The Beta & The Jewel Thief

By JwgStout

Mike Pike, the Royal Beta of the New Moon Kingdom was once looking forward to finding his mate at one time. Circumstances changed his mind when he met Jonda six months ago on his quest to find his missing king.
He fell in love and fully intended to take Jonda as his chosen mate.
That was until he found out the love of his life had cheated on him, and on the same night, he ran down his mate who stole Queen Tala's Crown.
Now the thief needs his help to protect her son from the Shadow Witch, the same Dark witch that searches for four ancient stones to open the realms gates, unleashing the god of the underworld.
Mike:
It didn't matter if my mate turned up out of the blue, or that the goddess fated me to a thief and murderer.
I had chosen Jonda the moment I laid eyes on her. My wolf had chosen too.
One night was all it took to knock my realm off kilt and shatter my heart.
A Dark Witch is on the hunt and he's hunting for two things. A set of stones and the jewel thief - Lyric Swift - My mate and her son.
Lyric:
For five years I have lived as a rogue, wheeling and dealing to survive. For three years I have been a mother. I would do anything to protect my son's secret. Even if that means trusting my Beta mate, a mate I can't be with, a mate I couldn't give myself to. A mate who is in love with another. A mate who makes me feel things I don't want to.

• Language: English
• Publisher: supernovel
• Release date: Mar 6, 2024

Book preview

Chapter 2 The Job

LYRIC

I look around, peering down one end of the street and up the other. The last thing I need is for anyone to see me. Us.

I grip the tiny hand in mine a little tighter. I raise my other hand and knock on the worn and cracked door, quickly glancing around at our surroundings again. For the millionth time. All the while listening for movement from the other side of the door.

I knock again when I hear nothing. Tap, tap, tap. My nerves ramp up as I wait, listening, looking, Hurry up I whisper, sighing on the exhale.

The bite of cold nipped at us as we waited for the door to open. The snow in this part of the borough was thick and more was falling. The damp air seeped into our skin through the layers of clothing, chilling us right down to the bone.

I would give anything to curl up in front of a fire with a warm drink, cozy up with my favorite person in the realm. Anything was better than having to drag us from the comfort and safety of our home out into the bitter cold night.

But I didn't have a choice this time.

Finally, I hear movement from inside. Who is it? The familiar raspy voice of Aunt Lizzy calls out.

It's us, Aunt Lizzy, open up it's cold! I answer back, keeping my voice low but loud enough for the old she-wolf to hear.

The door opens and we slip inside, taking another look up and down the crumbling and decrepit street. My eyes find the shadows of falling down houses, moving to the next when I find nothing or nobody before I close the door behind us. Leaving the cold night air outside.

Aunt Lizzy's home is warm and the immediate change in temperature heats my cheeks.

Thank you, I mouthed to her as we moved through the small two-bedroom stone house. The interior, in better shape than the exterior.

Aunt Lizzy gives me a tight smile. One that shows she's not happy with me. One that I know is only out of concern with my choice of work.

It's what puts food on the table and a roof over our heads. I know my line of work can be… challenging and not quite above the law. I deal with some shady characters, to say the least. And it's because of the unique skills I possess that landed me the job I was running off to once I left here.

If given the choice I would have never taken the job, but when your family is threatened, and you're blackmailed. What choice do you actually have? In my case - none.

He ate before we came here. Maybe a warm drink and he will be ready to crash. I tell Aunt Lizzy.

I looked down at the small boy standing next to me and stooped to pick him up. He was my everything. My only family left. It broke my heart to have to leave him for a few days, but it was to protect him. I just had to keep reminding myself of that fact.

I would do anything for him, and if it meant having to do a job for the worst and slimiest gangster in the boroughs, this side of the Kingdom. Then so be it.

I kiss the little guy's cheek, You be good for Aunt Lizzy, and I promise I will only be gone for a few days, a week at the most. Then I will never have to leave you again. I say the words and I mean them. I just hope I can follow through.

Please don't go mommy. I will miss you too much. He speaks. His little chubby hands grab my face so he can stare me in the eyes.

I hold back the tears, my heart melting. I don't want to leave him. My gut told me this is a bad idea and that I should have taken him and run far, far away. But to where? They would find me. Find him.

I love you, baby. You be a good boy for Aunt Lizzy. Don't you be giving her any trouble, you hear?

He nods his head, his black hair falling over his haunting eyes that look so much like his father's. I promise. He says with a sad tone and an even sadder look. I brush his hair back, the tips of my fingers lingering on the clashing bright blonde streak that he was born with.

You are such a smart boy. I will miss you, but I will be back before you know it. I put him down, and Aunt Lizzy tells him to go get a book from her chest.

As soon he is out of sight, she turns to me with a worried look marring her face. Lyric, She shakes her head. I wish you would find another way to make money. You said last time was your last job.

I grit my teeth and clench my fists, my gaze still on the empty door frame my heart disappeared through. I know. I don't have a choice. I tell her, the words coming out harsh.

You always have a choice. Lizzy sighs.

Not this time, I shake my head. They threatened him, he said they needed me on this job, and if I didn't do this then he would expose him. I can't let them, or anyone, know about him. I have to keep him safe Lizzy. I look at her, hoping she can see the truth in my eyes. That I had no choice.

she bobs her head with understanding.

If you haven't heard from me in four days, you need to get him out of here. Take him to the safe house. I bring her in for a hug, squeezing her tight. If don't turn up at the safe house at the end of the week, take him, Lizzy. Run with him, as far as you can, go away from the wolves. Go south, catch a boat to the other continent if you need to. I whispered in her ear. Then pull back.

