Finally, she starts looking at me. “Masen.” When she’s says my name, it never fails to make my whole body light up. Her sweet southern drawl rounding out the sounds like honey.
“Yeah, Baby?” My voice is thick.
“I can’t let you take all the blame, so stop. I was being childish. I thought I was ready for...that, and obviously, I’m not.” She shakes her head. “Now that I’m awake and we’ve talked, I get it. And Masen, I know you weren’t trying to hurt me. So, quit torturing yourself. I was the one trying to prove a point to someone who has no business in our lives, let alone our bedroom.” Her voice is quiet. She’s embarrassed. I’m in awe of her eloquence and her generous nature.
I’m one lucky fucker. “I love you, Sophia.” It’s all I have to offer right now, but because she is who she is, it’s more than enough. Her smile is genuine if not a little pained from her re-split lip.
“I love you, too, Masen.”
“Now, let’s get you shifted. I want to do it here. I’ll let you outside and shift when I get out. Don’t worry about the bed. I’ll take care if it.”
She looks at the bed, then at me. “What’s wrong with the bed?” She asks curiously.
“I mean when you shift, the mess.”
Her head tilts. “What mess?”
Is she serious? “Just shift, Baby.”
Her eyebrows are raised; she shakes her head.
Then to my utter amazement, she shifts in seconds to a beautiful, solid white wolf. She’s twice the size of any female wolf I’ve ever seen. “Holy shit,” I mutter in astonishment. She didn’t writhe or claw. Shit, she didn’t even make a noise. One minute she is my sweet baby; the next, she’s a fierce wolf that’s been extinct for hundreds of years.
She pads over to me on the edge of the bed and nuzzles her face under my neck. She has no idea she’s different. “Little One?” I try wondering if our bond will allow me to communicate with her before I shift. She looks at me her amber eyes soft.
Masen I hear in my head. My jaw must hit the floor. I can hear her like she speaking to me. Usually, we’ll get feelings, but she’s linked to me like we are fully Mated.
“Baby, you didn’t know you’re different?” I ask but send her my emotions, showing her how wonderful and beautiful I think she is.
No, what’s different about me?
Shit, where do I even begin? At least, things make more sense now. I don’t know enough about white wolves to understand all the differences. I can tell she’s picking up my thoughts.
So, because I’m white, I’m different? That’s kind of silly. What color are you?
“Not only are you white, which is really special, you’re much bigger than the usual female.”
Not much new there, she interrupts.
“I think this explains a lot of the things we’ve been questioning. Why your parents kept you separated, how we knew each other as Mates before you shifted, why you challenge me, shit why you smell so good to everyone,” I add bitterly. Yeah, I’m a selfish bastard, “how our bond is already so strong before we’ve had a ceremony. How you’re even communicating with me right now.” I let my thoughts run free with how shifting usually works for most: the slight pain, how a wolf and person aren’t able to speak to each other, with the exception of the Alpha. How only fully joined Mates can hear each other; unMated wolves only communicate with the feelings or emotions.
Maybe it’s because you’re an Alpha that you can hear me. And, It did hurt the first time I shifted but only for an hour or two and not since.
My mind reels at the possibilities; then fear hits me like a wave. We have to be fully Mated soon. Every unMated Alpha will try to challenge me for her. I growl and snarl so loud she jumps. I’ve already Marked her, but there is still a chance they would try. I have to keep this between us and a few of my trusted men until I understand everything it means. My chest swells with pride that she chose me. My wolf is begging to be free. “Oh, Baby, I don’t think we should run without taking precautions. I don’t want anyone knowing about you being a white wolf yet. The risk is too great. Do you need to run?” I ask sadly. My wolf is pissed. “I protect mine,” he growls at me.
I don’t really need to run, but I don’t want to shift back yet. Can I just hang out in here for a bit? Will you shift to? My wolf wants her Mate. Plus I want to see you. I’m not bigger than you am I? She asks, horrified at the thought.
