Love in the Shadows - 10. Chapter 10: Shimmering Stars

As Mason’s lips pressed onto his, Vincent melted in the lycan’s hold. The grip on his lower back was secure enough to keep him standing. So aggressive but so hot!

Mason pulled away, his eyes glowing gold. "You mean that, Vinnie? You want to be with me?"

“Yeah. It’s hard to describe, but I can’t think about being anywhere else. I don’t know if it’s the bond or what.”

“Regardless, I’m on cloud fuckin’ nine!”

“That’s awesome. As cute as this is, can you let go? I really need to shower.” He was weary from the earlier exercise. After Mason unlocked the door, he headed for the guest bathroom.

“Where do you think you’re going?”

“Uh, the shower?” Didn’t I just say that?

“I think you’re going to the wrong one,” Mason replied with a smirk.

A shiver ran down the mage’s spine as he understood the message. The kiss had left him in a state of desire, so he followed Mason into the master bedroom. He stopped when he saw the man take off his shirt and fling it toward the closet. The lycan’s muscles were impressive. He’s built like a freakin’ tank!

Mason turned and curled a finger suggestively as he marched into the attached bathroom. Opening the glass door, the lycan turned the knobs and unfastened his jeans. “Comin’, Pup?”

The lustful question made Vincent bite his bottom lip. Although he had seen Mason in bed, he still felt shy. The lights are on this time. With shaky hands, he fumbled for his jeans.

Warmth enveloped Vincent’s wrists as they were grabbed and lifted away. “You’re nervous. If you’re being body-shy, you got nothing to worry about.”

Scowling, Vincent grumbled. “You’re ripped, and… well, I’m not.”

“I already saw everything you have to offer, Vinnie. My eyes see well in the dark, and believe me…” The wolf stepped forward and fingered one of Vincent’s belt loops, pulling their bodies together. “You’re perfect for me, and I want every inch of you.”

Before Vincent could say anything, Mason kissed him again. As the lycan released him, Vincent unclasped his pants. He’s right. If we’re mates and made for each other, then we’ll be naked often. The mage lowered his garments in one fell swoop. Mason’s irises brightened. He likes what he sees.

Wanting to compensate for his earlier shyness, he unzipped Mason’s jeans. Once the lycan stepped out of the pants, he gestured to the shower. “After you.”

Vincent scooted past and dunked his head under the water. Hands caressed his hips, and Mason’s hairy chest pressed against his back. He whimpered as the lycan’s tool prodded him. Reclining into the man, he felt Mason’s tongue lap at his neck. When lips latched on, Vincent gasped. He’s… I get it now. That’s where his mark will go! He thought of Mason’s wolf clamping its jaws on the spot. But it feels so good! “Mace…”

Mason murmured, “You’re going to be my undoing. Time to get cleaned up.”

The lycan grabbed a bottle from the corner shelf and poured a glob on a scrub. Mason lathering him left Vincent stuck between feeling pampered and useless; he tried to appreciate the attention. I mean, I can wash myself, but I’m not going to stop him.

Mason ran the sponge down Vincent’s backside, causing him to yelp. The lycan's body closed in. “I know we’re taking our time,” he whispered huskily, “but this… right here…” Nestled between his cheeks, the soapy scrub kneaded. “One day I’ll take this and make you mine.”

Vincent rolled his eyes. Between the skin contact and the sultry words, he was hungry for more. He turned to face the alpha, and was further aroused by the golden irises. Taking the sponge, he rubbed it against Mason’s chest. “My turn, big guy.”

It was surreal having the naked, chiseled man in front of him. There were previous sexual partners, but none of Mason’s caliber. Gods be damned, he’s actually shredded! He traced a shoulder. His breathing faltered as Mason lifted an arm, giving Vincent more access. If I didn’t know better, I’d say his biceps are as big as my head!

“You like my muscles?”

Nodding, Vincent watched as the lycan flexed.

“Go ahead; give ‘em a squeeze.”

Vincent did. Jeez, it’s like concrete! After spending a few moments examining and prodding, inspiration struck. He wanted more than biceps and kisses. “It’s really nice, but I think I’ve seen enough.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

Vincent raised a hand to the shower head. He gently released frost magic, sending cold air toward the ceiling. Fog formed between the men, thickening with every passing second. He snapped his fingers and used clairvoyance to see through the steam.

