Fanfic: I Think I Did Good
For: KradamValentine
Word Count: ~5,300
Rating: Hard R
Summary: Kradam werewolves for Valentine’s Day
Author’s notes: The story is loosely based in the amazing Psy-Changeling world by author Nalini Singh (Psy-Changeling Universe). First attempt at the werewolf genre. Might expand this out later...
Thank you to: My fabulous go-to beta anobakitay for her feedback and notes and edits.
**
Kris took a deep breath and knocked twice before entering the study. He stepped inside and closed the door quietly behind him. The study was softly lit with giant wax candles, the dark wood paneling of the walls and floors standing out in stark contrast against the flickering lights. The rustle of the newspaper drew him back to attention.
"Yes, Kristopher," the voice behind the newspaper spoke. "What do you need?"
Kris walked up to the desk and straightened his stance, head up high, shoulders back. "I came to request permission to visit with the MudDancer pack next week, sir."
"And why is that?" the voice asked while flipping the page noisily.
Kris stood unconcerned that his father, Neil Allen, alpha of the StormRiver pack, continued to read the paper and not address him directly. He knew having a conversation from behind the newspaper was his father's way of unnerving him, to see if he would weaken his resolve and run out the door. But, he wouldn't. Not this time.
"All the healers from the various wolf packs thought it would be a good idea to continue to get together and exchange ideas and techniques," Kris stated matter-of-factly. "Since DarkRiver and SnowDancer started the program, the rest of us east of the Mississippi agreed to a summit of sorts."
Finally, the newspaper snapped down with an awkward angle on a sharp crease. Kris waited until his father methodically folded the paper and placed it neatly onto the side of his desk. He leaned back into his chair and gazed at Kris, carefully looking for any reaction.
"I know that. In fact, I've been in touch with Hawke about holding the summit here." Neil paused and tilted his head. He smiled knowingly and put his hands behind his head. "You know that, too. So, you want to tell me what this is all about? The sudden request to leave the aerie?"
Kris tried not to shuffle under his father's gaze. He bit his lower lip and lowered his head. "I exchanged a few emails with some of the pack healers in Louisiana and Georgia. I thought it'd be good to get started and know where we all are in terms of resources and skill levels before the big summit."
"Uh-huh," Neil nodded. He leaned forward and tried to bite back a smile. Kris scowled. He watched his father's fingers play along the rim of one of the many empty coffee mugs on the desk.
"This has nothing to do with the fact that a certain SnowDancer Lieutenant will be back next week, does it?"
Kris willed his body to stand still and prayed his blood wouldn't rush to his face. He struggled to keep the blush from spreading up from his chest into his cheeks.
"Of course not!" he sputtered with real indignation. "This has nothing to do with anything of the sort."
Neil couldn't hold it in anymore and snorted out a laugh. "You're just as bad as me when it comes to lying, Kristopher Allen. I don't even need to be a wolf to see or sense that you're nervous, excited and trying to lie to yourself. Plus, I don't think you being away from the pack for the next few weeks will do anything to deter a headstrong lieutenant from seeking you out." He took a sip from a mug. "I think the whole pack and SnowDancer team knew what Adam Lambert wanted from the start."
Kris glowered at his father and tried not to slump in disappointment. "So, you're denying my request."
"Yes, Kris. I'm denying your request for leave. You will be here when our friends from California arrive next week."
**
Adam was squeezing in the last of his clothes into his suitcase and picking through a drawer when Andrew Kincaid burst through the door of his quarters.
"Come on in, Drew," Adam drawled out with heavy sarcasm. "Not like civilized people need to knock or anything."
"Oh, whatever," Drew said as he plopped himself onto Adam's bed. "We're changelings, wolf changelings at that. We don't follow stinkin' rules."
"Is there something you needed?"
"Just wanted to see how you were getting along before your trip back out to StormRiver territory. I heard stories that your last trip was...er...interesting."
"It was fine. The area is pretty secure. I think with a few more trained soldiers from their end, there won't be a problem holding the summit there." Adam stopped and turned to face Drew. He crossed his arms. "But, then again, you know all this. You were there for my report to Hawke."
Drew grinned and shrugged his shoulders.
"Why are you here Drew?"
"Nothing," Drew replied as he propped himself up on his elbows. He smirked, "You know me. Just being my usual nosey self. Wanted to see if you needed to unburden yourself or talk about anything or um, anyone. You know, I'm the local shrink around here."
"More like pain in everyone's ass," Adam retorted.
"That hurts, bro," Drew replied and put a hand over his heart.
"Uh-huh."
"What? Not my fault that there's talk about SnowDancer's most notorious love-em-and-leave-em lieutenant might have his boxers all twisted up over someone that didn't fall for his charm." Drew shrugged again. "Looking for confirmation or denial is all."
Adam narrowed his eyes, "No comment." He turned his back to Drew and continued to rifle through his dresser. "Now get the fuck out of my room."
**
Kris padded back from his run. He knew that the team from SnowDancer had arrived by now, but he was in no mood to be at the grounds to welcome them...well him. He shook the excess water off his body, trying to dry his fur from his swim in the lake. Just because he wasn't at the command center to greet them, didn't mean he had to be a stinky, sweaty mess when he finally did make an appearance.
He stopped about 20 yards away from where he left his clothes, raising his nose into the air, ears twitching.
"I know you're there, Kris," Adam said softly. "You might as well come out. I'll even be a gentleman and turn my back as you shift back and change into your clothes."
Kris growled. Of course Adam went out to search for him. Of course Adam found him. Despite carefully masking his trail, Adam showed up. Adam wasn't a SnowDancer Lieutenant for nothing. Most other wolves wouldn't have been able to track him down, especially in unfamiliar territory. Kris knew all the tricks, but apparently Adam knew how to bypass them all. Kris's luck.
"Oh, stop being a pussy cat," Adam said with exasperation. "I just want to talk, promise. Nothing funny."
Kris snarled and bared his fangs as he ambled delicately towards the clearing of rocks where he had hidden his clothes. Which...were now in Adam's arms.
"So, I have to insult you to get you to show your face, huh?" Adam asked.
Kris stopped a few feet short of where Adam was sitting. He had his back against the tree, his long legs stretched out in front of him, Kris's clothes on his lap. The fading beams of sunlight danced through the leaves and branches of the trees, making Adam's black hair gleam. His blue eyes continued to stare at Kris, watching carefully to see if he would move towards him or bolt the other way. If Kris did turn and run, he had no doubt Adam would follow.
Kris also knew that Adam would shift into his wolf form to chase and track Kris down. The moment Adam changed, Kris was dead. There was no way Kris would be able to outrun him. As he stepped closer, he felt the weight of Adam's stare and stopped.
Adam patted the space next to him, "Come on. I won't do anything, I swear." Then he held out Kris's clothes. "And, I'm sure you want these. It would be a little insulting to go back to the center naked. And showing up in wolf form wouldn't be cool since you weren't there to greet us to begin with, considering your status in the pack."
