Love in the Shadows - 9. Chapter 9: Tender Tears

“Really? I wasn’t expecting such a fast answer! I can arrange something nearer September, if that sounds good. That’ll give us about a month to make travel plans.”

Somewhat shaky, Vincent barely nodded. “That sounds fine with me. I think Elaine is set on improving my frost affinity, so that gives me some time to work on that.”

“Great! I’ll email my beta to clear my schedule for a few days. Once everything’s in order, I’ll send Mason the info.” Apparently struck by inspiration, a wide-eyed Tierney stared. “Mason, are you allowing Vincent to perform at his induction, or has that already happened?”

“That’s the plan. The meeting’s this Saturday, so that’s when I’ll introduce him to my pack. Why?”

“Permission to attend the meeting, Alpha Wilson? I’d be thrilled to see your mate’s performance.”

Vincent and Mason shared a glance. Mason shrugged. “Uh… permission granted.”

“Excellent! I’ll probably arrive a few days beforehand to sightsee. I’ve been meaning to tour a distillery or two. Hate to cut this short, but I have another meeting shortly. Happy hunting to you both.”

Mason closed the program when the screen went blank. “You sure about this, Vin? Tierney would’ve been fine if you said no.”

“I know, but he said he’d dig up info on Stefan. A favor was the least I could do.”

Mason wasn’t thrilled with the logic. “I know Ty’s a friend of Dad’s, but just because he said he’ll help you doesn’t mean you’re obliged to accept a fight.”

Vincent shrugged. “It’s a sparring match. It’ll be no different than when Miss Elaine asks. Besides…”

Right. He’ll have to fight Stefan eventually. “Best to get as much experience as possible, right?” Standing, he took a few steps and offered a hug. Vincent accepted. “Remember, you’re not alone in this anymore. Do you need to sit down and rest?”

Vincent’s answer was muffled but understood. “I think I’ll head back outside. I’m sure Miss Elaine has more to show me.”

“Alright, we’ll wrap up things here, hot stuff. Go show Mom what you’re made of.” Mason swatted his mate’s behind as he walked away. Vincent recoiled, stuck his tongue out, and left. The alpha turned to Lei and Dave. “Something wrong?”

“Were you going to ask for my input on your new enforcer?”

“I had to do it, Dave.” Mason crossed his arms and sat on the corner of the desk. “We’ve talked about this for months. Chris has been gone for two years now. I feel his loss just like you do but the position needed filling.”

“I still should have been informed.”

“I agree,” Lei interjected. “I won’t question your decision, but the lines of communication between alpha and beta must remain open. Not asking for Dave’s opinion makes his position meaningless.”

Irritation caused Mason’s eyes to glow. “His opinion isn’t meaningless! He’s avoided the subject every time I brought it up. Dave, if I asked you about filling the role, what would’ve been your response?”

Dave closed his eyes “It would’ve been no. It’s a selfish response, but I remember the night we lost him…”

“I understand that, but the pack must move on. Should my mate be unprotected?”

“No. I-I would’ve stepped up.”

Seeing his friend grieving, Mason closed the distance between them and gripped Dave’s shoulders. “I mourn your brother every waking moment. Not a single day goes by that I forget that goofy smile of his, or his skill as a hunter, or what he brought to Dad’s council. It was the worst night of my life.

“I respect you as my beta, but it can’t just be the two of us. We have jobs and other obligations. We need an enforcer. Caleb fits the bill, and he’s one of our most loyal members. Hell, he was one of Vincent’s childhood friends in Maryland! You already carry a big enough load being my advisor and a manager at Greenthumb. The added responsibilities would’ve killed you.

“We all miss Chris. You know I didn’t do this to stain his memory. I’m pretty sure he’d have kicked you in the balls by now.” Biting his cheek kept Mason from breaking down.

Lei placed his hand on the beta’s shoulder. “I miss him too, David. You know I hate that night more than anyone in the world. He died on my watch, and I’ll never be able to make it right.”

“S-sorry.” Rubbing away the tears, Dave sniffled and cleared his throat. “I’m sorry, Mace. I… I wasn’t ready to move on.”

“Then don’t,” Lei said. “You don’t have to move on, but the pack does. Keep your brother in your heart.” He retrieved glasses and a bottle from a cabinet and poured healthy shots. “Chris remains with us in spirit. He wouldn’t want you carrying on like this. ”

Mason raised his glass. “To one of the greatest enforcers to grace our pack. May his spirit fuel our hunts.”

“May he hold a light to guide our ways, and may the Seven keep it bright.”

