Hey, hey, my Lovelies!
Sorry for the long wait, guys. Real life sucks.
I've also been editing the first story, and getting a handle of this bloody timeline. Re-readers will notice dates have been added to some of the chapters and even some of the content has been change minimally/added to.
Thank you so much for the eight of you who reviewed! You know who your are! Thanks as well for the alerts and favourites added! I appreciate it all!
Read the end A/N for Photobucket details. New pictures available.
I don't own it! I only play with it!
Without further ado ... Enjoy!
=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=
Chapter Twenty-Four
Bonds
=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=
SJ's Point of View
God, I hope Nix isn't this bad when I get pregnant...
That thought had crossed my mind numerous times over the last few weeks. Papa had been unbearably possessive and protect of Dad since discovering they were to have another pup. The fact that fae activity had increased significantly over the time was a huge contributing factor. Papa hardly ever let Dad out his sight let alone the house these days.
Dad was becoming increasingly frustrated with his husband as he tried to battle for his right to cook his own breakfast. He was already pissed that Papa had allowed him to sleep in past ten-thirty, and the fact that Papa should already be at work but was stubbornly staying home to keep an eye on him.
PT and MJ sat either side of me, snickering behind their hands as they shovelled snacks into their mouths. Me, I felt for Dad. I'd hate if it Nix was constantly fussing over me.
"Chris! I swear to God if you don't back off, I'm going to fucking castrate you with this damn statula!" Dad shouted suddenly, throwing his hands up in front of him as if to ward Papa off.
Instead of taking the threat seriously, Papa scoffed and rolled his eyes before replying, "As if. You like them too much."
PT and MJ groaned simultaneously beside me as I giggled,blushing slightly. I hated it when my shy side shined through, but it seemed I wouldn't ever escape it. Besides, Nix liked it.
"That is so gross," PT muttered with a shake of his head.
"All I'm saying is, you shouldn't be standing up so long! I'm pretty sure it says somewhere that it's bad for you," Papa continued his argument. Or part of it anyway. "I said I would cook breakfast. Go sit down and relax."
"Ooo, he told him to relax," MJ muttered conspiratorially as PT and I snickered, watching as Dad's face reddened in frustration.
"Did you just tell me to relax?" he asked in a deadly calm voice.
Papa sighed heavily, sensing what was coming but helpless to stop it, so why deny it? "Yes, Pup, I told you to relax. You're always on your feet, and you shouldn't be."
"Ooo, he's trying to tell him what to do," MJ muttered again with a low anticipating giggle.
I rolled my eyes at him, biting my lip as I watched as Dad's eyes narrowed dangerously.
"Christopher, you have ten seconds as of now to get your sorry ass to work before I do something I might regret," he threatened with emphasis.
Without another word, sensing he'd pushed Dad quite enough, Papa turned and grabbed his car keys before walking off to the garage, throwing a grunted farewell to my brothers and I.
I picked up my tall glass of OJ, bringing it to my lips in an attempt to smother the shit-eating grin spreading across my face.
"That man is insufferable. I swear, if he doesn't back off, you'll be down a father," Dad told us as he threw his spatula into the sudsy dishwater in the sink. "I mean, I get it, I'm pregnant and shit, but that doesn't give him the right to become a controlling ass."
Turns out that being pregnant also made Dad into a cursing sailor, though still tried to reprimand us whenever we swore.
"Completely get what you're saying, Dad," I answered with a solicitous nod.
It was best to just agree with him these days. It was much less detrimental to us.
He wasn't paying any attention though, muttering and cursing our Papa under his breath as he finished off his breakfast. My brothers and I couldn't help but grin at him from our seats in amusement.
"He's only looking out for you, Papa," MJ tried to sooth, but Dad just rolled his eyes.
"He's trying to be a controlling ass. I won't fucking stand for it," he huffed.
"He wasn't like this with us?" I asked curiously.
"Circumstances with you guys was different, SJ. I was already pregnant before we even knew I could be. Your Papa had this irrational, but understandable, fear of pregnancy and labour and all that stuff because ... well, because he thought his mom had died giving birth to him, so he didn't exactly take it too well," Dad sighed with a shrug. "This time though, he knows what to expect and has more time to become an ass."
"He warmed up eventually though, right?" MJ asked.
Dad nodded. "Oh yeah! Thanks to your Uncle Paul and seeing me prego in wolf form. I won't show in human form," he informed us.
To be honest, the whole thing was an anomaly that wasn't really documented until Papa and Dad decided to write their experience with my brothers and I down. I'd read it in their journal, skipping over the parts that were embarrassing, of course, but I found it completely fascinating. I'd be a liar if I said I wasn't looking forward to experiencing it for myself. Besides, I'd need to know all this stuff for when it was my time, right? MJ too.
We couldn't be sure on PT. He was yet to imprint.
"And you'll deliver in wolf form, right?" I asked. "Can we be there?"
"Yeah. Not literally right next to me. Not even your Papa was when I had you guys, but you can stay with him outside the den while I'm in labour," Dad agreed easily with a bright smile. "You're a part of this as well."
Papa and Dad had decided to use the den where we were born again. Papa had scoped it out with Uncle Paul and Uncle Jacob a few weeks ago. It was a little overgrown and stuff but with a little leg work, the three of them had gotten it back to its usual glory. Dad was excited, spouting about it being 'just right' and 'the obvious choice'. My brothers and I had yet to see it though, at least since we were there as pups ourselves.
The memories of that time were a little sketchy, but I remembered the river, the coziness of the den and the large clearing we played in while our fathers and uncles watched over us. I remember Dad's overzealous protectiveness and grooming too. He constantly made me feel safe though and there was still no change there.
