Love in the Shadows - 12. Chapter 12: Objectionable Orders

He was speechless. Vincent could not look away from the menacing fireballs. When the alpha’s eyes were green again, Vincent resumed breathing. Dirk and Kaplan’s applause snapped him out of his trance, and signaled for him to clap as well. I see what he meant now. He commanded the stage and captured my attention. “Ty, that was amazing!”

Mason clapped. “I agree.” He whispered in Vincent’s ear, “Just think, you agreed to a challenge with him.”

Any celebratory excitement vanished and the fear from Tierney’s magic returned. Oh, shit. I’m so boned! I didn’t know he was a mage when he asked for the duel.

Tierney huffed and rolled his shoulders. “Gods, that was fun! I can’t remember the last time I let loose like that. Did that help, Vincent?”

“Y-yeah. It reminded me it’s a performance, and I have to keep the audience’s attention.”

“That’s right. Tempo’s an important factor too. Do you want something powerful or graceful? Slow or speedy? There are many variables to take into consideration.”

“Like how you kept it slow and methodical, but I think I have to alternate speeds. Frost demands an elegant touch, while my shadow affinity needs to be faster during the show.”

“That’s a problem. Frost dances are typically very slow, but I’m sure you’ll figure something out.”

Mason’s nose grazed Vincent’s ear as he whispered, “I’m sure whatever you throw at us, the pack’ll love it.” The alpha straightened. “We just ate, but I’m sure you guys are starving.”

The trio nodded, but Vincent couldn’t eat another bite. I need time to store my energy. “I’m good on food but how about you take them to Nini’s? The size of the sandwiches should be enough.”

“Is it good food?” asked Dirk.

Mason laughed. “I won’t tell Morrine you asked that. Next to JD’s, it’s the best place in town. Footlong subs, hot paninis… She’d be insulted if her restaurant’s not up to par.”

***

Exiting the rental, Mason led the way. “Just up here.”

“I believe you now,” said Dirk. “I can smell the food from here. Just hope they have a meatball sub.”

“She’s got one. I usually get the Mona Lisa. It’s an overstuffed and saucy stromboli.”

Tierney growled under his breath. “I’m sold. I might have two of ‘em.”

As Mason expected, Morrine yelled the moment he entered. “Wilson! Back-to-back visits? I’d compliment ya, but I don’t want to embarrass ya in front of your new friends!” She leaned against the counter while counting bills from the register.

He chuckled and pinched the bridge of his nose. “C’mon Morr, cut out the loudmouthin’. I brought some serious customers today, and they’re starving.”

Behind him, he heard Kaplan whisper, “Did she just speak to her Alpha like that?”

Mason stepped aside and let the New Yorkers order first. Morrine looked at Tierney and backpedaled, only to bow briefly. “Always a pleasure to have special guests. I’m Morrine Schultz. Welcome to my shop.”

“Pardon me,” Tierney said softly. He advanced slowly towards her. “I’m not one for formality, so please, I’d rather see the real Ms. Schultz.”

Mason tried to deduce what was going on. Before he could decide, Morrine smacked the counter. “I like this guy, Mace! Where’d you dig this Casanova up at? Sounds like he’s from upstate New England or something.” She smiled coyly. “What’s your name, handsome?”

“Tierney. Tierney Scott.”

Morrine gasped. “The alpha from NYSP? Holy crap!” She turned around and clapped to attract her staff’s attention. “Hey, get your act together, folks! Prepare to make the best sandwiches of your careers!” Returning her attention to the customers, she grabbed an order sheet and a pen. “What can I get for ya, T?”

“I was told about a Mona Lisa?”

“Yep, house special. Plenty of pepperoni, sauce, cheese, salami, and herbs.”

“Sounds… tasty.” The New Yorker grinned, causing Morrine to blush. “I’ll take two.”

“Two? You know those are footlongs, right? Stuffed to feed the hungriest of shifters.” When he nodded, she appeared amused, but barked the order to the kitchen, and handed him a large cup. “Food’ll be ready in a bit, Casanova.”

Mason stood, stunned by the interaction. What did I just watch?

He heard Dirk’s order for the largest meatball sub.

“Big Italian Apple, extra everything! Make all of that food with love!”

