Ch. 26..30: The Luna and her Quadruplet Pups Chapter 26-30

The Luna And Her Quadruplet Pups Chapter 26

Ethan

The doctor arrives first thing in the morning, after Jane has already roused the pups and fled the house. My naughty little mate is as skittish as a scared rabbit, and it’s no wonder why. She’s certainly carrying a lot of secrets around with her, and the three biggest ones are living in the room next to mine.

Unfortunately for her, I have no intention of leaving now. I need to get to the hospital to see Paisley, but the more time that passes, the clearer it becomes that I have three other pups to worry about here. I’ve only met them in passing thus far and I don’t even know the boys’ names, but I’m going to stay here until I do.

Jane has been very clever these past few years and I don’t expect unraveling her web of lies is going to be easy, but Goddess am I excited to begin. I haven’t felt this exhilarated in years, and it truly amazes me I could feel so thrilled by her deception. I suppose the joy of discovering her alive has overpowered the fury I might otherwise be feeling – though I have a sneaking suspicion I won’t feel that way for much longer.

The doctor is quick and professional, examining me in the privacy of Linda’s guest room and gently lecturing me about the dangers of over-indulging. I don’t correct the man about the source of my concussion, I plan on dealing with Jane: myself, and I need him on my side in order for my plan to succeed.

“I want you to tell Linda I have to stay on bedrest here for a few more days.” I quietly intone as he packs away his supplies.

“But alpha, you’re more than well enough to return home.” He replies, furrowing his brow.

His confusion is understandable, but I don’t show him any empathy. Pulling a handful of banknotes from my wallet, press them into his palm. “I know your diagnosis, and I know what I said.” I explain coolly. “I need to stay here a while longer, and I want you to back me up.”

He frowns deeply, staring up at me as the gears work in his mind. I still haven’t released his hand, and when he doesn’t immediately agree I squeeze his palm more firmly, making the smaller man wince. “Yes sir.” He agrees, lowering his gaze in submission.

“Thank you.” I smile, letting him go at last.

I listen at the door as he explains the situation to Linda, grinning at the surprise in her voice and the obvious concern she feels over having Jane and I locked up in her apartment together. When she starts to approach the guest room after he departs, I quickly jump into bed and pretend to be asleep.

She pushes the door open and watches me for a long moment, and I have to hope she’s convinced by my act. In the end she closes the door again without speaking, either deciding to let me pretend, or believing I actually need the rest.

Thank you, doctor. I think slyly, you just bought me three more days with Jane, and I’m not going to waste them.

Eve was livid.

She was certain Jane was trying to steal Ethan back, even going so far as getting him drunk and injuring him so he’d be forced to stay with her! She knew in her heart that’s what happened, and might even be impressed if she wasn’t so furious. She’d tried to get Ethan drunk a hundred times, but it had never seemed to work.

None of her plans were working out the way she hoped, and her frustration was increasingly by the day. She still had to figure out a way to get rid of Paisley, and she needed to get Jane out of the city as soon as possible. She was so distraught over all this she was even willing to risk hurting her own business if it meant protecting her relationship with Ethan.

Pulling out her phone, she dialed a reporter at the Night Fang Gazette who had published pieces about her boutique when it first opened. “Hello?” The woman answered promptly.

“Hi Danielle, this is Eve Souillon, I think I have a story for you.” She announced.

“Oh, hi Eve.” The reporter greeted her politely, “the paper doesn’t currently have any openings for a fashion piece, but l’ d be happy to listen and direct you to another publication.”

“Oh it’s not a fashion piece.” Eve corrected her deviously, “it’s a criminal offense.”

“Really, do tell?” Danielle invited.

“Are you familiar with La Louve?” the jealous she-wolf asked.

“Of course, who isn’t?” The reporter replied. She could never afford the luxury perfume herself, but every she-wolf on the continent dreamed of purchasing the exclusive fragrance.

“Well, I’m sorry to inform you that the entire business is a fraud.” Eve stated gleefully, “And I can prove it.”

When Jane returned mid-morning after dropping off the pups at daycare, she was shocked to discover Ethan was still at Linda’s apartment. The infuriating Alpha was sitting in the living room talking with her friend, causing Jane to stop in her tracks.

“What are you still doing here?” She demanded.

Ethan only grinned, “The doctor ordered three more days of bedrest here.”

“What?” Jane exclaimed, looking to Linda for confirmation. When the other woman nodded in agreement, Jane threw her arms up, “why here? Why not go be on bedrest in your own home?”

“Apparently,” Linda cleared her throat, as if she too was having a hard time buying the doctor’s orders, “He’s still too unstable to move.”

“Can’t be too careful with the Alpha.” Ethan announced smugly.

Jane’s eyes narrowed to slits, and she seriously considered giving the man a real head injury. However before she could truly entertain the idea, her cell began ringing in her bag.

Fishing it out, she brought the device to her ear. “This is Elise.” She stated, earning a snort from Ethan.