"Don't you have an ultrasound with Grams today?" PT asked, spooning some more cereal as Dad took a seat with us at the breakfast table.
My eyes widened at the amount of food he'd prepared himself - five large pancakes that were smothered with syrup, whipped cream and lemon juice, as well as a few rashers of bacon, four sausages, a couple of hash browns, three slices of french toast and some fruit salad I'd made last night. I guess he was eating for two now.
"Yeah, I do. Papa's getting off work early to go with me," he replied.
"Could we come?" I asked hopefully as my brothers nodded beside me.
"Yeah, I don't see why not since it's a Saturday," he agreed. "You're not with Nix today, Puppy?"
"Yeah. We're going to see a movie with Eph and Banana around lunch time. Your appointment's at four, right?"
Dad nodded. "Yep. What about you two? Are you with Rich today, MJ?"
MJ sighed and shook his head. "No, not today. He's doing a double at the clinic," he replied. "Actually ... he kinda asked if I wanted to spend some time with Sam today."
"Sam?" Dad asked confused. "Why would he ask if you wanted to spend time with Uncle Sam?"
MJ rolled his eyes. "No, Dad, not Uncle Sam ... his son, Sam," he contradicted.
"You know, 'Button' Sam?" I clarified when Dad still looked confused.
"Oh!" he explained in realisation. "Oh right, of course. And are you gonna?"
"I dunno ... We get on great and stuff but ... it'll be the first time it'd be just the two of us, you know? Without Rich," MJ said, frowning slightly.
"You think you're ready for that kind of responsibility? Taking on another guy's kid?" Dad wondered but cut MJ's reply off with, "I know you could do it! I'm not saying you couldn't or wouldn't. I was just asking."
Mj sighed. "Button is awesome ... I actually love him like he's my own. He's part of Rich, how could I not, you know?"
Dad nodded in understanding.
"It just gets a little overwhelming sometimes, you know? I mean, I'm a junior in high school! The most I'm supposed to worry about is whether I'll pass a test or what college I get into, not whether Rich remembered to pack Sam his lunch for school!"
"He forgets?" I asked in surprise, laughing lightly.
"Sometimes, yeah," MJ laughed. "Sam calls me if he can't get hold of Rich at the office as asks if I could bring him some lunch sometimes."
"So that's where you go during lunch!" PT exclaimed. "I thought you were going to have it with Rich at the clinic. You take lunch to Sam?"
"Yeah," MJ admitted, ducking his head as he blushed. "Rich is so busy, you know? He's the only doctor at La Push Clinic and he's swamped with patients ... I don't mind looking out for his son to take a bit of load off."
"You'll be just fine today, MJ," Dad piped up, smiling proudly at my brother. "You already look after him. It won't be much different today. And to me, it sounds like Sam trusts you. I'm willing to bet he loves you too. Go for it today and spend some time with your future stepson."
"Stepson ... wow, never thought about it like that," MJ muttered to him in awe. "That's freaky."
"Hey, does that make us, like, uncles?" PT wondered with a grin.
I rolled my eyes. "Not until they get married, PT."
"Damn," PT muttered with a frown.
"So you think I should call Sam and ask him if he wants to do something? He likes swimming ... Should I take him swimming?" MJ asked, looking at Dad a little lost.
"If he wants to, go for it. Just spend some time getting to know him, be a friend but also an idol-figure. That boy will eventually look to you as another father. Show him you'll look after and love him, no matter what."
Mj sighed as if a huge weight was lifted off his shoulders and smiled at Dad. "Thanks, Dad," he murmured, eating the last of his cereal quickly before rinsing his dish and running off to his room.
I smiled to myself, having listened to my older brother as he spoke about his imprint and his son. He truly loved them both. They came as a package deal, and MJ wouldn't have wanted it any other way. It made me happy to see Dad support him fully, though I already knew he did. Papa was still skeptical but had gotten better after that night we found out about Dad's pregnancy, and he stopped the night for the first time.
"I'm gonna see what Alex is doing. I think Sammy said something about messing with his car today," PT said before retreating from the room as well.
"You'll be okay on your own if I take off too?" I asked, standing from my seat with my dish in hand.
Dad gave me a look that had me giggling and holding up my hands to ward him off. "Okay, okay! I'll see you later at four," I told him before quickly off heading to my room.
MJ passed me on the stairs, his phone pressed against his ear as he rushed down them excitedly. He threw a half-hearted, absent wave my way as he passed, making me smile and chuckle to myself. He was talking animatedly to, I presumed, Button about his prospect of swimming and by the sound of it, Button was very excited about the idea.
I turned into my room, grabbed a towel and then made my way to the bathroom. I slipped inside just as PT came out his room carrying a towel. I giggled, my eyes widening brightly as I slammed the door just as a soft thud sounded on the other side, his towel no doubt lying on the floor outside. I heard him cursing me as he went back in his room.
Ten minutes later, I opened the bathroom door to be pulled right into a headlock. I squeaked in surprise, unable to contain my laughter, despite the pain, as he noogied me. Once he let go, I threw the towel I'd been drying my hair with at his face, dodging it as he threw it back as I ducked back into my room.
I was pulling up my grey jeans as my bedroom door opened. I smirked as a soft groan sounded behind me, turning with the zipper of my jeans still open, showcasing the fact that I was commando underneath. A shiver surged through me as his eyes darkened, spotting the dark dusting of hair leading downwards.
Stepping inside, he shut my door and made his way to my with purpose. I didn't know what he was going to do so I squeaked in surprise as he smashed his lips to mine, plundering with his tongue as his arms branded around me. I grasped at his chest and neck in shock, falling into the kissing willingly as he dominated my every fibre. I gasped as he squeezed my ass, pulling my hardening erection into his.
