Chapter 17

Nicolas sat at Chrissy’s side and refused to budge. The only time he did move was when Braedon dragged him to the kitchen to eat. He refused to believe Chrissy was lost to him, that she was still alive was a good sign but she hadn’t woken up yet and the fever was yet to hit.

Everyone feared the worst but he wouldn’t give up… he couldn’t. Nicolas was yet to hold his son and when prompted only shook his head stating he would do so when his mate woke up. Kasey and Jaz were both angry that Erica had taken the baby from them so quickly and even when Kasey tried pulling the Alpha with her she refused to bring Kyle to her.

Kasey could see it pained her to disobey demand but still she refused. Kasey snapped at her several times before Nicolas interceded telling her in no uncertain terms that this was what both he and Chrissy wanted. In the end he looked to Braedon and he ushered both his mate and his sister outside and away from Nicolas.

When her wounds had closed up Nicolas had the bed she’d given birth in taken away, he had the men burn it. He’d bathed then dressed Chrissy in a light night gown and put her in the bed they shared. There was no way he wanted her to wake up downstairs in the room that had been so full of blood and pain.

When the fever hit Nicolas wasn’t sure if he should take it as a good sign or not, he took care of Chrissy’s every need sponging her over to keep her cool and holding her so he could get a little water down her throat. Erica took care of Kyle and when he was asleep she helped Nicolas and gave him a break so Braedon could get him to eat or shower and change.

The fourth day hit and Nicolas was exhausted, he trusted no one to tend to Chrissy, truth be told he just didn’t want anyone near her so he pushed through exhaustion and watched over her. He wanted every moment he could have with her and ignored his son’s cries wishing only that his mate would wake up so they could both hold him.

He heard movement outside and low whines. He ignored it, he couldn’t be distracted in case Chrissy woke up and needed him. Finally Braedon came into the room, “Nick she’s healing and I believe her fever as started to break. Lay with her brother, rest and hold your mate. She’ll wake you when she needs you.”

Nicolas didn’t speak he nodded and as he stood and got on to the bed beside his mate Braedon pulled his boots off for him then closed the door as he left. Nicolas lay on his side and pulled Chrissy to him positioning her head on one arm and wrapping the other around her waist. For the first time since she went into labour he felt a semblance of peace. He closed his eyes and kissed the top of her head before drifting into sleep.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Early morning sun streamed in through the bedroom window and Chrissy tried to turn away from it. She was tired and didn’t want to wake up just yet. As she moved something hard wrapped around her and she opened her eyes to see Nicolas staring at her in surprise.

“Good morning,” she said and had to clear her throat. She sounded all croaky and before she could ask he was already reaching for a bottle of water on the bedside table. He opened it for her and held her as she sipped at it.

He put the lid on and placed it back on the table before sitting up properly and pulling her onto his lap. “Am I forgiven?”

It took her a minute to realise what for then she scowled. “You are in so much trouble Nicky! In fact I’d say it’s gonna take several lifetimes for you to make up for what you did.”

He grinned knowing this was her way of telling him she wasn’t pleased that he’d changed her but she’d deal with it. “I can live with that. How do you feel my little gem?”

Chrissy thought about it for a minute. “Actually I feel great, better than I can ever remember feeling. Is that normal?”

He laughed, “What is normal Chrissy?” they both laughed then suddenly Chrissy heard Wolves howling. First one then another then another until it sounded like a whole heap of them were howling just outside the window.

She looked at Nicolas and he smiled, “They have been out there since you went into labour, Christian, Eli, Nate and both Taylor and Leith. They won’t leave until they know your well.”

Chrissy moved to the edge of the bed and got up. Nicolas was there in an instant to make sure she was steady on her feet. They walked towards the balcony doors and he opened the door for her. She stepped out and was greeted by more howls and she laughed when she saw Taylor and Leith running around excitedly then she heard a baby cry.

“Kyle!” she turned going in search for her son and found Erica standing by his crib waiting for her.

“Welcome back Chrissy. I’ll see about some breakfast so you can get to know you son.”

Erica left Chrissy and Nicolas to themselves and it was with shaking hands that Chrissy lifted her son into her arms. Nicolas followed her to the comfortable rocker he’d bought so she’d be comfortable when nursing Kyle and knelt down in front of her.

“I think he’s hungry,” he looked up at her expectantly.

“Umm can I… I mean I don’t know if I can…”

“There’s only one way to find out little one.”

Chrissy carefully opened the buttons on the front of her night gown and moved Kyle so he was resting in front of her breast. Chrissy gasped when he latched on and began suckling. She looked at Nicolas, “It’s working Nicky I’m feeding him.”

