Mated

AUTHOR'S NOTE:

This is a work of fiction. All characters and places are of my own creation. All characters are over 18 years of age. Copyright October 2019. This story contains Supernatural/fantasy elements: Werewolves and other Werebeings. This story contains homosexual activity/themes between males. If this offends you, please do not read. If it is ILLEGAL where you are, please do not read.

Also...Nifty is a great site, so if you are inclined, maybe consider a small donation. http://donate.nifty.org/donate.html

Thanks to everyone who have read the previous chapters.

Mated Chapter 14 -- Worse Things by mjwolfwriter@gmail.com

October 12, Saturday

It was late afternoon (or early evening -- however you wanted to look at it) when Dylan pulled into the large circular driveway of the Riverton Estate. Well...that's how he thought of it anyway. He had no idea what they called it. Zack just refers to it as the family home.

He parked near Mrs. Riverton's sporty car and shut the engine off. He just needed a few moments to collect his thoughts before going in.

Dylan didn't know how long he had been lost in his head before he was startled to awareness by a series of sharp wraps on his window. He snapped his head to look to the left to see Cassius Riverton peering in at him, a concerned look on his face.

"Dylan. Are you okay, son? We heard you pull in a while ago. When you didn't ring or knock at the door I figured I'd come out and check. I saw you just sitting here. Do you want to come inside?"

No I don't WANT to go inside. "Yeah," Dylan said, grabbing his keys and phone. When Cassius stepped away from the vehicle, he exited and secured it. He fell instep beside the powerful Westvale Pack Alpha towards the front door and followed him inside. All along the way from his SUV he'd tried to convince himself that maybe Zack was here. His gut told him that he wasn't.

"Constance, dear. Alpha Tyler has decided to join us finally," Cassius called out in a raised voice, and chuckled.

Shortly, Zack's mother was there and wrapping him in a warm embrace. "Dylan. So good to see you, son." She released him and took a step back, looking him over in that way that mothers have. "You seem upset. And I see that Zack didn't come with you? Did you boys have an argument? Is he coming later?" Her tone was all motherly.

He frowned and his hands clenched into fists at his sides. He knew Zack wasn't here, but having it verbally confirmed hit him harder than he had expected. And just what are they going to think about their son's boyfriend showing up uninvited or without him? That he had somehow lost their boy? Fuck! What kind of boyfriend loses their lover? "I...I don't know," he hesitated, taking a deep breath and exhaling. "I don't know where he is." The words burst out in a rush. His whole body tensed up in expectation of an explosive response from the older Wolves. You know, his parents! He figured he could possibly get away from one. Both though...not a fucking chance. Home turf, enclosed spaces, obstacles...that sort of nightmare.

Sensing the sudden concern from Zack's parents, his mind went on alert. He noted Cassius step closer. He didn't detect anger so figured his best option was to try and stay as calm as he could. When the powerful Alpha extended a hand out towards him, he forced himself to stand still where he was. He didn't want to do anything that might be perceived as a challenge. He was no fool, he would defend himself. Just not start a fight with Zack's father.

Dylan felt surprise...and then relief when Cassius laid the raised hand on his shoulder and asked softly "What do you mean...tell us what happened, son." How can the old Alpha be so calm at a time like this, he thought. He took a couple of deep breaths then related everything he knew and did, including his reasoning for waiting so long to tell them. They listened to all of it, no interruptions, and assured him that they understood. And that they did not hold him responsible. He wasn't so sure how much they meant that last part. Feelings of anger and guilt still plagued his mind.

Constance suggested discussing everything over dinner. Zack's mother always seemed to be so practical. No stress was so large that food couldn't help. Cassius agreed that dinner was an excellent idea (being right around dinner time anyway) and Dylan figured probably best not to rock the Riverton boat. They were both much older and certainly had more life experience than his own 35 plus years. As it was not quite dinner yet, Cassius offered a drink which Dylan accepted.

While they sat and talked in the living room, Haley joined them. He had no problems with Zack's sister-in-law other than her husband. Being a Wolf raised with manners, he stood when she came into the room. Upon seeing him, she smiled and walked directly over, embracing him in a fond hug.

