Rising in the Shadows - 9. Chapter 9: Seraphic Stunt

Opening the door to his cramped apartment, Kaplan let out a groan that could wake the neighbors. He flung his briefcase onto his futon and took off for the bedroom. Fuck that guy! Wagner is a real piece of work! He had the audacity to start that in front of the courthouse with people all around us. Removing his tie, he tossed it to the side and sat down on his twin-sized bed. Leaning back, his neck touched the edge of the mattress, leaving his head to fall backward. Kaplan moved his arms up and began unbuttoning his checkered dress shirt while peeling off his shoes at the same time.

Should I tell Tierney about his behavior? I have half a mind to bring up all those charges I talked about. Recalling the last thing he said to Wagner, he mentally declined. No, I want to see if what I said is taken to heart. He seemed shaken when I stood up to him. Pulling his phone from his pants, he held it up above his head and saw a couple of messages, along with countless emails. Kaplan groaned again and let his arm fall to the side. I get home and I have more work!

Deciding against answering his phone’s demands, the lycan rose and continued to strip. He stepped into the thin shower without a glance at the mirror. Squirting a healthy amount of shampoo into his hand, Kaplan wet his hair and started scrubbing. Feeling the rushing water against his body cooled his irritation. Maybe I could just stay in the shower and no one will bother me. Laughing at his own joke, he took a deep breath. Nah, Tierney and Cy might drag me out of here.

The thought of his boyfriend grabbing his naked body created a fluster lower in his body. Oh, man, that kiss last night was amazing! I...I didn’t know it could be that nice. Feeling joyous trembles throughout his body, all the way to his toes, Kaplan shook his head and finished his shower. With a towel wrapped around his waist, he begrudgingly took his phone and began sifting through emails. Several from the firm for case requests. I’ll look through those later. Turning his attention to the messages, Kaplan smiled.

One from Vincent! ‘Hey Kap! Making a stop in Pittsburgh to meet Alpha Drego, then on our way.’ That was an hour ago! I wonder if they made it. Thumbing the screen, he sent back a quick reply.

‘Awesome, was in court. You guys make it yet?’

Scrolling back through other messages, he saw a message from Tierney, stating that Vincent and Mason had arrived at the Alpha’s apartment a few minutes ago. Sliding his free hand over his face, Kaplan began getting dressed. He quickly picked out a pair of khakis and a peach-colored dress shirt. As he fished his wallet from the discarded dress pants, his phone vibrated. He checked the message and grinned when he saw it was from Cyrus. ‘Afternoon, my little pup. Hope your case went well. I’m on my way to Tierney’s, would you like a lift?’

Kaplan’s fingers never flew faster, ‘I’d love a lift. I lost the case, but it wasn’t my fault, my client withheld information.’ With his message sent, the wolf flew back to the bathroom to make sure his hair was in order. He wanted to make sure he was presentable for his boyfriend. As he combed his lengthy bangs, he got a response from Cyrus stating that he would be there in twenty minutes. Perfect!

The Beta finished getting ready and sprayed a watered-down cologne over himself. While he waited for his ride, Kaplan sorted through his emails and bookmarked a couple of interesting cases. I don’t think any of those will be too bad. I just hope they actually tell me everything this time! Checking his phone’s clock, he grabbed his jacket, keys, and wallet before walking out the door.

Making it out to the street, Kaplan waited eagerly against the wall of his complex. A cab rolled to a stop and the back passenger window rolled down, revealing Cyrus’ genuine smile, “Hop in, Mr. Alvey!” The wolf hurried up to the vehicle and entered, excited to be next to the large bear once again. “I’m sorry to hear that your case didn’t turn out well, but it seems to be your client’s fault and not yours.” Cyrus was quick to latch his hand onto Kaplan’s. Just as Kaplan was going to tell the panda all about the case, he felt warm lips press against his cheek.

He kissed me again! Turning to face Cyrus, the wolf leaned in and was met with the Alpha’s lips once again. As they broke away, Kaplan’s face began turning bright red. “I...uh...yeah, the case. It was okay.”

