The Demand
Standing here looking out my floor to ceiling window overlooking the city calms me. Seeing the people moving along with their lives unaware of all the supernatural in this world lets me know my people are safe. My second in command has been keeping things under control while I concentrate on my human responsibilities. I’m one of the richest men in the world, yet it does not compare to my rank and power within my pride.
I’m a ruler in both worlds which can be difficult at times, but I’ve found ways to make it work. Though it’s been awhile since I’ve visited my pride, I know they are in good hands.
I take one last look and then decide to leave the office. I’ve been in meetings all day, and I would like to go home and relax. Talk with some of my family. As I’m walking past the mirror by my desk, I see my reflection. My hair is golden brown with hints of blonde unlike the normal colors and untamed. I try to keep it somewhat cut, but it grows wild.
As I’m sitting down, my secretary speaks through the intercom.
“Mr. King, your brother James is on line one.” Her soft voice comes through.
“Put him through, Kate and I’ll be staying late tonight you can leave early today,” I reply.
“Thank you, Mr. King, I’m putting your brother through now.” She replies, cheerfully.
The line clicks, and my brother’s voice bellows through my office.
“Landon, your secretary, sounds sexy, you been with her?” James says, laughing.
He knows I never mix business with pleasure, any woman who I pay to work for me will never know how good I am in bed.
“James you calling to see who I bed or is there a reason for your call?”
“There’s a reason, but you sure as hell are not going to like it, in fact , I need for you to promise not to…ahh , yell.”
Now, I’m a little worried about how this conversation is going, but I’ll remain calm or at least try.
“I’m not making any promises, so spit it out before I get pissed,” I command.
“Well, you’ve been gone too long, and some are wondering when you will take a mate…”
“Get to the point James.” I snap.
“The elders of the pride have been looking in our books and have found that the Lion king of the pride needs to be mated and produce cubs. They say if you do not do this you will be stripped of your title and another will be chosen.”
My eyes widen, and my hands hit my desk cracking it straight down the middle. I try to hold in my anger, but before I can say anything a roar exits my mouth. Causing the windows to shake.
Once I gain composure, I reply to James.
“This disrespect will not be tolerated, and I’ll be there, but not to take a mate, and James be sure to inform everyone I’m coming home.”
I disconnect as my body shakes wanted to change into the lion I am, my true self. I considered staying late tonight to do some work, but after the call from my brother, I’m going to my place to prepare to make the journey to my people. They have been doing well for the last few years with me coming in a few times a year, but something has changed, and I’d like to know what.
When I arrive home, my eyes scan the room, and it doesn’t feel like home anymore. Maybe the call from my brother James was needed. Now, I can go home with my people for a while and see what all the fuss is about.
I go and pour myself a big glass of bourbon to take the edge off. Being summoned like I’m not the king of the pride is out of order. I glance to my left where I can see my reflection in the glass window and my eyes have changed to the beast, and I can feel the hairs on my body expanding. I take another drink trying to gain control over my anger. After a few more drinks, which empties the bottle, my mind can’t take it anymore. I begin packing for the journey back to my pride.