Kris growled again, knowing Adam was right. Tentatively, he stepped forward, paw hitting the ground carefully, as if trying to cross a field filled with landmines. He ducked his head, unnerved by Adam watching him. He moved until he was within arm's length and stopped again, barking and motioning with his muzzle for the clothes.
Adam smiled, "I don't know. I think maybe I should start talking while you can't say anything back to interrupt me."
Kris raised his lips again to show teeth and held back a grumbling growl.
"Fine, fine," Adam backed down. "Here." He placed the clothes in front of Kris and turned his back on him. "We're still going to have our talk."
**
Adam turned his back on Kris, as promised. He thought about peeking, but his better judgment prevented him from doing it. Any shot he might have had would be gone in those two seconds. He felt the air change and fill up with a slight electrical charge as Kris shifted back to human form. He wasn't surprised when Kris wasn't at the command center earlier, waiting with the rest of the StormRiver pack to greet them. The minute the formalities were done, Adam walked the perimeter of the aerie to get Kris's scent.
As much as Kris had tried, it didn't fool Adam. Adam grinned, nearly beamed, as he followed Kris's scent out into the forest. Kris was a fast learner. The training sessions all those months ago had paid off. But there was a reason Adam was one of the best trackers for his pack, hell, in the entire western territory. Moving slowly and deliberately, Adam stalked over rocks and through thickets until he honed in on Kris.
Settling himself on the rock, he grabbed Kris's clothes and buried his nose in them. There was no denying it anymore. Kris's scent smelled like home.
Despite the back and forth warring in his head, this, if nothing else confirmed it for Adam. Kris was his mate, and he wasn't leaving Arkansas without him.
Three months ago, Hawke had sent a contingent of his lieutenants, soldiers that protected the California region, out to various packs across the country. The goal was to ensure all the wolf packs were able to defend themselves, their territories and even assist weaker changelings in their respective areas.
As one of the field trainers, Adam was among the group to travel to the SouthEast region. Neil had wanted to test his men against SnowDancer's team to see where improvement was needed. Unfortunately...or fortunately...Adam's two second lapse meant he didn't see the sword come in from his left side and he was hurt. He was sent to the healer, and that's when he found Kris.
From the minute he saw Kris, all rational thought flew out of his head. He no longer felt the pain in his side, had drowned in the soft brown eyes of the soft-spoken healer. At Kris's light touch, Adam felt unbridled heat curl through his body. For the rest of the time while in StormRiver's territory, Adam followed him around like a pup. Embarrassing and ridiculous, but it had happened.
Whatever advances Adam made, Kris deftly avoided them. The harder he tried, the more standoffish Kris got--and it annoyed Adam to no end. No man, human or wolf, had ever been able to resist when Adam turned on the charm. And, for Kris, he turned it on to 11. And got nowhere.
This time, it would play out differently. It had to.
**
Kris cricked his neck and raised his arms over his head to stretch out his shoulders from the punishing run and quick shift. It made him long for a hot shower and an hour-long massage. But instead of soaking in scorching water at home, he was feeling heated just from Adam's presence. It was disconcerting and comforting at the same time. He had to regulate his heartbeat and breathing, to make sure the last person he wanted to see didn't sense it or smell it on him.
"So, you wanted to talk," Kris said, breaking the silence. He sat a few feet away from Adam and waited. Kris tried to sound casual, holding back the shock he received that Adam didn't try to sneak a peek as Kris changed.
Adam smiled, "It's good to see you again."
Kris hugged his knees, and didn't respond. He wasn't sure where Adam was going with this, but it was a definite change from the obnoxious approach he took three months ago. Not that Kris wasn't flattered, but it was a tad bit ridiculous. Did other changelings actually fall for that shit? The outrageous flirting, the double entendres, the deliberateness and transparency of it all. It just wasn't Kris's thing. And he definitely didn't want to be another notch in Adam's bedpost. Kris just wasn't wired that way.
Adam cleared his throat, looking uncomfortable. He ducked his head and rubbed the back of his neck. Kris crooked his head. That was new. This strong, handsome, amazing changeling male was uneasy in his presence. Definitely a first.
"I...I, uh," Adam coughed. "I wanted to apologize to you about...about the last time." Adam bit his lip and raked his fingers through his hair.
Kris clenched his fingers and scolded himself at the sudden urge to reach out and touch. He wouldn't. He wouldn't.
"It's just that...I...well, when I saw you," Adam continued. "You..." Adam blew out a breath. "I'm not used to...you confused me. I reacted...my reaction to you. I didn't...there was..." Adam looked up, his brilliant blue eyes piercing Kris. "Fuck. Tell me you didn't sense it. Feel it."
This time Kris ducked his head. He had felt it. To be attracted to such a male, a male so completely and utterly different from him; Kris had been terrified. Now, seeing Adam his way, almost vulnerable, Kris was even more confused. The attraction was still there, no doubt about that, but could Kris deal with what might happen if he didn't shut Adam down this time?
He rested his cheek against a knee, not knowing what to say in response. Kris gazed at Adam’s face, using his eyes to mentally trace over his face with a mental finger...imagining what Adam’s skin would feel like, his eyebrows, his jaw, his lips.
"Are you going to say anything?"
Kris closed his eyes and rocked his head against his knee as a shake. Thoughts, images and scents swirled around him too quickly; Kris wrapped his arms around his legs and curled into a tighter ball. He felt Adam move and sit behind him carefully, body cocooning him. Adam's warm breath on him, creating goose bumps. A whimper escaped Kris's throat as Adam nuzzled his neck and stroked his bare arms, strong firm hands moving down from elbow to wrist. Unconsciously Kris shifted his body into Adam's, searching...seeking.
"Kris..." Adam whispered into his neck.
Kris changed his position, twisting his body until he could burrow his face into the crook of Adam's neck. His tongue slipped out from between his lips to lick at the prominent collar bone that called out to him. The taste of salt, sweat, heat and musk that was uniquely Adam overloaded his senses. Kris's hands moved until they were wrapped around Adam's neck.
**
Adam watched as Kris looked at him and curled into himself. He shook his head, rocking his head on his knees. It was then Adam knew. In that moment, Adam knew without a doubt that Kris felt the same way. Except, instead of accepting it, Kris was fighting between what his heart needed and what his mind wanted. Adam could see the confusion, the hurt and the want. It assaulted Adam on every level, he could feel what Kris was going through. The desire to protect and ease the hurt and provide was being unleashed in him.
Adam held back a groan as he felt Kris move closer and turned his body deeper into his. At the slightest touch of Kris's tongue on his neck, he couldn't hold back anymore. He tightened his hold, clutching Kris's body to his in a tight embrace. Kris lifted his head...
“Kris…” Adam moaned.