The two must have had similar ideas as blurry, golden circles glowed in front of him. Seeing the lycan’s power made Vincent tremble in excitement. The mage took a knee and brushed his wet hair out of the way. He heard the low growl from above, encouraging him. Taking Mason into his mouth, he slowly bobbed his head, focused on pleasing while wondering if the lycan could see him clearly, but focused on pleasing. Hands roamed across his scalp and the back of the head.

“Don’t stop, Vinnie. I’m… I’m getting close,” grunted Mason.

Vincent persisted as his prize neared. The grip tightened as the alpha panted and growled. With each spurt, the mage felt a sense of accomplishment. His chin was lifted by a finger as he rose. Pulled into the wolf’s arms, he noticed Mason’s haggard breathing. “You’re too good to me, you know that?”

Before he could reply, lips pressed against his. Vincent palmed a hairy breast with one hand and fondled a hip with the other. They rinsed, Mason turned off the water, and opened the door “Here you go,” he said, handing over a towel. “You’re sexy, Pup. I want you, and nothing’s gonna change that. My wolf and I have eyes for you and you alone.”

Watching the alpha dry his hair with another bath sheet, Vincent understood. Another lycan trait? Once they find their mates, there’s no temptation for another? Interesting.

Dry, Mason led him out of the shower and into the bedroom. Vincent moaned as the side of his neck was sucked on. He backed to the edge of the mattress and sat. Mason retreated and stood before him with golden irises. His eyes haven’t turned back to normal. “Why do your eyes do that?”

The lycan craned his head to the side. “Do what?”

“They glow gold or orange sometimes.”

Mason grinned and moved closer, following Vincent when he inched further onto the bed. “An alpha’s closer to his animal spirit. My eyes change when I or my wolf feel strong emotions. Alphas are the only ones who can partially shift different body parts, like our eyes, or fingers.”

Vincent raised an eyebrow. Partially shift… body parts?

Mason laughed, “Doesn’t work like that, Pup.”

“That’s another thing; pup?”

“It’s a term of endearment. I recommend getting used to it.” The lycan was on top of him. “Enough of that.”

The moment Mason’s teeth grazed his earlobe, Vincent whimpered. This was different from last night. I… I feel like prey! The trivial latch engendered a sea of warmth as Mason’s tongue swirled behind his ear. He gave the man more access while exploring the alpha’s body. Chest hair was combed, abs were scoured, and shoulder blades were scraped. Vincent felt Mason’s rising cock against his own. A-again?

He watched the lycan slither down his body. When Mason stopped at his groin, Vincent inhaled loudly. The wolf took a single swipe, and as Vincent tried to relax, Mason swallowed him in one dive. “Mace!”

Clasping the sheets, the mage panted. The moist heat was more intense than last night’s. There was no ceremony or pacing this time. Mason pressed his tongue against the underside with every bob. “M-Mace…” he whispered.

A growl came in response, sending vibrations down his length. Between the lycan’s glowing eyes and masterful skill, Vincent exploded before he could offer a warning. His legs stiffened as he rode the waves of pleasure. Catching his breath, he whimpered as Mason moved to his side. “Did ya like that, Vinnie?” The alpha snaked an arm under the human’s head, leaving no space between them.

Vincent nuzzled the biceps. “That was amazing. I just wish I could’ve lasted a little longer.”

“You came,” murmured Mason, “that speaks for itself. Stamina doesn’t matter so long as we had fun.”

The two laid together, recovering. Despite the earlier confrontation, Vincent grew comfortable with the shapeshifter. I feel… safe with him. This weird pull in my chest gets warmer when he’s close. When I was away at his parents’, it was strained. He sighed. I need to get ready.

“What’s on your mind, Pup?”

“I realized I should be meditating and getting ready for my dance. I’ll need all the energy I can store in this bracelet.” He lifted the jewelry and rubbed a bead with his fingers. “Dances can take a lot out of a mage.”

Mason rose, clearly concerned. “Wait, what do you mean? Is this going to hurt you?”

