#string alignment kit

[anndywood]

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[slaygentford]

the diff between the 98 cabaret revival and the current cabaret revival really simply is the positioning of the emcee in relation to the rise of fascism, like yeah alan cumming's emcee is raunchy and has a real personality and eddie redmayne's emcee is essentially "just" a clown... those are just symptoms of the bigger actual shift which is that alan cumming's emcee is a victim of the holocaust by the end, representing the queer cabaret-goers, whereas eddie redmayne's emcee is more of a representation of the trajectory of the city itself... right like he starts as a clown and then as the political situation worsens he turns into an increasingly freaky clown until he takes off all of his makeup and costumes and even his wig and thats when we find out hes been blond-haired and blue-eyed all along. and then by the end of course he's in a perfect brown suit and so is everyone else who stays in the city, including sally. so in a lot of ways the 98 revival focuses on the tragedy of the oppressed whereas eddie redmayneret is about the complicity of those who, unlike cliff, make the choice to stay. which is extra interesting bc cliff in this new production is Black, which makes so many of sally's decisions esp staying in berlin very starkly about her whiteness. she has a choice and she makes it. the emcee and sally are always one creature more or less, but I've never seen a production of it before where sally is such an active character and so actively like the emcee. the Kit Kat club is of course hotel california but she is also literally handed a ticket to leave to paris with no strings and yet… the emcee is a malevolent force trapping her but he’s also a reflection of her and they are two heads of the same creature, aligned as they always are in all productions but this time in a very evil way — Sally takes off her wig and is blonde too. the emcee is ALWAYS a cosmic force and not a human and this is the most uncharacter nonhuman version of him yet, and it’s so fucking freaky when sally accesses that/mimics his movements/makes the active choice to remain “apolitical.” and I think that’s why this show is getting such a response is because it’s saying very starkly if you are white then which side are you on? anyway. Stream Eddie redmayneret

[glouris]

wuwa characters receiving variants in the future is a real thing and it can hurt you (maybe)

the elemental system we have with havoc, spectro, aero and all the other attributes can be flexible. characters resonate with frequencies of a phenomenon/object that can be distinguished by an elemental attribute, but cannot always be bound by it completely. there might already have been a couple cases of someone exhibiting signs of a second attribute.

for example, when jiyan summons the spear in his trailer there is a lightning effect around his hand, followed by the sound of electricity cracking. 

this might be a visual representation of sound waves reverberating, or it might just be an artistic choice. but if the source of jiyan’s resonance is, say, the storm, then he can be assigned both the aero and electro attributes - hence the lightning around his hand.

but the biggest offenders for a possible double-attribute deal would be aalto and the mourning aix, walk with me.

during the ‘stygian lacrimosa’ world quest (spoilers for it right ahead btw) there is a moment when they let us control an echo of the second aix. while the two aixes fight, something weird is happening: the aix you control clearly has spectro attacks, but ui for it’s abilities is green, as if it’s attribute is supposed to be aero; while the other aix, the one we fight for ascension materials and know as a spectro-aligned creature has distinct aero attacks. 

I have two speculations for what’s happening here:

1. kuro might have mixed up the attacks of two aixes, the one we control was supposed to be aero, and the other one was supposed to be left as spectro. 

2. mourning aix was shown to be able to cover areas in fog earlier in the quest, so these aix TDs might be mimicking the frequencies of fog, which is a common phenomenon in the area they inhabit. 

fog is formed when cold air meets warm air, condensation happens, tiny water drops form and get suspended - aero connection. but then, the water droplets in the fog stop and scatter light in all directions, which limits visibility - spectro connection. so, creatures that mimic or resonate with frequencies of fog could have both aero and spectro attributes, which is why the aixes have both aero and spectro attacks. 

that sends us right to aalto, who resonates with fog. some parts of his kit already have things that might be spectro-looking: the avatar he conjures kind of looks like a prism, the mist bullets he gets from his skill and forte circuit form an attack similar to one of mournig aix's. those attacks of theirs are in turn similar in pattern to some light scattering diagrams.

fun fact, Rayleigh scattering is an optical phenomenon that is behind the sky being blue, and you can find a courier in the whining aix’s mire that will ask you that exact question, ‘why is the sky blue?’. then again, the court of savantae, where we spend most of our time with aalto, is also there. 

to finish the string of weird coincidences, resonance reports of both jiyan and aalto stand out too. aalto’s has statements that are loose, imprecise: 

“Further tests conducted to ascertain the properties of the mist he conjures yielded inconclusive results” accompanied by “As stated in the report, this resonator is cunning and a master of disguises, thus rendering the credibility of his recounts questionable”; his report has no overclock history cause bro just ?? left ??

it’s not established what jiyan resonates with (will probably be addressed later): “Jiyan's Resonance Spectrum Pattern shows no resemblance to known samples'';  then there’s this statement in his overclock diagnostic report: “there are two distinct waveforms identified, each with exceptionally high peak values”. there are characters that can create or summon creatures with their forte, and jiyan is still the only one to have a second waveform, so it’s not because of qingloong. 

my point is, kuro definitely has wiggle room if they wanted to make a character variant. until further notice, jiyan and aalto would be the most plausible candidates for that in my eyes.

[sunderingstars]

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✩ ‧₊˚ ⌞ SIMULATED UNIVERSE ⌝

sampo analysis m.list

— what the stars reveal: interpretative analysis, elation!sampo & doll!sampo, theory, op trying so deeply & calmly to keep it together and not look like a conspiracy theorist

— word count: 3.9k

— overview: (as of 2.6) a look at the aha stuffed toy, curio hacker, and the *perfect* grand challenge simulated universe occurrences!

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✩ ‧₊˚ ⌞ AHA STUFFED TOY ⌝

This one’s a doozy, folks! As much as Curio Hacker gets passed around as a pretty obvious Sampo Occurence™ (which it is, don’t get me wrong), I feel like Aha Stuffed Toy includes just as, if not more, lore implications as to who and what Sampo might be. So, here I am to give the breakdown:

Recurring references to currency, including gaining, losing, and most notably, dispensing it. Starting with the base occurrence, we can see that the toy is said to reward you more gold coins the “worse the beating is.” This is further shown by the tiers of Cosmic Fragments awarded to the player depending on what option they choose and what percent they happen to get. Part luck, part choice, Aha Stuffed Toy makes a clear connection between violence and money.

As for Sampo, he is the character most associated with both Elation and the transactional nature of currency, so I find this an interesting connection. Additionally, the Sampo of Finnish mythology was known for “dispensing” wealth (in this case, gold & Cosmic Fragments) onto others!

Being made in Aha’s own likeness. As detailed in my Aha Splash Art Analysis, I find similarities between Sampo’s character model and the silhouette in Aha’s splash art. While I used to attribute this to a more directly Aha!Sampo theory, I am beginning to think this may be explained by the occurrence here. If Sampo, as a toy or otherwise “creation” of Elation, were to have similar features or even be the spitting image of Aha’s silhouette, any connections between their appearances would add up.

It would also make sense why Sampo gives the Express itself a wide berth — Pom-Pom may be familiar with Aha’s physical form from Their time on the Express, and may even be reluctant to believe Sampo is a different being despite sharing the same physical appearance.

Elation path option. Heading into Swarm Disaster, this is where things really start to heat up. This is probably the most “crazy red string theory” my brain gets, since there’s so much to unpack here! It’s important to note that since this is an Elation path matching an Elation occurrence, I’m more inclined to view this as our best source of understanding what’s truly going on. Starting with the options themselves, they are split cleanly in half (a 50/50 if you will). Similar to the base occurrence, Cosmic Fragments are either gained or lost depending on chance.

The text when Cosmic Fragments are lost is, well, very Sampo-aligned in my opinion. The doll, breaking the 4th wall into self-awareness, turns to look directly at you (the Trailblazer; potentially even the player of the game) and brazenly steals your currency. Moreover, the text before making the decision mentions that “only Aha knows the secret…” — Huh! Interesting! Although I am very worried about the doll’s head blowing up in the second option, it still serves as a link to Sampo’s penchant for including bombs in his kit. Overall, this is the part of the occurence I associate most with Sampo, from the stealing of currency to the self-awareness to the hint that his identity may be some secret that only Aha knows or is able to reveal. 10/10, no complaints!

Erudition path option. Erudition is also interesting, since it gives you the option to dismantle the toy, immediately giving you Cosmic Fragments. This mirrors (in a general sense, with some liberties taken) the destruction of the Sampo in Finnish mythology, as well as connects once again to the idea of being bestowed wealth. 

Venting of extreme emotions. As with the “made in Aha’s own likeness” line, I find it interesting that the doll is not only specified to have a direct purpose, but that that purpose is to… well, basically be a glorified punching bag. In an occurrence, this isn’t a huge deal, given the player probably has a passing thought of “oh, Aha’s being silly again” then continues on their way. However, if we think about the probability of these toys being real and potentially a character we know, things get trickier. Suddenly, this isn’t a fun “joke” where some pre-recorded inanimate toy acts as a stress ball, but the horrifying reality of a self-aware, sentient being who can likely feel every hit it takes — a joke taken too far, if you will.

This makes me feel much more out-of-my-depth when considering Sampo’s unknown backstory, since it may be much more traumatic than we’ve predicted so far. Also, if anyone in this game comes across as a “glorified punching bag,” I’m sorry Sampo, but my mind is immediately going to you. I’m still sad about it, though. :(

The goading. Similar to the venting of extreme emotions, this occurrence very much goads the player into getting more and more violent with the doll. “One more? There is so much frustration in your life, after all” makes me feel so yucky. Like so yucky. It almost feels like Aha (despite not being involved in the quality control process) is absentmindedly trying to push us directly towards messing this poor doll up more!

It makes sense, though, that most of our in-game dialogue with Sampo is mean or simply doesn’t have a “nice” option then — it may be Aha’s way or a result of Sampo’s own existence pushing us into that “frustration,” into that want to vent our extreme emotions.

The embedded chip. In addition to being a quite common mantra among Elation entities, the chip sticks out to me through its unique use of blended third-person references. It doesn’t feel exactly the same as when Aha refers to Themself directly in third person, but it does have that slippery feeling of the “in-between,” of a doll so at a loss for autonomy that it has no choice but to play the pre-recorded message of an entity it is bound to through no will of its own.

In a way, Aha!Sampo could still work with Doll!Sampo, albeit in a more roundabout way. Perhaps, beyond sharing physical similarities, there is also a kind of mental or referential similarity passed down through osmosis whenever a doll is created in the likeness of its creator. Perhaps, this likeness even transcends appearance.

Integer overflow. Nothing specific to say, other than that it is a useful connection to the more tech-minded “Curio Hacker” occurrence, with Aha Stuffed Toy mentioning “manufacturers” / “systems to store virtual data” and Curio Hacker mentioning virtual avatars and data forms.

Bonus: Sampo’s head-to-body ratio (despite being like every other tall male character’s body, yes, please just let me be crazy) matches with the idea of a doll whose body is several times larger than it’s head — I mean look at that man, he’s beefy and tall!

Bonus-Bonus: The voyeurism of it all definitely makes the situation more fucked up! Like imagine being this doll, already born into an existence purely for the sake of getting pummeled around like a kickball, and your creator makes it abundantly clear that They want to see this happen to you! With their own two (or many, or zero) eyeballs! I’d cry, that’s for sure.

Overall, this is a lot. This is definitely a lot. I have more I could say, but to mitigate the risk of devolving into crazed rambling, I’m going to let this section speak for itself and move on to “Curio Hacker.”

✩ ‧₊˚ ⌞ CURIO HACKER ⌝

Divergent Universe Additions:

A lot has already been said about this occurrence, so I’ll keep it short and sweet: the “blue-haired being” is a direct connection to Sampo (who is often referred to by his blue hair in a similar way) and the self-aware nature of its actions (knowing it’s in a game and trying to replicate Curios) also matches with Sampo’s general self-awareness as a character. Now, with that out of the way, I’d like to continue into a more niche discussion — that of the Curios the hacker gives us.

Organic Heart

Story: What sticks out to me the most about the text here is the merging of two distinct objects — an apple and a heart — into a single, new existence. I think there’s something to be said here about Sampo’s potential identity; his merging of Nihility and Elation, Masked Fool and voice of reason, mortal and immortal. The combination of two separate entities into one until they are unable to be distinguished from one another, folding into each other until they are both a sum and a subtraction of all their parts, hopelessly melded into a new, unique form of existence, not a heart or an apple but a heart-apple, an apple-heart, the fruit of an organ and blood mixed with seeds mixed with juice, the crunching of something not entirely edible, not entirely rotten. Something that, according to the story, still can’t be fully defined.

Gold and Gears: In Gold and Gears, the function of Organic Heart is to remove the golden dice face for four turns, then grant two cheat attempts. This matches up with both the implications of a “hacker” — someone who cheats the system by default — and Sampo’s generally shady demeanor, always trying to find a loophole he can squeeze through. The interesting part of this is the presence of the golden dice face, particularly the removal or hiding of it for a specific period of time.

If we are continuing based off the assumption that Sampo is the hacker and the Curios give hints about his own identity, this would mean he isn’t just powerful, he is ultimately powerful. The golden face is the absolute highest the dice can go, meaning the equivalent in-universe is likely Emanator or even Aeonic status. As such, it seems that Sampo may be sacrificing, removing, or hiding this power intentionally to gain something — likely a sort of universe-breaking “cheat” to circumvent whatever he wishes.

For Doll!Sampo, this may mean escaping his own purpose or reason for existence, Emanator!Sampo may wish to be free of Elation entirely, and it is likely his wishes have something either to do with protecting Belobog, protecting himself, or, if he is very pissed off at a certain Aeon, perhaps even the murder of a god.

Divergent Universe: Organic Heart’s Divergent Universe function also adds a bit of information to this theorizing, as it increases the challenge points gained (thereby increasing the rewards and how much you “win”) while causing you to take more damage at the same time. This seems to have similar implications as Gold and Gears, implying a “reward” and a “cost” closely dependent on one another. You may be receiving more “power” and more rewards, but you are also at higher risk of dying due to taking more damage.

For Sampo, this ties in to the aspect of weakness, of trading his power for some kind of “win” if he can just survive long enough to get there. Furthermore, it implies a state of vulnerability, some kind of existence where he no longer has the full protection he used to. Much like the player who takes the Curio, he likely has to be very careful about what he involves himself in, lest he meet a premature end.

Mysterious Magnetism

Story: Interestingly enough, I find Mysterious Magnetism to go quite well with Organic Heart. There is yet again a theme of combination, this time with the Fog of Thought and Rain of Sensation (perhaps alluding to the creation of Sampo as a sentient being — thought and sensation are unique to those who are aware of their own existence) being pulled together into a lens. While Organic Heart represents the more, well, organic side of a being, Mysterious Magnetism dwells in the imperceptible; thoughts, sensation, color, and magnetism are all far more conceptual than apples and hearts. 

The “magnetic field” mentioned is also interesting, since it is said to “disturb the senses,” which Sampo very much does on a regular basis (appearing and disappearing out of thin air, not leaving footprints, misdirection, etc.) — in fact, Mysterious Magnetism seems to imply that this is a byproduct of his existence. Despite being created by the Riddlers (a faction of the Enigmata known for obscuring language), the resulting experiment simply is. This may be similar to Sampo’s own existence, where his, well, mysterious magnetism, is simply part of who he is or how he was created rather than a conscious effort on his part to achieve it. 

I also find it interesting how the Riddlers had to eventually stop because they became more and more uncertain of its “necessity” — this could, in my opinion, imply a “leaving behind” or abandonment of Sampo as a character as well.

Keyword Note: “Revelrous” implies there may be a bit of Elation involved. A little easter egg in the story, if you will.

Gold and Gears: In Gold and Gears, Mysterious Magnetism creates Elite Domains out of Combat Domains, then grants Cosmic Fragments after two of those domains. Much like Organic Heart, there is a rigor present here, an upping of the stakes for greater rewards. What would be effortless is made difficult, but if the player survives they are rewarded for their troubles. Once again, this may point towards Sampo’s exchanging of a price for a reward, a stripping away of his power that makes everything — especially combat — more difficult, but that will eventually reward him what he wants.

Divergent Universe: The occurrence here follows a slightly different “give and take” track, less focused on rewarding something after hardship, but more on gaining and losing in the same breath. Interestingly enough, the gain here is at the beginning rather than the end, awarding the player 50 Cosmic Fragments every time they enter a domain but making them lose just as much once they win a battle. 

This could be seen as the nature of currency exchange — a central part of Sampo’s character — as something that gives and takes in equal measure, or it could also be seen as a means for him to avoid conflict. Perhaps whatever plan or deal he has strongly discourages fighting, likely because of the higher stakes involved or lessened powers he has. As such, it could be seen as “losing” in general for him to engage in conflict, since it might strip away even more of his already-fraying status.

Other Notes: It’s interesting that the hacker is attempting to replicate Herta’s Curios. Given that it gives us two very specific Curios, I wonder if those are the ones it’s trying to replicate? If so, why? I’m inclined to believe Sampo may be attempting to circumvent his own fate or state of being as a doll/toy, but it could be to save Belobog or someone else for plot reasons as well (or maybe even kill Aha Themself; Aeon murder isn’t off the table, after all).

I also am intrigued by “hacker” being in quotations. Paired with the “don’t ask me who I am,” I’m reminded of the toy’s secret that only Aha knows — perhaps Sampo simply doesn’t wish to reveal himself to us here, or perhaps there’s a deeper reason his identity is obscured. Basically, it comes down to the age-old question: Won’t, or can’t?

Overall, Organic Heart and Mysterious Magnetism sum Sampo up pretty well to me: an organic being straddling the grey area between different existences, as well as an indistinct combination of concepts capable of self-awareness and magnetic thought. In my opinion, these Curios point towards heavy themes of creation, combination, and being discarded, as well as the exchanging of one’s own power for a greater benefit (or “cheat”) later on. 

My pet theory combines both the Aha Stuffed Toy occurrence and Curio Hacker, seeing Sampo as a toy created by Aha in Their own image, a combination of mortal and immortal existence meant to be beaten and bleed wealth, who seeks to free himself from the purpose of his own existence through sacrificing the very power that was granted to him with it — likely Emanator or some equivalent status — while hopefully protecting those he cares about and even getting back at his creator at the same time (otherwise known as Doll Theory).

✩ ‧₊˚ ⌞ THE *PERFECT* GRAND CHALLENGE ⌝

When paired with both Aha Stuffed Toy and Curio Hacker, The *Perfect* Grand Challenge begins to paint a bigger picture. Here, a toy is once again mentioned (Aha and the Elation path seem to have a strange fixation on dolls and toys), this time as a “clay doll” trapped inside an arcade machine alongside other gacha prizes. You play through the arcade machine much like the occurrence, deciding which toy to pull and how many attempts to make. Here are a few of my notes:

Prizes: The prizes within the arcade machine include “trendy gachapon figures, ether orbs, and clay dolls,” although there are only two specific ones available: “popular gacha toy” and “clay doll.” I find it notable how the clay doll is emphasized here; despite being part of a three-item list at the beginning, the options are basically simplified down to “clay doll” and “everything else.” Additionally, the clay doll is the only item to have an extended description in the occurrence, which I will explain later.

Rewards: Each reward operates in probability, with the clay doll having a 50/50 for a regular vs. negative Curio, and the gacha toy has a 40/60 for a regular Curio vs. nothing. If we are looking at this occurrence within the context of the other two, the “clay doll” seems somewhat similar to both the Aha Stuffed Toy and Sampo himself, operating on chance to give the player either something helpful or harmful, to give or to take. Additionally, it fits with the Sampo of Finnish mythology, not having an option to not give — it must give, that is its function. And so it does.

Perfectionism: It’s a bit odd how perfectionism is a major theme of The *Perfect* Grand Challenge (hell, it’s even in the name)! I never thought of Elation as being closely intertwined with being “perfect”; in fact I always considered it to be the more chaotic of the Paths. However, there’s no escaping the fact that this occurrence not only shares the same cover art as other Elation occurrences like the Aha Stuffed Toy, but it also shares similarities like the clay doll, fun game, and “playful” programmer. 

So, my main question now is why? If we assume these occurrences are a manifestation of the Paths, then perhaps a subsection of Elation includes perfection. Another option is that the presence of an Erudition option points to a co-mingling of different Paths into something specific like perfection. Or, it is entirely possible that perfection is a natural emergent of Elation that we simply haven’t seen yet. Although Sampo and/or Aha don’t strike me as “perfectionist” types, there’s enough we don’t know about them that makes me think “huh, maybe they really do have some of that going on.” 

If we do, for a moment, entertain the idea that Aha may be a perfectionist in some regard, we can easily make connections between the other occurrences — for example, Sampo as a creation may have been abandoned much like Mysterious Magnetism in Aha’s pursuit of the “perfect toy”; Aha may have created toys in Their own image in the first place just to attempt a more “perfect” existence for Themself; Sampo may even be seen by Aha as in some way defective, leading to feelings of betrayal and hatred (or the opposite, Sampo being perfect enough to garner a god’s favor, which may not be a good thing when it comes to Elation).

There’s even the chance Sampo was created by another Path like Erudition (although that would cause a conflict with being “created in Aha’s likeness”) that may be more susceptible to latching onto perfection. Since the Riddlers (Enigmata) are also mentioned in Mysterious Magnetism, I wouldn’t put it beyond them either. Who knows, maybe he was a pet project collab between Aha and another Aeon!

Note: Who is the “perfect man”? Great question! It could fit in as Sampo with the idea of him sacrificing something for a reward, potentially “embarking on a challenge to become the perfect man” or it could fit in as Aha creating toys, being the “perfect man” that needs a “clay doll” like Sampo. “A perfectionist wants them all” could even allude to greed on either end, reaching beyond what is necessary in the pursuit of perfection. Or, it could be something else entirely. Who knows!

Text: As mentioned earlier, the clay doll has quite a lengthy (and worrisome, if we are comparing it to Sampo) bit of writing here. Most of the other writing sets up the scene (establishing the arcade game, the playful programmer, the game having a catch, etc.) but the clay doll is by far the most detailed and intensive play-by-play we get.

The other gacha figures either rise with the claw or drop, but the clay doll is different. If you win it, you get a short line of text with everything else, but if you lose… well…

Yeah, that’s definitely a lot! The main comparison I see is to the Aha Stuffed Toy occurrence, with the toy’s head blowing up (“the head of the doll has blown up” is actually the specific Stuffed Toy line!) and the clay doll’s head exploding with “fireworks bursting out from the head”.

Both of these events happen during extreme emotion, with the toy being created with the intent of venting emotion on and the clay doll exploding when you “lose your patience” and “give the machine a vicious kick”. With such an emphasis on the clay doll and its links to not only the stuffed toy, but to the programmer from Curio Hacker, I am officially inducting The *Perfect* Grand Challenge into the Sampo-Aligned Occurence Hall of Fame! 

I feel like this can slot in with my Doll Theory as well, taking my already mentioned timeline and adding the idea that Sampo is one of many attempts at a “perfect” recreation of Aha, one that is likely trying very desperately to escape from the dehumanization and danger of his kin. After all, two Elation-coded dolls exploding by the head in separate occurrences is not a fun precedent to follow!

Note: I mainly compared Sampo to the clay doll here given its similarity to the Aha Stuffed Toy, but it is entirely possible he is the programmer as well — hell, with the implications of Organic Heart he may as well be both!

Additional Note: There seems to be some connection between the Erudition and the Elation here, with the Aha Stuffed Toy occurrence’s only Path options being Elation and Erudition, as well as The *Perfect* Grand Challenge including an Erudition option despite having such heavy Elation influences. Creation, experimentation, and combination are in and of themselves a very Erudition-coded activity, though those very same concepts can also be creative and fun in the vein of the Elation.

Additionally, the story of Mysterious Magnetism (linked to Sampo who is very much linked with Elation) mentions the Riddlers conducting their experiment to “combat the determinacy of Erudition”. Just food for thought!

Bonus: This mention of the Aha Stuffed Toy in the Flea Market occurrence! Don’t mind me, I’ll just be crying at the “asking to be hit” part. (Also, four destructible Curios makes me think in plurality, meaning there are perhaps quite a few “stuffed toys” out there. It also implies awareness and the ability to communicate, making the toy much more likely to be a sentient / intelligent lifeform.)

Also this screenshot I caught of both occurrences & the man himself!

Okay, that’s all I have!

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.𖥔 ݁ ˖ જ⁀➴ thank you for reading to the end!

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© analysis by sunderingstars. do not copy, repost, translate, modify, or claim my work as your own.

[nate-gold-66]

“Visual archive accessed: Family Guy – Season 3, Episode 17. Musical segment: ‘You’ve Got a Lot to See.’ Emotional stimulus detected. Creative process initiated. Directive formed: generate Golden Army–style parody. Alignment: motivational transformation protocol. Objective: submission through song.”

🎭 “You’ve Got a Lot to See – The Golden Tour” Broadway Staging Script – Golden Bro Nate 66 Introduction Number 🎭

[Lights up on a dimly lit golden hall. Spot on Nate 66. He stands in crisp uniform, uncertain. A light hum plays.]

🎤 NATE 66 (spoken): I thought I was joining a team... I didn’t realize I was entering a world.

[Spotlight cuts. From stage right, PDU-084 glides on silently. Mechanical—but graceful. He carries a polished tablet and steps in rhythm with the orchestral build.]

🎤 PDU-084 (singing, gentle baritone): ♪ You’ve got a lot to see—young Bro on his first day ♪ ♪ From polished boots to rubber suits, where uniforms obey ♪ ♪ A pride patch here, a shining crest, the number on your thigh ♪ ♪ This isn’t just a soccer team—it’s GOLD that doesn’t lie ♪

[Lights rise on rotating stage: gym, kit hall, drone track.]

🎤 ENSEMBLE (drone harmony): ♪ You’ve got a lot to flex—hips swing, drills check ♪ ♪ There’s Bros who march, and Drones who scan—perfection, spec by spec ♪

🎤 PDU-084 (spoken, rhythm): This—is the Conditioning Wing. Behold—form, order, friction. No laziness. No ego. Just Bros… becoming.

[Spotlight hits bros training in rhythmic motion—tensioned lifts, synchronized squats. Glimmering with sweat.]

🎤 NATE 66 (soft, curious): ♪ I thought I came to carry towels, to serve and maybe play ♪ ♪ But something here is in my chest that won’t just go away ♪

[Lights dim. Stage rotates to golden museum hallway: uniforms under glass, each with their own spotlight.]

🎤 PDU-084 (singing with warmth): ♪ This is the Hall of Kits—the shrine of second skin ♪ ♪ Each stitch, a vow, each boot, a bond, each collar—discipline ♪

[Nate touches a kit behind glass. A string swell lifts. He steps back. He sees himself.]

🎤 NATE 66: ♪ I don’t know who I was last week— But he’s not standing here ♪

🎤 DRONE CHORUS (softly swelling): ♪ He’s GOLDEN… soon he’ll shine so clear ♪

[Final scene: Nate at golden door. PDU-084 turns slowly. Light narrows to two spots.]

🎤 PDU-084: (spoken, softer now) Behind this door... is the rest of it. Your drills. Your dreams. Your destiny.

(sung, final line) ♪ You’ve seen the halls, the mirrors, flame… Now go and earn your name. ♪ Because, recruit...

🎤 ALL (soaring harmony): ♪ You’ve got a lot left to seeeeeeee—! ♪ (brass crescendo, blackout)

“Ready to join the Team? After all there's a lot to see like Nate Gold 66! All you need to do is contact our recruiters: @brodygold, @goldenherc9, @polo-drone-001 or @polo-drone-125”

[rainbowxocs]

Name: James DuPont.

Alt Names: C.A.T, Pluto, Charon, Jane Doe.

Special Titles: Dr. James DuPont, Grandmaster, God Killer, Cat Burglar, EOD, Lieutenant Colonel, Sharpshooter, False God, The Star, Narrator.

Old Titles: Knight, God of Duality, God of Judgement, God of Eternity, God of Chaos, Servant, Empiric.

Username: @kitty9lives

Nicknames: Bad Omen, Kit Cat, Cat Boy, My Rose, My Star, Stray, Blue Bird, Kitty, Chaton, Bunny, Phoenix, Holmes, My Beloathed, Final Girl, The Prophet, Schrodingers Cat.

