Zeiden had freshened up after his workout in the gym downstairs. He walked out of the locker room, his hair was still damp from the shower, when he spotted Adrik going hard at the punching-bag hanging down from the ceiling. A couple of hours had gone by and it was nearing ten o'clock, since they all came back from the ballet academy and Adrik hadn't calmed down at all.

The sound of each punch resonated against the concrete walls, it was almost like Zeiden felt each solid impact himself. Adrik poured every ounce of frustration into the bag, so the poor thing was definitely going to break if he went on like this.

"Are you going to chill any time soon, buddy?" Zeiden asked, but Adrik punched and punched again. Zeiden winced at the brute force. "That's a no, then?"

With a weary sigh, Zeiden climbed up the stairs and went to his brothers who were gathered in the living-room. They were discussing the plan for the meet-up with Big B tomorrow.

"Um, Adrik is downstairs beating the crap out of the poor punching bag," said Zeiden.

Isaiah, Lazarus looked up at Zeiden. They seemed tense as well ever since what happened at the ballet school. Well, that was to be expected since nothing like that had ever happened before. All of them were still in shock because the major rule in the Iron Blood pack was broken.

Zeiden always knew the three rules in this house, like a mantra. First was to never dirty Lazarus's kitchen; second was to never leave weapons in Evelyn's reach, unless supervision was close by. And the final most important was to never touch Adrik unless being torn to pieces was the person's kink or wish.

Zeiden may have been known as the wildcard in this group of men, but even he obliged to these rules, especially the last one. He never tested it or even challenged it because that would mean death and he liked his head attached to his body.

However, today the unexplainable happened. Evelyn's ballet teacher had fallen into Adrik's arms and her body wasn't mangled and splattered on the floor like some insignificant insect.

"There's only one explanation for this, you know," said Lazarus.

Isaiah raked his dark hair away from his hard gaze and furrowed brows. "How bad is he looking?" he asked Zeiden.

"Apart from the scary glare, sweaty and ripped body, I'm thinking he's pretty bad," said Zeiden, as he sat with them near the fire, that had been lit up in front of them.

Isaiah got to his feet with a sigh and paced in front of them. He hadn't changed out of his suit yet, which just showed how hard he had been working over the plan to infiltrate the meet with Bruno tomorrow. He had taken off the jacket, tie, vest and rolled the sleeves of his shirt showing those tattoos, which he had gotten once he had started training with their father Ivan Petrov.

But that was all old history like Isaiah's tattoos, which people thought were for style. However, Zeiden knew it was to hide the past from his body. The tattoos were a reminder that Isaiah had overcome the torture of the Petrov pack.

Unlike his brothers, Zeiden didn't remember much about the Petrov's. He couldn't remember his father's face nor his mother. Only thing he remembered was being protected by Isaiah and Lazarus as a kid.

The Petrov was a pristine name and they were all renowned pack leaders. But to Zeiden and his brothers, the Petrov was nothing of the sorts. Worse than scum and Zeiden spent his entire life knowing that the Petrov's weren't loyal to anyone. Petrov's were the enemy, and Zeiden believed that Isaiah was right to kill them off. So, they wouldn't taint this world any longer.

As righteous as Isaiah was to kill them off. Not everyone approved of his actions. Zeiden didn't care about the people and their gossip. To Zeiden, he saw the world through his big brother's eyes because blood or not no one would have done what Isaiah did for all of them.

Isaiah saved Zeiden every time he was in any danger. The scars that were supposed to maul Zeiden's body, Isaiah and Lazarus took for themselves. So, Zeiden pledged his life to protect his brothers, and it was as simple as that.

"He's probably venting it all out," observed Lazarus. "It was quite the shock to all of us. So, I can only imagine how he's feeling right now."

"No," said Ronin from the stairs as he came towards them; dressed in black slacks and matching hoodie and he was freshly out the shower it seemed. "He's talking himself out of it, Isaiah."

"Out of what?" asked Zeiden.

"Damn it all," Isaiah cursed as he left for the gym.

A few seconds later, Lazarus shot off the couch and followed Ronin who ran after Isaiah. Zeiden scrambled off the floor in a hurry. However, Lazarus stopped Zeiden from going all the way down to where Isaiah went alone.

The three of them lingered on the top of the stairs, waiting for some reaction. The strong punching had continued and it seemed Adrik hadn't noticed Isaiah's presence yet.

"Adrik won't kill Isaiah, right?" asked Zeiden.

"Don't even joke like that," growled Lazarus.

"He'll be fine," said Ronin. "I hope," he mumbled after.

After a long minute, Isaiah's deep voice resonated through the concrete space over to the stairs. "What are you doing?" he asked.

Adrik didn't say anything, but that wasn't unusual either. The man spoke with his eyes more than his voice.

"Punching the bag isn't going to help you," declared Isaiah.

All of them on the stairs slightly stiffened from Isaiah's stern voice. Zeiden crouched down and through the slight peak from the top of the stairs, he spotted Adrik and Isaiah facing each other.

