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Chapter 5

                Wolves surrounded the Alpha, standing in robes waiting to be paired off with a leader for the hunt. For the first time a son was going to present a kill to their father. This was a do or die moment for the future leaders of the pack. Once all kills were collected they would be distributed among the pack.

A snarl came deep within the Alpha, next a howl lit up the silent air. In return Gregory and Daren howled, next was the future leaders. The pack joined in the howling once the all the leaders were heard. The Alpha shed his robe, following Gregory and Daren then the boys. The pack followed them.

The Alpha had paired off the pack into three groups. Each of the groups was to follow a son during the hunt. Each of the sons knew that they had to deliver the kills to their fathers. It was a gift and a prize in one. The first kills were a tradition among the leaders. The sons took pride in delivering the kills to the Alpha and Betas.

Zero set his paws on the ground, inhaled a deep breath. 'Beast don't let father down, we'll be shunned.' His beast whimpered at the thought of letting the Alpha down. His ears perked up to the sounds round the woods. Every scent filtered through his nose. Growling at the scent of deer, Zero lunged forward. The wolves set off behind him. Disconnecting him and his beast from the pack, they focused on catching the kill. A herd of deep was just up ahead of them. Zero keen in on the largest. Ordering the wolves to fan out, he ran ahead.

Aaron tried to push his nerves away, even his beast held a nervous tick. Being a third in the pack was a good position yet not good enough at times. Earlier Zero had reminded him no matter what he had his back. The pack was waiting for them to screw up. Aaron felt like it was more him than the others were. Third position was challenged easier and faster than Beta and Alpha. He had to be as good as Zero and Josh. His father's honor was riding on this kill.

Josh had his pack running after a large buck. The deer was great at jumping and wavering through thicker brush, they were coming across. Growling he pushed forward, doing what Zero reminded him to do. Imagine the kill as the jock, the jock wants Cherry. His beast pressed more towards the surface.

 A howl lit up the air, Zero had caught his kill. Another and another Josh and Aaron caught theirs. The separate packs rejoined the Alpha and Betas. The sons dropped their kills in front of their fathers. The Alpha wolf's chest puffed out as his howl rippled over them, his son done him proud. Out of the three catches, his was the largest. Daron and Gregory also howled in respect of their sons. Nathanial rubbed their heads in respect, praising them for the catches. Each of the pack leaders received a piece of the deer from the pack leaders.  Before anyone took a taste, the fathers waited for their sons to take first bite. Zero, Josh, and Aaron proudly took the first bite.

Remaining in his wolf form, Zero walked around the pack house. His father was asleep along with most of the pack. Tonight should have been a proud and happy moment. However, his beast was unsettled, alone. A whimper sounded from him. His heart ached. Curling up against the base of a tree, Zero tried to find comfort. How could this feeling override a moment of pride? He should be in the bed asleep. Instead of walking around depressed.

Like lightening, a thought popped into his mind. Running to the pack house, he shifted into his human form. The body snapping and distorting made the process of shifting very discomfort able. Shaking his head, Zero waited for the dizziness to pass. 'There has to be a better way to shift', he thought as he stood up. His limbs were slightly sore and stiff.

Sneaking into the bedroom, May and June were asleep. He had moved their bed into his room. Giving May more comfort. Covering them up, he stroked their hair. Precious ones, troublemakers they were to him. Most of all they were his to protect. Ever since they joined the pack, Zero had felt like he should protect them more than the other wolves.  His beast was in full agreement with this concept. Snatching a pair of pants and his cell phone, he went back outside. Not concerned with the time he dialed the phone. Five rings later, a groggy voice picked up.

"Hello?"

Exhaling the breath he was holding, "Langdon, it's Zero. Sorry it's so late."

"Huh-huh, that's why you're calling because you're sorry it's late," Langdon chuckled, "What's up? You sound depressed."

'Shit, he can tell that over the phone'. Zero wiped his face, "I did-well Josh, and Aaron and I caught the kills for the pack."

Langdon swallowed loudly, "Deer right?"

"Right, we don't hunt humans." 'Did we forget to mention this? Was the part of the reason he's scared of us?' He could imagine the tension on Langdon's face right now.

"Sorry, go on. Please." Langdon whispered.

"The Alpha praised us. We delivered three of the nicest deer you can find. I enjoyed the feast afterwards. Made sure May and June were staying out of trouble."

"But–?"

Zero growled, "I'm not happy. I can’t fill the hole that I have. My beast is whimpering causing a depression."

"Where are you?"

"At the cabin-"

Langdon cut him off, "I mean where at the cabin?"

