Andrew

Andrew

Book 2: The Rollins Pack

By: Alexis Donkin

Copyright 2015, Alexis Donkin

All rights reserved.

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Chapter 1: Straw Man

My fingers drummed against my thigh though I kept my face smooth. The fine Italian wool felt scratchy against my skin. I fought the urge to fidget or even worse – rip the jacket off. I couldn't help it – I was nervous. Ever since Jerry abdicated his claim to the pack, everyone's attention shifted to me as the second eldest. So while Jerry got the luxury of cavorting about Cambridge in college, I was stuck in Pittsburgh making the obligatory party rounds.

Stop it! hissed my father under his breath. His cold gray eyes met mine and I swallowed.

Sorry Dad. I flashed a winning smile and waved as the two of us walked across the stage. Thunderous applause compounded with cheers and howls greeted us as we reached the podium. My dad laughed, his auburn hair shaking slightly at the motion. Any coldness he sent my way left his eyes. When it came to the pack, he held only warmth.

His arms went out to calm the crowd. Slowly they quieted – the outlying hoots and hollers finally died.

A new year brings a new opportunity for Pittsburgh! my father said, his voice ringing across the hall without amplification. The podium mic was for recording. I sighed, wishing for a fraction of my father's vocal power. Stocks are up, production is up, and popularity for our company is soaring! Cheers greeted his pronouncement. The pack continues to forge positive alliances abroad while shaping our city for a better tomorrow! The crowd exploded in excitement at this. Dad silenced them with a gesture. But I have to admit, nothing gives me more hope for our tomorrow than my sons. Tonight I present your Alpha-heir, my son, Andrew Rollins! The crowd exploded in applause. I swallowed, my mouth dry, even as I waved, throwing a broad smile. Slowly I approached the podium. As a human I would have been gawky – wooden – perhaps even tripped. But I had been a wolf for a year and a half. At summer's end I would be seventeen. I had mastered my abilities – so when I approached the podium it was with grace and poise befitting an Alpha-heir.

I cleared my throat – hearing the sound amplified. The microphone's role had changed with me.

Nothing gives me more pleasure than being here with you tonight! I smiled as I read from the teleprompter. There's not a more successful, charitable, and determined pack than ours here in Pittsburgh! This was greeted by thunderous applause. I hesitated, but smiled and continued.

In the next six years I look for your support, guidance, and strength as I work to become the best Alpha I can – to ensure this pack remains where it should – on top! The cheers were deafening. With the bright lights in my eyes, I barely made out the room standing. I grinned widely and brought my hand up as I had seen my father do so many times before. Obediently the crowd calmed down. With that, I ask Jonathan Merritt to present the next year's projections. The crowd clapped politely as I exited the stage with my father. Mr. Merritt was on stage before we reached the last step off the stage. As we reached our seats, a multimedia presentation ran through expected trends leaving nothing to the imagination.

My father and I sat quietly in the front row. While Dad was able to concentrate on Merritt's presentation, I struggled to come down from my adrenaline rush. My heart continued to pound and I felt like I running around the room. It was impossible to wipe the stupid grin from my face. I couldn't help it. It was the first time I addressed the pack as a whole. Not even Jeremiah had been forced to do that. With his behavior it had been impossible. But with me...

When I turned, there was a collective sigh of relief. I wasn't gawky or clumsy or faulty in any way. I was just as graceful as any Rollins. What made it better was how easily I conformed to the pack's needs, and my father's. I didn't kick and scream like Jerry. I didn't sleep around, or party like crazy, or do anything to cause trouble. I was a good kid.

Granted, I wasn't as spectacular as Jeremiah on the ice, or as charismatic as James would likely be, but I didn't need to be. I just needed the right advisors at the right times. Practice makes perfect. Fake it until you make it.

When the presentations finally ended, I obediently followed my father to the reception. When pack members came to shake my hands and ask me questions, I gripped their hands firmly and made quaint jokes or answered questions warmly. Everything I did was an echo of my father, despite the mark of my mother. The slight difference in my jaw, dark hair, and slender form kept me from being a copy of my father. Keeping up appearances.

Nicely done! said Merritt warmly as he clasped my hand. I smiled back at him, displaying my perfect white teeth.

Thank you Mr. Merritt!

Oh please! Call me Jon! My brows rose. After everything with my brother, I was surprised at his warmth to me.

My older brother Jeremiah dated Laurie, the only daughter of the Merritts. At first, the Merritts had been pleased with this. When my brother was in his junior year and renounced his Alpha-heir title, things changed drastically. Jonathan and his wife grew cold towards Jerry. They tolerated rather than encouraged the relationship between my brother and their daughter. Part of me knew they would have been quite pleased to have me take Jerry's place with their daughter, but that could never happen. I might take up the mantle of Alpha-heir, but I could never steal my brother's girlfriend, even if I had been remotely interested. There was such a thing as family loyalty. It helped that Laurie wasn't my type – at all. It made standing up to the pressure much easier than if I'd found her more attractive.