I know she will protect my baby with her life. The same way she protected me.

She wasn't a real Aunt. Lizzy had been a maid in my father's Pack house. When we were attacked five years ago, our pack was decimated and everyone who didn't manage to flee was killed or enslaved by the Rogue King Silas. Women were taken, men slaughtered, and children sold.

The nightmares from that night still plague me.

I was lucky. Lizzy found me, and together we ran. Became rogues of our own choosing. Finding refuge in a borough on the outskirts of the New Moon Kingdom.

I wish I could say the same for the rest of our families. We had no idea if anyone else had made it out. We were massacred that night.

It would be two years later, after escaping with our lives, that we would find out that pack members had lived, if you could even call it living, at least were kept alive.

Come back to us Lyri, Lizzy breaks my trip down memory lane, He needs you,

I know. I concede. He promised to cut me loose after this job.

And you believe him?

I do. I hope he means it. I want to believe this is the last time I'll have to do anything for that slimeball of a wolf. Unfortunately, trusting his words is akin to trusting a rattlesnake won't bite you if you pet it. I don't have a choice if I want to keep him safe. I gesture towards the living room where I can just hear a little voice speaking to himself, trying to read a book.

I dig into my coats inside pocket, pulling out a thick envelope full of notes. All the money I have. Take this, just in case. I shove it toward Aunt Lizzy who shakes her head.

I can't take that Lyri. If I take it, it's like sealing your fate. She pushes it back at me.

Take it in case something happens. You will need it to get yourself and him out of here. This time I grabbed her wrist and forcefully made her take it. Four days, I will contact you. If I don't, you go to the safe house. On the seventh day, if you still haven't heard from me, you run Lizzy. You take him far away from here. Promise me. She shakes her head, white whisps of hair falling around her face framing the wrinkles and her doe eyes. Promise me, Lizzy, I growl out.

I see the fight in her eyes leave, and the dawning of realization comes over her face. Ok Lyri, I promise. But you have to promise me to come back.

I Hope I can. They are the last words I say to Aunt Lizzy before I slink out the door the same way I came in. Cautious, attentive, nervous. Hoping I wasn't followed, and no one will know I brought him here.

Forty-five minutes later, I'm walking into Miko's base of operations.

Several pairs of eyes stare me down, as I make my way through the seedy bar to the back room, where I will be given the details of the job.

Good to see you again, Swift. I pause my steps at the familiar voice of Bram, who uses my street name. Miko's number one henchman.

Bram. I greet him with a tight-lipped half smile. My gaze wandered from head to toe and back up again. Bram was a large male, werebear, with eyes like honey and hair that matched. He smiled at me, but that panty-melting smirk that would have any woman swooning didn't do it for me.

I knew better. As easy on the eyes as Bram was - he was a killer. A stone-cold murderer who did Miko's dirty work. A few times I had found myself on the edge of his mercy. As if his hand was still coiled tight around my neck, I swallow hard. The feeling of those gigantic paws from when he held my head underwater hadn't left me. And I wasn't in a hurry for a repeat.

This way. Bram directs me as if I didn't already know where we were going. Regardless I let him lead me through the back of the bar down to Miko's office.

He raps on the door three times before he opens it. Instinct has me assessing the room and as my eyes lock with Miko's, I wish I had kept my head down.

I came to do a job, Miko. Not watch you get off. I spit, turning my head away from the scene in front of me.

Awe, don't be such a prude Swift. He chuckles lowly, You could always join in, That smug tone makes me shiver, and not in a good way.

Miko says something to the girls in a foreign language. They quickly scramble up from their positions. Both were naked as the day they were born. One girl was strapped with some kind of sex toy, as they pushed past Bram and me to leave the room.

The smell of stale cigars, alcohol, and sex fills the air and stifles my senses. I breathe in through my mouth which wasn't the best idea because now I could taste everything and I gasping for a breath of fresh air.

The door shuts behind me, Bram between me and the only exit. But I refuse to show any cowardice. Always business Swift, never any time for fun. Miko's words are berating and I scowl at the dark-skinned wolf. His yellow eyes scanned my body like it was his next feast. Making my stomach churn, and nausea rise.

It would be a cold day in hell before I ever let him touch me.

I pull my shoulders back and lift my chin. You have a job you want me to do. That's why I'm here Miko. What's the job?

What's the rush beautiful? Miko lets out that smarmy chuckle again. I swear he thinks it's sexy and maybe some females go for that. All it does for me is make me want to puke more.

I startle when I feel the heat of Bram's chest at my back. His large hand comes down on my shoulder, pressing heavily so I have no choice but to sit in the fabric seat across from Miko. I cringe because I can only imagine what the stains that cover the dark fabric are from.

Sex, blood, drugs. This is so gross.

King Kellen will be holding a coronation for his Queen in four days time. I want you to steal her crown. Miko slides a folder across the desk in my direction. I open it and begin to study the information. They will be hosting a ball the night before the ceremony, that's your opportunity. You steal it then.

I scan the documents, wondering how they managed to obtain a photo of the new Queen's crown. My fingers run over the image of the beautiful piece. Gold and delicate with diamonds encrusted on the band. The small peaks hold an emerald each and in the center sits the most beautiful blood-red jewel I have ever laid my eyes on. Impossible. I shake my head.

Not impossible. And even if it is, you will make it possible. The demand in Miko's voice is final.

Miko, They have a three-tiered system vault. This crown is probably kept within the inner vault that requires a nine-digit key code. Even the best couldn't crack that in the less than thirty seconds it will take to set off the alarms.

