“I know, my pet. But you do make a good point about Sawyer. He’s very easygoing but I can’t see his wolftolerating anyone else doing what he sees as his responsibility.”
“How about inviting them here? Between you, Carson, and Remy, Alex would be protected so you won’t have to worry. Maybe Remy can cast a spell so Sawyer doesn’t suspect anything…and it would help your wolf sort out what kind of danger your brother is in.”
“Not a bad idea, pet. I’m not sure Remy can do that but maybe Mystia could. I’ll ask Jackson and see what he thinks.”
Kissing his mate, Fionn then slid off his lap and said, “Come get me after you talk to Jackson. In the meantime, I have some ideas from our flight I want to sketch.”
“Will do. Love you, pet.”
“Ditto.”
~/~/~/~/~
Looking up from his computer, Jackson smiled at the person standing in the doorway to his study. “Oracle! Just who I wanted to see. Please, come in.” Rising from his chair, he walked around his desk and embraced her warmly. “Have you seen the latest thing Daniel is doing?”
“Yes, he is growing up so fast.”
“Don’t remind me. It seems like every day he’s learning something new and Jessica and Jake are right behind him copying it. Only yesterday, Cody was lamenting about it…it seems he wants his twins to remain babies a while longer.”
“Ah, yes! The universal wish of every parent. Time just flies by and before you know it your child has gone froma helpless infant to a walking and talking toddler. And if Daniel is anything like my boys, he will be into everything.”
“He’s already there. Ever since the shaving cream incident, Steel is fanatical about making sure he puts everything out of Daniel’s reach.”
“Well, good luck with that.” Oracle chuckled. “Wait until Daniel learns how to climb up on furniture and counters. My son is going to be in for a big surprise.”
Laughing, Jackson said, “Yeah, I know.”
Sitting down on the love seat, Oracle waited until Jackson claimed the chair across from hers. “So tell me, why did you want to see me.”
“Hunter called me early this morning about Sawyer. Apparently, he contacted Hunter, seeking advice on how to keep his mate safe…a mate who’s as rare as Fionn. According to Sawyer, he’s a dual shifter…someone who can shift into two different animals.”
“That is wonderful news! Another Fated Mate found.”
“It’s good, but not good, also. How will Sawyer be able to keep his mate safe? He’s only a wolf shifter and while I’m not trying to denigrate my cousin’s abilities, let’s face it, Oracle, Sawyer’s mate is basically a sitting target for every nutcase out there.” Thoughts of the Collector and his zoo of rare paranormals flashed through Jackson’s mind.
“Ahh, I understand why you and Hunter are worrying.”
“Good, then you also know what my next question will be.”
Smiling gently, Oracle replied, “Yes I do, but as you also know, I cannot tell you anything including whether or not Sawyer will receive a gift from the Fates. I am sorry but the Fates have not given me permission to tell you anything about their mating.”
Jackson hung his head down, trying to conceal the frustration inside him after Oracle answered. It was a long shot and, while he knew she couldn’t tell him what the gift would be, he was hoping she might confirm that Sawyer would, indeed, receive one. Now that he was back to square one, the only solution he could think of was for Sawyer and his mate to seek the safety of the Blackwood Pack.
“Jackson,” Oracle said softly, waiting for him to look at her. “I am sorry. I truly wish I could put your mind at ease.”
Nodding, Jackson said, “I know, Oracle. But it is what it is. Time for plan B.”
“Which is?”
“Don’t know yet. Hunter will be calling shortly, so I’ll see what he thinks. Just one more question…will you tell me if Sawyer is getting a gift…as soon as the Fates allow you to do so?”
“You have my word.”
“Thanks,” Jackson murmured, his mind already focusing on the immediate problem of his cousin’s and mate’s safety.
“Try not to worry,” Oracle said. Then she rose from her chair and gave Jackson a brief hug, before leaving him alone with his thoughts.
~/~/~/~/~