A giggle echoed within the cabin as Cyrus wrapped his arm around the Beta’s shoulder, “Did I get you all flustered, Kaplan? You should learn to expect such showings of affection from now on. Last night was something of my dreams, and I can never thank you enough for it! Now, tell me about your day.”

“Oh, alright.” Although Kaplan had the intention of telling Cyrus about his day in court, the fresh memories of his encounter with Wagner floated to the front of his mind. Nope! He doesn’t need to-

“Kaplan? You seem a little angry. Don’t tell me your client was that hard on you.” Noticing the wolf’s desperate need to sequester his feelings, the Alpha knew something else was bothering the man, “Or is there another matter that is eating at you? You know you can talk to me about it.”

Looking at the concerned look on Cyrus’ face, Kaplan took a deep breath. He darted his eyes towards the cab driver and smelled that he was a human. “After my case was closed, I went outside the courthouse and Wagner came at me.” Mentioning the Enforcer’s name got Cyrus’ attention, but Kaplan continued, “He was pretty angry about his case and we got into an argument.”

Ah, pack matters. “Go on. I’m listening.”

“He brought up his charges and got indignant with me. I wasn’t having any of it and told him it could be much, much worse. He started staring at me, but when I tried to get past him, he pushed me.”

Cyrus quickly shut his eyelids as he felt his irises burn bright. He put hands on the Head Beta? What arrogance! “Continue.”

The wolf blew his air out of his nose, “I got ticked off, so I listed all of the charges he could have been faced with up to that point. When I did that, he seemed pretty shook, so I’m calling it a win. I...I took some inspiration from what you told me before, and I told him to get his act together. The way he’s behaving will not earn him a foreseeable future.”

My, my! Did Kaplan get a little feisty with the Enforcer?

Good! Good for mate!

Yes, good for him. I’m still very agitated about Wagner and his pompous attitude, but I can’t get a clear reading from what Kaplan told me. I’ll bring this up later when we’re alone. Perhaps Tierney ought to hear about this as well.

Agree.

My bear, it seems you are more chipper than usual. Feeling more outgoing now?

Yes. Yes! Much happy now.

Is this because Kaplan saw our scars?

...Yes. He...he fix.

Yes. Yes, he did. “We can talk about this later, Kaplan. But for now, let us welcome our friends into the area! Mason and Vincent must have had a long flight. I doubt those Kentuckians get out much.”

Kaplan nodded and let his head fall to Cyrus’ shoulders for the duration of the ride.

***

The Owensville couple arrived at Tierney’s apartment. Tierney was working with Dirk on his meditation when the two Alphas popped up in a cloud of black wisps. They really should learn how to knock! Rising up, the New Yorker greeted his guests and showed them to their room for the week.

The room was simply furnished but complemented the primary decor of the entire apartment. Just as the living room and kitchen showed lush maroon undertones, the bedspread was blood red with light brown pillows. Dark oak nightstands were placed next to the bed with a large dresser near the closet door.

Mason set his backpack on the bed and admired the room, "Wow! I feel pretty one-upped! I might have to redecorate the guest room back home."

His mate let out a small chuckle as he set his bag against the wall. Yeah, this place is nice!

Is bed nice? Feel tired.

Taking a seat on the queen-size bed, Vincent rolled his eyes into the back of his head. Oh, yeah! It's comfy, bud!

Good! Need big sleep later.

We can turn in early. I don't think Ty or Dirk are expecting us to do any of the spars today.

"Come on, pup. Let's get back to the others. Cyrus and Kap should be on their way."

Vincent nodded and checked his phone. Speaking of Kap, he messaged me! Quickly responding back, he stuffed his phone away and rejoined the New York council with his mate in tow. "How's the meditating, Dirk?"

The bear opened his eyes and watched as the small Alpha walked by, "It's been relaxing. I feel less stressed than usual and I get to bother Tierney more often."