Both of them stood towering over the other. Even from this distance Zeiden could feel the power off both of them. Nothing was so raw and formidable as they faced off with those blazing eyes and lethal bodies. They definitely were from the Petrov bloodline from the precarious air around them, that couldn't be copied or earned in a day or two. These men trained until blood became ice and murder wasn't hard any longer.

The men locked eyes and they exchanged a hard glare. But Isaiah was still alpha and staring back at him longer than normal could start an initiation for the alpha-seat challenge. So, Adrik was the first one to remove his eyes.

Although, Zeiden didn't believe it was because Adrik was afraid; it was more like no matter how hard-ass all the men were here, they never wanted anyone to be alpha other than Isaiah.

"I can't think right now," Adrik's voice was as raw as his fists.

"She's your mate, isn't she?" Isaiah stated more than asked.

"Mate!" astounded Zeiden.

"Shhh!" Ronin and Lazarus carped.

"I don't know," huffed Adrik.

"Yes, you do," affirmed Isaiah. "Something as strong as a bond isn't fleeting or a mistake. You either know or you don't." Adrik didn't respond to Isaiah. "Adrik-"

"Fine! I just met my mate," Adrik snapped, "but then I realized I can't touch her!"

All three of them flinched at Adrik's harsh tone. But more than that, they couldn't believe what they just heard.

"What happened back at the school proved that you're wrong," said Isaiah. "You have a chance. Now, take it."

"No," gritted out Adrik. "I can't do that."

Isaiah's eyes disheartened, like he couldn't believe his cousin. Zeiden couldn't either. Having a mate was a blessing, Zeiden believed. So, he didn't understand why Adrik was reluctant about finally finding his mate. If it was Zeiden, he would've been thrilled about it.

"I know you're afraid," said Isaiah. "But running away and hiding here isn't going to help you or her." Adrik's blue eyes widened as he stared back at Isaiah. "She probably knows about the bond now too," Isaiah added sternly, "so staying away from her will just hurt her more."

Adrik's jaw tightened and he scowled at the punching bag. "It's either that," he began, "or I'll hurt her by being too close."

"You won't know unless you try," reasoned Isaiah.

"I wouldn't be able to live with myself if I hurt her, Isaiah," retorted Adrik. "You know that I can't let my guard down around others and having a mate does that."

"It also heals," said Isaiah calmly. "You finding your mate just proved to me what I've always known. You're ready to live a new life, that's away from our fucked-up past."

They all felt that sentence burrow deep into their soul. Zeiden especially believed that for his pack they all deserved a new life away from the torture of the Petrov pack.

Adrik closed his pained blue eyes. "I don't know," his voice was broken.

"We'll figure it out together," said Isaiah. "You have your pack to help you. You have me."

Adrik's blue eyes gleamed when he stared back at Isaiah. "Okay," he said.

"Now, take a shower and stop brooding," scolded Isaiah making Adrik smile, which was a rare occurrence. "I'm dealing with fucking pups all day."

The three at the top heard rapid footsteps approaching them. So, that meant they needed to run for it, otherwise Isaiah would find them.

Zeiden darted up the stairs behind Lazarus and Ronin. They returned to the living-room and repositioned themselves. All of them flopped onto the couches just at the nick-of-time.

"Where's Evelyn?" Zeiden asked. He tried his hardest to divert the tension in the room when Isaiah returned.

"Bathing," answered Lazarus.

"And Ashley?" asked Zeiden.

"With her," replied Lazarus.

"What are we having for dinner?" asked Ronin idly.

"Burgers," added Lazarus.

"I thought I was cooking," said Zeiden. "I've gotten a lot better at it and-"

"Stop acting like you weren't eavesdropping-" Isaiah grumbled.

"We weren't," retorted Ronin. "We're a lot more honourable than that."

Isaiah looked dead straight at Zeiden first before the other two. "You three suck at bluffing," he said as he crossed his arms. "Oh right, Zeiden."

"Yes?" Zeiden looked up at his brother and kind of worried that he'd get scolded.

"I want you to watch over Marcello until tomorrow. You'll join him as well with the meet with Bruno," ordered Isaiah.

Zeiden's stomach flipped the moment Marcello's name was mentioned. "Er- are you sure you want me to go?" he asked.

"Marcello seems to be the most comfortable with you," believed Isaiah. "So, I think he'll let you come with him opposed to Lazarus or Ronin."

Zeiden got to his feet. "What about you?" he asked.

"We'll be following your tail," responded Isaiah. "And if you need us, we'll be right outside."

Zeiden nodded. "I'll go there tomorrow-"

"No-" interrupted Isaiah. "I need you to be with Marcello from right now."

Zeiden gaped. "But why?" he asked.

"There's a high risk that Marcello could ditch us," said Isaiah. "We need to make sure he doesn't pull any tricks."

Zeiden blinked. "So, that means that I don't get to eat burgers, right?" he asked.

Isaiah rolled his eyes. "Get going already," he grumbled.

Zeiden followed his brother upstairs as both of them went to change their clothes. But Zeiden was changing out of his shorts and t-shirt into something more formal.

They separated at the top of the stairs.

Zeiden went to the left to his bedroom on the opposite side of the others. He opened the door to his enormous room, that was tones of deep grey and black. The golden lights automatically turned on and the faint glow brightened the oak floors.