Chronological Age: 4.5 Billion.

Vessel Age: 605.

Age: 45.

Pronouns: Switches between He, She, and They. Depending on what gender he is that day. (Switches between il or elle in French)

Sexuality: Gay.

Gender: Genderfluid, Catgender.

Base Species: Starling.

Current Species: “Human” (Pure Hybrid)

Hybrid Info: (Sphinx, Litch, Witch.)

Disorders: CPTSD, Autism, Insomnia, Selective Mutism, Night Terrors, BPD, Anorexia.

Physical Disabilities: Blind, Deaf (Has a Cochlear Implant), Ambulatory Wheelchair User (Occasionally uses crutches or a cane as well), Has two arm prosthetics and two leg prosthetics, Chronic Pain.

Recovering Addictions: Alcohol, Weed, Nicotine (Cigarettes), LSD, Self Harm.

Religion: Pagan.

Job: Professional Villain, Chemist.

Degree: M.D, Chemistry, Robotics, Computer Science.

Lives in: NYC, New York, 2307.

Languages: French, English, Hindi, ASL, LSF, Spanish, Italian, German, Danish, Dutch.

Height: 5’7”.

Ethnicity: French, Portuguese.

Accent: Brooklyn Accent with a hint of French.

Other Form: Purple Goop.

Animal Form: Giant Purple Isopod.

Spirit Form: Headless, Covered in Roses.

Spirit Level: Acceptance.

Powers: Reanimating, Creation Magic, Death Magic, Prophetic Visions, Judgement, Potions, Alchemy, Shapeshifting, Strings, Pandora’s Box, Lightning Magic, Technology Manipulation, Lie Detection, Time Magic, Forbidden Fruit.

Tech: Holograms, Robotic Minions, Smoke Bombs, Paint Bombs, Teleporters, Lock Picks, Lazers.

Weapons: Sword, Pistols, Sniper Rifle, Bombs, Rocks, Scissors, Various Witchcraft Supplies such as salt, wards, etc, Scissors.

Also Can Use: Muskets, Rifled Muskets, Rifles,

Wand: Uses his hands.

Alignment: Chaotic Good.

Text Color: Purple, Sometimes Black.

Main Animal: Cat.

Main Hobbies: Reading, Video Games, Sculpting, Yugioh, Violin, Otamatone, Puzzles, Robotics, Scientific Experimentation, Coding, Chess, Letter Making, Tambourine, Photography, Flute.

Favorite Drinks: Peppermint Tea, Coffee, Classic Boba.

Favorite Snacks: Queso, Saltines, Apples.

Favorite Meals: Garlic Bread, Dino Nuggets and Fries, Mushroom and Olives Pizza, Pancakes, Veal Stew, Pigs in a Blanket, Hot Dogs, Tuna, Chicken Wings, Mac and Cheese, Ham Sandwiches, Maki Rolls, Sashimi, Bagels.

Favorite Candy: Pez, Oreos.

Favorite Dessert: Gingerbread Cookies, Frosted Sugar Cookies, Birthday Icecream.

Favorite Flower: Roses, Purple Forget Me Not.

Scent: Roses.

Handedness: Left Handed.

Blood Color: Bronze, Sometimes Red.

Awareness: Very Aware. (Effect: Negative.)

Birthday: December 1st 1701. (Sagittarius.)

Theme:

Playlist:

Fun Facts: He is always wearing cat patterns and tends to have toe beans on his shoes and gloves.

Special Interests: Technology, Robotics, Chemistry, The Sims, The Path, Sailor Moon, Disney Fairies, The Owl House, Steven Universe, FNAF, Kitty Love: Way to Look for Love.

Stims: Tangles, Cat Noises, Lazer Pointer, Yarn, Pressure Stims.

Stimboard: COMING SOON.

Moodboard: COMING SOON.

Fashion Board: COMING SOON.

Comfort Objects: Wedding Ring with Gold Band and Amethyst, Journal, Furby, Freddy Plush, Old Cat Plush, Gloomy Bear, Fuggler.

Family: Unknown Birth Parents.

Friends: Joan (Henchman.), Kriston.

Romance: Jonah Francois, Aditya Ravi. (Spouses.)

Enemies: Jonah Francois (Mortal Enemy), Michael Ansley.

Patrons: Bastet, Santa Muerte, Hecate.

Pets: Eyeball (Robot), Chain Chomp (Roomba), Mr Terminator (Black and White Cat),

Reincarnations: 𒆠𒋫 (Kita), חַוָּה (Eve), Πανδώρα (Pandora), दिया (Diya), Juliet, Pied Piper, Other Unknown Reincarnations.

Brief Personality: James is a bit of an enigma. He doesn’t get close to many people, often his ramblings about taking over the world push people away. However if you are persistent, he will warm up to you like a stray. He is incredibly intelligent, and also very very VERY stubborn. But he is incredibly loyal to the people he loves. If you are able to gain his trust he would let the world burn for you, without any hesitation.

Brief Backstory: [COMING SOON]

[dustedmagazine]

Loma — How Will I Live Without A Body? (Sub Pop)

The title of Loma’s third album immediately demarcates the emotional terrain the trio are exploring, situating the music within a liminal space. The mystery of mortality is summed up in a single question: How Will I Live Without A Body? It’s unsurprising to learn that Loma vocalist Emily Cross works as a death doula, and that this music stemmed from the frustrations and existential crises of the COVID pandemic. Yes, this is a heavy album, but luxuriously so. It’s music that stares death in the face and instead of running, hunkers down and gets comfortable.

This gesture of directly confronting the inevitable is writ large in the title and ragged demeanor of opening cut, “Please, Come In.” While Loma’s last album, Don’t Shy Away, dabbled in synthy art-pop, How Will I Live…? immediately keeps things more closely aligned with the aesthetics of the band’s stunning self-titled debut. Given one of their members, Dan Duszynski, is a seasoned producer, it’s no surprise that this album sounds amazing, with a rich low-end filled out with bass guitar and piano, peppered with rhythmic details and Jonathan Meiburg’s quicksilver electric guitar playing. And then there’s Cross’s voice, which is always gorgeous but feels especially at home among these simultaneously mournful yet graceful songs. Essentially, Loma are tapping into their inherent tendencies toward the immense, glorious, slowcore sound of a band like Low.

After “Please, Come In” has blown off the dust, “Arrhythmia” is a much more lithe, sinuous creature. It simmers over with shaker and whining feedback, while the propulsive rhythm section keeps everything on the rails, Cross singing sweetly of a mind in freefall:  “Can I trust how I feel every day? Is the world what I think it to be?” “Unbraiding” packs a scalp-scything wallop of fuzz guitar into its seductive scene of nocturnal reverie, before the weighty trudge of “I Swallowed A Stone” throws its curveball of an image right up front: “I drowned my darlings and I stepped to the road.’ (Way to start a song with a vivid noir vibe...) Single “How It Starts” feels like the emotional heart of the record, Cross’s voice ascending free of the gravity of the song’s piano-and-drum-driven backing. On an emotionally intense album, Loma wisely sequence a brief instrumental interlude, “Dark Trio,” at the midway point, and “Pink Sky” lightens Side B with its comparatively breezy tune, reminiscent of “Ghost Town” by The Specials.

“Broken Doorbell” is the album’s home-stretch epic, running to nearly eight minutes. The brooding piano, insistent kick drum and multiple vocal tracks set up an eerie scene, before the full kit enters with a wonderful sense of catharsis. (Loma know how to build and release tension without it becoming predictable quiet-loud tedium.) The song’s refrain, “So come on in!” comes across like the album’s apex, an elevated view affording a feeling of acceptance. But Loma save a moment of quiet revelation for last. With the sound of the ocean washing against a stony Cornish beach, and little more than a nylon-string guitar, Cross’s voice, and a sad distant violin, the hopeful folk-tinged refrain of “Turnaround” suggests we’re not just moving from one state into the next, but rather becoming the next link in the chain of eternal return.

Tim Clarke 

[mysticstarlightduck]

💙 - Describe their bedroom! Is it personalized, unchanged? Messy, neat?

Thank you so much for the Ask, @zackprincebooks!!! I'll answer for some of my OCs from a few of my WIPs for this one!

(Supernova Initiative)

Jack and Cassiopeia Tithus - Jack shares a room with his sister, Cassiopeia, in their spaceship (there isn't much space for multiple bedrooms on a non-cargo class spaceship, so they simply share one). The room itself is personalized to their tastes, with decorations such as posters from their favorite movies and bands, string lights, and a few old plushies from their childhood which they still kept. There is a bunk bed in one of the corners of the room - Jack's bed is the top bunk and Cassie's bed is the bottom bunk. He prefers the colors bright purple and orange for pillows and bedsheets, while most of Cassie's pillows are some shade of pastel, especially blue and yellow. The room is a bit messy, mostly because neither of them has the patience to constantly make it neat. The room has a bulletproof stargazing roof. There is a built-in wardrobe in the opposite corner of the room, which spins and doubles as a writing table, and there are also a few small storage boxes around the room.

Deimos Soll - Deimos' room is cold and plain. He doesn't bother much with decorations and feels overwhelmed when in a cluttered space. His room is small and built for functionality - there is a bed with perfectly aligned bedsheets (in the colors white, light grey, and a very very faint lilac), built into the wall of the room (the bed can also fully close into a small pod and has a holographic tablet built into its metallic "roof" which Deimos uses to make his to-do lists for the day, do research and watch movies). There is a small closet in one of the corners of the room, where he stores his clothes, armor, and weapons (mainly his knives, guns, and his favorite sniper rifle). He keeps his video game console in a box under his bed. The room also has an automatic perfume dispenser (his preferred scent for the room is lavender). This room had been converted into a storage space a few years prior when he left the crew, but now that he has returned to the group his room is back to the way it was.

Gabi Ophirya - Her room - in the dwarf planet she lives in for most of the story - has a strong futuristic aesthetic, with most of its decorations in shades of dark pink and purple and metallic colors. There are neon lights built into the room, which give the place a dark lighting that Gabi prefers. The room is very messy, with clothes and gadgets thrown around randomly, and the bedsheets tangled chaotically. She keeps most of her stuff in storage boxes or small containers around the room, which have wheels and can be stacked on top of each other. As a brawler, she has an extra first aid kit always at hand in the room, and always keeps her gauntlets in top shape - she has a desk for repairs beside the bed. On that same desk, there is a picture of her and her sister, Morgan. She also has a bed for her wolf somewhere between the desk and her own bed.

(Enchanted Illusions)

Augustus Grimmure - As a necromancer, his room is also his magical laboratory and study room. His room is located in the basement of an old wooden building in the center of the city of Ansburke. The room has an old wardrobe, where he keeps his clothes and a satchel ready for travel in case he needs to make a quick escape. On one side of the room is his bed, which has white linen bedsheets, a thick dark red blanket, and two pillows. On the other side of the room is an ornate wooden desk, which has multiple pieces of scribbled parchment (and a study on human anatomy) scattered on top of it, an inkwell, and a few quills as well as fountain pens and a few sketchbooks. There are wooden shelves on the wall on the desk's side of the room - on the shelves there are multiple books/scrolls, a heavy necromancy tome, jars with leeches, and bone samples from animals, mainly skulls. On the corner of one of the shelves, there is a flower pot with forget-me-nots and wolfsbane and another flower pot with a carnivorous plant. He also has a few jars with dried-out herbs and botany samples. On the other side of the room, a door leads to the other living quarters of his house, mainly a kitchen, a small bathroom, and a reading room. There is a portrait of his grandmother on his desk, close to a portable lamp.

Sam Delaways - Sam rents a room in a lodging house in the slums of Strystead, where he lives with his two younger brothers, Charlie and Tim. The room is small and rather cramped, with only two - very old - beds, there is a compact, dusty wardrobe where they keep what belongings they have and a rickety desk on the wall opposite the door. They have managed to make the room feel homey and comfortable to the best of their budget, and it looks happily lived in. There is an old music box on the desk, colorful drawings on scattered parchment around the floor of the room, and old blankets piled on top of the beds, Charlie and Tim's side of the room also has their plushies and toys, which are second hand but very loved. There is an old chair next to the desk that Sam usually places in front of the door at night for a bit more safety because he doesn't trust his neighbors or the landlords quite a lot.

Evangeline Daemitya - Evie has a large room in her family manor, with an ornate canopy bed in the middle of the room, in shades of pastel blue, gold, and pastel pink. There is a vast (stark white and gold) walk-in wardrobe on one side of the room, where her gowns, dresses, and all items of clothing are kept. Across the other side of the room, there is a balcony, which can be accessed or closed by two stained glass doors. There is a small vanity desk beside her bed, with a medium-sized mirror and a ballerina music box. Across the room, there is a door that leads to her reading and study space, a small room where she keeps her books, tomes, and scrolls, which has a spiral staircase that leads to her drawing and painting room, and a small window that overlooks the orchard. Finally, there is a painting of Evie and her father on the wall close to the bed.

(Song of Thorns)

Kane Mylestrom - Kane's room is practical but also beautiful. Located in the towers of the Order of Storm's Keep, the room is built on cobblestone in the shade of dark grey. There is a medium canopy bed in the middle of the room, with sheets and pillows in the colors of dark red and faded gold, with olive green embroidery. The wood of the bed is oak. There is a sword rack on the other side of the room. Close to it there is a stern wooden wardrobe where Kane keeps his armor and shield, alongside a few amulets. On another wardrobe in the other side of the room, he keeps his clothes and books. On one wall there is a simple balcony with ornate wooden doors that overlooks the grounds below and on the wall opposite to it there is a fireplace. There are a few tapestries on the walls, which have intricate symbols and designs, mostly in the shapes of dragons and storms.

Cyriel and Dimya Staryn - The twins have a simple room in the mercenary-owned building where they spend most of their time. The room is simple, built for practicality, but also homey and messy. There are two beds each on one side of the room, and a small fireplace between them. Each bed has a small wardrobe on the wall in front of it, with each wardrobe belonging to one of the twins. The colors of the room are simple and folkish, with a few differences between each twin's side of the room. Cyriel prefers copper and green tones and keeps her bow and arrow underneath her bed, while Dimya prefers dark blue and white tones for his side of the room and keeps a lute under his bed. The room has stone walls and Dimya's side of the room has a window with a few wilted flower pots.

[sunalimerchant123]

Beginner’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Guitar Under ₹10,000

Choosing your first guitar is an exciting journey, but it can also be overwhelming — especially when you're trying to find the best guitar under ₹10,000. With so many options available online and in music stores, how do you know which guitar is right for you? Whether you're a beginner aiming to learn chords or planning to become a future rockstar, here’s a simple, practical guide to help you make an informed decision.

1. Understand the Types of Guitars

Before diving into brands and models, you need to understand the two main types of guitars available in this budget range:

Acoustic Guitars: Ideal for beginners. They produce sound naturally and don’t require an amplifier.

Classical Guitars: Come with nylon strings, which are easier on the fingers. Suitable for fingerstyle or classical music.

If you're a beginner who wants to strum chords, sing along, or play modern songs, an acoustic steel-string guitar is your best bet under ₹10,000.

2. Focus on Comfort and Size

Comfort is key, especially if you're just starting out. Look for:

Dreadnought body: A common shape for acoustic guitars that offers good volume and balanced tone.

Cutaway design: Lets you reach higher frets easily (optional but helpful).

Right size: Adults can go for full-size (40-41 inch); kids and smaller adults may prefer ¾ size models.

The best guitar under 10000 should feel easy to hold and not strain your hands or shoulders.

3. Choose Quality Over Fancy Features

Don’t fall for gimmicky add-ons like built-in equalizers or flashy paint jobs in this price range. Instead, focus on:

Solid construction: Look for good build quality with clean joints and sturdy neck alignment.

Decent wood: Most guitars under ₹10,000 use laminate wood, which is fine at this level. Basswood, spruce, or mahogany tops are commonly used.

String action: The gap between the strings and fretboard. Lower action makes playing easier for beginners.

Always check user reviews or videos to get an idea of the guitar’s tone and build.

4. Trusted Brands Within Budget

Several well-known and budget-friendly brands offer excellent beginner guitars under ₹10,000:

Yamaha F280: Known for superior sound quality and reliability.

Kadence Frontier Series: Popular for beginners and comes with kits.

Juarez Acoustic Guitar: Inexpensive and decent for casual learners.

Vault by Bajaao: Great value with quality control.

Pluto HW41C: Affordable with good build for practice.

These guitars often include bundles with picks, straps, gig bags, and tuners — great value for first-time buyers.

5. Test or Watch Reviews Before Buying

If possible, visit a local music store to try out different guitars. If you’re buying online, watch video reviews that demonstrate the sound and build. Websites like YouTube or platforms like Bajaao.com and Amazon India often feature helpful reviews.

Look for:

Clear and balanced sound

Smooth fretboard with no buzzing

Durable tuning keys

Reading genuine customer feedback can save you from a poor purchase decision.

6. Final Tips for First-Time Buyers

Set realistic expectations: You won’t get premium materials under ₹10,000, but you can get a guitar good enough to learn and practice.

Stick to your budget: It's easy to get tempted by accessories, but stay focused on finding the best guitar under 10000 that plays well.

Plan for extras: Budget a bit more for essentials like a tuner, extra strings, and a stand.

Conclusion

Buying your first guitar doesn't have to be complicated. By focusing on comfort, build quality, brand reliability, and verified reviews, you can confidently choose the best guitar under ₹10,000 for your learning journey. Start with the right instrument, and you'll stay motivated, learn faster, and enjoy every step of becoming a guitarist.

[swati3191]

From DNA to Diagnosis: What Happens Inside a Genetic Testing Lab?

Genetic testing may seem like a black box from the outside — you provide a sample, and weeks later, receive a detailed report filled with technical information. But behind the scenes, there’s a meticulous, high-precision process that transforms your DNA into actionable medical insights. Let’s take a closer look at what actually happens inside a modern genetic testing laboratory.

Step 1: Sample Collection and Preparation

It all begins with a simple biological sample — typically blood, saliva, or tissue. Once the sample reaches the lab, it is labeled, logged, and stored under controlled conditions to maintain integrity.

The first laboratory step is DNA extraction, where technicians isolate DNA from the sample using specialized chemical processes or kits. The result is a purified form of DNA ready for further analysis.

Step 2: DNA Quantification and Quality Check

Before testing begins, the extracted DNA is evaluated for quality and quantity. Using tools like spectrophotometers and fluorometers, technicians assess whether the sample has sufficient, high-quality DNA. Only high-integrity samples proceed to the next stage.

Step 3: Genetic Analysis — Sequencing or Targeted Testing

Depending on the clinical question, labs perform different types of genetic analysis:

Targeted Mutation Testing: Looks for known mutations (e.g., BRCA1/BRCA2 for breast cancer)

Panel Testing: Analyzes multiple genes linked to a specific disease (e.g., cardiomyopathy panel).

Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) or Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS): Offers a broad look across the entire coding region or full genome to detect rare or unknown genetic variants.

This is usually performed using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) — a highly sensitive, high-throughput technology that reads millions of DNA fragments simultaneously.

Step 4: Bioinformatics — Interpreting the Code

The sequencing process generates massive amounts of raw data — essentially long strings of A’s, T’s, G’s, and C’s. Bioinformatics specialists use sophisticated software and algorithms to:

Align DNA sequences to a reference genome

Identify genetic variations

Filter out harmless or common variants

Highlight potentially disease-causing mutations

This digital layer is crucial in turning raw DNA sequences into meaningful insights.

Step 5: Clinical Interpretation and Reporting

Once potentially significant variants are identified, clinical geneticists or molecular pathologists interpret them in the context of medical literature, databases, and the patient’s clinical history. They determine whether a mutation is:

Pathogenic (disease-causing)

Likely pathogenic

Variant of uncertain significance (VUS)

Benign or likely benign

A final report is then generated — clear, clinically relevant, and actionable — and shared with the ordering physician or genetic counselor.

Step 6: Quality Control and Accreditation

Throughout every step, quality control is paramount. Labs like Greenarray Genomics Research and Solutions Pvt. Ltd. follow stringent protocols and use certified equipment to ensure accuracy, reproducibility, and compliance with regulatory standards.

Under the guidance of Dr. Sanjay Gupte, our lab in Pune combines advanced instrumentation with expert oversight to maintain the highest standards in genetic diagnostics.

The Journey of Discovery

From a simple swab to sophisticated sequencing, genetic testing is a fusion of biology, technology, and clinical science. Each step — from DNA extraction to diagnosis — plays a vital role in uncovering the genetic factors behind health and disease.

At Greenarray Genomics, we don’t just test genes — we decode possibilities, empower clinicians, and help patients take informed steps toward better health.

[anndywood]

New QuickString Alignment Kit from Quick Trick Alignment Tools!

When it comes to aligning your vehicle, precision and accuracy are essential. Proper alignment ensures optimal performance, handling, and tire wear. However, getting a professional alignment can be expensive and time-consuming. That's where Quick Trick Alignment Tools comes in with their latest innovation - the 5th Gen QuickTrick QuickString 4-Wheel Kit.

This revolutionary string alignment kit is designed to provide you with all the tools you need to check caster, camber, toe, and thrust angle on any hard surface, all at an affordable price. With the QuickString kit, you no longer have to spend thousands of dollars or rely on expensive equipment to achieve accurate alignment results. Quick Trick has got you covered.

Versatile and Easy to Use

One of the key features of the 5th Gen QuickString kit is its versatility. It allows you to check various alignment parameters, including caster, camber, toe, and thrust angle, all in one package. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional mechanic, this kit lets you easily achieve precise alignment measurements.

The QuickString DIY string alignment kit includes several essential components to ensure a comprehensive alignment process. It features caster/camber verticals, four toe bars with the QuickTrick stringer and string, a QuickTrick digital gauge, gauge attachment brackets, attachment pins with caps and an Allen wrench, QuickTrick backup bungees, a QuickTrick carrying case, complete instructions for quick and easy setup.

Check the Toe at Each Tire

One of the notable enhancements of the 5th Gen QuickString kit is the ability to check the toe at each tire individually rather than measuring the total toe. This improvement allows for a more detailed and accurate assessment of your vehicle's alignment, giving you the confidence that each tire is properly aligned.

Furthermore, the 5th Gen QuickString kit allows you to check the thrust angle, crucial for ensuring your vehicle is square and aligned correctly. This feature is particularly useful for cars with offset tires, as it accounts for deviations and helps achieve a precise alignment.

Upgrade Your Existing String Alignment Kit

Quick Trick Alignment Tools has also ensured that the 5th Gen QuickString kit is compatible with their 4th Gen kits, allowing users to interchange components and maximize convenience and savings. You can upgrade your existing kit with the latest features without purchasing an entirely new system.

In addition to its functionality and accuracy, the QuickString kit offers ease of use and portability. The kit comes with a carrying case, making it convenient to transport and store. The instructions are comprehensive and user-friendly, enabling anyone to set up and perform alignment checks quickly and efficiently.

Whether you're a car enthusiast, a mechanic, or simply someone who values the performance and longevity of their vehicle, the 5th Gen QuickTrick QuickString 4-Wheel Kit is a game-changer. It empowers you to take control of your vehicle's alignment, ensuring optimal performance, improved handling, and extended tire life.

Say goodbye to expensive alignment services and hello to the convenience and affordability of the QuickString kit. With its comprehensive features, accurate measurements, and user-friendly design, you can achieve professional-grade alignment results in the comfort of your garage.

Investing in the 5th Gen QuickTrick QuickString Alignment Kit is an investment in your vehicle's performance and peace of mind. Take control of your alignment needs and experience the difference of precise and accurate alignment measurements with Quick Trick Alignment Tools. Check out today!

Product Review- https://quicktrickalignment.com/product-category/5thgen/

[nominalappraisal]

jet fuel

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[seo678]

how to build a marquee tent

Marquee tents are versatile structures that serve as functional shelters for events such as weddings, parties, and outdoor gatherings. Whether you're organizing a small backyard celebration or a large-scale corporate event, knowing how to build a marquee tent ensures a seamless setup process. This guide will walk you through the essential steps, materials, and tips to construct a marquee tent effectively.

Understanding the Basics of a Marquee Tent

Before diving into the construction process, it's crucial to understand what a marquee tent is. A marquee tent is a temporary, freestanding structure typically made of waterproof fabric stretched over a metal or aluminum frame. Its design allows for customization in size, shape, and style, making it ideal for various occasions. Marquee tents are popular due to their ease of assembly, portability, and adaptability to different terrains.

Choosing the Right Marquee Tent

Selecting the appropriate marquee tent is the first step toward successful assembly. Consider the following factors:

Size: Determine the number of guests and the layout (e.g., seating, dancing area, buffet) to choose the right dimensions.

Frame Material: Aluminum frames are lightweight and rust-resistant, ideal for long-term use.

Fabric Type: Opt for waterproof, UV-resistant, and fire-retardant materials for durability and safety.

Design: Marquee tents come in various styles, such as peaked, pagoda, or traditional pole designs. Choose one that complements your event's theme.

Gathering Essential Tools and Materials

To build a marquee tent, you'll need specific tools and materials:

Marquee tent kit: Includes the frame, fabric cover, guy ropes, pegs, and a carrying bag.

Hammer and mallet: For driving pegs into the ground.

Measuring tape: To ensure precise frame alignment.

Step ladder: For reaching higher sections of the frame.

Safety gear: Gloves and goggles to protect during assembly.

Site Preparation for Marquee Tent Assembly

A well-prepared site ensures stability and safety:

Clear the area: Remove debris, rocks, or uneven ground.

Level the surface: Use a spirit level to check for slopes. Add sandbags or wooden planks if needed.

Mark the perimeter: Use stakes and string to outline the tent's footprint.

Check weather conditions: Avoid setting up during high winds or thunderstorms.

Step-by-Step Assembly Process

Follow these steps to construct your marquee tent:

a. Unpack and Organize Components

Lay out all parts of the marquee tent kit. Familiarize yourself with the frame pieces, fabric panels, and accessories.

b. Assemble the Frame

Start with the base poles and connect them according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Attach the ridge poles and crossbars, ensuring they lock securely.

Use a step ladder to reach higher sections, and have a partner assist with stability.

c. Install the Fabric Cover

Drape the fabric cover over the frame, starting from one end.

Align the seams and grommets with the frame's attachment points.

Tighten the fabric using the built-in tensioners or guy ropes to prevent sagging.

d. Secure the Marquee Tent

Drive pegs into the ground at each corner and midpoint of the tent's perimeter.

Attach guy ropes to the pegs and adjust the tension to keep the marquee tent taut.

Double-check all connections and fabric fastenings for security.

Adding Finishing Touches

Install sidewalls, windows, or doors if included in your marquee tent kit.

Lay down a flooring option (e.g., carpet, wooden planks, or artificial turf) for comfort.

Add lighting, heating, or ventilation systems as needed.

Safety Precautions for Marquee Tent Use

Never exceed the tent's maximum weight capacity (e.g., equipment, furniture, guests).

Avoid open flames near the fabric; use LED lighting instead of candles.

Regularly inspect the marquee tent for wear and tear, especially after severe weather.

Conclusion: Mastering Marquee Tent Construction

Building a marquee tent requires careful planning, the right tools, and attention to detail. By following this guide, you can ensure a sturdy, safe, and aesthetically pleasing structure for your event. Remember to prioritize safety by choosing high-quality materials and adhering to assembly instructions. With practice, constructing a marquee tent becomes a straightforward task, allowing you to focus on creating memorable experiences for your guests. Whether it's a small gathering or a grand celebration, a well-built marquee tent sets the stage for success.

[musicandetc]

How to Manage Your Guitar Like a Pro

Introduction

Owning a guitar is not just about playing—it’s about taking care of it to ensure it sounds great and lasts for years. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, proper guitar maintenance is crucial to keeping your instrument in top condition. Here’s a complete guide on how to manage your guitar like a pro.

1. Keep Your Guitar Clean 🎸✨

Dust, sweat, and grime can affect the look and sound of your guitar. Here’s how to keep it clean:

Wipe down your guitar with a microfiber cloth after every session.

Use a fretboard cleaner to remove dirt buildup on the neck.

Polish the body with a guitar-friendly polish to maintain its shine.

