Severin felt the warmth of the sun through the duvet. He felt a little stiff and his arm was sore, but he knew it was because he hadn't moved it for hours, and that was only because he had it wrapped under Zero. And to his surprise, she was still asleep next to him even though she never slept past seven in the morning.

Severin opened his eyes; the light stung a little but he quickly adjusted and faced his mate. Zero slept soundly, her breath calm and the lines on her face were at ease too. However, Severin really wondered if she was asleep right now. She had the instincts of a beast- literally. He was almost convinced that she'd wake up as soon as he tried something. But he tried his luck still.

Severin leaned over her and slowly laid her on her back against the bed. She hadn't moved nor made a sound, which was strange but Severin took full advantage of that chance. Severin kissed down her neck as his hands explored the lines of her lethal body. She rendered him speechless from the way her body bloomed under his touch. His hands became rough as he squeezed her thighs and inched closer to her hot core.

Severin felt a deep hunger stir inside of him, his body yearned for her touch and he craved to drink her in. He never got enough of her and he knew this passion wouldn't end. He had fallen under her spell, that he had fully surrendered to her and never even thought for a second that it'd be a bad thing. How could it? he thought. Being with Zero was something he never predicted for himself. Life was full of surprises it seemed.

Severin grew excited from what he was doing to her while she slept. He brazenly cupped her core and a moan escaped her lips. He pushed two fingers into her hot channel and spread her apart for him, his fingers coated with the proof of her arousal. The silk gown she had contrasted against her fair skin, it rose above her thighs as he pushed her legs further apart. He moved his hands and kneaded her strong thighs.

Severin's lips felt the lace trimmed above the neckline and then he touched her warm skin. He kissed her collarbone over to her pulsing vein on her throat.

"Wake up, baby, otherwise I will do what I want with you," he whispered.

Zero hadn't given a response.

Severin's teeth sharpened and he grazed over her supple skin. He settled between her thighs, that were such an enticing invite to his raging erection. Zero made a soft sound when his shaft touched her core, but he didn't enter her. He wouldn't until she was awake for her to fully feel him and she was aware that he was inside her, claiming her as his today too.

Severin hovered over her, the nightgown rose above her abdomen and that was when all the warm light washed over Zero's bare body.

Severin stiffened from what he saw next. Scars ravished every part of her body. Last night, in her bedroom he did see a few scars here and there. But now, under more light, he couldn't believe the condition of her body and that lead him to wonder what she must have gone through to get these.

Guilt washed over him and he couldn't help but want to comfort her. Severin leaned down and laid his lips on the large scar running right across her lower stomach and belly button, it was pale against the flesh that was still alive. His hands caressed the scars slashed down her thighs and legs, there were a lot more on her bare arms and her breasts too.

Severin found a scar on her knee that looked like a puncture wound, which may have been a bullet or maybe a knife, he couldn't tell. He traced the round wound with his tongue, when suddenly, the muscle on her leg flexed in his grasp. He knew right away that she had woken up now, but he didn't back away. He continued to lick up her knee, towards her thigh and closer to her inviting core.

"Isn't it a bit early for this," she said as her bright blue eyes revealed under the sun.

Severin's grin widened into a bright smile showing his teeth. "It's never too early," he told her. He hooked his hands under her knees and spread her for him. He fanned her core before he dove in for a taste... finally. She was awake and that meant now he could give them what they both needed.

Zero's eyes darkened with arousal and so did Severin's. He plunged his tongue into her core and licked up her arousal, the sweet taste of her poured into his mouth and he swore he could do this all day. Severin spread the soft folds of her core and as his fingers thrusted into her, his tongue relentlessly licked over the throbbing nub, which drove Zero wild with pleasure.

She threw her head back against the pillows and bit her bottom lip holding her moans back. Severin grew angst to hear her, so he pushed up her night gown and found her hardened peaks of her plump breasts. He knew she liked it a little rough, so he squeezed hard and she gasped in surprise.

He could feel the tension coil inside her getting ready to release, so he pushed her further. He quickened his pace and caressed her breasts and his mouth skillfully brought her to experience an exhilarating release.

"Severin..." she moaned his name and it shot right through him to his hard shaft. Her hands combed through his hair, fisting and bringing him closer to her core. He loved that.

Severin knew she was close, so he put his arm over her writhing hips holding her down and under his control.

Zero's hand tightened on his hair and that pain felt so hot to him. "Come in my mouth, Zero," he teased. "Let me taste you." He licked up her core again and again when she cried out and came just like he said.

Zero fell back on the bed, her breath ragged and her legs fell weak. Severin kissed up her stomach and watched her regain her senses.

