Friday, March 29th
12am
I start stirring about as the sizzle of bacon frying hits my nose. It’s been a long time since I’ve been treated to a luxury such as freshly fried bacon. I take my time becoming slowly aware of what’s around me. Mason took great care after I fell asleep to position me on my side. It takes a good minute for me to discover that his Sherpa lined coat is beneath my head, the collar positioned perfectly so that I can easily catch his scent as I sleep.
“Why didn’t you tell him it was me?”
I instantly regret saying it as I look around the small cottage for Jason.
“Don’t worry Cole. Jason shifted and is going to do a quick twenty minute patrol to verify that Alpha Redmen is sticking to his word. He’ll be back in fifteen.”
I relax a little only for his statement to hit me hard.
“What do you mean stick to his word?” I can’t contain the panic lacing my voice.
“Calm, easy breaths Cole. It’s all a part of the plan. As crazy as it was for you to attempt to run during a blizzard, your brother could not have prayed for a better situation.”
I know I’m looking at him confused as he smiles gently, flipping the bacon in the pan.
“While trying to run in a blizzard is suicidal when done alone, the plan your brother worked out works best in bad weather. The message that I sent Alpha Redmen was that with the worsening weather I have instructed my group to hunker down inside the cabins. That the rain that came before the snow washed away your scent and if you’re smart and in the north woods then the cabins would be the first place you would seek out. For the health and safety of the team it was best to let you come to us. He liked the idea and said that he will keep us informed on the weather situation. Currently the human’s news is showing an unusually slow moving storm that is going to last several days and dump a good ten inches of snow on the ground. It’s going to make getting to each of the remaining cabins very difficult but not impossible. The goal is to have you hunkered down in the Red Moon cabin by the end of the storm in three days time. I am the only one that will travel continuously with you. Jason will follow us to the next cabin where two more warriors are staying. The three of us will join them inside, warm up, dry off, take care of our needs for an hour or two. When we leave, Jason will head back to this cabin, one will stay at the cabin we’re leaving and one will come with us, most likely in wolf form. I will not be shifting as, to my knowledge, you are a non-shifter.”
I nod my head as I hang it low, embarrassed by what I cannot control.
“I didn’t realize it until now but you were the first time I had ever felt or smelled the parental aura.”
“What helped you figure out that’s what it was?” He continues the conversation easily.
“Alpha Black.” I state with a sigh.
“You miss him.” He observes. “Alpha Andre said he’s spoken to him quite a bit since he returned home in November. Just like Dr. Carter and Dr. Johnson it took several long conversations to convince him of his genuine desire to use Operation Underground to get you out of here. While I will not pretend to know his plan after we get you to the Red Moon cabin, my understanding is that he’s going to meet with a contact he’s made inside the Red Moon pack and release you into Alpha Julian’s care.”
I shake my head, struggling to contain the panic that wants me to scream.
“If he’s changed enough to want to help me, why isn’t he here?”
“He is.” Mason nods thoughtfully as he cracks two eggs into the pan. “While he will not detail the nature of his relationship beyond the fact that it’s complicated and not all bad, he recognized that you wouldn’t trust him directly. He remembered my role during one of your most vulnerable moments and had high hopes that my scent would help you recapture the smallest sliver of trust that you had nine years ago with me. He told me that something big happened two weeks ago when you attempted to run the second time towards White Moon territory and convinced your dad to station me just outside your room. Only thing is, Andre gave additional directions to stay to the north side in the hopes of forcing you into the south woods. I reported to Andre and Andre alone when I smelled you run. It wasn’t until late morning when Alpha Redmen called a meeting to inform all warriors and guardsmen that you were on the run. I knew which way you went which is why I volunteered for the south and west woods.”
I make my way to the edge of the bed, grabbing my shoes to put on.
“Hold up on putting your shoes on. I’ve got some boots for you. I’m not certain how Andre got your shoe size but those are fairly new looking so they’re going in your pack. Now, come sit at the bar, I’ve got a light, hot breakfast for you.”
“Yes sir.”
I’m surprised at how relaxed I am with Mason but it seems to be a good thing. I’m still leery of Andre and his grand plan but at the moment I’m simply enjoying the help he has sent my way.
I eat my eggs and bacon quietly, it’s been a long time since I’ve had adult company. The only adults I’ve been around tend to hit me for any reason they can think of. It doesn’t take long for Jason to return, shifting into his human form just before stepping inside the cabin.
“So far he’s keeping his word. Might want to check in and verify how long he’s willing to let us patrol, I can’t imagine he’s really going to let us be out here for a week straight.”
Jason stops beside the heater, rubbing his hands overtop of it.
“I know you just got in but could you at least get some boxers on.”
Mason seems annoyed that he didn’t put some on when he got in.
“What’s wrong with being naked around here? We’re werewolves.”
“Common courtesy, Jason.”
I remain silent, listening to their banter as I slowly toy with my food. I’m staring at my plate in disbelief that this is what he considers light, four pieces of bacon and three scrambled eggs. I’ve eaten half the bacon and a small portion of eggs before the heaviness of eating starts causing some queasiness.
“That’s all you’re eating?” Jason finally turns his attention to me.
“I think so.” I barely respond.
“There will be more available to you along the way. If you’re certain you’re done then grab your boots from my bag and start layering up. We need to start moving.” Mason encourages gently.
I nod my head but don’t move immediately. I manage to get two more bites of egg in my mouth before finding Mason’s bag and opening it. As promised, a brand new pair of waterproof, fur lined boots are inside. My mind is starting to race but I keep coming back, concentrating on a single question; ‘Why would Andre take the time to plan this? What is so important about me?’
“You’re the key, Cole.” I startle bad as I’m not expecting a response.
“I know it wasn’t intentional but that new way you link seems quite tricky. While Andre has not shared all of his plans with everyone the one thing he has said to everyone is that you are the key. Getting you into the hands of a kind, capable alpha, such as Alpha Black, is the key needed to collapse the pack as we know it. To destroy everything Charles Redmen has done. Getting you out alive is what this pack needs, as your freedom will free us all.”
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