Groaning from the kitchen, Tierney grabbed a few glasses and a bottle of whiskey to bring to the living room. "Bother isn't the word. Dirk's been here every day this week! I had to restock my liquor cabinet twice now." Setting the bottle on the coffee table, he passed the glasses to the seated couple. "I'm half-tempted to find him a place with his own fireplace and pay for it myself."

Dirk grinned and rose from his spot in front of the fire, "Oh, it's not that bad! Besides, wasn't it you that suggested I build a house next to yours in Owensville?"

Hearing the news of home-building piqued Mason's interest. I figured Tierney would build, but I'm shocked at Dirk's intent! "You're building, Dirk?"

"Yep! I thought about it, and I intended on asking for your permission to approach your pack realty office about it."

"Of course! There's plenty of countryside around town that isn't used. I'll put a word in for you and Tierney."

Clasping his hands together, Dirk smiled and looked towards his Alpha, "You mind if I grab a glass?"

Tierney chuffed, "Sure, go ahead and grab two more for Kap and Cyrus. Wonder what's keeping them?"

"Traffic's probably bad." The bear brought more glasses and set them on the coffee table as Tierney poured. As Dirk set his glass down, he turned his head to the door, "They just got off the elevator."

What? Vincent sniffed the air but couldn't smell either of the shifters. I...how did he?

Bear has strong nose! Try smell again? Sniffing the air, the mage produced no results. Mason and Tierney did their best, but Vincent turned to the Alphas who were trying to stifle their laughter. "What? Is this some kind of joke?"

"No, baby." Mason wrapped his arm around his mate and brought him closer, "Dirk is a bear and a bear's sense of smell outclasses a wolf's any day of the week."

Vincent leaned back his head as he understood. Right! That makes sense. He felt two shadows coming from the other side of the wall. That's them! "I feel them coming!"

"How...how do you know that, Vincent?" Tierney raised an eyebrow at the smaller man as he held his glass.

"I can feel their shadows."

Hearing of Vincent's ability, Tierney and Dirk exchanged glances. Dirk shifted uncomfortably in his seat and spoke, "So you can feel ours as well?" Watching the mage nod his head, the Enforcer began contemplating how to combat that in his upcoming duel. He'll be able to see me coming from any direction. If I am to assume, he can also tell where I'll be going and my intentions! How the fuck do I deal with that?

Tierney sipped his whiskey and rose from his seat. "What an interesting power! Be careful what you reveal to us, seeing how we'll be opponents in a few days' time." The Alpha strolled to the door and opened it to reveal Cyrus and Kaplan. "Come on in, guys! Vincent just shared a little detail about his shadow magic."

"Oh? That seems a little odd considering he has several challenges ahead of him!" The panda strolled into the apartment with Kaplan's hand in his own. "Mr. Bolton? Feeling rather confident, are you?"

Vincent's cheeks grew pink as he shook his head, "No, I didn't mean it that way! I was just letting Ty and Dirk know I felt your shadows in the hallway."

My, my! He can feel shadows around him? That is quite interesting! "Well, I will say it is a rather formidable skill. Even I can't think of a way to counter that, not at the moment anyway."

"Really?"

Cyrus grinned and nodded. Just thinking about it, there is no way to combat that in strategic thought. The only way to face it is to rush him.

Don't like.

I know that you would rather fight from afar, but this seems to be the only viable strategy. We can think about this later, my bear. "I'm not one for rushing things, but when will the spars be taking place?"

Tierney set his glass down, "I think Dirk's will be tomorrow morning. He's had plenty of time to sit and think about his fight. My wolf is trembling with anticipation, so hopefully Vincent could manage mine later that evening."

"Then I would like mine later in the week. I want to see how you two manage. That is, if that is alright with you, young wolf?"

Vincent blew a sigh of relief and nodded. Thank the Gods I have today to rest and think. I'm still pretty tired from the run over here. "That sounds good to me." The mage looked towards Kaplan and noticed how quiet he was being, “Hey, Kap? Everything okay?”

Kaplan gave a weak smile and acknowledged the smaller Alpha, “Yeah, just a lot’s been going on today and it hasn’t been good at all. I lost my case and Alex came at me.”