The Shadow Witch wants the crown. He tasked us with the job. Hence, it's time for you to shine, Swift. That is if you don't want me leaking information about your boy?

My head snaps up to glare daggers at him.

Miko leans back in his chair, fingers stroking his chin menacingly. You know I don't like to threaten children, but you don't get this job done, it's both our necks on the line.

You wouldn't. I seethe. Yes, Miko is a sick and icky wolf, but he had one rule. Don't hurt children. That didn't mean he wouldn't out my son to the realm for his own personal gain though.

I would. You're the best at what you do, and I expect no less from you. Get me that crown and I'll swear on the name of the gods, I will set you and the kid, free.

My eyes narrow with suspicion. You said that last time. Yet here I am.

I meant it last time too. But I need you on this Swift. Don't let me down.

I was a thief, at least that's how I started out. I dealt with antiquities and rare objects, I brokered deals on the black market. I obtained hard-to-find items. A skill I found I had when Lizzy and I lived on the streets for the first year of our lives until Miko grabbed me one night.

I worked for him for two years, until I had my own thing going. Still not completely above board, but it was better than stealing chump change and it put a roof over our heads.

There wasn't a code I couldn't crack nor a lock I couldn't open. But the Royal vault? That was another story. An impossible feat to manage. Something like that would take months of planning. He was giving me days.

If my parents could see me now, they would hang their heads in shame. How an Alpha's daughter could be reduced to a life of crime and shady dealings.

Why the Crown Miko? What's so special about it? I could steal twenty times more jewels than what's on this crown.

For the first time ever, I see a dark shadow of fear cross through Miko's eyes, his posture changes and he shifts his position. He shakes his head from side to side, I don't know Swift. But he wants it. He wants it bad. He's sending one of his men to accompany you.

No. I bark out quickly. I work alone. You know that. This job is more than likely going to go sideways as it is, I don't need someone else to help fuck it up further.

You don't have a choice! His fist bangs on the table with force, I don't have a choice. I will give you more details as I get them.

I left Miko's - folder in hand and a bigger weight on my shoulders than when I walked in.

My job was to break into the Royal vault, steal the new Queens Crown, and get it out without being caught. Then get me, Lizzy, and my boy, as far from this life as possible.

Already my gut told me this job was a bad idea. If I bail though, Miko will spill beans, then there would be nowhere left to hide.

He would find me. Us. As long as he doesn't know of his existence, we are safe.

Chapter 3 Larger Than Life

MIKE

I woke this morning to the most beautiful girl in the realm, made sweet passionate love to her, went down to the training grounds, worked out, showered, and then headed up to my office.

The day was starting out like it always should. Fan-frickin-tastic. What more could I ask for?

Aside from the usual patrol issues, a rogue here or there encroaching on the capital territory, and the day-to-day business activities, I was knee-deep in plans for Tala's crowning ceremony. It was only five days away and details needed to be finalized.

Thankfully Jonda and my mother had most of it handled. Tala was nearing her due date, so my girl and mother stepped in to help plan the second most important day in the New Moon Kingdom.

I had hired Rhett and his enforcers as extra security for the pre-party ball and the actual ceremony. You couldn't be too cautious when it came to crowning a future Queen. Her security and the Kings, of course, took priority over everything else.

The knock on my open door had me looking up, Come in, Rogue. I wave him forward with my hand as I glance back down at the security plans, I was finalizing. I'm sure I would be going over them again a few times before guests began to arrive on Friday and certainly for Saturdays crowning.

Mike, do you have the schedule for this weekend? For whatever reason, it wasn't sent to my messages. I stopped what I was doing to look up at Rogue with a frown.

It was sent to you, I tell him, knowing it was because I personally sent it to him. I open my computer to find the message and send it to him again. Check your messages now. I just resent it. But I will have a paper copy made up for you anyway.

Rogue was offered the position of our Delta but declined because he felt his duty was to protect Kellen's most precious gift. Tala. And he took his job seriously he didn't leave that she-wolf's side for a second unless Kellen was there. I swear to the goddess the man never slept either.

Personally, I think he passed up the opportunity to lead our Elite Guards because of his speech impediment. Which isn't that bad, considering he couldn't speak before.

When Kellen went missing earlier in the year, he was thrown into some kind of fighting slavery ring on the other side of the realm. That's where he found his mate, Tala. It's also where he found Rogue. His real name is Fergus, but Kellen couldn't let go of the name they gave him in Bhakhil, plus he was an actual rogue at the time. So naturally, I called him Rogue too.

When Kellen met Rogue; Rogue's tongue had already been severed which rendered him mute. When he got here, to New Moon, Mathias did something to him. We're still not sure of the full details. Either way, whatever he did, he managed to partially grow part of Rogue's tongue back and like fucking magic the dude could speak again.

I wasn't alien to the healing abilities of Mathias and Lamia. A long time ago when were, gosh, about fourteen, fifteen. I fell from a tree and impaled myself on a large branch. I thought I was a goner until Lamia bit me and then gave me her blood. Healing the wounds that should have killed me.

Safe to say I lived to see the next day. I think it was after that I developed a major crush on Lamia, thought I was in love with her up until the day I met my love, Jonda.

I'll liaise with Tyron and Damon. Damon has added extra cameras and I will coordinate with Tyron. Who will also be on duty to protect Tala with me

Perfect, I reply knowing Rogue is more than capable of handling things. Plus, it's one less thing I need to do. Rhett should be arriving from the Kodiak Kingdom tomorrow sometime; he will have a team of enforcers coming in from MacTire. They will set up base at the holding cells. I set a mental reminder to mind-link Rhett to double-check when he should be arriving, as well as ask him to send his final list of names of his Enforcers.

