Running with the Pack - 41. Chapter 41

“Alphas.” John greeted his colleagues. “I’d like to thank you all for accepting my invitation to this meeting. It’s nice to see those of you here in person. To the rest only able to meet us on video conference, I understand logistics, scheduling, and distance can be a pain. However, it’s important to have you as part of the discussion. This is why we have the technology after all.” He waved his hand towards a man many of the others did not recognize. “Also joining us is the representative of several bear clans in our region, Lee Barrows. We may be able to enlist the assistance of more clans as we progress. First off, I’d like to make sure none of the packs represented here have any issue with including the bears in our discussion.”

An image on the wall-mounted monitor increased in size when its user turned on his microphone. “John, since this is a wolf issue, wouldn’t it be an internal one that doesn’t concern the bears? I mean no to offense, but should we be involving them and risk causing them problems with the Council?”

“I’m perhaps a little biased on the issue. I have several bears living in my territory who have become full members here, but the rogue matter affected all shifters in the region. Likewise, the problems with our governing body are also affecting them. Some of the bear clans were attacked by the same group or groups.” John surveyed the faces around the room and focused on the camera below the monitor. “And more importantly, my own personal point of view is that it’s called the Lycan Council for a reason, not the Wolf Council. As much as the wolves would like to think of ourselves as the only true lycan, we are one of many. My hope is, if the other alphas in the Council will agree after we’ve cleaned our own house, to open it to all lycan. At the very least, it seems like we should do a better job at keeping our brother lycan in the loop.”

“With respect for my associate from New York, I think John has a point. We aren’t the only lycan, and we aren’t the only ones who have or are suffering from the rogue problem or the corruption within the Council.” Dave Redmond from Ember Moon reached for a glass of water on the table. “Lee, as the regional representative of the different bear clans, what’s your view? I’m sorry for putting you on the spot here.”

The brawny bear of a man leaned back in his chair, stroking his thick beard. “The bears have always done our best to keep out of wolf politics. To you guys, it appears to be a blood sport at times. That being said, what Alpha Stockdale’s proposing is impressive and has our attention. We bears don’t have a formal government to the extent you do. We have a network to keep in contact with our clans as well as to communicate with the different groups of species we interact with. We also keep open channels with packs like Parker Valley when we know our kind are living within a territory. Just to make sure their interests and safety are protected.” He leaned forward placing his elbows on the table. “If the wolves would be willing to include us on some level in your governing council, and the corruption you’re discussing can be brought under control, having a voice within the North America Lycan Council is too important to pass up. If it’s nothing more than having an ambassador, it’s more than currently exists. Even if it ends up we only deal with you on a regional level, I’m authorized to speak for most of the bear communities in the northeast.”

“The number of coyote packs, avian flocks, and other species of shifters in North America is sizable. I’ve got numbers on suspected lycan populations here for you.” John sent the report to everyone’s tablet. “I know the time isn’t right to open negotiations with them, but it’s something we’ll need to consider in the future. If things work out with the bears, the plan doesn’t blow up in our face, and we’re not all dead before the end of the upcoming Congress of Alphas.”

“Way to paint a cheery picture, John.” Dave Redmond tried to joke, but his attempt did not change the serious looks on his associates’ faces. “Let’s go over the information you have so far. Once we have a better feel we can formulate a plan. The bears might be able to provide an outside view on things.”

“When the time comes, I plan to confront the council leadership on my own.” John frowned at all the shaking heads. “If things go south, it’ll just be me who has to pay for it. Although I’ll have some powerful assistance at my side to even the odds.”

“No chance, John.” The leader of a Vermont pack was emphatic. “We’re not going to let you go it alone just to protect us. We’ll find a way to do this so we all survive.”

“Let’s get started. I’ve included the audio file that appears to be from the security director, warning our coalition was going to attack. Given the number of conversations I’ve had with him, the voice is perfectly recognizable. The file is also accompanied by emails and financial statements indicating payments made to him by the rogues.” John paused briefly, giving the others time to glance at the information. “I’ve also shared a list of packs allegedly doing business with various rogue groups.

“This third list is particularly troubling to me. It’s the names of packs that appear to no longer exist. A notification was never sent removing them from the roster, so I’m sure the Council didn’t bother to investigate what happened to them. They’re still shown as active. A handful of their former members are recovering here after being rescued. They were destined for one form of slavery or another. We also have reasonably good documentation the funds we pay to support the Council were diverted to the New York gang for construction. Odds are they’re paying other gangs as well.”

