My Jolly Alpha - Burgov Series V

11. Orson

Cilia came around and somehow accepted my apology. Maybe it was because of the fact she was having the biggest hangover ever and she just wanted me to stop talking, but things got normal again. Well, maybe not normal, because she and Markella were attached by a hip, and I was left alone with my Mate only by night, at least that's what they agreed on without me in the room. Cilia claimed it was only fair, since Markie was hers first and I shamelessly stole her, whatever the hell that means.

Dave, who apparently was there when the girls made up, advised me to just roll with it, because coming between them could only make things harder for me because, as he claims, those girls' bond is stronger than any mate.

And so, two days since Cilia found out about me and her best friend, things kinda settled. She wasn't all that angry anymore, and instead promised to do everything in her power to help me. But so far, she had only succeeded in taking Kimmy's attention away from Markie, with her constant comments and putting Kimmy in her place, and may I add, she left the fake Luna fuming almost each time they saw each other.

We hoped that with Kimmy's irritation she would start making mistakes, but so far Uncle Ilia hadn't found anything suspicious. Kimmy spends her days visiting my people's homes and local businesses, where she poses for the most caring leader. And what's the worst of it all, my wolves seem to like her a lot, and that ties my hands even more. How could I take down Luna, who is wildly popular and seen as nothing less than perfection?

"We need to get something on her soon." - I said to Dave, Cilia and Markie as we were locked in my office after breakfast, under the pretext of making last minute changes to the Christmas party.

"What about that dress shopping? Are you taking her?" - Markie asked.

"I really hoped I could avoid it." - I said with a sigh.

"No, you can't." - my mate shook her head - "Take her out of here and we'll go through her room. You'll help, right Dave?" - she turned towards my Cousin, who thought of this for a minute and shook his head no.

"She's careful, and it wouldn't surprise me if she was checking her room each time she left it. So I can't go in there without raising any suspicions, but you can." - he told Markie, and my eyes went wide.

"Are you seriously going to send my mate there? She doesn't have your sense of smell, it would be ten times harder for her than for you."

"Yes, I know. But since she and Kimmy smell almost the same, she would be able to swoop through everything and Kimmy would be none the wiser." - Dave explained.

"Hmm. That actually sounds reasonable." - I muttered - "What do you think about it, Sweetheart?"

"I could try, but you know I'm not experienced enough, so don't hold your breath."

"I'm sure you'll do just fine." - I smiled at her and her cheeks immediately started getting redder. But our moment was broken off by a groaning Cilia.

"Could you stop with those looks? We know it, you have the hots for one another." - she rolled her eyes - "But news flash people, you won't get hot and heavy without taking down the bimbo Luna, so let's keep the bedroom stares at the minimum and focus here, okay?"

David smirked as usual, having a blast when someone's ass was sweating and, because Cilia was right about being on the clock here, I agreed.

" Okay, sorry." - I said - "Do we have any other ideas about how we can unmask Kimmy?" - I asked, looking at all three of them.

" Well, I have one thing that caught my eye." - Markie said in a small voice and I nodded for her to go on. - "Have you guys noticed how she's always carrying that to-go cup with her?"

I frowned, realizing that small detail, and slowly nodded.

"Well, I believe that this might not be exactly coffee but some sort of potion that changes her scent. But the problem is, I have no clue what kind of potion."

"Okay, so what do you need?" - I asked.

"Does she ever leave it behind?" - Markie asked.

"I'm not sure, but I know I never saw it lying in the kitchen unattended." - I admitted.

"Hmm." - Markie hummed, tapping her full lips, I dreamt about tasting, and looked down at the desk making her gorgeous curls frame her face. - "Maybe if I knew the ingredients I could figure it out with my books. Dave…" - she locked eyes with my Gamma - "Do you think you could use your super powers and sniff whatever Kimmy has in that cup the next time you see her?"

A lazy smirk curled up his lips and he nodded.

"Of course. And when you talk about me like some super hero, I will even do it today." - he answered with a wink that made me growl at him.

"Back off, buddy. Find your own." - I said in a low voice, but neither of them took my threat seriously, instead all three started laughing.

"Okay, so that's the plan." - Cilia summed up - "Orson is taking her out. Markie combs through her room. Dave figures out what kind of s**t she's drinking. And I will continue to annoy her. Who knows, maybe she will leave because of me." - Cilia ended with an innocent smile.

"Okay, sounds legit to me." - I agreed.

We wrapped the meeting up and I went on my search to look for Kimmy. I found her behind the Pack House talking with some dark-skinned Omega guy I saw around here a few times, but never really caught his name.

"There you are." - I said, coming closer to them and the guy immediately bowed, while Kimmy just raised her eyebrows at me. - "I've been looking for you."

