Love in the Shadows - 2. Chapter 2: Sweet Start

The previous night had been something out of Mason's dreams. He had seen his mate. Got to smell him. And the one thing he understood was he needed more. Vincent became his object of desire.

Since laying eyes on the little human, Mason had spent the last thirty-six hours fantasizing about intimate times with him. He growled, imagining the beautiful body laying before him, Vincent’s legs spread in anticipation. The longing to mate with him had been pulling strings in the back of Mason’s mind. His member hadn’t been a quiet muscle.

Dave had texted earlier in the morning, saying they needed to meet. He had more details on his date with Vincent. Mason and his beta made plans to grab a bite at JD’s for lunch. It was Mason’s favorite spot. Good gods, those burgers…

Grinning ear to ear, Mason pulled his truck into the small diner’s parking lot. He was going to learn more about how to please his man. He stepped out to see Dave and his white truck taking the spot next to his.

“Dave! Had a good shift?” Mason walked towards his beta and stretched out a hand for a shake. Dave met it with a firm grip and a dip of his head, exposing his neck, submitting to the powerful alpha.

“Shift was good, pretty easy night. Damn warehouse dinks keep sending stupid stuff.” Dave leaned in and whispered, “They sent me eighty-four bottles of generic, fat free ranch. Even all the Karens in Owensville can't help me now.” Dave snickered as Mason chuckled.

Mason walked towards the diner, with Dave following, and opened the door. The two wolves claimed their usual booth, sitting across from each other.

“So, you have some details on my mate?”

Dave smirked and rested an elbow on the table. “Yeah, and I kinda needed you to be sitting.” Mason’s smile quickly melted. Dave’s followed suit. “It’s nothing bad, Mace. Vincent and I had a long talk the other night after the shift, and he… let me know of things that you should hear.”

***

Ho. Lee. Shit. What, in the ever present gods, did I just hear? My mate’s actually a very powerful mage. Pretty well adept in three affinities. One being the shadow one. Vinnie’s academic, cunning, and even a little hot-headed…

That’s fucking hot! I mean, pretty disturbing he may be able to take me in a fight, but that just makes him even sexier. Makes me want to force him to submit to me. Submit to my wolf.

And he’s hurt. His family was torn from him, and he’s hunting those responsible. Mason’s anger rose. My mate isn’t alone in all of this. The alpha itched to shift. I’m going to kill this Stefan bastard! He clenched his fists on the table.

“Mace. Calm down.”

Mason’s eyes shot up, his irises flashing gold. He was almost irritated the beta had interrupted his train of thought.

“I know the breakfast rush just ended, but there are a few humans here. As your friend and beta, I’m asking you to simmer down.” Dave took a sip of his coffee and set the mug down. “We don’t need a big silver wolf chewing these leather seats, right?”

Mason snorted, half-annoyed and half-humored. Taking a big breath, he relaxed into the seat. “You’re right. It’s just a hell of a lot to take in. I mean, I just wish I could’ve been there to see a cute, tiny man hold a six-foot-tall wolf hostage!” He smirked as the slightly older shifter rolled his eyes.

“Yeah. That was… totally funny.” Dave’s voice dripped sarcasm. “Would've liked to see you deal with having icy daggers at your throat.” Dave sipped his coffee again, “So that was the first reason I needed to talk to you today. Now for the big topic of the week.”

Mason listened attentively. That wasn’t the big announcement?

“So… Vincent made a… demand.” Dave picked up his bean juice mug, awaiting an outburst. He stared at Mason, who leaned back. A smile flashed across the bigger man’s face.

“That’s real cute. My little Vinnie thinks he can make demands.” Of course, he can get anything he wants. Only the best for my mate. Mason put his hands on the back of his head, keeping his mind on his special man. “What can I do for him?”

Dave shot him a skeptical look. “Mace? Are you good, man?”

“Yeah. Why do ya ask?”

“Well, usually, when someone asks you to do something, you kinda lose your cool and get seriously pissed.”

