Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was the first day of summer, the sun had began setting later in the day, it’s heat getting stronger, and the breeze only showing up late at night. Normally Theo would just sleep on his backseat, attempt to gain some hours of quiet before a Deputy came knocking, telling him he had to move, his regular schedule; however sleeping in the car was no longer a viable option, it grew stuffy, humid, and made him feel like he was slowly cooking. So he resorted to sleeping in the back portion of his pickup. Grabbing his pillow, and whatever ratty blankets he still had, he could make himself somewhat comfortable as he attempted to sleep. Sleep never really came to him though, most days he would wake up claws out, eyes flashed and heart racing; really the nightmares should’ve lost their effect on him by now. He had them every night, the same story over and over and over again, but his mind liked to play tricks on Theo. It would tweak small factors, change little bits of the dream, not small enough to be ignored, but not big enough to completely change the events. Just the perfect change in detail that would shock or frighten Theo, just enough detail to make him feel as if he was truly in hell.

Laying down, he expected nothing different to occur that night, he closed his eyes, one arm behind his head, the other across his torso, and he focused. He focused on the soft breeze running through the field he parked in, he focused on the sound of the crickets chirping, and the smell of the grass surrounding him. He would one by one cycle through each of those things around him as it would eventually lull him to sleep.

Breeze, Crickets, Grass.

Breeze, Crickets, Grass.

Breeze, Crickets, Grass.

Breeze, Crickets, Heartbeat-

His eyes opened, instantly on the defensive, he focused his ears on where the heartbeat he heard was coming from, if he was correct-which he normally was- it was coming from the westside of the field, and it was slowly getting closer. Not wanting to alert the person that he was aware of them, his hand currently behind his head, flattened down to grab the handle of the hunting knife he kept bellow his pillow. Until the person was close enough for him to smell, having a human weapon close was his best bet, as scaring the shit out of a human with his claws and eyes probably wouldn’t be the best bet for Human-Supe relations.

As the heartbeat got closer, Theo realised it wasn’t an adult, it was a child, and by the smell, the little girl? He assumed- was a were-bear, definitely a cub as her heartbeat suggested. Sensing no immediate danger, he released his hold and sat up. Looking over to the west he saw the little girl that had made her way towards him. She looked 5 maybe 6, she was in a pair of blue pyjamas, her hair in 5 cornrows down her head, and her hands wrapped around a stuffed animal toy. Her eyes were watering and she was sniffling, she had been crying, and was clearly on the verge of starting up again. For a moment Theo was sat, eyes wide, mouth parted in shock, just staring at the girl in front of him. He didn’t know what to do!

Do I say something? Do I get out the truck? Do I flash my eyes? All these thoughts ran through his mind, and as he panicked, the girl decided to take the first step and she spoke.

“S-sorry mister stranger, I got lost and I need help please”, fiddling her hands with what Theo could now see was a stuffed wolf -oh the irony- she spoke up again, this time with more confidence.

“Momma said if I get lost I need to ask for help”

Looking down at her toy she continued,

“Momma also said I need to stop chasin’ butterflies, but this one was so pretty!”

Gone were the tears and in their place the girls eyes were wide as she spoke about the butterfly that she had spotted, Theo, confused by her sudden change in demeanour, had no clue what to do, this little girl in front of him was talking wildly about a butterfly, her arms moving all over the place as she told her story. Why is this happening to me- Theo thought, not knowing what to do or how to react, he started looking around the field for any other signs of life, he had to squint as the moon was his only source of light, and he didn’t want to risk scaring the little girl by flashing his eyes. Once he determined there was nothing else nearby, he attempted to sniff the air to smell the nearby area, but before he could even take a whiff he was interrupted.

“Hey mister are you even listening to me? Lottie told me to tell people they have to listen to me when I talk, and you aint listening are you? That’s not mighty kind mister”

Now he was frozen, a little kid just told him off, for ignoring her, with her eyebrows risen and her hands on her hips, one foot tapping on the grass. What have i gotten myself into?  So instead of letting the girl talk to the air around her he responded.

“Kid- who are you?”

Slapping her hand to her forehead in an act of shame she introduced herself.

“Silly me, I shoulda told you my name!” extending her hand out, as if demanding a handshake she continued. “I’m Harriett, my friends call me Harry”. Theo climbed out of the tailgate, and faced Harriett ,ignoring her hand, he spoke.

“Right- Listen Harry I-“

“Nuh uh, you can call me Harriett.”

“You just said people call you Harry?”

“No, my FRIENDS, call me Harry. You mister stranger didn’t listen to me speak and you didn’t shake my hand. MY friends have manners” she responded in a snarky manner; arms crossed as she stared directly at Theo.

“Okay HARRIETT, back to-“

“Mister stranger, who are YOU?”

“Oh my god, Kid can I talk? My name is Theo.”

“What do you friends call you?”

“I don’t have friends.”

“ Well no wonder! You must not listen to people when they speak to you like you didn’t listen to me!”

Harriett stands, her arms now crossed whilst she smirks at Theo, and for a brief moment he smiles at her confidence, but it disappears when he remembers he’s in the middle of a field debating manners with 6 year old. As if she senses he’s about to ask her a question, she yet again, beats him to the punch.

“As I was saying THEO, Momma said if I get lost I should ask for help, and there’s no one else here but you, and you smell a bit like Manny, so I’m guessing you can help?”

 “I have no clue who Manny is and why I smell like him, but sure. Let’s get you home kid. Where do you live?”. He asks as Harriet makes her way to the passenger door, she opens it herself, and just as Theo thinks he’ll need to lift her into the seat, she climbs into it with a sense of agility and strength only a bear could have. Feeling accomplished, she puts her seatbelt on, looks at Theo with a cheeky smile on her face and comments,

“Come on slowpoke! Time to drive!" . Chuckling to himself at Harriett’s attitude, he makes his way around the hood to his side, He gets in buckles his belt and turns to repeat his earlier question.

“The biiiiiiig farmhouse on the north end of Beacon Lake!”

“Seriously how do you always know when I’m gonna say something? For a little kid your intuition is weird.”

“nuh uh! Lottie says my in- intu- my int-too-wish-un, is spec-TACULAR!” she cheeses at Theo happy with herself for getting the word out.

“Lottie says a lot of things huh? Hold on a minute kid, Beacon Lake? That’s all the way over on the south side of town! You followed a butterfly for miles? Seriously?” he exclaimed, shocked at the girl next to him.

“I told you it was a pretty butterfly.” Harriett shrugged. Not knowing how to respond, Theo started the engine, and began the 35 minute drive to Lake. It was a few minutes in to the drive, when Harriett decided she didn’t like the silence, she reached for the radio and turned it on. “I LOVE this song!” she squealed as the opening beats for Iggy Azealia’s Fancy played. Theo's eyebrow rose as he watched on as Harriett started along.

I’m so fancy, you already know!

Pointing to Theo she continued,

We’re in the fast lane, from LA to Tokyo!

Not knowing how to react to the little girl as she began rapping, Theo thought ah hell what what have I got to lose? The respect of a 6 year old? So he did what any sensible 18 year old would do. He joined in.

Now tell me, who that, who that?
That do that, do that?
Put that paper over all, I thought you knew that, knew that
I be that I-G-G-Y, put my name in bold
I been working, I'm up in here with some change to throw

Harriett shouted the last line whilst swiping pretend cash off of her left hand with her right hand. In that moment Theo’s shoulders were slumped, his body relaxed, and his mind at ease as he laughed at the bear cub sat next to him, pretending she was throwing money all over herself and Theo. In that moment, he wasn’t Theodore Raeken the First Chimera, he wasn’t a killer, a monster, he wasn’t the boy who had his heart ripped out in hell.

He was Mister Stranger, that “smelled a bit like Manny”, he was Theo singing songs in his truck, Theo driving a little girl home.

He was happy.

Chapter Text

They were 5 minutes away from the Lake and Harriett was humming along to the car speaker as My Future by Billie Eilish played. Theo had hooked up his phone to the system and given the bear cub his phone so she could choose what to listen to. Clearly this kid has good taste he thought, as he tapped his index finger on the wheel to the rhythm of the song. He thought back to what had occurred during the bulk of their ride.

After Fancy had ended, Harriett decided she wanted to tell Theo more about herself, and still riding the joy that had come with their karaoke session, he acquiesced. She had told him that she was in fact a were-bear, and that when she said Theo smelt like Manny, she was talking about her older brother. According to her, he was a Were-Coyote, his smell was similar to the Chimera’s but not exact, hence Harriett’s previous statement. She told him about the illustrious Lottie, her older sister who happened to be a witch; He was heavily doubting all she was telling him because a werebear having a were-coyote and a witch for siblings? It just didn’t make sense, but already having been on the bad end of a telling off by the cub, he didn’t question her and listened as she told him about her siblings.

She told him about the oak tree in her backyard, dubbed “Harry’s Tree” and how she used it to practice her climbing when she was fully shifted- that piece of information was interesting for Theo to learn. In his 18 years he had only come across two were-bears, mainly because they preferred to live in vast forests, out of human sight; however out of the two he had met, neither could fully shift. They both could partially shift like most were-creatures could, but that was it. For a were-bear Harriett’s age to be able to fully shift was rare, even for a born were-bear; the cub must’ve had some serious genes to be able to pull that off.

Theo looked at the watch he kept on his left wrist, it was nearing 10pm. Usually Theo would be trying-and failing- to fall asleep by now; but he was secretly glad at the unique change in routine. He would’ve never expected to find himself in the situation he was currently in, sure it was a shock at first, but now he appreciated it. During those thirty minutes of driving, he was able to interact with someone who didn’t fear him, who didn’t hate him, and who didn’t want to immediately kill him. Harriett didn’t know who he was or what he had done, she just knew they liked the same music, and that Theo smelled safe to her. He cherished that. He knew it would come to an end when Harriett got home, he would probably never see her again, and he would go back to his interactions consisting of Deputies, and people who didn’t care for him.

As Harriett put on the next song, Mystery of Love from Call me by your name; Theo’s mind started to drift to something- or rather someone else.

Oh, oh woe-oh-woah is me
The first time that you touched me
Oh, will wonders ever cease?
Blessed be the mystery of love

The beta with anger issues.

Theo had kept his distance from the McCall pack ever since the hospital. He was a whirlwind of emotions, from the moment in the elevator with Liam, to taking Gabe’s pain. He had a lot to digest, so as Melissa took Liam to one of the hospital rooms so she could check on his wounds, Theo made the decision to leave, he started making his way towards the staircase exit when he stopped. The door to the room Liam was in was ajar. Looking through the space he observed Liam and Melissa talking, he had relief written all over his face, and she had a hand on his shoulder in a motherly way. Theo would never know what it would be like to have that, to feel relief at the end of conflict, if there wasn’t a real life conflict going on, there was always one in his head; and he wouldn’t know the warm touch of a mother, of someone who cared, Theo had fucked that up for himself.

Oh, oh woe-oh-woah is me
I'm running like a plover
Now I'm prone to misery
The birthmark on your shoulder reminds me

It was when Liam looked up at Theo, a hint of a smile on his face, that Theo moved from his spot by the door, he walked out of the hospital, bullet still in his shoulder, and he made his way to his truck.

How much sorrow can I take?
Blackbird on my shoulder
And what difference does it make
When this love is over?

It was only when Theo had the hospital in his rear view mirror, did he realise his face was wet. He was crying. He had to leave; he couldn’t stay at the hospital. He wouldn’t do it, he knew, Melissa would remind him that he killed her son, and when the others arrived, they’d tell him to get out and get away. Probably say it was a shame he didn’t take more bullets in his body. Then they’d realise that they needed to handle him, that if he stayed they’d probably find a way to send him back to hell, or find a way to make sure he’d only see a cell for the rest of his life. That didn’t really bother him, he could handle the abuse, the probability of living his life as a prisoner, he deserved it. But he couldn’t handle the chance the Liam would agree, he couldn’t risk seeing agree, or demanding they lock him up. His heart couldn’t and wouldn’t be able to handle it, whatever shred of hope he had left, whatever drove him to that hospital that night, whatever made him sacrifice himself for Liam would just crumble. It would cease to exist, and if he was honest, it was the only thing keeping him alive.

Oh, oh woe-oh-woah is me
The last time that you touched me
Oh, will wonders ever cease?
Blessed be the mystery of love.

He was brought back to reality as he felt a small hand on his. In his mental journey, caused by the song, he must have failed to hide his emotions, and Harriett could sense that something was wrong. She had changed the song, to something with a nice beat, and she had curled her little hand around his, her attempt at comfort he guessed.

“Theo? You okay? I didn’t mean to make you upset by putting that song on, I swear!”

“Harriett it wasn’t you don’t worry, I was just thinking about someone, that’s all”

“ I changed the song anyways, Lottie plays this one when she feels happy, I thought it would do the same for you.”

Feeling bad that Harriett thought she made him sad, Theo turned his hand over so he could hold the little hand that had curled around his knuckles. Holding her hand, he responded.

“ What’s the song called? I like it.”

“It’s called Sunflower, it’s from the new spiderman movie! Did you watch it? ”

“ ‘fraid not kid, I haven’t really seen any movies in a while.”

Completely shocked at Theo’s admission, Harriett’s eyes widened, and her mouth parted in shock. “ WHAT! Theo! You have to watch it!” Harriett exclaimed.

Smiling at her little face of shock, he responded “Maybe I will kid, maybe I will.”

Enjoying the rest of song, one hand on the steering wheel, the other holding Harriett’s tiny hand; Theo could make out a large farmhouse in front of them. The road transitioned from tarmac to gravel, probably signifying private property. The white Farmhouse was two floors, both having a wrap-around porches, Harriett wasn’t lying when she called it big. The house was massive, if he had to guess he’d say it was the type of house that had at least 6 rooms. The gravel driveway had giant trees on the left and right side, that sort of leaned over the driveway as if an arch guiding people through.

“I’m guessing this is it kid?” Theo asked squeezing Harriett’s hand. “Yeah it is” she responded almost as if she was sad about it. Braking the car before he could drive onto the gravel he turned to Harriett to question the change in mood.

“What’s wrong bud?”

“ I don’t wanna go home” Harriett responded eyes watering as she stared at Theo. Truthfully Theo started panicking, Harriett had spoken wildly about her siblings and her mom, so why didn’t she want to go back? Was she scared? Could she be getting hurt at home?

As if sensing Theo’s anxiety and stress, she explained her earlier sentiment, “ I don’t want to go home, because then I have to leave you!”. At Theo’s confusion she continued,

“Yeah you were Mister Stranger at first, but then you were Theo! You said you’d help me get back home, and you let me listen to fancy- which Manny doesn’t let me do even though I KNOW he likes it as much as I do- and you rapped with me! Then you let me pick songs the entire time, and when you got upset you held my hand. You said you didn’t have any friends! Who’s gonna hold your hand if you get upset after I go home? Who? I have to be there to hold your hand Theo!”.

As she started crying Theo shut the engine off, unbuckled his seatbelt and climbed out the truck, he walked around to the passenger side, he opened the door, and unbuckled Harriett’s seatbelt. Only half prepared when she leaped out of her seat and into his arms. For a moment he stilled, not knowing how to navigate a crying 6 year old that was very clearly hysterical; but not wanting to see this little girl that had made him smile so much upset, he hugged her back.

Theodore Raeken was hugging a little girl that was holding onto him for life. Oh, if the Doctors could see him now, so far removed from the soulless being they wanted him to be. Without realising he wrapped his arms around the crying cub, his left hand going up to her head and holding it as she hid her face in his neck. As her cries softened down to simple sobs, he wanted to respond to her confession, but he couldn’t. Every time he opened his mouth, he closed it out of loss, how do I respond to that? He asked himself. Theo hadn’t experienced that type of care and attention since he himself was a kid, he didn’t know what to do with it now.

Lost in his thoughts he didn’t realise that Harriett had fallen asleep on him, her face resting in the crook of his neck, and her arms wrapped around it. Theo grabbed her stuffed wolf from her seat, closed the passenger door, and walked down the driveway to the house. As he approached the Front Porch, the house door opened, and a woman stepped out.

She was maybe 5’6, had long braids falling down her right shoulder down to her waist. She was wearing a pair of grey sweatpants and a white t-shirt, and judging by the relieved expression on her face, this was the “Momma” that Harriett had told him about.

“Oh my Lord, Harriet?!” She exclaimed.

“ She’s sleeping right now, but she was fine when she found me, don’t worry”

“I swear to God, she always makes her way back soon, but today she decided she wanted to go follow the butterflies again didn’t she!” The woman states throwing her arms ups.

“Thank you for bringing her back, I should call the Sheriff and tell him she’s back safe. Let me have her.” She stretched her arms out as Theo placed the sleeping cub in her mother’s arms, Theo handed over the toy, and took a step back.

“I should probably make my way out of here.” He said nervously scratching the back of his neck.

“Sweetie it’s late, are you sure? You can stay in the guest room and make your way home in the morning?”

“You’d invite a stranger into your home?” Theo asked not believing what the woman said.

“ Baby, you brought this little one back home, when you could’ve left her alone, and you drove all this way from the North side of town I’m guessing? My Southern hospitality genes would literally scream if I let you go at this hour.”

“It’s fine, I should be heading home anyways.” The woman was clearly unsure about letting Theo go, but she didn’t want to make him uncomfortable by asking again. As she nodded to him and thanked him again, she turned around and made her way up the steps. Theo had watched as she made her way back home, and saw Harriett open her eyes at him.

As she waved, he whispered “Bye Harriett” at the little girl, she mumbled back at him “call me Harry” as she tucked her head back into her mother’s neck. Theo’s chest warmed at her statement, and he watched as they disappeared back into the house. Slowly he made his way back to his truck, already missing the little girl and her presence. 

Chapter Text

As Dondra walked back into her home, with Harriett on her shoulder, her thoughts drifted back to the young man that brought her cub home. Theo Raeken- who woulda thought?

She tucked Harriett into bed, promising herself that she’d talk to the little girl again, about why chasing butterflies wasn’t the best idea. Closing Harriett’s door, she made her way downstairs to the kitchen and poured herself a drink; she picked up her phone and dialled the number for Sheriff Stilinski’s office.

“Sheriff Stilinski speaking.”

“Hi Sheriff, it’s Dondra Bordelon”

“Ms Bordelon, I have Deputy Parrish out right now, checking the areas you suggested, i-“

“That’s quite alright Sheriff, I was calling to tell you I have Harriett. She was brought home less than five minutes ago.”

“Really? That’s great! I’ll let Deputy Parrish know she’s safe. Who brought her back if you don’t mind me asking?”

“It was a young man, who she bumped into, the lovely boy took care of her and brought her back.”

“I’m glad she’s safe Ms Bordelon. If that’s all, I think I’ll go make that call to my Deputy. Goodnight Ma’am.”

“Goodnight Sheriff, and thanks again.”

Ending the call, she walked through her kitchen, towards the back porch, and took a seat at the dining table they had out there. Sipping on her drink she thought back to Theo Raeken and to her old memories of Beacon Hills.

Dondra originally was from New Orleans, but she had a personal history with Beacon Hills, as a child she had grown up in the famous French Quarter, but spent her summers with her brother in Beacon Hills. Her Family had been close with the Hales, so as a girl she spent many days with Talia and Peter Hale. Running through the preserve, playing in the lake, and causing mayhem in the town. Talia was a few years older but Peter and Dondra, or Donnie as they called her, were the same age and those two got on like a house on fire, always playing tricks and always play fighting.

The last time she had been in town she had just turned twenty years old, and her brother had turned fifteen. They had been sent to stay with the Hale Family due to a war emerging in the quarter. A pack of Were-Jaguars were trying to stake a claim over the quarter even though it had belonged to the Bordelon Pack for over 50 years. The war was brutal, with many lost on both sides, including Dondra’s Parents. The loss of which, caused Dondra to almost lose her mind; she was driven into a fit of pure rage, almost as if she lost any and every shred of humanity in her, leaving just the animal in her to take charge.

By the end of it, she had massacred almost all of the Were-jaguars in the Quarter, and she did it brutally. The only way to not get herself killed by Hunter Clans from the south, was to agree to a ceasefire, or more so mercy, considering the damage she had done. The terms were that the Quarter become neutral land, no pack, and no clan could claim it, and no supernatural conflict could be conducted in the boundaries of the quarter. Dondra had agreed, and her Aunt Marie had been left in charge of the remaining pack members including Dondra’s brother Nathaniel.

Dondra wasn’t seen by anyone for almost fifteen years after the war, she disappeared, and had only resurfaced when she moved back to Beacon Hills 5 years ago. She bought the farmhouse over on the south end of town, and kept her distance from anyone that might know who she was. It was the best way for her deal with those years she spent missing.

She may have kept a low profile, but she kept an eye out on the town, watching as the supernatural took its place again in Beacon Hills. She watched the birth of a True Alpha, The death of the Argent Daughter, and witnessed the almost-destruction of the McCall pack at the hands of the First Chimera. It was when that monster Monroe and her band of merry idiots tried to hold a supe hunt, Dondra was prepared to disappear again, but she couldn’t this time, she had a family and she had finally worked through her trauma and her past. Uprooting herself and her family was the last thing she needed; but she didn’t have to, she saw how the First Chimera was helping, he hadn’t run like she expected, instead he stood with the McCall pack to stop Monroe.

Dondra was surprised at that, and intrigued by his actions, she took it upon herself to properly look into the Dread Doctors and what they had done. She was positively surprised to learn that the Doctors were part of her personal history. Upon investigation and a lot of digging, it turned out the Doctors had a part to play in the death of her Parents and in the conflict that almost claimed the Quarter. The Doctors had enabled the Were-Jags, by manipulating their DNA, they were angrier, stronger and deadlier than they should’ve been. It was because the Doctors had made a deal with the pack. Help them take over the Quarter, and the Doctors could use the left over imprisoned supes in their experiments and trials. Dondra felt ashamed when she learnt the truth, not only ashamed, but guilty. If she had found out about the Doctors at the end of the war instead of twenty years later, she could’ve done something. She could’ve stopped them, and prevented them from ever harming innocents again.

Innocents like Theo.

Theo Raeken wasn’t the monster that he seemed to be, in fact, he was clearly a victim of abuse, manipulation and he was clearly taken advantage of. He was a lot like her kids, manipulated or forced into a fight or flight situation; sure, he left a wave of destruction behind him, but Dondra? She had slaughtered, and her kids and done their fair share of damage too. Theo was clearly someone who had a selection of choices handed to him, all of them bad or worse. Something about him resonated deep with her, and clearly with Harriett too. She didn’t know what the future held, but clearly their earlier encounter would not be the last between them, she wouldn’t let it. She owed it to him. Finishing her drink, she got up and walked back into the kitchen, placed her glass in the sink and went up the stairs to her room.

3 DAYS LATER

Theo was driving his truck through town, window down, left arm resting on the door and right hand on the steering wheel, listening to the songs Harriett had played a few days prior, he put them in a playlist, named after the little girl. He had placed all the songs she had played-minus one- in the list. Currently Everybody wants to rule the world by Tears for Fears was playing, and it was doing a good job of neutralising the sour mood he was currently in.

He had underestimated the boost that Harriett had given his mood and his mental health, and now he was irritable, and the heat wasn’t helping either. He was managing in T-Shirts and jeans, but come July he was going to have to find suitable clothes for the definite heat wave that was soon coming. He was driving down the street heading towards the south end of town, he had resorted to sticking around in the south, since he was less likely to bump into the McCall pack. The fact that the Sheriff’s department didn’t patrol down there was also a plus.

South Beacon Hills was like its own little town within a town, it had its own main street, shops, a few bars, and a couple of nice restaurants too. Right now, he was headed to the store since he needed to re-up on his toiletries, pulling into a parking spot, he stepped out, baseball cap on backwards to keep his growing hair out of his face. Walking into the artificial cold the store’s air cons supplied, he felt slightly more comfortable now that the heat wasn’t bothering him. Walking through the aisles, he mentally counted how much money he could spend in the store, upon realising he had enough to get what he needed and a treat for himself, he made his way to the freezer section to see if they had any of the popsicles he used to eat by the dozen as a kid when the weather got warm.