Adam took Kris's lips. He smothered his mouth against Kris's, unleashing everything he had been feeling since first laying eyes on this man. The kiss was hard, uncompromising...almost punishing. Adam poured everything he had into the kiss, wanted Kris to feel what he felt. Biting, licking and sucking, Adam pushed and pulled with his lips and teeth as Kris finally opened to him. With a tiny suck on the lower lip, Adam thrust his tongue into Kris's mouth, tongue on tongue, memorizing his taste.
When his lungs threatened to burst, Adam finally pulled back, but not before nipping at Kris's lips and chin one last time. He breathed heavily against Kris's jawline, mouthing his lips, leaving a slick, feathery trail to his ear. He bit Kris's earlobe, then rested his head against his shoulder.
"You can't...I need..." Adam sucked in deep breaths. "...what..." he stopped. He wasn't even sure what he was trying to say. He leaned heavily into Kris, who was gripping tightly onto his waist, shirt bunched up in both fists.
"Don't...don't Adam. Just...can we just..." Kris pleaded, voice ragged.
Adam nodded, understanding completely.
**
Kris was screwed.
"I'm so screwed," he stated to Allison.
Allison bounced up to him and wrapped her arms around his waist.
"Why?" she asked. "He's tall, dark and handsome. Strong, funny, sexy as hell, talented. Warm-hearted, hot..."
"You realize you used three adjective to describe his looks, right?" Kris interrupted.
Allison laughed, "What? He's kinda hot, if you haven't noticed."
Kris rolled his eyes, "That's not the problem." He sat down glumly on her couch.
"What is?"
"I...I'm not sure."
Allison scrunched her face and sat next to him, "Is it the hot thing?" She patted his head, "Because you really shouldn't worry about it. Sure, he's like way out of your league for the most part, but you're cute and sexy in your own way. I think you guys make a hot couple. Plus, the chemistry between you two?" she whistled. "Damn. Everyone gets a little worked up just seeing you two look at each other."
Kris blushed and slammed a cushion over his face. "Oh god," he said, voice muffled. "This isn't good."
"I don't understand why you're making such a big deal out of this."
"He feels like home, Alli." He removed the cushion. "I get all kinds of irrational when I see him even talking to someone else, never mind that they're across the room from each other. Forget it if I see someone actually touching him, even casually, like a damn fist-bump."
"Oh my god, Kris!" Allison screamed. She smacked him upside the head. "How are you our healer and you can't even see the signs for yourself?"
"Ow," he whined and palmed the back of his head. "What the hell are you talking about?"
She grabbed his face and stared at him, "You two are mates."
Kris's eyes widened, "Wha...What? Wait, what? No..." He shook his head, taking her hands with him. "No, no and fuck no. That can't be it. We're just horny or something. It's been a while for both of us, that's all."
Allison stilled his head with her hands, then bobbled it with force moving it up, down and side to side, "Think about it. Think about the last two weeks. Think about three months ago." She forced his eyes to look into her own. "Think."
Kris closed his eyes, "Oh god."
Allison released his head and squealed, "I get to be a sister-in-law!" She bounced off the couch and started to dance. "Man, the girls are going to be jealous that I have two major hotties in my life. Sucks that neither of you are my mates, but close enough." She stopped suddenly and nearly toppled over. "Shit, does this mean you're moving to California?"
Kris fell over onto his side and covered his face again, "One problem at a time please, okay Alli?"
"Aww, Kris," she cooed. Allison crouched on the floor next to him and patted his shoulder. "It'll be awesome."
**
"You and my son...you're mates," Neil stated.
Adam stood at attention in the alpha's office. It wasn't a question, so he didn't respond. Adam watched warily out of the corner of his eye as Neil continued to circle him.
"I spoke with Hawke at length about this the other day. It's uncommon, but not unheard of. We're wondering how it would all work."
This statement worried Adam, "Uh, sir?"
Neil stopped in front of him, confused. "What?" At Adam's pink cheeks and brow lift, Neil's own cheeks flushed dark pink. He scowled and waved his hand, then continued to pace. "No. No, not that. For fuck's sake."
Adam slowly and quietly released a quick breath, relieved. He really didn't want to explain that to Kris's father, never mind an alpha.
"He's my son and the pack's main healer," Neil continued. "He's training Allison and Megan, but they're not ready yet to take on such responsibilities. You're a key component in Hawke's guard, so you're definitely not in a position to leave--not that Hawke would let you. I'm sure the SnowDancer healers would find room for Kris eventually, but..."
"Um, sir, if I may?"
Neil let out a frustrated breath and sat on the corner of his desk. Crossing his arms, he nodded.
"We, uh," Adam started. "That is, uh, Kris and I haven't...well, we haven't really discussed any of this yet. I think it's premature for you and Hawke to be having this discussion...sir."
Neil raised a brow, "Really, now. So what do you two discuss? It's been six weeks, you two have barely left each other's side except when absolutely necessary. The entire pack knows the two of you haven't completed the mating bond yet. When is this discussion supposed to happen? You and your team leave in three weeks."
Adam blushed harder and cleared his throat. "I...uh. I don't have an answer for you, sir. Just that we're getting to know each other..." Adam grimaced, "Slowly. And, the appropriate time to discuss relocation hasn't really come up."
Neil laughed as he shook his head. He sighed and moved away from the desk to stand in front of Adam. "He's a healer. He's more meticulous and serious about everything he does, more than everyone else--which is great when he's saving a life. He's a good man, and I'm not saying that because I'm his father." Neil clasped Adam's arms. "I'm glad he's found a mate, and I'm glad it's you. I know that you'll protect him and love him as he deserves to be loved."
Adam nodded, "Thank you, sir. I...I'll be good to him."
"Of that, I have no doubt," Neil stated firmly. He patted Adam's shoulder. "And he'll be good to you. Once you have his love and loyalty, it can't be broken." Neil turned to his desk and picked up the phone. "I'll let Hawke know that nothing's been settled--which he'll hate, but he'll just have to deal like the rest of us. Looks like we're all working on Kris's timeline whether we want to or not."
**
For a week, Adam purposely avoided Kris. He made sure he was out on the training grounds, hanging with his fellow SnowDancer team, exhausting himself with runs in the forest and familiarizing himself with the territory he might have to call home. After his conversation with Neil, he wanted to give Kris time to come to him.
Kris watched from the sidelines as Adam laughed, smiled and talked to pretty much everyone but him. He sulked as he continued to be ignored.
“Stop moping and go talk to him,” Allison prodded.
They were standing in the doorway of the alpha’s office. Kris had just supervised Allison’s first solo procedure in the health center. Now they were watching the soldiers of the two packs mess around by the giant fire pit.
“I’m not moping,” Kris pouted.
“Uh-huh,” Allison nodded. She poked his side, “He keeps looking over at you.”
“I don’t care.”