He stepped into the room, that had a wide view of the entire property that Isaiah owned. The pine trees were tall and proud outside the large window, and the green hills rolled out far on every side he turned. The view was much clearer in daylight; everything right now just looked like shades of black under the night sky.

Zeiden opened the long cupboard and pondered in front of his clothes for a long while. He usually never cared this much before with what he covered himself with. But right now, all choices mattered because he was going to meet Marcello Tricomi again. And damn did that male make Zeiden feel all sorts of emotions.

Nervous didn't even begin to cover it. Zeiden was exhilarated to the point that it was scary to talk about. Marcello was the only one who managed to make Zeiden feel wary, and unexpectedly, self-conscious.

Zeiden shrouded these feelings from everyone though because Marcello crawled under his skin and that never happened to him before. No matter who Zeiden had hooked up with in the past. No one unnerved Zeiden simply by staring at him, and Marcello had these remarkable vivid amber eyes, which were breath-taking.

Marcello was the type of man who put on cologne like it was a pampering task rather than a quick mission to get done before rushing out the door. He spent his time picking out his wardrobes and looking flawless every damn day and night. Marcello was intimidating in the way he moved his powerful, tall physique, which always looked in perfect condition in all those luxurious suits he wore. Zeiden was in awe of the man and he never met anyone like that before.

Except, wearing a suit in the middle of the night was pushing it. Zeiden gave up and put on a pair of jeans, white t-shirt and a denim jacket over it, since the weather was still fairly cold despite spring being here already. The tips of his dark hair were still a bit damp, but he knew it'd dry by the wind. So, he left it all tousled and messy but artfully raked away from his eyes. Zeiden grabbed his wallet, phone and keys off the table before he closed the lights and left his bedroom.

"You headed out somewhere?" Ashley appeared holding Evelyn in her arms. Both of them were in matching yellow pyjamas.

Zeiden crossed the hall and joined his sister-in-law and niece at the top of the stairs. "Isaiah's got me on a mission tonight," he told her.

Ashley frowned. "What about dinner?" she asked.

Zeiden pouted. "Your mate doesn't care if I'm fed or not," he jested. "He's ruthless. Sometimes, I doubt that we're even related, otherwise he'd never treat me this way."

Ashley laughed at him. Zeiden reached over and grabbed Evelyn from her arms who was playing with the white ribbons on her sleeves.

"Just ignore him and eat with us before you leave," Ashley said.

"And get my head bitten off. No, but thank you," he said.

Evelyn looked at him curiously. "Are you scared of my dad?" she asked.

"Nope. I'm terrified," he admitted, as they climbed down the stairs together.

"He's not scary to me," said Evelyn.

"That's because you haven't done anything bad yet," said Zeiden. "I, on the other hand, have been on the receiving end of his temper many times."

"Being a troublemaker is nothing to be proud of," said Ronin overhearing them.

Zeiden grinned proudly. "Someone has to keep that man on his toes, otherwise he has it too easy," he said.

"Who does?" Isaiah appeared behind them.

They froze. Well, more like Zeiden did.

"Zeiden said you have it too easy around here," announced Ronin.

Zeiden gaped at Ronin. "Traitor," he accused. Isaiah raised a brow and crossed his arms. Zeiden held onto his niece a little closer. "I have Evelyn in my arms. You can't hurt me."

Isaiah's hard eyes narrowed on him. "Is that so?" his tone dripped with disdain.

Suddenly, Evelyn was snatched from Zeiden and Ronin was the one to do it. They all laughed as they left him alone with Isaiah.

Zeiden combed his dark hair back. "Um, I should head out," he said, taking a few steps back to run away as fast as he could.

"Stop right there," Isaiah's stern voice stupefied Zeiden. He knew he was about to get reprimanded like no tomorrow. Zeiden prepared himself for the worst. Isaiah loomed over Zeiden, the man's grey eyes narrowed. "Be careful on your way to Marcello's place. If Reaper's really after us, then it'll be dangerous out at night."

Zeiden released a breath of relief. He looked at his brother with a grin on his lips. "I'm too good to get hurt," he replied smugly.

Isaiah scowled again. "Get out of my face," he grumbled.

Zeiden laughed and waved off before he made his way towards the garage to his motorcycle. The bright white lights turned on upon his arrival. In the large garage were where all of their cars were parked and organized in groups. Ronin handled most of repair himself and he managed the shine on them too. Since he was awesome at what he did, none of them stopped him. Zeiden believed that Ronin found taking care of the cars therapeutic, that's why he was so diligent about the task.

Zeiden walked past the entire collection to his new all-black Yamaha YZF-R1 bike. He grabbed the helmet and put it on, before he got on the bike and started the ignition. He may not be getting Lazarus's famous grilled steak burgers, but a ride on his new bike would suffice.

The garage opened and he pressed on the exhilaration without hesitation. The bike roared and it was quick to catch speed. He was off pack territory and far from home by a few minutes.

