Marked Against Her Will

Chapter 9 – Grudging Approval

Jared pursed his lips. Well, that’s a lot to think about. He would admit he hasn’t looked at it that way. When he brings her to Blood Moon, he expects her to act like the rest of them. Yes, maybe what a traditional woman does at home. But then again, she’s supposed to be his Luna. She can do whatever she wants. If there’s anything she wants to get involved in, she has the freedom to do it.

He scrunched up his face and Clyde was somewhat glad to see the changes in his expression. They sat there in silence, considering their options.

Now that the conference is over and the guests have left, the news of what he did has slowly spread within their pack. Understandably, most, if not all, are angry at him. Clyde wondered if Jared would be safe if he walks outside all alone. Well, he should be strong enough to take down his opponents. Personally, he would be glad if someone could punch the bastard squarely in the face. He smirked at the thought.

Half an hour passed. He thought that was enough time.

“Are you ready? Or do you need more time?”

Jared looked up and fixed his usual expression. “I’m ready. Call him in.”

Clyde stared at him. Well, he did his best to help. Not that he wanted to actually help the jerk, but he wanted Polly to have a chance at having a mate. He’s like the last option given what he did. If Jared can’t convince them, then Clyde also won’t allow Polly to live miserably with a bastard.

Clyde used the mindlink and called Patrick over. He was curious what today’s outcome would be.

Patrick took his previous seat and raised an eyebrow. He’s not expecting much. Jared did surprise them, though. He spoke up first.

“I understand your reservations. I do apologize for marking your daughter. It was instinctive when I did it. As you know, I’m the next alpha of Blood Moon. Your daughter won’t be treated as a servant. She will have people to assist her and do her bidding. She can do whatever she wants. If she doesn’t want to do chores, she can have people to do it for her. If she wants to do it herself, then she can also do that. Whatever she wants to get involved in, she would have the chance to do so. As her mate, I do care about her safety. She can train within the territory. I can bring her with me when I visit other territories. I won’t let her get involved in anything relatively dangerous. I may not look like it, but I can be gentle towards her. I’ve treated my mother and grandmother with utmost respect and adoration. I never yelled at them. I’ve always been obedient when it comes to them. I wouldn’t raise my voice to her. I wouldn’t hurt her. I may be violent and ruthless but I would never lay a finger on your daughter. I would kill anyone who dares to do so. That, I can promise you.”

Clyde inwardly praised him. Huh, his speech was much better than he expected. It was to the point. There’s not a hint of bullshit in it. No flowery words meant to appease her father, just facts. He ended it on a strong note. It showcased his power and strength.

Patrick turned to face Clyde. What exactly did his alpha tell this bastard?

“Your words hold no weight unless you can back it up with actions. I shall be observing you. If I’m not satisfied at the end of one month, you can have another.”

Jared’s lip twitched. He has no intention of staying here longer than a month. He needs to go back to his own pack. He nodded to indicate he understood. Thinking about it, he realized it would be uncomfortable. He’s not one to show others his soft side. Maybe he can to his mate, but if others were watching? It would be awkward. The persona he created over the years, that’s the only persona he wanted others to see. Save his mate, of course. Still, he’s not sure how to actually do so. Clyde was right. He’s not used to it so it would most likely be difficult to execute.

Patrick looked at the man whose expression remained serious, but he also saw a hint of discomfort on his face. That’s good. He wanted someone with emotions, so he can easily understand his daughter’s needs.

“Do you know how to be considerate?” Patrick suddenly asked and Jared looked up to him, his brows frowning.

“I can.” He replied with a hint of hesitation.

Patrick was unimpressed. “How?” That was his question.

“Would you notice if my daughter wasn’t feeling well? If she’s upset? If she’s being treated unfairly by others in your pack? Would you care if she hasn’t eaten yet? Or if she’s not getting enough rest?”

The corner of Jared’s right eye twitched.

Patrick continued, “Or are you one of those who would not care and say she’s already old enough to take care of herself? If she’s hungry, she should eat. Why must she bother you with her meals? She should mind her own rest so she can have enough energy to do her tasks and responsibilities. Why must you care if she can’t sleep properly at night? Is that how you think?”

Jared couldn’t help but grimace. In a way, that sounds like his personality. But it’s his mate they’re talking about. Of course, he would treat her differently.

“No. She is my mate. I will definitely be attentive of her needs. We will be living together. I’m bound to notice such things. I can’t not care.”

“Hmp, we’ll see about that. My daughter isn’t sickly but let me tell you, she loses her appetite when she’s upset. I’m afraid you won’t notice, so I’m telling you now. The rest of her habits and what she’s like, you can find them out on your own. One month should be enough for you to notice such things.”

“Fine. Were you planning to do an exit interview? I can’t take her with me if I can’t tell you everything I should’ve noticed?” He was being sarcastic about it but Patrick took it seriously.

“Well, yes. You can stay longer if you’re unable to do so.” It’s a good reason to keep them in Snow Mountain. He won’t be giving his daughter away so easily. The bastard’s suggestion wasn’t so bad so he took it.

“Fine.” He grudgingly agreed, noticing that the older man seemed to accept his answers. They’re not exactly arguing or contradicting each other. It’s good enough for him. In his mind, he got the initial approval of her father.

Clyde was slightly smiling. Alpha Wade would be happy to hear these men didn’t try to kill each other.