The eyes of both Tierney and Dirk shot towards the Beta, but the Alpha was the first to his feet, “What did he say to you, Kaplan?”

“Don’t worry, sir. I handled him. He was pissed at the charges you issued and I listed off several more that I could slam him with.”

Cyrus giggled and curled his hand around the Beta’s hip, “That was the least you could do, my pup.”

“The least?” Darting his eyes between the couple, Tierney came to an assumption, “Did something else happen? Something I should know about?”

Shoving his hands into his khaki pants’ pockets, Kaplan exhaled harshly, “I’ll tell you, Tierney, but I feel like I handled it well enough.” The Beta directed his story towards his Alpha, as everyone became glued to the Beta. As Kaplan expected, Tierney’s eyes glowed crimson in anger. “Alpha Scott, I listed him the charges I could have placed and what would be the outcome if he didn’t get his act together. All I ask is that we give him time to reflect. If he causes any more trouble, then I’ll be happy to indict him.”

Tierney’s anger was not subdued, and Cyrus felt the need to change that, “Tierney, if I may propose a course of action?” Earning a slow nod from the enraged wolf, the panda let his voice soothe the room, “It appears all of this started from Enforcer Wagner’s encounter with young Vincent. May I suggest having Wagner spectate one of the spars, perhaps Dirk’s? It would serve as both an olive branch for Vincent and Wagner to move along, and as a warning to what would happen should he...irritate the wrong stranger.”

Inhaling slowly, the bright red eyes faded to their natural green irises. That’s an idea. I still want the bastard’s head on a pike! “Vincent? This now affects you. Do you want Wagner there?”

Exhaling from his nose, Vincent consulted his wolf. What do you think? I say yes. I wouldn’t mind allowing him to apologize.

I want challenge!

Woah! You...want to fight him?

Yes! He need put in place!

Well, I see where you’re coming from. We already have three fights lined up this week, though. I think if he watches us battle Dirk, he’ll provide submission to us. Would that be cool?

Feeling his wolf’s mind growl, Vincent dug in his brows. I tell you what, bud. We’ll challenge him to a proper stare down. If that doesn’t pan out, then we can fight him. Deal?

Deal! I like! Enforcer will submit! Looking up towards Tierney, Vincent gave his answer, “Yes. With your permission, Tierney, my wolf wants to challenge him.”

The middle-aged lycan leaned back in his seat and let a laugh leave from the deepest pit of his lungs, “Permission granted. I can’t wait to see you wipe that greasy smirk off the pup’s face!”

After a long night of eating, drinking, and intense laughter, the group broke up as Cyrus and Kaplan left for their own itinerary. The plans were made for Vincent to square off with Dirk in the morning and the shadow mage could not wait! I don’t know much about Dirk, but I can’t wait to see how I handle a new opponent! I started memorizing Elaine’s tactics, and I know that Yakob is holding back.

“Alright, gentlemen! I think we have a busy day ahead of us, and I’m sure you both are exhausted from traveling.”

Mason looked between Tierney and his mate. Vinnie looks beat! We really should have taken our time with getting here. “Pup, are you good?”

The small mage shook his head slowly as he contemplated falling asleep on the apartment couch, “Just tired, big guy. I used a lot of magic today. I think I need to head to bed.”

“Alright, let’s get you tucked in. I’ll probably stay up with Ty for a while, but I’ll be in there shortly.” Mason led Vincent into their room for the week. After kicking his shoes off, Vincent quickly stripped and slipped between the sheets. “Is my mate comfortable?” Mason was met with a low and unspirited mumble before watching his mate drift away into slumber. Even as a shifter, he can sleep like a monster! He leaned down and kissed his mate’s forehead and journeyed back to the living room. “He’s had a long day. I think I’ll talk him into taking a flight back when we leave.”

Tierney grew a compassionate smile and refilled his glass with more whiskey, “His magic is something to be envious of. When you told me that you two were using it to travel here, I was at a loss for words!” Holding his glass, Tierney leaned back into his sofa with his arms stretched out. “To have the power to travel the world in a blink of an eye. That is a marvel!”