Zeiden cut through the long dark streets and the few cars that were on the road still. Zeiden picked up more speed on the highway, and as he had, he wondered what Marcello was going to think about his late visit. Would he kick Zeiden out or listen into letting stay with him? Zeiden didn't really have an answer, so he didn't think that hard about it either. He'd see what happens when he arrived. But first, he needed to get through Marcello's intimidating security without being killed.

Once Zeiden had finally arrived, he parked the bike on the side of the building. He got off and put the keys in his pocket before he went into the building. Some of the lights were on and there were still a lot of guards like he suspected. The same tall, beefy man with the bald head was here again too. He must be head of security for him to always be by Marcello's side.

"You again," the man said surprised from seeing Zeiden.

Zeiden smirked boldly. "It's nice to see you too," he jested. "But sorry, I'm here for Marcello. So, I need you to let me through."

The man frowned deeply as he stood pensively. "Understood," he said eventually. "Right this way." He moved and let Zeiden pass without any provisions like the first time.

"Aren't you going to search me?" Zeiden asked.

The man's frown didn't disappear, instead it turned into an agitated scowl. "Boss told us not to touch you," he said. "His orders were to let you pass without any inquiries as well."

Zeiden's stomach quivered. "Oh," he mumbled with a small smile playing on his lips.

The man steered Zeiden towards the elevators. Only Zeiden got on though, he clicked the top floor and let the doors close without getting on. The chirpy music in the elevators began. However, over his rapidly drumming heart, Zeiden couldn't hear the music in the elevator. The doors pinged open and Zeiden didn't want to admit it, but butterflies were causing chaos in his gut.

With a deep breath in, he stepped out of the elevator.

Zeiden approached the single door at the end of the large corridor. He squared himself in front of the entrance, like he was bracing himself for Marcello. He rang the doorbell and now all he could do was wait.

There was no answer for a while though. Zeiden reached his hand up to ring the doorbell again, when suddenly, the door opened and Zeiden's breath caught in his throat.

Marcello stood shirtless, wet and as always, he was completely annoyed at the world. But that stern look in his golden eyes was hotter than hell.

"What are you doing here?" he asked irately.

"Isaiah sent me to guard you for tomorrow," said Zeiden.

Marcello scowled. "Excuse me?" his voice was icy cold that it sent a chill down Zeiden's back.

Zeiden smirked however. "He knows you'll go off alone tomorrow and he doesn't want you going without us," he explained. "Now, let me in."

Marcello's jaw locked and his eyes searched Zeiden's face. "Damn it all," he huffed.

Zeiden leaned into that fresh body-wash and deep fiery fragrance. "You look different with your hair down," he commented aimlessly.

"You're too close," grumbled Marcello.

Zeiden grinned as he welcomed himself inside.

Marcello let out a nasty curse before he closed the door behind them. "Isaiah's crossing a line by sending you here," he said.

Zeiden faced him. "Really? Then why did you instruct your security team to let me through without questions asked?" he retorted.

Marcello's golden gaze deepened like the hypnotic swirl in whiskey. His eyes trailed over Zeiden's face. "Saves me the trouble since none of you ever stop meddling in my business," he gritted out.

Marcello spared himself with that excuse, Zeiden thought to himself.

"It's good you know," said Zeiden. "Now, save yourself the trouble once again and let me be with you for the mission tomorrow."

Marcello's hand raked his hair, that was soaking wet. Zeiden noted that the sunshine golden had turned a light brown from the water. "Ugh, whatever," he groused, "just don't touch anything."

Zeiden sauntered deeper inside. "Sure," he said. He took off his jacket and put it on the couch. "Did you eat dinner?"

"No," answered Marcello.

"I didn't either. Should I cook something? I've been learning," said Zeiden. He walked over to the modern kitchen, opening the fridge which was very empty. "You have no food in here."

"I rarely eat here," said Marcello. "Just order take-out."

"You won't eat with me," said Zeiden, his eyes saddened.

Marcello clearly fell for it. "What do you want to eat?" he asked as he pulled his phone out.

"Pizza," smiled Zeiden, "with jalapeños and pepperoni. You can order whatever you like for yourself."

Marcello raised a brow. "You're going to eat a whole pizza by yourself," he astounded.

Zeiden nodded. "You should see my brothers," he remarked. "Oh, order some drinks too."

Marcello turned away and talked over the phone ordering the pizza or maybe telling someone else to do it for him.

Zeiden took a seat on the stool near the kitchen island. He really didn't know what to think or do with Marcello. He didn't even feel this much pressure when he was with Adrik, maybe that was because Adrik didn't look peeved all the time.

Marcello turned to leave. A pit settled into Zeiden's gut. "Do you really not like being with me?" Zeiden asked before he could stop himself.

Marcello froze and looked at Zeiden befuddled. "What?" he responded.

"You won't sit with me nor will you even look me in the eyes for that matter," remarked Zeiden. "Is being with me that bad?"

"It's not like that," Marcello said. He still left the room and went behind the black door far down the adjacent hall.

Zeiden turned away and pulled out his cellphone. He called his brother who answered just after the second ring. "Hello, Isaiah," he said.

"What's wrong with your voice?" retorted Isaiah.

Zeiden knew that his voice probably sounded dejected or grim, but he couldn't help it. "It's nothing," he said. "I just wanted to check in."