Kris glared at the two male teenagers who were fluttering around Adam with adoring eyes as he tried to explain a fight stance maneuver with them. He wanted to kill them, no matter how young they were.
“God, I can smell the jealousy on you,” Allison exclaimed. “Go to him. Talk to him.”
“No, he’s been ignoring me all week.”
Allison rolled her eyes, “You’re such a dipshit, you know that?” At Kris’s silence, she continued. “What if he’s waiting for you? You were such an asshole to him before. Maybe he doesn’t want to be rejected. Knowing that you two are mates, and that you might deny him?”
Kris closed his eyes and nodded, “You’re right. When did you become such a bossy, know-it-all?”
“Go, you dumbass.”
Kris pushed himself off the doorjamb and started to walk towards Adam. He barely caught sight of Adam leaving and heading into the forest. He tried to catch up, but was stopped by what seemed like everyone suddenly needing his opinion on an ache or pain.
He finally extracted himself, but lost Adam to the forest. Reaching out with his senses, Kris made his way through the trees. He detected Adam’s trail and spotted his clothes hanging from a low-hanging branch. Kris quickly stripped off his clothes to change into wolf form; he’d be able to catch up with Adam faster-if he wanted to be caught.
Sniffing the ground around the tree, Kris caught Adam’s scent and took off. Three miles in, just at the periphery of the lake, Kris stopped. Adam was sprawled on the flat edge of a rock, his black and dark gray fur lying in stark contrast to the bleached out stone around him. Though he made no movement, Kris knew that Adam knew he was there.
Kris made his way up and paused. Adam gazed at Kris through sleepy lids, then closed his eyes again. He shuffled his head, ears twitching. Taking that as a positive sign, Kris continued up and laid himself down next to Adam, fur touching fur.
They laid there until the evening sky turned black and the air turned cooler. Kris shivered and moved his body closer to Adam, a soft whimper escaping at the sudden warmth. Kris felt the rough lick of Adam’s tongue on the side of his face and a heavy paw brush across his nose. He pushed back and growled. Adam nipped his ears, then moved back.
The air filled with a charged current as he felt Adam shift to human form. Kris released a deep breath of air as he felt Adam’s hands run through the fur along his neck and back.
“I’m guessing you followed me out here for something other than petting?” Adam asked.
Kris snuffled in response, enjoying the feel of Adam’s hand on him.
Adam grabbed his hair and pulled slightly, “Come on. I can’t talk to you.”
Kris sighed.
As he changed back to human form, Adam’s hand remained curled in his hair. Kris followed the pull of Adam’s body until he landed on top of him.
“I thought you wanted to talk,” Kris choked out.
“I can talk to you like this,” Adam replied, moving his hands along Kris’s neck and back. “Let’s see if you can.”
“I hate you.”
Kris squeaked when Adam squeezed his ass. “Talk,” Adam ordered.
Kris dropped his head onto Adam’s chest, “Why have you been ignoring me all week?”
“I was giving you space, Kris. You seemed a little confused and freaked out the last couple of weeks.”
Kris started to nuzzled Adam’s neck, “I didn’t like it.” Kris pushed up and stared directly into Adam’s eyes. “And I’m not freaked out or confused anymore.”
“Good.”
“Don’t do it again.”
“Wouldn’t dream of it.”
**
"Fuck...oh god, Kris..." Adam groaned.
He continued to thrust slowly into Kris, sweat dripping off his eyebrows. Kris's head was thrown back, his eyes shut tight, hands gripping the bars of the headboard.
"Fas...faster, Adam...Adam!" Kris grunted. "I...I...oh god." Kris shifted his body, lifting his hips higher to meet Adam's thrusts.
"Kris..."
Adam shoved a hand between their bodies and gripped Kris's cock. Sweat and moisture covered his palms, as he twisted his hand in time with his hips. Harder, faster...until he felt Kris's body hitch helplessly before he came all over his hands. Kris tightened his legs around Adam's back and pushed up, knowing that Adam wouldn't last much longer.
"Fuck, Adam..." Kris breathed as he grabbed Adam's come-stained fingers. He pulled at each digit, licking and swirling his tongue up and down each finger and in between.
"Kris, I swear to god..." Adam growled. With one last push, he collapsed. Carefully, he pulled out of Kris and started to crawl up his body.
"I love you, Adam."
Adam was mid-collapse, but Kris's words froze him.
"What?" he whispered.
Kris pulled Adam down on top of him until they were nose-to-nose. "I said, I love you, Adam." Kris smiled, eyes crinkling. "I'm pretty sure you heard me the first time, but you just wanted me to say it again didn't you?"
Adam shook his head. He knew, but didn't expect Kris to actually say the words. At least not yet. "You asshole," Adam replied, still in shock. "I love you, too."
Adam placed his forehead against Kris's, their sweat making them stick to each other. Adam kissed him lightly, "I fucking love you, Kris. I don't think you know how much."
"Probably as much as I love you, you ass." Kris laughed.
Kris kissed him back. Slowly, leisurely, they kissed...feather-light touches on the tips of each other's lips, until the sharp burn caused them both to cry out and cling to each other. Adam collapsed on top of Kris.
"You okay?" Adam asked.
Kris nodded, "What was that?"
Adam rolled off of Kris and grabbed Kris's hand. Twining them together, he felt the jolt flow through them.
"I believe, that, my love," Adam said softly. "was the mating bond being completed.
**
Before Kris even opened the door to his apartment he knew something was up. He closed the door quietly and used his senses to figure out what it was.
"In the kitchen, Kris," Adam called out.
Kris smiled. The last two months had been a whirlwind. He was happy. He thought he had been happy, but didn't know what true happiness was until now. He walked into the kitchen and stared at the sight before him. His utilitarian kitchen was transformed into a romantic dining area, filled with wildflowers and candles.
"What's all this?" he asked in awe.
Adam rolled his eyes, "I can't believe I'm in love with someone like you."
"What?" Kris huffed.
Adam walked to him and placed a small kiss at his temple. "It's Valentine's Day, silly. And I figured we take part in the cheesy day at least once in our lifetime."
Kris smiled and chuckled, "And you figured this year would be the year?"
Adam shrugged, "Why not? I leave next week, and we won't see each other for at least six months."
"You know I have..."
"Shh," Adam kissed his mouth to quiet him. "I know you have to finish training Megan and Alli. I have to finish training the LightStorm pack in upstate New York."
Kris hugged Adam tight, wrapping his arms around his waist and snuggled into the crook of Adam's shoulder.
"After I'm done in New York, I'll come down here to get you. Then, we'll take our time getting to California. Hawke will have to suck it up, because we'll be on our honeymoon."
Kris leaned back into Adam's arm and smiled. "I think I did good with you."
"Oh, I know you did good with me, darling."
Punching Adam's shoulder, Kris pushed up to nip him on the chin. "I love you."
Adam licked the tip of Kris's nose, "I love you, too, Kris. And happy Valentine's Day."
