Werewolf Compilations novel Chapter 115

I meet James downstairs and we walk side by side towards the Eastern borders where his father has been working on the rogue issue. Along the way, James talks about going on runs together, and his desire to converse about more things we can do with each other brings back hits of the lightness I felt earlier. My fear of losing this happiness is holding me back from fully embracing it, but sometime along the way I forget about my prodding thoughts and limit myself to listening to him.

When we come up to a few guards, James' demeanor changes and I know it's because Alpha-mode must take over to keep loyalty. He asks where his father is and one of the three says "he just through those trees."

Part of me wants to grab James' hand, but the other knows that I must be a strong individual, showing everyone that I am an independent and serious Luna. That is the best kind, right?

James spots his father grouped with more guards, all looking tired, sweaty, and pink. His father sees us right away and excuses himself from the commotion, obviously in charge of the bunch. One or two wolves emerge from the trees, shifting and causing me to swiftly look away, focusing on his father again. "We have to talk," James starts, sounding firm. "We think it's time you went back home. The rogue problem is dying down and I'm sure I can take over from here."

His father wipes the droplets of sweat from his forehead, glancing at me, knowing I complained. I stand my ground and puff up my chest, not wanting to show the nervousness pumping through me. "Are you sure?" He asks carefully and does not seem normal. He talks as if he is still Alpha, he continues to use the tone of an Alpha, and I'm sure James doesn't appreciate it. "The rogues are starting to leave, yes, but there are still so many to go. Really, I believe there is a camp forming and I think I should be here to handle it."

James clenches his jaw. "And you think I can't? Have you forgotten about the camp problems two years ago that I stopped in a week?"

His father looks at me again, sighing. "You don't have to make up all of this. I know why you want me gone."

"I'm sure you were a wonderful Alpha," I join in, "and I know James appreciates all you've done for the pack while I've been sick, but we're back on track and are ready to handle everything again. I'm sure you want to get back to relaxing, right? How about we just let James do his job?"

Just before James' father can respond, James surprises me by saying, "No. You're right. You do know why you have to leave."

I look up at James quickly thinking about grabbing his hand now just to stop him from going overboard, but it's too late.