"Oh, outside walking around."

"Hold on."

He heard shuffling sounds then a click. Somewhere in the background there was a dog barking. Langdon's breath sounded in the phone as he walked. "Okay, I'm staring at the moon to the right is four stars to the left there isn't any. What do you see?"

Zero looked up, "Same here."

"Which way did you turn to see the moon?"

"To the left."

"Okay, stay turned to the left and talk to me."

As cheesy as it sounded, Zero stayed to the left and began talking. Words flowed so easily from him. Normally he would keep them locked up and sealed. With Langdon, he would answer any question before thinking of the answer or a lie to cover up the truth. Pack secrets had must be kept a secret. There was letting no one in, until Langdon came along.

A couple of hours later Langdon told Zero to lay back on the ground and trust him. Moments later the sexiest voice sung a sweet melody into the phone. Fighting his eyes to stay open, he had to listen to his voice. Unfortunately, his body was relaxing faster than he anticipated. His beast curled up into a ball and fell asleep causing Zero to fall asleep even faster.

Soon a whisper on the other side said, "Good night Zero" and hung up.

A shadow cast over him, what felt like a tap to the face came. He swatted at it. "Go away," a deep chuckle, sounded above him. Something ran across his face, "Knock it off June."

Laughter came from somewhere around him, "I'm not June." The girls giggled.

Zero shot up as he remembered the night before. Looking around his parents and the girls were kneeling down around him. His eyes focus, snatching up the cell phone. He had to check to make sure last night was real. Langdon's number was the last dialed.

"Zero?" Nathanial's voice was thick with worry. "Have you been out here all night?"

He nodded.

"Why?"

"I couldn't sleep. There's this-" shaking his head, "I don't know...sadness. My beast feels it to."

Nathanial lifted him up off the ground, "Girls go get Zero something to eat."

May and June was worried, they slowly moved. Looking back at Zero then to the Alpha she hesitated on moving. He nodded; they dropped their heads and walked away. She really did not like that Zero was sad. A whimper came from them. Zero's shoulders fell, written all over his face was pain and suffering.

"Zero honey," Vera wrapped her arms around him. "Talk to us."

"That's the thing, I don't know." Zero groaned against Vera. "My beast whimpers more and more. Only a few time a day is he happy. Since we've been here, we're not happy."

Growling he stepped away from her. "Last night I should have been on top of the clouds. I made my father proud of me, the Alpha proud of me. I gave him my first kill for the pack." Zero pouched the air, "There's this hole inside of me."

Standing beside her husband, Vera was pained for her son. In agreement, her beast whimpered. The Alpha saddened by his son display of sorrow.

"When is your beast happy?"

Snorting, "Of all places, school. Last night I called Langdon asked him to help me. The man had to sing me asleep before I find peace." A laugh slipped through his lips, "I think I'm going crazy."

"On Monday I want you to pay attention when your beast is happy notice who's around."

Even though he was confused and curious about the Alpha’s orders, Zero only nodded in reply.

"Your beast senses your mate. He wants to claim her." Nathanial does not want to see his son go insane or worse rogue.

May and June hesitantly finished their walk to the Alpha. May held a plate for Zero. Both still looked like they were mourning a lost. Zero allowed his shoulders to drop again. 'Beast we promised to protect them.'

'Protect May, June.'

Straightening up, he put on a face. "No hugs today? I'm forever heart broken." June's face lit up, jumping over her arms flew around him. "I'm much better now." Looking towards May, "You don't like me anymore?"

"I love you, but your eyes are sad." A tear fell from her eye, "I don't like it when you are hurting."

 "I'm trying May, promise." He was unable to mask his face from sorrow no longer.

Nodding, she walked to him. Squeezed the tightest hugged she could mustard. To make her look up at him, he tapped her chin.  "You stay on land that will help me. I cannot afford to lose you or June. You're my girls."

May kissed his cheek, "I promise."

The ride home was silent. Once the family had been busy within the home, Zero called Langdon.

"How mad are you at me?"

Langdon laughed, "Not much. Just woke up from a nap about forty minutes ago. How are you?"

"Better, hey man. Thanks."

"No problem. I don't know what it's like to be in your position. But, you can return the favor by calling Josh. Cherry called earlier. She broke up with her boyfriend earlier today and she’s upset. Sounds to me she could use a caring shoulder."

Chuckling "Will do. Talk to you tomorrow."

"All right, later." Langdon hung up as he was speaking to someone. He had company, wonder who it can be.