The two shifters kept the conversation going for several hours. When Mason recounted his experience being carried by Vincent in the shadows, Tierney felt the need to poke fun at the Alpha. Envisioning the small mage carrying the much larger body was very comical to the New Yorker. When Tierney got up to grab another whiskey bottle, he heard the sheets rustling from the guest bedroom. Restless sleeper? The distance between the two shouldn’t cause issues like that. Is this another drawback of a destined mating? Bringing the bottle back to the living room, Tierney topped off both glasses. “Your mate seems to be having sleeping issues. Is that common for you two?”

Mason shook his head, “I’ve only seen him restless once. He was in the bedroom and I was in the kitchen, about the same distance as we are now.” A sense of worry washed over the wolf. Maybe I should check on him, just to see how he is doing. The lycan grunted as he stood and wandered to the hallway but halted at the entryway.

“Mace? What’s…” Tierney quieted himself and listened. Silence. The rustling stopped. Did Vincent go back to sleep? Focusing harder, he heard the tiniest of footsteps. No, he’s out of bed. There’s no attached bathroom in there, and he’s not heading towards the door.

“Vinnie?” Quiet as a mouse, Mason walked to the room door and opened it. He saw the bed covers pushed back, but there was no Vincent to be found. Did...did he shadow-run somewhere?

“Uh, Mason?”

Quickly turning himself around, the Alpha went back into the living room to find Tierney sitting down with Vincent standing in front, wearing nothing but a pair of boxers and surrounded by wafting black wisps. Found him. "Vinnie, what’s up?” Tierney was baffled to see Vincent pop out of the shadows. The smaller man had his eyes closed and stood perfectly still. Something’s off. He’s just standing here. Is...no, it can’t be! “Vin, are you sleepwalking?”

A small puff of breath escaped the shadow mage’s lips. Mason made his way closer, but stopped when a second puff pursed through. Is he? Vincent’s lips vibrated against one another as an extended breath plowed through, followed by a hearty giggle. He’s laughing? Did he try pulling some sort of prank on us? The longer Vincent laughed, the more concerned his mate became. His...his voice is higher than usual, and that’s not his typical laugh! What is go-

“Oh, man! I totally had you two going, didn’t I?” The shrill and feminine voice came as a surprise to the lycans. It was a new voice to them, and it came from Vincent’s mouth.

***

“A marvelous evening, wouldn’t you say, Kaplan?”

The wolf’s heart fluttered as he heard his boyfriend’s suave tone. Kaplan was already head over heels with having his hand held. “Yeah, it was fun, and it was good to see Vincent and Mason.”

“I agree. Mr. Bolton seems to be excited for his challenges. I’m itching in anticipation to see what the little mage can do. What do you think?”

“About what, Cy?”

Cyrus curled his grin to one side and looked down at his man, “Anything! The challenges, our delicious dinner we just had, Wagner’s stupidity. You’ve been in the dumps since I picked you up outside your apartment.” He let go of Kaplan’s hand, only to place it on the wolf’s side. “I am merely trying to cheer you up.”

Learning of Cyrus’ mission, Kaplan smiled and looked up at his tall boyfriend, “Well, it worked. I just…”

“Can’t get Enforcer Wagner’s bombastic rampage off your mind? You handled yourself impeccably, Kaplan. I was quite impressed when you let Tierney know you handled the situation. It looked like he was going to rip off someone’s head!”

“Really?” Earning both a nod and a giggle from the Alpha, Kaplan smirked in self-confidence. “I was trying to make a stand, I guess. After Alex laid into me, I snapped. I...I was done being the runt, it took all this time for me to realize that I have my own power. A lot of shifters have looked at me as a nobody, but I carry a lot on my shoulders. It’s work that most leaders don’t want to do. I like it, though, being the guy that gets the work done, while the bigger leaders prepare for the future.”

