A/N: I feel like I rushed the ending of this chapter, but I wanted to leave you all with more alone time with some of the pack so this may seem like filler. Anyways, the chapters from here will feature more soft moments between Kagome and pack so we can set the tone for their growing relationship.
Disclaimer: I do not own Twilight nor Inuyasha. Both belong to their respective owners and not me. But please, please no flames and if you have nothing better to say, say nothing at all.
Chapter 15 – The Aftermath and Cupcakes
As the night wound down, Seth sat cross-legged on the floor with his back against the couch, trying to center himself as Sam and Jake talked through the new patrol schedules for the foreseeable future. The others moved around the space with quiet purpose, shifting the living room into a shared nest of blankets and sleeping bags. Jared dragged out the large futon, now flattened across the floor, and spots were already claimed with a kind of silent routine born of familiarity.
The hum of voices, the rustle of movement, and the scent of food wrapped the room in something that almost resembled comfort; half-eaten chips, crusts from pizza boxes and opened cans of soda. But the unease sat under Seth's skin like it had burrowed in and refused to leave.
They were trying to act normal. Jokes were tossed lightly, Paul and Quil bickering over snoring habits, and Jared made a few snarky comments about whoever took the last slice of pizza. But the tension lingered like smoke that wouldn't clear. Everyone felt it, but no one said it out loud.
Seth exhaled slowly and rubbed his hands over his face.
"Hey, you okay?" Embry nudged him from the couch, and he tried for a smile, though a half-baked attempt that didn't quite reach his eyes.
Seth shrugged. "For now…yeah. I'm just glad she's okay," he finished quietly, stuffing his mouth with chips. It made him feel better, but he barely tasted it.
"I get it. I'm still kind of reeling like…can you imagine what she's probably been through?" He shook his head, and Seth could only sigh in response, it was hard for him to try and act happy but the thought of what Kagome might have experienced really frightened him.
He hadn't quite recovered from the fear that had gripped him earlier. Kagome had come so close to dying tonight. And while he knew–they all knew now–that she could handle herself, that knowledge wasn't comforting. If anything, it made things worse.
Because it meant she'd probably do it again.
She was strong, but strong people still got hurt. Seth had seen that happen in more ways than just physical strength.
His eyes flickered toward the hallway again. She was upstairs, safe, but the thought kept looping through his head like static. What if they'd been seconds too late? What if she hadn't been able to fight the leech off? What if she got outnumbered? What if they'd decided to kidnap her and hadn't been able to find her at all?
The thought made his chest tighten.
Still…she was here. Staying the night with them. That meant something.
It meant she trusted them–trusted him. And that made the knot in his stomach loosen just enough for him to breathe again.
Seth leaned back against the couch, his gaze staring at the bedding with no clear purpose. He let the familiar sounds of his pack ground him–Jake's steady voice, Jared's annoying laugh, Paul's occasional swearing. It wasn't peace, exactly, but it was familiar. And for now, that was enough.
Kagome had gone upstairs to clean up, the faint rhythm of the shower pitter pattering as the softest trace of humming drifted down like a quiet melody. Her scent lingered in the air, delicate and warm that when he breathed it in, the unease inside him finally seemed to settle just a little bit. The storm in his chest eased.
"I think we run three per shift, minimum," Jake was saying, his tone clipped as he pointed at the map in his hands. "The Cullen's want to coordinate routes. If they can cover the night shift every other night, it'll give us the chance to rest. But with Forks included in the patrol zone for now, we need to keep our line tight."
"Agreed," Sam said with a firm nod. "No gaps. Especially not between La Push and Forks."
Seth nodded automatically, only half-listening as the others marked shift rotations and penciled in coverage on the communal calendar. Balancing work, family, and patrols was a constant juggling act, but somehow, they always managed. Still, he didn't envy Jake or Sam, who took on the burnt of the planning to make sure everything stayed balanced.
Then Seth's ears picked up footsteps on the stairs.
The shift in the room was instant. He could feel it ripple through the pack, a subtle tightening of awareness. The scent hit next—hers—fresh from the shower, warmer, softer, like steam and skin and something distinctly Kagome. It filled the space, wild and fresh, blooming all at once, weaving into the air and settling deep.
Seth wasn't the only one who noticed.
Jared let out a soft, content sigh where he sat cross-legged near the coffee table, now pushed to the side. Sam and Jacob sat upright on the loveseat beside it, heads lifting in quiet attention.
It was like the whole pack held their breath collectively.
"Man, get a whiff of that…she smells so damn good," Paul muttered, and Seth caught the quiet ripple of agreement that followed.
Kagome was becoming a constant without even trying, she felt like home. Like something warm and grounding they didn't realize they needed until she stepped into the room.
When she appeared at the edge of the hallway, conversation tapered off. Heads turned. Everyone looked up, though they tried to play it cool. Even Paul, who seemed relaxed for the first time all night. A rare thing.
Quil, sprawled on the recliner with a bag of chips balanced on his chest, let out a low whistle.
Kagome wore one of Sam's shirts–oversized and draped mid-thigh, swallowing anything she might've worn beneath. The neckline hung off one shoulder, baring a delicate stretch of pale skin that caught the low light. Damp hair clung to her flushed cheeks, trailing down her back like silk.
Seth felt heat rush up his neck. He looked away fast, but not before his gaze snagged on the way the shirt clung to her curves and how clearly she wasn't wearing a bra. The outline of her breasts curled heat at the pit of his stomach and went straight to his dick. God, he could see the barest hint of her nipples poke through. Her scent, clean and floral, flooded his lungs. It was too much.
