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Ch 1
Western Massachusetts
‘I hate the idea of a conference.’ Nickolas said changing back to his human form. His younger sister, Layla, also changed back from her wolf form and pulled on her clothes. ‘Why do you hate the idea?’ Layla asked following her brother into the large mansion. ‘Us grey wolves have been fighting the black wolves for centuries. They have been banished to Europe since our grandfather led our pack. Why do they want to talk now?’ ‘Maybe they heard you’ll be taking over as pack leader next month.’ Layla said shrugging. ‘If they want to challenge me I’ll take their pack leader out.’ Nick growled as their father met them in the living room. ‘Talking about the conference?’ Robert asked. ‘Nick wants to fight the whole pack.’ Layla said smirking. ‘Nickolas, don’t be crazy. You know as of now their pack is double ours.’ ‘But we are fiercer fighters.’ Alex said walking into the room. ‘Layla, you look lovely as usual.’ Alex said grinning at her. Since it was announced Nick would be the new pack leader Alex made no secret of his intentions to marry Layla. Alex was one of Nick’s closest friends and Nick did his best to convince his father that Alex was worthy of marrying Layla. When in their pack had always been allowed to choose mates and now it was up to Alex to prove that he was good enough for Layla. Since the age of 16 Layla had offers to marriage from nearly every man in the pack. When she turned 18 and left the pack to see the world Layla refused a male escort and escaped the guards her father sent to protect her. Nick was furious and tracked her down which took him nearly 2 years. After months of bickering between her and Nick Layla returned to the mansion. ‘I’m going to bed.’ Layla said leaving the room as Alex followed her out of the room. ‘Alex, this isn’t necessary.’ Layla said tiredly. ‘Layla, I only hold you in the highest regards.’ ‘I’m sure you do.’ Layla said not really wanting to hear another one of his speeches. ‘Layla, how can I prove myself to you?’ Layla turned and crossed her arms. ‘Alex, I’m too young to be married.’ Alex hung his head. ‘Can I at least take you out?’ He asked. ‘Maybe, I’ll have to think about it.’ Layla said before turning and walking to her room. Alex did a little dance on the stairs. ‘What are you doing?’ Brian asked walking up the stairs with his wife. ‘Layla just said she might go on a date with me.’ Brian rolled his eyes and Leighann gave him a comforting smile.
Ch 2
Sligo, Ireland
‘Are you serious?’ Kian growled as his best friend and pack leader Shane nodded. ‘We are going to America and meeting with their pack.’ ‘Shane, they nearly killed us off.’ Mark added. ‘It has been nearly 50 years since our last fight. As the new leader of this pack I want this all to end.’ ‘The Carter’s are reckless leaders. I doubt their new leader will accept a truce.’ Kian said pacing the room. ‘He’s not pack leader yet. We will be present for his assent.’ Shane said looking at the room with his closest friends. ‘What if they start a fight?’ Nicky asked. ‘If they dare start a fight I will rip their pack leader’s throat out.’ Kian said before storming out of the room. ‘Shane, you need to talk some sense into him.’ Gillian, Shane’s wife, said putting a hand on his shoulder. ‘I hope I can.’ Shane said standing up as his daughter ran over to him. ‘Daddy!’ She squealed as he picked her up. ‘Hi princess.’ He said kissing the top of her head. ‘Uncle Kian, grouchy.’ She said making a face. ‘Let’s go get something to eat.’ Shane said carrying her down the stairs to the kitchen. Kian saw Shane coming and walked into the living room. ‘Grouchy grouch!’ Nicole yelled as Kian turned and gave her a small wave, lucky for him she stopped yelling and he resumed watching TV. Kian was still fuming, how could Shane even think of going to America. The American alpha males almost killed their pack off and now they were going to America where they could easily finish the job. Mark sat down on the couch next to Kian. ‘Kian, I doubt you can change Shane’s mind. Since Nicole has been born Shane wants peace. He doesn’t want her living in fear that any given day we could be attacked.’ Kian nodded, maybe if he had settled down with Vanessa he wouldn't be thinking that way. ‘How’s Trina?’ Kian asked coming out of his day dream. ‘She’s doing well. During her travels she bumped into Vanessa in northern Italy.’ Kian froze at the mention of her name. ‘Kian, I hate to be the one to break it to yea but she’s married to some loaner. I guess his grandparents used to be members of the pack but they were exhailed.’ Kian let out a low growl. ‘I need to go run.’ Kian walked out the back door. He quickly shed his clothes and turned into his wolf form as he broke out in a sprint.
