Rising in the Shadows - 17. Chapter 17: Instant Interest

His. I’m his! A euphoric sensation flooded Kaplan’s chest. Staring into the shiny emerald eyes gave him a sense of worth. Cyrus wants me to be his! The lycan scoured the half-naked man atop of him. He’s so much bigger than me! Power and authority just oozes from his body. Reaching up, he put a hand on the white tattooed bicep. He watched the green eyes glow brighter as their skin made contact, “Cy?”

Hearing his name forced a low rumble to echo in the panda’s chest. My bear, what do we do here? I can smell the arousal pouring from Kaplan!

Don’t know. Want play?

I want to, but I’m not sure how far to take this.

No mating.

Understood. I feel the need to taste our little pup.

Y-yes. Taste.

You sound hesitant.

We… We no do before, not to mate.

This is true, but it will just mean so much more than those other playthings in our life. I want to make Kaplan ours and satisfy his needs.

Yes! Yes, do!

As you wish. Cyrus dropped his head, his lips landing on Kaplan’s. The sound of the soft moan under him released another thunderous growl, vibrating the couple’s mashed lips. Feeling the soft and slender lycan underneath, the bear felt more powerful than ever. To have him in such a delicate position, it’s intoxicating! Repositioning himself, he towered over Kaplan and studied him, “Kaplan, I know this seems fast, but my bear and I can’t help ourselves. We want to feel you, to touch you!”

The silky voice made Kaplan’s eyes roll into the back of his head. Regaining his sight, the wolf let his hands fall further down the bare torso, “I want to touch you too, Cy. Wherever you and your bear want to take this, I’m comfortable with it.”

The bear dropped to his elbows and knees, placing gentle contact on each other’s skin, “Are you sure about that, my little pup? Because if we have our way,” Cyrus leaned and toyed with Kaplan’s earlobe with his mouth, “you won’t be leaving this bed for quite some time.”

Kaplan gasped when the warm lips encompassed his entire ear, “Cy!” The bulky man had him trapped, both physically and mentally. He could only lay and watch as the dark bear began play-biting along his neck. The wolf’s head shot up when Cyrus fixated on his nipple, moaning and bucking his hips. It’s so warm! I-I feel his tongue circling!

Feeling the hips underneath skyrocket against his chest, Cyrus became incensed. He wanted to please his wolf. Popping his lips off Kaplan’s skin, he darted his eyes towards his mate’s as he left a trail of kisses and tongue-swipes, “My Kaplan. Mine, all mine.” Reaching the brim of the wolf’s boxers, Cyrus tilted his head upward, “I’m going to take this, my little pup. I’m going to take what’s rightfully mine.” Watching the man breathe heavily in ecstasy, he pulled the underwear down while Kaplan lifted his hips to assist. A barely audible smack of skin captured Cyrus’ attention. Well, would you look at that!

Staring at Kaplan’s manhood, Cyrus was quite impressed with the wolf’s weapon. Without a second thought, the bear held it with closed fingers, measuring it within his grasp. Rather lengthy, with a little girth to boot! I’m going to love pleasuring my little wolf. Pumping the shaft in his hand, Cyrus’ neck curled in excitement as he heard another moan leave Kaplan’s lips. Humming in arousal, Cyrus whispered, “Do you like that, little pup?”

“Y-yes!” Kaplan tried to be subtle and whisper back, but the waves of pleasure overwhelmed him and nearly shouted. Having Cyrus grip him with a gentle hand was driving the wolf insane.

The bear grinned and glided his wrist into an excruciatingly slow pace. I want him to lose all sense of reality to my touch. Despite the pleas from Kaplan to go faster, Cyrus maintained his speed. Lowering his head, the panda was about to take a swipe with his tongue, but he heard an inaudible whisper from above, “Say that again, Kaplan.”

“C-Close… “

Cyrus’ eyes shot open as he glanced down to the imposing manhood. My bear?

Take.