One of the Canadian alphas moved in closer to his camera. “Did you just say the dues we pay to the Council were used to build the bunker for the gang that terrorized this region for years?”

“Yes, I did. I can’t definitively prove it at the moment, but we’ve identified several deposits listed as coming from the Council for construction and security upgrades. That’s something for a future debate as more of this information gets processed. We know funds were going both directions. Fortunately, the gang had a decent bookkeeping department. I have a forensic accounting team going over the records, while Mark Jennings has his own team doing an independent review.”

“John, I recognize several of the packs on this list.” A Connecticut alpha tapped his finger on the report. “They’re known as some of the more violent groups within the Council. The ones that want to continually expand by challenge and fights.”

“I noticed that as well, Jeff. Challenges are one thing. What the documents indicate is something else altogether.” John made one last check of the documents he had for his colleagues.

“This gives us a good start.” Maxx Collins of the Morning Star pack flipped through the information on his tablet.

A lone female was at the gathering. Karissa Ryan sat back, observing the others as they debated the issues. There was an elegance to her subtle movements. Her beauty gave a false sense of ease to most men even as they knew she was a force not to be underestimated. “John, gentlemen, those of you present here have been good neighbors to me since I assumed the role of alpha, and I want to thank you for including me in the recent fight and this meeting. I know some in the Council don’t care for new ideas like female or gay alphas. They definitely won’t like the idea of talking to or allowing bears to be present.

“Most know I didn’t want the position. However, I wasn’t going to submit or follow the wolf that killed my father in a less than fair fight. Like a small number of you, I became a leader through an act of violence, but it was a legal challenge for leadership. I think I’m a reasonable leader and my pack respects me for my dedication to protecting them.” Her smirk sent a chill down her colleague’s spines. “I want to be clear on what we’re doing here. I’m not saying this would ever happen, but would anyone here have an issue with me challenging and killing Dave to take Ember Moon?”

“Planning a territory expansion, Karissa?” Dave eyed the woman carefully. “Remind me not to piss you off. Or turn my back on you.”

“I just want to make sure we’re not going to eliminate something that’s been part of our ways for millennia.” She playfully batted her eyes at the man she mentioned killing. “But you do have nice lands and a few handsome, strong men who’d make good mating material for an alpha like me.”

Dave cleared his throat and took a sip of his water. “From my standpoint, no, that wouldn’t be an issue. It’s not something we’re trying to change. Though I’d prefer you didn’t kill me. If that were to happen, I would hope the laws we have in place would look after the safety of my members. And that they would be cared for and become part of the newer, larger pack. That’s still a way of life for us even if some don’t follow it on their way to becoming an alpha. At issue are the packs that on the surface respect our laws, but behind the scenes act with the same criminal intent of the rogue gangs.”

“That was all the clarification I wanted. Since our laws do allow it, I just wanted to make sure we weren’t trying to tame our people. I’m all for eliminating the criminal element. We don’t need people who are the smiling at you from across the negotiation table while plotting to stab you in the back, literally.” Karissa settled back into her chair, receiving nods from her equals.

“In all honesty, given our nature, none of us should have issue with packs that settle their disputes through a fair challenge and combining into one larger pack under the victorious leader. These on the list however, are attacking outside of a challenge. They take only the people they want and sell off the rest. Many are omegas, or those not considered good breeding stock. That needs to stop.” John’s fist crashed down onto the table. “Wolves, bears, coyotes, it doesn’t matter; we all have a right to live and no one should be a commodity to sell.”

“One other item I would like to bring up. With our current numbers, we represent a large enough block to easily submit a nomination for a new president and vice president.” A smug grin formed on Karissa’s face. “I have a suggestion for the leadership spot that breaks with recent tradition. Or rather restores the old ones. I don’t know how anyone else would feel or how well you know him, but Richard Drake from Forest Moon Pack would be my suggestion.”

“He’s got one of the smallest packs in the Council and rarely shows for the congress meeting. What would he know about running something that large? Does anyone remember the last time a sitting alpha led the Council?”

“He might show up if he wasn’t under constant attack.” She glared at her colleague. “Maybe it’s time we return leadership to an actual alpha. He’s a good man and dedicated leader who’s held his pack together under the harshest conditions. The man’s fought to protect his people from attack after attack for most of his life. He could never identify who he was fighting, but he openly opposes the administration. Yes, his pack’s small and on the verge of collapse, but he’s sworn to keep fighting for his people and territory until his wolf falls.”

