Anessa-Silver Crescent Wolves

By B.A. Rose

Anessa Deluca, daughter of Alpha Grant Deluca is smart, stubborn, rebellious, and beautiful. When she sneaks out to go to a party, the last thing she expects is to be captured in two strong, male arms.

 

Xavier Lawson is the Alpha of the Silver Crescent Wolves pack.  After leaving a meeting at Grant's home, he spots a female climbing from her window. At first glance, he knows she's his mate.

 

Anessa hates him at the beginning. When fate brings them together again, her feelings start to change. Curious, she visits his home, and they kiss. She knows then that Xavier is her destined mate.
 
As they navigate the relationship, her parents' acceptance, and their differences, an act of betrayal will test Anessa and Xavier's love and whatever future they may have. 

• Language: English
• Publisher: B.A. Rose
• Release date: Nov 17, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223872740

Book preview

Chapter 1

Seventeen-year-old Anessa Mirabella Deluca was once again called into the principal’s office. All she did was cut one class to go with her best friend Gina for a drive. Her father, Grant Deluca, alpha of the Wild Manes pack just bought her a car. Her mother had been against it but being their only child, had given in. Anessa stared out the window, arms folded as Principal Jones spoke to her parents. Growling, she said, It was gym class and I already know how to fight in case of attack. Why do we have to go to school anyway? I’m a senior and graduating next year. All my classes are boring. Her mother growled loudly and glared at Grant who mind-linked. ‘ I swear Amore Mio, I never said education wasn’t important. I’ll fix this.’ Maria flashed her eyes at him, taking a deep breath.

Principal Jones ran his hands through his hair. This wasn’t the first time Anessa had done what she wanted. Her files were full of mischief and situations. He wondered why he ever took the position on the compound. Anessa took her car for a joy ride with her friend Gina Landry. They ran through stop signs and ended up at a park with some boys. I’ve already notified Gina’s parents. Only you’ve shown up. Grant looked at Anessa and she knew that face. Normally, her father doted on her and rarely said no but his expression was murderous. She lowered her eyes knowing she was in for it.

Grant growled loudly and walked over to her. Anessa, look at me. Now! She did and saw his eyes were yellow. Against your mother’s wishes, I bought you that car because I thought you were finally growing up. You’re almost eighteen and need to stop doing things like this. This is the last straw. I’m taking the car until you become responsible. You are grounded for two months and will come home right after school. Franco will be waiting outside and walking you back. Is that understood?

Anessa couldn’t believe what she was hearing. Standing up, arms folded, she lifted her chin. Papa, you can’t do this! I’m involved in a few committees and have plans this weekend with Gina. I refuse to stay in for two months or have your gamma babysit me. Mama, you have to talk to him. He’s being unfair. Grant growled louder and turned to Maria who walked over taking her mate’s hand. Calm down Giacomo. She will do what we tell her. Looking at her daughter she said, What is unfair? We give you everything and only want you to finish school and go to college. You get such good grades. It’s important to have an education Anessa! Do you just want to be a silly girl your whole life? Mate some wolf and breed?

Grant looked at his mate. She was brilliant, beautiful, and strong. When she spoke this way he knew she was serious. Anessa rarely heard her mother raise her voice and eyes wide, felt tears sliding down her face. Mama, I know you and papa give me everything and I want to go to college. I’m only seventeen and just want to have some fun before I have to grow up. I have no plans to mate until I finish school. I like to talk to boys and they like me. I can’t help that, can I? I swear I won’t take any more joy rides. Please let me have my car and only ground me for one month.

Maria looked at Grant. They were having their own conversation. Taking Anessa’s hand she said, Anessa, you are not allowed to drive the car until we can trust you again. As for being grounded, we will change it to one month. Franco will still wait for you but he’ll walk far enough away so you don’t get embarrassed. No going out on weekends for one month either. You go to school, do homework, help me if needed and go to bed. Is that understood? Anessa looked from her mother to her father and glanced at principal Jones, who was grinning. She wanted to slap his face. Wiping her face she nodded. Fine, but don’t expect me to be happy.

