Fifteen

<Danica>

I have no idea what just happened. It was lunch, and then, he was in my head. How? I didn't think that there would ever be a telepathic that close to me. Mom had always told me my touch was unique. I could think out loud, she would say, literally, and she meant. Sometimes, too loud I suppose.

I never thought I would meet a wolf that was a telepathic either. A talker is one thing, but a shifter and a talker? What?

My mind is whirling. He is so detrimentally handsome. I swear he might end up being the death of me.

I also never thought I would end up cleaning slop and filth from these pathetic redneck slobbering coon hounds. That's all they really are to me, not even worthy of being called wolves.

Oh I wish I could just sail away in the wind, like my mind does, like the world does around me. Leave here and never look back. It's almost like dreaming of being in a fairy tale really. Handsome prince saves the young slave girl, only to find out she's a princess. And then they kiss. And then...

No, never happily ever after. There's no such thing. If only I could just...

“DANE!”

The screeching brought her thoughts to a halt. She jumped at the sound, turning on her heel and running in the direction of the scowling voice. Coming to the end of the hall, she stood at the parlor room door, or at least, what was left of the parlor room.

“Yes, Alpha?”

“Where the hell have you been?” Gavin growled at her.

“Cleaning, Alpha. It was time for lunch clean up.”

“Nevermind that. I need you for something a little more, precious, if you will.” Gavin sneered, his lips turning upward toward his ears.

Danica grimaced at the malevolent smile. She knew what that meant. She knew that any minute, someone would be there, waiting for her to spread her being, and give herself to them. And that her participation was optional.

“No, you idiot. Not that. I want you to get snuggled up to Terrell.”

Danica turned her head, confused.

“Just like a pup, confused and head cocked. Okay, I want you to get close to him. Find out what he's been up to. Talk to him about the nappings, all the kids that are gone. All the women, too. Make him trust you, make him believe in you.”

“May I ask a few questions so I know exactly everything?”

Gavin nodded, “I don't see why not. Now Dane, this is a delicate situation as it is. Your own mama was killed by these bastards and we need to get to the bottom of it. But they won't trust in me. They gonna make sure they never speak to me, not even for a truce. Ask your questions, but watch your tongue child.”

“Of course, Alpha. How, um, close, do you want me to get to Alpha Terrell?”

“Like, bang his brains out? That what you askin'?”

Danica nodded yes.

“If that's the case to get him to trust you, then by all means. I don't be seein' that as necessary, but it could work if need to. What else?”

“What exactly don't you want me to tell him? He's really smart, smarter than I could ever be.” She said this without thinking, hoping it would stir Gavin to give her more information

“I see. Uh, don't tell him bout the huntin' grounds been overtook. I need him to go there with me without reprise. He needs to go and be on his full guard. And them huntin' grounds, well, you know the story.”

Danica nodded again. “Okay. Is there something you want me to press on to him? A bit of info that should seem like it's danglin', but super important?”

“Them kids. We need to be gettin' them kids back. And my wife, your Luna. We need her back too.”

“Anything else I should take with me? And do you want to me to pull away from anything else?”

“You can take a step back from them chores to keep him happy. I got someone else to look after them cleanin' duties I've been givin' you to keep you busy. Don't you worry yourself bout those. You worry about getting' inside Terrell's head.”

“Yes, Alpha.”

“And go shower. Find you a nice dress...”

Danica hung her head.

“Right, okay, one second.” Gavin pulled out his cell phone. “Hey Charley? Yeah, can you take Dane shoppin'? She needs a dress for the new Alpha that's visitin'. Alright, say twenty minutes? Man, thanks a bunch.” Just as quickly, the cell phone went back into Gavin's pocket.

“Okay, Lady Charley is gone take you shoppin for a dress. Pick out somethin' good for church, maybe for dancin'. I'll give you my credit card, but you gotta be extra careful with it.”

Danica looked up, very puzzled. He's giving me his credit card?

Gavin swiftly handed it over, and shooed her off to shower.