Ch 3
As the meeting approached everyone was busy in the mansion. Layla took this as an opportunity to spend a lot of time alone since AJ was busy helping Nick prepare for their “guests”. Layla was running in the woods when she came across Leigh also in her wolf form. The females walked together slowly no words being needed. Leigh understood Layla’s reluctance to choose a mate; it had taken her quiet some time until she finally felt ready to settle down with Brian. Leigh nudged Layla towards the water and Layla jumped in. When she resurfaced she was in her human form. ‘Gonna join me?’ She asked laughing. Leigh also dove in and changed into her human form. The girls talked for over an hour about Layla’s situation. ‘AJ does care for you.’ ‘I’m sure he does but I can’t help but be stuck on his reputation of being a love em and leave em type of guy.’ ‘That’s his wolf form.’ Leigh said trying hard not to laugh. ‘You didn’t?’ Layla said with her mouth open. ‘It was years before Brian and I even began seeing each other.’ Layla turned bright red she didn’t know what to say. Unlike the other females in the pack she had never been with a guy in human or wolf form. ‘That’s why he’s so fixated on you.’ Leigh said smirking as Layla blushed even more. ‘Layla, don’t get too hung up on it. Ask any of the other girls, most of them were involved in relationships with the beta males before they were exhaled.’ ‘There are no beta males anymore. My father had them all killed off almost 10 years ago.’ ‘That was a tough choice but to keep us hidden it needed to be done.’ Leigh said hanging her head. Almost all the females in the pack had lost a male close to them because he wasn’t strong enough. It was a tradition in their pack that once a male turns 16 he must battle another male of the same age. The one who wins the battle is named an alpha male and is allowed to stay in the pack. Since Layla’s father decree the fight is now to the death as a way to get rid of all weak males and keep the pack strong. Right now the pack had 10 alpha males and three of them were elders. Leigh and Brian’s son was already strong even though he was only 5. Nick being so impressed by his early shifting abilities already named him an alpha and he did not have to fight on his 16th birthday. ‘I hate what my father did. Sure his eldest son was strong; but look at my younger brother.’ ‘If he was born to his first mate he would have been safe.’ Leigh said as Layla nodded. ‘Just because my mother was his second mate he made Caleb fight and he lost to that jerk Antonio.’ ‘Antonio was a fool. Not 2 weeks after he killed your brother he got stuck in a trap and Nick had to kill him.’ Leigh said. The girls finished their swim and parted ways.
Ch 4
The time had arrived for the alpha males to leave for the meeting. The two of the alpha guards, the elder males, and the women were staying at the house just incase anything was to happen. Their pack was 20 males with just 7 of them being elders. When they got onto the private jet everyone was silent. ‘Men, when we arrive in America there will be an escort to their mansion. I have arranged for 4 guards to learn the mansion and the area around it with their guards. From what I have been told they have no formal guards but everyone in the pack takes turns protecting the area. I choose Kian, Ronald, Patrick, and Mark to be these four guards.’ Kian’s face fell. ‘Shane, are you crazy? If something happens in that mansion you need me by your side.’ ‘Kian, sit down. I highly doubt any problems will arise. Robert seems like a good leader and I hope his son is the same.’ Several hours later the plane landed at a private airport 20 miles from where the mansion was. The males exited the jet to see a large limo waiting for them. There was a van to take their bags to the mansion. When they finally arrived at the mansion they got out of the limo. Kian sniffed the air and was on edge right away. A female wolf walked by the pack as a blonde haired guy came outside. The girl changed back to her human form and the guy quickly took off his jacket and handed it to the girl to put on. Kian couldn’t stop looking at her. She was so different from the woman in his pack. She was free spirited and did what she wanted. ‘Welcome, I’m Nick. My father is sorry he couldn’t be here to meet you himself but his third mate is having a baby as we speak. This is my sister, Layla.’ Nick said giving her a bit of a glare. ‘Nice to meet you all.’ She said before walking into the mansion. ‘Layla, are you crazy?’ AJ said hurrying down the stairs. ‘No, I needed to get out of here. Everyone is on edge.’ ‘Layla, get dressed.’ An older women said from the second floor. ‘Yes, mom.’ Layla hurried to her room to get ready. AJ joined Nick outside as Layla came back down the stairs. ‘Layla and AJ will be showing your guards around. Everyone else can follow me and I’ll show you to your rooms.’ AJ noticed how Kian looked at Layla and grabbed her hand protectively. ‘Follow me.’ AJ said as the four men followed them around the side of the building. AJ gave them all the information about the property and how many acres of woods they had. Every time Layla would try to speak he cut her off. Half way through the speech Layla had pulled away from AJ and then went inside. ‘Is she your mate?’ Ronald asked. ‘Not yet but I’m working on it.’ Kian tried hard to stop himself from laughing but a smirk crossed his face. ‘You think it’s funny.’ AJ growled. ‘No.’ Kian said composing himself. ‘Good.’ AJ finished the tour of the grounds while Layla was pacing inside waiting for Nick. ‘What’s the matter with you?’ Howie asked hoping to calm her down. ‘Him, AJ, he treats me like I’m one of him possessions.’ Layla said as Howie nodded. ‘AJ just isn’t my type but everyone in the mansion keeps telling me different.’ Layla said starting to calm down. ‘Layla, trust your instincts. In your wolf form they never faltered.’ Layla nodded and smiled. ‘Thanks, it’s good to have someone understand me.’ Howie gave her a smile. ‘I better get going but if you can’t talk any sense into AJ and Nick let me know and I’ll talk to them.’ Layla nodded and walked into her room.