With pleasure. The Alpha didn’t need any further instruction. He halted all hand movement and dismissed all desires to play. I want him, right now and at this very moment! Effortless, Cyrus engulfed Kaplan, reveling in the lycan’s need to buck his hips and moan. The panda savored Kaplan's taste as he stroked the man with his lips.

The Beta couldn’t take it. He had no strength to hold back. Gripping the sheets, Kaplan stammered to warn Cyrus, “Cy-Cyrus! I’m… I’m… “ Unable to stop his body, the waves of pleasure crested and he climaxed. Kaplan jerked his head back and gritted his teeth as he grunted. The warmth around his member quivered his lips and would not relinquish its hold over him. He breathed heavily, trying to wrap his mind around what had happened. Cy… Cy blew me? He did it! An… An alpha sucked my dick! His eyes darted across the room, searching for answers.

Cyrus didn’t dare move. He could only watch as the man he would mate tried to handle an orgasm. Swallowing, the bear savored Kaplan. His taste… is forever emblazoned within my mind. He is mine, and I will not give him up. Releasing the wolf, Cyrus climbed back to the head of the bed, “You look a little lost, Kaplan. A penny for your thoughts?”

Smiling at the humorous question, Kaplan curled into the bear’s awaiting arms, “Cyrus, that… That was amazing. I… I’ve never felt anything like that before.”

Moving his head away, Cyrus gave an inquisitive stare, “No! You are joking me.”

“Oh, well, I mean… Gods!” Flustered by his inaccurate statement, Kaplan tried to correct himself, “I mean that was the best! Nothing can compare.”

“I accept that compliment.” Flashing his green irises once more, Cyrus snuggled into the bed and rested his head on a pillow, “I’ve never done that part before, Kaplan. You’re the only one to have breached my lips.”

I what? I’m… the only one? “Cyrus, really?”

“Of course, my panda is very picky, and he practically demanded me to take what’s mine.” Raising his arm, the bigger man placed his hands behind his pillow. The action was followed by Kaplan resting his head on Cyrus’ pectoral. He’s so delightful, knowing that he’ll be close to me tonight. The bear’s thoughts were soon distracted as he felt light moisture on his chest. Is… Is he?

Yes, he do! Craning his neck, Cyrus saw it. Kaplan was licking his dark nipple. Returning the favor? The bear breathed out, enjoying the slender tongue’s work. “Straddle me, Kaplan. I want to see you.” Watching the smaller man climb on top of him, Cyrus squinted his eyes as the wolf returned to the nipple. He’s so adorable, and his tongue is so swift. “There you go, pup. Show me what you can do.”

Hearing the encouragement, Kaplan felt the overwhelming need to please the Alpha. Done with his object of obsession, the lycan lowered his body further down the bed. Looking to Cyrus for approval, the tan irises turned emerald for a split second. Returning his attention to the bear’s body, Kaplan placed his hand over Cyrus’ clothed wood. A hasty breath left his mouth, stunned by the shape. “Go ahead.” The wolf’s shaky fingers pinched the Alpha’s underwear and pulled. Just as he did for Cyrus, the bear’s hips lifted to be rid of the constraining garment. Once revealed, Kaplan was stunned by the panda.

He had seen few men in life, and countless through pornography, but Kaplan never laid eyes on anything like Cyrus. The bear’s manhood was short, yet incredibly stout, and it intimidated the lycan. It’s… as thick as a soda can! Apprehension filled the lycan as he could not find a suitable way to accomplish his goal. It’s still Cyrus, so I at least need to try. Wrapping his hand around his boyfriend did not soothe his worries. I can barely touch my fingertips! Lifting and lowering his grip, Kaplan was relieved to hear Cyrus’ growl. Knowing the bear was enjoying the action, the wolf steadily increased his pacing.

“Slower, my pup.” The advice murmured from Cyrus’ lips. He was in heaven. His touch is so gentle. I saw the concern in his eyes, so he must be worried about how I will fit. Don’t doubt yourself, my Beta. You will do just fine. Closing his eyes, he tilted his head back and enjoyed Kaplan’s performance.

