short to his biceps. The collar was opened wide too, so his skin bronzed against the white of his shirt. King had tousled dark hair, he ran his finger through it all the time, which allowed his blue eyes to be seen. King had quite the reputation, that even Marcello knew about. However, all that changed after he met his mate. King was dutiful husband now and he helped Gabriel too. They made quite the team.

Marcello never knew how King made it work in that crowd. They were nothing like him. But they all accepted King and made him family.

"Oh, look who we have here," remarked King, as he walked over with a smug grin on his handsome face.

"Don't tease him, King," said Klaus.

"I can't help it," muttered King. "He irks me."

Marcello glared at King. "I can hear you," he grumbled.

"That's the point," retorted King.

Klaus smiled at Marcello. "It's great seeing you again," he said.

Marcello felt himself calm down, it was the effect Klaus had on people. "It's nice to see you again too," he said to Klaus with a softened expression, which definitely irked King even more.

"Isaiah told us that you're living here now," said Gabriel who joined them next.

Marcello faced the alpha. "Yes, just until Aziel is taken care of," he said, but then his eyes looked at Zeiden who was talking to the rest of the Centauri members. King and Gabriel definitely saw when Marcello looked across the room towards Zeiden. "Did Isaiah fill you in with what's happening?" he asked trying to change the subject, but it didn't work.

King and Gabriel shared a surprised look when they saw what they weren't supposed to.

"He did," said Klaus who was oblivious it seemed. "He said that Aziel is Adrik's brother and he coming to kill all of us."

Marcello didn't understand Klaus's chirpy expression as he spoke about this matter, like it was nothing. "Um- yeah," he said.

"Blah, blah, blah to all the details," said King while rolling his deep blue eyes.

"We can talk about all that later," said Gabriel. "Let's enjoy the barbecue first." He walked past them ushering his pack members to follow him outside. They weren't quick to listen as they were too distracted.

They had been to this house before, so they knew where to go. The voices grew when Gabriel met the packs gathered outside.

"We heard you're being targeted?" River came up to Marcello with his twin who was smiling about a joke he shared with Vincent and Zeiden.

"Not me, more like Adrik," corrected Marcello. "But since I shot him trying to protect Zeiden, he's after me too now."

River's expression was unchanged, but Ryder's smile dropped when he heard that. "You were there when Zeiden got attacked?" Ryder asked.

Marcello nodded. He was there, but he hadn't done anything and he was ashamed of that.

"Let's just be glad that both of you are safe," said Klaus as he looked at his pack members. "We should all be more careful from now on."

Ryder scoffed. "Let Aziel come at us," he challenged as he crossed his bulky arms over his chest. "We'll give that asshole a piece of our mind."

"I agree," added Azura who heard the declaration for a fight. She joined them dressed in black and was wearing a hat to cover from the sun. She looked gloomy to be honest. "Let's go hunt him."

"Kill him as he sleeps at night," added King.

"Ooh, how scary," jested Vincent who walked up to them and Zeiden joined too, but he avoided Marcello's eyes.

"He's not an easy target," said Marcello.

King rolled his eyes. "He's just a sucker who wants his brother's attention," he mocked making all of them laugh, not Marcello though.

"You really are a smug bunch," remarked Marcello.

King grinned. "Please, you love it," he retorted.

Marcello rolled his eyes this time. "This is not the time to be making jokes," he scolded them like they were pups.

"You're such a buzz-kill," Vincent patted Marcello's shoulder. "You need to lighten up, man." He walked past him and went outside.

"Marcello, how are you?" Sabrina came over and hugged him out of nowhere. "I heard you joined the Iron Blood pack."

"Only temporary," he said meeting Zeiden's eyes this time and they were confused now.

"Oh," Sabrina frowned. "Well, good to see you around people, that aren't bodyguards or mafia leaders." And like that she walked away with Azura, Hailey, Gideon and Hunter. King, Klaus were all talking as they left too.

Marcello felt exhausted after talking to this group. It was only the afternoon and he was ready to call it in. Maybe, he should just ditch this gathering and sit in the library, that was the only place in this house, he actually liked.