I wrenched my lips from him, gasping for air as I clutched at him. he buried his face into my neck, peering down at my open pants.
"Fuck, that's so damn sexy," he breathed, fingering the open zipper.
I shivered again as I could feel the heat of his finger, but he denied me his touch. He then stroked a finger up my treasure trail, circling my belly button before continuing up the middle of my chest. He smirked up at me as he traced the muscles in my neck before tugging on my chin to kiss me softly.
I wrapped my arms around his waist and snuggled into his chest, his arms branding around my shoulders.
"Mm, I missed you," he murmured into my hair.
I rolled my eyes and broke away from him. "You saw me just last night, and we talked for an hour after you got home," I laughed, weaving my fingers across his back continuously. I smiled as he closed his eyes at the sensation.
"Yeah, but ..." he whined, dripping his forehead to my shoulder.
I shivered as his bare skin brushed mine, resting the side of my head against his as my arms hugged it. After a while of just inhaling me, he pulled back and kissed me chastely again, smiling brightly.
"You ready for the movies? Are Eph and Chelsea meeting us there or coming here first?" he asked, moving away so I could finish getting dressed.
"Meeting us there," I answered as I buckled my pants and slipped my Superman shirt over my head.
"It should be a felony to hide that body, you know," he commented, making me blush deeply and giggle.
"Shut up, Nix," I ordered through a grin. "You're just trying to get out of going and keep me here."
"Can you blame me? My boyfriend is fucking sexy," he growled, pulling me towards him by my belt hoops before kissing the middle of my chest.
My hands gravitated to his jet locks again, as they always do, and we stayed there for a bit.
"You know, we'll never get out of here if you don't let me go," I pointed out, smirking up at him.
His arms tightened around me. "Don't care," he grunted.
"Well, okay then ... but you'll be dealing with Banana," I told him with a giggle.
He groaned and lifted his head from me. "You're best friend is the bane of my existence," he stated melodramatically.
I rolled my eyes. "My best friend is awesome, so you leave her alone," I admonished, lightly slapping his shoulder and making him laugh. "I'm telling you, she's gonna be my best man- uh, best woman at our wedding."
"I'd expect nothing less, Puppy," he chuckled and rose to his feet."Come on then. Best keep myself in the best friend's good books. She could make my life a living hell if I'm not careful."
"And you better remember that," I joked, laughing loudly.
"You know, we still have a couple hours to kill. Wanna do a bit of shopping?"
"Shopping?" I repeated in surprise. "What did you need?"
"Well, nothing ... I just felt like getting something for you," he admitted, watching me.
I sighed. I didn't like it when he got things for me, at least when it wasn't for some sort of birthday or Christmas present. However, I also knew he wouldn't let it go and would find some way to get me something without me knowing. I learnt it was just best to go along with his feelings.
"Okay ... fine, but nothing huge or expensive," I stipulated and narrowed my eyes at him as he smirked. "I mean it, Nix."
"Of course you do, Puppy," he replied placatingly, earning a deeper scowl from me. "I was thinking of getting Chelsea something too."
I laughed. "Ah, as a means of buttering her up no doubt. If you got her sneakers, you'd be in her good books for sure," I told him. "She's obsessed with the things. I don't think she knows how many pairs she has."
Nix laughed, following me out the bedroom. "Sneakers it is then," he agreed.
"You two heading out already?" Dad asked in mild surprise as we met at the bottom of the stairs.
"Yeah. Nix is taking me shopping," I replied, rolling my eyes.
"Good God, don't complain. I can't remember the last time your Papa took me shopping," he muttered almost to himself as he lost himself in thought.
I laughed. "You think on that and let me know. See you at four, Dad. Love you," I said, walking to the door.
"Love you too. Take care of my boy, Nix," he commanded lightly.
"Always, Seth," Nix assured him, making me blush.
"Oh! SJ?" Dad called just before I closed the front door.
I peeked back in. "Yeah, Dad?"
"Could you bring me some raspberries back? Junior wants some," he said, patting his slightly bloated stomach.
I grinned. "Sure thing, Dad. See you later," I called, finally shutting the door.
"Let's get this show on the road!" Nix exclaimed enthusiastically as we approached his car and opened the passenger door for me.
=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=
MJ's Point of View
The grin that spread over my face as I watched Button race towards me couldn't and wouldn't be suppressed. The pure joy and excitement on his face warmed my heart considerably, the same grin plastered over his face as well. He launched himself at me, jumping high as he wrapped his arms and legs around my neck and waist.
I laughed heartily, hugging him tightly. Honestly, I didn't expect such an enthusiastic greeting from him; he's never done it in the past. I liked it though. A lot.
"Hey, Matt!" he shouted excitedly in my ear.
I grinned wider at the nickname. Only he and Rich ever called me Matt. It was a refreshing change from 'MJ'.
"Hey, Button. You ready for a day of swimming?" I asked enthusiastically, chuckling as he cheered.
Over his head, I smiled at Tim and Boo, both smiling as they stood hand in hand on the front porch.
I waved to them. "Hey, guys!" I called.
"Hey, MJ! Thanks for this. He's been driving us crazy, wanting to do all sorts of stuff. You should have seen his face when he saw it was you calling," Boo laughed, practically bouncing his way towards me with Tim trailing behind.
That last part made me smile. "No worries. I'm looking forward to it," I assured him, smiling down at Sam.
"Can we get ice cream too? Mint chocolate chip?" he asked hopefully.