"Well, you found me." - she said, doing her best to hide her irritation, but not that I knew what to look for, it was all there on full display. This woman really hated me, and I hadn't the slightest idea why. - "What can I do for you, Orson?"

"It's actually something opposite." - I forced a smile on my face. - "I must admit that lately, with the party and Cilia's visit, I haven't spent as much time with you as I should. So, as an olive branch, I would like to take you out and buy you the most lavish outfit for the party and maybe have lunch, just the two of us." - I offered and watched with satisfaction how her eyes got big. She wasn't suspecting I was playing a double agent here, and I believe she swallowed the bait like a young pelican.

"That's surprising, but I love it." - she smiled. - "When would you want to go?"

"Now, if that's okay." - I said.

"Sure. Let me just grab my purse." - she said, dismissing Omega guy and starting to walk back to the pack house.

"No need, Kimmy. Today's my treat."

She looked taken aback by the offer, not because of the fact she wasn't getting any money, because she had access to my credit card since day one, but going without her stuff must've been strange to her. But I figured that leaving everything behind might be useful in Markella's search.

And so I led her to my car and we drove off towards the nearest city, heading for the most gruesome hours of my life.

No guy likes to shop, and if he does, that should be the first red flag for his lady. We usually do it to see our sexy women in new short dresses and because we count on being awarded later at night, nothing more, nothing less. So, doing it with someone, I have to pretend I like, sounds like torture class 101.

Since the party's theme was already picked by Cilia, and my cousin was adamant that everyone had to have at least one piece of clothing hinting at Christmas, our options were a bit limited and Kimmy wasn't happy about it. She usually preferred elegant, classic looks that showed off her professionalism and status, and it wasn't an easy task to find something appropriate among all the reindeers, Santas and Christmas trees. Not to mention, I couldn't imagine her ever wearing something like those sweaters that Cilia bought for the rest of us.

It shouldn't come as a surprise then that it took us nearly four hours of walking from one boutique to another, with me mostly trailing in the back contemplating my life's choices. But finally, in what felt like the hundredth shop, Kimmy found a forest-green long dress with little flakes embroidered in a silver thread at the bottom. It was just like her, pretty, but at the same time stuck-up and out of place for the type of event we're hosting.

I suppressed my own thoughts concerning the dress and I plastered a smile on my face, offering her to leave it in the car before heading for lunch, to which she agreed, and then we found a cozy Italian restaurant.

As we sat down by the table, each smiling at the other, but under the fake politeness without even an ounce of trust or affection, I had the urge to confront her right away. I simply wanted to ask her what horrible thing I had done to her to make her go ape-s**t crazy, changing her scent and sleeping with someone she secretly despises. That's not a regular revenge. That's not something one does because of a failed relationship or sleeping with one's sister and never calling after.

I know I'm no saint, but for the love of me, I couldn't figure out which of the stunts I had pulled in the past could bring me to this place.

Was it hooking up with the redhead two years ago? It's true she lost her chance at becoming Luna because of me, but in my defense, I did know she was already spoken for with another Alpha. And if she was slutty enough to go behind her chosen mate's back, that should be on her, right?

Was it reporting Beta from Opal Moon after one of their visits when I found out he had impatient hands that liked touching my she-wolves in private areas? Perhaps, but the guy kept his job with just an order to go to therapy and learn what 'no' really means.

Was she a sister of one of the guys who lost some cash to me? I'll admit that gambling luck was one of the things I could never complain about, and there were a few who had lost small fortunes trying to beat me. But we always parted our ways in peace.

But I know for sure that I haven't killed anyone, I haven't engaged with a marked woman and all my feuds with other leaders were always justified. I don't want to say I'm pure as a newborn, but I definitely haven't deserved that.

So was s*x, money or taking consequences for your own actions really something that could make Kimmy do what she did? It doesn't sound like it to me, but who knows what a tormented mind hides.

"You know, I was surprised you asked me here." - Kimmy said after we placed our orders.

"How so?"

"You've been acting weird since your Cousin came for a visit and I was worried you were pulling away from me. Or maybe that she was even whispering into your ear." - she admitted.

"She wasn't." - I assured her with an amused smile - "And the only one who could make me doubt my mate is she herself." - I said, looking into her eyes and Kimmy nodded, but then quickly took a glass of water in her hand, trying not to look nervous, but failing miserably. Had I still been kept in the dark, I would have missed those small signs, but now they were more than clear. Her facade was slipping, and while that's a good thing that could help me find something incriminating about her, there's also a chance she might start making more dangerous and threatening moves if she feels cornered, and I can't allow anyone to get hurt.

"But it's true, I was more busy with Cilia around." - I spoke, seeing how the silence once again fell upon us. - "So tell me, what have you been up to lately?"