Nicolas grinned seeing the excitement in her eyes and gave her a kiss on the forehead before coming to his feet. I should go speak to the men outside and I dare say Braedon will be here to see you shortly. Chrissy looked up at him and he knew she wanted to know about Kasey and Jaz.

“When Jaz gave Kyle the all clear she put him in your arms. When you felt like you were moving away from me you looked at Erica and gave her a nod. That’s when she came forward and took Kyle from you and left the room. Jaz was the only one to hold him and neither have set eyes on him since.”

He sighed and knew she needed to know everything. “Kasey even ordered Erica to bring the baby to her but she refused. Chrissy to refuse your Alpha can be painful but Erica still refused because she promised you she wouldn’t.”

Chrissy shook her head not knowing what to say to that then she thought about the guys outside. “Nicky can you please wait until I’ve finish feeding Kyle, that way we can go down together?”

“I think that’s a great idea it’s you they want to see.”

So once Chrissy had fed, changed and settled Kyle she had a quick shower, got dressed and both headed downstairs. Chrissy wasn’t surprised to see the front door open and all Kyle’s Uncles including Braedon and Jacob waiting to see her. She ran down the steps and was encircled by everyone all trying to hold her at the same time.

She laughed and kissed so many cheeks she’d forgotten who she had kissed. Erica stepped out of the doorway. “Breakfast is ready and there’s enough for everyone.”

Everyone filed inside and Chrissy was thankful for such a big kitchen table. They all waited until Chrissy and Erica had her meal in front of them before they touched their own food. Chrissy couldn’t help but notice each person sneaking looks to make sure she was really there.

Chrissy caught Braedon’s eye and felt her face flush, she knew she’d have to speak with him soon about Kasey and Jaz but for today she just wanted to enjoy being alive. She looked around the table and felt at peace. For the first time Chrissy felt she belonged somewhere and with someone. The food was good and Chrissy ate everything Erica had put on her plate.

Taylor and Leith helped Erica clear the breakfast things then as they sat around the table Chrissy couldn’t help but grin at the excitement in all their eyes. She turned to the staircase just before they heard Kyle cry and wanted to run upstairs to get him but saw Taylor’s excitement rise.

“Taylor how would you like to go get your nephew for me?” His jaw about hit the floor at what she’d said but he nodded and moved towards the stairs.

Nicolas looked at her a brow raised, “If he’s gonna be Kyle’s Uncle he needs to learn how to take care of him,” then she looked at Leith, “are you still up for it?”

He nodded vigorously as did everyone else at the table when she looked at them. When Taylor sat back down with Kyle in his arms he had a look of awe on his face. Chrissy nudged Nicolas with her elbow. It’s time to introduce our son Nicky.

Nicolas cleared his throat to get everyone’s attention, “I’d like to officially introduce you all to our son Kyle Christian Elijah Nathanial Romanoff. We considered you all to be Kyle’s Uncles as Erica will be his Aunt.”

Erica gasped, gave them both a hug then blushed at what she’d done. “You’re family Erica; you kept me going these past days and took care of our son until we were able to. As far as Chrissy and I are concerned you will always have a home here. We’d like you to stay on with us, that is, unless you wish to leave?”

Erica burst into tears and Nicolas wasn’t sure what to do, Chrissy got up and gave her a hug “Let’s go make some tea and let the guys bond.” She heard Jacob sigh, “don’t worry Jake I think we have coffee too.” all in all it had been a good morning and Chrissy felt blessed to have such wonderful people around her.

For the next few days Chrissy and Nicolas stayed close to home enjoying their time together with Kyle. Chrissy relaxed into her role as a mate and mother and had either Nicolas or Erica to speak to if she was unsure of herself or had any questions. She also had a steady stream of Uncle’s drop by to a visit and to get to know their nephew.

Chrissy was getting curious about shifting and wondered when it would happen and what her Wolf would look like. She wanted to ask Nicolas but even though she was curious and somewhat excited she was also a lot scared so let the matter rest.

Kyle was almost two weeks old when she sensed Kasey approaching her home. She turned to Erica, “Please take Kyle upstairs and stay with him until I call you.” Erica nodded and quietly took Kyle up to the nursery and sat rocking him until he fell asleep.

Chrissy stood quietly taking deep breathes to calm herself before she went to the front door. She opened it before Kasey got close enough to walk up the front steps to the porch. Chrissy crossed her arms in front of her and waited for Kasey to speak.

