The Hart Laboratory was the project Aaron had embarked on in the last two years; it was geared towards creating better lives for everyone. He shared his plans with Zera first, then his siblings, then the board members of the company. They all thought it was an excellent idea and gave their support. The purpose of the lab wasn’t to support humans alone but also their kinds. The machines and equipment were two times stronger and could withstand their strengths and differences. Using this lab, they could create effective herbs and medical aids for their kind in multiple ways. Since many of them couldn’t go to the human labs to get themselves tested and treated, the lab would help a lot.
“I need you to tell the hard truth about all your findings on our progress so far. The truth hurts, but now that’s what we need.”
“You’re so right; the truth hurts, but it is what we all need, and that’s why I’m here.” Aaron heard a voice say something from the side of the door, and he sprang to his feet. Damor also rose the next second and faced Alpha Viktor Silverado and the beta men he brought along, standing in the office.
Viktor was the alpha of the Crimson Moon Pack, which was in Langfield, south of the city, and a seven-hour drive away. He had ruled the Crimson Moon Pack for the last decade as its strongest alpha since its formation over a century ago. He didn’t have a notorious record, as he didn’t go around terrorising those weaker than him, but he didn’t have a perfectly clean record, either. He had been known for the brutal eradication of those he regarded as enemies in the past. In the battle that took place over two years ago, he was one of the Alphas that didn’t side with Alpha Theo. Aaron, during those desperate times, sent men to him asking for his allegiance, but he turned them down. In his words, he didn’t want to submit to anyone. After the battle ended and the Dominio pack secured victory over the rebellion pack, he sent words to congratulate Aaron. He then offered a peace treaty around the borders, as it was best for both packs.
Aaron accepted peace, but not on Viktor’s terms but on his. He told Viktor that, as long as he stayed out of his way, he would also return the same courtesy.
When Zera asked why he didn’t take Viktor’s peace treaty, Aaron told her it was because the alpha wasn’t looking for peace. He was looking for more power, and with more power came control, and too much of it had the tendency to corrupt. Zera didn’t understand, but she let the issue go. It had been two years, and he hadn’t heard from Alpha Viktor until now.
Nancy, his PA, ran in and stood before Viktor, her eyes filled with panic as she spoke. “Mr Hart, I am sorry. I told him you were busy, but he said they’d see themselves in.”
“He isn’t busy, as you can see, little girl.” Viktor stepped towards her and reached out his hand to stroke her face.
Nancy stood frozen and unable to move; it was the compelling force Alpha Viktor possessed, and she, being human, was vulnerable to it.
“You will not touch her.” Aaron spoke through gritted teeth.
Viktor’s gaze moved from Nancy’s to Aaron’s. “I thought you already have yours? Why do you care if I touch her?”
“I care because she’s my PA. Now get your hands off her.” Aaron growled at him. Viktor did as he was told, and Nancy didn’t move; she waited for Aaron’s permission to leave. “It’s fine, Nancy; you can go.” He nodded at her, his tone not as hard as it was a moment ago, and she disappeared through the door the next second.
“I do not know how things are done in the crimson moon pack, but things are done differently when you’re outside, Viktor.” Aaron started, moving his gaze to the intruder. He buttoned up his suit and took a step forward. “This is a business organisation; you make an appointment before coming over, and you respect people. You do not touch what isn’t yours, and when someone says no, they mean no.”
Viktor scoffed. “You really think our kind were made for all this nonsense?”
“I do not care how your kind were made, but this is my organisation, and I make the rules.” Aaron slammed, his eyes staring straight into Viktor’s. “Now, what do you want?” He asked.
“I came to tell you to put it down.”
“Put what down?” He was lost in Viktor’s request.
“You know what. The abomination you call a sage living under your roof. Do it before it’s too late,” he answered.
“I do not think you get to call the shots, and she’s not an object but a person.” Damor finally spoke for the first time since being interrupted.
Aaron, however, stayed silent, as if trying to wrap his head around what Viktor had just told him.
“I don’t think it’s proper for the boy to speak when the men are conversing.” Viktor bit back in a condescending tone, glaring at Damor.
Damor surged forward the very second, but the man to Viktor’s left moved to stand in his way. That didn’t stop Damor, because his hand stretched forward and wrapped around the man’s neck. His long, sharp claws dug into his neck and left him numb. Damor’s eyes glowed red, and life faded from his victim’s eyes.
“Let him go, Damor!” Aaron said.
“Yes, please, call back your dog,” Viktor snarled.
Damor released the almost lifeless man and reached for Viktor’s neck the same second, but Aaron put his hand on his shoulder to stop him.
Damor growled in frustration, and Aaron knew he was furious. Bloodshed was the last thing he wanted, though, especially in the office.
Aaron reached forward, wrapped his hands around Viktor’s neck, and pulled him closer. His expression didn’t give off his anger at Viktor’s insults, but his actions did. The men that came with Viktor’s surged forward to aid their alpha, but Damor growled at them, putting fear in them.
“I couldn’t tell you what to do over two years ago when I needed your help with the rebellion pack, Viktor. I’ll tell you the very words you told me. You do not get to tell me how to go about my fucking business. Say one more word about Zera, and it will be your last.” Aaron said and shoved Viktor back before releasing his grip.
Viktor flared but stepped back from Aaron, saying, “I have given you the opportunity to do what’s right! You won’t get it again.”
With that said, he turned his back and walked away from the office, his men following behind him.