“Make it with love,” shouted the staff.

As Kaplan and Dirk sat in the booth, Tierney leaned over the table towards Mason. “Who is that lady?”

Mason snickered. “You sure you want to go after Morrine? She’s a lot to handle.”

The man’s eyes flashed blood-red. “I’ll take that challenge. There’s something about her. I’m not feeling a pull, but my wolf’s very interested in her. How long has she been in your pack?”

“She moved here about ten years ago under Dad’s term. She had co-ownership of a restaurant back in Chicago, but her business partner used the joint as a front to sell drugs. Their alpha caught wind of it and exiled them both without a fair investigation. Dad heard about it and offered her sanctuary. A few years ago, the EC heard her appeal, confronted Chicago’s Alpha, and ordered a settlement for mishandling the situation.”

Tierney grimaced. “There are times I’m glad we have a decent government.”

“Wake up, you four!” yelled Morrine. “Food’s ready. Come and get it.”

Dirk and Kaplan went to retrieve the trays. The beta handed one to Tierney. “Alpha, she said to check your wrapper.”

Mason watched as the alpha rotated the sandwich, finding nothing. Once Tierney opened the paper, he smirked. “You little minx…” The lycan pulled his phone and thumbed the screen faster than a teenager.

Seconds later a chime came from behind the counter. Uh oh. They’ve moved on to texting. The shifters downed their food and complimented Morrine and the staff. As they left, Mason noticed Tierney returned to her. They talked quietly for a moment, ending in another blush from Morrine. He rejoined the group outside and asked about other sightseeing attractions.

***

Vincent channeled his energy. With the blinding sun setting along the horizon, he sat by his preferred tree in the backyard. He was mystified by the magic flowing inside of him. I’m focusing on my anger like I should, but it’s soothing somehow. It’s almost as if the energy’s moving around me.

He opened his eyes and paused when he saw the shadow surrounding him. It was pitch-black. The boundary swirled, creating waves that crashed into each other. They’re actually moving! He kept his emotions steady as he studied the phenomenon. What’s going on here? Testing a hypothesis, the mage stood and pointed an arm towards the house. An inky tendril jutted from the ground. Holy…

This was a breakthrough. He only knew how to travel in the darkness. I can manipulate the shadows I’m standing in? So instead of focusing on my feet to enter them, I let it flow throughout my body. Waving his arms again, he grew more excited. He conjured another tentacle and approached it. Touching the darkness, Vincent gasped. It’s like rubber. It's interesting to see a silhouette become a nonpermeable force. I mean, I can’t argue with the results. Until I find a book about this affinity, I’m making this shit up as I go!

Tinkering more, he pushed his natural shadow in front of himself. It stayed along the ground, and as it went further, the darkness around him shrank. So I can stretch it. He managed to extend his magic to the nearby tree. Once he connected the two, he entered the shadows and walked along the dark line, avoiding the invisible walls. Great! I can grab nearby shadows and travel to them.

Confident with the movement portion of his discovery, he raised a hand and summoned another tendril. Flicking his arm caused it to act like a whip. Holy shit, that’s awesome! Keeping a mental catalog of what movements caused certain effects, Vincent grew confident. Okay, I got a whip, walls, and shadow-slinging.

He attempted one more concept before returning to meditation. Focusing on his own once more, he forced the darkness to crawl up his legs. He felt the rubberized material on him, but after shaking a foot, he knew he could walk properly. Continuing the process, he covered his full body. It looks like a wetsuit. I wonder… Relaxing the intensity, he was able to reshape the apparel. After a few alterations, he nearly squealed. He created a wizard’s robe. This is so badass! He punched the new clothing and didn’t feel an impact, aside from his hand hurting. So this can act as armor? That’ll be useful!

Overwhelmed by his findings, he took a deep breath and released the magic. That was worth the distraction, but I need to get back to meditating. Glancing at the bracelet, he wasn’t pleased with the progress. Four and a half beads with seven more to go. I can get another three in before bedtime. He returned to the tree, sat, and closed his eyes.

***

Being apart from Vincent was harsh on Mason’s mood. As he held his mate between the sheets, he fingered the bracelet on Vincent’s wrist. He’s been cracking down on his meditation! Just four more beads to go. He nuzzled the man’s neck, twitching his nose as hairs tickled it. “You should get some sleep.”