“Hi Chrissy, Brae told me you were doing well. I wanted to see for myself, you look good.” She smiled hoping her friend would be responsive.

“What do you want Kasey?”

Kasey sighed, “I miss you Chrissy I want us to be friends again.”

Chrissy saw tears in her eyes but remained silent. Kasey might have missed her but she had a feeling there was more to it than her wanting to renew their friendship. She looked over Kasey’s shoulder as saw Jaz approaching and without thought a low growl escaped her.

Kasey jumped slightly; she’d been hoping Chrissy wouldn’t still be so angry with her. When Jaz came level with her Kasey spoke again. “Chrissy your son is almost two weeks old. The Pack wishes him to be presented to them. It’s a traditional ceremony where the baby is presented to the Alpha’s and accepted into the Pack.”

Chrissy glared at them both and growled again even louder before turning on her heel, walking through the front door and slamming it behind her without saying a word. She walked straight through to the kitchen and sat at the table trying to calm herself.

She sat there for a good five minutes before realising someone was knocking on the front door. She got up and stormed to the door yanking it open ready to tell whoever it was where to go. She stopped short when she saw who it was.

“Elena!” she gave the woman a hug and invited her inside calling out to Erica as she did so. They sat and drank tea while they chatted. Chrissy hadn’t realised how much she’d missed her. When they’d caught up Chrissy looked at both women curiously.

“Kasey and Jaz were just here. Kasey said she missed me and wanted to be my friend again.” She sighed and ran a hand through her hair, “Then she told me I’m supposed to present Kyle to the ‘Alpha’s’ in front of the everyone so he can be accepted into the Pack.” She shook her head not knowing what else to say.

Elena touched Chrissy’s hand and gave it a squeeze, “What did you say to her?”

Chrissy laughed, “I didn’t say anything! I growled at them both and came back inside and slammed the door.” She saw the looks on their faces, “What?”

“They will be back Chrissy. The welcoming ceremony is traditional and usually done within the first two weeks of birth.”

“Not if I have any say in it! I told Braedon I would never be Pack and that goes for my son as well. Elena would you like to help Erica with Kyle until I get back. I need to go have a word with my husband?”

Chrissy left them to watch over her son as she made her way towards the training centre, but he wasn’t there so she went to the building next door to check his office. Again he wasn’t there and ran into Eli on her way out.

“Where is he Eli?”

Eli knew when Chrissy was upset or angry and also knew better than to try and pacify her. He nodded his head towards the main house and raised a brow when she audibly growled. She stormed off towards the main house with Eli a few steps behind her.

When Chrissy got to the house she didn’t even pause, she walked straight in making a b-line for Braedon’s office. She heard voices and growled when she realised they were talking about her. She came to a halt just inside the door and everyone turned towards her.

Chrissy looked at each person there, Braedon, Jacob, Kasey and Nicolas; her hands came to her hips but before she could say anything Jacob moved forward and gave her a hug. “Chrissy it’s good to see you up and about. Come sit and visit for a…”

She growled again and he pulled back. “Sorry Jake but I’m not here for a social visit,” she turned to Braedon and nodded, then turned back to Nicolas completely ignoring Kasey. “If you’re done here we need to talk.”

Kasey moved towards her then, “Chrissy its good you’re here…”

Chrissy snapped her head around and glared at her. She didn’t say a word, didn’t need too. The look she gave her said it all and Kasey teared up but remained silent. Chrissy turned back to Nicolas, “I’ll wait for you outside.” Then she left without another word.

Kasey burst into tears and Braedon did his best to comfort her. He turned to Nicolas; “Speak to your mate we need to sort this out as soon as possible.”

Nicolas nodded and left going after his little mate only to find her leaning into Eli and him holding her and trying to calm her. Eli looked at him at a loss and Nicolas moved towards them pulling Chrissy into his arms. Eli looked relieved and moved back towards the training centre giving them privacy.

Nicolas held Chrissy and kissed the top of her head then waited until she was ready to speak. “They came to the house earlier, Kasey and Jaz. Kase said she wanted us to be friends again and I almost believed her.” She wiped tears from her eyes before she went on, “then she told me I’m supposed to present Kyle to both Alpha’s so he can be accepted into the Pack… like I don’t have a choice… like I don’t have a say in my own son’s life!” then she burst into tears again.

Nicolas could do nothing else but hold her and wait until she stopped crying then he led her towards home. When they arrived Erica sensed they needed some time alone and left with Elena saying she’d be gone for an hour or so.

Chrissy checked on Kyle then came back down to the living room and sat next to Nicolas. She looked up at him questioningly and waited, “Kasey had no right to come to the house and neither did Jaz. But they are right; the ceremony is performed within the first two weeks of birth.”

