The Alpha's Mate--Cursed Heart

The Loyalty of Friendship Part II

Marcus’ POV:

Cloaked in the darkness of a far corner of Vincent and Katelyn’s balcony, Lilliana’s posture stiffened as she slowly drawled out her husband’s name, reprimanding him following his disclosure of my situation and the plan that was forming in his mind.  “Gilderoy…”

“My amore,” he pleaded softly, “Marcus deserves the chance to discover what Moriah’s feelings truly are.  She is his mate.  This cannot be accomplished with Alec hovering over her all evening.  He won’t let anyone near her!”

Lilliana sighed heavily as she attempted to reason within a rambled rant, “I have no doubt that Ambrosia can distract Lafayette.  But how do you propose that we accomplish this with a room full of people?  Ambrosia is not capable of being discreet, which is how we found out about their secret dalliances in the first place!  And now, you want to allow her to enter that ballroom—filled to the brim with eyes and ears no less—and take a chance of not only embarrassing us due to association, but Vincent and Katelyn as well?  This is their celebration, Gilderoy and like Marcus, we should not allow anything to ruin it!  And then there is the other factor that you haven’t even accounted for!”  Disgust flowed over heavy venom as she seethed out through gritted teeth, “Alec!”

“I agree,” I interceded, exasperated from both my attempts to push aside my anxiety and desires and an inability to stop myself from looking at Moriah even with Alec sitting right beside her.  I wasn’t kidding when I said Gilderoy was a welcomed distraction.  At least he was…but from the moment my eyes met hers, the center of my world would always somehow come back to Moriah.

I forced myself back to the couple beside me. “I think you should listen to your lovely wife, Gilderoy.”

My expectations were to hear protest from Gilderoy.  However, before he could speak, Lilliana turned her attention to me, her eyes brimming with tears just as Katelyn’s had when she looked at me earlier with the same solemn expression and I found myself stunned and frozen in her gaze. “While I do not deny that my husband is a hopeless romantic who has to be reeled in once in a while, I understand the basis of his cockamamie plan.   I cannot fathom the torment that you must be feeling, Marcus, and thus…my incredible worry for you and a desire just as passionate as Gilderoy’s to find a way somehow to enable you to have the love that you so rightly deserve.”

I reeled slightly from both her words and the sight of a tear rolling ever so gently down her cheek as she finished her impassioned thoughts on my situation.  Lilliana and I had always gotten along well, become great friends in fact.  I appreciated the balance and fierce protection and love that she brought to Gilderoy’s life—he needed it more than he would admit to himself after all he had been through.  However, I had never felt her fierce adoration directed towards me before and it suddenly hit me that like Gilderoy, I was fortunate indeed and had a new appreciation of our friendship.

As I had done earlier, I reached up and tenderly tried to wipe away her worry.  “I will be fine, Lilliana.  Do not waste your concern on me, although it is appreciated more than you know.  I have always accepted that I am—”

Before I could finish my sentence, I was cut off by the tearful beauty in front of me, who shot me the same warning glare I had seen her give to Gilderoy many times, “I do not like the word curse anymore than I like the words black sheep.  Honestly!  What is one to do with the both of you?” 

Instantly, I was silenced, feeling like an admonished child standing in front of her.  My mouth opened slightly to say something—an apology if I could find the words—but nothing came out.  My thoughts were broken into in that moment by Gilderoy who was chuckling under his breath.

“I would recommend silence for a moment, my friend,” he sang out to me, “and the heed of her words!”

Lilliana arched her eyebrow towards her husband as he found himself also on the receiving end of a stern warning, “Enough, Gilderoy!”

Gilderoy stretched his arms widely out from his sides as he flamboyantly bowed in front of her, “Yes, my amore!  Your wishes as always are my command!”

His actions quickly diffused my tension as I laughed out, “I think you should heed your own words, Gilderoy.  Silence, remember?”

Lilliana’s stern stance dissipated into exhaustive giggles as she shook her head towards the ground in mocked defeat of the turn in our conversation before regaining her composure enough to urgently plead, “Can we please get back to the matter at hand?”

The lighthearted moment slowly lifting, my tone reflected my determination, “As we all agree, tonight is not the night to do anything.  I will keep my word and wait until tomorrow to figure things out.”

Gilderoy’s protest was instant and decisive, “No!  It has to be tonight!  When will you ever have this opportunity again?  Especially with Alec’s involvement?  It’s not like you can just show up at their castle for a visit!”