Making the call, Zero thought he could hear Josh's excitement. A pang of jealousy entered him. Two of the leader sons had found their mates. His beast had not even pin pointed her out. Just great!

School was another boring week so far. By time, Wednesday rolled around Zero had grown restless again. This makes four nights in a row that he could not sleep. His beast was cranky at every turn. He was sporting bags under his eyes. A child told Josh the wrong place for her to be at after school. His protective side went into over drive. The little girl will not be making that mistake again. Josh and Cherry was on his nerves. He was happy that his friend was making headway with his mate, irritated that he had to hear about it.

Fifth night of no sleep Nathanial called Max for an emergency. He truly did not want to do this; however, it could work in their favor as well. Max called Langdon, who answered the phone in not such a great mood.

"Max, you better be dead, dying or on the way to the hospital. I was having the greatest nights rest."

Max cringed, "Hmm, I'm calling for the Alpha."

"Excuse me?" Langdon's breathing came in short harsh burst. Nathanial made a face; this was not good at all.

"Hmm, it's about Zero. He has not slept since we have gotten back from the cabin. He's going crazy. The Alpha knows about your abilities. He's calling in a huge favor, asking for your help."

Nathanial stepped towards the speaker, gently as possible he spoke. "Langdon this is Nathanial, Alpha Blackwood, Zero's father. First, I would never impose on you like this if it weren’t an emergency. I am sorry for waking you up my son needs help.

"I will owe you a favor in return. I will guarantee your protection. No harm will come to you. I will guard over you myself."

The air was silent for a moment, "I-I-I..." Langdon's voice told he was afraid.

"I promise Langdon. I can even help you with your abilities. You are an empathy wolf. The pack holds knowledge of your abilities. They are yours to read whenever you like. I'm begging, please help my son."

Max jumped in, "I'll owe you too. Please Langdon, our Alpha is a man of his word. I can watch over you too. Please!"

A long intense moment went by, "Okay meet me out front."

"Thank you," Nathanial sighed in relief.

Twenty minutes later Max pulled up with a humming Langdon. He ran ahead to the Alpha. A few request from their friend. At no time was anyone to touch him, especially the Alpha. Fine that he watches over his son, doors open at all times. No handshakes, space. The Alpha agreed, whatever makes him comfortable.

Langdon walked in behind Max who stood between him and the Alpha. The effects of his humming were already calming them down. Nathanial wanted to cheer. Instead, he tried to use a gentle voice again.

"Thank you for coming. Welcome to my home. I am Nathanial this is my wife Vera, my daughter Amber."

"Hello-" Langdon tensed up for a moment until he was humming again. "Where's Zero?"

Vera spoke, "Upstairs in his room. Could I get you a drink? You look slightly parched."

Indeed he was. Sometimes after shifting, it left the throat and mouth dry.

"I would appreciate that," he whispered.

Moving she held onto her robe. Langdon moved closer to the open door and behind Max more. Vera stopped for a moment, moved a different direction. Just to make him more comfortable, she climbed through a shelf in the wall. Easily her beast agreed to this. She tossed a bottle of water to Max.

"I'll stay here, sweetie."

Langdon seemed to relax more at this action. Sensing this she called over Amber and had her climb through the shelf. In the room left only Max, the Alpha and Langdon. A small thank you came from him. She replied sweetly.

"I'll stay right here until you are upstairs. If you don't mind, I would like to watch over my son. I'll stay in the hallway. Max will open a window in Zero's room."

He nodded, Max showed him upstairs. Once out of eyeshot Nathanial grew a huge smile. "Can you feel him?" Vera giggled at his excitement.

All of a sudden, they heard, "Langdon!" then, "Put me down!" Nathanial bolted up the stairs; Max was standing out in the hallway laughing. Peeking in, Zero had Langdon in a hug and off the floor.

"Zero if you don't put me down I'll drop you like yesterday's wet dog."

Grumbling Zero put him down, "Sorry." He flipped his hair away from his face, "Why are you here?"

"Your father called. Apparently, you are driving everyone crazy by not sleeping. He asked me to help."

"You're going to sing me to sleep?" there was excitement in his voice.

"Not if you keep acting like an idiot." Pinching the bridge of his nose, "How do I keep getting myself mixed up in this stuff?"

Dumbfounded Zero asked, "Am I supposed to answer that?"

Langdon laughed, "Go right ahead, and give it your best try."

"Well, you're a good friend. You seem loyal to those that you are closest. A good heart does not know how to say no. So my guess is you need to learn to say no."

"That's a wonderful idea, should I start now?"