I chuckle. “Not by a long shot, Baby.” I feel her relief. She’s so damn adorable. “I guess I can shift. It’s not nearly as graceful as yours, a bit more explosive, yeah.” I walk to the other side of the room and let my wolf free.
SOPHIA
Masen’s wolf is majestic. He’s also massive and solid black, so black his fur swallows the light. His white blue eyes remain the same creating a contrast so striking it almost looks unreal. His shift was electric; I felt his wolf burst free. If I wasn’t already shifted, it would have forced me through my change. You’re so big.
He gruffs out loud, almost like a laugh. I know, he answers smugly.
I roll my eyes. Impossible, I joke. Can I come over there? I’ve never met another wolf, I say excitedly.
Yeah Baby, come on. I can feel the humor directed at me.
I almost run. Not used to the hardwood when jump from the bed, I slide a little; my claws dig in to find purchase. I grimace. Sorry, Masen. He doesn’t care; it doesn’t even register. His wolf towers over me. His muzzle drops to my shoulder, finding his Mark. He bites me gently then licks over the slight burn. He nuzzles me all over, rubbing his scent on me as I stand still while he circles me. He’s a little muskier as a wolf, but still the best scent I’ve ever smelled.
My turn yet?
His answering growl tells me he’s not done. I chuff but wait allowing his perusal.
When he finally finishes, he stands back for my inspection, head held high, back legs wide. He’s like a big ole show puppy. I giggle to myself. He growls low in warning not liking my comparison. I nuzzle my Mark giving him the same treatment he bestowed upon mine. Then I play I nudge, push, and nip him. His stance lowers. That’s all the warning I get before he pounces.
Masen’s gentle with me while we play. His bedroom still looks like a bomb went off when we’re done. I pant hard, hungry and thirsty from our rough housing. My wolf is content to have met her Mate and expel some energy. I need to eat, I send to Masen.
We are lying on his floor bathed in the warm afternoon sun light from a window. I don’t know what it is about being in a cool house laying in the heat of the sun that’s so appealing. I do it all the time in my other form; usually, I’m on the couch. I snicker, I’ve never changed indoors before, never felt safe enough to.
Okay, Little One, let’s shower and get some food. Masen watches me change back. It’s just as uneventful as before. I watch him in turn. He stretches; then in seconds, he’s my Masen again. We both smile at my thought.
All my injuries are healed; my body feels better than it has in ages. Masen is attentive in the shower. Worshiping my body gently as he washes me before trying to wash my long hair. “It felt so good when you washed mine. I wanted to do that for you,” he pouts.
“Masen, have you ever had long hair before?” I ask knowing the answer.
“Not really,” he huffs.
“Well, it’s a little different; that’s all. You’ll have to watch and learn,” I say sassily.
He grabs me around the waist squeezing. “You, sassy girl, need to wash mine. That will help teach me,” he states with a nod, proud of his backward logic. I roll my eyes. I’m going to develop a tic at this rate. I finish with my hair and give Masen his lesson, before washing him.
When we get out, he again takes his time drying me. “I don’t know how you want to dry your hair, Baby.” He hands me a towel after he’s wrapped me up. He dries himself proficiently and leaves the room to dress. I finish my business then follow him out to dress myself.
Both too hungry to bother making anything, I plate up cold
cuts, cheese, and some fresh strawberries. The phone rings when the first morsel of cheese melts in my mouth. We both look at the offending device like it’s a loaded weapon. I’m not close enough to see who’s calling. Blowing out a breath, Masen answers. With his mouth full, he mumbles, “Yeah.” I can’t hear the other side of the conversation, but I can tell by his demeanor it’s not her. He’s quiet for a few moments listening. “Let me know if anything changes,” he says briskly and hangs up. “They didn’t return to your old house last night. No one has reported any sightings. If we haven’t found anything by Monday morning, you’ll have two options,” he raises one finger, “no school” I scoff. He arches one eyebrow challenging me but smiles beautifully then raises the second finger, “or a body guard.” This time he lifts both brows repeatedly.
“You are such a freak,” I laugh out.