"We're not done yet, baby," he said.

Zero's eyes looked from his eyes to his lips, that were still glossed with her arousal. A feral hunger flashed through her eyes, he saw it right away.

"Come here," her voice was husky and sexy as hell.

Severin came to her without hesitation. She wrapped her arms around his neck before she stole the very breath from his lungs. She pulled him onto her body, like she didn't like that there was even an inch of space between them. He laid over her and their bodies fit to each other.

Zero collared his throat holding him to her so she could deepen her tongue into his mouth. He moaned into her and she bit his lower lip with greed written on her mouth and eyes. Severin's shaft hardened to the point that it hurt, and he couldn't hold back any longer.

"Put it in me," Zero growled against his lips. "I want to feel you."

That had done it. Severin didn't take it slow. He thrusted into her wet and hot core, that fisted his shaft. He couldn't breathe when he felt himself being swallowed by her, but he ignored that because who needed to breath when bring in your mate's arms felt this incredible.

Severin pulled out and then just as fast he plunged into her, he found an erotic rhythm for both of them to feel irresistible pleasure. Zero wrapped her legs around his hips and forced him to go faster and deeper, he was happy to oblige since his own release was seconds away.

"Come inside me," Zero said with a low whisper.

Severin's entire body buckled from the command in her voice. He emptied inside her and she orgasmed all over his shaft before he pulled out.

He found her lips before anything else. He kissed her hard, biting and licking so he would never forget how beautiful his mate was when she was thoroughly ravished by him.

Severin pulled back, he felt completely rejuvenated. "Good morning," he said with a beaming smile.

Zero smirked as she saw him smiling so happily. "Waking up next to you makes it feel like that," she told him.

Severin's heart skipped a beat. He laid beside her, pulling her into his arms. "How are we going to leave this bed?" he asked. "I don't want to share you with anyone." Zero laughed, the sound fluttered through him and he could listen to that sound every day.

"I don't know if that's possible," she said. "But I am willing to share the shower with you."

Severin gaped at her, but then as his mind geared towards an entire plan on how to make that hot, wet shower the best they ever had. He jumped out of bed and took her with him. He never moved faster than that before.

After their hot shower together, Zero got out first and left to get dressed. Severin took that time then to clean himself off and shave too. The hot water felt divine this morning on his sore muscles and limbs. He leaned his head under the cascading water, his hands planted on the wall and he let all the soap suds slide down his body to the drain near his feet.

After a while, he turned the shower off and stepped out on the rug letting his wet feet soak on it. He grabbed the towel and wrapped it around his waist before he stepped in front of the foggy mirror. He wiped his hand over it, seeing his reflection that was practically glowing now. Was it so wrong of him to be hopelessly in love? he wondered. No, it was not.

Severin dried his wet hair and got ready for the day by wearing his favourite white shirt and trousers. He then made his way down to the kitchen where he knew Zero was because she never skipped breakfast. He saw her hard at work cooking in the kitchen. She had cooked up quite the spread for breakfast.

"Hungry, are we?" he mocked.

Zero looked up not amused. "It's not for me," she said.

Severin chuckled. "You sure?" Zero rolled her eyes and went back to cooking scrambled eggs on the stove. He neared her, hugging her from behind and he kissed his mark on her neck. She leaned into him too, feeling his warmth just like he was.

"You want to tell me what you said yesterday," he whispered.

"I said a lot of things yesterday," she replied.

"The one that turned me on the most," he teased.

Zero stiffened and then hummed. "When I said I should put a muzzle on you," she said.

Severin felt his lips lift into a grin. "I love it when you talk dirty. But honey, we both know what I want to hear."

"Well, it's not gonna be that easy, Mr. Salvatore," she said sternly.

He tightened his hold on her when he heard her say that. "That's too bad, Mrs. Salvatore," he retorted.

She cocked a brow at that. "I don't remember agreeing to that," she said.

"What do you mean?" he astounded. "I already picked our wedding theme."

Zero frowned. "I am not wearing a white dress," she chided.

"Off-white then. I'm thinking princess gown with lots of sparkle," he reasoned with her.

"Keep going and see what happens," she threatened. Severin laughed as he kissed the frown off her lips. She pulled back and said; "Besides, I think white looks a lot better on you."

Severin was surprised by the sudden compliment. He saw her looking at his body right away. "You think so," his voice made it clear that he was charmed.

"Yeah," she answered truthfully. "Now, go set the table."

She managed sausages on the side too with a hearty stew. She pulled out two trays out of the warm oven, hot garlic bread steamed freshly off the tray onto the plate. Severin went to fridge and pulled out the freshly squeezed orange juice this woman always had.