“Not unless I push myself. It’ll be exhausting. I’ll be using a ridiculous amount of magic.”

“Is that necessary?”

“Absolutely!” Vincent propped himself on his elbows. “A mage’s dance is an embodiment of the feelings towards the group the performer’s entering. The stronger the attachment, the more spectacular the show has to be.”

Mason hummed. “I see. What can I do to help?”

“All I need’s time to store energy in the bracelet. Just need peace and quiet.”

“Well, how about in a couple hours, I take you to the camp outside town? The lake’s got a really nice view, and it’s one of my favorite places to go when I want some alone time.”

There’s a campground here? “That sounds cool! I’d love to go.”

“Good,” stated Mason. “I don’t know about you, but I’m starving. What sounds good? Mexican? Burgers? Hibachi?”

The options were appealing. I keep forgetting this town has so many restaurants! “A burger sounds good.”

“All right, just need to make a quick call.” They begrudgingly left the bed and sought outfits for the evening. As Vincent unzipped his backpack, he eavesdropped on the lycan’s conversation. “Hey, Mr. Richards! Sorry for missing your call, I was in a meeting… Oh, that’s great to hear! I’ll be there in the morning to pay the bill… No, thank you sir, and have a good night!” Mason set the phone on the dresser. “Truck’s good to go.”

Selecting a pair of jeans and a polo, Vincent rose in disbelief, “I covered that truck in thick ice! How did it thaw in such a short time?”

Mason wagged a finger as he opened the closet. “I don’t ask for old man Richard’s secrets. He’s salvaged some serious messes before.” Selecting a similar outfit, Mason dressed and led Vincent outside.

***

Caleb opened the door and hung the keys on the “Goin’ Somewhere?” decorative plaque Tasha bought when they moved to Kentucky. He was happy with the two bedroom house they were offered when he pleaded Alpha Wilson for sanctuary.

"Hey, there's my pussycat! How was work?"

Caleb looked up to see his mate, Tasha. Gods, she’s as beautiful as the day I laid eyes on her. Tasha was a short stick of dynamite. The most loving person one could meet, but explosive when irked. Her curly, black hair was braided down to her shoulders and swayed with every step.

The lion wrapped an arm around her and kissed her cheek. "Well, today’s certainly been… interesting."

"Uh-oh.” She leaned away, giving Caleb an apprehensive glare. “You get all regal and elegant when you 'bout to say something that's gonna make me start talkin' crazy."

She knows me too well. Chuckling, he held on tight and tried to soothe her. "I could sum it all up by saying I have a new job with better pay."

Tasha playfully slapped him on the chest. "Boy, start with the important stuff first. Sweetie, that's great news!"

The couple kissed once more. Caleb couldn’t contain the invigorating feeling their family was getting somewhere. After all these years… "Yeah, and you can thank Alpha Wilson. He gave me the job."

"Oh, snap! You working on his parents' farm now?"

He gave her another peck. "Guess again. Think a little bigger."

Giving him a side-eye, Tasha backed away and crossed her arms. "Okay, what dude you sleep with to get this fancy-pants job?"

I get drunk one night and start telling old college stories, and she holds it over my head for the rest of my days. "You're funny. Let's just say we need to be at this weekend's meeting when Mason inducts his new enforcer."

Tasha raised her eyebrows. "Cay… Caleb. You ain't serious? Oh gods, Caleb." Tears formed as she took his hands. "You're the new enforcer? Baby, I'm so proud of you! Oh, bless Yir, he looks out for us."

"It's gonna be alright, my mate. Our little family’s going to make it here. It's time to give back to those who gave us a place to call home.” Caressing her cheek, he changed the subject. "How’s Lowe?"

Tasha chuffed, "Little guy finally tuckered out and took a nap. He should be up before dinner, if we’re lucky."

Caleb smiled, sharing his mate's wishes. "Something smells fantastic. What's cooking?"

Tasha went back to the kitchen with Caleb following. "Well, the gremlin demanded mac and cheese, so there's that. Also got tamales and veggies being steamed. Got a couple hot dogs on standby if Lowe doesn't like the tamales."

He nodded. "Good call. Hope you made a little extra. Mason had me running around this morning, testing me for the job."