"Damn, that thing is swallowing you up," Quil grinned, breaking the silence.
"I'll say, it should be illegal to look that good in someone else's shirt," Jared added, jerking his chin toward Sam, who only smirked smugly.
Seth didn't speak, but the smile on his lips was impossible to hide.
Embry, always the quiet one, watched her intently. Seth saw the way his eyes lingered just a bit too long, like he was trying to drink her in slowly.
She clutched the hem of the shirt, clearly flustered. Her cheeks were redder now, probably from how hard the pack was trying and failing, not to stare.
"It's just a shirt…" she mumbled, averting her gaze as she slipped herself onto the couch next to Embry.
"Sweetheart, it's you in one of our shirts—that's like our every wet dream," Quil said, earning a chorus of laughter.
Heat crawled up her neck, she got red easily because she was so pale. It was cute, and he couldn't keep the grin off his face as she looked down at her lap, clearly embarrassed and shy.
Paul grinned. "Remind me to leave one of mine here too."
"You already do leave your shit here," Jared retorted, dodging a pillow thrown by Paul. It bounced into Quil, who lobbed it right back. The room buzzed with easy laughter and when Kagome giggled, it made the room ten times fuller.
Seth hadn't realized how much he missed that sound until it filled the space like sunlight cutting through a storm.
The sudden ring of Sam's landline broke through the laughter, sharp and unexpected, drawing every eye to the phone. Sam stood immediately, moving quickly to answer it.
"Uley residence." Sam's voice was cautious, alert. A brief pause followed before Carlisle's calm, measured voice carried clearly through the room—unmistakable to their heightened hearing.
"Sam, I apologize for the late hour," Carlisle began politely, his voice steady but clearly serious. "We tracked Victoria, Riley, and the newborn as far as Bellingham, but their scent vanished completely after that. It's likely someone may be concealing their movements."
A cold tension settled over the room, pulling Seth fully into alertness. He exchanged uneasy glances with Quil and Embry, noting Jake's jaw tightening visibly. Paul cursed under his breath and Jared scrubbed a hand down his face tiredly. Kagome looked at Sam with a frown, noticing the shift in the air as Embry sat up, tucking her into his side easily.
Carlisle continued, "I suggest we meet tomorrow afternoon to discuss our alliance and next steps. If at all possible, our home may provide some secrecy. This threat requires coordination."
Sam didn't hesitate, he shared a look with Jake who only nodded. "That's fine. Tomorrow afternoon is the only time we're available."
As Sam hung up, Seth let out a tired breath, already sensing the weight of the conversation that would follow that meeting.
Kagome's expression shifted slightly, worry flashing across her face. "Did something happen?" she asked softly, her eyes searching Sam's.
He only sighed, though he tried for a smile in order to alleviate her concern. "Victoria and Riley got away, Cullen's think someone is hiding them, we're meeting up tomorrow afternoon."
Sam quickly offered Kagome a reassuring smile, trying to ease her worry. "Everything's okay," he assured gently. "We'll handle it."
Kagome nodded slowly, her expression tightening with concern. Embry drew an arm around her in comfort.
"Fucking bastards got away," Paul cursed, he shook his head and nobody looked happy about it.
"We'll keep an eye out, that's why we adjusted the shifts because if they come back, we'll be ready." Jake said it with conviction, like it was a promise. The others silently agreed, they wouldn't be letting them get away again if they could help.
Conversation was quick to move on, nobody wanted to linger on that with how heavy the night had already been.
Kagome still looked deep in thought as she curled up beside Embry, small and warm. Seth felt comforted seeing her settle next to one of his brothers, he should feel jealous that it wasn't him but for some strange reason, he didn't. All that mattered was her happiness.
Sam took another seat besides Jake, bracing his forearms against his knees. "Comfortable now?" he asked.
Kagome nodded, smiling softly. "Mmhmm. Thank you."
"You smell like Sam and Jared now," Quil added, sniffing exaggeratedly. "But I like your scent better as opposed to their buttfunk," he finished, gesturing to two in question.
Sam flipped him the bird while the room cracked up again.
"Fuck you, bro, I smell amazing," Jared winked at her. "Kagome agrees."
"If buttfunk is your baseline, we need to talk," Quil shot back with a disgusted look, but it was all in good fun, anything to make Kagome laugh.
She giggled again, eyes sparkling. He'd never get tired of that sound, of the way it lit up the entire room.
Seth caught the way Jake was watching her then; soft, almost reverent. But there was something else buried in his eyes too, something heavier. A flicker of guilt or unease passed over his face before it vanished. Jake always carried more than he let on. He bore the weight of the pack, the pressure of his title, and the ghosts of decisions he hadn't forgiven himself for.
Even now, he was still trying to make up for the months he'd been gone even if no one blamed him anymore. Tonight's incident would just add to that blame. But maybe Kagome could take some of that burden off his shoulders, because this thing they had with her, it was a two way street. And her confession tonight proved she was trying.
"You do smell good, though," Seth added, emboldened. "Like–good, good."
Her gaze flicked toward him in surprise. A soft blush crept up her neck, and she ducked her head, flustered. The room quieted in reverent silence, the pack pretending not to notice how completely spellbound they were.
Paul muttered "good enough to eat" under his breath, but Sam shut him down with a sharp look.
Kagome looked like she wanted to sink through the floor and Embry nudged her playfully, an easy grin on his face.
"Ignore these idiots," Jake said, shooting her a gentle smile. "We're not all cavemen…unless you want us to be."
"Jake!" She giggled, covering her face with a hand and the pack roared with laughter again. Even Sam chuckled, though he rarely joined in.