Masen works in his office for a bit while I do my homework then start to play with my new camera. I take a few pictures of the inside of the house but decide I need a better muse. Sneaking to his office, I can hear him on the phone speaking sternly to someone. I lower to my hands and knees wrapping the camera’s strap around my neck. I crawl through the door one handed while I use the other hand to steady the camera. I move behind the sofa as quickly as I dare. I don’t think he knows I’m in the room. He’s facing the opposite wall, looking out the window.
I turn off the flash and change the shutter speed to hopefully keep the camera silent. “Just handle it! That’s what you’re paid to do!” He snaps as he turns and hangs up the phone. “Fucking idiot,” he curses. I snap the first picture. He didn’t seem to hear me, so I wait until I’m ready and continue snapping away. He’s so attractive. His harsh face rugged. You would never know hours ago he was playing with me and pouting in the shower. I love that I see the sweet, kind side of him. Seconds pass before he lifts his head and scents the air. Masen’s whole face changes, and I snap shot after shot as his eyes light up the corners of his mouth lifting. God, he’s gorgeous.
“You can’t hide, Little One. If I wasn’t so damn distracted, I would have known the moment your pretty, little ass came within twenty feet. Now come out and give me a kiss. These people piss me off,” He states gruffly. I poke my head up and pout back at him.
“I was working,” I say in mock chastisement.
“Kiss. Baby, I need it.” He looks at me from under his brows, trying to be firm, but his lips are soft with one corner turned up. I huff like its a pain but comply. I throw myself onto his lap dramatically.
Masen kisses me sweetly like he’s afraid of anything more after this morning. I turn up the heat a bit but pull away before it gets too far. “I love you, Masen.”
His eyes bore into mine. “Love you, too, Little One.”
I sit with him while he works a bit more before asking. “what’s Black Industries?”
“One of my businesses,” he answers aloofly.
“What kind of business?”
“I have lots of little businesses. Black Industries is one of the larger ones, but it holds lots of little ones.” He smiles kindly.
“Why are you being so weird? This is the second time I’ve asked you about your business, and you just keep being evasive. Do you not want me to know?” I ask defensively.
“No, no,” he dismisses me, “it’s nothing like that. I just own lots of business, but the only one I really have a hand in anymore is Black Industries. I don’t mean to be weird about it,” he chuckles, “most everyone around here knows what it is. A lot of shifters come here just because I own Black.” He shrugs his shoulders. “I’ve gotten in the habit of not talking about it.”
My back is cradled by his arm; my legs hang over the arm rest; his arm curves over my thighs. He looks down and smiles at me. He didn’t shave this morning so his shadowed jaw is darker. He’s back to wearing jeans with a black vee neck tee shirt that looks tailored. It hasn’t been; it just fits that well, the shoulders and arms straining over his mass, stopping just below his belt. I know every time he raises his arm I’ll be awarded with a glimpse of his toned, tan belly. I also happen to know he’s commando beneath his button flys. His feet are bare under the desk, making one overall package so sexy it’s overwhelming.
“I’m very glad you like what you see, Baby.” My cheeks blush. I need to remember he can read me and hear me.
“How come I can’t hear your thoughts anymore?”
He looks thoughtful “I’m not sure if you need to learn to tune in or if it’s because I’m an Alpha. I can communicate with everyone in my pack one way or another. You can sense me. I think it’ll be trial and error and practice, but we’ll figure it out.” His face is pensive. Suddenly, I want to kiss him desperately so I do. When we break, he smiles before saying, “see!”
Huh? “See what?” I ask slowly what am I missing.
“You felt me wanting you to kiss me.” He chuckles; my belly drops. “You just have to learn to listen. Your wolf will always hear me; I am the Alpha.”
“Okay, but I want to hear you. Say something to me now not as a wolf.” I close my eyes and focus like it somehow might help. Masen tweets my nose and says, “so adorable.” With my eyes still closed, I bat his hand away. It’s quiet. I feel his chest rising; I hear his heart beating but no words.
Masen, can you hear me? I think. Still, no response. I’m a little sad, but maybe when we are fully joined, I’ll be able to hear him.