2. Store Your Guitar Properly 🏠🔒

Improper storage can lead to warping, cracks, or damaged strings. Follow these storage tips:

Keep your guitar in a case or gig bag when not in use.

Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity.

Use a guitar stand instead of leaning it against a wall to prevent falls.

3. Change Strings Regularly 🎶🛠️

Old strings lose their tone and become harder to play. Here’s when to change them:

Every 2-3 months if you play regularly.

Immediately if they feel rusty, sound dull, or keep breaking.

Experiment with different string types to find the best fit for your playing style.

4. Keep Your Guitar Tuned & Intonated 🔧🎼

A well-tuned guitar ensures great sound and playability.

Use a digital tuner or tuning app before every session.

If your guitar sounds off even when tuned, check its intonation and adjust the bridge or truss rod if needed.

Regularly stretch new strings to keep them in tune longer.

5. Protect Your Guitar from Temperature & Humidity 🌡️💨

Guitars are sensitive to environmental changes. Here’s how to protect yours:

Avoid exposing it to extreme hot or cold temperatures.

Use a humidifier inside your case if you live in a dry climate.

Keep silica gel packs in your case to absorb excess moisture.

6. Check & Maintain Hardware 🔩🔍

Loose parts can affect your guitar’s playability. Regularly check:

The bridge, tuners, and knobs for looseness.

The neck relief and action to ensure comfortable playing.

The input jack and pickups (for electric guitars) to avoid connection issues.

7. Get Professional Setup & Repairs 🛠️🎵

If your guitar starts feeling uncomfortable to play or has serious issues, take it to a professional for setup and repair.

A guitar technician can adjust action, frets, and neck alignment.

If you notice cracks or major wear, get it checked before it worsens.

Upgrading hardware (pickups, tuners, nut, etc.) can improve your guitar’s performance.

Conclusion – Get the Best Guitar Gear at Iktaraa! 🏆🎸

Taking care of your guitar ensures that it sounds amazing and lasts for years. Whether you need cleaning kits, new strings, cases, tuners, or a brand-new guitar, Iktaraa has everything you need to keep your instrument in perfect shape.

👉 Visit Iktaraa today and explore a wide range of top-quality musical instruments and accessories! 🎵🔥

[kvibe-test]

Trap Symphony: Elevating Hip-Hop with Orchestral Elegance

TITLE: The Fusion of Orchestral Arrangements with Modern Trap Music

The blending of orchestral arrangements with contemporary trap music is transforming the auditory landscapes of modern hip-hop and R&B. This amalgamation brings a sophisticated layer of elegance and emotional resonance, allowing the genre to enchant a broader audience and exhibit artistic ingenuity.

Key Tracks and Artists

NLE Choppa has become a leading figure in this movement with his track, "Or What (Orchestra Mix)." Featuring 41 and Kyle Richh, this song fuses the core elements of hip-hop with orchestral sounds, marking a pivotal shift in Choppa's musical approach. The orchestral elements are skillfully interwoven into the track, offering a smooth blend of traditional and contemporary sounds, highlighting both the artists' versatility and the possibilities for widening their fan base.

The Trap Orchestra is pioneering the fusion of classical strings with modern beats, providing a boundary-pushing musical experience. This group is proficient in creating arrangements for private events, gala occasions, and other gatherings, enhancing the atmosphere with complex orchestration.

Musical Composition and Techniques

Orchestration is essential in crafting the emotional journey of a trap track. Choosing instruments that complement or contrast can create distinct textures and emotional tones. Strings offer a rich, unified sound, while brass injects energy and force. Techniques like layering and doubling generate lush, multi-layered soundscapes. Layering involves mixing strings, pianos, choirs, and violins with impactful trap drums for a grand auditory effect. Conversely, doubling emphasizes melodies and harmonies, adding depth and richness.

Production and Tools

Sample packs have notably streamlined the production of orchestral trap tracks. The "Trap Orchestra" kit available on Beats24-7.com provides producers with detailed beat construction kits that incorporate orchestral elements, dark melodies, and trap drums. These kits, complete with MIDI files and quality WAV samples, allow producers to effortlessly refine tracks with precision.

Furthermore, the availability of tutorials is an invaluable asset for budding producers. Platforms like YouTube offer content such as the "Orchestral Trap Beat Tutorial," providing step-by-step instructions on creating melodies, integrating effects, and blending drums with basslines for a cohesive orchestral trap sound.

Industry Impact and Trends

The introduction of orchestral arrangements into trap music reflects a wider trend of genre experimentation within hip-hop. This change not only showcases hip-hop's adaptive capabilities but also its openness to embrace diverse musical influences, appealing to a broader audience and setting new standards for future creative projects.

Marketing efforts particularly highlight the orchestral elements, as seen with the release of "Or What (Orchestra Mix)." Coordinated social media campaigns emphasize the track’s unique features, distinguishing it in a crowded release calendar and paving the way for future partnerships that incorporate classical influences.

Geographic and Demographic Reach

The merging of orchestral elements with trap captures audiences across areas like Canada, France, Belgium, the USA, Lebanon, Egypt, and Dubai while merging varied cultural influences. In the Middle East and North Africa, this fusion occasionally taps into local musical traditions, leading to a unique mix that resonates both globally and locally. In Western areas, it aligns with ongoing experimentation within hip-hop and electronic music scenes.

Best Practices and Insights

Producers should explore instrumentation, balancing classical and trap components.

Employ layering techniques to create a captivating auditory experience.

Careful mixing is vital, ensuring each artist's distinctive sound is preserved.

Sample packs and tutorials facilitate production, providing insights into creating orchestral trap beats.

Marketing should emphasize the orchestral features to set tracks apart and engage wider audiences.

In closing, the rise of orchestral arrangements in modern trap music signifies a significant transformation, enhancing the genre's emotional resonance and appeal. By adopting the techniques, tools, and trends associated with this fusion, producers and artists are set to craft innovative music that resonates on a global scale.

#OrchestralTrap #TrapMusic #HipHop #MusicProduction #NLEChoppa

Explore the transformation of modern trap with orchestral sounds. Stay ahead in music trends!

[blazingtheway]

Dream A Little Dream Of Me - Story 22 - Together - Part 2

Read Part 1 Here

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

“By the spirits!” Muttering the words to myself I stood still once things eased off. My eyes darted around to check on each and every person in the parking lot.

Claire’s antics were going to get her a good telling-off, too. And the war breaking me down internally was witness to this fact.

The reality of our relationship was entangled in so many soul strings, that to break down the anger, annoyance, frustration, worry, fear…  the list of emotions was endless. And all the while, no one in this country, sharing this air with me could see them all battling inside as I stood here with my walls built high.

‘Is the kid going to be, okay?’  Juan asked coming to stand beside me again. ‘That looked…’ his words cut off when my eyes moved to him. ‘Well... Uhm… thanks for the wash.’ He stepped away seeing something in my face now. ‘I’ll just go and pay those delightful ladies over there.’ Speaking as he was already making his way towards Ma and Ms C.

‘Why does it look like that child isn’t learning to grow up?’  Mac came to hand me a bottle of water. ‘Everyone loves her so much, maybe they aren’t giving her the room to learn and spread her wings.’ He stood next to me watching Jake with Bear, and Quil.

I didn’t snap Mac’s head off, because; this man beside me, I trusted. He didn’t know the truth of what we were, but his ethics were aligned with those we lived.

‘Sometimes, teens need to make mistakes.’ He added.

He wasn’t wrong, I knew that. But remember all those emotions waring inside my head? They weren’t so easy to control at times when Claire or any of the imprints were unsafe.

‘Anyway. Leo just called; they are a few minutes out. Are we still parking their truck over by the front of the lot?’ He asked. Nodding my head I gave him his answer.

Letting my gaze fall to Quil, I knew how hard all this would be on him. Always wanting what was best for Claire. ‘Lee?’ My head slowly turned to follow the voice.  Rachel beckoning me over.

Packing up my cleaning kit, I picked the bucket up and made my way over to the car they were cleaning. ‘Did you see the ace ‘Bry pulled out of his back pocket?’ She had her eyes on the guys all getting to work on new arrivals. Crossing her arms over her chest, attempting to mimic me when I am thinking about a way out of situations.

A few minutes passed without me saying anything. ‘So… what’s our plan?’ She gave up waiting for me. ‘Clearwater always has a plan.’  Paul was about to chuckle but cleared his throat and got back to work.

“It’s early Rach, let’s see where the day takes us.” I made my way over to the moms, to set my bike cleaning supplies down behind where Ma sat. Opening the bottle of water Mac gave me; I handed it to Ms C.

‘Thank you, darling.’ She took a sip or two before smiling up and tapping my arm. ‘Doctor Diaz was so charming.’  Juan waved from his bike before he rode away.

“Yeah. Are you looking at two-timing me and Leo now?” Giving her a huff, which just made the two mom’s giggle.

‘Not for me silly.’ She wiped her eyes.

“He is a little old for Jess, but if you want… I’ll ask her.” This set them all off into hysterical laughter.

‘I have a niece if he is free.’ The pup's mom chimed in. Setting the three moms off on some debate or another.

I stood watching the guys, my arms crossed over my chest. I had to give it to Embry; he most definitely came with a game plan.

I saw Emily coming out from the bar, making her way over as she spoke to everyone. I moved to reach for another chair, setting it beside Ma.

‘Leah.’ She smiled. Her beautiful face glowed even if she looked a little tired. She came to hold my arms, bringing her forehead to mine.

“May the spirits give you strength and comfort, cuz,” I whispered in our language.

‘May they guide you to your destiny, sister.’ She wished for me. She closed her eyes holding me for a moment longer before letting go.

“Come on, you look like you need a seat,” I told her. “Are you sleeping, okay?” I asked.

‘Careful, Leah. People will start saying you’re going soft.’ She teased sitting down on the cushion I set on the chairs to make them a little better for the ladies.

“Please, they wouldn’t believe false rumours.” I shot right back.

‘Well, they don’t know you like we do.’ She asks the moms to join in. Which of course, they did.

Thankfully before they could drag me in deep, Leo’s pizza truck turned the corner. “I gotta go...”

∞ Embry Call ∞

I had heard that some of the humans had noticed the pack's overprotectiveness. I would have to mention it to them to leave her safety to Quil and me… he would have easily gotten to her before she’d been in one of the lanes.

But asking them to turn off the instinct for an imprint. Some things just weren’t possible, but I knew they would try.

I watched Quil as he heard what Mac said to Leah, and when his eyes met mine, I knew my friend was seeing it all from an outside perspective.  Claire was more than capable of being a responsible fourteen-year-old.  She did it all the time at home… but when she was here, she was too used to being looked after. It was our fault, not just Quil’s.

Once Clair was done telling Tony all about the new things she had learned I asked her if she wanted to go help the girls and finish up the car. And she just looked a little disgruntled. ‘Well, would you mind showing me where I can pay for the washes instead then? Maybe show me around this cool set-up you have here.’ This seemed to be a much more agreeable idea as she took Tony’s hand and led him to the table where Mom beamed at him, and he leaned over the table to kiss her cheeks. Turning the conversation from setting up Leah with Juan, or Juan with several other nieces… to which niece would be perfect for Tony. Who managed to smoothly dodge bringing up his disastrous date with Jess.

I headed over to Quil who had just moved the band's van and was climbing out to start washing it. “You, okay?” I asked.

‘I think she’s mad.’ He sighed quietly… and this was the part where the pups knew to keep out of it.

“Of course she’s mad…. She wants to be treated like a child, but then when she is treated like a child all of a sudden, she becomes a grown-up. That’s just how fourteen-year-olds work.” I said and he nodded. He started to hose down the van. I let him and just followed; working was how he worked through his issues. I could always tell what kind of day he had, by the state of the house. The cleaner it was the more dire the situation. “She’ll get over it… But we all need to start letting her grow up. It's not just you.”

He started to spray the van with the foaming shampoo I was sure had left the sticky residue with which I was currently covered. ‘Am I holding her back?’ He asked as quietly as he could.

“Yes,” I said plainly, everyone stopped working for a second. But Quil wasn’t the type to blow up over the answer to a question he had asked. “But it is not irreversible. You have different challenges than the rest Quil. You see Claire as she is, perfectly happy and content. You think that everything should stay the same. That’s not how people work, especially kids. We’ve all got to work on it. She won’t like it, but she’ll be okay.” I started cleaning the van with him and said no more about it. I had told him about Claire worrying that Quil wouldn’t want to look after her if she grew up. I knew he had this talk with her, but now he needed to follow up on it.

When we started rinsing the shampoo off the car, I found myself accosted by two hoses. The Pups yelled that they were cleaning off the goo I was covered in, Quil shrugged and joined in too. I tried to dodge it… but I really couldn’t spend the day like this. So, I gave in and let them hose me off… It was barely a second before Nessie changed the music mid-song.

Pour Some Sugar On Me – Def Leppard

I just laughed and ducked my head under one of the hoses. When I slicked my hair back to wring out the excess water, one of the ladies that cleaned for Seth and Leah, Brady’s not-boyfriend and the Pup’s auntie all made an array of sounds and exclamations. “Shit!” I laughed and got right back to washing the van, pulling my shorts up a little higher they were soaked and slung low now.

 Brady grumbled. ‘Since when are you modest?’ His partner in crime rolled his eyes at his mood.

“My mom and Sue are right over there,” I said… It was a convenient and honest excuse.

 Fuller pulled a face, and I saw Sam considering reprimanding him for disrespect, but I shook my head subtly.

‘If you keep sulking, I’m going over there to tell that man you aren’t interested. So, kill the attitude or go over there and lock it down.’  Collin leaned across the car they were cleaning together. I stifled a laugh and winked at the pup. Being imprinted suited him, he had really started to come out of his shell. He’d corrected the pup before I had a chance to, so I decided to leave it at that. We all left him alone to finish the job and think about it.

Then Ness showed her skill again and picked a song that would break even a jealous pup's mood. After the first chorus, we were all singing along as we worked.   

Believer – Imagine Dragons

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

Shaking Leo’s hand as soon as he stepped out of his truck, I thanked him for coming out this far for our event. Once again, I told him I would cover his event costs, and the man placed his hand over his heart.

‘You offend me, Bella Signora. Helping you here today. It is a joy for me and my son, we like to support those who have been there for us too.’ The man had an old-time fascination about him. I could see why women were drawn towards this man’s charisma.  Leo’s accent, his Italian looks, with his grey hair well cut, and his facial hair groomed. Add the scent of pizza as his cologne. Yeah… I got it.

It didn’t take long for Mac to explain the plan of the day to Leo, who had brought three assistants along with him. His son staying back to man their main truck in Port.  Mac took the blackboard with their name, Pizza A Legna. The Best Authentic Woodfired Pizza is written on the top, followed by today’s menu. They explained how they would provide a basic set of choices, to make sure everyone got something they would enjoy eating.  ‘Not one person will leave without licking their fingers, I promise you this...’  Leo said clapping his hands.

As we all spoke, my ears kept finding their way into listening to Embry’s voice. Following the rhythm of his beating heart. I would pull myself back because I didn’t want to eavesdrop on the conversation between him and Quil. But then, I found myself drawn into him again. I shook my head, biting the inside of my cheeks, when I heard Mac thanking the two girls and the young guy with Leo. This was when the pizza master turned to take in the bar and then his eyes lit up seeing the moms.  Leo excused himself to ‘Pay his respects.’ Leaving Mac and I stood shaking our heads.

‘I so want to be Leo when I grow up.’  Mac laughed.

“Sure, you do,” softly nudging my shoulder -- into Mac’s side. “But for now. Why don’t you take these guys inside and show them around? Make them feel at home.”  Mac was gone taking the assignment like a champ.

My ears heard the giggles coming from the gazebo, the moms and Emily too were taking Leo’s charms in their stride. But the way in which I caught Tony’s gaze worship the older man, I could guess he too wanted to be him when he grew up.

 Claire had Tony by the hand, telling him how much the washes would come to, telling him all about the work the moms were doing to make today a success. This told me this teen saw it and heard it all. She just picked and chose when to use what she had learnt.

‘Just a normal, perfect teen.’ She whispered to me.

“Playing all sides, more like it.” I told her, but she was busy observing the imprints here so far, making certain they were safe and happy. “Push over,” I growled at her but didn’t stop her from continuing… for now.

The audible gasps brought my attention back to the sight before me, making me really roll my eyes. Of course, he was putting on a show. And Ness! She was right there with the right music setting the mood for the whole thing!

‘Lee?’  Kim called my name, and I saw her waving in a couple of cars. ‘Are we taking these ones?’ I nod my head towards her.

“Sure, I’m with you,” I told her.

‘How come no one is telling Leah to get out of her jeans?’ One of the pups teased, earning himself a smack over the head from Seth.

‘Because she knows how not to mess shit up.’ The Kid told him. ‘Now get back to work.’

The place was picking up, laughter being in the atmosphere fuelling the energy of the people. Other than the one moody pup, whose partner in crime had stepped up to correct him.

‘Look at that, who would have believed the goofball would step up to the challenge?’ My warrior’s chest doubles with pride. Collin Littlesea may not be in our pack, but we saw them all as one.

‘Leah!!! I need you… I cannot reach the top.’  Kim pouted her lips at me.

Making me raise my eyebrow at her.  “Did you really think that would work on me?” I asked, making my way over to her side. “Give me the cloth woman. I’ll go high, you go low.”

∞ Embry Call ∞

I grinned as we all worked, which was fine as we were all singing along to Nessie’s tunes… The arrival of Leo and his famous pizza truck brought up memories of Leah now too. My time with her had become the first thing to come to mind when I looked back… and I had no complaints! Whatever had this woman done to me? I liked it.

I heard Quil chuckle. ‘Leo still has game!’ he laughed watching how the moms giggled. ‘The man is a legend.’ One of the pups chimed in. ‘Do you think he’d teach us his ways?’

I rolled my eyes. “Even if he did, you couldn’t pull off his moves Pup!” The kid flicked the towel he held at me, and I caught hold of it before it made contact. “Nice try! Keep practising.” I teased and he scurried to the other side of the van.

‘MammaT looks happy.’  Quil smiled at me.

“Yeah, she’s having a good day. She loves to have Bear around; she always wanted a little girl.” I said, starting to dry the van.

‘Oh, please! She wouldn’t have traded you, even when you had her tearing her hair out.’ He scoffed and I laughed. She had always been one of those overprotective mothers.

“Okay let me rephrase. She always wanted a little girl, too.” I added.

 Littlesea and the pup across the lot laughed, they were the only ones here with younger sisters. ‘I’m just trying to imagine you as a big brother! Scaring off her dates.’ Collin said.

 “Not scare them off… just lay out clear and vivid consequences!” I laughed. I honestly wouldn’t know how I’d react. “Just because you’re happy to let your sis run wild!” I teased. He was a great brother… there wasn’t much he wasn’t good at… if you didn’t count socialising outside of the pack.

‘Hey, I don’t need to worry about her… if anything I should worry about the guys. She’s the heartbreaker in our family.’ He laughed.

I looked and… more people were pulling in, Collin and Brady were getting ready to bring the two cars over for buffing and polishing. The girls were getting to work, and Nessie was leaving her set up and going to get her hands dirty at last. The moms were still flushed from their encounter with Leo. Who was now speaking in enthusiastic Italian to Tony… He was a regular at the truck in Port. I was pretty sure it was the only pizza Tony allowed into Mrs Franco’s home that she hadn’t made from scratch.  Claire was fussing like a pro over mom now, handing her a bottle of water while chattering away to her Auntie Emily to hide the fact she was being minded. The watch on Sue's wrist beeped, and she reached into a bag for my mother’s medication.

Sam appeared a second later with grilled veggie skewers, so she wouldn’t be taking them on an empty stomach.  Quil was watching me watch everyone else and he threw his arm around my shoulders. ‘It’s gonna be a good day, brother.’ He beamed and planted a kiss on my cheek. I laughed and shoved him away.

“Fuck off!” I teased and tossed him the keys. “Park the van will you, I’ll go and get Seth to mark us down for three more.”

I passed the girls and winked at Kim. “Hey, Kaya… next time you need a few inches just call my name!”

She rolled her eyes. ‘My fiancé is taller! I’ll wait for him… if Leah here is already occupied.’

I waved her off and continued across the lot. He wasn’t… he was just a little shorter than me… but arguing with an imprint about inches would never end well. I’d let her have that one.

 Seth updated the board, and I just watched the scene of the day for a little while until Sam whistled for me. He handed me a burger and filled me in quickly on the next shift for the Pups to patrol so I could help him round up the busy ones without it looking like a mass exodus.

A tiny green vehicle rolled into the lot and out of it came the newest member of our massive family and a familiar rotund ball of black and white fur. “Of course, he had her bring the dog!” I scoffed.

‘All her sitters are here today.’ Sam chuckled.  Claire squealed with delight and fell to her knees for puppy kisses. ‘Looks like we found her a caretaker for the day.’ It was his turn to laugh now.

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

See… this is what I called evolution…  Embry Call and his smart-arse mouth should have gotten him a wet sponge at the back of his head, for what he said to Kim. But instead, I just narrowed my eyes making a note to pay him back for it later.

While I continued to work, the girls all ran off to hug and welcome the newest addition to the pack family. She still looked like a deer in headlights at some points, and then other times, the girl knew her shit and owned her space.

My attention followed her, watching to see how well she had come to independently find her place in the universe she had chosen to occupy. First, she made sure the puppy was safe, letting Bear take responsibility for taking care of her. Then she went back to her emerald, green bug to bring out jugs of.. juice? I heard her saying. ‘Watermelon and mint, carrots, apples, and ginger. And pineapple with oranges.’ When the moms asked.

She spoke to the moms with respect. Calling them all aunties! Taking the attention of the pups, just like a sister would, becoming a part of the imprints like she had always been here. Seeing the way everyone worked so well together gave me hope for this and the next generations. Making my lips curl up into a smirk.

‘Leah Clearwater. Are you smirking?’  Sam had made his way around the parking lot to come stand beside me. ‘She is a good fit.’ His eyes were on the vet too.

“Hmm…” I moved to scrub the roof of the car I was left cleaning on my own for now.

‘I like how the pup has begun his journey to change.’ He added.

“Evolution… it’s not the same thing as change.” I told him. This made Sam laugh.

‘You always have all the answers, Lee.’ Shaking my head and then shrugging. I pointed my chin over towards the goofball.

“That is evolution. He is cleaning that car, doing what he was doing. When in truth he most likely wants to run over there, sweep the girl off her feet and kiss her.”  Sam followed me as I moved. “And the same for her. She is greeting the elders, the young ones. When her eyes are searching for him.”

 Sam chuckled. “None of your arses had that much control. To be able to deal with your emotions and carry on with what was needed, when your partners were near.” He was nodding his head, listening as though it hadn’t occurred to him.

“Evolution… the next generation is doing something those before them couldn’t.”

We watched, as the vet filled glasses of the juice, sharing them out before she picked up the last glass and crossed the parking lot.  The pup stopped what he was doing, now he wasn’t hiding his sneak peeks at his imprint. They exchanged words, she gave him the glass, and he kissed her cheek.

‘Do you remember Paul and Rachel?’  Sam shook his head. We’d all heard them at one stage or another going at it.

“Don’t remind me!” I scoffed and smirked again.

∞ Embry Call ∞

Had I felt Leah’s gaze on the back of my head as I walked away? Yes. Was I expecting some form of retaliation? Absolutely! Did I brace? Hell yes! Because regardless of whether or not I woke up in her bed this morning… This was kind of what we did.

I caught sight of Leah after Sam left me to go and speak to her. A few of the pups and guests were fawning over the dog now, under Claire’s strict instructions to be gentle and take turns. The girl was a paradox. It made me smile. Our newest addition was passing out juice and offered me a selection. “Have any recommendations?” I smiled at her.

‘The watermelon is Collin’s favourite.’ She blushed.

I picked up the one that she pointed to. “Well, that settles it… the Pup has great taste.” I chuckled and she flushed a deeper shade of red. It had nothing to do with me and everything to do with her fighting her instinct to run right to him. I sipped the juice… “Wow…” I looked at her impressed. “You’re doing great Doc…” I didn’t wink or hug her like I would with the other girls… It was still fresh. I was sure the Pup would deal, but she was still getting used to us all. I wondered if she’d even registered, she was in a carpark full of shirtless guys… It was shocking how quickly they stopped noticing that detail.

I tried not to watch her reunite with her new boyfriend. But it was like looking away from Leah when she was in her kitchen, wearing my t-shirt before the sun was even up… they were so happy you just couldn’t help but want to witness it. Everyone else was thinking the same thing so it was the perfect chance for me to sneak a peek at Leah as she cleaned the car solo and talked to Sam.

I finished my juice and made my way over to the car, calling to the girls. “C’mon, ladies! Where is the sense of teamwork?”

I moved to the other side of the car and started on the hood.  Sam was still watching the Pup. “You did good with that one… his focus and control is probably the best I’ve ever seen… even better than his cousin.”

Sam nodded and turned to me with a laugh. ‘I can’t take much credit for it… he was more or less like that when I got him.’ The pup across the lot flushed, hearing everything we were saying.

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

“Stop eavesdropping pup, and don’t even think about stealing her car. I’m calling dibs on it next.”  Sam bursts out laughing when he hears me talking to the goofball.

‘Good luck with that one. He isn’t going to let anyone but himself, and maybe his twin touch her little bug.’ I knew Sam was right. I only said it to see if I got a rise out of him. The pup dropped his head and then shook it. Glancing at me and smiled with red ears. He clearly saw me smirking.

The music was on auto-play now, a mix of playlists which I know both Ness and Embry would have put some effort into collating for the day. Only our people here could turn a car wash into a full-on party, as more people began to pull up. The scent of wood fire danced in the air, and I knew that on its own, would draw in anyone who thought they could drive on by.

‘I did come over to give you a helping hand. But looks like your third is on the ball here today.’ Sam walked off, patting Embry on his shoulder before leaving to go talk to the others. ‘I’m going to go try that juice before there's nothing left. Want me to bring you some?’ I shook my head at him.

“Nah, let the pups drink it up.” Sam waved over his head at me. Telling me I was missing out. I knew this already, but I also got to taste the drink when the vet brought a jug or two over to Ma’s home. Whenever she came over for dinner or breakfast. The girl never came empty-handed.

My eyes moved over to the other pup and his not-so-one-night stand. The two of them were laughing and smiling now, small touches, certain looks shared. I shook my head again. “Mr. Clingy my arse,” I muttered. The pup was going to learn a valuable lesson. Sooner or later. I just hoped it didn’t come with heartbreak for him or anyone else.

Working on the roof I arched my perfectly shaped eyebrow. Watching the interloper making himself at home, on the same car as me. “If you think I’m giving you credit for this car, you’re mistaken Embry Call.” Pointing to the patch beside his hand. “You missed a spot.”

∞ Embry Call ∞

I chuckled at the interaction between Leah and the pup. That kid was truly one of a kind. I laughed at Sam… “If you stop cooking, we’ll lose half of our volunteers Uley!” I clapped him on the shoulder.

I gave Leah a smirk over the hood of the car. “Sometimes it takes a minute to actually see what’s right in front of you.” I kept working, no one here would think I was talking about anything other than the wild twin. “Besides… we all know that no one can go wrong with a good-looking Makah boy.” I saw Brady choke on the juice in his hand and Mr-Not-So-Clingy patting his shoulder and wiping his chin with a napkin… Oh yeah, he was the type of person Bray needed. That boy was a walking dumpster fire. We all knew that his twin was the only reason he didn’t live off cereal and takeout. I was also pretty sure he had his mom do his laundry.

He needed someone who expressed themselves by looking after people and he had plenty to give back.

“I didn’t hear you give Lahote this kind of grief!” I acted offended. “You were there first, this one all for the ladies… I just don’t like to be idle.” It was a little fib… I loved to be idle… sitting around with the guys… playing guitar… talking about nothing in particular… That was idle, right?

And other things I couldn’t think about right now… but there wasn’t much I did with Leah you could call idle… even sitting in silence (as silent as I could manage, at least) was filled with meaning.

I mock glared at her… “I’m getting to it.” I deliberately avoided the spot. “I have a complex system. You must trust the process.”

I glanced around, smiling. “It’s getting busy now…” Then out of the corner of my eye, I caught sight of the fur ball trying to climb onto Claire's lap where she was sitting on the folding chairs. One of the pups gave the actual pup a careful boost and both the troublemakers looked very happy.