"You can take the couch," Sam offered, as the laughter died down, nodding to the pull-out. "Or the futon, it's the warmest in the middle."
He didn't say what they all felt: We'll sleep better if you're close.
"You don't have to," Jared added. "My room's open if you'd rather not sleep with a bunch of oversized wolves."
Kagome's expression softened, touched by the offer. She chewed on her bottom lip as she contemplated silently and Seth really wished she didn't do that because it only served to make her more irresistible than she already was.
"I don't mind the floor…if that's okay," she said quietly, fingering the hem of the oversized shirt.
Seth grinned. "You'll be next to me and Quil then."
"Careful now, Quil snores and Seth farts in his sleep," Paul joked, and he shot him a glare before flipping him off.
"Dude! I do not snore. You, on the other hand…" Quil trailed off, and Kagome seemed to smile at their antics.
Jake rolled his eyes. "Alright, enough already."
"We should get that bruise taken care of," Sam reminded gently, cutting through the laughter that abounded.
Seth got up and grabbed the first aid kit from the kitchen, setting it down and rummaging through until he found the ointment. He handed it to Embry, who began applying it gently to her neck.
"I can do it," she said, but Embry just gave her a look.
She pouted, the pack smiled and laughed.
"Just relax," Paul said.
Kagome tilted her head as Embry carefully smoothed the ointment onto her skin. Seth handed him a bandage to keep the ointment from rubbing off while she slept.
"Do you have enough for my back?" she asked quietly. "Riley slammed me pretty hard."
She turned away, hesitantly lifting her shirt. Embry paused when he helped her pull it up.
"What the—Kagome!" Paul hissed. "You had this the whole time?"
Jake shot him a look. Paul backed off, murmuring an apology but Seth had to admit, he was right.
Her back was a mess; deep red and already bruising across her spine and ribs. Seth's jaw clenched. They all felt it, the rage and helplessness. A silent vow passed through them. Riley dies.
"I didn't think it was that bad…" she whispered, head turned away.
Sam's gaze darkened—not with anger, but grief. She thought so little of her own pain, it broke his heart a little.
"What's this?" Embry murmured, brushing his fingers across old, jagged scars along her upper back. It looked like the claws of an animal, like some kind of bear or wolf. The thought made him shudder.
"Demon," she said softly, voice nothing but a whisper. "Long time ago."
The room stilled like someone had pressed pause. Kagome didn't offer any more details, and Seth could feel it—that quiet boundary she'd drawn. Whatever those scars meant, she wasn't ready to unpack them. Not tonight. Quil opened his mouth, concern written all over his face, but Jake caught his eye and gave a subtle shake of his head. Don't, not now. The message was clear, and to Quil's credit, he bit his tongue and slouched back with a quiet exhale.
Paul looked like he wanted to say something too and Seth could practically see the questions on the tip of his tongue. But even he deflated with a low sigh at Sam's muted stare, scrubbing a hand down his face. The weight of the night hadn't lifted. If anything, it settled deeper. But at least, for now, they understood one thing: some wounds didn't need to be explained right away.
Seth couldn't imagine what she'd faced before ever crossing paths with them. Maybe fate led her to them for a reason, so she'd never have to be alone again.
"It's like battle scars," he said finally, trying to lighten the mood. "You're still beautiful with them."
She smiled over her shoulder, grateful.
"Does your back hurt?" Jake asked.
Kagome hesitated, and Seth worried she would minimize her pain again before she murmured, "just a little."
Jared returned with Tylenol. Embry applied the ointment gently, avoiding the worst spots, and Seth helped pull the shirt down when he finished. They'd gone through the whole tube already.
"Oh, wait—I don't want to ruin your shirt," she said, glancing at Sam worriedly.
Sam waved her off. "It's an old one, don't worry about it."
Jake handed her the pills with a glass of water and she murmured a soft thank you before climbing down to the futon on the floor. It was mesmerizing watching her pull the length of her hair to the side, where the curve of her neck slopped down revealing the expanse of skin exposed from the oversized shirt slipping to one side. There were more than one pair of eyes watching her, though they tried to keep it discreet.
Clean up was quick, they finished most of the snacks and leftover pizza so it all went into the trash bin outside.
They had a brief, playful argument spark over who would be stuck with the outdoor showers in the morning, most of it good-natured teasing and mock complaints. In the end, Seth slipped in beside her with a smug grin, claiming the coveted spot to her left.
Quil flopped down on her right, sprawling like a content dog in the sun, while Embry settled onto the pull-out couch nearby, stretching his long limbs with a grunt. Kagome was small so she barely took up any space. The urge to pull her over to him was strong but she wasn't ready for that and Seth was content to just have her near. Jared laid himself out by their feet, arms behind his head, and Sam took the space just above them, his presence steady and grounding. Jake positioned himself on Quil's other side, and Paul—grumbling the whole time—claimed the loveseat despite his legs dangling awkwardly off the arm.
Kagome let out a soft, contented sigh, audible even in the quiet. It was the kind of sound that made Seth's chest loosen, like they'd finally made it through the worst of the night.
One by one, the pack murmured their goodnights, the sound hushed and warm as Jared shut the lights off and only the distant sound of crashing waves from second beach filled the quiet night.
"If any of you fuckers fart, I swear to god I'm punting you outside," Paul muttered into the silence.
Laughter stirred–deep chuckles and one soft giggle that rang like bells.
Then a quieter, feminine voice whispered through the dark, "Good night."
