“Wow.” Lukas leaned back in the chair. “I never expected you to end up with an instant family, especially now. Are you really going to keep the girl?”
“I don’t see any choice. Lukas, once you meet her, you’ll see. She worms her way into your heart with her big brown eyes.” He slipped his cowboy hat off and tossed it on the desk. “With everything I’ve seen I’ve never had the desire to tear someone limb from limb, but Claire makes me want to do that to Avery and the bastard is already dead. She’s gone through so much and all I can think is she doesn’t deserve more shit in her life. Stability is what she needs, and Summer and I can provide that.”
“Not to mention danger.”
It bothered him that Lukas was right, but he couldn’t step down from his position or stop assisting the Alaskan Tigers—not with everything that was on the line. Instead he’d have to make them safe.
“I know she’ll be in danger. It’s part of the reason I have the new guards coming in. Larry, Carson, Jackson, and Garth are the best of the clan, they’ll keep my lasses safe.”
“Have you chosen a Captain of the Guards?”
Jinx nodded. “Jackson, with Carson as his second.”
“They’ll protect them, but what about guards for you? With the changes coming, you could use your own.”
He had already had the conversation with Ty and Raja before they ventured to Texas. Ty had been forced to make changes in the guards, providing some additional backup guards for when he or Raja traveled. They were going to be in the center of things, especially Ty, since without him and Tabitha having a child the line of tigers couldn’t continue. They’d be destined to fade out. It had come to the point that Ty believed Jinx should add a line of protection for himself because of how closely he was tied to the Alaskan Tigers. He had refused until now. Now he was considering it, because he had a family to protect.
Jinx nodded, not convinced he wanted guards. Sometimes what he wanted and what was needed were two different things. “Once I’m finished here I have to return to West Virginia and make some changes. I’ll consider adding additional guards for myself as well.”
“What kind of changes?”
“That’s the other thing I wanted to talk to you about.” He leaned back against the chair, watching Lukas carefully. This was something that had been building for some time but he’d always put it off, fearing Lukas’s answer. “Due to me dividing my time between Alaska and home, I believe it’s time I appointed a Lieutenant for the clan. You’re strong enough and have authority within the clan, though I know you’ve always enjoyed the fieldwork. Would you be interested in returning to our clan and taking the position of Lieutenant?”
Lukas’s eyes widened in shock for a moment before he composed himself and leaned forward. “That’s an honor.”
“That’s not an answer.”
“I would have to speak with Ty before I made any kind of decision.”
He swallowed the lump that was forming. It wasn’t an outright no, but it was too close for Jinx. There were others in the clan who could do it, but none that he trusted as much as Lukas.
“I’ve spoken with Ty. After all, since you’re working with the Nerd Crew you are a member of his clan at this time and I didn’t want to step on his toes. He said the decision would be yours, and that he realized when you came to Alaska it was most likely temporary because of our clan.”
He opened the folder on the desk, ready to put this behind him for now. “I understand you need time to think about it. I only ask that you give me a decision one way or another before I leave here. If you’re not interested, then I need to appoint someone else. I don’t want the clan to be seen as unprotected or an easy target because I’m in Alaska, or somewhere else helping with the transition.”
“It is very sudden. I would appreciate a day to think about it. The clan means everything to me and I don’t want anything to happen to the members.”
“Very well.” He slid his chair closer to the desk. “Let’s get down to business.”
Chapter Eleven
Summer paced the living area of their suite with a very timid Claire on her hip. The poor child had no idea what was happening but she didn’t care for Tad being in her space. The big bear had the girl on the verge of tears just from looking at her, and Summer’s nerves weren’t much better. In less than twenty minutes she had to deal with Ashley again. She really didn’t want to put Claire through it, but Ashley demanded they at least try.
“As soon as Jinx returns I’ll leave.” Tad sat woefully still across the room, trying his best not to make Claire more anxious. There was a sadness in his eyes that made it clear he didn’t like the young girl feeling he was a threat to her.
