Page 67 of Destined Mate

“Interesting,” Clive said after a beat. “Especially given the Council had to cancel the summons less than twenty-four hours before it was scheduled.”

“I understand the timing was unusual,” Wesley admitted, holding Clive’s gaze. “But the situation was unusually urgent too. This pack was under threat and had already lost members. I did what I had to do for them.”

“And you mated their omega,” Anya said. “That will complicate things.”

“I wouldn’t say it’s complicated,” Wesley said. “I’d say it’s fated.”

Clive and Anya exchanged a long look. Jerome’s chest tightened. Would they believe Wesley? Would they respect the new alphaship? Or—Jerome’s stomach lurched—would they challenge Wesley anyway?

Clive tilted his head. “Fated, you say?”

“Yes,” Wesley replied. “Jerome is my Fated mate, and the pack willingly bonded with me. There’s nothing to be gained by a challenge.”

“How did you know the pack was in trouble?” Anya asked.

“Call it intuition,” Wesley answered. “I had visions of what was happening here. By the time I arrived, Elmer had already finished the damn auction.”

“We were told about that. Disgusting,” Anya said.

“Visions?” Clive’s eyes narrowed. “An alpha with visions. That’s a new one.”

“It was for me too,” Wesley said. “But it saved this pack.”

They stood in loaded silence, and Jerome held his breath.

Then Anya nodded. “I like an alpha who can adapt to the unexpected and still come out on top.”

Clive’s chuckle was low and grudging. “As much as I’d have liked a shot at this pack, I’m inclined to agree. We’ve heard of your reputation, Wesley Valentino.”

“Then I hope you know I’m telling you the truth. We’re Fated mates. Jerome’s acceptance of me is undeniable.”

Jerome’s body thrummed with anticipation. He itched to be at Wesley’s side, to show Clive and Anya the truth of Wesley’s words.

“Should we take your word for it, though?” Anya asked.

“You don’t have to,” Wesley said. “Jerome? Come out here, please.”

Jerome didn’t hesitate as he pushed open the door, stepping into the crisp night air and hurrying to where Wesley waited.

He saw Clive and Anya exchange a look, something like surprise—and maybe that was acceptance he saw too?—passing between them as he approached.

Wesley’s eyes were dark and full of promise. Jerome couldn’t help but smile, letting all the joy of being Wesley’s mate show in his expression.

He stopped next to Wesley, close enough to feel the heat radiating from his body. The bond between them was vibrant and alive, a tangible thing that pulsed with their unity.

“See for yourselves,” Wesley said, resting a hand on Jerome’s shoulder. “Jerome really is my Fated mate.”

Jerome inhaled deeply, capturing the mingled scents of all the wolves around him. His voice was steady and clear. “I went through hell this past week. Wesley saved my life, but more importantly, he saved my heart.”

Anya let out a low, appreciative whistle.

Clive nodded. “We can see that. You’re damn lucky, Wesley. And Jerome? You’re lucky too. I won’t challenge.”

Jerome nodded, feeling the truth of Clive’s words resonate through him.

Anya smiled. “I don’t think we need any more proof. Congratulations to you both. I won’t challenge, either.”

Jerome’s heart soared as Wesley pulled him even closer. They weren’t going to challenge for alphaship. His pack was going to be okay. A rush of emotions filled him—happiness, astonishment, and above all, an overwhelming sense of relief.

---