Well, well! He is now coming to terms with who he is, and how he’s done being pushed around! This is very interesting. “Bravo, Mr. Alvey! Not many find the pride lurking in the paperwork, but you do. I know we practically just met, but I can’t help myself by saying how proud I am of your performances today! I would love to have seen Enforcer Wagner’s face when you gave him his proper earful!”

Kaplan chuckled as he appreciated Cyrus’ pep talk. He really cares about me, both in a pack-related mindset, and also as a person. They continued to walk for several blocks before deciding to call it a night. Cyrus called for a cab and prompted the driver to head to his apartment.

As the cab rolled to a halt in front of the Alpha’s residence, the panda watched as the wolf stayed in the cab. Oh, silly man! “Kaplan? Coming?”

“I...I thought I was going back to my apartment.”

“Not tonight, you’re not. I know we agreed to Sundays and Wednesday, but seeing how the Owensville couple are here, I would like to spend time with you.”

"Does that mean I’m staying with you tonight?”

Making sure the driver was looking away, Cyrus flashed his emerald irises, “Of course! Take my hand.” Lending his large palm, the wolf grabbed it. Kaplan closed the door with his free hand, before he was led into the towering structure. As they got into the elevator, the wolf felt the mood change. The silver doors closed and Cyrus spun to stand in front of Kaplan. “My sweet, little pup, truly alone at last!”

The lycan looked up to find a mischievous smirk on the larger man’s face. In a flash, Cyrus’s lips were pressed against his own and Kaplan melted. Hands were placed on hips as the two shared heated kisses. In the arms of the giant man, Kaplan felt safe. The world could fall into disarray and he would feel protected from anything.

The two were surprised they made it up twenty floors without a single stop. When the elevator stopped and a small lycan woman got on, Cyrus ceased his attack. Unfortunately, Kaplan couldn’t mask his guilty face. As the woman rode the elevator for several floors, she carried a smile that signaled she knew of the pair’s actions prior to her entering the elevator. The second the lycan stepped out, Cyrus cornered Kaplan and continued his onslaught.

Arriving on the panda’s floor, Kaplan did his best to keep up with the larger man’s pace. He’s going so fast! But the wolf did not care. He was having a wonderful time with the bear. Stepping into the condominium, Kaplan started to take off his shoes, but was swept off his feet! He found himself in the bear’s arms and was being carried into the bedroom. Cy...Cyrus! What is he doing?

Cyrus gently set the man down on the corner of the mattress and went back to mauling the poor wolf’s mouth. I imagine he will have purple lips by morning!

Go fast? I...I like.

I’m sorry for not consulting you, my bear. I don’t know what’s gotten ahold of me! I...I want to mark him, but not in a bonding sense.

Agree. He mate. Leave mark.

Thank you, my dear friend. Pressing his palm on the wolf’s stomach, Cyrus gave a signal for Kaplan to scoot further back into the bed. Once accomplished, the bear pressed forward on his knees, following the Beta. I...I don’t know! Why am I so attracted to this man?

He understand. He go through same.

It has to be more than that! By no means, I can’t go through with bonding to him right now, but I...I feel I must pull back on some desires.

Yes. No mating. Not yet. Give him time. Agreeing with his bear, Cyrus latched on to the next best alternative. Removing his lips for a mere second, he huskily breathed in Kaplan’s face, “Take your shirt off. I want to see you.” Leaning up to allow the wolf some room, Cyrus stared at Kaplan. Watching the man slowly take off his shirt caused passionate palpitations in his chest, urging for contact. When he saw the slender body underneath him, Cyrus’ heart fluttered. He...is a wolf? There’s not a single hair on his body! Despite his shock, the bear slowly released each of his shirt’s buttons from their slotted cells. I need to feel him!

Kaplan laid down in awe. He’s taking off his shirt! I...I feel so vulnerable, but safe at the same time! He leaned up and fumbled with Cyrus’ bottom button on the dress shirt. A low rumble was felt as Kaplan’s fingers brushed against the bear’s skin, and the wolf felt the vibration through his body. Oh, Gods! That...was that the first time I’ve heard Cyrus growl! Resting his back against the bed, Kaplan watched the Alpha slowly shoulder the shirt off. The wolf’s eyes became attached to the tattooed arms and slowly roamed across the broad chest. He shaves too? His chest doesn’t have a hair on it!