"Is it true?" asked Zeiden.

Marcello looked to his side where Zeiden stood in a hoodie that looked adorable on him. He had pulled the hood slightly back letting Marcello see that attractive face. But more than that sharp jaw, straight nose and those enticing lips, it was the way that Zeiden's baby-blue eyes peeked up from underneath the black hood, it reminded Marcello of a black kitten.

"What is?" he asked back.

Zeiden licked his lips, biting the bottom one like he was nervous to ask. "That you're only here until we kill Aziel?" he questioned warily.

Marcello's whole body responded to Zeiden's charmingly shy voice. He stepped closer into his mate's arousing scent, that was deliciously sweet. "It's up to you," he said softly.

Zeiden blinked with confusion. "How so?" he asked.

"Well, if I fail to seduce you, then I can't stay now, can I?" he retorted.

Zeiden gaped now, his blue eyes staggered. He didn't know what to say, other than have that bewildered blush colour his cheeks. Marcello almost gave into the strong urge to kiss Zeiden right now. He would've done it, if the doorbell hadn't gone off.

Zeiden didn't move, so Marcello went instead.

He turned the knob, swinging the door open to find a woman with a kid standing behind the door.

She was familiar, thought Marcello. But Marcello couldn't figure out from where he saw her. Her brown eyes were surprised when she saw him. She looked down at the little girl who wasn't at all fazed to be standing in front of a stranger.

"Um, hi," she greeted Marcello with a shy smile. The woman was definitely here for the barbecue because she wore a white summer dress. The kid had braided blonde hair; a pair of jeans and a daisy t-shirt to match.

"Rosalie," it was Adrik who appeared behind Marcello.

Marcello gaped then. "Lenoir," he astounded. He looked back at the woman who had the elegant figure of the famous ballerina.

Rosalie Lenoir smiled at him, like she was embarrassed about him knowing her. "Yeah, that's the one," she said.

"I didn't expect to see you," he said.

Rosalie stared at him confused. "Rosalie, this is Marcello," Adrik told her quickly. "He's a new member of the pack."

"Oh," she nodded in understanding. "It's nice to meet you, Marcello. This is my niece, Vivian."

Marcello met the kid's green eyes, but she wasn't too keen on showing any expression. Which definitely surprised Marcello. He never seen a kid before who held such a stark expression. She reminded Marcello a lot of himself; was that strange? he wondered.

Marcello moved to the side, letting the family into the house. Rosalie joined Adrik's side, like it was normal thing to do. Vivian only then looked interested as she greeted Adrik. Both of them seemed a lot more comfortable around him, which wasn't a surprise since they were mates apparently.

Marcello closed the door and heard Rosalie talk to Zeiden. She asked about his injuries and Zeiden was quick to hold a brave face for them. He never let anyone see what he really felt inside his heart. Marcello knew how hard Zeiden tried, but it was in vain because Marcello knew that the pain just grew when one tried to hide it.

Adrik took them outside and Zeiden went with them.

Marcello sighed. He went outside too where it was noisy and hectic. All the packs were talking, laughing and glad to meet again. Marcello went around them and tried to grab a beer, when he was suddenly stopped.

"When are you going to share the news?" asked King.

Marcello looked at him confused. "News about what?" he asked.

King raised a brow. "About your mate," he whispered.

Marcello stiffened. "Not yet," he said. But he was pretty sure everyone here already knew excluding a few people.

King chuckled when Marcello blatantly looked at Zeiden. "So, you got the troublemaker. You deserve that," he jested. "Zeiden suits you."

"I really hate you," Marcello growled.

King smirked at him. "No, you don't," he said haughtily.

Marcello sighed. But couldn't deny that King had definitely fulfilled his mating duties better than Marcello, which was respectable. "What made you so bold?" asked Marcello.

King wrapped his arm around Klaus who was distracted with the slice of cake and talking to the others near them. He leaned down and kissed the mark Klaus had over his neck. "I'm too possessive," he said. "I couldn't let what's mine walk away from me."