"Sure thing. Right after swimming. I'll even get you some McDonald's. Just don't tell your Dad, for goodness sake," I groaned teasingly, making him giggle and nod enthusiastically in agreement.
"Here's his bag," Tim stated, handing me a Marvel Avengers pull-string bag filled with his swimming stuff.
"Thanks. You ready to go?" I asked.
"Yeah! Come on! Bye Uncle Tim! Bye Boo!" he shouted, running to the back seat and scurrying in.
"We'll be back around three. I'm going to Dad's ultrasound with him at four," I told the two standing before me.
Boo nodded. "How is your Dad?"
I laughed. "Frustrated with Papa. He's completely overbearing," I answered.
"I bet," Boo chuckled, smiling widely but with some dormant pain still in his eyes. "Tell him I send my best?"
"Sure thing," I agreed easily. I added with a wink, "Have fun in your time off, won't you, guys?"
Boo laughed,grinning. "Oh, don't you worry, we will," he almost purred, leering up at Tim.
"Come on, Matt! I wanna be in the water, like, two minutes ago!" Sam shouted through the car window.
I laughed. "See ya later," I called lightly, climbing into the car.
I took him to Port Angeles leisure centre. He was practically vibrating with excitement as he drove into the parking lot and almost took my arm away with him as he dragged me into the building. I was constantly laughing and chuckling at his exuberance and enjoyment, paying for the both of us for two or so hours of water fun. I also bought him some goggles.
He got changed in record speed, whining incessantly for every minute I took after him. I laughed and kept telling him the water wasn't going anywhere, but he wouldn't listen, pulling at me to move faster.
He was like a god damned fish once we got in, bombing around with his short legs flippering behind him. His longish hair was plastered against his forehead and he made the cutest face whenever he accidentally swallowed some of the horrible chlorine water.
We played countless water games, his favourite being me pretending to be a shark and stalking him under the water, tapping and pulling at his legs unexpectedly. He laughed and squealed so hard and it was like music to my ears. It surprised me how much I wanted to make him happy and laugh. His laughter was like balm for my soul.
He coaxed me on to some of the water slides, having been too small to ride them by himself. We rode them numerous times. I was pretty sure he deafened me from how loud he squealed zooming down the hollow plastic cylinders. There was a time I just stayed back and swam around, keeping an eye on him while he played with kids his age. He'd constantly searched me out though, smiling and waving at me before going back to playing.
Around one-thirty in the afternoon, I coaxed him out with promises of McDonald's, ice cream and a new toy. I doubt there would have been no hope of getting him out otherwise. We showered and dried off. He laughed boisterously as I held his head under the hand dryer in the bathroom in an attempt to dry his hair out.
"Have you had fun?" I asked him as we made our way back to the car, his side tucked into mine as he wound his arm around my hips.
He nodded, grinning. "Yeah. It was awesome ... We're not going home, are we?" he asked, frowning at the thought.
"Nope. I believe I promised you some McDonald's and ice cream. I suppose we need to go toy shopping too," I teased him, laughing happily as he ran ahead to the car, first-pumping the entire way.
God, I really could never get tired of that kid, I sighed to myself, grinning.
"Come on, Matt!" Button shouted from beside his door, bouncing in place in his impatience. "I'm hungry!"
"Alright, alright! Jeez!" I joked, jogging up to unlock the car. "Remember your seatbelt."
"Yep," he replied, accompanied by the snap of the belt sliding home.
I started the car and drove to the nearest Maccies, both of us deciding to get a drive-thru so that we could go to the park and have an impromptu picnic. There was bound to be an ice cream vendor somewhere, since it was a bright, sunny day. I got him his McNuggets and fries with a strawberry milkshake, opting for a Big Mac meal and chocolate milkshake for myself, before taking off towards the park.
We lounged out on the bonnet of the car as we ate, talking about inconsequential things as well as how he was doing at La Push Elementary. He told me all about his friend Deano and in return, I told him about Chelsea and Alex, my two closest friends. He laughed heartily as he listened to stories of what my brothers, Chelsea and I had gotten up to when we were younger.
Button was nibbling on his fries, a thoughtful expression on his face when he turned to look at me, his eyes bright with curiosity. "Are you my Dad's boyfriend or just his friend like Deano is to me?" he asked.
I eyed in cautiously. I was sure Rich had spoken to him about all this. Perhaps he just wanted to know what I'd say and whether it matched up to what his father had said? I decided not to lie to the boy, not that I could.
I nodded slowly. "I'm your Dad's boyfriend ... are you okay with that?" I asked.
He shrugged. "You're cool. Besides, that's what Dad said. You're his ... his imprint, whatever that is," he scoffed with an eye roll, making me chuckle.
"Your Dad is a wonderful man ... and I love him very much. I hope you won't mind me sticking around for a long time," I told him softly, looking down at the milkshake in my hands.
"I love Dad too ... so I suppose that's okay," he replied, smiling. "But you have to love me too if you wanna be with Dad. We're a partnership, like he always says."
"Button, I already care for you very, very much. I was scared to come out with you today, did you know that?" I admitted.
He raised his brow in surprise. "No. How come?"
"Because I was worried you only tolerated me because your Dad was around. I didn't know whether you'd like me if it was just the two of us," I explained, biting the inside of my cheek as I glanced at him.
"Why wouldn't I like you on your own?" he asked, genuinely confused.
I chuckled and closed my eyes in relief. He didn't know what I was talking about, but I took that as confirmation he didn't think that way. "It doesn't matter, Button," I murmured.
"No, I think I get it!" he suddenly exclaimed. "You think I'd be mean if Dad wasn't around to tell me off? You think I don't really like you."