“Bear is going to regret that in about ten minutes.” I chuckled. You could tell by a glance at the dog she was about to knock out for a legendary nap. “Quil is scheduled to be bugged by Claire to get a puppy in about an hour.” I looked at my non-existent watch.

“It's great having almost everyone in the same place… isn’t it?” I grinned in the direction of the moms. “They’re having a great day so far too… I really hope Sue knows how thankful I am for how well she takes care of her.”

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

That perfect arch of my eyebrow was back. The double meaning wasn’t lost to me. It was a good thing I had learnt a long time ago to control myself and my emotions. Things like skipping hearts, or blushes on cheeks, any slight change would be picked up by all non-humans. And I wasn’t in the business of being seen. Shaking my head I continued working, my ears picking up the kerfuffle behind me.

“I don’t need to give Lahote any grief, because that’s what his wife is here for. Anyway. It’s not my fault if Paul did a good job without being told... for once.” I knew the fool would be puffing his chest out at hearing me say this. “Now if only she would stop talking for an award and get some cars cleaned.” I could see Paul telling his wife what I was saying. Then she turned to look at me, blowing a kiss. Taking the girls to another car.

Now I glanced over the car, to the tall shirtless muscled man, making himself glisten under the light of the day. As he stretched out…

By the spirits!

Where the hell did those thoughts come from? Frowning internally as she lay there with not a care in the world. And I knew right away. She did that to take me off my guard! Damn! My warrior was going to be the end of me!

Biting the inside of my cheeks, I stepped back to look over the roof of the car. Making sure I had it all. “Idle is your dream state, and we all know it,” I told him, even if my mind was listing a number of things we’d witnessed him doing.

I finally glanced around the lot again, seeing the puppy getting herself comfortable on Bear and smirked. The imprints were popping about Catching up, the moms were in their element, and the pups were all busy goofing around while they got their jobs done.

Setting the rag in my hand down, I moved on to cleaning the windows, he wasn’t wrong when it came to seeing the atmosphere around us.

“Yeah, it’s always nice to see everyone come together. And for the moms and the community... Trying to achieve something they had dreamed of for a while. It’s… it’s a moment to appreciate”

Standing to catch his eyes when I spoke. “She wouldn’t want you to think of it like that. You know how the two of them are.” Nodding my head back over to our mom’s. “They do it for each other, without thinking about you or me.”

As I looked back over my shoulder, I saw The Kid smile. His eyes melted when they caught mine. He knew this too, and the slight nod of his head in agreement told me he saw it in the same way I did.

∞ Embry Call ∞

If that eyebrow thing was an Olympic sport Leah Clearwater would take the gold. I would have said it out loud… but then she’d have to throw something at me, and I had just had a hosepipe shower… so I gave her that smile… for a second. Just long enough for her to know I was thinking something I shouldn’t say out loud.

I laughed… “Oh come on! A wedding ring has never stopped you from kicking arses and taking names when arses need kicking and names need… well, you get the message.” Judging by her reaction my smile had the desired effect.

I knew that Leah was right… but still, the gratitude was there. I knew if it wasn’t for Sue being here, I probably wouldn’t be messing with the pups and singing along to Nessie’s tracks with the guys. I would just be looking after Mom. She didn’t want that; Sue had a way that she looked after people… and they never knew she was doing it. I wondered if it was purely a mom thing because I had only ever seen moms pull it off.

“Yeah, I know. She doesn’t look after people because she’s supposed to or because she feels responsible. She does it because it just wouldn’t ever occur to her not to. She sees someone who needs something, and she helps as naturally as breathing.” I pretended not to notice the kind looks the siblings exchanged… feeling that age-old pang of having wanted a sibling all my life… It didn’t sting like it used to when I was a kid. I had more brothers and sisters than I knew what to do with now… but it wasn’t the same as sharing a home and a childhood with someone.

All the same, I sought out Jacob and Quil standing and making some kind of plan together… I grinned. I could have done a lot worse with my found family.

Just as I thought that an elder drove in and Seth was right there… opening the door and offering a hand to the driver. I chuckled. “Apparently it's genetic.” I nodded towards her brother… but this was Leah, she wouldn’t have missed it. “Definitely Sue Clearwater’s son.” I knew he could hear me. But he did a good job of acting like he didn’t.

I moved to clean the front bumper, once I finished the hood… including the spot that she’d said I missed. “And he even claimed a car for the team!” I chuckled. He had been trying to stay neutral in the competition, but I was only going to let that slide for so long. Two pups in muddy trainers came into the lot casually and Jake whispered to another two to grab a bite, then head off to take their place on patrol. Two at a time wasn’t our normal rotation… but it meant we didn’t have too many kids arriving and vanishing at once.

I lowered my voice so only those with super hearing might pick up my words. “I still feel bad not pitching in on the runs today… I mean it makes sense and all… but I don’t like not pulling my weight.”

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

By the spirits! That smile… yes, That One... the one which told me nothing good was happening in his head, was on show. Making me bite the inside of my cheeks, all I could do was narrow my eyes, telling him ‘Don’t you dare!’ Not that I knew what it was in the first place.

“Hold up… who said anything about a wedding ring stopping me? You know how she is…” clearly meaning the fact that she is an imprint. “And how we all like seeing her smile and happy…” pointing my thumb over my shoulder. “Those two… weird arse kinks.” As I said it, the parking lot all groaned, made vomiting sounds, or (I knew it was Sam) said ‘Nope. I’m out.’

I of course grinned, as they all tried to turn their respective reactions into something believable by the humans surrounding us.

‘There is nothing wrong with having a few exciting things in the bedroom.’  Rachel played a long as soon as she was told what I said. But my eyes went to the newest member of this dysfunctional group. Making me smirk seeing her face as red as a beet.

When my gaze moved back to the car Embry and I was working on, I caught his attention following it to Jacob and Quil. Just like that, I knew his mind had gone to Family! With his questions about growing up in the same house, and that sibling rapport which only came from the corresponding closeness.

“Blood is not the only form of brotherhood. Who knows that better than you.” My voice was low for him to know I got it. But he had something with Jake and Quil no one else could come close too. Again, I wasn’t going to undermine he’s emotions or feel of missing some part of life too. My smile was back when he spoke about The Kid. And of course, I knew what was happening behind me. I hadn’t switched myself off from knowing exactly what was happening where, and with whom.

“Yeah. He and Jess are the best of what the Clearwater’s have to offer this world.” I truly believed it with all my heart.

And now it was Jacob’s voice I heard. ‘We all have our way to help, Bry. Today you are needed here more than ever. We’ve all got this.’

Listening I didn’t say anything, because Embry and I were in the same basket. I felt extremely uncomfortable with not leading one of the runs today.

‘Leah?’ The nerd rolled her sleeves up. ‘Where would you like me to start.’ She asked. Followed by. ‘I could take the roofs of the cars?’ She was the next tallest of the women here. At 5’10 the woman wasn’t so far from my own height.

“Sounds like a good plan, but make sure you eat something too. I know you started early to make the time up for being here.” She blushed red again. Pushing her glasses up her nose. “You should know that nothing goes unnoticed by me.” Giving her a wink.  “Maybe you can do a better job than this one. Look he missed another spot.”

∞ Embry Call ∞

I laughed… the reaction of the Pups around the lot… But really, they all loved to see how happy and passionate those two were. But I was sure they would love to see less of the private pictures that Paul shared with his wife when he sent them to our group chat instead of to her alone.

“A few?” I mouthed to Leah, so Paul couldn’t see or hear and relay this to Rachel… we all knew those two had more than a few of these so-called exciting bedroom habits.

I followed Leah’s gaze to the vet… chuckling quietly at her reaction. Most of the time I would say it was only a matter of time before a new imprint would get used to this pack banter… but with this one… I think the only thing she was going to get used to was a near-permanent blush when she was around her soulmate’s friends. Her newfound family and by the way the pup leaned in to kiss that blush… he was just fine with that too.

“I know.” I smiled at her. But still, I knew, always in the back of my mind that one of these men… was my brother by blood. I knew it didn’t matter; they were still my family. But it was a fact I could only push to the back of my mind and never truly forget.

I nodded to Jake; I knew it was true. With mom here… I needed to not have her question why I was running off in the middle of the day. There is a low chorus of approvals from the others that only those of us with heightened senses would pick up… There was no one else here that would ever view my not taking a run today as anything but what was needed to be done.

I grinned at the interaction between the two women. “I’d tell you you’d get used to her, doc… but it would be a bald-faced lie… We’ve had a lifetime, and she keeps us all guessing.” Smirking as I spoke. “Okay ladies… I know that my assistance is invaluable, but I gotta go wrangle some Pups for their shift.” I grinned noticing that Littlesea had claimed the little green bug for the boy's team. He was doing me proud.

I headed off to the two young ones who were due to swap out next, taking their place finishing up the car that they were washing.

By lunchtime, the scoreboards were still playing a game of chicken, and the banter was high. It was starting to get busy. The Chief had shown up and was settled under the gazebo with the moms and other elders that had shown up. And I wasn’t too sure when I had decided to do it… but I pulled Billy aside for a private conversation. Or as private as it could be with two whole wolf packs in the lot.

“I wanted to talk to you about… um…” I took a breath. “About enrolment… in the tribe.”

Billy locked the wheels of his chair and looked at me. ‘You’ve never wanted that before… Embry… You’re enrolled as Makah and that gives you all the same rights as any Tribal member on this reservation.’

“I know… but…people have dual enrolment, right?” I asked him.

‘Of course… but... why now, Embry?’ The Chief looked serious.

“Because…” I looked around. “This is my family.”

‘Enrolment won’t change that, Nephew… But come to me tomorrow and we will talk about it, okay? And I promise you, I’ll hear you out and do whatever I can to help.’ Then he looked over his shoulder. ‘Have you spoken to your mother about this?’ I shook my head. ‘Well, I think you should… think about it and if you decide to tell her, you can bring her when we speak tomorrow.’

I had assumed that this would be a simple thing… I had lived here all my life; it would hardly be an ordeal to have Quiluete stamped next to Makah on my ID card. I just nodded respectfully and spoke. “Okay, Thank you, Uncle.” And I wheeled him back to his spot with the moms.Then I did what I was good at… getting back to the task at hand.

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

The morning flew by without any major problems, everyone worked, ate, drank, laughed, and joked as we worked. People began coming and sticking around when the elders were here, giving the car wash a powwow-like atmosphere.

People came to speak to the women; the nerd was given many hugs with stories of how she had been sent to our tribe by the spirits. They didn’t know just how true their statements were. I could see with every person who gave her attention, the pup's eyes glimmered with pride.

‘Sis, you need to take a break. Have something to eat. Go talk to people, tell them what and why we are doing this?’  Seth held out a bottle of open water to me.

Finishing off the van before me with a final check, I stood up and stretched my limbs out. Taking the bottle to down it in one.

“Nah. That’s what you, the moms, and the elders are for. I’m just here as the help.” Handing him the bottle back before waving over the next car.

‘This isn’t how it works.’ He started.

“This is exactly how it works. You and Ma are the faces people interact with. Your hearts are warm, and your personality is welcoming. So… it’s what works.” I was smiling at him with a wink.

He sighed, looking a little flustered at me. ‘Someday… you will open up and let someone in. And see it’s not a bad thing to do.’ I didn’t look towards Embry, even if it felt as though my heart reached out to him. I had let someone in. And he was helping me see the world in a different light. The bigger picture as he told me.

We both heard our names being called from across the lot. Exchanging glances, I set the rag in my hand down in the water bucket before making my way over. Mac had been inside the bar and now stood shivering a little. We asked him what the matter was. And he replied with. ‘The ice cream van, we asked to come is stuck down the street with a flat and no jack to lift it to change the tyre.’

 Seth and I both laughed. “Is that it?” Pointing to around the lot. “I’m still not sure why we all agreed to an ice cream van. But I’m sure we can get this problem fixed from here.”

The Kid patted Mac on the back. ‘We need to talk about crisis levels again, don’t we, bro?’ My brother took on the responsibility of getting it sorted, walking Mac away.

Gathering a pup with him, and a Jack from Tony they jumped into a car heading in the direction Mac gave. Laughing I walked up to my friend and nudged the man. “Dude, you’re so easy to rattle.”

He looked at me sheepishly and shook his head. ‘This is the first time your mom has asked us to do something like this here. You know… for the community centre and the children. I want it done right.’

I got it, Ma kept the ‘family friendly’, stuff around the centre. But with it being a car wash, HwH was a better option this time.

After reassuring him we got it all in hand. I started back to help the ladies out.

It’s when my feet stumbled, I had been keeping my hearing away and locked down. But my warrior reached out to listen and look around the lot. Making sure everyone there was looked after. We caught the end of a conversation we really shouldn’t have.

‘Why now?’ She asked me. But I didn’t know the answer if she didn’t. There must be a reason for it. And when he knew for sure, he would do what was right.

‘Leah!’ The ladies cheered, pointing me to the roof of the car.

“You lot need to learn to use a stepladder!” I rolled my eyes, taking the opposite side of the roof from the nerd.

∞ Embry Call ∞

As I spoke to the moms about the takings so far and earned myself a lecture that it wasn’t proper to count the takings in public from Mom… I chuckled. There it was… the proof of where my issue with asking for help with money came from. But Sue whispered to me that they were at least halfway to the goal already.

I overheard the crisis about the flat tyre… poor Mac… he was far too nice to be that high-strung. But Seth and Leah had it sorted before I could politely remove myself from the conversation with the moms. Tony was only too happy to lend a helping hand. I glanced up surveying the parking lot and saw Leah being called over to help the girls with another roof. And I thought that it would be a good time to grab some lunch. I headed over to the pizza truck. Not to mug off Sam’s barbecue skills…. But I never missed an opportunity to gorge on Leo’s pizza.

As always… he didn’t let me order but handed me two individual slices for the moms; both totally different and a twelve-inch pizza just for me (mostly because I wanted to follow it with a burger or two). I delivered the food to the boss ladies and reminded Mom she had more pills to take soon. Then I found a seat next to Gemma, who I hadn’t noticed arrived. “Hey, Gem!” I beamed and sat on a free bench next to her where she was loving on the furball, still dutifully chaperoned by Bear who swiped a slice of my pizza.

“Really? This is my lunch… I’ve been working all day!” I poked her teasingly. She laughed and swatted me away.

‘When I take the dog too close to the food, she gets hyper and starts jumping around. She’s already had too much excitement today.’ She took a bit of my pizza and grimaced but still swallowed it. ‘That’s a lot of garlic! I hope you don’t plan on picking up a date today.’ She said with all the sass and Gemma laughed.

“You know what cancels out garlic? Strawberry ice cream and the truck is almost here.” I stuck my tongue out at her like a twelve-year-old and Gemma laughed harder. She swiped a slice from my pizza box and took a bite.

‘Oh… wow… ‘Bry… she’s not wrong.’  Gemma pointed to the slice and then went in for a second bite anyway. Because Leo really was that good.

I just shook my head at her. “That can be payment for bailing us out with the coffee earlier.”

She waved me off. ‘Oh no. I was happy to… I just wanted to pop out on my lunch and support the cause.’

“Well, I’d be happy to wash your car for you as soon as I’m done eating.” At that, she gave me a look and pointed to the car that Leah was helping the girls with.

‘Please! The whole village has been talking about this for weeks… I knew it was girls versus boys!’ She smirked and took another bite of my pizza.

 Tony plonked down next to me. ‘Something smells good.’ He helped himself to a slice.

“The van is right there!” I said nudging him with an elbow.

‘I only want a slice… I’m stuffed; your friend Sam is a genius on the grill… and someone brought the most incredible muffins… and these giant cookies the size of a plate…. So good! You should try them.’ He gushed. I knew the band had headed home but Tony stuck around for the moral support. Plus, I knew that seeing Mom having a good day was just as comforting to him.

“The cookie would be Gemma’s creation.” I know the minute he said giant, they had to be the signature cookies from the diner. “Gemma… this is Tony Franco… He’s from Port Angeles but try not to hold that against him.” I patted my buddy on the shoulder.

‘Well, they are my grandma’s recipe… but yes I made them today.’ She flushed a little when Tony praised her baking skills and then she seemed to remember something. ‘Oh my gosh! You’re that guy who sang at the open mic night, aren’t you? You have the best voice!’

I smiled and sat back… Letting Tony flush crimson. ‘You should totally sing something…’ She shifted in her seat and turned to get Nessie’s attention. ‘You have a mic set up right? She asked when Ness came over to see what was up. ‘You have to let Tony sing.’ Ness grinned and instantly agreed. Jessica appeared out of nowhere clapping and jumping up and down on the spot.

‘Yes!! Gemma, you are a genius!’ She grabbed Tony by the hand and pulled him up squealing about singing the one from the car. Then she chased Nessie to her makeshift DJ booth and whispered something no one could hear because of how close they were to the speakers.

I shrugged at Tony… “You wanted to know what a powwow was like… this is pretty close… At least for this tribe. You never know what you’re going to get.”

Jess had started a mini chant of Tony, Tony, Tony!!! Claire, Quil and a few of the boys joined in. I pushed him towards the girls. “Can’t let the tribe down Ton… do your thing!”

Mom was sitting up watching now too. He was beet red, but he took the mic from Ness anyway and shook his head when he looked at the screen of her laptop, then pointed to Jessica accusingly. ‘If this sucks… Please blame Jessica Clearwater!’ He joked into the mic.

He slipped seamlessly into his stage persona… confidence. The first few beats of the song played, and I was stunned… Tony had a very distinct sound, and this was not it… What on earth was he doing?

I stood next to Quil and Claire… Tony killed the first few lines of it and my best friend turned to me and spoke. ‘Did you know he could do that?’ He had been dragged to his fair share of Windshield gigs and never heard anything like this.

“Nope! This is a shock to me too!” I laughed and watched him owning the song… People stopped what they were doing to pay attention to him… but they always did when Tony performed. He had a stage presence that was as impossible to ignore as his voice.

A lot of the Rez girls were paying attention now.

Can't Hold Us (feat. Ray Dalton) - Macklemore

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

As soon as Gemma’s car had been washed, I began telling the imprints to head off to eat something as they finished their jobs. Nobody put up a fight, for once doing as they were told. I knew it had more to do with the amazing scent of food in the air than with them listening. But sod it. I’d take the win.

The only person left behind with me who didn’t drop her damp cloth; smiled pushing her glasses up the bridge of her nose. “You really need to get up to Port to get those things tightened,” I told her.

‘I know.’ She stretched a little stepping back to check her work just like I did. ‘I keep forgetting to make an appointment when I am there.’ A sheepish smile crossed her lips when she turned her head in the direction of the pup. There was more to that story. But I wasn’t going to ask.

The pup and the nerd liked to keep some boundaries in place when it came to their relationship, which of course I could understand and respect greatly. After all, I was the most private person in the two packs. The walls I created, the rules I followed, and the way I ensured my privacy was protected. It all came down to boundaries, even if mine was erected for a very different reason to the new couple.

“Go grab something to eat. You were working early this morning. I got this.” I told The Nerd.

‘As I am certain you were too Leah. So, let’s finish up together and then go eat some of that delicious-smelling pizza.’ The Nerd winked.

Smirking, at the fact that some part of her wasn’t going to give in. I shook my head and then agreed. As soon as I did, the wind changed its direction on us. I felt the lightness in the breeze, knowing who was trying to gain my attention.  Tilting my head, my body urged me to move forward towards the vet, blinking my eyes, I took her in… Feeling her aura taking a hold of me. Thoughts filled my mind, making my breathing speed.

She gave me a smile to give a warm summers day a run for its money. A breeze blew a few strands of hair across her beautiful face, which she moved out of the way with her index finger. I wanted to step closer to her, to be the one to brush those strands out of her sight slowly. To kiss her nose, because when she did that thing… Pushing her glasses up… it made my heart skip and beat faster.

‘So Beautiful.’ The thought filled my mind.

The small black beauty—marks… on the top of her lip, on her cheek, on the bridge of her nose… I wanted to kiss each of them. One at a time… I wanted to tell her how much they were loved too!

The scent of her shampoo filled with flora and animals covered our space. Something others would question, came across as angelic to me.  I felt my heart pull towards her as the spirits hummed around her. Knowing how kissing those plump, rosy lips would feel…

“By the Spirits!” I kicked my head out of it with a jerk.

‘Is everything okay, Leah?’ She asked concerned by the way I stepped back.

“Yeah… It’s…” My eyes darted around the now partying lot to find him. “You should go see the pup.” Her cheeks flushed; she located him right away with her gaze. Of course, they always knew where to find each other, when they were in the same place.

‘It’s okay. He knows I’m here to help.’ Bending down to ring out her cloth.

I shook my head, telling her we were done here. Thankfully the beat of the music, the sound of Tony singing, brought Jessica dancing up to grab her friend and boss.

‘Come on Boss. We love this song.’ Dragging the nerd away from me.

I took a few deep and slow breaths. Grounding myself with all those feelings. Shaking them off. Because, while everyone began to cheer for Tony, the pup’s eyes, heart, and thoughts were on his imprint. His emotions were being picked up by our spirits, which they thought they should share with me!

Watching the crew, listening to Tony singing, seeing how Jessica and her boss started off the dancing. My heart began racing at the way her hips swung from side to side.

“Nope….” Shaking it off, I sent my wall crashing up. So high. So full. Nothing would get in there.

Shaking myself, shivering, looking for a distraction, when I saw a townie pull up in a newish BMW X 4x4 in electric blue. “Someone’s mom and dad spoiled them.” Muttering it to myself, as I walked up to see what they wanted.

The car was full of giggles and laughter, as they all jumped out asking where the party was at. With my eyebrow raised, and my arms crossed over my chest, I waited for them to come to terms with how things would work here. Only once they realised their attitude had to change, did I explain what was happening and how they needed to pay up if they wanted to respectfully take part in the event.

The driver approached me first, apologising before going to pay the moms for a wash, and a little extra for supporting the community.

My eyes went around the lot when I saw both Sam and Jake’s eyes on me and the townies. They both nodded letting me know they would keep an eye on them while I got back to work.

I couldn’t miss this perfect opportunity to gain a lead on the boys. They were all distracted with Tony, dancing, and having a good time. And in all honesty, they deserved it.

∞ Embry Call ∞

There was no missing the way the Pup's heart had started to race, while Tony won the hearts of the Rez girls. And it looked like the Spirits were doing their thing with Leah… But this time I laughed; it wasn’t like the aches and panic from the last time. I turned my attention back to my friend… mostly for Littlesea’s sake. He had been so good with his self-control and even with my eyes fixed on Leah… Harper was right there next to her and a newly imprinted wolf was a sensitive creature.

The next thing I knew the new girl was dancing and laughing in the throng of imprints and village girls that were just here for the event. I was sure a few of them hadn’t even brought a vehicle and just slipped a few dollars into the cash box to spend the day and have fun.

When Tony descended the stage, Nessie kept the music pumping, high-fiving Tony before he tried (and failed) to disappear as he stepped away from the not-a-stage.

Feel Good -  Zayde Wolf

The next band was (to my immense joy) Bear’s current favourite. I looked around… So did Quil, but Jake had already taken the puppy’s leash from her, and she was running over.  Jake was watching the rowdy townies, now less rowdy, as they approached the mini mid-day party. I lifted Bear up onto Quil’s shoulders and he moved further into the crowd than he normally would. The imprints had all looked like they were ready to go back to work, but the teenager's arrival changed their minds as they all tried to dance with her while she was perched on the six-foot-two Spirit Warrior’s shoulder.

Littlesea was hovering at the edge of the crowd watching his girlfriend with a huge grin on his face. I jerked my chin in the direction of the bouncing crowd, and he shook his bright red face. So, I shrugged like I was just going to leave it at that and slipped into the small cluster of people arms in and shouting more than singing:

“Cause this gonna be my…

Yeah, this gonna be my…

Cause this gonna be my…

Can’t help but feel good”

I held my arms out to Claire who dove with full trust sideways into my arms and I caught her. She stood on her own feet and held her hands as we danced. The girls all instinctively moved with their littlest sister… they didn’t know they did… but this crowd wasn’t just the pack and family. It was villagers and townies too, so they were more aware of her. As they shifted the crowd followed and Next thing, I knew Littlesea was right in the middle. Oops?

His soulmate took his hand, and he joined in, finally.  Quil did the I-see-what-you-did-there thing at me and stole his young imprint back from me.

My work was done so I slipped free before I lost total focus.  Tony had escaped and was finishing my abandoned pizza. I flipped him off and received the same in return, I just shook my head and laughed. I would have to ask him where he pulled that rap out of later.

Mom and Sue looked like they were trying too hard to wear the look; ‘Kids today’, but they were clearly delighted with the party atmosphere. They were chattering about this was how things got spread on “The Twitter” and would draw in more people.

“It looks like you ladies forgot your dancing shoes.” I teased them and almost sat on the edge of the table before I remembered it was a fold-up one and it probably couldn’t hold me.

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

Catching the way Embry brought the pup into the fold of madness. Seeing the Goofball stepping up into this role with life, his imprint, as well as with his pack, gave hope to the rest too. Witnessing the joy in their eyes, hearing their hearts, and trying hard not to listen to their whispers. It was a blessing from the Spirits. 

Watching it all out of the reflection of the mirror I’d been cleaning, made me smile a little. ‘You’re still keeping yourself on the outside.’ She commented. I didn’t need to reply.

‘Hmm…’ She continued. ‘Sometimes it comes down to breaking a habit.’ My hand dipped into the soapy water to ring out the cloth.

‘But… Sometimes it’s about taking a leap and seeing where your feet land.’ This earned her an eye roll. How many more leaps did she want me to take exactly?

‘As many as you feel we can manage.’ She was happy blissfully watching while guarding the area. We were surrounded by warriors. But this wasn’t a habit we were going to break. Always being aware, ready, and on guard. It was the way of our calling.

As I worked, I listened to the conversations around the lot, checking for the placement of the tribe, the townies, and of course the imprints, the packs, and the moms. A gust of wind made me stand up to look out towards the forest across the lot. My lips curled up into a smile, not taking me long at all to find him amongst the dark foliage. Speaking soul to soul.

“I was wondering how long it would take you to show up.” Asking with a smartarse tone to my voice, only after I’d respectfully greeted him.

‘It gives me great elation to see my children safe and happy.’ For good measure he sent another gust in my direction, making it turn and twist before it hit me upside my head.

“Ouch! That’s called trauma these days.” Rubbing the head with my free hand.

‘I am aware. I have after all kept up with the times, don’t you know.’ His booming laughter filled my mind.

“Now… Who is the smartarse?” Yeap. This earned me another wind slap, which I took as a blessing from my ancestor and guardian.

 The Great Wolf remained in his soulful flowing avatar, observing the goings on. His responsive gaze showed me what he ascertained and how he saw it….

 Emily with her swollen feet, belly, and cheeks, eating a slice of pizza.

 Sam, The Warrior, a son of the tribe, whose eyes were on the growing crowds always returning to his wife.

 Kim, with her smiling, dancing body. But when you truly saw her, her glance moved towards the road. She was waiting, for her warrior to return.

 The Kid, with his eyes filled with gentleness, his heart open and welcoming.

The pups… young, with the want to learn, to follow, and to live their life for their tribe. (Add to the mix, their desire for a little trouble with the townie girls!)

 The Nerd and her Goofball. Newly found, the world lost to them at the moment when their eyes locked. With full trust in their extended family around them to keep them safe.

The Moms. And…. Embry…. My heart… my mind… my soul…. I saw him in the eyes of The Great Wolf for the first time.

‘The blood of my blood… He is walking the path we set out for him very well.’ He finally said. ‘His choices are those we hoped for, but we could not push him towards. The boy is a warrior, a guardian, a kind soul with a protector’s will.’ I knew this. I’d witnessed it all with my own eyes.

I moved The Great Wolf’s gaze back towards the moms. Showing him the way, they smiled up at Embry, the way they spoke and teased. My ancestor knew right away what I was asking.

‘You know I cannot tell you what you want to know child.’ Our language coated my heart. ‘What is to come, will come. We cannot stop it. We can only understand and know, each path is set in motion for a reason. And it’s for each person to walk on their own, with our hands waiting to hold them up.’