"Oh, and what did he do to you?"

Caleb leaned against the refrigerator. "You know, he had me tail someone."

"Oooh! You get the bad guy, pussycat?"

"Yes and no. But I gotta say…" Caleb moved to hold her hips. "Mason's mate’s a slippery and conniving devil."

Tasha turned slowly like a music box ballerina. She held a slotted spoon in her hand with unknown intent. "Mason, that sly dog. Since when did he find his mate?"

"Tash, Tash. It's a new development. Mace only found him a couple of days ago."

"I knew it! I knew his one would be a dude."

Caleb covered his mouth. He nearly laughed out loud, risking waking up Lowe. "Darling, let me finish? Mason's test was for me to catch his mate. I just wasn't told who he was or what his intentions were. My gods Tasha, the guy’s a sight to see."

Stirring the vegetables, she chuckled. "What? He cute or somethin'?"

"No, no. He's a mage, and a powerful one, too."

"Oh, teach me something. What's his magic?"

Caleb took a dining chair. "He's got three affinities."

Tasha looked bewildered as she put the lid on the pot.

Caleb grinned. "You heard me, sweetie. He’s clairvoyant and a frost mage, and you might want to hold onto something for the last one. It's the reason I couldn't catch him."

"My Cay-Cay couldn’t catch this guy?"

The lion crossed his arms. "Well, shadow mages tend to be very slippery."

"Timeout. Our alpha's mate’s a shadow mage?"

"Yep, but before you start worrying, Vincent’s a good guy. He's—"

"Hold up! Vincent? From the grocery store? Scrawny, dirty-blond hair? Boy who looks like he needs about twenty proper meals and then some?"

Caleb blinked several times. Oh, right! I never realized that we've passed him several times when we went grocery shopping. Holy hell, I've walked past my childhood friend all this time? "Yeah, that's him."

Tasha giggled as she returned to the stove. "Called it; knew that boy swung that way. Always seemed a little fruity when I needed help findin' somethin’."

The lion straightened his posture, alarmed at his mate’s statement. "Tash! That's homophobic. This is the alpha's mate, and my job’s to protect him."

"Whoops, sorry baby! Gotta get used to that. I know I was talkin' crazy, but I'm glad Mason found his mate."

"Yeah. Not to mention they're destined."

"Cay, you make me turn around for somethin’ shocking like that, you gonna have broccoli on your face." Tasha faced him once more. "They destined? Like… destined destined? Gods be praised. You got any more up your sleeves?"

"Well, as it turns out, I've known Vincent since we were in Cub Scouts back in Maryland.”

“So, when you gonna tell me you're pulling my leg?" She rolled her eyes and resumed cooking when he shrugged his shoulders. "Oh gods, you’ve got to be joking me."

I admit, to a fresh set of ears this all does sound pretty insane. "I swear to the Seven, Tash. Vincent and I grew up together, but he moved away when… when his parents died."

“Hell. Hon, if you see Vincent before I do, you give him one of my hugs, and invite those two for dinner sometime soon."

"I will in the morning when I head to the former alpha's house. Lady Wilson’s offering training to get used to fighting mages."

"Boy, quit pulling my leg!"

"Not my idea, her's. She challenged me to a little spar, and she mopped the floor with me." He put his elbows on the table. "She wrapped me around a tree with ice."

Short laughs turned into long cackles as Tasha set the spoon down. "I’d give anything to see that! You need to go to that training. Tell the Lady I send my best."

"Will do, sweetie. Need any help with dinner?"

"Nah, but thanks for finally askin'. Can you get Lowe's sippy ready, and get the little guy up? Dinner's almost done here."

Caleb nodded and reached for one of the countless kid-proof cups in the cabinet. He grabbed a previously opened jug of Juicy-Juice and poured. Done, he went to retrieve the second love of his life.

***

The evening with Mason was delightful. Vincent was treated to a steak dinner in the nearby larger city. Never been out that way before. Mesker Park City’s pretty big for residents of neighboring towns to go to if they have a specific need. Mason’s home was on the way to the campground, both were bloated from the meal, and their only desire was to lay down and gripe about their food-induced pregnancies. Each man claimed a couch. “How… how did you put away those two burgers?”

