Mated To The Beastly Alpha
Chapter 54

The next day, Liam gathered the council members and James in the pack hall. The atmosphere was tense as they were concerned and anticipated updates on the upcoming full moon as well as other important matters of the pack.

The time for unity and strength was at hand, and Liam knew they had to be prepared for any challenge that might arise.

"We need to ensure a smooth run during the full moon," Liam stated firmly, his voice commanding the attention of those present. "It's crucial that we all run together as a pack, supporting and protecting each other. This particular full moon is important because we have an unknown enemy who might be lurking in the shadows as we run."

The council members nodded in agreement, their expressions keen and determined. James, standing by Liam's side, added, "And let's not forget the importance of Nicole running with us. Her presence will only strengthen our pack's unity."

A murmur of agreement rippled through the room, though some eyes flickered with doubt as they glanced toward Liam. Liam could sense the tension, the uncertainty that hung up in the air.

He knew that some pack members were questioning Garrett's ability to fulfil his role as Beta. News of his recent defiance to Alpha Liam had spread throughout the pack, and they wondered if he was about to go rogue.

One of the council members, Sarah, voiced out her concern. "What about Garrett? Is he fit to run with us? His behavior has been erratic since he lost his mate."

Gamma Connor chimed in skeptically. "Can we truly trust him at such a crucial moment?"

Liam's gaze hardened, his determination unwavering.

James stepped forward to address the doubts. "We all know that Garrett has faced unimaginable pain, but he remains steadfast in his commitment to this pack," James asserted firmly.

"He may never fully recover from his loss, but his loyalty and dedication to our cause are with resolute determination. We must trust him, just as we trust each other."

Liam looked around the room, meeting the eyes of each council member. "We are a pack, bound by our unity and strength. We have faced countless challenges together, and we come out stronger every time. I believe in each and every one of you."

A chorus of firm voices filled the room as the council members voiced their unalloyed support to the pack and their determination to overcome any obstacles they might encounter in the course of the upcoming full moon.

"Now, let us focus on the specifics of the run. We need to ensure that all pack members are prepared and aware of their roles," Liam announced.

Liam outlined the plans for the run, detailing the route they would take and the safety measures they would put in place. It was essential to ensure the safety of every pack member, including Nicole, who would be running alongside them for the first time. "We will run as one," Liam declared, his voice filled with conviction. "We will show our strength and unity to anyone who would dare challenge us."

The meeting continued, and Liam listened attentively, his mind focused on the impending battle with the witch and the need to protect his pack. He noticed that, for the first time in a long while, he felt content and satisfied.

As much as the urgency to eradicate the threat was pulsing in his veins, he still felt peaceful and still. He had this pinned on the fact that he left Nicole sleeping soundly on his bed that morning before coming out. His calm and peaceful demeanor had also partly eased the tension in the pack.

He tucked in a smirk that made its way to his face and reminded himself that he didn't need distractions. Part of him ached to return to her as soon as the meeting was over.

Rumors had been circulating-whispers of a bond between him and Nicole. His brawl with Garrett had also spread throughout the pack, and so did his slip-up.

He could see that they were expecting him to make an outright announcement, but he feared Nicole wasn't ready, and he didn't want to put any pressure on her. Most importantly, the imminent threat of the witch and the upcoming full moon run took precedence. Connor raised a brow and folded his arms, then raised his voice. "Alpha, we can not ignore the rumors any longer. It is time to confirm whether Nicole is truly your mate."

The tension in the meeting hall was palpable as Liam stood before the council, the weight of their expectations heavy upon his shoulders, but he chose not to address them directly.

"Our focus must remain on the task at hand," Liam began, his voice steady and authoritative. "The witch poses a significant threat to our pack, and we can not afford to be distracted by anything else."

Connor, who had never quite warmed up to Nicole, raised an eyebrow skeptically. "Alpha, if she truly is your mate, shouldn't she be bonded to the pack to ensure her loyalty?"

Liam's eyes flashed with a warning, his voice laced with a firmness that brooked no further argument. "Her loyalty is not in question," he retorted.

"Nicole has proven herself time and again, standing with us against the witch. We need her abilities and strength on our side. Bond or no bond, her commitment to this pack is unwavering."

They didn't know that she had already shared a bond with him, which indirectly meant that she was part of the pack already. Another mark on her would be to complete their mating bond. The only reason why they weren't feeling her bond to them was because she shut herself out.

He didn't think they needed to know all that. Not until later. Even though he needed to get her to unblock that bond for her safety, she could feel the community in Dark Moon when she ran with them.

The council members exchanged glances, their faces displaying a mix of curiosity and concern. Liam's decision not to confirm the rumors only fueled their speculation. However, he had made his intentions clear. The priority was defeating the witch and restoring peace and normalcy to the pack.

Connor seemed unwilling to let the matter drop. "But Alpha, if Nicole is indeed your mate, it would solidify her loyalty to the pack. We need that assurance in these uncertain times."

Liam's voice hardened his tone of warning. "I have made my decision, Connor. I will not be pressured into revealing personal matters that are not immediately relevant to our current situation. Trust in my judgment as your Alpha and focus on the task at hand." The atmosphere was tensed as silence settled over the room. Liam's authority was unquestioned, but the curiosity and concern surrounding Nicole's status as his mate still lingered.