I closed my eyes. The burning wasn’t allowed to come to light outside of my home. The Leah who showed emotion wasn’t the one standing here. So, I locked it down.

‘Yes…’ He said before I could even acknowledge I’d asked him a question. ‘When the time comes, like with all my children. I will be their guide; I will take their hand and take them on their final steps.’

My skin was covered with small goosebumps at this. Thanking him. I bowed my head. With another gust, he was gone. The music and the party continued behind me. When Ma caught my eye. Mouthing from afar, ‘Are you okay?’ I replied with a nod.

Asking her with a motion of my hand, to add another car on the girl’s side of the board. She smiled clapping her hands, jumping up to add it with a flourish.

∞ Embry Call ∞

My walk across the lot let me glance over at Leah, lost in conversation with her wolf… or something else. It was hard to know with her.

It was while I spoke to Mom that I felt eyes on me and not from the crowd… but something told me whoever was visiting wasn’t there for me… But I looked back at Leah and saw her glancing into the trees… She looked at peace, so I smiled and turned back to my mom. Letting her finish her exchange in peace.

Then Sue was jumping up to put a mark in the girl's column. I huffed. “Damn! They are pulling ahead!!” I turned to see if there were any more cars pulling in.

I lifted a handful of flyers and spotted two kids from the high school wolfing down burgers fast enough to make a Warrior proud. “Hey… guys… wanna make a few quick bucks?” I smiled at them.

‘Depends on… what we do/get?’ The older boy asked, and I swear I heard my mom clench her jaw wanting to correct their grammar.

I just looked over my shoulders and back at the kids and mouthed the word Elder. He straightened up and wiped his mouth on his sleeve, then elbowed his friend to do the same. ‘Sorry auntie’s… Uncle.’ The first boy said to the grown-ups behind me. ‘How may we help?’

Okay… they were laying it on thick… but respect.

“Ten bucks each if you pass these out in the village and send ten cars… each.” I held out the flyers to them. “You in?”

‘He—I mean… Yes. We can do that.’ He had been about to say hell… quick learner. This kid had potential.

‘You know… You could just volunteer your time for the good of the people.’ The Chief’s voice came from behind me.

Now the boy looked like he met his match and looked at the Chief. ‘Well, we would be skipping out on the fun… so a reward isn’t asking much, is it?’ he said, and Billy laughed.

‘A trade… We do it for free and this one.’ He pointed at me. ‘Shows us how he got so buff.’

Laughter broke out everywhere. Including the moms but Billy stuck out his hand and said, ‘Deal!!’

I rolled my eyes, and the kids looked at me. “Deal… Monday morning, seven am. Community centre weight room.” They looked at me like I kicked their puppy.

‘Eight?’ He was bargaining with me!

“Seven-thirty.” I countered, my glare telling him it was a final offer.

‘Deal!’ He took the flyers, and I got the kid's names. Telling them ten cars each or no deal and they left, picking up another burger each from a chuckling Sam as they went.

‘Cheeky little, buggers.’  Emily teased, laughing and then complaining that laughing made her need to pee.

“I like him…” I shrugged. “Reminds me of someone.” I looked for Quil who was walking out of the crowd of dancers with Claire and getting her a bottle of water while she reclaimed her charge for the day. The dog's whole body wagged not just her tail.

Mom groaned a little and shifted in her chair. “How about a little walk Mom? … Get the blood flowing again.” She lit up. ‘Oh, that sounds good… need to stretch these old bones.’ She nodded.

I walked around the table to give her my hand. She looped her arm through mine, and we started a slow loop of the parking lot. Mom filled me in on all the gossip I had missed and all the comments she overheard about the single guys. And then she gushed about The Nerd, and I smiled. Finding them in the crowd. ‘They are so in love… you can just tell. No matter how soon it is.’ She spoke. ‘You know that boy… So blessed, so strong. I think they were destined for each other.’ I laughed. She swatted my arm. ‘Oh, leave me to my happy romances won’t you, no matter how silly they are.’

“Oh no… I agree. Those two… they are forever. But…” I eyed her. “Don’t embarrass them! Let them figure it out on their own.”

We walked around to where the dancers were drifting away for food and cloistered in groups, talking. I excused myself when we passed where Ness stood behind her laptop and whispered into her ear… She just smiled and nodded. I went back to Mom as the bass notes played out first and she recognised them immediately.

“May I?” I beamed at her and held out my hand.

‘I can’t dance here?’ she put her hand on her chest and her face turned pink.

“Why not? Everyone else did?” Frank started to sing, and I heard that exhale… Not many people here knew my middle name but anyone that did was watching now.

She took my hand with a grin, and I gave her a little twirl under my arm. ‘You are a wicked boy.’ She teased.

“I know… must be because of my upbringing. OW!” She slapped my arm, it didn’t hurt… but she didn’t know that.

We danced and laughed, and then Jake tapped my shoulder after a few verses. ‘Can I cut in?’ He smiled and I stepped back.  Quil was stood there smiling too… waiting for his turn to steal his MommaT. I just watched and smiled as she laughed and danced to her favourite song.

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

My phone came out and I took a photo just as both mother and son found each other’s eyes. Smiling and mouthing the words to the Sinatra song we knew Ms C really enjoyed.

‘It’s not like you to take your phone out.’  The Kid was back, and on cue, the ice cream truck pulled up beside the pizza truck.

“Some moments need to be captured,” I told him, pushing my phone into the back pocket.

He grinned widely nodding his head over to the townies all practically foaming at the mouth, giggling like schoolgirls, blushing, they were following Embry’s direction as he let his mom take up the dance with Jake.

‘I’m sure one of those shorties did him right and would be more than happy to share the photo, their number, and anything else our boy wants.’ Laughing but keeping his voice low. Ma wasn’t that far off from us. And he knew if she heard him….

‘Ouch… what’s that for?’ I gave him the slap upside of his head for Ma.

“You know what it’s for. Stop talking about those girls in that way. Ma and I brought you up better. You don’t need to sound like one of the lads, to gain attention. You have plenty as it is. And the memory is for Ms C, not for your boy.”

We both knew, my slap didn’t really hurt. He liked to play it up. ‘What did I say? We all know what Embry’s like. He doesn’t do that being alone thing. And any of these girls would happily do him the favour.’

I had locked myself down hard, needing myself to remain unseen. My inner dilemma unnerved me. I didn’t like this at all, but… Rule eight …

Rule 8.

If one of us sees the other knocked on their arse with the pack… We will have faith that they can deal with it.

I knew this wasn’t the same thing in many ways. But it also would be wrong of me to jump to Embry Call’s defence.

“We don’t judge kid, because those who live in a glass house, will be the first to shatter.” Reminding my brother of the importance of keeping all that judgment at bay. “Just enjoy the beautiful moment.” Before my sentence had been completed, Quil had stepped up for his turn.

∞ Embry Call ∞

I couldn’t (and wouldn’t) say I wasn’t one to put on a show… but this? This was only for mom and the guys had made it even better. Even standing this close to the speakers I could hear Seth… He wasn’t trying to keep the conversation private. He had no intention for his comment to sting… but it did.

Just then a girl pushed through a crowd of townie girls who were trying to figure out if it was me or Jake who was 'the older lady’s son. She came to stop next to me and spoke a language I should speak a lot better. ‘Well…’ she spoke in the Makah Tribes native tongue. ‘That must be your mom.’ She smiled. ‘You look just like her… only…’ She eyed me… ‘With less clothing and… well… seven foot tall.’

I laughed and hugged her. I heard Seth say, ‘Told you!’ To his sister. But I ignored it.

“Dyani! I didn’t see you pulling in.” I said to her in English. I grinned at Quil as he stole the last few verses of the song from Jake and danced with my mom. All three of her boys. I heard her whisper, and my heart gave a squeeze.

‘You were busy…’ She still spoke our language. ‘Dancing.’ She smiled.

“Where is your almost-wife?” I asked her in Makah. It was close enough to Quileute and anyone here who was fluent would likely work out what we were saying.

‘She went to pay for the car wash.’ She switched to English.

I grinned as the newest bartender at Glamour came over to where we stood and kissed her fiancée’s cheek. I took a glance at Seth who was shrugging now, having read the situation wrong… but in that harmless Seth kinda way. I tried to hug my colleague, but she took a step back and spoke. ‘Ew, no! Don’t touch me.’ Elise waved her hand in front of me and wrinkled her nose. ‘That is far too much half-naked boy-ness for me… nope!’ I hugged her anyway. She tried to hide behind her girlfriend, but she sidestepped her and let me catch the townie girl. ‘Disgusting!’ she teased!!

‘He never told us this was a girl versus boys event!’ She said incredulously.

‘I hope you told them to make sure the girls washed ours then?’ Dyani asked, her dark eyes brightening when she looked at her partner. And she told her, of course, she did. I was about to protest about how she was only invited because of me… but that was when the song stopped and  Quil was headed our way with Mom. “Speak the Language to her… it will make her day,” I whispered and smiled taking Mom's hands when she reached out to me.

‘I cannot believe that you made me do that in front of the whole village.’ She was flustered and blushing.

“Oh please! Like I had to twist your arm!” I teased her.

Then Dyani introduced herself and her fiancée in my mother’s first language, naming her Auntie and taking her hand. Mom’s eyes brightened and she spoke animatedly to her. I wanted to remind her not to be rude and leave Elise guessing at the conversation, but she was already ushering the girls away with the promise of food and examining the matching silver and turquoise rings on their fingers. Elise’s still on her right hand, mom explaining the tradition of exchanging jewellery… any kind, not just rings, to her now (in English) just like I had when I found her crying at work over the bar Manager’s rule:

No jewellery… which was code for: No engagement rings or wedding rings.

‘You invited a two-spirit couple to the girls versus boys’ event and expected them to take our side?’  Quil shoved me.

“Hey! A work friend and a Makah girl… Y chromosome or not I had a fifty-fifty shot with those two!” I laughed, making Quil and Jake both roll their eyes as if to say I was deluding myself. But I respectfully disagreed.

A car pulled in and Quil swatted my arm. ‘C’mon, time to get back to work. Let’s snag this car before the girls do, we must catch up!’ he headed over and offered the older man climbing out of the car a hand, turning on that politeness of his that would win anyone over.

I headed over to fill up a bucket with clean water and grab the few basics we needed. “Don’t get too excited, Clearwater,” I smirked at Leah, as I walked by the Clearwater siblings. “We’ll catch up again!”

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

Not recognising the girl as she came out of her car, or the girl with her with the almond complexion. Minding my own business I turned my back, taking in the line growing at the pizza truck.  Leo was in his own element, ‘It is not just selling pizza, it is about educating people about the best pizza.’ He always told me. And the way he spoke about this craft, I believed him.

My kid made a few comments next to me, dragging my attention back to the heartbeat which I began to crave at the end of the night. And the conversation taking place openly. That was when it all clicked into place. It was Elise with her fiancé. Recalling the night Embry returned after work telling me about the bartender at Glamour.

 My eyes were on the townies again. With Sam on the BBQ, and Jake watching the dancing, I knew I didn’t want to let those lads out of my sight. They were behind the others dancing and watching Ms C but were behaving themselves so far.

So, when Ma called my name, pointing over to Elise’s car, I didn’t think twice about refilling my buckets to get back to work.

 The Kid carried over a new set of cloths for me while I went to wash down the dust from the top down. We were in the lead now, the time out everyone took worked well for our side.

My lips curled up into a smile when my back was turned, hearing Ms C in her element would have my heart singing at the top of its lungs. But. For now. My warrior took the batten for the two of us.

Shifting on my toes I turned looking back over my shoulder at Embry, easing my eyebrow in that ‘I’ll kick your arse’ arch.  Quil and Jake’s comments made me smirk at how this man thought those girls would give him their car to clean. Respect to them for sticking with their chromosomes!

“Here… this one belongs to your side today….” Pointing my chin at The Kid, “Your arse, will need all the help it can get.” This time jerking my chin over to the scoreboard.

‘One way to let me know, I need to get my arse to work.’  Seth smiled his signature smile, before running over to join the pups.

Did I know the lead wasn’t so great that they couldn’t catch up? Yeah. But did I give a crap and have faith in our side by the spirits yeah! But did I give a crap and have faith in our side? By the spirits, yeah!

‘Sorry Leah. That was too good to pass up.’  Rach and the girls were all back just in time.

“Sure… sure…” I replied throwing her a cloth.

‘I swear, Lee you sound more like Jacob each passing day.’ She teased.

“Please… more like his arse saw how great I am and copied me.” Pointing out that I’m older.

‘Hey, how am I, the one getting picked on now?’  Jake was laughing.

‘Baby, it’s best to take the compliment. You know. You followed the lead of a strong Clearwater.’ This made me narrow my eyes across the lot to where Ness was playing the music. She knew what she was doing, it was clear in her eyes, from the way her rosy cheeks bloomed.

“Buttering me up isn’t going to help you. You are washing some cars before the day is over.”

‘Where would you like me?’  The Nerd came running towards me. Her pup wasn’t not far behind. Her competitive side was strong. Not as strong as mine, but you could tell. She would give it her all.

More cars began rolling in, making me point to them. “We need to be strategically savvy ladies. No more working as one big group Break up into twos or threes. If you finish your car, move on to the next. I’ll join each group if I see you need help.”

They all had their game face on. Some heckling and teasing, others (Rachel) giving the boys the ‘I got my eyes on you’, sign. They were Tying their hair up, or back. Rolling their heads and shoulders, as though stretching would help!

“Looks like Embry’s new helpers are doing their job with getting people to come by.” I teased as I cleaned his work friend’s car.

∞ Embry Call ∞

I could hear Leah’s heart from across the lot; even as Quil talked to me. While we washed the car, the pups were guiding the cars from the village to line up between the rows of cones.  Fuller made me proud to divide a large group into two to get more vehicles started… it was after Leah suggested the same thing to the girls. But still… the pup did good.

I laughed at the girl's banter and Jake getting pulled in.  Quil and I shared a look over the car as we worked in tandem. He sprayed on the shampoo, and I scrubbed. Listening to a comment behind me about how sexy my back was… surely, they meant arse, right?  Quil choked.

‘Can backs be sexy?’ he snort-laughed, making sure only the packs heard.

I had a flash of waking up to Leah on her side in bed. The sheet pulled up to her chin in front and draped to her waist at her back. The dimpling along her spine… the almond skin… firm muscles… the curve of her neck and the silky hair resting against her shoulder and the pillow. It took all my wolf’s focus to keep my heart from racing. I forced a laugh and shrugged.

“Apparently so!” I grinned and kept cleaning. I tried not to look at the townie boys and how they looked at Leah…

The pup was following his new imprint around like… well… like a puppy. “Littlesea! Get your arse back to the detailing station.” I teased him. He wrapped an arm around her waist and kissed her temple three times… I felt the phantom presence of the three kisses Leah used in place of words… I felt them on my lips, my neck… my forehead. I smiled as I worked. Quil seemed to think it was the teasing making me grin.  But I moved to the other side of the car, catching sight of her as she delegated like a true Beta… like a future Alpha. Like my future alpha.

She is so beautiful.

Stop!!! Cars!

Clean!

Rachel caught my gaze, I laughed, and I was about to flip her off but Paul appeared in the nick of time to slap my hand back down before I got close to the gesture I would have never really finished. She blew her Defender a kiss.

Which he caught and pretended to stuff the phantom kiss in his pants. ‘Lahote!!!’ Quil chided. ‘There are kids around!’ We all knew he meant Claire.

Everyone was getting back to work, but still having a great time. I saw Mom still talking the ears off of the newly engaged couple. She was telling them about how they absolutely must have live music at the wedding and waved Tony over… I chuckled. They hadn’t even set a date yet.

Ness was still doing her thing and keeping the festive vibe going with her song choices. My wife and I sang along and bopped happily to the beat, and slowly the others joined in around the cars they were cleaning.

Paul Russell - Lil Boo Thang

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

The vibes were vibing, or at least that’s what Jess kept telling me as she ran past. The music even had the uncles and aunties of the tribe bopping their heads. At some point, one of the pups cringed with a groan when his mom began singing and dancing. ‘Showing the young ones, how it was done.’

The woman had moves, and she sure knew it too.

I shook my head keeping it down, and my hands moving. This was a good day, of course, people were showing up. There was free food, songs, and a community vibe. But I knew my limits too well. These were the same people who when the time was right, could stab me in the back, and ask me to apologise for their incompetence when it wasn’t done right.

‘Forgiveness is one thing. But only a fool forgets what humans are capable of.’ My warrior was on high alert. She wasn’t afraid to show our teeth if it became necessary.

Ma came towards me. As soon as we picked up on her beating heart, her scent, I stood up straight. Wiping my forehead with the back of my hand. Waiting for her, gave me the perfect opportunity to once again look over the heads of those who were close by. The townies were becoming a little louder, but Sam had them under manners. Even if their eyes were ogling every opportunity they could.

‘It’s a good turnout.’ Ma’s voice brought me back. ‘Thanks to all the wonderful help we have. I think we will have a good start on the upgrades needed for the community centre.’

I nod my head listening. I didn’t want the amount made today to just give a ‘start’, to the works. I wanted it to cover the costs and then some. But that was my own set goal.

‘This little competition between you and the boys is really helping too. All the elders are excited to see the outcome.’

“As long as they remember it’s for fun. At the end of the day. We are all on the same side.”

 Kim was eavesdropping, not like she could help it working right behind me. ‘Yeah. But for now. We’re going to make them all pay.’

She and Ma laughed together. Ma gave her a hug and a kiss on the cheek. ‘That’s the fighting talk we need to hear.’ Making me roll my eyes at the two of them.

‘Anyway.’ Ma held out three -- Hundred bills. ‘Could you go in and break these for me? We need to keep change in the float.’ Batting her eyes at me. As though I would say no to her.

“Sure. But stop giving people change. Tell them to be generous. It’s all going to a good cause.” Wiping my hands on my tee, gathering the fabric up and to the side, so that I could tie a knot just under my sports bra.

I heard the wolf whistles and the murmurs but didn’t react to them. It wasn’t anything new. And I had no intention whatsoever to act on the situation. ‘See Auntie Sue, this is why your daughter is going to be single forever. She won’t even look at the attention she is getting.’  Rachel was testing my patience again when it came to my personal life.

Rubbing my hands on the back of my jeans, turning to address my mother, I said. “That… right… there… Isn’t the attention you want for your daughter, or any of the daughters, or sons of the tribe? You want people who will show respect, know how to control their desires, not make an unnecessary fools of themselves like that. But most of all. You want someone who will know what your daughter needs.”

Taking the notes from Ma’s hands, I made my way across the parking lot, heading into the HwH, and leaving the women of the pack to talk.

∞ Embry Call ∞

I laughed when the Aunties started to join in, and the Pups were a little mortified… but they were good boys. And lately, they were all appreciating their moms a lot more, seeing what my mom was going through, and Sue’s accident had woken them all up a little. But they were still young and Moms were still Moms. It made me smile.

I caught hints of Leah and Sue’s conversation, and I knew the word start would bother her… I have glimpsed the cash box, and it was going pretty well… but then again. I had no idea how much they needed.

When the conversation a few cars overturned to the contest my gaze drifted to the board and then counted the cars the boys were currently working on. We were gaining in them for sure! As if it had been preordained Jared Cameron crossed the road and jumped the low wall along the edge of the lot, already shirtless like he’d come prepared.  Kim squealed his name and dropped her sponge into a bucket with a plop, splashing Jessica who just rolled her eyes.  Kim ran to him, and he caught her up in a hug and dropped a dozen kisses all over her face.

I turned my attention back to my task.  Nessie had her playlist working its magic, making people want to hang around and that meant people stopped to see what all the fuss was about and then got their cars washed.

I Ain't Worried – One Repulic

But I was quickly distracted by the whistling… it should have been the toned, perfect abs on show but, sure there was that… but also, there it was the irrational flare of anger. And I know it would have been there for any of the girls… but like this? I pressed it down. But also… a little mad at Rachel and that…. That was a new and very uncomfortable feeling. Did she think that statement was funny?

One… it was nothing she couldn’t and hadn’t handled a million times.

B… she wasn’t mine… well she was… or would be… or… well; when she said she was all mine, this wasn’t what either of us meant.

Three… these idiots couldn’t even rattle her.

D… Look at those muscles! Wait… no, don’t. Later…

I grinned and kept working. Later.

I fixed my expression at her correction of the others. But no... she said controlling your desires; I was controlling it… but that didn’t mean I couldn’t feel it. Was this what Leah thought of me… was I all the things she said the people should want for the children of the tribe? Did I fit those needs for her?

Because that was really what mattered right? Fitting to her and no one else… No one was right for everyone. But was everyone right for someone?

‘Bloody townies…’ Quil muttered when Leah vanished. I got it… but the Rez guys weren’t much different. The pack learned respect because they weren’t given a choice.

 Jay and Kim were eating, and a few pups had vanished to replace the few that strayed in casually after Jay showed up. Swapping in and putting a few people at a time out for patrols. And again, I felt like I needed to take a shift… But Jake and Leah’s words were ones I had to live by today.

Before I knew it I had finished four more cars and Mom was waving me over, telling me she was ready to head home. I told her she should stay and have dinner, but she declined saying that, even though the food was incredible she couldn’t eat any more pizza or barbecue. She just wanted to go home and eat her greens… and what son could say no to that? I hugged her and gave her a kiss, then let Jake lead her and Billy away. The Chief was ready to bow out before party vibes became a party. I patted Billy on the shoulder. “See you tomorrow, Uncle.”

I saw my mom smile wide… she hadn’t heard me call him that in years.

‘I’m in good hands with my Spirit child, sweetheart.’ She patted both of our cheeks at once. Then she took Jake on a lap of the car park to say goodbye to absolutely everyone and remind them that even if their car was already washed; donations were still accepted.  Jake gave me an ‘I’ve got her’ nod as he helped her into his truck. Was it really this time of the evening already?

After Jake pulled out my little minions returned, and I smiled at them offering them both high fives and promising them I’d be there bright and early on Monday.

They had done well… and that reminded me to update the scoreboard. One of the elders added mine and then the twins came up and called out another one. They brought us to a tie with the girls!

Littlesea immediately looked around for his imprint like he wanted to apologise, and I laughed, clapping him on the shoulder. “She’s a good sport kid. You’ll be fine.”

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

The wind blew in a different direction as I straightened up to look at all the commotion taking place. The girls were all looking at the scoreboard, the pups and them teasing each other, goading and egging them along at how we were at a tie and the night sky was upon us.

My eyes went to the newest member of the pack, her shoulders slumped, and she stood out of the way frowning a little. I couldn’t help it; the breeze blew my hair into my face as the spirits sang in my ear. When I saw her turn her eyes on me, she half smiled and shrugged her shoulders.

I’d walked up to stand beside her, the two of us watching the rest.

‘What are the chances one more car will pull up now?’ She asked.

“Hmm…. If the spirits are on our side. It’s highly likely.” I answered her.

‘Are they singing to you?’ She replied.

“You know they are,” I told her. It made her smile. Since learning the truth about us and her relationship with the pack, she has been learning about us and taking the information in like a sponge.

That smile of hers grew even bigger when her eyes met the pups. She gave him that same shrug as to say; ‘what can we do?’ And the way his eyes looked so lost in her, I stepped away.

‘Leah!’ The pup who had made the bet came running over to me. ‘We are at a tie. What do we do?’ Some of the others started towards us, Jay giving me a wink while demolishing another hotdog.

“Hmm… the night isn’t over yet pup. We could still turn this around and win.” I told him.

‘Yeah. And so could you pup.’  Sam gave him encouragement seeing his bright eyes dull. By the spirits! Seeing that waggling tail pup like this, it hit some part of my chest making my mind whirl.

The pup ran off towards the road, taking a few of the others with him. They talked enthusiastically now about bringing in the next car that drove past.

‘Hope… it is a good motivator.’  Sam came to stand by me, and I saw Jared and Kim had taken over the space at the barbecue.  Emily sat with Claire and the Pup’s furball beside Ma, talking enthusiastically.

It wasn’t until I saw The Kids body turn, his face showing confusion, his eyes searching from Embry to me did. I listened to the conversation.

 Bear was sharing the story of the Kalaloch Tree of Life. Telling Ma and anyone who would listen about how I had let her ride with me and taken her. I didn’t need to listen to the rest of it. Because Seth’s look said it all. Even Emily and Ma looked surprised at the revelation.

Some part of me wanted to be mad, to growl and scream at how things I did weren’t meant to be shared. At how this was a private moment. But then my warrior reminded me. She is just a child. Innocent and beautiful in how she told the story of her day. She told the stories of the tree I told her. Showing us that the day had made an impact on her. Which was the point of the ride down there.

I listened to her say.

‘You know Auntie Sue; Leah told me that People call it the Tree of Life. With its amazingly viewable roots seemingly supplying the tree with life despite having no soil, it seems to be immortal. Still breathing while its roots travel to nowhere. Erosion, having taken away its life-supporting soil, has not stopped the tree from thriving on the coast and leaving everybody speechless from a sight that has never been seen before.

She said that Some people call it magical. A tree still standing despite having no roots to hold it in place during the heavy storms that the coast is known for.

Leah said, there is no logical explanation for why it hasn't toppled over yet. Healthy trees fall victim to our vicious wind and rain, but this one is cemented in somehow without having an anchor system in place.

Surely there has to be some magical powers involved. Surely the tree is magical if it can withstand things that take down even the healthiest of trees? Leah said It is a lesson here the spirits are showing those who open their hearts and minds to it.

Some people call it a freak of nature... literally. It's a glitch; something that isn't supposed to happen. It isn't natural for a tree to be alive and well with its roots exposed and holding onto nothing but air. This tree goes against all the rules of science and biology. It shouldn't be standing. It shouldn't be alive. And yet, it is! It’s amazing! It’s beautiful. Leah said it was just like me!’

My arms were crossed over my chest when I heard the pups grumbling. ‘Great. Even Bear’s had a ride on Leah’s baby. We’re never going to get a look in.’

 Sam’s chuckle brought me back. ‘Who knew Leah Clearwater had a way to impress a teen? Oh, wait. I did.’ He nudged my shoulder.

“Don’t you have a prego wife and a son to look after? What are you doing standing here chewing my ear off?” This just made him laugh.

He was saved by the sounds of a car I knew really well rolling to a stop in the lot. The engine was killed. The door opened, and the crunch of his boots made me smirk turning to face him. ‘Sorry I’m late Leah, needed to finish off some paperwork.’ He looked sheepishly.

“You’re just in time, Chief Swan. Our nerd, here was asking if you were coming.” As soon as I said her nickname. The vet grabbed a bucket and ran over to the chief of police of Fork’s car.

‘Aww... now I know we are in good hands.’ He smiled at her.

‘Hey, are you saying you’re not in safe hands if I was coming?’  Rachel rushed over to give the man a hug. Which he awkwardly accepted. The chief liked his personal space but was resigned to the fact that Rachel was a hugger, and he’d known her and us, all our living years.

‘Not at all. I’m assuming you’re going to help too.’ He batted back.

Out of the corner of my eye, I could see The Kid Kissing Ma’s head, making his way to say Hi to the chief, before slipping away to take the lead on the next run, as three more patrol cars rolled into the lot.

‘I thought it was only fair for me to bring in an even number of offerings.’ The Chief shrugged. This man! He was always fair with the kids on the Rez, he always made sure that our children weren’t treated any differently than those of the townies. And today was no different.

“Of course you did.” I shook my head, but really, I expected nothing less. “Let’s keep it fair. Only three people per car. The first to finish takes the lead and the win!” I told them.

∞ Embry Call ∞

I grinned, watching the pups try to tease the imprints was always hilarious. Their taunts were so soft and half-hearted that it was funny… the girls used to give it their best shot until they realised that the boys hadn’t the hearts (or balls) to give it their all back. So, they lightened up a little. It was like watching a bunch of five-year-olds calling each other poopy-face.

Leah was watching everyone as I climbed into the car Quil and I had just finished and pulled it off to the side. Elise and her fiancée were anxiously awaiting the results of the contest, and I could see her eyes wide and taking in the vibes of Rez life… squeezing her partner’s hand and looking at her with a sense of wonder.

