Traditions_The Sweetwater Pack

by Terri L Vest

  He did respect the pack alpha, however. He had seen Silas use his alpha power when needed and demanded obedience. That was something Finn could get behind! Obedience! That's why when Silas had approached Roy and Finn about possibly mating Finn with Reika, he couldn't believe his luck! There could be no more enjoyable way to become alpha, than to mate with the alpha's pup! Finn knew that Reika wasn't thrilled with the idea, but luckily, she didn't have any say in it. There were expectations for her, pack rules and traditions, and she'd just have to tow the line! He knew that he was a catch for any of the females in the pack. He had looks, strength, position ... what more could any female want? Yup, Finn could see his plans for the future slowly take root and he smiled at his good fortune! Now all he had to do was sweet talk the fair Reika a little and he'd be set!

  As Finn looked up, he noticed that Reika herself was headed his way. "Is that destiny or what?" he mumbled to himself Putting a smile on his face he whispered. "It's show time!"

  * * * *

  As Reika had strolled her way down through town, pondering just how she would approach Finn, her tension had slipped away with the enjoyment of the day. Reika loved the outdoors and connecting with other pack mates. She would wave and smile and call out a greeting to each and everyone she saw. She was well liked by most of the pack and was granted the right of respect due to her position as a child of the alpha. Most were also aware of her stubbornness but it never seemed to cause any difficulty for any of them so they allowed her the occasional outburst, and their loyalty to her was unconditionally given. They'd protect her with their lives. She felt the same way for each of them as well, so the affection was genuine for everyone.

  With the peace that had wrapped itself around her like a soft comforting shawl, Reika approached Finn with a look of serenity on her face. Watching her approach, he noticed her beauty and couldn't help but smile at the feeling of love and acceptance that seem to radiate from her. For one brief moment, he reveled in the honor that would be his once they were mated. She was a creature of beauty, peace and love. As she approached him, both raised their eyes to the other and the moment passed. Though Reika maintained a peaceful feeling, the contentment she'd felt slipped away. Finn shook himself out of his foolish 'starry eyed' boy feeling and took on a more 'in charge' appearance.

  "Good afternoon, Reika. You're looking lovelier than ever today." Finn reached for her hand and kissed the back of it, continuing to hold her hand as he straightened up to his full height. Allowing himself the ownership of her hand and commanding her attention as he overshadowed her, he looked down upon her, presenting the best smile he could muster that he felt would capture her attention, and affection.

  "Good Afternoon Finn. Thank you. You're looking rather dashing yourself." Reika smiled a pleasant smile, not wanting to offer too much, lest he begin to think he'd already won her hand. There was no way she was going to make it that easy for him! If he wanted to mate with her, he was going to have to show that he was a worthy contender. To be worthy, he'd have to be genuine - and honest! She decided to allow him to continue holding her hand for a while longer to see whether he just held it, or if he used it to relay some hidden affection for her.

  "Would you care to come inside and chat for a while or would you prefer to continue your walk?" Finn asked. He felt either choice could allow him the freedom to seek her attention in a manner of his own choosing, but he'd leave it up to her for now.

  "Actually, I think I'd prefer to continue walking, if that's acceptable to you," Reika replied.

  Nodding his head in acceptance he replied, "Very well then, let's walk". He wrapped her hand up over his arm and laid his hand over hers in order to pull her in close to his side as they continued walking down the way. With her small size, and his large one, in order for her hand to wrap up over his arm, it did indeed pull her close.

  He looked down at her to see if she'd object and pull away but was happy to see that she would accept this small advance without protest. Perhaps winning her over wasn't going to be as difficult as he'd prepared himself for. Nodding slightly, more for himself in acceptance of his own self professed attraction and superiority, he began a stroll towards the woods.

  The path wove through the trees, passing a little pond, then leading into a small meadow surrounded by a grove of trees, and finally towards a tall hill that had a large tree perch on top like a sign for the finish line. That's where he was heading, the perfect spot to 'woo' his mate into acceptance.