"We must focus on our unity and strength," Liam continued, his gaze sweeping across the council members. "The witch seeks to divide us, to capitalize on any weakness that we may exhibit. Our bond as a pack is our greatest strength. Together, we can overcome any obstacle."

"Alpha Liam is right." James added, pinning Connor a death glare, "The witch is our common enemy. We must channel our energies into defeating her, not delving into personal matters."

Some council members nodded in agreement, while others still seemed unconvinced. The tension in the room lingered, thick and charged. It was clear that not everyone was willing to let go of the subject, despite Liam's clear directive. Liam grunted and chuckled, "Lilian was right. You know what she said?" Liam asked, running his hands through his hair.

All turned to Liam, who gritted his teeth. "That I have changed. I have seemingly become soft. Even weak." He said, then chuckled darkly.

"Before, I didn't need to try, but now every decision of mine seems to be questioned by everyone. Let us not forget why we are here or who we are individually. Let us not forget our places, pasts, and where we are coming from. We face a formidable enemy, one who has caused pain and suffering within our ranks. We must unite and strategize, leaving no room for distractions. Be warned."

Silence rested in the room as Liam's words hung in the air. The gravity of the situation was not lost on anyone present. They all knew the stakes, the lives at risk. It was time to set aside personal agendas and focus on the greater goal. One of the council members spoke up, "You're right, Alpha Liam. Our priority is defeating the witch and protecting our pack. Let us stand together, regardless of personal ties, and face this challenge head-on."

Her words resonated with the others as a renewed sense of purpose shone in their eyes. Liam nodded in approval, grateful for their understanding and commitment.

"Thank you," he said, although his eyes flashed with the tiniest spark of irritation. "Let us move forward."

As the meeting drew to a close, the council members dispersed, their minds focused on the tasks ahead.

Liam pulled James aside after the council meeting, his expression serious and contemplative.

"James, we must ensure we have a backup plan," Liam said, his voice low and urgent. "My instincts are telling me that we need to be prepared for the unexpected."

James nodded, his eyes reflecting a deep understanding of their alpha's concerns. "I agree, Alpha Liam. It's always wise to have contingencies in place, especially in times of such uncertainty."

They moved to a secluded corner of the room, away from prying ears, where they could speak more freely. Liam leaned in closer, his voice barely above a whisper.

"We need a second plan, one that no one else knows about. Something to fall back on if our initial strategy fails."

James furrowed his brow, his mind already racing with possibilities.

"Understood, Alpha. We'll need to coordinate closely and ensure that this plan remains confidential. It must be a last resort, a hidden ace up our sleeves."

Liam's gaze intensified, his eyes reflecting a mix of determination and caution. "Exactly. We can't afford to let the enemy know of our backup plan. It's our safeguard, our insurance against unforeseen complications." They exchanged a silent understanding. Liam suspected that there was something about the witches that remained hidden because there were traitors within.

James spoke up, offering his insights. "We'll need to assemble a small team, trusted members who are skilled and discreet. They will be responsible for executing the backup plan if the need arises."

Liam nodded in agreement, appreciating James' strategic thinking. "Yes, we must choose individuals we can rely on implicitly. They need to be prepared for any scenario and have unwavering loyalty to the pack."

Their conversation grew more intense as they delved deeper into the specifics of the backup plan. They discussed potential scenarios that could unfold during the upcoming confrontation with the witch and how their secret team would respond. "What about communication?" James asked, his voice laced with practicality. "We'll need a secure method to relay information and coordinate the execution of the backup plan. The mind link is perfect, but we need something more." Liam's eyes gleamed with determination as he replied, "We'll establish a discreet communication network. It will be coded and accessible only to those directly involved in the backup plan. We can't afford any leaks or compromise of our strategy." They continued to refine their plan, hashing out the details and ensured they had considered every possible angle. Their conversation ebbed and flowed, filled with urgency and a shared determination to protect their pack. As they wrapped up their discussion, Liam placed a hand on James' shoulder.

"I need Garrett to be at his best, James," Liam said, his tone firm. "Our pack relies on his leadership and guidance even more than it does on me. He needs to put aside his pain and lead us with the strength I know he possesses." James cocked a brow. "Rich words coming from you, Alpha. Considering that you almost killed him yesterday."

Sighing, Liam shrugged. "He consistently says things to Nicole that put her off and have her doubting herself. I can not stand that. I couldn't stand it. At the same time, he's my friend James. From birth. I hate that our bond is being threatened because of this. I don't recognize him anymore."

"Cut him some slack. He lost his mate. And as it happened, he and Nicole bonded strangely as they helped themselves out of what held them captive. I agree that he's being weird, but he's to thank for Nicole's recovery." Liam sighed. "But he's crossing lines."

"Don't worry. He only loves his mate. He will not come for yours. Give him time. He won't let you down, Alpha," James added.

"And to make sure of it, I'll track him down and monitor him. If he's going rogue, you'll be the first to know. But I know Garrett, he will do whatever it takes to protect this pack, even if it means pushing aside his grief."

Liam nodded, a silent acknowledgement passing between them. He believed in Garrett's ability to rise above his struggles, but his wolf didn't. It couldn't until it was certain that he was not interested in his mate. Only then would he consider him less of a threat.