Child of Death

by PredictableforSorcery

"Papa? How come Daddy doesn't come visit us?" Selene fumbled with her teddy bear while aweing the brown wolf in curiosity. Wolfie sighed while putting down the jar of jelly on the counter, looking down to his pup with a neutral expression. "Let's just say that your father's job is a bit of a handful, Selene." Wolfie replied

Selene, for the most part, was content with her life.

She was just another wolf in this fairytale world, who lived with her father in a small cabin in the middle of the woods. She had a decent childhood, and her papa did his best to support her financially. Well…the best he could considering he was the big bad wolf.

Her father, Wolfie, was the one parent she's always known. The best way to explain his personality would be stoic and unbothered by most things in life. Though her father showed her lots of affection, even if she didn't really want it. He was overall a sweet parent and never let her down, Selene would say that he sacrificed most of his time just to parent her…

Honestly, Selene didn't care who her father was. But an old reputation didn't just die down, many still considered her papa to be the villain in his fairytale story. Because of this Wolfie was sometimes still outcasted. Though not as much anymore due to a certain green ogres influence…also known as her uncle.

Shrek was one of her many uncles and aunts, they were all part of an unlikely fairytale squad that corresponded years ago. When Wolfie introduced her to them as a puppy they did nothing but spoil her rotten. While the ogre family helped raise Selene a lot as a puppy. Wolfie's friends were technically her second family, which could be strange considering that some of them were sentient objects or food. Regardless, Selene loved her strange family…

And she was content with her father, the big bad wolf, and content with her found family. There would be nothing to complain about….

And yet she always felt like there was something missing from her life. Worst part was she knew EXACTLY what was missing.

Her other father.
For years, Selene knew that she had another parent at some point, but this parent left her and wolfie to rot as far as she was concerned. Selene knew nothing of this mysterious father of hers and Wolfie had not spoken of him that much. Some single parents had photo's of their child's absent parent but Wolfie didn't. Wolfie had no photos, letters, or even gifts that proved this other father existed. Wolfie was also very vague when explaining him, almost like he didn't really like talking about him. The only detail wolfie gave of him was that he was busy with his "job" that she knew nothing of. There were times where Selene wondered if this other parent existed at all.

But her found family had known him at one point. Their descriptions of him were more specific but also, it almost felt like they were keeping secrets…

What did he look like?

"Oh well, he was a wolf like your dad. But probably another breed, but we didn't really know. He was VERY tall…." Pinocchio side eyed Selene before staying silent completely. This wasn't the first time they gave vague answers. She was so tired. So tired of them not answering her questions.

Why did he leave?

Why did he leave Dad?

Why did he leave me…?

Asking Wolfie these things had been proved useless, and honestly, whether this parent loved her or not didn't matter.

He still left Wolfie to take care of her on his own. Maybe this parent just didn't care.

And Selene could live with that…..maybe. If she can get over him and move on with her life. But just like all children, they wondered and wondered of the "What if's" that could have been.

---

When she was about eight years old is when she started to notice a dark presence around the cabin. It was strange since while the woods were lovely there had never been anything remotely dark about it. It felt like a shadow, like a demon watching you in your sleep. For Wolfie's sake she stayed silent about it, her Papa had enough on his mind as it was.

Yet every night, as her papa kissed her good night and blew out the candle. She could sense something was watching, something cold…so cold. Her little pup arms held her teddy bear for dear life as she whispered silent prayers for some help. At the time, she prayed for the darkness to go away from her life. To stay away from her papa and odd family. But the shadow never listened, it only stayed.

One night, while Selene was nervously waiting to sleep. She heard a creak at the end of her bedroom. Her ears perked in curiosity, but her wolf sense told her to stay under the fabrics. Knowing something was a foot in her bedroom, but couldn't scream exactly. She almost dared to peek under the blanket only to feel the presence right behind her. Selene couldn't really process what was behind her. But it almost felt like a tall figure, a living creature since she could hear slight breathing. However, there was nothing warm about this being as it the temperature all of a sudden dropped to icy cold. Her fur and blanket did nothing to keep away the cold as she felt herself shiver. Selene was a smart pup though, and she wouldn't move otherwise the creature could possibly hurt her.

Then she felt it shift its body and it applied pressure on her head. Selene froze in fear but the creature didn't hurt her. In fact it did something else…

She felt it gently rub her head in what could be called affection, it was the same head rub her papa would give occasionally. This greatly confused Selene as she assumed this dark presence was at most some type of danger, but instead it was giving her affection. While she couldn't see the thing, her assumption was that this thing was scary looking.

Then she heard it speak, its voice was…deep but soft. It was the voice you would hear when you were about to die, like comforting words. Selene wanted to feel dread from it…she really did. Instead she felt relaxed.

"Duerme bien hija, you don't want to be late for your first day of school." it disappeared in the blink of an eye.

Selene immediately pulled off her covers and frantically looked around for the dark presence. But her room was empty and the only sound she could hear was the crickets outside her bedroom window. Selene used her wolf eyes to pear around the room for evidence, to her surprise she did find exactly that. In the middle of the room was a box wrapped in what appeared to be newspaper. It also had a cute little bow at the top of it.

Selene, going against her better judgment, walked towards the box while curiosity smelled it. She knew the creature left this thing here for her finding, but the real question was why? Using her long tail she poked the box and tilted it over, the lid came off as it landed on the floor. In the box was a cute little red hood that was yellow on the inside of the fabric with mustard colored polka dots. She gasped, to her, it was beautiful. Selene had always wanted those adorable dresses and hoods that other little girls wore while walking down the road past her house. However Wolfie had little money saved so she couldn't just go out and buy one for herself.
Selene held it close to her, it was no doubt beautiful and would look nice on her fur.

Thinking about the creature's words about school….it was right. Tomorrow was her first day of school and she'd have to get some rest. Last thing she needed was some scolding from Wolfie. Sighing, she made her way back to her bed with the red hood, holding it tight to her body. At least she has something nice to wear tomorrow. Hoping that the nice hood would win some kids over and it would be easier to make some friends.

Humming softly to herself while staring at her bedroom ceiling, Selene put herself to sleep.

That night, she dreamt of toys, not merely normal toys, but toys of plush and wood. While she was dreaming her adventures of play and fun. Little did she know of the dark precessense that lingered outside her bedroom window, wearing a black poncho and inhibited crimson red eyes.

---

Around the age of eleven Selene noticed that the dark presence hadn't come back into her life. Which now she was thankful for. Now older and more mature she knew the concept of burglary and stranger danger were no joke. While it was likely that someone had broken into her room and given her a gift, she didn't really believe that it was a normal robber. No….it was something more sinister, something beyond her comprehension. While she hadn't told Wolfie about this strange encounter, she hadn't forgotten that night.

Regardless of the strange event, the wolf child still kept the hood the creature had given her. Maybe it was nostalgia that prevented her from giving such an item up, but it was also because it was now her favorite red hood to wear in public. Wolfie hadn't really questioned it either, much to her surprise. Maybe her papa thought it was some hand me down from the ogre family or such.

Selene decided to keep these thoughts in the past, the shadow was gone now. There was nothing to fear, and her father was safe. Speaking of her papa….

Today was fathers day and she decided to make breakfast for him today. While the clock said six o'clock she knew her father wasn't really a morning person, knowing that he'd probably wake up in a couple more hours. Right now she was cooking him his favorite dish, pancakes and honey, sprinkled in sugar. It was a bit of a heavy meal but it was also Saturday, aka "Cheat Day". Pouring in the pancake mix on the non-stick pan, watching as the butter sizzled in delight. She loved cooking and baking. Her dream one day was to own a bakery as an adult. Hopefully Wolfie would be supportive of it.

Selene wondered for a moment what her "other father" would think of her now that she was older and had life goals? It's always been strange how Wolfie just…never spoke about his personality. From Selene's understanding the two were never married, there was never a divorce to her knowledge. So she doubted Wolfie was bitter due to a "split up". She theorized that maybe it was the aftermath of a "break up" and her other father had left Wolfie. But that was just an assumption, a messed up one at that.

She wondered what it would be like to have two papa's around? To celebrate fathers day with both of them? Selen sighed, it was useless to think these thoughts of wanting. Since at the end of the day, her other father would not come back….
Turning her attention back to the pan she flipped over the pancake at ease, while also adding another dab of melted butter. Wanting to keep focus on breakfast for now.

Hearing footsteps near the stares, Selene smiled knowing who it was. She turned around to see her Papa who was wearing a bright pink robe with fuzzy slippers. He looked grumpy as expected, not exactly a morning person at all. His fur was messy and his shoulders sagged, his eyes looked bloodshot to. Regardless of all these things, he still went out of his way to smile at her, "Good morning Sweetie bun."

She blushed at the nickname, it was an old nickname he would call her occasionally. It was a name he gave her when Wolfie first noticed her love for baking. "Papa, how many times have I told you to stop calling me that, I'm not seven anymore."

Wolfie grinned, "And I told you that wasn't going to happen…" her papa paused, "Sweetie bun~"
Selene groaned, slapping her forehead. Wolfie hummed amused before reaching up to give Selene a kiss on the forehead. She was an inch taller than Wolfie now, much to her dismay. It was like each year she grew taller and taller. Wolf genes never did her justice, she barely looked her age sometimes…

"How was your sleep?" Wolfie yawned, he stretched his back while making his way to a chair next to the nicely done table. Selene took the pancake and set it on a plate while preparing the next one with the batter.

"Alright, haven't dreamt of anything important." Selene dropped another bit of butter into the pan. "I decided to make breakfast for you, since y'know? Fathers day."

Wolfie rubbed his eyes and sighed, "It's today? I thought it was tomorrow…" the wolf groaned, "I really need to mark my calendar better…" she nodded in agreement. Ever since Wolfie got himself a job to support her school loans he hadn't been the most well planned person. In a way, she was the one taking care of him sometimes. He would come home tired, just plopping himself on the bed without tending himself. Selene had secretly grown worried for her papa's mental health, as she would sometimes have to wake him up from him just randomly falling asleep.

The job Wolfie had wasn't exactly the best either. She recalled it being one of those labor jobs you get in a factory. More specifically, a potion factory. Working hours for Wolfie were no doubt tiring and exhausting, her papa had really gone all out to support them both. The ogre family, along with the fairytale squad, had really tried convincing her Papa into getting a better, more paying job. Fiona had even tried corresponding with King Arthur to see if Wolfie could get a job in the castle. But her papa refused, saying that he didn't like shortcuts and would rather not use the family's royalty to get what he wants. Wolfie was somewhat stubborn like that, he liked doing things and getting what he wanted on his own without any help. Wanting to be more "self dependent".

"How's school been for you?" Wolfie got more comfortable in the chair while twisting his fork around the table cloth. "You've always been a good student when it comes to grades, So I'm not worried about that… have kids been nice to you?" Selene cringed for a moment, her eyes shifted away from Wolfie as she decorated the honey and sugar on the pancakes.

"They've been…nicer I guess, haven't gotten an egg throw all week!" She said encouragingly, but in all honesty, children at school were usually meaner than they should be. She blamed it on middle school phases, where most kids thought they were older then they should be. The school she went to was one full of human children, and not many fairytale creatures went to public school anyway. So unfortunately Selene was mostly the target of bullying and resentment from her classmates. They all went out of their way to make sure she knew that she didn't belong…even her own teacher ignored her. The only time her teacher ever acknowledged her existence was with her grades, which he would only nod in approval at. He did nothing to stop the bullying against her, even if it happened right in front of him…

Wolfie sighed, he looked down sadly, and she could tell there was a change in the mood with him. Selene pretended to smile "Papa, It's fine, you don't need to keep worrying about me.." After finishing the pancakes she made her way to the table and placed the plate in front of Wolfie, giving him a kiss on the forehead. "Today, I want you to relax, try worrying about yourself for a change. Please…" Wolfie simply nodded sadly, using his fork to take a bite out of his food.

For the next hour they both ate their food without much on their minds. Selene though was still thinking back around her school life, in all truth she didn't have many friends. Actually, scratch that, she didn't have any friends at all. Not many kids wanted to associate with the daughter of the big bad wolf. Let alone a talking wolf herself. She recalled a time when one of the kids in her class called her scary…admittingly Selene would agree. Selene was taller than most kids her age and her eyes looked predatory, more than Wolfies did. It was just something she'd have to live with she suppose…

"I wanted to talk to you about something…" Wolfie cut the silence off. She stopped chewing her food and swallowed the sweet pancake while tilting her head. Her Papa shrugged while putting down his fork.

"Honestly, I've been thinking very hard about talking to you about this…and I kind of wanted to possibly wait till your birthday.." Wolfie laid his head on his hand. "..But throughout the years of raising you I noticed that you're mature for your age. I know that while I'm not a perfect parent I can at least trust that you can react maturely to anything I tell you that might be…how do I put this…?" Wolfie shifted uncomfortably, "...not understandable for most kids your age…"

Selene frowned, "Papa, where are you going with this…"

"I know I've never been truly honest about your….father…" Wolfie started, only for Selene's eyes to widen. "To be honest, the way I portrayed him to you…and the way I could be vague…doesn't really do his reputation justice." Wolfie laid a hand on top of hers " He's not the wolf you think he is."

Selene looked away for a moment, she didn't really think Wolfie would ever want to talk about her father. "Then why isn't he here…?" she muttered almost bitterly. "From how you speak of him, it sounds like you two split up for good…"

Wolfie gave Selene a sad look, "That's not it…I…we aren't exactly "split up", I need you to understand that I still very much care for him." Selene clenched her fists, " but his job got into the way of us and I understood that I wasn't his main priority at the time. I know he still cares for me but we couldn't be together at every moment. Right now he's doing his job and I want you to know he'll be back one day-"

Selene all of a sudden felt anger come over her, she slammed the table with her other hand while yelling out the words, "I DON'T EVEN KNOW HIS NAME!" She looked away, resentful of herself. She couldn't bear looking at her Papa, knowing she just yelled at him. He didn't deserve to be yelled at, guilt assaulted her. A few tears escaped her eye sockets while her breath hitched, managing to whisper out "I'm sorry…"

Wolfie hugged Selene close while also soothing her. "It's alright…I understand your frustration…" he sighed, "Your father…your father has a very secretive job that requires his identity to stay unknown."

Selene huffed, "Sometimes, I wonder if he's even real. Are you sure you didn't just adopt me?" she half-joked. She felt her papa roll his eyes and he rubbed his temple.

"He's real…he's more real than you understand." Her papa gave another sad look, "All you need to know, Sweetie bun is that I…I love him." he said seriously, "And I'm pretty sure he loves you…He said he'd come back, and the day he does you'll understand why he was absent."