"NO!" Zero grabbed a hold of his wrist. "Tomorrow would be better."

Defeated for a moment, Langdon moved to the bed. Kicked off his shoes and leaned against the headboard. "You have to come here or I'll put the whole house asleep." Zero crawled onto the bed, "Well lay down or do you want to fall off the bed?"

"You're pushin' it Langdon," Zero snapped, "Don't order me."

"Now there's Zero, I was wondering if you have spent too much time with June."

"What does that mean?" Zero growled.

"For god sakes you hugged me!"

Zero went to reply then decided against it. Laying down, he waited.

Langdon took a hold of his wrist and began to hum. The effects were instant. Zero's eyes began to close, his body sunk into the mattress. Within three minutes, Zero was out, fast asleep. For a half an hour, he kept up the humming. Langdon let go of Zero. He stirred causing Langdon to freeze. Seeing that he was not waking up, Langdon went to move off the bed. Half way up, Zero bolted straight up and grabbed a hold of his waist.

"Where are you going?" he growled.

"Apparently nowhere; now let me go or I'll leave and never come back."

Zero whimpered loudly, causing Nathanial to pay attention more. This was very interesting. His son's beast saddened by the mere thought. As if it was the hardest thing to do, Zero let go. Settling back down on the bed, Zero was not happy with this. He pulled him down to where Langdon's head was on the pillow.

"Zero you're pushing it."

"Stop being a baby. We're wolves; wolves huddle together all the time."

Letting out a huge growl, Zero bolted up from the bed. "What the hell man?"

"Remember I can control emotion. Pain is a physical and mental emotion. Just a little reminder."

"That was not cool. I have not once harmed you and you go shooting bolts of whatever that was through my body." Zero pointed at him angrily.

"Next time ask before you force someone to lay down." Langdon shot right back.

"You're impossible!"

"Said the sleep deprived wolf wearing pink boxers."

Zero looked down, "Shit I forgot."

Langdon laughed, "Let me guess. May and June."

"Of course, my girls." Zero smiled.

Langdon mumbled something in irritation. Only a fraction of a moment passed before Zero sat back down on the bed. He rubbed Langdon's arm, mumbled he was sorry. Turning his head, Langdon wondered why that bothered him. Zero was not acting himself, worrying everyone, including him.

"Aren't you going to lay down?"

Zero moved down in the bed, slowly huddled back closer to Langdon. Yawning he told Langdon he owed him. In less time than before Zero was sleeping peacefully. The air was full of his breathing when Langdon turned to study him. Dusty blonde hair was more like a mad scientist style at the moment. The dark circles even stood out in the small lighting coming from the bedside lamp. There was something about him that drawn Langdon. Max and the Alpha called about him, his heart ached for him. How quickly he began to bond with the wolves freaked him out a bit.

"I guess I should stay here; he might wake up again." He snapped off the light.

"Thank you for helping him." Nathanial lightly said, "We're really worried about him."

Langdon swallowed, "Why can't he sleep?"

"I think it's because he senses his mate."

"Could you explain the whole mate thing?" Langdon asked with embarrassment.

"Our mates are like the other half of us. The beast we carry senses who will be best for us. Think of it as your other half. When our beast tells us, who our mate is we woo them until they are ours. Like Zero, Aaron and Josh. Josh's mate is Cherry."

"Who's human," Langdon said.

"Correct, Josh has to show her that he means no harm. Take a delicate approach. Aaron's mate luckily is my Beta's daughter. She knows of our ways. Claiming his mate is a lot easier for him. Zero however his beast is sensing the mate, has not produce who she is. Which is very strange. Normally if our mate is married to another, we still find a way to get them. His beast must sense that this mate will need more time or-" Nathanial paused, "Honesty, it can mean a lot of things."

"Could she be human as well?"

"Yes, do you sense something?"

"Well there is this girl at school; actually I think she's one of Cherry's friends. They flirt a lot towards each other. He seems happy. I take it it's not his girlfriend, then?"

"Maybe. If it was Shelby, his wolf would have claimed her by now."

The air went silent again. Zero had not moved from the position he fell asleep in. Moving his arm above his head, Langdon closed his eyes. So far, he felt safe.

"Can someone's mate already be a mate?"

"It has happened, very rare though. If that is the case Zero would have to challenge the mate for courtship."

"Basically best wolf wins."

"Yes."

Nathanial sat down in a chair out in the hallway. "May I ask about the other pack? Max tells me they are the reason you are afraid of us." He heard the boy swallow hard.

"Long story short, I was promised no harm would come to me. Then one night- I have scars of their loyalty. The Alpha said my death would be as distasteful as he could make it."