“Hi Elise,” A woman greeted on the other end of the line, “My name is Danielle Kincaid and I’m a reporter for the Night Fang Gazette. I’m writing a story about potential fraud at La Louve. I wanted to call and give you a chance to make a comment on the matter before we go to print.”

Jane forgot all about Ethan and her personal problems, her attention instantly snapping to her business. “I’m sorry, I’m going to need more information. What fraud?”

“You deny knowing anything about it then?” The reporter questioned.

“As I said, I’m going to need more information.” Jane repeated, seeing Ethan rise to his feet out of the corner of her eye. She glanced at the pair in the living room, both of whom could undoubtedly hear the other side of her conversation with their keen, shifter ears.

“Well, I received a tip that your perfumes are not actually being produced using the rare botanicals you claim. It seems there are verified cases of wolfsbane poisoning in the city, which arose from your company using the plant as a substitute in your signature fragrance line.” Danielle shared, sounding thoroughly excited to have stumbled onto such a dramatic story.

The next thing Jane knew, Ethan was prying the cell phone from her hand, his expression clouded over with rage. He was giving off so much dominant energy that Jane quelled without a second thought, letting him take control even though she internally wanted to object.

“This is Ethan Blackwell.” He spoke firmly into the receiver, “what is the meaning of this?”

“Oh!” Danielle’s distant voice chirped, “Alpha, it’s a pleasure to speak with you, I was just calling Ms. Carrington for a comment

“I heard.” He snarled, “And I want to know where you got your information.”

“I’m afraid I can’t reveal my sources, even to you sir.” She hedged.

“Well then let me set the record straight.” Ethan growled, “because there have been a few cases like you’re describing, but only from perfumes purchased at a single shop – one who’ s proprietor was too cheap to actually carry the fragrance line and decided to counterfeit them instead.”

Heavy silence hung on the other end of the phone. “Would that be Eve’s Atelier?”

“Yes it would.” Ethan rumbled ominously, “Feel like sharing your source now?”

“I- it… this is,” She stammered, unsure of how to proceed.

“It was Eve herself, wasn’t it?” Ethan demanded. “She tried to make Elise Carrington the villain, when in fact Elise is the one who came here to put an end to the scheme and saved countless lives in the process.”

“Is that true?” Danielle squeaked.

“Do you think I would lie?” The Alpha demands, “do you think I would ever say such things about a business in which I am a key stakeholder, unless it was the truth?”

“No sir, I didn’t mean -”

“If you publish a single word maligning Elise Carrington’s good name, you will be out of a job in an instant.” He continued, speaking so harshly that both Jane and Linda trembled reflexively.

An hour later, when Eve picked up the phone to gloat with her contact at the Gazette, she was shocked to hear the woman explain what had happened.

“What! Why would you call her!?” She screeched at Danielle.

“Because it’s standard practice.” The other woman informed her coldly. “And it’s a good thing I did, because now I can publish the true story, instead of destroying my career with your libel.”

“No – the Alpha will never allow it.” Eve insisted.

“Who do you think told me to write the truth?” Danielle scoffed. “Needless to say you lost more than one friend today. Don’t call me again, Eve.”

When the line went dead Eve threw the device at the wall with all her strength. Shrieking in a full-out temper tantrum she roared, “I’ll kill her!” Then, to herself she repeated. “I’ll kill Jane if it’s the last thing I do.”

 

The Luna And Her Quadruplet Pups Chapter 27

Ethan

For all my bluster, my head truly was aching after settling the ordeal with Eve and the reporter. Jane was so thankful I’d stepped in that she didn’t even complain when I said I was going to lie down for a bit, though I could still hear her speaking in a low voice with Linda after I closed the door.

“What happened?” Jane whispered.

“It’s like he said,” Linda answered, “The doctor said it would be best if he remained here to rest a few days. He said something about there being too much temptation to take care of pack business at the penthouse, he didn’t trust Ethan to actually rest if he went home.”

“That’s nonsense.” Jane hissed. “Ethan must have ordered the doctor to say that.”

“Whether he did or didn’t doesn’t really matter.” Linda argued in a hushed tone. “He’s the Alpha. We can’t refute his orders or the doctor’s. We’ve just got to make our peace with it.”

“I can’t have him here with the kids.” Jane murmured nervously. “Maybe we should see if we can move into the new apartment sooner.”

“Sweetheart, he’s already seen the pups.” Linda reasoned, “if anything, spending more time with them will give you time to convince him he’s wrong about you. I guarantee, if you cut and run you’ll only be confirming his suspicions.” I wasn’t sure if Linda believed what she was saying, or was secretly in my corner, but I appreciated her either way. “Stay here and pretend nothing is wrong. Show him he doesn’t have any effect on you. Make sure that he’ll let you go when the time comes.”

Bloody unlikely. I think, even as Jane answers, “Maybe you’re right.”

That’s right baby, listen to Linda.

“But I don’t like it!” Jane adds stubbornly.

