“You should know better than to trust someone who craves power as much as you do,” Thadrick taunted. “Did you really think that Cain, or any other Order member, would share power?”
Alston narrowed his eyes and bared his teeth like a wild animal.
“Is it me, or does that high fae seem even more unhinged than the last time we saw him?” Thadrick heard Jen’s voice from within the forest. And though giving away their position by making smartass comments wasn’t wise, no harm was done. Thad was sure Alston was already aware of the presence of their group. The fae was powerful enough to sense the presence of their magic. But Thad could trust Cyn to protect the she-wolves and his mate.
“Where is Cain?” Alston refocused on Thad.
“I am not the vampire’s keeper.” Thad pulled on his power. There was a part of him that truly didn’t want to use it. He didn’t feel in control, and if he wasn’t able to keep himself in check, he wouldn’t just kill Alston. He would wipe out the entire forest around them for miles and every living thing in it. It would make Peri’s incident look like child’s play.
“Don’t take me for a fool, djinn,” Alston spat out. “I was there when you met with the vampire king. I heard him say he would rendezvous with you here.”
“Perhaps we both heard what he wanted us to hear.” As soon as the words were out of Thad’s mouth, the djinn realized that was exactly what happened.
Jen bitback a growl as she watched Alston and Thad speak. “That asshat vamp sent Alston to meet with us so we could do his dirty work.”
Jacque snorted. “Did you expect anything less?”
“No honor among thieves.”
Jen glanced over at Wadim’s mate. “Are you good, Zara?”
Zara nodded, though her shoulders looked tense. “Not going to lie. I’m glad it’s not Cain who showed up. Though I know he needs to be dealt with, too.”
Crina laid a hand on her shoulder. “There’s no shame in how you feel. What you endured is unimaginable, and yet you came out stronger and undefeated. Hold your head high.”
Jen nudged Zara. “You’re a badass. Say it over and over until you believe it.”
Zara’s lips tilted up. “I’m a badass.”
“Damn straight.” Jen gave her a sharp nod. Then she turned back to watch Thadrick continue to interact with psycho high-fae dude. “Is he planning to talk him to death? Because considering their longevity, we’re going to be here a while. And I’m already hungry.”
“Dude, you’re pregnant. Why didn’t you bring a snack?”
“Jacque, you’re my alpha. Why didn’tyoubring me a snack?” Jen challenged.
“Alpha doesn’t equate to mother, psycho.”
“Why do I feel like someone should ask ‘are we there yet?’” Zara asked.
“Don’t make me turn this car around,” Jen snapped, though she cracked a smile.
Cyn sighed. “I know that fae magic looks effortless to you simpleminded canines. But it actually does take some effort, and it’s really difficult to keep Alston from being able to flash with you four yapping.” Then she took Jacque’s hand. “I’m going to draw on your pack bond. For some reason, Alston doesn’t feel as powerful as he once was. But he’s still much older than me and a high fae.”
Jacque nodded. “Do what you gotta do.”
Suddenly the surrounding wind began to circulate, causing the trees to sway and the leaves to rattle so loudly that it sounded like applause. Jen’s gaze snapped back to Thad and Alston. Alston flew backward and hit a massive oak with a loud smack. The entire tree shook, and Jen watched as it swayed and then toppled, its roots actually coming out of the ground. “Wow,” was all she could say.
Thad’s hands weren’t even raised. He held his arms relaxed at his sides as he stared daggers at Alston, who—Jen had no idea how—climbed to his feet.
Jen’s eyes widened. “It might take some concentration to do your voodoo, Cyn, but this dude isn’t even breaking a sweat.”
“He’s powerful.” Awe filled Jezebel’s voice.
Jen’s brow rose. “Can you stop that?”
“What?”
“Stop sounding like you want to jump your man’s bones. I can hear it in your voice. You’re old enough to be my mom, and even I’m not that freaky. It’s just … eww.”