All right, Jon. I smiled again. Another wave of curious well-wishers came over to speak with me. I couldn't help but glance around the room searching for a familiar face. Jerry was in Boston. My mother and younger brothers were forbidden from attending seeing as none of them were wolves. It was times like this I wished the rules about pack membership weren't so strict. Only fully transformed werewolves were allowed at pack functions. My brothers were too young. James wouldn't be a full werewolf until next fall. My mother as a gene carrier could never truly join this world. One by one she would watch her full werewolf sons join the pack – a secret society that would consume our lives.

It sounded so insidious when I thought about it like that. But as I shook hands, smiled, and laughed, I just felt bored. Bored to death. Consumed by boredom.

After another hour of this, my father finally suggested we leave. I thanked God for the importance of family obligations as we walked into the cold night air. Family is the only thing that can take us away from the pack.

A dark car pulled up and we crawled into the back seat. Without a word, we took off through the city streets. As we sped over bridges and past brick streets, I watched the sparkling lights – the red trim and evergreens – with a wistful smile. It may have been cold, the trees bare, but something about December was beautiful.

As we wound our way along the small hilly roads, the houses grew further and further apart. I took a deep breath as my eyes fell on our driveway. The car pulled right to our front door and the two of us nearly jumped out. Even my father was anxious to be home. I chuckled as he beat me to the door.

What?! he rounded on me as he pushed the thing open. I just shook my head and walked past him.

Nothing.

Hello! rang my mother's voice from inside. We barely had our coats off and in the closet when she appeared – a vision of sparkling elegance. Her slender frame, dark wavy hair, and shimmering pale gold dress was nothing less than stunning. I grinned at her.

Mom, you're gorgeous! I said smugly. But my father was there before me. He had her hand in one and twirled her before bringing her to him and dipping her down. She let out a delighted squeal.

Rick! she castigated playfully. He stared at her intently, holding her in that pose as he brought his mouth to hers.

This is why I have never looked at any woman but you. I watched in wonder as my mother blushed scarlet.

Really Rick! mumbled my mother in embarrassment. Smoothly my father brought her back up. Guests are going to arrive any moment! You two need to be ready! she snapped. Flustered, she fiddled with her hair as though to fix it. I chuckled as I bounded up the stairs to my room, scratching at my wrists and collar. Even though I needed dress clothes for our party, they would be more comfortable than the stiff suit I'd worn for the pack meeting.

When I reached my door, I saw it was already open, a light was on, and James was lounging in my desk chair.

Seriously dude? I shook my head at him. He was lucky I was so laid back. James grinned boyishly, and shrugged his shoulders.

I wanted to know what it was like. He watched as I stripped to my boxers, flinging the suit on my bed.

The meeting? Fine. I shrugged. I wasn't thinking about the meeting. I was more concerned about the dress pants and vest I was going to wear to our family party.

Andy! shouted James, startling me. Jumping in my skin, I turned.

What?! I snapped in irritation. My younger brother glared at me.

"What was it like?" he insisted. I sighed as I turned back to my closet. Slowly I pulled a blue shirt from its hanger.

Exhilarating, I admitted.

Really? he pressed.

The whole pack – shouting – cheering – hanging on your every word. But the meet and greet afterwards sucks. I stopped and turned back to him as I pulled the shirt on. I shouldn't be telling you this. James stuck his lip out.

It's not as if I won't find out! He crossed his arms. I rolled my eyes and yanked on a pair of charcoal gray pants and matching vest. Ignoring him, I pulled out several ties, laying them on my arm.

What do you think, tie?

James let out an annoyed groan.

What? I turned showing my arm of choices. It was then I finally took in my younger brother's appearance. He was wearing a nice sweater and dress pants. Underneath the sweater the barest hint of a tie poked out.

I'm thinking bow.

Never trust a man who wears a bow tie, muttered James with a smirk.

What? I frowned at him.

Never mind. It's from a movie. Just wear whatever you want. People will fawn over you anyway, he shrugged, pushing himself off the chair awkwardly. At fourteen he had all the gawkiness of a human teen. Granted, he was less awkward than I had been at his age, but he still was growing too fast in some places, while others hopelessly tried to keep up. A walking train-wreck - that's what I imagined people called me when I walked past at fourteen. Now – now was a different story.

Seriously, bow or regular? I asked as he walked away.