“Cy, I… I want to suck your cock.” Upon speaking his desires, the lycan earned bright green eyes and a lustful smile. He lowered his head and licked his lips, preparing himself. Opening his mouth, he was able to mount the head but stopped as Cyrus released a low and lengthy growl. Gripping the shaft, Kaplan bobbed on his boyfriend. There was a strain in the wolf’s jaw but found he was going further than he anticipated. I’m… I’m doing it! With determination at the forefront of his mind, Kaplan made it his goal to please Cyrus. The rumble from the bear’s chest grew louder as the wolf lowered himself closer to the bigger man’s pelvis. Almost got it.

Look at him go! Cyrus ran his hand through Kaplan’s messy black hair, pushing back to see the lips surround his member. “Oh, Kaplan! It feels amazing. I-I can’t hold out much longer.”

Kaplan was fueled by his resolve. He felt the grip of his hair tighten and the Alpha’s hips thrust. Is he getting close? Hearing firmer breaths and louder growl, his assumption gained evidence. Maintaining pace, Kaplan persisted until he heard a cracked gasp in Cyrus’ voice, followed by several warm spurts in the wolf’s mouth.

Cyrus was gripping the edge of the mattress with all of his might. He released everything he had. Snorting and huffing, the panda tried to collect himself, “Kap… Kaplan. You are… Simply amazing!” Watching the wolf slowly climb back into his arms, Cyrus was quick to latch on, pulling the smaller man to his side, “My little pup, do you know of the things you do to me?”

Kaplan grinned and rested his head on the broad shoulder, “Not a clue. I can only imagine it’s the same thing you do to me. Every time you look at me, I get a chill, but I like it. You make me feel wanted.”

“You are wanted. By all of our friends, and most importantly, me.” A suave giggle left Cyrus’ lips. Feeling his eyes droop, he rolled to his side to face Kaplan, “Stay with me, I’ll make sure you are wanted for the rest of the night.”

Assuming it would be more comfortable, Kaplan turned to his other side, to face away from the bear. He scooted himself closer to Cyrus and felt the large arm drape over his waist, “I know I’ll be, Cy. Sleep well.”

***

Over the next couple of days, Tierney and Dirk had their future lives sorted out. The New Yorkers met with the pack realtor and set up their living plans. Tierney found a plot of land between Mason’s and Lei’s home. After viewing it, and the forest area nearby, he arranged for the purchase. Now to find the right home to build! Looking through several catalogs of homes, Tierney elected to meet with an architect to design a custom house to suit his needs.

Dirk met with the realtor as well and was smitten by a modest home in Owensville. The home had a few repairs that needed attention, but given the time between Tierney’s retirement and the official move-in, the bear was able to coordinate with recommended repairmen to have the house done by October. In addition, Dirk was encouraged by Mason to introduce himself to Chief Henry Vough. After a lengthy conversation, Henry thought it would be ridiculous not to hire the soon-to-be-former Enforcer. For the time being, the plan was for Dirk to start as a police officer and become Shaw’s partner within a few months.

With Tierney and Cyrus advising them, Mason and Vincent received a few interested offers for the newly acquired land. After collecting a pile of five suitors, the three alphas sat in Mason’s office and connected Cyrus into the conversation via phone call. Cyrus backed one of the interested parties without hesitation, Remis McCabe. The panda provided a detailed dossier on the Irishman, showcasing his pack’s successful financial records and morale report. After reading the finer lines, Vincent was very impressed with the emails, “This guy knows how to run things.”

“Quite so, Vincent. He was subject to an EC evaluation, mostly for the EC’s benefit mind you, and his pack structure blew me away! I don't give ten out of tens on an eval, but he came close.”

Tierney leaned back in his seat, crossing his arms, “Why’s McCabe wanting land in America?”

Cyrus, from the tone in his voice, also seemed puzzled, “That, I’m not so sure of. I would think the reason would be similar to mine for taking New York. He probably wants a new toy to chew on.”