"Dylan, so good to see you. How are you?" Her voice was so bright and cheery. She had been very accepting of him when Zack introduced him to the family. Like he really was part of the family and not just a boyfriend. That was probably going to change when she found out that he had lost her little brother though.

"Haley," he acknowledged. After a moment the hug ended. "Honestly, I've had better wee...," he began. He was silenced by the sight of Nicodemus entering the room. The man seemed to have a permanent scowl whenever he saw him.

"Ah, I see the boyfriend is here. Charming," the thin Wolf said crisply. "And where, pray tell, is my youngest sibling?"

"Not here," growled Dylan.

"And you invited yourself over, why?" It sounded very much like he was speaking to someone that had overstayed their welcome at a party.

"Nicodemus," said Cassius firmly, "I say who is welcome. In this house and on this land." The voice was low and calm, but it carried such weight. No doubt that an Alpha had spoken the words.

Something flickered in the younger Riverton's eyes and Dylan thought for a few seconds that Nicodemus was going to object or argue. Cassius must have felt the same, because he followed with "And aside from that...you seem to have forgotten that you were just addressing an Alpha and a guest in my home. I am much relieved and grateful that he has let such disrespect pass so far. This was not the first offense. I can only imagine it has been out of deference to your brother that he has been so kind."

"More likely it's fear of a better, stronger Alpha," sneered Nicodemus.

I've had just about enough of his shit! "Yes," responded Dylan, "there is some fear associated with such a powerful Alpha such as your father. Only a fool would not acknowledge that. But more than that...I have a great deal of respect for Zack's sire. And his family in general, really. However, I'm sure Alpha Cassius would not fault me for saying don't push your luck."

There was no mistaking the anger from Nicodemus. His eyes flashed and the scent rolled from him. "Are you threatening me in my father's house," he asked coldly.

"What he's doing," said Cassius sharply, "is giving a completely fair warning. One which he should not have had to give in the first place. Now, since you cannot seem to be civil to a guest, you will not be dining at my table this evening. You have a choice of eating in town or your rooms. I do not care which, but leave us now."

The look of shock on Nicodemus was somehow pleasing. Never claimed to not be an asshole sometimes. Though difficult, Dylan managed not to grin.

Clearly agitated, Nicodemus turned to go, Haley following at his bark of "Let's go!"

"Haley," called Cassius,"I would be most pleased if you still joined us at dinner this evening."

Dylan saw the brief hesitation of what was surely a moment of indecision. Following one's Mate was expected almost always. But the words of one's Alpha are not lightly ignored. If she refused, she could be punished. Up to banishment.

"Of course, Alpha Cassius," she replied. Addressing her Mate she said "I'll see you after dinner Nic," and gave a stressed smile.

Dylan was sure she would be spoken to harshly later, at the least, but it was not his business and so nothing he could do about it. Nicodemus resumed his departure, growling curses under his breath as he went.

"And now you are unwelcome at breakfastas well," Cassius snapped. "Care to try for more?"

"No Alpha. Forgive me."

"Prove to me that you deserve it."

"Of course, Alpha," said Nicodemus, bowing his head slightly as he exited the room.

The words held no sincerity to Dylan's ear. This touble is not over, he thought. But Nicodemus was not under his roof so not his concern, for which he was very grateful.

"Well," Cassius said with a loud clap of his hands, "I say we take this party to the dinning room."

Everyone agreed and were soon seated around the Mahogany and epoxy resin dinning table. Conversation through dinner was generally light and Dylan found he could easily tell amusing moments of living with Zack. Well, the Safe for Work moments anyway. It became more difficult when it was time to talk about Zack's disappearance. He was mildly surprised and pleased at the sincere concern from Haley. A flash of disappointment in himself hit when he realized he had allowed his own negative thoughts about Zack's brother color his thinking about Haley. He promised himself he would do better. After much discussion, it was decided that Cassius would inform the Pack that Zack was missing. Even though he had left the Pack, he was still the Alpha's son and beloved by them. Cassius said that he may even inform the other Pack Alphas in the area. Dylan knew that almost every Wolf in Westvale, maybe even further, would be looking out now. * * * * *

knock knock knock knock Sitting in the warehouse office, Christopher heard the muffled sounds from the warehouse's front door and checked the clock on the wall. 8:10 p.m. About fucking time that idiot kid got here! He arose from the chair behind the desk and purposefully made his way to the front door. Peering through the peephole, he saw his blond plaything of the moment. While fun and diverting, the young student was becoming more tiresome and clingy. He was going to have to get rid of him very soon. And not just dump his, admittedly fine, ass like he had all of the others. No. This kid knows too much. Being totally honest with himself, he knew he was going to dispose of his 'helper' from the beginning. His activities allowed for no other option. Loose ends and all that. Almost a pity.