  Reika politely smiled, astounded by his arrogance and presumption that she was an easily achieved prize for him to take. This was going to make for an interesting 'game' if nothing else. She could see that he far under estimated her determination to get what she wanted, in her own way if necessary, and that he didn't seem to entertain that she even had a mind of her own. Like she was nothing more than sheep to be led to slaughter. Was he ever in for an eye opening afternoon!

  They chatted politely as they walked at a leisurely pace. Neither in a hurry to get where they were going - or to end the adventure, and of course each with their own separate goal. "How are your brothers doing these days? I understand they've each followed very different paths in life," Finn said as he tried to begin a longer conversation than the one liners they seemed to be stuck on. Even Finn knew that they would need some kind of connection to be able to obtain a relationship they could sustain.

  "Oh they are doing wonderfully!" Reika said as her eyes lit up with the love she felt for them. "Hendrix is becoming more and more successful in his world, Ronin is becoming one of the best warriors around and Harper is appearing to be able to play pretty much anything that he puts his hands on. The world seems to be opening up and offering them all the choices they could ever hope for in pursuit of success and happiness!" she beamed as she relayed the information about her brothers.

  The smile that Finn had placed on his face slipped a bit as he heard of their successes. He hadn't taken the time to pursue any particular career yet. Instead, he had spent his time solidifying his place within the pack. He knew that it would take more than that to be a good alpha, or even to be considered for it. Yet he believed he had time. Clearly, he didn't have as much as he'd hoped for. He knew that the successes of the alpha sons would put them ahead of Finn in consideration of alpha replacement someday, but he had hoped that if he was impressive enough, Silas just may bypass his sons for the son of his second.

  It was time to stop imagining and dreaming, and start on a plan to get what he wanted. Maybe, just maybe, he could get there faster through Reika. As this realization formed within his mind, determination to have it all sprouted roots deep within his heart. He was now willing to do anything he had to, to get what he wanted, and no one was going to stop him!

  CHAPTER SIX

  Upon reaching the top of the hill, Finn led Reika over to the large tree. The sun was shining warmly and the shade offered a reprieve from it's heat. He settled himself at the base of the tree and reached a hand up for Reika, indicating his desire for her to join him. She stood for a moment, looking down at him, searching his eyes in an attempt to gather his purpose and intent. He remained still, a pleasant, unassuming smile on his face, hoping only to show an invitation for a peaceful visit and good conversation.

  Seeing nothing that left her feeling uncomfortable, or like she was being trapped, she accepted his hand and lowered herself to the ground. Finn was careful not to let a triumphant smile reach his face. He knew he was being judged at the moment and, as much as that genuinely irritated him, he was determined to keep his intent under wraps for the moment. He knew Reika was a stubborn, willful female and if he wasn't careful, she'd run just out of spite, and to prove that she was in charge of her world. He, of course, knew otherwise, but he'd play along for now.

  "Now, isn't this nice. Whenever I feel like things are closing in, I love to come up here, breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the peaceful surroundings to help ease the stress of daily living. Don't you agree that this is a wonderful spot?
" Finn asked, smiling with a look of relaxation upon his face.

  Reika looked around, noting the way the sun lay across the land, peeking through the brush as the breeze gently tickled it's way through and all the wildlife seemed to accept this place as one of peace and safety. It was truly a wonderful place to come to and let everything else go. She smiled with the feeling of serenity that settled over her. "It's beautiful, Finn. Thank you for sharing this with me."

  Finn was caught off guard by the pureness of her emotions. He'd known that connecting with her this way would be a boost to his position in the battle to win her over, but he hadn't expected just how deeply she would connect to the location. He studied her eyes, enjoying her beauty. He watched her relax and let her guard down, just being a girl out with the boy of her choice. This had been a wise move on his part in the game of love he was playing. A 'tool' that just may give him a huge boost in his quest!