"Oh, you know, the usual." - she waved her hand, trying to get rid of me.

"No, I don't know. Tell me everything. I wouldn't want you to get the wrong impression that I don't care about your work in our pack." - I said with a smile, that I hoped looked genuine.

"Well, I've been spending a lot of time in the compound." - she said, and I knew from my Uncle it was just partially true, as during the last four days she was there once. - "I think we should think about a small renovation. Paint the walls, maybe do something with the floors. You know, to make it nicer."

That was a load of bullshit and we both knew that. The compound is one of the biggest buildings on my land and it's basically a housing block with around a hundred studio apartments for adult or coming of age unmated wolves. And while it was built over thirty years ago by my aunt, Sabine, we made sure to check its condition each year.

"That's a great idea. - I agreed - "Tell me whatever you need and I'll find a team." - she sent me a weak smile and nodded - "Anything else?"

"Um, I paid a few house visits in the village."

"And what are your conclusions? Are my people happy about their living conditions?" - I asked.

"Yes, of course." - she said immediately, as if she wanted to hide something.

"Are you sure?" - I asked, thanking the waitress for my pasta, and almost laughing when she brushed her hand over mine, and my so-called Luna completely ignored it.

"Yes, why would I lie?" - Kimmy asked defensively.

"No, I don't mean it like that, it's just that people always need something. The party we're hosting is because our warriors complained about how depressing this winter is." - I shrugged, taking the first bite. - "Maybe someone less intimidating than Luna should go talk to them?" - I suggested.

"You think they aren't true to me because of my rank?" - she asked.

"It's possible." - I nodded.

"Maybe you're right." - she agreed, but her tightly knitted brows said she wasn't very fond of the idea I could meddle with what she does. So I should probably get a closer look at her Luna activities - "But anyway, what's new with you?"

"Oh, the usual. But aunt Diana called me yesterday to tell me that we're ending this fiscal year with a great balance. Which means we can do something extra for the people." - I told her. I didn't intend to include her in most vital Pack's matters, but I had to tell her something to not raise any suspicions, and the fact that auntie Diana manages Harvest Moon, Lunar Tide and Midnight Banes' finances exceptionally well wasn't actually a secret.

"That's good." - her eyes lit up, and I started wondering if money wasn't her ulterior motive after all. - "Do you have anything in mind?"

"Yeah, I actually do, but I will have to talk with my brother and cousins about that." - I said vaguely, spiking her interest even more.

"Something with other packs then? That sounds interesting. Do you mind telling me more?"

Kimmy tried to pretend she was just carrying on the conversation, but now that I knew everything about her was just one big hoax, I knew her politeness ran deeper than simple small talk over lunch.

"Not yet." - I shook my head and she became visibly upset. - "I'm not sure if that's even possible."

"I see." - she said and focused back on her meal.

Throughout lunch we went over tomorrow's party and a few less important things that were simply necessary since she still lives in my home. But nothing made her as curious as my plans for this pack. I tried watching her closely to figure out what her motives were, but nothing made sense.

Now that I noticed those few times, she tried suppressing her eye rolls and exasperated sighs and it became clear to me that this woman didn't like me very much, just like Markella thought. Then why would she go through all this trouble with changing her scent and allowing someone who she openly despises to mark her?! I just couldn't understand that. Why bind her life with mine? Was she trying to kill me? If so, then she had plenty of opportunities before, then why didn't she? Nothing about Kimmy was summing up and it was frustrating beyond belief, because without cracking that mystery open, I wouldn't be able to move on with Markie.

We drove back to the Pack in the early evening, but the sun was already down because of the shorter winter days. Kimmy wasn't making any effort to make our ride home less uncomfortable, so instead of trying to fill the silence, I too, opted for the radio to do the job for me.

'We're almost home. So if Markie is still in her room, take her out.' - I mind-linked David, when we got close enough to be in the range.

'It's done, she didn't find anything. But Cilia says only psychopaths hang all of their t-shirts, and that should have been your first clue that Kimmy is crazy.' - he answered, making me roll my lips to not laugh.

'Okay then, I should be there in about ten minutes.'

'Good. Markella could use your help.'

'Why, what's wrong?' - I asked, gripping the steering wheel harder and pushing the gas even more, trying to get to her faster.

'Nothing much, so don't worry. Only your parents arrived a few hours ago and she has been under a hailstorm of questions since then.' - Dave said with a chuckle and I breathed in relief.

'Tell her I'm almost there.' - I said, cutting off the link.