With a huff, Christopher flipped the deadbolt open and unlocked the doorknob lock. Jerking the door open he snapped "Get in here!" Said door was resecured as soon as Billy was inside.

Scowling, he turned to the kid. "Where have you been," Christopher hissed. "It's ten after!"

Billy flinched backwards a step. "S...sorry. There's a party at the house. It took a bit to make it to the door."

"Well why didn't you just push your damn way through," the irritated Wolf growled.

"Because I'm not foolish enough to shove any Wolves out of my way on a full moon," Billy gulped, stuffing his hands into his jeans pockets.

"Perhaps not. Just foolish enough to keep one waiting!" Christopher glared.

"I'm sooo sorry. I promise, it won't happen again." Billy's eyes were downcast and voice not quite whiney.

"No," Christopher said, "I don't believe it will." He delivered a wide, toothy smile.

Taking a slow step toward Christopher, Billy asked softly "Am I forgiven?" His gaze remained lowered.

Christopher puffed out a breath and nodded. "Of course you're forgiven. I keep forgetting that you're young and Mundane, I shouldn't expect too much." He opened his arms wide for an embrace.

The young blond was quick to reach the Wolf and wrap his arms around him. "I was thinking of you," he nearly purred.

Christopher returned the embrace, rubbing the jock's back a few times before releasing him. "Okay, now to the office."

Nodding, Billy turned and did as he was told. Once there he stood in front of the desk as Christopher took the chair behind it. The older man patted his lap a couple of times indicating Billy should join him. Billy rounded the desk and began to back onto the Wolf's lap before Christopher barked "No!" He flinched as he stopped moving. "Face me," Christoper corrected.

Billy quickly straddled Christoper's lap, setting himself down as he was told. Placing his hands lightly on the Wolf's sides, he leaned his body in closer and rested his head on Christoper's right shoulder with his face near the neck. He exhaled. "You're still angry with me."

Rubbing the young athlete's back, Christoper said "It's just the moon. Don't worry. It'll pass." Trying to further minimize Billy's concern, he reached to cup and gently squeeze the man's ass. "After the weekend you'll see. Things will be different." His voice held a soft rumble.

"Chris," Billy gasped.

The Wolf chuckled at the response. "Now...there's work to be done."

"Are you sure you don't want some fun first," Billy asked, licking Christoper's neck a few times.

"Billy!" The tone was harsh, but not quite a bark. "Look at my eyes. Do you think it's a good idea to irritate me further tonight?" There was a very thin ring of red around the irises.

Billy pulled back and when he saw the red, he tensed and blurted "Ohmygod! I...I'm sorry."

"Just please, do...as...I...say."

"I will," the young man nodded emphatically.

"Good boy. Stand up, grab the key." Christoper grinned as he watched Billy open the desk's top drawer where the key was kept and pulled it out, holding it up to show him. "Now the injector from the cabinet." His gaze followed as Billy retrieved the case containing the device and set it in the middle of the desktop. Christoper nodded approvingly. "And a vial of the clear fluid."

Billy went to the office fridge and returned with the appropriate vial. "Do you want a sedative as well," he asked cautiously.

"No," Christopher shook his head. "I want him alert enough o be able to hear and understand me when I speak to him."

The young man nodded. "The usual dose," he asked as he picked up the injector and vial.

"Not this time. Up it a couple of points. He might get upset with the conversation."

The injector was loaded and dosage set, then Billy showed it to Christoper. "Do you want to check it?"

"Noo, you've done it often enough, I'm sure it's correct," Christoper chuckled.

"Uh...cool. So, what's the plan tonight," Billy asked as he stuck the device in his belt at the back.

"Simple. You give the Wolf the injection and then you go off and do whatever, wherever."