Theo made it to the last aisle when he smelt something familiar, it was oak-like with what is that? Citrus?- He knew that smell. It was the same smell in that elevator, the same smell that surrounded his nose when he was released from Hell’s depths. It was Liam.

Liam POV

Liam was with Mason, Corey, Alec and Nolan- who after a lot of conversations and a few angry glares, had been forgiven by the others- the four of them had driven downtown to see if they could find the pineapple popsicles Liam liked. The store near them didn’t stock them, and his supply at home had finished, plus he thought he might as well grab some extra snacks for the house. Corey and Alec were arguing about the worst possible popsicle flavours they could come up with.

“Corey, dude the smell alone from potato popsicles would LITERALLY make you want to puke, and you think tomato popsicles would be worse?”

“Firstly, tomatoes would be disgusting in popsicle form, the taste? Would be- I don’t even know what word to use!”

Nolan was looking on with a look of disgust on his face as the two argued, and Mason looked like if he kept thinking about the taste of those flavours, he would actually vomit in the store. Violently. Liam was about to chime in, when the hairs on his arm stood up.

He breathed in a smell he had missed, it was cinnamon and some sort of musk, something earthy he could never pin; but it was a smell unique to one person, and as Liam turned around he saw him. He saw Theo.

As their eyes locked on one another, they both froze. Neither knew what to say and neither knew what to do. It was only after Mason had tapped Corey and pointed to Theo, causing Nolan and Alec to look too, did Liam speak.

“Theo?” he sputtered out.

“You mind?” Theo responded as he pointed to the freezer that the puppy pack stood in the way of. As they moved out of his way, he opened the freezer and started looking for the lemon and lime popsicles he loved so much. “What are you doing here?” Liam asked as he stood next to Theo.

“Same as you guys clearly, and the same as anyone else in the store. Shopping.” Theo responded dryly whilst grabbing a four pack of the popsicles. Mason stood on the side with his mouth opening and shutting like a fish, Cory stood with his arms crossed, and eyebrows furrowed as he watched Theo; Nolan and Alec however were the only ones that didn’t seem distressed or suspicious. Nolan’s few interactions with Theo consisted of Theo stopping Liam from almost killing him, and watching him take Gabe’s pain in the hospital.

Alec? Well Alec was trying to figure out how the guy looking through popsicles was the same guy that Stiles and Malia had painted out to be a villain. Or as Stiles had claimed “ A textbook comic villain, tragic backstory and all dude.” Currently all he saw was a teenager that looked like he wanted to grab his popsicles and go.

It was Mason who responded to Theo’s claim. “ What? You’re not planning another Hostile Takeover? Shocking.” He deadpanned. Theo, not wanting to deal with Mason’s comment, Theo simply ignored him and closed the freezer as he prepared to continue his shopping trip. Mason faltered at the lack of snarky response he expected from the Chimera.

As Theo walked away from the aisle, Liam followed him. “ Theo, stop.” He pleaded. As Theo sighed and turned around to face Liam, he took the opportunity to properly observe the Chimera, his hair had grown longer, it was flicking up at the rim of the baseball cap, and his face seemed tired. Theo interrupted his little observatory session. “ Liam, what’s up.”

Almost offended Liam responded sarcastically “What’s up? You don’t call, you don’t write” Fake offence almost oozing from his response. “ It’s been weeks Theo, we thought you left town.”

“Bet the pack were happy about that.” Theo muttered. Liam heard, but ignored it. “Why didn’t you tell us you were staying? Why did you leave the hospital?”

Leave me Liam truthfully wanted to say. “Wow Liam, I don’t know, maybe because if I had stuck around, you guys would’ve found a way to put me back in the ground? What else would you have done? Kept me around? I’m not so naïve as to think me helping you out would’ve been atonement for my actions.” Theo responded.

Liam faltered for a second, he didn’t know what to say but decided on “ Theo, you helped us out, and saved my life a few times. Did it ever occur that maybe I just wanted to know that you were okay? You took a bullet at the hospital, and when I looked at you, wanting to ask if you needed to get checked out, you were gone.” 

Theo clearly uncomfortable at Liam’s confession, knew he couldn’t carry on the conversation, he wasn’t prepared for it and he wasn’t ready for it, so he deflected and tried to get away “Yeah well now you know. I’m fine you don’t have to worry. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have some more stuff I need to grab. I know the others will have probably notified the pack that I’m still in town, so however long I have left of freedom, I’d like to enjoy. Bye Liam. I’m glad you’re okay, honestly.” Theo turned and walked away from Liam, who stood watching him, with his arms down by his side, defeated.

As Liam made his way back to the others he was attacked by the guys talking at once.

“Liam! What the Fuck! We should totally tell the others right?

“I don’t trust him man.”

“He looks different to when I saw him at the hospital last”

“Dude does not look like the guy Malia and Stiles described.”

Responding to the guys one by one Liam spoke. “I don’t think we should tell the others Mason, Corey I get it, He doesn’t, does he Nolan? Alec, Stiles is known for his ability to exaggerate details.”

“Look, we can talk about this later, can we do what we came here to do please” Liam pleaded as the others looked like they wanted to keep talking about Theo.

As the others went back to their popsicle conversation, Liam followed as they walked to the snack aisle, but he could not shake the feeling that things between him and Theo had been left in a bigger mess than before. He needed to properly talk to Theo, and soon.

Chapter Text

After Theo walked out of the store with his items, he made his way to his truck, trying but failing to push Liam out of his mind. There was so much more he wanted to say, but in the store, surrounded by the others, and unprepared, he did what he could, and put up his walls. Honestly Theo was feeling a whirlwind of emotions in that moment, and he didn’t know how to stop his mind. Reaching his truck, Theo caught a folded piece of paper under his windscreen wiper. Before he reached for it, he looked around the parking lot, making sure there were no hunters about. As he come up with nothing, he reached for the paper and opened it, he read the message written down.

Come by the house when you can.

Harriett misses you.

-Donnie.

Donnie? Was that Harriett’s mom? When he took Harriett home, he failed to ask for her name. He knew the name of Harriett’s siblings, Lottie and Manny, and Harriett said it was just the four of them. He could admit his heart skipped a beat when he read the bear cubs name, he had missed the little girl. Folding the note and getting in his truck, he made the decision to drive straight over to the farmhouse. He wasn’t far, so if he didn’t stop he could keep the popsicles from melting and bring it for Harriett and her mother. Driving down main street, this time with Valerie by Amy Winehouse playing from the playlist, Theo couldn’t stop the smile that was forming on his face. That little girl managed to worm her way into his heart in the hour they spent together, seeing her would be good for him.

Approaching the gravel driveway that led to the house steps, Theo shoulders got tense, and his jaw tightened. Sure, the note was positive, but Harriett’s mother- did she invite him just for Harriett? Or was there another reason? He lowered his shoulders, relaxed his face and took a breath. As he got closer, he saw someone bent over the engine of a car, he smelled like a were-coyote, and it clicked for Theo. Manny? Harriett’s brother? So the cub wasn’t joking when she said she had a coyote for a brother. Theo parked his truck once he reached the house, grabbed the popsicle box, took a breath and got out the vehicle. He took a few steps forward, as Manny turned around to face him.

Manny was around the same height as Theo, He had black hair, pushed back on his head, brown eyes and a bit of facial hair. He had a white tank top on, that had more than a few grease stains from the engine he was working on, a pair of basketball shorts on, and some simple socks and sneakers on. Manny looked Hispanic if Theo had to guess.

“Theo right?” Manny asked as he smiled in Theo’s direction

“Y-yeah, that’s me, Manny I’m guessing?” Theo asked as nodded at Manny.

“Yup. Manny is short for Manuel. Theo short for Theodore? I swear to God all of us here have short versions of our names, you’re fitting right in.” Manny said as he chuckled at Theo

“Ah, dude you can head right in, Harriett’s been on a rampage ever since she found out you were stopping by. Wouldn’t let any of us leave because we had to apparently Meet Theo and see how awesome he is.” Manny stated as he held up his fingers in quotation marks.

Theo couldn’t help the grin on his face as he thanked Manny and walked up the farmhouse steps, before he could even reach for the door handle though, it flew open.

“THEO!” He heard as a small figure ran and jumped at him. Dropping the box of popsicles, he caught Harriett as she had leaped, and as she attempted to squeeze the life out of him with her appropriately titled Bear-Hug, he took the moment to hug the cub back, eyes closed, and head bowed he took in the warmth and happiness the cub provided.

“Nice to see you too Harry” Theo laughed after a moment. The girl in question tilted her head back and gave Theo the biggest grin as she told him how she had missed him.

“I missed you too bud” Theo responded. As he looked up he saw Harriett’s mom- Donnie?- standing in the doorway smiling at the encounter occurring in front of her. Sensing that Donnie didn’t want to go down any time soon, he moved her to his hip, as he reached down to pick up the dropped popsicle box, asking Harriett to hold it, he stretched out his free hand to the woman.

“Nice to meet you-“

“Dondra, but please, call me Donnie” Dondra interrupted whilst smiling at Theo.

“It’s nice to meet you too Mr Raeken, please, come in. The house is definitely cooler than outside.” Dondra continued as she walked into the house expecting Theo to follow, which he did. Theo knew he was right to be nervous, Dondra knew his name, who he was and probably what he had done, but why invite him? Was she going to tell him that this was the last time he could come near any of them?

Using that good ol’ family intuition that Harriett had clearly inherited from her mother, Dondra sensed Theo’s worry and interrupted him before his mind could spiral out.

“Relax darlin’ you’re not in any trouble whatsoever. Harriett why don’t you go look for Lottie whilst I talk to Theo for a minute” Dondra said dismissing the little cub, Harriett agreed as Theo lowered her, and she ran out of the room, her little feet making a pitter patter sound as she left.

“Theo, let’s go sit down outside, bring those popsicles would you? You brought my favourite flavour.” Dondra not wating for a response, walked through the kitchen to the glass sliding porch doors. As she stepped outside she made her way to the dining table on the extended porch and took a seat, gesturing for Theo to sit next to her. Theo still not trusting himself to speak up, simply followed the directions, and sat, placing the popsicles on the table. Dondra took the box, and opened it, taking out a popsicle for herself and for Theo. After opening hers and handing him his, she sat facing the backyard, crossed her legs and for a moment appreciated the sun on her face. Theo after a few moments, relaxed his posture and began enjoying his popsicle.

“I invited you over because Harriett did actually miss you, but also because I wanted to talk to you about something.” Not waiting for a response, she continued “I know who you are, and what you’ve done.” Theo held his breath.

“I also know that those Doctors took advantage of you, and moulded you into their own spy and enforcer, but that you did some things of your own free will too. I also know that whatever happened to you in hell changed you, or more so allowed you to change yourself. I saw what you did during the turmoil caused by those fake-ass cowboy ghosts, and during the almost civil war, led by that sham of a woman Monroe.

 However, disregarding all that you’ve done, I know that you found my daughter, kept her safe, and brought her back home. All whilst leaving a good impression on her, and it may seem like otherwise, but Harry can tell instantly whether or not a person is trustworthy. She has an uncanny ability when it comes to that. As you can already tell, she absolutely adores you, which means that she trusts you, and it means I trust you.” Dondra placed her empty popsicle stick on the table, as she turned and faced Theo.

“ You may have done some awful things Theo, but I want you to know that the four of us in the house have done our fair share of horrible things too. The only reason I’m still alive and not dead is because, like you, I know how to make a deal or two. Self-preservation seems to be a streak both of us have sugar.“ Dondra smiled at her last sentence, and patted Theo’s hands whilst she stood up.

“Now finish that popsicle of yours whilst I go check on the kids, and Theo?” He looked up expectantly. “ Do whatever it is you have to do to relax, because I’d love to actually hear you talk during dinner- which you are absolutely staying for- Harry would have a fit if you didn’t.” Theo let out a shy grin at her comment, and did as she told him to.

He sat facing the rest of the backyard and took it in, they had a pool, with adjustable lounge chairs on either side. The extended patio he sat on had a roof, no doubt from the upstairs terrace. The mahogany table was large with plenty of seats on it.

The yard itself was partially grass and partially made up of tiles, forming walk ways, but also platforms for the large outdoor grill they had. They had some other pieces of garden furniture, couches and coffee tables etc. To the far left was the tree Harriett had been talking about the night they had met, it had claw marks running down the front of it, clearly at the hands-or claws- of the cub.

The Garden had a waist high fence at the far end, that he could see provided easy access to the grass and the lake further down. Theo had never seen a house like the Farmhouse, it was big, but homely. He had only been in the house for less than an hour, but he felt comfortable, and he felt at ease. It was a nice contrast to always feeling on guard, and always being ready for an attack, should it arise.

Harriett came out of the house a few minutes later, with a girl he assumed was the infamous Lottie. She had blonde hair, that went to her shoulders and bright blue eyes; She was wearing a pair of burgundy dungarees with a white t shirt underneath, and a pair of fluffy socks to accompany them. Standing next to Harriett who was also in a pair of forest green dungarees, with a yellow t shirt and her own fluffy socks; the two looked as if they had just jumped out of a poster for The GAP or some other fancy child fashion store.

“Theo this is Lottie!” Harriett exclaimed with an infectious grin on her face. Lottie stepped forward and put her hand out to Theo, asking for a handshake. So this is who taught Harry to ask for a handshake when introducing herself.

“Theodore. Nice to meet you. I’m Charlotte, but please, call me Lottie” Lottie said, eyes squinting as if she was trying to read Theo

“ I’ll call you Lottie, if you call me Theo” He responded, stretching his hand out to accept the handshake, but when he grasped Charlotte’s hand, Theo let out a yelp, not expecting the electric shock he had gotten. At that Charlotte grinned at Theo, proud of herself.

“ Sorry Teddy-boy, everyone here already knows my tricks, you’re fresh meat, so I couldn’t resist the opportunity” Charlotte apologised.

“I’m impressed.” Theo responded whilst cradling his palm, still shocked the witch had tricked him. Harriett who had been watching the conversation, looked up at Theo and asked him why Charlotte called him Teddy.

“Well Harry, Theo is short for Theodore, and so is Teddy, so your sister called me Teddy, for some reason though, I don’t think it was meant to be endearing.” Theo answered squinting his eyes at the witch as she smirked at him, before walking off.

“ So, if you call me Harry, can I call you Teddy?” Theo hadn’t really liked the idea of being called Teddy, but he could make an exception in Harry’s case.

“Sure kid, you can call me Teddy, but only you!” Theo responded, tapping the cubs nose. Harriett giggled at the action and went off, after Lottie he presumed.

Grabbing his and Dondra’s popsicle sticks, he made his way to the kitchen to put them in the bin, once there he saw Dondra at the kitchen island, preparing some vegetables, she looked up as he walked in and smiled at him. “Dinner will be ready in a few hours Hun, so you can go hang out with the others if you want.”

“Okay, I’ll be outside with Manny.”

“In that case here” Dondra handed him a jug of lemonade and two glasses. “So y’all don’t get dehydrated out there.” Dondra explained whilst patting Theo on the back as he walked towards the front yard. Once outside he placed the jug on the cooler Manny had outside with him. Theo poured them both glasses, and handed one over to Manny.

“Thanks man” Manny responded as he took a sip of the Lemonade. “I swear I could survive off this Lemonade alone”.

Theo agreed with him, and placed his glass next to the jug. “ So, what are you? Sorry for the bluntness, but Harry mentioned we smell similar, and she was right, but I smell wolf too.” Manny inquired, leaning his body against the hood of the car.

Scratching his head Theo answered, “A Chimera, half coyote, half wolf.”

“Dude that’s awesome! Can you full shift too?”

At Theo’s nod, Manny eyebrows rose, and an amused look came up on his face. “ Well, I’ll be damned, another Full shifter.”

“What do you mean another?” Theo asked, as his eyebrows furrowed and his head titled in question.

“I can fully shift, so can Harriett and so can Ma; but we’re all different animals, so its cool to have someone around that’s a similar creature to me.” Manny answered.

“Yeah I’ve been meaning to ask, Donnie, her smell is unique, I couldn’t tell what she was, I thought she would be a were-bear like Harriett, but I was wrong.”

“Ah- yeah we’re all adopted so all different animals. Or in Lottie’s case, different supes. Ma’s the special one of us though, she’s a Were-Sabre.”

“Wait a were-sabre? As in Sabre-Toothed Tiger?!” Manny laughed as Theo began to nerd-out.

“I knew they existed, but they usually stay in the south, or in hotter countries. I’ve never met one before. That is so cool man, wait- does that mean her fangs are like LONG long?” Theo spat out, speaking rapidly due to his excitement

“Yup.” Manny popped. “But not like super long, when she partial shifts like teeth and claws, her top fangs , when her mouth is closed, reach halfway towards her chin. But when she full shifts? Dude I swear it’s like Diego from Ice Age. Dope. Just dope.”

Theo stood there with his mouth open in wonder. Were-Sabres were interesting to him. They had the size and strength advantages that Were-bears had, but also had the power of a pack that were-wolves had. They had the perfect balance of supernatural ability. Not to mention that they were freaking cool. Wanting to ask more questions Theo settled on the biggest one he had.

“Is she an Alpha?”

“ She is, got the glowin’ red eyes to match” Manny answered.

“But wait, how does that work? In terms of territory?” Theo asked as he forgot about all his other questions. Manny poured himself another glass of Lemonade as he answered.

“ Oh- boy, I’ll try and give you the shortened version, otherwise we’ll be here for ages, and this heat is starting to get to me.” Pouring a glass for Theo and handing it to him, Manny resumed answering Theo’s question.

“ So, Ma is a Bordelon, comes from the south, specifically New Orleans. The French Quarter was their original territory, they were in charge, and lived alongside witches, and the Haitian priestesses. However, they lost the land in the war against were-jags, and after some stuff the agreement was that the Quarter remain neutral land. At the time Ma’s Mom was the Alpha and with her husband they led the pack, but they were killed in the war.

Ma was young and wasn’t in the right frame of mind to take over, so her Aunt Marie took up the mantle, until Ma was ready. I hear that the war took out a lot of good folk, so the pack went from being large to being a family and extended family, but it’s getting there. The Bordelon territory is actually split into two, the main bit of land being in Nevada, Vegas actually. Don’t get me started on how cool that is, I swear to God as soon as I hit 21 I’m on a straight drive to Vegas. Back to the point however, the second piece of territory is here.

Ma bought the house a few years ago, and since the Hale claim was no longer, and McCall hadn’t been true-alpha’d yet, she claimed the south side of town. From the start of South main street all the way out here to the Lake boundaries. It’s pretty cool actually, the McCall pack never did actually claim territory, but when they do I doubt McCall will try to claim the entire town, his lot rarely come down this way so why would they need it. So yeah that’s the story! There’s bits left out of course but Ma could probably fill you in.”

Theo’s eyebrows had almost disappeared into his hairline by the end of Manny’s story, but he was even more so intrigued, not only in the idea of a were-sabre, but in Donnie and her story. There seemed to be a lot to her, and Theo was interested in her story. He’d take up Manny’s offer and ask about the other details one day.

“Anyways dude, I’m done out here for now, wanna go play a game of pool on the table upstairs?” Manny asked, as he collected the now empty Jug and glasses of Lemonade.

“You guys have a pool table?!” Theo asked incredulously. Manny cheesing at Theo’s reaction responded “Yup”.

The two made their way back inside, they headed for the kitchen first, to place the jug and glasses in the dishwasher. As they walked in Theo looked to the backyard to see Donnie grilling meat, he guessed was for dinner. Sensing she was being watched, Dondra looked up at Theo and winked at him. Theo blushed at being caught and simply waved at her, she smiled at him and went back to grilling the food. Manny ushered him out of the kitchen, and decided to give Theo a quick tour before they went to go play.

Standing as if he’d he just entered the house, with the Patio sliding doors directly ahead of him at the end of a sort of walkway/hallway that filled the middle of the downstairs of the house. Manny pointed out the downstairs rooms. To the immediate right was the downstairs lounge area, which was open plan, and led to the dining room that was by the right side of the sliding porch doors. To his immediate left was the downstairs bathroom, and guest bedroom. After that was the large kitchen, that led to the back porch doors as well. In front of him, but on the slight left, by the kitchen wall was the spiral staircase leading upstairs. The upstairs layout was similar to the downstairs. Downstairs was split in a sort of three vertical section layout, Kitchen-side, walkway, and Lounge-side. As soon as you reached the top of the stairs you were directly in the middle section which was the upstairs lounge area, with a couch and a couple chairs around a coffee table and a TV at the front end ( directly above the house door). With the Pool table, foosball table, a mini fridge and the upstairs bathroom, at the back end, directly next to the upstairs terrace that oversaw the backyard. The terrace had its own furniture, simple garden stuff like couches and a small table etc. It was protected by a retractable roof, that he assumed was to protect the terrace from rain or sun. Back in the lounge area, Theo noticed that the walls had doors on them, Manny pointed out they were the bedrooms. The three on the left being Manny’s, a guest room in the middle, and Lottie and Harriett’s room that they shared. On the right it was Dondra’s room with her own bathroom, and two guest rooms.

Theo if he was being honest was a little jealous, the Bordelon house was big-no massive- and it was warm. Not temperature wise, but it was like a hug. Safe, comfortable and protective. Theo hadn’t experienced something like that since he was a child, and being in the Bordelon house made him mourn for what he lost, for the childhood he never had.

Manny POV

Peeking over at Theo, Manny couldn’t smell any emotions from chimera, but he knew Theo wasn’t feeling his best, and Manny assumed it was something to do with Theo’s living situation, and the house he was standing in right now.

After Theo had gone into the house after his arrival, Manny took a closer look at his truck. Initially it was just because he liked the make and model and wanted a closer look; but after he peeked into the backseat window, what he saw made him look for other reasons. He recognised a pillow and blanket tucked under the seats, he recognised it because it was like that for him and Ma when she first found him. They spent a week just driving, and sleeping in the car until they were safe.

Manny had taken a whiff of the trucks air, Theo had left the windows lowered to cool it down, but Manny could still pick up the smell of Theo in the truck. It was strong, stronger than it should have been for any vehicle. He wanted to tell Ma, but between her talking to Theo, and Theo hanging out with him, he hadn’t gotten the opportunity to. He was going to have to find a way though, and without Theo knowing.  

Chapter Text

After Manny and Theo had played a few games of pool, Dondra had announced it was dinner time. It was safe to say Theo had never experienced such a hectic, but fun time at any dinner table. Growing up his dinners were always cloaked in silence, it always felt like one wrong action and everything would blow; and it did a few times. But at the Bordelon house that wasn’t the case, you could be as loud as you wanted, as chaotic as needed and has wild as desired. All within reason, however. Harriett and Lottie had set the table outside, whilst Manny and Theo brought the grilled meat from Dondra. She went inside to grab the remaining sides and the drinks. She sat at the head of the table with Lottie and Harriett at her side, with Manny and Theo sitting down next to them respectively. Dinner was filled with laughter and joy, with everyone sharing stories, or talking about their day.

Manny spoke about the car out front he had been working on, how it was for a private client who had bumped into him at the Garage he worked at. The man had been impressed by his work and asked if he’d be willing to take him on privately. The car was an old model, and was a challenge, but it was clear to anyone that looked, he enjoyed the work.

Lottie had spent the day with Harriett, the both of them doing some arts and craft, Harriett had been into clay, and making models out of them, whilst Lottie had focused on drawing and painting.

Dondra it seemed had the most relaxed day out of them all, she had spent the morning talking to her brother, apparently she had helped a young werewolf and his sibling escape town after an attempt on their life had nearly killed them, during the whole hunter fiasco. Her brother had organised transport for the siblings and had kept them safe in Vegas, whilst everything went on, the siblings had decided that it was time to return back to Beacon Hills, and Dondra and her brother were in the final stages of finalising everything for the duo.

When it was Theo’s turn, he talked about how he had simply visited the store, and come to the house straight after. After some slight internal debate, he mentioned to Dondra that he had bumped into some of the pack, sensing he was slightly worried, she had assured him that she was sure it was a one-time thing. She had told him though that if he wanted to, they could speak about it at length after dinner, he thanked her and went back to eating.

After, the others took advantage and asked Theo some questions to learn more about him.