Selene was silent before shifting away from Wolfie's grip, "I…I don't care how or why he left us, he still LEFT US." Selene growled, "Whatever the reason was. It doesn't excuse him missing out on most of my Puppy years." Wolfie tried calling out to Selene before she made her way out of the kitchen. For a second she swore she felt the same dark presence that haunted her a few years ago, a chill went up her spine when she did. Walking through the hallways and into her room, Selene didn't notice a figure standing outside the cabin. A silver furred wolf who looked sadly at the display, a crying pup and a depressed looking brown Wolf.

The same wolf he left all those years ago…

---

A month had passed since fathers day, and she and wolfie had remained silent. Her papa almost seemed aphonic about the situation. Selene had to admit that she felt extremely guilty over ruining fathers day for her papa. She just wanted to help him RELAX not hurt him any further. It was hidden resentment that she bottled up for a while now, but it should have been directed somewhere else.

Despite this, their relationship remained strong. Wolfie still went to work while she did school. They both still talked and supported each other's choices.

Education was a main priority of hers to really try and get through. Her papa had always worked so hard for her in school that she almost felt pressure to do so well in it. But of course there were struggles. Like her classmates.

"Well, well, well, if it isn't our favorite talking animal~" the girl in pigtails exclaimed, putting her hands on her waist. Selene bit her lip in annoyance at one of her bullies/classmates. The human girl had always been a thorn on her side. Currently she sat on her desk writing in one of her school journals, she was trying to study. The classroom was empty due to most kids wanting to go to recess but she remained. And this girl was interrupting her…

"Go away Milly…" Selene groaned, going back to writing while trying to ignore the smirking girl on the side. Milly was just an ordinary student here in the school, everyone loved her…the same couldn't be said about Selene though. The girl had a knack for picking on Selene for some type of negative attention. The wolf child couldn't exactly figure out WHY Milly liked to bully her. But she knew Milly was a malicious individual, and was to be approached with caution.

Milly only continued to talk, "Yknow, I'm not sure why this lousy school allowed a mutt like you to study here with us. Why don't you go back to your doghouse in the woods?" She said snarky.
Selene swore she felt her fingers twitch from the word "mutt" but still kept her calm composure. If there's anything wolfie taught her about bullies, it's to never give them what they want: attention.

Milly seemed to catch on though, realizing that talking wasn't going to annoy Selene enough so out of the blue Milly grabbed her journal. Selene growled in annoyance, attempting to get the book back. "Stop IT!"
The human girl only smirked while running around the classroom, Selene did her best to control her anger. But the more Milly made fun of her, the more she could feel herself get riled up. Selene jumped on one of the empty desks and yeeted herself at Milly, but the human girl missed on purpose and Selene hit face first on the ground.
The pain was of course there in her snout, she touched her nose for a moment and realized she was bleeding. Milly laughed, pointing at the display. Selene had hit face first onto the ground and was now bleeding. Selene felt her mood switch from annoyed to….something else. If there was a name to describe it she didn't have the right words. It felt like rage almost, cold, uncontrollable, sadistic, rage. The feeling felt animalistic in itself, maybe wolf instincts?

Milly seemed to notice her change in mood and grinned evilly. "What's wrong mutt? Pushed your buttons?"

Glaring at the human in front of her, she lifted herself up while standing in a more demanding pose. "Give my journal back." Selene growled while clenching her fists. Milly didn't listen, she waved the journal around the air and then began to rip a page out.

Selene felt herself get triggered, "STOP!" she yelped. This time her predatory eyes narrowed at Milly, she did her best to control herself over the situation but failed. The human girl ripped out another page of her journal and it was the last straw.

Selene pounced on Milly this time and snarled like a wolf would do when they were angry. Her teeth bared and her claws scratched, the human was now under her. Milly screamed, a high shrill of terror escaped her throat while Selene snarled in anger.

"GET OFF ME YOU MANGY MUTT!" Milly tried to get Selene off of her, but the wolf's body was three times heavier than any eleven year old. Her green eyes staring coldly at the girl beneath her. Selene didn't really want to get off, in fact, she had the urge to terrify the girl further. Months of bullying often left Selene crying herself to sleep and Milly was a main culprit. For a strange reason, the wolf child had an odd urge for vengeance.

Selene unconsciously dug her claws into the girl's arms, skin easily punctured due to her sharp black claws. At the moment, she didn't understand what she was doing. Her animalistic side seemed to take over her mind completely. The girl withered under her but Selene was too entranced to notice. It wasn't until Milly let out a scream of agony that the wolf had understood what she did. Blinking for a moment to regain self consciousness, Selene jumped off Milly with twisted shock. Staring at the girl who was crying and her claws that had slight blood on them. Selene immediately felt sick. Realizing that she just hurt someone without her mind being fully aware of it.

"I..I…" she couldn't form the right words for an apology. It wouldn't have mattered anyway since Milly only sobbed harder in pain. She couldn't tell if she was guilty more about hurting Milly or losing control.

As Selene stood up, hyperventilating at the realization. She stared down at her claws again, that were slightly covered in blood. She felt a shiver run up her spine, not because of fear, but because of the temperature slightly dropping. Selene's eyes widened ever more. The presence was back and stronger than ever. The same presence that haunted her as a child seemed to come back in this exact horrible moment. It only seemed to make her guilt worse.

Ice seemed to form around the edges of her vision. The wolf child looked around for the presence as its physical form seemed more apparent than ever. It didn't feel like a shadow this time, no, it felt like a living being. Her eyes caught it outside one of the windows of the school. It didn't look like the evil creature she hoped it would be. Instead it was a tall figure wearing what looked like a black poncho, red eyes, and the most distinct detail of them all….it was another wolf. Selene's gasp got caught in her throat.

The feeling she got from the wolf was that of being caught doing something very wrong. The facial expression of the red eyed wolf didn't help either, he looked….pitiful. Like he felt bad for her predicament. She felt herself nauseous….her stomach twisting.

Peering down at the whimpering human child and her hands again she shook her head with a pained sob.

"I'm sorry…." Selene felt her legs carry her, sprinting outside the classroom and into the woods. Usually nobody was stupid enough to go out in the woods alone, but her mind felt too mushy to really think straight about her horrible decisions. So like a normal wolf on the run, she made her way down the woods of the forest. The tree's seemed to be blurry obstacles.

As she ran she could feel something following her.

Selene knew what it was….the wolf with red eyes. Not daring to look behind her, she ran faster on her hind legs. Her lungs betrayed her as the dark presence followed. However the faster she seemed to run, the closer it seemed to get. That's when she felt it grab her red hood at the end.

"LEAVE ME ALONE!" She screamed, to her surprise and relief….it did just that. Letting go of her hood and disappearing completely. The wolf child fell to her knees, crying uncontrollably. Curling into a small ball and letting her emotions out.

She was a monster…even if Milly was a bully, why did she..? It didn't matter, what was done was done. Selene knew she disappointed her Papa, and she knew that her school life was over…nothing like this was easily forgiven.

Selene didn't care about herself at the moment, who she worried about was her Papa…
What would people do if they found out the daughter of the "big bad wolf" scared a girl to the point of bleeding? A sort of creeping dread turned in her stomach, heavy and oppressive. The thought of parents blaming wolfie instead of his child tore her to pieces. He would not hear the end of it, his already tainted reputation would once again be brought back into the light.

Selene feared the repercussions of her own actions…she prayed that her father would be let off the hook. The wolf child began to try again while hiding away in her own clothes.

Unknown to Selene at the moment. The dark presence had not left. If anything it stayed and watched the little girl crying alone. Wishing he'd be able to comfort her in that moment. Instead he sighed sadly, putting back on his dark hood while stepping away.

---

When the news went out that a wolf child had injured a human girl it weighed heavily on Wolfie. Selene was guilty over the entire thing and was shocked when her Papa told her he forgave her. The same couldn't be said about Milly's parents though…

Upon seeing their child's injuries they immediately demanded that Selene have physical assault charges be pressed against the wolf father and daughter. But thankfully the teacher had not seen it as that serious, so that never happened. However, that wasn't the end of the drama. Parents became fearful of Selene, they ALL demanded that she be removed from the class without any chance to return. It got so bad that eventually wolfie had no choice but to give in, practically taking Selene out of school completely. She felt ashamed that her idiocy had led to this.

Wolfie had not blamed her for this, but himself of all things. He said that he should have taught her how to control her wolf temper, but was too busy with work to do just that. But her papa was also acting strangely calm about the entire situation. As if he was hiding some details about her….
For example, he didn't seem bothered by her strength, but also said that she was "stronger" then most wolves because of her…"genes". Whatever that meant, it had to do with her absent father. The idea both terrified and angered her.

If her genes from the absent parent was the reason she snapped and became an uncontrollable animal then why hadn't wolfie told her sooner? Ah, right, her papa stopped talking about her missing parent after fathers day, her fault she supposed. Regardless, there were still so many unanswered questions and her family still remained silent about it. The ogre family, along with the fairytale squad, had not thought less of Selene. But they were all concerned for her. Gingy had even recommended a doctor or a therapist. But Wolfie declined their offers for some unknown reasons. Maybe trying to protect her? She really didn't know…

At the age of thirteen Selene had grown accustomed to controlling her emotions. She became mute during the beginning of her tween years. Wolfie was concerned of course but Selene reassured that she was just entering a phase. A phase in which she can stay neutral towards anything in life. Some of Shrek's kids, also known as her cousins, had joked that their wolf friend was now entering her "goth" phase. Selene was bemused by their labeling, but wondered if they were right sometimes. Maybe it was the way she dressed now, she still wore that red hood she kept since her childhood. But her clothes were now cute dresses that resembled that of a red riding hood…ironically. Red riding hood was Selene's role model. Wolfie hadn't really said anything about it but it was kind of awkward considering he had a bad history with the red hooded human girl.

So while selene's fashion taste differed greatly from her Papa's, he still made the effort to show her how to sew dresses and contrast color pallets together. As she entered teen hood she got more interested in clothing but noticed that her body made some "interesting" changes. Wolfie took this as a sign of her entering the hell that was called "puberty". He had a long talk with her about it and she was a flustered mess throughout the entire conversation. He only rolled his eyes and patted her head, "Welcome to growing up Honey bun! You're becoming a grown up now!"

While the changes did happen, wolfie was still his same old self. She thought there was nothing to worry about with him….until now.

On one rainy night Selene had woken up to thunder, she relentlessly tried to go back to sleep but unsuccessful. Twisting and turning around in her blankets she finally gave up. Deciding that a nice cup of chocolate milk would probably calm her nerves enough to rest. Getting up from the bed and entering the hallway she pushed open her bedroom door. She made an effort to keep quiet just in case Selene accidentally awakened her Papa. Gently tippy-toeing passed the door to her right, she made her way past his bedroom. She noted that the door was only an inch open but didn't peek inside, worrying she might stir him awake. So she went downstairs and passed the hallway to the kitchen to get herself a nice cup of chocolate milk.

While in the kitchen she noticed that it was nicely clean, and not recalling straining up the place Selene had wondered if Papa cleaned it up, which made her feel bad since he usually came home from work tired. Shaking her head she reached for one of the cupboards and grabbed a jar of freshly made chocolate milk. Grabbing a cup as well, she placed it down and served herself a bit of the delightful drink.

Just when she was done and placed the jar of milk back, she heard a loud noise from upstairs. Her wolf instincts kicked in and she whipped around to look at the stairs. The only background noise that was present was the rain. The entire stair area was pitch black, assuming that she would see the shadow of her Papa but nothing. Instead she heard another noise, this time it sounded louder. Her wolf ears could hear the creaking of the wood boards upstairs. It sounded like it was coming from Wolfie's room….

Selene frowned, she doubted her papa was up at this time. The creaking sounded too heavy as well, almost like the figure above was huge. Unless the floorboards were THAT creaky because of water leaks, but that wasn't possible. No….it was something more sinister and she could feel it…

The creaking became louder and this time Selene became determined to figure out where the noise was coming from. Taking her cup of chocolate milk and grabbing a butcher's knife from under the sink. Selene slowly walked up the stairs, careful not to make a peep. The creaking turned to tapping.

Eventually Selene made her way to the bedroom door, it was still an inch open. She didn't move, she didn't flinch, she waited, quietly, nervously, for any sign of her papa in his bedroom. Instead she heard whispers, Wolfie's voice could be heard from inside the pitch black room.

"I missed you so much~…" Wolfie let out a soft whisper of affection. It didn't sound like the same bit of affection he would give her, it sounded more…intimate, more "cuddly". She felt uncomfortable that her father was capable of saying something like that. Regardless, she still listened.

"You're always gone and I'm left alone to take care of our daughter…" Wolfie sighed painfully, "I want you here, I want you to have a relationship with Selene…Please…" There was a shifting in the room while Selene felt her face go pale, had her face been furless she would be a bright white. Did Wolfie just say "our daughter" ?

"Perdóname, amor, It's been difficult to keep an eye on her. I'm doing my best to make sure she's safe but at the same time, my presence seems to scare her." a deeper, softer voice replied to Wolfie. It's then that Selene realized Wolfie wasn't alone. Her breath still fearing for her papa's wellbeing she slightly pushed the door half an inch wider. Still, the pitch blackness didn't do her eyes justice. If she was a hunting wolf, maybe she has experience looking into the dark. So instead she listened again, more deeply, more focused…

Wolfie shifted again, this time his body sounded like it was making contact with another one. "I never told her who you really were, y'know? It pains me to think that maybe she resents you for leaving but at the same time…" Wolfie inhaled what could have been a shiver, " If I was in her position…I would hate you too." she could have sworn that her papa's shoulders slag. Like it was weight that was shifted off his back. Like he just admitted something so personal and so, very wrong…..

Silence, the rain was painfully loud and did nothing to soothe Selene's anxiety. She clutched onto the milk while also lowering the butcher knife slightly. She sniffed the air in the bedroom only to meet with the scent of wolfies perfumes. But in all the mists of sweet smelling chemicals, she could almost smell the bitterness of another creature lurking in the dark. The scent was familiar but Selene couldn't exactly make out what it was. It was familiar though….very familiar.

" Amor, I'm so sorry…I never meant to hurt you." The voice replied, this time more comforting. She heard Wolfie mutter in exhaustion, the bed creaking in apprehension.

"The one you should be saying sorry to is not me, but thanks anyway.." Her papa groaned.

"I…I've spent the last decade doing my best to raise her but I feel like I've failed her. Years of me trying to make sure she's well educated or well fed. But I blame myself for her lack of friends and general lack of social skills. I'm….not exactly the greatest role model when it comes to that…and maybe I feel like you'd be a better role model…"

The creature sighed, "Wolfie…"

"Let me finish, I-I'm tired of raising her alone…there has to be some balance between you and I. Maybe once a week she meets up with you and there are no disruptions in your job." Wolfie's voice shifted to begging, "Please, I miss you….I miss you so much. I want to cuddle with you in bed, I want to hug you again, I want us to be a family…." Her papa's voice sounded ragged…was he crying? "I know it sounds needy but this is slowly killing me inside. At this point, I feel like you might have to pick up my soul faster than planned." That's when Selene heard the breathy sobs from her papa. Selene knew Wolfie, he NEVER cried, he was stronger than that. Oh how she would do anything to comfort her papa right now…
Then she heard the bed shift again

"Si eso es lo que quieres amor, I'll visit her this week and we can have a talk together with her…" There was a slight purring, "..Our little Selene."