I look at my watch when my stomach growls, noticing it is a little past lunchtime, but if I hurry there would still be food down in the pack dining hall.

Hi, Beta Mike., Good afternoon, Beta., Hi handsome, I smile at the ladies that greet me as I walk by.

Beta Mike, anything I can do for you? One female brushes her fingers up my bicep as I walk by. I casually remove her hand and step away.

Carrie, you know I'm no longer available. Officially off the market ladies! I say offering a polite smile and raising my tone with the last sentence, making sure they can all hear. I move on to grab a plate and fill it with food.

Six months ago, I would have happily entertained these females' advances. I'm male enough to admit I have had my fair share of females and then some. That was up until the moment I laid eyes on Jonda. She wasn't my mate, but she would be my chosen mate.

I fell in love with her the second her electric hazel eyes connected with mine. Any other female in my life or my past faded into the background. She has been the only one I see and ever will see. I was in love, and I couldn't wait to make it permanent.

I had dreams of us starting a family, living here in New Moon, and carrying on the legacy of my father's name. With Jonda by my side as my chosen mate.

I knew some thought I was crazy wanting to take a chosen mate. Especially one who couldn't shift or connect with her wolf. My parents, as much as they loved Jonda and would support me in my decision no matter what; had voiced their concerns repeatedly. Like clockwork, every week my mother would ask me if I was sure I wanted to take a chosen mate.

Countless females, warriors, and Omegas have voiced, not very quietly, that they would make a better-chosen mate for the Royal Beta. I didn't care though. Jonda was it for me. And I was it for her.

I knew Jonda loved me just as much as I loved her. If she didn't, she wouldn't give up the prospect of finding her mate and ending her curse. To find her mate would mean her wolf could emerge. She would be able to shift - connect with her spirit animal. However, finding that mate was like finding a needle in a haystack, If such a person even existed. And who's to say she would even recognize said mate without her wolf?

Seriously, neither of us expected a wolf-less shifter to pop up and say, 'here I am'. And I didn't expect to find my mate. I didn't want to and if I did, I would reject her for Jonda - my love.

After eating, I traipsed back toward the offices and found Kellen pouring over documents.

What's up, man? I casually stroll in, plopping down in one of the chairs across from the large oak desk.

He glances up for a brief moment before his eyes cast down examining whatever paperwork he was looking at when I walked in. Same ole same ole. He mutters. I let him finish what he is reading and when he finishes, he gives me his attention by sitting back and folding his hands behind his head.

Kellen was always a big guy, but after coming back from Bhakhil, he had put on a ton of muscle and bulked just as big as me. I had always been bulkier and an inch or so shorter than Kellen. The dude was just monstrous now.

You ready for Friday and Saturday? He shakes his head at my question, running his hands through his hair. How's Tala doing? You know you're cutting it short, having the ceremony so close to her due date.

I had said it before, and I was saying it again. I thought it was crazy to have Tala's coronation only weeks away from her due date. But hey it was his dog and pony show, I was here to make sure it happened, and all went smoothly for them both.

Don't I know it. He sighed. I didn't want to hold it after the pup was born though. I want to spend as much time with my mate and pup as possible and take some of the burdens off her.

I nod in agreement, even though I think they should have held it much sooner than this. Kellen had stated he wanted Tala to get used to New Moon and for the people to get to know who their Queen was going to be.

Tala fit in around here like a hand-to-glove from the first day she stepped foot in the Kingdom. Like she already belonged. I get that it was all new and exciting, vastly different from her homeland. I shudder at the thought of my time in Bhakhil. The nasty heat and awful seafood I ate on our journey there.

At least I wasn't as sick as a wolf, like Tobias on the boats. But the smell of fish… Ugh just thinking about it made me want to hurl. It wasn't like the salmon or white fish we had in the pack dining room. That I could stand.

Jonda loved seafood and I swear I became a shade greener every time she prepared boiled crab or lobster. She would always cook me a steak and call it surf and turf. Except there was no way I was eating the surf.

Well, everything is set and finalized. Well for today. I will go over everything on Thursday and again on Friday morning. Rhett should be coming in on… Hold on let mind-link him.

I pause our conversation to establish a mental connection with Rhett. The beauty of being the Queen's Knight is that we can all mind-link over great distances, even if we are not in the same pack.

*Rhett?* I reach out feeling us connect, *When and what time are you arriving in New Moon?*

*Already on the way. Should be there by tomorrow evening. Hunji and Morgan followed behind So they should arrive Thursday night or Friday morning.*

*You guys get any answers?* I ask of the two prisoners they apprehended a month ago when the Clan Mansion was attacked.

*No, one of them died and the other… still holding out. These fuckers are willful, I'll give 'em that.*

*Alright drive safe, I know the pass can be icy. I have a conference room in the holding cell building for you and your team to set up in.*

*Perfect, I'll let them know to head straight there.*

I cut the link once I have my answer. Rhett should be here tomorrow, I tell Kellen, even though he could have linked into our conversation.

Fancy going for a drink this evening? Nothing wild, I add when I see the look on his face like the idea of leaving his mate was unheard of.

I can't, He starts to explain his excuse.

I didn't get it; sure, I was besotted with Jonda, but I still needed me time. Just like she did. But Kellen and Tala - they were tied at the hip. Ever since he came back, I felt like I had lost my best friend to his mate. There was no more boy's time, no more drinking. Well for him. And really, there was no more us time.

