Mel stifled a yawn, trying to keep an eye on the light. Her eyes remained fixated on the structure, despite the gaze she felt next to her. A loud sigh filled the car, and she did her best to ignore it. A smile touched her lips as her companion cleared his throat loudly. She couldn't resist rolling her eyes when he did it again. The boy was persistent.
"Why do I get the feeling you didn't come on the grocery run to help with the bags?" Finally looking over.
"Took you long enough." Saint made a great show of pouting. Mel rolled her eyes again at her brother's antics. Such a drama queen. "Any chance you're going to tell me what the hell last night was about?" The question gave her a pause, smile dropping.
"I don't know what you are talking about." She looked out her window, pretending to admire the low light. The car's clock read 7:02. The sun was barely in the sky, giving the world a peaceful soft glow. Mel loved this time of day. Loved making the special grocery trip to acquire all the supplies needed for the coming festivities. It annoyed her to no end that he was disrupting her routine.
"Yes you do. Crawling into my bed at like two in the morning. Pissed off and smelling like sex." He heard the sharp intake of breath. Knew his alpha wasn't admiring the view out the window. Was just avoiding his gaze. He sighed again. "Light's green." She stepped on the gas, but kept her view at the road in front of her. His eyes never left her. Noticing her rigid form and white knuckles. A large hand was placed gently over hers. A gesture of comfort.
"We woke up and just sort of started going at it." She admitted.
"And?" She threw him a sideways look, and he just chuckled. "You smelled like his sweat and pheromones only. Obviously he didn't cum." She shrugged at the statement. He couldn't help but laugh at the blush on her face, ruining her appearance of indifference. He waited patiently for an answer, but the car remained quiet. "Sis, there was a problem. I doubt he was unable to finish with such a fantastic partner."
"You are such a perv, talking to your sister like that." She complained, face painfully red.
"Hey we're an open family. Not my fault." She couldn't help but join in a quick laugh. Once again the car fell to silence. An internal war raged inside the girl, and she had no idea how to deal with it. This entire situation was so new. So alien. She never even had a boyfriend before. Not even a date. She didn't even know if this kind of thing happened with humans.
"I don't know. It was like he was staring at me, but wasn't seeing me. You know?"
"Explain." He ordered, leaning closer. He had thought the guy had made a stupid comment or something and she cut him off halfway. His alpha was a sweet girl, but could easily be petty like that on occasion.
"It's tough to explain. Basically, it seemed like he was running from something. Using my body to escape from something in his mind." She summed it up as best she could.
"That makes sense." Mel threw him another questioning glance. "I was noticing quite a bit about the guy."
"Yeah that he has good abs and a nice ass." She muttered sarcastically. It was his turn to roll his eyes. She was scared of being in unfamiliar territory and was trying to retreat back into her shell. As a good sibling he couldn't allow that.
"Not that. I've been trying to get a read off the guy. He's really closed off." She scoffed at the words. He just chuckled at the interruption and continued. "I'm serious. I sense a lot of pain from him. No trust and completely miserable. Hides it pretty well behind that mocking personality of his." She smiled cruelly. It fell when she noticed the serious look on her brother's face.
"So what if you're right? He's a scared lost little child in the big bad world. What do you want me to do about it?"
"Give him your body." She flew into a coughing fit, choking on her saliva. He held the wheel steady as her body attempted to right itself. When it was done, she took back the wheel. Still gasping a bit. The car fell silent except for her jagged breaths as she turned into the parking lot. Rummaging in the armrest compartment, she pulled out the shopping list. Saint unbuckled his seat belt, trying to think of a way to revisit the topic in a more productive way. Just as he reached for the door handle, a hand latched onto his wrist. Fighting the smile on his face, he turned back.
"Explain." She demanded, a stern look in her eyes. He found it rather amusing, but kept the smirk to himself.
"I don't know exactly how to detail it. It's like; he is just this cold merciless predator. Big bad alpha, top dog. All that cliché crap. But when you're around he's more tender I guess." She rolled her eyes again. The habit was beginning to annoy him. "I'm serious. I've been talking to people. Isaac. Scott. Even our own pack is saying the same thing. He has really out of character soft moments when it concerns you. Like it or not your signs of affection might actually be a necessity for his survival."
"Nice hyperbole." She teased playfully. The mirth dropped quickly when powerful hands slammed against the dashboard. Considering there was only a small dent in the material, he had shown quite a bit of restraint. She looked at him in confusion. A deep sigh fell from his lips.
"Damn it Mel. You know better than anyone a wolf can't be alone. You remember when they told us about the fire at his house? " She nodded slowly. Caught off guard by the display of anger and frustration. "I get the feeling he shut down around that time. I don't know why, but he did. So basically he's been all alone for years. The worst possible hell for our kind."
"So what am I supposed to do?" Her voice was very soft. Full of worry and caring. A tone he had heard only a handful of times in his life.