The bear landed above Kaplan’s body, holding himself up by his hands and knees. “Kaplan. You look so natural beneath me.” He watched as the wolf inhaled, with the brown eyes darting all across Cyrus. “Do you like what you see, little pup? I know that I do.” Leaning down, he rested his elbows on the bed, planting his chest and stomach against Kaplan’s.

Kaplan was smitten by the advance, and barely registered that Cyrus’ head was coming in for another tender kiss. Both shifters backed away to catch their breath. The wolf gazed into the shining emerald eyes and whispered, “I do. I like you, Cyrus. This...this feels really nice.”

Another low growl echoed in the room and the bear lifted himself to gaze at Kaplan’s body once again. “This does feel nice. I...I hope you understand that this is just about as far as my bear and I want to go.”

The lycan leaned up and sat with his arms behind his back, hands pressed against the mattress holding him up, “I understand, Cy. I’m enjoying the pace.”

“But there is one thing I feel that I need to do, my little wolf.” Cyrus’s eyes flashed brighter and stalked his boyfriend back into a downed position. “I almost can’t help myself, Kaplan. My bear and I have already discussed that this is becoming a serious relationship.” Pressing his lips against Kaplan’s earlobe, Cyrus latched on for a slight nibble, “I want to suck on your neck.” Hearing the wolf gasp only created further excitement for the panda, “I...I want to mark you, so everyone knows you are mine.”

Did...did I just hear him right? “Cy? You...you want to mark me?”

“Yes, but it will be a while before we discuss the mating, let alone the bond. My bear isn’t fully committed to the actions yet, but we want to mark you so others will see you as taken. Does that make sense?”

Kaplan searched within the shining irises and nodded, “Y-yes. It makes sense. Um, just one question.”

Cyrus let a hand caress the neck of his boyfriend, “Yes?”

“I’m a little unfamiliar with courtship with ursus shifters. Is...is there anything different between bear and wolven courtship?”

A light giggle came from the panda and Cyrus leaned to the side, rolling Kaplan to face him. “It’s almost identical, but there is one major difference between the species. You would put your mark on the side of my neck, as per lycan traditions. Mine…” Cyrus lifted a finger and barely grazed Kaplan’s Adam’s apple, “...goes over the front of your neck.”

The lycan sharply inhaled through his nose. The front of my neck? I think my shirt and ties would cover it when I go to work. Either that, or I’ll buy a few turtleneck sweaters. But other than work, I’d be happy to...to bear his mark. Kaplan scooted himself closer to the bear and landed another kiss on Cyrus’ lips. “Okay. I want to bear your mark.”

Cyrus’ eyes widened at the statement but had no need for Kaplan to repeat himself. The bear lifted himself up onto his elbow and moved his mouth closer towards the wolf’s neck. “Are you sure, my little wolf? Are you certain you want this?” He watched Kaplan nod and smiled, “So be it.”

Kaplan observed the Alpha rising to his knees and hovering over him. I...I should make this easier for him. He leaned his head back, causing his neck to be more open and revealing. A warmth latched over the front of his neck. It’s so hot and wet! His...his mouth is over my neck! The bear’s lips latched onto the skin and sucked hard. The wolf’s air felt trapped within his throat, as an intense pressure began to build. A desperate wheeze escaped his mouth. I can’t breathe! Just...just hang on for a little while longer.

He heard Cyrus breathing heavy on the side of his neck, as warm air buffeted his skin. The pressure was released and Kaplan gasped for air. “Kaplan...”

“Cy...Cyrus?”

The panda’s chest heaved as he breathed deep to get oxygen in his lungs. As he knelt above the wolf, he admired his work. The mark was an incomplete one, as it did not possess the teeth marks, but it served as a warning sign for other shifters. He reached out and gingerly traced the outline of the skin as it began to grow a faded purple tint. Yes. He...he is mine. Mine!