Grant growled low, You will apologize to principal Jones and work off any damages to the car. Capisce mia figlia? Anessa sighed and nodded. Yes, I understand papa. Turning to principal Jones she said, Sorry I caused you trouble. I’ll try not to do it again. No promises. She walked away and out the door. Grant rolled his eyes and said, I’ll make sure she doesn’t Charles. She’s a handful but we love her. Smiling Charles said, She’s a chip off the old block. Right Maria? Grant smiled and Maria sighed nodding. Charles and she were schoolmates. Yes, but I studied and did well. Besides, it was my mate who corrupted me. She looked up at Grant who looked at her lovingly. Charles chuckled. I’ll keep you two posted and thank you for coming by. See you at parent’s night. Taking Maria’s hand Grant nodded and they walked out. Anessa was going to learn that she couldn’t do what she wants.

Furious at being grounded, she stomped ahead of her parents and saw Benito washing her dad’s car. He grinned at her. What did you do now princess? Your dad looks pissed. Giving him a dirty look she walked by and ran up the stairs walking into the house and slamming the door. He laughed seeing Grant and Maria approaching. What happened now, Giacomo? Grant growled and Benny looked down. She took her car for a joyride and cut school. Stop using my birth name. Maria smiled seeing their beta smirk. Tell Franco he will be walking Anessa to and from school. For God’s sake, look up Benny. The man looked up and shook his head. Your Anessa is going to make more gray hairs Grant. I’ll inform Franco. Maybe a mate would calm her? Grant’s eyes flashed yellow. She isn’t mating with anyone until she graduates college. Understood? Benito nodded and Maria gave him a kind smile as she led Grant up the stairs. After you finish up, come to have dinner with us later Benny. Tell Franco. He nodded smiling. Maria was a wonderful Luna to their pack and knew how to calm Grant.

Anessa stormed up the stairs to her room, slamming the door. She fell on her bed, pounding her fists .It’s not fair! I’m not a little girl anymore. They talk to me like I’m five. She had her own phone and dialed Gina’s number. Hello? Anessa growled into it. I’m grounded! For a whole month and they took my car away until I behave more responsibly. So damn wrong! She heard a giggle. What’s so funny? Wait until your parents go see principal Jones. Gina lay back on her pillow. My mom never punishes me. My dad couldn’t care less. Probably out having sex with someone other than my mother." Anessa knew Gina’s life wasn’t very stable. Her parents weren’t fully imprinted. Her mom had imprinted on her dad but he hadn’t and they mated so she wouldn’t go feral. Her dad slept around while her mom worked two jobs ignoring her. She spent a lot of time at Anessa’s and they were best friends.

Huffing into the phone Anessa said, That’s not right. You cut class too. I can’t go out this weekend so no meeting up with those boys from the park. Gina smiled to herself. More for me. I’ll tell Tony you said hi. Damn your parents are tough. We’re seniors for goodness’ sake. We graduate in six months. Anessa sighed. Well unlike yours, my parents expect me to go to college. I’ll never admit this to them, but I’m excited to go. Still want to become a lawyer. The pack could use one. Gina laughed. I wanted to be a doctor but not sure now. Maybe I’ll meet some alpha wolf and become his Luna, having amazing sex and a few babies. Gina was wilder than Anessa and had already had sex with some of the male wolves from school. Well, not me. Not until I’m established. Going to be Deluca law firm.

Gina laughed. Once you imprint you’ll change your mind. Only he will matter. Not college or anything else. Plus the sex is out of this world. So I’ve heard from some mated females. Anessa sighed. She was about to respond when she heard her mother calling. Gotta go. Talk later unless they take my phone away. Hanging up she wondered about imprinting. She liked boys. A lot, though none had ever set her heart pounding. Maybe she wouldn’t meet her mate. If that were the case she would have a career and take lovers. Smiling to herself she got up and looking once in the mirror walked out.