Dave’s lips trembled when it was his turn, “To my little brother. May… May he be hunting in the forever forest above, savoring every bounty.”

***

Caleb watched as Vincent and Elaine practiced. It appeared monotonous, but the ailouros understood the process. He’s repeatedly making staffs as she breaks them. I can tell Elaine’s struggling more with each one. Caleb’s staring was interrupted by the mages stopping and looking at him. No, they’re staring at the house. “Is everything alright?”

Elaine turned to Vincent. “You felt that too?”

“What’s going on? It’s like my heart’s falling in quicksand.”

“Our mates are sad. If I’m to guess, those three are talking about Christopher again.” She appeared upset. “Anytime they’re together, the waterworks fly and the liquor cabinet empties.”

Caleb moved closer. “Who’s Christopher, ma’am?”

“I forget you’re still a newer member, Caleb. Christopher was Dave’s younger brother and an enforcer on my mate’s council. They went on a mission to take out nearby lycan hunters.” Elaine’s hair tumbled over her face. “They were ambushed by a group of ten with rifles loaded with silver.”

Vincent shivered. “Gods.”

The short statement gave Caleb plenty of information. He really doesn’t know a lot about shifters. Judging from the pretext, the lion already assumed the outcome, but let Elaine continue.

“Lei, Dave, Christopher, and two other pack members went out. Dave took a bullet to the thigh…” She hesitated before uttering, “Chris took one in the head.”

Caleb cringed. Damn! He saw Vincent’s distraught face. He took that hard, especially for not knowing the guy. Sharing the somber feeling, he knew standing around wasn’t the correct move. “Mrs. Wilson, permission to go inside? I wish to offer my condolences.” She nodded.

He knocked on the open door’s frame. “Pardon the intrusion. May I come in?”

The two alphas gestured, while Dave sat still, staring emotionless at the glass in his hand. Caleb caught the vibe he was an unwelcome entity in Dave’s presence. “Your mates felt a tug in your bonds. Lady Elaine assumed the reason and told us about what happened. I came to offer my sympathy. I can’t say I share your pain, but I do understand it.”

Dave glanced at him but returned to his drink with a huff.

Sadness and remorse wafted around the room like a thick miasma. Taking a few cautious steps forward, Caleb knelt at the beta’s side. “We don’t really know each other, and that’ll take time. Knowing my predecessor’s fate and his connection to you, I know I’m an unwelcome face.”

“That’s not it.” The beta chugged the drink’s remnants. “I didn’t get much of a choice with… with you.”

“I see. Then let me prove myself.” Seeing the wolf’s glare, Caleb gave a friendly smile. “I know lycan standards don’t call for it, but in the few prides I’ve been a part of, it’s customary for a new council member to receive the beta’s approval as well. I give you my solemn word that I’ll honor your brother’s sacrifice.

“Our alpha gave my family a home when we needed one. I told myself I’d do anything for this pack, and I’ll gladly renew that vow every day for the rest of my life. All I ask for's an opportunity.”

Neither man spoke for a while. Unsure of the next step, Caleb rose. He was met by Dave standing and sizing him up. “You really mean that? You’d give a vow every day?”

Caleb nodded.

“You’re dedicated. You’re not as obnoxious as Chris, but I can’t help but see his determination in your eyes. My brother died protecting this pack, and something tells me you’d do the same.” Dave sighed and clenched his eyelids. “Listen. I’m sorry if I acted like an asshole just now.”

“There’s no need to apologize. I only want to start this partnership right.”

“Gotcha. I’m sure Chris would be welcoming you with open arms, so I guess we’ll both be putting up with Mace’s bullshit.”

The two shared a chuckle, earning a low growl from their alpha. Caleb’s confidence was at an all-time high. Rocky start, but I think Dave’s willing to work with me. He was about to make a comment, but a heavy hand landed on his shoulder again. Turning, he saw Lei.

“I’ve seen ya at the meetings with your family, but we haven’t spoken a lot. I can tell your lion’s a powerful beast. He values loyalty and finds pride in a job well done. I believe you’ll make a fine enforcer, young cub.”

“Th-thank you, Alpha Wilson.”

“Forgive an aging wolf, but I remember an ailouros’ handshake’s a bit different. How’s it go again?”

“We grasp by the forearm and graze our nails across the skin.” Caleb extended his arm and gripped Lei’s offered hand.

“I’ll keep that in mind. If I can make one more request, Enforcer. I’d like to see your lion. My wolf hasn’t had the pleasure of examining him.”