Come on dude, you always come up with an excuse! I know I'm whining, but heck. Where had my friend gone?

Mike, we're in charge now. We don't get to play bachelor anymore. He air quotes, spinning in his chair. My wolf won't let me be away from Tala for too long anyway. Not right now. He says once he spins in a full circle and faces me again.

I huff in annoyance. Everyone I knew was, or at least my closest friends were, all mated now. That meant they had forgotten what fun was. If I wanted to spend time with my best friend, it always had to be with our females too.

Jonda and Tala never had a problem with it, of course. But hey, thier half-sisters and they were still enjoying getting to know one another. Though they couldn't have two very different personalities.

At least I know Jonda is up for a good time and a few drinks. Maybe Rogue would want to down a few with me. I think it over for a moment.

As much as I love Jonda, sometimes I just needed time with the boys. Besides, things had been weird between us since she came back from the Kodiak Kingdom.

Last month she went up there, just after they had been attacked. She was hoping to get answers from Morgan, the witch Hunji brought back from Andora. Who also happened to be Finnegan Artos' sister and King Mathias' half-sister.

She was hoping Morgan would be able to break her curse, which was put on her before she was even born, by Morgan's mother. Unfortunately, she couldn't undo what her mother had done. The only way to break it was to meet her fated mate.

Don't get me wrong, things are great between us. Yet, something was off and different about her once she came home. Maybe it was disappointment that her curse couldn't be broken. Or maybe it was something else. We had been together for six months now, and if there was something that was truly bothering her, I knew she would come to me in her own time.

At least I hoped she would.

Yeah okay, I say standing up with a tone of disappointment. Let me know if you change your mind, I'll be in my office for a few, then I'm going to run a check on the additional security cameras Damon set up.

Hey, Mike. Kellen's voice reaches me as I'm about to walk through the doorway,

Yeah? I turn my head over my shoulder.

I appreciate everything you are doing - do. I hope you know that.

I offer him a broad smile and a wink I know you love me, bro. Even if your balls are in a vice grip by Tala's hands. And walk out with a chuckle and the pep still in my step.

Except, when I get to my office my father is sitting there, looking serious and all business-like. I didn't need another lecture from him today. Not today. I had everything handled and on schedule. All I needed him to do was to follow orders and keep the patrol on task Friday and Saturday. We couldn't afford any mistakes.

Son, He says with a stern voice. A tone only reserved for when I have disappointed him.

I rack my brains for a moment thinking if there was anything for him to be disappointed about. I come up with nothing.

father, I reply in the same tone, knowing he's going to think I'm mocking him.

Your mother just informed me, that while she and Jonda were talking; Jonda claims you guys will be completing your mating after the coronation?

Double shit.

I feel my wolf stir. Duke slinks into the back of my mind. He always was a coward when it came to our father, more so with our mom. Damn goody-two-shoes wolf when it came to our parents.

Chapter 4 The Parents

JONDA

I'm an Alpha's daughter for goddess' sake.

Something I never thought I would be doing was pouring over tablecloths, decorations, and seating for a sister I never knew I had up until six months ago.

Not even for me.

Then again, it's not every day your sister is being crowned the Queen of wolves. I just hoped all this hard work would pay off and everything would go perfectly for Tala and Kellen.

I rub my palms over my eyes and exhale an exhausted breath I think I need a break, I tell Oliva, Mike's mother. All these colors are giving me a headache.

Oliva laughs at my outspoken stress. I guess after all these years I'm just used to it. She shrugs, her blues glazing with a faraway look. No doubt recalling a memory from her days as the female Beta to the late Queen Sarah.

From what I understood they were all close and the death of Kellen's parents hit everyone hard. They had touched the lives of their people in so many ways that it had a lasting effect on the Kingdom. Too many times I had heard that Tala had big shoes to fill.

I didn't doubt my sister in the least.

After the life she lived, and everything she had been through, she would be the most compassionate, caring, and successful Queen this Kingdom had ever seen.

I just never thought I would be doing this, I half laugh, half groan. I'm sure my life will be full of party planning once Mike and I complete our mating.

I wince when I realize I said the last part out loud. Mike's parents were wonderful, and I got along fantastically with his mother. However, I could tell they were not keen on us becoming chosen mates.

That thought was solidified when a small squeaking gasp passed through Olivia's lips.

I look at her, trying not to glare or squirm under her wide eyes. I roll my lips, pinching them between my teeth.

I didn't know you guys were that serious this soon? Olivia raises an eyebrow in question.

Well… I fumble for the right wording. We have discussed it, but nothing is set in stone. We were waiting to announce it after the coronation. I give her an honest answer, even though Mike is adamant about marking, mating, and holding a ceremony as soon as possible.

I'm okay with this plan. Except, there's one little hiccup I need to reveal to Mike. One I wasn't looking forward to divulging. One I'm ashamed of. A dark secret that has been plaguing me for a month now, eating away at my conscious.

I still can't for the life of me understand why I would cheat on Mike. A stranger from a shitty-assed seedy bar of all places and people.

The betrayal has been harboring and feeding my guilt ever since the moment I walked out of my motel room that night. As soon as the guy fell asleep, I gathered my shit and ran.

I love Mike, I'm not a cheater. But I did. I did the worst thing I could ever do to him. The honest thing would have been to confess my sin immediately upon returning home.

But Mike made it so damn hard. With the wining and dining, the attention and the sex. Oh, the sex. One day passed and before I knew it, it was a week. Then I could never find the right time to tell him. And of course, planning the coronation and ball has taken up a lot of time.