Xavier Jean Lawson woke up turning to see the female he took home last night. Her curvy body was bare to him as the cover slid low. He grinned feeling his manhood harden and slapped her ass waking her. Turning, the redhead grinned her large breasts jiggling. Hey baby, want a replay of last night? I have to say, you’re the best I’ve had. Xavier chuckled and moved his hand between her legs, feeling the wetness. She moaned opening her legs wider and growled when he stopped. Six foot seven, Xavier got out of bed stretching. He was the alpha of the Silver Crescent Wolves pack and was being hounded to find a mate. Turning he saw the female watching with hunger in her eyes. Sure you don’t want to stay in bed?Grinning he looked at her, his eyes flashing yellow. Sorry, but I have a meeting with my pack. I’ll call a cab for you. Feel free to eat what you want and let yourself out.

The female frowned and watched as Xavier walked toward the bathroom to shower. He had to discuss meeting with a few packs to form allies. His father’s pack had only been around for fifty years when he died unexpectantly. His mother, brokenhearted, soon followed. He took over as alpha immediately and was proud of how large the pack now was. Where his father was a bit soft, he was tougher but fair. He also allowed mixed couples to live on the compound. Most were humans mated with wolves. He had a few human friends who lived in the outside world and had sworn to keep his secret. They were loyal to the pack.

By the time he dried off and went into the bedroom the female was gone. She left her number and a kiss made from lipstick on a tissue. Grinning he crumbled it up, tossing the paper in the trashcan. Last thing I need is a clingy mate. Not going to happen. On his deathbed, his father told him that he needed to find his mate. Xavier, an alpha is only as good as his Luna. Find the right one as I did. I love you son. Make this pack proud. Xavier told him he would but hadn’t promised. His mom was a good Luna but he felt an alpha could run a pack without one. Besides, he had his needs met with females he knew or met at bars. His good looks worked for him and it was rare when he came home alone.

Dressed, he walked down the stairs to the main floor to see his two friends, Mikel, and Andre, arm wrestling. Chuckling he walked over. Did you do security rounds, Mikel? Nodding he saw Andre look up grinning. Don’t talk to him Xavier or he’ll lose. Mikel growled low, Shut up asshole. Everything’s secure. Two seconds later, he saw Andre go down and Mikel laughing. Take that beta. Turning to Xavier he said, Saw the redhead leave. She didn’t look too happy. Didn’t have fun last night? Xavier growled. Oh, she enjoyed. Multiple times. Wanted to stay. I don’t need that. Andre sighed. You know, one day some female is going to grab you up. One look and you’ll imprint. When that day comes, I’ll be laughing my ass off.

Xavier looked at him. Don’t plan on that. I can run this pack fine. Let’s go. We have a pack meeting in a little while Need to do a few things first. Mikel looked at Andre who smirked. They knew that there wasn’t a choice once you imprinted.

Dinner time was annoying. Maria had made Anessa help cook and serve and she was getting looks from Benny and Franco. They were both her Godfathers and liked to tease her. So any plans this weekend Nessa? Oh, that’s right. You’re grounded. Benny chuckled seeing her give him a dirty look. Franco grinned. Leave the girl alone. She’ll need her energy to help with the pups. Anessa’s eyes widened. Turning to her father she asked, What is he talking about? Grant looked at Maria who smiled, patting Anessa’s hand. Well, since you’re free, I volunteered you to babysit while your father and I attend to business. Standing up, Anessa kicked the chair over. What? I’m not watching some sniveling brats! You can ground me and take my car but I won’t do it. Not happening.

About to walk away, she heard her father’s voice in her head. ‘You will turn around this instant, pick up that chair and sit down. I am warning you Anessa. Behave. Now!’ She turned to see him staring at her, his eyes yellow. She knew he was serious. Turning back she slowly picked up the chair and sat down. ‘Apologize for your outburst.’ Sighing she looked around the table. I apologize for my outburst. It was wrong.Turning to her mother she said, I’ll watch the pups mama. I’m sorry I yelled at you. Maria took her hand and squeezed. Tiamo. Good girl. Anessa smiled at her. They spoke Italian sometimes and she said to her mother, I love you too. Grant calmed down and nodded to her. ‘Tiamo Bella figlia’ Anessa looked at her father and smiled.