“It’s only a couple of months.” Linda assured her. “You can do this.”

There was an odd pause, and then Jane remarked. “Maybe it won’t be a few months after all. When that article comes out, Eve’s Atelier will be ruined. The deal can fall through.”

Unfortunately for Jane, I’d already thought of this and sent off an email to the board to begin the process of formally removing Eve from her position. Her decision to try and frame Jane for her own crimes was the last straw. I no longer felt any duty to protect her under the circumstances. I might have been able to understand her holding a grudge against Jane, but I was also incapable of allowing her to harm my mate.

My last thought as I fell asleep was of the cute look I knew would be on Jane’s face when I told her the news: that our deal would absolutely be going forward, and I would be taking over management of the boutique so that we would have to continue working together long after the perfume launch. She was going to be furious, and I was going to enjoy every moment.

When I wake, it’s to the sound of young voices and three distinct scents, all like different shades of Paisley. I keep my eyes closed as the pups sneak into my room, my heart already swelling in my ch3st. Other than getting to spend time with Jane, I’ve been looking forward to truly meeting the pups the most.

Opening my eyes to tiny slits, I catch sight of the three pups hovering at the edge of the bed. Closing them again, pretend to shift my legs, listening in amusement as the kids duck down with three little gasps. A moment later they rise again, muted footsteps carrying them closer.

“Why’s he sleeping so much?” One of the boys whispers.

“I dunno.” Riley replies, a note of pure mischief in her voice. “Maybe you should poke him.”

Paisley’s other half if I ever saw one. I think with delight. Little imp.

“No!” The boys whisper in unison, “he’ll wake up.”

“What are you, chicken?” Riley replies, making a series soft clucking sounds.

“Stop it, Riley.” One of her brothers complains.

“Come on, I dare you!” Riley eggs them on.

There’s a beat of silence, and with another tiny peak I catch the boy on my right reaching toward me hesitantly. At the very last moment I leap up and catch the boy with a dramatic “Rawr!”

All three kids squeal in surprise, but I’ve captured the second boy in no time flat. “Well what have we here?” I ask, eyeing them suspiciously. “A pair of spies! And so small too.” | tease, lifting a pup in each hand and adopting an intimidating expression. “Tell me now, who do you work for?”

Riley had begun to run for the door when I rose up, but now she turns back. Seeing me holding her brothers captive, her adorable features scrunch up in anger. Fighting to smother my smile, I say, “Oh-ho, so this is your leader.”

Without another word the little girl charges my legs with a vicious war cry, and I know I’m a goner. I’ve barely met them, and I’m already head over heels for this pack of rascals.

Jane is standing in the kitchen when I emerge with Riley hanging from one of my arms, and both boys on the other. Their little feet hang off the ground and they giggle uproariously as I carry them out into the main living area. Despite herself, I see the corners of Jane’s mouth twitching upward, and I offer her a wide smile in return.

“You’re supposed to be resting.” She tells me, trying to sound stern.

“I was!” I tell her defensively, “But then I caught these little devils spying on me.”

Jane sighs, and shoots the pups a disapproving mom look. “I told you three to stay out of his room.”

“But Mom!” All three cry in unison.

“It’s okay.” I announce, “I’m glad I finally got to meet your pups.”

“Do you have kids?” One of the boys asks.

“I do, I have a little girl named Paisley.” Jane’s eyes are almost comically wide as she looks back and forth between me and the pups, as if she’s trying to figure out some way to split us up before I can say more.

“Can we meet her?” The other boy asks.

“If you like.” I agree happily, I would love nothing more. “But not this week, she’s in the hospital.”

“I was just there!” Riley announces happily.

I raise my arm until she’s hanging level with my eyes, suddenly overflowing with concern. “You were?” I question, scanning her for injuries. That must have been why Jane was there the day we ran into each other. “Why?”

“Just a flu.” She shrugs, completely unconcerned.

Her bright smile calms me immensely. “Well I’m glad you’re better.”

“Us too!” The kids have already moved back to playing, climbing my body like a tree and swinging from my arms like little monkeys.

“Mommy, come play with us!” Riley calls hopefully.

Jane, who is pretending to dry the same plate she was working on ten minutes ago, shakes her head. “Maybe in a little while honey, I’m just finishing the dishes.”

Bending to the pups’ level, I nod towards Jane and whisper, “you’re not going to let her get away with that, are you?”

The children exchange mischievous glances, and I give them the extra prod they need.”Get her.”

Jane

The Goddess is really testing me today.

Watching Ethan play with our pups was hard enough. I’ve imagined seeing my kids with their father too many times to count, but seeing it in person makes my heart practically break. They’re all so happy, and I know if I join them I’ll be asking for trouble. I don’t want to encourage this behavior, no matter how happy it makes them. But it seems Ethan has no such reservations, and made the decision for me.

As my pups race across the room and pounce on me, I can help but laugh as I collapse beneath them. Wrestling and ticking the three wriggling bodies, they give as good as they get, poking my sides and making me squirm wildly on the tiles.

