know under normal circumstances. This woman has blinded you; she’s made you weak.”
“And I think you’re biased, because you never took a mate. The right match can make the pack stronger.” John knew he was touching on a sensitive subject. Logan had lost the woman he believed was his mate when he was a relatively young Alpha. But Logan’s persistent disapproval—when he hadn’t even met Lizzie—was annoying. But it was no more than an annoyance, because it wouldn’t change his opinion or his plans.
“I don’t argue that point. I’m saying she’s not the right match,” Logan said.
“Enough. I’ve made my choice, and I’ll make it work. Do I have your support?” John wanted Logan on his side, but he wouldn’t beg. One thing he knew for sure, Logan would never do anything he thought might hurt the pack.
Logan sighed. “I support you, and I will continue to—so long as you continue to be good for the pack. And you’re my blood.” After a brief pause, it was clear he simply couldn’t resist adding, “But sometimes you’re an insubordinate ass.”
“Likewise,” John said with an amused glint in his eyes. “Keep me updated? While I’m in Prague, I mean.”
John needed a few attentive eyes and ears within the Pack. Being far removed geographically meant that he would have difficulty gauging the mood of the pack. And he needed to know if a younger wolf was feeling emboldened by his absence. He could always come home and kick some impertinent whelp’s ass—but only if he was kept informed.
Logan kicked back in his big armchair, legs stretched out in front of him. “Uh-huh. Need my help already, do you?”
“You’re the best person to ask because you gossip like an old woman. Call it whatever you like—morning coffee, Friday night poker—it’s still gossip.” Logan deserved that, John thought.
Logan didn’t even blink at the accusation.
“I’m telling you, you need to stay.” Seeing John’s expressionless face, Logan shook his head in frustration and said simply, “Yes, I’ll keep you updated.”
“I’ll check in weekly, but give me a call on my cell if anything raises a red flag. You do remember how to use the phone, old man?” John cracked a small smile.
“You’re an ass. I even know how to text, so don’t give me shit,” Logan replied.
The two men parted on good terms, but John knew he’d have to get his personal life in order quickly. If he took too long, a challenge might be the least of his worries. The pack may never accept Lizzie if he didn’t resolve their differences and bring her home for introductions soon.
On the drive back to Lizzie’s, John did some quick math to calculate the difference in time zones. He decided six in the morning was a great time to call the man who had loosed a hornet’s nest on his and Lizzie’s relationship.
“Harrington.” The clipped tones of a very much awake Harrington came across John’s cell. Ah, well. Pulling the guy out of his bed had been a petty thought anyway.
“John Braxton, here.”
Harrington was silent just a hair longer than was polite. “I’ve been expecting your call. What can I do for you?”
“I’m flying to Prague. You’ve discovered a sudden need for a security consultant.” John glanced at the time again. He frowned. Lizzie was probably already in bed. He hadn’t intended to be gone so long from the house, but there had been some construction and an accident that had made traffic ridiculously slow.
“Have I? I’ve employed Lachlan McClellan’s security firm to handle the short-term security needs of the Library,” Harrington replied. His tone turned cautious. “I’m not certain if a consultant would be appreciated.”
“Your problem, not mine. I hold you partially responsible for my current situation. So you’ll do this for me, and I will consider your debt paid—in part.” John considered this conversation a formality. He was going, and he was staying at the Library. It was