Forever in the Past and Forever in the Future

Chapter 43

Bronx's POV "So, what pack did you come from, Tessa? I need to let your Alpha know you're here," I ask the blonde-haired, blue-eyed woman. Her clothes look inexpensive but brand new, unless you look at her shoes. She is wearing top of the line running shoes. I know because Kas bought a pair for herself a couple months ago. She felt uncomfortable spending so much money, so she took them back and bought a cheaper pair. I had Lenora and Ashley go out and buy her the original pair, but have not had an opportunity to give them to her yet.

If Tessa was an average wolf, she would be nervous sitting in a one-on-one meeting with an Alpha Regent, but she isn’t. She sits up straight and confidently looks me in the eye as we speak, as if this is an everyday occurrence for her. Her formal mannerisms and the way she speaks hint at a wealthy upbringing. She may have even had formal training to meet with high-ranking wolves.

"Oh, no, Sir. My Luna knows I left. This is temporary until I figure out what I’m going to do," she gives me a measured smile. I notice she intentionally avoids the question about her pack name.

"So they haven’t banished you for leaving? That is a patient pack you must have," I nod with my hands folded in front of me on the desk.

"Yes, Sir. Very patient," she nods, trying to convince me. She is very convincing. If I didn't know what I already know about her, I might believe her. 1

I watch her carefully, noticing the similarities between her and Lenora, but I can see how if the bakery was busy, Kas would have not recognized her with blonde hair and blue eyes. She is definitely wearing contacts. I can’t tell if she dyed her hair or if she is wearing a really good quality wig. Either way, she doesn't realize that I'm not fooled by the disguise.

There is something about her that makes me feel there is more than meets the eye beyond her disguised features, but I can’t put my finger on it. Her movements are graceful but precise at the same time, just like my sister. If I closed my eye and listened to her talk, I would believe I was sitting in the room with a pensive Lenora, but with something a little more to her voice. Just like Kas said, even with the contacts, her eyes look older than Lenora's even though she looks like she is Lenora's age.

"Alright, well, you are welcome to stay as long as you need while you work things out. While you're here, you will have a job with the housekeeping staff. Five days a week, eight hours a day. Half hour lunch break and fifteen minute morning and afternoon breaks. The supervisor will show you around, explain your responsibilities, and go over your wages when we are done here. Since your stay is going to be temporary, we will have a room on the second floor of the packhouse with a roommate. If you decide to stay permanently, we will move you to a more permanent dwelling on your own," I explain.

'Thank you, Alpha Mason. I appreciate this opportunity so much," she smiles gratefully at me, "Um, will I get to meet the Luna? I figured she would be here to greet new people into the pack."

mind, "You’re not getting

him back, "Now's not the time, Saint. We have a plan and we need to stick to it." "The Luna is away on business. I’m sure she would be happy to set up a meet and greet when she gets back," I hold Saint's emotions back

would be great," Tessa smiles, "I've heard

don't reply, I just smile at her the best I can. Kas always tells me I'm better off not trying to smile if it’s not

scare her a little," Saint paces

off our link to avoid

knock on the door. I bid them to enter and the housekeeping supervisor pokes

sent for me, Alpha?" she asks

on your team full time

pleasure to meet you. Sorry

her a firm handshake, "It's alright. I understand." The only difference between her and Lenora that I can tell, is that she doesn't have Lenora's dagger and heart tattoo that has Mom

going to be temporarily rooming with Carly. Can you take her down and show her where her room is so she can drop off her duffel bag? Then you

with Carly?"

and she has a guest bed ready in

looking confused why I would put a new pack

out of the office, closing the door behind her. I mind link Carly to let her know they are on their way and to search the

Reggie to meet me in my office. They