“Of course.” Bringing the bottom hem over his head, he folded the shirt and laid it on the desk. He swiftly removed his pants and boxer briefs, then began his transformation. As his hands became paws, he fell to all-fours and finished the change. Lei approached and circled him. It had been years since Caleb was evaluated in such a manner. It stirred bitter memories.

Despite Lei being the judge, Dave was the first to speak, “Dude, you’re kickass! I’ve seen you at the pack hunts, but… Damn, this is awesome!”

“I agree. I’ve seen a few ailouros in my day, but I’d say you’re the most impressive of them all.” Lei stretched out his fingers, and Caleb brushed them with the side of his head.

Mason chuffed, “Pretty sure you could bust this table in half with those paws of yours. You know Vincent’s going to want to see you like this, right?”

Humming, Caleb thought of a ploy. He trotted carefully, not wanting to scratch the floors. Everyone followed him, but he didn’t want to go into the backyard. Mason seemed to catch the idea and let him out through the front door. Darting into the nearby treeline, he moved far enough away while keeping the house in his sightline. Payback time, Little B.

It took a few minutes, but he managed to quietly traverse through the forest behind the house. He watched Vincent train, waiting for the right moment. The mages were trading blows with their staves. There were times the two would stand still. Probably waiting for the other to make a move. At the first sign of them pausing, Caleb started his hunt. I’ll go slow. Keeping his direct gaze off the human, he trod with care. Elaine barely glanced at him, but seemed ready to play along. He was over halfway to his target when Vincent looked at the porch. He’s got to notice I’m not there. Gotta hurry!

When right behind his friend, he breathed on Vincent’s hand. Despite smelling the human’s fear, Caleb was impressed with Vincent’s composure. He has control! Most would panic and face me immediately. Content with frightening Vincent, Caleb rubbed the man’s arm with his head, ending with a lick of the fingers.

Their eyes connected, but the mage backed away slowly. “Oh shit…”

He followed Vincent. This is rich. I don’t think he remembers we’re in Kentucky, let alone who I am.

Both heard the laughter from the porch, causing Vincent to look away for a moment. Realization must have struck the mage. “Caleb?”

Bowing his head, Caleb laid down.

“Gods, G-man! You almost gave me a heart attack! If this was payback for earlier, you got me.” Vincent closed in and petted Caleb. It wasn’t often he allowed people to touch him, but seeing it was Vincent, he embraced the contact. “I get what Elaine was saying before; you’ll get cold during the winter.”

“That’s correct,” chimed Elaine. “Lion fur grows slightly in the colder months, but not as thick as other mammals. C’mon over boys! I want you four to memorize Mister Gage’s distinctions!”

In that moment, Caleb completely understood how intelligent the Mated Alpha was. She’s good. Beta-level smarts, if I had to guess. He accepted his temporary role as study material.

“Make sure you recognize him. Ailouros shifters are rare in this part of the States, but they’re incredibly hard to distinguish from one another, especially to a human like you Vincent. Even some wolves have difficulty telling them apart by scent.” Elaine bent and traced a finger along Caleb’s mane. “From the lions I’ve seen, Caleb has a part in his mane’s upper-right, and it’s blonder than most.”

Dave asked, “How much detail should we memorize?”

“As much as possible. When shifted, an ailouros can easily take down another lion and then take its place in an enemy formation. If they can’t catch the scent difference in time, particularly at night, things can go south fast.”

Harrumphing, Mason crossed his arms. “So it’ll be best to keep Caleb off night patrol?”

“Yes and no,” answered Lei. “Lions aren’t common in the midwest, so I don’t see it being problematic. But should there be travels to the west, say Arizona or Nevada, I’d be more considerate. At that point, Caleb’s smart enough to stay close by.”

Caleb appreciated the alpha couple’s insight. Saves me from explaining things to them. Best for them to know the drill now than in a pinch.

Dave hummed, “Didn’t Caleb take on Elaine when I brought Vin inside?”

Caleb closed his eyes and tucked his tail as Elaine giggled. “He just needs more practice against magic. His offense was commendable but tended to leave him open. So I wrapped him around the tree with some ice.”

Looking back at the oak, he shivered to see the remnants of magic. So cold! She kept me on my toes, that’s for sure.

“Caleb, how about you come to Vincent’s courses with me? I don’t mind having two students.”

Huffing, he agreed.

“Good. I think we’ve practiced enough for today. Vincent, come back every day around this time, and we’ll have your frost magic up to speed in a few months.”

Vincent grinned. “Yes, Miss Elaine.”

Before she turned away, she widened her eyes. “Oh, dear! It almost slipped my mind. I have something to give you.”