"Where is everyone?" he asked.

"They're helping the kids freshen up," said Zero.

"Speaking of the kids, where will you send them?" asked Severin sternly.

"To a pack," responded Zero.

Before Severin could question more, Elijah and Tom came downstairs with kids. Zero's stern expression calmed and she smiled as she went up to them. Severin's heart thumped. She was such a sweetheart around kids. Darren and Tyler appeared too, they looked a little calmer but Tyler was fairly pale still. Robin had already gone home, so he wasn't here to join them.

"Come on," she ushered them to the full and ready dining table.

"Thank you for the food," they all said to Zero.

She sat at the head of the table. "Yes, thank you for the food," she mumbled and ate with all of them together.

After breakfast, everyone cleaned up the kitchen. Severin was putting away the leftovers in the fridge when he heard Zero's voice. The calm, sweet tone she had earlier had been replaced with an austere tone as she spoke over the phone with someone.

"Thank you for understanding," she said. "I will bring them today." She cut the phone and turned to meet him.

"Where are you going?" he asked her.

As she put her phone in her pocket, she answered; "The Centauri pack."

Severin's interest piqued. "Are we all going?" he inquired.

"Only if you want to," she said as she went around and told the rest of the group the plan for the day.

Severin went upstairs to grab his coat and phone to join Zero today to meet the infamous Centauri pack. The pack that was the talk on everyone's lips around the world, since it was the most powerful and oldest pack to ever exist with harmony and unbelievable loyalty to the alpha. Gabriel Centauri was the alpha who never needed a reason to do what he wanted. No one doubted him and no one ever stood in his way.

Darren and Tyler stood with the kids and they were all waiting for Zero to join them. She had gone upstairs to change her clothes.

"This should be fun," he said to Elijah and Tom who were waiting by the door as he joined them.

"I'm excited too," added Tom.

Everyone was waiting by the door when Zero arrived with a crisp black shirt, the collar up and the buttons open at the front revealing the deep plunge of her cleavage. The shirt was tucked into black tailored trousers that fit seamlessly to her long legs and she wore thick boots on her feet. She had draped a long blue coat over her shoulders, that matched the one Severin had on right now. A smile tugged on his lips when he noticed that they matched right now.

"Let's go," she commanded as she passed them and opened the front door. Where there were parked two large black vans.

"Elijah, you take half in that van," said Zero and Elijah followed the order.

"Darren, you'll be in the other van with the rest of the kids and with Tyler. I will follow in my own car," she continued. Everyone went to their designated seats and the cars got ready to leave.

Zero, Severin and Tom got in the SUV and Zero drove in front of the black vans taking everyone to the Centauri pack territory, which took them quite a while with the morning traffic blocking their every path. However, Zero knew the routes and the shortcuts to every road and corner.

They arrived at the destination and at the end of a long forest road was a large metal fence with a securely guarded gate.

"Are we here?" asked Tom from the back seat peering out the window at the tall gates.

Severin looked around the empty forest that surrounded the property here. The tall pines trees were dense and tall, like they reached the sky with their height. The black vans were behind them and a few more had joined that picked up the rest of the survivors from the hotel. Zero drove closer to the gate and she rolled the window down when the gates automatically opened. Severin spotted the few cameras that were plainly visible, but he was sure that there were hidden ones too, there had to be for this place.

Zero pressed on the gas and they went down another long path before arriving at the large compound, that housed one of the biggest packs known to exist in the shifter world.

Zero stopped the car in front of a Victorian manor, which was a cozier choice rather than a modern mansion that Severin expected to see for the Centauri family. There were beautiful white roses surrounding the house and there was a man was catering to them with a gentle smile on his face.

Severin got out of the car and so did everyone else. The entire territory was surrounded by forestry and he could see the glimmer of a lake just beyond the single cabins ahead of them. He expected to see a strict pack with security guards everywhere and barbed wire fences, but instead this place appeared to resemble a cozy neighbourhood where everyone knew each other and spent their evenings together. There was another building in front of the house, that looked to be a school of some sorts. Kids of all ages were walking in and out of the building with bags on their back and them chatting away with friends.

"Zero," a voice deep and firm called out.

"Gabriel," Zero responded.

But Severin already knew the man walking towards them was Gabriel Centauri, it was hard to forget his face and his reputation. Gabriel Centauri was a ferocious alpha who was lethal in a fight and in the corporate world. The man was all muscle and sharp lines, his face was handsome and he had the most golden eyes Severin had ever seen. His eyes made Severin uneasy, like they could see through everything and everyone. He got the full effect of their alertness when Gabriel looked directly towards Severin and raised a brow.

