Emma noticed Mia was having a battle of her own trying to calm Ryleigh. No, listen Ryleigh I know your man is out there and every instinct you have is telling to you to go to him. But you need to sit your pregnant ass fucking down and protect that life inside you. Jacks has this the others will be here soon and you already called your Dad. Let him do his job Ryleigh Mia pleaded. Emma went to them holding Kenna in her arms and the ladies held each other in a group hug waiting for whatever was going to happen next.
Chapter 44
The guys made record time getting back to base. Cash flew like the wind and now Dalton was driving as if he were on the Audubon. As they screamed down the driveway an explosion rocked the SUV. Dalton had to slam on the brakes just to keep the damn thing on the road. Fuck listen I can’t get a hold of Jacks. Cash said. He is either with the woman or he is trying to figure out who the hell is blowing holes in our base. My guess would be the latter.
Dalton was shaking he needed to get to Emma and Kenna. He had to make sure they were okay. All they had learned was piling up on him, from Emma recounting the events, to seeing them in living color on video’s Hamilton kept in his house. There was also a detailed accounting of what the asshole planed on doing to the baby if he could get away with it. He was a sick fucker! Now someone had breached their territory, intent on doing more harm. Dalton was not having it and his bear was even more enraged. The beast was more present then Dalton wanted him to be in that moment he needed to maintain his head but the animal inside was in a frenzy.
The tension in the car increased tenfold. The shift was upon Dalton and if he couldn’t hold it back it was dangerous for all of them. If he shifted in the vehicle he would take the guys out, his bear would go nuts at being trapped. No way a thousand-pound bear could fit in the confines of the SUV without causing major damage. He needed to get out and run, release his beast and protect his family.
Fuck Ethan yelled. He is going to shift. Dalton was in that in-between state of shifting right before he went bear. He was still human but barely. Get out of the fucking car Dalton. If you shift in here we are all fucking dead, you got me? Get the fuck out! Let him have his scent and track that fucker down! Shit Dalton found it almost impossible to move, his bear was coming and he was doing everything in his power to hold it off. He would shred the car and everyone in it if he turned. With uncontrolled jerky movements, he only just managed to open the door and fall out before the beast had him fully. Uncontrolled shifts were the worst they hurt like hell and it gave the beast the upper hand.
Cash left the vehicle soon after the big bruin raced off into the woods and addressed the remaining guys, listen up Dalton is fucking out, his bear is going to drive him to protect Emma and Kenna. We need to keep this as standard as fucking possible no shifting, use your senses but stay in your human skin we need our heads right now. We are all running on assumptions right now and we can’t risk the exposure. No get to it, our people are in there and they need our help. Keep your heads together start tracking and bring me the fucker’s head that is messing with what is ours. Ethan, Bas, and Cash all separated off trying to track down the intruder.
Dalton had never been so happy his beast was a menace at times, until this moment the involuntary shift sucked but his beast was focused. The animal was doing what came naturally scenting the air for any threat and he was finding them. He sensed three intruders were on their land. Land that all the guys knew like the back of their hands. These assholes were fucked. What they weren’t was trained. They were leaving tracks all over the place. Either they were stupid or they just didn’t care. The second explosion hit and Dalton moved faster. This time it was a direct hit. The side of the lodge was charred and some of the places were burning but the structure was strong. Each log was at least 25 inches in diameter. Average log homes only used 10 to 15 inches in diameter. Their home was built to withstand anything including these fucking puny assed fireworks.
What puzzled Dalton was the scent the humans were giving off. He could pick out the chemicals from the explosion. He could also pick up the scents from the intruders but there was something else, it was like they were on drugs or something. They were tainted all of them.
The first one was easy the asshole walked right into his path. One swipe of his beast’s mighty claws across the neck and that threat was neutralized instantly. The satisfying gurgle he heard as he lumbered away only furthered his bears enjoyment, sick fucker. Dalton didn’t believe in indiscriminate killing but these people were after his family. They needed to pay and his bear was making them pay with their lives. The second was closer to the lodge almost at the deck on the lakeside of the lodge. The beast went to charge but Dalton held him back. Jacks was on him no way that fucker was going to make it through to even the next minute.
Continuing to track Dalton was catching up to the last guy he wasn’t that far away but he also sensed that Cash was on him. Dalton wanted the kill. These people came to hurt his mate and his cub. His bear needed to dispense his justice and make things safe for his family charging forward Dalton let out a roar informing Cash of his plans. His bear was determined to beat Cash to their prey.
Cash knew what was coming and he just hoped he made it there in time. He could feel the vibration on the ground from Dalton’s bears heavy paws. But he couldn’t let Dalton have the man just yet they needed answers. He had already seen the results of one of Dalton’s kills. He needed to stop him and quick, dead people didn’t talk. The data they had right now meant nothing, just some perverts hopes and dreams as sick as they were. They had only been able to get through half of what was held in the house.
Making it to the clearing on the side of the lodge Cash yelled for Dalton to stop but he was too late and the beast was too enraged. Dalton’s bear didn’t even hesitate taking the fucker head off with one swipe of his razor-sharp claws.