Lilliana looked compassionately into Gilderoy’s beseeched eyes.  “I understand your feel of urgency, my love, but we all know that while distracting Lafayette is something that we may be able to accomplish, the challenges of removing Moriah from Alec’s sight are just too insurmountable!  Not to mention the inappropriateness of Ambrosia!  There are too many ways that this can go very wrong!”

I nodded fervently and downheartedly agreed, “She’s right, Gilderoy.  I appreciate everything you are trying to do, but as Lilliana just said, the challenges are too insurmountable.”

“Not necessarily,” a soft familiar voice filtered into our conversation, “Perhaps you just need some additional allies to help you in your mission.  Especially ones that know exactly how we can distract Alec.”

All of our heads snapped around to find Katelyn standing directly behind us, her eyes sparkling in amusement with a wide mischievous grin on her face.  It seems she had an idea of how to handle Alec. 

 ************

Marcos POV:

“NO!” I growled out indignantly, “Absolutely NOT!”

Katelyn gently brought her hand to my arm, “Marcus, be reasonable.  I can handle myself.”

Vincent, who had come to the balcony in time to hear his wife’s intentions growled under his breath from behind, “Looks like I’m late to this party, but my answer is the same as Marcus…NO!”

Katelyn whirled around, her body filling with nervous tension as she saw her husband’s infuriated expression.  Dropping her hand, she forced a grin and a hopeful reply, “I really don’t know why either of you are worried!  I am simply utilizing my femininity and Alec’s overt ego to our advantage!  Judging by his reaction to me earlier, it should work perfectly!”

“NO!” Vincent and I growled angrily in unison.

Her eyes wide as she stared at us in our protective vigor, Lilliana leaned in to whisper into Katelyn’s ear, “You may want to utilize some of your feminine wiles now for I fear this is not going the way you intended.”  Afterwards, she leaned back and gasped to herself in awe, “They are quite virile in their masculinity, aren’t they?”

“Hey!” Gilderoy harshly whispered out in defense, to which his wife gently returned as she leaned back on his chest, “While I am forever yours, my love…I am still a woman…and they are quite a sight.”  All Gilderoy could to was let out an irritated “hmph” in response before wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her protectively into him further.

Katelyn continued her determined stance as she calmly and lovingly looked at Vincent and me, “Gilderoy has brought to light a good point.  The opportunity to get Moriah alone is incredibly rare.  Tonight may be our only opportunity.  I know I can do this.  I can keep it innocent enough to enable success and allow Moriah’s feelings to be revealed.”  Her gaze falling directly on me, she implored, “Let me do this for you.  Please, for me…”

Despite the huge part of me that wanted nothing more than to be alone with Moriah to get the answers I needed, my need to protect Katelyn was stronger than her plea.  My wolf disagreed of course, but I couldn’t allow that kind of sacrifice.  Most of all, I couldn’t upset her husband—my best friend—on their celebratory night and give an opportunity to Alec to further any agenda he may have, thus propelling my argument, “I made a promise.  I will not go back on my word, Katelyn.  Tonight is not the night.  We will find another opportunity or I will just accept that it is my fate.  I cannot allow you to pursue this!”

“Agreed,” Vincent concurred, taking two long purposeful strides to reach his wife, leaning down to kiss Katelyn softly and then releasing his embrace and smoothing away a stray wisp of hair from her face, “We will find another way.  Please do not be upset at our refusal.  It is out of love for you and your happiness this evening.”

Katelyn was not yet ready, however, to give in.  She leaned up to give Vincent a kiss of her own, a slow kiss filled with passion, devotion, and love.  After their lips finally parted, she breathed out seductively, “If you want my happiness this evening, then you will allow me this slight digression from our night.  I promise it will be harmless and last only long enough for our closest friend—our family—to get the answers he desperately needs.  I assure you, my happiness will be especially evident after the party.” 

My best friend’s instant desirous reaction was no surprise, especially to me.  Katelyn was after all, his mate, and she knew every single button to push as Vincent helplessly groaned out, “Katelyn…don’t.”

Taking her hand, his wife slowly worked her way up Vincent’s thigh, over his now protruding manhood that made his pants tight until she reached his well-defined stomach, her touch tracing ever so lightly along the deep fine lines that were apparent even through the cover of his shirt.  Working her way up, she grazed along his pectoral muscles that flexed beneath their covering at her touch, up towards his neck before taking the side of his face in her palm, letting out a soft moan, and pulling him back down into a second lingering kiss. 

Lilliana grinned as she muttered under her breath, “Nicely done.” 

Gilderoy, still miffed by her earlier statement, mumbled out, “Seriously?”  Reaching up with her hand, Lilliana haphazardly patted his face, unable to bring herself to turn towards him as she continued to be enthralled with the friends in front of her, exhaling in a loving whisper and patting one more time, “Enough, Gilderoy.” 

