Chapter 43 Preparations
Sunday, March 24th. Meeting room, 10:25 a.m.
The tension in that crowded room was so dense that it could be cut with a knife. The existence of someone behind the whole embarkation business was nothing new, but nobody expected Dimitri Zhukovski to be the conductor of the orchestra. Everyone there had unfinished business with that Alpha and had been affected, some more directly than others, in the obvious enmity with the organization.
-Well, I won't deny that this caught me off guard - Nikon adds, breaking the heavy silence that had formed -. And not to point out the obvious, but if we want to target their weakness, we have to be very careful, Alex.
-Of course, but that doesn't mean we won't attack them aggressively - on the contrary, he was going to decapitate them and adorn his office with their disgusting dissected skulls -. Dimitri is still careful, but if we make our moves properly, we will be able to take him by surprise.
-At least he got us out of trouble - Lev snorts -. If he did get rid of the old decrepit Kirchner.
-That douchebag was the least of my worries, Lev - Alexei says seriously -. Not everyone is blessed with wisdom in old age, I knew that sooner or later he would make a mistake that would be the final nail in his coffin.
-The point now is... - Yaakov intervenes, resting both elbows on the desk with hands interlocked -. What shall we do with Rocco?
-By all means, Alex - Nikon begs -. Leave it to me, I'll be more than happy to get rid of him.
-As much as I'd like to get him out of the way, I think it's best to leave him in the hands of Franchesco - Alexei considers, by crossing one leg over the other -. After all, that motherfucker was his right-hand man and I gave my word that he could take care of Rocco once he was no longer useful to us.
-Well, fuck. There goes my fun - Nikon says, with a resigned sigh.
-What do you plan to do with Dimitri? - Alexei was surprised by the question, not because of its meaning, but because it came from Fredek. He rarely participated in the meetings unless it was strictly necessary or a direct question was asked.
-We're gathered for that, Fred - by watching him carefully, keeping the voice firm but not threatening -. We need to come up with a plan.
-Why don't you just go and attack him? - Alexei realized he was a little upset, but he didn't let it disturb him -. You know the location of his headquarters and now you have the excuse and the evidence to justify it. Why not just go and take care of the problem?
-Because it wouldn't do me any good to go, kill a handful of his men at the risk of my own, and have the possibility of him being left alive and escaping - Fredek seemed to dislike the idea, noticing how he frowned and glanced at his hands. He always did that when he was upset -. We're going to do this right, carefully planning every detail. But making sure that the result is him in a bloody hole in the cemetery.
-And besides, what does Xander have to do with any of this? - Yaakov questions, turning over to watch the Omega who was still pale with fear -. Do you know Dimitri? - They all looked at Xander, they thought it was strange to hear his name in Dimitri's mouth and were curious to know why.
-Something like that - Xander managed to say, his chest was compressed and he had a knot in his throat, making it difficult for him to pronounce the words.
-Where from, baby? - Lev requested, being as kind as usual.
-He was at the boarding school I was at years ago.
-What? - Lev shrieks in amazement, leaning over the seat -. Dimitri Zhukovski in a boarding school?
-Holy shit. Even his old man couldn't stand him - Nikon mocks, laughing loudly.
-And why did he say that you belonged to him? - Alexei felt like pulling out Yaakov's tongue and giving it to the dogs. He loved his cousin very much, but sometimes he was indiscreet and couldn't interpret when he should keep his mouth shut.
-That's not why we're holding this meeting - the Alpha was quick to say, before the situation became even more complicated for Xander -. So we'd better get to work on a plan of action.
Everyone turns and focuses their attention back on Alexei. Xander could not help but feel relieved that he no longer had all those eyes on him, he just prayed that he would not be forced again to explain what had happened in the past.
He told Alexei about it in a moment of vulnerability and it was not easy, he had felt exposed and helpless. He had not even confessed that to Derek, although mainly for fear that the Alpha would want to claim revenge in a rash act. He never imagined that Alexei and all those present knew Dimitri, much less that they were mortal enemies.