I remained silent, though he probably knew that was my problem. Out the corner of my eye, I saw him roll his and sigh, turning to face me head on.
"Matt," he called, drawing my gaze to him. "You make Dad happy, and you're cool. Of course I like you. We both love Dad, right? So wouldn't it make sense for us to love each other too?" he reasoned innocently. "If you're gonna be with Dad, we could become a real family. I've never had one of those."
"You haven't?" I asked frowning in surprise.
He shook his head. "No. I never met my Mom. Dad says he only saw her for one night and then nine months later, I was left on his doorstep. I don't get the nine months part," he added with a cute confused frown.
I smiled absently as I ran through everything he'd just revealed about my imprint's past. So he had a one night stand with a chick? She just dumped her son on him and skipped off? He's raised Sam all by himself while training to become a doctor? A new found pride and admiration bloomed inside of me at this knowledge. My mate was so strong and smart. I was lucky to have him.
"You don't need to get that part yet, Button," I assured the seven year old with a grin. "But if you want to ... be a family ... we could work on it. I'm still in high school and should concentrate on school, just like I have to, but in a few years when I'm finished, I don't see why we shouldn't try."
"Really? You wouldn't mind? Because Dad's tried so hard to give me everything I want and need ... he should get something he wants now, and that's you. I can tell," he told me, making my heart swell. He continued in a whisper, looking down at his hands, "And I wouldn't mind having another Daddy ... I know kids have a mommy and a daddy, but you don't, so how bad could it be?"
I took a deep breath to contain the tears of happiness swelling in my eyes as I pulled him into my side, kissing the top of his head as I whispered in reply, "Not bad at all, Button. Not bad at all."
I don't know how long we sat there. It could have been minutes or an hour, but eventually, I pulled back and kissed his forehead softly.
"Come on, how's about we get that ice cream I promised you, play on the monkey bars for a bit and then go scope out a toy for you to show your Dad later?" I suggested, making him grin in excitement.
"Come on, Matt!" he implored, jumping off the bonnet before pulling me off as well, dragging me towards an ice cream vendor that was close by.
He ordered a regular cone with mint chocolate chip while I opened for the wafer and strawberry ice cream. We sat on a bench that bordered a children's playground while we ate them before Sam, who finished way before me in his eagerness to play, bombed off towards the monkey bars and merry=go-round. I sat there in contentment, nibbling and licking my ice cream while I watched him enjoy himself.
I spent the next fifteen minutes after finishing my dessert knelt on the soft asphalt beneath the monkey bars, trying to grab at Button's legs as he dangled from them, giggling incessantly as he kicked out to ward me off. Once he got bored of that, he raced over to the merry-go-round, insisting I spun him until he felt sick.
I did.
He wasn't so enthusiastic about the idea after I'd done it. I led him back to the car.
We drove around town for a little while, peering around at the few toy shops we passed on our journey. I'd slowed down near the front window so that he could peer inside, watching his reaction to anything in particular. Nothing really interested him too much. Of course, once we got to Toys R' Us,he insisted that we go in. I knew he'd go off like a cannon if I let him loose in there, but I did it anyway, telling him to pick out two things to take home with us.
His choices were both Iron Man merchandise; an action figurine and the other was an armoured car with a turret gun on the back of it, which also came with an Iron Man figurine. I commended him on his choices and led him to go pay for them, handing him the money so he could purchase them himself.
I would never forget the expression of pure amazement when I did. Clearly, this kid would grasp and marvel at any sniff of independance he could get.
He threw packaging in every direction once we got into the car, much too impatient to wait until he got home to scope out his new toys, not that I blamed him. I smiled indulgently as he spoke to himself, pretending to be Iron Man while lost in his own little world.
For the first time since coming out with Button, I let my mind drift towards Dad and his scheduled ultrasound at four, wondering what was going to happen and what we'd be able to find out about the baby at this stage. Button was much too preoccupied to bother my reverie so we made it back to his house before either of us truly realised it.
Rich stood on the front porch as we pulled up the driveway, clearly here for a short break between shifts. He was due back at four. Once I stopped the car, Button made to jump out but thought better of it, turning back in to hug me tightly around the neck before jumping out. I followed his lead nut lingered in the open door as I watched Button run up to his father, hug him tightly and briefly show him his toys before bounding off through the house.
Rich turned to me, a loving expression on his face that made me melt right where I stood. I watched as he strolled towards me, pulling me free from behind the car door before pressing his lips to mine. I sighed in contentment, pressing myself closer to him as my arms wrapped around his neck.
He pulled back and rested his forehead against mine, panting slightly as he peered at me. "You're amazing, you know that? I almost expected you not to take him out, but I'm glad you did. He's been down lately, since I've had to work so much, so thank you for brightening him up again."
"It was my pleasure, truly. I had the best time today, and I really love that little boy," I murmured back, brushing my nose against his.
"God, you're so amazing," he breathed, kissing me deeply again. "Thank you for the toys. I hope they didn't cost too much. His birthday is soon, after all."
I shrugged. "I really didn't mind. I love seeing him this happy," I replied.
"Me too ... Thank you," he repeated.
"you don't have to thank me ... I was thinking though, if you wanted to do a double every Saturday, I wouldn't be opposed. I'd love to spend the day with him again," I told him.
He laughed. "And I have to be working a double for you to do that?" he teased.
I blushed and rolled my eyes. "Well, no, but I was just saying ..."
"I know, and I think that's awesome. As it happens, I am working a double next Saturday at least so you can take him wherever you guys feel like going," he informed me.
I beamed. "I'll call you later in the week and we'll talk about it," I replied, kissing him before stepping back. "My Dad has his appointment in a bit so I should get going. Oh, here ..."