"Normally I would say jump him every chance you get." He chuckled a bit at the way her eyes bulged. He already knew that was probably out of the question. He wanted to help the new addition to his pack, but wasn't interested in painfully humiliating his alpha. "I guess sex is off the table, but you still need to be his mate. Give him support. Comfort. You don't have to go as far as sex, but I think he needs physical attention. No being a cold fish."
"I hate you so much sometimes." She muttered. He laughed again and teasingly petted her on the head.
"Love you too sis." She rolled her eyes and the pair finally got out of the car. Grabbing a random cart, Mel wondered over to the store. Saint trailed behind. Watching the girl as she moved. Hoping she took his words to heart.
Derek stumbled down the stairs, feeling particularly irritable. He had been denied escaping into the pleasure his mate provided, his beta had been so far beyond insolent, and the damn nightmares had reemerged. Causing him to toss and turn in the most pointless pitiful attempt at rest. After finally drifting into some semblance of peace, he was woken by music blasting through the house. It came from the kitchen/dining room. He stumbled towards the music, a scowl on his face. It fell as he entered the room. Isaac and Boyd already sitting at the empty table. But the other pack. They were all flowing back and forth in the kitchen. Preparing the breakfast, but also dancing around and singing at the top of their lungs. It was remarkable that they managed to move like that without bumping into each other even once. The kitchen wasn't small, but there were still six wolves jumping around in the space. So graceful. He plopped down next to Isaac.
"What the hell is going on?" He growled. Isaac shrugged his shoulders, never taking his eyes off the prancing wolves. He had such a smile on his face, like a little boy on Christmas. The alpha looked to the stove, heart tightening a bit as he caught sight of his mate. She was flipping pancakes while Saint stood next to her cooking a giant skillet of scrambled eggs.
"It's been one week since you looked at me." They sang in unison, swaying to the beat and belting out the chorus. The floor was surrendered to Saint.
"Gonna get a set of clubs. Gotta find the kind with tiny nubs, just so my irons aren't always flying off the back swing." The large wolf didn't miss a beat as the verse picked up speed. Derek found himself quite impressed. Not only did he sing nicely and in tune, he kept a skilled eye as he fixed the eggs while still dancing with his sister. A decent bit of multi-tasking. He was no less impressed when Mel took over. Flipping the pancakes from the pan to the plate skillfully without missing a single word or slipping from the beat once. The song ended and Derek felt a brief moment of disappointment. He was rather enjoying the display. The disappointment was short lived as another song started up. A guitar started strumming and the entire pack seemed to squeal in delight. Even Saint. The sight of such a large guy squealing was enough to make even Derek smile, all traces of grouchiness gone. The entirety of his bad mood dissipated as he watched them perform.
"It feels like a perfect night to dress up like hipsters." Ruby sang sweetly, strutting into the room to set down a bowl of mixed fruit. She sang a few more lines as she walked back to the kitchen to continue with the prep. Zen joined her for a few lines, then the entire pack joined in for the chorus.
"I don't know about you! But I'm feeling 22!" The pack sang loudly, sounding rather nice. They all started bringing out food and assorted items to set the table. Intermittently stopping to dance with whichever pack member was also out there. Bringing out a pitcher of orange juice, Zen spun perfectly around Sapphire to avoid a collision. The three at the table couldn't help but watch. It all looked like such fun. A real family moment that for whatever reason they were being welcomed to. A giant bowl of scrambled eggs was set out, along with plates piled high with toast and bacon.
"It seems like one of those nights, this place is too crowded." Mel sang happily as she brought out a plate stacked high with pancakes. Saint followed behind with a second stack. She looked over her shoulder as he joined her. Smiling as they seemed to sing to each other. Setting the plates down on the table, they faced each other. "…End up dreaming instead of sleeping. Yeah, we're happy free confused and lonely in the best way." The rest of the pack seemed rather content to watch the two dance together. Derek felt a twinge of jealousy when Saint placed his hands on the female alpha's hips as they danced. They were smiling, singing beautifully and laughing during instrumental parts of the song. It seemed so natural how they danced together, touching randomly. It also irritated him that he was a bit turned on. The way she moved was such a fascinating mix of seduction and goofy innocence. At the end of the chorus the rest of the pack ventured out from the kitchen. The jealousy abated a bit as Mel was pulled away to dance with her sisters.
Saint felt the harsh stare and surrendered his alpha to his sisters. Laughing a little inside. So the guy saw even him as a threat? He resisted the urge to roll his eyes. A random thought popped into his head. Snatching his favorite sister back, he continued to dance with her. Strangely curious to see how much the girl could affect the closed off alpha. Except for plates the table was set. Mel wanted to go grab them already, but Saint had grabbed her. Pulling her back into the mass. Her back was to him, and he was dancing rather close. Something felt a little off, but she couldn't pin point it.
"It feels like one of those nights." The words spilled from her lips when she felt a hand press against her cheek. Forcing her to look over at the table. A slight red tint brushed across her cheeks as her eyes locked with beautiful pale green irises. Finally realizing her brother's intentions, the blush grew worse. But she forced herself to keep singing, strangely wanting to make up for her behavior the previous night. "You look like bad news. I gotta have you. I gotta have you!"