-First of all, we have to keep an eye on him - Nikon suggests -. I understand he attends many public events, like auctions and all that shit, bragging about how much money he has - making hand gestures when speaking.
-All right - Yaakov nods in agreement -. But it won't be wise to attack him at one of these events. Too public for my taste.
-How many bases does he have in Russia? - Lev consults.
-Three, as far as I know - Alexei answers -. Saratov, Volgograd, and here in Moscow.
-Four - Adrik corrects, speaking for the first time since the meeting began. He was still angry with Alexei for using his commanding voice on him -. He also has one in Pskov.
-Well, damn it - Yaakov snorts with sarcasm -. He's wasted no time in leaving breeding.
-We will place surveillance on each of them - Alexei commands -. We will infiltrate some men as well.
-How about you, Xander? - Nikon asks him, the Omega raises his eyes and looks at him puzzled.
-Me? - pointing at himself, unable to understand.
-Yes, you - laughing at his reaction -. Do you think you can get into his system like you did with us?
-It's possible - Xander agrees, sighing with relief, understanding coming to his expression once Nikon has cleared up. For a moment he thought that they would send him to infiltrate personally, which he absolutely would not do -. I have to check, I haven't tried yet. Like you, I recently learned of his involvement. As soon as we're done here, I'll give it a shot.
-I'm sure you'll manage to do something. You're a fucking nerd, Xander - the Omega couldn't help but blush at the compliment.
-Well - Alexei announces -. Adrik, you will train four of our men to be the ones to infiltrate Dimitri's headquarters - the appointee still refused to look directly at him, but nodded as Alexei gave him instructions -. Tell them only what is necessary, but make sure they get as much information as they can. Amount of cameras, men, and even vehicles. What time he leaves, when he arrives and with whom. Shit, I want to know even the color of his fucking toothbrush. Got it?
-Yes, your majesty - Adrik says ironically, Alexei makes an effort to ignore him and keeps talking. Later he would arrange things with him.
-Nikon, before that you will go to each of the bases first and bring me as much data as possible. Anything can help us, but make sure you're not seen. Dimitri knows perfectly well that you work for me - the Alpha points at him and looks him straight in the eye -. I want you here in two days, three maximum. And you will report anything that happens.
-All right, chief - Nikon gives him the sign of peace, gets out of the chair, and whistles away animatedly.
-Fred, go to Reiji and tell him to make sure the men Adrik selects can't be linked to us - his brother agrees.
-Yaak, I need you to bring Derek here - he can feel the worried look Xander gives him.
-Why? - His cousin claims, confused.
-Just bring him in, Yaak. I want to talk to him - his cousin grimaces, obviously doesn't like the answer, but doesn't say anything in protest -. Xander, stay. I need to talk to you. The rest of you can go - in complete silence, all except the little Omega and Cooky leave the room to perform their assigned tasks. Their glances connect, and Alexei smiles at him -. Come here, kitty - patting his strong thighs, amused by the way Xander practically jumps out of the chair and rushes towards him, sitting astride his lap -. How are you? - asks in a soft, low tone, with the right hand caressing his cheek.
-Kinda nervous, I'm not going to lie - gaze directed at his little hands that were clenched in fists on the Alpha's shirt.
-And I don't expect you to. I know this is a delicate situation for you, but I'll make sure nothing bad happens to you. Look at me, Xander - putting a finger under his chin and raising his face, making their eyes connect -. You belong with me. You're mine and I'm yours. Do you understand? - Xander nods in response, his eyes suspiciously moist -. Say it, kitty - with a thumb stroking his lower lip -. I want to hear you say it.
-You are mine and I am yours - his trembling voice, feeling a warmth expanding in his chest, still couldn't believe that this perfect man reciprocated his love.
-Perfect - Alexei praises him, smiling warmly -. Don't forget that - then he moved closer and their lips joined. The kiss was soft and delicate. Alexei wanted to make sure he transmitted all his love to him, and at the same time, he wanted to calm down the fear he knew Xander was feeling because of all the circumstances with Dimitri.