I reached into the car and grabbed Button's swim bag, handing it to his father with another chaste kiss.
"Call me later? After you get off work?" I requested, blushing.
"You bet. I hope the appointment goes well," he wished. "I love you."
My whole body thrummed with pleasure at those three words, and I knew I was grinning like an idiot. "I love you too," I replied, sending him an air kiss before jumping in my car again.
He watched and waved to me as I reversed out the driveway, sighing longingly as he faded into the distance as I drove away.
=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=
Seth's Point of View
I was literally vibrating with excitement as Chris and I waited for our boys to join us. They would be here any minute, I knew, but it felt like an eternity for me. I just wanted to be gone already. Chris had to literally hold on to me so I wouldn't leave without them.
"They'll be here soon, Pup. Calm down, " he chuckled, kissing the side of my head as he placed a warm hand over my stomach. "I'm as excited as you are, believe me."
"I know. I'm being impatient but I just want to see our baby. I still can't quite believe this is happening again. I'd lost all hope after trying so hard. I just want this to go without a problem," i told him, leaning into his side.
He wrapped his arms around me. "There's still the Fae around, and they're proving dangerous these days, but I'll protect you like I did with the boulder leech that was hovering around when you had the boys. Nothing will happen to you, Pup. I vow it," he promised me vehemently, nuzzling his nose into his mating mark on my tendon.
"I know ... You've protected us flawlessly, and I know you'll continue to do so for the rest of our lives," I whispered back, burying my nose in his black hair.
"Always," he breathed. "I've made some horrendous mistakes over the last few months-"
"Chris, don't-"
"No, let me finish," he demanded, and I let him. "I've made some horrendous mistakes, and at times, I thought I'd lost you completely. After I attacked you ... I thought you would never foegive me, that our boys wouldn't ... but you've proven to me how much you love me, and shown me how so very lucky I am to have you by my side. I haven't done anything in my past to deserve you, but I vow to do everything I can in the future to make sure I keep you."
By this point, tears were streaming down my face. Stupid hormones, I couldn't help grumbling mentally. I lifted my hand to my mate's face and kissed him tenderly, sliding it back to weave through his thick locks as I deepened the kiss. When we pulled away, we were gasping for air, grinning like fools.
"I love you so damn much, Old Dog," I whispered, giggling softly at his old nickname.
"I love you too, Pup," he replied, just as the front door open and two of my boys bustled in.
SJ and PT paused when they spotted us in an intimate embrace, glancing warily between the two of us as we smiled reassuringly at them.
"Did we interrupt something?" SJ asked sheepishly.
I chuckled and shook my head. "No, don't worry. Where's your brother?" I asked impatiently.
"He just texted me. He's driving back from Rich's now, so he'll be about ten minutes," PT informed him.
I glanced at the clock and nodded. It would still give his ten minutes to get to the clinic, which usually only took five.
"Dad, are you sure we didn't interrupt something? You're crying, is all," SJ asked again, his face now concerned.
I laughed and wiped my face, sharing a grin with Chris. "Just being soppy and stuff, SJ, it's fine," I assured him.
He nodded, placated.
"How was the movie?" Chris asked.
"Great!" SJ exclaimed. "We saw that new Marvel movie that just came out."
"What did Nix buy you?" I asked, remembering he said they'd be going shopping beforehand.
SJ grinned sheepishly and covered his left palm with his right. "Don't be mad, okay?" he pleaded before slowly removing his right hand to reveal black ink etched into the soft pad of his left palm, the letters distinguishable as he held it up for our inspection.
Honestly, though I knew they were imprinted, I really hoped that he would get Nix's name tattooed on him. Not even I had Chris' name on me even though I loved him unconditionally. I couldn't be mad though, because the thought had crossed my mind. I knew they were forever like Chris and I.
Besides, he already had four tattoos - his pack tattoo, their brotherhood tattoo and the two he'd acquired when he 'unlocked' his fae talents. They were on his wrists and shown plain as day every day. I was kinda getting used to seeing them now awayway. Though, I expected PT to be the one to go overboard with tattoos, not my sweet, shy SJ.
"I'm not thrilled ..." I began but paused when I saw his face drop. I shrugged. "But it looks cool. Did he at least reciprocate?"
SJ nodded quickly. "Yeah, he got my initials on his right hand. Same place. We got them done together ... We were thinking that all my other tattoos showcase a bond I have with other people. The Pack, my brothers and the fae ... I thought it was only fair we got one to signify us, you know?" he explained, blushing.
I had to admit, the sentiment was sweet. I definitely couldn't be mad now. "Okay, I get it. Just ... no more, okay? No more tattoos?" i pleaded.
He chuckled. "Of course ... well ... maybe one more ... whenever we have kids, you know?" he replied, blushing but smiling at the thought.
"Okay ... but no more after that?" I pleaded again.
"Sure, sure, Dad, I promise," he agreed easily.
"Well, I don't like it at all," hris grunted, glaring down at the hand. "But I'm not about to fork out the cash for laser treatment so I'll have to deal."
I suppressed a giggle as I caught SJ's gaze, winking.
"But I swear to God, if MJ comes home with one, I'm kicking the Doc's ass. He should know better," he grunted further, forcing me to roll my eyes.
He was never going to truly accept that imprint. Rich was just too old in Chris' eyes.
"I think I hear MJ coming," PT announced, his head twitching towards the door.
I grabbed Chris' arm and hauled him towards and out the front door. We could just take MJ's car; I wanted to be gone. Now. Mj had barely gotten out of his seat before I was pushing him back in it, enticing a yelp of shock from him.