Snuffing a growl, Nathanial quiet his beast quickly. 'He's afraid, let's not send him bolting out. He's helping our son.' No reply came from the beast, just a nudge for him to go on.

"Here you are safe. My pack as vowed to me not to harm you. This door and every door are open to you."

A growl came from Zero, next Langdon groaned. "Zero let go!" Another growl, "Christ, he's strong."

"I'm coming in, don't be afraid." Nathanial flipped on the lights. Zero had wrapped his arm around Langdon's waist, tucked his face at the crook of his neck. Dead asleep the whole time he was doing this. Claw marks was on the other side of Langdon. The mattress ripped from his claws.

"Dreaming?" Nathanial wondered.

"Great," dropping his head back to the pillow, "Your son is a snuggler."

The Alpha laughed. Soon Langdon will realize that he too was a snuggler. An empathy enjoys caresses from the pack. He threw a light blanket over the boys before he moved to leave the room.

"Why don't you try to get some sleep? I'll be out in the hall if you need me."

Langdon did not raise his eyes to look at him the Alpha was too close. Seeing the struggle on the boy, Nathanial backed out of the room and turned off the light. A thank you came from Langdon.

"Like I said, myself and my pack you are safe with."

A rang bellowed from his pocket; Langdon had one hand to work with. Which was hard when a wolf pressed against that pocket and he had to use the opposite hand. Finally able to pull it out, "Mom is you all ready for work? Wait what? Liz called–mom slow down."

"Take a breath, calm down." Langdon listened to his mother half between excitement and fear. Liz had called to let her know that Langdon had found a true friend. He can trust those around him. She will call him in at school. Whatever he was doing was more important. Before she hung up, she wished him a good day and lots of love.

"Wait mom!" the line went dead.

Nathanial spoke from the hallway, "Everything alright?"

"Yeah, mom got this call from a witch. Liz said I should trust those around me." Langdon's eyes widened, why did he tell the Alpha that?

"Empathy wolves are somewhat magical. There is magic in your bloodline somewhere. Witches find empathy wolves a treasure like we do."

"Interesting." Langdon groaned, "Zero you're heavy." He wiggled out of the wolf's hold; fell off the bed and onto the floor. Nathanial looked in and chuckled.

"He's strong," Langdon said from the floor.

"Good to hear."

Max popped his head in, "Dude what's with the floor?" As he handed the Alpha a cup of coffee he heard Langdon’s reply.

"Oh I decided the ceiling was better than your mug."

Max's eyes flew out from his head, "Wow dude that was harsh."

Langdon laughed, "I meant it as a joke."

"I know; given my own right back. Anyways, Vera is making breakfast. Would you like a plate when I bring up the Alpha's?"

"Sure," Langdon sat up, "First could someone get my foot from Zero?"

Nathanial nodded for Max to go help him. Surprisingly it was not as easy as it should seem. After a moment of struggling with Zero's hand, Langdon's foot came free. The Alpha backed down the stairs to let him in the bathroom.

With clothes from Zero's selection, a freshening up in the shower, teeth brushed. Thankfully, mom's like to keep extra toothbrushes. Langdon was better, less uncomfortable. Just because a witch says to trust, someone does not mean he was going to listen to her. Hell, he didn't even know the witch.

"Hmm, Langdon hate to rush, but Zero is tossing and growling."

"Oh good lord, he's a big baby."

Hearing laughter, he walked out. The Alpha was still standing down on the landing half way down the stairs. Going back into the bedroom, Zero was growling in his sleep. On the side of the bed Langdon had slept on was in pieces. Stuffing pulled out of the pillow. Narrowing his eyes, his beast whimpered. Something was wrong with their friend.

Folding up another blanket, he placed it over the torn bed. Turned the pillow around he took a seat upon the bed. Zero must have sensed this for he moved over to him. He curled up against his leg. All the growling and fighting had stopped. Moving his head down, Zero laid across his lap. A moment of awkwardness passed. Using the words that Zero had said for comfort, 'all wolves huddle,’. The feeling that this was normal came. Langdon brushed some stuffing off Zero’s back.

"Here man-" Max stopped, "Okay."

"Don't even," Langdon snapped. "Is he going to be okay?"

"Hope so, Zero doesn't deserve this. Honestly he's a good guy."

"I've read his energy. Nothing weird except his hormones is going crazy."

"Shelby called last night and he blew up." Max told any information that could be helpful, "Is Shelby part of the cause?"

"Could be, that could be the anger I sense."