Okay that was enough.

Selene, ignoring her common sense, kicked the door open and looked around. At first she didn't spot anything, other than pitch black darkness. But then her eyes shifted to the bed…now, she didn't do anything, because she was too horrified at what her eyes were trying to process. In the bed sat two wolves, her papa and….oh no.

It was him, silver fur, crimson eyes, and black poncho… the dark presence that haunted her as a child.

What made her sick to the stomach though was the fact that her papa was sitting on the big wolf's lap while his arms were dangerously wrapped around Wolfie. They both stared at her in shock, Wolfie tried at addguest himself in the bigger wolf's arms while looking between the silver wolf and his daughter.

"Selene…this isn't what it looks like." Wolfie started, but she had not listened. Instead she stared cold in the eye of a silver wolf. His red eyes burned into her green ones, noticing how cold he seemed. Colder than the icy winters she grew up witnessing, colder than the icy flows of a mountain. When she tilted her head at him the silver wolf grinned. Maybe he was trying to look friendly but it only came off as creepy. Her protective instincts kicked in again and she launched the chocolate milk at the bigger wolf's head. The silver wolf caught it, looking smug while doing so. She felt her blood boil.

Wolfie jumped off his lap and rushed to Selene, grabbing her wrist that held the butcher's knife. "SELENE!" He scolded, "Please, he's not a danger to me. He's not trying to hurt us." Wolfie gently held his daughters shoulder as the crimson eyed wolf looked amused.

Selene looked at Wolfie's appalled expression before saying, "OUR DAUGHTER?!" she threw her hands out in confusion. Wolfie gapped before stuttering, she yelled again, "WHAT DO YOU MEAN "OUR DAUGHTER" ?!", pointing at the silver wolf. "HE'S MY FATHER?!"

Wolfie blinked, grabbing her shoulder while trying to calm her down, "Selene-"

She tore away from his grip while growling, "NO, Tell me the truth." She demanded while pointing at Wolfie. Usually she wasn't disrespectful towards her parent, but right now she was too pissed off to care. "Don't lie to me, who is this guy and why were you-" Selene gagged at the memory, "-being all cuddly with him?"

Wolfie slapped a hand to his forehead, "Honey bun, Please, calm down. I have a headache and I can't think right with all this yelling…"

"Tsk, tsk, esa no es forma de hablarle a tu padre…" The bigger wolf mumbled. Selene only felt herself angry again at the fact that she couldn't understand him. She REALLY should have studied more in Spanish back in school. She stomped furiously to the Spanish wolf, baring her teeth.

"It WAS YOU!" she scoffed, "You were the one who kept watching me as a child and now you've come after my father, haven't YOU!" Those crimson eyes widened and he barked out a laugh while slapping his knee. He then gently smiled at her, in….a strangely affectionate way.

"En efecto…, I guess you could say that…." He looked up and down at her with a soft grin, "you've grown a lot since I last saw you."

Selene frowned, "Then…..it's true….you.." Groaning, Selene covered her face, "None of this makes sense…if I'm your…child then.." her words were slightly crumbled now. While a mostly illiterate teenager she couldn't find the words to describe her emotions. She just knew that all of them were negative.
Wolfie sensed his daughter's distress before gently holding her hand, "I suppose this is unexpected for you uhm," Wolfie gestured to the crimson eyed wolf, "Selene I'd like you to meet…Muerte, also known as your….father." he said hesitantly.

Her hands shaky, the wolf child looked at both her parents but mostly at "Muerte". When actually seeing her parents together for the first time…it was bizarre how different they both appeared. Muerte seemed to come off as mysterious or haunting, like one of those villains you'd see in a fairytale. While Wolfie usually wore his fluffy slippers and unique pink robe. They both looked like polar opposites.

There were so many questions she had to ask but the rain outside of the cabin had not helped calm her mind, instead it made her more wary of the stranger in her house. Father or not, she didn't trust him, there was just something so off about him.

"Uhm….how about tomorrow we talk about this over a nice cup of tea?" Wolfie smiled, " Honey bun, I know this is a lot to take in, but you must know that there's a lot you don't understand." Selene didn't listen to Wolfie for once, instead she was catatonic towards the entire situation. To be honest, she didn't really want to talk to Muerte. She wanted him to leave her and Wolfie alone forever, I mean…that's what he was good at anyway.

Noticing her mute behavior Wolfie tried holding her hand, "Sweetie I….I'm sorry. But can you go off to bed? You need your rest and maybe you need your space…Plus I have to talk to Muerte alone."

Selene scowled at the last part, "I'm not going to bed unless he leaves." she snarked, crossing her arms in stubbornness.

"Selene!" Wolfie scolded, offended by her hostility, "He's not going anywhere, you're being extremely rude."

"I don't want him in the house!" She started, "I don't care if he's my dad!"

"Selene!" Wolfie slightly growled while roughing up his fur on his head.

Muerte only chuckled softly, standing up from the bed while stretching. "No, It's fine wolfie, she's obviously stressed and I have to leave anyway. Have a long journey ahead." he yawned before looking at Selene with a grin. "See you later…ugh…Honeybun?" awkwardly Muerte tried to pat Selene's head only for her to back away.

If she studied those crimson eyes correctly, she would say they looked sad for a moment. Muerte however walked up to wolfie with a lovey-dovey grin. "Tomorrow we can talk with her, I know I said this week but now that she…knows.." he implied. Wolfie smiled at Muerte and Selene could only gag as they both gave each other a small peck.

"In the morning we will explain everything…" Wolfie said to both Muerte and Selene.

Selene frowned deeply, her head hanging in the air slightly. Tomorrow was…not going to be a happy day for her…and she knew it.

---

She had not slept at all that night.

Her mind was racing with worry, confusion, and disgust. Never in her life had she seen her papa kiss anyone like that. She always had this idealized view on him that often associated him as the loving parent. "Muerte" was apparently her absent parent who never went out of her way to raise her, but for some reason her Papa seemed affectionate with him. This felt gross and it felt wrong. Muerte had obviously caused Wolfie some distress so how come he was so affectionate with him? Why wasn't he angry like a normal person would be if their lover left them? All the books she read taught her that couples aren't supposed to abandon each other!

So with that being said, she obviously wasn't so pleased to have Muerte over for breakfast. Wolfie had recommended Selene to wear something nice for the occasion, but she redundantly refused. Instead she wore nothing but her pajamas. She didn't even bother to wear her favorite red hood that, technically speaking, was the same one Muerte gave to her that one night.

The three of them sat awkwardly on the kitchen table while water was being cooked on the stove. Wolfie was tapping his claws on the table while waiting, awkwardly waiting for the tea to be ready. Selene was having a glaring contest with Muerte, well, she was the only one glaring. Muerte on the other hand only stared at her, albeit, with a hint of amusement.

Papa cut the silence by getting up to the now boiling pot of water. As he looked away for a moment Selene scowled at Muerte with resentment, while the bigger silver wolf just looked neutral.

Papa came back with some tea in his hands before pouring tea for all three of them. Wolfie nonchalantly gave Muerte a lovey-dovey grin, making her blood boil a bit.

"So….Honey…" wolfie began, "We understand this might come off as…"sudden" for you. Considering that I've never been the most honest about your father and never gave any hints as to "when" he'd come back." Wolfie side-eyed Selene for a moment, "I know you're upset…and, I understand why. So to make it up to you, me and him are willing to answer all your questions."

She rolled her eyes, "How willing exactly?" crossing her arms, "there's something off about you two." pointing at Muerte, "Especially him." She didn't care how disrespectful she was being, Muerte didn't deserve any respect.

Wolfie was silent for a moment before taking the tea cup next to his plate, "We'll be honest as much as we can, but for that to happen you need to be willing to behave." Wolfie said in a serious tone. She rarely ever saw that side of Wolfie, seriousness wasn't really a parenting trait of his unless you were talking about his stoic personality. Not to say he NEVER used that tone with her, but it was saved for cases in which he was not willing to deal with bullshit. So Selene sucked up her thirteen year old pride and obeyed.

"Fine, uhm, hrmm," Scratching her head while searching for the right question to ask, " How did you two meet?"

Wolfie put down his tea cup, "Well, that's a long story, so I'm just going to cut it short so you can understand better." her papa leaned into Muerte a little bit, making her eyes twitch.

"Like…a couple of decades ago, before Farquaad's reign most fairytale creatures were at peace in Duloc, but I wasn't. I was a lone wolf on the road. Also didn't exactly have the best going out for me. Mostly because at the time, in my own pack, I was outcasted out of it" papa shifted uncomfortably. "Let's just say I was…."different" compared to other wolves. One being that I was gifted with the ability to talk, not all animals are. Another reason is that I was more interested in human things rather than hunting." Wolfie sighed, "So I decided to try living in human society. The results? Not so good…." Wolfie had a dark gleam in his eyes, it looked like a mix between anger or slight melancholy.

"My fairytale has always been rewritten or misinterpreted. But after my fairytale happened and I was shot. I would have died if it weren't for my quick thinking…" looking at Muerte, Wolfie softly smiled, "..and Muerte." Selene raised an eyebrow for clarification.

"Well after I was shot, uhm…, Muerte "found me" and helped me recover from the wound.." wolfie started and gestured to the bigger wolf to finish his story.

Muerte smiled as he took a sip out of the tea, "I was traveling up north when I found your father wounded next to a tree. I helped him clean the wound and carried him to a nearby town so he could be treated better. We hit it off a lot after that." the bigger wolf muttered as he took another sip.

She frowned, the beginning of their relationship sounded vague, if not suspicious. Maybe she was overthinking the entire story but WHY Muerte would help Wolfie was too vague. They were explaining what she wanted to know….but also keeping their distance…

What were they hiding?

"Okay….how long were you two together before…you "split"." This time the question was directed towards Muerte,wanting to hear more of his side about this. Muerte seemed puzzled, like the question caught him off guard? He looked at Wolfie with a questioning gaze, Papa only smiled nervously before shrugging. Muerte rolled his eyes in a charmed way. Selene was confused, did Wolfie not tell Muerte something important? Selene shifted in her seat, wood scratching at the bottom of the table.

"We…knew each other for a while but we didn't officially get together until after Fairygodmothers defeat in Far, Far, Away. I'm assuming your papa had already told you that tale?"

"Yeah, he did, never mentioned you in it though…" Selene trailed off, not sure how to finish what was said. The ogre family and fairytale squad had not spoken about Muertes existence once every time they told her that tale. So there was the speculation that maybe they didn't know to begin with. Maybe it was a secret relationship. But why keep it secret to begin with? Now that she thought about it, they must have at one point met him…but the impression he left made them wary. Since they were always so hesitant to talk about his existence. It's possible her family was scared of Muerte, which wasn't good. Wasn't good at all.

Impatient, and honestly, unsatisfied with what is being told to her. She decided to ask the most important question. "Why did you leave?"

Muerte looked unmoved by the question, he held his shoulders high and his snout formed a small half grin. Selene wanted to call it creepy but it looked oddly human. Strange how those crimson eyes lacked so much emotion yet carried a lot of quality. The bigger wolf looked away, like he was contemplating on what to say to her. Sadness washed over her impatience though, usually she was more uptight than how she presented herself. However, Muerte's presence seems to make her lose all her composer.

Why…?

Why did he have to leave her?

He seemed to read her mind as Muerte looked sympathetic.

"I don't really have an excuse, I'm sorry Amor." Muerte was melancholy as Wolfie looked awkwardly between the two. Noting that her papa looked disappointed, but not at her. Years of him not being in the picture and her being without a second parent, that disappointment was being directed at Muerte.

Selene's nose flared and her fists pounded on the table, disappointed wouldn't even be the right emotions to describe the current blood curdling anger she felt. Usually, someone like her wasn't quick to anger, but now…now she felt rage. Not like the same uncontrollable rage she felt towards Milly on that one awful day of school. This time her anger was more direct, like if looks could kill, Muerte would be dead.

"Damn right you don't!" She said over exaggerated, "where the hell were you these past twelve years?! You left me and my Papa when I was just a PUP!" recalling that time she was stalked through a window and HE was there, she huffed. "You're no ordinary wolf either…." she declared suspiciously.

While her Papa was stunned by Selene's fit of anger, Muerte narrowed his eyes on his daughter. Not exactly looking amused anymore but rather…conflicted. He then spoke curiously, "What makes you assume I'm not "ordinary"?",crossing his arms "I'm just like any other wolf out there…" looking side eyed.

Selene flared again, "Well for one, no wolf has red eyes like that! Two, your WAY too tall. And Three, I know it was you…." She pointed a finger accusingly, "...You're the shadow that keeps visiting me every few years, the dark entity I feel everytime I'm in a horrible situation…" her voice trailed off when she spotted Wolfie's serious look again.

Muerte emotionlessly looked over Selene, his red eyes seemed to cross-examine her. She stood by her belief though, she just knew it, KNEW this guy was the one who snuck into her room. The similarities were all too clear….

Her Papa sighed, "Selene…Honey, have you been drinking too much chocolate milk again?" He thought something was wrong with her logic. Wide-eyed, she gaped at Wolfie.

"PAPA! NO!" Selene grabbed her own wolf ears and pulled them in irritation, "He was THERE! Haunting me! I SWEAR I SEEN HIM!" she pointed at Muerte again. "He's been stalking me!"

"Selene I, uuggghhh" Wolfie groaned, looking quite tired. Not paying attention, she glared at Muerte with daggers. This guy was NOT to be trusted.

Being so suspicious that she was caught off guard by Muerte's laughing. It sounded whole-hearty, not evil or malicious like she would expect from his appearance. He laughed harder when he peeked at Wolfie and Selene just balked at his odd reaction. Muerte began wheezing his ass off at Selene's frowny face as he then began holding his stomach to control his laughter.

"Lo siento..HEHE!" he held his breath, "I-I'm sorry b-but, HEEE-" coughing, Muerte straightened himself out. " I don't know what you're talking about." he gave a gentle smile while also holding back more laughter.

Selene's jaw dropped in disbelief, was he…..lying? Then again she shouldn't be surprised considering he and her papa were ALL too keen on lying to her. God Damn it, why couldn't they just be HONEST. TRULY HONEST with her?

Having enough at this point she stormed out of the kitchen and into her bedroom. Wolfie called out to her but she didn't listen as she covered herself in blankets and screamed like a thirteen year old would when they were angry.

---

A week passed since that "talk", which felt like a disaster when looking back on it.

Selene had not lifted from her grumpy mood. Instead she had started avoiding the topic of Muerte all together. The silver wolf had left after that day, claiming he had to go back to his "JOB". Whatever that meant, Selene didn't care for it. She was still angry at Muerte while also getting kind of upset at Wolfie. Something she thought would NEVER happen, but now she was mad at her Papa! Her papa of all people!