Derek met her eyes, cocking an eyebrow and smirking at the words she sung to him. It seemed a bit much for his precious mate; as soon as Saint let her go she fled to the kitchen. Returned with a stack of plates. Sapphire grabbed a few plates and together they set them around the table. Mel kept her eyes glued to the table as she sang a bit self-conscious at how the other alpha had reacted. Internally, she laughed a little at her own embarrassment. They were mates. Had already had sex and seen every inch of the other. Yet here she was feeling beyond mortified by simply looking in his eye as she confessed a want for him. She felt a hip tap her own, glancing up she noticed Saint. His eyes briefly darted to the raven haired guy sitting at the table. He raised his eyebrows, and she wanted desperately to pretend like she didn't understand what he was telling her. There was one plate left in her hands. The other wolves had already taken seats. The image of his eyes last night flashed in her mind. She had been so angry at the distance, she had paid little attention to the emotions that had been whirling inside. Loneliness. Heartache. Fear. Her need to comfort kicked in and she wanted to slap herself…repeatedly. The two sides battled out, her need to not feel humiliated and awkward versus her need to comfort. She sighed slightly as the powerful urge of wanting to care for her pack won out. Inwardly cursing that part of her personality. Forcing herself to move around the table, keeping her mind on the music. Putting the plate in front of him, she gathered all her courage. Pushed all her reservations down deep. She rested her elbow on the table next to him, resting her chin on the opened palm. Catching his gaze, she gave a soft smile.
"It feels like one of those nights. You look like bad news." Staying focused on the words was the only thing keeping her from just abandoning the entire idea and bolting from the room. So focused on what she was doing, it slipped her notice that she was the only one still singing. And everyone else was watching. "I gotta have you. I gotta have you!" She ruffled his hair playfully and he seemed a bit disappointed by the action. Her heart tightened and instinct kicked in. Gripping a fistful of hair, she tugged his head back slightly. His eyes widened in surprise as her lips claimed his in a rough kiss. So caught up in her actions, it took a few moments before she realized the table was cheering.
"Woo Yeah!" Saint laughed leading the table in a round of applause. Sapphire gave a wolf whistle, much to her alpha's chagrin. Mel blushed deeply and took the available seat next to Derek. Finally taking pity, Saint stopped his clapping and grabbed a few pancakes from the stack. Following his lead, the others dug in.
"That was awesome." Isaac's words were a bit muffled by his mouthful of food.
"Gotta admit we went a little overboard on account of the audience." Saint laughed, rubbing the nape of his neck in slight embarrassment. The group launched into idle chat. Discussing everything and nothing. School, the lacrosse team, sharing stories of how their days went. Zen and Mel shared a few exploits that happened when the others weren't around. They all laughed as Zen told a few stories of traumatizing her teachers. For someone so quiet, she had a rather terrifying mischievous side. Enjoyed messing with authority figures. Especially if they liked to bully those under their tutelage. The group burst into a fit of laughter as she regaled them with the tale of how she had sneakily loosened a particularly brutish teacher's belt.
"And then his pants just dropped. The class freaked out because he was actually wearing a lacy pink thong." They burst into another fit of laughter. "No one expected it." Derek remained silent, lost in thought. He did not belong in that conversation. They were high school students, and he was long since out of that world. They were laughing and joking with one another, enjoying companionship. Like a family. He found it equal parts comforting and unsettling. Absentmindedly touching his lips, his thoughts turned to his strange little mate. Pushing him off her at one point, then a few hours later initiating a rather passionate kiss. It was bizarre to say the least. And strangely intriguing. The sound of glass shattering drew him out of the thoughts. Looking over, he saw a rather embarrassed Isaac staring at the broken glass.
"I'm…I'm so sorry. I guess I wasn't paying attention. I'll clean it up." He reached over quickly, then let out a slight hiss of pain. Blood dripped down the cut on his finger. Mel rolled her eyes. Chuckling slightly, she got up to assist. Grabbing his mostly healed hand, she picked up a napkin and cleaned off the blood. He tried to stutter an apology, but she shushed him gently.
"Relax already. Accidents happen." She smiled and ruffled his hair affectionately. She cleaned the glass up and took it to the trash in the kitchen. Saint watched in fascination as the male alpha tensed up, a bit of a frown on his face. The guy was much too jealous. Misconstruing the motherly affection that was just part of Mel's personality. Derek gripped a fork tightly, knuckles a ghostly white. Not liking where things might head, Saint cleared his throat loudly.
"I think it's about time we set up the game. I believe we decided on a water balloon fight if the weather permitted, correct?" He forced his tone to stay light and happy. He stood up quickly. "Hey Derek why don't you give me a hand with the preparation? The others can take care of this mess." He chuckled and walked away from the table. Knowing the other wolf would follow.
"So what do you want me to do?" Derek asked, shielding his eyes from the sun.