"Are, umm...are you sure you won't need company?"

"Nice thought, but no. What I have planned tonight is just for him to hear and think on."

"Well, if you're sure..." Billy's voice rose slightly on the last word, as if in question.

Christoper nodded "Let's get this done." He led the way out of the office and stopped several feet from the cage. Even at this distance his mind shuddered at the silver. He looked long enough to see that his prey still slept from the sedation. Turning his back on the awful metal construct he said "Okay Billy, go give him the injection then pull him out of there on the mat."

The blond gave him a confused look. "You...you want him out of the cage?"

Christoper rolled his eyes. "That's what I said, so hurry up so you can get to the rest of your evening." There was a hint of a growl at the end.

"Umm...okay, yeah, sure," Billy said as he walked to the cage door. He looked at the Wolf laying on the mat for a moment before taking the key out of his pocket and unlocking the cage. Going inside, he didn't bother closing the door. Looking back at Christoper he asked "Are you sure about no sleeping stuff?"

"BILLY," the dark haired Wolf barked.

"Right. Sorry," Billy said. He stepped to stand over the sleeping form, then bent down and gave the injection as he had been directed. Returning the device to his waistband, he then grabbed the feet end of the mat and began tugging, Wolf and all. With some clear effort and maneuvering, he dragged the burden several feet out of the cage and in front of Christoper. Standing, he asked "Is here good?"

Nodding, Christoper replied "Yes, that's fine. Off you go, now. Put those things back where they go and you can return to the house party. Full moon, could be interesting, right?"

"Oh yeah, bunch of college aged Wolves getting drunk off their asses on a full moon. Interesting is one way to put it," Billy grumbled.

Christoper looked down at Zack briefly and then up at Billy. "So don't go back there," he snapped. "Go someplace else. The key point in this is GO!" The red ring in his eyes was thicker and brighter.

Billy jerked. "Right. Leaving. Talk later." He nearly sprinted for the exit, Christoper right behind him.

"Remember, that suppressant will be wearing off by tomorrow afternoon. If I'm not here, you know how to get in and take care of things."

"Yeah, uh...tomorrow then," Billy said as he exited the warehouse, head downcast.

Christoper locked both locks and turned back toward his prey with a grin. Finally, the best phase of his plan had arrived. Though his college 'assistant' didn't know it, the suppressant was a little different this time. Not just keeping his prey from shifting, it would also keep his muscles from working except for breathing and speech. The prey was quickly rolled onto his back and Christoper waited....

Zack felt like he was coming out of a fog and his throat felt dry and scratchy. Suddenly, there was a sharp pain on his left cheek. Was that a slap? I think I was slapped. Not that he'd felt that sensation in quite awhile, but one really doesn't forget how it feels. And for some reason it seemed familiar. When he finally managed to force his eyes open, he saw the last person he ever wanted to see looking down at him: Christoper-fucking-Carver! Well fuck!

"Ah, awake at last. Now the fun can really begin. Well...fun for me anyway. You, not so much," Christoper said cheerily.

"Ch...Christopher," Zack rasped. Damn, how long have I been out? Where am I? Where's Dylan? That last thought being the most concerning.

"You remembered me. I'm touched," smirked Christoper.

"Wh...where...," Zack began.

"Where are you? It doesn't matter."

"Where's m...my...," continued Zack.

"Your Alpha boyfriend?" It sounded like a taunting singsong.

"Mate!" Zack was well pleased that he was able to voice it clear and strong.

"Mate?" Christoper sounded surprised and scowled. "Whatever! It doesn't matter. Your Alpha can't help you now," he spat.

Spirit! He knows Dylan is an Alpha and is purposely disrespecting him. He's out of his fucking mind. "Why? Why are you doing this?"

"Originally, because you disrespected me."

What? It had been close to a year since he had been with Christoper. That made no sense. "How?"

"I never gave permission for you to go," Christoper sneered.

"Didn't need your permission. Not mates. Not bonded in any way. Just dated for a few months. Besides, I was just a plaything for you anyway," Zack said bitterly. "And when your abuse became too much to just overlook, I preserved myself by leaving."