After dinner, they all sat outside and her mother sang as Franco played guitar. Her father was huddled with Benny and some of his men talking. Anessa had taken a book from the library and was reading. Even though she fought to have fun with her friends, she liked these moments. It felt normal and right. She thought about the last four years. Since hitting puberty and shifting, her personality had gotten stronger. She was a true alpha wolf and headstrong. Her mother was the same as she found out from her nonna Mirabella. Even though she went to school and became a teacher, meeting her dad at sixteen made her rebellious. ‘It must be a thing with the women in this family, Anessa thought to herself. Her parents had a wonderful relationship. They were so in love and everyone saw it. She lay in bed many nights hearing their sounds of love when they thought she was asleep. Even with the pack, her father always involved her mom. They were a team. It was sad that her mother couldn’t have more children. She had lost one before Anessa was born and two after. Her father refused to allow her to try again. It was too painful and he didn’t want to lose her.

Sighing, Anessa put the book down. Her mind was on other things. Would she ever find a mate like her father? She insisted she didn’t need one but the truth was that she was afraid of losing her independence. She liked doing things her way and having her own mind. The last thing she wanted was some alpha telling her what to do. If she was ever going to have a mate he would need to let her be who she was and not change her. She would be his equal just as her parents were. Smiling, she saw her father walk up to her mother and take her hand to dance. Watching them look into each other’s eyes as they moved had her glad that they were her parents. She was a handful and gave them hell sometimes but she loved them and would try to do better.

Saturday, Anessa was up early. She had gone for a run and just shifted back when Gina walked toward her. Putting on leggings and a tank top she smiled. Hey, what are you doing here? Want some breakfast? My mom is making pancakes among other things. Gina smiled. Figured I would visit the inmate. Sounds great. Guess what? We’ve been invited to Jo Jo’s. He’s having a party since his parents are away. Anessa put her hair up in a messy bun and frowned. You know I’m grounded. Plus eyes are everywhere. Are you going? Gina sat down on the step, leaning her elbows on her knees. I want to go but it won’t be any fun without you Ness. Can’t you sneak out? After you watch the pups?

Gina looked up at her with sad eyes, making Anessa laugh. You’re silly, you know that? I have to babysit until ten. I’ll try to sneak out. No promises. You so owe me. Big time. Gina stood up hugging her and said, I swear, we’ll be back before they can find you gone. You are the best friend ever. I love you. Anessa hugged her back. Okay, okay. Let’s get some food. I’m starving. They walked inside and Anessa had a feeling this was going to backfire on her. She decided she was going to do it anyway.

Chapter 2

Anessa behaved all week. She didn’t give Franco attitude when he followed her to and from school. She came home, did her homework without being asked, and helped around the compound if her parents needed her. Maria’s instinct said something was up and she mentioned it to Grant. He smiled holding her around, kissing her lips gently. Maybe she’s learned her lesson, Bella. I for one like seeing our daughter this way. Maria raised an eyebrow and looked at him. Men were so gullible and her mate was no different. He spoiled Anessa since she was born and their daughter had him wrapped around her little finger. Grant, don’t be so trusting. I think our daughter has something up her sleeve. She smiled knowingly and his eyes widened. Then we’ll keep an eye on her. I swear she won’t sit for a year if she pulls anything. Maria laughed and hugged him tightly. You can’t spank a seventeen-year-old. We can ground her for months. Let’s hope I’m wrong but I was her age once. Remember?

Grant held her close his face near hers. Oh, I remember. Good thing Enzo never caught us mi amore or I wouldn’t be here. As I recall, you didn’t sit right a few times. He chuckled and Maria flushed, her eyes flashing yellow. Right after our honeymoon, I was exhausted. Grant smiled and kissed her, feeling hungry for her body. Looking around he saw the house was quiet and taking her hand, led her up the stairs. Grant, where are we going? Seeing the desire in his eyes she laughed and turned to look at him. Last one up strips first. She ran and Grant chased her, growling in excitement.

After coming home from school, Anessa walked over to the homes of Benny and Franco. She was going to babysit tomorrow and wanted to see how the pups behaved with her. Franco had four kids, and Benny had five. She was going to babysit nine pups. This was true punishment. As she talked to Franco’s mate Mary, one of their children came over to her. He plopped himself on her lap and leaned back sucking his thumb. She smiled feeling his warmth and saw Mary looking at her. You have a gift with children Nessa. Do you want some one day? Looking at Franco’s mate she smiled. Mary was very nice. Pretty and calm for someone with four children under six years old. Maybe. I want to go to college first. Thinking of law. If I do have kids, I just want two. I don’t think I can handle more.

