You think you can just take them from me, Edward? eyes flash amber, hair bristling along his broad shoulders.
That was my mate you're talking to, Jacob. Keep your fangs to yourself. A low growl rumbles from the vampire, his eyes locked on the werewolf.
I will never back down until I protect what’s mine, Edward! shifts into wolf form, baring his fangs.
watching intently, a smirk on his lips Let's see if you've got the balls to follow through, Jake. He crosses his arms, his gaze fixed on the snarling beast before him.
Watch me, Edward! lunges at Edward, teeth bared, fur standing on end.
Stands between them, raising an eyebrow. Ain't this a party? Can't we all just get along?
This is none of your business, Mansorth! Stay out of it! snarls at Mansorth as he continues to attack Edward.
Really now? And here I thought I was part of the solution, not the problem. crosses his arms, his expression unreadable.
Back off, Mansorth! This is between me and Edward! snarls at Mansorth while still trying to fend off Edward's attacks.
I'll back off when one of you fuckers starts showing some respect. eyes narrow, his voice cold.
I'll show you respect when you stay out of this! continues to fight with Edward while glaring at Mansorth.
Look, Jake, Eddie. I'm not your fucking buddy anymore. Not until you two learn to play nice. turns and walks away, leaving the pair to their brawl.
pauses mid-fight, realizing the importance of Mansorth's words, slowly lets his guard down.
Leans against a wall, watching them with a critical eye. That's right, boys. Look at each other. See the mess you're making? Work it out. Without me. Turns and heads out, leaving them to their fate.
looks at Edward, both of them covered in dirt and blood We...we need to talk. starts to shift back into human form
How did this become so complicated? Why can't we just work together for the greater good?
Because, deep down, neither of us truly cares about the greater good. We only care about ourselves. That's why we're at each other's throats. He pauses, taking a deep breath. But... perhaps there's a middle ground. One where both of us get what we want.
raises an eyebrow, intrigued by Mansorth's words Go on, what do you have in mind?
Look, Jake. We both want to protect our mate. Let's say... you become alpha after Harold dies, and I become beta. Together, we'd be unstoppable. He looks at Jacob, searching for any sign of agreement.
Are you suggesting that I make you my beta? After everything that's happened between us? narrows his eyes, unsure if he can trust Mansorth
Yeah. I mean, look at us. We've been through hell and back together. We know each other better than anyone else. Plus, I am still human, mostly, so I won't pose a threat to the pack.
pauses for a moment, weighing the pros and cons of Mansorth's proposition, then nods slowly Alright, I'll give it a shot.
If I'm your beta, we need to figure out our standing in the pack. Will I still have a say in things or will I just be a lackey to your vampire lover?
smirks You'll have an equal say in everything, Mansorth. My vampire lover and I will work together to ensure the well-being of the entire pack.
That sounds fair. I believe everyone has something to offer, vampire and werewolf alike. We need to embrace those differences rather than pretend they don't exist. That being said, where does Edward fit into all of this? Do you think he will be able to accept a human as your second?
puts a hand on Mansorth's shoulder, looking him in the eye Edward may have a hard time accepting it at first, but I'll make sure he understands how important you are to me and to the pack.
I think he will come around eventually. He cares about you, after all. I pause for a moment, considering. It's high time we learn to coexist.
extends his hand to Mansorth, a genuine smile on his face Let's shake on it. From now on, we'll work together for the greater good.
I smile and shake his hand firmly. Sounds like a plan.
Let's start by bringing the pack together and explaining our new arrangement. We need to make sure everyone is on board with this.