“ What languages can you speak” – Manny

French, Spanish, I can read a bit of Latin, and Japanese

“ What’s your star sign” – Lottie

A Sagittarius, November 23^rd.

“ What are you again?” – Harry

A chimera, half coyote and half wolf bud.

“You’re a year younger than me right?” -Manny

Yeah, 18 years old.

“ Ever been to Vegas?” – Donnie

I have actually! A few years ago, but I’d love to go back.

After the pseudo-interrogation, Donnie brought out dessert for them. A few slices of Apple crumble later, she tasked the kids with tidying up the table and loading the dishwasher. As they got to it, she asked Theo to take a walk with her whilst they talked.

Heading out the garden gate and walking towards the lake they had a chat.

“I wanted to talk to you about the McCall pack, I obviously have some feelings towards them, and I don’t really have anyone to talk to about my emotions all that stuff.” Theo said.

He continued after a beat of silence, “Most of my teenage life was spent manipulating my emotions or silencing them in order to complete the task at hand. So, confronting them is kind of a new thing for me. You said you trusted me, so I thought I should take a chance at trusting you.”

As they walked towards the edge of the wooden dock the lake had, Donnie took off her shoes and socks, she rolled up her jeans, sat down on the edge and let her legs go under the water. Theo did the same and set down next to her. Once they were both swinging their legs in the water, Donnie spoke.

“ Pumpkin, I’m happy you’re willing to give trusting me a go, and I’m glad you thought I could help. Let’s start off slow, what do you feel when you think about the McCall pack.”

Looking down at the water, Theo thought for a moment, and responded quietly “ Anxious, and Guilty, but sometimes conflicted too.”

“Okay good, now explain why you feel each of those emotions” Donnie prompted him.

Theo laid his back and head on the dock, keeping his legs in the water. Crossing his hands on his chest and looking up at the sky, he attempted the task.

“ The anxiety isn’t towards them, but towards what they could do. You know?” Theo sat up, frustrated he tried to change the topic “ Maybe I’m just being silly, this isn’t working I should-“

Placing her hand on Theo’s shoulder, she looked at him with her eyebrows raised in sympathy, and softly pushed him back down, except this time she joined him , lying next to him. “ You’re doing good Theo, don’t overthink it.” She told him. Taking a deep breath, and exhaling, Theo continued.

“ I worry about what they could do, more specifically what they’ve already done. I can’t shake the feeling that they would send me straight back to hell if they saw me. That’s why I was worried after the trip to the store. Just the knowledge that they could go back and tell Scott and the others about seeing me, it makes me feel like I have to watch my six, everywhere I go. Driving here, I kept looking at my rear view mirrors, just to check if the Sheriff was following, or if any of the others were tailing me.”

Rubbing his eyes, he continued.

“I guess the anxiety is a side effect of the Guilt. I know what I did, who I killed, who I hurt. I left Josh and Tracy to rot in the sewers, I’m the reason Ms McCall had to revive her dead son, I shot Malia. I- I killed my own sister. I caused a lot of pain and hurt, and I feel bad about it, if I could, I would say no to it all, I would take it all back in a heartbeat.”

“ And the confliction?” Donnie asked.

“ The confliction is different. I don’t deserve good things, I don’t deserve to feel happy, to feel peace, and in the rare moments I do, more so recently, I remember that I shouldn’t be feeling joy. For a brief moment I argue with myself. One side saying I’m horrible for not feeling like shit, even for a moment, and the other asking myself why can’t I just have one shred of peace, where I don’t feel like ripping my own heart out, or more so my sisters heart out.”

They had both sat up by now, Theo’s eyes watering at his comment. Donnie had grabbed his hand and held it with both of hers, tightly. Theo had let out a shaky breath, as he bowed his head and let the tears fall down his face. But Donnie grabbed his chin and softly pushed his head back up. Looking into Theo’s red eyes, Donnie had a painful expression on her face as she spoke.

“ Don’t ever hide your face when talking to me darlin’. Especially when you’re upset, okay? Here, we feel every emotion, and we don’t hide it. Which means we don’t get ashamed of feeling any type of way, you understand me?” Theo nodded at her, and Donnie nodded back, before asking Theo for a hug. She knew he needed it , but that he wasn’t in a mental place where he felt he could ask for it. So, opening her arms in his direction, she gave him a small smile, as he hugged her and rested his head on her shoulder. Running a hand through his hair she whispered that he was okay, and that he was safe, that he didn’t have to feel any of those emotions whilst he was there.

They sat like that for a moment before Donnie patted Theo twice on the shoulder, and told him that they should make their way back to the house, before Lottie put actual dish washing soap in the dishwasher and caused another bubble mountain. Theo let out a small wet laugh at that comment, already feeling lighter, and more at ease. The two stood up, grabbed their socks and shoes and made their way back towards the grass. By the time they made it to the Patio doors Lottie was placing a dishwasher tab in the machine, and Manny was leaning against the counter, arms crossed, watching her with an eyebrow raised. Theo guessed that the young witch had tried to put soap instead, but was caught before she could do it; he smirked at that.

“ Right y’all, you already know what time it is, get to it then!” Donnie said clapping her hands.

“ I feel like I’m missing something.” Theo told Donnie. Before Donnie could answer, Lottie walked past them with a laptop in her hand and explained.

“Twice a week we have to practice, or in Harry and Manny’s case, training.”

 As Lottie walked back towards Theo she nudged him out of the way as she opened one of the cupboards on the Kitchen Island, and brought out an old hardback book. Struggling to carry it, Theo took it from her hands and took it to the dining table for her. Smiling in appreciation at Theo, she continued,

“I practice my spells, and sometimes Uncle Nate will video call me to teach new things. Harry practices her climbing, and practices small parts of the shift. Manny will go for a run, and the both of them try to practice their sense of smells and hearing.”

Donnie looked over at Theo from where she was leaning against the counter “ Being born a supernatural comes with its pros and cons. A pro being that you have more time to grow into your abilities, and can learn from early how to develop them. A con being-

“That it can be harder learning to control abilities from a young age, since self-control isn’t as developed” Theo interrupted, completing Donnie’s explanation. Donnie smiled at his interruption as he was correct. Feeling more confident Theo explained how he knew.

“I wasn’t born a chimera, and I didn’t become one recently, so I had to learn as a kid how to handle these brand new skills and changes to my body that were occurring.”

Manny walked into the kitchen at that moment, “Theo you can join me on my run if you want?”

Thinking about it, Theo wasn’t sure if he should accept the offer, but he remembered his conversation with Donnie about trust, and well, Manny had been nothing but trustworthy, he had hung out with Theo, showed him around the house, and even explained stuff about Donnie and their pack. So, Theo went for it.

“Yeah, sure I’m down”. Manny smiled at Theo’s agreement, and told Donnie that they’d be back in an hour and a half. As the two walked out of the kitchen, Harriett came running down the hallway and ran straight into Theo’s legs. Her arms wrapped around Theo as she looked up at him. “Are you gonna stay for movie night afterwards? We’re watching the spiderman movie I told you about, so you have to stay.”

“ I dunno Harry I-”

“He’s staying Harry, don’t worry” Lottie interrupted from her spot at the Kitchen table.

Theo unable to argue with the ten year old, didn’t comment, he just looked down at Harry and nodded. She gave him one of her toothy grins, let go of him and ran off towards the backyard. Shaking his head in laughter, he caught up with Manny who was standing on the front porch. “Dude, I had to learn, to never argue with Lottie, you? Didn’t even fall for it.” Manny said.

“Something tells me arguing with Lottie would end painfully for me.” Theo answered whilst unlocking his truck and getting in the driver’s seat. Manny hopped into the passenger seat, and looked over at Theo “Preserve?” he asked.

“Sure.” Theo responded. As the two were driving through town, Manny brought up the conversation Theo had with Donnie when he first arrived that day.

“ So, I know Ma talked to you about how she knew you and knew what had happened with you and the McCall pack”

Theo’s back straightened, his face hardened, Manny continued “ I don’t think there’s a point in us having that same conversation, because if we did, I would probably say everything Ma did. But I will say, that I don’t judge you man. I’m not an angel myself, none of us are.”

Theo released the tension in his body, and breathed easy.

“ I’ve caused my fair share of pain and damage too, so when I see you, I see someone who has been through similar things. That being said, I know you lost out on a normal childhood and on normal teenage life. And thatis why I, Manuel Rodriguez Bordelon!” Manny said with a clap at the end, “ will be giving you, the Rodriguez Bordelon Course on, pop culture and everything else you missed.”

Theo looked over at Manny for a second with his eyebrow raised. “ I didn’t spend all of it in the sewers you know.” Manny titled his head and looked at Theo with a look that screamed “ I don’t believe a word of what you’re saying but sure!”

Theo laughed at Manny’s face and explained, “ Sure a lot of time was spent underground, but how do you think I learned languages? Or visited Vegas? The Doctors used me for a lot of things, so I’ve been around, but didn’t have time for myself and time to be a kid.”

“ Nevertheless dude, Imma catch you up, first things first-

“I’m the realest.” Theo interrupted, finishing the lyric.

“Dude! Harry totally played Fancy didn’t she. She knows she can’t play that near me, so she got you on it.” Manny moaned

Laughing at Manny Theo teased him “ You made it easy for me man, but continue, you were saying?”

“ Yes, I was going to say, the first lesson on the course is music, but Harry is no doubt, taking care of that. She may have taste but she has to stick to the regular stuff.”

Plugging his phone into the aux cord, Manny tapped the screen a few times before a fast beat came on.

“ This! My friend is Pursuit Of Happiness but the Steve Aoki Remix, it’s from a movie Project X, which we shall watch in due time, but this! This right here!” Manny exclaimed as he clapped his hands, “Is a party anthem.”

Theo listened as the song reached its chorus, and when the beat dropped, he was nodding his head with the beat, and had screwed up his face “Manny, dude this awesome!”

“I know right!” Manny agreed excitedly. The two sat listening to the rest of the songs, and the other Party anthems Manny had lined up.

An Hour Later

Manny and Theo had spent the hour at the preserve, running, chasing each other and having fun. Theo hadn’t had that good of a run in a while, he had forgotten what it felt like to feel that liberated, especially as it had been ages since he ran with someone else. For the first time in over a year, his head was clear, and his body felt loose. They had both gotten dressed, and as Manny was in the process of putting his shoes on, he spoke up.

“ Hey Theo?”

“ Yeah man” Theo answered, tying his shoe laces.

“ Thanks for coming with me, I know this is gonna sound super weird, but imma say it anyways.”

Theo looked up at that, Manny was clearly struggling to say what it is he wanted to say, but Theo kept quiet, he wanted to let Manny say what he wanted to say without feeling intimidated.

“When I told you I trust you, I meant it. I spent most of my childhood in a similar situation to yours, so I’ve never really had friends, sure there’s people in the pack that I can hang with when I visit, but no one I can go on a run with, or just kickback with, you know?”

“ Trust me I know, it’s the same for me dude, the people I could’ve had that with, I used, betrayed or tried to kill. Honestly? Today was the first time in a while I felt like a teenager. The dinner, playing pool, this run; man, today might have been one of the best days of my life.” Theo said.

Walking towards Theo, Manny had his hand out and as Theo dapped him up, they patted each other on the others back.

“We totally just had a bro moment didn’t we?” Manny said smiling, Theo laughed and agreed “ Yeah we did .”

Chapter Text

Theo had spent the rest of the week hanging out at the Bordelon Farmhouse, there from morning to evening, he watched movies with Harry, started helping Manny out on the car he was working on, and had even helped Lottie learn the Latin incantations for some of her harder spells. Donnie had taken him under her wing, and when she learned that Theo had a vast knowledge of the Supernatural world, she put him to work. Whilst she had meetings over skype with her brother Nathaniel- or Nate as she called him, Theo would peruse through her book collection, she had old books and memoirs written by those in their world, and Theo was learning more and more about their history. She would ask him a question at times, regarding whatever issue she was solving, and Theo would bring up knowledge from the books, or from his time with the Doctors. One of the times Donnie was on a video call to her brother, Nate had posed a question, and Theo, instead of answering in his head, had answered out loud.

It was only when he heard Nate speak, did he realise his mistake

“ Now I know that wasn’t Manny, I love that boy, but he couldn’t care less about Pack dynamics. Who was that Donnie? ” Nate had asked from the screen.

Widening his eyes and freezing in alarm, he stared at Donnie not knowing what to do, She let out a cackle at his behaviour and answered Nate

“That was Theo, he’s been helping me out these last few days” Donnie answered.

“ Ahh the famous Theo!”

At that Theo looked at Donnie, and mouthed “Famous?” as he internally freaked out.

“ Lottie told me yesterday how someone had helped her out with her spells, so Thank You Theo! Even if I can’t actually see you “ Nate chuckled.

“Uh- no problem man” Theo responded, definitely still jittery from being caught.

Theo was sat in his truck as he thought back to the week he had. He loved every moment of it, currently he was with Lottie, she had mentioned at breakfast that she was running out of her herbs and ingredients that she needed for some of her spells and potions, Theo had offered to take her to buy more and she had agreed. As the two were driving off, Theo had told Lottie to play some music, according to Manny, Lottie had a very specific taste when it came to music, he had described her as part of the “Hive”, whatever that meant; and said Lottie’s taste was purely talented and powerful women.

Three songs in however he learned exactly what the “Hive” meant , Charlotte was a Beyoncé fan, or she had called herself, a “Stan”. Theo was thoroughly enjoying the experience though, stoic, calm and decisive Charlotte, had turned into the ten year old she was, she was singing, dancing and all out vibing to the music. Theo just looked on with shock, he had never seen the young witch like this, but he wasn’t going to disturb her at all. Upgrade U was playing, and Lottie was popping her shoulders left and right in beat with the song, but the best part was watching her rap in beat with Jay-Z. Her eyes wide and her hands moving as she rapped

No, not the car, but everywhere we are
You're sure to see stars, this is high level not eye level
My bezel, courtesy of Audemars
I order yours tomorrow, now look at the time I saved you
Mama, let me upgrade you

“ Woahhhh Lottie! You got bars” Theo exclaimed, shocked at the girl’s ability.

“I try teddy-boy, I try” Charlotte responded nonchalantly.

Before Theo could even laugh at the witch however gasped loudly as the opening beat for Toxic, by Britney Spears started playing. “Free Britney!” She shouted as the song was playing.

“Free Britney!” Theo agreed. Charlotte was continuing with her pseudo-concert as the songs played, until she paused the current track, Last Friday Night by Katy Perry. Theo was going to asked why she paused the song, until he noticed her staring up at him.

“Theo?”

“What’s up Sabrina?” Lottie scoffed at the name

“Firstly, I’d totally be Maleficent if we’re talking witches, secondly, I wanted to ask you something. It’s my birthday in a few weeks, and we’re gonna celebrate at the farmhouse and lake. Some of the others are coming from Vegas, and I wanted to ask if you’d come?” Lottie asked, fiddling with her hands, as she waited for a response.

“ Really? You want me to come?” Theo asked looking at the young girl as she refused to look up at him.

“ I don’t talk to most of the kids at school, they ask questions about my family, they act stupid, and they smell weird. Look I wasn’t going to ask you at first” She looked up at Theo, as a hurt look came on his face.

“ I was just gonna have the party, then tell you it was happening when you-no doubt-arrived” Lottie finished looking out the window.

“When I no doubt arrived? What does that even mean?” Theo asked, as his voice rose in pitch

“Dude! It’s Friday, and I met you on Monday. That’s like five days of hanging out with us, Mom started setting a place at the table for you by Wednesday and Harry set up a profile on our Disney plus account for you two and her movie marathon. You like us, we like you. So of course, you’d stick around.” Lottie answered exasperatedly.

“ Now answer my question!” Lottie whined.

“I’ll be there, don’t worry.” Theo said as he pulled the truck into the parking lot.

“ Cool, and Theo? Don’t overthink it, I meant it when I said you like us, and we like you. I don’t allow just anyone to witness the free concert you just got.” Charlotte mentioned, as she unbuckled her seatbelt and hopped out of the car.

Theo chuckled at her, she had been right, he was about to overthink his presence at the farmhouse until she told him not to. Walking around to the front of the truck, Charlotte had grabbed a piece of paper, from the front pocket of her purple dungarees. “ I have my list, and I have Mom’s card, ready?” She asked looking at Theo as he pocketed his car keys. Not waiting for a response, the young witch started walking towards Herb House, the family run store that specialised in the weird and wonderful side of nature, they had all the plants, powders and substances a witch could need. Before Charlotte could open the door however, someone else opened it from the inside.

“ Hey! Watch it!” she almost snarled at the person in front of her. “ Sorry kid” The person apologised. “ Uh huh, I may be small but I’m not invisible, Theo let’s go” Charlotte snapped.

But Theo wasn’t following Charlotte, he was staring at the boy in front of him. “Hey Liam” he said scratching the back of his neck. “Theo” Liam almost breathed out, he smiled at the Chimera “ It’s good to see you- I’ve been meaning to talk-“

“ Hold on you know this aggressive door opener ?” Charlotte asked, one eyebrow up, as she pointed in Liam’s direction.

“ Hey! I said I was sorry” Liam reminded the girl, slowly turning her head to look at Liam, she looked him up and down, she scoffed and turned back to Theo. Liam, shocked at the snark the girl had, blinked a few times, not knowing how to react. It was Theo who spoke up,

“ Lottie why don’t you head into the store without me, I’ll wait out here.”

“ Fine.” She said as she passed the door Liam was holding open.

As the door closed behind her, Theo looked back at Liam, who was already looking at him, the beta blushed at being caught staring, and a small smile appeared on Theo’s face at the beta’s redness.

“ I’ve been meaning to talk to you, but I realised I had no way of contacting you, guess today’s my lucky day then” Liam spoke up. However, upon Theo’s silence he took on a different approach. “ I didn’t tell them you know.” He spoke softly.

When Theo looked up at him, he continued “ I didn’t tell Scott, or Malia, I didn’t tell any of them.” Theo’s shoulders released the tension in them as he responded, “ Thank you Liam, I- thank you.”

“ You don’t have to thank me, at the store when you mentioned your freedom, I realised why you didn’t want them to know. You think they’d try to lock you up or something. I wouldn’t let them you know.”

Theo’s face changed into one of confusion, but before he could ask Liam continued, “ The Theo I first met, deserves to be locked up, but the Theo that came from hell, saved my life a handful of times, and almost lost his in the process. You’re different to the first Theo, and I wouldn’t let them punish you when you already paid for what you did.”

“ Liam it’s not that simple! Saving your life was the least I could do. The literal bare minimum. If they wanted to send me back, I’d get it, I deserve to go back after what I did. Nothing can absolve me of that.” Theo exclaimed, frustrated at the lack of anger coming from the Beta.

“ You’re right. It doesn’t absolve you, but it’s a start. You and me, we’re even when it comes to the whole manipulating me thing. But you left me in the hospital, you didn’t say anything to me, you just vanished. Theo when I said I’d fight with you, I didn’t just mean that one time, I meant from that point onwards, whatever happened, I would fight with you, by your side. You vanished before I could even get the chance to prove it to you.”

Theo didn’t know what to say, but he thought back to Manny and Donnie, how they had been instilling the concept of trust into him. He had to stop panicking and blocking people out, he had to learn to trust. “ Okay.” Theo responded

“ Okay? What?” Liam questioned.

“ Okay I’ll fight with you, literally and figuratively. No more vanishing. I’ve had help this last week, and I was told that I had to stop hiding my emotions, hiding them and hiding from them.”

Liam blinked his eyes in wonder, a smile on his face. He thought Theo was going to tell him he was going to leave, or that it would be best if they stayed away from each other, but to hear the total opposite, it made him happy, it made him relieved.

“Theo?” Liam asked “Yeah?”

“ Can I hug you please. Actually no, I’m going to hug you.” Liam answered as he lunged at Theo, and wrapped his arms around the Chimera. His head resting on Theo’s shoulder, face titled in towards his neck, Liam squeezed tighter as Theo’s arms found their way around Liam, his head titled the same way, towards the crook of Liam’s neck. They held each other for a moment, before Liam slowly pulled away.

“You know this means you actually have to come out of whatever hiding you’re in, right?” Liam pointed out as he smiled at Theo.

“ I’m not hiding anymore” Theo smiled, as Lottie walked out of the store with a shopping bag in her hands. The young witch had a scowl on her face, until she saw Theo, she smiled at him and at Liam whilst asking “Glad to see you didn’t open anymore doors aggressively”. Liam’s shoulders dropped at the comment “ You’re never gonna let that go are you?”

“Nope.” Charlotte popped as she moved to stand directly next to Theo, mischievous grin on her face.

Manny POV

Back at the house, Manny was struggling, he hadn’t had the time to tell his mom about Theo, and truthfully he didn’t know what to do, should he tell Theo he knew about his living situation? Or just tell Ma and have her talk to Theo about it? The past week had been great, Theo had spent every day there, and he just fit right in. It was if they were missing something and hadn’t noticed until Theo came around.

Harry was ecstatic every time she saw him come through the door, Ma liked that Theo was intelligent and they would spend hours talking supernatural stuff; she had even been teaching Theo how to cook, and how to handle himself in the kitchen. Manny? He had someone his age, to talk to, to joke around with, and to hang out with; Lottie, who was known for not liking new people, had even opened up to Theo, he’d help her out with Latin, and she’d explain some of her potions and her abilities.

Theo was just meant to be with them, and they were meant to be with him. Which is what made the decision harder for Manny, his mom had asked him if he knew Theo’s address so she could take some recipes over to him, and Manny stumbled over his words as he lied and said he didn’t. Deep down he knew what he had to do, and he was going to do it.

Scott POV

Scott had decided to spend his summer back in Beacon Hills, sure he would do some day trips, or weekends away, but the bulk of his time, he wanted to spend in town, with his pack. With his family.

He was currently sitting at the dining table, with Argent and Deaton. The Emissary had said that as Scott was back in town, it would be good for Scott to officially declare his pack, and his territory. That way he could form relationships with neighbouring packs, and in the eyes of the Council, be seen as an official pack, with rules and land. There seemed to be an awful amount of paperwork that had to be filled, he had to state important dates, full names of pack members and his betas etc. If it wasn’t for the three of them working together, they wouldn’t have remembered half the information they needed. As they began talking territory, Argent got a phone call, and stepped outside to take it.

“Right so next on the list is territory” Deaton said, looking through the mountain of papers on the table.

“ The pack has to claim land doesn’t it, that way there’s no disputes, and it keeps us protected from other packs too.”

“That is correct.” Deaton said as he found the map he was looking for, he spread it out on the table and Scott stood to properly look over it.

“Alpha’s will claim land where they are based, or where they have ties to. So, it’s up to you to claim your territory.”

Looking at Deaton he answered as Argent walked back in, “ Well I should claim the county then right? That would be the best option.”

As Scott reached for a marker, to draw boundaries on the map, Argent interrupted “ That’s not gonna work out kid.”

At Scott’s confused face, Argent continued “ The call I just had? Was a buddy I contacted yesterday to get updates on the territorial claims in the state”.

Argent grabbed the marker Scott placed down, and began to draw lines on the map. “ Turns out you can’t claim the entire county, because half is already claimed.”

Scott looked at the map and saw that Argent had drawn a border around the South of the county, starting at South Main Street, and encompassing the surrounding area all the way to the Lake.

“ I don’t understand, whoever claimed it, didn’t want the entire county? Just the South end of it?” Scott mused out loud. “ Who was it?” He questioned.

“ I have no clue.” Argent answered, no doubt already thinking about what the claim could mean.

Chapter Text

Brett was excited. He had just gotten off the phone with Donnie, who told him he could come back to town in the next few weeks. It had been a good couple of weeks since he and Lori had been in Beacon Hills. Sure, Vegas was awesome, but he missed home, and he wanted to spend his summer with the others. As he sat down on the couch, he thought back to the weekend that he’d never forget.

Brett and Lori had run out of the tunnels and made it to the street, but just at they were about to be hit, they were shoved out of the way, someone had grabbed them and lunged for the pavement, looking up they saw a woman, her eyes glowing red, and her fangs extended, Brett had noticed they were longer than that of a werewolf, but didn’t question her at the time. Hauling them back to their feet, she pointed to a black car waiting at the junction and shouted “Run!”.