Mary laughed and looked at Franco who was playing with their other three. You say that now but when you find the right mate, you’ll give him anything. I had told Franco one baby and here we are with four and another on the way. Don’t say anything, please. I want to surprise him later. Anessa couldn’t believe Mary was having another child. Congratulations to you both. I won’t say a word. Kissing the little boy on his cheek she gently took him off her lap, standing up. I better go. Need to see the other children. See you tomorrow night and congratulations again. Mary nodded and took the little boy who reached for her. Anessa saw Franco laughing and he waved as she walked out. She thought to herself, ‘No way am I ever going to be a breeder for some wolf.’

After visiting Benny and Olivia and their children, she walked back home. Walking inside she wondered where her parents were. Her dad had been outside earlier walking with Benny to talk to his men. They had a meeting coming up. Something about some packs and an alliance. Her father didn’t need to align with other packs. His pack was good as it was. He had built it from the ground up with Benito, Franco, and him not long after arriving from Italy. She smiled at how after all these years her father still spoke half Italian and English sometimes. When he was angry at her it was usually all Italian. She was fluent and knew how to read and write.

The house was quiet. Not even her mother was around. She said to herself, Finally I have some space for a few hours. Just as she walked towards the kitchen to make a sandwich she heard noises coming from upstairs. Her parents had their bedroom on the lower floor as a safety precaution. If ever they were attacked she would be upstairs and her mother would get her. There was a secret staircase just in case they needed to escape. Her father had made sure to build the house that way. Walking into the kitchen the noises grew louder. With her wolf hearing, she listened and gasped. Her parents were having sex. In the middle of the day. Her mother’s cries of pleasure were so loud as she screamed her father’s name over and over. Anessa knew about sex but never believed Gina when she said it was good with the right boy. Now she realized it was all true. Putting the bread and cold cuts away, she quickly left the house going to the backyard. Her parent’s screams were heard as she shut the door.

Gina was talking to a boy and turned to see Anessa walking up to her. The boy, Nate Rinaud, smiled at Anessa. Hey, heard you’re going to Jo Jo’s party tomorrow. Save a dance for me? Nate was cute with brown hair and eyes and at one time, Anessa had liked him. Gina made a face. Ness isn’t sure yet but I’ll dance with you. Maybe we can find a quiet place and make our own music. Anessa rolled her eyes. Gina needed a lot of attention. Sometimes Gina competed with her. Instead of getting angry, she felt bad for her friend. I will be going but Gina is a way better dancer than me. She let her have Nate because she wasn’t looking for a mate. Nate looked disappointed. He turned to Gina. I have the perfect spot. Sighing, Anessa said, I’ll be over there when you’re done planning. Take care, Nate. Walking away she wondered, ‘Was everything about sex?’

Anessa waited until finally Gina walked over. Seeing her face she said, What’s with you, Ness? You know Nate was interested. I guess I’ll have to soothe his ego. She laughed and sat down next to her. I just don’t like him that way is all. Besides, I just heard my parents having sex. Very loudly. I don’t think I’ll be able to look at them later. Gina started to laugh so hard her eyes teared up. Anessa growled. It’s not funny! You could hear them out back too. Aren’t they a bit old for that? Gina wiped her face and turned to her. Sex is a normal thing between two people. Wolves enjoy it even more. Maybe if you let a boy show you then you wouldn’t be so against it. It’s really good with a boy who knows what he’s doing. Anessa looked at her. How many boys have you had Gina? Looking down her friend said, Not that many but enough to know what I like. How will you know if you don’t experiment? What if your imprinted mate sucks in bed? Groaning, Anessa stood up. I don’t need to practice. If he and I are in love, we’ll find our way. Not opening my legs for every boy who smiles at me.