"Now about now?" Nathanial asked calmly.

Langdon froze for a second, he had forgotten about the Alpha. "Hmm, he's clear. He’s happy and content."

"Good, Max you need to be getting to school. Jen is waiting for you."

Amber popped her head in, "Langdon the shaver is bottom drawer left hand side, bathroom." Langdon laughed at her joke.

Nathanial stood in the doorway watching his son, "I have to leave. Vera will be working here from home today. She said just to yell if you need anything." He placed a key on the dresser. "Food is downstairs, help yourself. Vera will bring you lunch."

Langdon nodded, "Okay."

"Listen I can't thank you enough for doing this for my son."

"No problem, it actually feels right to help him out."

With that said the Alpha left. Downstairs he listened to Vera tell the Alpha to be careful, she loved him and will be here when he gets home. His beast whimpered a loneliness crept through him. It must be nice to have someone to love you no matter what. Finishing the plate of food, he set it off to the side. After about thirty minutes, he picked up a random book and began reading. Zero's head made a good book rest for him.

Strange how certain situations formed around him. Langdon hated that he was placed in fear around the werewolves, when he fact he was one. Well kind of. The guys seem to like him; he liked them simple as that. Why was he afraid? Oh that's right a pack of wolves attacked him by the Alpha's orders. They tried to rip him apart.

Four wolves took a hold of his limbs and began to pull. While two more ripped at his skin as they yelped in excitement. Screams bellowed out of him, no one heard his cries, no one to help him. His beast had taken over, placed all the wolves asleep. Barely had he made it out alive. Took days to recover from the injuries, when they were heal enough to make it home; he went home. Bailey was scared out of her mind. He never told her the actual truth, just told her it was some guys. Not the werewolf pack he had met. He did not want to be the cause of her fear of the wolves either.

Knowing all this, why did he trust Zero? Max? What was different from the other wolves? Bailey, she could never be among a pack, not truly. A human does not fit. Once bitten by a vampire had tainted her blood. No wolf would want her. He could smell the rotten earthy sink. All these years he never told her. She truly loves him as a son. One good thing about being an empathy, love is one of the best emotions to feel. Disappointed in himself for not able, to feel the emotions in Alpha Savage. His flesh would not be sporting scars as it was before the incident.

Zoned out to his own thoughts, Langdon had not realized that he was running his fingers through Zero's hair. His beast was purring, a sensation that he not had taken pleasure in before. The feeling was intense. From the moment he had walked into this house, he had felt a pull towards Zero. Strange, he had never had yearned to be with somebody before.

Fear was behind the pleasure, Zero shifted in his sleep bringing his head closer to Langdon's stomach. Slightly pausing, Langdon peered down into an angelic face. Even in his slumber, the wolf danger was present. Zero was a man who was stronger than he looked. He had the attitude to back up the strong muscles that he had.

Peering in Vera was surprised to see how Zero was. What surprised her even more were the actions of Langdon. He seemed content, at his own peace. Tapping on the door, she smiled as he looked up.

"Are you hungry?"

"A little. Huh, do you think we should wake Zero up?"

"Nathanial is going to wake him up when he gets home."

"Okay," Langdon looked back down, "May I ask something?"

"Why of course sweetie," Vera was hoping she could be of helping hand.

"Max says that once a beast has found or even senses their mate. It's hard to go without any form of contact."

"Correct, instinctively both beast want that bond." Vera thought for a moment, "Have you ever wanted something so bad that you thought you would die without it?" he nodded, even though it was a lie. He had no idea what she was talking about. "Our beasts are similar. Once they sense the other part of us, we can go mad without it. We yearn to have that everlasting bond. Once mated, mated for life."

"Then why is Zero at ease? You guys said his beast has sensed his mate. Should he not want her?"

Going to reply, Vera paused. Her hand went to her mouth. Tears weld up, pain written on her face. Her beast whimpered. Langdon was correct; he should have woken up on his own by now to go to school, where he has sensed his mate. A fear lingered that a mate was not the issue it was something else.

"Let me get you something to eat," Vera cleared her throat as she made her way out the door.

Guilt over rode Langdon, he did not mean to cause her harm, just curious about the wolf's ways. There was a lot of understanding to learn. As a whimper pressed out, Zero tightened his arm as if to comfort him. Surprisingly he had found comfort in that.

Coming back in Vera slowly approached him.

"I'm sorry I didn't mean to hurt you."

"I know sweetie, but I've also thought about it. A mother's fear, especially when you are raising a future Alpha. Zero is under more stress than the other boys are. From the moment that boy was born all eyes were on him."

