Victoria’s Biological Father
Victoria’s Biological Father
(Amber’s POV)
+25 BONUS
I sat in my car, staring at the boxes of treasures I’d just swindled from Harrison. The satisfaction was sweet, but I needed to make sure these items found good homes. Some would go to Paige as usual.
I pulled out my phone and dialed Paige’s number, drumming my fingers on the steering wheel as I waited for her to answer.
“Hey, are you still at your sister–in–law’s place?” I asked when she picked up.
“No, I’m back at the studio. The interview was a disaster,” Paige replied, sounding frustrated.
“Interview? What interview?”
“For a driver. Remember we talked about hiring someone for the new equipment van? I’ll tell you when you get here.”
I started the engine. “I’m on my way. Got some goodies from Harrison.”
“Of course you do,” Paige laughed. “See you soon.”
I pulled out of Chase Pack Headquarters‘ parking lot with a smile. Even with all the drama in my life, some things remained constant – like my ability to fleece my father and Paige’s unwavering support.
The familiar scent of developing chemicals and fresh flowers greeted me as I entered Moonlight Photography. Paige had insisted on keeping fresh arrangements in the reception area, claiming they made clients feel more comfortable.
“So what happened with the interview?” I asked, dropping the boxes on the reception counter.
Paige rolled her eyes dramatically. “The guy was a complete waste of time. He yawned through the entire interview – literally couldn’t keep his eyes open.”
“Sounds promising,” I teased.
“He was recommended by Tara – you remember her from high school? Said he was reliable.” Paige threw her hands up in exasperation. “The guy couldn’t even stay awake long enough to answer basic questions about his driving experience.”
I started unpacking the boxes, carefully arranging the items on the counter. “Well, at least you didn’t hire him. Imagine him falling asleep at the wheel with all our equipment.”
“Exactly! Our new van deserves better.” Paige’s eyes widened as she noticed what I was unpacking. “Are those…”
“Gifts from Harrison,” I confirmed, pushing a small wooden box toward her. “Moonlight Herb tea for your father. It should help with his insomnia.”
Paige accepted the box reverently. “This is the good stuff. The kind only Alphas can get.”
“And this,” I continued, revealing a silk pouch, “is healing moonstone powder for your sister–in–law. It should help with her recovery.”
“Amber, these are too valuable to just give away,” Paige protested weakly, though she was already tucking the pouch into l
-purse.
I waved dismissively and gestured to the remaining items. “The paintings and antique wolf artifacts are yours to keep or donate. Our usual arrangement.”
Paige examined a small wolf sculpture carved from rare moonstone. “How do you always manage to extract these treasures from your father?”
“It’s a gift,” I said with a wink.
Paige carefully arranged the artifacts on the conference table, her expression thoughtful.
Victoria’s Biological Father:
+25 BONUS
“You know,” she said, “instead of sending these through your cousin’s foundation in the neighboring territory, you should use Shadowpeak’s philanthropy department.”
paused, considering her suggestion. “That’s actually a good idea it would look better to Dominic too.”
“Exactly.” Paige nodded enthusiastically. “It shows you’re integrating into his world, supporting his pack’s initiatives.”
I ran my fingers over an ancient prayer bead necklace, admiring the craftsmanship. “I’ll call Felix tomorrow and arrange it.”
Paige leaned against the table, fixing me with her penetrating gaze. “So, are you going to tell me how you actually got all this from Harrison? I know these weren’t just sitting around for you to take.”
Isighed, dropping into a chair. “They were gifts from other pack leaders to Harrison. I didn’t even want to take them.”
“What did you want?” Paige asked, knowing me too well.
“Territorial rights,” I admitted. “I was going to press him about it, but we got interrupted. He had to give me something, so…” I gestured to the artifacts.
Paige nodded understanding. “The long game. Smart.”
(Paige’s POV)
I watched Amber arrange the artifacts with careful hands. She’d always had an eye for beauty, even in the darkest times of her
life.
“What are your plans for tonight?” I asked, checking the time. “Dinner with Dominic?”
Amber shook her head. “He has a business dinner with other pack leaders. Something about acquiring Luna magazine.”
“Then have dinner with me here,” I suggested. “We can order from that venison place you like.”
