Page 30 of Opposites Attract
Satisfied as she looked John over, she took a seat next to her guards.
“She’s not in a position to challenge me.”
Oh Goddess. He didn’t know the drama or just how vindictive women can be.
“You should probably let me do the talking.”I made a point of looking Janice in the eyes as I was the last to take a seat. “What brings you to our territory today?”
Bryant blinked. Tim started to speak, but after one glance from John, the old wolf coughed as if he’d choked on his own spit. John leaned back against his chair and folded his arms over his chest.
Janice’s smug grin twitched as she looked to the silent Alpha and then to me. “Forgive me, Fallon. It’s been a while since we’ve connected. How is your brother doing?”
The slight slip almost made me laugh. Of course that was her concern. She was testing to see if my connection with McCaw still stood. And if I didn’t have to beat around the bush, I wasn’t going to. “He’s well. I spoke to him and his mate yesterday. This season was a good one. For many of us.”
I paused to give John a real smile, loving his amused expression. Tim was still trying to catch his breath, as if he couldn’t believe I was speaking. That was fine. I could do underestimated all day.
I returned my attention to Janice. “But that’s not why you’re here.”
“No, it isn’t.” She glanced at John again as if he could save her.
He can’t.My wolf licked her chops.
“I came to see about making a new alliance.” Janice finally realized she’d be dealing with me for this impromptu meeting. “Since we’re old acquaintances, it’d be easier for us to work together.”
“No, what you came to do was undermine my mate’s authority,” I said, direct. “I’m assuming you don’t plan to honor his and Chase’s bargain if you can prove your son’s illegitimacy.”
Her gaze narrowed, but her smile remained plastered on. “Stepson. Arthur is my blood. He’ll be the next Alpha. If you want to go making deals, it should be with him.”
“See, that’s where you’re wrong.” I rested my elbows on the table so I could lean forward and stare her down. “A bargain was made. One that will be honored by whoever runs Williams Pack. I suggest you remember that when you go trying to clean up your own house.”
John arched an eyebrow, but still he said nothing. Tim was so red I expected him to burst. It was Bryant trying to hold back his grin that was almost my undoing. But I knew how to maintain a straight face.
“If you intend to be so rigid, we’ll need to discuss some new boundaries once this Alpha situation is sorted.” Janice smoothed down her skirt, trying to save face.
“Don’t you dare threaten me.” I stood, letting out more of my wolf’s inherent strength. It was enough to have Tim bend his neck and make a little whine slip from Janice’s lips. “And you’ll do well to remember that McCaw doesn’t take lightly to threats. Neither do the O’Neils.”
I had no clue on the last part, but I was willing to make the bet.
Tight-lipped, Janice rose to her heeled feet. “I see. It was nice chatting with you, Fallon.” She nodded her respect to John, who didn’t bother to rise.
“Sure it was.” I smiled sweetly. “Tell Kimberly I’ll be calling on her soon.”
“Kimberly?” Janice gripped the back of the chair.
“Chase’s mate, Kimberly. We met during the season and ran together. You should know that’s how strong bonds are forged.” I forced her gaze down as the promise of my intent raged within my glare. Eye contact was a funny weapon. One I loved to wield during situations like this.
“Of course, Luna. We’ll be happy to host you in Williams Pack.” Janice gave a slight bow as she slipped on her coat. Quicker than I expected, she and her team were heading outside and back to their waiting cars.
“Well. I didn’t think…” Tim looked around the room as he stuttered. “She just…”
“Come on, man.” Bryant laughed as he clapped the old man on the back. “Did you lose a nut or two back there?”
“I need you to leave. Now.” John growled.
Tim scrambled out the door.
Bryant sighed as he followed him. “We’re going to have to burn this table.”
“Out.” John’s Alpha strength washed over me, giving my wolf a heady rush as it mixed with my own power.