All these are just excuses. I know this. I just can't find it in my heart to break his. He'll hate me. I hate me so how could he not? I wouldn't forgive myself, so I don't expect Mike too.

It's fear of rejection. Afraid he will realize what an unfaithful bitch I am.

Are you alright Jonda? Olivia startles me from my self-loathing.

I wiped the tear from my cheek that I didn't know had fallen until that moment. Oh… um… yeah. I try for a weak smile knowing it won't reach my eyes. I was just thinking about how beautiful Tala will look. I guess I got a little emotional is all.

Nice save! I think hoping she buys it. Yeah, not so much. I backtrack when I see Olivia wearing a skeptical look on her face. She wasn't the Beta female to the Queen for nothing.

Whatever she sees in my eyes, she lets it go. Thankfully. You are right, let's call it day. She closes our binder with all the information, color swatches, and lists. And hands it to me. Give these to Trudy, she will make sure her staff has everything taken care of. Trudy was one of the head maids in the palace and ran a tight ship. She was the one who would make all our visions come to life, and like a matron would whip her girls (figuratively speaking - I hope) if there was one little kink in the tablecloths.

Olivia leaves me to pack everything away, reminding me once more to hand the detailed folder to Trudy. Once alone, I get lost in my thoughts again.

Thoughts about that one night with a stranger a month ago. It was amazing. I can't lie about that. The way I felt, the way he made me feel. But he wasn't Mike.

I had started to question how much I actually love Mike. I would say, I love him everything. Yet, how can that be true when I cheated on him? If you love someone you wouldn't risk your relationship, you wouldn't blatantly fuck a stranger who you had tried to walk away from.

Goddess, what was wrong with me? I had everything! A perfect man, a perfect life. So what if I didn't have a connection with my wolf? I had come to terms that I would never feel her or shift. After my visit to the Kodiak Kingdom and meeting with Morgan Artos, I was disappointed, but I had excepted that the curse was for life.

I had come to terms with it.

Or so I thought. I have been over that night in the bar a thousand and one times. Wracking my brain, trying to figure out when it was, I said 'yes'. The fact is, I didn't. My brain said no but my body begged for his touch.

It was as if the whole situation was out of my hands. I had no control over my own actions, and I was drawn to the stranger like a month to a flame.

I knew I had to come clean. There was no way I could go into our mating with this betrayal hanging over our heads. I hadn't told a soul and it was eating me from the inside out. I had briefly thought about confiding in Tala, or my mother. Even my brother. But I just couldn't do it. If I was going to confess to anyone, it had to be Mike. I couldn't bear the thought of someone else knowing before I fessed up my mistake to him.

I found Trudy in the maid's quarters where she had a small shared office. As a head maid, she needed a place to schedule the staff and do her paperwork for the weekly spending and budget.

Hey Trudy, I shrugged off the dampening thoughts and plastered a fake smile on my face as I entered her little space. This is the details for the pre-ball and the for the day of the coronation. Let me or Mrs. Pike know if you have questions.

I drop the file on the desk and turn, hoping to get out of there and not be drawn into a long conversation. No such luck.

Of course, Miss MacTire. Just one quick question. I roll my eyes and turn back to her, plastering on that fake-as-shit smile again. Beta Mike said Enforcers will be staying in the capital, will they be staying in the palace or the warrior wings?

My head slowly nods from side to side, I honestly don't know. But I will definitely find out and get that information to you by the end of the day.

Trudy grunts, she likes to have all the facts and can be quite impatient. I hate surprises, you've been around long enough that you should know that.

Of course, I reply keeping that plastic façade in place. I'm waiting for a final count of guests and additional security myself. I will make it a priority to find out how many enforcers we are accommodating and where.

Trudy looks satisfied with my reply and offers me a Thank you,.

I quickly leave her be and weave my way back to the heart of the New Moon Palace, climbing the stairs to find my sister.

*****

MIKE

I slap a hand over my forehead, not wanting to hear what my father is about to spew out from his mouth. I've already heard it. Not just from him, but my mother, Kellen, Lamia…

It's not that we don't like Jonda. She is a wonderful young lady. It's just, son… I remove my hand to see my father pin me with a stare full of judgment.

I know what I want and it's her.

Right now, it might be, but you have only known each other for six months. What happens when your mate comes along Michael?

I groan, Then I will reject her.

You say that now, but believe me when I tell you, it's not that easy. A far-off look crosses his eyes. Did I ever tell you about how your mother and I met?

Yesss… It was love at first sight. You mated and had me. My father scoffs and lets out a light chuckle.

I frown because every story I have heard of my mother and father meeting was about true love and love at first sight and mating immediately after they accepted the bond between them.

The older Beta shakes his head, a wry smile forming on his lips. No, He says I wish it was like that. I was a playboy just like you, and your mother, well, she had her own ideas. We couldn't stand each other and we had full intentions of rejecting each other.

I gasp at my father's admission. I had never heard this part of their story.

"For three weeks we fought the bond, both of us intent on rejecting one another. Me, because I didn't want to give up my bachelor lifestyle and her because she thought she was in love.

"We fought like cats and dogs, and the only thing we agreed on was that we didn't want each other. Now, your mother happened to already be best friends with Queen Sarah, and I had already been chosen to become the Royal Beta. So, we found ourselves attending the same functions too frequently.

We finally set a day and time so we could get the rejection over and done with, except the day I was meant to meet her, I came upon another male who had his hands all over her as she tried to fight him off. My wolf, of course, went all possessive and I ended up beating the warrior to a pulp for hurting her. I cleaned her up, and as I tended to her I saw her beauty not just on the outside but on the inside too. And when our eyes met, I knew she was mine.