“I thought the attacks on him had stopped!” Maxx looked to her in disbelief. “Let me know how many people he needs, and I’ll send what I can to reinforce his defenses. Since you feel he can be trusted, we should get in contact with him and discuss it.”

“It would be fitting to tap someone like that for Council leadership,” one of the others added. “I don’t personally know him, but what I do remember is he seemed to be an honorable man. I didn’t know why he stopped attending, but it’s understandable with the attacks. Personally, I would have suggested John for the top position if we’re going to put an alpha into it.”

“I have plenty to run here as it is, Chris, but thanks for the vote of confidence. Karissa, if everyone agrees, talk to him and see under what terms he would consider it.” John saw everyone nodding. “Also, extend an offer from me as well on sending troops to help him. I too thought the attacks had stopped.”

“John, these transcripts of calls marked as from TP, if I’m reading this right, TP’s our current Vice President.” Karissa thumbed through the documents index. “He was in direct contact with the rogue leader?”

“Yes, voice contact and emails that we’ve reviewed so far.” John nodded. “What’s the file number for the specific call?”

“It’s TP16032.”

John tapped a few buttons on his tablet. As the recording played over the speakers in the room, it was the council vice president discussing finances with the rogue leader and how he wanted more money from the gang.

She was astounded as it finished playing. “Has this been positively identified as Tom Preston?”

John glanced towards the video monitor. “Mark, have your people been able to check that file or any of the others marked as TP?”

“The lab said the computer analysis put it at ninety-eight percent certainty it’s Tom. Based on known recordings of his voice from several different meetings.” Mark Jennings from Oregon sent a copy of the analysis report to his colleagues. “We’re using the same process for identification on other calls we have a name to check against. The emails associated with that call were also verified as coming from Tom’s account and traced to his computer.”

“If you look at the call transcript marked TP14129, our VP was telling the rogue leader he wanted the oldest son of Whitefish Bay’s alpha kidnapped and delivered to him. He was having a dispute of some kind with the pack in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and felt the boy’s abduction would make the father more compliant. There are also several emails regarding that situation. I’m sure many of you remember hearing the son was in fact taken several months ago and never found.” John brought up the information for their review. “With luck, we’ll eventually be able to retrieve the boy, or at the least, bring his body home to his family.”

“This year’s conference has the potential to get bloody, hopefully for Tom Preston. Depending on how many packs we have on our side going in, and how many are involved in criminal activity. The remaining unknown packs could side either way and tip the balance in a fight. If they try to retain power through force, it could leave a good number of alphas dead,” one of the New York alphas offered a grim outlook.

“I will pledge the support of the bears to help protect your territories if anything happens during your meeting.” Lee crossed his arms and scowled. “You can focus on what you need to and know your homes are safe.”

“We do have an ace up our sleeve.” John’s smirk peaked his colleague’s curiosity. “It should tip any fight in our favor if it comes to it.”

******

Ethan walked into the house after work to find everything surprisingly quiet. The Jeep was in the driveway but there was no sign of his mate anywhere. Heading upstairs, he decided to change and wait for his husband. At the foot of the bed, lying on one of Aiden’s jockstraps, was a red rose with a note. “Take a look around to see what can be seen.” Ethan lifted the rose to his nose, enjoying the sweet fragrance. He did the same with the jockstrap. A smile spread across his face at the wonderful scent and the romantic gesture.

Taking the presents with him, Ethan wandered around the house. Another jockstrap with a rose on top sat at the base of the banister. He figured he somehow walked right past it when he went upstairs. A piece of paper fell out when he picked them up. “Some say the search is half the fun, makes one wonder what the other half is.” Ethan scented the air, trying to pick up where Aiden was. The combination of the flowers and the heavily used jockstraps were making that task difficult. His continued search led him into the living room. Sitting in the center of the coffee table was a third set, and note. “Descending into darkness can sometimes yield the brightest light.” He paid attention to the first word being underlined and figured it was the clue. He went through the kitchen, to the basement’s entrance.

The door was ajar. Hanging from the handle was another of Aiden’s jockstraps, with a rose balanced on it and a note in the pouch. As he stared at it, he knew there was no chance he could have missed it when he walked into the house. “The trails we follow for love never lead us in the wrong direction.”