Ch 5
‘Sorry that I’m late.’ Robert said walking into the room where Nick was talking to Shane. ‘Don’t be sorry, the birth of a child is a gift.’ ‘I take it you have some of your own?’ ‘I have a daughter and another one on the way.’ ‘That’s great. I was lucky enough to have another healthy son.’ Robert sat down to talk business with Shane. He only asked for Nick’s opinion once. By the time the meeting was over Nick needed to get away from his father. He knocked on Layla’s door. ‘Who is it?’ She mumbled. ‘It’s me. Can I come in?’ ‘Yea.’ Nick opened the door to see Layla at her computer looking through e-mails. ‘I’m finally starting to understand why you dislike dad.’ Nick said sitting on the edge of her bed. ‘He’s the reason why so many of the pack members keep leaving to join Kevin. If you weren’t becoming pack leader I would have left too.’ Layla said as Nick nodded. Kevin was one of the alpha males in their pack but left a year ago due to conflicts with Robert. He started up a pack in Kentucky as well as one in California. Kevin spent time in-between the two packs and not one wolf had anything bad to say about him except Robert who still hated the fact that when Kevin left he took nearly half the pack with him. ‘I was thinking of going out for a drive. Want to join me?’ ‘Hell yea.’ Nick and Layla often went out for long drives in his convertible. During these drives they had great conversations about anything that was on their minds. Nick sped out of the driveway and drove towards the highway. Once on the interstate Nick headed towards Boston which was an hour and a half away. Nick and Layla talked about their guests in the house. Both Layla and Nick thought highly of Shane, he seems like a great leader. ‘Alex tried to be a big shot in front of Shane’s guards. He was trying to be all over me until I had to walk away from him.’ ‘AJ cares about you, Layla.’ ‘I think he cares more about the power he could gain from being with me.’ Layla said looking out the window at the passing trees. ‘You really think he’s power hungry?’ ‘I think he’s loyal to you but he doesn’t like the fact that he’s not top wolf. He would love to be pack leader and I think he wants whatever is closest to that.’ ‘Should I be worried?’ ‘Nick, don’t be crazy. Alex is one of your closest friends; I highly doubt he’ll betray you.’ An hour later they got into Boston. Nick parked the car and the two of them walked into a trendy club. Layla went right to the dance floor while Nick went to get a drink. Nick sat at the bar as a smiley redhead sat down next to him. ‘Hi.’ She said sipping a beer. ‘Hi.’ Nick turned to get a better look at her. ‘My name’s Kerrie.’ ‘Nick.’ Nick’s glaze stopped at her necklace as his smile faded. She was a witch, Nick turned fully back to the bar hoping she didn’t know what he was. ‘I’m not a hunter.’ She said softly. ‘I actually admire shapshifters.’ Kerrie said before getting up and walking over to the dance floor. Nick let out a sigh of relief as Layla came walking over. ‘Nick, there’s a-’ ‘I know, I just met her.’ ‘We should go.’ ‘She said that she’s not a hunter.’ ‘And you believe her?’ ‘There’s no blood on her hands.’
Ch 6
Nick and Layla stayed at the club for an hour longer then started home. The next few days passed by quickly and soon it was time for Nick to take over the pack. The ceremony was an all night affair and Kevin came in to see Nick take over as leader. During the celebrations Robert announced that Nick would be choosing a mate soon. Kevin talked Nick into visiting the pack in Kentucky in hopes of finding someone. Layla hung back and spent most of her time talking to Kevin or walking around in the woods. In the early morning everyone finally headed to bed. For the first time since coming home from her travels Layla was happy. Layla and Robert never really got along as a great father and daughter team. At an early age Layla found out about her grandfather and Robert ending a feud between packs and to seal the agreement Layla’s mom was forced into marrying Robert who at the time already had a wife. Layla knew her mother was unhappy and the only thing that made her smile was her children and Robert ripped away her son by forcing him to duel. Since then she had been thinking about leaving the pack and returning to Vermont. The pack in Vermont was now run by Layla’s cousin, Trevor. His pack was much like Kevin’s and Layla and her mom often visited them. When Layla woke up later that day she saw her mother packing her bags. ‘You’re leaving?’ ‘I think it’s time, now that Robert is no longer pack leader I’m not forced to stay here.’ Layla nodded and helped her mother pack her things. ‘Would you like me to drive you there?’ Her mother smiled and nodded. ‘I don’t think I can stay long maybe a night. I promised Nick I’d go to Kentucky with him.’ ‘He needs someone like you to help him. It’s a pity Jane took the other kids away.’ Jane was Nick’s mother and after Layla’s brother was killed in the duel Jane left with Nick’s siblings, 3 sisters and a brother. Jane feared the same fate for her youngest son and refused to let anything like that happen. They found a home in a pack outside of Los Angeles. Nick tried to visit them often but only Layla knew how much he really missed them.
