*Jonas*To be honest I am actually kinda excited and delighted to be allowed to stay. But when the first excitement has died down I realise that I have no more to share with them. I am not gonna actually be a help. To say it bluntly, I am useless. I am sure they have no idea yet. Typhon and Fire moon probably think I still have all kinds of juice tidbits they can use. What will happen when they realise ? Will they change their mind and throw me out ? Or will they decide to get rid of me. So I decide that the only way to keep myself safe and keep me here … ‘And with that hunky man,’ Cana injects into my thoughts. ‘Oh shut it you horny bitch,’ I tell him. The way to keep me here is to make myself useful … but how do I do that ? “What to do, what to do,” I mumble to myself, walking aimlessly through the caves as I look for a suitable task. I need to find a project that will take a long time to complete, something that will require my presence for at least several days, maybe a wee
*Typhon* I had gone to bed in a bad mood and I woke up this morning feeling even worse. This thing … keeping that annoying little Alpha as a hostage, if I have to be honest about it ... has turned into a fiasco. A nightmare. A walking disaster that plays tricks on my mind. He is a constant temptation, and an aching reminder of all that had been stolen from me. Cheerful, innocent, and optimistic, he is everything that has been missing from my heart for so very long. Since I was rejected by my mate and kicked out of my pack. The entire bloody situation seems to prove the existence of a higher power … one whose sole purpose is to drive me absolutely and irrevocably insane. I stomp out of my bedroom, my expression black. “Ever cheerful, I see.” I look up to see Fire Moon standing at the end of the hall. “Do you lurk in dark corners, just waiting to bedevil me?" I growl. She laughs, “I have far more important people to bedevil than you. I was just on my way down to get breakfast.
*Fire moon* “I wouldn't have said that if I was you,” I comment from a safe distance, my wolf just following the spectacle with curiosity Jonas sticks the end of his shovel in the dirt and leans on it as he speaks to Typhon, “Once you hear my explanation, I'm sure you will understand." “I understand nothing !” The big man huffs. “Yes,'' Jonas sighs, “Men like you usually don't.” Typhon starts looking around the garden, his head whipping frantically from side to side as he tries to assess the damage, “I'm going to have to get someone to redo everything and repair what you have done. Good God, kid, you are going to cost me a bloody fortune and we will lack the vegetables." “Don't be silly," Jonas courageously replies, “These holes will all be filled up by evening. I'm merely moving those plants here into the sun. They will do much better there. Except for those over here, of course,” He adds, pointing to the ones planted right next to the rocks, “Those thrive in the shade.” “I
*Jonas* By the end of the day, I have the garden looking the way I think a garden ought. Fire Moon seems to agree with me, complimenting me on my excellent sense of landscape design and knowledge of the different vegetables. Telling me that they really needed someone with knowledge of things like that. Typhon, on the other hand, can’t be prodded into uttering even the most grudging words of praise. In fact, the only noise he makes at all is a rather strangled groan that sounds a bit like: “My tomatoes." "Your tomatoes had gone wild,” I return, thoroughly exasperated with this man. Seriously why can’t he just be grateful. “I liked them wild,” He shoots back, making a face like I have insulted him personally. And that is that. But then he surprises me by having gotten me some New clothes, as I have been wearing the same set since I came here, and now after gardening, well it is both sweaty and dirty. But he brings me a pair of jeans, shorts, a t-shirt and a hoodie, along with under
*Typhon* When I come down for breakfast in the morning I find a feast the likes of which I have not seen since being kicked out of my pack. My morning meal usually consists of a platter of fried eggs, a slice or two of ham, and some cold toast. Those items are all in evidence, but they are accompanied by roast beef, fresh fruit and a variety of pastries and tarts that boggles the mind. Hunter has clearly found new culinary inspiration, and I have no doubt that his name is Jonas Whitepaw. ‘He better not have eyes for our … Jonas,’ Cerberus growls. ‘Eyes for?’ I ask, ‘Also he is not our … Jonas. Also Hunter is straight.’ ‘So is his wolf … His female wolf,’ Cerberus reminds me. I resolve not to let myself grow irritated at the way our cook is clearly playing favorites and instead decide simply to fill my plate and enjoy the bounty. I am munching on the most delicious strawberry tart when Fire Moon strolls into the room. “Good morning to you,” She says, "Where is Jonas?” “Damned i
*Typhon* I don’t reply. I have no wish to discuss my life or what is handy with him. Some younger guys tend to find the idea of a rogue King dashing and glamorous, and I know that the truth is anything but. There is nothing dashing or glamorous about fighting for your existence, or the right to be yourself. Jonas finally breaks the long silence, “I'm sure you can let go of me now.” ‘No let's hold him a little longer,’ Cerberus purrs, ‘Maybe kiss him a little.’ “Can you walk?” I ask softly, as I let him go. He huffs, “Of course I ... Ow !” He has barely taken a step before he howls in pain again. I immediately sweep him into my arms and say. “I will carry you to the common room.” “But my books!" He protests. “I believe they are my books,” I say with a small smile, “And I'll have one of the guys come and put them back.” He shakes his head in denial, “No, no, please don't do that. I'll put them back myself.” “If you'll pardon my saying so, Little Alpha, you cannot even walk.