“Perfect.” Amber’s face lit up. “I’m starving after outmaneuvering Harrison.”
While Amber placed our order, I pulled up the social media page for Moonlight Photography on my tablet. “I was thinking of posting this behind–the–scenes shot from your supernatural portrait session.”
I turned the tablet to show her. The image captured Amber adjusting lighting for a young werewolf couple, her face focused and professional.
“Go for it,” she encouraged. “Though you know the rival packs will flood the comments with negativity.”
I smirked. “I’m counting on it. Controversy drives engagement.”
“I almost miss fighting with trolls online,” Amber admitted with a wistful sigh. “There’s something satisfying about defending your territory, even if it’s just digital.”
“You’re such a wolf,” I teased, though we both knew she didn’t have one.
Amber grinned. “Speaking of territory, we still need to solve your driver problem.”
“True,” I sighed. “Know any reliable wolves looking for work?”
Amber pulled out her phone. “I could post the job in the Blackwood Pack’s communication group. Dominic added me la “Perfect,” I nodded. “A Blackwood Pack member would be ideal loyal by association.”
(Dominic’s POV)
The Moonlight Club hummed with the quiet conversation of powerful wolves. I sat at a private table with Marcus Yates, a beta wolf who’d built an impressive business empire despite his rank.
“The acquisition is practically finalized,” Marcus said, raising his glass of moonlight wine. “Luna magazine will have a new owner by the end of the month.”
ek.”
Victoria’s Biological Father
I nodded, taking a measured sip. “Shadowpeak’s involvement has reassured all parties.”
+25 BONUS
Marcus beamed with pride. “That’s why I wanted to host this dinner to thank you and introduce you to some influential pack members.”
I scanned the room, noting the various pack representatives present. My attendance served two purposes: to reciprocate Marcus’s courtesy and to meet someone specific.
My phone vibrated in my pocket. I checked it discreetly, seeing a notification from the pack communication group. Amber had posted a job listing for Moonlight Photography, seeking a driver.
A user named “Night Hunter” had already responded, expressing enthusiasm with too many exclamation points for my taste. I recognized the username – a young wolf barely out of the academy, known for his recklessness.
I sent Amber a private message:
“I wouldn’t recommend Night Hunter as your driver. Too immature and prone to showing off. Let Felix find someone suitable.” Her reply came quickly: “I share your concerns. I’m considering him as a studio assistant, not a driver. Felix is already searching for a professional driver candidate.”
I smiled slightly, pleased by her prudence. My mate was learning to navigate pack dynamics well.
The dinner progressed smoothly, with Marcus introducing me to various business contacts. Finally, I excused myself to approach a man sitting alone at the bar.
“Alpha Reed,” I greeted, sliding onto the stool beside him. “Thank you for agreeing to meet.”
Reed was a self–made entrepreneur who had worked at Chase Pack Headquarters for a decade after graduating from Northern Territory Werewolf Academy. His experience there was precisely why I wanted to speak with him.
“Dominic Blackwood,” he acknowledged with a respectful nod. “I was surprised by your request. What can I help you with?”
I signaled the bartender for another round of drinks. “I’m interested in someone you might have known during your time at Chase Pack: James Ward.”
Reed’s expression tightened, his scent shifting to indicate discomfort. “That’s a name I haven’t heard in years. Why the interest?
”
“It’s a personal matter,” I replied smoothly. “I’d appreciate anything you can tell me about him.”
Reed took a long drink, seemingly gathering his thoughts. “I don’t like revisiting my time at Chase Pack. It wasn’t… pleasant.”
“I understand,” I said, keeping my tone neutral. “But it would be valuable information.”
Reed sighed heavily. “James Ward was deputy manager of the territory development department. Got the position because of his connection with Harrison Chase.”
“What kind of connection?” I pressed.
“The kind that bypasses merit,” Reed said bitterly. “He was incompetent. Abusive to subordinate wolves. Made them scapegoats for his mistakes.”
I absorbed this information silently, waiting for him to continue.
“I was his assistant for three years,” Reed admitted, his voice dropping. “It was a nightmare. The only reason I stayed was for the resources and experience. And because, eventually, he passed away during a territory dispute with a rival pack.”