You're pretty slim. The regular tie will highlight that, was all he said as he left. I frowned as I turned back to my closet mirror. Holding each tie up in turn, I tried to imagine them on – see in my head if they worked with the vest and the shirt. In the end, I gave up the idea of the bow tie, in favor of a full Windsor. A gray silk worked nicely with the rest of the outfit. A set of silver cufflinks, some shiny black shoes, and a little hair product completed me. I gave myself a once over in the mirror and made my way downstairs to the living room.

The fire spread its smoky perfume, enhanced by the smell of simmering mulled cider. I inhaled deeply, relishing the scents of Christmas in my house. Harp music played over the stereo. I smiled. My mother is a consummate hostess.

My brothers were arranged throughout the room. Freddy and Charlie played a game of checkers at the coffee table, while James sat comfortably watching, smirking every now and then at one of Charlie's moves. I shook my head.

Any of you know when Jer's getting here? I asked. Only Charlie looked up. When he did, Freddy moved one of his pieces. I cleared my throat and looked at him. Charlie turned to his opponent and growled. Freddy obediently moved our brother's piece back.

Any time now, said James as he sipped some mulled cider.

And Aunt Dacy? I pressed. James met my eyes.

Her too.

Is anyone else coming? asked Charlie innocently as we watched Freddy make a stupid move. James chuckled.

I think the Merritts.

Is Laurie back? asked James quietly.

She wasn't at the meeting, I replied as footsteps came up our steps. Instinctively, I turned in the direction of the front door. My brothers watched me, waiting. The bell rang. The butler got the door. Stiff leather shoes crossed the threshold and wool jackets were taken.

Who - began James.

Tommy, I said with a slight smile. Even though our uncle had designs on our father, we couldn't help but love our cousins. Tommy was a year older than Jerry. He was the golden Rollins, taking after his mother's side more than the Rollins' – just like me, or James.

Excellent! said Charlie, though I wasn't sure he was talking about Freddy's poor playing or the arrival of our cousin.

He brought someone with him, I said softly, stiffening as Tommy strode into the room, arms open wide.

Hey little dude! he called, grinning broadly as he gripped me in a bear hug. I tried to hug back, but he caught me off guard. I sputtered until he let me go. I coughed as our cousin moved on to James. My nose moved on to the strange scent behind him.

Hello, she said, her voice like silk. I struggled to keep my eyes in my head. This woman was all curves – and therefore dangerous.

That's Sam, called Tommy over his shoulder. She's from Chicago. Met her at school. James was gawking just as much as I was. I could tell by Tommy's scent he was amused by our interest. I coughed again.

I'm Andrew, I extended my hand and smiled my political smile. Happily, I was rewarded by her hand and a wide smile that reached her eyes.

You can call me Sam, but my name's Samantha. I nodded.

Nice to meet you Samantha. She smiled coyly.

Oh, the pleasure's all mine. Not every day you meet an Alpha-heir, she purred. I blinked. Was she hitting on me? I couldn't be sure. If I was Tommy, she would have been my girlfriend, but Tommy didn't seem concerned either way. He was merely – amused. I glanced at our cousin and he grinned.

Right, I said slowly as the door opened. A familiar smell hit my nose and a laugh I hadn't heard for months broke through my confusion.

Jerry! said Charlie, who jumped up, sending checker pieces flying across the room over a grumpy Freddy. But as soon as Jeremiah entered the room, my younger brothers had completely forgotten the strange woman, checkers, and Tommy. There was only Jeremiah.

Hey little bros! he shouted throwing down bags at his feet as he rushed us, sweeping all four of us into his thick arms. Under the cover of my younger brothers I punched him in the stomach and he broke his hold on the younger boys. All of a sudden, he let out a little growl, turned and flipped me onto the ground. As I fell, I kicked out knocking him off his feet. Grabbing his waist I used the momentum to pin him to the floor as I swung above him. Laughing, he grinned up at me before jabbing my side with his fist. I growled as I leaned against his throat, tickling his neck with my fingers.

Okay! I give! I give! he choked between laughs. I wondered if he was letting me win, but I would take it. Grinning in triumph, I stood. Benevolently I extended my hand to let him up, which he took graciously. Dusting ourselves off, we exchanged glances, grinning like we did as little boys. Our younger brothers watched in jealous wonder. I scented James' envy. I knew he couldn't wait until next September. James would be fifteen – the fateful age when pups turned into full werewolves. The change was painful, but I wouldn't trade the experience for anything. The grace, skills, and heightened senses were well worth a week of discomfort. Of course, Rollins boys had more prices to pay.

Tommy, Jeremiah said formally as he nodded to our cousin. The four of us looked from our cousin and back to our elder brother as they shook hands like strangers. Who's your friend? Jeremiah eyed the voluptuous Samantha. I sighed. If Laurie wasn't here, Jeremiah could do whatever he wanted – with whomever he wanted. At least, that's what I expected. After all, in the eyes of girls, if there was Jeremiah, no one else existed.