"Wow, I can't imagine."

Vera wiped Zero's face, "He's braver and stronger than what people realize. A mother sees it; others wait to point the blame."

"No offense, but that is so wrong. I thought the wolves held respect for the Alpha and future Alpha?"

"They do, including Gregory and Daren. They would not dare across Nathan. His son however is the future not the present."

"I would be nice to him no matter what; don't they realize that he remembers their actions?"

Her laughter filled the room, "Between you and me, no I don't think they do realize that." Touching her son, she moved away. "A little stuffy in here, should have told me."

"I don't want to impose."

"Sweetie, you are helping my son. If it would fit, I would give you my shirt."

Langdon laughed, he instantly likes Vera. Placing a fan in the window and turned it on. The wind did feel nice blowing over him. She gathered up Zero's dirty clothes, straightened up the room quickly. She let Langdon eat his lunch without someone talking to him. He gasped causing her to look over. Smacking at Zero's hand that was gripping his leg, which apparently was holding on a little too tight.

"Zero!" Langdon touched his hand next a loud whimper came from Zero. Pulling back his hand away from his leg, he was gripping. "Someone has to tell him to be gentle while he's sleeping."

"Nathan does that sometimes, its protection. Something has bothered him."

"Nothing has changed except I think my butt is asleep."

Vera gave a hearty laugh, "Oh sweetie here, let me sit there while you move around. Walk, stretch your legs."

Battling with the arms of steel, Vera busted out laughing at the situation. The boy was not letting go of his friend. Vera pulled and Langdon stood up on the bed and jumped down. She quickly took over his place on the bed. Stroking her son's back, Langdon stretched out. A couple of pops and cracks came from his back. Vera laughed, that is probably why his but was numb.

He took the plate to the kitchen where Vera told him. A little uncomfortable about walking through another families home, he made his way back upstairs. Freshen up in the bathroom then went back in. Zero had moved away from his mother.

Her arms were crossed, "He doesn't want to snuggle with his mommy."

Unable to keep from laughing, "He calls it huddling."

Walking around the room, he checked out Zero's belongings. Typical guy room, a few books, video games, pictures of family and friends. His cell phone, Langdon glanced at it, “Hmm, he's missed 43 calls and several text messages."

Vera gave an irritated mother expression, "Let me see just in case it's the pack."

Langdon handed it to her she strolled down. "Well I better make some phone calls. I completely forgot about this. Thank you Langdon."

Pacing back and forth, he looked over at the time. School will be letting out soon. Meaning he should be heading home. Bailey will be wondering about him; however, a friend still needed him. Between having a mother that is afraid of the dark, a werewolf who cannot sleep and him completely confused. Mother always wins. Giving her a call and left a message. Once the Alpha arrives home, he will be heading home.

"Oh I was hoping you would stay for dinner," Vera pushed out her lips.

"Mom really doesn't like the dark."

"I heard vampires." He nodded, "Can I ask what happened?"

Bailey was with a group of friends they hit the movies, mall, and dinner. They were walking home when a group of men approached them. Next thing they could remember was they were waking up in a room, a black room. Bailey's friends were gone. The vampires forced them to service the vampires in any way seen fit. Among other things blood and pain was a service. Her and her friends were kidnapped at the age of fifteen, nineteen when she escaped. Her friends did not make it out alive.

Vera looked sickened. She had to meet this woman. A woman that had survive an attack like had to have a strong personality. Raised a son like Langdon, Bailey had to be strong woman all around. Giving a concern mother's worry, "My imagination has only told me your story. Could I ask what happened with the other pack? For a pack to harm someone of your strength is sickening. Nathan was outraged."

"Why would he care? None of you know me."

"True, very true. However, you are a child. Children are among those who want them here. Nathanial has found homes for orphans many times, including human children." Vera narrowed her eyes, "Do you know anything about yourself?"

"I can control emotions around me, create false emotions. Put a pack of wolves to sleep. Feel out anyone around me, even use my ability to trace people."

Vera made her way to the door, "Could I ask you a small favor? Just try to remember we are not the other pack. Some of us take pride in ourselves and our pack."

The next couple of hours Langdon were in his own thoughts. This Alpha had kept his word. Could be technique to get him to join then control him. Or he will wait until they are alone then kill him. His beast argued that this Alpha was different. Langdon still did not trust him. He could not get over the incident that happened before. Zero moved on the bed, a small growl came. Pushing the fear away, Langdon found peace for the sake of the sleeping wolf.