Fuck Dalton tried to calm his bear. The threat had been eliminated but the beast wasn’t having it. He still wanted blood and it seemed even his teammates were in danger. He could hear his teammates yelling for him to change but he couldn’t push his beast back. He heard something about bloodlust but still wasn’t able to get a handle on the beast. Sensing Cash was about to change he focused on the big man and the beast deeming him a threat. He didn’t want to hurt any of his teammates but his beast couldn’t be reasoned with. Emma, he needed Emma she calmed his bear but he couldn’t risk that.
Out of nowhere he was slammed from the side looked like Ethan was done waiting around. The fucker was mean, he liked dealing out pain. But his bear was charged. He wanted everyone away from his mate and cub. Bloodlust was upon him, he had never experience the phenomenon but his bear had more control at the moment. He viewed everyone and everything as a threat. It was the only time in a shifters life besides going rogue that the animal was in more control then the human. Both bears charged going up on their back legs. Battling as they were meant to by tooth and claw.
Cash was getting ready to change he needed to put a stop to this before permanent damage was done. He knew both Ethan and Dalton would regret their actions if he didn’t put a stop to them. But before he could even initiate his change Jacks came around the back of the lodge dragging a puny little human. The man smelled horrible it was a mixture of drugs the chemicals from the explosives sweat and urine. Not a scent Cash wanted to smell ever again. When Jacks basically threw the fucker at him he almost cringed like a little girl holding his hands back.
Jacks faced off against the two bruins fighting to the death and bellowed one word “SHIFT!” The air thickened instantly with his Alpha vibes and all the men fell to their knees. Jacks was forcing Dalton and Ethan to change back. Being an Alpha he had the ability to force a change in another it was part of their magic. Every being had a set of checks and balances and with the strength of having an animal, there needed to be an even more powerful predator. Those predators were the Alpha’s on a cellular they were stronger, more dominate, and commanded the others around them. It was a great responsib
ility and Jacks never took it lightly. He had never had to force the change in his men before usually their loyalty and respect were enough not this time. Forcing compliance was not the way he ever wanted to lead. He hated using the power it was painful and demeaning to the man and the animal to be forced against their will.
Dalton was lying on the ground breathing heavily, he sensed Ethan was close he assumed he was like himself, curled in the fetal position naked. The pain of being forced to shift couldn’t be easily described, it was like going ten rounds with your hands tied behind your back with the biggest baddest mother fucker. Every muscle, bone and tendon hurt for the change almost like you were forced into a mold that was never going to fit. But the mental part was equally draining, their dominate nature rebelled against coercion, it was instinctive to fight not comply. Their animals fought the change, prolonging it, stretching the transformation causing more harm. But Dalton was thankful Jacks had done it. He didn’t like being out of control and that is exactly what had happened.
Hearing stomping, he managed to open his eyes just as Jacks came into view and the man was mad. Are you done now fucker? You think we can get back to our woman and let them out of the fucking saferoom or do you feel like going a couple of more rounds? Cuz I got to tell yah, this time it will be you and me and my bear is itching for a fight got me?
Yeah Dalton got him, Ryleigh and his cub had been placed in danger and Jacks was just as hyped up as he was. The only difference, Jacks managed to keep his head where Dalton hadn’t. Dalton could only reply with a weak “No Sir” before dropping his head back down to the ground. It would be a good little while before his he was able to gain more strength. Jacks had wiped him out good.
Good! now while you were out dispensing your special justice I managed to capture myself a little troll. Jacks glanced back at the putrid man lying on the ground by Cash a firm look of disgust on his face. I suggest you get your shit together so we can find out what the fuck is going on. I’d also like to know if we should be expecting any more guest anytime soon.
Fuck! Dalton had fucked up and he knew it, at least someone was thinking. Bas threw him and Ethan some sweats. Dalton had no idea where the man had gotten the garments but he was thankful. Facing the enemy naked would only add to his humiliation. Dalton listened as the other got to work interrogating the intruder who just happened to be Derrick fucking Hamilton. The putrid man was incoherently babbling and Dalton knew this would take longer then he wanted.
Senior and Charlie Team showed up. Jacks explained what was going on and Senior had Charlie take the mangy human away. Dalton was sure the man would never be found again but they would get the answers they needed. Senior didn’t mess around and that filthy human knew what and who they were now. And that couldn’t stand.
Listen up we need to get the base secure before we let the women out of the safe room. Charlie is going to do the interrogation of the little turd and get back to us. I don’t sense any more intruders but we need to lock this place down. Liam is going to report back with his findings. Only then can we release the women. Looking straight at Dalton, Jacks asked Are we in agreement? Dalton knew the man wasn’t asking but telling him how it was going to be. The bloodlust was still riding him but had diminished some. He wanted nothing more than to remove that piece of shit scum from the planet but Jacks was right they needed the answer more. He would just have to wait.
Chapter 45
Emma was going to jump right out of her skin she needed to know what was going on and if everyone was safe, she decided she was not going to be like Ryleigh uncontrollable and scared. She had made a promise to herself and her child to be strong, and that was exactly what she was going to do. As soon as she got out of this room she was going to hunt Dalton down and hug him. Not yell and scream and demand answer just hug him close to her, so that she knew he was safe and everything was going to be all right.