“I did hear you, Little One,” he says kindly. “You’re right. After our union, you probably will. Don’t forget not to discuss this with anyone yet. You could probably talk to Nicole if you have some questions. Michael will know so she will know. Just not yet, yeah?”
I don’t know how well my next question will go over, but it’s only fair. “Will you teach me to block you?”
His head swings to me. “Absolutely not!” He snaps. “Why the hell would you want to block me?” He asks disbelievingly.
“Calm down, Big Guy, I was just asking, but I don’t want anybody else in your pack reading me. I don’t have any experience blocking. You are the only one who can help me.” Overreact much.
“No, I’m not overreacting.” he’s sullen.
“Masen, it’s fine as long as everyone else can’t feel or hear me. That would be mortifying.” I shudder thinking about it.
“Awe, Baby, what ya thinking about?” He teases.
“Stop it, Masen. I would be so embarrassed if someone felt me thinking about us,” I spout.
He just laughs at me. “If you still want to go to the Hall tonight, we need to get ready, we can grab dinner there, too, if you want.”
It’s a little after six. I am getting hungry, again. “Yeah, I still want to go. Should I wear jeans, a dress, or something in the middle?” I gonna need to head home again to get my cloths; maybe he’ll take me tomorrow. I don’t want to go there by myself; it’s to creepy.
“It’s pretty casual. You look beautiful in anything so wear whatever you want,” he says distracted.
That is not at all helpful. “Masen, can I use your phone?” I huff. I can tell he’s confused.
“Ah sure, it’s under here somewhere. Here ya go.”
Scrolling through to the N’s, I find only one Nicole. “This is Michael’s Nicole, right?”
He looks up at the phone then me. “Oh yeah, why are you calling her?”
Men they have no clue. “I need to know what to wear, Masen.” I roll my eyes yet again.
Swiping her name, I select call. It rings twice before a man answers, question clear in his voice, “Mase?”
“Ah no, this is Sophia. I was hoping I could talk with Nicole. Is this Michael?”
“Yeah, sorry, Luna. She’s right here. Just one second.”
Her voice soft and kind. “Hey Sophie. How are you?”
“I’m good. Sorry to bother you.”
“Oh, it’s no bother. So, what’s up?”
“Well, Masen is taking me to the hall to the bar part, and when I asked him what to wear.
..”
Her laugh interrupts me. “Let me guess, he said wear anything you’ll look beautiful,” she tries to imitate his deep voice, which makes me laugh.
“Yeah, that was almost perfect. So, any advice? I don’t have to much to chose from. I haven’t got all my stuff.”
“Well, during the week, it’s pretty casual. On the weekends, the girls usually go all out. So, I’d say either break the mold and go cute casual or really gussy it up. Don’t worry though. You’ll be stunning,” she says sincerely.
“Thank you, Nicole. Will you and Michael be coming?”
“Ya know. We weren’t, but now, I think we might.”
“Thanks again, Nicole. I’ll see ya there.”
“No problem. See you soon, Sophie.”
We say goodbye and hang up. I’m not much better off than I was, but at least, I’ll know someone there. While I was on the phone, I made my way back to the bedroom. I’m now in the closet going through my meager selection. Skinny jeans and a nice top with heels or my last sundress with my cowboy boots. I’m already going to stick out like a sore thumb. Being the only size fourteen in a pack full of fours or sixes makes it kind of hard to blend in. So, I might as well wear what I want.
My sundress is white with a small floral pattern. It’s high waisted, but because my chest is so big, it looks empire waisted on me. The front top resembles a corset with hook and eye closures, but the thin material isn’t too tight. The bottom hem lands right above my knee. The skirting has two layers of the same thin fabric from the top creating a fuller effect. Thank goodness, I didn’t wear this yesterday. I leave my hair down, long and wavy. It’s not too frizzy so I’m happy with it. I want to look nice for Masen, so I add a little eyeliner to my mascara and blush to my cheeks before smacking on some vanilla lip balm. I’ve already repainted my nails a deep dark purple, so I grab my boots and go find Masen.
Becoming His Page 17