It was obvious Katelyn’s actions worked as lips parted and I instantly lost my ally in the argument with Vincent earnestly declaring, “Marcus, my brother, make sure your inquiry does not last any longer than needed.” 

I warily glanced over at Katelyn, who was beaming with victory.  “While your efforts have afforded you your husband’s approval, there is nothing you can do to afford mine.  I do not agree with this.”

My last stand in our disagreement was met with an arched eyebrow from Katelyn, “Too late.  You are outnumbered and I know you, Marcus, and what you and your wolf are feeling right now.  You need this…and so it is decided.”   Wrapping her arms around her husband, she smiled brightly, “What do you say we have Carlos spread the word of Lafayette’s presence so Ambrosia can make her way towards him?”

Looking down on her, Vincent kissed her on the nose.  “I will also have Miko, Tobias, and Grayson join me on the side so we can keep an eye on you should any problems arise…and to help me not kill Alec in front of all of our friends if he touches you anywhere that he shouldn’t!”

Katelyn pecked him on the lips in agreement before turning and walking past me, “You will thank me after, Marcus.”

Vincent followed closely behind her, his eyes still helpless and apologetic as they caught my harrowed stare, “When she is determined, there is nothing that will stop her or anything I can do.”  Reaching out, he patted my shoulder, “I only hope that tonight, you will know this same feeling, my brother.  Go do what you must.  I will keep an eye on my wife and protect her from any harm.”

I continued to watch as Katelyn stopped and waited for Vincent to catch up to her close enough to put her arm around his waist, molding herself into him before they re-entered the ballroom together, the epitome of a forever intertwined loving couple.  I couldn’t help but also hope, as Vincent had just wished for me, that I would know that feeling one day.  I relished in that hope for a few moments before turning my attention back to the couple—in particular, young man—who had started the upcoming events that could change my life forever.

I had to hold back a laugh as I met with Gilderoy’s sheepish grin, his body shaking slightly in his nervousness as his wife carefully removed herself from the tremors, his voice reflecting a shaky confidence, “Katelyn is right.  We do have you outnumbered, but I also believe that a plan that comes together perfectly is fate’s intervention and intention, Marcus.  The hopeless romantic in me hopes that fate will be kind…and my friend will forgive me for my hand in its intervention should the intention not fulfill the destiny we all want for you.”

Lilliana turned to look at her husband, a deep admiration flowing like a breeze over her demeanor as she cupped his face, causing Gilderoy to let go of his nervousness as he peered into her eyes, her voice calming his soul, “So philosophical, but words that are so very true when it comes to the heart…and to fate.  I love you, you know…”   His head dropping to touch her forehead to his, Gilderoy leaned up to place a gentle kiss. 

Turning her head, Lilliana smiled gently at me.  “I understand your reservations and can see the potential for disaster on both sides.  But in the end, you, your wolf, and most of all, your heart deserve clarity and answers my dear Marcus.  Go find them and know that we are all here for you no matter the outcome!”

I inhaled a thick breath and felt it hitch in my throat, finding myself unable to exhale before my voice forced it out, “I understand that no matter what happens, good or bad, I have the love and support of you all and for that, I am fortunate.   Fate has always been both friend and foe to me.  Let’s hope tonight, it is my friend.”

Gileroy’s face was filled with both relief at the lack of expected anger, but at the same time, mixed with contemplation.  “Can I ask one favor of you in your quest for answers?  There is something that I’m quite curious about.”

I nodded, expecting some philosophical optimism to be bestowed once more.  What he asked me, however, added a complex question that I had not anticipated…

“I feel it is important to inquire about…her wolf.”

**********

Alec’s POV:

I ran my eyes over the room again, impatiently waiting for the opportunity to focus my attention back on the object of my current lust, Katelyn.  She and Vincent had gone out onto the balcony to join Marcus and that disgusting inbred, Gilderoy, a bane to the vampire community, just as his mother was to the werewolf community.  And Lilliana…well, someone who could look past Gilderoy’s reason for existence, much less love and marry him, held no regard to me.   I had enjoyed the trio’s absence immensely if I were truthful…at least until Katelyn and Vincent joined them.   

Peering down at Moriah, she seemed to continue to enjoy her little outing, taking in all the festivities with wide eyes and sweet smile.  There had been many people watching her throughout the night, all of them intrigued.  My mate, Lexi was adamant that my decision to bring Moriah tonight was a mistake and did not understand why I had even considered it.  Actually, I couldn’t understand why I had agreed to Vincent’s request either.  There had been many invitations and opportunities in the past for Moriah’s presence at events, but I had always declined her attendance as my father had done before me citing her illness and knowing that she needs to be protected at all costs. 