Laying back on the pillow he found himself staring at the man beside him. What was it about Zero that made him happy? He had not met someone like him before. Zero's hand moved to his stomach. Small electric shocks ignited his skin. Running his hand on his stomach, Langdon's eyes wanted to close. This feeling, this sensation was invigorating. Zero rubbed his nose along his chin, causing his eyes to close. Langdon's beast purred once again, this time different. Once again new emotion to Langdon. Turning his head, he opened his eyes. Zero was still asleep. Could he be dreaming? Should he stop him from these actions?

For once Langdon could not stop the action from the wolf. He wanted to feel the emotion that Zero was giving to him. He wanted to feel someone else touch him. Zero seemed happy enough to be doing this in his sleep. "Zero," he whispered. Zero response by moving him closer to him. His arms took on a completely new strength safety gentle as well as invitingly strong.  

A gasp escaped Langdon's mouth as Zero's teeth captured his earlobe. Playfully nipping along his neck and jawline. Langdon knew he should stop him, yet he could not bring himself to. A fuzzy sensation began to fill his body. His breathing became soft, deep. Heat crept through him, filling his lower body with a tingle. Langdon moaned as Zero's hand softly brushed his lower section. Feeling slightly embarrassed by the arousal that now filled his body. Covering his pants up with a hand, Langdon had never had this happen to him before. Sure, he has been aroused, not like this. Wanting, wanting to feel someone.

Zero's fingers barely passed under the hem of his pants causing Langdon to yearn for more. His mind torn between what felt good, rights, and wrongs. This was wrong was completely wrong, Zero was asleep. Feeling Zero's breath on his lips, Langdon's mouth opened involuntarily. Capturing Langdon's lips, he slid in his tongue with ease. Shocked by the sudden action, Langdon hesitated on the next move. Electrifying shock waves bolted through his body causing a rippled effect on him. His pants tightened up even more, he began to move his mouth with Zero's mouth. He pushed himself against the sleeping wolf more. A moan escaped once again as Zero took a hold of his hip. Zero turned him sideways against him, their lower halves rubbed against each other. Langdon was not the only one aroused by this.

Thoughts of what could happen formed in his mind. Langdon knew this was wrong, somehow for this moment he didn't care. It was nice to be held by someone to share a kiss with someone. He had never been kissed before. Does it count if the person is asleep for a first kiss?

Snapping him out of his thoughts was Zero's hand tucked inside of his pants. Langdon jumped up from the bed, turned and faced the wall. What was he doing? This was not right at all. He was making Zero react this way. For his own guilty pleasure, he was controlling the wolf’s emotions. Falling to his knees, he barely heard the whine come from the bed behind him. He had to leave.

Zero does not have to know. He could pretend nothing happened. Zero would not know any better. Checking around the room, see no Vera. Just the sleeping wolf on the bed no one else. . He will stay away from Zero until the Alpha gets here, then he will bolt.

"Langy!" May and June yelled as they entered the room. The girls pinned him against the wall as they hugged him.

"I need my arms to hug back," they released him with giggles.

"Hey Langdon," Jen and Max came in, "He's still asleep?"

"Yeah, he just growled a little bit ago." Langdon glanced over at the bed. He had worked out his issue from earlier. A moment of curiosity he told himself. Will not happen again, no matter what happens down the road. This will never happen again. He will be Zero's friend. The future Alpha was in search of his female mate. Support him as a friend. "I need to get home."

"Alright man, I'll take you." Max moved to the door with Jen at his side. The Alpha moved back down the hall to give him space.

"Thank you for helping my son."

"No problem, thanks for not pushing me."

Nathanial nodded, he completely understood.

Home felt sweet as ever. First thing he did was make himself a sandwich. Vera was forever sweet but he was not one to impose on people. His stomach growled before the first bite entered his mouth. Bailey would be home soon. She would tell him about his homework, might as well get that done. School was very important after all. Maybe when he has children however today homework sucked.

As the pen met the paper, he found himself smelling the shirt he had on. Zero's husky scent lingered all over it. A loneliness filled his body again. Zero will be bringing around his mate soon. Today did not happen. Besides, he was attracted to girls just as Zero was. Like he said before, a moment of curiosity. No, harm no fowl. Maybe that is what he needed to do, find a girl and talk to her. Now he wondered if he had a mate waiting on him somewhere. It could be possible. He was a wolf creature after all. Maybe he should talk to Bailey about this; she seems to be able to find information about supernatural creatures easily enough. Maybe she would know.

A mate would be nice. Someone who would listen, talks to, holds, and to be held by. All the love he could ever want. That would be very nice, indeed.

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