Because I Wanted To
Stiles had said his goodbyes to everyone- everyone but him.
Derek hadn't been home, but there was no helping that. He'd simply have to text him later or something.
Now he had just one thing left to do before leaving for college, and that was load up the Jeep. Everything was already packed into duffels on his bed.
He should have known it wouldn't be that easy. Derek was waiting on his couch, looking up when he stepped through the front door. Stiles noted the duffel by the former wolf's feet.
"Hey Sourwolf," Stiles greeted non-chalantly. "Come to see me off?"
"Stiles," Derek spoke quietly. "I want... I want to come with you."
Okay! Stiles was actually surprised. No shocked
"Uh Derek," the teen said awkwardly.
"There's nothing for me now," the older man explained. "No reason for me to stay. I'm not a werewolf anymore. Scott will still be here."
Stiles was still looking at him with a dumbfounded stare.
"I know I can't just insist on you bringing me. Its your decision. I can help... "
"Derek its not that I mind," Stiles blurted. "I mean its sudden, but I can't help seeing the irony in this. I'll take it this means we're real good buddies."
This was said with the teen's usual sarcasm and an amused grin.
"Yeah," Derek said with the smallest of smiles. "We're friends Stiles."
"I already knew that Der," Stiles chuckled affectionately. "Well help me grab my stuff too, yeah?"
ooooo O ooooo
LEAVING BEACON HILLS
Stiles looked over at Derek, expression open yet playful.
"So, just me and you huh? California's our playground.
"Guess so," Derek agreed.
"Why me?" Stiles asked. "Why'd you come with me?"
Derek looked at him with a look of friendship rarely seen in those eyes, and maybe something else.
"Because I wanted to Stiles... "