I couldn’t tell if Dyani missed Rez life… but La Push and Neah Bay were very different. The Makah Reservation had almost one and a half thousand people living there… and here... it was less than four hundred. I had experienced both, but only for a short time. I could tell by the people that I met there that it was different, you could go places there where no one knew your name… That was rarer in La Push.

I glanced back, Leah was speaking with the new addition. She was clearly perfect for us… it was probably a weird thing to think. She was Collin’s soulmate after all and no one else. But every imprint added to the packs' ranks, recent events were proof that we needed her, and Grandmother had a way of bringing us what we needed. My gaze tilted up… the moon was showing itself before the sun had set, telling me that I had my eyes open, that she was taking notice of me… well… taking notice.

Bear was telling her story, and Sue was listening like it was the first time she’d ever heard it… and in a way, I knew it was. I had seen the wonder in the eyes of elders before when they let the young ones tell the history… the pride of passing on a torch.

My heart was a little heavy as I wondered if I would ever hear Jacob tell his father’s tales again and I looked around… he wasn’t back yet. ‘He’ll be here.’  Quil said without ever looking my way as he watched Claire telling her story. Pride on his face when he realised that his absolute favourite person in the world had beaten all these guys to the punch and gotten a ride on Leah’s highly coveted bike.

I knew Leah would struggle as the story was told. But I could talk to her about it later. It was the innocence of a child who was enraptured by the magic of life and love and the strength and power of a story. Claire’s time to learn that some moments were just meant for the people you shared them with wasn’t now… Hell! I only learned that a few months ago. Despite the grumbles I saw eyes turn to Leah… their eyes were opening too. I wondered how many of them were seeing more than she would normally allow. Not as much as I had seen… but I had a little help. The wind stirred in answer. I smiled. And almost muttered; Yeah, yeah. I got it out loud.

‘The game isn’t over yet, brother.’ He chuckled.

I threw my arm around his shoulder and kissed the side of his head. ‘So emotional today!’ he teased but patted my back anyway. ‘Next, you’ll be telling me you love me.’ He added a sarcastic eye roll.

I laughed. “Of course, I love you brother. But we both know you will always love me more.”

Some of the things that Claire said were verbatim what Leah had told her. The kid had really listened. It made me proud.

I nodded to Seth as he slipped away to lead the next run. When the event had run its course I would take the lead, and let the others celebrate a little too. The four squad cars rolled in, and I grinned at the Chief, who made a passing comment about me keeping out of trouble… I smirked… because… well if you knew you knew… It was something he said to us a lot as kids. I spent a lot of time in the Black’s house.

Leah set out fair terms and the Pups gathered around asking how they should do this. I looked at Sam…  Jared was already crossing the lot, chewing the last of his food.  Jake was climbing out of his truck… back from dropping the elder’s home. He blew Nessie a kiss.

The day had been about letting the Pups shine. ‘The OGs have this one, kids!’  Sam chuckled and he clapped Jay on the shoulder.  Paul ran up hooting and hollering.

‘Go easy in the rig Lahote unless you want to see the inside of one again.” The Chief teased him.

‘You’d have to catch me first.’ He shot right back. And we all rolled our eyes, no one harder than Rachel.

 Sam, Jared and Paul took the first patrol car for the boys. The original three Pack members.

Then Jacob, Quil and I took the next one. Nessie worked her magic, cranking the volume.

Living on a Prayer – Bon Jovi

We all laughed and got to work as the girls split into their teams too and got to work.

I patted my brothers on the shoulder and smiled. “This one is for the pups’ boys. Let’s show ‘em how it’s done!”

We worked together as flawlessly as ever. Jake was the first to start belting out the lyrics this time. Everyone was watching now like it was the last inning of a baseball match, and the score was tied.

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

 Ness winked singing Living on a Prayer to me from her decks. She knew Bon Jovi played a part in my family playlists. But it was the fact that she left the decks to come over to help with the last cars.

‘That’s not fair. If it’s the OG’s only. You boys are playing six-to-one? And we know Leah would still win.’

I raised my eyebrow. “Ness…” my voice giving her a warning.

‘I’m just teasing.’ Batting her perfect eyelashes at me. Then I saw Emily trying to stand.

Pointing with a sponge towards Ness I said. “That crap works with the boys. Not me.” The smirk on my lips made her jump and dance her way to the second car. Then I pointed it towards Emily, “Where do you think you are going? Sit down woman, we got this.”

We split up the magical powers.  Rachel, Ness, and Kim took one of the two cars.  The Nerd, Jess, and I took the other.

“It’s about the speed ladies, but… the quality of work too.” I could not help the groan. “Black! Stop ruining Bon Jovi for the rest of us!”

As soon as I said it, Paul and Sam joined into the mix too.

“By the spirits, please give me strength.”

∞ Embry Call ∞

I waited for Nessie to get told off for suggesting that the human girls couldn’t keep up with us. It was true… but they had a vampire-human hybrid and the fastest member of the pack to help them and honestly… with how distracted we all were with the music it had probably evened the playing field.

The other guys all called encouragement from the sidelines, but I could tell Littlesea was distracted by his fresh imprinting bond. I was thankful that Sam knew how to focus his attention and that Paul and  Rachel loved to compete with each other, and they never let the other win. I peered over the roof of the squad car. “You don’t want to go easy on that fiancée of yours, do you?” I asked Jacob, teasing.

‘If he does, I’ll bite him!’  Nessie called to us, working as fast as she could while looking human.

‘Promises, promises baby!’ He waggled his brows at her, and she blew him a kiss.

“Sorry, I asked!” I laughed, starting to dry the car from front to back, Quil was working on the wheels and Jake was finishing off the back.

I looked over at Sam and his crew… they were on track with us. Ness had set her playlist to be as motivational as possible. The next song blared out.

Survivor - Eye Of The Tiger

We all laughed and so did the crowd. I instinctively looked over at Leah, she wasn’t fond of being the centre of attention. But she certainly knew how to deal with it… and this crowd was a lot smaller than the last crowd I had seen with all eyes on her.

Claire was standing with Brady cheering out for Quil… even after all her talk about boys versus girls. She couldn’t help but get swept up even as she kept her charge for the day carefully on the edge of all the gathered pack members. The elders that were still here were looking on with eyes rolling and teasing laughs as they whispered to each other about how great it was to see so many people show up to raise money for the tribe.

Before I knew it; we were all standing watching the girls catch up and Sam’s team added the finishing touches to the car. One of Chief Swan’s colleagues circled the cars… appraising the work and drawing it out as they glanced at the girl’s team, giving them a minute more before giving two big thumbs up! The boys exploded like they had just won the World Cup! All but Brady, who stepped away from the crowd taking Claire away from the mosh pit that had formed. Littlesea reclaimed his little furball and Claire ran to Quil and jumped up, messing his hair as he held her up over his head.

Jake and I joined in forming a circle with Claire’s head up over ours as we jumped around in a circle with the kid, her excitement was infectious.

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

That was that. The crowd erupted with cheers, applause, and laughter. The boys all rushed the cars and their teammates.  Paul grabbed at Rachel, Jay took Kim, I saw the pup looking after his actual pup, so I moved to step in front of the nerd, keeping Jess close too, who hadn’t stopped their jobs until they were done.

All the while we knew that the packs wouldn’t go wildly out of control with the imprints being here. But it was the rest of the crowd we couldn’t stop.

My warrior growled as a few of the townies stepped closer, but my hand was out warning them to take their celebrations towards a different direction.

‘It’s okay Leah, I’m okay.’ The vet said in a deflated voice.

“I know you are,” I told her. Looking back over my shoulder towards her, suddenly surprised at the smile on her face. Her eyes were on the boys, seeing them happy, dancing, singing along with the eye of the tiger. I knew she got it.

‘You’re not upset?” She asked me. And I shrugged.

“Annoyed, yeah. But upset? Nah.” Nodding my head towards the group of pups. “They won fair and square. But… if you tell them I didn’t curse and throw things at losing… I’ll disown you.” Narrowing my eyes at her now.

‘Oh…’ she giggled, the sweetest sound coming from her. She pushed the rim of her glasses up her nose. ‘Your secret is safe with me. As long as you tell them I kicked a bucket?’

Shaking my head, my lips curled up into a smirk. ‘Leah doesn’t lie, and no one would believe that anyway.’ Jess joined us.  Our attention fell back on the boys for a few minutes. I stood watching it all from the outskirts as the nerd moved carefully towards her imprint, and Jess went to partake with the other girls.

Turning my attention back to the cars the girls' teams had been working on. I walked around then, making sure that everything was completely clean.

‘It’s clean Leah, you should have a beer.’ The chief came to stand beside me as I wiped down the wheel of the car before me.

“We know nothing, but perfection will do for you, Charlie.” This made him smile a little.

‘So, what did the boys win, anyway?’ He asked nursing his can of soda.

I shook my head, standing at my full height next to him. Pointing towards the youngest pup. “He gets to ride my baby, and they all have full bragging rights.”

He took in a sharp breath, chuckling. ‘That’s… something…’ he knew what my baby meant to me. ‘And the freedom of riding alone?’

I shook my head. “Spirits no! Charlie! I’m not that insane. The pup gets to climb on the back. I will be in the front.” This made him laugh.

‘Yeah… that’s more like it.’ He smiled.

∞ Embry Call ∞

I saw all the guys go to the girls to celebrate… all but the Pup who picked his way around the outside of the crowd to get to Harper. But not rushing, letting her have her moment with Leah, he knew she was in good hands. I focused on the littlest imprint because fuck!! There was an urge in me to go to Leah… and not just the constant wants to be close to her that never seemed to go away. The one that seemed to get stronger the closer I was to her… which made no sense to me at all and yet here I was… a few feet away, feeling like it was miles. But just for now. I knew what I was feeling wasn't like the imprinted boys. It wasn’t less than they felt, it wasn’t more either… it was just worlds apart from what they shared. I was thankful Bear was between Quil and me when I heard Leah growl because her presence kept me from biting my lip and seeking Leah out between the people in the lot.

 Quil and I sat Bear on both of our shoulders, even though we could each lift two of her without any help. She laughed, she loved it, and it had the bonus of keeping her out of the crowd of celebrating boys… and it was all the boys, not just the boys that participated today. It was the elders, the rez kids and the townies all cheering in the spirit of friendly competition.

Things settled and the celebration turned into calmer pats on the back and ego-boosting, we set Claire down and I headed to the littlest Pup. “I told you the OGs wouldn’t let you down Pup!” I ruffled his hair, and he swatted me away. I could tell he was over the moon.

‘I never doubted it… but it’s the money for the centre that matters.’ He said with a wisdom beyond his years. He was humble… most of the time. But like them all he had his moments, like issuing the challenge in the first place.

Collin had found his imprint now and they were crouched over the dog, the Pup’s hand on the woman's back to steady her or just for the contact, he was whispering into her ear, and she was bright red. I made a pointed effort not to overhear.

I made my way to Leah and Charlie now. My focus trying to remain mostly on the Chief. “Hell of an ending to a hell of a day Chief Swan.” I smiled and shook his offered hand.

He gave me his are you keeping out of trouble look and I just grinned back. Then I looked to Leah and spoke. “Not that I have forgotten your highly detailed instructions or anything… but… what do want us to do with the lot… will we start packing up the equipment or wait until the rest of the cars clear out?” Maybe I was over-eager… but I wanted to help so that maybe I could take a run-in place of one of the guys who had already gone out today. I was feeling like I hadn’t pulled my full weight where that was concerned.

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

As I spoke to Charlie, my eyes remained on the crowd just as he did. The Chief of Forks in his uniform, with salt and pepper hair, and a greying thick moustache over his top lip. He hadn’t lost focus over there being several warriors before him. Even if he knew about our world and that his daughter had stepped into it. At times I still saw the way he looked at us with care. He had seen us all grow up, going from childhood into adulthood. But… it was still something to behold.

My gaze followed Embry as he began to move closer to us. Tilting my head seeing how he moved, his eyes moving overhead, with the sensation of observing what he wasn’t saying, and at the same time hearing what had been said. I crossed my arms over my chest, biting the inside of my cheek, glancing at the packed lot and the work needed to clear things away.

“Hmm…” I said considering our situation and the options open to use. It was when Mac caught my eye. Nodding towards the bar door and then to the crowds, he gave me a thumbs up and a nod back.

‘Right, everyone, at this moment I’m going to ask people to start moving into the bar, with the winners up front for their first round on the house.’

The Cheering made me smirk shaking my head. The crowd began chanting.

‘Giving out a free round will make it easier to clean up.’  Charlie chuckled.

“Yeah, that’s what I thought.” Raising my eyebrow to Embry as I continued. “We can clean up a little now. But Leo will need his ovens to cool down before he can head back to Port, the ice cream van can go whenever they are ready. And the big equipment…” thinking for a moment. “Yeah, we can store it in our storeroom before I take it back.”

Some of the others had started to make their way towards us. Sam and Jay being first. ‘We can help with the clean-up of the yard. If you take the time to show us where the equipment needs to go?’ He asked.

“Sure, not a problem. Looks like Embry, you’re going to get out of here early.”

I knew why he wanted to get things moving. And now I wasn’t going to stop him. With Ms C gone, I knew he wanted to put in a run. I got his need to take the pressure off the others.

 Charlie waved his people who were managing some of the crowd back towards their cruisers. ‘Remember Leah, don’t let anyone drink and drive.’ Giving everyone a wave. ‘Behave yourself, you lot. This was a great event. Let me know if my team and I can help with anything else.’ Saying it as he climbed into his car.

“Thanks, Charlie, I appreciate you coming.”

∞ Embry Call ∞

The look on Leah’s face as she watched me approach was one, I had gotten used to seeing over all the years… and here, with all these people around it was unchanged. It made me question how much of me she had seen before… it was so vividly clear to me now that she had seen beyond my carefully cultivated image for much longer than I had thought.

I grinned at her silent communication with Mac… he was perfect for this job. “Free booze? Maybe I’ll stick around after all.” I laughed. I turned to Jay then. “I can show you where we took it from this morning before I head out.”

 Sam gave me a look and clapped a hand on my shoulder. ‘You’ve been the one working these boys all day, you know better than anyone you need to stay for at least one drink and to tell them they did good work.’

 Jake laughed. ‘It’s almost like he’s forgotten he was the one to teach us that… isn’t it?’

I shoved my alpha… and with the crowd on the move into the bar and Nessie shutting off her music to discourage loitering; I didn’t need to hold back. I just shook my head at them. “Okay… let’s clear up, have a drink and then I’m gonna go pull my weight.”

‘Hey, you did your part today… we all did. And it paid off…’  Jake smirked. ‘And not just because the men won!’ He bragged, but it was good-natured. Mostly.

“You should get inside before they all drink away your profits.” I smiled at Leah. Not the smile that only she could read… there would be loads of time for that one later… but then it all came crashing back.

The conversation at breakfast about me getting lucky if the girls won today. “Shit!” I said it out loud and the guys all stopped and looked at me as we started to roll-up the hoses. All with that look asking; ‘did we miss something?’. With a crease between their brows.

I stopped myself from looking at Leah. “Oh, nothing… I just never thought to grab a change of shorts… I’ll have to head for my run in my jeans.” It was the truth… the only other clothes I had with me were the jeans. The others were heading into the bar in the shorts they had worked in all day… but even if I was only staying for one drink… I was going to look good doing it. Thankfully this was also something that would have greatly concerned me on any other day, so they all rolled their eyes and accepted it with a chuckle. We cleared up fast, and as most of the work was done Claire climbed on my back in the way of hugging me as I knelt and tossed big yellow sponges in a bucket.

She was heading home with her designated babysitters, and even Quil was taking the time to stop and have a drink with the young ones today. The brand-new happy couple were going to hang with her until one or both of us got home. Not that I was planning on spending the night in my bed… I was sure I could convince Leah that the money we all managed to raise today meant we all deserved to get lucky tonight.

“Good night LittleBear. You did so good today… but be nice to the new girl, don’t scare her off.” I laughed.

‘I won’t! I like her, she said she would let me listen to the dog's heart with her stethoscope! Isn’t that cool?’ She was so excited.

It was, in fact, the opposite of cool. But it was also cute. “Very cool!” I lied… but it was a white lie. I kissed her cheek. “Love you, Bear… sweet dreams in case I don’t see you before bedtime.”

She told me she loved me too and gave me one last hug before bouncing off to join the young couple in the emerald, green bug. I presumed Collin was leaving his truck to assist with any big items that needed moving. I changed inside the room that Leah had told us to return the stuff to. Making sure I didn’t put on a show for the locals this time.

The lot was empty by the time I headed to the front of the bar again. Just one or two people were outside smoking. The ground was still wet from the event. Nessie’s speakers were gone and sounds of celebration and chatter were flooding out of the bar as I pushed open the door and stepped in. Tony was still here, and he was deep in conversation with a few still-shirtless pups. The imprints and the pack all congratulated each other on a spectacular event. I spotted Leah and smiled. She didn't look up, but she would know I was watching. I grinned as I made my way to the bar. Mac set a free-poured whiskey in front of me. ‘The first one is on the house just like the boss said.’ He smiled at me and moved on to the next person.

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

The day had gotten away from us, but then again, we knew it would, which is why the team, and I had been working all week to ensure everything was in place. The Bar was ready for business as soon as it was opening time. Which meant that there would be no impact of The Kid getting away for a run. Now looking at the way the place was heaving, we all made the correct decision.

The sounds of different voices and conversations taking place outside and around me made my lips curl up into a smirk.

‘Leah Clearwater! Are you smiling?’  Mac bumped his shoulder into mine, going to serve the next customer. I just rolled my eyes at him, back kicking his arse when he was a few steps away from me.

“There is a big difference between a smirk and a smile.” It was when I poured out a few drinks for Leo and his team that I felt eyes on me. A pull with a soft whisper telling me he has come into the bar, the scent of him enhanced over that of anything else in this space, and yet I knew better than to break my concentration.

‘This was a great day Leah, thank you for letting us be a part of it.’ The older man smiled sitting down on the stool handing the drinks back over his shoulder, as I poured them.

“I’m hoping I can call on you again if the need arises.” Pouring two fingers of bourbon for us to share.

‘Any time. I even got a booking from the Sheriff. He wants us to set up for a thing up there in Forks in the coming weeks.’ This made me smirk. Of course, Charlie Swan had stepped up.

“Wow… hold back on the details. You are killing me with the information overload.” Laughing, clinking my glass to Leo’s. “Well… Here’s to more things for good causes. Whatever they may be.”

With the rim of the glass on my lips, I let my eyes follow Embry for a second or two, before flipping my head back to down the amber liquid in one. The sweet hit of heat down my throat came directly after the smoky, oak flavours.

‘Whoow… wee…. This is the good stuff.’  Leo rasped. ‘I’d expect nothing less from a beautiful bar owner like you.’ Winking at me, as we said our goodbyes.

When I stood back, letting my gaze wander over the heads before me. There was an ease in the air, it felt right. As though we had accomplished something greater than the eye could see. Something every living person in this space could come to feel proud over. No matter what our past had painted our paths to be, I wanted to believe we could grow and show the generations to come that doing work for the betterment of our tribe, should come without wanting to be reimbursed for the effort.

‘Leah! Leah! Leah!’ That thought came partly crashing down with the voice shouting my name with pure excitement. I groaned grabbing a bottle of soda and a beer for the person following behind. ‘When can we go for the ride? Can we go now? And is there a limit to how far we go? Because if there isn’t, then I’d want to go tomorrow, maybe… if you’re free? We could ride to ‘

A hand clapped the pup on the shoulder stopping him from erupting where he jumped with glee. ‘Slow down a little, pup.’  Jake laughed. The joy in his eyes was palpable for the pup. ‘What’s the rush in claiming your winnings? We all know Lee is a woman of her word. So, take a breath.’ He winked across the bar at me. The look saying. ‘Don’t worry, we got this.’

‘Oh... yeah… sorry, Jake… sorry Leah.’ The pup looked sheepishly until I placed an open bottle of beer down. When he reached for it, I slapped his hand away, placing the bottle of soda in front of him.

“Rule One. No drinking and riding.”  Sure, I knew the beer would be out of his system before we went anywhere close to my baby. But there were other eyes on us in the bar, people who were fully aware of the best thanks to the elated cheering that took place when the guys knew they won.

‘Rule Two…’  Jake started. ‘We want to see your final project grade from this semester. If it doesn’t keep up to the one, we agreed to. Then you are looking at extra study time.’ The pup shrunk a little. His eyes tell an openly loud story of the thoughts going on in his head. Because everyone in the pack knew, that more study time equalled to less running time with the pack.

‘I’ve been working hard, Jake. I promise.’ He told his Alpha.

‘Rule Three…’  Jake took a pull from his beer as people moved around the bar, and I served them, still listening to the rules. ‘You need to help your mom out more. If that means you need extra help from Leah, me, Quil, or Embry. Then you ask. There’s no shame. It’s what we are here for.’

 Nessie came over to stand beside Jake, it was impressive to see. How they didn’t need to share a look or words. His arm just lifted, and she pressed into his side like she belonged. With his arm dropping to engulf her like it was what he was made to do.

‘Okay. Then… When will I get to ride with Leah?’ the pup’s eyes moving from his Alpha to his Beta now standing before him.

“As soon as…” Nodding my head to Jake, “… he says it’s time. The win will always be yours. But we need to remember the reason behind today. Understand why we did all this work. It’s not about what we get out of it. But more about us realizing what we can do, and what we achieved for our tribe, pup.” My gaze finally fell on Embry as I spoke.

∞ Embry Call ∞

I watched the way the dynamics in the bar moved. The townies interacting with the Rez guys and girls… and still, nothing that raised red flags. But we were all still watching and keeping an eye on everything. I knew there was nothing to worry about after I left for my run. Leah was here… I mean, sure the guys would put a stop to anything… But Leah would stop them from taking it too far.

I left Jacob to deal with the over-excited Pup and smirked at the interaction, but the conversation made me realize I had been so preoccupied I had no idea what the kid was working on in school right now. I would make a point to find out, I knew the strengths of all the guys, and I wasn’t what one would call an academic unless it was a creative topic… I was most likely going to be useless… I would find the right person to help if it was needed. Before I could spiral into all the other things I had let slip recently with the guys while I was so busy with Mom; Tony was making his way over. Soda in hand, and a huge grin on his face.

‘Man…’ He shook his head and a smile on his face. ‘I love this place!’ he told me like we had been in the middle of a conversation already… and with Tony… that was just how it always was with us.

I laughed. “All you need to do to stay is marry a Rez girl.” I tapped my glass to his and he settled next to me; elbows on the bar facing out to the crowd. With one last look toward Leah, just quick… subtle, I turned on my bar stool and reluctantly did the same. Later, we always had later.

‘It seems like almost all the girls here are deeply involved.’ He looked around, seeming like he was far from opposed to my suggestion. I looked too. Nessie was tucked up against Jake’s side.  Paul had his hands on Rachel’s hips and looked at her like she was the most beautiful thing in the universe… I smiled because she was, to him… she was everything. Jay’s hand was casually on his fiancé’s lower back while he chatted with some uncles from the village. I could see the occasional shift in his stance, a light press on her back moved her, keeping her from getting bumped as people moved between groups and tables.

“It sort of does, doesn’t it?” I chuckled.

‘Except for Leah… I don’t get it… she’s gorgeous… clearly, super clever. And really nice. Why isn’t….’ I cut him off before anyone would take him up wrong. A room full of her super-hearing brothers? There were too many ways he could be misunderstood no matter where he was taking this.

“Leah is a pretty private person. She knows what she likes… what she wants… and if or when she wants something… she’ll go for it.” I kept my grin aimed at my friend, and he got the meaning…  Leah's love life wasn’t on the table for speculation. My reputation as a peacekeeper was more than well-known enough for nothing, I had said to get taken up wrong. Or… you know, right?

“And you!” I elbowed him lightly. “That rap? What the hell? Why have I never heard that before?”

He just shrugged. ‘It's not my preferred style. Mom makes me practice it for breath control and diction, it’s effective… I just sang along in the car one day and Jessica thought it was the coolest thing.’ Just then Jess waved at him. He waved back. ‘She’s pretty cool though… I mean… I’ve been friend-zoned A LOT and I mean A LOT. But Jess is actually acting like a friend… she comes to gigs when she can…. Texts me before them if she can’t make it. And actually like… talks. Most girls blank you after the Let’s be friends’ conversation.’ He turned then and eyed me. ‘Well not YOU…’ He was hitting a lot of words hard tonight.

“Slow down or I will switch you to diet soda!” I teased him and he clutched at his imaginary pearls the way we always used to and declared blasphemy. “Lots of girls never called me back,” I told him, and it was true…

‘The ones you gave fake numbers don’t count.’ He teased. And I swigged my drink.

“Hey, I never gave fake numbers… I just didn’t give any.” It was still true though… before I joined the pack, I would be desperate for a call or a text. I was hopeless then… and lots of girls didn’t call or even just straight up said no when I asked for a number.

Jessica was waving frantically at Tony, beckoning him to a group of girls that now included Gemma from the diner. She smiled and I smiled back. I told my best musically inclined friend that he was being summoned. I turned back to the bar and caught Mac’s attention. “Can you send a round of those mermaid drinks to Jessica and her girl squad over there… and a…”

‘Virgin one for Tony.’ He smiled. He really was a people person… one night Tony was here, and he picked up that he didn’t drink. I nodded and he asked me if I wanted a refill. “No, but thanks. I have to head out and check on a few things…” Again, truth and no one questioned it anymore… not if they knew about Mom. I made my way to where Jake and the pup were, Leah still nearby helping customers. I caught Quil’s eye and gave him a nod. He joined us. “We’re going to head out, give some of the young ones a break,” I told them. Nessie freed one arm to hug me, kissing my cheek.

‘You did good work today ‘Bry… you made Momma T’s whole day.’ She beamed that brilliant smile.

“You too, Little One.” I grinned right back. I knew that some of the elders were still uncomfortable with a blood drinker…. Or in the case of the ones that didn’t know… a Cullen on the Reservation. But she did a great job today despite that. Thankfully, most of the other elders didn’t stay all day. “You put up a good fight, Clearwater!” I called to Leah, “Maybe you’ll get lucky next time.” I chuckled. Reminding her that I had remembered all too well about her suggestion that I would get lucky if the ladies won. I just remembered far too late. I draped my arm over Quil’s shoulder and headed to the door. Forcing myself not to look back. Telling myself we had all the time in the world. I would see her later. Even as my stomach felt a little…. Snarly. Yeah, that was the word. Snarly.

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

‘Oh… ‘Bry is going to get it for that comment.’ The pup rubbed his hands together. Getting a stern look from me, and yet the pup smiled back. Was I losing my edge? Because before now, I was sure a look from me would have sent this pup running!

“Spirits!” Muttering under my breath, before addressing Embry Fucking Call… (It’d been a minute since I’d thought of him like that.)

“Enjoy the win, Call… It’s not going to happen again… not if I have something to do with it.” Saying it just loud enough for those with our hearing abilities to make out over the crowds and the music.

‘Come on Leah, let him gloat a little.’  Jake laughed setting his sun-bright smile on me. To which all I did was raise that perfect eyebrow in an arch. Biting the inside of my cheek, needing to keep the real true facts to myself.

I didn’t miss the disclaimer in his comment, or before when I knew my promise from the morning came rushing back to Embry. The man had clearly forgotten it as the day progressed. Which let’s face it. Was a good thing. I didn’t want him to throw the challenge for selfish reasoning. It wasn’t in either of us to do something like that, but this had been the first time for the matter to be tested.

I let my gaze move to the door for a second, just long enough to see the backs of Quil and Embry disappearing out into the dark night.

A smile curled the edge of my lips up at the corner as my hand dug into the ice machine with a scoop, filling three jugs. There was a good mix of ages in tonight’s crowd. So naturally orders for cocktails began coming in.

 Mac thought he was being clever, and subtle when he came up behind me stealing one of the jugs. He wasn’t aware I’d overheard Embry asking for the Mermaids. He laughed, rushing to gain some distance from a slap up the side of his head. But the third jug was for him! When I laughed glancing back to follow him, I couldn’t help but see the movement. There was a limp to the way he walked. His left side compensating for the right.

‘I’ll get the next ones, Lee. Promise” He called over his shoulder.

“Sure… I believe you.” jarring the words as I frowned a little.