That's great dad, but what does that have to do with me? I sigh, not seeing the point of his story.

Because your mother was already a chosen mate to another wolf, son.

Shocked I gasp out No! My eyes just about popped out of my head when my father said that. How have I not heard about this before now?

Because it's all water under the bridge. Your mother and I tried to fight the bond. Even with her mated to another male by the time I met her, it still brought us together. I just don't want to see your heart get broken and I don't want Jonda to suffer a broken heart either. I guess what I'm saying is… just wait. My father stands, lips stretched tight across his mouth and eyes that look at me with sympathy. He doesn't say any more until he gets to the door and before he leaves, he turns to say, Just think about it.

I didn't need to think about it. Jonda was it for me. Mate or not, I didn't want to spend the rest of my life with anyone but her.

I thought Duke, my wolf, would have given me hassle about choosing to mate with her. Surprisingly he had nothing to say about it. He was just as content to be with Jonda as I was.

That had to be a good sign, right? The fact my wolf wasn't fighting me on it.

Beta, I looked up to see one of our Elite warriors with a package in his hands, This arrived for you, I was told to bring it straight to you.

I motioned for him to bring it in. He set it on the desk and left with me telling him to close the door on his way out.

I stared at the package for a while. I had been waiting on this for months now. The return address was for Alpha Jasper Otxoa of Bhakhil.

They were the diaries of Tala's other sister, Shayna. The Alchemist behind all Orion's inhibitor chips and the Crawlers. Tala had come across her diaries back in Bhakhil, she had asked her long-time friend and his Luna to send these to us. Either it was snail mail from the other continent, or they had taken their sweet ass time.

Even if everything had been done and dusted with Orion, I was still curious. The investigative side of me never settles. I hoped to get some kind of answer from Shayna's diaries. I was still curious about Silas and Orion's acquaintance.

It had become clear when Kellen spent his time in Bhakhil that Orion and Silas knew each other very well. I wanted to know how well. It didn't matter that they were all dead. Silas by Lamia's hands. Orion by his own son, Mathias's hand. Oliver killed Jack and Travis had Oliver executed. And Shayna, well she died by my hand. Blade if you want to get technical.

A claw from my index finger extended and slit the box open, revealing a stack of leather-bound books. I ran a finger over the top one as if it were something delicate and precious. It wasn't. Not in the least. But I was intrigued by them, by what this Shayna had accomplished and how she was able to configure and construct the inhibitors with her gift of alchemy. Tala was unsure if her late sister had been part witch or not.

In my experience, which wasn't much except for what I had read, anyone who possessed a gift of alchemy was a witch - Whether be metal, blood, nature, or something else.

Hey, handsome, The voice of the most beautiful woman in the realm pulled me from my thought and away from the diaries. So lost in thoughts I hadn't even noticed my love had entered my office.

The corners of my lips turn up into a playful and mischievous smile at the sight of Jonda. Come here gorgeous, I tell her, pushing back my chair and patting my lap.

She saunters across the room and around my desk. I take the opportunity to let my eyes wander over her lush figure. The way her tight jeans cling to her thighs and hug her ass. The way her cream blouse stretches across her more than full tits. My cock stirs at the sight of her and the thought of my hands peeling her clothes off, bending her over my desk, finding that bliss that only comes when I'm inside her.

I'm whipped. One hundred percent whipped, and I couldn't give a shit. I was in love.

Before Jonda, I found my thrill in women by the handful. I had always been a lady's man. Or manwhore as Lamia called me. Now though, Not one other woman got my attention but my love. She was the only one I wanted.

Chapter 5 Impossible

LYRIC

I rub my temples, my eyes straining on the blueprints that were laid out in front of me. How Miko got a hold of these blueprints was another question. They should have helped me map out my plan to retrieve the crown, but they were useless.

This job was impossible.

For a second, I wondered if it was too late to run. To grab my son and Aunt Lizzy and just run. Just like she and I did five years ago on my sixteenth birthday.

I close my eyes and dig the heels of my palms into them. A poor attempt at trying to block out the memories of that night. The screams, the blood, the carnage. The annihilation of my pack.

Tears gather in my eyes, and I pull at the skin around them willing the tears to stay where they are.

No help came for us. We were a small pack on the outskirts of the Kingdom, independent from the King's rule. Therefore, we had no backup. By the time my father would have been able to call for backup from our allies - it was too late.

The rogue king and his men were quick and effective at destroying my home and everyone I knew. He killed my parents, and they took my sister.

I remember Lizzy holding me tightly, her hand covering my mouth to stifle the screams as they beheaded my father, but not before raping my mother in front of our pack. I watched as my sister screamed, the fight leaving her body as they hauled her and the other girls away. The screams that came when they brutally murdered any mature male with a wolf and took the younger men and women.

They set fire to our pack - burning every building they could. Reducing my home to nothing but ashes and cinder.

The sound of rustling outside the hotel room had my head jerking up. The keypad beeped and the door opened revealing Bram. Miko had decided to send him with me as an insurance policy.

What's the saying? Better the devil you know?

At first, Miko was going to send one of his second-level guys, but at the last minute, he decided to send Bram. At least I knew Bram and how he worked. Tomorrow we were meant to meet up with one of the client's men. An unknown that I was nervous to work with.

I really hated working with anyone, especially those I didn't know. And most especially those who worked for him.