A warm, deep chuckle that sends a very different kind of warmth through my body sounds above us, and the next thing I know Ethan is bending down to pluck me from the ground, tossing me over his shoulder and relocating me to the living room. Though he sets me on my feet when we get there, the feel of his powerful hands on my body makes my knees feel weak, and I have to steady myself with a hand on his arm when I land.

The kids have followed of course and are now eyeing the pair of us with paws outstretched in threat. They pounce within moments, and before I know it all five of us are racing around the apartment laughing and playing, making my heart swell even larger in my ch3st. It feels as if it will burst out of me at any moment, and my wolf is practically clawing at my skin, begging to come out and join the fun.

The only thing missing is Paisley.

I don’t know where exactly the thought came from, but I look to Ethan, instinctively knowing he’s thinking the same. He offers me a warm smile, and as I stare into his dark eyes, I feel as though I’m falling into a bottomless pool. The longer our eyes remain locked, the more agitated I feel.

Flames of heat have filled Ethan’s gaze, and when he rakes it over my body, pure, undiluted desire races through my b***d. I want nothing more than to run into his arms and the way he’s looking at me right now, there’s no doubt he’d catch me… and remind me exactly what I’ve been missing all these years.

 

The Luna And Her Quadruplet Pups Chapter 28

Jane

What I’ve been missing all these years. I think when reason returns to my l**t-addled brain, like being Ethan’s mindless pleasure slave.

All at once my joy and desire come crashing down around me as reality sets in. If I was to give in to Ethan now, I would land right back where I was five years ago: completely at his mercy. And I’m sure that’s exactly what he wants. It must have been so hard for him not to have an omega slave serving his every whim all this time. I think bitterly. It’s no wonder he’s been so aggressive about reuniting with me.

At first I’d been confused about why the Alpha seemed so determined to prove my true identity – before he knew about the pups it didn’t make any sense. Afterwards I assumed he simply wanted to take them from me, after all wolves like him always think women and children are their property, rather than beings with their own minds.

However now the final puzzle piece has fallen into place at last. It’s not just about the pups, it’s also about getting his personal s*x toy back, and no doubt making me pay for my betrayal. I can only imagine the twisted ways he’ll devise to punish me. Kinky bastard.

The only saving grace is that he finally seems to have wised up to Eve’s schemes, that or he’s only siding with me to win me over in the short term. Either way, I cannot be fooled by his charm. I cannot let myself fall victim to the heartless Alpha again, no matter how well we started off.

Ethan

Looking at Jane now, it’s impossible not to be transported into the past. She’s every bit as beautiful now as she was the day we first k!ssed, when I finally stopped seeing her as a friend, and realized she was the woman of my dreams.

We were fifteen, and had been tied at the h*p ever since we competed against one another in the pack’s annual spelling bee in the third grade. We tied in the competition, and though I was the Alpha’s son and she was just an omega, we became fast friends. We couldn’t have come from more disparate backgrounds. While my family was happy, whole and had never left me wanting for anything, Jane never knew her father, and her mother always struggled to keep food on the table.

One day we were hanging out after school, walking down the city’s main street and happily chatting when I caught her ravenously eyeing a bakery window. “Have you eaten today, little wolf?”

“Yes.” She answered, turning her nose up in a way that told me she was certainly lying.

“Janey,” I growl threateningly.

“You know, I’m getting really tired of you bossing me around, Ethan.” She groused, “You’re not Alpha yet.”

“And you wouldn’t listen to me even if I was.” I tease, brushing her hair back from her face. “Stubborn thing.”

“Stop it!” She complained, pushing my hand away.

“Or what?” I taunted, catching her up against me. I stared deep into her brilliant green eyes, framed behind thick black lashes despite her fair hair. I’d always known Jane was pretty, but i’d never felt it the way I did then – deep in my bones, with a thriving, blazing fire that made my wolf positively howl.

“Or…” She racked her brain, a look of enlightenment striking her stunning features a moment later. “Or I’ll bite you.” She decided.

“Is that so?” | grinned wolfishly, trying very hard to calm my raging h0rmones.

“Just try me.” She challenged defiantly, adorably sure she’d won our bout.

Without another thought I dipped my head and claimed her l!ps with my own, sliding my hand to her nape and k!ssing her senseless. Jame whimpered in surprise, her small body going tight as a spring for a moment before melting against me, smooth and warm as hot honey. The next thing I knew she was wrapping her arms around my neck and pressing herself closer, making the sweetest little sounds as I plundered her mouth with my tongue.

In the end she was as good as her word, nibbling on my lower l!p and earning herself a powerful growl and soft nips in return. It only made her bite me harder, she so enjoyed my dominance. Jane challenged me at every turn, and neither one of us could get enough.