Vincent spoke of a few other names from emails regarding their interest, but Tierney and Cyrus shot them down, “Triplett and Dunn don’t know how to run a pack!” The New Yorker growled in exasperation, “They’re just lumbering suits whose councils do everything for them. How they found out about Mesker Park is beyond me!” Once the bear voiced a similar opinion, Mason and Vincent were quick to throw their names out of consideration. “What names are left?”

Mason towered over his mate and clicked on the remaining pinned emails, “Let’s see… We have one from Alpha Bartlett, and the last one is Stuerm.”

“Alpha Stuerm?” Tierney’s attention was grabbed, “I thought you two decided against bringing it up to him?” Mason and Vincent did. While the New Yorker stayed with the couple, they realized the cons outweighed the pros to having Stuerm involved. Having a traditionalist neighbor was already an issue, but having that same neighbor gain power seemed like an ill-advised move. “It seems like news of Vincent’s acquisition spread like wildfire. What does the email say?”

“It was very well written, expressing his interest. There is a little shade thrown, saying he is disappointed I didn’t inform him.” Mason snarled as he reread the letter, “He doesn’t even mention my mate. The land is technically Vinnie’s and I would think he knows that.”

Cyrus sighed from the phone’s speaker, “Well, you do know who we’re talking about, correct? As much as I resent the man, it would be impolite to not include him in the conversation. I’m unfamiliar with Alpha Bartlett.”

Tierney snorted humorously, “You mean Beta Bartlett? Trenton is no Alpha by birthright, but his small pack outside Dallas has been one for mentioning.”

“Beta?” Vincent grew flustered, “I didn’t know Betas could hold land!”

“Why, yes Mr. Bolton!” Cyrus’ patented giggle filled the room, despite being on a call, “I nearly forgot about Beta Bartlett and his little pack in Canton! It’s a small territory, but one for a distinctive tale. There is no Alpha in their council, but the Beta and Delta are practically inseparable and almost unstoppable. Enforcer Ashford fills a dominant role in their relationship and has squashed all challenges for their land, fulfilling a key loophole in the bylaws. I’ve been meaning to plan a visit and offer a harmless evaluation to solidify their pack’s stance.”

Wow! A Beta and Delta working together to lead a pack!

Interest! Want see!

Me too, bud! Maybe we can plan a trip sometime? “So those two are seeking to take Mesker Park?”

Mason bobbed his head as he scrolled through the email, “They are just poking for more information, not necessarily demanding for consideration. The reason they were interested is peace of mind. They’ve seen a rampant increase in challenges for their land but heard of Mesker Park and its lengthy vacancy. It says they inquired about the city two days ago, got a response from their EC liaison that Vinnie got the deed, and how we were trying to find an owner.”

Vincent was still hung on a small detail from Cyrus’ explanation, “Cyrus, you said these two were in a relationship?”

A low and sultry giggle filled the room once more, “Yes, I did! From their profile on the EC’s database, they’re quite an adorable couple. It’s very clear who the dominant one is.”

Without a second thought, Mason opened a new tab in his browser and logged into his account. Reaching the profiles page of the EC’s website, he pulled up Beta Bartlett’s information. The first picture was of a somewhat shorter man in a dark-blue suit, but the following picture painted a thousand words. Oh, well that makes a lot of sense. It showed Bartlett seated with a formidable set of arms dangled over his shoulders. Similarly dressed, a gargantuan man with hazel eyes stared down the Owensville Alpha. Sporting a low buzz cut and thin beard, it was no surprise to Mason when he read of Ashford’s military background in the description. That’s… That’s a big guy! Shit, he looks like he has several inches on me!

Big shifter. He no Alpha?

No, it says he’s a Delta, but I see where you would think that, my friend. He’s huge!

Tierney raised an eyebrow at his friend’s threatened scowl, “I’m assuming you’re looking at Ashford? He’s a mountain of a man, and his wolf is no joke either. I’ve been itching to ask for a gentleman’s spar, but I honestly have no idea if I could win.”