~the end~
Word Count: ~5,300
Rating: Hard R
Summary: Kradam werewolves for Valentine’s Day
Author’s notes: The story is loosely based in the amazing Psy-Changeling world by author Nalini Singh (Psy-Changeling Universe). First attempt at the werewolf genre. Might expand this out later...
Thank you to: My fabulous go-to beta anobakitay for her feedback and notes and edits.
**
Kris took a deep breath and knocked twice before entering the study. He stepped inside and closed the door quietly behind him. The study was softly lit with giant wax candles, the dark wood paneling of the walls and floors standing out in stark contrast against the flickering lights. The rustle of the newspaper drew him back to attention.
"Yes, Kristopher," the voice behind the newspaper spoke. "What do you need?"
Kris walked up to the desk and straightened his stance, head up high, shoulders back. "I came to request permission to visit with the MudDancer pack next week, sir."
"And why is that?" the voice asked while flipping the page noisily.
Kris stood unconcerned that his father, Neil Allen, alpha of the StormRiver pack, continued to read the paper and not address him directly. He knew having a conversation from behind the newspaper was his father's way of unnerving him, to see if he would weaken his resolve and run out the door. But, he wouldn't. Not this time.
"All the healers from the various wolf packs thought it would be a good idea to continue to get together and exchange ideas and techniques," Kris stated matter-of-factly. "Since DarkRiver and SnowDancer started the program, the rest of us east of the Mississippi agreed to a summit of sorts."
Finally, the newspaper snapped down with an awkward angle on a sharp crease. Kris waited until his father methodically folded the paper and placed it neatly onto the side of his desk. He leaned back into his chair and gazed at Kris, carefully looking for any reaction.
"I know that. In fact, I've been in touch with Hawke about holding the summit here." Neil paused and tilted his head. He smiled knowingly and put his hands behind his head. "You know that, too. So, you want to tell me what this is all about? The sudden request to leave the aerie?"
Kris tried not to shuffle under his father's gaze. He bit his lower lip and lowered his head. "I exchanged a few emails with some of the pack healers in Louisiana and Georgia. I thought it'd be good to get started and know where we all are in terms of resources and skill levels before the big summit."
"Uh-huh," Neil nodded. He leaned forward and tried to bite back a smile. Kris scowled. He watched his father's fingers play along the rim of one of the many empty coffee mugs on the desk.
"This has nothing to do with the fact that a certain SnowDancer Lieutenant will be back next week, does it?"
Kris willed his body to stand still and prayed his blood wouldn't rush to his face. He struggled to keep the blush from spreading up from his chest into his cheeks.
"Of course not!" he sputtered with real indignation. "This has nothing to do with anything of the sort."
Neil couldn't hold it in anymore and snorted out a laugh. "You're just as bad as me when it comes to lying, Kristopher Allen. I don't even need to be a wolf to see or sense that you're nervous, excited and trying to lie to yourself. Plus, I don't think you being away from the pack for the next few weeks will do anything to deter a headstrong lieutenant from seeking you out." He took a sip from a mug. "I think the whole pack and SnowDancer team knew what Adam Lambert wanted from the start."
Kris glowered at his father and tried not to slump in disappointment. "So, you're denying my request."
"Yes, Kris. I'm denying your request for leave. You will be here when our friends from California arrive next week."
**
Adam was squeezing in the last of his clothes into his suitcase and picking through a drawer when Andrew Kincaid burst through the door of his quarters.
"Come on in, Drew," Adam drawled out with heavy sarcasm. "Not like civilized people need to knock or anything."
"Oh, whatever," Drew said as he plopped himself onto Adam's bed. "We're changelings, wolf changelings at that. We don't follow stinkin' rules."
"Is there something you needed?"
"Just wanted to see how you were getting along before your trip back out to StormRiver territory. I heard stories that your last trip was...er...interesting."
"It was fine. The area is pretty secure. I think with a few more trained soldiers from their end, there won't be a problem holding the summit there." Adam stopped and turned to face Drew. He crossed his arms. "But, then again, you know all this. You were there for my report to Hawke."
Drew grinned and shrugged his shoulders.
"Why are you here Drew?"
"Nothing," Drew replied as he propped himself up on his elbows. He smirked, "You know me. Just being my usual nosey self. Wanted to see if you needed to unburden yourself or talk about anything or um, anyone. You know, I'm the local shrink around here."
"More like pain in everyone's ass," Adam retorted.
"That hurts, bro," Drew replied and put a hand over his heart.
"Uh-huh."
"What? Not my fault that there's talk about SnowDancer's most notorious love-em-and-leave-em lieutenant might have his boxers all twisted up over someone that didn't fall for his charm." Drew shrugged again. "Looking for confirmation or denial is all."
Adam narrowed his eyes, "No comment." He turned his back to Drew and continued to rifle through his dresser. "Now get the fuck out of my room."
**
Kris padded back from his run. He knew that the team from SnowDancer had arrived by now, but he was in no mood to be at the grounds to welcome them...well him. He shook the excess water off his body, trying to dry his fur from his swim in the lake. Just because he wasn't at the command center to greet them, didn't mean he had to be a stinky, sweaty mess when he finally did make an appearance.
He stopped about 20 yards away from where he left his clothes, raising his nose into the air, ears twitching.
"I know you're there, Kris," Adam said softly. "You might as well come out. I'll even be a gentleman and turn my back as you shift back and change into your clothes."
Kris growled. Of course Adam went out to search for him. Of course Adam found him. Despite carefully masking his trail, Adam showed up. Adam wasn't a SnowDancer Lieutenant for nothing. Most other wolves wouldn't have been able to track him down, especially in unfamiliar territory. Kris knew all the tricks, but apparently Adam knew how to bypass them all. Kris's luck.
"Oh, stop being a pussy cat," Adam said with exasperation. "I just want to talk, promise. Nothing funny."
Kris snarled and bared his fangs as he ambled delicately towards the clearing of rocks where he had hidden his clothes. Which...were now in Adam's arms.
"So, I have to insult you to get you to show your face, huh?" Adam asked.
Kris stopped a few feet short of where Adam was sitting. He had his back against the tree, his long legs stretched out in front of him, Kris's clothes on his lap. The fading beams of sunlight danced through the leaves and branches of the trees, making Adam's black hair gleam. His blue eyes continued to stare at Kris, watching carefully to see if he would move towards him or bolt the other way. If Kris did turn and run, he had no doubt Adam would follow.
Kris also knew that Adam would shift into his wolf form to chase and track Kris down. The moment Adam changed, Kris was dead. There was no way Kris would be able to outrun him. As he stepped closer, he felt the weight of Adam's stare and stopped.
Adam patted the space next to him, "Come on. I won't do anything, I swear." Then he held out Kris's clothes. "And, I'm sure you want these. It would be a little insulting to go back to the center naked. And showing up in wolf form wouldn't be cool since you weren't there to greet us to begin with, considering your status in the pack."