Gina’s eyes widened and she stood up looking angry. I don’t do that either! You know, not everyone can be goody two shoes Anessa Deluca. Maybe you’re just afraid and that’s fine but don’t you dare judge me. She turned away and was about to leave when Anessa called out to her. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings. For the record, I am not a goody-two-shoes. Just want to wait is all. Don’t judge me for that. Gina turned after wiping her eyes. It had hurt that Anessa said she slept around. It wasn’t like she was the daughter of the alpha. Sighing she said, How about we start over? I won’t judge you for waiting and you won’t judge me for not. You know I love you. Anessa smiled and nodded. I know and I love you too. Friends till the end. No male will ever tear us apart. Gina smiled and hugged her. Never.

Grant and Maria were in the kitchen when Anessa walked in. Her mom’s eyes were glazed and her face lit up with a smile as she chopped some tomatoes. Her dad was laughing and his hand was stroking her back. Clearing her voice they looked up. Ah, Anessa. Where have you been?, her father asked. Her mom looked up and saw her daughter’s face. Are you alright sweetheart? I’m making your dad your favorite. Want to help? Anessa took an apple and looked at them. I’m fine. Was visiting Gina for a bit. I have some reading to do. I’ll be down in a little while okay? Her mother nodded and watched her leave. Grant was peeling an onion when he heard his mate say, Dio Mio!, Anessa heard us! She put the knife down and turned to leave when Grant took her hand. Maria, where are you going?

Maria looked at him and sighed, I have to talk to her. Explain. I told you one day she would hear. We should have soundproofed our room. Grant chuckled and saw her eyes flash. Sighing he said, She is almost grown as you tell me. She heard her parents loving each other as she will her mate one day. Let it be my love. I promise to soundproof the rooms as I have no intention of stopping our lovemaking. No matter what time of day. You are mine and I am yours. Okay, Bella? Maria nodded, going into his arms. Okay Giacomo, next time we make sure she isn’t home. Grant laughed and slapped her butt. Whatever you say my Luna. Tiamo.

Dinner should have been awkward but it wasn’t. As usual, Benny and Franco were there with their families so it was noisy and full of laughter. There was always plenty of food and Anessa filled her plate with the chicken cutlet parmigiana and baked ziti. She liked all meats but this dish was her favorite. They poured her some wine as her father said in Italy children drank red wine. It wasn’t a strong one and she sipped enjoying the sweetness. Benny was talking about the meeting tomorrow. Grant, you say a relatively new pack will be here to discuss an alliance? Why do we need one? There have been no pack wars for over a century. Franco nodded. Is our pack in trouble? I for one think we’re flourishing. We have more families than ever and a large pack.

Grant bit into his food and chewed. Wiping his mouth he looked at his beta and gamma. The Wild Manes are fine. I just think it would be nice to meet the younger packs. See what they’re up to. I’m particularly interested in the Silver Crescent Wolves pack. The alpha took over for his father ten years back and has been growing in number ever since. He even has wolves mated with humans. Maybe he can teach us something. Anyway, if we learn nothing then at least we met them. Right? Benny shrugged and nodded. Whatever you say alpha but any trouble and out they go. Right Franco? Looking up, a meatball on his fork, Franco’s eyes blazed yellow. Si. We don’t take crap from anyone. Capisce? Grant grinned and growled low nodding to them.

Xavier was having a meeting with his pack. Some were upset. One wolf, Zev stood up. Why do you need to meet with other packs? We’re strong on our own and don’t need them. I was here with your father and his pack was good but you have made it formidable. No one dares to challenge us. I just don’t understand. Andre, mind-linked him. ‘Xavier, you have to calm them. They fear that we need other packs to help us. Why do we need them?’ Xavier looked at him. ‘ I’ve wanted to meet Grant Deluca for a long time. His pack has been here for centuries. My father said he was fierce but a good man and his people respect him. He never got to set up a meeting so I thought it was a good opportunity when I got the invite. Don’t worry Dre.’ Seeing his beta nod Xavier turned to the rest of the pack. Men, we are strong and you’re right Zev, we don’t need them but I want to meet Grant Deluca. He is tough and firm but fair. Having someone like that in our court is a good thing. Plus we can be his backup if needed. Trust me on this. Nobody is taking this pack from us.