“Oh, Tierney! You don’t want that.” Cyrus’ curt and playful demeanor held a dark undertone, “Ashford is rumored to be the strongest Delta in the world. I don’t think I could stand a chance against that man, even with my lightning magic.”

All three men turned to the phone in disbelief. Vincent glanced at the computer screen and understood Cyrus’ apprehension. I don’t blame Mason and Tierney’s apprehension, but for Cyrus to say he might not stand a chance? That’s insane! Yakob said at the diner that Cyrus was the strongest of our group.

Yes, don’t know. Want meet Enforcer!

I’m sure we can arrange something, bud. If those two are interested, we’ll have to meet with them. “Okay, so we can add them to the list to meet with, along with Alpha McCabe?”

Mason nodded, “I’m hesitant to ignore Stuerm though. He holds some power, but I can’t get past the fact he blatantly ignored you. This is your land, baby. If you want to include Stuerm or the others, then that’s your decision.”

Thinking for a moment, Vincent nodded, “I think it would be smart to add him into the conversation. He may not be friendly towards the gay community, but the least we can do is be neighborly. I want to introduce myself and let him know I can be seen as an ally.”

Tierney smirked, “A calculating move! I think your Alphaness is showing, Vincent.”

“I agree, Mr. Bolton! An interesting move, but a well-placed one. Should Stuerm act out of turn, it is his reputation on the line and not yours.”

Earning both of the experienced Alphas praise, Vincent settled on meeting the three prominent parties. Tierney propped his foot upon his knee, “Now that you picked your candidates, how are you going to conduct the choice?”

Vincent furrowed his brow, “What do you mean?”

“Are you making a singular choice based on merit, or will it be brought up to a democratic vote among your council? I doubt you’re aiming for a combat-related decision.”

Vincent looked at his mate but was reminded of Mason’s earlier statement. Right, this is my land to deal with. I have to make the decisions.

You forget me. I help.

Right, how can I forget you, bud? What do you think? I don’t want the city’s leadership to be decided by combat, let alone see any of these Alphas get hurt.

Agree. Merit good. They lead pack, pack strong, then get land.

Well, we can’t just judge them off of their pack’s strength. If that’s the case, then McCabe will get it. We need to look at them as Alphas, then as people. Stuerm’s off my list since he’s not accepting of the LGBT community.

What? What LGT?

Ha! Sorry, bud. LGBT. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender. It’s the gay community.

Ah! Knew that. Don’t like letters. People like people, who care?

Well, people like Stuerm care about that stuff. He thinks a man has to be with a woman and vice-versa.

That silly. We mate Mace. He man. How explain?

People like Stuerm think couples like us and Mace shouldn’t be. I don’t know the man, but I’ve met my fair share of people who share his beliefs. It’s hard to please them.

No, no like! We mate Mace! He deal with.

I agree, but we need to play this more politically. Whether we like it or not, Stuerm is Mace’s neighboring pack, and we need to stay allies with him. I don’t know much about lycan and warring territories, but I’m trying to keep this matter as civil as possible.

Agree. You talk Stuerm. I not hold back.

I got you, bud. So, we’ll look at these Alphas on a merit-based opinion? I say we include Mason in the vote. He’s our mate and we can use his experience.

Yes! Dave and Caleb?

We can include them too. Those two are our council, so they should be involved. Seeing no qualm with his wolf, Vincent opened his eyes, “It will be a merit-based choice made by myself, Mace, and our council. I don’t want any challenge by combat, and I’ll use the policy dictated within the EC’s bylaws to prohibit such events for the six-month period after the land is awarded.”

The group looked to the phone’s speaker as Cyrus clapped, “Bravo! Simply bravo, Vincent! I was fully prepared to throw that policy as a suggestion, but my word! When did you read the bylaws?”

Tierney huffed, “You’re welcome. I’ll take my payment in whiskey.”

Cyrus giggled heartily, “I’ll hand you a bottle of Hibiki after the meeting. Speaking of which, are you making your way back to New York?”