They had been in the safe room for hours, and no one had come to the door to give then the all clear. Ryleigh had explained that when Jacks or one of the guys gave the all clear there would be four beeps that would sound through the room, once that happened they needed to put in a code to open the door from their side. Only the team knew the code another failsafe. If they couldn’t get to them then Declan would come prompting the code. The saferoom was stocked with enough supplies to last a month.
Emma didn’t want to wait another minute let alone a month. She needed to know what was going on. She wanted to believe Jacks as safe and that Dalton and the rest of the guys made it in time but they had no idea. Apparently, Jacks had cut the feed into the safe room. Normally they would be able to see what was going on throughout the lodge as well as the surrounding property. For some reason, he decided to keep them in the dark and that freaked all of them out. What didn’t he want them to see.
Ryleigh wasn’t enduring any of this well. Mia had to physically restrain her several times as she attempted to get to the door and put the code in. Only Kenna’s cries were able to stop her. Emma had decided that if giving up her daughter for a little bit kept her sister sane then she was all for it. So, she basically didn’t give Ryleigh a choice thrusting the infant into her arms. Thankful for the distraction, Ryleigh and Kenna both calmed and for the last hour or so Ryleigh had Kenna in her arms, rocking her slowly crying softly.
Much to Emma’s relief the four beeps sounded and Mia rushed for the door entering the code. When Ryleigh looked at her puzzled she simply stated “Jacks knew you would never stay so he changed the code only giving it to me right before he closed the door.” Mia said sympathetically.
Ryleigh was hurt, her hormone fueled emotions taking over, she would make Jack’s feel just a little bit of what she was feeling at the moment, frazzled and a bit betrayed. She stormed out of the room walking right past Jacks and into a large man arms. Emma had been taking the whole scene in, and had never seen this man before. The small Hi Dad Emma heard coming from Ryleigh explained a lot. So, this was Declan. He was a handsome man, large like all the guys on Alpha team but his vibe was different. He was MORE somehow Emma just couldn’t put her finger on it. He looked to be in his forties but not much older. What Emma did notice was the love he had for his daughter, the way his eye soften when she walked towards him, as well as the loving protective embrace as he wrapped his arms around her.
Emma noticed Ryleigh glaring at Jacks from her dad’s arms. Jacks giving a resigned sigh he announced. Listen ladies I know you have a lot of questions and we will get to them. But the guys and I need to clean up and check the perimeter. Senior is going to stay with you for a bit.
Emma looked for Dalton instantly but he was nowhere to be found and her stomach sank. Holding Kenna close she wanted to ask about Dalton but figured Jacks had enough on his mind she also figured that if something had happened he would not be so nonchalant right now. After all Mia was the only doctor and he had asked her to patch anyone, up right? She followed the group out to the great room hoping Dalton was just waiting out there for her.
All the guys from the Alpha Team walked into the room freshly showered shortly after they had arrived. Some were a little bruised and batter well at least Dalton and Ethan but no worse for wear. Emma wanted to get on her knees and thanks someone. She settled for walking right into his open arms. The safest place she could ever be in.
When Dalton walked into the great room the first thing he did was seek out his mate with his eyes. He needed her, he needed to calm down and having her in his arms was the fastest way to do that. Once they made eye contact Emma bolted right to him, the wave of relief nearly brought him to his knees, he knew he had been extremely tense but hadn’t realized to what extent until this moment. His relief turning to elation, he felt like he was on top of the world. She was safe and so was Kenna. Both of them were in his arms and he was never letting them go. I love you baby he murmured while he held them close. I Love you too Dalton, I was so worried! I know honey, everything is done now. Just let me hold you a second before we get into all th
at has happened okay?
Emma was more than willing to give Dalton as much time as he needed. Being in his arms was second to none. It was almost like they were the only ones in the room. She didn’t hear or see anyone else for a few precious moments only her little family, Kenna, Dalton, and herself. Sure, she considered the rest family as well but these two were more they were the center of her world.
Emma finally snapped out of the moment by Ryleigh’s raised voice. Her sister was having another melt down demanding answers. Emma could understand the need but she would never understand the attitude. Jacks hadn’t done anything wrong in Emma’s book. He did what he had to do to keep them all safe, and anticipated every possible angle. Could Ryleigh honestly fault the man for that. Shouldn’t she be as grateful as Emma and Mia seemed to be? More questions for another time. Right now, she needed answers to the more pressing questions. How did that man find where she was and what was he planning to do if and when he found her?
When they started explaining what all had transpired that day she wanted to puke. They had felt the explosions but didn’t realize one was a direct hit to the lodge. There was also another one that had a malfunction and had failed to detonate, had it gone off the lodge would have sustained heavy, possibly fatal damage Jacks informed them. The people that had attacked placed it right at the gas lines. There wouldn’t have been anything left.
Dalton: NAC & The Holly Group (Alpha Team Book 2) Page 31