Ch 7
In the morning Layla drove back to the mansion. As she walked into the house she found everyone was still asleep. Layla walked into the kitchen and made some coffee and sat at the table. As she sat there sipping her coffee Kian walked into the room. ‘Morning.’ Layla said. ‘Good morning.’ Kian said pouring himself some coffee and sitting down. ‘Nick was looking for you last night.’ ‘I took my mother to Vermont.’ ‘He thought you were leaving.’ ‘I should go talk to him. Thanks.’ Layla took her mug with her and walked to Nick’s room. She knocked before walking in. ‘Where have you been?’ Nick asked looking up from the drawings he was working on. ‘I took my mother to Vermont. She’s gonna live there from now on.’ ‘You had me worried sick. I thought you took off again.’ ‘Sorry, she wanted to leave right away and I didn’t have time to tell anyone.’ ‘You could have called.’ ‘What are you working on?’ ‘Just some stuff.’ Nick said turning the pages over so his sister couldn’t see them. ‘Fine, be that way.’ Layla said grabbing the papers quickly. Her mouth dropped when she saw who he was drawing. ‘Nick, have you lost your mind? Your pack leader, you can’t be lusting after some witch.’ ‘I’m not lusting after her.’ Nick said snatching the pictures away. ‘She just made an interesting subject.’ He said putting them in the desk drawer and locking it. ‘If Robert found out-’ ‘You better not tell him.’ Nick said standing up. ‘Nick, you know I’d never do that but if someone else found those they would.’ ‘I’ll get rid of them later. Come on let’s go for a run.’ Nick said walking out of the room. Layla followed him outside and they changed into their wolf forms and took off into the woods. Kian watched this from the window. He smiled to himself as he saw how close they were. Sure he loves and cared about his siblings but he never had a bond like that. Kian walked up the stairs and went to check with Shane on what he was going to be doing that day. Kian found Shane on the phone talking to Gillian so he waited quietly out in the hallway. ‘Hey you!’ Nicky said walking down the hallway. ‘Hi Nix.’ ‘Where have you been? We had a meeting an hour ago.’ ‘I was down in the kitchen. Before that I went for a run.’ ‘Shane figured that. He wanted you to go to Kentucky with Nick, Layla, and AJ.’ Kian nodded, it would give him some time to get to know the mysterious Layla. ‘Is anyone else going with me?’ ‘No, the rest of us are going to Los Angeles to visit that pack with Robert. We’ll be gone for a week or so.’
Ch 8
Two days later Layla, Nick, AJ, and Kian were in Kentucky. Layla went for a walk with Kevin’s wife, Kristen, as the three guys were shown the house and the surrounding areas by Kevin. Layla loved all the fresh air and could get used to living there. As Layla and Kristen walked they talked about everything going on in their lives. Kristen laughed as Layla told her about AJ. ‘Layla, things will get better. I’m sure he’ll find someone else to lust after.’ ‘I hope so. The whole thing is a bit to much for me.’ ‘I’ll introduce him to a few girls.’ ‘Thanks, Kristen. Your one of the few people who sees things from my point of view.’ ‘Layla, we both miss seeing you around. You know anytime you want to get away you’re welcome here.’ ‘Don’t tempt me to leave. I really would if Nick didn’t just take over as pack leader. He’s the only reason why I’m still there.’ Kristen gave her a hug as they started back to the mansion. ‘So... when is the official due date.’ Layla asked. ‘It was yesterday but who knows. I think he’s not ready to make an appearance yet.’ ‘I hope I’m still here when he’s born.’ ‘Me too.’ Kristen said sitting on the couch and putting her feet up. An hour later everyone sat down for dinner. Kristen gave Layla a look across the table as they looked down the other end to see AJ flirting with a girl. ‘I told you.’ Kristen mouthed as Layla smirked. ‘Thanks.’ Layla said as Kristen nodded. ‘What are you two giggling about?’ Kevin asked. ‘Nothing.’ Layla said smirking even more. ‘Kristen?’ ‘My lips are sealed.’ ‘This is gonna be interesting having you two back under the same roof.’ ‘Exactly what I was thinking.’ Nick said as Kian looked over at Layla. ‘So... Kian, how are you likes the States so far?’ Kevin asked pulling Kian back to reality. ‘Things have been good. It’s nice here.’ Kevin asked Kian questions about Ireland as everyone got to know a bit more about him.