“It’s not you, Tad, it’s everyone. She was locked away without anyone around, except her mother, Autumn, and me. Now everyone’s gone but me, and she doesn’t understand what’s happening.” She ran her hand down Claire’s back, soothing her. “She’s going to have to get used to people quickly. Clan life isn’t for loners.”
“I’m sure a strange-smelling bear doesn’t help matters.”
When someone knocked at the door, Claire clung tighter to Summer’s neck. “Get that, would you?”
Without making any sudden movements, Tad rose slowly and went to the door. “Who is it?” None of the doors had peepholes, so they had to rely on their senses.
“Ben.” Tad opened the door and Ben strolled in. “What’s wrong with my little cub?”
“She just woke up and came out of the bedroom to find me. Instead she stumbled into Tad. It just scared her, but she’s okay.” She moved Claire to her other hip. “Right, sweetie?” In answer, the girl buried her face in Summer’s shoulder.
Ben stood across the room, not coming any closer. “Jinx is running a little behind bringing Tex up to speed. He asked me to accompany you to the meeting with Ashley and he’ll meet us there.”
“Okay.” She dragged a hand through her hair, pulling the blonde strands away from Claire’s grip. “I still think this is a bad idea.”
“Me too,” Ben said. “Tex and Jinx discussed it. If we do it now, maybe Ashley will lay off and allow you to help Claire. Has she spoken yet?”
“Not a word. If she’s not crying, she doesn’t make a sound.” She glanced down at Claire before looking up at Ben again. “What if she does something to make matters worse for Claire? If she tries to force Claire to come to her, it could…”
“There’s nothing to worry about. I’m not going to let anything happen to her. Tad, Jinx, and Tex are going to be there as well.”
“Why?”
“Jinx and I are going to be there because we’re family, and Tad is your guard until the men from West Virginia arrive. Tex is there as Alpha. If any decisions need to be made, he’ll be there to do it.”
She shook her head. “That’s too many people for Claire.”
“We’re meeting in the fifth floor lobby. It’s open enough that we can stand back so you, Claire, and Ashley can do this without feeling closed in.” He looked at his watch. “It’s the best you’re going to get. Now we should go. Jinx wants us there before Ashley so it will give Claire a chance to feel comfortable with her surroundings.”
“Claire.” She paused until the girl moved her head away from Summer’s shoulder and looked up. “There’s someone who wants to see you, so we’re going to go downstairs.”
Claire shook her head, sending her blonde curls flying.
“It’s okay, sweetie. I’m going to be with you the whole time. To get there, we’re going to take an elevator with Tad and Ben. I promise you’re going to be fine, they’re here to protect us.” She tried to soothe the girl, but she wasn’t sure if she was making things better or worse.
Her doubts began to rise within her. She knew nothing about raising a child. Not to mention the fact Claire had yet to speak. How was she supposed to deal with that? Claire had always been a quiet child, but this was more than that. She was completely silent.
* * *<
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Jinx stood in the back of room watching his mate work her magic on little Claire. In just the few minutes he had been watching, Summer had gotten Claire to sit on her lap without burying her head away. The little cub wouldn’t look at Tad, but she clung to the stuffed tiger Ben had brought her earlier. Summer had doubts about being an instant parent to Claire, but already she was proving she was the only one capable of the job. Claire trusted her, and with half the tiger shifter cubs not making it past their second birthday, they need Summer and Claire to keep the bond strong.
Claire might already be two but she wasn’t out of the woods yet. There was still a high casualty rate until cubs reached five. Three more years that Claire would be relying on Summer and Jinx for everything—they were her key to survive in a clan. Maybe longer due to what she’d suffered already. Either way, they’d be there for her.
“Look what I have for the little lass.” Jinx came toward them carrying the crocheted blanket.
With a bright smile, the first one Jinx had seen since he met her, Claire held out her hand for the blanket. She didn’t say anything, but this was a start.