Marcello couldn't believe this guy, but he understood that carnal possessive need perfectly. "Your mate has no idea how psychotic you are," he remarked.

King grinned slyly. "Oh, he knows," he gloated. "But Klaus still accepted me."

Klaus looked over at the mention of his name. "Yeah?" he asked with those kind green eyes staring at them. "Is something wrong?"

"Nope, nothing at all," answered King grinning at Marcello.

Klaus scooped up some cake and brought it up to King's lips. "Want some? It's strawberry flavour," he mumbled and King gladly ate the bite.

"I don't know how you two did it," muttered Marcello.

Klaus shared a confused expression. "What's he talking about?" Klaus asked King.

"He's having a lover's quarrel," King whispered as he ate more cake.

"Oh, with who?" astounded Klaus looking at Marcello now.

"Zeiden," murmured King.

Marcello glared at him. "Um, I didn't say that you could tell anyone," he complained.

King raised a brow. "I don't keep secrets from my husband," he said.

"I promise that I won't tell anyone, Marcello," said Klaus looking at Marcello sweetly, that it was hard not to believe him.

"Thanks, I would appreciate that," said Marcello.

Klaus smiled. "Can I ask what the problem is?" he said. "Maybe, we can help."

Marcello didn't even know where to begin. Does he start with the part where he fell in love and then was too afraid? Or does he start with the part where Zeiden got stabbed after Marcello had kicked him out? Or that he rejected his mate all together?

Marcello released a heavy sigh. "I don't know where to begin," he admitted.

"You pushed him away, didn't you?" said King sternly. Klaus looked sadly at his mate and then at Marcello.

"How'd you know?" Marcello was genuinely surprised.

"Guys like us always do that," said King. "We think that we shouldn't be near good people."

Marcello gritted his teeth together. "What convinced you?" he indicated towards Klaus.

King looked at Klaus and then smiled. "I asked myself; would I like to be alone all my life or be with the one who could put me together," he told Marcello. "I picked the one that made me happier. And I know that for you being happy seems like an impossible choice."

"It does," admitted Marcello.

Klaus tilted his head with the fork in his mouth. "Did you hurt his feelings?" he asked.

"Yes," he answered, "and I don't think I can repair the damage."

Klaus's green eyes softened. "No one stays mad at a loved one for too long," he said. "Just apologize and make him understand why you did what you did. Zeiden doesn't understand you yet, but he will."

Marcello's eyes widened when he realized that he hadn't even apologized to Zeiden. So much had happened and he didn't even think about that. "Thank you," he said to Klaus for the genuine advice.

"And if that doesn't work, then seduce him," announced King openly. "Always works."

Klaus gaped at him. "Don't give him that advice," he said.

"Why?" King frowned, "it worked with you, didn't it?" King made Klaus blush uncontrollably.

After a beer or two, Marcello was taken by Klaus and King to join the crowd of packs sitting around the benches. He didn't realize how hard socializing actually was as he stood with them all. However, it wasn't difficult to talk to this group.

They were easy-going and definitely a lot sillier than they let on. None of them took each other seriously when they all knew how dangerous each of them was. Marcello wondered if this was what bonds felt like. Was this what having friends was supposed to be feel like? he thought.

Marcello didn't understand this or any of them at all. He didn't comprehend how they could just enjoy a beer, sit back, laugh and let their pups run around free. All of that while a psycho was outside hunting all of them now.

Marcello stood with the big crowd, but he felt like he stood in the dark. He felt foreign here because he never built bonds like this. He never had something worth protecting after Jude. His brother who was too good for this world had died protecting Marcello. And everyone standing in front of Marcello were just like Jude.

This was what Marcello was afraid of again. He was terrified to let anyone close because if he lost any one of these people, it would crush him. However, none of these wolves seemed to grasp the situation. They were carefree and not afraid to face the trouble coming for them. Marcello however was unsettled about all this. He didn't want to see anyone get hurt again.

"Stop frowning," whispered Isaiah. "You're scaring the pups."