Wolfie had done his best to calm Selene down but she couldn't NOT be mad at Muerte. So after some convincing, Wolfie had encouraged Selene to stay a few nights at the ogre's home for some relaxation. Thinking that her cousin's company would bring her some peace. While she was not fond of the idea of leaving her papa alone, her behavior was far from acceptable. So he sent her there anyway.

Shrek and Fiona were welcoming towards the idea, even giving Selene her own sleeping place in the living room of their home. Her cousins seemed excited to have her over. The disaster Triplets, as she liked to call them, were always a silly bunch. Farkle, Fergus, and Felicia were a bit younger than her. Meaning that entering teenage years was sort of hard for her since now she felt out of place. As a pup she used to rough house with the ogre triplets but around twelve years old she grew out of that. It's strange how highschool was only a mile away for her and the spark she got from playing was gone.

Currently, she was trying to read a book on history, to keep herself occupied as the triplets ran around the house. Felicia had dropped a plate as she ran across the hallway in her princess dress that was a pass me down from her mom. Farkle, being mischievous as ever, ran across the living room chasing Felicia with a broomstick while screaming.

Selene rolled her eyes at their shenanigans, simply getting more comfortable in Shreks rocking chair while turning a page.

"Farkle! Leave your sister alone! Selene is trying to study and we don't want to make a fuss" Fiona scolded, the female ogre reached into the cabinet to get some multicolored eyeballs, assuming they were from beasts. "If you don't behave, none of you get a treat after dinner." Both Farkle and Felicia stopped while cowering to their bedroom in a playful manner.

Her aunt gave an apologetic smile before going back to the kitchen for dinner.

"Hey, what's that?" said a curious voice.

"Oh, hey Fergus." Selene replied, voice monotone. "Just some history on Spanish folklore, specifically La Llorona and other dark creatures." she said while turning another page.

Fergus was the oldest of the triplets, while also being the bravest. He wore his usual dark, saturated brown pants and nicely done tops that Fiona probably did for him. Selene noted that while Fergus was younger than her he liked talking to her the most for advice. Since he looked up to her a lot, probably because he saw her as intelligent. His interests were usually metal, she noticed. As he often dreamed of becoming a blacksmith in the future.

"That sounds scary, does it have anything interesting in it?" Fergus asked, "Maybe me and my siblings could read it tonight."

Selene shook her head, "This is a book from the library, and money be damned I'm not going to let any of you guys touch it." she shivered at the thought of them ripping it apart and eating it. Sighing, she went back to her reading while Fergus frowned.

"You've been pretty sad lately." Fergus said.

"I…rather not talk about it." she replied, annoyed. "How come you're not playing with Farkle?"

Fergus shrugged, "He broke my toy cat this morning so I'm really mad at him. Also I wanted to talk to you, it's been awhile since you've come over."

Her shoulders sagged a bit, guilty, "I'm…sorry, I just have a lot on my mind lately." she paused, rolling her eyes, "My supposed "father" has returned twelve years later after getting lost in the milk aisle at the grocery store."

Fergus's eyes widened, "You mean…you have two dads now?"

Selene snapped her head up to Furgus, "No, no I don't." she hissed, " Frankly, I don't like him, he's never been there for Papa or me so why should I care?" turning her head back to the book while grumbling.

Fergus cringed, "Yikes…honestly, that sounds worse then uncle Puss disappearing." He looked sad then. "I'm not sure if he's even alive anymore."

Selene remembered the ginger cat in boots as a pup. He was someone her small puppy mind barely remembered but also seemingly wished to know more about. He went missing after his wedding day, actually never going to the wedding to begin with. Shrek and Fiona had told her that he was an adventurer who loved risking his life. But that didn't excuse not visiting his friends for almost a decade. From her understanding, the cat went missing before Muerte left. Selene thought it was strange that Muerte and Puss seemingly "disappeared" around the same time….

Shaking her head, the wolf girl went back to her book, "Yeah…kind of wish I knew him better.."

Shrek came into the living room with some signs, likely to hang them outside the swamp to keep visitors away. Her uncle never liked unwanted company.

Still, Shrek made the effort to greet Selene with a grin, "Hey Selene, how've you been?" he didn't seem to mind that she was resting on his favorite rocking chair. Probably because he knew she wouldn't leave any stains or tears like his kids would.

Silent she gestured a nod, to let him know she was okay.

"How's Wolfie been?" His voice sounded lower at this point, and strangely wary…

She sighed, "Fine, I suppose, still working full time in that factory. Seriously don't know why he just won't get another job that doesn't have pixie dust being blown in his face."

"Eh, you know your papa, he's just trying to do what he can for you…" Shreks expression switched to dark for a moment, looking at Fergus and gesturing to him to leave with his head. Fergus obeyed and walked out of the room slightly confused, giving Selene a shrug.

Shrek stood in front of her, scratching the back of his head, "So…your papa told me "he has returned". I wanted to know how you've been feeling about that."

"I don't want to talk about it." She said quickly, "Please…." she begged.

Shrek looked disappointed, "Well….if you ever want to talk about it with anyone, you can always come to me for advice." he gave a bland chuckle, "Trust me, I know how you feel…"

Selene blinked, "Wait, how do you know how I feel?" This was unexpected, uncle Shrek was rarely ever open to anyone.

The ogre awkwardly chuckled, "I've had my fair share of awful parents back in my day. Let's just say my own dad wasn't the nicest to me, nor did he care for me that much."

The wolf girl felt bad for her uncle, "I'm sorry."

Shrek waved it off, "Nah it's fine. I just wanted you to know that you're not alone."

Just when Selene was going to respond, the front door burst open with flying dronkies. She jumped out of the rocking chair in surprise while Donkey came in singing hello.

"Making my way downtown, walking fast, faces past, and I'm homebound.~" Donkey sang in his best voice while his kids flew around the room, ensuing chaos.

"DONKEY!" Shrek scolded. "How many times have I told you to KNOCK?"

Selene got up while wiping her dress off. Ignoring the argument that was going to start between Donkey and Shrek she walked out with her book still in her hand. While most of it was in English, some of it was in Spanish. While walking down the hallway between rooms she glimpsed at the book by the bathroom, and noticed a word that caught her attention the most.

Muerte

Meaning…death.

Selene's breath hitched and her grip on the book loosened. Staring at the mirror of the bathroom she noticed how her features resembled that of Muerte's. At first she didn't care but now…now she was conflicted with what she saw.

Her father….was named Death? Wait, was he a serial killer? Her mind turned to the worst.

She needed to leave.

---

Death.

Death, Muerte, Death, Muerte….

No, it was bad enough that she didn't like him for not being a good parent. Just because he was named "Death", that didn't mean anything…right? No, it had to be a cover up name, one you would use if you were a bounty hunter or outlaw.

The wolf child's mind was racing as she made her way in the woods again. Not caring that the ogre family didn't know she was gone. The woods were dark out as well, the only light being the moon above. Selene was lucky she had good vision anyway, otherwise she wouldn't be able to make it home on her own. The moon was favored by a lot of talking wolves stopped by a tree, leaning herself into it while breathing in all the natural scents of the bark.

She had to take a mental note that these woods weren't exactly safe. Hunters walked around here with guns, even in the dead of night. Wolfie had given her a warning as a pup that hunters were less than merciful, they did not care if some animals could talk or not. Even if it was illegal to kill animals in these woods. While he had not told her what they would do to her, she looked it up herself in a bunch of stories. Likely they would skin her alive, use her fur as a trophy. She shivered at such a horrid thought.

"Death" could mean something though…it's possible that Muerte was a demon, a creature of hell. The thought of her not being normal because of that sickened her, made her dislike him even more. But also, she feared the worst for her Papa. There was a lot that happened that was connected to Muerte.

First the redhood he gave her that one night, seeing his shadows frequently throughout her childhood, then Puss disappearing somewhere around the same time he left her, Muerte lying to her face. It wasn't all adding up. Wolfie seemed defensive of Muerte but at the same time didn't excuse his absence .

In her mind, a thought occurred, she whispered it outloud, "Papa…what have you gotten yourself mixed up in?"

Shaking her head, Selene pushed herself to go back to the swamp. Whoever or whatever Muerte was, she would get to the bottom of it. Turning around from the tree she accidentally stepped on a branch. A loud SNAP! Echoed throughout the tree's and darkness.

She froze, the noise was loud enough for any predator to sneak up on her. Her ears flickered around for any movement, the soft sound of crickets chirping in the dead of night. Nothing, no one should've heard her.

Looking around again she took another step, this time more concentrated with her footing. There was no movement so she took this as a sign to run, her wolf senses were tingling. Something was definitely wrong, but it was not visible to her eye.

That's when she heard it, a "CLICK", something similar to metal contacting with more metal, It also sounded like it was behind her. There was another clicking sound, this time closer and more direct. Selene was shaking, she knew that sound, she knew that sound because her papa told her how a SHOTGUN worked.

That's when she made a run for it. Getting on all fours while running past the trees. She started to breathe hard, anxiety going up in her blood. She only made it past thirty feet before another gut wrenching noise was heard.

BAM!

A gunshot went off, echoing through the trees and ringing in her ears. She yelped in pain, running faster, and less focused. Despite how quickly everything was happening…it was clear that she was being hunted. Who was hunting her? She didn't know, all the girl knew was that she needed to run. Run for her life.

Maybe it was extinct but she had always been afraid of guns. This was her nightmare come to life, she did not want to end up like Papa…

Another gunshot went off, this time it was closer, her blood went cold as seen a bullet almost hit her side. Footsteps could be heard against broken twigs and leaves, and Selene screamed for help. But no one was coming to save her, because she was stupid for coming out here anyway. Another bullet hit the dust, this time almost hitting her knee, she cried and ran as fast as her legs could carry her.

While Selene was intelligent and observant of her surroundings, she was far from a good "wolf" when it came to her animal instincts. Which is why when she turned a corner near a huge tree, making the mistake of stopping on her heels.

A bullet went off and before Selene could look at the person chasing her a huge amount of pain shot through her abdomen. Her eyes rolled to the back of her skull due to the pain being intense. It was not anything she felt before. It felt like her lungs lost all the air and her jaw opened up as if to scream but couldn't. Alas, she fell to her side, body hitting the ground hard.

Selene didn't know exactly what happened to her until she looked down to her abdomen. Blood was pouring out of the side of her dress. The one the three pigs gifted to her on her birthday, was now ruined. Blood was still pouring from her side and laying defensively on the floor.

Selene noticed the figure walking up to her, her eyes catching the glimpse of a man holding the shotgun, uncaringly putting in another bullet. When he got close the man was now standing over her and she got a better glimpse at his face. He was definitely a hunter, no older than eighty years old. He examined her like prey before giving a nasty grin.

Selene would have screamed in pain but the pain beat her to it. The pain was more intense now, letting out a blood curdling scream she thrashed to get away.

"Keep your screamin down wolf." He snarked, "Don't make this any harder than it has to be…." He grabbed her tail and yanked it to examine. She yelped and only sobbed, this was a nightmare…

"Your fur would be nice in my home…" He huffed, " I could make myself another carpet for the living room." He dropped her tail and walked to her face. "Green…eyes would look good with my collection."

Selene began hyperventilating, she was so scared, "P-please…sir. Don't kill me." She felt a throat throb. Pained, she tried again, "Sir, please, I don't want to die…"

The man shook his head while rolling his eyes, "If you didn't want to die then what are you doing in this part of the woods? These are hunters' ground mutt, don't you know that animals are free to kill once they step here?" he leaned close to her ear, "Once I'm done cutting you up I'm gonna make myself a nice stew out of your meat. A well deserved meal, for a good kill." he cruelly whispered.

Selene didn't know what snapped in her then, all of a sudden feeling small. Crawling away wasn't an option and maybe the pain encouraged the reaction.

"PAPA!" She sobbed, crying for Wolfie, " PAPA HELP! ANYONE! UNCLE SHREK! PLEASE!" Looking around for anyone, anyone to hear her pleas. Only to be met with crickets chirping.

The hunter shook his head, "Yell all you wan't wolf, noone in the woods at this hour, just you and me…"

She cried out a small plea, "Please…" her throat gagged a bit, she began to cough violently. Blood began to surface at the end of her tongue. Selene was throwing up blood, she knew these symptoms, she was eternally bleeding.

"See, you're obviously going to die in like a couple of hours if I just let you bleed it out." he clicked his gun. "But because I'm not cruel, let me just end your misery right now." he pointed the shotgun at her again, this time directly at her HEAD. "Goodnight mutt."

Trembling, she let out a blood curdling scream that had birds flying out of the trees.

She closed her eyes waiting for something to happen. Only for…nothing, there was silence and the only sound she could hear was her own heart pounding.

She looked up expecting anything, only to be horrified again.

Instead of the hunter standing over her it was a dark figure. The hunter was Gone? Selene immediately knew who it was, a presence she was all too aware of.

The dark figures' crimson eyes, his intimidating stare made her feel…oddly comforted. Probably because she knew exactly who it was but at the same time kind of surprised. The figure reached down immediately and held her hand.

Muerte took off his hood, looking horrified at the displ;ay in front of him, "Selene! Selene….SHIT!" He cursed out the last sentence. Selene could barely understand him because it felt like the blood coursing in her blood was blocking out all the noise. Well, blood she had left in her body.

Selene looked up at him in confusion, why was he here? Hadn't he gone off to go do his "job" or whatever. Truly, she felt like he didn't care about her.

And yet…he was showing concern. Muerte came for screaming calls. The only question remained though, would she survive this? Selene usually liked to hold onto hope but she thought the chances of her body surviving such a horrible injury were low. Especially now that she was losing her breath.

The rest was obvious, and even less surprising. Her vision blurred as Muerte kept trying to keep her awake, only for her breath to loosen a bit. Selene knew that she was dying. It should have felt like a horrible feeling, knowing that you didn't have a chance to grow up in the remaining future. But for some reason, she felt at peace. Probably because someone was standing over her, holding her hand. Selene had never been one to think about Death as a good thing, but also was aware that it was a part of life.

She thought back to Wolfie, her precious papa, who had sacrificed every single bit of his time to take care of her. To his precious hugs and kisses that she no longer is able to feel. Her family as well, the ogre family, the pigs, her weird uncles that were literal fairy tale creatures. She loved them, she loved them all.

She didn't really believe in the afterlife, but god she hoped it was nice.

Glancing back at Muerte, who looked horrified, was also cradling her in his arms. She could have said sorry or something, but the blood in her mouth was making it difficult to speak. She eventually found her lungs gave in and her body failed.

Without saying anything, Selene felt herself shift into darkness.

.

.

"Selene mi preciosa, Selene, lo siento."