"Gabriel, this is Severin-"

"Salvatore-" Gabriel said for her. "You look exactly like your father."

Severin offered his hand and Gabriel took it. "It's nice to meet you personally this time," he said.

"It is but I never thought I would meet you with Zero," said Gabriel as he looked at her now with a knowing grin. "Although, I don't think I need to ask why you two are together."

Zero cleared her throat. "This is his brother, Tom," said Zero, bluntly ignoring Gabriel's chuckle. "And Elijah is the one I told you about and that's Darren and Tyler. They will also stay with you here at the pack along with the kids and the other survivors."

Gabriel faced the entire group. "Welcome to the Centauri pack," he greeted them. "My brother has arranged cabins for you all to stay."

"Zero, you're here," another voice came from the back, it was Klaus. He walked up to all of them, his kind eyes landed on all the kids first. "We should get them all settled in," he suggested to Gabriel softly.

"I'll leave that to you," said Gabriel before he crossed his arms.

"Gabriel, I need to speak to you," said Zero. They both walked off onto the large porch in front of the house. Severin wondered what that was all about.

"It's good to see you again," Klaus came up to Severin.

Severin smiled back at him. "It's good to see you too," he said. "Where's King? It's odd not to see you two together."

"He's still asleep," said Klaus.

"Your pack territory is beautiful," praised Tom. "Is that a school?"

Klaus's eyes lit up like Christmas. "Yup, it's our Centauri Institute," he held up an arm and showcased it proudly. "I can give you a tour, if you want?"

Tom looked from Elijah to Severin. "I'd love one," he said.

Klaus went over to Darren and Tyler; his smile had saddened but remained kind. "I'm sorry about your home," he said. "But Zero told me about the work you did at her sanctuary. So, I wanted to offer you both and the others work at the Institute." Darren and Tyler exchanged a shocked expression. They really didn't expect anything like that to happen to them. "But if you don't want to, that's fine too," said Klaus. "I just got really excited, so think about the offer and-"

"Oh, we don't need to think about it," said Darren. "We'd love to help out at the school while we're here."

Klaus beamed. "That's amazing, thank you," he clapped his hands. "Alright, let's start the tour and then I will take you to your new homes."

Everyone followed Klaus to the school, so did Tom but Elijah stayed back with Severin as they watched Zero with Gabriel and another man who walked out of the house with a baby boy in his arms. That man looked scary as hell, a grim look on his fierce face and his brows furrowed. His dark hair and amber eyes matched Gabriel, they were almost identical but this man was a lot more rugged in his style. The baby cradled in his strong arm had dark hair and blue eyes, he resembled the Centauri men and will undoubtedly grow up to be just like them.

"Who is that?" Elijah asked softly.

"I think that's Gabriel's brother," said Severin. "If I'm not mistaken then I know that Gabriel has three brothers and a sister."

"We know Klaus already," said Elijah as he assessed with alert eyes. "Who are the other two?"

"I don't know yet either," he muttered.

Severin moved on an inch when the back of his coat caught on something. He looked back and saw Ender holding onto his coat. "You didn't go with the others?" Severin asked. He squatted down and met the boy's eyes.

Ender had been quiet since what happened yesterday. His eyes still puffy and red, his hair tousled by the breeze. "I'm fine right here," he muttered.

Severin smoothed this kid's hair. "Okay," he smiled and held his hand out to the boy, which Ender gladly took and glued himself to Severin's leg. "Shall we go see what our Zero is up to?" he asked.

Elijah, Ender followed Severin as they joined Zero on the porch with Gabriel.

"It's no problem," reassured Gabriel.

Zero turned and looked at Severin then Elijah. "Elijah, Severin, Ender, this is Hunter," she told them. "He's the beta of the Centauri pack."

Hunter, the one that held the baby turned to them. "King and Klaus told us about you," he said, his voice sounded a lot nicer than his looks. "It's cool to meet you all."

"Nice to meet you too," Severin smiled and then looked at the baby who was watching them now.

Hunter smiled too. "This is my son, Gideon," he said.

Gideon lifted his head off his father's shoulder and stared at the new faces, he didn't seem unnerved and looked rather cool. He even reached his small hand out to them. Only Severin reached back out to indulge the pup, since Elijah looked shy and Ender was petrified to be near anyone right now.

"I'll bring the rest of the family," said Gabriel.

"No-" interrupted Zero. "We should be heading back."

Gabriel gaped at her. "Without meeting everyone, they'll be gutted," he said. "And at least stay for dinner?"