Marcello blinked and realized that he was being stared at. He loosened his stiff posture and turned away from everyone. Isaiah stopped him from leaving though by grabbing his arm. "Let me go," he grumbled.

"Why?" asked Isaiah.

Because I don't belong here, Marcello almost blurted it out but he held back. However, it seemed Isaiah saw what he was thinking.

"Calm down, it's just a few beers," said Isaiah.

Marcello closed his eyes. "Isaiah-"

"You're doing what we all did once-" he interrupted. "Don't push us away because you're too much of a wimp."

Marcello looked at the alpha who resembled Zeiden, except Zeiden had a more sweeter scent and an easy expression. "Seriously," he remarked.

"What? You are being a wimp right now," Isaiah remarked.

Marcello glowered at the alpha who was going to get quite the shock once he learned why Marcello even agreed to be here. Maybe, after Isaiah found out about the bond, then his opinion to keep Marcello here would change. Which Marcello didn't understand how Isaiah could even look at Marcello when Aziel attacked Zeiden under his care.

"Why are you worried if I get along with them or not?" he asked.

Isaiah raised a brow. "Because you're my responsibility now," he said like it was nothing.

Marcello frowned. "No, I'm not," he said. "I'm just a stranger-"

"Who protected Zeiden-" interrupted Isaiah. "To me, that's a lot like a pack wolf. You had my brother's back that night and I never thanked you for it."

Marcello couldn't conceal the astonished expression on his face. He opened and closed his mouth several times, unsure of what to say.

Isaiah's face lifted with amusement. "This is the first time that I've seen you speechless," he said.

"First and last time," he said curtly.

Isaiah drank a swig of his beer. "Sorry for trying to punch you that night at the hospital. I was angry, but that doesn't excuse my behaviour," he said.

Marcello blinked. "I almost prefer you angry over this," he remarked.

Isaiah's glowered again, which was much more appropriate for him. "Great, I got another smart-mouth on my hands," he remarked. He walked away towards his wife who was holding Hailey's pup, that was still too small to play with the older kids.

Marcello raked his hair away. He walked off back into the house towards the empty kitchen and didn't understand these packs. But for some reason, there was the pull of a smile on his face. He didn't know the answers to anything anymore. He thought he did, but it was all manipulated lies to keep him far away from bonds like this. More than ever, Marcello was lost but had never been so grounded.

"Hey," Zeiden came up behind him. "You okay?"

Marcello closed his eyes to his mate's voice, it sank into his memory and heart. "I know I said I'd wait. But fuck that," he said.

"What?" asked Zeiden.

Zeiden didn't have time to respond because Marcello was too fast. He crashed into Zeiden and the kissed the man, like he had been dreaming of doing ever since, Zeiden regained consciousness in the hospital. Marcello forcefully deepened this kiss. He felt himself descend into this intoxicating sensation. Both of them felt the other ablaze with arousal.

Marcello fucking loved the way that Zeiden unravelled beneath him. Zeiden was magical and he tasted divine. Fuck, cursed Marcello. He was in love and he didn't know how else to tell Zeiden, except kiss him until they were both breathlessly yearning for each other.

Marcello didn't pull away, he couldn't. He pushed his hands through Zeiden's soft hair and held him to receive the kiss more. Zeiden wasn't one to hide his own desire either. He kissed back with the same intensity and vigour.

Both of them were panting for air by the time Zeiden had pulled away first.

Zeiden laid his forehead against his. "Why are you kissing me like that. I just got heart surgery, you know?" he said.

Marcello put his hand over the scar. "Sorry," he muttered. "I tried to control myself. But then you came to me."

Zeiden drew in a sharp breath. "What am I going to do with you?" he asked himself it seemed.

Marcello stepped forward, moving Zeiden and positioning him back against the counter. "Do whatever you want," he whispered. "I'm all yours."

Marcello's lips found Zeiden's again. This time he kissed him a lot more slowly, because he wanted to take his time to memorize the feel of Zeiden's soft lips under his own.