I'm Samantha, but you can call me Sam, she said throatily, extending her hand.

Jeremiah quirked a single brow quirked.

And you're the eldest of Tommy's cousins. Her scent betrayed her blatant interest in him. I swallowed my disappointment as footsteps drew near.

Uh, yeah. Jeremiah frowned as he gestured to the door. I was saving this for later, but now seems as good a time as any – this is my fiancé – Laurianne Merritt. Laurie strode in, her face fierce as she caught wind of this interloper's scent. My own brows rose to my hairline as I gaped stupidly. James blinked furiously as he looked at Laurie, then our brother and back again.

You're getting married?! asked Freddy stupidly.

Yeah, get a load of this! Jeremiah motioned to Laurie's hand. There for all to see was a huge sparkling rock, set in a delicate silver-toned band. I guessed it was platinum. Jeremiah wouldn't have stinted.

Wow, I whispered. Then I stepped towards Laurie and smiled, So do I call you 'sis' now? She smiled and I pulled her to me in a hug. Congratulations.

Thanks! she blushed as Samantha retreated into the background. Tommy still smelled amused, despite his other scents.

I guess Aunt Bev hasn't come by yet? asked Jeremiah quietly to me. I shook my head.

I'm not sure if she's coming or not. I hadn't heard -

And her twins, he muttered. I shrugged.

I'm still not sure why she adopted them. It's weird that she adopted babies like that – at her age. I mean what was she thinking? I shook my head in consternation. Jeremiah only cleared his throat.

I guess they just tugged at her heart, he said quietly.

Having two toddlers is hard. It takes work to get them both out the door, chimed in Laurie. Jeremiah threw her a look of such appreciation, I stared. It was strange they had decided to get engaged – and so early. I wondered what the Merritts had to say on the subject. Unfortunately, I didn't have long to wait.

The doors opened and almost as soon as they entered, Laurie's parents cast a wave of cold about the place. They weren't impolite or outright hostile. There was just a fine veneer of frost that coated everything they said and did.

Jeremiah, Mr. Merritt smiled politely as he shook my brother's hand. Mrs. Merritt only smiled at Jerry and nodded. Laurie however, received big hugs. I tensed.

My parents entered and our butler, Arthur, followed with champagne and sparkling cider. We each got the appropriate glass handed to us. As Arthur finished his rounds, the front door opened again.

Hello family! called our uncle. Three sets of footsteps entered the room. Rob, Tommy's younger brother, who was now a senior, entered and threw me a big grin. Aunt Dacy and Uncle Ran came in, gave hugs, and shook hands. Their distraction did much to ease the tension in the room. Though, I could tell as my aunt caught sight of Samantha, that house had their own issues. It made me feel a little better, but only marginally.

I think a toast is in order! called my father over the din. Arthur passed glasses to everyone which we raised immediately. To family, friends, and the good of the pack. May the next year be full of opportunities we never dreamed of!

Here, here! murmured several of the group as we took our drinks. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Tommy and my uncle exchange a long glance. I frowned and made my way to Jerry.

Hey you, I muttered. He grinned at me.

What's up? he said before draining his glass.

You have a minute? I asked, glancing around the room. He nodded and we moved toward the exit. Smoothly we left, smiling appropriately without raising any questions or concerns.

Why don't we go outside? I suggested quietly, knowing this would be the only place our conversation would go unobserved.

Good idea.

Once on the patio, my shoulders relaxed as I exhaled. It had been almost six months since Jeremiah left for school. Even with traveling around with football and hockey, I hadn't been able to get to Cambridge. Jerry, it seemed, was so busy at school he didn't have time to come home even for Thanksgiving.

It's been a while, Jerry said letting out a deep breath.

It sure has. I watched him.

I miss this place. He leaned against the far railing as he took in the snowy backyard and iced outdoor furniture.

We miss you, I admitted slowly. He laughed.

Really? I'd think you'd be better off without my troublemaking. He grinned and wagged his brows.

Whatever, I laughed and shook my head. We stood there quietly for a while, letting the cold air wash over us, exhaling great white puffs in the night.

Does Rannulf have something on Dad? I asked finally. Jerry froze. Slowly he turned to me, watching my face.

What makes you ask? I caught the tang of anxiety in Jerry's scent. His muscles tensed a fraction. I swallowed. We always knew our uncle coveted Father's position, however he never had been able to find enough ammunition to take it.

Something – I saw something inside. Jeremiah turned his body and leaned towards me, studying me carefully.

What was it?

A look.

A look? asked Jeremiah slowly.

"Just