"You can drive. Let's go," I implored, jumping into the backseat with Chris and PT whilst SJ got into the front.
A thought struck me, and I turned to Chris.
"We're going to need a bigger car," i stated, to which he frowned.
"Uh, why? The boys have their own car now," he pointed out, to which I made a sound of realisation.
The subject was dropped ... but another popped up in my head.
"We're going to need a bigger house," I reiterated, biting my lip. "And before any of you offer, no, you won't eb sharing a room. SJ and MJ need their privacy whenever Rich and Nix are around, and you'll no doubt need yours whenever you meet someone, PT, so that's out of the question."
Chris sighed beside me. "I'll get together with Sam and Paul later and we'll discuss it, pull out the plans we used the first time and see if we can't add onto them. They'll pribably suggest adding onto our floor, Pup."
I shrugged. I liked the thought of my new Pup being within literally a couple of strides if he or she needed me. "That's perfectly fine with me. All I know is that they'll need a bedroom for themselves."
"Yes, Pup," he agreed with an eye roll while I grinned.
I saw my boys all smirking to themselves, knowing Chris could hardly deny me anything, especially these days.
Five minutes later, we were excitedly pulling up at the Clinic. Mom was waiting for us in the lobby, grinning widely when she saw us.
"Come, come! I want to see my grandbaby!" she urged, linking arms with me as we rushed down the hall, my family trailing behind.
"Do we know it'll work in human form? I mean, will we be able to see the baby since he'll deliver in wolf form?" MJ asked intelligently.
"That's what we are about to find out," Mom replied, smiling at her grandson before she turned to me. "Why don't you get undressed and put on a gown, sweetheart, while I go get the ultrasound machine."
I nodded in agreement and moved behind one of the changing screens, making quick work of my clothes and accepting the paper thin gown Chris handed me with a soft thank you. It itched slightly but I'd endure for what I was about to get in return. I was going to see my baby, one way or another.
Mom came back five minutes later, pushing in a medium-sized machine. PT got up immediately and took it from her, pushing it to where she directed before accepting the kiss on the cheek in thanks she offered. She then grinned at me.
"Come on over here then," she chuckled, pointing to the table as she took a seat beside it. My mate and sons all crowded around, the atmosphere alive with excitement and anticipation as they waited.
"This will be cold," she warned me before squirting some blue gel over my bloated stomach.
She was right, and I flinched, hissing as the cold hit my overheated flesh. She smiled at me knowingly as she picked up the doppler, spreading the gel around with it before looking at the screen intently. She began to press different buttons but eventually shook her head.
"I don't think we're going to get anything this way," she commented, handing me a cloth to wipe my stomach. "SJ, why don't you close the blinds and lock the door. I think you're going to have to phase, Seth."
I nodded in aceptance, knowing that this was a possibility before we came. Chris helped me off the table, though I didn't need help at all. I rolled my eyes at him indulgently before addressing my mom. "It doesn't matter about the gown, does it?"
She shook her hea,d backing away from me to give me room to phase. "No, not at all. Go ahead," she said with a smile.
Everyone stood back and waited while I phased. Like the first pregnancy, it took a lot more out of me and a lot longer for me to turn wolf. We speculated that it was due to the fact that the baby needed time as well. Taking out the explosive aspect of phasing reduced the risk of hurting the baby, or pup as it was in wolf form.
The familiar heat was a gradual, flickering flame dancing up my back, unlike its usual searing surging flare. Seconds later, I stood on all fours. My mid section weighed down by my pup, forcing me to sit in an attempt to take the pressure off my back. Chris knelt down beside me, still human, and gently urged me to lie down carefully on my side.
Mom smiled, tears in her eyes as she stared at my bump. Pulling the machine over, she thanked PT for the chair he offered and sat down in front of my belly, between my front and back paws. Chris was behind me, his warm hand caressing and stroking the fur over my belly reverently.
He smiled at me. "I will never bore of seeing you like this. I can truly appreciate and admire it this time," he said, nuzzling the side of my head with his nose.
I whined in agreement.
"Right, not sure how this is going to work, but we'll try it the human way first," Mom suggested, reaching for the gel again. "You're a lot more furry, so I'm going to use a little bit more."
I huffed in agreement, watching as she applied the gel. It wasn't so cold this time, partly because I was prepared for it but also because the fur provided as a slight barrier. She applied twice as much as she had in human form before reaching for the doppler, turning on the machine again as she pressed the probe to my stomach.
Again, we watched the screen intently but it wasn't long before we saw what we wanted.
Mom gasped as she looked more closely, turning to me with a huge smile. "Twins. There's two pups in there, sweetheart," she breathed in awe.
Love and happiness exploded within me. Two more babies. To be perfectly honest, I was half anticipating this pregnancy to be another multiple one like the boys. Canines were known for their litters, two or more pups, so why should we shifters be any different. It also confirmed to me that this would be my last pregnancy as I couldn't imagine having seven or eight, or possibly more, kids running around if we tried for anymore.
"I can't see much else, I'm afraid, They're sort of hugging each other. It's sweet really," Mom whispered, tears falling down her face.
"Dad ... you're having two. We get two little brothers or sisters, or one of each," SJ murmured, moving to sit by my head so he could stroke my ears.
I honestly didn't think that it had sunk in for me as of yet. I was sure it would come crashing down on me in bed later though. My gaze turned to Chris and started to see tears swimming in his eyes. He was much too stubborn and prideful to let them fall, but the fact that they were even there was a feat within itself.
I whined softly, drawing his gaze away from the screen as he sniffed. He smiled shakily and lifted a hand to my snout, stroking reverently. Even in wolf form, my throat felt contricted with emotion and I wanted nothing more than to be human right now so I could embrace my mate and sons.