Mason leaned forward. “Vincent’s my mate. I’ll do anything to make sure he’s happy. No, I need to make sure he gets everything he ever needs.” The alpha sat back, but kept eye contact with his beta. “Dave, when you find your mate, you’ll understand. With Vincent, I want him to be the happiest man alive. Don’t get me wrong, I still need to show that I’m the strongest and in charge, but he’s an alpha’s mate. He deserves the world.” He also deserves to be underneath me with my hands on his slender body.

“What did Vinnie need?” Mason looked completely lax, doing his best to hide his nervousness.

Dave sat straighter. “Vincent thinks you should be the one to ask him out. Not me.” He drank the last bit of coffee. “Far from it for me to ask you to do something, but I believe Vincent’s right here. I think you should stop by the store and introduce yourself.”

The alpha thought about simultaneously doing two things: he wanted to take his beta out to the truck and give him a good barking, asking where he got off telling his alpha what he should be doing. Mason also wanted to kick himself in the ass for putting relationship matters with his own mate onto Dave’s shoulders. This is the most cowardly act that I’ve ever done. I feel like a girl in middle school.

“Yeah, you’re right, man. I should have manned up and said hi. Does Vinnie work tonight? I’d like to stop by and see him.”

Dave nodded. “Yep, he’ll be there tonight. I’ll stick him on aisle eight again, so you can also grab the spaghetti you forgot.” A cheeky smile landed on Dave’s face as he slid his money across the table.

Once again, Mason growled. Thinking about going to the market twice in the same week was irritating. I hate grocery shopping! If my mate wasn’t employed there, I wouldn’t go in unless I had to.

The two men rose ready to continue their day. Looking at his friend, Mason could tell Dave was ready to sleep. His thoughts returned to the objective. He needed to make sure he approached Vincent properly and not scare him. Or piss him off. There’s a small chance he could kick my ass…

***

Mason’s yawn was deep and rumbling as he slumped in the driver’s seat. He stalked Greenthumb’s parking lot, needing to see his mate, even if he was practically sleepwalking.

After his meal with Dave, Mason worked on his parent’s farm, but not the kind of tasks he enjoyed. On a perfect day, the wolf would roam the crop fields or spend time restoring his father’s old tractor. Needless to say, perfect days didn’t happen all the time. It was near the end of the month, and paperwork needed to be prepared for the next. Mason hated paperwork.

Putting it off for too long, he had to hunker down in his office for the better part of the day. Inventory intake, supply usage, looking for buyers, and reviewing expenses. Crunching the numbers wasn’t the issue but how long it took was. Mason wasn’t a patient man and wanted the job done.

Several hours later, invoices filed, and a stack of manila envelopes ready to be mailed, he was done. Looking at his watch, he realized Vinnie’s shift started in an hour. He shot out of the chair to stiff muscles and shuffled to the shower. On the way down the hall, the wolf shed his clothing, hurrying to get to the store before Vincent clocked in.

The sound of incoming vehicles stirred Mason back to the present. Several cars and a few trucks pulled into the same corner of the parking lot. He fixed his sight on them, waiting to see who came out.

Doors opened and closed across the employee parking area. Mason glanced at each person as they exited their vehicles. Three more came out of an aged, beige Toyota Corolla: the man and woman from the other night. And Vincent.

Mason straightened before leaning forward to make sure he didn’t need glasses. My mate doesn’t have his own ride? He’s a powerful mage with an ability to damn-near teleport, and he chooses to catch a ride with coworkers? He eyed Vincent from across the parking lot, paying attention to his every move. The baby-blue v-neck and blue denim jeans he wore showed his slender muscles and slight baby fat.

Gods, how will I be able to keep my hands off that man? Mason had always preferred men. There’s something about having a man under you, and him submitting to a more dominant individual. He really had a thing for shorter men who could take care of themselves physically. And my Vinnie fits that bill.

His sight followed Vincent as the man entered the store. I’ll give him a few minutes to get clocked in, and I’ll follow.