Marcello put his hands on Zeiden's waist. Desperately, he needed to feel anything. Marcello lifted the edge of the sweater trying to get to some of that hot skin under his palm. He leaned closer, pressing his leg between Zeiden's keeping him locked in place. The red blush on Zeiden's face made Marcello even more crazy. Marcello knew that Zeiden didn't know how enticing he looked right now.

Zeiden moaned sweetly before he used his hand and held him back. "Stop," he gasped out.

Marcello removed his hands immediately, but he had to grip the counter because he'd start touching Zeiden again if he hadn't. Zeiden wasn't the one that was at fault. Well, apart from that blushing expression and that sweet aroused scent, which successfully enticed Marcello all the damn time.

Zeiden opened his mouth to speak, but he let it go. Marcello couldn't guess what he had to say. Zeiden moved away from him.

"You might not want to leave right now," said Marcello. Zeiden stiffened in his track and he looked at him confused. Marcello grinned. "You look like you've been thoroughly kissed," he cleared up making Zeiden even more red.

Zeiden still left.

Marcello raked a hand through his hair and slumped against the counter. He didn't know what came over him in just a second. All of his damn senses were out the window whenever Zeiden was in the room.

Marcello saw himself drown in those bright blue eyes, that sparkled any time light hit them. Zeiden always stared at Marcello with those defenceless eyes. He couldn't resist the temptation that they insinuated. And it definitely wasn't helping when Marcello's wolf turned feral the moment both of them smelt Zeiden's arousal.

This was driving him insane. No wonder he never dove into relationships before. He had partners before, but only to have sex and then part ways. Clean and easy. However, Zeiden wasn't clean and easy. And this wasn't something Marcello could just solve with money or send off the next morning. Zeiden needed a gentle hand of charm and manners to entice him into Marcello's bed.

Marcello needed to decide whether to play rough or nice because he was losing patience really quickly.

"Oh, hey," Ashley came inside the house. She was beaming brightly, like how she always was. But today, she was even more so, which was probably because everyone was here. "Are you okay?" she asked, slightly frowning by seeing him inside, he guessed.

Ashley was a smart woman, so he didn't hesitate when he asked; "What does Zeiden like?" he stared at her.

Ashley gaped, but then, she grinned. "Looks like I'm planning two weddings this year," she muttered. "Wow, when the goddess blesses you, she really surprises you."

Marcello didn't really hear what she was happily muttering about to herself. Ashley grabbed two glasses and poured them some iced-tea. She put small yellow umbrellas in both of them, that matched her dress and sun-kissed hair. Isaiah really was lucky man for having such a beautiful mate.

"So?" he insisted as he accepted the glass from her.

"Zeiden's really easy," said Ashley. "You just need to win his heart."

That's not easy," said Marcello.

"Really, I think it is," she alleged.

"He likes you though," argued Marcello.

"Don't forget that I was a stranger to this family too, Marcello," she said. "I had to win their hearts. Isaiah was hard enough, but then he had two brothers just like him; plus, a cousin and a best friend who are just as hard to impress."

"Are you saying that I'm the new woman of the house," he said.

"That's exactly what I'm saying," she smiled. "Welcome to the family, sister-in-law." Ashley laughed happily and her eyes brimming with amusement.

Marcello could tell that her amusement was contagious because his lips unconsciously lifted too. He was smiling at her. But he hid it by taking a long, slow sip of iced-tea.

Suddenly, Sabrina walked into the house holding her nephew, Gideon in her arms. He was restful with her, even though pups absolutely hated being apart from their mothers.

"Ashley, we need more napkins outside," she said as she walked to them.

"I swear I put enough," responded Ashley.

Sabrina rounded the table, smiling at Marcello as she passed. "You did," she said. "But the boys were refilling the water-guns when they spilled it on the table."

Ashley shook her head. She bent down, pulled open a drawer and held up bright blue napkins in her hand. "Thank god for Lazarus who bought extra."

Sabrina put Gideon on the counter. He sat facing her and his small hands played with the ribbon of her dress. Gideon suddenly looked up at Marcello. Marcello didn't know what to do except hold the pup's inquisitive gaze.