"Just look through the boxes and grab the packs of balloons that you find." Saint answered, already digging through his own box. They rummaged through and found several packs. Taking them over, to the faucet, together they worked to get everything ready. Saint would put the balloons on the spout, filling them to slightly bigger than fist sized. Then would hand them to Derek to tie and place in one of the many buckets that surrounded them. After a few silent minutes, the alpha decided to break the quiet atmosphere.
"So what exactly is going on here?" He asked curiously, tying yet another balloon.
"It's kind of a tradition. We call it singing Saturdays." Derek scoffed at the stupid name. Saint chuckled a bit. "Hey don't knock it. About twice a month we try to get together and just spend the day as a family. Sing and prance around as we make breakfast than play some random game. It's actually pretty fun. I think you'll like it."
"If you say so." Derek muttered sarcastically.
"Dude get the stick out of your ass already." Water spilled from the balloon Derek had dropped. He turned slightly and glared. But the harsh stare was merely met with a satisfied smirk. "Glad I got your attention."
"You have it. What the hell do you want with it?" He growled threateningly. Annoyed that he had been lured out here. The bigger wolf leveled an unimpressed look at the other.
"I wanted to tell you to stop being such a jealous prick." The sharp intake of air let Saint knew he had just scored a hit. "Yeah I don't really know much about your family, but I would think you were around a female alpha long enough to remember."
"Remember what?"
"That they mother dumbass." He chuckled at the growl rumbling in the other's chest. His defensive act was quite adorable and Saint could never resist teasing. "I am queer as a three dollar bill and you still freak out when she gives me a lot of attention. Maybe you just forgot, but female alphas are very nurturing. They give affection that has nothing to do with romance. Which is what she was doing this morning with Isaac. "
"Your point?" Derek was beyond annoyed, not particularly enjoying having his faults being thrown at him.
"My point is my sister is stuck with your cold, stunted, jealous ass. And I don't want her to be unhappy." He waited until the smaller wolf met his gaze to continue. "Drop the damn jealousy. My sister is a little oblivious sometimes, but even if she wasn't bound by the whole mating thing cheating isn't in her nature. She just isn't like that." The words turned in Derek's mind. He had to agree, the girl wasn't the treacherous type.
"You know you're pretty uppity for a Beta."
"And you're pretentious even for an alpha. Who the hell says uppity anymore?" The question elicited a slight chuckle from the smaller wolf. He felt the smile tugging at his lips, one Saint happily returned. They both sensed the camaraderie growing between them. "Besides, you shouldn't worry about her wanting someone else anyway. I think she's getting a bit of a crush on you."
"Oh?" Derek asked curiously. The irony of the situation was not lost on him. Having sex with a girl, basically getting married, then becoming strangely hopeful about the possibility of a crush.
"Yeah. She loves your body. This morning she told me you have good abs and a nice ass." He laughed. Before either could attempt to continue the conversation, a swarm burst out of the house chattering excitedly.
"You guys ready?" Mel asked.
"Just let me go get my trunks." Saint answered. Grabbing Derek's arm, he pulled the wolf with him. "Come on I'm sure we can get you a spare suit."
"Saint, look to your left flank." Mel ordered. Her and Saint were back to back. A bucket of water balloons at their feet, and a balloon in each hand. Following her command, the large wolf launched the balloon at Ruby. It hit the girl dead center, soaking her bikini top. She squealed as the cold water sprayed across her body. Derek watched in fascination. The rest of the pack seemed to team up against their alpha and the largest wolf. Yet they all seemed to be having such fun. All males, including himself, were shirtless. Wearing only swim trunks. The girls wore bikinis. He was a bit disappointed that his mate was the exception. She wore a white t shirt and some loose black gym shorts. He heard footsteps behind him, and the gentle sloshing of water.
"Don't even think about it Isaac." He growled, not even bothering to turn around. Isaac's movement halted. The male alpha had just been standing there, watching the others play. The beta just thought he might enjoy joining in. His arm was already prepped for the throw, but he didn't exactly have a death wish.
"Unarmed enemy combatant!" Zen yelled, running past her alpha. Before Derek could say a word, he felt the cold water spraying over his bare chest. Following her lead, the others on her team followed suit. Completely ignoring his warning growls, they pelted him with all the ammunition they had. A few running to random buckets to replenish their supply. Isaac grinned as the pack rained down their watery vengeance. Wanting to join in, he reared back his loaded arm. But before he could throw, a bright yellow balloon caught him on the side of his face. The rest of the pack was driven back by the flurry of bright rubber being thrown at them.
"You can't leave yourself so open." Mel advised, as she took a defensive stance beside him.