"Are you with Marcello?" asked Isaiah.

Zeiden heard the family ruckus through the phone; it seemed like Lazarus and Ronin were grilling on the patio. "I'm with him," he replied with a sigh. "How's Adrik doing now?"

"He's as fine as he'll ever be," said Isaiah.

"That doesn't say much," remarked Zeiden.

"He's good," said Isaiah. "Honestly, I think this change will be good for him. He found his mate and what can be better than that, right?"

"Right," mumbled Zeiden. "A mate."

"Are you sure you're okay?" Isaiah reiterated his concern. "If this mission bothers you then you can come back-"

"No-" interrupted Zeiden. "It's just a mission, which will end and then we'll go our separate ways."

"Alright," said Isaiah.

"Is that uncle Zee?" shouted Evelyn over the phone. "Uncle Zee! It's me!"

Zeiden was so glad to hear his niece's voice. "Evelyn, do you miss me?" he asked with the biggest smile on his face. He couldn't help it around her.

"I miss you so much and daddy misses you too!" she hollered and then laughed probably because of Isaiah's surprised expression.

Zeiden's smile brightened. "I miss you too," he chimed.

"We'll see you tomorrow, Zeiden," said Isaiah.

"Yeah, bye," he replied.

"Dad, give me the phone! Uncle Zee!" Isaiah's voice was muffled by Evelyn when she shouted over the line. But the line cut, which was probably because Evelyn accidentally disconnected it.

Suddenly, the far door opened and Marcello appeared dressed in a t-shirt and his hair had been dried better. Marcello looked like he was about to say something to Zeiden when the doorbell went off.

Marcello's relaxed demeanour flipped into a cold disposition when he left to answer the door. He returned with two boxes of pizza and a canister of beer cans.

"Couches, dining table or kitchen?" asked Marcello suddenly.

Zeiden swivelled on the stool. "What?" he puzzled.

"Where do you want to eat?" asked Marcello. "Couch, table or kitchen?"

Zeiden couldn't help but smile. "Couch," he said.

Zeiden rushed off the stool and went over to grab the boxes. He put them on the glass table, that was low to the floor. Zeiden ditched the couch and sat on the soft black rug near the pizza box. Marcello came with two glasses and lots of ice, just the way Zeiden preferred it too.

"I thought you wouldn't eat with me," said Zeiden.

"No, you just assumed that," remarked Marcello who sat on the couch next to him. "I can't help your assumptions."

"I'm glad you did," smiled Zeiden as he opened the box of hot, steamy pizza. "You don't need to avoid me like the plague. Trust me, I don't bite."

"That's not the reason," said Marcello softly. "I don't avoid you because I don't like you."

Zeiden's ears perked. "So, you do like me then?" he asked in return.

But Marcello didn't answer. Although, it didn't matter because that's all Zeiden needed to know that Marcello didn't hate him to death.

"Mmm, pizza's good," Zeiden said as he moved onto his second slice already. Zeiden opened the beer cans and poured it for both of them.

It was after Zeiden finished the pizza and the cans of beer, that he felt the flush of heat on his face. He didn't realize that he drank a lot. Marcello had only eaten a few slices of pizza and one can of beer. He switched to a glass of rum later on, since he had preferred taste.

"Is it just me or is it really hot here?" Zeiden leaned back on the couch.

"Who told you to drink so much," remarked Marcello who was lounging on the couch with his legs crossed at the knee. The glass in his firm hand, those long fingers gently wrapped around the cup.

"I didn't know a few cans would get me drunk," retorted Zeiden.

"You really are careless," mumbled Marcello.

Zeiden sulked. "I am not," he said.

Marcello got to his feet. "There's a bedroom right there. Use it if you want." He left in the opposite direction quite in a hurry Zeiden would say.

Zeiden got to his feet and followed Marcello. He abruptly opened the door where Marcello disappeared. Apart from being tipsy, Zeiden stood in a massive room that had long windows, sheer black drapes over them and a grey bed in the centre. There was a siting area near the foot of the bed and there was probably a closet and bathroom somewhere too. The city at night twinkled outside the windows and it was a spectacular view.

"What are you doing?" Marcello grumbled.

"Woah, you have such a nice room," astounded Zeiden as he pushed past Marcello deeper into the room.

"Your room is over there," said Marcello. "Go there."

"How long have you lived here?" Zeiden ignored his other complaints.

"A few years," said Marcello. "Now, leave."

Zeiden flopped down on the bed. "My head hurts," he said. He closed his eyes and a light hum lulled him in and out of sleep.

"Did you seriously fall asleep on my bed?" Zeiden heard Marcello voice in the back of his head, like someone shouted in a tunnel and it echoed.

Suddenly, Zeiden felt the weight of the bed shift. He opened his eyes not expecting anything, but he found Marcello over him. Zeiden lost himself in those golden eyes. He didn't know if the alcohol intoxicated him or that fiery scent. He reached over and wrapped his arms around Marcello's neck. Zeiden tightened his hold on Marcello when he tried to pull away.

"Why do you always look so sad?" asked Zeiden.

Marcello's gold eyes gaped. "What?"