Obeying the woman, they ran to the car and got in, to see a young Hispanic male sitting in the driver’s seat, as soon as the woman got into the passenger seat, she smacked the dashboard and told the male to drive. Brett hadn’t been able to turn around and look, but he had heard Liam roar, he heard Liam reveal himself. He was distracted by Lori, who had spoken up.

“Who are you?” she directed to the woman. The woman in question turned back and let out a breath before answering “ Sorry doll, there wasn’t time for introductions back there, I’m Dondra, but call me Donnie or D, whatever you want. This is my son Manny.” She jerked her thumb at the boy behind the wheel.

“ Hey guys.” He waved at them through the rear view mirror, “Ma I think we lost em ”.

“Good, take us straight to the farmhouse, we’ll explain everything to you two there okay? For now just rest, and darlin’?” she said looking at Brett, “ Try and focus on healing.” She stretched her hand out to the wolf who was sitting behind Manny, once he grabbed it, he watched as the black lines went up her veins.

Brett sat back, and tried to focus on his breathing and healing, Donnie taking his pain was actually helping him out, Lori next to him was leaning her head on the headrest, as Brett leaned on her, she had her eyes closed, as she thanked whatever God there was, in her head for sending Donnie to save them.

Fifteen minutes later they pulled up to a farmhouse, Brett was slowly but surely healing, Manny hopped out and helped Brett out of the car, he placed Brett’s arm over his shoulder, and wrapped his arm around his waist. Donnie opened Lori’s door and held her hand out to the young girl. Lori reassured by the look on Donnie’s face, grabbed the outstretched hand. As they walked into the house, Donnie’s free hand covered the other and Lori’s, patting them in a calming manner. Once inside, Manny guided Brett to the lounge, and let him lay on the couch.

“Honeybun, we should get you out of these bloody clothes, we can get you nice and clean whilst Manny and Charlotte look after your brother.” Donnie spoke softly to Lori.

“Ch-Charlotte?” Lori asked. “Here” a voice spoke coming down the stairs. Lori looked over and saw a small blonde girl lugging a large bag down the stairs. As the girl dragged it over to the couch Brett was on, she opened it and brought out different vials, along with basic medical equipment, gauze and tape and the like.

“Go Lori, I’m okay” Brett offered to his sister, smiling weakly. As Donnie made her way out of the Lounge, she walked towards the downstairs guest room, opening the door she showed Lori. “There’s a shower over there, it’s got fresh towels and toiletries, you can head on in whilst I grab some clothes for you. I’ll place them on the bed, alright?” Donnie said whilst tucking a piece of Lori’s hair behind the young girl’s ear. Lori smiled at the motherly action and nodded.

In the lounge Brett was being told off by the young witch. “Hold still or I swear I’m gonna douse you with this entire bottle of alcohol.” The young girl berated. Brett blinked once, then twice, before promising to stay still. “Hmm” Charlotte hummed as she watched Manny continue cleaning Brett’s wounds. Charlotte had been busy mixing vials and liquids on the coffee table, as she poured it all into a glass cup ,she murmured in Latin “ Purgare Sanguine Corpus Curare” at the same time, the young girls eyes glowed a dark green, as the liquid in the cup shimmered for a moment.

Handing it to Brett, she folded her arms and gave him instructions. “ Drink it all, it’ll clean your blood, and help your body heal. I put some dried berries in it so it’ll taste good.” She offered a small smile, as Brett gulped the liquid down. His face morphed into one of disgust as he looked at Charlotte who was smirking “You said it would taste good!”

“I lied.”

As she began to tidy up the vials and her ingredients, Manny spoke up “So all your wounds are clean, and you should heal perfectly. I’m sure you wanna take a shower, but I don’t think you’re strong enough to handle it yourself.”

“You could always help me” Brett said suggestively, Manny squinted at Brett, “Cute. You’re not my type though.”

As Brett laughed Manny continued “ You can sleep here for now, and in the morning you can shower and get changed.” Brett thanked the coyote as he got more comfortable. Donnie made her way into the lounge and crouched by the couch “ Okay mister, I never got your name, I did get Lori’s though.”

Attempting to sit up, he was stopped by a warm hand on his shoulder, Donnie pushed him back down softly “ Don’t move hun, we want you to get better, not make things worse.”

“ Brett. My name is Brett.” He said to the woman in front of him.

“ Nice to meet you Brett. You and your sister are safe here, I grabbed the air mattress so your sister could sleep here. I doubt she’ll want to stay in the guest room away from you.” Donnie explained as she worked on setting up the mattress for the young girl.

“ Thank you, honestly, If you hadn’t been there when you were I- Lori and I-“ Brett started, as his voice broke.

“ Sugar, there’s no need to thank me” Dondra interrupted as she moved Brett’s hair out of his eyes. “I’m just glad we got there in time to get you away from those rancid hunters.” Brett relaxed as she continued running her fingers through his hair. “ Now sleep, and heal, and tomorrow at breakfast we’ll sort everything else out. Rest, you’ll need it when you meet my youngest Harry, one look at your tall self and she will literally try to climb you like a tree” Donnie chuckled.

Lori walked into the room, to see that Brett was no longer incredibly pale, his skin was getting some colour back and he no longer had a look of pain on his face. She smiled at Donnie who was walking out of the Lounge. Lori grabbed the blankets that had been left out for them. As she looked over at her brother, she noticed he had fallen asleep, his chest rising and falling as he breathed in and out. Laying down, she covered herself with a blanket and began to fall asleep.

The next morning Brett woke up to see a little girl perched on the side of the couch he was sleeping on. The little girl had her hair in braids, with beads on the ends. She was wearing a pair of brown pyjamas, and had her elbows on her legs, as her hands held up her face.

As Brett was about to speak, the girl spoke up first “ She’s still sleeping” she whispered, whilst gesturing to Lori. Brett looked over at his sister to see her face relaxed, and at peace as she lightly snored. The girl hopped off her place on the couch with a sense of gracefulness, she walked to the edge of the lounge as she gestured for Brett to follow her. Sitting up, Brett took a moment to stretch his arms, when he didn’t feel any pain, he stood up to stretch his back and legs. Huh. It tasted horrible, but it did the job.

Stretching his muscles out, he didn’t realise the little girl now staring at him in wonder, her mouth open as she let out a silent Whoa. Looking like she was analysing him, the girl Harry!- he remembered Donnie mentioning, was looking him up and down, at one point she even walked around him in a circle. “What’re you doing little one?” he said softly. Putting her hand to her chin as though she was thinking, she answered “six three? No six two, definitely six two.”

Brett, impressed at the girl, rose his eyebrow, as he told her she was correct, at that she smiled a self-impressed smile, before walking towards a door. As she opened it, she waited for Brett to follow. “Mister, not to be a meanie, but you’re dirty and you kinda smell. The shower is there, and Manny left some clothes on the bed for you.”

Brett looked down at himself, and he had to agree, he smelt like sweat, blood and grime. His shirt was in tatters and his trousers were a mess. Harry spoke up again, “when you’re done come have breakfast with us.” At that, she walked away and shut the bedroom door behind her.

Upstairs in her room, Donnie was on the phone to her brother Nathaniel.

“Mornin’ D” Nathaniel’s groggy voice answered the phone.

“Mornin’ Nate, there’s a bit of a situation here, that why I’m calling at this hour.”

Immediately more alert Nate responded, “ What can I do?”

“ Those hunters that have been around recently, tried to kill a pair of siblings, Brett, he’s nearly 18 and his sister Lori, she’s just turned 16. I’d keep them with me if possible, but it won’t be safe for them. The Hunters would learn about us, and not only add us to their list of targets, but they’d hunt Brett and Lori down until they were dead. They need to be kept safe until this is over.”

“ I see. Let me take a look at something real quick.”  Donnie stayed silent as she heard the ruffling of papers over the phone.

“ Aha! I was taking a look at our travel logs, Vera is on her way back from Oregon, she was checking out that cold case Medford PD had on our John Doe. She’s an hour away from Beacon Hills I can call her and tell her to stop by the farmhouse?”

Relieved Donnie let out a breath “ That would be perfect, tell her I’ll save breakfast for her when she gets here”

“ Will do, I’ll speak to you when they get here tonight.”

After the siblings said their goodbyes, Donnie hung up and went to go get ready for the day, once showered and dressed, she went to go check on Manny and Harriett, who were getting breakfast ready for the day. Noticing Lottie’s absence, she went to go wake up the young girl, who surprisingly was not a morning person. Walking into the room the two girls shared, she noticed that Harry’s bed was done and tidy, Lottie however, had kicked her blankets off the bed, had her pillow on top of her head as she slept, belly down, starfished on her bed. Donnie shook her head in amusement as she picked up the blankets and placed them back on the bed. Lifting the pillow from Charlotte’s head , she snorted as she looked at the girl, Hair all over the place, mouth wide open as she drooled.

Two years of waking up the young girl had taught her one thing, don’t fall for the cuteness. Charlotte would stretch and plead “ five more minutes” whilst knowing she had no intention of getting up in fifty minutes let alone five. With Charlotte you needed the direct approach, and that consisted of opening the curtains blocking the sunlight. With one rapid movement, sunlight flooded the room, and in particular Charlotte’s face.

“Moooooooom!” Charlotte screeched, as she rolled over to face the other side of her room, but already having predicted the move, Donnie had turned on the bedside lamp. Scrambling for her pillow to cover her head with, Charlotte came up empty. Once she realised she had been thwarted, she sat up, bed hair all over the place, and looked at her mom, “This is what the 8^th Amendment calls Cruel and Unusual punishment.” The young witch deadpanned.

Crossing her arms, Donnie replied “ Now how in the hell do you know that?”

“I google things.” The witch responded as she sat next to her mother and opened her arms asking for a hug, when Donnie opened hers, she didn’t expect for the witch to lunge at her and knock them both down back onto the bed. Donnie let out a breathy “Well Played” as she attempted to catch her breath.

“Go on and help your brother and sister with breakfast now” Donnie said as she got up and made her way to her room. Grabbing a pair of leggings and a hoodie, she made her way downstairs, hearing the shower she assumed Harry had followed instructions and helped the tall wolf out. Walking towards the air mattress in the lounge, she crouched down as she placed a hand on Lori’s shoulder, softly nudging her awake. Lori’s eyes opened to see Donnie’s welcoming face smiling at her “ Mornin’ buttercup, Brett’s taking a shower, I got some clothes for you. You can use the shower upstairs, then come down for breakfast, we have a busy morning.”

Lori rose to her feet, shyly smiling at Donnie as she took the clothes being offered to her. She followed the directions given to her as she made her way upstairs to clean up. After showering and getting dressed, she made her way to the dining room, to see Brett, perfectly healthy and free of any wounds, rushing over to her brother, she clutched him in a massive hug, and breathed in his scent. After a moment they broke apart, and Lori took a second to look around the dinner table, there was an empty seat by Donnie’s side, opposite Brett. As Lori sat in the chair, she noticed a little girl sitting at her left. The girl must’ve been the youngest of Donnie’s kids. The girl stretched her hand out and introduced herself as Harry, as the two shook hands and Lori introduced herself, she saw Brett smiling across the table.

“Hey! I didn’t get a handshake.”

“That’s because you were smelly.” Harriett responded as she crossed her arms. Brett clutched his chest “ You wound me dear Harriett .” As the six of them sat at the table passing bowls and plates around Lori and Brett felt comfortable and safe, they were teenagers enjoying breakfast, smiling and laughing.

Donnie cleared her throat, and everyone looked towards her, “ Brett and Lori, we should talk about what’s going to happen moving forward.” Interpreting the silence as attention, Donnie continued.

“ The hunter that tried to kill you still hasn’t been identified yet, and things recently have been heating up. Since it’s just you two, your safety has to be priority, and I don’t think staying here whilst this issue grows is the best option”

Brett spoke up, “We don’t have anywhere to go, sure we’re allied with the McCall pack, but we’re weaker by ourselves.”

“I know, and that’s why, if you guys want, we can get you to Vegas, to stay with our pack, just until this all blows over. You guys would be kept safe, and you wouldn’t have to worry about hunters, at all.”

“ You would do that? For us? You just met us!” Lori butted in, shocked at the kindness Donnie was extending to them. It was Charlotte who answered, however.

“ We know what it’s like to have to look over your shoulder.” Picking at her piece of toast she continued. “ Harry and I had to run away from hunters once, we’re only here because we had help along the way” She finished looking up shyly at Donnie.

“But you’re what ten? And Harry is six?” Lottie’s face hardened as she looked directly at Brett. “ Hunters don’t care about age, they care about what they can do to us, and what we can do to them. I didn’t learn how to clean wounds yesterday Brett.”

Lori realising how sour the mood had gotten, attempted to resolve it. “ Well if the help you’re offering is anything like Harry and Charlotte got, then we’ll take it, thank you.”

Smiling at Lori and Brett, Donnie spoke up “ Well I’m glad y’all said yes, because your ride is already on her way.” Pouring herself some orange juice she continued “ I called my brother to iron out the details, we organised transport, and residence for when you get to Vegas.”

“ Who’s taking us?” Brett asked as he started chewing on a piece of bacon.

“ A Detective from Las Vegas PD” Donnie answered. “ Vera’s taking them?” Manny asked excited all of a sudden. At Donnie nodding her head, Lori asked who Vera was.

“Vera is my first bitten beta. We’ve known each other for nearly twenty years now. She handles the Police side of things for the pack, handling rogue hunters etcetera. She’s currently on her way back from Oregon, and will be here within ten minutes, if she’s driving the way she normally does. I trust her with my life, you two are in perfectly safe hands.”

“ You said she’s your first bitten beta? Which means you guys are?”

“Were-sabres hun, so when I say you’ll be safe, I mean it. No one is willingly going to try to start something with Vera. That girl is too damn crazy” Donnie chuckled.

As the six of them continued eating their food, Brett remembered that the last time Liam saw him, was when him and Lori walked into a trap, granted they were saved, but Liam still revealed himself. He needed to speak to the beta, and let him know they were safe. Upon mentioning it to Donnie, she handed him her unlocked phone, and told him he could sit outside if he wanted privacy.

Making his way towards the garden, Brett sat down on the lounge chairs by the pool, and dialled the memorised number.

“Hello?”

“Liam it’s me-“

“BRETT? What the fuck dude?”

“I know I know, things got out of control last night”

“Ya think? Where the fuck are you dude, where’s Lori?”

“ We’re safe, don’t worry”.

“ Scott and I can come get you, just tell us where you-“

“ Liam breathe. Lori and I are heading out of town, we can’t stay here whilst we have these targets on our back. It’s just not safe.”

“ You’re not alone Brett, you’ve got us, the pack, come on man.”

“ I know Liam, but we’re allies, we’re not pack. Which means hunters are gonna zero in on us, instead of you guys. I don’t like it either but it’s the best option.”

“I can’t change your mind can I.”

Chuckling Brett responded, “No you can’t, but it’s temporary, as soon as this all blows over, we’ll be back in town. Who else is gonna hand you your ass on a platter in a Lacrosse game?”

“ Ha ha ha. Even when you’re saying bye you’re still a jackass aren’t you.”

“ You already know how it is”

“ Where are you going anyways? You can tell me right?”

“ Las Vegas, there’s a pack out there taking us in. We actually leave in an hour or two.”

“What? So soon? There’s not even time for me to swing by and see you guys?”

“ I know Liam, but I’ll call you when we get to Vegas, should be no later than ten.”

As the two spoke and said their goodbyes, Brett walked back into the dining room, to see Lottie leap from her seat, and run to the door. Charlotte opened the door to see a woman leaning against the door frame, “Miss me?” she said in a raspy voice.

The woman, Vera, Brett presumed, was five foot five, had collarbone length light brown and blonde hair, the front of her hair pulled back in a low knot, and the rest of her hair down. She was wearing a pair of dark blue jeans, a simple black t-shirt and a pair of black boots. She had a badge on display and a holstered gun on her right hip.

A squeal brought Brett out of his observation, Lottie had wrapped her arms around Vera, and was clearly cheesing hard. Surprised at the little girl’s display of joy, Brett looked over at Donnie, who picked up on his expression. “ Vera is the only person as chaotic as Lottie, those two together could set a town on fire if they wanted to.” Manny snorted at the comment as he sipped his juice. After Lottie, Manny and Harriett had said their Hello’s, it was Donnie who got up next, Lori who had been paying attention, realised how Vera’s demeanour had changed, she had a shy grin on her face, and looked at Donnie with a sense of admiration? Or was it affection? Whatever it was, it was clear the two were close, like an Alpha and their first bitten beta would be. Donnie placed her hands on Vera’s cheeks, and Vera grabbed her arms.

“It has been too long since I’ve seen you” Donnie started

“I know, I know” Vera answered.

As Donnie pulled Vera in for a hug, Vera tucked her face into Donnie’s neck as Donnie gave her a warm and big hug. The Alpha, Beta dynamic clear as day from the two.

Once Vera was released, she linked her arm through Donnie’s as they walked towards the table. Once seated Vera noticed Brett and Lori at the table. “ So these are my lucky passengers then!” Lori let out a laugh and stretched a hand out to Vera, Brett followed as they made introductions. Whilst Vera detailed the journey they’d be making, Donnie was prepping coffee and a plate of food, bringing it to the table, Vera’s eyes widened in joy “Food!” she yelled as she looked up and threw a fist in the air. Chuckling at her, Donnie went to sit down.

The next half hour was about Vera explaining how long the drive was, and how many stops they’d make, Brett looked at Donnie nervously when Vera mentioned her driving abilities-

“ The drive is 8 hours, but we’ll make it in 6” she said as she winked at Brett and Lori.”

Whilst the others tidied up the table Donnie disappeared upstairs, she came down ten minutes later to hand Brett and Lori backpacks. “ You guys will get into town late tonight, so there won’t be time to go shopping and get what you need. There’s some basic toiletries, a spare t-shirt and shorts for when you head to bed, and some snacks. Oh! There’s some cheap earphones I found lying around in case you want to listen to music, and a portable charger each!”

Smiling at Donnie’s enthusiasm, Brett interrupted her rant and gave her a hug, Lori wrapped her arms around Brett and Donnie too. “ Thank you Donnie, for everything” Brett’s muffled voice spoke. Once they released her, she responded. “ No thank you needed, I did what any good person would do.”

They all turned around when Vera approached, “ Hey guys, we’re out in ten.”

Lori and Brett spent their leftover time saying their goodbyes, and placing their bags in the car. Lottie, surprisingly gave both Lori and Brett quick hugs, Manny shook both their hands and wished them a safe journey. Harry, picked up by Lori, gave the werewolf a big hug, and told her that she’d have fun in Vegas. As Harry was placed back down, she made her way over to Brett, and in a scary speed, managed to climb the 6’2 giant to sit on his shoulders. Brett, in shock of the girl’s agility, laughed and asked “ Not too smelly now am I?”As he lifted his arm to her she latched on and he brought her back down. She smiled triumphantly as her feet hit the ground, she gave him a quick hug, before standing by Charlotte’s side.

Lori and Brett gave Donnie one last hug, before they took their seats in Vera’s Rover. Vera, asked for a group hug from the others, as they bundled into one large hug, she promised she’d visit soon, and that she’d call when they made it to Vegas.

As the Bordelon family stood on their porch, they waved at Brett and Lori as they drove down the driveway.

Chapter Text

It was Saturday afternoon and Theo was sat by the pool, reading a book Donnie had given him. He was halfway through the first chapter when his phone pinged with a text.

bowling at 3?

it’s liam btw

you’ll be there? Great

Read at 14:26

I didn’t say I was coming

Read at 14:27

i took your silence as confirmation :)

Liam.

I took a minute to answer,

not exactly enough time for you to decide for me

whateverrrrr

Can I bring a friend?

:( imaginary friends don’t count theo.

but sure, bring your lil buddy

:|

He’s not imaginary thank you very much.

Sure. anyway, we’ll meet you guys at 3

cool

read at 14:30

wait.

WE?

oops

bye!

gotta blast!

Liam.

Read at 14:31

Theo scowled down at his phone, Liam had roped him into joining him and his little puppy pack for a day out. The relationship between the two of them may have been fixed, but the others were a different situation. Corey witnessed and experienced Theo’s tyranny, and Mason? He had watched as his best friend and boyfriend had been used relentlessly. Nolan however, Theo had stopped Liam from almost killing him, and the new wolf Alec? He could only imagine what Alec had been told about him.

The only consolation was that Liam and Manny could have his back, if- no when, he needed it.

Speaking of Manny, the Coyote was currently dancing around the kitchen as he made himself a snack. Promiscuous by Timbaland and Nelly Furtado was playing, as the young adult was swaying.

“Promiscuous girl, wherever you are” Manny sang whilst he had one hand over his eyes, as if he was searching for someone.

“I’m all alone and it’s you that I want” he continued as he grabbed his sandwich and sang at it.

Theo let out the laugh that was building in his throat. Startled by the sound, Manny let out a shriek and almost dropped the sandwich. “Dude! I coulda dropped my sandwich!” He told Theo.

“The way you were singing to it, not possible” Theo smirked.

“Yeah yeah whatever.” Turning the music down he looked back at Theo “What’s up then?”

Theo remembering why he entered the kitchen in the first placed, answered “ Liam invited us bowling”

Taking a bite of his sandwich he looked at Theo unimpressed, “You mean Liam invited you bowling, you want me to come because you’re nervous”

Scoffing at Manny, Theo responded “Nervous? I don’t have anything to be nervous about. Why would you think I’m nervous”

“Besides the fact you said nervous three times?” He lifted his eyebrow “You got his number what? 24 hours ago? all you’ve done is text each other. Plus, whenever you talk about all the stuff that’s happened, Liam tends to be a pretty big focal point. I mean being the bait? Really? what a line”

Eyes wide open Theo let out a choke, “You- I- Dude. No need to read me like that.” His shoulders slumped.

“ It’s my speciality, anyways when are we going?”

“Well, now, we need to be there for 3.” Theo answered, looking at his phone.

“Cool, let me get my shoes and we’ll go” Manny spoke whilst stuffing his mouth.

Liam POV

It was 15:05, and Liam was anxious, sure he had gotten on the right track with Theo, and they had texted a lot in the last day, but hanging out with him was different, this time it wasn’t forced, and they weren’t fighting for their lives, they were just getting together for some fun.

“Alec really?” Corey’s shocked voice spoke

“ What? It’s not illegal.” Alec shrugged

“Arson is definitely illegal” Cory screeched.

“ If that’s the case then surely every time Parrish does his whole Flame On! thing, he is committing arson.” Alec pointed out

“ Don’t let Parrish hear that Fantastic Four reference.” Mason chimed in

“Why not” Alec whirled around to face Mason “The human torch is awesome, and Chris Evans? Do I need to say more?”

“Nope, Chris Evans is all you needed to say.” Nolan mused out loud. He only realised he had spoken when the others were staring at him.

“What?” He asked as they stayed silent. “Liam help” he continued as the others watched him.

Alec let out a laugh, “Liam’s too busy thinking about Theo”

Instead of responding to Alec, Liam zoned in on the blue truck pulling into the parking lot. From what he could see there was someone sitting in the passenger seat. Huh, he did bring a friend.

Theo had opened his door and stepped out, he was wearing those white converses of his, a pair of black jeans, and one of those short sleeved shirts mechanics would wear, the ones with their names in a red and white oval patch above the chest pocket. Due to the heat Theo had left his unbuttoned, he had a white tank underneath it.

“I didn’t know murderous teenagers had good fashion sense” he heard Alec mutter quietly.

Alec wasn’t wrong, Theo looked good. His hair looked like he constantly ran his hands through it to push it back, but the front would just flop onto his forehead regardless. Liam, who had caught himself checking Theo out, looked towards the guy accompanying him. If Theo’s hair was long, then this guy’s was longer. His loose black curls framed his face, but were currently pushed back by the sunglasses on his head. He had light facial hair, that made him look older, but not by a lot. He was wearing a pair of black straight legged trousers, that stopped just above his ankles, white socks and black sneakers; what caught Liam’s eyes was the 50’s era bowling shirt he was wearing. It was just like the ones old bowlers used to wear, pink collar and all.