Opening the door the rest of the way and switching on the light, Ethan found rose petals on each step. He followed the trail to a room Aiden had made him promise not to enter. His mate had been working on some mystery project inside and although Ethan was curious, he agreed and never asked what the secret was. Now, on the doorknob, was yet another jockstrap with a fifth rose and folded piece of paper. “Enter into the realm of dreams and Master our wildest fantasies. Unlock what is yours when the time is right.” Taped to the note was a key. Ethan held it up wondering what it was for. He knew from the size it was not for anything too large. With trembling hands, he turned the knob and pushed.

******

As soon as Casey walked through the door, the first thing he saw was Cody’s smile. Leaning against the doorframe so he could stare at the shirtless coyote sitting in a chair, Casey licked his lips. Cody’s excitement was obvious from the scent he was giving off, and it had a direct effect on both of Casey’s heads. Just as he was about to walk over and kiss the man, he felt an arm snake around his body, and a pair of lips kiss the hyper-sensitive neck spot reserved for mating bites. With Darius behind him, Cody stood and walked over to them, pulling the younger wolf’s head down to give him a soft kiss on the lips.

Casey let out a low, sensual growl. “Man, I could get used to coming home to this every day.”

Darius whispered into his ear as he ground his crotch into Casey. “I think we could all get used to it fairly quick. Aiden has something special planned for Ethan, and they’ll be in the house all night. We thought it would be nice to go out for a date before coming back here and finishing what we just started.” He nipped at the younger wolf’s ear while running a hand over Cody’s head.

“Let me get showered, and I’ll be ready in a few minutes.” Giving a short laugh, Casey clarified. “Guess it’s going to be an ice cold shower.”

When ready, the three piled into Darius’ car and headed to Parker, parking in front of Lyon’s Steak House. Cody went to check in with the hostess. “I have a reservation for three under Marshall.”

“Yes, Mister Marshall. We have your table ready. Will you please follow me?”

Their server came over after they were seated and took their drink and appetizers orders. Darius chose stuffed mushrooms in garlic and roasted lemon garlic butterfly shrimp for them.

The conversation was light while they waited. Casey felt the two had something on their mind, but was not going to press it until they were ready to talk. He did enjoy the fact the three of them were able to go out like this and relax.

When the appetizers arrived, the server took their dinner orders. Naturally, the three got the biggest porterhouse steak on the menu; all ordered rare. With any of the dates Casey had been on in the past, none could be considered romantic. This one, by comparison, seemed to fit the word’s definition. It was a dimly lit yet elegant restaurant with flickering candles and two people he cared about immensely.

After dinner, they returned home and piled on the couch. Casey leaned into Darius’ waiting arms while Cody laid across both their laps. The coyote reached up and ran a finger along the line of their chins.

Darius moved a hand to each of their heads, gently massaging. “We’ve never really talked about our connection to each other. We’ve just gone with the flow, but I’m hoping we can take what we have to a new level. I can say without a doubt my feelings for each of you are equally as strong. While I love different things about each, I love you both.” He took a breath, hoping his feelings would be returned. “I’m not sure if either of you are holding out for eventually finding your mate, but I wanted to tell you how I feel.”

Casey turned his head to face Darius. Reaching an arm behind his companion, he pulled the strong lion into a passionate kiss. Cody moved to straddle the tall blond’s lap so he could show his feelings as well.

“I never really gave much thought to finding my mate since I’ve been having fun playing the field. The guys I went out with were nothing more than sex. Even if it was really good sex. Seeing Aiden and Ethan together kinda gave me a different perspective on relationships. After getting to know you both, any interest in finding my supposed match out in the world disappeared. I can’t imagine him being anywhere near what you both are. I know we’re not true mate, but I don’t care and don’t want to think about being apart from either of you.” Casey snuggled into their arms.

“Perhaps since true or destined mates are supposedly only a pair, Mother Nature realized she couldn’t give us that when we were guided into each other’s lives. In a way, it makes sense for us to be together. We all seem wired with the need and drive to protect those two. Just like mates, we draw strength from each other. My coyote tells me we’re imprinting on you both, and not just from the repeated DNA injections. I for one know I am hopelessly in love with you both. If I had to choose just one, I couldn’t.” Cody had a twinkle in his eye. “I love my big kitten and playful puppy.”