"No, but thanks," said Zero.

"Klaus will kill me if you don't stay for the barbecue," said Gabriel. "He's real sensitive about these things."

That stopped Zero in her tracks. "Fine," she gave in.

"Good," beamed Gabriel. "Come inside, I'll get some coffee." Hunter and Gabriel went inside the house in a hurry to get everyone when that gave their group a moment alone.

"Why'd you bring everyone here, Zero?" Elijah asked.

Zero crossed her arms and straightened her posture. "I brought everyone to a place Reaper can't touch," she said.

"How do you know?" asked Elijah and Severin was curious too.

"Because I'm alone," she said. "But if anyone attacks Gabriel Centauri, all hell will break loose. A whole army stands up by his side."

"And you made that possible," a voice said behind them, it was Gabriel who was holding his nephew. "I followed your lead, that's why I was able to guide this pack.

"You could have chosen a very different path," said Zero. "Doesn't matter what I did. You made the choice."

Gabriel smirked. "I always thought being a Centauri was a huge burden to bear, it drove me to do dark things to keep it that way. But then you came along and told me in that stern voice of yours that crowns are not heavy. It is people who hold deception in their heart thinking it's philosophy, that wear a crown and poison themselves. That's what I was doing, I was poisoning myself."

"Good to know that you were listening at the time," jested Zero.

Gabriel laughed. "Only for you."

"Zero!" A voice exclaimed from inside the house on the stairs. A woman came running down with beautiful brown hair and joyful green eyes with a dimple near her smile. Severin knew right away who that was, since this woman's face was legendary and on every magazine cover. Sabrina Sinclair who was now a Centauri arrived with open arms.

Sabrina ran straight to Zero and hugged her tightly. "We missed you," she said.

Zero smiled and hugged her back. "I missed you too," she admitted.

Sabrina pulled back and her smile grew even wider. "We heard you mated!" She clapped her hands together and looked at the others now, her bright eyes catching Severin. "Oh, you must be him," she said chirpily and went to hug him. "It's so good to meet you. I'm Sabrina."

Severin definitely didn't think the alpha-female of the infamous pack would be so relaxed. "I'm Severin," he told her. "This is Elijah and Ender. My brother Tom's here too-" he looked back but then remembered that Tom went with Klaus.

"Hi, Elijah," she said to him and Elijah only lifted his lips a little to peek a smile. Sabrina bent down to meet Ender's eyes. "Hi, sweetie," she smiled and then turned her voice to a whisper. "We have chocolate in the kitchen that I hide from everyone. Would you like some? It'll be our little secret."

Ender looked up at Zero with his eyes confused like he didn't know why Sabrina spoke to him out of all people. He shrank back and held onto Severin a little tighter.

Sabrina sensed the panic around the boy and looked at her mate who also had a bad feeling. Severin knew that the two didn't know Ender's story, but right now they were probably guessing the worst.

"It's okay, you can go," said Zero.

Ender then let go of the coat and moved towards Sabrina. "I'll bring drinks too," Sabrina said to her mate. "Get everyone seated, honey."

Severin watched as Ender disappeared with Sabrina into the cozy kitchen, that was well kept and clean but looked thoroughly used and cooked in. The Centauri's must love to cook, he thought to himself before they were taken to the large living-room, that had a full couch circling the room and it was facing a warm hearth.

Severin took a seat with Elijah. Hunter returned and picked up his boy from Gabriel before he sat with Gideon on his lap, but Zero stayed on her feet and stood beside Severin. She crossed her arms and faced Gabriel who had taken a seat across them. He looked a bit worried, and Severin could only guess it was because of Zero and Reaper. Gabriel probably had a lot of questions and looked ready to ask them, but that was when a pair of wolves entered the house.

The air was sucked out of the room from the command that surrounded the two men that walked into the house. They spotted Sabrina in the kitchen first but only one of them smiled, but the other held a rigid frown. Severin distinguished the identical blue eyes and the familiar jawlines with the straight noses and lush lips. Both of them had incredible physiques and that stood out even more in their shirts, which clung to their broad shoulders and arms. The twins walked into the room and they even moved in unison towards Gabriel. They took their position right beside the alpha and faced them now.

"It's good to see you, Zero," said one of the twins who had lighter brown highlights in his dark hair.

Zero smiled at him. "I wish it was only under better circumstances," she said.

"Well, nothing brings people together better than psychotic maniacs, right?" jested Gabriel.

The twin laughed. "Always a good time," he added.

The other twin who was glowering rolled his eyes. "You two need to rethink what a good time is," he finally spoke and even his tone was frightening.