Seth exhaled softly, letting the scent of her hair and the rhythm of her breathing lull him into sleep. The weight in his chest lifted as her scent wrapped around him. She was here. She was safe. For tonight, that was enough.
Waking up was a strange, slow drift into awareness for Kagome. Somewhere in the haze of the early morning, she vaguely remembered being moved. Strong arms lifted her gently, and the scent of spring soap and warm cedar wrapped around her—Sam or maybe Jacob. A low murmur brushed her ear, soothing her as she stirred. She felt safe, their warmth and steady presence coaxed her back to sleep, instinctively trusted and deeply familiar.
Now, as the soft light of morning filtered through the windows, she became aware of a steady rise and fall beneath her cheek. A slow, rhythmic heartbeat thudded against her ear, grounding and calm. Kagome felt like she was wrapped around a furnace, heat radiating off the broad chest she lay against; almost too hot. Her legs were tangled with someone else's, a large hand splayed lazily over waist where the oversize shirt had ridden up in her sleep. It was hot against her skin and sent goosebumps up her spine.
She blinked slowly, fighting through the urge to burrow back into sleep. Murmured voices reached her ears, the familiar creak of floorboards as someone moved around the room. The scent of bacon filled the air, rich and mouthwatering. Someone was making breakfast; it felt like Jacob or Seth.
Kagome shifted slightly, only to realize she was plastered against someone's sculpted chest. She didn't need to look up to know who it was–Embry. His aura was always reserved but steady.
"Wakey, wakey, sleeping beauty. We've got pancakes, eggs, biscuits, and bacon~" Quil's sing-song voice rang out as he flopped dramatically onto the couch, a bag of chips already in hand despite the breakfast being cooked.
Kagome groaned, hiding her face briefly against Embry's chest before yawning and pushing herself up. She peered sleepily at him, eyes half-lidded.
Realizing how wrapped around him she'd been, awareness sank in and heat crawled up her neck. She scrambled back to her space. "Sorry–I didn't mean to um, roll over on you," she mumbled, embarrassed.
Embry just laughed, low and easy, propping his head up on one hand as he looked at her. "It's no big deal. You barely weigh anything. Besides, you're kinda cute when you snore."
She sat up with a gasp, smacking his chest lightly. "I do not snore," Kagome argued, hands on her hips.
"Oh, hate to break it to you, princess," Quil chimed in with a grin, "but you totally snore. Like little kitten puffs. It was honestly kinda adorable."
He mimicked her snoring in exaggerated baby breaths, earning a ripple of laughter from around the room.
Kagome rolled her eyes, cheeks warming with the familiar flush that always came when they complimented her. Still, she couldn't help the smile tugging at her lips. The laughter that followed was a soothing balm, softening the sharp edges left over from the chaos of the night before.
"God, you're so pretty first thing in the morning," Quil said with a lazy grin.
Embry made a deep, agreeable sound in his throat. "Mmhmm."
"I highly doubt that," she replied, laughing softly. Compliments still felt strange, never unwelcome, but always surprising in how easily they came from the pack.
Embry sat up slowly, leveling her with a serious stare through sleep-heavy eyes. "You don't see what we see," he said plainly. "And that's okay. Because we'll just keep telling you how beautiful you are until you start to believe it."
Her chest tightened in that familiar, fluttery way she was still getting used to. The way they all always meant every word they said.
"Exactly!" Quil chimed in before springing to his feet suddenly. "Jared's done, I call dibs on the shower!"
Embry's head snapped up. "Dude, I told you last night I was after him!" he growled, quickly scrambling to chase after him.
Their voices trailed off down the hallway and up the stairs, devolving into light bickering as the rest of the pack chuckled and shook their heads.
Kagome giggled, drawing her knees to her chest for a moment. Mornings like these, loud, chaotic, full of teasing and warmth, felt like something sacred. A far cry from the quiet, often hollow stillness of the Swan residence. This felt real. This felt like family.
A loud bang echoed from upstairs. She could hear Quil and Embry arguing followed by Jared's loud retort.
"You break it, you fix it!" Sam called, voice calm but carrying that unmistakable edge of warning.
A second later, thunderous footsteps clattered down the stairs. Quil obviously lost his rights to the shower upstairs.
"You suck, Em!" he shouted back up the stairs, and Embry's laughter floated faintly down in response.
Kagome shook her head with a smile and yawned, stretching her arms high overhead until her joints gave a satisfying pop. She could feel an ache settle over her, like a dull pain radiating all over her body. It mostly felt like tired aches. Her eyes swept toward the kitchen where Seth was poking through a cabinet, clearly hunting for something, while Jacob stood at the stove, flipping bacon with practiced ease.
Kagome rose to her feet and combed her fingers through her messy hair, suddenly self-conscious about her morning breath and general dishevelment. She was still wearing nothing but Sam's oversized shirt and boxers. Still, none of them seemed to care. Not a single one of the guys looked at her like anything but something precious. If anything, she could feel their attention on her, that same reverent pull they never quite seemed able to hide. It was a strange thought still, one she still wasn't sure how to process.
There was a sharp curse from outside that gave her pause, followed by a loud thud and a colorful stream of swearing that could only belong to one person.
"Might wanna hurry it up, Quil," Sam warned, sipping his coffee as Quil tried to snatch a piece of bacon from the tray, only for Jacob to smack his hand away. "Paul's using up the last of the hot water outside."
Quil groaned dramatically. "Dude, not cool—save some warmth for the rest of us!" His voice trailed off as he shoved the door open and stepped outside, clearly off to negotiate shower rights. She smiled as she heard Paul shout back, the two immediately launching into an argument punctuated by more curses and complaints.
