Big Bad Alphas novel Chapter 18

   "I thought the tables could go over here, the appetizers could go over on that side, then we could have a little dance floor in the middle," Caroline explains while pointing everything out to me, though I find it hard to keep track.

   "You really made this party into a princess' ball from a fairytale book," I mutter while my eyes roam the giant room. "I didn't even know this building existed."

   "Well you haven't seen much yet, but the ballroom was used for pack meetings when we first were established, and when there were fewer members. Now it is utilized for special events, as such." She turns to me with a big smile. "Planning this party has really given me something to do, ya know? Have you told Eric yet?"

   "I tried."

   That conversation was not a very long one. The morning after our kiss, I mentioned the idea to him downstairs. The probability of having a celebration for his father's birthday, and inviting high members of other packs, is not a likely one in his eyes. To make a long story short, Eric does not want a party.

   "And?" Caroline looks to me with hopeful eyes.

   "He said that he doesn't think it's a good idea." Her shoulders drop. "But I will try again."

   "I already ordered most everything that we will need. My dad's birthday is Saturday; it's Wednesday, we have to get this party locked down in permanent marker on the calendar. If Olivia's mate holds a high position in another pack, then it will be easier for her to forget about Eric, as she would definitely head back with them as soon as possible."

   "Okay," I mumble. "We can do this. We're killing two birds with one stone."

   She places her hands on either side of me while her eyes sternly grab mine. "You have to convince Eric. Pulling this off will be a million times harder if he is running against us."

   "I'll do all I can."

   Later that night, after Caroline and I scan through the guest list, I clean up and get ready for bed. I love planning with her, but going through all the names was tedious. She shook me awake every time I rested my head on the table and drifted off.

   Rubbing my eyes, I climb into bed without turning off the light. Eric said he had to run out to the borders quickly, not telling me why, as he probably did not want to bore me, though, I find it hard to imagine any yawn-worthy words coming out of his mouth. He could talk to me all day about border safety, and I would be perfectly happy listening to his voice.

   Leaning against the headboard, I reach over and grab my book that is resting on the bedside table. I would love to sleep, but I promised Caroline I would talk to him about the party. Tomorrow is already Thursday, meaning we cannot procrastinate Eric's approval anymore.

   A few minutes pass, and I hear the front door open. My ears perk up, and I swiftly set my book aside, mentally preparing myself and going over points in my head.

   Just as I take a deep breath, he comes through the bedroom door. "That didn't take too long." He smiles and slips off his shirt, making me gasp inwardly.

   "You sleep shirtless now?" I ask while holding back a blush. He makes a move to turn off the light, but I stop him. "Wait, we need to talk."

   Eric glances back at me. "About us?"

   "No."

   Relief washes over his face. "Alright, but you need actual sleep so let's keep this light."

   He sits down beside me, making my mind wander to our kiss. "It's about the party."

   "I told you—"

   "I know," I cut him off. "But I have more reasons now, better reasons."

   Etc takes a moment to think. "I will listen to your argument for a kiss."

   My eyes narrow in on his handsome, mischievous face. "How about, a cheek and a peck for the argument?"

   "You don't want to kiss me, Isabella?" He leans in, tempting my mind more than ever before. Quickly, I place three fingers over his mouth, halting his alluring lips.

   "I want to stay in control, and I currently have what you want," I explain, already inwardly cursing for putting myself in this situation. I have no self-control when it comes to Eric; maybe this could be a good way to gain some. "So, Caroline has already—"

   "Payment first," he interrupts.

   "Fine."

   Eric places his lips gently on my cheek then I meet his eyes. He briefly, and softly presses his lips to my own next, making ripples of satisfaction glide through me. "Your lips are like candy," he mumbles against me, and my toes curl.

   "Okay," I move him back. "Caroline has put so much effort into the party; she has been working nonstop. Also, I think your father would enjoy the celebration. Sure, he doesn't know about it, but it's a surprise. Plus, it will be a great way to meet members from other packs, possibly make a few friendships, which could be useful in the future. And," I hesitate, "there is a chance that Olivia's mate could come."