*Typhon* Freshly cut flowers are strewn on the floor, a vase is overturned but thankfully not broken, and a wet stain is seeping into some papers that should be on the desk, but now are on the floor. “I just wanted to smell them,” Jonas says from his position on the floor. “You were supposed to stay still!” I yell. He looks sheepish, "Well, I know that but …." “No buts!” I roar, checking to see that his ankle isn't twisted in some hideous fashion. “There is no need to shout,” He huffs. ‘Yeah, really no need to shout,’ Cerberus agrees. “I'LL SHOUT IF I …, ” I stop, clear my throat, and continue in a more normal tone, “I will shout if I damned well please, and I will speak like this if I damned well please. And if I want to whisper .…” He pouts, “I'm sure I understand your meaning.” “May I remind you that this is my home, and I can do anything I want?” I point out. Cerberus is instantly there, ‘What about what I want?’ “You don't need to remind me,” He says agreeably. His
*Jonas* “I had no idea you could be so agreeable,” I say in a wry voice. Cana makes a low humming sound, ‘He is kinda cute when agreeable.’ “Don't push me, Little Alpha. In case you hadn't noticed, my temper is hanging by a very fine thread,” Typhon huffs. “Oh, I noticed,” I huff back. Typhon stares at me in disbelief, “It's a wonder someone hasn't killed you before now.” ‘Okay that was not cute,’ Cana huffs. He strides across the hall, I am clutching his shoulders, and into another room. No sign of the tea service. "Hunter!” Typhon bellows. “Oh,Typhon!” The disembodied voice of the other man sounds. “Where is he?” I can not help asking, twisting my head to look behind me. “The Goddess only knows,” Typhon mutters, then yells, “Where the devil … Oh, there you are, Hunter.” “You do creep up on a soul,” I say with a smile. “It's one of my most useful talents,” Hunter replies from the doorway, “I took the liberty of moving the tea service to the next room … the couch is bett
*Jonas* The air thrumms with anticipation. The cave, a natural amphitheater, is transformed. Soft candlelight flickers, casting dancing shadows. Wildflowers, vibrant against the muted stone, are arranged in elegant bouquets. The scent of pine and damp earth mingles with the blossoms' perfume. A low, mournful cello piece fills the space. Typhon stands near the rock altar, his usual intensity softened by quiet joy. He wears a simple dark tunic, moonlight catching the silver threads. His features are relaxed, a gentle smile playing on his lips as he watches me approach. I wear a deep green tunic, chosen by Hunter. It feels right, comfortable. Cana's approval is a comforting presence. Fire Moon, Donahue, and Donavon stand nearby, their faces alight with happiness. Even their boisterousness is muted. Hunter hovers, ensuring perfection. As I approach Typhon, a hush falls. The only sounds are the cello and dripping water. Typhon takes my hand, his touch sending warmth through me. "Ready
*Jonas* The morning light filters through the makeshift curtains, casting a warm glow over the room. I stretch out, my body still tingling with the memory of last night, a night that changed everything. Typhon's scent, now familiar and comforting, fills the space, a constant reminder of our new bond. I find Typhon in the dining room, already engaged in conversation with the others. Fire Moon, her eyes glinting with mischief, spots me first. "Hey, Jonas," she calls out, her tone playful. "Should we start calling you Luna now?" I feel a flush creeping up my neck, a mix of embarrassment and amusement. 'Great, they're all in on it already,' Cana whispers in my mind, his tone filled with laughter. Typhon, standing by the table, turns to me with a smile. "I was just telling them about our decision." I nod, taking a seat beside him. "Yeah, I guess it's official now." Hunter, ever the caretaker, places a plate of food in front of me, their eyes twinkling with affection. "Don't worry,
*Jonas* Afterwards, I can't decide which part I liked best. Was it the feeling of completeness I felt when we were joined as one when kissing? Was it the primitive rhythm of Typhon's body as he pleasured me? Certainly, I can't discount the explosive climax I'd felt. 'What a wild night, Cana,' I think, addressing my wolf. 'One to remember, Jonas,' Cana replies within my mind, his voice a comforting echo. But now, as I lay in Typhon’s strong arms, the fresh breeze from the window caressing our bodies, I think that this might be the best of all. He is so warm and close, and I can hear his heartbeat as it slows to its normal, sedate pace. I can smell the salt on his skin and the passion in the air. And there is something so right about it all, as if I've waited my whole life just for this moment. 'Can you feel this too, Cana?' I ask, sharing my feeling of rightness with my wolf. 'I feel your happiness, Jonas. It's a warm glow,' Cana responds, his presence a steady anchor within m
*Jonas* I follow Typhon down the dimly lit corridor, the smell of damp earth and moss lingering in the air. The sound of our footsteps echo off the cave walls, creating a soft harmony as we make our way to my room. My heart races in anticipation, and I can feel Cana, my wolf, stirring within me, his excitement palpable. Typhon stops in front of a heavy wooden door, his strong hand resting on the doorknob. Our eyes meet, and I can feel the heat rise in my cheeks. Cana purrs in my mind, ‘Go on, Jonas. He's just as eager as we are.’ As the door creaks open, I step inside, followed closely by Typhon. The room is simple but cozy, with a large bed covered in furs and a small fireplace casting flickering shadows on the walls. Typhon closes the door behind us, muffling the sounds of the pack outside. He walks towards me, his broad shoulders and strong arms making me feel safe and protected. I can't help but be drawn to him, and I reach out to touch his chest, feeling the warmth of his bod