Vincent was staring at his phone. “I will. Did everyone have fun?”

“Yeah, they tuckered themselves out running in the forest. You would’ve lost your mind if you saw Dirk’s bear. That thing’s massive!”

“Oh man, I’m jealous! I’m sure there’ll be another chance before they leave. If not, then there’s always September. So, does that mean you and Dirk are on good terms?”

“We’re fine, for now. You?”

“Same. I think he’s trying to correct his mistake.”

“Yeah. It does count for something.” The lycan moved his hand along Vincent’s hip. “Not to change the subject, but I’ve been thinking.”

Vincent snorted. “Isn’t that dangerous?”

“Funny. I was going to ask you to officially move in.” He smiled as Vincent craned his head, then rolled over to face him. “Ever since you said you were staying in Owensville, I kept thinking about your apartment. I know there hasn’t been a lot of time since—”

A finger landed on his lips. “I’d like that, and it makes sense.”

Mason was overjoyed. “R-really? Maybe we’ll grab the rest of your stuff tomorrow.” He ruffled the mage’s hair. “How about we get some rest?”

Vincent nodded, put his phone on the charger, and nestled against Mason. The alpha savored every moment. He closed his eyes but a tone rang. Vincent glanced at the phone and read silently. After a few seconds, he gasped.

“What’s going on?”

“I… Dave texted. I’m his new assistant lead. I start Monday morning.”

“That’s fantastic, babe!” He leaned in to peek at the message. Atta boy, Dave! That’s smart. He’ll be able to keep an eye on Vinnie during the daytime. “Does that mean you’ll work more hours?”

“No. The message says I’ll keep working part-time hours. Just three eight-hour shifts a week.”

“Good. Don’t want you working your life away when you don’t have to. Hell, you don’t need to work since I’m pretty well set.”

“I appreciate the thought, but I’d like to work a little. I can’t be one of those people who sit at home.”

That’s understandable. “I’m the same way. Between running my parents’ farm and the pack, I’m content.” He yawned. “Don’t know about you, but I’m about to fall asleep. Turn over so I can hold you.”

Vincent abided, and fell asleep.

***

“Tell me you got something, Shaw.”

Detective Terry Shaw sat in Chief Vough’s office. He scratched his greasy, blond hair as he handed over a case file. “Got as much as I could out of the guy. Pretty open and shut for attempted murder and illegal possession of firearms, but nothing leading to this Gregoro guy.”

“That’s to be expected,” Henry mumbled. “Gregoro’s low on the FBI’s wanted list, and he’s slippery. A lot of the files say when they get close to him, he magically ends up on the other side of the world. Good work so far. I’ll label this case temporarily closed, but keep it on your desk in case more information comes out. I’ve been added to the distribution list for Gregoro’s database.”

That’s all fine and dandy, but it’s not helpful now. Shaw huffed and rose. “I’ll do follow-up visits to make sure that hit man isn’t holding info back.”

Earning a nod from Henry, the detective returned to his cubicle. Been here for seven years, and I’ve never seen so much shit hitting the fan! Who is this Bolton kid anyway? He just pops up out of nowhere, and there’s hitmen after him? Something ain’t right here.

He picked up his phone and dialed. “Ingle? It’s Shaw. Can you pick up a Vincent Bolton? Kid from the intersection crash. I need to ask him a few questions about the incident. Bring him by tomorrow morning. Thanks.” Hanging up, he reclined. My gut’s acting like a washing machine with this kid, and I’m gonna find out why.

***

Hell! Mace’s going to rip someone’s head off! Officer Ingle thought while cruising Main Street. The patrol had been quiet until the detective’s call came in. Shaw’s up to no good again, I can smell it.

“What’s up?” Poll shifted in her seat. “Thinkin’ pretty hard over there. Your brow’s about to hit your nose.”

He snorted. “Drama. Shaw’s diggin’ his nose where it don’t belong, and Alpha’s going to go ballistic when I call him in the morning.”

“What’s he want?”

“Vincent, the guy from that car crash.”

Poll hummed to herself. “Makes sense. Kid rolls in, and he draws gunfire? I’d be suspicious of him, but he seemed so sweet.”