***

Following Elaine, Vincent stopped in awe of her reading room. Holy…

Contrary to the living room’s decoration, every space was filled with books. Not a single vase or knickknack in sight! Centered in the room were two chairs with an end table between them. He was smitten.

Using a step stool, Elaine reached for something on a corner shelf. “Here!” The red-bound tome was small. “This is my gift to you as your teacher.”

Vincent stared at the title. The Mage’s Guide to Traditional Fire Affinity Cooking? What good would this do me? I don’t have that. “Thanks Miss Elaine, but I don’t think this would do much good.”

Elaine smiled and leaned closer. "Oh, I believe it will. Open it."

With trepidation, Vincent flipped the cover and gasped. It's not a book! It’s hollow! He retrieved a black, beaded bracelet from its hiding spot and laid the book on the end table. "I love it!" Vincent put it on. Woah! I feel an aura around this thing.

"You feel the bracelet, don't you?"

Vincent nodded.

"It’s a rare and powerful artifact. I want you to wear it at all times. It has the capability to store and release magic. When you need more, pull from it like you were to pull on… say, your sight wards."

Vincent looked in between his mentor and his new gift. That's crazy! I didn't know something like this existed. This is incredible! It’s… It’s too much. "Ma'am, I can't accept this."

Elaine took hold of the wrist with the bracelet. "This was given to me by my teacher who received it from his. You have no say in the matter. I haven't used it in several years, and I believe it’s time to pass it on.

"Do me a favor and start meditating. Get the feel of the bracelet collecting energy."

Vincent nodded, understanding he was stuck with the jewelry. He sat cross-legged on the floor and focused on his magic. After a minute, he noticed his energy wasn't flowing like usual. He looked at the beads, about to call it a broken artifact, when he realized one was gray instead of black. Wow! It took my energy and turned it a different color. Vincent resumed meditating, hoping to see more change.

Giving it another five minutes, he reopened his eyes to see no other bead had changed. But the first one had turned a lighter gray. Damn, it’s a sponge! "Miss Elaine? How much energy can this thing store?"

"Good question. As each bead gets full, it turns snow white. I had it at seven the night of my mage's dance. When my Leidolf turned me."

His mouth shot open. He had multiple questions run through his mind. What was her dance like? Were people okay with having magic around them? How was the pack meeting? But the first one out of his mouth was the one he had been thinking about the most.

"What’s it like being turned?"

Elaine sighed. "I'm guessing he hasn't told you how it's done either?"

“No.”

"Very well. A human can be turned at any time for any reason, but most have been illegal for centuries. A human may only be turned if it’s to save their life or through the mating process.

"A human will be turned when a shifter's saliva enters their bloodstream. In traditional mating, the shifter bites its mate on the neck." She pulled her hair to the side, showing Vincent a large, faded wound. He gasped, covering his mouth in shock. "It's not as bad as you think. The lycanthropy virus acts as a numbing agent when it enters your body. The only pain you feel’s the initial bite."

The news was reassuring, but he still shook due to nervousness. His mind moved a million miles an hour. Bite. Mace would have to bite me. With teeth.

Elaine grasped Vincent's shoulders. "Do you feel for Mason? Do you recognize him as the one you’re destined to be with?"

Vincent snapped to. Mace. I feel for him, I really do. There's a pull for him even now, and I want to be near him. He's the one I've shared the most with. The one who’s been there the most. I… I honestly have no clue where I would be without him.

"Yes." The mage could barely keep himself together with his emotions running wild. "Yes to everything. I want him in my life."

Elaine smiled. "Then you have nothing to fear. Your mate would never hurt you. It’s done out of love; to make the bond between each other permanent."

The young mage wiped the forming tears. A permanent marking. To always remind each other of the bond they share. "Thank you for telling me."

"Anytime, sweetheart. The one thing I recommend is to hold off on completing your turning or your bonding until after your dance. Being turned takes a lot out of the human body. It can take several days to recover."

"Yeah, I suspected as much. I just couldn't find out how the turning process went. But you said to hold off on completing our bonding. Is that different from being turned?"

"Well… yes. It’s a different process. Although most shifters mating to a human often do both at the same time. Speaking a little unprofessionally, to complete your bonding with Mason, he would have to bite you and ejaculate inside of you simultaneously." Elaine gave a tiny huff as she straightened herself, surely ridiculing herself as she uttered the statement.

Oh! Well. Umm. So, I guess that’s going to be a thing. Mace… has to be inside of me… as he bites me… and… yeah. Vincent's cheeks grew blood red as he pushed the suggestive images out of his mind. For gods' sake, not in front of Miss Elaine!