“ Intense.” Mason spoke up

“I’m not even jealous right now, because Mason is right” Corey agreed.

“That’s Theo’s friend” Liam offered

“Well obviously” Mason deadpanned.

Theo and his friend had walked up to the puppy pack, Liam grinned and spoke up “So your friend wasn’t imaginary then” he teased.

Theo fake smiled “Gotta blast, really? Are you ten?” Liam stuck his tongue out at Theo who smirked. Placing his hand on Manny’s shoulder he spoke. “Sorry we’re late, but this one insisted on finding his bowling shirt.”

The mystery guy rolled his eyes as he stretched his hand out to Liam, “ So this is the famous beta! Nice to meet you dude, I’m Manny.” He flashed his eyes, Liam flashed his back. “Famous? Why do I feel like that’s bad? A coyote huh? Cool.”

Liam turned around to look at the others, who were still just staring. Snapping his fingers, they all snapped out of whatever collective hypnosis they were in. “Guys, introduce yourselves.”

“Uh Hi, I’m Mason, human-ish, but you probably knew that” Mason awkwardly waved.

“I’m Corey, chimera” Manny rose his eyebrows as he glanced at Theo.

“Hey, I’m Nolan, also human”

“I’m Alec, just a warning, that bowling shirt means nothing. I plan on out-bowling all of you today” Alec said pointing his finger at the group.

“Dude.” Cory spoke up.

“Oh!” Alec looked over at Manny and flashed his eyes. “ Werewolf, and bowling God.”

Manny cackled at Alec’s behaviour, “Why does he remind me of Charlotte?” Liam however spoke up, “Is that the girl that shouted at me?”

“ Because if she is, she and Alec aren’t allowed to meet, like ever. I feel like it wouldn’t end well.”

“Hey!” Alec complained

“Yeah she may be ten, but Lottie is a menace” Manny answered.

“Hold on, Liam, you let a ten year old shout at you?” Mason laughed.

“In his defence, she has her moments” Theo offered.

As the group walked in Liam slowed down to walk next to Theo, “I’m glad you came.” He said nudging the chimera. “You won’t be when you get your ass handed to you on the lane” Theo smirked. “Oh really? We’ll see”

As there were seven of them, they decided to split into three groups, they would’ve done groups of two, three and two, but Nolan had other plans. “Like 90% of why I came was because they have Dance Dance Revolution. I have the high score, and I’ve been trying to beat it.”

As Nolan was about to head off to the arcade machines, he turned back “Come get me when you get food, or head to the pool tables.”

“Dance dance revolution? I have to see this.” Alec smiled maniacally, however he stopped as Manny spoke up “ Is that a forfeit I hear” he said as he placed his hand by his ear.

“Let’s get this over with, so I can kick your ass and then film Nolan dancing so I can use it as blackmail” Alec huffed.

“Alec!” Corey let out disapprovingly

“Just kiddingggg” Alec said in a high pitched voice.

As the group grabbed their bowling shoes, they made their way over to the lanes they would be using, Liam spoke up, “When it comes to choosing the names we put on the board, we don’t pick for ourselves” Once they had their shoes on, they all inputted the names.

“The Dude? A Big Lebowski reference? I see how it is” Manny squinted his eyes at Alec who was smirking.

But Alec’s reaction soon changed as Manny put his name as Mr Chow.

“Really? Mr Chow from The Hangover?” He asked with his hands on his hips.

“You’re just as unhinged as he is. ” Manny smirked.

Mason had put Corey as Pascal, at Corey’s confused look, Theo explained “The chameleon from tangled”. The look of confusion on Corey’s face transformed into one of shock. “You know tangled?” Mason asked. Theo blushed as he nodded.

Corey put Mason as Stiles 2.0 “You’re the Stiles to Liam’s Scott” Corey explained

Liam after much internal debate had put Theo as Teddy bear, at Theo’s risen eyebrow he spoke up “New Theo watches Disney and is a big softie, so Teddy bear makes sense”. Theo had put Liam’s name as Baby Alpha. “ Not even gonna argue with that one” Liam chuckled.

As the six got to bowling, they had started having their own mini conversations, once in a while someone would say something that would drag the rest in, however Manny and Alec, had decided that straight competition and Trash talk was it for them.

“Hey Manny, your mom called, she said you left your game at home”

“Oh really? Well the Cleveland Browns called, they don’t remember loaning their losing streak to you”

“ This is bowling not Baseball, a strike is not the same as striking out Manny.”

“Keep bowling like that and not even reconstructive surgery will fix your bones.”

Mason and Corey had been watching in awe as the two traded barbs back and forth, “Alec has met his match” Corey piped up. “Is Manny always like that?” Mason asked Theo.

“He once called me a baby back bitch when I beat him at UNO.” Theo answered. Liam choked on his water. “No fuckin’ way” he laughed.

“Yes Way and that was UNO, imagine how he’ll react if he loses to Alec”. Theo pondered pointing at the two who were still trash talking.

“How do you two know each other anyways?” Mason asked. The human had seemed to let his guard down around Theo as they played, Theo hadn’t done or said anything suspicious and Liam seemed more than happy that he came with them, so he thought why not.

“ Uh- We met through his sister, she got lost and I gave her a ride home.”

“Charlotte right?” Corey asked.

“No, his other sister Harriett.” Theo answered. “She’s the reason I knew about Tangled”

Twenty minutes later, they had finished playing their games, Corey had beat Mason, Liam had managed to beat Theo in a last minute effort, and Alec and Manny? They tied. Both had scored majority Strikes, but had the same number of Spares. “ We’ll be back, a tie is not acceptable in the Bordelon Household” Manny declared. As they wandered off to find Nolan, they noticed a group of people congregating and they found out why. Nolan, was currently playing against another competitor, and it was crazy. Nolan’s feet were moving with such speed and agility it felt like watching a pinball machine as he kept rapidly moving, every step earned him a “Perfect” on the screen. The guy he was up against was just as good, but had missed a few arrows and was behind on points. The six of them watched on in amazement, but Alec had his phone out was recording it all, smirk on his face. As the song came to an end, Nolan managed to follow the combo moves the screen asked for, and ended up scoring a Perfect game. His fists went straight into the air as NEW HIGH SCORE flashed on the screen. Liam grabbed a sneaky picture of Nolan cheesing as he got off the platform and wrapped his arms around the screen.

“The king is back baby!” He proclaimed, whilst he looked over to the others he had just noticed.

“Hey guys, how was bowling?” Nolan asked, clueless.

“This is weird isn’t it, hanging out with Theo.” Corey spoke up

Corey and Mason had gone to the kiosk to order food for the group, and whilst waiting decided to talk about the elephant in the room.

“Yeah, I mean Liam asked us not to tell the others that we saw him, but now we’re hanging out with him? I don’t know.” Mason responded as they sat down by the tables.

Mason continued “ When Liam told us he was coming I didn’t understand why, but he’s been fine today, I mean Liam hasn’t stopped smiling and Manny seems to be a good guy”

“I don’t trust Theo.” Corey said

“I don’t either” Mason agreed

“But I don’t hate him, not anymore. He’s not the Theo I knew, he’s different.”

Mason placed his hand over Corey’s “ I guess we just give it time, if Liam doesn’t have an issue with him, then maybe eventually neither will we.”

“We just have to get to know this Theo, who isn’t trying to kill everyone.” Corey responded as he looked over to where the group were sitting. Alec was talking animatedly with his hands, as Nolan stared at him intrigued, Manny was just laughing at whatever Alec was talking about. Liam was responding just as passionately to Alec, but Theo? Was just smiling at Liam, watching as the beta talked. He looked happy, just content watching as Liam spoke and debated back and forth with Alec.

Corey and Mason grabbed the food and made their way back to the table.

“ Tom Holland has the best spiderman, and there’s no debating it Liam.” Alec stated matter-of-factly

“No. Toby Maguire’s spiderman was the best, it’s iconic!” Liam argued.

“ Both of you are wrong.” Theo commented, taking a sip from his orange soda.

Mason and Corey had placed the food on the table as everyone stared at Theo.

“He’s not wrong” Manny agreed. He shrugged as the staring was now directed at him.

“Okay this I gotta know, Theo, what spiderman is the best?” Mason asked the Chimera.

“Easy, Miles Morales” Theo answered as Manny fist bumped him

Mason looking impressed nodded. “Not to be intense or anything, but weren’t you- ya know when it came out” Mason asked moving his hands about in confusing gestures.

“ Underground in hell? Yup” Theo answered taking a bite of his slice of pizza. The others looked over at Manny in worry, did he know?

“Guys don’t worry, I know all about Theo’s big bad wolf phase.” Manny reassured.

“Not a wolf” Theo reminded

“Not a wolf” Manny mocked in a high pitched voice.

“He watched it with us on Monday, he’s been obsessed since.” Manny explained to the others.

“Obsessed is a strong word” Theo defended

“You’ve watched the What’s Up Danger scene at least 5 times since then.” Manny rebutted

Theo, beaten, slid down his seat in embarrassment as he sipped on the straw to his drink.

Liam chuckled at Theo’s reaction and patted the Chimera’s head; Theo expecting it, playfully nipped at Liam’s hand.

 “Can we agree that Miles Morales is best? Because the food is getting cold, and I burned like a thousand calories beating my high score” Nolan chimed in.

As everyone agreed and began eating, Liam looked over at Theo who was smiling as Alec decided to argue about something else, Liam felt good about Theo, the group, he was glad he invited him bowling with them.

Chapter Text

The seven of them were walking to their respective cars in the parking lot when Liam asked Theo what he was doing for the rest of the day.

“I'm going back to Manny’s for dinner, his mom is firing up the grill tonight” Theo responded

As Alec slid between Manny and Theo, he piped up “You two should totally come by Scott’s tonight, it’s not a pack meeting or anything like that”

“Uh- I don’t think that’s a good idea man.” Theo answered as he rubbed the back of his neck

“Oh okay” Alec answered disheartened

Alec had gotten on really well with Manny and Theo, the two oldest out of the group. Sure, he had been warned about Theo , but that all went out the window after he met him. Theo had seemed regular, reserved but regular. Alec had been friendly towards him, and Theo had instantly reciprocated it. Manny and Alec had gotten on like a house on fire, the two of them exchanging barbs back and forth, laughing over the same things .

Alec had sort of latched onto the two of them because of how differently they treated him. The pack, when he first arrived, they had all worn the kiddie gloves around him, as time went on it decreased, but he would notice the lingering stares, or the way people would soften their tones to talk to him. Truthfully it was starting to bother Alec, who wasn't the same newly turned Wolf that they had met at the beginning. It took some time, but he had worked through his emotions and his feelings ; he wasn't as angry and full of resentment anymore. He loved the pack and being part of it, but it was refreshing being able to form friendships naturally, and through him being himself.

Manny had looked over at Theo who was already looking at him. They had both noticed Alec’s reaction and they didn’t like it at all.

“Y’all can totally swing by after your pack thing though! Charlotte and Harry are at a sleepover this weekend, so dinner is at a later time tonight.”

Alec perked up at the comment. “Really? Yeah, cool!”

 Mason and Corey looked at each other, “We’re down” Mason spoke for the two.  

“Honestly, you had me at grill.” Nolan smiled. All that was left was Liam.

“Are you sure? We don’t wanna impose.”

“Nah dude it’s totally fine. I’ll even call Ma and ask if you want.” Manny responded. Before waiting for Liam to answer he had pulled his phone out and facetimed his Mother.

“What’s up hun?”

“Hey Ma, is it okay if the guys come over for dinner later?”

“I don’t see why not, I have more than enough since the Mr Williams had a deal going on. Tell em to come through for half eight, It’ll be ready by then.”

“Alright, thanks Ma.”

“Uh huh, where’s my boy”

“You’re looking at him.”

“Child, my other boy.”

Manny turned his wrist, so that Theo was in the Camera’s frame

“Darlin’ I got your favourite, so you can help me out on the grill.”

“Thank you, and of course, I have to practice what you taught me.” Theo smiled at Donnie.

The boys said goodbye to Donnie, and turned back to the others. “Cool, we’ll be there by 8:30 then.” Liam smiled. As he looked down at his watch he realised the time. “I should probably head to Scott’s and tell him not to buy a bunch of food like he usually does” Liam remarked.

The group all said their goodbye’s and made their ways back to their vehicles.

Mason had just dropped Liam off at Scott’s, and well, the young beta was nervous. He didn’t want to lie, so if Scott asked any questions, where mentioning Theo was required, then he would be honest. Knocking on the door, he took a step back and waited.

“Liam! Hey I wasn't expecting you till later, everything alright?” Scott smiled as he saw his beta. Liam answered as Scott ushered him into the kitchen.

“I just wanted to tell you, me and the others aren’t gonna be staying the whole time tonight, so you don’t have to get food for us.” Liam answered as he sat down.

“How come? You guys love to hang out here!” Scott asked as he tilted his head in interest.

“Well, we went bowling with some friends today, and they invited us back to theirs for dinner tonight.” Liam answered nervously

“I’m glad you guys have friends outside the pack you can hang with.” Scott smiled his dopey smile.

“Scott, random question, How do you feel about Theo?” Liam spilled out

Scott’s mouth twitched in intrigue “Theo? Well, he’s clearly paid for his sins. We couldn't have beaten the ghost riders and Monroe if it wasn't for him. He saved your life too, I don’t feel any lingering resentment towards him, I forgave him after he saved your life that time in the hospital, during the Ghost Riders I mean.”

Liam took Scott’s answer as comfort, and sat up straight as he responded

“Okay Full disclosure. I saw Theo a couple days ago. We didn't really talk much but after something he said I decided it would be best if I didn't tell you and the others. I saw him again yesterday and we got to speaking, I told him that I forgave him for everything, he however was adamant that I shouldn’t have but we sorted everything out, so I invited him bowling today with me and the others. He came with a friend of his, Manny. Scott it went really well. The guys all got on fine, and Alec clearly needed some non-pack socialisation.” Liam smiled at his last comment, he really had enjoyed the day with Theo.

Scott got up from the table, and walked towards the fridge, “Cool.”

“Cool? COOL?” Liam asked half doubting the Alpha’s chilled demeanour.

“Yeah cool. I told you I don’t hate him, anymore, and I trust you. You said it was good, and that especially Alec benefitted from it, so I don’t have a problem.” Scott sat back down with a bowl of grapes in his hand, he offered them to Liam as he smiled at the young beta.

Liam however, was not as composed, he kept going back to what Theo said that first time he saw him.

“If I had stuck around, you guys would’ve found a way to put me back in the ground.” Liam mused out loud.

Scott choked on his grape “Wh-what?”. But Liam continued

“However long I have left of freedom, I’d like to enjoy.” The Beta finished.

“Theo, it’s what he said, that made me not tell you when I first saw him.” Liam explained.

“Shit. He doesn’t know does he? He doesn’t know I forgive him.” Scott said quietly.

Liam shook his head.

“Well then I need to follow in your footsteps and tell him. Truthfully,  a conversation between the two of us has been overdue for a while now. I never apologised to him. You know for a week straight, after I let him be sent to hell, I didn’t sleep. I kept hearing his voice as he screamed at me, asking for help. I let him be punished in a way that no one else who had crossed us, had been punished before. “ Scott commented, as he thought about what Liam said.

“I’m proud of you Liam.” Scott looked up smiling that smile at his beta.

“Me? What did I do?” Liam asked confused.

“You’re just maturing in a way that makes me proud to see. You sorted out your relationship with Theo, before any of us did. You made your decisions and you made them properly, you thought about it, and you stuck with your choices. That’s what a good leader does.”

Liam lowered his head bashfully at his Alpha, “I came back for the summer because I missed you guys, and when I go back it’ll be a struggle because I’ll go back to missing you guys. But, my one consolation is that I know they’re in good hands, your hands Liam.” Scott finished, as Liam looked up at him.

Liam got up from his seat, walked to Scott and lunged into the Alpha’s waiting arms. “Thanks Scott, it means a lot” Liam’s muffled voice spoke, into Scott’s chest.

After a beat they released each other. “So, I’m assuming Theo will be there at Manny’s tonight?” Scott asked

“Yeah, he seems quite close to Manny’s family” Liam remarked.

“ Manny’s family, do they know about us?” Scott asked warily

“Well, I assume so since he’s a coyote, and one of his sisters is a witch, don’t ask, I have no clue how that works” Liam told Scott before the Alpha could ask.

“I’m surprised we haven’t come across them yet.” Scott thought out loud.

They changed topics as they relocated to the couch, Liam filled Scott in on how the day went, telling him about Alec and Manny’s trash talking battle, how he managed to beat Theo, how Theo got Mason’s approval during a Spider-Man conversation, and how Nolan was a Dance Dance Revolution menace. Scott laughed at how animatedly Liam narrated the day. By the time they had finished talking it had turned 6.

Scott had texted his mom prior about the change in plans, so they agreed to order pizza later into the night. The rest of the puppy pack arrived at quarter past, and were in the living room, playing video games. Stiles, had flown into town a few hours earlier, so had Lydia, so the night was a pack hang out, but also a welcome back party for the two. Eventually everyone had arrived by 7pm, minus the Sheriff who was on duty that night.

Malia had walked into the lounge as Liam opened a text from Theo, the chimera had sent him a picture of the meat for the grill, marinating in some sort of sauce Manny’s mother had made.

“Oh my God that looks so good” Malia practically drooled as she looked over Liam’s shoulder. The beta hadn’t noticed she was behind him, and so his phone flew upwards out of his hand. After a few seconds of attempting to grab, but tossing the phone further into the air, Liam was prevented from catching it as Stiles caught it mid air.

“ Shit, that does look good, and not in the I’m Malia and I like eating raw animals way either” Stiles remarked as he looked at the image. Before he could attempt to swipe past, Liam swiftly grabbed the phone out of his hand, locked it and placed it in his pocket.

“You two have no notion of boundaries.” Liam commented squinting at the two in front of him.

“Hey! I resent that, you’re right about Stiles, but not me” Malia responded as Stiles let out a shriek at her comment.

“I got back today, and I’m already being bullied? What is this? Lydia! They’re bullying me!” Stiles whined at the banshee who had just walked in.

“You probably deserved it Stiles.” Lydia responded as she walked over to rest her arm over Liam’s shoulder.

Liam and Lydia had an interesting relationship, she had her moments in the last year, where she demonstrated the slight protective streak she had; standing in front him when they had both been confronted by danger. If Scott was the Pack Dad, then Lydia was definitely the Pack Mom. As Liam leaned his head on her shoulder they both smiled cheekily at Stiles. Who after a huff, had thrown his arms up and stomped out of the Kitchen, with Malia in tow.

As Liam took his seat, Lydia sat down next to him. “So, Scott told me you guys are heading out early tonight, everything alright?” She asked.

“Yeah we’re all good, we’re going to a friend’s for dinner. It was kind of a last minute thing.” Liam explained.

“I only ask because Scott was very clearly holding back something when he told me.”

Liam’s eyes widened, at Lydia. “But I trust you both, and I know, you know, you can come and talk to me if you need to, so I won’t pry.” Lydia finished as she patted Liam’s thigh, before getting up and walking out.

Parrish was grabbing a drink from the fridge as Argent walked in.

“Jordan, I had some questions I wanted to run by you.” Chris’ deep voice spoke.

“Go ahead.”

Parrish placed his drink on the counter as Argent spoke up. “Has there been any suspicious activity recently? Anything that leads you think there’s an Alpha about?” Argent questioned.

A thoughtful look crossed Jordan’s face as he thought to himself. “To answer the first question, no. Actually, the opposite. We had multiple calls of a person sleeping in their truck, trespassing, but that stopped a few weeks back. Southside of town has always been pretty quiet, so we haven’t had anything over there. Alpha? I haven’t seen anything that indicates it, what’s up?”

“Hold on, the Southside of town, what do you mean it’s always been quiet?” Argent asked

Placing both hands on the table, Jordan leaned forward, as he answered. “ The southside’s pretty quiet, to the point we barely patrol there. I thought it was weird at first, but it was nothing.”

“That doesn’t make sense, why the limited patrols? Surely even if it is quiet it would get the same attention?” Argent crossed his arms.

“The southside is different to the north, they don’t have the town hall, and the schools. It’s got its own local shops, and South Main, has all the restaurants, bars and apartments it needs.

Sounds weird I know, but they function perfectly fine without us over there. We’ve had one call in the last month compared to the north’s 15, a missing child, but turned out she had just wandered away. Folks are pretty tight over there; they prefer to handle things themselves if they can.” Jordan finished as he sipped from his drink.

Argent thought he had reached a dead end, but picked up on the last thing Parrish said. “Handle things themselves?”

“Yeah, the occasional dispute, anti-social behaviour, or if someone’s had too much to drink. They’ll sit down and work it out themselves. There’s a family down there, they have a lot of respect, so people tend to listen, or ask for help. You gotta ask Sheriff though, I don’t know anything about that.” Parrish finished as he patted Argent on the shoulder and walked out of the kitchen.

Argent was slowly starting to piece together the puzzle he had been confronted with. An Alpha with a claim, who’s territory seemed to have it’s own conduct system in place. The entire southside seemed to be doing just fine without the Sheriff’s department interfering, and without the hustle and bustle, from the Northside. He was intrigued, especially because this alpha seemed to be good at keeping their identity private. He was willing to play the long game to find out just what was going on.

Chapter Text

“So tell me about Bowling!” Donnie smiled cheerfully, as Theo was helping her set up the table.

The two were outside by the table, whilst Manny was working on preparing the grill. Placing napkins down, Theo smiled to himself as he thought about the day. “It was great. You were right, I shouldn’t have panicked about it. I had a lot of fun, and I think you’ll like the guys when you meet them tonight!”

“Really? Tell me about them.” Donnie asked as she focused on finishing up the lemonade she was now prepping. “Mason and Corey are together, Mason is intelligent and reliable, he’s always helping out his friends, and trying to learn new things no matter what.

Corey is the quieter of the two, but he can get assertive or take control if he needs to. Alec? What is there to say about Alec.” Theo was prevented from continuing by Manny barking out a laugh from his spot by the grill. Rolling his eyes, he resumed his descriptions.

“Alec, is a firecracker, no filter, chaotic in a good way-“

“ I think you mean unhinged” Manny interrupted

“ He’s the youngest, and he’s the reason we invited them. It seemed like he needed to meet new people. Nolan, he’s near the end of his own little redemption arc, but he’s got a kind of innocence to him that just brings out the best in others.” Theo finished as he worked on stirring the jug Donnie had passed to him.

“And Liam?” She asked.

“Yeah, and Liam?” Manny asked, smiling devilishly from behind Donnie.

“Liam is Liam. He’s still the same beta that runs headfirst for those he cares about, and still the same beta that patched things up between us. You’ll like him, at least I hope you will, he’s- he’s important to me I guess.” Theo shrugged.

“Well, I can’t wait to meet him, meet all of them!” Donnie said softly, as she winked at Theo.

“Yeah Theo, we can’t wait to see Liam.” Mann said suggestively, whilst wiggling his eyebrows.

“Manny! If that grill ain’t ready, you and me gon’ have a problem when I get there.” Donnie exclaimed as she began making her way over. Manny, who hadn’t been paying attention, jumped quickly, before he muttered a quiet “Yes Ma” and turned back to the grill. Looking over at Theo, he stuck his tongue out at the Chimera, who instead pointed back at the grill condescendingly and mouthed “Focus” before offering a fake cheery thumbs up.

Back at Scott’s, Pizza had arrived for the pack.

“Scottie, this isn’t enough for all of us, did you order more?” Stiles asked as he grabbed the pizza boxes and took them to the dining table.

“Uh no, the Puppy pack isn’t eating with us tonight. So this was all we needed.” Scott explained as he grabbed napkins.

“ How come?” Malia asked as she looked over at the group, looking at Alec, she noticed how the young wolf kept checking his phone.

“We’re gonna go over to a friend’s soon, so we’ll eat there.” Nolan answered, not looking anywhere near Malia.

“You guys, are going to a friends?” Stiles questioned unconvinced, crossing his arms.