"He likes you," said Sabrina.

Marcello raised a brow. "I doubt it," he said. But then he remembered his baby brother, Jude. He practically raised his brother, but that was the last time he was ever near a child.

"Here," said Sabrina. She lifted Gideon and handed him to Marcello. "I need to give the napkins. Hold him for me."

Marcello fumbled back but he couldn't return the pup in time because Sabrina had waltzed off. He carefully shifted his arm underneath the pup and tried his best not to make him cry. Gideon however wasn't fazed at all, like he was used to being handed around to his family members.

Marcello used his arms to support the boy who was settled pretty comfortably. Gideon leaned back and his hands searched something else to grab and investigate, but he hadn't found anything.

Ashley walked over to them. "He's so precious," she cooed as she smiled at the pup. "I remember when Evelyn was this small. Now, she's too fast for me. I can barely keep up." Ashley's smile saddened a little. "Every moment is special with the one you love, right."

Marcello's heart skipped a beat when he heard her words. He looked down at the pup's blue eyes and realized that he had never thought of any moment as special. He was scornful of his life and the way it had turned out.

The back door opened again. This time it was Hunter and Alec, Victor and Vadik followed too with Viola and Azura. They all surrounded the counter making the kitchen louder with their voices.

They were drenching wet from playing with the water-guns, he presumed. Ashley was quick to pass them towels and send more outside too.

Except Hunter who walked over to Marcello. His amber eyes that were intensely staring at Marcello had softened when he looked down at his baby boy.

"Um- Sabrina passed him to me," Marcello had the feeling to tell him that. He motioned to give him back, when Hunter stopped him.

"You can hold him," said Hunter, his deep voice was stern- very beta-like.

Marcello didn't understand why Hunter trusted him to hold his pup. He'd never expected anyone to let someone like him near the pup. These group of wolves were definitely strange, he thought.

"Aww, what an adorable sight," jested Viola.

Azura chuckled too. "A pup suits you, Marcello," she said.

The men around them laughed too.

"What are you laughing at?" Viola reprimanded the men standing next to her, shutting them up. "You all are going to be crazy over your pups when you have them too."

"No one is going to be crazier than you, Viola," remarked Alec as he left with the towel. Vadik and Victor followed.

Viola put the towel down. "That's it," she announced. "He's going down. Where'd I put that gun?"

"The real one or the fake one?" asked Azura. Viola ran out in a hurry and Azura rushed after her because they were a team.

The back door closed following a lot of screams from basically everyone.

Ashley returned with more towels and saw the war had broken out again. "What happened?" she asked looking at Hunter and Marcello.

Hunter smirked. "Marcello looked too pretty with my boy," he remarked with sarcasm dripping from his voice.

Marcello shook his head. He passed Gideon to his father and left for outside. Only to be shot at with as much water that those damn guns could hold. In seconds, he regretted every damn decision he had ever made for joining this pack.

Marcello opened his eyes after he wiped the water from his face. Everyone was standing around stunned and guns in their hands. So, he couldn't even tell who had done that to him.

"Oops!" exclaimed Ronin who had all the doctors on his team and the Waldorf brothers too. "We fucked up."

"He was the one who got in the way," added Zachariah who was teamed up with his brother and Lazarus. "That's not our fault."

Evelyn ran through the crowd looking up at Marcello. "He's fine!" she confirmed and ran to play more with Vivian and Dimitri who were on her team.

Marcello raked his wet hair back. Suddenly, a towel fell in his hands. He looked and saw Gabriel beside him.

"I tried to get them under control," he said.

"It didn't work," grumbled Marcello as he used the towel to wipe his wet face.

Gabriel chuckled. Klaus suddenly ran up to them. He was wet too but looked rather pleased that he was still standing. "Are you okay?" he asked.

Marcello released a breath. "My fault for getting in the way, I guess," he said remembering Zachariah's words.

Klaus laughed brightly. "Don't worry, you'll dry off," he said.

