"Indeed," Zandia confirmed, her expression softening ever so slightly. "The incident from yesterday has been cleaned up and a cover story presented to everyone involved at the bar."
"Thank you for the update, Zandia," I managed to choke out. It was all I could do to keep my voice steady as my mind raced with thoughts of how we would handle the impending challenges.
"Of course," she replied coolly, her eyes still locked on mine.
Silence filled the room, but no one spoke. I wasn't sure what she was waiting for me to say.
"Alright, Parker," Zandia's voice cut through the tension in the room like a knife. "Let's hear your approach."
I paced back and forth, my mind racing as I tried to piece together a strategy. My demon side threatened to surface, but I held it at bay. I couldn't afford to lose control now. Cerbie in tattoo form moved along my back until he rested on my chest. It distracted me enough to keep my powers in check for now.
"First, we'll use our team to relay to the other teams that they need to report one by one," I said, feeling the weight of everyone's gaze on me. "After getting a briefing from my mates, we'll work out which teams to bring in first."
"Simple enough," Zandia sneered, her annoyance evident. "But will it be effective?"
"Sometimes, simple is best," I shot back, my exhaustion making me bold. "Especially when we're running on little sleep."
"Fine," she conceded, though her tone suggested otherwise. "Just make sure this issue gets resolved, Parker. Or it won't just be your career on the line."
With that ominous remark, Zandia disconnected the video, leaving us all standing in tense silence. I clenched my fists, resisting the urge to punch the screen where her face had just been. I swear, she was the most annoying person I knew… Second most annoying. I didn't think anyone could beat Ro.
"Get some rest, Parker," Trux murmured, his large hand resting on my shoulder. "Tomorrow will be a better day to tackle this problem and the briefings."
"Thanks, Trux," I managed a weak smile, grateful for his support. "You're right. A good night's sleep should help clear my head."
Seph's laughter filled the room, breaking the tension. "You really put Zandia in her place, Parker," she said, grinning at me. I couldn't help but smile back.
"Thanks, Seph." I pulled her into a hug, appreciating her support. As we embraced, my gaze caught Ryker watching us from across the room. He shifted into a raccoon when he saw me looking, scampering off before I could say anything to him.
Seph noticed too; her expression sobering. "I'm doing my best with Ryker," she admitted quietly. "He just needs a little more time."
"I know," I murmured, releasing her from the embrace. "We still have enough time to finish the mating ritual."
As I spoke, I couldn't help but notice the glare Trux sent in Ryker's direction. A flicker of concern crossed my mind… How fast would the Hesolga progress with Trux, given his already volatile nature? My gaze returned to Seph, realizing she must be feeling the same worry.
"Trux, Rhiot, and I will be alright," Seph assured me, giving me a warm smile. "You should focus on Grayson, Kearan, and Ryker."
Her words offered some comfort, though I knew that each of my mates came with their own unique challenges. The road ahead wouldn't be easy, but I was determined to make it work.
"Okay," I agreed, nodding resolutely. "Together, we'll get through this."
"Exactly," Seph said, her smile widening. "Now go to bed. You'll need your energy for tomorrow."
"Sleep sounds amazing right now," I admitted, stifling a yawn.
"Come on, Parker," Grayson's voice cut through the air as he pulled me from Seph's arms. "Sleep is the first thing you need."
"Grayson's right," Trux chimed in, nodding at Grayson. "I'll take care of gathering info for the team briefing for tomorrow."
"I'll help," Rhiot offered, his eyes glinting with determination. "I know quite a few of the team members. We can gather information together."
"Thanks, guys," I said gratefully, watching as Trux and Rhiot headed over to a workstation, already engrossed in their task.
"Come on, let's get you to bed," Grayson murmured, his warm hand on my back guiding me out of the room.
The feel of his touch sent an involuntary shiver down my spine, but it also anchored me, providing a sense of comfort. I leaned into him as we made our way to my bedroom, exhaustion weighing heavily on my eyelids.
"Here, let me help you," Grayson said softly, undressing me and tucking me into bed with a tenderness that surprised me.