The men all howled and banged on the table as Xavier stood there grinning, his eyes flashing yellow. After the meeting, as the men walked out Andre and Mikel stayed. Xavier looked at them. Tomorrow we go and see how Grant runs his pack. I’m interested in hearing how he keeps his people in line. Mikel grinned. Heard he has a daughter and she gives him a run for his money. Xavier looked at him. How do you know this? Smiling wider he said, Met a female wolf at the bar last weekend and it was bedroom talk. After I made her howl for a few hours. Said the daughter is always getting into trouble and is very stubborn. Xavier asked, How old is this daughter? Mikel chuckled looking at them. Seventeen. Are you going to check her out?Andre grinned.

Eyes yellow, Xavier growled making them lower theirs. I have no use for a girl. I didn’t realize he had a daughter but now that I know, I don’t care. My needs are taken care of by whichever female I choose. The last thing I need is a spoiled brat who doesn’t know a thing about how to please a man. Not looking for a mate either. So get those thoughts out of your head. Mikel smirked and gave a look to Andre who grinned. Whatever you say alpha. Whatever you say. Xavier growled and shook his head. You’re both dismissed. Go do something useful. Mikel looked up and smiled, walking out to do security rounds. Andre looked at him. Seventeen isn’t a kid Xavier. Just saying. He walked out and Xavier sat down thinking. Maybe not a kid, but not a woman either. Xavier didn’t need a mate so there was no reason to think about it.

Anessa asked to be excused and her father allowed it. She kissed him and her mother good night and said goodnight to the others. Walking up the stairs she heard Benny ask how she was behaving. Grant had said she was being a good girl and they may lighten the punishment. Smiling, Anessa skipped into her room, flopping onto her bed. It worked. I knew if I did what they asked, they would give in. They probably want me out of the house so they can have more sex. I don’t care so long as I can go out again. She laughed, kicking off her sandals, and got up to check out her clothes. Her room was huge and she had a walk-in closet. As she looked at her outfits, she frowned. I have nothing to wear for the party! I have to make do I guess. Picking a short denim skirt and a red sleeveless blouse she pulled it out holding the items against her as she looked into the mirror. Red was her favorite color and she looked good in it. The skirt was short and her long legs would look even longer. She would pair it with a light denim jacket and boots. Smiling she hung it back and closed the closet. She couldn’t wait until tomorrow.

Saturday was busy and her mother was cleaning the house. They had a cleaning staff, but Maria liked things done a certain way and Anessa was expected to help. Maria told her that hard work never hurt anyone. Her daughter was still asleep and as Maria gave some of the staff directions, she decided to let her sleep a bit more. There would still be plenty to do when she woke up. She would have Anessa help prepare food for the pack.

Anessa woke up in a good mood. Tonight was JoJo’s party. Her parents didn’t suspect a thing. Looking at the clock she saw it was early. She figured she may as well get up and help. Usually, her mom would have to drag her out of bed. After showering, she put on a pair of jeans and a tee shirt and walked downstairs. She heard voices in the kitchen. Her mother was talking to her dad. Are you sure you want to do this meeting Grant? We don’t need their input or help. Plus, I worry about Nessa. What if one of them imprints on her? Staying quiet she heard her father growl. Is that what you’re worried about Maria? That our little girl will have to mate with one of them? I said it last night and I’m saying it again. She won’t be here. Why do you think I have her babysitting? By the time they leave, she’ll be coming home and going right to bed. Don’t worry Mi Amore.

Sitting on the stairs Anessa fumed. So that’s why they want her out of here? So that the three other alphas wouldn’t see her. She knew she was beautiful, just like her mother but never used it to her advantage. She wasn’t going to feel one bit guilty about sneaking out now. Taking a deep breath she walked down the steps and into the kitchen. Morning mama and papa. Grant turned and smiled. Morning la mia principessa. Surprised to see you awake. Your mama was just starting to prepare. I have to make some rounds but will be back in a bit. Maria looked at her and smiled. Helping after school yesterday and now up early to make breakfast? What are you up to? Grant chuckled, hugging Anessa and kissing both cheeks. Maria, don’t be so suspicious. Our daughter is being a good girl. He smiled at Anessa who smiled back. Thank you, papa. Hugging her father, she moved to the counter and began to break eggs. Grant looked at Maria who shook her head. Growling low, he walked out.

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