Bram offers me a tight smile but holds up a bag that reeks of greasy food and two cups of what smelled of hot chocolate.

Got anything stronger? I somehow mustered up a half-joke. In all honesty, I could do with a stiff drink.

Sorry, Swift. He sets the food and drinks down on the counter Left the flask behind. Miko wants us at our best. We're all at stake for this job.

Didn't I know it.

Why Bram? Why the crown? He takes a seat across from me. His eyes scanned the blueprints I had been memorizing for the last couple of hours. It didn't matter, it wasn't getting into the palace that was the problem. It was getting into the inner vault and then getting out again.

Bram leans back in his chair, swiping a hand over his face and blowing out a harsh breath, his honey eyes landing on mine. I won't bullshit you, Swift. I like you. He says, his eyes shifting over my face and further down, sending a chill through me. Bram was good-looking, I would even go as far as to describe him as hot. But even with all those good looks and boyish charm, I knew how dark and dangerous he could be. I don't know why Shadow wants the crown. All I know is if we don't deliver… he comes for all of us.

I knew who Shadow was, not like Bram and the rest of the underground knew who he was. I knew exactly what he was. Calling Shadow, a monster would be putting it lightly. I had seen what he could do firsthand. The lives he has and could destroy. They called him a witch - the dark witch - He who hid in the shadows and bent those dark places to his will.

I thankfully had never crossed paths with him, but If he knew about my son there would be no doubt in my mind that he would come for me. And I would do anything to protect him. Hence why I'm sitting here planning on breaking into the most secure vault in the realm there was.

That's why Miko wanted you on the job. He needs the best and you are the best Swift. I narrowed my eyes at him, unable to contain my distaste.

Miko knew about my boy, I'm unsure how much he heard but he knew who he was and was using that as leverage to blackmail me into doing 'just one more job' for him and his mob.

Bram folds up the papers and starts to unload the bags of food. Unwrapping his first burger he starts to tuck into it. I look at the food he placed in front of me, and my stomach turns. I can't eat. I'm too nervous to eat.

Bram notices my lack of enthusiasm for his gesture, Eat. You gotta keep up your energy Swift. It's a long drive tomorrow.

I pick up a fry and nibble it, the grease making my stomach churn even more. But I shove it in my mouth and gulp it down anyway.

After that night, when Lizzy and I ran, we made it to Lonely City. I didn't shift that night, maybe because of the trauma, and Lizzy was too old and her wolf too small to carry me on her back. It took us days before we made it to the city.

We had no money, no possessions, and had found ourselves on the wrong side of the border. Except the Kodiak Kingdom was closer to us than the New Moon border.

I had always been good at finding things and had a knack for getting in and out of places I shouldn't be. Couple that with my natural skill in electronics and I was able to secure us a room in one of the hotels. I pickpocketed and stole for weeks so we had some money. As soon as we had enough, we left the bear kingdom and found ourselves in a village in one of the boroughs.

That's where I met Miko. I stole from the wrong guy. Instead of cutting off my hands, he offered me a job. I was small and quick and smart, so he stuck me on the payroll. I got his men in and out of places undetected. I was useful.

I could track down objects that would be valuable on the black market. Things like lost items such as art, jewelry, historical objects, or anything else of value.

I worked with Miko for two years, until my son came along. Then I only did the odd job here and there for him.

I had saved enough money over the years to get as far away from the dark witch, Shadow, as possible. After this job I intended to leave, maybe even catch a boat across to the second continent. Find a place we could settle, where my boy could grow up in peace. Where Lizzy could live out her last days in a real home. Not some run-down borough in no man's land. Somewhere where we wouldn't be looking over our shoulder twenty-four-seven

Are you worried Swift? Bram asks me.

I looked up at him, not realizing I had drifted off into my own head again. My face scrunches up slightly, The job… I shake my head, It doesn't feel right. I have a really bad feeling about this job, but I'm hesitant to say too much to Bram. I don't want to spook him and then he turns around and tells Miko. The risk of Miko telling Shadow about my son is too great.

So instead, I fake a slight smile, I get nervous with every job. You know this, Bram. There's just a lot riding on this one. Ya' know?

Bram wipes his greasy fingers on his jeans, then reaches for his drink, slurping the warm liquid down. I know. It's not just you Swift. He's got Miko by the balls too. That's why he needed you. Bram pauses, thinking, choosing his next words carefully. Get the crown and Miko will let you go. Both of you.

I give him a smirk, wanting to believe his words. But I had heard that song and dance before. The only way anyone would let us go is by us disappearing from around here for good.

We go over the blueprints together. I show and tell Bram exactly my plan of entry and exit. The only thing and the biggest hurdle is figuring out the nine-digit code to the inner vault, where they are keeping the crown.

How does Miko know where the crown is being kept? I asked Bram.

Shadow, Is his one-word answer.

I raise a brow and peer at him across the table, So we are just trusting what that sick maniac says?

Yep, He replies popping the P, at the end.

Great, I grumble. Not loving the idea of trusting a madman with Alchemy powers and a sick mind.

A little while later Bram leaves me, going back to his adjoining room. He knows I won't bale on him. He knows I wouldn't, couldn't, risk it.

Alone in the dark, I reach out to my wolf. Being the daughter of an Alpha I should have been able to communicate with my wolf better, sometimes I can. Most times she is content to watch from the inside.

'Note,' I reach out, needing her reassurance, wanting her reaction. I feel her stir in the depths of my mind. 'Are we doing the right thing? I have a bad feeling.'

It takes her a moment to form her thoughts and I feel her hesitation before she speaks. 'We must go to