His left hand stroked Xander's back from top to bottom, while his right surrounded the small neck and held him by the nape to keep him in position. Xander felt the kiss to his toes and when Alexei inserted his tongue to start massaging his, the Omega was completely lost. His hands slipped from the grip on the Alpha's shirt and, slowly caressing a path across the wide, firm chest, he managed to encircle his neck.
He was intoxicated by the amount of emotion he was feeling and was loving it. Mother Moon had been very generous in providing this Alpha to him. Slowly, that magnificent display of love between the two came to an end and Xander couldn't help but let out a little groan of disappointment, making Alexei smile.
-Calm down, kitty. You'll get more later - he promised, kissing the tip of his nose. The blush had colored the Omega's cheeks, the tops of his ears, and his neck of a reddish hue. Suddenly he remembered what Alexei had said before everyone left the room.
-Magnus, what are you going to do about Derek? - Frowning, obviously puzzled and a bit worried.
-Nothing bad - he wasn't sure about doing this, but considering the situation and finding out that Dimitri was after his Omega, he thought it was the right choice -. I'll assign him as your bodyguard.
-What?! - exclaims astonished, opening wide the eyes -. Are you serious?
-Yes, I don't want to take any chances. Even though you don't usually leave The Mansion, I want to ensure your protection - pressing the lips in an evident sign of discomfort -. I don't like the idea of him around you, but I need someone I can trust, and I imagine none of The Gang will want to do the job of babysitting - putting his big hands on Xander's narrow waist, squeezing gently -. But if I notice anything strange, no matter how small, it's over. I'll send him so far away from you that you won't even know he's alive.
Xander nods slightly. He wanted to protest, but the idea of having his friend around cheered him up. He had time without hearing from Derek and knew that Alexei was responsible, making sure to keep them both as far away as possible.
-If I don't usually leave The Mansion it's because I'm not allowed to - he said instead.
-Well, I don't have a problem with you doing so. As long as you're accompanied and let me know where you're going - with his left hand holding a lock of hair from Xander's forehead -. There may be a worst-case scenario where a war breaks out, Xander. I don't want to put you in danger, especially now that we know Dimitri is behind you - Xander shudders slightly before answering.
-I understand. I didn't anticipate that. I have no idea what he wants from me now.
-How did things end up at boarding school?
-Well... I told you I left the boarding school when I turned eighteen. He just disappeared a month before.
-What do you mean, disappeared? - Alexei asks in puzzlement.
-Exactly that, he left without a trace. I remember that they spent days looking for him in the surroundings, but in the end, they never found him - a hint of sadness shows on his face before continuing -. Instead of feeling relief, I was terrified. Scared that he might return and finish what he started, I slept practically with one eye open. But it didn't happen, and I didn't miss the chance to leave as soon as I could. Until yesterday, I hadn't heard from him.
-Trust me, Xander. He'll have to go over my dead body to put a dirty finger on you. And I'm a tough guy, kitty. It won't be easy at all - smirking and raising an eyebrow.
-Oh, I have no doubt you're a tough guy, honey. In every way - smiling flirtatiously as he circled his hips, shamelessly rubbing the growing erection in the Alpha's trousers -. I can feel how hard you are right now.
-Don't tempt me if you're not willing to deal with the consequences, kitty - with his low, seductive voice, pushing his body up, to feel Xander's friction more keenly.
-But I'm very willing... Alpha - whispered over his lips.
Fuckin' hell. With that word, Alexei almost lost control of his senses and subdued Xander right there on the desk without even giving him a chance to react. But at that very moment, someone knocks on the door. Xander quickly stands up from his legs and Alexei silently laments the loss of his warmth.
-I better get to work. I'll try to find out as much as I can about Dimitri. I'll let you know if there's any news - making efforts to control his excitement, to prevent whoever is behind that door from smelling it.
-Don't forget what I told you - Alexei murmurs seductively -. Wait for me in my bedroom.
-Sure, honey - smiles and bends over to give him a quick kiss on the lips -. I'll be there - turns on his feet, takes Cooky in his arms, and heads for the exit. When he opens the door, his eyes widen in surprise and a big smile spreads across his face -. Derek! - shouts excitedly, throwing himself into his friend's arms, taking care not to crush the little cat between the two bodies.