Of course, as soon as I'd thought it, I was laying stark naked in the middle of the doctor's office, my family's eyes still on me. Thankfully, Mom had still been staring at the monitor and had seen the transformation out the corner of her eyes, so knew to keep her eyes on the screen, despite the picture having vanished with my transformation.
Chris quickly took the gown MJ retrieved and helped me into it before pulling me into his arms tightly, his nose instinctively dipping to my mating mark as he tried to get a handle on his emotions. My boys crowded around us on the floor, my eldest and youngest crying earnestly while PT tried to follow his Papa's example by holding back, though no less emotion shone in his watery eyes.
"I love my boys," I wept, my own emotions seeping through as I pulled Chris closer.
"We love you, Dad," MJ choked out, swallowing thickly.
"I'm sorry to interrupt guys ... but I have another appointment to get ready for ..." mom hedged hesitantly.
That snapped me to my senses, heaving a deep breath as I looked up at her and smiled shakily. She beamed back and held a hand out to help me up. I took it gratefully, and she pulled me straight into a hug when I was on my feet. I could smell her tears as they continued to fall, burying my face in her neck and inhaling the familiar, soothing scent I'd grown up with.
"I'm so proud of you, baby. And so happy. Go home now and take an evening with your family. I'll make sure everyone stays away," she assured, pulling back from me.
I smiled at her gratefully and nodded, reaching behind me to take my mate's hand and weaving my fingers through his. He squeezed my hand, drawing my gaze to him as he leaned down for a soft kiss. I sighed in contentment, catching SJ's smile as we broke away. I winked at him, to which he giggled.
"Come on then, guys. We best let your Grandma do her job," I ordered, jerking my head towards the door. I pulled my mom into another one-armed hug. "Thanks so much, Mom."
"Are you kidding? This was my only chance to be in the room with you. I knew you wanted to keep it the five of you for the actual appointment so I made damn sure that I was the technician," she laughed.
I chortled. "Coniving woman," I teased, grinning as I kissed her cheek again. "Talk to you later, okay?"
"You bet. Take care of my Baby, Christopher," Mom demanded, trying to harden her expression as she looked at my husband but failed miserably.
I had to giggle at the slight grimace he gave though. Mom was the only person nowadays that ever called him Christopher, if he wasn't in trouble that is. If he was, I was prone to let it slip now and then. That way, he knew I was onto him.
"I think I'll cook tonight, Dad," Sj announced as we drove home.
I eyed him suspiciously for any ulterior motives, knowing he could easily slip into his Papa's protective demeanour. All three of them could if they felt it necessary. He smiled innocently though, rolling his eyes as if he knew what was going on in my mind.
"God, Dad, it was just an offer. It's not exactly misplaced," he scoffed, shaking his head.
True; he always cooked several times a week for the family. This time would be no different so i nodded in acceptance.
"Sure, SJ. Thank you ... Could you make raspberry pie for dessert though? I haven't had any for an hour or so," I whined, my mouth flooding at the mere thought of the juicy berries.
SJ rolled his eyes again. "Yeah, Dad, if I must," he teased good-naturedly.
I nodded seriously. "Oh, you most definitely must, young man," I replied, trying to sound stern but it was just kinda desperate instead.
"At this rate, I wonder if these farmers are able to grow the damn things in time for you to devour them. You must eat at least ten punnets a day," Chris joked, shaking his head.
"Blame your child ... children," I amended, a goofy grin erupting on my face as it did for everyone else. "Damn, that is ... it's so ..."
"Awesome," PT supply with a grin.
"Right, awesome," I repeated with a giggle.
"If you'd have told me sixteen years ago, when we first met, that you would be my husband and five children and could morph into a giant wolf, I probably would have laughed in your face and told you to fuck off, you know," Chris commented, looking down at me with complete mirth in his eyes.
His statement enticed boisterous guffaws from ours boys while I giggled and rolled my eyes at him. "Language, Mister," I scolded lightly.
"But, now ..." he continued on as if I hadn't said anything but trailed off in thought. "Now, I can't imagine my life without you guys ..."
My boys looked slightly taken aback by their Papa's words, and I had to admit that it was out of character for him. He was different from his teenage self, considerably so, but he was still very reserved and a private man, even with the boys.
I felt my heart swell with pride as my husband showed our boys a glimpse of the man I got to experience every single time we were alone. He was a loving and kind father, stern and authoritative when he needed to be, but they never saw him at his most vulnerable, not like I did on a daily basis.
I realised even now, sixteen years later, that my husband was still somewhat battling with his inner demons. I had expelled some of them coming into his life, or so he had said, but some were just too deep, too ingrained in him to let go. It was a daily battle that I constantly tried to appease with my love and support.
My boys were somewhat oblivious to some of it, the worst of it. They knew some of their Papa's past, but none of the darker stuff, like how he had tried to take his own life that one time. Things like that, I tried to shield them from and to this day, they didn't know even half of what their Papa had been through.
It had always confused them somewhat why he was how he was since they didn't know half of his story, but they accepted him for who he was because they loved him and vice versa. Seeing displays like this one knocked them for six a little, and I knew that it was a refreshing change for them from the reserved, observing, stern father they were used to.
It took it as a sign that things were changing yet again for my Chris, for the better. I hoped that my boys, and my newest pups, will be able to see more of Chris' vulnerable side. I hoped that they would be able to chase away the rest of his demons and allow him to fully enjoy his life with us.
Only time would tell ...
=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=::=
Thanks for reading everyone!
New pictures! Photo of Nix and SJ's new tattoos are on Photobucket!
Love MrsWolfPack x