Chrissy was shaking her head and Nicolas knew he would have a difficult time convincing her to let the ceremony happen. He took her hand in his, “Kyle needs to be affiliated with a Pack, he needs to be accepted and…”

Chrissy got to her feet; “I don’t have a choice do I?” she began pacing the room not daring to look at him. She was close to tears again and didn’t want to see the look of pity he’d have for her.

A thought came to her and she stopped and turned to Nicolas. “Braedon promised me Kasey would have nothing to do with Kyle. I’m not Pack either Nicolas and I’ll be damned if I ever will be if it means she gets to lord it over me or my son!” she watched as a pained look ran across his face.

“He made me a promise Nicky and he’s damned well gonna keep it!”

Nicolas took a deep breath before speaking, “Chrissy you and Kasey have been friends for a long time don’t you think it’s time to mend old wounds? I thought you would have missed her by now, that you’d be happy she came to you.”

Chrissy came to a halt and glared at her mate, “Son-of-a-bitch! You knew she was gonna come here today didn’t you? Didn’t you!”

“Chrissy listen to me please. This feud can’t go on; Kasey is our Alpha my brother’s… your brother-in-laws mate. It’s not healthy for either of you and it’s not doing the Pack any good either.”

She folded her hands across her chest and looked at him and expression of utter shock on her face. “You expect me to forgive them for what they did to me… to us!” It wasn’t a question it was a statement and as she saw that that was exactly what he wanted she stepped away from him shaking her head.

Nicolas came to his feet and moved towards her, he needed her to understand the situation was no longer just about her, it was about the entire Pack. He saw the anger in her eyes but didn’t see her hand move until just before it connected with his face.

“He’s my son Nicolas and after what they did they don’t deserve to have any part in his life! If you can’t support me then maybe you’d better pack a bag and move back in with your men.”

He was shocked, not just at her words but that she’d hit him. What’s more he had to agree with her, he should be supporting her not trying to change her mind. He didn’t speak, he didn’t know what to say to her and when she turned and went up stairs to sit in the nursery with their son he sat back down and felt like a right bastard!

Chrissy didn’t come back down that night she slept in the chair in the nursery not wanting to be too far away from Kyle. He was hers and she’d be damned if she’d give anyone the right to tell him what to do.

She dosed off and on throughout the night and Nicolas left her alone only coming as far as the doorway to make sure they were both alright. He’d try and talk to her again in the morning, but as he put his head down that night he tossed and turned finally giving up on sleep in the early hours of the morning.

He heard Chrissy moving around in the nursery more than likely getting ready to feed Kyle. He made some tea and took a cup up for her placing it on the table next to her. “Is there anything else I can get you?” she shook her head no and wiped at a stray tear.

“Chrissy…”

“I want to speak with Braedon; it’ll be official so I’m assuming it will need to be at the main house. Later in the morning after I’ve fed Kyle and settled him would be best, so about nine o’clock if he can manage it.”

“I’ll see to it,” he reached over to kiss her cheek but when he felt her tense up he moved away from her and left the room.

He stopped short in the hallway when he heard his little mate try to stifle a sob. He needed to fix this, Kyle needed to be presented to the Pack he wouldn’t be accepted otherwise. Braedon had made it clear to him that he wanted things settled between both their mates and expected him to convince Chrissy to forgive Kasey and Jaz for what had happened.

He knew his little mate; she would not bow to anyone’s wishes not when she believed she was right. Nicolas sighed and continued down to the kitchen where he sat staring into his tea and trying to figure out how he could sort things out.

When Chrissy finally came down stairs she spoke with Erica letting her know that they would be attending a meeting at the main house and that she would be back as soon as possible. Erica could see the worry on Chrissy’s face and gave her arm a squeeze to show support.

Chrissy sat down at the table and let Erica serve up breakfast. Nicolas was already there staring into a mug of coffee. Although she wanted to tell him what she had in mind she was still upset that he’d tried to talk her around because of the ceremony.

When they’d finished breakfast Chrissy stood and moved away from the table before turning to Nicolas. “I’ll be ready in a few minutes I just need to check on Kyle then we can go.”

“Chrissy don’t you think you should tell me what you’re thinking? I mean if I go into the meeting not knowing, how am I going to defend you?”

Chrissy shook her head and looked him in the eye, “The same way you defended me to both ‘your’ Alpha’s yesterday!” then she turned on her heel and ran quickly up stairs to the nursery.