Corey and Mason nodded, whilst Alec hopped up from his seat, with a sudden smile on his face “Yup and it is time to go” He responded, gesturing wildly to the door. As the others got up, Stiles interrupted.

“Woah woah woah, who’s house? And what’s the address? What if we need you suddenly need you guys? “He asked.

“ Then you do what every other person this century would do, call us.” Liam answered.

“Have a safe drive, text me when you’re there!” Scott jumped in, before Stiles could resume his questioning. Liam smiled thankfully at Scott for his interruption. As they made their way through the door Alec was impatiently holding open, Liam grabbed his phone to check the address Theo had sent him earlier.

“Thank God.” Nolan huffed. “Malia makes me feel uneasy, and I’ve been thinking about dinner, non-stop for hours now.” The former hunter said as he made his way to his Mason’s car. They piled into Mason’s car, as Liam read out the address for him.

“No wonder we haven’t seen Manny before, he’s basically on the edge of town.” Corey mentioned as he input the address into the GPS.

The journey to the farmhouse, consisted of Alec bouncing one leg up and down, Nolan fantasising out loud about what food there would be, and Liam reminding them to be on their best behaviour. Once they made their way to the end of main street, they found themselves at the gravel driveway leading up to the house. Lowering his window, Alec stuck his head out in amazement at the arching trees.

“I want to live here, like now.” Corey said in wonder. The others agreed. Mason drove down the driveway towards the house. Spotting Theo’s truck and an old car from the 70’s, Mason parked next to the two, and turned the engine off.

“What’s Manny’s last name again?” Liam asked as he climbed out of the car.

“Bordelon I think.” Alec responded.

Walking up the steps, Liam knocked on the door. A second later, it was opened by a woman, her black hair was in a loose low knot , she had blue mom jeans on, a cream coloured chunky button cardigan and a pair of Birkenstocks.

“Hi Ms Bordelon, Manny invited us over for dinner” Liam spoke up. The woman smiled at them and stepped aside. “ Please Dondra or Donnie, no need to be all formal, come on in y’all!”

The group walked into the house, and Donnie closed the door behind them. Looking towards the back yard, Liam could make out Theo by a grill, and Manny standing next to him. “Y’all can head on to the backyard, the boys are out there already.” Alec thanked Donnie and walked towards the open porch doors, the others following closely behind.

“ Hey, if it isn’t Mr Chow!” Manny exclaimed throwing his arms up when he saw Alec. “Hey guys, glad you made it”

“Dude Lebowski, how’s it going?” Alec rebutted. “Thanks for having us Manny” Mason answered.

Liam had walked over to the grill, “So you’re a chef now?” Theo gave him a dry look, “Donnie’s been teaching me some stuff, so I thought why not.” He shrugged.

“You guys can grab a seat anywhere you want, foods ready in 10” Theo said looking at the others, mainly at Nolan who was staring at the grill in wonder “ Theo-“

“Nolan I’ll call you as soon as its ready” The chimera chuckled at the former hunter.

Donnie walked back out, with a book in her hand, “ Now who’s Mason?” She smiled as she looked over the group. Mason took an unsure step forward, Donnie held the book up as she gestured for the human and Corey to follow her to the table “Theo was telling me earlier how you like to learn about the supernatural to help your pack, well not only is that admirable, it sounds like you could be an emissary in the future if you wanted.”

Gesturing to the book she continued, “This was written by Dane Jacobs, he was my mother’s emissary when I was a kid, things he learned, discovered, all of it is here. It’s like a guide I guess.”

“An emissary? Really?” Mason questioned, as he picked up the book. “ Well I don’t know you, but I know of you. Theo had good things to say too,  so why don’t you take a look through this, and then get back to me!”Donnie smiled as she patted his shoulder and walked towards Theo.

“That was nice of you.” He commented as Donnie grabbed one of the empty trays nearby. “I’m a nice person sugar.” She laughed as she started transferring the meat to the tray. “I’ll go get the stuff from the kitchen.”

“Manny! Alec! You’ve been arm wrestling for 5 minutes and no one’s won. Come help me out.” Theo ordered as he made his way to the kitchen, “Nolan.” The teen looked up. “ Foods ready”

Theo grabbed the tray of rice from the counter, Manny grabbed the corn and beans, and Alec grabbed the tray of potatoes. Walking towards the table Manny announced “Dinner’s ready”. Nolan who sat down immediately after Theo’s comment was almost drooling as Donnie placed the meat on the table.

Laughing at him she spoke “ I saved a big piece for you hun, apparently you danced your butt off at the bowling alley. I still remember when I got the high score on the 4^th MIX machine at my arcade growing up.”Nolan’s eyes widened in awe

“That was the first machine to introduce five levels! There’s none left on the west coast!”

“There is actually! One in Vegas.” Donnie corrected, as she took her seat at the table.

She sat at the head of the table, with Manny at the other end. Alec, Liam and Theo sat facing the garden, with Corey, Mason and Nolan facing the porch doors. “Dig in guys!” Donnie smiled as everyone sat still. “Thank God” Nolan huffed as he went straight or the tray with meat. Donnie smiled as she reached for the Lemonade.

Eventually everyone had served themselves and had begun eating, Alec, Manny and Corey were talking about baseball, as Corey had revealed it was the first sport he had played as a kid, before playing Lacrosse. The trio were talking about catching a game as the season was already midway through.

At the other end Liam had just asked Donnie a question, “Ms Bordelon-“ she raised her eyebrow- “Sorry, Donnie, I was wondering what it is you do? Like career-wise.”

“Well being an Alpha is a hefty job, but I share the responsibilities with my brother and Beta’s. Most packs tend to have a family business, we own a Casino-Hotel Resort in Vegas. We recently just acquired a defence business, so that’s where most of my attention goes to.”

“Enough about me, I wanna hear about you guys! Liam, I’ve heard good things about you, I believe we have mutual friends.”

“We do?” The beta questioned.

“Brett Talbot and Lori Rohr? I met them a couple weeks ago.” Donnie explained.

Liam’s eyes had widened as a realisation dawned on him “You saved them! Your pack is the one in Vegas that took them in. I- Thank you. They’re important to me and I was worried out of my mind about what had happened.”

Donnie smiled at the teen “It was my pleasure, but save that enthusiasm, they’ll be back soon. Brett was adamant on spending his summer here. I think you’re important to them too hun.”

“ Wait, if you were there, how come we didn’t meet you guys sooner? Or know about you?” Mason asked.

“Well, we like to keep a low profile, this family is my priority so keeping quiet about us was essential. We’ve been here for six years, so I guess we’re just good at going about our business. You may have not known about us, but we knew about you. I’ve been observing I guess, so I know about everything that’s happened.”Donnie responded.

Nolan’s back straightened, he was worried about what that statement meant, but he was brought out of his panic by a hand patting his, Donnie’s hand. “You guys have all worked hard to protect each other, and to grow as individuals, we’ve all made mistakes.” She finished, as she smiled at Nolan and let go of his hand.

Eventually the three on the other end, came back into the group conversation, Corey had explained how they were thinking of visiting the batting cage nearby next weekend, which led Alec into declaring how he’d outperform the group when they went. Soon enough the three went back to debating amongst each other about who would win.

Theo had been sitting quietly during the meal, only chiming in at times, whilst Liam was doing the opposite, he was asking questions, getting to know Donnie, and learn about her pack.

“If you’ve been here for six years, and you’re an Alpha, what does that mean for the McCall pack?” Nolan asked. Manny had heard the question and decided to answer, “Well nothing yet, since legally you guys haven’t been officially announced. But when Alpha McCall gets that done, he can seek an alliance with the Bordelon pack if he wants.”

“What happens if he doesn’t?” Alec asked, worried about the answer.

“Then I’ll seek one darlin’” Donnie assured as she smiled.

“Now since we’re all finished, we can get the table tidied, and you guys can all hang out and do whatever.”Donnie stated as she stood up from her seat.

“We’ll help.” Liam said as he began to stand up.

“Nuh huh, you guys are our guests, so y’all can head on upstairs if you want, Manny and Theo, let’s do the table.”

“Technically I’m a guest.” Theo pointed out as he started grabbing plates.

“Boy.” Donnie answered placing a hand on her hip. Theo chuckled at the expression as he began walking to the kitchen. The guys had decided to go sit upstairs, as the table was getting tidied. The three of them moved around quickly, placing dishes in the washer, storing the leftovers, and cleaning the table outside. Withing 5 minutes they had finished, and that was when Manny spoke up.

“ Ma, Theo can we sit for a sec?” Sensing Manny’s nervousness, Theo sat at the table, so did Donnie. “You good?” Theo asked, unsure of Manny’s change in demeanour. “I am, but you Theo, you’re not.”

Theo looked taken-aback, and was about to respond before Manny cut him off, “I know about your truck dude.”

“I- I didn’t want to say anything but after today, I couldn’t not say anything man, your important to us.” Manny said, attempting to defend himself. Theo just slouched in his seat, and let out an exhale.

“Theo?” Donnie asked, confusion all over her face. “What is it?”

After a moment, Theo sat up and responded. “I’ve been living in my truck, that’s what he’s talking about.”Donnie’s face lost all expression and she had even masked her chemo-signals, “How long?” She asked.

“Honestly It’s not that-“

“If you say it’s not that bad, I’m gonna loose it.” Manny deadpanned looking at the Chimera.

“How long, Theo.” Donnie asked again.

“Since they brought me back.”.

Donnie rose from her seat , and grabbed her chest.

“Donnie wait.” Theo tried, as he stood too.

“ Theo they brought you back months ago.” Donnie’s voiced cracked, as her eyes watered.

“No, Donnie please, don’t cry.” Theo walked over to her, as he got upset.

“You were homeless, all that time, Oh my God.” Donnie exclaimed as she began to cry.

“Homeless?” Liam’s voice spoke from the porch. Theo whipped around to see the beta standing a few meters away from him.

“It’s my fault.” He continued.

“Liam no! You are not to blame, no one is to blame.” Theo stated as he turned from Liam and looked at Donnie.

“Why didn’t you say anything Theo, why didn’t you tell me?” Liam questioned as he walked closer to the Chimera. “Liam I- I didn’t tell you because you would’ve tried to help, and I didn’t deserve it.”

“You still think you don’t deserve it.” Donnie responded as she walked towards Theo.

“You still think you don’t deserve it, otherwise you would’ve told me. Or told Liam. That’s how you found Harry wasn’t it. You were getting ready to sleep in your truck. How did I not notice?” Donnie stressed.

“Donnie-“ Theo attempted.

“No! I pride myself on caring about those I care about, I look out for those important to me, and I missed this?”

“You couldn’t have noticed Donnie, come on.” Theo said

“ No. You are family. You are family, as much as my Beta’s. As much as my damn kids! You belong here. With us. I’m not taking no for an answer. We’ll talk about this later, but you have some explaining to do, especially to Liam.” Donnie finished as she walked back to the kitchen, Manny following behind.

As the two of them reached the kitchen, they noticed the others had come down to stairs.

“Did you know? Did any of you know?” Donnie asked sternly as she looked at them.

Alec was clearly upset by the news, and the others looked shocked. “We didn’t. I swear.” Corey answered, hoping Donnie believed them. “Did the others in your pack know?”

“I don’t think they did, they would’ve said something surely.” Mason exclaimed.

“Would they?” Manny asked, already knowing the answer.

“Scott would’ve!” Alec exclaimed. “Liam spoke to him earlier, and Scott knew we hung out with you and Theo, he doesn’t hate Theo or anything, he would’ve done something!” Alec began talking fast, as he shook.

“Alec it’s okay calm down.” Manny spoke softly as he reached out towards the young wolf.

“No it’s not okay! It’s not! You and Theo were the first ones to make me feel normal! Like I was fine, like I wasn’t a liability! And he was living in his truck? The pack gave me a place to stay immediately, but he went months without a home?” Alec exclaimed, as his eyes watered

“Alec, it’s different, you don’t understand” Mason tried to explain.

“That’s a load of crap and you know it!” Alec snarled.

“They talk about what he did, but they always gloss over what he’s done to help! What he’s done for Liam, how he was willing to die! I only know because Liam told me himself. The others are fine hating him even when they know he’s not the same. Scott may have forgiven him, but he hasn’t done shit either.” Alec finished, as angry tears spilled from his face. Manny grabbed the wolf and wrapped his arms around the sobbing teen. “Alec it’s okay, he’s okay” Manny muttered as he placed his head on top of the wolfs.

“He’s right.” Nolan whispered.

“He’s right. I tried to kill you, all of you. I attacked and harassed you guys, and helped a homicidal maniac on a rampage. You guys forgave me.” He explained

“Yes we did Nolan, but you were driven by fear, and manipulated, and you didn’t kill anyone.” Mason tried to reason with him.

“But that’s just it. Wasn’t Theo driven by fear and manipulation? It just looked different to how I was manipulated. He was younger, and he had no one. Instead of getting the forgiveness and help I got, he got nothing. At least until he met you.” Nolan finished, looking at Donnie, who had grabbed his hand after he had spoke up.

“You’re not that person anymore Nolan, and neither is Theo. We should’ve noticed. Both of you are right. I’ll be the first to admit that I was reluctant to get close to him again. But it’s clear I had nothing to worry about. He’s not that person anymore.” Corey spoke up.

Theo was stood still, as Liam looked at him.

“I’m sorry Liam.” Theo lowered his shoulders.

“She was right, I didn’t think I deserved help.” He looked up at Liam.

“Theo, did you manipulate Donnie or Manny? Did you have any ulterior motive, when you met them?” Liam questioned.

“What? No! Hell No!” Theo almost shouted.

“So all your interactions have been genuine?”

“Yes!”

“You care about them?”

“ 100%”

“Then why didn’t you realise that they cared about you too.” Liam finished.

“At the store I told you, that I wouldn’t let anything happen to you. You said that you would stop hiding from your emotions. That you had received help.” Liam said as he stepped closer to Theo.

“ I didn’t say those things to lie, and I’m sure Donnie didn’t help you for no reason. We care Theo. I care. Manny cares. Donnie cares. Alec cares, otherwise, he wouldn’t be crying his eyes out.” Theo looked over to see Manny holding Alec, and Donnie holding Nolan’s-who smelt of guilt- hand. Mason and Corey looked- ashamed?

“We give a shit Theo. It’s about time you realised.” Liam finished.

Theo grabbed Liam and yanked him into a hug. “I know. I know you do, it’s just hard for me to allow myself to accept it. ”

“Well hurry the fuck up, and accept it.” Liam responded as he hugged the chimera back. “I’m sorry.”

Liam patted Theo’s back a few times before they released each other.

Theo walked towards to kitchen, to the other group. Alec’s hands had turned white from how hard he was squeezing Manny. The wolf’s head popped up as he heard Theo getting closer. Manny had released Alec at the same time Theo had opened his arms to the wolf. Alec sprung from one hug into the other as Theo had wrapped his arms around the teen.

“I’m not going anywhere Alec, I’m okay, you don’t have to worry.” He whispered into the wolf’s ear. Alec who had calmed down had nodded roughly at the Chimera’s reassurance, after a moment he released Theo, and wiped his face dry.

“I’m sorry. To all of you.” Theo began, but was cut off by Corey.

“No Theo, everything that you’ve needed to apologise for, you’ve done it. It’s our turn now. I’m sorry. We’re all sorry.” Corey finished as he looked directly at Theo.

After a moment, Nolan’s stomach grumbled. “Boy I just fed you, how are you still hungry?” Donnie asked laughing as the teen blushed. Eventually the others had joined in, lessening the serious mood.

“Manny and Theo why don’t you take the guys upstairs and find something to watch, Liam stay down here with me for a minute hun.” Donnie suggested, as she walked to the counter. After everyone had gone up, she looked over at Liam.

“I’m worried about Alec, his reaction, there was something else there.” She spoke softly.

Liam rubbed a hand over his face as he considered what she said, “When Scott found Alec, he had been turned by a rogue Alpha, the alpha killed everyone Alec was close to. Hearing that Theo was alone and vulnerable struck a chord with him. He’s right though, for a while the older guys in the pack kept acting like he was made of glass. I didn’t expect him to have latched onto Theo and Manny that soon, but it makes sense, he craves normalcy, and they gave it to him.” Liam explained, as he looked at Donnie.

“Liam, you seem more than capable of taking care of those in your pack, Theo trusts you, which means I do too. If you ever think Alec, or you and the others need a break from everything, y’all can always come here. I know what it’s like to be young and feel like all this supernatural stuff is crushing you.”

“Thank you Donnie, I mean it.” Liam responded. He made his way upstairs to see the guys had put on an episode of Community on. Corey and Mason were on the loveseat , whilst Theo and Manny were on the couch. Alec was in between the two of them. Liam had walked over to the couch and sat next to Theo. Liam after a moment, rested his head on Theo’s shoulder, just when he was about to lift it, the Chimera placed is head on top of the young Beta’s. Only moving when they laughed at the TV.

Chapter Text

Argent and Scott had pulled up to Deaton’s clinic. The vet had called to let them know paperwork regarding the Pack’s status had arrived. Finding Deaton at his desk, the Vet smiled at the two as he gestured to the packet in his hands.

“Arrived this morning.” He explained.

“You didn’t open it?” Scott asked.

“You’re the Alpha Scott, it should be you.” Deaton responded,

Scott grabbed the packet and tore open the seal. Taking out the folder inside, the first thing he spotted was a Certificate that stated the McCall pack was officially recognised. Smiling at the two, Scott held up the certificate, “Guess we actually exist now.” He chuckled. Argent slapped a hand on the Alpha’s shoulder, and Deaton agreed.

Looking through the rest of the folder whilst Deaton and Scott observed the certificate, Argent spotted a notice. It was a Letter, detailing the surrounding area’s and the surrounding packs. Written in bold the letter stated

Bordering Pack(s) and/or Clan(s) In Nearby Region:

• Bordelon Pack (South Beacon Hills, Las Vegas) Current Alpha: Dondra Bordelon
• Nakamura Pack (San Francisco) Current Alpha: Yorinobu Nakamura
• Fenwick Clan (Carson City/Nevada) Current Clan Leader: Ford Fenwick

“What’s that?” Scott asked as he noticed Argent had his thinking face on.

“We’ve found out who has the claim on the Southside.” He answered, handing the sheet over to Scott. “The packet came with a notice, nearby packs and hunter clans. Including our mystery Alpha.”

“Dondra Bordelon? No way.” Deaton’s voice rose in shock.

“You know her?” Argent asked.

“I know of her, the Bordelon pack is an old one, and a famous one too.” Deaton murmured as he looked through the rest of the packet.

“Why haven’t I heard of them then?” Argent continued.

“You specialise in Wolf Packs, Chris. The Bordelon’s primarily aren’t wolves. Dondra herself is a Were-Sabre. Completely different ball game.” Deaton explained looking up.

“Were-Sabres? They exist? I thought they were just folklore.” Scott interrupted.

“Look I can give you all the pack history you want, but if you want to know about Alpha Bordelon, Peter is your best chance.” Deaton finished as he collected all the loose sheets.

“Peter?” Scott and Argent asked incredulously.

“ Yes Peter. Talia mentioned that they grew up with Dondra. Apparently she was close to the family, until she went off the Grid. This was after the Quarter War.” Deaton responded as he handed the now tidy packet to Scott.

Back at the Bordelon house, Theo had woken up to see sunlight slipping through the curtains. As he sat up, he spotted his duffel bag at the foot of the bed. He was in one of the guest rooms upstairs. According to Donnie, it was his room now. After the Puppy Pack had left, Donnie forced Theo to grab his bag from the car, and put it in one of the rooms. She had patted him on the shoulder, said goodnight, and told him they’d speak in the morning.

She had done all of that without looking him in the eyes. He didn’t know if she was angry at him or ashamed, but he knew she wasn’t happy. Walking down the stairs in a pair of shorts and a white t-shirt, he spotted Manny outside in the Pool doing laps. Donnie was sat by the Kitchen counter, sipping from a mug. Theo wasn’t sure how to proceed, so he sat down quietly and leaned his head on her shoulder. She responded by tilting her head and placing a soft kiss on the top of his head.

“Mornin’ sugar.” Her soft voice spoke.

“Mornin’” Theo’s gruff voice responded.

As he sat up straight, Donnie looked over at him, and actually looked him in his eyes. “We gotta talk.” Theo nodded.

“I’m not angry or disappointed at you, I’m both at myself. You’ve known us for just under two weeks, and I know that’s not a lot; but you’ve been here every day, you’ve formed connections with us. Theo, love and joy aren’t emotions that can be quantified.  You may not realise it, but the entire time you’ve been with us, you’ve handed out love and joy continuously.

From giving Manny the friendship and comradery he’s been after for so long, to constantly reminding Lottie how smart and talented she is. You sit and read with me, or we cook together, quality time; and Harry? You know that as a were-bear she’s more pre-disposed to physical contact than any of us, and you let her climb on you, lean on you or even just hold your hand. Theo you give out love and joy in abundance, but you struggle to accept it.” Donnie finished.

“I’ve realised why I struggle with it, when we spoke about how I felt, I didn’t realise how strong the guilt was, but I’m working on forgiving myself. You guys, Liam and the others, you’ve made me understand that I can ask for help when I need it, that I have people that care. I promise you things are going to be different now. I can’t afford to alienate you guys, or keep making mistakes.” Theo responded as he got up and stretched his arms out to Donnie for a hug.

“This is the last time I want to have to have this sort of conversation Theo.” Donnie’s muffled voice spoke.

“Agreed. ”Theo smiled.

“That being said. You are part of this family, which means if you want, you can be part of this pack. I was going to surprise you when my Beta came , she has the paperwork with her, and the plan was when she came, we would have a special dinner, and tell you. Obviously that plan went out the window, but she’s still coming so if you want-“

“Yes. I want. Yes.” Theo interrupted, eyes wide in shock. Donnie simply smiled at his reaction, and patted his cheek. “Well alright then.” She responded.

“I have to get ready, I told Nolan I’d meet him at the gym, but talk later?” Theo asked as he made his way upstairs.

Theo pulled up to the Gym to see Nolan standing outside, waiting for him. When the teen spotted the truck, he waved at Theo. The two eventually made their way inside, and were placing their bags in the locker when Nolan spoke up.

“So, I didn’t invite you for a normal workout.”

“I guessed, why did you invite me then?”

“ I thought about what I said to Mason, about being driven by fear. You embraced being a Chimera, because ultimately it’s a part of who you are. I’m not saying being a hunter is who I am, but more so protecting myself and other people is who I am. So I was hoping you could train me, so I can learn how to fight, and defend myself. No one can fight like you can.” Nolan finished.

Theo smiled at the teen, Nolan was coming out of his shell, discovering who he wanted to be, and Theo was glad about that. “Of course, I’ll train you. It’ll be good practice for me, but also means you can protect yourself when things get serious. Not everything can be done in the gym, so we’ll stick to fighting skills when we’re here. The other stuff we can do outside or at the farmhouse.” Theo spoke as he led the way to the matted area of the gym.

For the next hour, they worked on reflexes, how to get out of holds, and basic de-escalation techniques. Red-faced Nolan was now on the mat, spread out like a starfish “ I could eat a horse. Or Ms Bordelon’s cooking.”Theo laughed as he extended a hand to the teen. “You think I’m joking? I haven’t had food that good in- in forever. My parents don’t cook like that, they barely cook at all.” Nolan muttered the last part.

“I haven’t heard you speak about them before, what’s up with that?” Theo asked as they began stretching to cool down. “ They’re divorced, and both travel for work. So, they take turns visiting monthly to make sure I’m still alive and all that crap.” Nolan explained.

“That’s why I spend most of my time with the pack- well the puppy pack. Liam told me that Ms Bordelon said we can come by whenever too. If that means I get to use the pool, and eat her cooking? I might as well move in.” Nolan laughed.

“Here let me give you my number and Manny’s. That way you can message us whenever, if you want to hang out.” Theo offered, grabbing phone from his pocket.

After the two exchanged numbers, they went back to the changing rooms. After showering and getting changed, the two made their way outside. “Where’s your car?” Theo asked.

“At home, there’s something wrong with the engine, and I haven’t had the time to get it checked out.” Nolan replied.

