Chapter 10

The red, two-seater car with the top down sped along the highway. Traffic along D-7 was light and that was the way Zina McFin liked it. The feel of the wind ruffling her hair reminded her of the runs she took in the forest as a wolf. The memory of the prickling of grass under her paws, the stirring of fur from a breeze and the scents of the animals she hunted made her grin.

Of course, none of it would matter if she didn't finish what she started thirteen years ago. Henry Le Croix had never stopped craving human approval nor their wealth. His quick mind, much sought after inventions, and cutthroat Alpha mentality made him a hot commodity to half of the Were community. The rest, the group Zina traveled to see, vilified him.

She took her Brayshell exit and slowed her speed to enjoy the lights and sounds. Glancing down at the 3-D map guide, she took a right on to a dirt side road. While the surrounding areas grew more modernized and crowded, towns like Brayshell and Wyldway maintained their rural nature.

Her communications link gave a shrill beep, breaking the silence. Jerking her ear piece out of the box, Zina put it in and turned it on.

"Yeah, what?" not quite a snarl, but enough warning to give the caller pause. "Well? I'm waiting!"

"Ma'am, we're all here as you requested."

She rolled her eyes. The young male on the other end of the line was the reason she hated working with pups. Had to hand lead them through everything. "Yes, Devin, I know. I will be at the location in one minute." His weak gasp of relief irked her. "Devin," she growled.

"Yes, Alpha Zina?" Nervous humming filled the line.

"Devin, darling, if you ever disturb me again with such a trivial message, I will personally rip you from limb to limb. Do you understand?"

He gulped and stammered, "Yes, yes, Alpha Zina!"

"Now, be a good male and hang up." She laughed when he disconnected before she could berate him further. Men. They were a waste of space most days, but occasionally had their uses.

She brought the car to a stop. Ahead, gathered around a picnic table, stood ten men. Most were outcasts from their families and each had an useful skill. She had snared them with teasing promises and whispered words of hope of becoming an Alpha mate. Others she'd bought off.

"Hello, boys," Zina purred. Her nose caught the scent of rising pheromones and she hid a smile. Yes, so very gullible, but highly effective. "Gerard, is everything in place?"

"Yes, my Alpha. The scouts have the route memorized and our prey's daily schedule is consistent, never changes. We are ready."

"Excellent. We will go after the prey tomorrow. Until then, send out the scouts to secure their posts. I want no screw-ups. Understand?"

"Yes, Alpha!"

The males' enthusiasm for the hunt was building. She would triumph this time and neither Henry nor the Were Council would stand before her might. This plan had taken thirteen years to get ready and she could almost taste success. It was that close. Zina would rule them all and her enemies would cower before her or die. She grinned and the men, mistaking it for approval, cheered.

"Come! Let us eat." Leading the way, she headed into the woods and toward the game she knew would be there.