"See, still a disobedient whelp," snorted Christoper. "And now I have the added bonus of hurting your Alpha, who obviously can't protect a Wolf under his care. It must be driving him nuts." The mile could almost be described as vicious.

"My Mate is gonna kick your stupid ass, idiot."

Christoper laughed. "He can try...provided he can even find me. Westvale is pretty damn big. And I've taken some precautions." As he spoke he removed his shoes and socks.

"Like what?"

"Pffft. As if I'd tell you." Christoper pulled off his tee shirt and tossed it aside. "The only thing you need to know is that I planned all of this." He made a show of unfastening his pants and slowly unzipping them, then shucking them off along with his underwear and sending them to join the shirt. "Oh, and you're going to suffer like you've never imagined."

Zack got a sense of real fear as Christoper got close again and shifted into his Beast form. That can't be a good sign. The Beast moved down to his right side and Zack felt himself being grabbed roughly and flipped onto his front. Fuck! Naked and facedown with BeastChris over him...not good! The last thing he had been able to see of Christoper was a Beast with a very erect and dripping cock.

Moments later Zack heard the clicking sound of toenails on the floor. Then he felt claws pierce and scratch his right side and hip. He couldn't remember actually being scratched since he was just a little pup playing with packmates at playtimes. This was altogether different.

"Let me go Chris. Please let me go home." That produced a snarl and claws sinking into his shoulder blades. Zack screamed in pain, begging Christoper to stop. The Beast just growled and scratched down his back. Blessedly, he stopped at the lower back. His relief only lasted for a few breaths as he felt the Beast's clawed hands on his ass. Rubbing and squeezing, but then a more frightening sensation...that of the cheeks being pulled apart followed by what had to be drool splattering on his now exposed hole.

No! No...he can't do this, his mind raged. Oh fuck! That was his tongue. Next there was a clawed digit, probably a thumb, jammed into him. And not slowly. Christoper had always liked doing that. "No!" He was sure his voice was full of the terror he was feeling. Any anger had taken off several moments ago. He wasn't ashamed to admit he was scared and desperately wanted his Mate. Suddenly claws dug deeply into his shoulders as the Beast's hands gripped him tightly. There was a thundering roar as he felt himself being forcefully, roughly, painfully penetrated. He screamed and screamed himself hoarse as the assault continued on and on until he finally blacked out. * * * * *

Three full days. And four damn nights!

That's how long Zack has been gone. Dylan had gone from being down to anxious to full on angry. A total emotional rollercoaster. Sad all the way to biting people's heads off in two seconds flat. Ben seemed to be the only one able to stand dealing with him for any length of time. Of course, Ben had no problem handing his shit right back at him. His emplyees, on the other hand, walked on eggshells. Well, comparatively. He hated being that boss. The fucking asshole boss. He didn't used to be. Fuck! Why wasn't Zack home?

He wasn't sleeping well either. Restless. Tossing and turning. He couldn't recall doing that in so long. Hell, probably before the Marines, even. Since maybe nine this evening he's felt oddly anxious. Somehow different than the sort he had been feeling. He didn't understand it and that really didn't help sleep any at all. Even weirder, it felt like something was wrong with Zack. And not just that he wasn't home. It was like something was actually upsetting Zack. No matter how much he tried, he couldn't shake that feeling of wrongness. Zack needed him and he was powerless to do anything to help.

Sleep had come at some point, his mind still filled with unease and a certainty that Zack was scared, wherever he was. He was jolted awake by intense discomfort. His head was throbbing. His body ached. And there was a phantom pain in his anus like when he first tried bottoming. The guy had not been considerate that it was all new to him. No decent preparation and entirely too rough. If he hadn't wanted to try bottoming, he would have thought it was rape.

In his mind he kept hearing MATE over and over. Actually in his head! Zack. Zack is calling for him. Zack is his! His Mate! And he's being hurt. It's as if he can actually feel all of the pain and anguish that Zack is surely suffering. Every part of him screams that his Mate needs him right now. Gods, he has a Mate! One who needs him this very moment. And he has no idea where he is.