***

Well, another night means another nine hours of… spaghetti sauce? Doesn’t happen often that I get the same aisle three nights in a row. Must be doing good on my stock times in it. A smile crossed Vincent’s face, knowing he’d been assigned a section he was efficient at. Stock crews were usually thrown in different places unless you were pretty fast in a particular area.

He didn’t think the corridor was too rough. Eight was nicknamed the dinner one. After the managers ran all the numbers, it was the most popular in the store. The one section had all the canned meats, pasta noodles and sauces, salad dressings, and soups. Sure, it called for the most cases, but most of the product was shelf-ready: just cut off the plastic and shove it on a shelf.

After about fifteen minutes of stocking, Vincent got himself into his usual rhythm. Oh yeah, it’s going to be a pretty smooth night, and that means an easier time keeping up with my wards. After the big scary alpha had shown up and blown through his previous ones, Vincent placed an additional one between the first by the door and the second near him.

The problem was at ten in the evening the store was still crowded. Having a mental ding going off in your head every four seconds was annoying. Vincent decided to keep the wards off until midnight, or until traffic died down. I doubt Stefan would send a merc into a crowded building. So now I can relax soundly for a few hours without looking over my sh—

Vincent’s eyes shot wide open as the hairs on the back of his neck stood straight. The feeling was familiar: someone was watching him. He turned his head to one side to see no one. Then shifted his body around to almost bump into a wall of a man.

“Oh, sorry about that, sir! Anything I can help… you… ” Vincent slowly looked up to see the stalker from the other night. In front of him. So close Vincent could feel the body heat emanating from the much larger man, and that made the mage weak in the knees.

Mason grinned at a nervous Vincent. “Yeah, can you show me where the noodles are? I’m making a nice dinner this weekend.” He dug his dark brown eyes into Vincent’s hazel ones.

Blood rushed to Vincent’s cheeks as he struggled to pry his eyes away from the wolfman’s. “Ye-yeah, they’re at the end of the aisle on the right, over there.” He pointed in the proper direction.

“Oh. Well, I was wondering if you could show them to me. I need a good recommendation.” Mason dipped his head closer to Vincent’s ears and whispered, “I have a date on Friday, and I haven’t a clue what he would like.”

Vincent desperately searched for stability. The man had caught him off guard, causing his legs and brain to turn to pudding. He’s so forward, and completely unabashed! Okay, Vin, get ahold of yourself. You can handle this. He’s just talking to you. Not stalking, or roaring, or shredding. Talk!

“’Kay. Let me show you.” See? Talking. You remember, Vin? The first thing you were taught as a kid? “Are you planning on using red or white pasta sauce?”

The brows on the larger man flickered. “I intended to use red, but if you have a better option, my ears are all yours.”

“Alright. Everyone loves a standard tomato sauce, but I think alfredo’s a bit more versatile. If that’s your choice of sauce, I recommend this vermicelli noodle. But if tomato’s your thing, you can’t go wrong with standard spaghetti.”

“Sounds like you know how to cook. Can’t say I’ve used alfredo much. What makes it… versatile?” The wolf’s grin was smug.

Embarrassment swept over Vincent. He recognized the wordplay just a second too late. “Well, alfredo’s pretty ve—useful!” Nice try, wolfie. “You can add crushed garlic cloves, leaf spinach, sauteed mushrooms... And the flavor of toasted garlic bread comes out just a little better than with tomato-based sauce.” Vincent read the man’s expressions when he mentioned all the vegetables. Meat eater. Should have seen that one coming…

“Or you can add bacon or sausage as the meat for extra flavor.” Eyeballs returned to Vincent as he spoke. Yep, meat-eater. Might need to work on that one. The grocer walked a few steps over to the sauces to point out a couple of brands most people skipped out on. “These two here are the best-kept secrets in the world. They're a little bit more expensive, but it's totally worth it.”

Mason seemed surprised by his culinary knowledge. “Really? These don’t look too bad. I think I’ll get them both.”