Inside, Jacob shook his head, a bemused grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. Seth just sighed and finally pulled out what he'd been looking for–a large oval plate decorated with flowers in the center.
"That's what happens when you don't get up early," he said with a shake of his head. "First come, first shower."
Kagome made her way toward the kitchen, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. Jacob turned from the stove, giving her a warm, familiar grin.
"Hey, beautiful. How are you feeling?" he asked her, leaning against the counter with a spatula in hand.
"Mmm, I'm alright, the tylenol helped last night, just aches today," she hummed, leaning into Sam as she reached the island. He wrapped an arm around her immediately, drawing her close like it was second nature. When he pressed a kiss to the top of her head, her toes curled.
They were all so casually affectionate. It still caught her off guard, but she found herself leaning into it more and more. Maybe because it made her feel…wanted. And it was nice to be wanted in that way, even if she still got anxiety that gnawed at her like a parasite. She was trying, but it was hard.
"Take another two painkillers after breakfast," Sam advised, and she sighed, but nodded into his side with a yawn.
Jacob slid a mug of coffee toward her, and she accepted it gratefully, murmuring a soft "thank you" as the warmth filled her hands. The first sip was bliss; rich, hot, comforting. Between that and the ambient body heat of seven perpetually shirtless wolves, the morning chill didn't stand a chance.
As she sipped at her coffee lightly, she noticed Jacob was already dressed in his usual cut-offs, hair still damp from his shower. Seth wore basketball shorts and had bedhead that looked impossibly cute. Sam, ever the responsible one, wore jeans and socks, already looking like he had somewhere to be. Despite seeing them shirtless all the time, it never stopped her from noticing just how…sculpted they all were.
"Your clothes are in the dryer," Sam said, rubbing her exposed shoulder lightly. The feel of his touch sent a shiver down her spine. "Should be ready soon. Towel and toothbrush are in the upstairs bathroom if you want a shower."
"Thanks," she replied quietly, smiling around her mug.
"Hungry for biscuits?" Seth asked, pulling a muffin tray out of the oven with a grin. "Best damn ones you'll ever have."
"He says that all the time," Jacob said, flipping a pancake. "We give him hell for it, but they're actually really good."
"Betty Crocker, who?" Seth said proudly, making Kagome giggle.
"Go sit down," Sam gestured toward the table. "You don't have to do anything but sit there and look pretty."
She smiled around a sip of coffee and Jacob turned around with a wink as she went over to the table and sat down with a grateful sigh.
Just then, the front door opened and Paul stepped in, towel slung around his neck, hair damp and jeans slung low on his hips. He paused when he saw her and let out a low whistle.
"Damn, you're way too sexy in the morning with that bedhead," he said, grinning as he moved around the table.
"Good morning to you too," Kagome said with a soft laugh. Paul leaned down to kiss the side of her head, a new ritual that was quickly becoming familiar.
"Even your morning voice is sexy," Jared added as he came down from upstairs, also freshly showered and looking ready for the day in jeans and damp hair.
She rolled her eyes but couldn't stop the smile that tugged at her lips. Every time they looked at her like that, every offhand compliment, they all made her feel seen in a way she hadn't felt in years. It was overwhelming and kind of wonderful.
"Morning," she told him, and Jared dropped into the seat beside her, his dimples on full display.
Paul claimed the seat on her other side, Sam sitting across from her. Jared reached for the mug Sam handed him while Paul caught the soda Jacob tossed his way with barely a glance—uncanny reflexes, like always.
Seth brought over the biscuits, massive and golden, half of them already buttered, while Jacob followed with pancakes, bacon, and scrambled eggs.
The table filled quickly with food and warmth, the kind only shared meals and found family could bring.
By the time Embry came downstairs from his shower and Quil strode in complaining loudly about the freezing water, the pack was already gathered at the table, digging into the breakfast they'd prepared together. The space buzzed with easy conversation and the scent of bacon and maple syrup.
Jared handed Kagome an empty plate, but before she could even lift a finger, Paul was already stacking it with food. Sam leaned over to help him, casually adding scrambled eggs and buttered biscuits without a word. It wasn't even a discussion anymore, it was just what they did.
"I can do it," Kagome murmured, a little flustered.
They all gave her the same look—equal parts fondness and exasperation.
"We know," Jared replied easily, dropping more bacon onto her plate. "But we want to serve you. So sit there and accept it."
Kagome pouted, but the warmth in their gestures was impossible to ignore. She didn't push the issue further.
Paul, grinning, was about to add another stack of pancakes to her already-full plate when she reached out to stop him, placing a hand firmly on his forearm.
"Paul, that's too much!" she groaned, wide-eyed.
With a smirk, he reached around her hand and plopped the pancakes on her plate anyway. "Eat what you can," he said through a mouthful of bacon. "We'll finish the rest."
Laughter rippled around the table as matching grins passed from one face to the next. Like most meals with the pack, breakfast was loud, chaotic, and oddly comforting. Kagome never got tired of watching them eat. The way they shoveled food in with inhuman speed like bottomless pits. She only made it through half her plate before tapping out with a groan of surrender.
Naturally, Jared and Paul helped themselves to the rest without hesitation. The pancakes disappeared in seconds, followed closely by Seth's biscuits, which truly were as heavenly as he'd bragged. Kagome sipped the last of her coffee and excused herself, needing a hot shower to wash off the sweat and warmth that came from being surrounded by so many furnace-like bodies.
By the time she came back down—clean, refreshed, and dressed in her now-dry clothes—the kitchen had been tidied. Quil and Jared manned the sink while the others shifted around the space, some still lingering at the table while others helped clear the counters. It felt like a quiet reset after the loud morning rush.