Tierney rested his arms on the back of the chair, “The flight is this evening, and we will be back with plenty of time to prepare for the meeting tomorrow night.”

“Excellent! I’m prepared to make my debut as the incoming Alpha to the pack, but I must handle some issues regarding Beta Holman. It seems he’s rather upset with the declining number of visiting packs this season. There’s already a twenty percent decrease from last year’s performance.”

“I can meet with him when I arrive.”

“No need. I’m already on the way to his office. I gave him a few ideas through a text and he wants to hear more.”

Chuckling, Tierney was impressed with his replacement’s activity, “Very well, if you can get him to quit overreacting every year, then I’ll buy you a steak dinner!”

“You might want to book a reservation, Alpha Scott. I’m getting off here. Mason, Vincent, a pleasure as always! Keep me in the loop with how things are going.” The phone’s double-tone sounded, signaling Cyrus’ departure from the conversation.

Tierney rose from his chair and stretched, “I think that’s my cue as well. I still need to get packed and say my goodbyes around town.”

Mason’s grin curled deviously, “Of course, Morr would have your hide if you forgot.”

“I would never forget her!” The New Yorker’s tone grew snide, but his thin maw remained upward, “And she wouldn’t forget me either.”

Vincent propped his elbow on the desk, feeling the need to defuse the situation, “I’ve been meaning to ask, how are you two doing? Is Morrine excited for you to move here?”

Swishing his bottom lip along the upper, Tierney let his pride flow, “We are having fun, but our animals are another story. Her tiger is playing hard to get, and my wolf loathes it! Morrine can’t wait for the move, but she’s already hatching a plan to get me involved in her shop.”

“Oh, I’m going to need to see that!” Mason howled in laughter and stood, “Are you going to make sandwiches with love, Ty?”

Tierney growled, despite smirking at the joke, “Says the pup who ate all of my breakfast several days ago. I’ve already put a backstop in place to slow her ambitions down. I offered to finance a renovation of her shop, but she practically threw a nightstand at me! If she wants me in the kitchen, she’ll have to take my money.”

Mason whistled, “Wow! I think you got her. Morrine’ll never accept that, she’s too proud of her business.”

“That’s my point. My wolf doesn’t like it but I’m prepared to spend some time making sandwiches. It’s a small price to pay.”

Seeing the smile growing on his friend’s face, Vincent sensed more to Tierney’s statement, “A small price? Ty, are you falling for Morrine?” Mason was quick to join his mate by leaning forward.

“She’s earning her place as my mate if that’s what you’re asking.”

“Uh-uh!” Vincent did not accept that as an answer, “C’mon, tell us the real answer! There’s no earning, is there?”

Grumbling, the Alpha couldn’t ignore Vincent’s questioning, “Fine, okay? She’s great!” Hearing the words come out of his mouth, Tierney had to repeat himself, “She’s great. It… It’s more than just hot sex, but… She’s interested in who I am, as a person. I’ve been with many women, but Morrine is the first to show that kind of interest. She… Is she?” Looking up to the men, Tierney asked, “Is she my mate?”

Vincent covered his mouth, shocked at his friend’s sudden realization. Holy shit! Did Ty just figure out Morrine is his mate?

Before a response could be formulated, Tierney darted his attention to Mason, “How did you know about Vincent? Was there a pull, or a declaration from your wolf?” The older wolf needed to know. He stood his ground firmly, desperate for an answer.

“Easy, Ty. It’s probably different from how I knew it was Vinnie since we were destined. I smelled him and knew he was nearby. It wasn’t until I saw him that I knew he was mine.” The Alpha caught a glimpse of his mate’s adoration, but continued with his explanation, “Every time I looked at Vinnie before we mated, my wolf knew he belonged to me. Maybe it works the same with non-destined relationships. What does your wolf feel when you think of her?”

Tierney stood in silence, gazing at the floor. The couple grew concerned when the New Yorker remained still for a minute. Blinking, Tierney looked up and nodded, “My wolf wants her. She’s been my challenge for the past month, being away from her and combating her tiger’s ferocity when we’re together.” His face remained in intense thought as his green irises turned red, “She… She’s mine.”