“Cool. Just don’t mix them together, the flavors won’t complement well.” Please don’t tell me you just came in to get my opinion. ”Anything else I can help you with?”

“Yep, there’s something I need.”

Vincent trembled as he waited for the alpha to voice his request. Great, he needs more? What now? Garlic toast or breadsticks?

“I’m gonna need your number, and a time to pick you up on Friday.”

A gentle smile appeared on Vincent’s face, just as a smug grin went on Mason’s. Vincent gave the man his digits, feeling a bit like a floozy. Mason put the number in his phone and sent a text. A ding came from Vincent’s pocket. Pulling out the phone, he saw a contact was shared titled Mason Wilson.

“Well, Mason, I’m Vincent. It really is nice to meet you.” Just a speck of shade for stalking me.

“Oh, no. The pleasure’s all mine. Do you prefer to be called Vincent, or are nicknames allowed?”

“Just because you asked, I’ll allow it. I usually hate being called Vin or Vinnie. You’d be really surprised to hear how creative people can get.”

“Vinnie it is. When and where can I pick you up?”

“I can send you my address early Friday morning.” Vincent looked at his phone’s lock screen clock. Damn, time flies. I need to get my work done. “Hate to cut you off, but I kinda need to get back to work. I’ll be texting you later, 'kay?”

Mason seemed disappointed his time got cut short, but he understood. “Sure thing. Didn’t mean to hold you up.” He grabbed a box of the recommended vermicelli and put it in his hand basket. “It was incredible to meet you, Vinnie.” Just as Mason turned to leave, Vincent grabbed hold of the bigger man’s hand in a rush. He knew he was being contradictory, but he felt an urge to clear the air.

“Great to see you too, Mason. It means a lot that you came in. I know you didn’t mean to send Dave in the first place, but you definitely made it up by doing this.” Vincent rubbed his fingers through the man’s much larger hand, making Mason shiver. “I’ll text ya in the morning, and maybe we can do something between now and Friday. You know, casually?”

Mason slowly pulled his hand from Vincent’s, but lightly latched on to the tips of the fingers. He lifted the hand towards his lips and kissed the fingertips.

Letting go, Mason dipped his head and whispered, “I’ll see you soon, hot stuff.” He then gripped his basket, licked his lips, and walked towards check-out.

Vincent watched as his sexy date stepped away. The wolf was no longer a scary threat. Dave kept his word. He’s just looking for a date. Don’t know why he’s going after a nerdy guy like me. He can probably get anyone he wants, especially as an alpha. The mage shrugged and got busy with his work, considering he was now behind by twenty minutes.

***

“Oh, man! Rough night!”

Waiting in line to use the time-clock, Vincent was in agreement with his coworker’s outburst. Jeez, that was a big truck! Eight had five full pallets. My arms and legs feel like jelly! Vincent walked up to the machine, punched in his employee ID, and used his fingerprint to clock out for the day.

He felt a firm hand on his shoulder and turned to see Dave, smiling like always. “Good job tonight, Vincent. You’re not too shabby on aisle eight. You ran ten hours worth of product in just eight!”

“Really?” Vincent proudly smiled. “That’s awesome!”

“Yeah. Hope you don’t mind, but I’ll probably have you on eight from now on. No one can hardly get it done on time, but you breezed through it like nothing.”

Vincent didn’t mind it. And he would get faster with repetition by memorizing where everything went. “Sure, Dave. Whatever makes the job easier.”

“Awesome. Also, Rich over in frozen’s going on vacation next week, so I might have you working some half-grocery, half-frozen shifts to cover that. Make sure to bring a light jacket and gloves.”

“Gotcha.”

“Alright. You got a ride home today?”