Ch 9
The next day AJ, Nick, and Kevin went to go play basketball. ‘You’re not going with the guys?’ Layla asked Kian seeing him sitting on a chair in the living room. ‘I’m not to into basketball.’ ‘They’ll be playing other sports too.’ Layla said hoping that Kian didn’t feel left out. ‘Sorry I don’t mean to push.’ ‘It’s ok. What are you doing today?’ ‘I was gonna go hang out by the pool for a bit. What about you?’ Kian shrugged. ‘Want to join me?’ Layla asked walking towards the room she was staying in. ‘Sure.’ ‘Ok, meet me out by the pool in 10 minutes.’ Kian smiled to himself as he walked to his room. This trip was starting to get a lot better already. When Kian got out to the pool Layla was already in the water swimming around. ‘What took yea so long?’ She asked smirking. ‘Couldn’t find my suit.’ Kian said tossing a towel on the lounge chair. Kian jumped into the water. ‘Want to race?’ Layla asked swimming to the wall. ‘Sure.’ ‘Ok, what do you want to wager?’ ‘How about if I win you need to give me a kiss.’ ‘And if I win you can buy me ice cream.’ ‘Deal.’ Kian said. ‘Ready? Go!’ They both started out strong but Kian made it to the other side first. ‘I win!’ He said putting his arms up triumphantly. Layla swam away from him. ‘Hey where’s my kiss?’ ‘You’ll have to catch me first.’ Layla giggled swimming faster as Kian started after her. Kian caught up to her on the other side of the pool. Layla backed up against the wall as Kian’s lips met hers. She wrapped her arms around his neck as their kiss intensified. As they broke apart they were both breathless. ‘Wow.’ Layla said grinning. ‘Defiantly a wow.’ Kian said before kissing her again. ‘What the hell is going on?’ AJ said walking towards the pool. ‘What did it look like?’ Layla spat. ‘Layla get out of the pool and come inside.’ ‘With you? No way, I’m not a child, Alex. You can’t order me around.’ ‘What would your brother think?’ Layla shrugged as AJ stormed back into the house. ‘Sorry bout that.’ Layla said softly. ‘Don’t apologize for him.’ Kian said lifting her chin. ‘He thinks that I’m some sort of prize.’ ‘You are a prize.’ Kian said grinning as Layla laughed. They started playing around again and a few minutes later Nick came walking out followed by Kevin who was trying to stop him. ‘Get your hands off of her.’ Nick growled. ‘Nick, stop it.’ Layla said giving him a look. ‘AJ said-’ ‘I don’t care what AJ said. Nick, I’m a big girl. I can make decisions for myself.’ Layla said getting out of the pool and wrapping her towel around herself. ‘If your gonna start acting like AJ or Robert I’m not staying with the pack.’ Layla spat as she walked off towards the woods. ‘Nick, that was smart.’ Kevin said as Kian got out of the pool and went after Layla.
Ch 10
It took Kian a few minutes to find Layla. He found her sitting on a tree stump trying to calm herself down. ‘Are you ok?’ Kian asked sitting next to her. ‘I guess so.’ Nick was fuming as he approached AJ. ‘Now Layla’s pissed at me because of you.’ ‘I have an idea. Why don’t you two give her space? Layla is a strong woman and can handle herself.’ Kevin said trying to help solve the problem. ‘AJ, I think it’s best if you leave Layla alone. For good.’ Nick said crossing his arms. ‘Are you serious?’ AJ asked getting mad. ‘AJ, did you see them together? She’s finally opening up to someone.’ Nick said as Kevin nodded. ‘So much for us being brothers.’ AJ muttered before walking out the front door slamming it shut. ‘Nick, you made the right decision. Layla needs you to respect her decisions.’ Kevin said before leaving the room to let Nick think. An hour later Layla and Kian walked back to the house. Layla walked to her room walking past Nick who was still sitting on the couch. ‘Kian, I’m sorry about earlier.’ Kian nodded and walked to his room. After Layla had showered and dressed she walked into the living room. ‘I apologized to Kian.’ ‘That’s a good start.’ Layla huffed turning on the TV. ‘I also told AJ to stay away from you. I’m sorry Layla; I shouldn’t have listened to what he said.’ Layla half smiled and hugged her brother. ‘You’re forgiven but I don’t want to deal with anything like that again.’ ‘I know, I was so worried after that you were really gonna leave.’ Layla half smiled. ‘You’d really have to make me mad to want to leave the pack.’ Layla settled on CSI and watched the TV as Nick left the room. He walked down the stairs to the game room to see AJ flirting with a girl. Nick shook his head and walked back up the stairs and went to take a nap. AJ had met Jessica the day before while out for a run. Jessica had been a part of the Kentucky pack for a little over 2 years. She was different from the girls he usually liked. AJ and Jessica were playing pool. Jessica brushed her black hair off of her face as she waited her turn. AJ gave her a smile as she took her turn. She adjusted her glasses and then moved to the other side of the table to take her shot. The game ended nearly an hour later with Jessica winning. AJ and Jessica made their way to the kitchen and got some popcorn and soda then went to go watch some TV.