For the first time in oh so many years, Dylan actually lost control and spontaneously shifted into his Beast form. He lept from the bed with a mighty, rumbling growl. He ran from the bedroom and down the hall, his anger roiling inside causing him to claw the walls as he went. In the living room he shredded a large section of the couch. When blocked by the front door, he roared and took a swipe at it, gauging it deeply. The clawing continued until the only thing left of the door was kindling and shattered bits of glass. Bursting outside, he let loose a great, sonorous roar that echoed for miles.

The last few days of anxiety and anger had now become a pain and rage that filled him so full that he could no longer contain it. His primal Beast had taken over...and it demanded blood. He rampaged through the woods seeking something living to vent his rage on. * * * * *

October 13, Sunday The blond college student sat in a comfortable chair in his fraternity house's common room. Several of his brothers were talking over coffee and television. It was after breakst (two toaster waffles, two microwave sausages, an orange and coffee), but before lunch time. He had weathered the house party well, having stuck to soft drinks and keeping an eye open for the really drunk Wolves.

"So Billy," said Adam, one of the football brothers, "you off to see your guy tonight?"

Bill always considered Adam attractive. The guy's 6 feet even frame was well put together, muscled in all the right ways. The dark brown hair and milk chocolate eyes were equally pleasing. If not for the facts that Adam was basically straight (a blow job is a blow job, right) and a Mundane like himself, he would have made a play for him more seriously than he had when they first met in the frat house. He was not the type to try to 'convert' straight guys. Blow them, sure. Chase them, hell no. "No," he sighed. "He texted that he was busy, again. Maybe tomorrow though."

"What about your work for him?" Skylar was a cool, blond football jock like himself. Unlike himself, however, Skylar was a Wolf. And yeah, a fun Wolf. He had hooked up with him. If he hadn't gotten involved with Christoper he would have seriously looked at dating Sky.

Billy took a sip of his current cup of coffee and nodded. "Yeah, there's some stuff I gotta get done. Probably right after lunch."

Just then there was the sound of stomping feet on the front porch steps. "DUDES," came the baritone voice of Evan Perry, another of the college's football jocks.

The 6'4" Wolf was quickly inside and facing everyone in the common room. His amber eyes were wide as he said "You are not gonna believe this! So, there was this Pack meeting last night..."

"Oh, shocking," smirked Skylar "a Pack meeting."

"Nooo," the musclebound wall of Wolf responded. "This wasn't a regular meeting, it was a special emergency thing."

"Just to clarfy," broke in Adam, holding up a finger "was it a special meeting or an emergency meeting?"

"I'd have to say both. It was about a former Pack member."

"Why...former," asked Barry Swift. Barry was a South Pack member and on the college Track team. His slim form looked every bit the runner he was. The short black hair and gray eyes were certainly appealing. At just 5'8" Billy thought the athlete was cute, though one typically didn't refer to Wolves as such. Not to their faces anyway.

"Yeah," said Billey, "were they kicked out or killed...what happened?"

"Well, the Alpha says that he left the Pack on his own."

"He left Westvale? How's that a Pack issue, man," asked Skylar.

"No, he left Westvale Pack, not Westvale. Went to be with his Mate."

Barry frowned. "Is this Mate a lone wolf?"

Shaking his head, Evan replied "Nah, but he is an Alpha."

Barry snickered. "He didn't come to South Pack then."

"You're sure about that, huh," Adam chuckled.

Rolling his eyes, Barry replied "You're such a humo. Of course I'm sure. My Alpha already has a Mate, and she makes him quite happy."

"Hey, it's called downlow, it happens. Just saying...," Adam grinned.

"From personal experience," quipped Skylar with an arched brow.

"Hey now, this isn't about me. It's about the Wolves in question," winked Adam.

Now it was Barry that perked a brow. "Wolves...in...question," he asked slowly, with a hint of a growl in his voice.

"Uh, you know...Wolves being discussed. Come on man, you know what I meant."

Barry laughed. "Of course I knew what you meant, but who else is gonna give you shit?"

"You dick. Only two things are keeping me from kicking your ass."

"And those would be?"

"One, you're a Packed Wolf. I'm not as stupid as you may think," Adam chuckled. "And two, you run hella faster than me."

"Can we get back to the Pack announcement thing," chimed Billy. His interest was definitely raised.

"Oh yeah," Evan exclaimed. "Check this out, dudes...at the meeting...Alpha Cassius told everyone that the guy's Mate has reported him missing."