“Yeah, Elise and Darnell said they could drop me off when they picked me up.” Vincent hated relying on others, and while having his own vehicle would be really useful for work, he didn’t see much of a point. He could travel in the shadows much faster. Although, it would be nice during daytime when shadows are scarce. May have to look into getting some wheels…

Dave had his phone out, and his fingers were furiously tapping. Vincent gave a light snort. Probably answering his girlfriend’s fifty million texts. Man, this new one’s a little crazy, even for Dave. Sure hopes he wakes up and sees it before she finds a way to trap him. Several taps later, Dave slipped the phone in his front pocket and let out a sigh, “Sorry about that, bud. Ladies. Be thankful you’re into guys.”

Vincent laughed and turned to head outside, following Dave. Can’t wait to get home and shower! Then going to head over to Beansies for a coffee and start on that book I checked out of the library. Thoughts of the tome of frost magical records from nineteenth-century Greenland nomads filled his imagination as he felt the fresh air hit his nose.

Until he smacked his face into Dave. The collision caused Vincent to stumble backward and land on his rear. The hard concrete was going to leave a bruise.

“Oh shit! Vinnie! You alright?”

The dull pain throbbed as Vincent ignored the question.

“Hey! You good?”

Vincent’s eyes shot open as he looked up. That wasn’t Dave’s voice. Sounded like…

His gaze landed on his dreamboat date. He stared at the man, dressed in a navy blue polo that fit a little too well, who had a look of concern plastered on his face. Mason bent down ready to assist him. Blinking several times, just to confirm the man was actually in front of his face, Vincent brought himself back to reality.

“M-Mason. What are you doing here?”

“Are you alright? Are you hurt? Can you get up?”

“Huh? Oh, oh yeah. I’m good, just lost where I was for a second.”

Mason stretched out a hand. Vincent grasped it, feeling how warm and large it was. Lost in the moment, his arm was pulled with surprising force, lifting his body to his feet. Jeez! Pull my arm out of its socket, why don’cha?!

“Well, glad to see you’re okay.”

Vincent tried his best to keep from blushing. This guy looks like he genuinely cares. “Thanks, Mason.”

“Call me Mace. Keeps my full name from rhyming.”

It took a moment, but a giggle escaped Vincent, realizing Mason’s first and last name did rhyme. Oh, man. That must really get annoying. “Alright, Mace. But you still didn’t say why you’re here.”

Mason rubbed the back of his head. “Well, not gonna lie to ya. I pulled in last night as you all did, and I saw you carpooled. So I figured you might need a ride when you got off work.” The lycan kept shifting his weight from foot to foot. It was as if he was nervous.

Vincent kept himself as composed as he could be. This guy. Stalking me outside my work. Thinking he’s all slick and stuff. A smile crept on Vincent’s face. “That was sweet of you. I’m sorry, Mace, but I already told Elise and Darnell I’d give them a couple bucks for gas to take me home.” His eyes flew over to the employee parking to see…

The beat up beige Toyota Corolla pulling out of the lot and towards the traffic light. Just freaking great. Let’s see if I ever offer to give them gas money again!

Mason looked at the dingy sedan drive away. “Looks like they had a different idea. Listen, my offer still stands. I’ll even throw in a cup of coffee and a bite to eat.”

Oh, you’re good! He’s persistent, I’ll give him that! Vincent was a little hungry, but he still had a lingering trust problem with the Alpha. “I really appreciate—”

If his day couldn’t be thrown off any more, Vincent’s stomach rumbled, demanding food. Blood rose to his cheeks, as Mason and Dave could not help but chuckle.

“I think that settles it. You’re coming with me.” Mason placed his hand square on Vincent’s back and pushed him forward to his truck parked in front of the store. While dealing with a slightly fussy man, Mason turned and waved to his beta good-bye.

He opened the passenger door for his date. “Need any help up? My truck’s kinda big.”

Well, fuck… I’ll say! Vincent saw the seat was as high as his chest. I might need to pole vault just to buckle in! “Umm, I think I got it.” He first placed his left foot on the shiny step-up under the door frame, and jumped to grab the e-handle on the roof of the cabin. One little hop, and Vincent sat down in the largest truck he had ever laid eyes on.