He immediately regrets it after hearing the deep grunt behind him and quickly breaks away from the embrace.
-Holy crap, Xander. I'm glad you're okay. I missed you so much - Derek holds his arms and watches him up and down carefully, making sure he's all right.
-I missed you too - holding Cooky with both hands, not wanting to touch Derek too much to avoid upsetting Alexei even more -. Don't worry, I'm completely fine. Mr. Magnus has taken good care of me.
-I bet - Derek grunts, mumbling and giving Alexei a deadly look over Xander's shoulder, who hits him lightly in the stomach upon realizing it.
-That's enough - Whispering and frowning -. Be good, Derek. Don't get into any more trouble.
-But I'm always good, Xander - he mutters as well, pretending to be annoyed, although it didn't last long when he saw Xander watching him irritated -. All right, I'll behave - sighing with resignation.
-Good - Xander smiles contentedly -. Now I must go. I'll see you later - he breaks away from the grip and says goodbye, waving a hand.
Derek watches him leave until he loses sight of Xander after turning around a corner. He takes a deep breath and slowly releases the air before entering the room. He approached Alexei, who was sitting at the end of the large desk and watching him intently.
-You wanted to see me? - Although he told Xander that he would behave, he couldn't (and wouldn't) hide the hostile tone with which he addressed the other Alpha.
-Yes, I have a new job for you - Alexei takes a cigarette out of his jacket and ignites it with a lighter, releasing the smoke quietly.
-Oh, yeah? - Derek pushes, raising an eyebrow -. What am I good for now?
-According to me, for nothing at all - Alexei smiles when he senses Derek's anger at his words -. But Xander insists you're a "great" bodyguard... - making the quotes with the fingers -. So I'm going to check it out.
-Who will I protect now? - Crossing the arms over his chest -. The fountain in the back garden? One of your fancy cars? Oh, no! Let me guess - putting on an expression of thinking about something -. The pool, maybe? - smiling, although the expression doesn't reach his eyes.
-To Xander - Alexei reveals, seeming calm, even though inside he was furious at Derek's arrogant attitude. Both remain silent for long seconds, watching each other with suspicion.
-Why? - Derek asks finally, his expression totally serious now -. Is he in danger?
-In this job, there's always a danger. You should know better than that - the powerful Alpha inhales another hit of his cigar, crossing the legs and looking at him with defiance.
-True - Derek nods -. But what's your sudden interest in Xander specifically having protection? - moves closer to Alexei, with a threatening demeanor -. What the hell is going on between you two?
-What happens between me and him, again, is none of your fucking business - sharp and direct, undeterred by Derek's attitude -. Are you in or out? I don't have all day to deal with you. If you don't want to, I can find someone else, the world doesn't fucking spin around you - Derek is silent as he seems to consider the proposal. He thought about refusing and telling Alexei to fuck off, but the feeling of wanting to be close to Xander outweighed his pride.
-Okay - finally nods quietly but firmly -. I will do it.
-Good, I'll tell Yaakov to point out your responsibilities - Alexei gets up and approaches Derek so close that their noses almost rub together, looking him straight in the eye -. I warn you that, if anything happens to him, even a small scratch, no matter how tiny, I'll make sure you're never seen again. Is that fucking clear? - His voice is hoarse, low and menacing.
Derek would never admit it, but at that moment, he felt completely reduced and insignificant. Alexei was a mighty, no-nonsense Alpha. Unable to speak, he simply nodded and quickly parted from him, concerned with regulating his hectic breathing to prevent Alexei from realizing how much that had affected him.
-Good, now get out - the Alpha spits with contempt, turning his back to sit down again, continuing to smoke the cigar -. Yaakov will go and find you later.
Derek quickly heads for the door and leaves the meeting room. Alexei snorts once he's left alone and pulls out his phone, dials Franchesco's number, and presses the green button, mentally preparing the words he was going to say. In the third tone, the other Alpha responds.
-"What is it, Magnus?".
-I have news for you, Fran. I'm afraid you're not going to like it.