Klaus ran off to his partners who were the twins, River and Ryder. Which Marcello found odd that King wasn't paired with Klaus. It seemed King was with Viola and Azura and the kids who were a ruthless team. However, even from where Marcello stood, King only had one agenda and that was to target his mate.

Only Vincent sat off to the side, not wanting to get wet but Ryder wasn't a good listener about that. All the girls filled the bench table, eating and sharing drinks. Zeiden was between them too but was playing with Gideon and talking away with Hunter and Vincent.

"I never thought you'd join a pack," said Gabriel.

Marcello frowned. "I haven't joined it," he said. "It's just until-"

"Aziel is defeated, I know," Gabriel interrupted. "But why do I get the feeling there's something more, that you're not telling me."

"You need to stop over-analyzing me," said Marcello.

Gabriel smirked. "It's a curse," he remarked. "I can see through what people want to hide. So, what are you hiding?"

Marcello stiffened. "If you're that good then you already figured it out," he said.

Gabriel's face brightened with amusement. "Of course, I did. I just like teasing you," he said. Gabriel turned at looked directly in the direction where Zeiden sat. "I never thought he'd be your mate. But then, I know Ronin is too cool for you. Lazarus is too... Lazarus. Adrik has found himself a ballerina. So, that leaves the baby brother. And damn, did you pick the wrong baby brother to fuck with."

Marcello sighed in defeat. "How'd you feel when King mated Klaus?" he asked.

Gabriel straightened his towering height. "I think I handled it quite well," he said. "But I wasn't one to let anyone break my brother's heart. So, I kept an eye on King- still do."

Marcello looked at Isaiah who was with his wife. "What are the chances of Isaiah killing me when he finds out?" he genuinely needed to know.

Gabriel took a deep breath. "You are as good as dead when he finds out," he said patting Marcello's shoulder.

Marcello figured the same too.

The fight with the water guns came to an end once everyone had used every ounce of energy they had in their bodies.

However, the only three still standing were Evelyn, Vivian and Dimitri. They weren't ready to give up their crown seats. So, to calm them down, Ashley had to take all the kids to the swimming pool inside the house. Which excited some of the other wolves who were exhausted, but they found the strength to join too.

Everyone moved inside now that the sun had fallen down behind the trees. Colouring the sky picturesque shades of orange, purple and pink. The trees turned a dark shade of black and appeared like shadows to the orange sunset.

Marcello hadn't seen the basement yet. So, he followed them downstairs and saw that the swimming pool was connected to a gym too. He appreciated the state-of-the-art equipment and the clean interior, which he'd definitely use that he knew about it. The pool doors were left open, so all he could hear were the booming voices of the adults and kids.

Marcello never realized how much of a quiet life he lived at his penthouse. Usually around this time, he was either working or reading a book. Nothing too strenuous. But, these packs did not hold back when they got together. There was never a quiet moment with them all in the same area.

Marcello returned to the first floor when he heard the rest of the wolves in the game room. They were all at the billiards table betting games. The couples were versing against each other. And from the looks of it, they were getting quite competitive, but that was to be expected from wolves.

Marcello walked inside, behind him were Zeiden, Justin, Victor and Ronin playing pinball and they were getting just as competitive with each other. The rest of the bachelors were either at the pool downstairs or sharing a drink in the kitchen. Right now, at the pool table were Evangeline and Zachariah who were playing against Rosalie and Adrik.

Marcello definitely didn't expect someone like Rosalie to have a talent for pool; it was odd no matter how he looked at it. Rosalie stole the first game easily and she was ready to put them all in the dirt.

"Why are you so good at this?" exclaimed Evangeline.

Rosalie laughed at her. "I used to play a lot back home," she said. "I made a lot of money doing it too."

They gaped at her. "You placed bets?" asked Zachariah.

Rosalie nodded. "It helped me buy ballet equipment," she told them.

"Alright then, she is officially on my team," declared Ashley. "Adrik and Isaiah can be partners for the next one."

"Um-" Isaiah frowned at his wife- "I'm offended."