As I return to the present I can see the same inclination in her now. When one moment she looked ready to cave to my charms, the next she’s hardened herself for battle. Goddess how I want to rise to the challenge – just as I had all those years ago. But we aren’t kids anymore, and I know I can’t just win her with a k!ss. We’re playing a long game now, and I have to figure out how to win over this new Jane, rather than using the same tactics I would have in the past. However, as we frolic through Linda’s apartment with the pups, her obvious happiness gives me at least one idea for achieving my aims and it begins and ends with the other center of my universe: Paisley

Third Person

“I have to visit Paisley this morning, I honestly shouldn’t have let a day go by without seeing her – let alone two.” Ethan announced on the second morning of his stay.

“Yeah, well that’s what you get for scheming with the doctor.” Jane griped, instantly feeling guilty. Poor Paisley had been at the hospital all on her own these last few days. Jane had wanted to sneak out to see the pup herself, but by the time she shook Ethan off the prior evening visiting hours had already ended.

“Now, now.” He scolded. “Don’t be like that.”

“Like what?” Jane grumbled, crossing her arms over her ch3st.

“Grumpy.” Ethan remarked wryly, eyeing his former mate slyly. “You should come with me.”

Jane froze, clearly torn. “I shouldn’t.” She hedged.

“Come on.” Ethan encouraged, “She’d love to have another visitor, especially you.” He reminded her, “She was so taken with you when you met.”

Jane, who still hadn’t acknowledged she found Paisley the day she ran off, shrugged. “I’d love to meet her, but I have too much to do.”

“Sweetheart, I hold your only account in the city.” The alpha reminded her, “If I say we can skip work today, we can.”

Muttering under her breath about inappropriate nicknames and bossy Alphas, Jane finally agreed. She glared out the window the entire ride to the hospital and refused to speak to Ethan, however the moment they arrived in the Children’s wing of the medical center, she instantly softened.

By the time the pair reached Paisley’s room, she was almost being friendly. “Daddy!” Paisley exclaimed when he entered the room, throwing her arms out in welcome. Ethan immediately strode to her side and wrapped his muscular arms around her.

“Hello angel, I’m so sorry I haven’t come sooner.” He shared sincerely, guilt eating him alive.

“Where were you?” Paisley pouted, her green eyes wide.

“I’m afraid that’s my fault.” Jane announced, surprising them both. “I distracted him.”

“You came back!” Paisley cried when she saw Jane.

“Of course I did.” Jane smiled warmly, petting the child’s cheek. “How could I stay away?”

It took Ethan a moment to catch up, but he soon realized Jane must have been visiting Paisley without his knowledge. He was both thrilled his suspicions about the woman were correct, and infinitely more confused about her deceit.

To his surprise the pup – who had never shown preference for anyone over him, was reaching for the woman she believed to be her mother. A month ago he would have assumed he would be jealous of such a gesture, but now he found he was touched. It filled him with joy to see Jane taking Paisley into her arms, the happiness on the child’s face the best gift for which he could ask. His pleasure only increased when Paisley turned back to him a moment later, “I wanna sit’in both your la*ps.”

Ethan was well aware the child meant she wanted to share their affection, but ever the clever wolf, he took the request to his advantage. Jane was already holding Paisley, so he simply pulled the lovely she-wolf into his la*p and considered the job done. Perched on his thighs but still cradling their pup, Jane squirmed and glowered at the man. “That isn’t what she meant.”

He merely grinned in reply, trailing his hand down the column of her spine and cuddling them both close, “Deal with it.”

Paisley was oblivious to their muted argument, and merely snuggled into her parent’s arms. She knew her surgery had been rescheduled for the day after tomorrow, and she knew without question her Daddy would be there. However he wasn’t the only one she wanted present, and now she had the opportunity to ask her Mommy to be there too

“Will you come to the ‘spital for my surg’ry?” Paisley asked, looking up at Jane with wide puppy-dog eyes.

 

The Luna And Her Quadruplet Pups Chapter 29

Jane

Looking down at Paisley’s sweet face, I know I can’t deny her anything. “Of course I’ll come.” I promise, avoiding Ethan’s gaze.

“Yay!” Paisley exclaims happily, looking back and forth between Ethan and I. Something seems to strike her then, and her little nose crinkles in confusion and concern. “Wait, what ’bout your game?”

Ethan’s gaze zeroes in on me. I don’t need to look at him to know, I can feel the weight of his eyes on me like a pair of hundred-pound weights. I should have foreseen this, I should have remembered the story I told the little girl about the hide and seek game. Now she’ll think I can’t ever be her mother because Ethan clearly found me. Panic bubbles up inside me, I don’t know how to answer her and keep up my lie for Ethan at the same time.

“We put it on pause.” Ethan supplies, surprising me.

“For you.”ladd gently, “because of your surgery.”

“Oh.” Paisley chirps, accepting our answer without further question. “Good.” She smiles toothily up at me. “I’m glad.”

“Me too.” I admit, unable to stop myself from running my fingers through her dark hair.