"The uhhh, Alpha mate," asked Billy. He was getting a most uneasy feeling in his gut all of the sudden.

Evan snorted. "Haven't you been paying attention? Yes, the Alpha mate."

"So, again," Skylar broke in, "how is this a Pack issue? Sounds like it's the Mate's problem...no offense to your Alpha."

"If it was anyone else that was missing you would be right. But it's him..." Evan looked around on his cell and turned the screen to show everyone a picture of a smiling auburn haired male. "One of Alpha Cassius' sons," he stated pointedly.

A round of expletives burst forth from the group. The unease in Billy's gut became like a weighty stone. Now he was actually afraid for his life. And more, he knew that the Wolves would be sensing it soon. Once the shock of the information wore off. He had to get out of here...fast. But if he ran off it might look really suspicious. Fuck! Desperately trying to think of a good reason to leave the room, he looked down and noticed his nearly empty coffee cup. That works, he thought. He stood up and drained the last of the coffee. "Well that's the end of the cup," he said. "Anyone want another pot?"

Getting a few mumbled "Sure" responces, he started toward the kitchen. Pausing just before entering he asked "Hey, you think they're gonna find this guy?"

"Of course he's gonna be found! Not only was the Pack told to keep their eyes open, but Alpha Cassius said he was going to ask the other Pack's Alphas to tell their Packs. Someone knows something or will see something," said Evan.

"That's good then. Guessing it would be pretty bad if something happened to the guy," remarked Billy.

"Oh, a couple of pissed off Alphas, minimum, on the warpath," added Skylar.

Billy felt a little faint and leaned against the wall. "That definitely sounds pretty serious."

"If it's a person that's responsible, it's stupid and fatal," commented Evan, seriously.

Fuck! Fuck fuck fuck, thought Billy. He was sooo screwed. He had to get to the warehouse and make sure that Wolf was okay. Had to get him out of there. Maybe if he was the one who got him to one of those Alphas...

Billy checked his watch again...12:25 pm. Instead of hanging around the house longer to fix lunch he had grabbed one of those protein shakes that all of the guys made sure were kept in the house and left as soon as he could. Now, he sat in his car just staring at the warehouse door. Texts sent to Christoper before he left have so far been unanswered. After another 10 minutes passed without anything from Christoper, he decided he just couldn't wait any longer.

Causually, Billy made the one block trip to the warehouse. He retrieved the key from it's hiding place, unlocked the door's deadbolt, then put the key back. After entering, he yet again checked his phone for messages. Still seeing nothing from Christoper he repocketed his cell with a sigh and turned to check on that Wolf.

He had noticed that the lights had been left on. As he approached the spot he had left Christoper and the Wolf, he is filled with alarm and fear. Blood! There is blood. Smears all over the floor, the now very ripped up mat...the Wolf! The many scratches had stopped bleeding, but were obviously deep. And now that he is closer he can hear soft moans.

Was that Mate the Wolf just said? Not that he doubted what Evan had said, but fuck! How the hell was he getting out of this unmurdered?

He was beginning to realize that Christoper had probably lied to him about this Wolf. Maybe if he talked with the guy he might get some answers to questions he now had in his head.

Having taken several moments to consider the situation, Billy decided that he needed help. He nedded to get this Wolf away from here, but he couldn't do it alone. None of his frat brothers were an option. Most of them were Wolves. At least one or two from the Wolf's former Pack. And the one's from other Packs would also probably be looking for the guy by now, so he was screwed there. The humans? They were out as well. What could a few human college guys do if the Wolf got angery and went all teeth and claws? Nothing, that's what. Sure they were jocks, but come on...WOLF! Hospital at minimum. And, well...dead at the other end of the scale of fucked.

The way he figured it, he had one shot at getting this guy out and someplace safe until he could decide who to take him to. Lucien MacAiodh, (it's pronounced MacAye lad), a Tiger he had worked for during the summer. For a couple of summers actually.

Billy dialed Lucien's number and a short conversation later he was waiting for the Tiger to arrive. While he waited he thought maybe he should go to the Wolf and check on him. Since he didn't see an effective way to do that without physical contact of some kind, he hoped that the guy wouldn't freak out or that there was still some of that drug to keep him from shifting in his system. Yeah, that last bit was a shit thought, but...scared human, hello.