“He is,” Ingle said as he turned the car. “Had a chance to meet him, but I wouldn’t want to get on his bad side. From what Mace told me, he’s got wicked magic and a sad backstory.”

“So wait… it was him that covered the truck in ice? Dang, he’s something else! So Shaw’s investigating Vincent? Why? He was told to go after the guy we arrested.”

“That’s what Shaw does; turns over every rock, even if it makes the good guy a suspect.”

“What do you plan on doing? You need to pick up Vincent, but he’s your alpha’s boyfriend. Won’t that affect your standing?”

Ingles gripped the wheel in frustration. “My first loyalty’s to the pack. I love making sure the streets are safe, but I won’t allow Shaw to frame him. Vincent’s destined to be the mated-alpha, and Mace would throw everything away for him.” He sighed, then was silent for a moment. “I’ll shoot him a text in the morning to get Vincent ready.”

“I got your back, Ings.”

He glanced at her. For a human, she’s pretty dedicated. Might be my best partner yet. “That means a lot, Sarah. Gotta keep this on the DL with the department though. Mace’ll probably throw a shit-fit with Chief, but as long as Shaw has a valid reason, there’s nothing stopping him.”

Poll pointed ahead. “Let’s grab a coffee.”

***

Stirring awake, Mason patted the bed. Not feeling Vincent, he rose. Where’d he go? A wafting smell caught his attention. Cooking breakfast? Hope he remembers the house is full of shifters. He rolled out of bed and put on his blue robe. Passing the living room, he saw Dirk snoring heavily on the couch. Entering the kitchen, he couldn’t hide his amusement. “What’s going on here?”

Kaplan and Vincent were shoulder-to-shoulder, whisking, flipping, and stirring whatever they had in the skillets on every burner. The beta was quick to offer his neck. “Good morning, Alpha Wilson. Your mate was cooking breakfast. I hope you don’t mind me helping him.”

“Perfectly fine, Kap. And it’s Mace, remember? You guys seem pretty busy here.”

Vincent stepped to the side as Kaplan slid sheets of biscuits and rolls in the oven. “Yeah! We got eggs, sausage, hash browns, and biscuits with gravy. Although, we’ll need to go grocery shopping after this. Oh, and I didn’t mean to be nosey, but you got several notifications on your phone.”

Mason retrieved his phone and went to sit on the front porch swing while reading. One from Mom, reminding Vinnie to meditate today. The other’s from Ingle…

Alpha, sorry for the early text, but Shaw ordered me to bring Vincent in for questioning. Doubt it’s genuine, gut’s telling me something’s up. Will be by at ten. I’ll let you know if I hear anything.

Mason’s eyes burned. What the fuck’s this? They have the gunman in custody, and we already gave our statements to Henry. He asked Ingle for more details.

Poll and I think he’s suspicious of Vincent. He comes to town, then is attacked by hitmen.

Mason grumbled. I get the train of thought. If I were a detective, I’d look into it too. Damn… Vincent won’t be able to explain having Stefan after him without revealing the magical world. I need to call Henry.

“Chief Vough.”

“It’s Mason. What’s the deal with Shaw wanting to question Vincent?”

There was a pause before Henry replied. “What are you talking about? I told Shaw the case was temporarily closed. The hitman confessed, but said nothing that would lead us to Stefan.”

The wolf became impatient. “Cut the crap, Henry! Ingle texted me last night that he was ordered to pick up Vinnie. If your detective tries to pin any bullshit on my mate, his ass is grass!”

“Calm down, okay? I didn’t authorize this, but it’s his case. I’ll watch everything from the viewing room, so I won’t let—”

“Viewing room? Do I need to get my lawyer involved?”

“No, Vincent’s not under arrest, and he won’t be. I’ll stop the interview if Shaw even breathes the wrong way. I know the situation better than he does. This is all a big misunderstanding.”

“It better be. Vinnie has things to do today. And I swear, if this ends up being one of Shaw’s conspiracy theories, he’s done for.”

“I promise he’ll be back at your place before noon. I’ll let you know what happens the moment it’s done.”