“Puppy, is it? Guess I can live with that as long as I get to gnaw on a bone as regularly as I get to bury one.”

“I hadn’t thought about the imprinting aspect of this, but it would factor in with the love I feel for you. We were going to keep this as a surprise for you at the next pack meeting, but Cody and I petitioned for formal membership in Parker Valley.”

Casey lifted Cody off his lap and rose, holding out his hand to Darius so they all stood close. Casey surprised them both as he locked eyes with Darius before baring his neck and then did the same when he stared into Cody’s eyes.

Taking their hands, Casey guided them to the bedroom. “If you’ll have me, I’d be honored to bear both your marks. Would you both mate me and bite me at the same time?”

Nothing could have removed the Cheshire Cat-grin from Darius’s face as he bared his neck to both younger men. “It would be my pleasure to mark you and claim you both as mine. Just as long as you will both mark me as well.”

The combined scents of arousal was driving all of them through the roof.

Cody took a hand from each and placed it on either side of his neck. “I’ll always bear the mark of you both with pride.”

Casey pointed out something important. “I’m not one hundred percent sure if it’s the same for coyotes or lions, but for this to work, you’ll both have to simultaneously bite and cum in me. If one of you does it first, I’ll be paired to only one, and I need to be mated to you both. I’m in love with you both!”

“Daddy’s big puppy is getting marked tonight in every way we can.” Darius’ evil grin made eyes roll. “Gonna remind you just how much a hot and horny gay wolf loves pussy.”

“Damn you, Dari. You know talking like that kicks my horniness up into high gear.” Casey attempted to frown at the big cat as he started pulling off his clothes. “I’m yours, Daddy. Mark me and breed me with our little puppy.”

Cody gave one if his devilish smiles and shoulder bumped Darius. “I guess we finally get to DP our boy here. We’ll make sure we bite at exactly the same time. I can’t risk losing either of you.”

“We’re all going to experience getting doubled.” Darius leaned down and grazed Cody’s neck with his teeth. “Not that you haven’t felt that particular joy a few times already. Gotta love a Marine.”

Cody’s chest pumped up with pride. “OOH-RAH”

In the morning, Casey woke in between the two men. He was spooning Cody with his morning wood resting between the muscular cheeks. His lion was behind him, still buried inside with an arm draped over both his cubs. Casey was the first to bear the mark of his two mates, one on each side of his neck. His wolf howled for joy as they jointly felt the bond with their two sleeping partners increasing in strength, confirming they were successful.

******

Ethan peered into the room enveloped in darkness. His wolf vision could make out flickering lights in the background. He took a few hesitant steps into the room and let the door close. His eyes adjusted to the soft glow as he took in the scene before him. The walls were dark, with two medieval-looking fixtures on three of them that had orange, candle-style bulbs flickering. Erotic art hung between them. Candles of varying size were arrayed around the room. Aiden’s scent permeated the space, and it made Ethan’s nostrils flare with excitement. The figure in the center of the room really caught his attention. A single, dim light shined on the naked body. He slowly circled his mate.

Aiden was face down on some type of bench. A sixth rose rested on his back. Padlocked, leather straps around his wrists secured him to the bench. His chin was just past the forward edge of the platform. A leather blindfold covered his eyes. Aiden’s knees rested on lower padded platforms on each side. His ankles were restrained in the same manner his wrists were. The position left him completely exposed and accessible.

A few feet away, six more roses rested in a vase on a small table. Ethan lifted the last one off his mate’s back and deposited the half-dozen he held into the vase.

Ethan inspected the view from every angle. It was the most erotic scene he had ever witnessed. Aiden’s sizeable equipment was visible, hanging below the bench through a hole. While the balls dangled, the shaft stood stiff. Ethan felt more excited by the second. He stopped close to his mate’s head and pulled down the zipper of his pants. Fishing his hard cock out through the fly, he ran it across the succulent lips. He was rewarded with them enveloping his hardness and drawing it into the waiting mouth. Ethan laced his hands through the dark locks of hair, slid in his full length, and gently pumped away at the willing mouth. For several minutes he pistoned in and out until he felt himself getting close. Even though he knew he could get off more than once, he decided to take a short break and pulled out.