Maybe it was the temptation of Vincent and Moriah’s interaction in the garden and how it could draw him closer into my plans.  Maybe it was the anger I felt towards my mate who was unaware that I caught her flirting with Raul, one of my high ranking Omegas, and the pleasure I got at her irritation of Moriah’s momentary exit from the castle as I sent her on my little errand.  Maybe it was the smallest inkling of guilt I felt towards Moriah and the reassurance from Lenore.  Regardless, the decision had been made and I had no time for regrets.  It was done and I was confident that it would not pose any threat to me.  It was, after all, just one night.

But perhaps, after waiting impatiently for some time for Vincent and Katelyn’s return, it was time for us to make our leave.  No one else at the gala held any interest for me and I was growing rather tired of the incessant interest in Moriah and absence of my mind’s desire.

With one last glance at the entryway of the balcony, I decidedly stated to Moriah, “I’m afraid our night must come to an end, dear sister.  It’s growing rather late and I think you have had more than enough excitement for one evening.”

Moriah’s happy expression instantly fell into dejection, her distraught eyes peering up at me, “Oh please not yet!  Just a while longer…at least until we can say our goodbyes to Vincent and Katelyn.”

Pushing my chair back, I stood and extended my hand out decisively, “This is not up for discussion, Moriah.” 

Lafayette came up behind Moriah and gently pulled her chair out as she reluctantly placed her hand in mine and slowly stood up.  As she stood, I caught the magnificent fragrance of Katelyn’s return.  The smell of sweet hyacinths invigorating my senses sending my gaze back towards the entryway, overwhelming delight flowing over me as I saw Katelyn making her way directly to our table with Vincent following closely behind. 

Katelyn’s smile turned quickly into distress as her step quickened.  “Please tell me that you two are not leaving just yet!  It is still early!”

I apologetically smiled back at her, considering for a moment to simply send Moriah home and stay at her request but looking at Vincent’s close proximity to Katelyn and deciding against it.  “I’m afraid that we must call it an evening.  Congratulations to you both and thank you for a wonderful evening.  I look forward to the opportunity to see you again soon.”

What happened next was quite unexpected…Katelyn appeared incredibly dismayed at my exit.  I found myself both confused and euphoric. 

Katelyn regrettably sighed out, “I wish I could change your mind!  I was hoping that you might join me on the dance floor for a turn or two.  A show of our kingdoms aligning into a new alliance together.”

“Yes,” Vincent agreed amicably, “I hope that you will not disappoint my dear wife in her request.”

I cleared my throat and paused for a moment to look deeply into Katelyn’s eyes to get a sense of her true meaning.  It seemed she was imploring me to fulfill her wish.  How could I turn down such a beautiful woman?

My smile could not contain the pleasure I felt throughout my body at the thought of having Katelyn in my arms, even if for a few moments.  “Well, I am not one to disappoint such beauty and am flattered at your request, Katelyn.”  Looking back at Lafayette, I instructed him, “Why don’t you escort Moriah home and l will follow a bit later.”

Moriah’s face fell as I released my grip on her hand and nodded at her, “It appears you get your wish and can say your farewells for the evening, sister.”

“Actually,” Katelyn affectionately interrupted, “When Moriah and I were talking earlier in the garden, we fell upon the subject of my drawing room.  It contains some beautiful artwork that my loving husband has gone out of his way to obtain and gift to me over the years including one of my favorite paintings, Garden Path of Peace.  I gave my promise that I would take her there to show it to her but have not had the opportunity to do so.  I would hate to disappoint her by going back on my promise.  Perhaps Lafayette could escort her to view it personally and following our dance, we can join them so that Vincent and I can say our heartfelt goodbyes without so many prying eyes?”

Both Katelyn and Moriah were looking at me with pleading eyes…something I found myself unable to refuse in the end, particularly Katelyn’s stunning green orbs, “I suppose I can appease you both, as I’m sure Lafayette can insure my sister's safety.”

Moriah was ecstatic, “Oh thank you, brother!”  She then sent a grateful smile towards our hosts.

Katelyn happily clapped her hands together, “Wonderful!  It is settled then!”

I sent a hard stare at my Beta, who nodded in understanding of my warning before returning my admiration to Katelyn and extending out my hand, “Well, then…shall we?”

Katelyn beamed at me as she placed her hand in mine and we made our way to the dance floor as Moriah and Lafayette made their way towards the drawing room, leaving Vincent alone as I eagerly anticipated taking his wife into my arms.