"This is River and Ryder," said Gabriel to Severin and Elijah.

"And you must be the chosen one," teased Ryder as he grinned at Severin.

Severin titled his head and he looked up at Zero who held no amusement on her face. He was about to ask Ryder what he meant, but that was when King had come arrived into the room. He looked like he was still half-asleep before he leaned his arm on the wall and saw them.

"What a lovely morning," his tone dripping with sarcasm. "Is there ever a day without chaos?"

"Nope," answered River. "That's the charm of living here."

King raked a harsh hand through his dark hair and his bare arm revealed all his tattoos, which seemed common around here.

"Stop complaining," said Sabrina as she walked into the room bringing a warmth with her. There was a tray of drinks in her hand and Ender rejoined Severin on the couch with chocolate in his hand.

Ryder moved and helped Sabrina right away. Everyone grabbed a cup of coffee and thanked her for it. While they were enjoying their coffee, Zero was the first to put the glass down before she sat down and looked at Gabriel.

"I can feel you staring a hole in my head," she said. "Spit out whatever you're holding back."

The room went quiet, even King stuck to sipping his morning coffee. Sabrina, River, Ryder and Hunter all shared a worried look with their alpha. However, Gabriel looked rather amused. Severin swore he caught a grin over the rim of Gabriel's cup.

"I saw the news of that day at the warehouse," he began. "What you had done-"

The moment he mentioned that day, which felt like a distant memory now to Severin came rushing back in a painful torrent. He instantly sensed the air thicken around Zero, her mood darkened and it was obvious from her icy scent alone that she was pissed. Severin was divided between helping her or helping Ender who had turned pale and cold to the touch.

"What of it?" asked Zero, her voice irate.

Gabriel's golden eyes sensed that the tone of her voice like it was cautioning him to choose his next words wisely. "Zero, I'm not one to judge you. Trust me, I've done worse," said Gabriel. "But do you really think pissing off Reaper is the best option?"

"I agree with Gabriel," added Hunter. "Reaper already did some nasty shit to get to you. Pissing him off more would make matters worse."

"Wow, I never thought you two would act reasonable," River was the first to say anything. He was staring at Gabriel and Hunter with an astounded expression.

"I think what Zero did was fantastic," alleged King. "If I was there, I would've gladly painted the walls with their blood."

"Of course, you would," snickered Ryder.

King shrugged a shoulder. "They got what they deserved," he said and they all agreed to that.

However, Severin was curious as to what his mate would say to Gabriel. Would she agree or would she give him a smart answer? he wondered as he drank his coffee and held Ender's small hand in his own.

Zero was staring at her interlaced hands and she appeared rather lost in her thoughts. Severin could sense that she had probably thought of this more than anyone. The actions she took at the warehouse after the fire was not unexpected. Nothing was when Zero was involved, that much Severin knew.

"Do you think my plan worked, Gabriel?" Zero spoke finally. They didn't understand what she meant by that, but Gabriel's glass froze before his lips, it was clear he understood her.

Gabriel's clever eyes met hers. "I'd bet on it with my life," he told her. "Reaper is gonna come running just like you wanted."

"Hold on," intervened Ryder. "What the hell are you two talking about?"

"You've got to be kidding me," sighed River who looked unimpressed.

Although, King and Hunter shared an amused grin. Unlike Elijah and Severin who were a bit lost and looked at Zero to explain.

"He's coming," said Zero confidently. "And when I see that sonofabitch, he's done."

"So, you put that whole show on national tv just to lure Reaper?" asked Ryder.

Zero shrugged a shoulder. "I'm pretty sure by now that he's pissed and is gonna come running to fix his mistakes," she told them.

Gabriel and his pack members all had a different expression, like they all had a different reaction after hearing Zero's plan. Severin hid his smile behind his cup because he knew that this wasn't new. Zero planned every move of hers even if it didn't feel like it. That's what was so impressive about her.

"Still, that was very reckless, Zero," said Gabriel. "You need to be more careful-"

"Look who's talking-" interrupted River making them laugh.

"The most reckless person here is telling me to be careful," chided Zero.

Gabriel looked around their faces. "I'm not that bad," he said.

"Remember when you fought Lucas Waldorf," reminded Hunter. "Almost gave me a heart attack with the shit you pulled."

"That still gives me nightmares," added the twins at the same time.

"Why?" Asked King who was intrigued like the rest of them. "What'd he do?"

"We were on a stakeout when our noble alpha here decides it's a great idea to walk into the den of our greatest enemy," Ryder told them.

"It all worked out, didn't it?" said Gabriel.