Kris growled again, knowing Adam was right. Tentatively, he stepped forward, paw hitting the ground carefully, as if trying to cross a field filled with landmines. He ducked his head, unnerved by Adam watching him. He moved until he was within arm's length and stopped again, barking and motioning with his muzzle for the clothes.
Adam smiled, "I don't know. I think maybe I should start talking while you can't say anything back to interrupt me."
Kris raised his lips again to show teeth and held back a grumbling growl.
"Fine, fine," Adam backed down. "Here." He placed the clothes in front of Kris and turned his back on him. "We're still going to have our talk."
**
Adam turned his back on Kris, as promised. He thought about peeking, but his better judgment prevented him from doing it. Any shot he might have had would be gone in those two seconds. He felt the air change and fill up with a slight electrical charge as Kris shifted back to human form. He wasn't surprised when Kris wasn't at the command center earlier, waiting with the rest of the StormRiver pack to greet them. The minute the formalities were done, Adam walked the perimeter of the aerie to get Kris's scent.
As much as Kris had tried, it didn't fool Adam. Adam grinned, nearly beamed, as he followed Kris's scent out into the forest. Kris was a fast learner. The training sessions all those months ago had paid off. But there was a reason Adam was one of the best trackers for his pack, hell, in the entire western territory. Moving slowly and deliberately, Adam stalked over rocks and through thickets until he honed in on Kris.
Settling himself on the rock, he grabbed Kris's clothes and buried his nose in them. There was no denying it anymore. Kris's scent smelled like home.
Despite the back and forth warring in his head, this, if nothing else confirmed it for Adam. Kris was his mate, and he wasn't leaving Arkansas without him.
Three months ago, Hawke had sent a contingent of his lieutenants, soldiers that protected the California region, out to various packs across the country. The goal was to ensure all the wolf packs were able to defend themselves, their territories and even assist weaker changelings in their respective areas.
As one of the field trainers, Adam was among the group to travel to the SouthEast region. Neil had wanted to test his men against SnowDancer's team to see where improvement was needed. Unfortunately...or fortunately...Adam's two second lapse meant he didn't see the sword come in from his left side and he was hurt. He was sent to the healer, and that's when he found Kris.
From the minute he saw Kris, all rational thought flew out of his head. He no longer felt the pain in his side, had drowned in the soft brown eyes of the soft-spoken healer. At Kris's light touch, Adam felt unbridled heat curl through his body. For the rest of the time while in StormRiver's territory, Adam followed him around like a pup. Embarrassing and ridiculous, but it had happened.
Whatever advances Adam made, Kris deftly avoided them. The harder he tried, the more standoffish Kris got--and it annoyed Adam to no end. No man, human or wolf, had ever been able to resist when Adam turned on the charm. And, for Kris, he turned it on to 11. And got nowhere.
This time, it would play out differently. It had to.
**
Kris cricked his neck and raised his arms over his head to stretch out his shoulders from the punishing run and quick shift. It made him long for a hot shower and an hour-long massage. But instead of soaking in scorching water at home, he was feeling heated just from Adam's presence. It was disconcerting and comforting at the same time. He had to regulate his heartbeat and breathing, to make sure the last person he wanted to see didn't sense it or smell it on him.
"So, you wanted to talk," Kris said, breaking the silence. He sat a few feet away from Adam and waited. Kris tried to sound casual, holding back the shock he received that Adam didn't try to sneak a peek as Kris changed.
Adam smiled, "It's good to see you again."
Kris hugged his knees, and didn't respond. He wasn't sure where Adam was going with this, but it was a definite change from the obnoxious approach he took three months ago. Not that Kris wasn't flattered, but it was a tad bit ridiculous. Did other changelings actually fall for that shit? The outrageous flirting, the double entendres, the deliberateness and transparency of it all. It just wasn't Kris's thing. And he definitely didn't want to be another notch in Adam's bedpost. Kris just wasn't wired that way.
Adam cleared his throat, looking uncomfortable. He ducked his head and rubbed the back of his neck. Kris crooked his head. That was new. This strong, handsome, amazing changeling male was uneasy in his presence. Definitely a first.
"I...I, uh," Adam coughed. "I wanted to apologize to you about...about the last time." Adam bit his lip and raked his fingers through his hair.
Kris clenched his fingers and scolded himself at the sudden urge to reach out and touch. He wouldn't. He wouldn't.
"It's just that...I...well, when I saw you," Adam continued. "You..." Adam blew out a breath. "I'm not used to...you confused me. I reacted...my reaction to you. I didn't...there was..." Adam looked up, his brilliant blue eyes piercing Kris. "Fuck. Tell me you didn't sense it. Feel it."
This time Kris ducked his head. He had felt it. To be attracted to such a male, a male so completely and utterly different from him; Kris had been terrified. Now, seeing Adam his way, almost vulnerable, Kris was even more confused. The attraction was still there, no doubt about that, but could Kris deal with what might happen if he didn't shut Adam down this time?
He rested his cheek against a knee, not knowing what to say in response. Kris gazed at Adam’s face, using his eyes to mentally trace over his face with a mental finger...imagining what Adam’s skin would feel like, his eyebrows, his jaw, his lips.
"Are you going to say anything?"
Kris closed his eyes and rocked his head against his knee as a shake. Thoughts, images and scents swirled around him too quickly; Kris wrapped his arms around his legs and curled into a tighter ball. He felt Adam move and sit behind him carefully, body cocooning him. Adam's warm breath on him, creating goose bumps. A whimper escaped Kris's throat as Adam nuzzled his neck and stroked his bare arms, strong firm hands moving down from elbow to wrist. Unconsciously Kris shifted his body into Adam's, searching...seeking.
"Kris..." Adam whispered into his neck.
Kris changed his position, twisting his body until he could burrow his face into the crook of Adam's neck. His tongue slipped out from between his lips to lick at the prominent collar bone that called out to him. The taste of salt, sweat, heat and musk that was uniquely Adam overloaded his senses. Kris's hands moved until they were wrapped around Adam's neck.
**
Adam watched as Kris looked at him and curled into himself. He shook his head, rocking his head on his knees. It was then Adam knew. In that moment, Adam knew without a doubt that Kris felt the same way. Except, instead of accepting it, Kris was fighting between what his heart needed and what his mind wanted. Adam could see the confusion, the hurt and the want. It assaulted Adam on every level, he could feel what Kris was going through. The desire to protect and ease the hurt and provide was being unleashed in him.
Adam held back a groan as he felt Kris move closer and turned his body deeper into his. At the slightest touch of Kris's tongue on his neck, he couldn't hold back anymore. He tightened his hold, clutching Kris's body to his in a tight embrace. Kris lifted his head...
“Kris…” Adam moaned.