"Yeah they are merciless." Saint added, taking the position on the other side. Placing the now half depleted bucket next to them and handing a balloon to the alpha. Both sides exchanged fire. Mel, being one of the swiftest of either pack, had managed to avoid most incoming projectiles. Hence, she was mostly dry. As they presented better targets, the chests of both males gleamed with water droplets. The other team had retreated to the other side of the massive backyard, attempting to reach the untouched supply dumps there. Derek felt a slight elbow jab on his ribs. Not an attempt to cause pain, but merely to get attention. He lifted a brow at the large wolf. Saint threw a glance at another bucket a few feet away. A misplaced attack had shattered the ammo in there, leaving the bucket half way filled with water. He then threw a quick glance at the female alpha. Almost as if reading his mind, Derek understood the plan. The moment Saint took a step to the bucket; he turned and threw his arms around his mate.
"What the?" Confusion filled Mel's mind. Warmth emanated from her back as strong arms wrapped around her torso. Successfully pinning her limps. She felt herself being turned. A look of horror fell on her face as she watched her brother approach. Hearing the large amount of water sloshing in the bucket he carried. Despite her best struggle, she could not escape the clutches of the guy that held her. She shrieked as a freezing cold waterfall cascaded down her body. Unbeknownst to the rest, Saint had secretly been adding ice to the bucket. Planning this scene all along, just waiting for the chance to enact it. Derek grimaced a little as the ice water splashed across his body as well. His arms momentarily loosened. Using new found freedom, she wiggled her way out. "You traitors!" The balloon in each of her hands was smashed across the side of each male's head. Water dripped down the male alpha's face as he looked a bit worriedly at his mate. Not wanting to have her upset with him again. The worry vanished when he saw the smile beaming on her face. The smile dropped as he felt another balloon bust against his shoulder.
"Attack!" Sapphire shouted. The betrayal now forgotten, the trio resumed their alliance.
"Damn it this thing is hindering my movement." Mel complained. "Cover me." Without hesitation, Saint stepped forward. Throwing at random. Not aiming, just providing cover fire. Derek turned back. His jaw tightened as she pulled the drenched shirt over her head and tossed it towards the table near the house. So she had been wearing a bikini under her clothes. The green cloth clung tightly, exposing a good amount of creamy flesh. Caught up in the image, another balloon caught him by surprise. Hitting him, square in the chest. A slight scowl fell on her lips as she resumed her position. "Damn it man pay attention. Do you want to win this thing or not?" He couldn't help but chuckle as she turned to him and playfully stuck her tongue out. Refocusing on their 'enemies', he loaded up on ammo and fired.
Mel sighed contentedly as she watched the pack run around. Chasing each other with whatever balloons remained. Saint was already prepping a fresh supply. She would rejoin the fight in a few minutes. But for now she wanted to get out of at least the heavy damp fabric and catch a quick breather. She slid the shorts off and stepped away from the pooled garment. For a moment she just stood there, enjoying the feel of sun on her exposed skin. It felt nice to relax again. Scooping up the shorts, she turned to toss them on the table.
"HOLY MOTHER OF-" Her heart raced out of control as she caught sight of the brooding figure. Water still gleaming off his skin. "I wish you would stop doing that." She stuttered a bit, finally forcing the words out. Derek looked up from the book he was reading, a flash of genuine confusion in his eyes.
"Sitting?"
"Never mind." She muttered, completely aware how stupid her fright had been. By the look of things he had been sitting here since bowing out of the game a bit before. Technically she had invaded his space. The thought did nothing to sooth her frazzled mind. Her perception had always been rather impressive. It could even be called impeccable. She had a nose for danger, sensing it from miles away. Even if she didn't know exactly what the danger was. Yet he had managed to invade her danger radius not once, but twice in the past twenty four hours. She chewed her lip nervously. He wasn't a threat, no more than any of her own pack. Maybe that's why he could travel under her radar. With a quick movement, she scooped up the article that had been dropped when she was startled. The male alpha had resumed his reading, and she took the opportunity to examine him. Flawlessly chiseled muscles encased in perfectly tanned skin. Soft black hair still slightly damp from the afternoon excursion. Her heart raced a little and she couldn't stop the smirk that spread on her face. Maybe not a traditional threat. His face was scrunched in a look of concentration as he lost himself in whatever story he had settled on. Very handsome. No wonder those high school jocks held absolutely no appeal to her. Being exposed to someone like him and Saint would ruin any girl.
"Can I help you?" The question interrupted her examination, prompting a bit of a blush. She wanted to flee into the house. Yet something prompted her to stay. Singing Saturdays were about strengthening family bonds, and regardless of how it happened, that now included him. With forced calmness, she walked over. Dropping the shorts, she leaned against the table.
"Just wondering if you liked the book." She answered with a shrug.
"It's pretty good. Never thought zombies would be so interesting." He kept his eyes on the pages. Trying not to look at the wolf next to him. Looking very appetizing in nothing but her dark green bikini.