"Your eyes," repeated Zeiden. "Sad, always so sad. Why is that?"

"Get some sleep," gritted out Marcello.

Zeiden locked his arms further. "You should just accept it and stick with me," he said. "I'll help you stay happy."

Marcello eased into his arms. "Well, I don't know how to make someone happy, so you'll come to regret it," he responded.

"As long as I'm with you, then you don't need to worry," said Zeiden.

"Don't say that so easily," he remarked.

"But it is easy," Zeiden countered with a smile.

Marcello skimmed his hand in Zeiden's hair. "Stop smiling so much or else you'll grow on me," said Marcello who was surprised himself that he had said that aloud.

Zeiden saw the darkness in those golden eyes. He didn't realize what happened before it was too late. Zeiden's eyes closed and he fell asleep.

With a pounding ache behind the temples of his forehead, Zeiden woke up frozen to the bone. He shifted off the massive bed and sat up straight. He looked around the empty room and realized from the city view, that this wasn't his bedroom at home. Frankly, Zeiden knew even without looking at the view that this wasn't his room, because the deep sensual prowess that surrounded him like a dangerous flame was indisputably, Marcello Tricomi.

Right, Zeiden thought. He was at Marcello's house. But why was he passed out and why was his head throbbing? he puzzled.

Zeiden got up and went to the only door that had to be the bathroom. He saw that his jacket was taken off, his hair was a mess and he looked tired too.

Zeiden ignored his headache. He shoved a hand through his hair before he stripped out of his clothes and freshened up in the guest bedroom. He never liked to linger in the shower for long, so he was quick to clean himself up for the day ahead.

Under the last spray of cold water, that took the soap off his back and the hangover from his eyes; all the memories from last night came crashing down.

Zeiden groaned. "Fuck," he sighed heavily.

Zeiden shut the water off and got out in a rush. He didn't even dry his hair properly as he put his clothes on from last night. He hurried out into the bedroom and remembered that this wasn't the guest room.

He froze in his tracks. Zeiden's heart pounded in his chest when he thought of the mere idea of sleeping on Marcello's bed. But a more pressing thought wreaked havoc in his head; where Marcello was right now? he questioned in panic.

Zeiden grabbed his jacket and ran out the room in a rush. But he didn't need to look long or go hunting for the man. Marcello was sitting on the stool near the kitchen's island drinking coffee.

Zeiden slumped his head. "I thought you left me," he spoke with relief.

Marcello looked up unimpressed. He didn't say anything expect sigh back at him.

"Isn't that why you got me drunk?" Zeiden walked closer. "So, you could leave without me."

Marcello put his cup down and got up to face him. "I didn't know you were a light drinker," he remarked.

Zeiden agreed. "I guess," he mumbled. "How'd I end up in your room?"

Marcello raised a brow and he straightened. Even bright and early in the morning, the man looked refreshed and alert. He wore a blood red suit with a silky black shirt no tie or vest. His blond hair was tousled and raked back, he made sure to keep it from falling into his eyes.

"You don't remember?" Marcello retorted.

"Not really," he said.

Marcello's cologne washed over Zeiden, the dense aroma of fire and ice caressed his body. "You stormed into my room and forced yourself on my bed," he revealed.

Zeiden gaped. "Er- really," he said.

Marcello tilted his head. "You made yourself quite comfortable," he chastised. Marcello stepped closer; too close. "You should be glad that I didn't take advantage on the impulses I was getting with having you all to myself, and in my bed too."

Zeiden stiffened at seeing the gravity in Marcello's cold stare. "It won't happen again," he said.

"If you know what's good for you, then do well to remember that," Marcello remarked, as he turned away to grab his phone off the table.

"I accidentally used your bathroom too," said Zeiden.

Marcello stifled a curse under a harsh breath and made his way out the house.

"Hold on, I'm coming with you," said Zeiden, as he ran after him.

"Not dressed like that," said Marcello.

Both of them got on the elevator when Zeiden looked down at his favourite pair of jeans and denim jacket. "What's wrong with what I'm wearing?" he asked. "This is a gang meet, not a date, Marcello."

They got to the lobby, where all his guards stood in a line to greet Marcello. Zeiden was a bit surprised but not foreign to this type of behaviour. Marcello was fast on his legs as he made it out and so did Zeiden.

A car waited for Marcello right outside.

"I won't be needing you today," said Marcello to the chauffeur.

"Yes, sir," the man opened the driver's seat.

Marcello turned and faced Zeiden first. "Get in," he said.

Zeiden got on the passenger side and buckled in like instructed. "Where are we going?" he asked Marcello. "It's a bit early to meet Bruno."

Marcello simply drove with speed down the streets. Before Zeiden knew it, he was inside a shopping mall's private division. Since it was early in the morning, the store was empty. Only the enthusiastic employees were ready to serve. And once they saw Marcello, they ran over immediately.

"Dress him from head to toe," instructed Marcello the three women. "I want everything from this season."

"Of course," the sales associates chimed and grabbed Zeiden forcefully.

During the outfits changes, all the girls and guys praised how everything looked so good on Zeiden. Be it a suit or leather jacket, to denim, to cashmere. Zeiden wasn't very eager to get praised, but he thought Marcello would give some sort of reaction, which he hadn't.