“Have you seen Ashley?” Summer whispered as he neared.
“Tex headed them off, giving me time to slip up here to make sure things were okay. They’ll be up in a few minutes. Is she ready?”
“As ready as she’s going to be.” She draped the blanket over Claire’s legs. “As long as Tad keeps his distance she’s okay. For some reason he scares her.”
“Ben and I both brought her gifts, maybe Tad just needs to bribe her.” He knelt down so he was at eye level with Claire. “Mind if I sit next to you two beautiful lasses?” Instead of answering, she pulled the blanket closer to her face, snuggling with it and the tiger. He took that as a yes, and sat next to them.
“Things are going to be fine, Summer?” Several feet away, Ben stood off to the side.
“I hope so. If things go badly, it could be disastrous for Claire.” The elevator dinged and she hugged the girl to her.
“Let the show begin,” Ben whispered.
“For Claire’s sake, I hope it won’t be a show.” Jinx slid his arm around Summer’s back.
Ashley strolled in—maybe waddle was a better word—with her hand on her stomach. She was due any day and it showed. Her belly was round and full with the cub she carried. Her eyes were still red and puffy from crying. Her mate, Michael, walked behind her.
“Claire!” She cried out, holding her arms open as if she expected the girl to run to her. When she didn’t, Ashley glared at Summer. “You’ve turned her against me.”
“How could she have done that?” Tex asked, coming farther into the lobby sitting room.
“I don’t know, but she did. I’m her sister.”
Claire cuddled deeper against Summer, holding tighter. “She doesn’t know you as family,” Summer said calmly. “She’s scared, and you coming in here screaming isn’t helping anything. How about you sit down and we do this at Claire’s pace? You can’t expect miracles.”
“Who do you think you are giving me orders?” Ashley raved until her mate placed a hand on her shoulder.
“Ash…” Michael began until Ashley turned and glared at him.
“Summer’s right. Sit down or you can leave,” Tex ordered. “I won’t have you doing more harm to the child.”
“You would force me from her life? I thought this clan you’re building was supposed to be about family, and responsibilities. Or does that only apply when it suits you?”
“Ashley, you are out of line.” Michael took hold of her arm.
“No, he’s out of line trying to keep me away from her.” She gripped her stomach as a cry of pain tore through her lips.
“Are you okay? Do we need to get a doctor?” Michael wrapped his arm around her, keeping her on her feet. “See what you’re doing to yourself and our child?”
“No doctor.” She cried out, pain lacing her words.
“Let her sit.” Ben pushed a chair over so Ashley didn’t have to move. When she sat, he knelt next to her. “Look at Claire. Really look at her, and see what this is doing to her. Is this what you want her to remember?”
“She’ll remember I fought for her.”
“No, she’ll remember the fighting, the anger. She’s scared and you’re making it worse.” He held up a hand before she could cut him off. “I know you’re family, but she doesn’t know you. Blood means little when you’re scared. Right now all she knows is her mother is gone, and Summer is the only one who’s familiar to her.”
“What do you want me to do?”
“You can see Summer cares for the girl. Why not let her help Claire adjust to this new life? She’s been through a lot, and forcing her to stay with you when she’s terrified is only going to make matters worse.” Ben glanced back to Summer and Claire. “You know she’ll be leaving once Jinx has helped with the security issues for the resort, but they’ll be back often so you can see Claire. If things change in the future, we can reevaluate it then.”
“Claire needs help.” Jinx waited until Ashley looked at him. “She hasn’t spoken to anyone, not even Summer, since she was brought out of her prison. You met Robin, the therapist from the Alaskan Tigers clan. She believes Summer can help.”
“You swear she’ll help her?” There was a pity in Ashley’s voice that wasn’t there before.
“We’ll do everything we can for her.” Summer soothed the last of the tension from the little girl’s shoulders. “I didn’t realize it before, but every day I’d go visit Claire, she won my heart. I love her as if she was my own flesh and blood. I’ll do right by her.”