Kagome was heading to her usual seat when Paul hooked an arm around her waist and pulled her gently onto his lap instead. She didn't resist.
They shared a soft smile as the rest of the pack found their seats. Paul's scent wrapped around her; cedar and rain, sharp and grounding. But beneath that clean, soapy layer was something wilder: the sun-warmed musk of pine and heat. It clung to him like static before a summer storm. It was raw strength and quiet danger, entirely him. Intense and impossible to ignore.
With the pack all freshly showered, the room practically glowed with layered scents that mingled like a warm blanket over everything.
Paul leaned in, pressing his face into her hair and breathing her in deeply. "It's good having you here," he murmured.
Kagome giggled softly, nudging him with her shoulder. "Unfortunately, I do need to head home soon."
Paul groaned dramatically in protest, but it was Jacob who picked up the thread of conversation.
"About that," Jacob started, voice low but firm, "we'd rather not leave you alone anymore."
Kagome opened her mouth, ready to protest, to say they didn't need to rearrange their lives just for her. She felt like a burden, but Jacob held up a hand, cutting her off gently.
"I already know what you're going to say," he added. "We're a pack. We take care of our own. I appreciate the Cullen's offering protection, but I'd feel better if one of us was always with you."
Something about the way he said it, like it wasn't even a question, hit her differently. She hadn't realized she was part of their pack. She knew, intellectually, that imprinting made her part of them. But hearing it spoken aloud made her heart flutter in a way that was both joyful and bittersweet.
She thought of someone else who once told her she belonged to a pack. Someone with silver hair and golden eyes, now lost to time. She swallowed thickly, and felt a mix of fear and warmth flood her. Scared she was making a mistake letting them in but happy that so far, everything they did seemed genuine.
Paul's fingers traced lazy circles on her thigh, grounding her. When she looked around the table, the devotion she saw mirrored in every face made her throat tighten.
"One or two of us will stay with you overnight," Jacob continued. "And during the day, you can come here and—"
"—hang out with us!" Quil interrupted, grinning. "Like me!"
"And me!" Seth chimed in, bright-eyed. "We're helping out at the high school bake-off. We need to make a dozen different cookies and cupcakes."
Quil bumped fists with him. "Yeah, while the rest of these dorks go to work, we get you all to ourselves."
Jacob shot him a glare and punched his arm. "You're supposed to be spending time with her, not putting her to work."
Kagome laughed, and the sound made everyone relax.
"I really don't mind," she said honestly. "I love to bake. When do we need to start?"
Seth lit up like a sunrise. "Right after we take you home to change. Unless you'd rather come later?"
Kagome shook her head. "No, I'd like to go with you. I just need to stop at home for a change of clothes."
"Comfortable ones," Quil warned, wiggling his eyebrows. "We're gonna get messy."
Jacob shoved his shoulder, clearly unimpressed. "Lucky bastards," Paul muttered under his breath. "If I didn't have to work…"
Sam gave him a pointed look. "You'll survive. It's only a few hours."
"Yeah, yeah," Paul grumbled, pressing his face into Kagome's neck with a dramatic sigh that made her giggle.
Jared smirked. "At least you get quality bro time."
Paul flipped him off without lifting his head.
"My mom needs me at the shop today, those damn pipes are acting up again," Embry said with a sigh, rubbing the back of his neck. "And after that, I've got a shift at Jenkins' until sometime after two."
He glanced toward Jacob, brow raised. "So, who's on Kagome-duty tonight?"
Jared lifted his hand with a smug grin. "That would be me."
Embry rolled his eyes as the others groaned in mock outrage. Kagome's heart tightened slightly. She couldn't help but wonder if there might be jealousy brewing beneath the surface. With how affectionate they were, it was a fear that gnawed quietly at her. But so far, she hadn't seen any signs of it. She had to believe they'd tell her if they felt that way.
The conversation shifted to patrols. There was a calendar pinned to the kitchen wall, and Kagome remembered hearing them talk through shifts the night before.
"Anyway," Jake said, glancing at her neck. "What're you gonna tell Charlie about that bruise? He won't just ignore it."
Kagome's shoulders slumped. She'd completely forgotten about that.
"Just say you had an allergic reaction," Jared suggested. "Jake took you to the ER. Simple."
"Makes sense," Kagome nodded slowly, Charlie liked Jake and seemed happy to see her spend all her time on the Rez lately. "Maybe I'll say it was a lotion I picked up at the store."
"There, easy peasy. Just keep it covered for now and he won't ask questions," Quil said, leaning back in his chair. Kagome gave a small nod, hoping that would be enough. If Charlie saw the bruising on her throat, he'd absolutely lose it.
"Alright, we'd better head out," Sam announced, pushing to his feet. He gave Jared and Paul a sharp nod, and they answered with a sigh, reluctant to leave.
"I've gotta check on Dad today too," Jacob added, rubbing the back of his neck with a tired sigh. Kagome frowned slightly. He looked worn thin. Between taking care of Billy, helping the pack, and holding down work, he was clearly burning the candle at both ends.
The others started moving, gathering their things as the morning split into tasks and destinations. Paul lingered for a moment longer, patting Kagome's thigh before rising with a reluctant groan.
Kagome reached up and wrapped her arms around his neck, drawing him in. "Have a good day at work," she said warmly. Paul returned the embrace, careful of her back as he cradled her close.
"You're coming to dinner tonight, right?" he murmured, and immediately, several others chimed in.