Mason peeked under the arm he had draped over his face. “I don’t know. My wolf said eat them. Gonna be the last time he gets a word at the dinner table. You good over there?”

“Sure, let’s go with that,” Vincent hissed. He set his feet on the floor and forced himself up. “Need to get up. Can’t be falling asleep just yet.”

“Did you want to walk with me in the woods? I’ll make sure you don’t get lost.”

The sun’s setting, but it would be nice. “Sounds good to me.” Both men rose, and Mason led the way through a side door in the kitchen. Vincent looked around the garage for the first time. Wow! It’s clean and organized. Motion in his peripheral vision caught his attention as Mason took his top off. “Going shirtless, Mace?”

“Well, I won’t be clothed if that’s what you mean. My wolf wants to be with you.”

Oh… Walking with a wolf. That’s a thing, I guess. He wasn’t nervous about being around the animal, but he knew there would be unfamiliarity with the situation. Only time I’ve seen his wolf was the night of the crash and the morning after. “O-Okay. That sounds cool.”

Mason stopped unfastening his pants. “Does my wolf scare you?”

“I mean… yeah, a little. I’ve seen it twice and neither time was exactly pleasant.”

Mason wrapped his warm hands around Vincent’s. “There’s no need to be scared. So long as you don’t run from him, my wolf’ll keep you safe.”

“Run?”

“Yeah, he’ll think you’re playing chase.”

Vincent took a breath and nodded. “I trust you.”

Mason finished stripping. “Have you seen a shift before?”

Vincent shook his head.

“It’s not the prettiest. Doesn’t sound nice either.”

With all of the clothes folded and placed on the deep freezer, Mason closed his eyes, and Vincent watched in anticipation. Snaps broke the silence. The first anomaly he noticed was Mason’s kneecaps. They’re… backwards! A seamless stream of haunting noises accompanied the bizarre sight. The lycan’s skin erupted in silver fur as Mason landed on all-fours. By the time the muzzle formed, Vincent was struggling to keep bile down.

Fortunately, the process wasn’t lengthy. A few seconds later, the chiseled man became a wolf. Standing at around three feet in height, the light-gray coat was full and coarse, and there was a slight discoloration on the hairs around the eye sockets and paws.

The animal’s head darted in his direction, startling Vincent. When it sat on its hind legs, reality hit him. Right… that’s Mace. I expected the fur growing part, but I’m not sure if I can look at Mace’s ass again. He took a shaky step forward. As he got closer, the wolf licked its maw and kept its tongue out. Yep, that’s Mace.

Mason rose, nearly frightening Vincent, but the wolf circled him and lapped his hand. “Hey!” When he heard a whine, he chuckled, “Sorry, wasn’t ready for a kiss. You’re… are wolves usually this big?”

A simple snort was the response, but it meant nothing to the mage. “I’m guessing that means yes?” Mason repeated the noise and trotted to another door nearby. “Need me to open that? You should probably install some giant, doggy doors for yourself.”

Earning himself a growl, he opened the door and felt a breeze as Mason sprinted out. “Hey, come back here! I still can’t move very fast with all this food in me!” He joined the wolf in the yard and watched it dart around. It’s almost like he’s showing off.

When Mason cantered closer, Vincent knelt and stroked its fur. “Gods, Mace. I’ve never been so close to anything like this. Your wolf’s gorgeous.” Mason tucked his snout under Vincent’s forearm, prompting him to pet the top of the shapeshifter’s head. This is so freaking cool! I’m actually petting a wolf!

“Let’s go, big guy. You lead the way.”

Mason woofed and walked to the tree line, never straying far from Vincent.

***

Vincent enjoyed the walk with Mason. With the wolf at his side, he felt safe. When the sun fell below the horizon, Mason trotted towards the house, and Vincent gratefully followed. These woods seem pretty sinister at night. Not saying something bad would happen to us, but I'd rather be safer than sorry.

Returning to the garage, Mason howled. Echoes pierced the silent night.

"Jeez, Mace! Warn a dude before you do that." The mage stared as the wolf huffed, and shifted back. Don't think I'm gonna get used to that.

Seconds later, Mason bounded over to him. "That was so much fun, Vinnie. My wolf loved every second of it!”