---

Selene might have spent an eternity drowning in the sea of darkness. It was terrible and consoling all at once, as though it spoke straight from the heart. It began to feel right, like it was supposed to happen, and Selene would no longer imagine herself going anywhere but down.

A warm hand clasped hers, and dragged her the other way, the impossible way, the way nobody should be allowed to go. She went UP.

Selene finally opened up her eyes, feeling someone holding her. Muerte was there above her, looking down at her with a satisfied smirk.

"Oh, gracias Dios, you're alright…!" His relief was present as she rocked her. Like someone would a baby. Maybe he was trying to get her comfortable? She shook her head, confused.

"Why…Why am I alive?" she asked. This didn't make sense, wasn't she just…

Muerte only examined her expression before the smirk on his face disappeared. He looked mournful..?

"I…you just are Selene. I'm not sure how to explain…" Now he sounded conflicted.

Selene didn't feel the pain anymore though, she looked down and was surprised at what she saw. Her abdomen looked normal, like it had never been shot. She usually liked to think logically about things, but this didn't make any damn sense. She then looked at Muerte with an eyebrow raise, "What did you do to me?" she said, muddled.

Muerte opened his mouth before shutting it completely down, he looked even more conflicted. "Selene…your family is waiting for you at the swamp. Let's get you cleaned up-"

Selene huffed, tears began to form in her yes, "NO! I WAS SHOT. HOW AM I NOT DEAD?! EXPLAIN." The trauma had not left her, she was still shaken up. The hunter…where the hell was the hunter?! "W-where is he? Oh no if he got away-"

"I already dealt with him," Muerte started, "I made sure he would never hurt you again." His voice sounded menacing, almost cruel. Selene shivered at those words. Had Muerte…killed him? She then remembered that his name meant literal Death, how convenient then for him to literally kill?

"You're covered in blood," he said bluntly. "You need a bath."

If Selene hadn't been tired right now she would have said "no shit sherlock". Yeah she was covered in blood, because of a damn bullet. Before she could say anything though Muerte leaned down and licked her forehead. She immediately retorted in disgust. "What are you-"

"Blood is seeping into your fur. That's not good for you Selene, blood carry's diseases." He chided, before going back to licking the blood off her forehead. Selene gave a disgusted look but didn't say anything further.

She knew wolves sometimes did this to clean their pups as to show some type of affection. Wolfie never personally did this though, as he only ever gave her baths in the shower to show his affection. The gesture was disgusting as his saliva was now all over her fur. But she had to admit, it was also oddly comforting how bathed her. Didn't mean she wasn't going to shower it off when she got home.

After he was done, he gave a gentle pat on the back, "There, all clean" he said as Selene was now wet with Saliva. She gave him a sarcastic smile like she was "agreeing" with him. She shivered in disgust and pushed Muerte away.

"Your papa will be worried for you." Muerte held out a hand, "Do you want me to tell him what happened?" Selene felt her eyes twitch.

Selene, absolutely losing her patience and probably some of her sanity stood up and pointed at him. "Look, I want you to listen here right now. I'm getting tired of this shit of you and everyone else continuously lying or not telling me the full truth. First you lied straight to my face about you STALKING me back in middle school. Then say you don't have an excuse for how you left me as a puppy, OF COURSE YOU DON'T. No Father in this damn world has an excuse for that. And now you can't even tell me why I'm still somehow healed from getting shot in the stomach?! That's not even the worst part though, your name. It literally means DEATH, actual DEATH. What the hell?! I'm going to make this very clear, "father"." she scoffed. "If you don't tell me who you really are right now then I never want to see you again. Not when I graduate college or when I get a job. Not even when I get married one day, EVER. I'm sick of this shit."

The silver wolf stared at his child for a moment before silently nodding, he was agreeing with her. He then examined her again, this time with a look of amusement and dare she say, he looked proud.

"I'm the grim reaper." he told her, with a big fat smug grin.

Selene's eyes widened, now, she backed up from him in shock. Okay, she hadn't expected THAT.

"How about you and I go get a drink together?"

---

She awkwardly shifted in her seat. Muerte sat on the other side of the table as they both waited for their drinks. For some reason Muerte took her to a bar, the best place for children to go in the middle of the night. Selene didn't know why she went along with this, as she did not trust Muerte in any way shape or form. She was surprised that nobody noticed her messy figure. Blood on her dress and her fur being ragged. Not to mention she was still shaking from the experience. Muerte's calmness towards the entire situation both intrigued and confused her.

"So…" he began, "you're wondering how or why? Or…"Is he joking?", Well Selene, no I'm not. I'm the literal embodiment of Death." he sighed, "The one and only grim reaper." it was his turn to give her a sarcastic smile, "Happy now that you got your explanation?"

Selene frowned, what right did he have to be salty? "So wait let me get this straight, you're telling me my Papa…dated the grim reaper?"

Muerte nodded, "Me and him were together for awhile before I…left." he tossed a fork to the end of the table, "The "job" I was telling you about requires me to reap souls who have been either stubborn or arrogant. Call me a force of nature but basically It's what's necessary for the balance of life to stay peaceful…" he tossed another fork.

Selene was confused and conflicted, but also, curious. "How does that work? Your job I mean?"

"I'm…not exactly supposed to spill too many secrets…otherwise I'd get punished for it." Muerte sighed, "Then again I did a lot of things that I would get punished for…like getting with Wolfie and having a child." Muerte glanced at Selene, " Has your papa ever told you HOW you were born?"

"No…he just told me I was "born"." Selene tilted her head. Where was he getting with this?

Muerte looked up and down at Selene before giving a mischievous grin, "Well I guess it's my job as parent to give you the"talk "." His smile showed sharp rows of teeth.

Selene paled, "That-that is not necessary-"

"When a mommy and daddy wolf love eachother VERY much…" He started with a chuckle. Selene's eyes widened and panicked.

"I know where babies come from, you don't need to tell me!" she practically yelled. Muerte burst out laughing at her reaction. She frowned, rolling her eyes in annoyance.

"Relax I wasn't going to actually tell you, pfft" he snorted, "What I meant was…let me start from the beginning. I was patrolling in the woods around two decades ago for a soul that was perishing. Oh and behold, it was your papa, he was brutally wounded after a hunter shot him brutally. At the time I was persistent on helping him as, technically speaking, it wasn't his time to pass yet. We had a conversation and I found him oddly intriguing, more than most mortals I know. I loved how, despite being the "villain" in his story, Wolfie still chose to live his way of life. Even if Migrating in human society failed at first, he still found people who appreciated him for who he was."

Muerte tossed another utensil to the side, "Of course while I admired, and dare I say, loved him when we first met. I knew at the time that it wasn't natural for Death to feel this towards mortals, so I kept myself emotionally distant…..for a little while. While I knew that I couldn't really "be with him" I also couldn't really stay away. The infatuation was strong and I've never been one to follow the rules without stretching them a little bit. So I visited him often, and he even admitted to me that he felt the same later in our relationship."

"That confession made me think about my status as Death and him being the only one to accept me for who I am, just I accepted him. And I realized that despite our differences I wanted nothing more but to be with him. Even if it might cost me." Muerte smiled, a genuinely sweet smile. "When I told him I was the grim reaper, I also told him to run away and break my heart then. Otherwise I wouldn't be able to handle it later…his rejection would have killed me. But I guess I'd have to accept it. Instead he kissed me under the red moon in the woods and I truly became happy after years of loneliness." Muerte hummed thinking back on the memory.

Selene tore apart little pieces of napkins as she listened, panting to learn more about what brought her parents together as a whole. "It was never easy for you two to stay together was it?"

He gave a sad nod, "I had a job to do, and he always wanted me to stay with him longer. And I tried, I tried to be "mortal" for him, but I couldn't. He also had his own dreams and ambitions that I wasn't sure I could follow along with." Muerte rubbed his temples, "At some point we considered "breaking up"...but it never led to that. And It killed me every time I thought of actually leaving him…but I had a job to do. I always have a job to do." Muerte covered his face exhausted. Selene knew that look, it was the same look wolfie made when he was tired. It was a strange comparison but it made her realize how similar Muerte and Wolfie were, they were both tired.

"How was I born…?" she hesitantly asked.

"Well…that part is kind of Confusing. It all started when I took Wolfie out to the potion shop down the street in the Far Far away kingdom. We were out on a date that day and he was interested in collecting any potions for his wardrobe, a hobby of his apparently." Muerte explained.

Selene was surprised by this, she knew that her papa had worked with potions and magical liquids in the past due to his job. But she didn't know that he actually LIKED them, he always seemed to just tolerate potions.

"I agreed to this as I didn't think anything could go wrong that day." he scowled, "Boy was I wrong. Apparently someone else was visiting that day, a friend of Wolfie's. The fearless hero, Puss in boots." Muerte growled. Selene's eyes widened, what did puss have to do with this?

"Me and Wolfie were just looking around in the shop when the owner introduced us to a potion called, "Child divine", basically it was a potion for couples who couldn't biologically have kids. All you needed to do was spray it on your body and a literal baby would pop up in front of you."

Her mouth gaped in horror, oh no…she pleaded that what might have happened didn't happen.

"We refused politely as we didn't have interest in having kids at the time, not to mention it was a new product that wasn't fully tested….but, me, knowing that fate isn't fair. Should have known what was to come. You see, Puss was there to steal that "child divine" potion because he was hired by a queen on the other side of the world to steal it for her own. Apparently couldn't have children herself so she wanted a potion to do that for her. Puss was determined to get the potion without causing a fuss but I saw right through that thick ginger colored fur of his. Personally I didn't care, but it was fun to catch a thief red handed. But as soon as I did….let's just say chaos happened." Muerte covered his face as if embarrassed, "The cat kicked the bottle out of the owner's hand, it accidentally Splashed on ME and Wolfie."

"I don't remember much after that but I did wake up and YOU were there. Just a tiny little puppy on the floor and I immediately know who's responsible." Muerte scoffed, "The damn cat managed to create life, a literal child."

Selene couldn't believe what she was hearing. She wasn't born normally or even adopted as she sometimes speculated, no. She was an artificial baby from a goddamn bottle! How does that even work?! Selene looked at Muerte with denial and confusion.

"The rest is history but Wolfie and I weren't exactly sure what to do with you. We didn't really think of kids and we were completely unprepared for one. Wolfie considered adoption and I was going to agree with that. But he got emotionally attached to you…and decided to keep you." His voice trailed off and Selene was left paralyzed.

It…all made sense to her now. She was an unwanted child that was born due to a failed potion thief attempt. Her parents didn't want her at first, and it was obvious that Wolfie's friends and family hadn't expected it. It also made more sense since wolfie was a professional with potions. Of course he would be after that incident. The worst part of it all, it made sense why he left. She was a burden to Wolfie and Muerte, an obstacle in their relationship.

"I wasn't wanted?" She sobbed, "You left because you didn't want me didn't you? A problem?" She felt herself hiccup, soft dog-like whimpers escaped her throat. "Is that why you didn't bother to help raise me?!"

Muerte shook his head, "No…no, that's not why I left." he sighed, "I left because my job required me to hunt down a certain individual who took his life for granted. Well, more like "Lifes"." he gently patted her head with his hand, her skull felt tiny in his hand.

Selene sniffled, "Who could have been so important to hunt down rather than taking care of me?!"

"Puss in boots." he said bluntly, she froze.

Muerte grumbled, "Cat's have nine lives, and Puss had wasted all of them. He disrespected life so it was my job to put things back together in the realm. I didn't…I didn't want to leave you, but I couldn't have NOT done it. Me and your papa got into an argument about it, he had every right to hate me but he didn't much to my surprise. I didn't exactly tell him that it was Puss I was hunting down but…it wouldn't have mattered. I dislike the cat, but if it meant not hurting one of wolfies friends I wouldn't have gone after him. But Balance must happen so…"

Selene huffed out a tiny cry, "And you didn't care that you were going after one of my Papa's friends?! Why are you so willing to just do something like that?! What if Wolfie found out that you killed Puss?" She paused, "Did you kill puss?!"

"No." he shrugged, "He….changed his ways. And because of that, I didn't have to reap his soul to the grave….but it made my journey useless. You don't understand, I'm bound to this realm as an entity that must do its job regardless how I feel. If I didn't, this physical form would have disappeared and I wouldn't be able to see you or Wolfie again." Muerte looked sad, "It's what must have been done." Selene crushed the napkin in her hand.

"In the beginning of my journey, I knew that I wouldn't have been forgiven for taking puss to the grave. I accepted at that point if I were to go on this path, then I didn't deserve Wolfie or you. Deep down I wanted to go to my mate and help raise our pup, but you were so innocent and I…I didn't want to pass any of myself onto you. I could have visited, but I barely did. I watched you from afar and I hoped that would be enough. That red hood was a gift from me to show how much I care about you. But then I saw you struggle in school, get bullied, and then become violent. I was…scared, scared of you becoming like me. So I left you alone again." Muerte looked away.

"To be honest I tried taking my anger and frustration out on Puss, I didn't just resent him for taking his lifes for granted. But also cursing me to love a child that deserved better than me. He put me and my mate in an unexpected situation that we weren't prepared for. I..it's not that I didn't want you, I just didn't think someone like me should be in the position of parent." Muerte brushed a hand through his fur and groaned. "You have every right to hate me, but I'm fine with living with that. Even if you pushed me away or cursed me to die, I'd still love you."

Muerte then looked at her, those crimson eyes looking softened, "I broke many rules, but one that should not have been broken was to love. I'm not supposed to love. But I loved you enough to break another rule that will get me obliterated if anyone else finds out ..." He closed his eyes and slightly gulped, " You died when getting shot, but I healed the wound and brought your soul back to life. Maybe it's selfish, but I wasn't going to let you die. Not now, not ever."

Selene wiped the tears off her furry cheeks, "This is a lot to take in..." she muttered. The thought of her actually dying and coming back to life was horrific, it made her feel queasy. She felt the need to be hugged, but papa wasn't here to give it. So she was silent, bringing the arms around herself.

"Do you want a hug?" Muerte asked awkwardly. She gave him a quick "no", not feeling like being held by the literal grim reaper. Her soul was literally in Death's hands both metaphorically and literally. It was certainly selfish for him to pull her from the grave like that. How many souls had he reaped and passed on into the afterlife? If he's had this power all these years then that meant he just did what was against everything he stood for. And he did it for her…

"What happened to the hunter, really?" She asked.

Muerte grinned evilly, "Let's just say I was hungry and prey like him did well to fill me up." he mused, not a single bit of remorse on his face.

Now she knew that wolves ate flesh on occasion, it wasn't abnormal. She was a canine, and there were times that she craved meat. But Wolfie, admittingly, had never been very fond of flesh for some reason. Maybe it was the fact that he was friends with three little pigs that caused his revolushen at pork. Wolfie had often switched to human food, a strange diet for a wolf.

Selene had never really eaten that much meat growing up, but she assumed Muerte probably did. Even better since he basically eats his prey alive. It should have bothered her but it didn't. Especially since it was the hunter, a well deserved fate in her opinion.