Ch 11
The rest of the time in Kentucky past by quickly. AJ decided to stay there for an awhile longer so only Nick, Layla, and Kian headed back to Massachusetts. Once they got back to the mansion Nick locked himself in his room. Layla knew right away who he was thinking of. She left Nick alone and went for a run with Kian. Shane, Nicky, and Mark were still in California and wouldn’t be back for a few days so the mansion was very quiet. After running for nearly an hour Layla and Kian went inside to watch some TV. During the last few days in Kentucky they had gotten closer and even though their true feelings hadn’t been discussed they were enjoying each other’s company. Layla rested her head on Kian’s shoulder as they watched some crapy reality TV show. Nick came down the stairs. ‘Layla, I’m going out.’ ‘When will you be back?’ She asked turning to look at him. ‘Later on. Don’t wait up.’ With that Nick slammed the door as Layla sighed. ‘What did that mean?’ Kian asked confused. ‘He’ll be back tomorrow sometime.’ ‘What’s going on with him?’ ‘He has feelings for someone he shouldn’t.’ Layla said not really wanting to go into details. Layla snuggled back into Kian’s arms as they resumed watching the TV in silence. ‘Kian, I like you.’ She said suddenly. ‘I like you too, Layla.’ He said smiling. ‘What is gonna happen when you go home?’ She asked sitting up. ‘I don’t know.’ Layla nodded and walked into the kitchen grabbing a can of soda. “What do you want to happen?’ He asked her. ‘Kian, I think that there is something really special going on between us and I don’t want to loose that.’ Kian frowned not exactly what he wanted to here. ‘Layla, I love you.’ He blurted out. ‘I don’t know what to say.’ She said nervously. ‘You don’t need to say anything. I know you don’t know me all that well but that first day when I saw you I saw something in your eyes that I fell in love with. I want to give you a chance to get to know the real me and if that means staying behind when everyone goes home I’m willing to do that.’ Layla dove into his arms and kissed his cheek. ‘I like that idea.’ She said softly.
Ch 12
Nick arrived in Boston and went to the club where he saw her. He walked around the edge of the dance floor and spotted her in the middle of the dance floor with a brown haired girl. Nick stood there watching her for awhile before going to sit at the bar. After finishing his drink he turned to walk onto the dance floor but she came walking over. ‘I was wondering when you were gonna ask for a dance.’ She said smirking. When Nick didn’t reply she grabbed his hand and pulled him further onto the dance floor. He moved close to Kerrie as their bodies moved to the beat. ‘I thought I scared you away.’ ‘No, my family kept me away.’ Kerrie nodded as Nick’s hands rested on her hips. They danced in silence for a few songs before Kerrie lead Nick back over to the bar. ‘What brought you back?’ She asked sipping her rum and coke. ‘You.’ He said smiling to himself. ‘That’s a first.’ Kerrie mumbled to herself. ‘You must have plenty of guys after you.’ ‘Once they find out I’m a witch they run the other way.’ ‘That’s a dumb reason. I don’t get why people are so afraid of witches. Aren’t most witches not into the whole dark magick scene?’ Kerrie nodded. ‘How did yea find that out?’ ‘I’ve been doing some research online.’ Kerrie smiled. ‘That’s cool.’ Kerrie looked at her watch. ‘Want to get out of here? I could use some fresh air.’ ‘Sure.’ Nick and Kerrie walked out of the club and down towards Boston harbor. They sat down on the bench as they looked out at the dark ocean waters. ‘I love it here. During the day the harbor seals play around here.’ ‘It is nice out here at night. Not crazy like during the day.’ ‘How is it out where you’re from?’ ‘Quiet, not much really goes on.’ ‘That’s no fun. I guess you guys need to be out there.’ ‘I wish we were closer to the city but that’s the only place where we could get that much extra land.’ ‘Western Mass isn’t all that bad. The fall and spring are pretty nice.’ ‘Do you live in the city?’ ‘On the outskirts. I’m not really around here much I prefer Salem.’ ‘I’ve never been there.’ ‘You’ve never been to Salem?’ Kerrie asked shocked as Nick shook his head. ‘Come on, let me take you. Granted nothing is open now but I can show you some cool places.’ ‘Kerrie, it’s almost 2 in the morning.’ ‘Let’s just say we’re adding some spontaneity to your life.’ She said getting up and pulling him along with her. ‘Don’t you have to work tomorrow or something?’ ‘Tomorrow is Sunday.’ Kerrie said half smiling. ‘Ok, just checking.’ They got into Nick’s car and she gave him directions to Salem. 40 minutes later they were near Salem’s waterfront. Kerrie gave him a walking tour of the area pointing out several land marks. By the time they finished walking around it was nearly 5am. As they drove back to the city both of them were tired. ‘If you want you can crash at my apartment. My roommate is out of town for the weekend.’ ‘Thanks.’ When they got to Kerrie’s apartment she made them pancakes for breakfast as Nick played with her large black lab. After they ate breakfast they went to sleep. Nick was planning on sleeping on the couch but Kerrie wouldn’t let him so they both slept in her bed.