He admired the incredibly clean and sleek interior. Squeaky clean and nice leather. Must have cost him a pretty penny. The driver side door opened, and Mason stepped in with ease. Vincent furrowed his brow, despising the fact it took no effort for him to get in. Must be nice to be tall. The door closed, and the shifter locked eyes with his passenger. Vincent’s body shivered, and as much as he wanted to look away, the man’s gaze kept his full attention.

Mason smiled, “Want a cup of coffee?” He narrowed his eyes, “My treat.”

Blood rushed to the mage's cheeks. He makes me feel like prey. "Umm… I mean, I won't turn it down."

"Good!" The wolf put his key in the ignition and started the truck. "Where do you usually go?"

"I usually head to Beansies, but if you got some place in mind, I'm down. Just not JD's. I've already been there twice this week."

"Beansies sounds good." The wolf put the truck in drive, and slowly left the parking lot. Mason turned down a side street, then onto Main Street.

"So, Dave tells me you just got into town a month or two ago. What brought you here?"

"Well, Owensville's county library’s one of the largest in Kentucky, and has many old texts that can't be found elsewhere." Vincent was not fibbing. He heard of the three-story library from some academics he met in Arizona and made a quick shadow run to see.

He fell in love.

Historic texts that would make collectors ogle. Digital archives dating back to pre-Revolutionary War eras. Spacious reading areas, and dedicated research rooms with marker boards for long studies. Vincent had spent many a night with piles of magical tomes in those rooms.

But the library didn't last long as his only obsession. Coffee ran in the mage's veins, and Beansies became a love affair. They had an extensive menu of hot and iced brews, tasty baked goods, and an exquisite taste in modern decoration.

Vincent brought his attention back to the conversation at hand. "Plus the town’s quiet, and I can kick back a bit. Life's been rough the past couple of years."

Mason furrowed his brow. "How so?"

The shorter man slumped in his seat and ran a hand through his hair. "Most places I go to, I can't land a job since I don't have a lot of experience in any one field. It's just a little of this and that. I'm just happy I ran into Dave when I did, or I probably would have kept moving."

Turning his head slightly, Mason glanced at Vincent, "Well, for what it's worth, I'm glad you stuck around." The wolf placed a hand on the passenger’s knee. "You're too cute to skip town."

Vincent blushed at the compliment and struggled to keep blood from rushing to his jeans. "Thanks! You're not too bad yourself." He smiled.

“Ha ha! Glad I meet your standards.”

“Oh… ha! Well, you definitely exceed them. I’m actually surprised you want to go on a date with me. Hot studly guy like you can get anyone in the world, but you’re going after me.” Vincent’s smile faded into a grimace. “I’m a nobody, and I’ve always been kind of a loner. All of my foster homes didn't want—”

A growl caused the windows to vibrate.

“Vincent.” The young mage peered from the corner of his eyes. Mason’s fingers gripped the steering wheel tightly and his muscles trembled. But when he locked his golden irises with Vincent orbs, he relaxed his arms. “I will not stand for that sort of talk. You’re most certainly not a nobody.” Mason reached over and squeezed the mage’s knee. “Give yourself some credit and self-respect. You deserve that much, at least.”

Every ounce of emotional strength in Vincent’s body was being spent. He wanted to break down and sob so hard. I know every word he said’s true. But damn it, it’s my life, and it was how I was brought up. I’m allowed to be depressed about it!

“Hey, hey.” Mason’s calming voice brought Vincent back. “I didn’t mean to make you feel bad, Vinnie. Just wanted to cheer you up. I know growling wasn’t the best move on my part, but my wolf couldn’t help it.” Mason placed the engine in park. They were at Beansies, but the wolf kept talking.

"You gotta be proud of yourself, bud. You're a brilliant mage with kick-ass powers and, from what Dave tells me, you're the fastest stocker in the crew!" The wolf leaned in close to Vincent. "And if I were to bet, you're probably the smartest person in this town."

