The Alpha's Companion

Chapter 30 - Can It Wait?

"Princess." Cairo nodded, meeting her at the door. She took Lacey’s hands and gave her air kisses over both cheeks. "I've been looking for you."

Lacey inclined her wet head toward the door. "I was in the practice ring, working with the warriors." A crease formed between her eyes. “What’s wrong?”

Cairo scoffed. "You were working out with the warriors this close to the wedding?" She wrapped her arm around Lacey's shoulders and led her inside.

"Well, that's my cue," Raye said, shoving his hands into his pockets. "See you at dinner." Then he took off up the stairs.

"What would happen if you got a black eye this close to the wedding?" Cairo asked, giving her a look of disapproval.

Lacey shrugged. "I'm a shifter and we heal fast."

Cairo looked at her as if she had four heads. "But do you really want to take the chance? Your wedding is in three days! What would the Alpha say?”

Lacey knew she had a point. "I'm so sorry, but what was it that you wanted?" As a shifter, it was rare when Lacey got tired, but after having practiced with the warriors all day and being out in the rain, she could do with a shower.

"So..." Cairo smiled, suddenly excited. "An invitation was sent to your family and they're arriving tomorrow!" A broad grin spread across her face. "You're welcome!"

"Seriously?" Lacey shook her head, walking past her.

Cairo's smile faded. "I thought you'd be pleased—"

Lacey stopped and turned to face her. "I'm sorry, but you don't know my family," Lacey cut her off. Then she let out a deep breath. "It's not your fault. It was a very thoughtful gesture, but the only one from my family that I would like to come to the wedding is my mother."

Cairo's face registered complete shock. "But your father needs to give you away."

Lacey scoffed. "He already did a long time ago." Lacey shook her head, knowing it was too late to tell them not to come, and she really wanted to see her mother. "Now, if you don't mind, I really need a shower before dinner."

"Oh!" Cairo's eyes opened wide, taking a step back. "Yes! Of course! We can discuss the other arrangements later."

Lacey raised an eyebrow, cringing. "Other arrangements?"

"Yes, of course," Cairo replied, a confused look coloring her eyes.

Lacey bit her lower lip and released it. "Okay. I'll cancel practice with the warriors until after the wedding. Shall I meet you in the morning after breakfast?"

Cairo nodded, her lips forming a straight line. "Yes, that's fine. Of course. We can take care of the last-minute arrangements tomorrow."

"Thank you." Lacey gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "I'll see you at dinner." Then she headed up the stairs, taking two at a time, not waiting for her reply.

She met Julien at the top of the stairs. "Well, hello!" He took her hands and gave her a quick kiss. "Where've you been all day?"

"Working with the warriors in the practice ring," she replied. "But after talking to Cairo just now, I think it'll be the last time until after the wedding."

He smiled. "Well, the only thing you should be doing right now is getting ready to marry me." He raised an eyebrow, biting his lower lip.

"Cocky much?" she teased.

"Very much." He threw her over his shoulder playfully and started toward her bedroom, causing her to laugh.

“Put me down!" Lacey laughed all the way down the hallway as two shifters stepped out of the way, laughing.

Julien stood her on her feet just outside her door, letting out an exaggerated sigh. "As you wish, my lady.”

She chuckled and then her face became serious. "Oh! I almost forgot to tell you. My family is coming the day after tomorrow."

"Ah! I look forward to seeing your them again." Then Julien tilted his head to the side. "Will your father be giving you away?"

Lacey sighed. "Julien, I need to tell you something."

"Can it wait? It's getting late and the pack is expecting us."

Lacey shrugged. "Yes, I guess...."

Julien gave her a quick peck on the lips. "Good. We'll talk after dinner."

She nodded, watching him go toward his room, hoping her family wouldn’t ruin their wedding… one way or another.