I’m painfully aware of Ethan’s warm, hard body beneath me, and still hiding from his penetrating gaze, however, I’m also completely preoccupied by Paisley. Every time I see her it

feels like a dream come true. I’ve waited so long to hold her in my arms and hear her call me Mommy, I’d put up with Ethan for hours on end if it meant I got to spend more time with her like this. I just have to remain conscious of the fine line I’m walking. I can’t reveal too much in front of my ex, and I can’t let him trick me into revealing the truth.

When we depart Paisley’s room a couple of hours later, he keeps his arm locked around my waist, forcing me to physically remove the powerful limb. I’m mildly shocked when he doesn’t stop me, but my victory is very short lived. “Would you care to tell me what that was about?” His deep voice sounds behind me.

Belatedly I realize he allowed me the victory of pushing him away, only so that my guard would be lowered when he made his next move. “Your daughter is very sweet.” I inform him simply, not truly answering his question.

“You’ve visited her before.” Ethan rumbles, stating it as a fact, rather than I question.

“I met her when Riley was here.” I shrug, “the children’s ward isn’t very big.”

“Why didn’t you say?” He questions, pulling me to a stop just inside the building exit.

“Because,” I inform him coldly, “lc would only have encouraged you.”

I expect him to fight back instead he simply chuckles, “stubborn thing.”

I freeze momentarily, shaking off my reaction as soon as I realize he caught me off guard again. He used to call me that all the time, in precisely the same way – never as a criticism or accusation, always as a term of amused endearment. I continue walking without responding, praying he’ll let the matter drop.

Naturally he thwarts me again, “Paisley’s mother was stubborn too.” He says to my back. “In fact, she never even told me she was pregnant.”

“She sounds like a smart woman.’ I reply, trying not to take his obvious bait.

“Oh she was.” He agrees, a sharp edge lining his silky tone. “It’s only too bad Paisley never got to know her. She’s really needed a mother these past few years, and she’s going to need one as she grows up even more.”

Tears are burning in my eyes, no matter how I try to fight them. If I stop now or look at him, he’ll see, so I simply continue moving towards the car. “Then you ought to marry Eve and be done with it.”

Ethan

Marry Eve? I think, completely aghast. She must be joking. Granted, I know that’s precisely what Eve wants, but I’ve never had any interest in the conniving she-wolf. I’ve only ever had eyes for Jane, which is why it hurt so much when she betrayed us on her graduation trip. If it weren’t for my mother’s word, l’ d never have believed Eve’s version of events, but their stories matched perfectly and even Jane hadn’t been able to deny what she’d done – even if she couldn’t explain it.

Besides, my mate is clearly capable of incredible deception. She admitted she only married me for my money, then hid her pregnancy and faked her death. She’s wronged me in more ways than I can possibly count, and one day soon I plan on getting all the answers I possibly can out of her. However until then I have to focus on simply making her admit her true identity. Only then can I bring her and my pups home where they belong.

When we get back to Linda’s apartment, the kids are begging to go out on an adventure, with Riley suggesting the nearby amusement park. Jane was only too happy for an excuse to get the kids out of the house and away from me so she readily agreed. Of course she was considerably less pleased when the pups turned to me and asked if I would come too.

“He can’t!” She yelped far too quickly, flushing and then amending her words. “He’s on bedrest.”

“Actually I’d love to come.” I correct her, making the pups cheer triumphantly.

“If you’re well enough for an amusement park, you’re well enough to go home.” Jane narrows her eyes. “Don’t you have Alpha business to take care of?”

“I haven’t had a vacation in years, besides, I’m going to be off for Paisley’s surgery anyway.” I explain, “this way I’ll just start a day early.”

“But your head!” Jane sputters, beside herself.

“I won’t go on any roller coasters,” My head is still aching enough to make the idea make me feel mildly ill.

“That’s okay!” Riley immediately replies, “Mommy doesn’t like them either so she can keep you company while we ride.”

Jane shoots her daughter an exasperated look, but I can only grin at the clever pup. “That’s a great idea.”

My high spirits only last a little while. Make no mistake, I’m thrilled to be spending time with Jane and the pups, but I can’t stop thinking that this is wrong. Poor Paisley is stuck in a lumpy hospital bed while I’m out in the sunshine chasing her siblings around an amusement park.

“Are you thinking about Paisley?” Jane asks softly. We’re standing at the exit of an alarmingly tall roller coaster currently whizzing her pups through the air, and my mate has clearly noticed my subdued mood.

Sighing and dragging a hand through my hair, I admit. “I feel guilty being here without her.”

She nods in understanding, “I don’t know any parent who wouldn’t feel that way.” She shares, “But you can bring her when she’s well again.”

“Or,” I suggest, for once being completely sincere without a single thought for scheming, “We could bring her together. The pups did say they want to meet her.”

Jane frowns, looking so tempted my heart beats a bit faster. “She probably won’t be healed enough in time.” She finally answers, “We’re leaving after the fragrance launch, remember.”