Warmth filled Vincent's heart. No one had ever said something like that to him. His puffy eyes looked up to his new friend. "Thanks, Mason. That really means a lot." He wiped his eyes and composed himself.

"Let's get coffee." The two men opened their doors to head inside the bean brewery.

Mason paced in front of his mate to open the door. "After you." He followed Vincent inside.

The aroma of coffee beans and baked goods blasted him as a welcome sign. Baristas working complicated espresso machines lined the stations, and workers slid trays of fresh croissants into the display racks.

Vincent and Mason walked to the queue, admiring the selection of bagels, breads, and cookies. The line seemed to be moving quickly as the cashier took orders like a champ. Fairly soon, they were next.

The tiny blonde girl waved at Vincent." Hey, Vin! You want the usual?"

"Yep. Black iced coffee and two double dark slims, Stacy."

"Coming right up. And for you?"

Mason flashed a quick smile, "Large caramel macchiato with almond milk and a croissant. Extra syrup, please."

Vincent's eyebrows rose. Umm, sweet coffee for a manly man? He squinted at Mason, and got a raised eyebrow in response, as if he were to say 'Go ahead, say something.'

"Gotcha, total comes to $14.27." Mason handed his debit card to Stacy, who took and slid it through her register. The two men turned and sought out seats.

They grabbed a high table in the corner and waited for their order to be called. Vincent had the intent of sitting across from his company, but Mason pulled his chair closer to his right instead.

Just as Mason was about to seat himself, Stacy's shrill voice hollered their order was ready. He turned and walked to the counter. Vincent watched as the lycan grabbed the blue-gray basket and cup holder, only to look at the cups and snort. The wolf placed the goodies in the middle of the table and handed him his coffee. "Thanks! So what was with that snort up there?"

"Your little friend thinks she's a comedian." Mason turned his cup so Vincent could see his new nickname.

Hunk.

The mage cracked up, covering his face so the noise would be deafened.

Crossing his arms, Mason leaned back and watched Vincent react to the silly moment.

"Oh my gods, that’s really funny! I'll need to text her later and tease her about this."

"You know the cashier like that?"

"Oh yeah. Stacy’s cool. She's been wanting to hang out, but with me working overnights, our schedules never work out. So we mostly text."

Mason smiled and reached for his croissant. He took a bite and rolled his eyes.

The mage stared. Croissants. Note taken. Vincent nabbed one of his cookies and took a big bite, washing it down with a swig of coffee. When he let the straw leave his mouth, he noticed Mason staring at his cookie. He smiled, grabbed the remaining whole one, and split it in half.

"Wanna try?"

Mason's eyes flashed hungrily, but took the offering with gentle hands, and bit down. After the bite, he set the cookie down and returned to the croissant, making his preference clear.

Mason leaned in after glancing around the room. Is he looking for something? The alpha’s gaze fixated on an individual sitting across the shop.

The middle-aged man, wearing a camping shirt and khaki cargo shorts, grumbled and shook his head in apparent disapproval of their interaction. A barely audible growl escaped Mason’s lips. He put his feet on the ground, apparently meaning to make his way to the human.

Vincent assumed there would be a confrontation. Mace seems like the guy to put someone in their place. He put his hand on Mason’s just before it left the table, “Hey, ignore him. We’re having a good time, and he’s not. I’d say he’s punishing himself by watching us.”

The wolf looked between both men and smirked at Vincent. “You’re right, but I still want to shove that guy’s head up his own ass.”

“I understand. I’m just not one for conflict.” Vincent grinned, “Besides, I think he’s just jealous.”

Mason laughed and turned Vincent's hand into his own.

***

The two men talked and laughed for what seemed like hours. Vincent enjoyed hearing the wacky stories of Mason and Dave when they were growing up. Can't wait to bring up lawn mowers around Dave.

Mason, on the other hand, did not get much out of Vincent. As it turned out, the two shared several favorite restaurants around town and the surrounding counties.

"Oh, man! This was fun, Mace."

"Sure was. But I think it's about time for you to go to bed. You do have work tonight, right?"