Vincent and his wolf could smell the emotions rushing through Tierney. He really wants her! At least he’s admitted it.

Yes, good thing. Strong mate for strong Alpha.

I knew those two were going to be a thing!

What? How know?

Back when I did my Mage’s Dance and was brought into Mace’s pack, those two were inseparable. Hell, Tierney came back to the house with bloody claw marks all over his back!

Ha! That why he say fer… ferocity.

Hey, look at you! That’s a pretty big word!

Yes! Ferocity! Mean tough, right?

Yep! Those two are meant for each other, even if Aliz didn’t have a hand in it. Focusing on his surroundings, he watched Mason walk forward and clasp Tierney on the shoulder, congratulating the man.

“I want to say go get her, but you have a flight to catch.”

Tierney scowled, “Yeah, I’ll probably stop by her place and tell her I’ll be back soon.”

“If you leave now, you might be able to do more than that.” With Mason’s advice, Tierney’s eyes flashed and the man was on the move. “Don’t forget Dirk! He’ll need a ride home too!” Turning his back on Mason, Tierney raised his arm and swatted the air. Having the office to themselves, Mason looked at Vincent, “Alright, so you want to set up some meetings, Alpha Bolton?” He playfully wiggled his eyebrows as he mentioned his mate’s title.

Vincent rolled his eyes and approached the computer, “Oh, ha! Call me that again and I’ll show you how Alpha I am.” He heard a low growl from Mason and threw one out in response, “Keep growling like that and you’ll be baring my mark.” The two gave the other a lustful stare and could smell the arousal wafting. Mason lurched from his chair and flashed his irises, earning Vincent’s in return. With the same intention in mind, the couple raced to the bedroom.

***

Dave slowly lifted his eyelids. Damn, must have fallen asleep. Lifting his head, he saw his TV screen was backlit, signaling its screensaver mode. Looking down, he found Stacy’s head in his lap. Yeah, she fell asleep too. Probably halfway into the movie. Sighing, the wolf couldn’t wish for a better outcome to his girlfriend’s exposure. The human never left his side, insisting that she couldn’t be alone with the new information. Naturally, he took her in, but the nights had become ritualistic: they watch a movie, fall asleep, and Dave would carry her to his bed, only to return to the couch.

I can’t do that to her. It makes me feel like I’m taking advantage of her exposure! He silently made a goal to get Stacy back to a normal life as he carried her to his bed. She sleeps like a damn bear! Shouldering the door open, a small creak in the hinge caused Stacy to stir.

“D-Dave?” Her head lifted in a sleepy daze, “Did I fall asleep again?”

“Sure did. I’m putting you to bed.” Holding her in one arm, Dave flung the comforter to the side.

“Oh, okay.” As her back hit the soft bed, Stacy cradled the king-sized pillow under her head, “Dave? Can… Can you sleep in here? Just this once?”

Dave felt the sinews in his legs tighten. His body has been wanting more of their relationship, but his mind soothed the needs. It’s been almost a month, but still! I don’t want to push it. “I’d like to, Stace, but I—”

“Please?”

Her whispered plea shattered any resolve in Dave’s mind. She’s so sleepy but is just as bossy. “Okay, but no funny business. You… You mind if I take my shirt off? I have trouble sleeping with one on.” A muffled affirmative gave him the green light. He threw the shirt to the side and grabbed a pair of athletic shorts. Removing his jeans and slipping on the shorts, Dave felt more relaxed. Yep, it’s bedtime! Climbing into the cool sheets, the lycan laid on his back, next to Stacy. He pulled the comforter over the both of them, covering their chests. His mind started falling into slumber’s abyss when a slender arm draped over his stomach and a pressure landed on his pec.

Peeking through his eyelids, he saw Stacy’s head below. Instinctively, Dave moved his arm around her, resting it on her back. Seconds passed and the couple fell asleep once more.