“Come on then.” Theo led the way to his truck, after throwing his bag in the back, he gestured for Nolan to do the same. The two hopped into the truck, Theo reversed out of the spot, and drove onto the street. “You should ask Manny to check out your car, he’s a mechanic.” Theo remarked, as turned towards main street. “Really? Sweet, I’ll do that then.” Nolan answered as he checked the time. A few minutes later, Theo pulled into a parking space. “Right, food?”

“Hell yeah” Nolan answered as he hopped out the truck gleefully. The two walked into the take-away spot, not realising they were being watched by a certain banshee.

Liam had gotten a text from Scott, asking for him to come by the house, once inside, he spotted Lydia, Stiles, Malia and Scott.

“Hey Liam” Lydia smiled, as she patted the spot next to her, sitting down he asked “How come we’re here?”

“ You can say that again.” Malia huffed as she sat down next to Liam.

Scott walked towards the group with a folder in his hands. “Thanks for coming guys. I got you guys here because I wanted to announce something.” Scott paused dramatically

“Well what is it Scott?” Stiles impatiently asked.

Scott brought out the certificate and placed it on the coffee table “We are officially recognised as a pack!” He smiled.

Lydia clapped her hands in delight, as Stiles and Malia smiled back at Scott. Liam was looking over the certificate. “Now part of us being an official pack, means alliances and meetings.”

“Oh! You just reminded me. Manny’s mom said that once we became official, if we wanted, we could seek an Alliance with her.” Liam interrupted.

“Manny? Who’s that?” Stiles asked.

“The friend from yesterday, who’s house we went to.” Liam responded.

“Is Manny’s mom, Alpha Bordelon?” Scott questioned. Liam nodded in response. Scott let out a breath, “That makes it easier then.”

“Wait hold on, how do you know Manny?” Malia asked.

“ We met through a mutual friend. Scott, we could probably organise a meet for you two if you wanted, She’s been wanting to talk to you for a while now.” Liam continued disregarding Malia’s question.

 “That would be great, thanks Liam.”

“Wait hold on, you can’t go alone Scott, we don’t know this Alpha, and what she’s like.” Malia spoke.

“Um I know her and what she’s like.” Liam commented up.

“Look. I wouldn’t be going in totally blind.” Scott tried to explain, but was stopped as someone knocked on the door. Scott opened to door to none-other than Peter Hale.

“Peter?” Stiles shrieked. “You’re going with him?”

“Firstly, nice to see you too Stilinski. Secondly, I’m not going anywhere, I’m here because Scott said he needed some help.” Peter remarked as he leaned against the wall.

“ Right! Peter. I asked you to come because I had some questions about Dondra Bordel-“

“Donnie?!” Peter said loudly as he pushed off the wall. “What about her? Why are you asking?” He demanded.

“She’s here. In Beacon Hills. Has been for 6 years.” Liam explained looking weirdly at Peter.

“She’s here?!”

“Wait 6 years, how did we not know?”

“Liam why didn’t you say something” spoke Peter, Stiles and Malia all at once.

“Guys one at a time.” Lydia spoke softly.

“Yeah she moved here 6 years ago, we didn’t know because her and her family have kept a low profile, I didn’t say anything because it wasn’t my business to spread.” Liam shrugged.

“She has a family?” Peter asked, rather quietly.

“Yeah she does. Scott, whatever you want to know about her, you should ask her. Trying to collect personal information on her just feels wrong.” Liam got up.

“No! Liam you’ve got it wrong I don’t want personal details, I just want to know what she’s like, so I can know the best way to approach her. I wouldn’t attempt to violate her privacy like that.” Scott reassured as he placed his hand on Liam’s shoulder.

“Liam” Lydia spoke up, “You clearly know her, and what she’s like so why don’t you tell us.” Lydia smiled at the Beta.

“Yeah because Peter is still out of it.” Stiles murmured as he looked over at the man in question.

“Okay, um she’s insanely nice, like she met Mason yesterday, and gave him an old book on all things supernatural. She’s really smart too, her and the pack own two businesses, which she manages from here. Oh! She was the woman that helped Brett and Lori, she saved them, and sent them to her pack so they’d be safe. She’s also caring too. Alec got upset about something yesterday, and she told me that she was worried about him; she then told us that her house was always open to us if we ever needed to get away.” Liam explained smiling as he thought back to the kind woman he had met.

“She seems like a great person Liam.” Lydia smiled as she patted his leg.

“She is! You guys would love her.” He finished.

“Peter, anything to add?” Scott asked.

“ I haven’t seen her in twenty years.” Peter sighed rubbing his face.

“But everything the angry one says -Hey!- sounds right. She’s very protective, had a habit for collecting strays if you will. Donnie is a complex person.” Peter chuckled at a memory that came to mind.

“The last summer she spent with Talia and I, her brother Nate came with her. Some guys thought they could pick on him, he was 15 and scrawny, so they thought he was an easy target. I grabbed the ringleader, but before I could do anything, she ripped him out of my hands, spun and slammed him on her car. Keep in mind she’s like 5 foot 6, and in that southern drawl, told him that if he wanted to pick on someone, she’d volunteer, but warned that it would end with him eating through a straw. “ Peter finished smiling.

“You two seemed close.” Malia offered.

“Before it was me and Derek, it was me and Donnie. That was the last summer I ever saw her, she disappeared for almost twenty years.” Peter finished, resuming his position against the wall.

“Well that’s not suspicious at all.” Stiles remarked.

“Actually, it’s not. Deaton mentioned she went off the grid after a war. I can’t remember what he called it.” Scott told the group. Peter sighed, “The Quarter War. Named after where it was fought, the French Quarter in New Orleans. A lot of good people died, including her parents. That’s all I’ll say on it though.”

“Peter, Deaton didn’t want to talk about the war, and neither do you. What is it we’re missing here? Why don’t you want to talk about it?” Scott asked confused.

“Because of respect. The Bordelon’s have been a part of history for so long, they had a good relationship Haitian witches, because after the Revolution, a lot of them immigrated down south and they formed alliances with the were-sabres. I said that Donnie had a habit for taking in strays. Well, that’s something that’s been handed down. The Bordelon’s protect and take in those that need it. Compassion is important for them, but don’t get it twisted. Hurt those they care about and you’ll regret it.” Peter explained as he took a seat.

“That all makes sense, Donnie’s kids are adopted, I only realised after I met her, she’s not a coyote like Manny, and her daughters are a witch and a were-bear. “ Liam mused out loud.

Lydia stood as she clapped her hands, “Well I don’t know about you guys, but this Alpha seems to be a very good person, and she would make an even better Ally. I’ve heard all I need to. Scott do let me know when you decide to go and meet her.” Lydia declared as she grabbed Stiles’ and Malia’s arms and dragged them to the door

“Where are we going? There’s still so many questions to ask.” Stiles perked up.

“Out. We’re done aren’t we Scott.” She looked at the Alpha in question who smiled and agreed.

Pulling the two with force she shouldn’t have, she wrangled them outside. Peter made his way to the door before he stopped “Scott, let me know when you’ve met her, I’d like to see her, but its better if I go after you.” Not waiting for a response, he walked out and closed the door behind him.

“Well, that went well.” Scott sighed as he dropped down next to Liam on the couch.

“Scott, you need to know something if you’re gonna meet with Donnie.” Liam responded sitting up. Taking Scott’s silence as a symbol to continue, he did.

“Theo lives with her, moved in yesterday actually. Turns out he was living in his truck since I brought him back. Donnie found out yesterday, insisted he move in, but she’s angry at the possibility any of the pack knew.”

Scott had sat up, in shock “I didn’t know Liam. I-”

“I didn’t think you did. The others all confirmed they didn’t know, but you should be aware, Alec’s not in the best mood after yesterday. He got angry at the chance that some of the other guys knew, and he’s angry about how they act when Theo’s brought up.” Liam finished.

“Okay, so I need to speak to Alec asap. I also need to tell the others about Theo, telling them with you and the rest of the puppy pack just doesn’t seem wise. They won’t like it, but they’ll have to get over it. We may have to do damage control after I tell the guys, because if Stiles has anything to say about it, he won’t let it slide. Pack meetings are definitely gonna be frigid for a while.” Scott sighed as he stood up.

“It will, but at the end of the day, it’s about getting Pack Alliances, and moving forward now that we can.” Liam reasoned, as he stood up.

“Exactly.” Scott agreed as he walked the Beta to the door.

“Maybe just text Alec, he’ll be more reasonable if it isn’t face to face ya know?” Liam said he made his way out.

Chapter Text

Corey, Alec and Manny, had just arrived at the batting cages. Corey was buzzing with excitement, he hadn’t been able to visit in a while, and it was bringing pack some of the few good memories he had as a child.

“So the machines are automated, you just place all the balls in it, select what speed you want, and get ready. It’ll beep 10 seconds before the first ball is pitched, so you’ll have 30 seconds in total to get into positions. That’s it! Enjoy.” The attendant explained as he handed out the bats and helmets.

The trio headed towards the nearest cages, luckily they had gotten there pretty early and had found three empty plates. Placing their bats and helmets down they went to go load the machines.

“What are the others up to today?” Manny asked.

“Well Mason hasn’t stopped reading that book your mom gave him, and last I heard, Liam was spending the day with his parents. I’m not sure about Nolan though” Corey answered.

“Nolan’s with Theo. Theo’s been helping Nolan out with his fighting skills, training him, that sort of thing.”Manny filled in.

“How come I don’t get training?” Alec asked, eyebrows raised.

“Dude. You literally have sharp teeth and claws. Nolan doesn’t.” Corey responded matter-of-factly.

Alec thought for a second before shrugging in acceptance. “Corey you never mentioned why you switched from Baseball to Lacrosse.” Manny mentioned.

Lifting his head to look at Manny, Corey responded “ I played from a young age, in the neighbourhood league, but my parents couldn’t be bothered to keep driving me to games, prep snacks, and get me new kit when I needed it. So they told me to quit, suggested Lacrosse since it was a school team, and expenses would be covered.”

“That sucks” Alec chimed in.

“It did, but I didn’t immediately quit, we were halfway through the season, so I kept playing. I’d get rides with the others, or catch a bus, and if my kit got damaged I fixed it myself. I would’ve kept with it, but baseball and lacrosse with next to no support wasn’t manageable. So I had to drop baseball.” Corey finished as he resumed filling up the machine.

“What about you Alec?” Corey asked directing the conversation towards the young wolf.

“Growing up I lived with my grandpa, he was born a Dodgers fan, had been one his entire life, he took my dad to games as a kid and everything. He raised me, and he did the same thing with me, we would go to games together, on the off chance we could go to away games we did, we were both season ticket holders; so we had a section we always sat in. The other guys in the section became like family.” Alec smiled as he reminisced.

“That sounds great.” Manny responded honestly

“ Since no one wants to ask me, I’ll tell my story thank you.” Manny said dramatically

“ When I first met Ma, we were in Florida, she was there for the LSU game against the Gators. The Dodgers played that same week too against the Marlins. I was in a rough space, but after a few days she convinced me that I was safe and that I wouldn’t be hurt. The first time I agreed to go out, was the same day as the game; she insisted it was a sign or something from the universe, because she didn’t want to miss the game. Next thing I knew we were watching the Dodgers wipe the floor with the Marlins” Manny chuckled.

“I swear I probably laughed and shouted so much that day, I’m surprised I didn’t lose my voice. Since then I’ve loved the sport and the Dodgers. It was the first thing me and Ma bonded over.” Manny explained as he put the empty sack on the ground.

“We are so mushy oh my god.” Corey dragged out.

“Totally.” Alec agreed as he laughed.

“Right boys.” Manny clapped.

“Let’s go! I expect some fly balls and no foul balls.” Manny jeered as he made his way to his plate. The next 40 minutes consisted of the guys laughing and trading barbs, even Corey, who was known for his composure joined in.

“Manny, why don’t you flip Homeplate over and see if there’s any instructions under it” Corey heckled.

“I- Corey! Did you finally find your balls in the bag when you were loading the machine?” Manny responded, causing Alec to laugh loudly. Corey in response whipped around to face Alec, who’s face instantly sobered up.

“Now I KNOW that you aren’t laughing Mr I hit balls to the ground.” Corey sniped.

“Hey! I’m better at pitching!” Alec complained.

Eventually the three handed their bats and helmets in, laughing and shoving each other. Alec’s phone buzzed, as a text came through.

Scott McCall

Hey Alec, Liam told me what happened a few days ago. I just want you to know that if I had known about Theo I would’ve done something. I stopped resenting him a long time ago. That being said, I should’ve known. We should talk soon about how we tell the pack about him. I have no plans to take him out of your life, out of our lives; so don’t worry. Speak soon:)

Sent 14:37

“What’s got you so intrigued kid” Manny asked as he spotted Alec staring intensely at his phone.

“Uh-Scott.” He responded flashing the phone at the two. “Turns out he didn’t know about Theo, and he said that when we tell the Pack, he’ll be on our side if they dislike it.”

“There was no reason to worry.” Corey commented patting Alec’s shoulder.

Alec smiled as he agreed.

“Well now that that’s sorted, lunch? I’m thinking-“ Manny started

“Korean Barbecue! This new place opened up near the Firehouse.” Corey interrupted.

“Well let’s go then!” Alec cheered as he led the way out of the Batting Cages Office.

That evening Scott called a Pack meeting. Everyone was in attendance, including Peter.

After the last few people arrived Scott began the meeting.

“Thanks everyone for coming. Our first act as an Official pack, will be to seek an alliance with the closest pack. As I think almost all of you know, that is the Bordelon Pack, led by Alpha Dondra Bordelon. I’ll be meeting her for the first time tomorrow, but with the information provided by the Puppy Pack and by Peter, I see absolutely no reason for us to not proceed.” Scott started.

“Hold on Dondra Bordelon is the Alpha? I know her, and I know the family. They’re well known over on that part of town. Very respected amongst the community.” Sheriff contributed.

“Scott, you said information? What information would that be?” Derek asked. Scott looked over at Peter and Liam to explain.

“I know the Alpha well, twenty years to be exact. She’s a good person, and she comes from a good pack, and I mean good like Scott good.” Peter spoke as he gestured at Liam to continue.

“Uh Yeah! We’ve all met her, and she’s great. She comes from a strong pack, and it would make sense for us to ally ourselves with her. She’s already helped us out without us knowing, Brett and Lori specifically.” Liam finished as he looked at the puppy pack in support. They were all nodding in agreement. Derek nodded once in acceptance, and as a sign for Scott to continue.

“Yeah! So I’ll be meeting her tomorrow, and two people from the pack will be attending with me, Liam obviously as my first beta, but for the other person I was thinking Lydia? Would you be up for it?” Scott asked, turning to look at the Banshee.

“Of course! I’d love to Scott.” She smiled at the Alpha.

Stiles let out a sound, causing those to look at him, “No offence to Lydia, at all, but Scott, shouldn’t I go? You know I’m good at reading people,” He asked

“You’re right Stiles, you’re good at reading people, but that isn’t right for this situation. We need to be diplomatic, and the first impression we make is incredibly important. Lydia will be perfect at that.” Scott explained to his best friend.

“There’s something else I need to say.” Scott mentioned as he looked over at the Puppy Pack. “I was gonna do this privately with the older half of the pack, but I thought about it, and decided that we’re all adults, or adult-adjacent, and if this Official Pack thing is going to work, then I need to be able to make announcements and decisions and not have to worry about doing damage control.” Scott spoke sternly.

The puppy packed had picked up what Scott was putting down, instantly. Alec’s eyes were wide open as he looked between members of the pack, and Liam’s back had gone rigid, Nolan’s knuckles were white from how hard he was clenching his fists.

“As you know the puppy pack, are friends with Alpha Bordelon’s son Manny, they were introduced by a mutual friend. By Theo.”

“Raeken?!” Screeched Stiles

“Wait What!” yelled Malia

“I already knew so carry on.” Lydia calmly said

“Scott-“ Argent argued.

“I’m not finished.” Scott said rather loudly.

“As I was saying, Theo introduced Manny to the guys. I found out he’s actually in the process of becoming part of the pack. He has a great relationship with the family, and he lives with them. Which is another thing I want to bring up. Did any of you know he was homeless? Because if any of you did, I’m warning you Alpha Bordelon is not happy about it.”

“Shit.” Parrish softly said. Realising he was being looked at he put his hands up.

“I didn’t know, but we had reports at the station of a young male sleeping in his car. Before you ask, I didn’t do anything because by the time I found out, the reports had stopped.” Parrish explained out loud.

“Hopefully it taught him a lesson.” Muttered Malia, causing her to be the recipient of Scott’s disapproving glare.

“A night or two is a lesson. Half a year is just wrong.” Corey’s voice spoke up.

“Christ. Half a year? That’s not right, on anybody. He’s a kid.” Melissa voiced.

“ Yeah Donnie thought so too. She moved him in as soon as she found out.” Liam commented.

“Anyway I’m bringing this up, because seeking an Alliance means seeking one with Theo too. Something I have absolutely no problem doing. He’s paid for what he’s done, and he isn’t that person anymore. I’m finished now.” Scott ended as he sat down.

“As I said, I already knew about Theo. I put two and two together. I trust Liam and I trust Scott. I still have my reservations about Theo, but that’s between me and him. If Corey can repair his relationship with Theo, then I can too.” Lydia said as she smiled over at the puppy pack.

“You can’t be serious! This is Theo we’re talking about! He’s a murderer! A power hungry psycho!” Stiles almost yelled.

“ He was! He’s not that person anymore Stiles. You don’t know him like we do.” Liam argued back.

“We should have put him back in the ground the moment we knew he was out of it.” Malia complained, resulting in Alec snarling.

“Take that back.” He growled.

“Alec breathe.” Corey tried to tell him.

“ Alec you weren’t there for any of it, so forgive me if I don’t exactly listen to what you think on the matter.” Malia disregarded the wolf.

“Low blow. Low fucking blow.” Nolan chimed in.

“Who asked you?” Malia responded, resulting in the entire group going back and forth.

“That was rude.”- Mason

“She’s not lying”-Stiles

“You’re being childish.”- Corey

“They have a point if we’re being honest.”- Derek

“I literally have no reason to be here right now.”- Peter

“You guys can’t pass judgement, when he’s not the same person anymore”-Liam

“Scott are you sure.”- Argent

“I can’t believe this is happening right now.”-Lydia

“Fucking take it back, Malia.”-Alec

“Call Kira, maybe there’s a way to send him back and sort this problem out.” – Malia.

Alec leaped from his seat, eyes flashed, and fangs bared. “ALEC!” Liam shouted as he and Corey attempted to wrestle the wolf back to his seat. Malia jumped up at the same time, mimicking the wolfs actions. “ For the last FUCKING time, take it back Malia.” Alec snarled, anger oozing from every syllable.

“Just take it back, my God.” Lydia stressed out loud. But Malia looked right back at Alec, and smiled. “Or What.” She egged on. It was as if Alec saw red in that moment. The muscles in his face moved as they shifted, and as he let out a deep roar. Malia not expecting the reaction stepped back in shock before she let out a bark of her own.

“Oh-Okay this is not good. This is not good at all.” Nolan panicked. Tired of the mess in front of him, Scott flashed his eyes, “This ends right now!” He almost roared. Listening to the Alpha, both stopped moving, and Malia’s fangs retracted. Alec however was attempting to resist the Alpha command. His head moved side to side as he tried to force the shift to remain.

“What the hell?” Stiles said incredulously.

“He’s pissed off. From the way he was sitting down it was brewing for a while. That’s why he’s trying to resist Scott’s command, this is when having an anchor comes in handy. Take him to the backyard because if he keeps smelling and sensing Malia, he’s only gonna fight it harder.” Derek intervened. Corey and Liam dragged a snarling Alec outside whilst the group watched.

“I’ve never seen him this angry. What do we do?” Scott asked the group.

Nolan, who had calmed down, grabbed his phone and dialled a number.

“I heard Alec roar, what the hell is going on?” Theo’s voice demanded from the phone.

“Tell me that is not Theo on the phone right now.” Stiles asked.

“Nolan what the hell are you doing.” Malia asked, eyebrows furrowed in anger.

“Both of you SHUT UP. Oh my God, you two are so- ARGH.” Nolan almost flipped at the two.

“Theo, he got angry, like really angry. Scott tried to command him to relax, but Derek said something about him trying to resist it. Last time he got upset, Manny handled it, until you could talk to him, but Manny-“

“He’s out of town for the night, Nolan you did the right thing calling me. I’m pulling up now.” Theo responded before hanging up.

Scott yanked open the door as Theo climbed the steps two by two. Malia who was losing her temper again snarled at Theo. “You can attack me after I deal with Alec. Because if I don’t calm him down, he could go feral, and that will be on you.” Theo said sternly at Malia, as he shoved past her towards the backyard.

Liam looked up as he heard footsteps, “Thank God. I’ve tried everything, but it’s not working.” Liam spoke rapidly.

Theo walked up to Alec and crouched down to the wolf who was on his knees.

“Alec. It’s me Theo.” The chimera said softly.

“Because that’s gonna work” Stiles muttered from the door, Lydia whacked him in his stomach, as she gestured for him to be quiet. Alec who was able to smell Theo, whimpered softly, as his movements became less forceful. However the moment Alec sensed Malia on the porch watching, he began fighting against Liam and Corey’s hold.

“Scott! Do you trust me” Theo said loudly

“Y-Yes! What do you need?” The Alpha rushed out

“Get her away from him now.” Theo answered gesturing over to Malia.

“He’s only gonna get worse if he keeps feeling her nearby.” He explained.

“You can’t be serious.” Stiles asked, doubting Theo.

“Do I look like I’m joking?” Theo nearly shouted, as he shoved Alec’s face into his chest. Scott wordlessly followed Theo’s request and got Malia to head to the front side of the house.

Alec surrounded by Theo’s scent had once again calmed down. The chimera put his hands on both sides of Alec’s face as he touched his forehead to the young wolfs. Liam and Corey released Alec’s arms as he had stopped moving. “Alec, bud, it’s Theo, you’re okay. You’re okay, just breathe, and focus on me.” Theo spoke softly to the wolf. After a second Alec’s shift reverted, and he was back to his full human form. Realising what had happened, the young wolf clung to Theo as he buried his face in the Chimera’s neck, sobbing softly.

Theo had just held him, whilst holding Alec’s head softly in place. Looking up he saw Corey and Liam relieved, the latter mouthing a Thank You to the Chimera. Theo nodded at him, before looking at the rest of the group. Lydia’s eyes were soft as she watched Alec cry, Argent had his arm wrapped around Melissa as she looked on, worried as any mother would be; Stiles seemed conflicted. Peter must’ve gone out with Malia and Scott, because all that was left was Derek, Sheriff and Parrish, all looking curiously. Standing up, and pulling Alec with him, Theo walked the two of them towards the back door, the young wolf had refused to show his face, so when Theo made a move to walk, Alec stood behind him with his face tucked into the back of his shoulder, Theo extended his arm slightly to the side, guarding Alec’s face and body, just to reassure the teen.

Walking the two of them back into the house, Theo bumped into Scott, who looked severely stressed and tired. Scott tried to reach out to Alec, but changed his mind once he realised how closed off the young wolf was.

Theo smiled sympathetically at the Alpha, “He needs to sleep, his body is exhausted right now, and so is his mind. I know he’s been splitting his time between Nolan’s and the loft Derek gave him, but I don’t feel right leaving him. Not right now.”

“Do you wanna take him home? To Donnie’s?” Scott asked, worried for the young wolf.

“No, I don’t want to risk his mood by travelling, all the sounds and smells, will be too much.” Theo answered

“ The spare room upstairs is set up, if you’d prefer. You guys can just head on up.” Scott offered. Theo nodded as he made his way up the stairs, with Alec clinging to his arm.

“Scott-“ Theo began as he turned his head.

“Stay the night Theo, whatever you need to do to help him, do it.” Scott interrupted. The Chimera and Alec made their way up the stairs.