Nicolas had the good grace to wince at her words then he waited for his mate so they could go speak with his brother together. He had no idea what Chrissy was up too but he did know he would support her this time no matter what.

Ten minutes later Chrissy was ready to leave, they left the house in silence and it was killing Nicolas. “Chrissy I didn’t know that they were going to the house yesterday, if I did I’d have stopped them. Kasey should have known better. I’m guessing she was hoping you’d be okay with them both by now so I wouldn’t get angry with them.  I’m sorry Chrissy I should have been more supportive of you and not tried to make you…” he sighed, “I’m sorry.”

Chrissy stopped and turned to him, “If you really are sorry then support me today, go with what I say and don’t back down.” She turned and started walking again and Nicolas knew she wasn’t going to fill him in on what she was up about to do.

When they got to the main house Nicolas reached out his hand to her and was relieved beyond belief that she took it. They walked inside together as they should do and he couldn’t help but pull her a little closer to him. That she didn’t pull away from him relieved some of the stress he’d been feeling since the previous day.

Braedon was sitting at his desk when they entered his office. Nicolas could feel Chrissy tense up not in fear but at the fact she had to face off with a man she had always respected. They came to a halt in the middle of the room and waited. Jacob was sitting on one of the couches to the right of where they stood and Chrissy gripped her mates hand a little tighter when she sensed both Kasey and Jaz enter the room behind them.

Kasey came to stand at the side of Braedon’s desk and Jaz opted to sit beside Jacob. Everyone waited for Braedon to speak and when he stood he looked to his brother then to Chrissy. He wore the look of an Alpha in his eyes and Chrissy knew this would not be like talking to her friend. This was the Pack Alpha in front of her, a man who would do whatever he had to for the good of the Pack. She took a steadying breath and waited.

“You requested an official meeting and as such you will show respect to those positioned above you.” He nodded for her to respond.

“Good morning Braedon,” Chrissy spoke as calm as possible. “I’ll show whatever respect is accorded you, but this meeting is about your mate, your sister and you’re Pack. I can’t in good faith promise to do the same with them.” He growled low and deep expecting that she’d cower and retract what she’d said.

Chrissy rolled her eyes and put her hands on her hips. “Okay let’s cut to the chase. You pretty much demanded that Nicolas force me to forgive and forget what your mate and your sister did to me and my family.”

She looked from Jaz to Kasey then back to Braedon. “Not gonna happen! I’m not Pack Braedon and if you remember correctly you told me I’d never need to be. You’re the Pack Alpha and as such an honourable man… a trustworthy man, a man of your word. Am I right?”

She waited for him to reply and when he nodded she continued, “You promised me that neither your mate nor your sister would have anything to do with my son unless I gave permission. I’m holding you to that promise.”

Chrissy waited for him to explode especially when she heard Kasey gasp at her words but he remained silent as did Nicolas. “Nicolas is concerned about our son not being accepted into the Pack if I don’t allow this welcoming ceremony to take place. I know what it’s like to feel like you don’t belong and if this is to be my son’s home he needs to feel that the Pack want him here. That he belongs.” She stopped and looked him in the eye.

Braedon sighed knowing this wasn’t going to be easy, “What do you have in mind Chrissy?”

“I think the ceremony should take place for both Nicolas and Kyle’s sake but I don’t want anyone there that’s treated me like a pariah. I don’t want anyone there who’s said or done anything to hurt any of my family.

Like I said Braedon I’m not Pack and probably never will be considering most of your Pack made me feel unwelcomed, ungrateful and like my life wasn’t worth anything more than to bring a possible heir to the Pack. So if you want my son welcomed into your Pack that’s the only way it’s gonna happen.”

“Chrissy I’m not sure that’s possible? How would I even know who…” he stopped short when he saw Chrissy turn to look at Kasey.

“What?” said Kasey and Chrissy turned back to Braedon waiting for him to speak, “Brae?” Kasey asked questioningly.

Braedon sighed and glared at his brother. Nicolas pulled Chrissy to his side and glared back letting his brother know he would support his mate. “I can’t ostracise most of the Pack Chrissy, they’ll all want to know what’s going on and why they weren’t allowed to participate in a ceremony that all the Pack is supposed to attend.”

“Then tell them! Tell them why I don’t want them there and how I’ll never trust any of them with my son.”

Kasey turned to Chrissy, “You can’t expect me to search everyone’s mind to see…” Chrissy glared at her, “but I can’t it would be an invasion of their privacy, I have no right to do that to them.”