Trembling, the wolf’s desire to snarl was overwhelming. “I’ll expect your call.” Putting away his phone, he paced the porch. If that fuck says one wrong thing, I’ll shove his badge so far up his—

The sound of the door opening caused Mason to turn.

Tierney waved, signaling to calm down. “Easy, it’s just me. Was walking to the kitchen when I heard your barking. Someone piss in your Cheerios?”

Sighing, Mason took a seat on the swing. “I got a pesky detective that thinks Vinnie’s suspicious for being attacked by gunmen. An officer’ll be by to pick him up for questioning.”

Tierney leaned against the doorframe. “Allow me to repay you for hosting us? Have Kaplan go with Vincent.”

The beta that’s scared of authority? “Sorry, but I don’t follow.”

“Kap’s not just my beta; he’s also NYSP’s attorney.”

Mason’s jaw slackened. “You’re joking. That little, twenty-something year-old’s your lawyer?”

“He’s actually thirty-two, and don’t judge a book by its cover. Give him a suit and a courtroom, and he’s the scariest man you’ll ever meet.”

I doubt this. I sincerely do. There’s no way I’ll be convinced that Kaplan can be scary. “We’re talking about the same wolf, right?”

Tierney nodded. “I’d consult him about it. When’s the officer coming?”

“In an hour; just enough time for breakfast. I’ll let Vinnie know what’s going on. Does Kaplan know Kentucky laws?”

“Anytime Kap goes on a trip, he studies that state’s laws. It’s not quite an eidetic memory, but it’s close. He’s ready to go in about thirteen states.”

Mason was impressed. “Well, let’s break the news to ‘em.”

Coming inside, they saw Vincent’s head poke out from the kitchen. “Everything’s ready. Someone wake up Dirk.”

“I got this,” said Tierney. “You know the old saying. Never wake a sleeping bear.” The New Yorker went into the kitchen, but as Mason entered, Tierney came back out with a strip of bacon.

Curious, he watched in anticipation. That… oh, that’s genius.

Tierney waved the food under the bear’s nose. The sleeping man stirred, blinking erratically. “B… Bacon,” Dirk mumbled.

“C’mon, Dirk. Your favorite human just cooked us breakfast.” He took a bite of the strip and hummed. “Nice and juicy, just the way you like it.”

Returning to the kitchen, Mason surveyed the assortment of dishes on display. Wow, they cooked enough for about six grown shifters! “This looks great! Good job, you two. Hey, Kap? Something’s come up, and I need your expertise.”

“What do you mean?”

“The detective that’s on the case from our hitman issue wants to bring Vinnie in for questioning. One of my pack officers will be here shortly. Ty offered to have you assist.”

Kaplan straightened. “Have charges been announced?”

The alpha saw his demeanor change. There’s the lawyer in him. “No, but I don’t like the situation. The detective doesn’t know anything about the supernatural, and I’d like to keep it that way.”

Reclining against the counter, Kaplan stood in silence. Vincent took a seat. “I’ll give him honest answers, but I would’ve preferred a heads-up though.”

“That’s what he wants, Vincent,” Kaplan explained. “They want to disturb your daily rhythm in order to throw you off. It can make you say something you shouldn’t. Mason, is this guy good at his job?”

“He gets results, but can be conniving. Tends to be a conspiracy theorist.”

“Gotcha. I hate to say it, but I’m hesitant to go with Vincent. If he shows up to a questioning with a lawyer, it gives the detective the impression there’s something to hide.”

Gnawing on some bacon, Dirk raised a finger. “No offense to you, little one, but I’d use your natural naïveté. It’s hard to think you’re capable of anything evil.”

As Vincent nodded, Kaplan turned to Mason once more. “I’m assuming you have friends in high places?”

“Got the chief watching the whole thing. He’s not the happiest with Shaw over this and said he’ll stop the interview if it goes south.”

“Good. Just answer the questions honestly, Vincent. Sorry I can’t be there with you, but this is the best route.”

Mason noticed his mate smiling. He inhaled and realized it was a ruse. I can smell his nervousness. I don’t blame him. Rubbing Vincent’s knee, he tried to help him relax.

The doorbell did the opposite. Vincent jumped at the sudden sound. Growling, Mason rose to answer it.

Ingle and Poll were waiting on the other side. “Alpha, is Vincent ready?”