Moving behind the prone form, he gazed at his big bad wolf’s sexy ass. It was perfectly lit by the soft glow of the light and completely exposed for anything he wanted to do with it. Stepping close, Ethan ran his hard shaft up and down the crack, gently grazing the inviting hole. Feeling a rush of power, he brought a hand down hard on the right ass cheek. The slap resonated through the room with a loud crack. There would most definitely be a handprint. He did the same to the left one to ensure a matched set. Satisfied for the moment, Ethan knelt and worked his tongue from the furry crack’s top to where it met the bench’s leather padding. After several passes, he focused his attention on the hole, working it with great vigor and enthusiasm.

For nearly twenty minutes, Ethan expertly used his tongue on the spasming opening, eliciting moans from the bound man. Deciding to try something different, he slid below the bench and took the rock hard rod into his mouth. He licked the precum dripping from the tip, running his tongue under the foreskin before swallowing the shaft to the base. He sucked until the balls pulled tight indicating an impending orgasm. His big bad moaned in frustration. Sliding out from under the bench, Ethan pulled off his clothes and knelt before his toy, passionately kissing the man who so freely gave himself in this new and exciting way.

Ethan stood and slid back into the waiting mouth long enough to get it thoroughly covered in saliva. Moving behind again, he buried his tongue once more into the exposed ass, adding extra spit to the hole. He lined up and pressed his rock-hard shaft into his mate. He alternated speed, sometimes fast and others slow while leaning over to place kisses across the exposed back. Ethan went faster, pounding into his big bad with a need and urgency he had not realized was building. Several times while hammering away, he brought his hand down on the vulnerable ass cheeks, surprising himself by how turned on the sound and action made him.

After driving himself in and out of repeatedly, Ethan felt Aiden’s body shake. He reached under his bound love and wrapped his hand around Big Bad’s pulsing shaft and balls. Ethan squeezed tight and spoke in a low and seductive growl. “Not until I give you permission.” He was able to keep Aiden from climaxing, but his little act of dominance pushed his own need over the edge. He pressed in deep, filling his mate with all he had. It felt like his insides were leaving his body the orgasm was so strong. Exhausted, he leaned forward, resting on the strong back as he placed tender kissed everywhere he could reach.

Feeling his energy slowly return, Ethan whispered before pulling out. “I love you.” Retrieving the key from the table with the roses, he knelt to unlock the ankle restrains but could not resist running his tongue around the opening, planting kisses all around it. Removing the wrist restraints and blindfold, he gazed into those deep grey pools seeing love radiating back.

Aiden extricated himself from the bench and stretched. He remained hard and excited since he had not been allowed to shoot. Leaning his head down, he fiercely kissed the waiting lips. He back-stepped his pup towards the corner of the room. When Ethan felt something brush against him, he turned to see the leather sling. He clasped his hands behind his big bad’s neck as large paws planted themselves just below his butt cheeks. Aiden lifted the small body and laid it in the sling, placing the legs in the straps. Bending over, he devoured his mate’s mouth, probing it with his tongue. The look in the sapphire blue eyes expressed everything and said the one thing without words that caused Aiden’s eyes to flash their beautiful amber. “I need you in me NOW!”

Aiden raised his pup’s ass, burying his tongue in it to prepare for his turn. As the blue eyes watched intently, he lowered the body and seductively let a large line of spit drop to his hard shaft. He moved his hardness around the opening and smeared the natural lubrication around before sliding fully inside. With how turned on he was from all that had been done to him, Aiden did not even last five minutes before he filled his mate with a massive load. Never stopping his pumping motion, even as he was shooting, Aiden kept going. As Ethan clawed and begged for more, he filled his blond love again. He shifted into his hybrid without slowing and drove them to a near simultaneous third climax. Their eyes never broke contact.

Fully sated, Aiden’s body reverted to its human form, and he crawled into the sling beside his pup, wrapping his arms around the man he loved so much.

“I can’t believe you built all this without me knowing. Thank you! And thank you for the roses too.”

“It was a challenge, but I wanted to surprise you and thought this could be kind of fun for us.”

“This is definitely going to be a lot of fun for us. I’m looking forward to my turn locked to the bench, letting you do whatever you want.” Ethan’s grin lit up the room.

“I could cuddle with you all night here, but I really need to get up and pee.”

“Me too.”