  "Reika", Finn said softly, "You are the most beautiful woman I know. You're smart, compassionate, fiercely loyal to those you love in a way most could only dream of. I just want you to know that I think any man lucky enough to get you as his mate couldn't ask for better in his life". Finn gazed at her with clear admiration and a bit of lust mixed in. He wasn't going to presume that she was unaware of his desire to have her, as well as knowing of the proposed mating between their fathers. "I hope you'll give me a chance to prove to you that I can be that man. I will do the best I can to make you happy." He reached up and gently stroked her cheek, enjoying the softness of it. Even he was surprised by the amount of feeling that had crept into his promise to her to be what she needed.

  Startled by the proclamation and the endearing touch, Reika studied Finn, trying to gauge his honesty. This was not the Finn she'd come to know. Either he did truly feel something for her after all, or he was the best actor and liar among them. She tried to discreetly disengage from the caress of her cheek. Smiling, she leaned back against the tree. "Finn, I appreciate the very kind words, truly. Why is it I've not seen any sign before now of your interest in me?" she asked. "From what I've seen, I'd say you are ambitious in your desire to be alpha someday. I fear that this move is one to help your chances in achieving that dream. What if mating me does not guarantee you that position? Are you so willing, then, to profess your desire to claim me? You DO understand that I am not the type of female to be controlled by her mate, do you not? I fear that our personalities would clash with differing beliefs in the rolls and duties of mates." Reika decided upfront that outright honesty was best, and she now waited to see how he would reply.

  Finn sat back, returning his hand to his lap, stunned that she would rebuff him so quickly and put him on the spot to justify his actions in pursuit of her. His smile had slipped and he fought to keep his anger at bay. Perhaps she was testing him! He'd have to be careful how he proceeded in this conversation. Maybe she just needed to be shown that he desired her in a more thorough way than words. With that thought, Finn quickly leaned in and captured her mouth with his own while his body pinned her against the tree. He believed most females could be persuaded with passion. He'd just give her what she clearly wanted!

  Reika was so stunned by his actions that before she knew what was happening, he had used his strength to immobilize her and was forcing his unwanted attentions on her like she was some weak willed omega female that craved attention from anyone who would offer it! She struggled against him, hoping he'd get the point that his advances were not desired, but to no avail. He was simply much to strong. As a last attempt to escape, she managed to catch his lip between her teeth and she bit down hard.

  Yelping, he instantly let her go and pulled back, noting the taste of blood on his tongue as his lip had begun to bleed profusely. "What is wrong with you?" he yelled. "Why would you bite me like that? I thought you wanted me to show you the truth of how I felt? That's all I was doing! Jeeeezzz!" Struggling to contain his fury and keep from striking her, he stood up to put some distance between them. This was definitely not going as he'd hoped for!

  Reika fought to contain her own anger. "What the hell do you think you're doing? What have I done that even hinted that I wanted you to kiss me?" she fumed. "We don't really even know each other that well, and I had just told you I won't be controlled by my mate, and you go and do something like that? Force yourself on me???!! You really don't know me at all if you think that is what I wanted!" Reika climbed to her feet and she began to brush the pieces of foliage off her clothes as she struggled to cool down. Even if she had wanted him to kiss her, it had been filled with a strong message of dominance rather than affection, which had instantly raised her hackles! She now knew that Finn would NOT be the mate she would take. She'd leave the pack completely before she'd allow that to happen. She would now have to take this message to her father and make it clear that Finn was NOT to be a choice as her mate. He would either agree, or she'd leave.

  "I think we've had enough communing with nature. This little chat session is over," she said without looking at him, but rather in the direction in which they would head back.

  "Reika, please, I'm sorry," he said. "I misread the situation. I see now that you need more than a physical connection, but a mental one as well. Please, forgive my presumption and actions! I won't let it happen again." Finn looked at her with a truly contrite expression. Not so much from true regret, but rather fear of losing the ability to join himself with the alpha family. Deep down, he consoled himself with knowing that after he won her affections and she became his mate, he'd make her pay for what she'd just done.