"But, Vincent. I do understand the difficult decision you must make. I made mine when I found Leidolf, and it was the best choice in my life."

Vincent’s head whipped to her. "You were a human? Just like me?"

A thin smile appeared on her face. "Yes. A long, long time ago. He found me at Yale when he was on tour and… well, let's say I couldn't get away from him. It’s not a true and destined bond like yours and Mason's, but his wolf could not be denied. He’s my glass slipper, if you will. The man may seem brash at times, but he’s mine and I’m his. Forever."

Feelings of hope and joy filled Vincent. That’s so romantic! "I can't thank you enough for sharing this with me. The information, the training, the bracelet. Today has been absolutely amazing, and it's only four in the afternoon!"

"No, my dear boy. I should be thanking you. You entered our lives for a reason, bringing a light this pack hasn't seen in ages." She pulled Vincent into an embrace. "Now, you've been training hard, and my son’s probably wondering where I've hidden his mate. I believe you should have some quality time getting to learn more about him."

Vincent giggled. "Yeah, you're probably right. That, and I probably need to clean up a bit."

"Let's find the boys and make sure they're not doing anything disruptive." Vincent agreed. They found Lei on his recliner, and Mason sprawled on the couch.

"Hey, Vinnie! I was about to come check… are you okay?" Mason jumped out of his seat and hugged him. "Need me to get you anything? A glass of water, maybe?"

The mage rested his head on the wide chest. "Just need you, big guy.” Vincent lifted his wrist to show off the beaded bracelet. “Your mom gave me a beautiful present."

Mason fingered it with wonder. "Mom, where did this come from?"

"Oh, that,” she said with enthusiasm. “Just an old hand-me-down. You know, mage-to-mage kind of thing? I believe Vincent will wear it with pride. Don't you two have more exciting places to be on such a beautiful evening?"

Mason turned to Vincent. "How about dinner? I bet you could use some hot food… Oof! And a shower." The lycan waved a hand near his nose.

Vincent's mouth dropped, and he smacked Mason on the thigh. "Did you just say I smell?"

Lei and Mason looked at each other and shared the same thought out loud. "Well…"

While Vincent was left speechless, Elaine put her hands on her hips and gave her mate an icy stare. The older alpha dipped his head. Mason and Vincent said goodbye, promising Vincent's training could resume in the morning. The two hopped in the rusty truck and made their way home. When Mason rolled a window down, Vincent stared at him. "What? I have a wolf's nose! You reek, bud. Love ya and all, but phew!"

Vincent kept his composure, staring at Mason. He… He just said it. It may have been subconsciously, but he said it. I don't think he meant it like… love, love. But… I… I think he meant it deep down. Vincent turned and rested his head against the window. He outstretched his hand and was immediately met by Mason's.

And I think I feel the same way.

***

The drive back to Mason's house didn't take long. Today was very productive! Got the chief squared away, Caleb’s the new enforcer, had a kickass lunch, and I spent a lot of time with my little Vinnie. Don't think it could have gone better!

Mason noticed Vincent wasn't walking as fast as he normally did. Well, he had a rough day. Mom probably brought out the best in him. He stopped to let his man catch up. "You good, old man?"

Vincent chuffed. "Aren't you older than me?"

"Age don't count. Bones popping and gray hairs do." Just as Vincent was about to pass Mason, the wolf couldn't help himself. He picked up his mate in both arms, letting him squeal as Mason carried him to the front door. "Will you quit squirming and let me be cute?"

"I thought I smelt bad, Mr. Sensitive Wolf Nose?"

Mason growled and leaned in. "You smell like my mate. And even though you really do need a shower, I like your natural scent."

Vincent closed his eyes. The wolf couldn't stop himself. He closed the distance and latched his lips onto Vincent's. The kiss was gentle and romantic, not filled with lust or urges like previous ones. The two parted and stared at each other. Vincent’s gaze roamed over the lycan’s face. "Your mom told me how to complete our bond. I just want you to know that I'm okay with it."

Mason barely believed what he heard. He’s… okay with it? Vincent… my Vinnie’s good with bonding with me? With me turning him? "Are you sure, babe? I-I'm not gonna lie. I'm kind of speechless here."

He watched as the small man nodded. "Yeah. I still need a little bit of time, preferably after the meeting on Saturday, but yeah. I feel it inside me. I want to be here. With you."

An overabundance of joy coursed throughout Mason's body. He wants me. He really fucking wants me! Mason threw his head back and howled. He caught his breath and smashed his lips against his mate's once again. He's going to be mine!

Mine forever!