The pair walked hand in hand to the adjoining bathroom. The original bright lights and white paint had been replaced by soft light and darker colors. Aiden went to the toilet and lifted the lid. Before he could do anything, Ethan shook his head and led them to the large shower where he knelt on the floor. Not needing to be asked twice, Aiden let his stream go, coating the small body everywhere he could. Ethan grinned as he gazed up to meet his mate’s eyes, before he leaned his face into the stream, soaking his hair. He was completely drenched by the time the flow was nearly finished. Engulfing the tip of the dick, he took the last of it and licked the end clean. They quickly traded places. A kneeling Aiden felt his pup’s stream hit him on the chest and sprayed all over his body, getting marked by his mate. It was just one more expression of their love.

******

Rafe was concerned when he noticed his son looked and acted tired at work. He finally walked over to see if Casey was alright. As Rafe neared, he could pick up a subtle change in his son’s scent. Glancing at the base of his boy’s neck, a smile spread across the gruff man’s face as he saw not one but two bite marks. “Your mother and I had a bet going on how long before you let them bite you. I figured it would be a few more months before you realized your feelings for each other. She said it was just a matter of weeks. Congratulations.”

“So, you and Mom aren’t upset I’m mated to two guys? And two non-wolves at that?”

“It’s a little out of the ordinary, but are you happy? Do you love them? Didn’t we already accept them into the family?”

“Yes, sir. To all of those questions. I know neither is my true mate, but even before they bit me, I couldn’t imagine being without them.”

“We could tell you three were imprinting. I’m happy for you and proud of you following your heart. Having two mates is a bit unusual, but in a way it makes sense since you’re all protectors of the same pair. You just closed ranks and made it so no outside force can ever come between you and those you’re bound to protect.”

“Thanks, Dad. Cody actually said about the same thing with our need to protect Ethan as well as Aiden.” Casey stood and gave his dad a strong hug.

******

Over the next two nights, Cody and Darius would each experience the same joy, pleasure, and burst of emotions as they felt the teeth of the other two sink into the tender flesh of their neck. To drink in the blood from their mate as they offered their own fluids in exchange. Though their bond was sealed after the first night, each wanted and needed to bear their partners’ marks.

******

The last vestiges of winter tried to hold on. There was still a chill in the air and a few traces of snow on the ground. The pack held their weekly meeting in the courtyard of the new apartments. With little left to finish and two buildings fully occupied, it was decided a dedication and grand opening party was due. Tucker construction had done an outstanding job on the site and with the increased population of the pack, the additional housing was needed. The influx of once feral wolves pushed their numbers to over seven hundred.

The residents insisted on throwing the party as a thank you. Not only for having a new place to live, but for everyone making it feel like a home. There were still about fifteen units available in the third building; some of them were designated as guest housing until such time as they were needed. The original apartments in town had been vacated and would soon receive a complete renovation. All the residents of the old building wanted to live in the new housing.

“Ladies and gentlemen, it’s a pleasure to be holding this week’s meeting here. This project was completed ahead of schedule and under budget. Thanks in part to the many residents who put in a considerable amount of sweat equity into the construction. Had it not been for Rafe Tucker and Tucker Construction, it’s doubtful this would have even started. He came up with the idea to convert an old, unused building into temporary housing. Rafe then set out to make it into the wonderful units we now have. As always, this pack fills me with joy at being your alpha.”

Jonas had been elected as the residents’ spokesperson. “Alpha and Luna Stockdale, everyone from Tucker Construction, and members of Parker Valley Pack. All of us now living here, both old and new, are humbled by this wonderful home you’ve built for us. Mister Tucker and his family did an outstanding job as I hope you’ll all see when you walk through. Mister and Missus Tucker, Alpha and Luna, would you do us the honor of cutting the ribbon to officially open the compound?”

John and Jackie stepped forward with Mary and Rafe taking up position beside them. Jonas handed them each scissors. On the count of three, they all made a cut to the claps and cheers of those present.

John called out to the crowd. “Everyone, enjoy walking through and seeing the complex. I ask only one thing, please be back here in one hour as I have an addition announcement to make at that time.”

******

Casey strolled off on his own while people checked out the new housing. He smiled happily as he watched both his mates talking with their friends. Pulling out his phone, he sent a text to Trevor.

C <Hey Bro. Miss you here>

T <Miss you too. How’s things>

C <Really good. Opening new apartments today. Oh, and I’m mated now>

T <What? You? When? Cody or Darius?>

C <Couple nights ago. Cody and Darius>

T <Always knew one guy wouldn’t be enough for you>

T <Proud of you!>

C <Thank you. Can’t wait ‘til you come home next>

T <Love ya, Bro. I’ll be home soon so we can party to celebrate your mating>

******

The pack reassembled for the announcement the alpha planned on making. Everyone assumed it had something to do with the new construction project.