“And yet you had the right to withhold information that may well have saved my life… my human life?” Chrissy shook her head and laughed, “I keep forgetting Kasey, a human life has little value to a Were!” she could see that both Kasey and Jaz were close to tears and as much as she still hurt because of what they’d done to her she felt bad for them.

“The only other way would be for me to show them, to let them see and feel what they did to me.” She saw Kasey grimace, “don’t worry Kasey I won’t show them anything that might incriminate you or Jaz.” She turned back to Braedon.

“Your Pack thought so little of me when I was human that they believed it was acceptable behaviour to treat me the way they did. I want them to know what their words and their actions did to me. I want them to know that there will never be peace between any of us because they saw me as nothing more than a means to an end.

I can probably count on one hand the people who were truly concerned about me and not what I could do for the Pack.” She took a breath, “Kasey and Jaz can attend the ceremony but they are not to have any physical contact with my son. In fact only those I trust will get close enough to touch him.”

Chrissy looked up at Nicolas she’d said her peace but wasn’t sure how he’d taken it. He saw the vulnerability in her eyes and pulled her closer kissing her on the top of her head before looking up to his brother… his Alpha.

“I support my mate in everything she’s said brother. If our Pack can’t accept my mate for who she is then I will find one that will.”

Braedon could feel the blood drain from his face; he couldn’t believe what he’d heard, he couldn’t believe that his brother would actually leave the Pack. When he finally found his voice Nicolas and Chrissy had turned to leave. “Nick…”

“Let me know when you’ve made a decision brother.”

Jaz got to her feet then needing to do or say something, “Chrissy you need to open your mind to the Pack so they can see you, feel you. You need to stop blocking them from you so you can see that they accept you.”

Chrissy stopped in her tracks and turning to Jaz moved a step away from her mate. “I haven’t blocked my mind from those I trust Jaz and never will. As for accepting me, if I wasn’t good enough for them as a human what the hell makes you think I’d ever be good enough for them now?

I might physically be a Were but in every way that counts I’m still human. I still think the same way I did before and I’ll be doing everything I can to make sure that doesn’t change. This isn’t about them Jaz, it’s about me and my family! My suddenly being able to go Wolf doesn’t change a damned thing.”

Chrissy looked at Jaz and Kasey sadly. “Neither of you understood that being human is who I was what I chose but then nothing I wanted mattered did it.” she turned back to Nicolas not giving them a chance to answer and let him lead her out of the office through the house and back to their home. Leaving a room full of stunned Were’s behind them.

Jacob let out a huge sigh, “Chrissy is most certainly a force to be reckoned with… human or not.”

Braedon glared at him; “You’re not helping matters Jake!” he turned to his mate and his sister a stern look on his face. “She’s right, she was treated badly by the Pack and worse by those she both loved and trusted. What the hell were you both thinking not telling them what was happening with her pregnancy!”

He turned away from them and started pacing trying to come up with some way of fixing the mess these two women had created. Jacob cleared his throat and Braedon turned to him, “Can she do it, is it possible for her to make them all see what they did to her?”

“It’s possible,” began Kasey. “She wouldn’t have been strong enough when she was human but now with her Were abilities yes I think she can do it.”

“Will she be able to do this without involving the young ones?” Braedon looked at his mate hopefully.

Kasey sighed. “She’s got a strong will Brae, I’m fairly sure she could do just about whatever she put her mind to now.”

“Very well,” Braedon nodded then left needing some time alone.

It wasn’t often he needed time away from his mate but things had become somewhat stressful and he needed a clear head. When he left the house he jogged to the bush bordering the Compound and stripping down he stowed his clothes and shifted. He’d run, it always helped when he had a problem and this was a problem that was effecting the entire Pack.

Braedon was gone for several hours and when he returned it was to his brother’s home he went not his own. He knocked on the door and Erica answered ushering him into the living room where Chrissy and Nicolas were sitting with Kyle.

“I’ll make some tea, or would you prefer coffee?” asked Erica.

“Tea is fine Erica,” said Nicolas and she nodded and left the room.

Nicolas nodded to the couch indicating that his brother should take a seat and he did so. Braedon’s eyes were immediately drawn to Chrissy and the baby a smile played on his lips and Nicolas had to suppress a smile of his own just watching him.

“Have you come to a decision Brae?”

Chrissy saw the look of awe on her brother-in-laws face and got to her feet moving forward so she could hand Kyle to his Uncle. Braedon’s entire persona shifted gone was the stress and the worry about Pack and the mess that he was now trying to deal with. He was smiling and unbelievably talking baby talk to his nephew. Nicolas waited a few minutes before asking him again and this time Braedon settled Kyle in his arms and spoke.