“What about you?” Ashley glared at Jinx. “Are you going to be jealous of having to share your new mate with Claire? Will she be forced aside so you can have Summer to yourself? Or once Summer is pregnant with your own child?” Ashley shot the questions at Jinx faster than he could answer.
“Summer will be like a daughter to both of us. She’ll want for nothing, not love, attention, or material things. She’ll be surrounded by people who love and care for her in West Virginia, as well as here.”
Ashley looked to Tex who stood silently waiting. “You swear you’ll let them come back?”
Tex nodded. “They are no threat to this clan, and are always welcome. We will forever be indebted to Jinx’s clan as well as the Alaskan Tigers for what they’ve done for us.”
“Then take her.” Ashley stood and rushed out of the room.
“I have to go after her.” Michael glanced around the room before settling on Ben. “You better be right on this. If not, she’ll never forgive any of us.”
Jinx watched him go after Ashley. “What did he mean by that?”
“Michael and I met earlier.” Ben took the seat Ashley had vacated. “He worked on her even before she came here.”
“You forced them to see our way?” Summer’s voice held an edge of anger.
“No, only to see what was right for Claire. If I thought Ashley could have handled the care she needs, and the new baby, I would have fought for them. You know Ashley, she can’t handle it, even Michael didn’t believe she could. It isn’t about you being my sister, it’s about what’s right for Claire.”
Jinx was slightly amazed that Ben was able to overlook the bond he had with Summer and think only of the child. It proved that Tex had chosen right when he picked his Lieutenant. The Texas Tigers were on their way to a very happy future.
Chapter Twelve
With Claire asleep, Summer collapsed on the sofa, emotionally exhausted. The day had been trying and it wasn’t over yet. Ben and Jinx had brought her belongings and piled them up in the middle of the living area for her to go through and decide what she wanted to take with her. There were also six or more bags of things that another mother with a daughter Claire’s age had sent over. It saved them from having to rush out and shop since Claire had very little when it came to clothes and toys.
“Here’s the last of the stuff.” Ben entered, his
arms full of more bags.
She lifted her head enough to see him pile it on top of everything else. “What is all that?”
“Ashley said if she couldn’t keep Claire, she wanted to get her everything she needed to start her new life. There’s clothes, toys, shoes, and my favorite.” He reached into the largest bag and pulled out a stuffed Dalmatian that had to be as big as Claire. “Spot.”
“Oh, that’s cute.” She scooted up on the sofa. “It will be nice that she won’t have to keep anything from downstairs.”
“Anything but that blanket we can’t pry away from her,” Jinx reminded her.
She gently kicked her mate who was sitting rubbing her feet. “That’s your fault. You gave it back to her, she was perfectly content with the stuffed tiger.”
“I only wanted to make her feel safe, and the way she held onto that dirty blanket before, I thought it would help. At least it’s clean now, and it did help, so you can thank me later.” Jinx winked at her.
“We’ll see about it. I might be too tired once I get through all that stuff. Plus if you haven’t forgotten, we have a two-year-old child sleeping next to the bed. That doesn’t exactly turn me on.”
“There’s always the shower.” He tickled her instep, making her squirm. “How about we just throw it all onto the plane and then you don’t have to worry about it?”
“Then I’ll have to worry about it in West Virginia. No use lugging what we don’t want anywhere else. Plus you’re supposed to be meeting with Lukas again, and your men will be flying in soon.” She hated to remind him since that meant he’d leave her alone with Tad or someone else when all she wanted to do was cuddle next to him.
“I asked Lukas to meet me here so I wouldn’t have to leave you. The guards will also stop by, then they’ll take their rooms across the hall. No guards on duty tonight, unless I’m called away. They can rest and I can have you all to myself while Claire sleeps.”
“That sounds like heaven.” She pulled her feet away and cuddled into his chest.
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