"I don't hate you" Selene decided, "But I'm not sure if I trust the literal grim reaper. This is a lot for me to take in and maybe if you give me time to recover we could have a proper conversation." Selene thought back to her papa with a frown, "Wolfie has a lot to explain."

The silver wolf snorted"Wolfie has never been the secretive type. He loves you, sometimes more than life."

More than life sounded a bit dramatic, but maybe Death was right.

For the rest of the night, the two quietly drank their drinks together. He got himself some spicy margarita with a hint of blood. She wouldn't ask where the blood came from. While she got herself a white vanilla milkshake.

This was the most peaceful she's been with her father.

---

When she returned to the swamp after Muerte dropped her off, the ogre family had been worried sick. While the adults scolded her, her cousins hugged her tight. Expressing their worry over her disappearance. While telling them she was alright that didn't stop their panic over her blooded dress, grimy fur, and tired looking eyes. They feared the worst.

Fergus had looked modified at Selene's condition, "Selene…what happened to you in the forest?" Selene morbidly smiled at her cousin, probably looking creepy considering her condition.

"I had a conversation with Death, and let me see a new point of view on life.." she said, Fergus's little mind probably didn't understand, He just frowned, his chubby green cheeks forming a pouty face.

"I think you need to stop reading those scary books." Fergus sighed. Selene had laughed, nudging him to leave her alone.

Much to her relief they did end up telling Wolfie about the situation, and her stay with the ogre family had been cut short. Selene had watched as Wolfie came to pick her up from the swamp home. He looked…well, "angry" wouldn't be the right emotion to be associated with Wolfie. But he looked emotionless, not stoic or calm as he usually was. The walk home was awkward, she didn't say anything either. Last time Wolfie was this silent it was the incident with Milly.

The woods didn't feel safe anymore, instead they felt like everything was out to get you. She tried feeling her abdomen for the gunshot wound, yet there was nothing, it didn't feel right but not wrong. Abnormality wasn't new for anyone living in the fairytale world, but coming back to life….

When coming home to the small cabin and entering their home. Wolfie hung up his coat near the door, then walked to the table. Selene stood there next to the stairs, watching her father think. She never thought she'd ever see him like this.

"Papa, I-" She started, before Wolfie snapped his head around with anguish plastered in his face.

"I'm trying Selene." he began, "I'm trying the best I can, don't you see that?" He stood up with one hand on his face, "I know I'm not the best parent, but why do you have to make this so difficult?" sullen, the brown wolf looked at her straight in the eye. Selene slightly felt her muzzle quiver in hurt. "What the hell were you doing out there?" he asked seriously.

She looked away, "I….I was out for a walk." He shook his head.

"In the middle of the night?! I've been telling you for years not to go into those woods. Those are hunter's grounds!" Wolfie scoffed. "What if you died?" she flinched slightly at the word "die".

Selene opened her mouth to confess what happened but then she closed it. She thought back to the conversation her and Muerte had at the bar. So Instead she tried to change the conversation. "If I'm so damn difficult then why bother keeping me?"

Wolfie's eyes widened in surprise, she herself winced but kept her composure. He looked at her confused, "What do you mean? Selene I LOVE YOU. That's why I take care of you and "keep" you…" he told her bewildered, "Why would you ask that?"

Selene shook her head, "You put yourself through so much hell just to make sure I'm healthy and happy but you never think of yourself first. And It's hard, it's hard watching you push yourself all the time knowing that you've been left alone to take care of me." She shakily sighed, "So tell me the truth. Did you even want me at first?"

Wolfie looked hurt, conflicted, and hesitant. Like debating to confess a secret that he's been holding in for awhile. Silence was the only noise in the cabin now, and she waited patiently for an answer.

"It was difficult at first…" Wolfie began, "But it was worth taking care of you." he nervously turned his fingers around. "But you weren't exactly what I "planned" for the future."

"If I'm going to be honest, I never wanted to be a parent at first." his shoulders sagged, "You were born because of a potion explosion in a store, and that explosion was caused by Puss. Then I was mad at Puss for thrusting me into this, even if it was an "accident". In the beginning we both realized that we weren't ready for parenthood. I suggested giving you up from adoption, because you were just a baby and I wanted the best for you." Selene was silent, she knew this already but maybe the story was different from Wolfie's point of view.

"In the meantime, we kept you around, we struggled to take care of a puppy. I struggled personally because we didn't have supplies for you. Fiona helped me out thankfully, but it was still hard…" Wolfie shrugged, "Eventually after weeks of taking care of you I…I started loving you."

"Me and Muerte have had arguments about keeping a child but eventually we came to terms on it. But, of course, I understood his work meant that he couldn't raise you properly." Wolfie rubbed his eyelids, "And I'm trying Selene, I want you to grow up and be an independent young wolf. I've given you all the skills I know to help you not care about what anyone else thinks of you."

Selene crumbled, "Papa…are you disappointed in yourself?"

Wolfie frowned, "I feel like I can only do so much…., before you came into my life I felt like I didn't need to be "enough" for anyone. Like I didn't owe my wolf pack or the hunter who shot me a justification for my happiness. If nobody accepted me for who I was, it would be too bad for them."

"..But with a child that's different, it's much more intense. For the first time I felt like I wasn't enough for someone when I needed to be. Especially since your father wasn't here to help me out." Wolfie looked defeated, and it broke her knowing he thought that way of himself. "That isn't your fault, but it's just how I feel sometimes."

She thought about what to say to him to make him feel better. She was originally going to tell him about the gun shot, but that would only make him paranoid. Besides, she was fine, maybe Muerte could tell him eventually though.

"Papa, daddy…you are enough for me. More than enough, everything I've learned, every skill, used to my advantage." Selene sighed, "I already know about my "birth"."

Wolfie narrowed his eyes, "How?"

"Muerte told me." She replied. "He told me about everything. I know that he's….Death. That's why I was in the woods, we talked there. " It felt strange to say it, Wolfie looked wide-eyed.

"You….Selene, you know that he's the grim reaper?" he asked bewildered, "Alright…uhm, how do you feel?"

Selene huffed, "Not good. The way I was "born" was weird enough, but one of my parents being literal Death made me lost…" She looked at him. " Why? What did you see in him even AFTER he told you the truth?"

Wolfie looked at his hands for a moment and then sighed, "Well, at first I found it exciting. The fact that someone so powerful actually saw me as a person worth loving, it felt, not to be cheesy, but it felt beautiful."he tilted his head to the side, "As time went on I guess our relationship turned into something deeper, despite what others thought of it. Not just because we were two lonely wolves looking for people who loved us for who we are. But because I valued and respected his morals as he did mine. I'm not like him, but I never judged his "job" or how much time it took me away from my lover."

Selene was conflicted on this really. She honestly didn't see how someone like Wolfie would end up with the grim reaper. But it happened alright, and the entire situation was strange.

Wolfie gave a soft pout, "He should have had a conversation with me before telling you anything…" rolling his eyes, "Then again you had a right to know so I can't really be too mad."

"I'm sorry for acting up lately." Selene apologized shyly, "You deserved better." she gave him a sad smile, "You always deserve better."

Her papa melted a bit, "Oh Honey bun…"

"I realize now that….if you're happy with Muerte then I'm okay with that." Selene told him, "After having a long talk with him, I'm willing to get to know him once I've calmed down a bit."

"Selene you don't have to-" Wolfie was about to say something but she ran up to him and hugged him tight. Surprised, but he returned the hug, gently patting her on the back. She was comically taller than him, and because of that she gave him a small kiss on the forehead. Wolfie smiled in return.

"Can I….sleep with you tonight Papa? I know I'm probably too old for that but I want to feel safe tonight." Selene asked softly.

Wolfie looked up to his daughter and touched her cheek affectionately, "Of course."

"Also…are you still mad at Puss?" she asked.

Wolfie hesitated, "I don't know, It's been years since anyone has seen him. I know he likes adventure but he hasn't bothered visiting us. I could stay mad at him, but I got better things to worry about in my life. Like you."

Selene thought about puss in boots a lot that night as she slept right beside her papa. She thought of what he was like as a person to just up and leave after causing such a fuss with her parents. Did he feel sorry? Maybe not, maybe so…

He was mostly responsible for her "conception" to begin with.

Now that the chase was "over", would Puss come back? It wouldn't really matter, because he was gone for so long. And probably never visiting his friends again. Not that she justified Muerte terrorizing Puss but maybe she understood the grim reaper's resentment. That night, Selene understood what the price of selfishness could do to people you love.

---

A week after the incident with the hunter and her soul being pulled from the grave. Selene had been scared to enter the forest. So much so that walking alone was not an option for her. Maybe it was paranoia but the thought of being hunted down again like a week ago terrified her beyond belief.

Muerte had dropped her off at the ogre house and she hadn't really seen him since. She assumed he was just reaping souls, taking most of his time away from Wolfie. Her papa had not minded, but on occasion she saw him hopelessly stare at the moon outside his window. Waiting for Muerte to come back. Selene had realized how much Wolfie loved Muerte, how he just…was willing to wait for him. Her papa had never been like this with anyone, romantic love was truly a mystery to her.

The entire fairytale squad had been concerned for her. Eventually it got to the point where they asked if she was okay. She tried to stay polite but also couldn't help but feel annoyed.

Trying to isolate herself more in a safe space, she sat in her room practicing one of her favorite hobbies, painting.

Sighing, she threw her paintbrush to the floor. It didn't look right. The painting looks blotchy with the red watercolor paint. The water dripping off the canvas did not help either. The painting was of a red riding hood, her favorite fairytale. It wasn't exactly the same real life girl, but the girl from the book she had kept since a pup. Selene but her lip, strange, red was a color of many meanings. Love, anger, and Murder.

She looked down to her paw, which was now covered in red paint. It gave her a morbid type of nostalgia. How at the end of the day, she was still an animal. An animal that attacked a girl out of that red colored anger. A reminder of how middle school had ended early for her, now highschool was something she feared. Though that didn't seem possible as far as she was concerned, no good schools wanted fairytale creatures as their students.

Looking at the calendar she noticed that she circled a specific day. Fathers day…next week.

If she was completely honest she forgot about the holiday, having her mind clouded by flashbacks of the week prior. This was the day she usually would celebrate with Wolfie alone, but this year was going to be different. The ogre family, along with the fairytale squad, had decided to throw a party for Shrek, Donkey, and Wolfie. To show them gratitude towards their hard work as parents. It was going to be at Aurthur's castle apparently, everyone in the kingdom was invited. Selene was impressed that Aurthur even managed to pull this off, fathers day wasn't seen as an "important" holiday in Far, Far, Away. Selene would have to ask personally what Arthur's methods were. She didn't really know him that well, other than a few conversations she'd have with him at parties or birthdays, she barely knew him.

Selene was actually more surprised that Wolfie would even agree to being the center of attention, he was never one for big crowds. Maybe he was doing it for her, she had been homeschooling for awhile now, disconnecting herself from having a social life. He probably hoped she would make some friends. Selene would never admit it, but she did long for one friend her age.

Shaking her head Selene stepped out of her seat and walked into her closet. It was a small one, a mirror hung from the side of the door. She tore off her dress, throwing it to the ground before looking for something else. While she searched for something else to wear, she noticed her reflection in the mirror. She looked at her furry chest and green colored eyes, the long tale and sharp paws. She looked like him, Muerte. It felt uncanny how much she really looked like him. The fact that her fur was silver, like his. And she didn't have white eye sockets like her papa, but dark like Death. She literally looked like DEATH.

Tracing a hand over the furry abdomen with a shaky breath, circling a finger around the area she had been brutally blasted. It was strange how she basically relieved her papa's fairytale, though this time she was red riding hood. Trembling, Selene looked away, trying to push away the bloody thoughts out of her mind along with the thought of dying. Selene looked into her draws for her red hood, and pulled it on, covering her arms. Not bothering to put anything else on she huddled up in the corner and cried. Wolfie was out shopping so he wouldn't hear her, in that moment she was glad he wouldn't.

She sobbed silently, she didn't want to go back to feeling the fear, the PAIN. It was an agonizing thought of dying and no one would have heard her, or known where she went. Wolfie would have been left alone and suffered knowing something happened to his child. He would have blamed himself for her disappearance and plummeted into a dark state of despair. If Muerte hadn't come…

A loud knock was heard from the window, well, it sounded more like tapping. At first she assumed it was just a woodpecker, or a tree branch. But upon looking up she froze. Muerte waved at her with a toothy grin. Any normal person would have screamed but Selene just pouted, he was stalking her again. Even if it was to check up on her and wolfie, it was still creepy. Holding on her red hood tight she walked to the window, sliding it wide open.

"What are you doing here?" she asked, monotone. He smiled even more and gave her a small pat on the head.

"I'm on break for now, my last hunt ended earlier than I predicted, so I thought I would check on you…." Muerte leaned down to catch a glimpse of her tired eyes. "How are you?" he asked genuinely.

The wolf girl felt a small pang in her heart for some reason, shaking her head and sighing, "Fine, been worrying about my Papa and highschool…" she quickly wiped her cheeks so he wouldn't catch the tears, "My life has been pretty rough these past few years." she mumbled.

Muerte tilted his head, "Como es eso?"

"Well you already know, I was pulled out of middle school because I mutilated a ten year old, and you were there to see it." Selene replied sarcastically.

Muerte furrowed his brow, "You were ten too." he paused, "You were violent but young, and in middle school."

Selene scoffed, "The parents didn't care about that, besides, most school boards don't want a talking wolf in class with their kids." she shook her head, "You wouldn't understand."

Selene looked away, "After what happened, I've felt so lost. First I find out my father is the literal grim reaper, then I find out I'm from a damn bottle, next I realize that I died and can't go back from experiencing that." she shivered at the memory of losing her breath. "I died..I died…" she growled. "I haven't even told wolfie."

Surprised, he asked, "Why not?"

"Papa doesn't need to know that I died. If he knew that he would be terrified for my well being till I graduate" She sighed, "And I already have so many people worried for me right now."

Muerte cringed, "That's….not good. I'm not saying you have to do what I say…but how do you expect to heal emotionally?" he frowned, "Great…now I have to tell him."

Selene glared at him, "Don't."

Muerte looked amused again, god she hated that stupid look on his face. It was like he was entertained at the fact that she was being stubborn.

She sighed, "Look, can you just leave? I'm tired and trying to sort myself out right now. I told you already that when I'm ready to talk I will."

He gave a small frown, "You're not solving your issues by sitting in the corner and crying."

Selene scowled at him, "Why do you care?" Maybe she was being stubborn, but past emotions of resentment came to her again. "It's my problem. My school life is a mess. So what. It shouldn't matter to the "grim reaper"." she scoffed out the last part.

Muerte rubbed his eyebrows in frustration, but didn't say anything. She assumed he gave up the subject entirely as he now switched to another question. "Where's Wolfie?"