Adam took Kris's lips. He smothered his mouth against Kris's, unleashing everything he had been feeling since first laying eyes on this man. The kiss was hard, uncompromising...almost punishing. Adam poured everything he had into the kiss, wanted Kris to feel what he felt. Biting, licking and sucking, Adam pushed and pulled with his lips and teeth as Kris finally opened to him. With a tiny suck on the lower lip, Adam thrust his tongue into Kris's mouth, tongue on tongue, memorizing his taste.
When his lungs threatened to burst, Adam finally pulled back, but not before nipping at Kris's lips and chin one last time. He breathed heavily against Kris's jawline, mouthing his lips, leaving a slick, feathery trail to his ear. He bit Kris's earlobe, then rested his head against his shoulder.
"You can't...I need..." Adam sucked in deep breaths. "...what..." he stopped. He wasn't even sure what he was trying to say. He leaned heavily into Kris, who was gripping tightly onto his waist, shirt bunched up in both fists.
"Don't...don't Adam. Just...can we just..." Kris pleaded, voice ragged.
Adam nodded, understanding completely.
**
Kris was screwed.
"I'm so screwed," he stated to Allison.
Allison bounced up to him and wrapped her arms around his waist.
"Why?" she asked. "He's tall, dark and handsome. Strong, funny, sexy as hell, talented. Warm-hearted, hot..."
"You realize you used three adjective to describe his looks, right?" Kris interrupted.
Allison laughed, "What? He's kinda hot, if you haven't noticed."
Kris rolled his eyes, "That's not the problem." He sat down glumly on her couch.
"What is?"
"I...I'm not sure."
Allison scrunched her face and sat next to him, "Is it the hot thing?" She patted his head, "Because you really shouldn't worry about it. Sure, he's like way out of your league for the most part, but you're cute and sexy in your own way. I think you guys make a hot couple. Plus, the chemistry between you two?" she whistled. "Damn. Everyone gets a little worked up just seeing you two look at each other."
Kris blushed and slammed a cushion over his face. "Oh god," he said, voice muffled. "This isn't good."
"I don't understand why you're making such a big deal out of this."
"He feels like home, Alli." He removed the cushion. "I get all kinds of irrational when I see him even talking to someone else, never mind that they're across the room from each other. Forget it if I see someone actually touching him, even casually, like a damn fist-bump."
"Oh my god, Kris!" Allison screamed. She smacked him upside the head. "How are you our healer and you can't even see the signs for yourself?"
"Ow," he whined and palmed the back of his head. "What the hell are you talking about?"
She grabbed his face and stared at him, "You two are mates."
Kris's eyes widened, "Wha...What? Wait, what? No..." He shook his head, taking her hands with him. "No, no and fuck no. That can't be it. We're just horny or something. It's been a while for both of us, that's all."
Allison stilled his head with her hands, then bobbled it with force moving it up, down and side to side, "Think about it. Think about the last two weeks. Think about three months ago." She forced his eyes to look into her own. "Think."
Kris closed his eyes, "Oh god."
Allison released his head and squealed, "I get to be a sister-in-law!" She bounced off the couch and started to dance. "Man, the girls are going to be jealous that I have two major hotties in my life. Sucks that neither of you are my mates, but close enough." She stopped suddenly and nearly toppled over. "Shit, does this mean you're moving to California?"
Kris fell over onto his side and covered his face again, "One problem at a time please, okay Alli?"
"Aww, Kris," she cooed. Allison crouched on the floor next to him and patted his shoulder. "It'll be awesome."
**
"You and my son...you're mates," Neil stated.
Adam stood at attention in the alpha's office. It wasn't a question, so he didn't respond. Adam watched warily out of the corner of his eye as Neil continued to circle him.
"I spoke with Hawke at length about this the other day. It's uncommon, but not unheard of. We're wondering how it would all work."
This statement worried Adam, "Uh, sir?"
Neil stopped in front of him, confused. "What?" At Adam's pink cheeks and brow lift, Neil's own cheeks flushed dark pink. He scowled and waved his hand, then continued to pace. "No. No, not that. For fuck's sake."
Adam slowly and quietly released a quick breath, relieved. He really didn't want to explain that to Kris's father, never mind an alpha.
"He's my son and the pack's main healer," Neil continued. "He's training Allison and Megan, but they're not ready yet to take on such responsibilities. You're a key component in Hawke's guard, so you're definitely not in a position to leave--not that Hawke would let you. I'm sure the SnowDancer healers would find room for Kris eventually, but..."
"Um, sir, if I may?"
Neil let out a frustrated breath and sat on the corner of his desk. Crossing his arms, he nodded.
"We, uh," Adam started. "That is, uh, Kris and I haven't...well, we haven't really discussed any of this yet. I think it's premature for you and Hawke to be having this discussion...sir."
Neil raised a brow, "Really, now. So what do you two discuss? It's been six weeks, you two have barely left each other's side except when absolutely necessary. The entire pack knows the two of you haven't completed the mating bond yet. When is this discussion supposed to happen? You and your team leave in three weeks."
Adam blushed harder and cleared his throat. "I...uh. I don't have an answer for you, sir. Just that we're getting to know each other..." Adam grimaced, "Slowly. And, the appropriate time to discuss relocation hasn't really come up."
Neil laughed as he shook his head. He sighed and moved away from the desk to stand in front of Adam. "He's a healer. He's more meticulous and serious about everything he does, more than everyone else--which is great when he's saving a life. He's a good man, and I'm not saying that because I'm his father." Neil clasped Adam's arms. "I'm glad he's found a mate, and I'm glad it's you. I know that you'll protect him and love him as he deserves to be loved."
Adam nodded, "Thank you, sir. I...I'll be good to him."
"Of that, I have no doubt," Neil stated firmly. He patted Adam's shoulder. "And he'll be good to you. Once you have his love and loyalty, it can't be broken." Neil turned to his desk and picked up the phone. "I'll let Hawke know that nothing's been settled--which he'll hate, but he'll just have to deal like the rest of us. Looks like we're all working on Kris's timeline whether we want to or not."
**
For a week, Adam purposely avoided Kris. He made sure he was out on the training grounds, hanging with his fellow SnowDancer team, exhausting himself with runs in the forest and familiarizing himself with the territory he might have to call home. After his conversation with Neil, he wanted to give Kris time to come to him.
Kris watched from the sidelines as Adam laughed, smiled and talked to pretty much everyone but him. He sulked as he continued to be ignored.
“Stop moping and go talk to him,” Allison prodded.
They were standing in the doorway of the alpha’s office. Kris had just supervised Allison’s first solo procedure in the health center. Now they were watching the soldiers of the two packs mess around by the giant fire pit.
“I’m not moping,” Kris pouted.
“Uh-huh,” Allison nodded. She poked his side, “He keeps looking over at you.”
“I don’t care.”
Kris glared at the two male teenagers who were fluttering around Adam with adoring eyes as he tried to explain a fight stance maneuver with them. He wanted to kill them, no matter how young they were.