Ch 13
Later that day Layla was starting to get worried. It was nearly 5 and she hadn’t heard anything from Nick. At 8 he came walked through the door with a goofy smile. ‘You spent the night with her didn’t you?’ Layla said following him up the stairs. ‘Nothing happened. We just talked.’ ‘Nick, you need to be careful. When the others get back here you can’t be doing this.’ ‘Layla, I’m pack leader. I plan on changing how we deal with people outside the pack.’ ‘You’re in love with her aren’t you?’ Nick looked away as Layla started pacing the room. ‘I tried to not fall in love with her but she’s so different. Layla, she’s nothing like the girls in the pack. She’s a free spirit and we have so much in common.’ ‘Nick, I’m not going to tell you not to see her because you should follow your heart but be careful.’ Layla left the room and walked outside to the patio. Kian was out there on the phone talking to his family in Ireland. He smiled when he saw her standing here. ‘Yup, mom, I’ll call you later. Love you, bye.’ Kian hung up the phone as he pulled Layla onto his lap. ‘Is your brother home?’ ‘Yea, he is.’ ‘I know you’re worried about him. Want to talk about it?’ ‘I don’t think it’s a good idea. He’s still figuring things out; it’s not really my place.’ ‘Ok, let’s go for a run.’ Kian and Layla shed their clothes and changed into their wolf forms then ran into the woods. An hour later they returned to the mansion. After getting dressed they went inside holding hands. Layla froze when she saw her father standing there staring at them. ‘What the hell are you doing?’ He spat walking towards them. ‘I don’t think that’s any of your business.’ Nick said stepping in-between Robert and Layla. ‘She is a disgrace to the family.’ ‘I’m a disgrace to the family? You’re a pig; no man should have three wives. All you care about is having more kids and being in control of everyone.’ Layla said glaring at him. ‘You are no daughter of mine.’ ‘Good, I never felt like one anyway. I can see why my mother hates you.’ Robert stormed out of the room as Nick went after him. Layla dove into Kian’s arms. ‘I hate him so much.’ She said softly as Kian rubbed her back. Nick came down the stairs 10 minutes later half smiling. ‘He’s leaving for good.’ ‘When?’ Layla asked her eyes brightening. ‘Tomorrow, he wants to move to the pack in Florida.’ ‘That is great.’ Nick nodded Layla hugged him. ‘Thanks Nick. I know it will be hard for you but now you can be happy. I know no one else will give your any problems.’ ‘I hope so. Once he leaves I’m gonna invite her here to meet you.’ ‘That’s great. I’m gonna go check on supper.’ Layla left the room as Nick looked at Kian. ‘She really cares about you. I hope things work out between you too.’ Nick said before walking towards his office.
Ch 14
The next morning Robert and his new wife left with the baby. Layla sat in her window hugging her knees as she watched the car drive away. ‘Layla, how yea doing?’ Kian asked walking into her room. ‘Better now that he’s gone. I should call my mom, now she can come and visit.’ ‘I let you call her. I’m gonna go make some breakfast. Come down when you’re finished.’ Layla nodded and went over to the phone. After a short phone call to her mother Layla went down the stairs to see Kian making pan cakes. ‘Need any help?’ Layla asked. ‘Nope, I got it under control.’ Layla grinned and hugged him from behind. ‘Your gonna spoil me.’ She said kissing his cheek. ‘Is that a bad thing?’ Layla started laughing as Brian walked into the kitchen. ‘Hey Brian.’ ‘Hi Layla, Kian. Have you two seen Leighanne?’ ‘Can’t say I had.’ ‘Ok, if you see here let her know I’m looking for her.’ Layla nodded as Brian left the room. She shrugged and sat at the table as Kian finished breakfast. Two hours later Layla and Kian were sitting on the couch watching “Dirty Dancing”. Nick walked down the stairs and made a face. ‘Not this move again.’ He said rolling his eyes. ‘This is the best movie ever!’ Layla said grinning. ‘Kerrie is gonna be here soon.’ ‘You invited her over already?’ ‘Yea, I said after dad left I would.’ Nick said happily. Nick’s cell phone rang and he went into the room to answer it. ‘Is that the girl he’s in love with?’ ‘Yup. I met her when he did but I was kinda rude.’ Layla said nervously. ‘I’m sure there was a good reason.’ Kian said taking her hand. ‘She’s not like us. She’s a witch.’ ‘That’s a surprise.’ ‘Yea, it is.’ Nick walked back into the room. ‘Kerrie’s gonna be here in 15 minutes she just got off the interstate.’ Nick said walking to the door. When she pulled into the drive way Nick walked outside smiling. ‘Were my directions ok?’ ‘Yea, I didn’t get lost once.’ ‘Great, I want to reintroduce you to my sister, Layla.’ As they walked into the living room a huge smile crossed Kerrie’s face. ‘I love this movie.’ ‘Not you too.’ Nick said glumly. ‘Nick, how can you not love this movie?’ ‘Easily, all the girls in the house watch it all the time. Kerrie, this is my half-sister, Layla, and her boyfriend, Kian.’ ‘Nice to meet yea again.’ Layla said extending her hand. ‘Sorry about last time.’ ‘Not a problem. I know where you were coming from.’ Nick showed Kerrie around and introduced her to some more members of the pack before they went out for dinner and a movie.