"You better be," Jared said, half-sitting on the edge of the table.
"Yeah, don't make us drag you back," Seth joked, his grin wide.
Quil gave a dramatic shrug. "Honestly, you don't even have a choice anymore."
Kagome laughed, standing up and shaking her head. "I already come over almost every night. You all act like I ever say no."
Paul looked smug about that but still didn't seem thrilled to leave. Jared swooped in next, hands on her hips before he pulled her into a gentle hug. His forehead dipped against hers.
"I'll miss you," he said, voice low and sincere.
She giggled softly. "It's just a few hours, Jared. You'll survive."
He pouted. "Few hours too long. I want to spend every moment with you."
Nobody teased him. No sarcastic remarks, no rolled eyes. The pack simply accepted the affection between them as natural.
"Then work fast," Kagome replied playfully. "I'll have cookies and cupcakes ready by the time you're done."
Jared beamed, those dimples cutting deep as Paul returned, this time dressed in a black t-shirt that clung to his chest. "Make enough for me," he said, smirking. "Don't waste it all on this dumbass."
Jared elbowed him in response. "Back off, it's my night."
"Or maybe we don't bake for any of you," Quil chimed in, only to get caught in a chokehold by Paul. The two wrestled briefly before Sam's voice cut through the chaos.
"Alright, enough. Go get ready, Jared. Quil, get a shirt on."
Still laughing, they scattered. Kagome lingered near the island, watching as Sam leaned casually against the counter, watching the others with a slight smile.
She moved to him and he pulled her into his arms, hands around her waist as she rested her chin against his chest. "Do you have a client today?"
Sam hummed, his hands instinctively rubbing soft circles along her back. "Yeah. Renovation project. We're extending a downstairs living room. Shouldn't take more than a few hours."
Kagome sighed, savoring the warmth of his hand. It made her aches feel dull and distant.
He pulled away slightly, bending to press a kiss to her forehead. "Keep your phone on you, alright?" he murmured.
She smiled up at him, touched by the quiet concern in his voice. "I will."
At the same time, Jacob returned with a glass of water and a couple of Tylenol in his palm. "Alright, princess—meds time," he said with a teasing smile before his tone softened. "Do you have any ointment at home for that bruise?"
Kagome nodded, the memory of the quick salve she'd mixed up flashing in her mind. She had managed to find most of the ingredients in town the day before.
"I do," she said with a smile. "I made some at home, I'll put it on once I'm back."
"Look who's taking his sweet time after scolding us earlier," Jared called out from the stairs, miming the time on his wrist, though it remained bare.
Sam rolled his eyes, chuckling as the others burst into laughter. He let her go with a shake of his head and felt the now-familiar sensation of Jacob's presence snake from behind her as Sam went by the door to put his boots on. Jacob's arms were just as warm as the others as they wrapped around her waist. His aura was steady and commanding, like a low-burning fire. He smelled like the spring soap they all used and something distinctly rich, almost smoky. It reminded her of comfort, of being safe.
"Wish I could spend the day with you," he whispered, his breath warm against her ear. It made her shiver, fire racing across her skin.
He gathered her closer, lifting her with ease. His face pressed to the crook of her neck, lips barely brushing her skin as he inhaled deeply. She let out a quiet sigh, melting slightly before awareness returned, the gaze of too many eyes pressing like a weight upon her shoulders.
"Jake…" she murmured, patting his arm gently.
He sighed and let her go.
"I'll drop you off," he said, jerking his chin toward Seth and Quil, who were arguing over the last can of soda. "They have to swing by and grab Quil's car before picking you up later."
Seth appeared beside her, all sleepy eyes and easy smiles. "We'll be back in a bit to get you. Then it's baking time," he said, sliding an arm around her waist and pulling her into a warm side hug.
Jacob chuckled. "I'll see you in the car," he said before stepping outside.
"See you soon?" Seth asked as she pulled away from his embrace.
She nodded, just as he dipped his head and nuzzled lightly into her neck. Then Quil came bounding over, followed by Embry, who was pulling a shirt over his broad chest—tight and too small, or maybe it was just how built he was, all lean muscle and height.
Sam, Jared, and Paul were finishing loading the truck. They had boots on and fitted shirts that stretched across their torsos like second skin. Kagome's eyes lingered briefly before she had to look away, feeling heat on her cheeks. Goodness, they were all so handsome.
Quil looped an arm around her shoulders and pressed a kiss to the side of her head. "Don't miss me too much."
She swatted him playfully. "You wish."
With a whoop, Quil and Seth leapt over the porch railing and vanished into the woods. Moments later, she felt their energy shift as they phased.
Paul and Jared climbed into the truck after they finished loading everything, and Kagome offered them a soft wave as Sam backed out of the driveway. She saw the kiss Jared threw her but she shook her head with a laugh. The low rumble of the engine faded as they disappeared down the road, leaving behind the quiet hush of the morning.
Embry lingered on the porch, gesturing with his head to the car. Without a word, he reached for her hand, fingers lacing gently through hers as he walked her down the steps.
Jacob leaned casually against the driver's side, arms crossed, a knowing smile tugging at his lips as he watched the exchange.
When they reached the car, Kagome slid into the passenger seat and Embry leaned down beside the open door, his face just inches from hers. His eyes held that steady warmth she was coming to recognize that always left her with butterflies at the pit of her stomach.
"I'll see you later," he murmured, his voice low and close, breath brushing her cheek. He trailed the back of his hand against her cheek and sighed, sharing a wordless glance with Jacob before straightening, already moving with a quiet focus toward the forest
Jacob slid into the driver's seat and started the engine. As they pulled away, Kagome watched Embry disappear into the trees, a tender ache blooming in her chest that lingered long after the cabin faded from view.