Vincent frowned. "Yeah. But then I get my night off!" That perked him up. And I'm going to make it a good one! Bubble bath with a bottle of sauvignon blanc, reading the frost history book, and a date with Mr. Stud. The alpha really grew on Vincent, and was no longer scary in any sense.

"Alright, time to get you home." Mason took the cups while Vincent grabbed the basket and carried it to the waste station. The wolf unlocked his truck with his key fob and ventured out of Beansies to open the passenger door. Vincent waved to Stacy and climbed in the cabin.

Mason jumped in, started the truck, and maneuvered out of the cramped parking lot. Vincent told him the apartment complex he was renting from and the wolf headed in that direction.

Several minutes later, the truck pulled up to the curb at the complex. Vincent wished the morning wouldn't end, but with a long yawn, he knew it was bedtime. The mage went to open the door, but the hand holding his tightened. He looked back at Mason.

"Vinnie, today was amazing, and I can’t wait until our date." The shifter grinned. "Let me walk you to the door."

Vincent smiled as his heart palpitated. With a smile like that, I might take you past the door. "I can't either, Mace." Both men opened their doors and Mason hopped out with ease, while Vincent took his time getting out of the monster-sized truck.

As the mage hopped down and walked to the door, he noticed Mason following closely. Just like at Greenthumb, he could feel the lycan’s radiating heat. Vincent got his keys from his pants pocket just as he felt the hairs on the back of his neck tingle. Man, I know he's looking at me! He stuck the key in and unlocked his door. Putting the key back in his pocket, Vincent turned around. "I'll see you Fri—"

The wolf got close and personal. He gazed down and leaned in. Vincent felt his muscles turn to goo.

"I had fun today, Vinnie." Mason placed his hand behind Vincent's back and pulled him toward his body. Leaning in further, his lips met Vincent's.

Vincent melted into the wolf's body and wrapped his arms around the man's hips. He touched his lips against Mason's, wanting more. The men pressed themselves against the apartment door for leverage as they shared this hot moment.

Mason’s lips opened and Vincent felt the tongue demand entrance. A whimper escaped him, and he allowed the sensual intrusion. Mason’s growl coursed through the mage’s body.

Gods be damned! He's good at this. Vincent gripped Mason's hips tighter, which caused another growl.

Mason gave one final kiss. Both men breathed heavily after their exchange.

"As much as I want to keep going, you need to get your sleep. We can pick this up on Friday. I'll be here at six."

"Okay." That was all Vincent could muster. He felt his lips were bruised and every bone in his body barely kept him standing. Blinking several times, he looked up to realize the wolf was still holding him. Fuck, he feels warm! I bet he’s an expert cuddler. He admired the man's eyes. I could stare at those for hours.

Mason narrowed his gaze, and gave his mate one more peck on the lips. "I'll see you later, hot stuff. Text me when you wake up." He let his grip on Vincent's back go, and moved away slowly, not letting him out of his sight. Once inside the truck, he started the engine and waved.

Vincent returned the motion. His curiosity popped, fished out his phone, and quickly tapped out a text to Mason, Should have asked, but just 1 question. Does this make me ur bf?

He saw the man turn around to see where he was going in reverse, but stopped and looked at what Vincent presumed was his phone. One second later, he saw the man's eyes flash gold.

Vincent's phone vibrated.

Fuck yes! Ur mine now.

The reply brought on the biggest smile ever. He looked up to see the set of golden eyes burning a hole through him. He couldn't help but let newfound joy into his heart. Waving once more, he turned to enter his home.

He took the world's fastest shower, put on a pair of basketball shorts, and flopped onto his bed. Exhaustion was settling in, so he grabbed his oversized fleece blanket and wrapped himself in it.

Vincent sighed, thinking about how great his morning was, even though he didn't get to go to the library like he wanted. But the morning with Mace was amazing! I think this could be a pretty good time. His last thought was of the smoldering make-out session before he drifted to blissful slumber.