Tightly Held [Werewolves of Hanson Mall 5] (Siren Publishing Ménage Everlasting) (15 page)

“Now I have some news about the future of our pack. You know I talked with the Supreme Alpha, and he directed me to some people to consult about finding new income streams for the pack.”

Ethan could feel the surge of excitement in the room. They’d been waiting for a month or more to hear this news. But it was only fair that the Alpha investigate the various possibilities carefully and not rush in and make an ill-considered decision. The future survival of the pack was a vital concern to them all.

“The Supreme gave me the names of several packs which have begun farming different crops. Crops for specialty markets that bring in a lot more money than things like corn. Starting after harvest, we will begin growing
crocus sativus
flowers. But not for the flower market. These are the flowers from which the spice saffron is made. Saffron is the most expensive of all spices.”

The Alpha stopped and let people talk for a few minutes about his announcement. Ethan knew absolutely nothing about flowers or spices, but if the Supreme thought growing these things was a good idea he was more than prepared to learn how to help.

“The flowers will be grown in the biggest barn on racks set waist to shoulder height above the floor. That will almost eliminate the chance that bugs or rats will eat the corms. It will also mean there’s no danger of them not getting enough warmth and light, because we can control all that. We have the type of soil they prefer, and we have the organic material they need, which were all things I considered before choosing this crop. But the deciding factor was that they are harvested in October, long after regular crops, so that will mean work for all our own people in a less busy time for us.”

The Alpha sat down, and all around him people began talking. It sounded like a sensible, well thought-out decision to Ethan. Suitable work and income would soon be guaranteed for the pack. But really, all he cared about right now was that the Alpha had welcomed his mate and given her a place in their pack.

* * * *

It was late when they left the farm and headed home to Georgia’s apartment. That sounded so good to Nolan. He was happy as long as he was with her. Wherever she was would be his home from now on. Her apartment was going to be their base for the time being, until they moved out onto the farm. They’d stay where they were until they knew where the family history project would take them. Then they’d move all their possessions onto the farm and it would become their new base from which they’d travel.

But for Nolan, all he needed was the three of them to be together. Their address was immaterial. They were a family. They belonged together.

When Georgia’s cell phone rang, he was surprised. It was late to be getting a call.

She must have set the call onto speakerphone because he could clearly hear the person on the other end.

“Georgia? It’s Janet Young. I’m sorry to call so late at night but we have a problem.”

“A problem? Is your father all right?”

“Yes, he’s fine. It’s Malcolm. He’s gone berserk. The judge has ordered him to present a complete accounting of his and my father’s finances to the court by next month. He’s threatening to kill me, and to kill Sierra Bond, and to get revenge on the Hanson Wolf pack. I’ve contacted my father’s care facility, and Sierra, but I need you to tell all the people who’ve worked on the family history project, and all the people at the Hanson Mall as well. Probably the people at your apartment block, too. Malcolm is extremely vindictive. You need to take this warning seriously.”

“Don’t worry, Janet, we’ll take it very seriously. And I’ll tell the managing director of the mall immediately. Thank you for letting us know.”

“Don’t thank me. I’m only sorry the fucking shit is causing us all more trouble. Well, he’s not going to get his way this time.”

The call clicked off and there was silence in the truck as they kept driving toward the mall.

Nolan was just about to ask Georgia what she planned to do when she started tapping a number into her cell phone.

“Hanson.”

“Sir, I’m really sorry to ring you so late.” Georgia gave him the message from Janet and then apologized again.

“Thank you for letting me know, and don’t worry, Georgia. The mall protected itself against the Hamilton men and we’ll protect ourselves against Malcolm Young as well. I’ll tell security. You’d best move your things into the genealogical office. We can protect you much better there than in the apartment building.”

That’s right. There are families in that building, whereas the people living at the mall are mostly single men, managers of the various stores.

“I’m sorry—” Georgia began.

“It’s not your fault,” said Ethan.

“Don’t be,” said Nolan.

“It’s lucky we’re driving the truck. We’ll be able to fit most of your gear in the back and bring it in one load.” Ethan patted her shoulder.

“But it’s so late.”

“Honey, you can lie on your bed and take a nap. Just tell us what to pack and we’ll take care of it. We’re here to look after you now and forevermore,” said Nolan, meaning every word he said.

“That’s right isn’t it? Life isn’t necessarily going to be smooth and easy. But we’ve got each other and we’ll muddle through somehow.”

“Exactly.” Nolan pulled into the parking lot of her building and kissed her.

Ethan climbed out of the truck and lifted her down from the cab, and he kissed her, too. Then together, arms around each other’s waists, the three of them walked inside to pack her things.

THE END

CARAADAMSROMANCE.BLOGSPOT.COM

Cara Adams adores erotic romance, especially ménage, BDSM, and shape-shifters. One day, someone said to her, “Why don’t you put them all in one book?” So she did.

For all titles by Cara Adams, please visit

www.bookstrand.com/cara-adams

Siren Publishing, Inc.

www.SirenPublishing.com