*Typhon* Connor smirks, his eyes cold and calculating. "Typhon, long time no see. I came to inquire about the young Alpha, Jonas, everyone's talking about his disappearance. Rumor has it he might be dead. I thought I would come and see for myself." I clench my fists, my anger rising. "Your presence here is unwelcome, Connor. Jonas is none of your concern any longer." Connor laughs, a cruel sound that sends shivers down my spine. "Oh, but he is my concern, Typhon. You see, he's from my pack. And I have a vested interest in his well-being. Or well, in knowing if we are in need of a new Alpha." I narrow my eyes, trying to decipher the hidden meaning behind his words. Cerberus growls in my head, urging me to attack. But I know better than to let my emotions take control. I need to protect Jonas, and attacking Connor won't help me do that. "Jonas is safe and alive," I say through gritted teeth. "Now leave." Connor's smirk widens, as if he knows something I don't. "Of course, Typhon.
*Jonas* An hour later I am feeling quite refreshed … at least in the physical sense. The crisp forest air holds remarkable restorative properties for the lungs. Unfortunately, it isn't quite as effective with the heart and the head. Do I love Typhon Bloodclaw? I certainly hope so. I would like to think that I wouldn't have behaved in such a wanton manner with a man for whom I didn't feel a deep and abiding affection. I almost laugh out loud, considering how many women I have slept with before not even caring if I know their name. Why is this so different to me? I still can’t believe I had done that … not to mention what would have happened if Hunter hadn’t shown up. I smile wryly. What I ought to be considering is whether Typhon cares for me. I believe he does, at least a little bit. His concern for my welfare the night before had been obvious, and when he kissed me… well, I don’t know very much about kissing another man, but I can sense a hunger in him, and I instinctively know t
*Jonas* “Fine ! Do you want to know why I am upset? Fine. I'll tell you.” I swallow, summoning courage I do not feel. “Did you happen to notice that you compared me to the plague?” Cana huffs, ‘That wasn’t nice.’ “Oh, for the love of…” He bites his lip, presumably to keep himself from cursing in my presence, or maybe from laughing. Not, I think caustically, that that has ever stopped him before. “You must know.” He says. “That I did not mean that literally”. "It still hurts my feelings." I mumble. He stares at me intently. “I will allow that that wasn't the nicest comment I have ever made, and I do apologize for it, but I know you well enough to know that that alone wouldn't make you cry.” “I wasn't crying.” I say, quite automatically. “Almost cry then.” He corrects. “And I would like you to tell me the full story.” “Oh very well. My father used to call me pestilence and plague all the time. It was his very favorite insult.” “You mentioned that. And I will take that as yet
*Jonas* It is my fiercest desire to avoid Typhon for the next fifteen years, but as luck will have it, I quite literally bump into him the following morning. Unfortunately for the sake of my dignity, this ‘bump’ involves me spilling about a half-dozen rather thick books onto the floor, several of which hit Typhon's legs and feet on the way down. He howls in pain, and I want nothing more than to howl in embarrassment, but instead I just mumble my apologies and drop to the carpet so that I can gather my books. At least that way he won’t see the bright blush that is staining my cheeks. ‘We can’t avoid him forever,’ Cana points out. ‘I can try,’ I mumble in return. “I thought you were limiting your redecorating endeavors to the library.” He says. “What the devil are you doing with those books out here in the hall ?” I look straight up into his clear hazel eyes. Drat. If I had to see him this morning, why did I have to be on my hands and knees ? “I'm not redecorating.” I say in my ha
*Jonas* An hour or so later I follow Typhon through the front entrance to the caves. I am tired and sore and want nothing more than to crawl into bed, but before I can dash down the hallway he takes me by the elbow and steers me into his office. Or perhaps propels would be a more accurate term. ‘Hey.’ My Wolf huffs. “Can't this wait until morning?” I ask, yawning. "No.” “I'm terribly sleepy.” No response. We had spent the better of an hour releasing the creatures. Making sure they fled into the forest safely. I still have no idea why they were kept there and I am not sure I want to know. I decide to try a different tactic. “What do you suppose happened to fire moon?” She had not come back with us. “I don't particularly care.” I blink. How odd. Then I yawn again, unable to help myself. “Is it your intention to scold me?” I ask. “Because if it is, I might as well warn you that I'm really not up to it, and ...” ‘I will be happy to bite him,’ Cana mumbles. ‘Maybe in the ass