"Out shopping, won't be home until the afternoon." she replied with a shrug, "If you want to see him just wait in the living room until he comes back."

He nodded, relentlessly climbing inside of her room to go downstairs but stopped once he saw the inside of her room. He looked impressed. "Your room is well decorated."

Selene looked away, kind of embarrassed at the compliment, "I just spent a lot of time here."

"Clearly…" he muttered and turned his gaze at the painting she did, "You do art?"

Selene blinked before nodding, "I like to paint a lot, helps me think more clearly."

Muerte bit his lip before turning away, "You're extremely talented." he muttered. "That talent deserves to be explored and seen." he gave her a soft expression.

Selene felt herself blush, "I-I well, it's just a painting." she turned away holding on her red hood in embarrassment. "There's artists who do better than me. Besides, I think I'm better at a lot of other hobbies."

Muerte huffed, he then caught sight of the calendar. "It's fathers day next week," he muttered. Selene froze her ears perking. "You plan on doing anything with your papa…?"

Selene could hear the nervousness in his voice. Wondering what the motive was here, she hesitated. Was he going to ask to come around fathers day? Did she want him at the party? Well, she didn't really know. The thought of celebrating fathers day with both her fathers felt weird. Since she always just celebrated with wolfie. The thought of him being at the party was probably not a good idea. He's literally DEATH. That was a recipe for disaster.

"I don't know." She half lied. " I didn't plan anything for Wolfie and I kind of feel bad about not preparing a gift for him." Okay that part was definitely true. She hadn't thought of something to give to her Papa for when the day came. Her cousins had already planned to give their dads something. Fergus and Falicia were going to give Shrek an handmade ax with the words "number one dad" engraved on the handle. While the dronkeys were going to spit out fireworks for Donkey. They all had something special to congratulate their parents, but she didn't. While she was self aware that her Papa wouldn't care what she gave him. It felt wrong to just not give Wolfie something special, he'd worked so damn hard.

Then she looked at Muerte. He knew Wolfie in a way she probably never would. An idea crossed her mind then. "What kind of dates did you guys go on before I was born?"

Death seemed surprised by the question,but then he then smiled, "We went on many of all kinds. But we specifically had favor towards night dates, the ones under the moon." She raised an eyebrow, under the moon?

"Why under the moon?" She asked.

Muerte looked at her like it was the most obvious thing in the world, "Carino somos lobos."

She blinked, lobos meant wolves, ah right they are wolves, that made sense. "Right.." Muerte nodded as he sat on her bed.

"Why do you ask though?" genuinely curious he gazed at her puzzleling. Selene wasn't sure if she really wanted to plan on using Muerte as part of her gift for Wolfie. But then she remembered that despite not really understanding their relationship, they both loved each other. Selene slapped her forehead groaning, then she walked in front of Muerte, crossing her arms.

"Do you love my Papa?" She asked in her most serious voice. Muerte studied the way she now looked serious, and Selene could tell that was entertaining him as well.

"Of course I do," he said in an equally serious voice, "Wolfie…and you, are the most important things to me in the mortal realm." Selene felt a bit strange that such a powerful being thought of two mortals, well technically she was his biological child, as the most important things to him.

"Well I want to ask you a favor, wait no, this is a request and you owe me anyway." Selene sighed, "Me and my family are going to have a party on fathers day. At King Arthur's castle next week. I want you to be there." Muerte's charming grin fortified and his ears went down.

Selene continued, "Wolfie is already going and doesn't like crowds, but he's going for me. I want you to go there and dance with him in front of EVERYONE. Dance with him and tell my Papa that you love him, that you'll never leave for that long ever again." she said dramatically, with her arms in the air. Despite the comedic tone of the situation, the wolf girl was one-hundred percent serious. "Want you to dress up in gothic clothing and I'll tell Wolfie to dress up REALLY nice for the occasion. You also have to wear a masquerade like the ones from Phantom of the Opera! I'll tell Wolfie to do the same. There will be music and the entire kingdom looking!" Muertes expression was now that of a scared puppy. It was amazing, and it was embarrassing, she loved it.

"If you don't show up, and hurt Wolfie, I'll hunt you down to the ends of the earth." Selene, who was five times shorter than Muerte, said with a murdering voice. "I'll make sure you don't ever forget that you went and left me when I needed you. At first I thought I didn't need another parent, but now I realize that wasn't the point, " with pride she smirked at the way Muerte shrunk, "Now you must repent for your sins. Will you obey…"Father"?"

Muerte starred bulgy eyed Selene. She couldn't help but snicker, she couldn't beehive it. Selene had managed to make her father, Death, crumble. He looked like his face was trying to hide from her. Perfect.

Muerte coughed, "You want me to do all this on fathers day…?" he gulped.

Selene nodded, "Do it damn it. Do it or else."

The bigger wolf raised an eyebrow before chuckling nervously, "I'm not a big fan of crowds either…"

"I don't care." Selene gumbled, "Like I said, you owe me."

"And what exactly would I be wearing..? I'm not exactly an expert when it comes to fashion." he crossed his arms.

"Leave that to me, I can make a really nice suit by the end of the week, all I need is some measurements and We'll be all set." She was dead serious about all of this, not giving a shit.

Muerte groaned, "Selene…" he said, rubbing his eyebrows.

"It's a yes or no. But just know I'm serious about hunting you down." Selene glared.

Muerte was still, trying to choose an answer. Even if Selene wouldn't admit it outloud, she kind of wanted to see both her parents happy together. She wanted everyone to know that Muerte was back and happy with Wolfie. That she wasn't the only one with a single parent…

"Fine…" Muerte said miserably. It was Selene's turn to smirk, she won.

"Good, now we hold still. I'm going to take some measurements."

---

Selene never thought much of the kingdom of Far, Far, Away. Sure she knew Wolfie was friends with Fiona, princess of the kingdom. But she never really bothered hearing about celebrities or cared about other teenagers following fashion trends in the kingdom. More or less, she did listen to some of the stories Doris had to say about it, her aunt. Doris was one of the people Selene heavily respected. She often looked to her for support when Wolfie wasn't around. Though Doris was usually a busy woman, she still made the effort to visit her niece. Last time she heard from Doris was a few months ago, her aunt went on vacation with Cinderella last time she heard. Though Selene was happy to hear that Doris would be coming back for the party happening tonight.

Selene and Wolfie were at the ogre house getting ready, they both decided it would be nice to go as a family to the party. Fiona was in a different dress, but still wore her occasional favorite color green. The princess was busy getting her kids ready with her husband, while Wolfie and Selene stayed in the living room. The two wolves were getting ready with their dresses. Selene debated on wearing red again, since red reminded her of the horrible bloody night. But Wolfie, naive to Selene's trauma so far, had encouraged his daughter to wear it since it would look nice. So she did, a beautiful dress at that.

Selene breathed hitched when she saw herself in the mirror, the dress was actually better than it looked on her. She figured because she was a wolf that the dress would look off, but no, it was perfect. Wolfie smiled, looking quite adored at his child with a loving look he gave when she was a puppy. He walked up from the couch and to Selene hugging her, "Honey bun, you look beautiful." If it wasn't fathers day, she would have gagged at the nickname, god she was so tired of it, it was so sappy!

She patted his back, "Thanks papa~." she gave him a kiss on the cheek before pulling away. Selene walked past the hallway to see Felicia giggle in awe at the sight of her. Her little cousin ran to her and jumped up and down.

"Selene you're so pretty!" the ogre girl smiled, she twirled around in her own dress, which was a nice shade of pink and looked like something a royal would definitely wear. "Do you like mine? Mama made it just for me." Selene couldn't help but smile at her little cousin's admiration for her.

"You look beautiful too, Felicia…" the wolf girl looked ahead to see Fergus and Farkle rough playing in the hallway. She shook her head at their shenanigans while Felicia pouted, annoyed. The two cousins looked at one another and seemed to read each other's mind.

"Boys..am I right?" they both said in unison, before both of them broke down laughing.

Wolfie shook his head at the children before turning his attention to the mirror for any dust on his dress. Just like Selene had planned, wolfie was wearing something a bit specific. More gothic, and long, to match in Selene's ultimate plan. Wolfie hadn't questioned her antics thankfully, he just calmly followed along.

Shrek wore a nice suit, much to his displease. He never liked wearing nice clothes, but on the bright side it was comfortable. Not like those god awful royalty clothes.

After waiting a long while for Fiona and Shrek to get themselves ready. They were all finally ready to leave. They all got into the onion carriage and were about to make their way before Fiona noticed that Wolfie was missing.

"Where's wolfie?" she asked, concerned. Selene figured he was still inside the house.

"Don't worry! I'll go get him." Selene jumped out of the carriage and into the house. She caught her papa looking into the mirror, hesitation on his face.

"Papa? Are you alright?" Selene asked,

Wolfie sighed, "I'm sorry I…I know I agreed to go. But I can't help but feel…scared." her papa sagged a little, "It's been awhile since I've been to a ball or a party this big." he paused, "Last time I did it was with your father."

Selene grabbed his shoulders to comfort him, "oh Papa…"

Wolfie shook his head, "He's not here because he's got more important things to attend to then me, and yet, I still selfishly wish he spent more time with me."

She side eyed Wolfie for a moment, "Uhm…yeah, right…." shaking her head she smiled, "How about we go have a good time together? I'll hold your hand if you're scared!" She convinced her papa with a smile.

Wolfie playfully pouted, "Gee, I never knew I'd be the one needing a hand to hold from my own daughter…" he chuckled, grabbing her hand firmly, "Alright, let's go Honey bun.."

They both happily walked out of the ogre house and into the carriage. Finding comfort in each other. While the group made their way to the kingdom, none of them noticed Selene smiling evilly as she knew her plan was going to work oh so well….

.

.

Upon arriving at the castle, it was already very festive, as well as crowded. Hundreds of people were gathering here tonight to celebrate fathers day of all things. The main center of attention being Donkey, Shrek, and Wolfie. Decoration was plastered everywhere, she could say it was light themed as it was night. Glowing decorations that were likely enchanted gave off such a beautiful hue that everyone awed when seeing it for the first time.

Selene stood in front of the castle while Wolfie talked to Shrek about something. Her ears caught the music in the air while her nose breathed in the delicious food. It was the perfect setting for her plans.

Selene tapped at wolfies shoulder, "Did you bring the mask?"

Wolfie blinked but reached into his purse to pull out the purple mask that his daughter required him to wear. "Yeah, I'm not exactly sure why you want me to wear this but I will. I mean, The party is light themed, not a masquerade ball."

Selene smiled, unhinged, "Just trust me, it's worth it and you won't regret this." She watched as Wolfie shrugged and pulled on the mask with a smirk on his face. Holding onto her papa's arm, she walked into the castle and was greeted to loud pop music. They walked along long hallways of light decoration and glitter, before reaching the huge party room. People, fairytale creatures, and humans were dancing along the dance floor while a huge DJ was upstairs in control of the music.

Selene had to admit, she never knew Arthur was such a party animal.

Well, wherever he was she would thank him later. Right now they were going to enjoy the party until the "plan" came into fruition. Which wouldn't be until nine o clock, right now it was seven. She just hoped Muerte wouldn't back off on it after days planning this with him in secret. Otherwise she throws a huge gallon of milk on him just to remind the asshole of his absence.

She looked around the crowd, nobody she really knew. Her papa had already gone to get himself something to drink by the huge food table. People stared at him as they noticed his dress didn't match the theme of the party. Though wolfie paid no attention to them, walking proudly in the outfit with no hesitation. She admired her papa's confidence, yeah Muerte better show up or she'd literally murder him.

Bringing her attention to other things, Donkey was here! Chatting with Shrek while wearing an equally good top suit, good for a donkey. She didn't know where his kids were and prayed they were in some confined room otherwise they would burn the entire castle to the ground. Turning her head around she caught Doris drinking with Cinderella, Selene lit up and waved excitingly to her aunt.

"Doris!" Selene practically screamed through the loud music, she ran up to her aunt with a smile on her face.

Doris happily took Seline in her arms, "Oh sweetie, it's been so long."

Selene brightened at the human woman, "How was your vacation? The last letter you sent said it was amazing over there in San Ricardo!" Doris smiled sweetly as she placed a hand on the wolf girl's cheek.

"Oh it was amazing! We visited all types of places and saw so much food." Doris awed in her own memory.

"We also saw a lot of bandits, that was fun also…" Cinderella chimed in, wearing a beautiful blue dress made of glittery blue light.

"How about you honey? How've you been?" Doris asked.

Selene's smile faltered, "Uhm, not good…" she replied honestly.

Doris tilted her head in worry, "How so?"

Selene, rubbed the back of her neck, while rolling her eyes "My father has returned after leaving to get himself a jug of milk, got drunk off it, and then decided to return years later." Doris and Cinderella were puzzled by Selene's explanation; it took them a minute to fully realize what their niece actually meant.

"Wait…you mean..Muerte is back?" Doris said seriously, Selene nodded in response.

"Tch, that bastard really has the nerve to show up after all these years. Is wolfie alright?" Cinderella glared, albeit, concerned.

Selene shrugged, "He's alright, actually happy that my father is back after all these years." She looked away to see Wolfie gently twirling around his straw, "They still love each other."

Doris slapped her forehead, " My god, why Wolfie always seems to run back to him even though he leaves is beyond my understanding." the woman looked to her sister, "Wolfie deserves better."

Cinderella nodded, "Selene, Muerte hadn't hurt you or anything right?" Selene immediately shook her head.

"No, No, he hadn't-"

Doris interrupted, "Because if he ever does we'll kick his ass." She was serious, Selene knew that when her aunts were angry, they were a force not to be reckoned with. She however felt immediately uncomfortable with the conversation, cringing at their protectiveness over her. The two women seemed to notice her discomfort and calmed down. Cinderella gently patted her head with a sad look.

"Sorry sweetie, we just have a…interesting history with Muerte." Cinderella frowned at the last bit. "Specifically how weird the relationship was to us at first."

Selene frowned, "Care to clarify?"

Doris hesitated but sighed, nodding "Upon first meeting the guy we always had a bad feeling about him. Like he was secretly some serial killer because of how often he left. We never liked Muerte, but for the most part we kept our emotions neutral towards him."

"When he left you we were so angry. I actually wanted to hunt him down but…you needed us more so we stayed." Cinderella shrugged, "I figured he would never come back but I guess we were wrong."

"The first thing I'm going to do when I see the bastard is punch him." Doris bitterly said, while Cinderella slightly snickers.

"Me to sis, Me to." Cinderella said while wrapping her arm around Doris, "If you need anything honey, just ask okay? Me and your aunt are going to go talk with some of the handsome merchants over there.~" Both women laughed, walking off.

Selene gagged in disgust, "Yuck."

The wolf girl was left alone with her thoughts. Muerte really did cause a lot of damage by leaving. She just hoped he'd make that all up by doing what she planned tonight. Not only was it for Wolfie, but it was for her and everyone else he let down. For what it was worth, if Muerte really didn't show up, at least she knew that her aunts would kick his ass if she didn't do it first. That'll be a sight to behold.