“First of all I’d like to apologise to you both for what’s happened since Chrissy arrived here.” He looked towards Chrissy, “I had thought… hoped that you would settle into life here with little difficulty. I was wrong to assume this and we now know how well assumptions can turn out.

Chrissy we are who we are and as you have often said we are arrogant and believe our way is the right way. The Pack had no right to treat you the way they did, they had no right to try and guilt you into being with Nicolas.” He sighed and looked down at Kyle for a moment as if the baby was calming him.

“I can’t excuse Kasey and Jaz for what they did to you Chrissy… to your family. You’re right we took a great deal from you and in the end those you should have trusted most took what little choice you had left. They were wrong to do so and know exactly how I feel about it, as do the Elders that convinced them they were doing the right thing.”

Braedon looked at his brother then back to Chrissy, “There was a time long past when Were’s intermingled with both Fey and humans. You and Kasey are the first humans that I know of to mate with a Were in several lifetimes. We have kept to our own as have the Fey for the most part. We’ve hidden our true-selves from humans to protect us as well as them.

I now believe that many more of our kind may well find their mate amongst Other Peoples. We are but the first of many little one and we must pave the way and,” he sighed and shook his head sadly, “work out the kinks so we don’t screw things up too badly for the next couple that find each other.”

Chrissy leaned into Nicolas but remained silent. “What do you have in mind Brae, because if we are as you say to pave the way it better be damned good?”

Braedon nodded, “I agree Nick and I’ve been thinking that perhaps we are a little too full of ourselves. Mayhap it’s about time we saw and felt things from someone else’s perspective. Tonight when everyone is asleep,” he spoke to Chrissy, “you and Kasey will work together to help the Pack experience what they put you through.”

“Do you think that’s wise brother?”

“Wise or not Nick it’s what’s needed. If we can’t see, if we can’t learn from the mistakes we are making now what hope do other couples have, especially if it is a mixed mating.”

“How?” Chrissy asked.

“Kasey will send you as much of her Fey energy as you need to push out your memories to those who need them.” He saw her lower lip quiver, “yes both Kasey and Jaz will also experience what you send out. You will need to be careful not to focus on the young ones and only target anyone over the age of fourteen.

Tonight Kasey will give you a nudge to let you know when the Pack is asleep. Kyle’s Uncles will be watching the boundaries, so they won’t be affected by what you do. Besides I believe they already know, at least to an extent. You trust wisely little one, each of these men stood by you and wanted only what was best for you even your two young friends.”

“I’m gonna have to speak with her aren’t I… Kasey?”

“It would be easier if you did little one.” He looked over to his brother, “Chrissy will need you there both as support and so she can draw what she needs from you.”

Nicolas nodded, “Let me know when, I’m thinking we should meet in the open area in front of the main house. It’s a neutral area and I’m thinking they will both need to feel a semblance of control or at least see each other as equals.”

Nicolas sat forward to speak plainly to his brother. “Brae there is one thing you need to understand about Chrissy, she may accept you as the Pack Alpha but she will never accept Kasey as anything but her equal. If both of you are unable to accept that then there’s no sense in continuing with this discussing.”

Braedon looked at Chrissy and waited. “I’ll behave as I’m supposed to in front of others and I won’t be disrespect to her,” then she looked Braedon square in the eye. “If she starts pulling the Alpha with me or telling me what to do I’m likely to lose it and that’ll be on her because I won’t be beneath her not now, not ever.”

Both Braedon and Nicolas looked at each other realisation suddenly taking hold. Chrissy noticed their reaction and wasn’t sure if it was good or not. “So is one of you gonna tell me what you’re both thinking?”

“We will little one but for the moment I feel we should focus on what needs to be done. You do realise it’s all but killing Kasey and Jaz not being able to spend time with my nephew.” He smiled then and both Chrissy and Nicolas realised that Braedon looked at this as punishment for what they’d done.

Nicolas looked at his brother before he spoke. “Chrissy I believe you letting the Pack see and feel your memories will be beneficial to us all. Once that’s done and you’ve rested we will speak with the Braedon about other matters.”

Chrissy knew something was up but let it go, she bigger fish to fry. She looked at Braedon holding her son like he was born to it. She smiled knowing that he would make a wonderful father.

“You’re gonna be a good Uncle and some day an even better father.” She stood and move to him holding out her arms for her son. Braedon didn’t want to give him up but handed him over.