"Glad you two had a good time, but I think I'd rather do it again in the sunlight."

Pulling up his pants, Mason nodded. "I didn't think about the time when we left the house, but we wouldn't have had any trouble. Only deer live in my woods and any pack member needs permission to roam them." He finished dressing. "Ready to go to the campground?"

"Yep." He and Mason held hands while walking to the truck. He's such a gentleman. Every time, he beats me to it.

***

Vincent looked out the window when Mason mentioned they were close. Wow! Not too far from his place. The headlights illuminated the Tipper Lake Camp sign as Mason turned down a long, winding road. Trees lined both sides, blurring past as the lycan drove.

He figured they drove for ten minutes, passing numerous smaller paths along the way. When Mason took a left on a dirt road, the mage started getting nervous. This is starting to look like a horror movie scene. All we need now’s a masked guy with a hatchet!

A few minutes later, a gravel parking lot came into view. Where did this come from? This lot looks like it could fit a hundred cars. Mason pulled into a spot close to a wooden, barricade-like gate. "We're here, Vinnie. Let me show you around."

Both men got out and, as expected, Mason grabbed the mage’s hand. The lycan could see in the dark, but Vincent could not; he turned on the phone’s flashlight. Waving it around, he recognized where they were. It’s an outdoor amphitheater!

Wooden benches built onto cascading steps led to a platform stage. Something’s in the middle down there. Vincent took the stairs between the rows, being careful not to fall on his face.

"Careful, Pup. Those last couple steps are steeper."

Heeding the warning, Vincent reached the grass leading to the stage. Gods, it's huge! And there's a pit in the middle. It has to be for bonfires. The mage spun around with his light and admired the view of the lake. "Mace. This place is… wow."

Mason came from behind and held him by the hips. "Come on, let’s get closer to the lakefront."

The view was perfect. With a cloudless night, the moon and stars’ reflection on the water looked stunning. Vincent stared at the sky with wonder. Stars. With the moon so bright, I’d say they look like crystals.

Crystals! Vincent frantically looked between the sky and Mason. "I just had an idea for my dance. It’ll be perfect!"

"That's convenient, because I brought you here for a reason."

"What's that?" The mage practically jumped in excitement.

"This is it. This… is where you’ll be doing your dance on Saturday."

M-my dance. Here? Vincent looked around the lake and back toward the amphitheater. "Mace, you're kidding me! This is where the pack meets?"

The lycan hummed an affirmative. "We always have a big fire on stage. Really brightens the place up. But yeah, this is it. I wanted to show you when I asked how I could help."

"This is really helpful! I can get some serious ideas about my movement plans and how big I can make my magic without causing issues." Vincent pivoted and whispered, "Thank you so much."

"Any time. Just one thing, though."

"Sure, what's up?"

"I’d love to see your new idea in action. You seemed pretty gung-ho about it when you were staring at the lake."

Vincent grumbled, "Well… I'm not supposed to; a mage's dance routine is a secret until the big day. But since you showed me your top-secret pack meeting location, I guess I can give you this little teaser." He leaned up, gave Mason a kiss, and took a step back.

Focusing on his breathing, he created a mental image. Crystals. Small ones, and lots of ‘em. Hundreds for now… I’ll make more Saturday, but this’ll do for now. Remember what Elaine said; if you think it, you can make it. He inhaled slowly, filling his lungs to the brim.

Now!

Tilting his head back, Vincent opened his mouth and blew. His exhalation was strong, blowing with pursed lips. The tiny bits of ice skyrocketed and floated throughout the air around them. Dissatisfied with the trajectory, Vincent increased the pressure. Out of air, he watched as the flakes drifted above. That’s it! They’re stars. Little falling stars.

“Vincent, this is beautiful. I’ve never seen anything like it.” The alpha reached for one of the crystals. As it landed on his palm, it melted. “They’re coming down so slowly.”

The mage dug his head into Mason’s chest. Glancing at his work, he smiled. Yep, this is going in the routine. “If you hadn’t brought me here, I wouldn’t have had this idea. It’ll be on a much larger scale on Saturday.” The two men leaned into each other as they kissed in the descending stars.