"Neat." She murmured, feeling a strange sense of embarrassment. It was a bit tough trying not to admire his physique. Saint was taller and just as defined, but something about the male appealed to her. Had they not been forced into this arrangement, he was definitely someone she would still choose as a mate. The thought made her blush, silencing any further words. Her presence, and especially her quiet, began to weigh heavily on Derek. Closing the book, he set it on the table. Giving her his full attention. Noticing his actions, a bit of franticness crept into her eyes. "Sorry, I didn't mean to disturb you." She tried to move away, only to be tugged back by the hand now gently wrapped around her wrist. With surprising care, he pulled her into his lap. She wanted to push herself away. Struggle to get out of his embrace. Those thoughts quickly fell away as he wrapped his arms protectively around her. She snuggled into his warmth, still surprised that any body that looked so rigid could be so soft. Leaning her head on his shoulder, she inhaled his scent. With the way he joined in the game, laughed and joined in on traitorous pranks, the male had displayed a new side. One she found herself curious to explore.
"So no one ever got around to explain this Singing Saturdays thing." He murmured into her hair.
"It's something my dad taught me." She explained. "He knew a pack, regardless of blood ties, was a family. All this was a way he promoted that ideal. At least twice a month, make breakfast together. Sing and dance as embarrassingly as you want, and none of the family will laugh because they are doing the same thing. Spend the afternoon in some sort of game. Laughing and playing together until all energy is spent. Then while spirits are high, have a family meeting. Without anger or fear of retribution, voice grievances and concerns. Give advice or just brainstorm on any current problems." A heartfelt sigh escaped her lips, exposing no small amount of pain. Instinctively, his arms wrapped the tiniest bit tighter.
"That's an…interesting idea." He struggled to find proper phrasing.
"It proved to be a god send when we lost him." Her voice was soft as words continued to spill out. "I was an alpha since the age of ten. Made a great show of calling the shots. But my dad was the one running the show. I was on the one on stage, and he was the stage hand making things run smoothly." A sad smile fell on her lips. "My dad never made a big show about being in charge. He had this way of doing things so subtly, it was easy to forget he had done anything at all. And then he died. Leaving a stupid 15 year old kid to try to keep everything together. A kid who had been play acting at running the show, never realizing what was going on. Her father was training her to take over, but constantly stepping in to correct her mistakes. Making the difficult decisions that she had neither the guts nor the brains to make. Then one day he's just gone. No longer there to guide. No longer there to fix stupid errors."
"But you had your grandfather." He tried some measure of comfort. She snickered without humor.
"I had an ingenious hunter with years of experience and knowledge. But with less ideas on how to run a pack than I did. I was the alpha, and like it or not it was my job to take the reins. I had to lead. Make the tough calls and take responsibility for any consequences. Never realized how much I was leaning on my dad. It was like in the middle of being taught how to drive; I was put in the Indie 500."
Derek nodded in understanding. Gazing down in wonder at his mate. She had more strength than he had ever imagined. Had endured a hell at least as equally nightmarish as his own. An alpha literally had the weight of a small world on their shoulders. The entire responsibility of their pack was on them. Everything from keeping their beta's safe to taking accountability for their infractions. He had chosen the role. Taken on the heavy burden as an adult. But she was born to it. It wasn't an uncommon situation, but fate seemed particularly cruel in her case. Even those born to be alpha's were groomed. He still remembered Laura being trained by their mother. To control her powers, and to help teach others that same skill. That was how it should be. Even if the child was technically the alpha, the parent directed from the shadows. Guiding decisions and fixing the inevitable mistakes. Bit by bit handing off the responsibilities. She should have been around his age before her father completely stepped aside.
At her age, the training would have been half way done at best. She was a kid. Coping with the loss of a remaining parent. Without even proper time to mourn, she was forced into a role far beyond her years. An entire pack's fate tied to whatever leadership abilities that had managed to be instilled. The mercilessness of fate was almost humorous. It was difficult enough to assume such a role during times of peace. When the biggest concerns were simply to keep betas from running amok. Yet she had stepped into the station during a time of out and out war. Facing a threat that had broken far bigger packs with far more experienced alphas. The fact her family had made it this far, with most members still breathing, was a testament to a rather frightening level of skill. The man had done a beautiful job in her training. He couldn't begin to imagine the strength it had taken to get her pack to this point in time. Let alone for them to still be able to smile.
"I'm still not fully understanding why it's around right now. Considering-" He hesitated, not wanting to cause more pain.
"Considering it was my dad's idea and now he's dead." She finished the thought for him. A bit of a chill passed down her spine. She snuggled closer to the warmth his body provided, feeling very content. The chill inducing images in her mind were not as potent when he was around. "Honestly it was just a way to keep us all together. My dad was dead. We were completely uprooted from our home, and I think we had just barely found out Zen's injuries were not going to be fatal."
"Injuries?" He couldn't stop the question.