Chrissy bend down and gave Braedon a kiss on the cheek before moving towards the doorway. She turned for a moment to speak to Braedon. “I don’t think I’ll need Kasey to be with me so we can do it here, I’ll be more relaxed in my own home. I can pull on Kasey’s strength if I need to but I won’t need to physically be with her.”

Braedon nodded and she left the room heading upstairs to put Kyle into his crib. She sat and watched quietly as her son slept. She would do whatever she had to do to make sure Kyle was safe and well and had a firm sense of belonging to the Pack.

Belonging, she thought to herself, it was something she’d never truly had before she’d met Maree, Henry and Kasey. Now though she wasn’t sure she belonged anywhere least of all here with the Pack.  She leaned back and rested her head against the back of the chair closing her eyes for a moment. She wasn’t sure if she was strong enough to connect with the entire Pack, at least those of them that she needed to connect with.

Chrissy sighed and let her mind wonder outside of herself, she felt those in the house and smiled softy then pushed out a little more and felt others. She concentrated on each person and was able to figure out who they were, she was also able to sense their moods and felt sadness just below the surface of each of them.

Chrissy couldn’t help but want to reach out to each one of them and as she touched them with her mind she felt some of the sadness lift. She wasn’t sure if they realised it or not but it helped her to realise that whether or not she could, she needed to touch each person and let them both see and know her.

The rest of the day went by quietly, Nicolas left soon after Braedon to meet with his men and oversee several of the juvenile training sessions. A few of them were becoming proficient enough to consider moving to the next level. Nicolas would soon need to begin testing their abilities to determine who among them was ready.

That night after dinner both Chrissy and Nicolas rested for a while, he wasn’t tired but knew that Chrissy would need her strength for what was to come. He also needed her to be calm and centred otherwise she might have difficulty connecting with the Pack and projecting her memories.

As she lay beside her mate Chrissy reached up and touched his cheek. “I’m sorry I hit you Nicky.” He kissed her hand and surrounded her with as much love as he could then settled down closer to her so she’d slip into sleep.

It was about ten thirty when Braedon contacted Nicolas to let him know that it was time. Chrissy had a quiet word with Erica and left her to watch over Kyle. She made her way down stairs and found Nicolas waiting for her at the foot of them.

“I’ve made a space in the living room so we can sit comfortably on the floor.” He put his arm around her leading her to the living room and she smiled softly when she saw what he’d done.

Chrissy walked into the room then turned to her husband… her mate, “This is lovely Nicky thank you.” She looked again at the living room floor and the cushions and quilts placed in the middle of the room. Braedon had scattered tea light candles around the room giving them just enough light. Her mate had done his best to ensure her comfort and it touched her heart that he had done so. She wiped a tear from her eye before turning back to him.

“Okay,” she said and sat down in the middle of the quilts.

Chrissy looked up at her mate and nodded. He sat behind her stretching his legs out either side of her and pulling her against him. He would keep her safe, keep her grounded and he would be there to give whatever comfort was needed when she was done.

Chrissy rested against Nicolas for a moment before sitting up straight and crossing her legs. “Okay Nicky let’s do this.”

Chrissy closed her eyes and concentrated on her breathing, nice and slow, deep and long. When she was completely calm she pushed her mind outside their home in search of the Pack. It didn’t take long for her to find them all. It surprised her that it was on mass, she’d assumed she would have to find each person individually but this made it easier and she smiled softly.

Nicolas remained silent; he seemed to know that his being there was enough for now. He was keeping his mate grounded, keeping her safe and that kept his Wolf calm. He knew when Chrissy had connected with everyone, he was in her mind and both saw and felt what she was doing. It amazed him that she was capable of sharing her memories with him and was awed that she was willing to do so with the entire Pack.

He knew Chrissy was doing this in the hopes that the Pack would experience some of what had happened to her. She also hoped that the Pack would see how wrong they’d been in the way they treated her. But what Chrissy hadn’t realised was that in touching their minds she was truly opening herself up to the Pack and this was something she’d sworn she’d never do.

It didn’t take long and it was far easier to project the memories into everyone’s mind than she’d thought. Because they were sleeping the Pack would see Chrissy’s memories as dreams, how they perceived them would be up to the individual. Chrissy spent a little more time than was necessary making sure each Pack member was alright and calming them into a peaceful sleep.

When she was finished Chrissy leaned back against her mate and relaxed into his warmth. Nicolas pulled her closer to him, there was no need for words they were together in each other’s arms and that was all they needed.

They stayed that way for several minutes before Nicolas got to his feet and lifted his mate into his arms. He carried her up to bed and held her watching his little mate until she fell into a deep restful sleep, only then did he put his head down and let sleep take him.