A growl bursts out of me before I can stop it, and Jane jolts in surprise, dropping her gaze and belying the alpha scent layered into her perfume. There’s my little omega.

“Shhh, I’m sorry.” I soothe, reaching out and pulling her under my arm. “My wolf simply doesn’t like the idea of you leaving.”

“Well he’s going to have to get used to it.” Jane replies stiffly, “Because it’s going to happen.”

Before I can reply the pups are racing towards us, their cheeks red and hair windswept. “How was it!?” Jane asks excitedly.

“So fun, Mommy!” They answer together.

“I’m so glad.” She answers, hugging them, “where do you want to go next?”

The kids look around, thinking hard, then Riley catches sight of something that makes her eyes go wide, and begins whispering to her brothers. The next thing I know they’re pointing across the park, “let’s go on that one!” Parker suggests.

Turning to follow their line of sight, we both blink in surprise, “the tunnel of love?” Jane asks in confusion, eyeing the cheesy ride normally reserved for couples. “Why would you want to go on that ride? It’s for grown ups.”

“Yeah, but it’s really slow ‘n’ gentle.” Ryder explains, “So you two can come on it with us.”

“Come on, Mommy, please!” Riley adds, “we haven’ gotten to go on ‘nything with you yet.”

Jane exhales as if she’s heading to her own execution rather than a silly boat ride. “fine.”

“Yay!” The kids cry, dragging us towards the heart shaped entrance.

When we reach the front of the line it becomes obvious that we can’t all fit in a swan boat together, but when Jane suggests we split up and each sit with one or two of the pups, they object again. “No, we want to sit together!”

“I guess that settles it.” I shrug, climbing into one of the cars and pulling Jane behind me.

As the ride sets off down a dark, artificially starlit tunnel, Jane tries to huddle in the corner so that our bodies won’t touch. Rolling my eyes, I drag her across the bench towards me. However I must have used more force than I realized because instead of sliding over so that we’re side by side, Jane ends up halfway in my la*p, looking up at me with wide eyes.

Her small palms are braced against my chest, and our faces are only inches apart. I drag my knuckles across her cheek, cupping her face in my hand. I was too drunk to really remember our last k!ss, but I’m determined to remember this one.

Closing the final distance between us, I lower my mouth to hers.

 

The Luna And Her Quadruplet Pups Chapter 30

3rd Person

Ryder, Parker and Riley kneeled in the back of the swan-shaped boat carrying them down the lazy river winding through the dark tunnel, giggling in excitement as they spied on Ethan and Jane. Despite the pitch black surrounding them, their sharp wolf eyes could make out their parent’s bodies through the gloom, and saw that Ethan was about to k!ss Jane.

This is exactly the opportunity they’d been waiting for. “Riley, you’re a genius.” Parker whispered.

“Thank you.” His sister smiled widely. She didn’t know why these silly rides existed, but she was certainly glad they did. It was so romantic, with the cozy boats and soft love songs blaring through the overhead speakers. At this very moment some pop star was singing about how she’d died every day waiting for her lover, and the pup couldn’t help but think Mommy had been waiting a very long time for their Daddy – at least as long as they’d been alive, if not longer!

Unfortunately Ethan and Jane’s l!ps had barely brushed together when Jane turned her face away, “don’t!”

The Alpha rested his forehead against hers, nuzzling gently. “Why not?”

“We shouldn’t have agreed to this.” Jane whispered, she glanced towards the boat in front of them, and saw three pairs of spying eyes suddenly duck down behind the stern. “It’ Il give the pups the wrong idea.”

“Actually, I think the pups have the right idea.” Ethan murmured in answer, “You’re the only one who seems to be confused.”

“I’m not confused.” Jane grumbled, “I know exactly what I want, and becoming your plaything isn’t it.”

“My plaything?” He repeated, not sure where this was coming from.

“I know you Ethan.” She growled softly, making the big wolf wrapped around her raise his brows. “I mean I’ve known wolves like you before.” She amended, realizing her slipup. “You’re only interested in one thing.”

“That’s where you’re wrong, baby.” Ethan purred, earning a true snarl from Jane. “Easy now,” He cautioned, smirking as he nodded towards the pups. “Do you want them to hear?”

Jane narrowed her eyes, but quieted her protest.

“I’d be a fool if all I wanted from you was…” Ethan paused, searching for an appropriate word, “Your beauty.” He finally decided, “I want it, make no mistake, but I also want your intelligence,” He admitted, brushing his l!ps over her cheek and trailing them to her jaw, “your strength and charm. I want your sweetness and your defiance, your good moods and your bad.” His mouth was traveling the slender column of her throat now, making her pulse pound beneath his touch. “I want you in sickness and health-”

“Stop it!” Jane objected, her voice thick with emotion.

“What’s going on?” Ryder whispered to his siblings?

“I can’t really hear.” Parker frowned, “but I think they’re fighting.”