  Reika, however, had made up her mind. It took a lot to break her trust, but this act of dominance had proven what she'd already known in her heart. Finn saw her as a possession. Reika was aware of how he was with the females in the pack. He was known to satisfy himself any chance he got with whoever was willing. He thought he was being discreet, but the females talked amongst themselves and word had traveled of his player ways. Reika had hoped, by giving him a chance, that he had finally begun to settle down, respect the females and their individuality, and begin acting like a man rather than a demanding boy. Clearly, nothing had changed. "I'm sorry Finn, I just don't see it working between us. We are very different in our expectations of our mates, and I feel your ambitions lie at the front of your desires. I won't be another's possession. I know there is someone out there for you, but it's not me," she ended, hoping to soften the blow of her rejection.

  Seeing Reika move to step around him and head back to town, Finn's restraint snapped as he saw his chance to join with the alpha family slip away. Growling deeply within his chest, he stepped into her path and caught her by the arm, spinning her back around and throwing her to the ground. No female was going to deny him what he wanted, even the alpha's daughter! His sharp canines grew as his claws pushed out and he took a threatening stance over her, daring her to move. He would have what he wanted, and that was to mate with the alpha's daughter. He knew once he took her, there'd be no turning back, no denying him. It was pack law.

  Reika stared up at Finn, not believing what she was seeing. She couldn't say she had no fear, for this change in him was truly unsettling, but she'd never let it show to someone like Finn. To show fear was to give up control, and that was something she would NEVER do! "Finn! What do you think you're doing?? Don't be a fool and do something you'll regret later. No one has to know about this if you step back and walk away. You have my word I won't tell my father if you just let me up. Just turn around and go", said Reika, hoping he'd see the line he was about to cross.

  It was too late for Finn however. In his mind, his manhood and honor had been disrespected and he would have to show her that his way was the only way, and that she was to be his mate. Black fur began to erupt over his body as the shift began to happen. He knew he would dominate her in wolf form, so wolf is what he'd become. Bones began to shift and in the next moment, the change was complete and before her stood a large, jet black wolf with bright orange eyes. His canines had dropped t
o the fullest length and he was now a force to fear.

  Luckily, once Reika realized he was going to shift, she knew her only chance against him would be for her to be in wolf form as well. She had practiced her shift many times so that she could do it quickly, should she ever need to, and this moment held that very need. Though she wasn't as large as he was, before him stood a blond wolf with bright green eyes. She knew her smaller size would give her the speed and agility she'd need to get away from him. If he caught her, his strength would be too much for her and all would be lost.

  Both wolves stood growling at each other. Reika had slowly begun to maneuver, trying to get on the side that would allow her to run for home without having to pass by him. Finn was slowly trying to close the distance between them. All he needed was to be close enough to pounce on her and he'd have the prize he sought. He didn't intend to seriously hurt her, but he wouldn't let her get away before he took what he felt he deserved.

  As Reika let her gaze slip off of Finn to check her position, Finn pounced. He hit her with his large shoulder and sent her rolling across the ground. He tried to position himself on top of her, to straddle her, keeping her underneath him, but her small size had let her roll faster than Finn had planned on and she managed to slip past his attempt to pin her. She bound up to her feet and took off running. Once Finn had completed his roll, he bound to his feet and was after her. He knew he couldn't let her reach town before he took her down or he'd be finished! He pushed his larger frame faster, using the natural strength given to the shifter wolf and he began to close in on her. They raced between the trees, weaving side to side. Each time he thought he had her, she would shift directions and dart between the closest trees. Just as he was about to reach her, she darted left, hearing the snapping of his jaws and knowing that he'd just about had her. As she ran, she raised her head and sent out a distressed howled as loud as she could. She knew her only chance was if she could get someone's attention. As they approached the last small hill before town, just within reach of safety, Finn slammed into her, knocking the wind out of her and cutting off her howls.