It was time.

The big moment of truth, the plan she waited all night to complete. Selene looked at the entrance door, it was closed…for now.

Selene walked up the stairs of the ballroom and up stairs where the DJ was playing loud pop music. She tapped his shoulder and the human gave an eyebrow raise. She whispered something in his ear and he pulled away surprised. The human shook his head at her request but then selene pulled out an entire bag worth of gold, aka, months worth of allowance. Surprised but willing, he took the bag of gold and stopped the music. Everyone in the ballroom halted, groaning, complaining, or confused. Selene smiled, it was time. Taking the microphone away from the DJ and walking to the top of stairs, using it as a "stage". Standing in front of the large crowd, who were murmuring and whispering at the Wolf on top of the stage. Selene took a deep breath and spoke.

"Hello everyone." she began, "Sorry for the disruption but I just wanted to say a few words tonight. I want to thank everybody who took the effort to be here for my Papa and uncles today. It really means a lot." Selene could see Wolfie from the crowd who looked in awe at his daughter, putting a paw on his heart. " I also want to welcome a special guest tonight…"
The ogre family looked at eachother confused and the crowd murmured.

"One that I think my family, especially my Papa, would be all too familiar with." she raised a hand to the door for everyone to pull their attention to. "I want you all to meet my other father, Muerte."

The entrance door slammed open, fog came out of it, blowing in front of all the guests at the party. People screamed or yelled out confused. The room became cold, the temperature lowered and frost began to grow from every corner. The dark presence that Selene now knew was her father, was here. Everyone knew that a dark figure was here…

Muerte walked through the fog and everyone stared at the giant wolf. Selene smirked at Muerte's outfit, handcrafted it herself. It was partly based on the Phantom of the opera but she made a few adjustments, Like the black cape was longer and it made his shoulders more broad. And his outfit looked more like that of a king's outfit. Making him more intimidating. He wore a masquerade mask so that no one would "recognize" him. Or at least she hoped none of these people knew him as Death.

Wolfie walked out of the crowd and in front of Muerte, he stared wide eyed. "You came…" he whispered.

Muerte nodded, "I did…I…came for you." the bigger wolf leaned down to kiss Wolfie's cheek, "I don't want you to be alone tonight, or on this very day."

Selene was relieved, "Papa, I want you to have this moment tonight." she gestured to the DJ to start the music. The human gave a thumbs up before slowly playing it.

"Care to dance?" Muerte asked softly.

Wolfie hesitated, looking at Selene, she gave a thumbs up in response. He nodded, shakingly taking his lover's hand. The bigger wolf pulled Wolfie close as the music began…

A capella began, haunting and beautiful. People didn't join in the dancing, only watched as the two wolves began their ballroom dance. To everyone's surprise, even her parents, Selene begins singing.

'A lost soul, he lives but hardly talks'

'He is waiting for him, In front of this photo of former times.''He is not crazy, He believes in it, that's all.'

Muerte held Wolfie close, spinning him around softly. Her papa's dress flowed in the air as he spun.

'He sees him everywhere standing, he is waiting for him.'

'A rose in his hand, apart from him, he is expecting nothing.''Nothing around him makes sense and the air feels heavy.'Muerte grinned, making Wolfie flustered a bit. Wolfie held onto Muerte more as they continued dancing. For a moment selene thought she saw Wolfie crying.

'An absent expression, he is alone, he often talks to him.'

'He is not crazy, he loves him, that's all.''He sees him everywhere standing, he is waiting for him.''A rose in his hand, No, nothing can hold him back now….'

As the music became more intense, the lights in the room began to dim. Only a few of them remained bright and colorful. It made both Wolfie and Muerte pop out more due to their dark outfits, just as Selene planned.

'In his love story….In his love story…'

'In his love story…His love story…'

Wolfie looked at Muerte, they both were wearing masks but Selene could see their loving expressions. The way they just…fit, despite their differences. For once, Selene may have understood their chemistry. Wolfie grabbed Muerte's hand firmly as construed to spin across the dance floor.

'Take his hand, promise him everything will be fine.'

'Hold him tight, Next to you, he still dreams…''Yes, you want to stay but can no longer love.'

Muerte looked at Selene then at her papa, she saw him…smiling? Maybe? It looked like a mix between sad and happy which was a new expression for him. She never thought he'd actually enjoy dancing in front of a crowd of strangers but she assumed wrong. Or maybe he was too entranced in the moment to notice.

'You've been too stupid, Please, stop, stop.'

'How much do you regret, no, I didn't want this.''You would be rich and you'd offer all your gold. If he doesn't care You'll be waiting for him at the port. If he ignores you , you will offer your last breath of life….'

Everyone was so entranced by Selene's voice and her parents singing. The ogre family had huddled up in awe but also conflicted at Muerte and Wolfie dancing together. Doris and Cirnderella were in love with Selene's courage to sing in front of the kingdom like this. They knew she wasn't the most social or outgoing pup. One again the music became more intense.

'In his love story…In his love story..'

'In his love story…love story…''A candle can illuminate the night.''A smile can build an empire…'

Wolfie gasped as Muerte lifted Wolfie in the air, this time her papa rested in Death's arms. And admittingly, the display was romantically sappy. Even some people awed at the two, others clapped.

'And there is you and there is him.'

'And nobody believes in it, but love makes a fool turn into a king.''And if you ignored him, he would fight again and again…'

Selene's voice became louder, more intense. No longer soft and haunting, more like she was singing her pain out but still keeping her voice professfinal.

'In their love story..In their love story…!'

'It's the love story of Death…love story….!'

The music continued but she stopped. After letting all her frustration out in her singing she finally felt free. Like the pressure had been lifted off her back. She's never felt so free in her life. When the music did stop and her parents stopped dancing the crowd erupted into cheers half for her and the other being for her parents. She stood up there, shocked by the response. Honestly not thinking her voice was THAT good. Well, at least her plan worked and Wolfie was happy. Looking ahead, she could see Muerte and Wolfie gently holding each other.

Stubbornness aside, she felt happy that her plan had indeed worked out.

---

Humiliatingly her entire family had bombarded her with questions. Like how the hell did she get Muerte to do this to begin with. She answered honestly, like how she basically threatened to murder him if he didn't come to commit to her plans. Doris and Crinderella were so happy to hear that, dare say Proud of her murderous steak.

Anyone else in the crowd hadn't questioned Muerte's dark presence, thankfully. If anything they said how amazing he was at dancing. He awkwardly just nodded them a "thanks", which made Selene smile her ass off. Also, just like Doris had promised, she punched Muerte in the face. Wolfie had been shocked and mad, so the two wolves and women avoided each other for the rest of night. The event was still as lively despite the ruckus, the triplets had decided to cause mischief by setting one of the decorations on fire with one of the Dronkey babies. Poor Shrek and Donkey chased their kids around while Selene watched and cringed.

After interacting with a lot of people, her introverted side began to surface and she migrated to an isolated balcony. Watching the stars as they twinkled and were bright.

"Nice seeing you here." a voice said behind her.

She turned around to see King Arthur grin at her with some enthusiasm. He was probably in his mid-twenties, maybe older. She blinked, "Hello your majesty."

Arthur waved her off, "Nah you don't need to call me king. Haven't seen you since your 11nth birthday. How've you been Selene?" He walked to her side and leaned on the balcony with her. He wore that nicely jeweled crown and well sewn clothes.

The wolf girl huffed, how many times did she have to ask this question? "Existing." she replied monotone. "Also busy."

Arthur laughed, "I know the feeling." his eyes narrowed a bit, "How did you learn to sing like that?"

Her ears perked, "You were there? I couldn't spot you anywhere in the party. I just suppose you just ditched the place."

"Well no, I was just upstairs dealing with some dronkey's, turns out Donkey locked them up in a closet until they behaved. But it was MY closet of all places."

Selene cringed, "Oof, sorry about that.." she said sympathetically.

Arthur rolled his eyes and stared into the sky, "So that was Muerte huh?" She flinched, "I've heard a lot about him…he left you as a baby?"

Selene was silent.

Arthur sighed, "I know what that's like Selene…"
She looked him directly in the eyes, "How so?"

Arthur half smiled, "My dad left me at a boarding school when I was just kid. Never saw him again after that."

"Arthur…I'm…I'm so sorry." Selene said softly.

Arthur seemed unmoved and only shrugged, "It's alright, kind of got over it after awhile. Most kids who are abandoned have to learn to addguest to their environment as they grow. That's what I did. I learned to look after myself when no one was there for me…" he shook his head, "I'm glad you got Wolfie though."

Selene looked away, "To be honest I don't really know how to feel about Muerte anymore. Should I hate him? Should I not hate him? Is it bad that I want both my parents instead of one?" she covered her face, "so much happened this month since he visited. And for once I wish I wasn't so stressed out over more than a few things."

Arthur gave her a small pat, "I mean…I don't really see what's so bad about this specifically…I mean…at least he came back at all?" he winced at the last part.

Selene sighed, "I guess ... .he says he cares about me but…I wonder if in a dire situation were to ever happen. Would he choose me or the world? Like if he really didn't have that much of a "choice". Would he still choose me, probably not…"

Arthur seemed confused but still tried to comfort her. " Hey look, fathers are complicated, I know that and understand. My dad never cared about me enough to come back but at least yours did. In my opinion, try giving him a chance. If it's not working out, talk to Wolfie about cutting him off. I'm sure Wolfie would choose you over Muerte."

Selene Winced, " It's..not like that. Muerte MAKES Wolfie happy and I never said I wanted him out of my life. I just…feel disconnected with him, like he's a stranger walking around. I never want my Papa to have to choose between me and Muerte, EVER. That'll be hell."

"Okay then…here's some advice. If things continue to get worse with your father. Just cut him off, for good." Arthur insisted.

Selene didn't respond, only nodded. She supposed that could be an option. Maybe in a darker fairytale she could just…not talk to him anymore if things get that bad. But so far they hadn't, and she felt safe knowing her papa and Muerte were happy.

Arthur smiled, "Oh and one more thing…I noticed that you have a lot of talent. Have you considered going to high school?"

Selene shrugged, "Yeah doesn't mean I have a chance though. I'm a talking animal, most school's don't really want fairytale creatures in their classrooms, especially not a mangy mutt." she didn't really mind calling herself an animal, because…that's what she was. It be like her not admitting a specific race or feature of hers.

"What if I told you that there was a chance you could get into a boarding school?" Arthur asked.

Selene raised an eyebrow, not believing him, "Really?" she asked sarcastically.

"I mean, Worcestershire Academy is the boarding school I used to go to, It usually looks for royalty of kids whose families have money but I could get you in there." he scratched the back of her head, "I mean…your family."

Selene smiled but shook her head, "No…I'd rather earn my place in a nice school then use your position as king to get me in. It wouldn't be fair."

Arthur sighed, "Well, if you ever change your mind. Just tell me alright?"

She grinned, this night had been truly happy for her. And she doubts she'd ever forget it.

.

.

.
Later that night Selene had walked to Muerte with apprehension. He seemed calm, it was kind of hard to tell through the thick dark bask she gave him. Her main goal when making the outfit was to make him handsome for her papa, but in the process also made him look scary looking. As most party guests had done their best to avoid his presence. Wolfie was sitting right by him, albeit, sleepy. But awake.

"You've done well Selene," he snorted, "Everyone in the kingdom is infatuated by you. I have to say I'm proud…" he took a sip out of his drink, she hoped to god it wasn't blood.

"And I'm proud of you." she admitted, he paused, listening to her, "I thought you would just…bail out of this. Or worse, leave me alone on the stairs and make myself look stupid. Thankyou…" if her cheeks had not been covered in fur, it would be a bright red from embarrassment.

Wolfie's head perked, "And I'm also proud of you Selene…Why didn't you tell me you could sing like that?" Selene shifted uncomfortably in her dress.

"Well, I didn't really think my voice was like celebrity levels of good or whatever. Besides the song I sang was a cover, plus I parodied the lyrics to match you two."

Wolfie smiled, "Well I'm happy for you.." his voice trailed off, "Selene…are you happy with "us"? Are you okay with me and Muerte being together?" he asked. Muerte was in on the question as he waited for Selene's answer.

"I think I've grown fond of the idea of you being around more. Not saying I forgive you or anything." Selen crossed her arms and huffed. "But I'm willing to talk….now. If you let me…"

Muerte nodded, listening, Selen clenched her fists, "I never want you ever leaving me or our family ever again."she glared, "I don't care what happened or how important your job is. Don't leave again damn it. You didn't just hurt me, all of us needed time to heal after you left. Now that you've returned, it's like seeing an old scare. If you're going to be around the only thing I expect from you is your patience and love. That's it, because I realize now that I need you. WE need you…" her tears poured down her cheeks.

Wolfie's eyes widened, "Selene honey…we.." For a second she felt her emotions overwhelm her. She pounced on Muerte and hugged his chest tight, Death did not do anything to remove her.

"I hate you. I hated you for leaving so much. I hate you for hurting Wolfie. I hate you because you are Death. I hate you for being so goddamn insensitive to my feelings or just not really understanding them. I hate you for always leaving…" she sobbed and hiccuped, "But I NEED YOU…please…please don't leave again Daddy. I need you…" she was breaking down now. " I need you…"

Wolfie felt tears running down his own cheeks at his daughter's breakdown. "Selene…oh honey.." He hugged both Muerte and Selene.

Muerte pated Selene's head, "I'm not leaving anytime soon…but just know that. I will need to eventually. But just know that I'll never leave either of you intentionally alone again…I'm so sorry."

The three wolves remained there hugging each other. Despite their flaws and dysfunctional relationships, they needed each other and that's all that mattered. They were together now and wouldn't dare let the others go.

When they got home from a long night of partying the two parents both kissed Selene good night. Well, Muerte "licked" her goodnight is more like it. Wolfie scolded him for it but it was oddly hilarious to see Wolfie mad at Death.

Upon closing the door and heading to Wolfie's bedroom, the door locked behind him. They both gave each other a smile.

"You raised her well." Muerte said softly. Wrapping his arms around Wolfie tight, "Our little Selene is a lot like you…"
Wolfie rolled his eyes, "More like you. I don't know how she managed to say any of those curse words. The only reason I let it pass was because she had every right to be mad."

Muerte grinned, "I'm kind of hoping she grows up to be more like you amor. It seems like you've taught her everything she needs to know about living life."

Wolfie sighed, "She could learn a few things about you to…like defending herself."

Muerte grinned, "I don't know, maybe I could teach her how to use a knife?"

Wolfie rolled his eyes, "A butter knife. She's too young for any weapons."

The two fell into a deep slumber. Holding each other, never letting the other go.

No matter how strange their love story was. At least it had some benefits like bringing sweet little Selene into the world. Who no doubt had a bright future ahead.