"I can't believe you did that," said Sabrina and King looking at Gabriel with wide eyes. Severin couldn't believe it either.

"You have no room to talk," Gabriel said to King. "You remember what you did when you went to Marcello alone?"

"Hey, I didn't say anything," said King holding his hands up.

The argument grew when River brought up more stories and the entire time Severin wondered how the hell this pack survived so long. The stories just got crazier and even more reckless and they all talked about another wolf named Azura who was the most skilled fighter here. Severin definitely wanted to meet her after they told him that she walked into a fight to protect Gabriel and turned the odds.

"Hurry up, Vince!" A feminine voice blared outside the door. Loud footsteps got closer and the door burst open with a flood of new pack members. A woman with long blonde hair and a man who matched her beauty. There was a red-haired woman who sought out Hunter and Gideon before anyone else.

Right away Severin recognized the Centauri siblings because they looked so alike with Klaus. A woman stood in a white dress with her blonde hair falling around her shoulders. She had a smile and beautiful green eyes, that glowed like the blush on her cheeks.

"You don't visit us enough, Zero," she said as she crossed the space. Zero got to her feet and accepted the warm hug.

"You didn't have to rush over, Viola," said Zero.

"Are you kidding," she laughed sweetly, filling the room with that sound. "Right when I heard that you came here with your mate, I dropped everything and ran over." Viola pulled back and faced Severin now, her green eyes appeared gold under the light. "Wow, you're pretty," said Viola.

"I should be saying that," remarked Severin.

Viola beamed. "It's nice to meet you," she said to them. "I'm Viola and this is Vincent-" she pointed beside her to the striking man who was standing tall dressed in a soft cashmere sweater and tailored slacks, that had to be custom-made. While Gabriel and Hunter looked threatening, Vincent Centauri appeared diplomatic in his demeanour.

"Hey," he said to Severin, "love the jacket."

Severin knew this man spoke vogue. "Thanks, and it's nice to meet you both," he said.

"Oh, and this is our lovely sister-in-law. She's married to Hunter," Viola introduced the bubbly red-haired woman who was in plaid dress.

"Hi, I'm Hailey," she waved at them as she stood with her baby in her arms now.

"Where's my mate?" King asked as he searched the group. "And where's Bone?"

"Your mate is giving a tour of the school to our guests and Bone is where he always is," answered Vincent.

King pushed past everyone and went outside, which seemed like the only place big enough to hold this massive group. Severin was crowded in the room and the voices were loud enough to shake the walls. They all went back outside to the benches on the lawn. Everyone gathered at the table under the mid-day sun to enjoy the company of new friends.

Klaus had come back with the rest of the group and King was with them. Severin had the pleasure of meeting a man named Bone who was tending the roses around the house. He had a kind manner to everyone he spoke with and it was honestly so sweet. He looked undeniably happy when Severin complimented the roses and it looked like that one compliment won Bone over easily. Azura had arrived too and she was more than what the pack members talked about. She held herself with a dignified manner, that reminded him of a panther; and her silver eyes with straight black hair were striking.

More pack members arrived and tons of students from the school came to join them on the field. The most boisterous ones were Leo, Dante, Jake, Levi and John who were beside King the entire time. They were well-mannered and Severin guessed it was Klaus's good influence that made them that way. So, it wasn't surprising to see that Klaus had won over the orphans in just a few minutes. All of them were following Klaus like little ducklings and Hailey was quick to make them all feel comfortable.

Elijah and Tom were getting along with everyone, especially Ryder and Vincent who were more than happy to entertain them. Darren and Tyler were doing better after seeing the school, maybe because it reminded them of the sanctuary. However, the only one that sat alone on the bench was Ender. He didn't play nor did he eat. Everyone was well aware that he wasn't doing okay. Severin wished the boy wouldn't push himself so hard, but that was easier said than done.

The sun was starting to set right behind the trees of the forest and Klaus had already planned the barbecue for tonight. The five students had already gotten together to help Klaus with that, so did Bone and King was already sitting on the table beside Klaus.

It got dark pretty fast, but the field had lit up with strings of golden lights over them. Everyone was enjoying the barbecue and Severin was glad that all the survivors from the sanctuary were eating and talking to the pack members.

The food was exceptional and it seemed that wasn't a surprise for everyone because Klaus is the legendary cook amongst the pack. Severin enjoyed himself and he was finding himself immersed in every story that the pack shared with him. They told him of their missions and stuff the world didn't know about them. Even for Severin, he was so used to seeing them on the cover of magazines or the newspaper looking dangerous and perfect. However, that wasn't the case at all. All of them loved each other and shared a bond that was worth commending.

