Two male shifters run up from a late model sedan. “Can you tell me how the fuck they were here, and I didn’t know about it? What the fuck have you been doing?” Masen’s voice is deadly, the two men cower.

“We’ve been here since six a.m., Alpha. I walked the perimeter at least once an hour. I haven’t seen anything unusual. I’m sorry, Alpha.” The poor guy sounds like he’s about to piss his pants, and Masen looks like he is about to kill them both with his bare hands. His torso strains forward, hands fisted at his sides. His massive body is frightening enough, but it’s his face locked in a sneer that truly shows how angry he really is. Masen’s breathing is harsh as he tries to calm down.

“Masen,” I try. He doesn’t respond to my voice in the least. I give him a few moments and try again, “Masen, what’s happened?” I try using my calmest voice.

We stand there for at least five minutes before he finally answers, “You aren’t taking anything from here, Little One. Anything you wanted has been ruined anyway. I need you to go sit in the car and wait for me. I won’t be long.” He pulls his phone from his pocket. “Michael, I need a full investigation, bring as many as you need. I’ll have a security team here within the hour.” When he realizes I’m still standing there, he barks, “GO!” I jump from his abrasive tone. I know he’s not angry with me, but it still stings. I turn and walk back to the car before I let my hurt feelings make matters worse.

The SUV is hot from sitting in the sun. The windows are rolled up, and Masen has the keys. I leave my door open, hoping to catch a breeze from the lake. I hear bits and pieces of orders issued from Masen as his men arrive. Sid and Michael arrive and are the only people to have gone inside, Masen is with them.

When they return to the door, Masen wears a look of disgust as he walks to a black truck. Two male shifters exit. One could compete with Masen for mass but is much shorter. His head is shaved almost bald, and his face is set in a firm line, giving him a brutal appearance. He nods his head to Masen in respect before they grab hands. The other man is average height, average build, average everything. He’s the kind of man that you probably wouldn’t look at twice. He gives Masen the same nod before looking directly at me. His dark eyes are keen and intelligent, and I know he’s not one who should be overlooked.

They talk for ten more minutes before disappearing into my condo. My bladder is screaming five minutes after that. I’ll give him two more minutes, then I have to pee. I exit the SUV after ten minutes and walk briskly to the door. Six to eight males all look at me, but no one stops me from entering.