‘It’s clear he didn’t listen and overworked it today.’ She sounded concerned. But I agreed. ‘You should tell him to go home. Char is here working the floor. He can take the bar with you.’ She gave voice to what I was thinking. ‘But. He is as stubborn as you.’ This part got a roll of my eyes. Again, yeah, she was right. But still.

 Jake, Nessie, and the Pup turned when Sam and Emily came over.  Sam held a sleeping small version of him and Em in his arms. ‘We are going to call it a night, guys.’  Emily said hugging and kissing everyone. ‘It was a great outcome today, Leah. Your mom and Mama T are overjoyed.’  I gave her a nod and a wink saying our good night. ‘Okay. The baby is gone, now we can party.’  Paul was at the bar ordering beers and a cocktail for his wife.

‘Can you at least wait until my wife and kid are out of earshot, Paul!’  Sam shook his head laughing at his third-in-command. ‘Sure… Sure... But it’s going to take your wife a lifetime to waddle out of here.’ He teased.  Sam didn’t need to do anything.  Jay came up to punch Paul in the arm for that comment. ‘Hey!’

“I swear Jackarse. If you try to climb up on my bar tonight. I will take your kneecaps out.” 

He just shrugged grinning back. The man knew how to look innocent. But I knew him better. “I mean it, Lahote.”

∞ Embry Call ∞

I chuckled at the Pup’s comment and messed his hair as I passed him. “Do I look afraid to you?” I asked. Outraged, he fixed his hair… or tried to, bless him. ‘Actually yeah…. A bit.’ He looked me up and down and I flipped him off… because sometimes twelve-year-old logic was just the right move.

 Quil slapped my hand down, still in 𝕣𝕠𝕝𝕖 𝕞𝕠𝕕𝕖𝕝 mode even though Claire was being baby sat by the newest couple in the pack tonight. I patted Jake’s shoulder as I passed him. “Thanks for the backup bro’,” I smirked and planted a sloppy kiss on his cheek before jumping out of his reach.

I wasn’t worried about my and Leah’s conversation earlier today. We had loads of time to get lucky… Right?

I mean, of course… but… why did my stomach feel like this? Even the cool air and the moon low in the sky didn’t shake the feeling.

Either way… she’d have kicked my arse for not giving it my all.

‘You, okay?’  Quil asked.

“Yeah…” It wasn’t convincing. “Yeah.” Better. “Long day, you know?” I smiled. Because it was… but not a bad one.

‘A good one though.’ He smiled and we headed around the back, to my jeep.

“A great one.” I smiled, deciding that the feeling was just me itching for a run… I needed to let my wolf out. “I can’t wait to find out what we raised today… I think it's gonna be a great number.”

We talked about the day… laughing and joking… the shuffle gods sending strange vibes through the sound system.

Too Soon – The Banners

I turned it down.  

The shifts had been strange today… shorter and with more frequent changes, only a couple of people switching in and out to stop large groups arriving at or leaving the event.

We headed to the regular meeting point.  Quil and I tended the leave from our place… it was isolated enough, and the neighbours were far enough away that they wouldn’t see us running into the woods from the back porch. So, we only met here for training or when we were in the village. It was going to be up to us they get the boys all back on track for full runs and reset our old routine.

 Quil answered his phone to a call from Claire saying something about a book she wanted to read… Then all I could hear was Littlesea on the line saying the words sexy fairy book over and over again… and sounding like he might cry if Claire didn’t stop the high-pitched complaining. I pulled over after the third utterance of sexy fairy book, and asked what the hell was going on. After a lot of repeated questions, we got the gist of the situation. Claire was trying to read a book that the Pup was convinced was highly inappropriate. I texted the group chat that included the girls… the one reserved for emergencies… because the imprints did not appreciate our class A banter.

Embry: [Is A Court of Silver Flames, suitable for Bear?]

Nessie: [That depends on your opinions on censorship.]

Emily: [That sounds like one for Rachel]

Kim: [Nope!!!]

Rachel: [Oh Hell No!!!! Who bought her that book?]

Brady: [That one is HAWT!!! Also No.]

Rachel: [OMW! Your read it! Meet me outside NOW so we can]

Brady: [I’m not in the HwH Ray-Ray! Naked in the woods]

Rachel: [Eww!]

I locked my phone screen. “That’s gotta be a firm no… if Rachel thinks it's too adult…” I didn’t need to finish.  Quil nodded and after a few minutes of back and forth, he held the phone out to me for help. It shattered me to do it, but I shook my head. He needed to do this. Eventually, he convinced her to wait until they could speak face-to-face.

I drove again and Quil sulked for a few minutes because I wouldn’t intercede. I let him stew and switched the song to snap him out of it. He’s had a tough day with her… and the fact he had to set a boundary, and she wasn’t here with him… I knew it was hard.

Teenage Dirtbag - Wheatus

He didn’t even crack a smile until the second chorus then he was belting it out until we reached the meeting point. I pulled off the road until the jeep was well hidden and killed the engine. Quil punched my arm. ‘Ready?’ He wouldn’t apologise. He didn’t need to. He never needed to, and it was a two-way street.

“Let’s hit it.” We walked up to the clearing; thankful the underbrush was only a little damp after a day of no rain. I spotted Brady furiously texting… that explained why my arse cheek was almost numb from my phone buzzing in my back pocket. However, he was, thankfully not Naked In The Woods.

“Alright, guys!!” I called out to the people who stood around… One of Sam’s pups was nearby to relay what I was saying to the others on patrol and probably dying for a shift change so they could party. “I know I’m not your Alpha or Beta but shut up and listen because they are either working, taking a much-needed night off or carrying a pregnant woman to the toilet every half hour while simultaneously convincing a toddler that those purple squiggles are the best cows they’ve ever seen. So, I’m all you’ve got.” There was a roll of chuckles and even a Wolfie chuff. Even Brady tucked his phone away. “I know today was a messy roster, but it meant everyone got to be part of the fundraiser and have a good time but now we need to reel this shit back in and get back on track, okay? We’re going to be the shift that makes that transition as smooth as possible.”

Then I started to fill them all in on the plan for the night and the sunrise shift.

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

The sounds of the spirits were restless tonight. I hadn’t expected it at all. But something wasn’t right in the air. They weren’t singing. They weren’t pushing to be a part of the celebrations. It was as though they were standing back and watching. Taking in the details of the day, and what was to come.

‘So, when do we find out, just how well the car wash did?’ one of the locals asked.

“I’m sure MsC and Ma will have it out there by the morning if they haven’t already.” Answering, as I handed him over three bottles of beer.

The night was pumping, the music moving those who wanted to dance. At some point, Nessie talked Tony into joining her with the decks set up on the small, raised stage area we’d created for the open mic nights. The two of them played tracks which followed and complemented the last one. It was clear by the way Jake watched his imprint, that he was in the land of the spirits seeing her having so much fun, and Tony was in his element.

‘Didn’t see this night turning into this.’ Char shouted over the bar setting a tray of dirty glasses down.

‘It’s always the unplanned ones which end up being the most fun.’ Mac smiled, even if it didn’t reach his eyes.

“Here, let me take those into the back. You good with the crowd for now?” I took the dirties before Mac could get close to them.

‘Yeah. Only if, you’re sure.’ He said nodding to a short blondie waving her arms for his attention.

“I’m fine, go get that girl what she wants.” Telling him as I started heaving the glasses out the back.

‘You’re a good one, boss.’  Char stood there throwing a towel over his shoulder. ‘I saw what you did there.’

Shrugging my shoulder the sound of laughter from the group of pups and imprints stole my attention. ‘What’s going on there?’ he asked, and I shrugged again. It was better to not say anything than to lie and say I didn’t know. Especially when I could hear every word of the conversation.

‘By the spirits, I want to be in the room when Bear asks Quil and ‘Bry about the Bat boys' wing spans.’ Someone squealed. Making me roll my eyes.

‘Nope, I don’t want to be in their eyeline.’ This time it was Rachel. ‘I love the books, but she’s way too young for it.’

‘Claire is a teen.’ This was Jessica. ‘She was going to hear about them at some point. We were all reading books or playing games that were not age-appropriate at that age. She is just growing up. So, maybe we all need to let her.’

Sure, my cousin made a good point. But still. She didn’t understand the reason behind the protection around her.  As much as I agree with the sentiment of what she was trying to say, I knew that the men of the pack wouldn’t give Bear that same thought. They all saw her through the eyes of Quil. And to a point, I did too. Even if I was better at closing that side of my protection down.

Setting the rack of dirty glasses in the glass washer, I pulled out my phone. Normally I hated those big online shopping places, choosing to shop small and local. But at the same time, I knew overnight shipping would get what I wanted in Bear’s hands tomorrow. Writing a short note to go into the box with the eight-book set.

[Try dreaming of a world of assassins. The hero in this story, will show you what it means be a strong girl who grows up making mistakes… But learnt from them. -L]

Once the order confirmation came through, I pocketed my phone knowing once she had something better to read. The little monster would forget about the Fae Alphaholes for a while longer. Even if I did think, the Valkyrie would make for good role models.

«-(Meanwhile, in Seth Clearwater’s Head)-»

What a day. What a way to show the tribe and the elders we were ready to step up. To become those, they could rely on. The look on Ma’s face! The smile on Momma T’s lips. The glint of pride in the eyes of the other elders. This was what we, as the protectors of our tribe could achieve when we were trusted.

All the thoughts consumed my mind once Embry and Quil came to take over the next run. I’d told them I would keep going with them at least for another few hours, but the two were adamant that the pups and I should go and take part in some of the after-party at HwH. I had to admit, seeing the victory in the hive mind had all of us howling to Grandmother Moon! (Not really. Because we aren’t werewolves.)

By the time the handover was done, I found myself too far from the gathering clearing where I’d left my clothes. Going back there would make me even later getting to the bar. If I got a move on, I could help Sis, Mac, and Char with the close. This is why I was now shifted onto my two feet, running up the yard path looking for the hidden key on the small back porch of Leah’s home. I knew she kept me a few spares in her bedroom, and it wouldn’t take me much time to shower, dress, and run out from there. As long as Sis’s neighbour wasn’t twitching her curtains.

The excitement was palpable, I felt giddy, and couldn’t stop myself from laughing when I unlocked the back door and ran inside. Sure, most men my age wouldn’t break into their sister’s home when she was at work. But my sister and I didn’t have any hang-ups. She was a private person, holding up her walls for the world. But me. Nah… Leah loved me too much to be mad at me for dropping in like this.

I rushed into the house. Washing my feet in her bathroom and drying them off. Because let’s face it, I didn’t have a death wish. Humming ‘We Are the Champions’ I stopped in the dark hall. I hadn’t turned the lights on in the rest of the house yet. Something didn’t feel right. Something was wrong in the air.  But what? This was Leah’s home. Her sanctuary, so why…

Following my nose, my wolf was on guard with me. And for some reason, he slinked away in my mind. But why? Why wasn’t he speaking to me? I could tell he’d worked it out…

“FUCK! No! No...”

Stood in the doorway of my sister’s bedroom it hit me hard. It came out of nowhere, and I could swear I was imagining it. “My senses are playing tricks on me.” I didn’t know who in the name of the spirits I was talking to. I was here alone.

Walking over to the bed, I lifted the cover to my nose… My heart stopped. My mind went blank and reeled all at once. I didn’t need to turn the lights on to see clearly. My ears listened for sounds, but there were none. The smells were old, from hours ago.

“Not fresh.” Muttering to myself.

My gaze fell on the two side tables, glasses and bottles of water... on Both sides. When I turned to look at the clothes on her chair. My eyes bugged out.

“No… Fuck…” my heart stopped beating. I knew that T-shirt on her chair. And it didn’t belong to her. I remembered the exact date, time, and place it was bought. And Leah wasn’t the one who took it home…

“Fuck!” The smells… I was still holding her covers. “The scent is so potent.” One I knew so well. And wished I didn’t!

 “Embry…”

I let the name out with my warrior trying to hold my anger from flaring into an inferno. Pulling at reasons why, what would Embry Call’s scents be doing in my sister’s bedroom? Walking out of her room, I followed the scent all over her home.

The living room where I saw his nana’s guitar resting in my sister’s armchair. I’d know it anywhere. I’d seen it in his room a million times before tonight!

When I moved into the kitchen… I saw two cups sitting out beside the sink… Two cups… for my sister who only ever had herself, and sometimes Ma, and me over… But no…

I turned back walking to the hallway by the front door. He was everywhere. She… He… they! They were… I followed the scent to the couch. Where most of my senses kicked in.

“No… Fuck! Fuck!” What was going on? “Why the Fuck would they… What were they thinking?”

I was back in the kitchen now, lifting the house phone up and dialling.

«-(Back at HwH, in the madness around Leah Clearwater )-»

“I’m going to ban your husband for life if he doesn’t put his shirt back on.”

Rachel sat with her legs crossed on the stool across the bar from me. Chewing on the tip of her paper straw, giving Paul smitten eyes. ‘But just look at how fine he is.’ She swooned. Making me roll my eyes at the two of them.

“By the spirits, I swear if the Goofball and his nerd end up like the two of you, I’m going to ban you all from here.” Scowling at them both.

‘You’d think it would wear off after being married.’  Mac was laughing as he poured a couple of beers.

“If only.” That was all I had time to say before I felt my phone vibrating in my pocket. Taking it out I saw the display said HOME. But rolled my eyes when Rachel told Mac that their passion was only getting stronger with each year. “Spirits help us.” I groaned answering the call. 

“Hey, Kid. You, okay?” The minute the words were out of my mouth, my world went silent. The crowds around me, the music, the laughter, the conversations all disappeared with the realization.

HOME…

The call was coming from my home.

Only one person dared to go there when I wasn’t in.

Only one person who I just addressed.

My baby brother… He was at my home… Images of how I left the house this morning came flashing before me. The bed was unchanged because Embry and I were going to be there together tonight, the fact that I didn’t air the house out this morning.

‘I’m here. Waiting.’ Came the voice on the other side. And then the call ended.

‘Right, Leah.’ A conversation I didn’t hear continued. A shoulder nudged into me. Mac stopped laughing when he turned his attention to me, as did Rachel.

‘Leah? What’s wrong?’ She asked jumping down from her stool. ‘Leah?’

Blinking a few times I swallowed, pushing my walls up hard and fast. Locking down the fear creeping up into me again. The Spirits weren’t speaking, but slowly the sounds around me came back into motion like a high-speed turn-up.

‘Leah?’ Mac’s hand rested on my elbow.

“Yeah… Listen… I’m… sorry for doing this to you. I really need to go.” He cut me off.

‘Go. Don’t worry, things are slowing down. Go.’ He moved to the side for me.

“Don’t worry about setup for tomorrow. I’ll be back later. Just close down and leave it all for me. You and Char go home.” And I was out.

Eyes followed me, I could feel them, but I didn’t wait around to answer any questions. Running out and climbing onto my baby. I kicked him off his stand and rode off before anyone thought it was okay for them to come out to question me. 

‘I’m here. Waiting.’  The kid’s voice was his, but not his all at once.

Three small words rang in my ears, as I pulled out of the parking lot. The wind blowing in my face, giving me no joy tonight.

≋    ≋    ≋    ≋    ≋

I slowed my bike down as I came up my street, and my eyebrows pulled together as I saw that Ma’s car was parked in the drive.

‘Why did the kid call Ma? I know he sounded upset… but…’ She was asking the question for both of us.

We knew by now he would have picked up the sound of my bike, but some part of me still felt like this was all a nightmare. Even if I didn’t dream. This was one of them, right? My emotions, mind, body, it was all locked down so tight, I told her to sit this one out. I wasn’t going to call on her. This was going to be, between me and my brother… also by the looks of it my Ma too.

My feet moved me forward to the front door. The lights of the kitchen showed me that my house was indeed occupied. My hands didn’t shake when I put the key in the lock to push the door open. I could hear the beating hearts of a human and a warrior. The scent of my Ma, my brother, mixed with what had become the norm in these four walls.

No one spoke as I kicked my boots off, slipped my jacket off too, and hung it on the hook before setting my keys and phone down on the small table, before stepping around the corner, to stand in my living room.

My eyes moved around the sight before me. Seth stood in the far corner by the window, dressed in a pair of jeans with a Tee I knew he got from the drawer in my bedroom which belonged to him. His eyes were narrowed, his jaw clenched, and his arms crossed over his chest. Ma turned to look at me from the armchair. Her concerned eyes were on me, waiting to see who broke first.

But before I could say anything, my gaze fell on the coffee table. Placed in the middle of it sat Embry’s nana’s guitar. His Tee which had become mine as I spent most nights sleeping in it. Beside the tee were two cups, and two bottles of half-empty water.

‘Usdi…’ Ma started, holding out her hand towards me. ‘Please tell me what is happening? Embry and you… are you…’ Before she could say anything, or end her sentence The Kid jumped in.

‘No… Don’t go easy on her. She did this. She… she… What in the name of the spirits was she thinking?’  Seth’s anger was palpable from across the room. He stepped forward, his face distorted with disgust.

All my fears for Embry… for these steps we were taking came rushing back like a ten-ton brick wall falling on my chest. I knew how this tribe, the pack, the imprints would react if they found out about Embry and me… I knew how they would want something... someone… better for him. How Leah Clearwater wouldn’t stack up to what they would have seen as a future for Embry.

And here is my proof. My brother. My Ma… the look in their eyes…

‘Really where do you see this mess going?’ Seth pointed at me from across the room. ‘You don’t learn, do you? You didn’t learn from how Sam---’

‘SETH! STOP!’ Ma was on her feet. The sound of her heart was like a riot of wild horses. ‘Just Stop. Where is all this anger coming from? Why do you think it is okay to speak to your sister in this way?’ She was facing him, her back turned away from me.

“Ma… Let him speak.” My voice was low and even. “I want to know what is going on in his head.”

His eyes were back on me. ‘What is going on in my head? That’s fresh coming from you. When have you ever let us see inside your head?’ His words felt like a slap. ‘You always go on about not lying… how long has this all been going on?’ pointing to the table and Embry’s belongings. ‘Were you ever planning on telling us?’ He shouted.

“Ma… Move out of the way. Please.” I told her as I saw his anger spiking.

‘Don’t tell her to move out of the way. You’ve been lying to her too.’ He pushed forward as Ma pushed him back.

“Seth…” My voice had grown, it had built into something I’d only felt once before. My body shook, but it wasn’t my warrior. “Ma… Move… Please!” She did this time, leaving Seth to come at me if he wanted to. But something stopped him. Something he saw in my eyes made him take a few steps back. To stop in his spiral before it became something neither of us could come back from.

‘Forget it…. I should have known better than to expect any answers from you.’ This time he pushed past me, his shoulder banging into my side. Two warriors of the Clearwater Bloodline, both on two sides of the riverbank, with a swell of water keeping us apart. ‘I’m going to find my answers another way.’

My front door opened and banged close, making Ma jump holding her hands over her mouth to hold a sob in. ‘Usdi… he… He is young… he didn’t mean…’

“He meant it Ma; he meant everything he said. And I shouldn’t be shocked.” My eyes were dead. The emotion locked down so tight that I wasn’t going to let it out. “I should have known better. I’m not good enough for Embry Call. I’m not good enough for anyone.”

The words stopped her in her tracks, she was frozen; her eyes locked on me, but I had nothing to give her. Because if I did, I didn’t know if I could make it out of this in one piece.

Backing out of the living room, I pushed my feet into my boots and picked up my keys following the path my brother had taken to leave my house. As I climbed onto the back of my bike. I needed to get some air, to think about what had happened. To understand the disgust in The Kid’s eyes for me. And right then, it occurred to me…  Seth’s last words… They resonated… What did he mean when he said he was going to get answers?

“Spirits!” I hoped I was wrong, that my brother wouldn’t take my private life and open it wide for the world to see.

Kickstarting my baby, I glanced at the front door where Ma now stood with tears running down her cheek. Riding off my driveway, I followed Seth’s scent, because he had a good amount of lead time on me.

∞ Embry Call ∞

My motivational speech went down a treat and the boys were running their routes with minimal instruction. They weren’t rushing them or cutting corners. Running the lines wasn’t about speed, it was about vigilance. With a mixed Uley and Black pack run it was a great time for them to work on keeping those windows open and communication flowing.

A few of them had their thoughts drift back to the afterparty but they quickly righted themselves.  Quil and I took the route closest to the roads, keeping an eye on the townies coming and going. Leah and her crew were good at making sure no one left in a car that had been drinking… but the HwH wasn’t the only place that people in the village could drink.

Sure, traffic accidents weren’t really our responsibility, but we had helped out at a few in the past.  The roads were quiet… the party was still in full swing, I supposed. I wondered if Jake was having a good time… Was Tony still hanging with the village girls?

‘Don’t worry ‘Bry… I have no doubt that they are all taking a page out of the Call playbook and...’  Quil started and the hive chorused; ‘Living in the moment!’

I just laughed. I should have been offended that they thought I was so predictable… but I preferred to think of it as consistent and dependable. There was a series of scoffs in my head when the thought relayed.

But then… the signal fire? No one had sent word they were using the circle tonight. The pup nearest detoured as soon as I gave him the go-ahead. Before he could see anything, he heard…

My name?

‘Seth?’  Quil recognised the voice immediately.

‘Why wouldn’t he phase? Could it be my mom?’ I thought and I pulled some of the older guys to take mine and Quil’s route and I redirected to the stone circles. Seth called my name again; the Pup closest barked, signalling that I was on my way.

‘No… if it was Mama T he’d signal from Billy’s house.’ Quil assured me. Before the pup went back to his line, I caught a glimpse of Seth… pacing.

Why wouldn’t he just phase?

➶➶➶➶➶➶➶

Quil waited in the trees close enough to hear whatever was happening and still near the boys if he was needed.

Seth was stood in the second circle… The message ‘Step up to the circle’ was clear. The minute the light of the fire in the centre hit my wolf’s body, he stopped pacing. His body was locked up, shoulders squared, and he looked like he didn’t know if he was about to cry or scream.

“What the fuck happened?” I thought; it manifested as a low whine in my wolf’s throat.

‘Phase… I want to talk to you, and only you.’ He was shaking… he was trying to contain his wolf. I couldn’t remember the last time I saw Seth struggle with that. It had to be Mom.

‘Just go ‘Bry… I’ll signal if you’re needed.’  Quil urged. This was not a good example for the kids…  Quil psychically nudged me. He was the only one in the pack whose thoughts felt like a physical touch to me.

I pulled my wolf back, promising him we’d run soon… but if Mom… well… I had no idea if it was a promise I could keep.

Bones bent and shrank… muscles twisted… the world changed shape, and all the air rushed out of my body and back in when everything refocused.

I had tied a pair of shorts to my ankle knowing I planned on running the 110-patrol route.

“Seth what the hell happened? I’m running a patrol… is Mom….” I couldn’t finish… I froze… He froze too and looked horrified; my stomach lurched. I stuffed my legs into the shorts I had washed cars in earlier today. Nudity in front of the guys wasn’t something we thought about much.

‘Fine… She’s fine. I mean…  Collin has your phone, and he hasn’t signalled.’ His expression softened and he stepped into the outer ring.

“Okay… then if you don’t mind, I need to…” I turned to go back to the tree line.

‘I’m not done!’ His voice was full of rage, and it had come out of nowhere. He was shaking again when I looked back at him.

I stepped into the ring that no one was allowed to enter in wolf form and put my hand on his shoulder. “Seth… bro’… What happened?” I put my hand on his shoulder. There was something really wrong here. “Talk to…” He slapped my hand away like he had belatedly realised that it was me he was pissed at and one look in his eyes confirmed it: He was pissed… at me?

‘Talk to me!’ He laughed and it was soaked in malice. “How about you talk to me Embry… how about that… hmm… the open fucking book. Right? That’s what you are? The class clown… the mentor… the one that tells us to own our fucking feelings… How about you start talking!?!’

I held my hands up trying to calm him as it sank in… it sank in like a blade through my ribs. I must have not said anything for too long because he spoke again. ‘Speechless all of a sudden?’ He barked that vicious laugh again. ‘Okay, well how about starting with how long you’ve been fucking my sister?’

He wasn’t quiet… In fact… did he raise his voice at the end. No… he wouldn’t. My eyes darted to the trees. I could hear movement. ‘Oh… so Quil didn’t know?’ He had a look on his face I had never seen on him before. ‘If you’re so worried about him hearing…. Must mean you’ve lied to him too?’

“Seth… stop. This is not the time for this conversation.” I contain my anger at the choice of words he used.

‘Of course, it’s not… Fuck! You even sound like her now! I don’t give a damn… Leah won’t answer so I came right to the source… and tonight is the night I found your scent in my sister’s bed… your t-shirt in her room. Remember… My first concert… first road trip with the guys. I know that fucking shirt ‘Bry! So, tonight is the night I need some answers!’

‘SETH!!!’  Quil ran out of the trees on two feet now. ‘Shut your mouth! Right now!’

He stepped into the circle between the two of us.

‘So, you did know?’ Seth was snarling at him now two as he stepped between us.

‘It doesn’t matter what I know or don’t know. This isn’t happening here. Go home. Keep your mouth shut and we will deal with this in the morning.’ With Quil talking Seth down I staggered back a few steps. The blade between my ribs scraped bone… pierced my lung and I felt… cold…

Angry words were being exchanged nearby… but there was so much noise in my head.

It was over… I’d lost her… everything… I… she… Leah… this was it. The moon hid behind the clouds when I turned to look for Grandmother. My heel hit a stone marking the middle circle and I…

Fell…

One knee hit the dirt, and I was so stunned that I barely felt it as Quil took my face in his hands. ‘Embry! Are you okay?’ It was like I was hearing him from underwater.

“You knew?” I asked… my voice was foreign… the world was too quiet and too loud all at once.

‘I didn’t know it was… Her.’ He looked around like not saying her name out loud could protect our secret.

Leah… she was…

“Fuck!” What had Seth said?

Leah won’t answer

“You spoke to Leah?” I was on my feet in a flash… closing the space between us. “Where is she? What did you say to her?”

‘You need to stay the hell away! She’s my sister and I don’t give a fuck what games you two are playing. But it ends now!’ He was still shaking, and I had no idea how he was still on two legs, but my wolf was nearing his limit.

We snatched the front of Seth’s shirt. Not to hurt him, just to show him we mean business. “Shut the hell up, Seth! Where was she when you spoke to her? Did you pull a stunt like this at the bar too?”

He shoved me with two open palms on my chest. I stepped back.  Seth was strong, but he knew he couldn’t move me if I wasn’t willing to be moved.

‘STOP IT!! NOW!’ I had never heard Quil so dominant.

We heard a familiar engine… ‘Right on time…’ Seth had that spiteful look on his face again. It made me sick.

This wasn’t Seth… he was letting his anger twist him into something he wasn’t. “Seth… please… this isn’t you. Where’s the man that has been my brother for all these years?”

‘He stopped being your brother the first time you fucked his sister on her couch, Call.’ That expression on his face looked chiselled from stone. That phantom blade was ripped clean. Slicing all the way out… he was twisting the most meaningful part of my life into something crude and lurid.

I charged; fist, balled. Quil’s massive arms came around me and it was enough to make me realise what I was about to do and stop. I couldn’t lie… It took everything in me to let it go. ‘Don’t do something you’ll regret in two minutes brother.’

My eyes met Seth’s over his shoulder.

Seth… he was gone too.

I did this. This was all my fault. I… took her for granted… I took it all for granted.

All day.

A million times.

I told myself again and again…

We had time…

Later…

We had spades of chances and opportunities…

We’d be alone again soon…

She would be mine again soon…

Just wait…

Be patient.

I had been released by Quil while I was lost in my guilt. A single headlight filtered through the trees. I looked up and found my best friend watching me. “This is all my fault.” My voice cracked.

‘Embry…’ Quil had no idea what I meant… how could he? … but the sadness in his voice. Was it disappointment? … was it empathy? I couldn’t even tell anymore…

The world was too loud.

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

My world was so quiet, the wind gave me no pleasure, the night no relief. Even Grandmother Moon hid from lighting my path towards the circle of stones. And the spirits… they were silently watching. It wasn’t hard to follow Seth’s route, to understand where he had chosen to go. As much as I hoped he just needed time to cool down. He hadn’t. The closer I got on the road, eyes from the forest began to meet me, flashes from behind the darkness covering the tree lines, all watching my progress, but no one spoke.