The small community kitchen at the back of the La Push community center was warm, filled with the sugary scent of vanilla and melted butter. Light streamed in through the tall windows, casting a soft glow over the counter where Quil stood, apron tied loosely around his waist.
Flour dusted the countertops, frosting smeared across sides of mixing bowls, and the air was thick with the smell of butter, sugar, and vanilla. He stood over a tray of cupcakes that looked like they'd been designed by a toddler, piping swirls of bright blue and radioactive green with the kind of focused pride only chaos baking could inspire.
Kagome stood just a few feet away, licking frosting from her thumb with her cheeks flushed from laughter and heat. Her hair was tied up in a messy bun, and she had a streak of flour across her jaw. She looked completely at ease, radiant even, laughing at something Seth said as he elbowed her with a grin.
Quil's chest tightened. She'd come so close to death last night, and he could feel it wouldn't be the last time.
He hadn't been there. None of them had, not when it counted. That fact didn't stop rattling around his brain since last night. Knowing Kagome faced off with a leech, one-one-one, and lived to survive the tale left him relieved. Because she was stronger than any of them gave her credit for but still…
He remembered the first time he'd heard about imprinting, how it was supposed to tie your soul to someone else's. A one and done kind of thing.
What they didn't tell you was how terrifying it could be when you come close to losing your imprint. Kagome was bright, brave and soft all at once. But the fear of how easily that light could be taken away left him shaken to his core. He hadn't known fear until last night.
"Hey," Kagome's voice broke through his thoughts, warm and teasing. "You zoning out or just admiring your masterpiece?"
He blinked, and the fog in his head seemed to clear. She was grinning at him, cheeky, holding up one of the rainbow-swirled cupcakes he'd made with a dramatic flourish.
Quil smirked, slipping easily back into his usual rhythm. "Excuse you, sweetheart, that's not a cupcake. That's abstract art. A bold commentary on modern baking expectations."
Seth rolled his eyes from across the counter. "You're so full of it."
"Full of genius, you mean," Quil shot back.
Kagome giggled, the sound wrapping around him like sunlight. It soothed the part of him that was still clawing at the thought of what might've happened. She was here, laughing. Baking with them. And damn if he wasn't grateful.
"Here," she said, offering him a piping bag with pink frosting. "Make something pretty."
He arched a brow, but took it anyway. "If I must." He dipped a finger in a nearby bowl full of yellow frosting and smeared it across her face.
Kagome gasped, then dipped her finger into the bowl and smeared a thick swipe of frosting across Quil's cheek in retaliation.
Quil staggered back dramatically with a mock gasp, one hand to his heart until a sudden puff of flour hit him square in the face.
Blinking through the white cloud, he turned slowly to the culprit. Across the counter, Seth stood with his hands raised in exaggerated innocence, already dusted in flour.
"Sorry, bro," Seth said, smirking. "You kinda left yourself wide—"
He didn't finish the sentence before Kagome splattered a neon green glob of frosting right onto his face. Seth froze, blinking as it dripped from his cheek, then broke into laughter, pointing to the streak now decorating his jaw.
She giggled, trying to look innocent. The silence lasted all of four seconds.
"Food fight!" Quil bellowed, and chaos erupted.
Frosting flew. Flour coated the air in a powdery haze. Kagome, it turned out, had a wickedly accurate aim and a surprising knack for dodging their attacks. She darted around the counter with playful shrieks, flinging frosting and ducking low while her laughter filled the room.
Quil waited, watching her carefully. The second she turned her back to boop Seth's nose with a dollop of pink icing, he seized his chance.
He stepped in quietly behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist, catching her mid-laugh. She squeaked in surprise, half-twisting in his hold just as he leaned in, his breath warm against her neck, lips brushing the soft spot just beneath her ear.
The bandage on her neck caught his eye. It was a stark reminder of how close they'd come to losing her. Quil felt the edge of protectiveness rise in his chest again, even as her laughter softened it.
Seth leaned against the counter beside them, wiping frosting off his nose with a grin. The moment was light, but grounded in something deeper.
That's when they heard it—a sharp bang from outside, followed by a handful of voices and the familiar sound of footsteps approaching.
Kagome stilled for a second, glancing toward the door. "We should probably clean up and finish these," she said, moving toward the sink to wash the mess off her face. "We still need to drop them off at the high school."
Quil watched her with a crooked smile and shared a look with Seth, catching the way his eyes softened as he gazed at Kagome. His heart felt steady now.
They fell into a comfortable rhythm again. Kagome moved between them with practiced ease, dabbing Seth's nose with frosting when he got too smug, laughing when Quil accidentally (on purpose) dropped a spoonful of sprinkles down the front of her apron.
He caught her smiling to herself once, just a small thing, soft and fleeting. But it was real. Not forced. Not for their benefit. And it made something settle inside him.
She was okay–alive and here.
"Okay," Kagome said finally, brushing her hands off and surveying the trays. "These might not be the most elegant cupcakes on earth…"
"But they've got soul," Quil finished with a grin, slipping an arm around her shoulders the same time Seth snaked an arm around her waist. "Just like us."
She rolled her eyes, but she was still smiling. That was all he needed.
Still, as she leaned over to inspect Seth's cookies and the sunlight glinted through her hair, something fierce and protective flared in his chest again. He didn't care what it took, he'd do everything in his power to make sure that smile never disappeared again.
Even if that meant making twenty more batches of neon cupcakes just to keep her laughing.