"Yeah, we had all fought in the battle that took my dad. Zen is the youngest. The weakest. They had separated us. Made us scatter. I had been with my dad. The rest of the pack had managed to regroup. She had been herded into a nest. If I had stumbled on the things just a minute later…" Another chill pressed through her body as memories flooded. The little girl just lying on the floor. Too weak to even call out of help. Those monsters tearing away chunks of flesh. She was drawn back to reality when protective arms tightened a bit more, and a low growl rumbled low in the male's chest. It felt so strange confiding in him. Telling him things she had even kept hidden from Zen and Hana. Even Saint. Buried them so deep, trying not to reveal the full extent of her suffering. But it felt so natural with him. She didn't know if it was the bond, or the male himself. Still, it was nice to get things out. Release the demons that had been haunting her mind for the past year. "I knew I wasn't ready for the position. Hell I created such cluster fucks I still don't think I am. But there wasn't really much choice. Either lay low and hope to find an alpha willing to take in a pack of sniveling teenagers. Or man up and do the damn job."
"Man up?" He teased a bit, wanting to break the tone even slightly. She was bearing her soul to him. Her torment and past. He needed to take the pain away, no matter how little. She looked up at him with a slight smile, then went back to nuzzling the crook of his neck. At least for the moment, he had succeeded.
"Wolf up I guess." She amended. "Honestly, the entire thing was a test run. Our world had been shattered, and everyone was just trapped in the downward spiral. I remembered how much fun they used to be and thought what the hell. Worst case scenario is the pack stayed downtrodden. It was actually a bit awkward at first. Everything felt forced. It was a jump rope competition. I don't think I could ever forget. A few words of friendly trash talk. A bit of excitement when perfectly demonstrating a move. I just remember the smiles. Weeks of nothing but depression and pain. To finally see glimpses of happiness. Of hope. If it wasn't for that, I don't think I would have been able to ask for help at the meeting."
"You asked for help?" His tone was a bit incredulous, and she couldn't suppress the slight laugh that escaped her throat.
"Duh. I was a dumbass kid. Completely baffled at what the hell I was doing or needing to do. Just sat down and laid it out for them. A giant fucking army of nasty bastards was after us. Dad was gone, and Grampa was out of his domain. It was up to me, and I had no damn clue. Strangely it all just kind of fell into place. Saint and Zen took over our defenses. Making sure the perimeter was secure. Hana scoured every bit of news, keeping track of any possible Strix activity. Me, Denver, and Sapphire just started pouring through the books. Trying to figure out some plan. It made things so much easier. Brought us closer and kept us going. It worked so well I just didn't want to let it go." She finished her confession. Sat there comfortably wrapped in his arms, breathing in his unique scent.
"If it means anything, I think you're a tough damn wolf. Did a pretty good job." Derek complimented. She looked up and saw the sincerity in his eyes. Smiling in response. "Hell I couldn't ask for help." He admitted, running a hand through his hair.
"It's just because the way we view our status." Mel replied.
"Oh?" He was a bit intrigued.
"Yeah. I was raised that a pack is family first. I am their sister before I am their alpha. That's why they get away with such teasing."
"And me?" He cocked an eyebrow curiously.
"You're more like a general and they're your army."
"Guess you think your way is better."
"Not necessarily. I think my way is better for handling young wolfs. Yours is probably better for actual combat. Both have their drawbacks and advantages. I think your way just runs into so many problems because you're such an asshole. "
"Hey!" He protested before noticing the slight teasing in her eyes.
"Hey yourself. I've learned a bit about you. Biting a guy, hoping the bite would kill him. Beating up and kidnapping an innocent veterinarian. Attempting to kill a girl because you thought she was a kanima. And just jumping around from the good to bad side enough to give people whiplash. Quite a list of misdeeds there mister alpha."
"Ok, let me explain."
"I can't wait to hear this." She sat up straight, setting up complete eye contact.
"Granted there were a few mistakes. Trying to kill the girl I believed to be the kanima being one of them. Siding with my homicidal uncle was another. But that vet wasn't so innocent. He knows a lot of our world. Never bothered explaining how. What was I supposed to think?" She gave a teasing smile and a slight shrug of her shoulders. Playfully mocking his actions. Yet it didn't bother him. "And trust me, if you met Jackson, you would want to kill him too."
"So this Jackson person being the one you hoped the bite would take out?" She mused. He nodded his head in confirmation. "Hmm, I doubt that. Never meet anything that wasn't a Strix that I wanted to kill. Maybe maim a little, but not kill. One of the effects of having epic levels of patience."
"Jackson would wear that mamma wolf patience out and then some." Derek sighed a bit, wanting to offer up penance for his past misdeeds. He had never really taken a hard look at his actions. He had given himself a complete pass on any of the cursory views he had bothered with. He blamed his actions on the circumstances. Following along with Peter's plans because it was what a beta should do. Because it was what he thought the Argent's deserved. He had excused giving the bite because they all asked him too. He had convinced himself it was completely their choice. The propositions and promises he gave not changing that at all. So why now did he care? Why all of a sudden did he even bother reexamining what had happened? Let alone feel remorseful for his actions. Gazing into her wide innocent eyes, the answer hit him. It was because he didn't want her to see him as a bad guy. Even if those eyes did not look at him as a shining knight, he at least didn't want to be looked at as a villain. "I'm not a bad guy." His eyes widened a bit in shock at the realization the words had been said out loud.