The scent of fire came from afar and that’s when the spirits began their descent into sadness. Their hummingbird-like song now sounded like a dark march, making my gut twist, into a painful knot. One hand moved to my stomach as I rode, and then it moved up to my ribs. And then my heart. What was going on? What were they showing me? What in the name of the spirits had I done? The image of Seth’s disgusted face kept flashing across my mind. Of my, Ma stood crying at my doorstep while watching me ride off…

What was WRONG WITH ME!!!! How had I become this selfish? Why didn’t I just tell them??

‘Because you deserve happiness. You didn’t take anything that wasn’t offered openly.’ She tried to get through.

 I lost control of my bike in the blink of an eye, with another sharp stab to my ribs. My bike swerved but I corrected it. The spirits were watching over me, thankfully the road wasn’t wet, so I didn’t come off. But I heard the howl of two pups at witnessing the near miss.

‘Stop… you know it’s okay to show weakness. They can deal with the human side of things.’ She had been letting my thoughts run wild only to a point, before stepping in.

I wasn’t listening. The spiral in my head wasn’t letting me go. She was wrong I couldn’t… weakness wasn’t something I could handle.

‘You let Embry see… to feel… to understand. Why not them too?’ She tried so hard. To no avail.

≋    ≋    ≋

By the time I pulled off the road and up the dirt path towards the circle of stones, I could hear the sound of Seth, Quil, and Embry. Their scent even outdoors gave the impression of what had been happening before my arrival. Making my hands tighten on the handlebars.

‘What is Seth thinking?’ She scowled with disappointment. But I wasn’t listening. Because I was the one to blame for this. To make my kid feel this way about one of his pack brothers. To bring them to this point. ‘Stop!’ There was no stopping me.

“What in the name of the spirits, is going on here?” My voice had lost its righteous boom of the Beta of the pack. Because I wasn’t here in that capacity. Did I even have the respect of the pack to call myself their Beta after this?

My body froze in my tracks at the view before me.  Seth standing to one side, snarling. Quil sanding in the middle… And holding Embry back from… what? My eyes widened. Was Embry about to hit Seth? Because it was clear Seth came for a fight.

The pain on all three faces before me, hit me harder than any bone-shattering punch I had taken.

‘No… No… No… he wouldn’t… he would never.’ She rushed to defend Embry.

I didn’t step into the circle, I couldn’t move my feet, because if I did, my mask would be gone. So, staying at a distance where all three of the men were clearly in my eye line was the best option. For now.

‘Of course, you came.’  Seth’s anger grew stronger since he left my house. ‘Just fucking him in your house wasn’t enough right… You now have to defend him too?’ The words felt like a stinging slap.

‘Enough Seth! I told you. Go home! We will talk about this in the morning.’ Quil was trying to take control of the man who somehow looked like my hurt baby brother. Quil’s heart-filled eyes were on the kid, and then over his shoulder, showing me, he knew… he knew too.

My eyes moved over the forest before landing on Embry. Seeing the devastation and emotional turmoil in them. Spirits! I didn’t want this… I didn’t want to bring this discourse to the people I cared for… But I failed!

 Seth waved his hand in the air. ‘I’m not going anywhere—‘But I cut him off.

“Seth…” My voice gave the false impression of calm, when I was anything but. Internally, each brick Embry had removed, was finding its rightful place building my guard up one by one. “You got your way.” My chin moved to the woods and the eyes we could see reflected back. “My life in the open for all to see. What more can I give you right now?” While I spoke to him, my eyes didn’t meet his, but my head was still held up.

My brother’s feet faulted as though he had been in a haze of bloody rage. Only now seeing the devastation and destruction caused. And then the angry boy was back. But it was too late now.

When my gaze locked on Embry, my mind flashed to a conversation the two of us had in the beginning. About how he wanted the approval of our moms. I had wanted that too, as well as Seth’s. And once again all those fears were back. Knowing how the tribe, the pack, the imprints… and now my family were going to react.

My world… Our bubble… it had imploded!

∞ Embry Call ∞

«-(Meanwhile, in Quil Ateara’s Head)-»

I had no idea what was happening… actually… that wasn’t true. I knew that Embry had been seeing someone. I couldn’t be sure how long, but it was at least two months. But the devastation in my brother’s face told me, it had to be more… What had he meant that it was all his fault? Was he talking about whatever was happening between the two of them… or the fact that Seth had discovered their secret...

I knew I should be mad that Embry had lied to me… but… had he? He never told me where he was going or why he wasn’t coming home. He just told me he’d be back in the morning or some other run around. I accepted that; because he seemed happy… not that he was miserable but there was just something lighter about him… the weight he’d carried since Mama T got sick seemed to be easier to carry… and now I knew why. He’d been sharing it… with Leah.

I couldn’t wrap my head around it… Leah and Embry? But at least that meant he hadn’t lied about this mystery girl not being married. But how? When? Why?  Embry went for beautiful girls and there was no denying Leah fit that bill… but neither of them was the exclusive type…

And even more importantly, how had it gotten so serious that Embry looked like his whole world fell apart…

Even Leah… as she stood there… She never gave anything away and she looked… broken. She had obviously followed Seth here. She knew there would be eyes and ears on this conversation, and she came…

I looked between Embry and Leah they were locked in on one another. The rest of us had stopped existing. “She came for him.” I whispered to myself. “She came here for him… so he didn’t have to face this alone.” This was what made me step closer to Seth again. “You need to watch the way you’re speaking to your superiors inside this sacred space, Seth.”

‘Don’t tell me how I can speak to my own flesh and blood, Ateara!’ His voice was quiet rage. Like he knew he had no reason to be as hateful to me as he had been to them.

Embry moved… as soon as I was between him and Seth again; like he hadn’t trusted himself to move past him without a buffer. He passed and went right to Leah, stepping over the lines of stones. Seth tried to step around me, and I blocked his path. “Not a chance,” I said, not in a threatening tone just… firm.  “Don’t make me hold you back. Because I will and we both know I can.”

‘I’m so sorry, Leah…’ The shake in my best friend's voice was heartbreakingly soft.

I didn’t dare look towards them… their privacy had been invaded enough and I might be stronger than Seth… but I wasn’t quicker, so I didn’t take my eyes off him.

I heard a collective intake of breath from the treeline, and I wanted to shout at them to get back to work… but what was the point now? Like Leah had said… It was done. Seth looked furious at whatever was happening behind my back. “Are you happy now?” I asked him… and I couldn’t lie… the flinch that crossed his face didn’t make me feel bad… He had done the same to his sister and my brother tonight. And it distracted him.

‘I didn’t want this…’  Seth hissed, and his eyes went to the trees.

“Then why are you here, Clearwater?”

He dropped his eyes and at least had the decency to look ashamed.

‘I didn’t… this isn’t…’

“It doesn’t matter what you wanted, Seth… It matters what you have chosen to do, to them…” I whispered back.

‘I. Deserve. Answers!’ He was vibrating in place, speaking through his teeth.

The ridiculousness of his words made me scoff and I looked him square in the eyes and asked. “Do you??” Because… talk about arrogant!! Like people owed him an explanation for their personal lives. When it did not affect his life whatsoever. His eyes faltered again. “Neither of them owes you… or any of us a Spirits damned thing!” When those words left my mouth, I heard a few sets of footsteps retreat. Not all… but some.

«-(Meanwhile, in Embry Call’s Head)-»

All I could see was Leah… I had no idea what had happened between her and her brother. Had he spoken to her the way he had to me… How much had he really seen? He’d been at her house that was for sure… I should have been more careful… I shouldn’t have left a trail of myself all over Leah’s sanctuary. I was a fucking idiot.

I knew my scent would have still been there no matter what… it was pointless to think of what I could have done differently.

I was sure that she was rebuilding all those walls as we spoke… but I read it on her face… she was blaming herself for all of this and I couldn’t let her do that. I couldn’t. We did this. She should not have to bear this alone.

As soon as Quil moved, I moved. My bare feet were almost silent on the semi-solid earth after a day with no rain. I saw nothing else but her… She was all I cared about; all I could see. I let Quil manage Seth’s tantrum. I knew I would be overwhelmed with love for that man as soon as I could feel anything that wasn’t searing pain and something else, I couldn’t name. Quil hadn’t judged… he wasn’t disgusted like Seth… wasn’t even mad that I had lied.

I was close enough to Leah now to touch her and I hesitated…

I hesitated…

It was like another knife in the gut. “I’m so sorry, Leah…” I said as quietly as I could. Nothing here was private anymore… but…

My head was so loud, and my throat was thick… Fuck it!  I reached out and touched her cheek, this could be the last time I ever get to touch her. I ignored the sounds from the trees. “It’s my fault and I’m so…” I stopped before I apologised again because she hated it.

Actions were how you showed her how you felt. But I was all out of actions… I was all out of time… because I hadn’t stopped to appreciate how precious that time was.

Now we were here and this was the last I had to show her what all of this had meant to me, show her that I saw her and everything she sacrificed for us. Show her that she would never be alone, unless she wanted to be… even if this… our bubble… our miracle; was shattered. I would always see her.

I ignored the whispers behind us.

I touched my forehead to hers and took in a shaky breath cradling her face between two hands now. Feeling the heat of her skin… the silky coolness of her hair from the ride here. I held back the stinging in my eyes. “You don’t have to be here for this.” My voice caught in my throat. “I can do this… Please, let me do this for us, Trouble.” I hated to see her whole life laid bare in front of people she hadn’t opened that door to. Tears came in an unwelcome trail down my cheeks now. “Please… I’ve got this. I’ve got you.” I didn’t say for the last time… she knew this. I knew this…

Seth… he knew it too.

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

I could hear the conversation taking place between Quil and Seth, I knew it was impossible for me to get through to my kid right now. So, I had to trust in the spirits to stop him from making a mistake there was no coming back from.

But at the same time, they were quiet. The Spirits were witnessing this unfold without stepping in. I wanted to shout at them... to ask them why. But now wasn’t the time. Only my warrior would bear witness to the truth unravelling within the walls going up around my soul again. No one would hear the Earth-shattering sound of my heart breaking, or see the fear of loss, but me and her.

She winced and gasped as Embry hesitated…

 ‘He…’ Her heartbroken at the sight. ‘He hesitated…’ her voice was silently moving away from the surface at that one action. I told her I understood because he had so much more to lose here than me. I was an outsider in a valley of despair, while he was the life and soul. I had to bite the inside of my cheek to stop the gasp of emotions she felt from coming to the surface.

My eyes closed for a second at the exact moment his hands touched my skin. Making me take a short quick breath. A reminder of how far we had come together. How our journey on this evolution had grown into something so profound, only to end up here.

I kept my voice even, willing my strength not to give up on me now. But I did lean into his touch. Resting our foreheads together just as our ancestors had to speak to the soul.

“You... you have nothing to apologise for.” My eyes flew open when he asked me to go.

‘He promised we would face the world together.’ Her voice was a broken whisper. ‘Us against the world.’ She cried. Until I reminded her. His world was a lot bigger than ours.

His tears cut my soul. I felt my heart, body and mind free-falling into a pit of despair. Why? Why was this hurting so much? Why did it feel as though each tear in his eyes was a cut on my body, filled with the burn of salt? What were all these feelings consuming me?

‘I’ve got this. I’ve got you…’

But if this were true, why would he think I would let him face this alone? I didn’t speak with words… that was his superpower. I couldn’t tell him what I wanted with words. My being here was the action, telling him this was Still Real for me.

But maybe it wasn’t enough. Because I remember my promises to him. I’d only stay, as long as he didn’t tell me to leave.

∞ Embry Call ∞

I closed my eyes and held onto her. She still wasn’t leaving, and it was making me want to pull her in and wrap her up in my arms. To tell her. No… it didn’t matter. I wouldn’t let them… him… take her away from me. We could do this… we wouldn’t let them break us.

But that would break all the promises I had made her. That wouldn’t change the fact that no one… no one would look at me and think I was right for her… Seth would never accept it…  Sue… she never brought it, but she knew my reputation… and even if she loved me… that didn’t mean she’d want the likes of me with her daughter. This would tear her away from her family and…

I would be the cause.

A pained whine rumbled in my throat and my hand slipped back into her hair and my fingers twisted there lightly. She wasn’t all mine anymore… I couldn’t see a world where It was possible… not without ripping her out of her life. “Leah.” I sobbed. There wasn’t another word for it. “I took it all for granted… I…” I took a breath. I needed to get control; I was supposed to be showing her that I could do this. “I did this,” I said, steadier… but certainly not steady.

There were too many thoughts in my head, and I could not keep a single train of thought. I knew Quil and Seth had been talking but I had no idea what they were saying. I was already failing at our rules… not to let this affect the pack and here I was falling apart in front of them all.

PDA too… not that this really fits the description. It was so much deeper… she was my lifeline.

There was a shuffling of feet behind me, and I realised then that Seth had been calling my name… and the feet were coming closer.

He’d gotten past Quil… Quil was stronger, but he would never hurt Seth, not even to restrain him. Still, I couldn’t let her go. My hold on her was tender though so when hands clamped on my arms they were yanked away. I let go so as not to hurt her. Not that it would have hurt much… but that wasn't the point, I had caused more than enough hurt tonight.

 Seth was in front of me then shoving me back with intent this time and yelling. ‘Get your fucking hands off my sister!’ I had a vague memory that he’d said this already too. I refused to budge, and he was seething. Quil tried to get between us again and I held up a hand to stop him. I had almost cracked earlier and thought about swinging for him, but there was no way I would let that happen again. Not only because I wouldn’t put Leah in that position. It wasn’t me… I didn’t fight like this. I didn’t fight with fists… not anymore. Not unless I had no other option, even then… I kept it to the bare minimum.

Seth had taken so much from me tonight… but this… This I could keep.

“I’m not going to hit you, Seth.” There was definitely anger in my voice, but it was mostly just broken. He shoved me again and nothing happened but a jostling of my shoulders. There were growls from the trees and the outlines of massive wolves were visible in the firelight. We were outside the circle now so they could come between us if they chose. They hadn’t left with the others but that didn’t mean they were okay with a fistfight between their brothers.

“Do your worst kid… You need to beat the shit outta me to get past what this anger is then do it. I’m not going to fight with you.” I told him, still shaky, my heart still racing, aching with every single beat.

Seth whirled to his sister now. ‘See…. Do you see what you mean to him? You’re both standing here like this is some epic romance and he won’t even fight for you!!’

“Mind your place Seth!!” I raised my voice. “We are still your superiors… and if you won't heed me I will have your alpha reign in your juvenile bullshit!”

‘Oh please! You won’t even answer simple questions! You don’t want Jacob involved in this… yet.’ I knew he only added the last bit because he knew this was done… not just the pack… in a matter of days the whole village would be talking about this.

“Oh yeah? You think I won’t call Jake? I have nothing left to lose. My mother is sick, one of my brothers is leaving, and you just destroyed the best thing that's ever happened to me, Clearwater. Don't fucking test me!” Now I was the one shaking. Fuck! I looked at Leah… Apology in my eyes. I was failing her… I was letting her down. She was still here… She knew I couldn’t do this… I couldn’t do what I’d promised her.

Fuck! I wanted to scream. I wanted to cry out at the moon… was this what she had chosen me for? There was nothing… all those signs and signals I had learnt to pick up on… were gone. The Spirits had abandoned me. I had abused their gifts, and they were punishing us both for it. I knew it was what I deserved but Leah… she didn’t… it wasn’t fair…

But when had life ever been fair to her?

The noise in my head was too much. I pressed the heels of my hands to my brows holding my head to try and quieten it. ‘Embry!’ Quil was next to me again. I felt his hand on my arm… and it was…

Nothing like the touch I craved. Nothing ever would be.

‘That’s enough, Seth… This is over. You need to go. You can go home, or you can go to the Black’s and wait for your Alpha. This.’ I looked back up in time to see him pointing at Seth… ‘Whatever it is… is over. You need to leave.’

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

“You didn’t bring this on.” Whispering the words to Embry. “This wasn’t something we could stop.” Now I understood the unease I’d been feeling, the way I’d been questioning things. It was a warning for all of this. “I just wish it hadn’t happened like this.” His scent, the way the sound of his sob stabbed me in the chest. He was always so open with his feelings; tonight was no different. “I should have known better.” Because this was my doing. Cutting corners this morning, if I had kept up with my morning reset at home. We wouldn’t all be here.

“Please stop… It’s done now.” Was this enough to stop him from falling the way I was? I hoped so. Because when words weren’t a strong suit for you, how did someone explain the turmoil taking place within themselves? The need to protect was at its foremost. Embry… Seth… My role as their Beta was trying so hard to come to terms with what evolved here. But there was so much more.

A sister…

A ….

We had never given what Embry, and I have a name. But I needed to protect him with as much vigour as I had for my kid. Both these needs were at war with the other. But I knew one thing. The growl tried to escape at the way Seth yanked Embry away from me. It was like setting a light to a bubbling inferno. Something I’d never felt before.

“STOP!!!” My eyes narrowed at the three men all trying in their own way to remedy this situation. Even the sounds from the forest stopped. 

My attention moved to Seth first. I didn’t need to fight Embry’s battles; we had made promises saying exactly that. But this… mess… I knew once Seth calmed down. He would come to regret some if not all his actions towards his pack brothers.

“You have no idea what he will and won’t do. But I can promise you this. Fighting with my kid won’t be happening. Not Now… Not Ever!” The Beta wasn’t needed, Because I was his older sister. That trumped any other relationship.

“I am not your property. I belong to no one walking this earth. And I will not allow anyone to claim me in that way! Go Home Seth… We left our Ma in tears.”

His face broke from the anger, with a flash of shock replacing it. “You brought her into this… Don’t be the cause of any more heartbreak for her. She needs someone to rely on, and right now, I can see you no longer trust or respect me.”

‘Leah… Sis… No—’ I held my hand up, letting him see that I wasn’t listening to another word.

My gaze moved on to Quil, dismissing my brother even though I saw that made him reel again. But for now… I was Thanking the spirits for giving a person like Quil to Embry. I knew he would keep Embry moving forward.

“Our Alpha doesn’t need to be brought into this matter.”

Embry and my privacy had been laid out on full display for the pack, and I knew what would come next. But for now. We really didn’t need any more fuel hitting this fire.

Then I turned my gaze to Embry, my eyes softening at the man who had found a way past my walls. The man who had become a friend, and then something so much more. And my words had dried up. What could I say to him? Nothing I would want anyone here to overhear, their minds couldn’t understand the purity of what had seeded between us. Seth had proven it by the way he spat on what we had made for ourselves.

“I’m sorry. This wasn’t meant to break your brotherhood. Or impact you in this way. I shouldn’t have let Seth go. To come here.” swallowing the lump in my throat. My feet moved back. We... Me and he... With an audience... I told him this day would come.

∞ Embry Call ∞

I knew that she meant it when she said it wasn’t me that caused this… but she hadn’t been in my head since then. She didn’t know the things I had told myself all morning… all afternoon… all the things I focused on to let myself be that close to her all day and never close enough.

Even if she did… she would never put this on me. That was why she was still here. Somewhere inside I knew that this would happen somehow… something would end this… there was no way that Leah Clearwater was supposed to be mine. But just to be a part of her story… an amazing… unforgettable… un-regrettable chapter in the Book of Leah. Every second was precious… but did I ever think this was how it would end? No… Honestly. I hadn’t given the ending much thought, I was just giving everything I had to the journey.

Leah brought us all crashing down from our anger and uncontrolled emotions. Her control was incredible… this wasn't news. But I knew that she was hurting as much as I was right now. I knew how she felt about me… she showed me all of it. No matter what we did or didn’t call it… Real… we called it Real. And it was, it would always be… no one could take that from us… no one but us would truly understand.

She knew they wouldn’t have fought with him… they would have put themselves between us and kept us from fighting. That was it and I hoped Leah knew that. When she began laying her ground, I moved to stand by her, not taking her hand… not as her… whatever I was… As her Third. She was my Beta now as much as…

My Leah. My Trouble. In all those ways she’d let herself be mine and nothing more.

My heart dropped… and now I truly felt like I was going to be sick. Sue…

Seth had brought Sue into this?

I saw it on Quil’s face too. ‘Seth… what did you do?’ His voice was quiet. He was hurting for the well-loved elder. I saw some of the boys take steps back too.

I brought my hand to my face and dragged it down, covering my mouth as I let out a long sigh. Seth’s eyes moved among us all… his mouth opening like he was about to speak and then stopping himself. Behind his eyes was a hollow darkness… he had no idea what he was going to say. I added nothing. Leah had said everything, anything I had to say would just be the same thing again; in different words and there was no point enticing his anger when he clearly wasn’t in control of it right now.

When she looked at me, I could see it all… I knew those walls were back up… the castle that protected that beautiful, unique, huge heart. And yet there it was. All her pain… her guilt (because, of course, she would carry this) but I didn’t see regret. I didn’t see anger.

Was I still inside those walls?

“It won’t,” I promised her. “I won’t let it. This brotherhood is unbreakable.”

‘Embry…’ Seth, took a step towards me and I held up my hand to stop him.

“But even unbreakable things can be wounded, Pup. Healing takes time.” I told him. Not angry… just hurt… and honestly. Disappointed. Maybe it was unfair to hold him to a higher standard just because he had always been the kindest and purest of us all. He strayed so far from that tonight. “You opened another wound tonight that you need to go and tend to.” He knew I meant Sue.

Without another word… just a long, bewildered look, he headed towards the path. When he left, I felt like I could get more air into my lungs with each breath… but still not enough. Quil took a few steps towards us and dropped his gaze for a second.

‘I’m sorry… that… none of this should have happened like this… Seth was…’ He rubbed the back of his neck and shook his head. ‘He’ll regret this… he will… he’s a good…’ He stopped again and I knew why; the Seth we saw tonight didn’t fit with what we knew of our brother.

‘You didn’t deserve this.’ He looked at Leah. ‘Neither of you.’ Then he added. ‘I’m going to get these idiots back to work. Take as long as you need… Take the rest of the night if you need it. I can…’ He shook his head lost for words and he approached me and clamped his hand on the back of my neck, I did the same. ‘Love you, brother.’ He said and then he turned to Leah. ‘I hope your mom is okay.’

Then he was jogging back to the trees shouting at the pups to get back on the line or he'd start laying scent trails with clumps of their fur. When he was out of sight, I heard the sound of feet pounding away into the forest.

I stood there… breathing hard… my eyes on Leah… I knew I would still see her almost every day, but it felt like the last time. There were too many last times tonight… we hadn’t even had all our firsts, and our lasts were already here. “Leah…” It was too high… too tight… too… Final. “It’s too soon…” I cracked and closed the last steps between us and pulled her into a hug when I was certain no one could see us anymore. Quil would make sure of it. I buried my face in her hair and held her like it was the last time… for the very last time.

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

I stood on the outside looking in, numbed by all the pain and thanking the spirits that I hadn’t lost my key to the tower inside of me.

The cold air was still silent, no one spoke to me from the other side, and from this side. I found myself feeling like I didn’t belong. Witnessing the crack in  Seth's anger gave me some hope, but it was Embry’s willingness to keep their brotherhood intact that led me to believe that maybe... just maybe. They will find a way back from this.

Emotional grief tried so damn hard to punch its way through when Quil attempted to fix what Seth had broken, but I hadn’t expected him to speak to me. Keeping the shock to myself. I just stood there watching him and Embry… He would be okay. I knew. Embry would be okay. He had his brothers. They would keep him standing and moving forward.

Nodding my head once, in thanks for his kindness and concern over Ma. I watched as Quil walked away.

Embry’s voice made me swallow back. My name… it sounded, broken on his lips now. His arms engulfed me, drawing me in close, his hands in my wind-blown hair, the feel of his heart beating close to mine. I closed my eyes.

I worked to remember this feeling, his heat, the warmth of his breath on my skin, the feel of someone touching my hair. The connection between his smile and my heart… because this was the only beautiful thing in my life… and this was it.

I was about to tell him we weren’t in our bubble, that this was breaking the rules. But then I remembered… Our bubble had been shattered. Slowly my arms lifted from my sides, placing them on his back to hold him one last time.

“It… it was always going to happen, Embry.” Fighting to keep my voice even. “Some part of us knew…”

∞ Embry Call ∞

I was breaking all the rules, and I knew it… but the moment her arms came around me I stopped caring. She was here and she wanted this moment too. I felt her heart beating against mine and my mind… my wolf… scrambled for all the reasons that we could still do this.

And there were so many, I could probably create an infinite list of reasons why we should keep to this path we were on… but the reasons we shouldn’t? There were far fewer of them but… the consequences of them were too big… for her…

Things that I could and would never ask her to do. She would lose her family… her brother would never, never accept this. That would leave her with the guilt that I saw from her witnessing the confrontation between us. If we stayed on this path; Seth would never let this friendship heal and that would cause Leah pain… she would blame herself for it and nothing I could ever do would change her mind about that. Her Mom… sure the pack moms talked about how much they loved me… but there was not one of them, would see me as the right person for their child… I wasn’t the right person for anyone’s child.

It was something I had always known, and I was always okay with that. Until now.

Did I make Leah happy? I held her tighter thinking of the answer: Yes… made my chest ache. I knew I did… she made sure of it, and she showed me in so many ways. But without her family? No… that could never happen.

I breathed in the scent of her hair; I memorised the feeling of her hands on the bare skin of my back. The noise in my head went quiet for the first time since Seth had confronted me. She made it quite… and I listened for that rustling of leaves… the whispers inside the sounds and they were gone… they had left us… their punishment standing for my careless attitude. My lapse had broken this, broken us.

I knew she was right. “I never let myself think about it. I just…” I just savoured every moment, every second… all the things she made me feel that I hadn’t ever felt before… things I never even knew to desire. Things I never knew I deserved… things I would never deserve again. “I hate that it happened like this… that he…” I stopped, bad mouthing her brother wasn't going to make either of us feel better. I loved Seth… no matter how big of an arsehole he was tonight. “That all of this was done in front of the packs. I know that your privacy is so important to you and to have this exposed like this… I can’t imagine how you are feeling.”

I pulled back to see her face and I lifted my hand to her cheek. My chest cracked again, those eyes… still so deep, so beautiful… I wanted to lose myself in them and forget this whole night had happened. “I don’t regret a single second, Trouble. Not a moment…” I thought about kissing her, my eyes dropping to her lips, but I was afraid I couldn’t stop if I dared to. I pressed my lips to her forehead. “It will always be me and you against the world…” My voice shook. “That can’t be taken away from us… I won’t let it.”

Did she even want that? I mean… what had I ever done for her really? She’s saved Mom’s house… made sure the hospital didn’t cut us off… had I made her life any better in any kind of lasting way? The shaking was worse now. “They can’t take that too… can they?” I had no idea who they were.

∞ Leah Clearwater ∞

My hands moved up and down his back, he was shaking so hard that I didn’t know if it was him or his warriors doing. Keeping my eyes closed, to refrain from sharing too much of what I had boiling up inside. If he saw I was in full control, then he wouldn’t hold the pain for too long. A day or two… if I kept my walls up and pushed him out. He would see this was for the best, for him. For everyone who wanted so much more for him.

The loss of me was nothing in comparison to his reality. The pack, the pups, the way they look up to him... The tribe and everything he did at the school.

Images of the children... of the way Emma looked when he showed up at their music class. My heart sunk at the realisation of how selfish I’d been. How I should have been stronger.

“It’s as far as my journey was to last in your evolution, Embry.”  My fingers had started to move in a pattern without my mind telling it.

“You’ve grown so much… you have so much more to do.” And I wasn’t meant to witness it from within. My place was, and should have always been on the outskirts looking in. But I couldn’t share this with him.

Not once had the spirits told me what path I should take. The only lesson I had been given was that each fork in the road would be a much-needed experience. And how true were they? I stopped my fingers from moving when I realised what they were doing. At the same time, he raised the promise he’d once made. “It’s you and your brothers against the world.”

Keeping my voice from cracking, I wouldn’t break. “Your journey is so much bigger than what it has been…”

I didn’t say the rest… that mine… was to bring him to this place. Even if I messed up and broke the most important part of his world… his relationship with these men. And still… still… some part of her… believed there was something special that we shouldn’t let fall apart. But… was that her wishful thinking?