Ch 15
The weeks passed by quickly. Shane and the others from Ireland returned home. Kian stayed around so he could get to know Layla better. AJ and Jessica came back to the mansion married. Nick went out to LA to visit Robert and his siblings so that left Layla in charge. The day after Nick left problems started to happen right away. Two males from another pack arrived and demanded they be allowed to join their pack. When Layla told them that the pack leader was out of tow one of them went after her. Layla changed forms and fought him as the other rushed into the house. Howie was coming down the stairs as he saw the unfamiliar wolf charge towards him. He changed forms and went after the younger wolf taking him down without much effort. Layla was having a hard time keeping up with the other wolf who was a fierce fighter. She let out a howl as Kian and Howie rushed over to her. Layla was forced back into her human form and was bleeding badly from her leg and arm where the other wolf had bitten her. Right after Kian changed forms the other wolf backed off seeing the different color of his fur and took off into the woods. Kian chased after him not planning on letting him get away. Howie picked up Layla and brought her into the mansion as he called for help. The doors opened and Kerrie came running in with a bag slung over her shoulder. ‘I had a dream about this. I tried to call but the phones were out.’ Kerrie opened the bag and went to work getting an herbal mixture ready to put on the wounds. The wolf that attacked Howie was beginning to wake up so AJ took him into the kitchen for an interrogation. Right away the wolf gave up the information that Robert sent them to kill Layla as well as any others they would find. He also told AJ that they’re pack was located an hour away and Robert was their leader. Brian got Nick on the phone and told him the news then contacted Layla’s mother. Kerrie helped heal the wounds with her powers as Layla drifted off to sleep. Kian came back into the mansion dragging the other wolf behind him. Howie took the other wolf as Kian rushed to Layla’s side. ‘She’ll be ok. All she needs now is a lot of rest to regain her strength.’ Nick called back saying that Robert had been killed by an another wolf in his new pack and that he was on his way home to deal with the situation.
Ch 16
Nick arrived a few hours later. Both Kerrie and Kian were still by Layla’s side as she slept. When Kian noticed Nick in the doorway he left the room. ‘You saved her. Thank you.’ Nick said taking his sister’s hand, Kerrie nodded and left the room. Kerrie walked down the stairs into the living room. Leigh hugged her. ‘You saved Layla’s life. Everyone in the pack is grateful.’ Kerrie smiled. ‘I’m glad I could have done something.’ Leigh asked Kerrie some questions about how she helped Layla and an hour later Nick can down the stairs. Kian went back to Layla’s room as Nick sat on the couch with Kerrie. He pulled her into a hug. ‘ Thank you for everything, when Brian told me that you were here I knew Layla would be ok.’ ‘I’m glad I got here in time. I had a dream about this last night only things didn’t turn out so well.’ ‘Do you have dreams like that often?’ Kerrie nodded and looked at her hands. ‘Usually things turn out similar to my dreams. It’s scary sometimes.’ ‘Are they usually good or bad dreams?’ ‘A bit of both. I had a dream I’m meet you before I did.’ ‘Now that was a good one.’ Nick said kissing her head. ‘Will you move in here with me?’ He suddenly asked. A huge smile crossed her face as she nodded. ‘Great.’ ‘I’ll have to be going in a little while. I have to baby-sit for a friend.’ ‘When do you want to move in?’ ‘I’ll have to give my landlord a month plus my job.’ Kerrie and Nick sat talking for a half an hour more before she left. Nick went to check in on Layla. She was awake and alert. ‘Where’s Kerrie?’ Layla asked sitting up. ‘She had to go back to the city.’ ‘I wanted to thank her.’ ‘She knows. I asked her to move in here.’ ‘Well...’ ‘She said yes, it won’t be for a month or so.’ ‘Gives you time to clean your room.’ Layla said smirking as Nick gave her a look. ‘My room isn’t that messy. Since I’ve been seeing her I’ve kept it cleaner.’ Kian watched the siblings joking around and realized how much he missed his family. He excused himself and went to call home.

Ch 17

Kian talked to his mother for over an hour. One of his sisters was having a baby and his brother was dating a new girl. After catching up on all the news at home they talked about Layla and how things were in America. Kian wanted very much for Layla to meet his parents as well as the rest of his family. When the phone call ended Kian went for a walk to clear his head. As he walked by the lake he stopped and sat on a tree stump. A short while later he heard someone approach. ‘Thank you for being so good to my sister.’ Nick said leaning against a tree. Kian turned to face him. ‘I know you want to go back home and I’m sure she’ll go with you.’ ‘How do you know?’ ‘She loves you. Now that our father is gone Layla has her freedom. She was only staying her for her mother and I. Her mother is doing well and I’m all set so she’s free to go.’ ‘I don’t want to take her away.’ ‘Trust me she could use a change. All her life this place has been like a prison to her. I’ve never seen Layla as happy as she is with you. If you ask her I know she’ll go with you.’ ‘Your a good leader.’ ‘I don’t know if I’m there yet.’ ‘I should go check on Layla.’ Within a few days Layla was feeling a lot better. It would take another week or two before she was back to her normal self. Kian was waiting till she was completely healed before he even mentioned Ireland. Kerrie had moved some of her things in since he land lord was allowing her to move out early. Everyone had now warmed up to Kerrie since she saved Layla. Since Layla was feeling better Kerrie took her on a shopping trip for the day. The girls had a good time talking as they walked around the mall. ‘You should get that dress.’ Layla said as the girls tried on clothes in a dressing room. ‘I think it’s too short.’ ‘No, it looks good. You can wear it when you two go out.’ ‘You and Kian should come out with us sometime.’ ‘Yea, that would be fun. I never really had a chance to clubbing before.’ The girls continued shopping for a bit then returned back to the mansion.

To be continued...