"Me too," added Adrik.

"Who cares," laughed Ashley and she grabbed Rosalie. "Might as well do it while you can get away with it."

Another game started and Rosalie won again. Marcello stood and watched when he got his own idea looking at his mate.

Like the universe was on his side, Isaiah was the first one to mention that it was time for dinner. Lazarus had already begun preparations for the barbecue outside. Klaus and Alec were helping as well.

The couples moved from the pool table and went to the kitchen. Evangeline and Sabrina had left to get everyone from the pool downstairs. They all needed to get changed and get ready for dinner.

While everyone eventually made it out, Marcello stepped in front of Zeiden stopping him from leaving.

Zeiden stared at him. "Move," he said.

"Nope, not until you do something for me," whispered Marcello.

"Do what?" asked Zeiden.

Marcello turned towards the door. He made sure that no one was looking while he closed it, locking them in.

"What are you doing?" Zeiden asked warily.

Marcello smirked. "Definitely not what you're imagining," he retorted.

"How would I know," Zeiden frowned. "I can never guess with you."

Marcello pointed at the pool table. "Let's play one game," he said.

Zeiden looked bewildered. "You want to play pool with me?" he repeated.

Marcello went over, rounded the table and grabbed the cue stick. "One game," he said.

"What's the catch?" asked Zeiden as he crossed his arms.

"If I win, then you have to grant me one wish," said Marcello.

"And if you lose?" asked Zeiden.

"Then you can wish for anything from me," said Marcello.

"I don't want anything from you," grumbled Zeiden. "I just want you to back off."

"Fine," said Marcello.

"Fine," retorted Zeiden.

Marcello smirked. "Let's play." Marcello could see the clear regret on his face.

"Wait- what, no, I-" Zeiden stumbled and didn't realize what devil's game he gambled himself into. Zeiden bit his lip but he knew that he couldn't back out now. He grabbed the cue stick and stood on the opposite end looking rather determined.

"You can take the first shot," said Marcello.

Zeiden glared at him. "I was going to take the first shot even if you didn't want me to," he grumbled and aimed to take the first shot, which was a great shot- better than Marcello expected. But not enough to beat Marcello.

Once Marcello started it was easy to beat the game. He only purposely messed up a few times to make Zeiden feel better. But by the end of the game, Marcello didn't hold back because he needed something from this gamble.

Marcello got the last shot and ended the game successfully.

Zeiden dropped the cue stick and sighed. "What do you want?" he asked with his hands on his waist.

"Spend the night with me," announced Marcello.

Zeiden gaped. "No," he snipped back.

Marcello raised a brow, which made Zeiden immediately regret his words. Marcello backed Zeiden against the edge of the billiards table. "You don't have a choice now, do you?" Marcello said staring daringly at the man.

Zeiden straightened and stood against Marcello. His blue eyes flared alive with an intense heat, that was sexy as hell. "Fine," he said curtly. Zeiden moved to the side and tried to leave, but Marcello stood in the way. "Move," Zeiden said by not looking at him.

Marcello inched closer though that their legs brushed together. "I'm not moving," he said. "But you go first, since I was the one to walk away from us last time."

Zeiden's eyes widened. He sucked in his breath. "Why are you so stubborn?" he blurted out.

"I'm just trying to fix what I broke," answered Marcello.

"You- you're confusing me," said Zeiden with a weary look in his vulnerable eyes.

Marcello stepped back then because he didn't want to hurt Zeiden more. "I know how that feels like because you did the same thing to me first," he said. Zeiden's blue eyes melted like ice over a flame. Marcello leaned down a little to match their eyes. "I hope you hold your end of the bargain."

Zeiden's eyes turned feral the moment that he heard the amusement return in Marcello's voice. "I never back out of a deal," he affirmed.

"Good to know-" Marcello bit back his smile- "See you tonight then," he said as he stared at those lips. But Marcello didn't steal a taste, even though Zeiden was a euphoric drug to him.

Zeiden turned away, unlocked the door and left. Leaving Marcello wondering how this hot gamble would turn out.