"I know." The soft voice answered. He stared into the shining turquoise orbs. Looking out at the world with such kindness and compassion. "You've done some really messed up crap. But you do have redeeming qualities. The most prominent being the concern for your pack."
"Huh?" He questioned. She absentmindedly leaned in. So close their noses were almost touching. Running a playful hand through his hair.
"I can see it in you. You may treat them as soldiers, but you do care. Inadvertently you filled the role of father to Isaac. You gave Boyd friends. And Erica. Well even if she acts like a spoiled brat, you gave her the gift of actually being seen. Even if it was for selfish reasons, you gave them something they needed. And you're still looking out for them. Just like a proper alpha." The sweet smile on her face was too much to resist. He closed the distance, claiming her lips in a fervent kiss. Surprisingly, she responded with equal enthusiasm. His hands brushed teasingly against exposed flesh, and with great difficulty, he pulled slightly away. He nipped lightly on her ear.
"Want to take this upstairs?" The words were whispered in her ear. A blush spread on the female alpha's face. Shocked by her own actions. It was just too easy getting caught up with him. A nervous laugh escaped her lips. Her hands placed so lovingly on his chest moments before pushed off slightly.
"You think we could maybe slow down?" Another nervous laugh filled the silence. She looked at his chest, unable to meet his gaze. Rubbed the nape of her neck nervously as she struggled to find the words to explain. "I'm…I'm just not ready for this type of relationship." The confession hung heavily in the air.
"You're…not ready?" The words were not cruel, simply curious. Mel took a deep breath, needing to explain. But having a hell of a time coming up with the words.
"It's just…Well…I've never even had a boyfriend!" The words were a bit more panicky than she would have liked, but there wasn't much she could do. "Hell I barely had my first kiss before everything happened." Derek looked at the girl, a slight frown on his face. Displeased at the knowledge he wasn't her first everything. Considering his past, it was a very unfair double standard. Still, he didn't like the idea of anyone else touching that enticing body of hers.
"Who?" Her eyes flew up at the question. She cocked an eyebrow, not understanding. "Who was your first kiss?" Mel noticed the agitation in his eyes and couldn't fight the snicker. Here she was confessing to a freak out about them being intimate, and he was experiencing jealousy over something that happened before they had even met. She rolled her eyes, strangely amused at his reactions. It let her delay the embarrassing conversation they needed to have.
"Saint. He was my first kiss."
"Saint?" His tone filled with nothing but disbelief. She laughed, both at his reaction and at the memory of happier times.
"My fourteenth birthday. He and Denver thought the perfect present was to give me my first kiss." She smiled, fondly remembering that day. Then she noticed his look. "What?"
"Why would they even think that?" He was even more confused. Her answers just raised further questions.
"Because Saint was my first crush." She answered without a moment's hesitation. His jaw tightened, and she just shrugged. "He was a childhood friend. Looked out for me and Denver and is just gorgeous. Dumbasses actually thought it was a good idea." She laughed, shaking her head at the remembered idiocy.
"So what happened?"
"Let's just say he won't do that again." She chuckled mischievously, remembering the one time her brother did not sport drool worthy looks. Derek relaxed a bit; relieved his mate had not been pleased with the attention. No longer distracted, his hands once again roamed her body. As he ran a hand over her thigh, she placed her own over it. Firmly holding it in place. "Please Derek." Her voice became so very small. Tone pleading in the most heartbreaking kind of way. "I can't do this. I'm not ready. I know I'm your mate. But seriously. I admit I'm a kid. Just looking at a penis still freaks me out." The male alpha couldn't hold back his laugh, completely caught off guard by the unexpected confession. She looked at him, relieved but slightly hurt.
"I'm sorry, just. Well come on your terrified of dicks." A blush swept across her skin and she buried her face in his chest. After a few moments, she placed a small kiss on his pectoral and turned her head. Nuzzling the warm flesh. No longer hiding but seeking connection. She sighed in contentment, cut off midway when she felt the increase in heart rate. Realizing the cruelty of her actions, she lifted herself up. Only to find his arms pushing her back in place. It was a bit unfair. Taking comfort but denying him his own. She sighed.
"How about we make a deal?" The arms loosened a bit and she straightened up. Looked him in the eye. "Let me take care of what's going on first. Get rid of the Strix. Make sure we are safe. Then…Then hell you can chain me to a bed if you want."
"Time for lunch break! Get in here everyone!" Ruby yelled out the door, calling in her pack mates. And disrupting the two alphas. The red haired beta glanced at the pair. A slight smirk on her face. Blushing profusely, Mel jumped off his lap. Eyes looking at the grass as she walked. Toned arms snaked around her waist and a soft kiss was placed on her neck. His breath tickled her ear and she could only imagine the looks on the packs' faces.
"Chain you to a bed?" He nipped her throat playfully, and she could practically feel the smirk on his face. "Yeah, I think that's something I can wait for."