“No, they’re not supposed to fight!” Riley pouted, her plan was them for to k!ss and cuddle, not argue. “Why don’t grown ups ever behave?” She muttered under her breath.

Back in the other boat, Ethan was sighing and shaking his head, studying the seething woman beside him with longing and frustration. “You can’t leave, Janey. We need more time.”

“Stop calling me that.” Jane hissed, understanding he wanted to pick up their earlier conversation and deciding not to give him the chance. “And I will do what is right for my family. We don’t belong here.”

It was the Alpha’s turn to snarl now, “Enough. Enough lies.” Though he’d released Jane when she asked, he now tugged the collar of her top aside to reveal the crescent shaped mark on her shoulder. “You think I wouldn’t recognize my own mark?”

“It Isn’t yours.” She insisted fiercely, “and it never will be.”

Ethan’s wolf rose the the surface, making his usually dark eyes glow amber and his fangs emerge. “Is that a challenge, little wolf?”

“No Alpha.” Jane countered. Even though her own wolf wanted to roll over on her back and expose her fluffy belly to the dangerous predator in front of her, she tilted her chin up in defiance, making her former mate’s eyes flash. “It’s a promise.”

“We’ll just see about that.” Ethan rumbled ominously,

replacing her collar and moving his strong hand to circle the back of her neck.

“Try all you want.” Jane invited, arching a blonde brow, “but you wont like the outcome.”

Ethan let Jane slide back to the other side of the bench as the boat floated along, but kept his possessive grip around her nape, massaging her tense muscles and imposing his dominance at once. “As I said, Jane. We’ll see.”

Across town Eve was going out of her mind with anger. As if having her good name and reputation publicly smeared by Ethan and Danielle wasn’t bad enough, she’d just received a call from the board of her Atelier informing her she was being removed as CEO.

She could feel her future slipping right through her fingers, and desperation was quickly taking hold. Now she not only needed to find a way to get rid of the obstacles between her and Ethan – like the brat- but she also wanted to punish him and Jane.

It was time to fix her earlier mistakes and get rid of Paisley once and for all. This time she made sure that there were no interfering pups around to stop her, and no gullible nurses to fall for their ploys. This time she wasn’t even going to take her chances with giving Paisley something to drink; the little mongrel would probably throw it out rather than consuming it

anyway. The child had always been too smart for her own good: Like mother like daughter.

Instead Eve prepared a dose of digitalis to inject directly into the child’s IV. She spent hours researching the drug online, learning that it came from a common flower she could harvest

herself, and wouldn’t show up on a tox screen if the hospital did an autopsy. It was the perfect solution to her Paisley problem. The child already had a weak heart, the drug would simply help it fail completely, mimicking a heart attack and making everyone believe they just weren’t fast enough with her surgery.

Poor Ethan, if he hadn’t been off frolicking with Jane instead of caring for his daughter, the original surgery could have gone through and saved her. If everything went as planned, he would both hate Jane for forcing them to delay, and feel enough guilt to be nice and vulnerable to Eve’s comforting. She always had loved killing two birds with one stone.

Paisley was asleep when she arrived, and though Eve would have liked to make the little bitch suffer, she supposed it was better this way: quick and clean. She strode to her IV without any interference or hiccups, uncapped the syringe, and injected the drug.

As she scurried away, she lamented the fact that she couldn’t stay and watch Paisley take her last, miserable breath, but again – needs must. She hurried from the room and rushed down the hall before the machines started going haywire, immensely grateful the hospital didn’t put cameras in the VIP wing for the sake of patient privacy. Fools. She thought gleefully. She waited in the stairwell just long enough to hear the code alarm and see the nurses go running, before sashaying away in triumph.

The doctors and nurses in the VIP ward were shocked and horrified to find the Alpha’s young daughter in the clutches of a heart attack on the eve of her surgery. While the attending physicians ran the code, one of the nurses paged Paisley’s specialist, who immediately ordered them to get her to the OR.

Racing towards the hospital, the surgeon dialed Ethan, not understanding how this was hospital. Paisley’s heart condition was all but cured. If he’d been asked he would have told anyone inquiring that she was at little to no risk for a heart attack – that’s how confident he was.

His heart was pounding as he neared the familiar building, he was deeply invested in the little girl’s wellness. He’d been her doctor since the day she was born and it would break his heart if they lost her now. Not to mention the fact that it would destroy her father. “Come on, Ethan. Pick up.” He muttered anxiously.

Though it took a moment for Ethan to fumble for the device in his pocket, he immediately answered his phone when he saw the specialist’s name scrolling across the screen. “Dr Hastings?” He greeted the man, glancing anxiously at Jane. “Is everything okay?”

Jane immediately sat up, reading his agitated energy but too far away to hear what was being said on the other end of the line. “Alpha, I’m very sorry but you need to get down here now.” The doctor informed him. “There was an incident, and we’ve rushed Paisley into emergency surgery, there was no time to waste.”

Ethan lowered his phone in a daze, looking horrified. “We have to go – now!”