Chapter 22

**Zoe**

I woke feeling amazing; my center was sore, but not severely. I feel whole, like Jackson and I have become one. Jackson was not planning to mark me last night, but we talked and decided what happened with Wyatt it was better we did it. I was nervous, but the pain only lasted for a few seconds before it was replaced by the best toe-curling release, a sensation that sent shivers down my spine and left me breathless. Jackson was excellent last night. He took his time and went slow, checking on me to ensure I was okay.

“You okay,” Jackson says. Pulling me from my thoughts.

I stretch my arms and roll over to face him.

“I feel amazing like we are now as one,” I tell Jackson

Jackson tells me he feels the same as he kisses my nose.

After our intimate moment, I give Jackson a kiss and head to the bathroom. I feel a sense of peace and relaxation, and I know a bath will help me unwind and relax my muscles.

Today, I’m looking forward to helping set up for the fall barbecue. We’re planning to have a bonfire and some dancing. But what I’m most excited about is the full moon tonight. It’s a special night when all the wolves will shift and run after the barbecue and bonfire. The anticipation is thrilling.

I dress in my usual casual attire, some leggings and a thin sweater. I slip on a pair of boots and tie my hair back in a ponytail. A touch of mascara and lip gloss is all I need, as I’ve never been one for heavy makeup.

With a sense of anticipation, I make my way downstairs to see if the Kitchen needs any help.

As I enter the dining room, I meet Beth, a dear friend who always has a warm smile for me. I grab some coffee and food, and she tells me what I can do to help. It is mainly helping Aliza; she said if Danny had his way, Aliza would be locked in their room until the baby was born. He was afraid everything would hurt the baby. Aliza was going crazy and threatening to lock him in the bedroom.

I chuckle and tell her I will help Aliza. Beth notices the mark on my neck. I had spent a little too long admiring it myself this morning in the bathroom. I couldn’t help it; it looked like a tattoo. A full moon with clouds and stars, and a black wolf sat under the moon like it was howling at the moon. I loved it; when Jackson explained the marking, I thought It would just be a bite mark. I had prayed it would not be a tacky hickey. He explained what it would look like to me, but words did not do it justice.

“It’s official: you are the Luna Silver Fall and the queen of the werewolves,” Beth declares, her words hanging in the air like a spell.

It was strange to hear anyone call me a Queen, but I knew I had to accept this new role and all the responsibilities that came with it.

As we enter the kitchen I see Katelynn, I go over and check in with her. I want to know if she talks to Tyler or Ryker and gotten any information on Wyatt.

She tells me the something Jackson said that they could not find him. They think he crossed the border and left. We both received a mind link at that iime, Jackson is asking our whole family to come to his office. I tell Beth I will be back and apologize. She told me it was okay, but I felt bad for leaving when I said I would help.

Once we reached Jackson’s office, Tyker and Ryker were already there. He also had Eric, Danny, Chris, Max, and Cole in the office. My heart was racing; this could not be good if they were all there. Jackson motioned for me to come to him. I walked around the desk and sat on the chair beside him. A few seconds later, Johnny joined us.

Jackson starts the meeting; he tells us I have new information that needs to be shared.

Max found a letter that Wyatt left behind, and the council had been in contact. They are on their way here for a meeting. The urgency in Max’s voice was palpable, and it sent a shiver down my spine.

Max takes over for Jackson, and Jackson shakes in rage and tries to control his wolf.

The letter says that Wyatt wants Zoe. The potential consequences of this revelation hung heavy in the air, and I could see the worry etched on everyone’s faces.

Before, I thought I was on Jackson’s lap, and he was holding me tight, inhaling my sent. I am sure I am supposed to be upset, but for some reason, I am trying to calm Jackson down.

Tyler growls and Katelynn and Ryker bother, saying it’s not going to happen.

Max finished what he was saying. Wyatt does know that she is a white wolf, but I do not believe he knows you are a Fey witch.

Max rubs the back of his neck; that is where it gets really bad. Your father is not in prison anymore. The Raevin River pack, our sworn enemies, helped all the werewolves escape. The shock in the room was palpable, and I could feel the tension rising.

Jackson, suggest we cancel tonight festival because of everything going on. But I object I do not want everyone hiding in fear for me. I also do not want to ruin the fun tonight I am excited about tonight.

Jackson makes me promise that on the run I stay with him and tells everyone to stay away from the boarder.

We all get up and head downstairs. I now have Ryker, Dustin and Max following me. Until Wyatt and my father are found I get 3 babysitters.

Max throws his arm around my shoulder and says it's about time I get to know my favorite new sister. This earns him a growl from Jackson " Hands of my mate Max” Jackson says. Max just chuckles and says Alphas.