~James POV~
As we sat around the table, everyone started talking to Avery. They showed keen interest in her and her family but all I could think of was the sight of her walking down those stairs.
Her long hair waving as she walked down. Her body in that dress. In my mind images of everything I wanted to do with her and to her started playing around. Her mesmerizing eyes that held mine captive, I also noticed how hers were held captive by mine. Her innocence sowing through her facade she had put up, there was not a doubt in my mind that she was fierce and strong willed, I realized that when she wouldn't submit to me in the room earlier.
She looked happy, smiling. That's good, everything was going according to plan. However, the thought of how she would feel when she found out the truth truly made me sorry for her. It was also making my stomach revolt, wanting to throw back up everything I just ate.
"So, Avery, how did you and James meet?" I looked over to see Alice looking at both Avery and I with a gentle smile on her face. Alice had always been adept at making people feel comfortable. We introduced her as my mother but she wasn't my mother. She was the pack chef, here to play a part as all of us were.
"Well, Alice, I was at a party with a friend. There was a man getting a little too handsy and James swooped in and saved me." Avery said looking at me with a smile on her face. She didn't mention the whole "getting drugged" part, but everyone seated here already knew. We had all talked the night before.
"Sounds like my son acted like a gentleman," Alice said as she winked at me.
"Yeah but don't worry hun, he's just a gentleman until you get to know him." I glared at my sister. She had a devious smile working itself up on her face.
"Shut up, Amber, not everyone likes when random strangers get handsy, that's just you." I slapped back at my sister. She rolled her eyes and started to giggle.
As we were all about finished with our meals my so-called parents looked at each other and then looked at Avery.
"Avery, we were thinking and perhaps this all seems strange and a bit fast coming. However, we are heading home tomorrow and would love it if you would join us for a few days. We will of course make all the arrangements and make sure you get home safe as well. We've already talked to your parents and they gave you their consent." I could see the shock on Avery's face as I felt an elbow dig into my side. I knew what I had to do
"1 don't th-"Avery's body stiffened upon feeling my hand on her thigh. I tightened my grip and drew round circles with my thumb. When I reached her inner thigh, I softly caressed her where the dress ended, gently touching her. I could feel the heat coming from between her legs as I gripped her tightly, nearly causing her to jump in her seat and she swallowed a big gulp.
" Avery? What do you say?" I asked in a low menacing voice with a smile on my face.
" Yes... I mean, I would love to join you and your family." Avery answered looking at Alice. Everyone at the table appeared relieved and happy that she had said yes. Then some serious faces started to show. I could tell Avery noticed something was off. I kicked my sister's leg making her realize what they were all doing. Just like that, she started cheering in happiness as everyone else soon joined in, and Avery sat there startled. All I wanted now was to get the hell out of here before she caught on.
I slowly pulled my hand from her thigh and as we were all done "my parents" were the first to excuse themselves from the table.
"Well children, we're heading to bed for a good night's sleep before we travel tomorrow. I suggest you do the same." She said smiling.
"I'm glad you chose to come with us tomorrow, Avery. I promise it will be a blast." George, my "father" said. George was the pack gardener. But by the looks of it both of them could have impressive careers as actors.
"Thank you Alice and you too George, I'm sure it will be a pleasure, sleep well both of you, it was a pleasure meeting you both." Avery said with such a diligent voice, so pure and so genuine. She sure was sweet.
Alex was next to leave and every chance he got he would try and get under my skin.
"Goodnight guys, I'm headed for the sack, see you tomorrow, unless, Avery if you'd like I could accompany you to your room?" He stood there with a smirk on his face as he held out his hand for her to take. He was on my right and Avery was on my left.
At his words my eyes grew black and the next thing I knew I was standing in front of his face crushing his hand with my own.
"Get. Out." he wasn't bothered by the pain, he was a wolf and a very strong one at that. He smiled and hustled as he turned around and walked away.
"Alex is like the irritating brother that we never wanted but love that we got." Amber said looking at everyone, giggling.
" He seems nice, harmless." Avery said. She glanced at me. Her lips barely parted as she looked at me seductively and I could feel my eyes turning pitch black again.
" James, perhaps it's time for you two to get some sleep. I know I need some. Sleep tight," At Amber's warning I shook my head and saw her hug Avery. She then patted my shoulder as she walked past me and up to her room. Now it was just me and Avery left.