Marcello simply had taken a seat and waited until Zeiden walked out. He was dressed in a lavish Armani black suit with a black open-collared shirt and Italian leather shoes to match. Zeiden felt heavy from the suit and the eyes on him.

Marcello got up from the chair. He swept up a watch from the collection on the side, that he had eyed earlier. He approached Zeiden and put it on his wrist. They both stood facing each other.

"Perfect," said Marcello. "Now, you look like my boyfriend."

"And why would I need to look like that?" asked Zeiden.

"Bruno won't buy that you're my bodyguard," remarked Marcello.

Zeiden gaped. "Why not?" he astonished.

Marcello stepped closer into Zeiden's space. "You have too much of a pretty face," he remarked. Marcello's hand went down his wrist and grabbed Zeiden's hand. "Come on, let's go."

"Where are we going now?" asked Zeiden. "You keep grabbing my hand and dragging me everywhere. It's getting annoying, Marcello."

"I'm hungry," Marcello told him idly, but he still didn't let go of the hand.

Zeiden gave in.

Adrik was a bit weary as he waited for Isaiah to come to the living room. They were all discussing plans to stake out the nightclub where Marcello was going to meet Big B.

Apart from the Underworld nightclub, there were other establishments that mafia bosses loved to lay low and blow their cash. The most dangerous was the club Xeon; the place where even the police didn't venture into because once inside there was no way out. Only people looking for illegal drugs, prostitutes, weapons or even blood went to that club. If there was even the slightest chance of a fight there, it was bound to end in death for everyone involved. And Bruno spent his days off there all the time.

Adrik absolutely didn't like that Zeiden was going there all on his own, even if Marcello was with him.

"You look frightening," remarked Ronin. "What's got you scowling more than usual?"

Adrik looked towards Ronin who was in torn black jeans and a dark red flannel. He had rolled up the sleeves showing his tough forearms, that were brushed with pale scars, some tattoos and a wristwatch. Ronin's leather boots were heavy as they padded over to Adrik.

"Zeiden," said Adrik sternly.

Ronin's hazel eyes flickered with realization. "Don't worry about Zeiden," he said. "He's got it covered."

"Still," objected Adrik, "we never send one of our own without backup."

"That's true," added Ronin. "But Isaiah trusts Zeiden to get the job done. So, we should trust in that."

Adrik fully trusted Isaiah's intuition because that was what saved them from the hellhole years ago too. However, Adrik still couldn't get rid of that pit in his gut. Except, he didn't know if it was Zeiden's safety that made him nervous anymore. Maybe it had to do with Rosalie Lenoir now, he thought grimly.

"You two already here," Lazarus said, as he came down the stairs dressed in a crisp white shirt and jeans. His blond hair was left open to frame around his bulky shoulders.

"Where's Isaiah?" asked Ronin who took a seat on the arm of the couch.

"He's coming," replied Lazarus.

Adrik crossed his arms over his holster that was already strapped to his body. He didn't bother with dressing stylishly. Opting for a fitted black shirt, black cargo-pants and his thick leather boots, that were ready for the strain that his work caused on his body.

They may be only going as back-up, but Adrik was always prepared for a fight. Honestly, he was looking for a fight tonight. He was revved up with a thirst to break bones and spill blood, so he'd take any chance he could to get it. And club Xeon was the perfect place to kill some fuckers without guilt attached.

Strangely, his wolf who would have been thrilled to see some violence wasn't even looking forward to it. Adrik felt as if his wolf was distracted and on edge ever since yesterday's incident. His wolf didn't make a sound to torment Adrik like how he usual would either. Adrik's entire body had grown edgier since then and he knew that his wolf wasn't going to hold back from Rosalie Lenoir.

"No, I didn't," said Isaiah interrupting Adrik's thoughts. "I tried-" he walked down the stairs with the phone against his ear. "Talking to that man is impossible. I know. No. Alright, bye," he cut the phone and joined them.

"Who was that?" Ronin asked. They were all curious.

"Zero," said Isaiah as he faced them.

Lazarus crossed his arms. "Let me guess, she found out about our plan," he said.

Isaiah ran a hard hand through his dark hair. His smoky grey eyes grew stern. "And she's fucking pissed," he told them. "She told me to call the whole thing off."

All three of them stiffened.

"Why?" asked Adrik.

"Zero's not in town yet," said Isaiah. "She said that she doesn't want any of us getting in trouble when she's not here to save our asses."

Lazarus chuckled. "That sounds just like her," he remarked.

Isaiah loosened the tie around his neck. "She's also wants me to punch Marcello for doing this without her permission," he said. "Honestly, I've never seen her so mad before."

"You know Zero, she just gets worried about us," remarked Lazarus. "Which is a weird feeling."

Ronin snickered. "I can't believe she feels concerned about us," he added. "I mean we're not that reckless."

"Do you think Zero called Marcello yet?" Adrik asked Isaiah.

"No," he responded. "She called me first."

"Wow, she thinks you're more reasonable than Marcello," remarked Ronin. "We all know how hot-headed you are."