Severin was eating with Zero when he spotted Hailey trying to convince Ender to eat even just a little bit. But the boy didn't budge. They all tried too, but it didn't work. Ender got off the bench and went to sit somewhere else alone.

Severin moved to stand up and go to him, when his hand was caught; it was Zero. "Leave him," she said as she drank her soda.

"He needs help, Zero," he told her.

"And help's going," she remarked.

Severin followed Zero's eyes and that was when he saw Klaus leaving the grill with a full plate of food in his hands walking towards Ender. He watched closely, everyone was. Klaus sat in front of Ender, his kind emerald eyes mirroring the pain in Ender's heart. He spoke for a few moments, but none of them heard what he said, it was only a few moments later when they saw Ender drop his head in his hands and his small body started to shake. Klaus hugged the boy onto his lap and stroked his black hair whispering words into his ear before he kissed his head. After that, Klaus grabbed the plate of food and fed everything to Ender.

"He'll be fine," said Zero. Severin heard her and so did everyone else.

Klaus picked up Ender in his arms and took him to the grill where King was seated. The three of them looked complete together as they ate from the same plate.

Dinner ended and Zero got up first. "It's getting late," she said. "We should head home now." Severin, Tom and Elijah followed her.

All the pack members said their 'goodbyes' to them, but it was Gabriel and Klaus who walked out with them to their van. Darren, Tyler and the kids followed too. Severin walked beside Zero who didn't turn around nor did she say anything to them, even though it looked like they all sought out to her to say something. But maybe that would just make leaving them harder for Zero.

Suddenly, Zero froze in her tracks and Severin was confused before he looked behind her.

"You're leaving?" All twelve kids were behind her, holding the end of her coat.

She turned then and met their eyes. "Yes," she told them.

"Won't you live here too with us?" They asked with trembling voices.

She shook her head. "This is your home now," she told them. "You'll be safe with alpha Gabriel."

The kids looked at each other blankly before their big eyes filled with tears. "Don't leave," they sobbed.

Zero got down to the floor and the kids hugged her. She held onto them giving them the strength they seeked from her. Severin could sense how much people looked at Zero for hope, strength and the will to live a happy life. She held the kids close to her.

She wiped their tears. "Klaus and Gabriel will take care of you," she said. "Now, you all be good and don't give any trouble. Okay?"

They sniffed their little noses and gave in. "Yes, Zero," they all replied.

Severin saw Zero turn towards Elijah who looked at her confused. "I talked to Gabriel and he's happy to have you as well. I know I hired you to join my crusade, but that's not fair to you. You deserve a good life after what you've been through."

"Join this pack," he said. "Me?"

Zero nodded once. "You can build a life here, be free," she said.

"I am free," he affirmed, "with you."

"You don't need to bother yourself with me," said Zero.

Elijah looked at her like the kids had, with only love. "I don't want to be anywhere else except by your side."

"Are you sure?" she asked. "This is your chance for a new life."

"I got one the moment I met you," said Elijah.

Zero smiled. "I won't ask again," she jested. Elijah chuckled and got in the car without fighting over this again. "Doesn't know what he's sighing up for," she muttered

Severin put his arm around her waist. "He signed up to follow an honourable leader whose selflessness is endless," he kissed her cheek before he waved at Gabriel and Klaus. "Thank you for dinner, it was delicious."

They looked stunned, but then laughed. "Have a great night," said Klaus. "Bye!"

Elijah drove them home with Tom beside him. Zero was in the back with Severin and it was a nice night to be out on a drive. The streets were empty since it was late at night and they were full with good food.

"The Centauri pack was nothing like I expected," said Tom.

"I agree, Tom," said Severin from the back.

"They've grown a lot over the years," Zero told them.

"Gabriel is nicer than he looks," said Elijah.

"You fell for his charm too," added Severin.

They stopped at a red light on an empty street when Zero chuckled at them. "Don't be fooled," she warned them. "He's a scary bastard who's ruthless in a fight."

"Well, he fooled me," said Tom.

Elijah stepped on the gas when the light turned green and he drove through the intersection. Severin agreed with his brother, when suddenly, a bright light blinded him...

The entire world went quiet and all Severin thought about was that this was the end. His family that sat in the car with them were too good to be true. He had found happiness and it was all a dream.

The white flash made his eyes water, a loud horn was deafening to the point that he was sure his ears were bleeding. On his side of the van, it was clear that a large truck ran the red light and was coming straight for them. The impact was fast and hard toppling them off the road. All Severin knew before everything went black was that their car had flipped over on the side of the road.