I glanced to the side at Kimmy to see if she had noticed anything, and I briefly contemplated telling her about my folks, but then I thought better of it. Since she was the one to subtly chase them away, she didn't deserve those few extra moments to prepare herself. I know they were never too close. My Mom tried to make their relationship work. She spent a lot of time trying to pass all of her duties and main projects to Kimmy. But aside from job-related topics, they were often caught in uncomfortable silence and, after just a few weeks, my parents decided to spend fall and winter somewhere warm. Now I know why.

I parked in my usual spot and was ready to rush inside to save Markie from my mother's all-seeing eyes, but Kimmy caught my wrist, stopping me.

"Thank you for today. It was very thoughtful of you." - she said.

"My pleasure."

"You know…" - she started tracing her hand up and down my arm and I had to clench my jaw to not grimace, even though my skin was crawling from her touch. - "I think we need more alone time."

Fucking perfect! Now that I actually liked that she was cold and unaffectionate, she had to start getting clingy. Just my luck.

"That's true." - I muttered, hoping she couldn't read the disgust on my face.

"Why won't you come to my bedroom tonight?" - she offered, and I think that the only thing that could be heard on the driveway was the sound of me swallowing my own nausea. Being with her before was just one level better than relieving myself, and now that I met my perfect woman I would have to be a true i***t to spoil it.

Maybe I could fake a headache or something.

"I…" - I started not knowing how to weasel myself out of it.

"Son!" - I heard the familiar voice cutting my struggle, and thanked seven heavens for looking out for me.

I looked up and at the top of the three stairs leading to the pack house stood my father with his skin as tan that no one would take him for a Caucasian now.

"What is he doing here? Did you know he was coming?" - Kimmy asked in a whisper.

"No. But it's their home and tomorrow is Christmas." - I shrugged - "It's great they came, don't you think?"

She tried to keep a straight face while nodding, but it was all in her expression how much she loathed the idea of spending holidays with my parents.

I left her side and went to hug my father, wondering what kind of lecture he had prepared for me this time. I may have purposely contacted my mother, because she was less judgmental and even though empathy could be her second name, she wasn't as emotional and, with that, irrational when it came to her pups.

My father released me after a few pats on my back and he smiled at Kimmy, but I could tell it wasn't his normal smile, but rather a professional one he had for official functions.

"It's good to see you, Kimmy." - he said.

"You too, Benson." - she answered stiffly, once again showing off that she wasn't going to call him Dad.

"Thank you for taking in my niece and her friend."

That statement left Kimmy with a full-blown scowl before she could hide it.

"That's our pleasure." - she said because social convention dictated as much, not because she was actually happy about anyone visiting my home. - "Let's get inside, it's getting rather chilly."

My father nodded and allowed her to go in first.

'How are things?' - Dad mind-linked me when Kimmy's back was turned to us.

'Not great. I still have no clue what her deal is.'

'I see.' - he nodded - 'Your mother did her voo-doo and she has a few theories, but I guess we will discuss them tomorrow before the party.'

'Why not today? I'm kinda on a clock here.' - I asked.

'You'll see.' - he said with a smirk, cutting the mind-link.

As we were walking down the corridor, I started feeling like this was once again my home. The amazing, mouth-watering smell of home-made dinner was lingering in the air, calling my name like a siren's song. We entered the family room from where I could already see the dining area and the kitchen and I stopped in my tracks, marveling at the picture before me.

Mom, Markie and Cilia were all wearing Christmas-themed aprons and they were laughing and chatting one right over the other, while they were together preparing the food. Cilia was stirring something in a big pot, and from the aroma of onion and mushrooms I hoped it was my mother's famous stroganoff. And at the same time, my Mom was showing Markella how to properly knead the dough. Markie was focused on her task, but the smile wasn't leaving her face while they were talking non-stop.

That right there was the last confirmation I needed. Markie simply fits with us. That's her rightful place and there was no denying that.

I glanced around, noticing that Kimmy wasn't there, probably already on her way to her bedroom, where she would sit and sulk over my other relatives coming over, but to be honest, I didn't give a f**k. She can even brick herself up in that damn room for all I care. Once I'm done with her, it will be either way stripped to bare cement and rebuilt anew.

I felt a hand on my shoulder and I looked to the side at my Dad who was smiling also watching three women busting in the kitchen.

"She's a great girl, son. The Goddess must love you." - he said.

"That's it?" - I frowned - "No lecture?"

"No. No lecture." - he shook his head - "I know from experience that with the right woman by your side you don't need anything else."

That statement left me flabbergasted, because it almost sounded like he finally believed in me and didn't feel the need to redo everything that came from me.

I glanced back at the girls just to catch Markie staring at me too. She smiled with happiness almost bursting out of her and I felt my heart was swelling. Maybe Dad's right, because it sure feels like for her I could walk through the hell Kimmy is arranging for me, and come out victorious.