“Thank you all for coming back. There are two items of importance I wanted to discuss. The first is to address a formal petition for permanent membership by two people we have all gotten to know. They were hired as hunters but have shown true dedication to Parker Valley. Fighting with us during the November battle and helping recover those taken in the assault by the gang. Darius McDonnell and Cody Marshall, please step forward.” As they stood facing the alpha, he noticed the bite marks on either side of their necks. A knowing smile spread across his face. “Casey Tucker, front and center. It’s tradition to stand with your mates.”

The plural reference caused gasps around the assembled crowd. Casey stood with pride between his two men.

“Darius McDonnell, Cody Marshall, you have both petitioned us for membership. Is it still your wish to become a member of Parker Valley Wolf Pack?”

They snapped to attention, responding loud and proud. “Yes, Alpha. We wish to be members, like our family, Clan Tucker.”

“Do you both pledge to follow our rules and laws? To protect and defend all your pack mates to the best of your ability?”

Again, the response was a loud and definite, “Yes, Alpha.”

“Members of Parker Valley Wolf Pack, do you accept Darius and Cody’s pledge and in turn offer your pledge to accept them as your brothers? To protect and defend them as you would every other member of the pack?”

The voices of most all present responded with a resounding, “We do, Alpha.”

“Casey, would you present Darius’ right wrist please?” The alpha stepped forward and with a claw on his index finger, created a small scratch that formed a drop of blood at the wrist. Leaning in to scent the blood, he smiled and stepped back. “Now Cody’s wrist if you please?” John repeated the procedure and scented Cody’s blood before stepping back from the trio. “Darius McDonnell and Cody Marshall, from this day forward you are now full members in this pack. Your contributions to Parker Valley and the distinctiveness of your species make us stronger as we welcome the wonders of nature that make us all who we are. Welcome, my brothers, to the family. Congratulations. And congratulations to the three of you on your mating.

“With the inclusion of all shifters into our family, I am removing the word wolf from our name. We are now officially the Parker Valley Pack.”

There was lots of cheering for the newest members. Zach Tucker jumped up from his chair next to Mary and his brothers and ran over to hug Darius and then Cody. Casey ruffled his little brother’s hair at his exuberance.

“Now, for the final item of the day. As alpha, the pack’s future and longevity is something that’s always on my mind. I know if anything were to happen to me or my mate, this pack would be in good hands with our beta and council. Unlike some, we try to have a line of succession in place. I know there are many strong and worthy wolves who would make fine alphas when Jackie and I eventually decide to step down. Talking with the council, my beta, and enforcer, one wolf has stood out with his dedication to the pack and the wellbeing of each member.”

John stopped for a moment, his eyes scanning all those who called him alpha. Everyone held their breath waiting for him to finish his statement.

He took Jackie’s hand. “It’s with the greatest pleasure and honor, after having watched him grow up into the fine young man he’s become, that I announce I’m elevating Aiden Jacobs-Tucker to the rank of Alpha Designate. He’ll immediately assume the duties and responsibilities of a secondary beta while he’s in training. As Aiden’s mate, and also do to his own nature and dedication to us, the title and rank are also extended to Ethan Jacobs-Tucker.”

At first, there was silence as people processed what their leader had said. Aiden looked like he was facing down a speeding train and could not move. Ethan had no clue what it meant beyond the fact his mate’s name was used in the same sentence as alpha, but then again, so had his. Although it was a slightly delayed response, someone called out. “Let’s hear it for the future alpha pair, Aiden and Ethan.” All of a sudden, the crowd was cheering.

When the ovation died down, the alpha decided to continue. “Yes, as some of you may have guessed, their exceptional nature and gifts did factor into the decision. But mostly it was due to the man Aiden has turned into. I know this is not something he sought, but I hope when the time comes he’ll heed the call from this pack to serve. Now, Ethan, before you pass out, while you have the same new rank as your mate, how you fill that role will be entirely up to you. You two may end up equally sharing the responsibility of alpha, or you may take a more behind the scenes approach like Jackie and nurture the pack in a way I know Aiden and I can’t. Ultimately, you’ll both fill the role in the way that suits you best and in a way that is true to yourself. That’s all anyone could hope for.”