Isaiah raised a brow at his best friend. "I'm learning to stay calm with my temper," he added.

"Don't kid yourself," remarked Lazarus. "Zero's the only one that thinks you're reasonable. But we all know you're just as reckless as Marcello."

"Do you two want to take this outside?" challenged Isaiah.

Ronin laughed. "No, thank you," he held up his hands in truce like Lazarus.

"We also have another problem to handle," said Isaiah. He looked directly at Adrik. "We need to know if Rosalie Lenoir knows about the bond."

Adrik's gut sank. His heart quickened and the blood to his ears pumped hard enough for it to hurt.

"How are we going to figure that out?" asked Ronin.

"We can't walk up to her, that'll probably just scare her off," added Lazarus.

"I have an idea," said Isaiah. He looked down at his watch and then at them.

All the men left the living room and went to the library next to the playroom they had in the house. They added this cozy little nook in the house when Ashley was pregnant with Evelyn. The entire room was lined with books, the floor was padded for Evelyn to play safely and the rocking chair Ronin built was still here too. They went to their alpha-female who was reading a book near her daughter who was also reading.

Isaiah stood beside Ashley who was lounging on the couch. She was in a silk robe, that shined like her blonde hair, which laid behind her as it caught the light of the sun. She flipped the page every few minutes and was very well aware of their presence.

"Ash," Isaiah called out.

"Yes," Ashley flipped a page.

"We need your help," said Isaiah.

"Oh," her voice sounded as amused as her grin. "Is this about Adrik's mate?"

"Yeah," said Isaiah. "We need you to ask her if she knows about it."

Ashley closed the book and looked at them. "What do I get in return for doing this?" she asked playfully.

The three men looked at each other. "You get Isaiah," Lazarus nudged his brother forward voluntarily, like Isaiah was an honourable sacrifice to a deity.

Ashley scrunched her nose. "I already have him," she countered.

"We'll babysit Evelyn and you two can go on a date together," offered Ronin. "This time Lazarus won't stakeout on the date either."

"No, that's not up for negotiation," mumbled Lazarus making Ronin glare at the man.

"You'll babysit Evelyn regardless," said Ashley.

They were stumped now. At last, Isaiah bent forward and whispered something in her ear. Ashley's blue eyes grew with amusement and she beamed instantly. Ashley kissed his cheek before Isaiah moved away leaving the three men extremely curious.

"You know what clicks," Ashley said as chuckled at Isaiah. "Alright, let me discuss it with my accomplice first." She gathered her daughter in her arms. The girls whispered a few words before they turned to the men.

"We'll do it," Evelyn announced the verdict.

"And not because of the amazing offer Isaiah proposed," added Ashley. "But because we want Adrik's happily ever after too."

Ashley got up from the couch with her daughter to get dressed for the occasion.

Eventually, the four men also left the library and returned to the living room. It was almost three o'clock and all of them had skipped lunch today, since the day just happened to keep running without waiting for anyone.

"What'd you say to Ashley?" asked Adrik.

"Don't ask," mumbled Isaiah. He looked down at his watch. "Anyone contact Zeiden?"

"I did," said Lazarus. "He's having lunch with Marcello."

"Wow, they're getting along," remarked Ronin.

"That's Zeiden for you," said Isaiah. "The pup drives me crazy at times, but he knows how to get someone to lower their guard."

Lazarus grinned. "Is that pride I'm hearing?" he mocked.

"Shut up," grumbled Isaiah.

Adrik looked at his own watch. "We should head to club Xeon soon too," he said. "We've never been there before. So, we should survey the area before it gets too dark."

"Always about the mission," mumbled Ronin.

Isaiah nodded. "We need to track your mate first," he said.

"I pinged her cellphone and it seems luck is on our side," said Lazarus who was clicking away on his cellphone. "She's outside today and near fifth avenue."

"Ashley's favourite spot," said Isaiah.

"Did someone say fifth avenue?" Ashley asked as she came down the stairs dressed beautifully in a long white gown and her daughter dressed in a lavender frock and matching accessories.

"That's where Rosalie is right now," said Isaiah. "We'll drop you off at her location and then you just need to do your thing."

"You mean charm my way into finding out all her secrets," she grinned up at her mate.

"Yes," he replied stiffly.

Ashley kissed his lips. "You're no fun. Come on, boys. I'm waiting on you now," she said as she walked out of the house holding Evelyn's hand.

Adrik didn't know what Ashley was going to find out today. Some part of him wanted to stop all of them. But another deeper and eager part of him wanted Ashley to find out if Rosalie Lenoir knew about the bond. If not, then how come? Adrik needed to know this about his mate. He needed to know so he could ensure that he won't hurt her.

Adrik's wolf grew on high alert now. He had woken up and wasn't distracted anymore because he sensed the need in Adrik. Both of them were ready for whatever was coming their way. Well, that's what Adrik believed.

Honestly, he had no idea what his wolf was thinking half the time. The only time his wolf was transparent was when his bloodlust controlled his rational mind. Right now, Adrik couldn't tell if the bloodlust urged his wolf to be on high alert or if it was the mating bond that emerged out of him.

Fuck, Adrik cursed. This was harder than he thought.