Cautiously going over to the guy, he crouched down by his side.

He reached out slowly, and gently shook the facedown Wolf's left shoulder, saying softly "Hey...mister..."

The man flinched and Billy jerked back and landed on his ass. The man's nose flared slightly. "Mundane," he said. "Prisoner," he rasped. Was that a statement or a question?

"I'm...here to help you," Billy responded.

"Water."

"Oh. Hang on. Be right back." Billy scrambled up and ran into the office. He was pretty sure there were still some bottles in the mini fidge. A quick look proved him correct and he was soon back beside the Wolf with a bottle of water in hand. He opened it and asked "Can you sit up?"

Bill winced seeing and hearing the guy groan as the man maneuvered into a sitting position. There were more scratches than he had first noticed. A lot more than scratches going by the blood smears between the Wolf's legs. The thought of what possibly happened to this man chilled him.

"Water," the Wolf said tersely, holding out a hand and grabbing the offered bottle. Neither the tone of voice nor the look on his face was particularly friendly. But he supposed that was understandable, having been a captive and drugged for a few days. And clearly abused. Way more than abused by the looks of it.

The handsome redhead chugged the water down and slammed the empty bottle onto the floor. "Mate," he said.

"Uh, what?"

"I. Want. My. MATE!"

The ferociousness in the way the Wolf spoke jarred Billy. Shit, he thought. Evan never said who this guy's mate is, did he? Fuck! "O...okay. A friend is on his way over to help."

The Wolf lept up and full on tackled Billy, who landed hard on his back, with a very naked man on top of him. Hands squarely on the Mundane's pecs, the Wolf leaned close to Billy's face and snarled "I've experienced your oh so helpful friend. Thank you, but no."

"Y...you know mister MacAiodh," Billy stammered.

"Lucien?" The Wolf's brows furrowed slightly. "Lucien MacAiodh?"

"In the flesh lad," came a minor Scots brogue. "The boy didna tell me it was wee Zack that needed the help." The newcomer was, of course, Lucien. He is an impressive weretiger that stands in at 6'9". He also has a real presence with his jet black hair and striking frost blue eyes. His face is handsome, sporting a Van Dyke style beard.

"Wait a minute, you actually know this Wolf," asked Billy, stunned.

"This Wolf has a name," growled Zack.

"Ah...wha'ever have ya lads gotten yerselves into?" The Tiger looked from Billy to Zack and back.

"This asshole," said Zack, pointing at Billy "kidnapped, drugged me and kept me in that silver cage!"

"Hey...I didn't do all of that stuff," objected Billy.

"Oh? Cause I was brought here, drugged and against my will. Kept drugged in that cage!" Zack gestured to the offending construct.

"Billy," said Lucien "tell me ya didna do that."

Looking down at the floor Billy mumbled "I didn't kidnap him."

"But you did the rest though. How's that any better," Zack growled out.

"I..."

"Shut up! I don't want to hear it right now. Get. Me. Out of here!"

"Aye, right ya are lad," Lucien said. Turning to Billy, he asked "Where are his clothes, then?"

"He, ah...didn't have any when I first saw him."

"No clothes?"

"I was in my wolf form when I was drugged and brought here." Zack glared at Billy.

"Well then," grinned Lucien, "it's man or wolf, your choice. I'm parked right outside."

Billy raised a hand "Umm..."

"IF you ever want to speak again...you will shut up until addressed, clear?" Zack's look and tone carried a threat of violence.

Gulping, Billy nodded his understanding. He liked Wolves, in general, but he wasn't stupid enough to piss an angry one off on purpose.

"All right then, let's go shall we, lads," stated Lucien, nodding to the door.

"Damn right," said Zack as he walked to the exit with the other two close behind.

Comments are appreciated, so let me know what you think. However, flames are not constructive. If you didn't like the story because it just wasn't your taste, just let it go. Feel free to contact me at mjwolfwriter@gmail.com. Also, join the Discord for my writing (https://discord.gg/YNfjzx9) to talk about characters, chapters, etc.

Thank you to all who commented on previous chapters.