“God, I can smell the jealousy on you,” Allison exclaimed. “Go to him. Talk to him.”
“No, he’s been ignoring me all week.”
Allison rolled her eyes, “You’re such a dipshit, you know that?” At Kris’s silence, she continued. “What if he’s waiting for you? You were such an asshole to him before. Maybe he doesn’t want to be rejected. Knowing that you two are mates, and that you might deny him?”
Kris closed his eyes and nodded, “You’re right. When did you become such a bossy, know-it-all?”
“Go, you dumbass.”
Kris pushed himself off the doorjamb and started to walk towards Adam. He barely caught sight of Adam leaving and heading into the forest. He tried to catch up, but was stopped by what seemed like everyone suddenly needing his opinion on an ache or pain.
He finally extracted himself, but lost Adam to the forest. Reaching out with his senses, Kris made his way through the trees. He detected Adam’s trail and spotted his clothes hanging from a low-hanging branch. Kris quickly stripped off his clothes to change into wolf form; he’d be able to catch up with Adam faster-if he wanted to be caught.
Sniffing the ground around the tree, Kris caught Adam’s scent and took off. Three miles in, just at the periphery of the lake, Kris stopped. Adam was sprawled on the flat edge of a rock, his black and dark gray fur lying in stark contrast to the bleached out stone around him. Though he made no movement, Kris knew that Adam knew he was there.
Kris made his way up and paused. Adam gazed at Kris through sleepy lids, then closed his eyes again. He shuffled his head, ears twitching. Taking that as a positive sign, Kris continued up and laid himself down next to Adam, fur touching fur.
They laid there until the evening sky turned black and the air turned cooler. Kris shivered and moved his body closer to Adam, a soft whimper escaping at the sudden warmth. Kris felt the rough lick of Adam’s tongue on the side of his face and a heavy paw brush across his nose. He pushed back and growled. Adam nipped his ears, then moved back.
The air filled with a charged current as he felt Adam shift to human form. Kris released a deep breath of air as he felt Adam’s hands run through the fur along his neck and back.
“I’m guessing you followed me out here for something other than petting?” Adam asked.
Kris snuffled in response, enjoying the feel of Adam’s hand on him.
Adam grabbed his hair and pulled slightly, “Come on. I can’t talk to you.”
Kris sighed.
As he changed back to human form, Adam’s hand remained curled in his hair. Kris followed the pull of Adam’s body until he landed on top of him.
“I thought you wanted to talk,” Kris choked out.
“I can talk to you like this,” Adam replied, moving his hands along Kris’s neck and back. “Let’s see if you can.”
“I hate you.”
Kris squeaked when Adam squeezed his ass. “Talk,” Adam ordered.
Kris dropped his head onto Adam’s chest, “Why have you been ignoring me all week?”
“I was giving you space, Kris. You seemed a little confused and freaked out the last couple of weeks.”
Kris started to nuzzled Adam’s neck, “I didn’t like it.” Kris pushed up and stared directly into Adam’s eyes. “And I’m not freaked out or confused anymore.”
“Good.”
“Don’t do it again.”
“Wouldn’t dream of it.”
**
"Fuck...oh god, Kris..." Adam groaned.
He continued to thrust slowly into Kris, sweat dripping off his eyebrows. Kris's head was thrown back, his eyes shut tight, hands gripping the bars of the headboard.
"Fas...faster, Adam...Adam!" Kris grunted. "I...I...oh god." Kris shifted his body, lifting his hips higher to meet Adam's thrusts.
"Kris..."
Adam shoved a hand between their bodies and gripped Kris's cock. Sweat and moisture covered his palms, as he twisted his hand in time with his hips. Harder, faster...until he felt Kris's body hitch helplessly before he came all over his hands. Kris tightened his legs around Adam's back and pushed up, knowing that Adam wouldn't last much longer.
"Fuck, Adam..." Kris breathed as he grabbed Adam's come-stained fingers. He pulled at each digit, licking and swirling his tongue up and down each finger and in between.
"Kris, I swear to god..." Adam growled. With one last push, he collapsed. Carefully, he pulled out of Kris and started to crawl up his body.
"I love you, Adam."
Adam was mid-collapse, but Kris's words froze him.
"What?" he whispered.
Kris pulled Adam down on top of him until they were nose-to-nose. "I said, I love you, Adam." Kris smiled, eyes crinkling. "I'm pretty sure you heard me the first time, but you just wanted me to say it again didn't you?"
Adam shook his head. He knew, but didn't expect Kris to actually say the words. At least not yet. "You asshole," Adam replied, still in shock. "I love you, too."
Adam placed his forehead against Kris's, their sweat making them stick to each other. Adam kissed him lightly, "I fucking love you, Kris. I don't think you know how much."
"Probably as much as I love you, you ass." Kris laughed.
Kris kissed him back. Slowly, leisurely, they kissed...feather-light touches on the tips of each other's lips, until the sharp burn caused them both to cry out and cling to each other. Adam collapsed on top of Kris.
"You okay?" Adam asked.
Kris nodded, "What was that?"
Adam rolled off of Kris and grabbed Kris's hand. Twining them together, he felt the jolt flow through them.
"I believe, that, my love," Adam said softly. "was the mating bond being completed.
**
Before Kris even opened the door to his apartment he knew something was up. He closed the door quietly and used his senses to figure out what it was.
"In the kitchen, Kris," Adam called out.
Kris smiled. The last two months had been a whirlwind. He was happy. He thought he had been happy, but didn't know what true happiness was until now. He walked into the kitchen and stared at the sight before him. His utilitarian kitchen was transformed into a romantic dining area, filled with wildflowers and candles.
"What's all this?" he asked in awe.
Adam rolled his eyes, "I can't believe I'm in love with someone like you."
"What?" Kris huffed.
Adam walked to him and placed a small kiss at his temple. "It's Valentine's Day, silly. And I figured we take part in the cheesy day at least once in our lifetime."
Kris smiled and chuckled, "And you figured this year would be the year?"
Adam shrugged, "Why not? I leave next week, and we won't see each other for at least six months."
"You know I have..."
"Shh," Adam kissed his mouth to quiet him. "I know you have to finish training Megan and Alli. I have to finish training the LightStorm pack in upstate New York."
Kris hugged Adam tight, wrapping his arms around his waist and snuggled into the crook of Adam's shoulder.
"After I'm done in New York, I'll come down here to get you. Then, we'll take our time getting to California. Hawke will have to suck it up, because we'll be on our honeymoon."
Kris leaned back into Adam's arm and smiled. "I think I did good with you."
"Oh, I know you did good with me, darling."
Punching Adam's shoulder, Kris pushed up to nip him on the chin. "I love you."
Adam licked the tip of Kris's nose, "I love you, too, Kris. And happy Valentine's Day."
~the end~