Downstairs, Scott had ushered everyone back into the house. “I thought we could have this meeting in a civil manner but clearly not, regardless my decision is final. Now I’m tired, and worried about Alec. So if you don’t live here, and aren’t Puppy Pack, then it’s time to go home. My meeting is still going ahead tomorrow, so Lydia I’ll call you in the morning.” Scott finished, as he walked over to the door and held it open. One by one the adults left, until it was just the Puppy Pack, Argent and Melissa.

Melissa opened the downstairs cupboard and started bringing out blankets and pillows. “You guys are staying here tonight I’m assuming?” She asked, when she received no answer, she spoke up again “Well come on then!”

“I’m not getting all of this ready myself now.” She explained, placing her hands on her hips.

The puppy pack in response, jumped into action, grabbing the blankets, and pillows, and preparing the room.

Chapter Text

It was 10 am the next day when the house was woken up by someone knocking at the door. Out of the mess of blankets and pillows on the living room floor, Corey’s head popped up. “Shoot, I forgot Manny was coming by this morning.” As Corey attempted to untangle himself from the others on the floor, Melissa and Argent had made their way downstairs.

“Boys who’s at the door?” Melissa asked.

“It’s Manny, Donnie’s eldest” Nolan who had just woken up explained. Melissa made it to the door just as Corey managed to move Mason’s arms, and Liam’s legs from his body.

She opened the door to a nervous looking Manny, who if she had to guess, hadn’t gone home, but instead drove straight to the house as he returned from his evening trip.

“Ms McCall. Sorry if I woke you up. My name is Manny Bordelon.” Manny introduced himself, extending his hand for a shake. Melissa shook it and welcomed him in.

“Hey anything happen whilst I drove here?” He asked as he spotted Corey. “No all good.” Corey responded as he quickly hugged Manny, the two slapping each other on the backs.

“Hey guys.” Manny chuckled as he saw the states of disarray Mason, Liam and Nolan were in. The three responded in various grumbles and sighs. “Mr Argent, Nice to meet you sir.” Manny said after he spotted the hunter in the room. Chris simply nodded in return.

Scott hearing the commotion, had also made his way downstairs. “Alpha McCall! It’s good to finally meet you. My Mother says Hi.” Manny waved. “Scott, please. It’s good to meet you too, I’ve heard good things man.” Scott responded. After a beat Scott offered to take Manny up to the spare room to see Theo and Alec.

Opening the door quietly Manny smiled softly as he saw the two. Theo was sleeping, sat up with pillows supporting him, whilst he had one pillow on his lap, with Alec’s head on it. The young wolf in question was curled up facing the door, hands tucked into his chest. Theo’s stationary left hand was on Alec’s head, no doubt from where he had been soothing the boy.

“Awww.” Liam whispered as he saw the two. When the group looked at him spoke again “what? Its cute.” He whisper-yelled. 

“You guys are weirdos” Theo’s groggy voice spoke.

“Jesus!” Nolan almost dropped, as Theo surprised the group. The chimera, who’s eyes were still closed, smirked at the former hunter.

“How long have you been awake?” Corey asked. “Since Manny arrived. I’m just good at keeping my heartbeat steady.” He explained as he opened his eyes. As Alec began to stir, Scott made a decision. “ Guys let’s go downstairs and get breakfast ready, Manny you can stay up here if you want.”

Once the group had trickled downstairs Manny closed the door and sat on the foot of the bed. As Alec woke up, he sat up, wiped his eyes, and took a couple of breaths. Looking up, he saw Theo smiling softly, he tilted his head towards the door, causing Alec to follow the gesture and see Manny sitting in front of him.

“Hey Al’. How ya feeling?” Manny spoke softly.

“Like I did 17 maths tests in a row.” The wolf responded.

“Pinch yourself hard and that should kick in your healing.” The Chimera offered.

As Alec followed directions Manny observed him. The boy looked tired, and dishevelled. He needed to simply relax, and not work his mind into overdrive. “I thought you only got back after lunch today?” Alec asked looking up at Manny who had stood.

“ Corey texted me, I couldn’t have our best pitcher out of commission.” The coyote joked as he nudged Alec’s shoulder. Stretching an arm out to Alec, the boy grabbed it as Manny pulled him up, ruffling his hair in the process.

“C’mere man.” Manny mumbled as he pulled Alec into a rough hug. “This is what Harry calls an actual bear hug by the way. Ask Theo, he gets them at least 5 times a day from her.” Manny snorted.

“It’s not my fault your sister finds me huggable, or as she says, squishy in the right places.” Theo laughed as he stood up too.

“Yesterday was totally not a fever dream was it.” Alec winced as he was released from Manny. “Sorry bud, wish it was.” Theo consoled.

Sensing the rising panic in the Wolf’s body, Theo continued. “What happened to you has happened to others countless times. That’s why having an anchor is important, someone to bring you back when you can’t see ahead of you.”

“I have an anchor, it’s you two. Why do you think I started to calm down after you arrived Theo. Or at the farmhouse when you grabbed me Manny.” Alec responded.

Manny, who had hidden his surprise well, commented. “Well if you feel yourself getting angry, or like you can’t control yourself, then text one of us immediately.”

“Or-“ Theo chimed in, “ Come up with a mantra.”

“Like Liam’s ?” Alec asked.

“Exactly like Liam’s” the Chimera smiled. “I can do that.” Alec smiled to himself.

“Great!” Manny clapped. “Because I can smell the pancakes from downstairs and I haven’t eaten in 5 hours. So let’s go amigo.” The coyote smirked as he stood behind Alec, placed his hands on the teen’s shoulders and steered him downstairs.

Once the trio had gotten downstairs, they saw the stack of pancakes, and plates all ready and waiting on the kitchen island. The group, aware that Alec would be feeling embarrassed about what had occurred, were moving about and acting as if nothing out of the ordinary had happened- much to the young wolf’s relief. Nolan had dragged the young wolf to the table, rapidly talking about one of the holds Theo had taught him. The Chimera in question, was stood at the steps observing happily at the group. He was brought out of his musings as a still sleepy Liam wandered over to him. Wiping his eyes and slouching his shoulders, he let out a sigh as he stood next to Theo. The Chimera took pity on the boy and stretched out his arm, Liam leaned his head on Theo’s shoulder as Theo wrapped the arm around the beta and patted his head.

At the Farmhouse, Donnie was in the process of preparing breakfast for Charlotte and Harriett who had gotten home the previous night from their sleepover.

“So I said, I can climb the tree faster than you, and he didn’t believe me!” Harry recounted as she was telling a story. “I told him she wasn’t lying, but he didn’t listen.” Lottie snorted as she ate a spoonful of cereal. “And that’s how y’all embarrassed a grown man?” Donnie asked, enjoying the story.

“Yup” Lottie popped out as she put her bowl in the washer. “He shoulda just listened to me!” Harry shrugged as she followed in her sister’s footsteps. The three made their way upstairs to get ready for the day. Lottie had sensed something different in the house, but couldn’t pin it, however as she reached the top of the stairs Harry was able to identify the missing piece.

“Momma, you said Theo was with his friends? Why does it smell like him then?” she curiously asked, gesturing to the bedroom door left ajar.

“Well baby he is, but it smells like him because he slept there last night.”

“Makes sense, I could feel the house was different, but I couldn’t pin it.” Lottie nodded, already moving on.

“Girls, Theo didn’t sleep there for just the night. He’s gonna be sleeping there for a while now, it’s his room.” Donnie explained as she sat down with the girls.

“What about his home?” Lottie asked

“Well this is his home now. Are y’all okay with that?” Donnie probed. Lottie in response just gave a thumbs up and a smile; it was Harriett that had the big reaction.

“So he’s gonna be here all the time now? AWESOME!” The bear cub yelled as she threw a fist in the air.

“I’m glad y’all are good with it, now go get dressed! Auntie Vera is coming by tonight with Brett and Lori.” Donnie ordered as she went to prepare the tub for the girls.

Peter Hale was stressed. The man was sat on his couch, attempting to enjoy his cup of coffee. However his daughter pacing and venting out loud was getting in the way of it.

“Not that I don’t love this Father, Daughter time we’ve got going on here, but I just need to ask, what exactly is my role here?” He asked, massaging his temples.

“Um to listen maybe?” Malia responded.

Resuming her pacing, she continued venting, “One minute Scott lets Theo into his house, then basically kicks me out? I mean what the fuck! Alec nearly attacked me, yet I’m the one that got punished? It doesn’t make sense at all.”

“Oh please.” Peter mumbled. Malia stopped and looked at him, Peter froze. “No please, don’t stop on my account, you were saying?” Malia asked, arms crossed as she tapped her foot on the ground. Peter placed his mug down, and stood up, facing his daughter.

“I’m not one for lectures, I think we both know I’m not in the moral space to give one. But I’ll say this; Wolves don’t just randomly decide to try and disobey their alpha, it’s not like a switch is flipped. It’s like a Thermometer, as the temperature increases, so does the amount of mercury, slowly but steadily rising. Until it reaches the maximum capacity, when it reaches that point, two things can happen. It decreases, or it blows up because of the pressure. Alec got to his maximum capacity, and when he should’ve been able to calm down, he couldn’t. He blew, and all he could focus on was the rage he felt. The rage he felt towards you. The anger he felt? He wanted to hold onto that so much, that he was willing to defy his Alpha.” Peter finished as he sat back down.

“So what this is all my fault?” Malia asked incredulously.

“Yes Malia! Yes it is.” Peter’s voice rose as he stood back up and took a step closer to his daughter.

“Oh that’s rich coming from-“

“Shut up! The both of you!” A voice from the door spoke. Derek had been upstairs the entire time listening to the whining and the arguing, frankly he had had enough. He had marched from his loft, down to Peter’s and decided to settle the discussion.

“I’m going to say this now, and both of you will fucking listen, and leave it alone. Alec isn’t even the point here. Malia, your actions are. Just for one second, stop thinking about how you felt. Focus on the fact that your behaviour toward Alec, was so antagonising that it almost drove him feral. Or that Alec’s friends had to sit there and watch him almost lose his mind. Focus on the fact that Scott’s alliance with the Bordelon pack, could’ve been compromised. All it would’ve taken, would be one sentence of yours to make its way to the Alpha. The fucking puppy pack, even I’ve noticed that they feel some type of way around you, and after yesterday? I doubt they even trust you. Your own pack. I barely like the decision myself, but I don’t have any say, and after Theo’s conduct with Alec yesterday, I’m inclined to believe that maybe Liam was right when he said he had changed. Stop thinking about how you feel and look at the bigger picture.” Derek finished. He let out an exhale, turned around, and walked away.

Peter, with no response just sat down, picked up his mug and resumed drinking from it. Malia however, she opened her mouth to say something, but closed it. She repeated the action several times, before she spoke “I’m gonna go.” She muttered as she left the loft.

Back at the Bordelon House, Donnie was preparing to meet Scott. Theo had called and said the puppy pack would be coming by along with Scott, Liam and Lydia for the meet. Donnie had immediately called Vera to double check on her arrival with Brett and Lori, the three were on their way back from the airport, but seemed as if they’d arrive after Scott. Brett and Lori had thrived in Vegas, away from all the chaos and drama, they were able to live teenaged lives- so much so that, three weeks into living there, they asked Donnie if they could officially join the pack. She had spoken to Nathaniel, and to Vera, who the young wolves had been staying with, and they agreed it was a no-brainer. The two would move back to Beacon Hills, where the pack would sort out a place for them, Donnie would be close, and Vera would visit monthly. It seemed the Bordelon pack was entering a new age, forming new alliances, and gaining new members.

Hearing a key in the door, Donnie, in a brown summer dress, her wavy hair loose made her way towards it as Harry and Lottie were finishing up in the garden.

 Manny opened the door, grinning as he saw his mother “Hey Ma” he mumbled as she gave him a hug. Behind him, Scott, Liam and Lydia walked in, followed by Theo and the Puppy Pack.

“Alpha Bordelon, It’s nice to finally meet you, I’ve heard great things.” Scott said politely stretching an arm out. Donnie smiled and shook his hand. “Alpha McCall, likewise. Glad to have you here.” She responded as Scott stepped aside for Liam and Lydia. Grinning at the beta, she offered him a hug that he accepted. Lydia had stretched a hand out as she also introduced herself, complementing the Alpha, which she returned.

Before Donnie could say hi to the puppy pack and Theo, Harry came rushing in, her sister strolling behind. “THEO!” The cub screeched as she saw the chimera. The puppy pack moved out of the way as the girl sprinted and jumped when she was within distance. Theo caught her and threw her up once in the air before pulling her close for a hug. “Hey baby cub! Missed me?” He chuckled as she squeezed his neck. The cub rapidly nodded as she smiled back.

“So this is Harriett? The one that appreciates Tangled and how awesome Pascal is?” Mason asked as he extended a high five out to the girl. She gave him a high five as Lottie commented “Pascal is a comedic genius.” The young witch gave Manny a quick squeeze and did the same to Theo.

“Hey! Aggressive door opener!” She grinned as she saw Liam. The beta threw his head back as he sighed. “I thought we were over this.” He whined. “These are my daughters Harriett and Charlotte, girls, say hi to Alpha McCall, Lydia, and Theo and Manny’s friends.” The two waved at the group before directing their attention back to Theo.

“Manny, mijo, take Alpha McCall, Liam and Lydia outside whilst I say hi to rest please.” Donnie asked. Manny led the three outside to the table whilst Donnie turned back to the group. Theo stepped forward and bowed his head so that she could give him a quick kiss on it. The boys took turns saying hello as they wandered off upstairs to wait for Theo and Manny, eventually Alec and Nolan were left. The former reassured the Alpha he was fine after the eventful day previously, and when she offered a hug, he eagerly took it before following others. Nolan who she had seen the most, due to his sessions with Theo, didn’t hesitate before going in for a hug. “Hey Miss D.” “ Hi hun, staying for dinner? We’re having steaks.” Nolan smiled in response as he nodded happily, eventually he followed the rest upstairs.  

“Harry and Lottie y’all can go upstairs with Theo, I’ll call you when we’re done out there.” Donnie finished as she made her way outside to the garden. Once there, she thanked Manny and dismissed him as she took her seat at the head of the table. However just as she was about to sit, the doorbell rang. “I’m so sorry y’all, I believe my Beta and two of my pack members just arrived. Liam, you should come with me.” She winked as she stood and made her way inside.

The beta, slightly confused followed, until a familiar scent hit his nose. “No way.” He whispered, as she opened the door. Standing in the doorway, was Brett and Lori, smiled on their faces. The two of them looked happy but more importantly they looked healthy. Clearly their time away had been good mentally and physically for them. Grinning at the two, Liam ran to engulf them both in a bear hug.

“Missed us Dunbar?” Brett laughed as he hugged Liam back. The three held each other for a few moments, whilst Donnie was hugging her beta, a few inches away. “Just in time huh?” Vera laughed as she realised the time. “Girl shut up.” Donnie laughed in response.

Eventually the group made their way outside where Scott and Lydia were surprised by Brett and Lori’s appearance. The Alpha, smiled and greeted the two of them, telling them how he was glad to see them safe and no longer at harm. Eventually the two headed upstairs to go and see the other friends that weren’t aware of their arrival.

“This is Vera, my first beta. Vera, meet Alpha McCall, Liam and Lydia.” Donnie introduced gesturing at Vera. The beta in question extended her hand out to the trio, before removing her badge and holster to place it on the table so she could sit comfortably.

“So Brett and Lori? They’re both part of your pack?” Lydia asked, intrigued as she sat.

“That’s right. Totally their decision, they asked if we could make it official, a few weeks after they had been living with Vera back in Vegas.” Donnie nodded.

“So hopefully we won’t have any more interruptions.” Donnie side eyed Vera, as the beta smiled bashfully. “ Let’s get to the point of this meeting then!”

“Sure!” Scott sat up, “So as you’re aware, the McCall pack has been made official, and our first act as a pack, is to seek an alliance with the Bordelon Pack. Primarily due to fact that we border each other, but also because of the relationships between our packs.” Scott started. Lydia sensing an opportunity jumped in.

“Liam, Corey, Mason, Alec and Nolan have spoken very highly of you, and from what we’ve seen, your pack shares similar views with ours. Protect our people, and who we care about. Seeing Brett and Lori safe is a testament to that, and we believe that an alliance between the two packs would be beneficial for both of us.” She explained.

“That all seems nice and reasonable, but we have to face facts too.” Vera responded as she placed her hands on the table. “ Obviously I’ve been back in Vegas, so I haven’t seen what’s occurred here. Seeking an alliance with this pack means all of us. Not just those that live here in Beacon Hills. You would be aligning yourself with the entire pack. When you guys have issues, and you ask for help, we won’t hesitate. But we need to know if that goes both ways, being a pack isn’t a part time thing. We eat, sleep and breathe pack. I’m a detective, which sure- it’s a career, but my pack always comes first, and my job helps me do that, its not the other way round. Would you guys be able to understand that?” Vera finished as she raised her eyebrows.

Before Scott could respond, Liam spoke up.

“ We do understand. For a while a lot of us didn’t grasp that this is a fulltime thing, that we aren’t regular people who happen to have two worlds. Our pack is priority, and most of the time, everything we do will be to us out. If the Bordelon pack ever needs our help or assistance, we’ll be there. This relationship is important to us, and we recognise how great a tight bond between the packs could be in the future.” Liam finished, glancing at Scott, who had a proud smile on his face.

Vera, impressed with the beta, nodded at him, before sitting back, content with the response. “ Scott, I made it clear to the puppy pack, that I was interested in an alliance with y’all. A large part of that is because of the dynamic’s already building between our members. My boys have formed good friendships with the pups, and I can see how it’s been beneficial for all involved.”

Lydia rose her eyebrow at the “My boys” comment, realising how Donnie had grouped Theo and Manny together as one.

“That being said, before we go forward with this, there are some issues that we need to handle first.” Donnie explained as she leaned forward, elbows on the table. “ We are both Alpha’s, which means I will never question your leadership of your beta’s, but I will say, I don’t like how the two times I’ve seen Alec, he’s either been very upset, or has been made upset.”

“I appreciate that, I do. What happened yesterday won’t ever happen again. I also plan on having a conversation with Alec, to assure him that he is a full member of this pack, and that we won’t be treating him like glass any more. He deserves to go about his life with us normally.” Scott reassured.

“And what about Theo?” Donnie asked.

“Theo?” Lydia asked slightly confused.

“Well y’all know he lives here, and he’s pack. Him and the puppy pack are perfect together, and I very much appreciate how Liam has been there for him recently. I will however not move forward in an alliance, if it means I’ll be subjecting him to the same sort of disregard and treatment that allowed him to go homeless for almost a year.” Donnie stated matter-of-factly.

“We have a complicated relationship with Theo, but Scott made it clear that seeking an alliance with your pack, means seeking one with him. Individually we will eventually sort out our issues with him, but as a pack, he’s not an enemy anymore, at all. After how he helped Alec yesterday? I’d like to think that most of the pack are realising he’s not that same person he was.” Lydia attempted to reassure Donnie.

“ Good. Because I’ve only ever had conversations with Theo over video calls, but I can gladly say that boy is one of us. I don’t have to explain that if an issue arises between one of your pack and him? That’s an issue with all of us. He can handle himself and we can leave him be, but if we sense anything out of line, anything that we don’t like? Then relations will get rocky. Very quickly.” Vera finished, her face showing no room for argument.

“That won’t happen. At all. We have his back.” Liam answered. “ He may be part of the Bordelon pack, but he’s one of us-the puppy pack I mean. So is Manny.” Liam smiled at Donnie.

“Well alright then, we can iron out the details and sort out the paperwork later, but Alpha McCall, as Alpha and First Beta of the Bordelon Pack, we wish to enter an alliance with you.” Donnie and Vera stood extending their right arms out. Scott, Liam and Lydia stood and followed the actions. “As Alpha, First Beta and Banshee of the McCall Pack, we accept the offered alliance.” Scot responded, as he and Donnie grasped forearms.

“Not that all of this was a bother, but I’m glad it’s over, because I am starving.” Vera commented as she grasped her stomach. Scott smiled at her demeanour, as he responded. “I’ve heard a lot about Donnie’s food, so I would be starving for it too.” He laughed.

Back upstairs the group had been playing non-stop rounds of Mario Kart. When Brett and Lori made their way upstairs, they were bombarded will hugs and questions. Harry and Lottie had rushed to say hi to the two. Lottie smirking at Brett as she commented “My offer to douse you still stands.” She cheekily smiled as she offered him a high- five. She walked over to Lori and gave the wolf a quick squeeze before heading back to Alec, who had been theorising about fire magic. Harry before she could attempt to climb Brett, had been lifted by the wolf and brought into a quick squeeze. “Hey little bear! Still trying to climb people it seems.”

“I never stopped.” She giggled as she hung off his arm. “Hi Lori” she smiled looking at the teen.

As Harry got distracted and lost her grip on Brett’s arm, she nearly dropped; but was whisked out of the air by Theo who had been paying attention. “Careful baby cub, last time you fell we had to watch an hour of Kim Possible to get you to stop crying.” He reminded as he placed the girl on his shoulders. “You love Kim as much as I do Teddy bear” she scolded as she placed her hands on the sides of his face.

“Teddy bear huh?” Brett smirked looking Theo up and down. “Nuh-uh! He’s Theo to you.” Harry stated as she leaned her head on Theo’s. “Nice to finally meet you Theo.” Lori extended a hand out. “Glad you’re not- you know-“

“A power hungry tyrant anymore?” Theo offered, shaking her hand. “Yeah.” She smiled.

“Brett.” Theo deadpanned, before turning away and walking towards Nolan who had been watching the group. Harry had climbed down from Theo’s shoulders as she sat down and climbed into his lap instead.

Chapter Text

Scott and Donnie had been in the midst of working out an official Pack meet for both packs. It would be the final step in officiating the alliance between the two. The younger Alpha had offered to host at his house, but Donnie had been adamant that the farmhouse would be better due to the space, and isolation. Once he had agreed, they worked on sorting out arrangements for food etc.

Donnie had suggested a barbecue, that way it would be easier for everyone to grab food and chill, instead of trying to fit everyone on the outside and inside table. Scott offered to split the food and drink, the McCall pack would cover all beverages and deserts and the Bordelon’s would cover the BBQ meat and sides.

Currently, Donnie and Theo were at the supermarket, grabbing what they needed for the sides. “ So I’ll do the potato salad, greens and corn” Theo stated as he pushed the cart down the aisles. “Perfect! I’ll sic Manny on the rice and the appetisers. Then that leaves the marinating and grilling to me.” Donnie responded as she grabbed a sack of potatoes from its place in the aisle. “I doubt you’ll end up grilling though, Vera said she’d help out didn’t she?” Theo asked.

“She did. Well I’ll text her and get her to grab all the plates and cups and whatnot too.” Donnie finished as she placed more items in the cart. “How’s the case she’s been working on?” Theo mentioned as he grabbed the popsicles him and Donnie both loved. Leaning against the freezer, she looked thoughtful before answering. “ Well it’s not necessarily a work case for her. It’s a pack one, sort of how the McCall pack has Monroe to deal with. We have our John Doe. We’ve been after him for years now, but it seems like we’re finally getting closer now.” She finished, standing straight.

“Sounds difficult.” Theo commented as he closed the freezer door. Noticing how the Alpha’s shoulders had stiffened at the mention of the case he continued. “Anything I can help with?” He offered.

Donnie in response glared before speaking, “Definitely not mister. You’re just a kid, who has no business getting involved in this crap.”

“I’m 18 Donnie.” Theo deadpanned. “Yeah well, you’re my kid, so you ain’t getting involved.” She ended the discussion, as she stole the cart from him and walked down the aisle. Theo was frozen.

Donnie had mentioned him being family a lot, in passing, or when she attempted to explain things to him. But she hadn’t outright called him her child or her son. Old-Theo, would put his walls up or attempt to run, but new Theo was more open with his feelings, and was aware that he had people to think about before he made decisions. He wasn’t about to start calling Donnie, Mom and act like he’d known her forever, but maybe one day he’d get there. For now though, his solution was to walk up to the woman in question, and give her a bear hug.

Which he did. Donnie laughed as she felt her feet lift from the floor, she squeezed the chimera back and smiled at him as he put her down. “Now come on, let’s pay and get this stuff to the car.” She remarked as she patted him on the back and moved towards the till.

Back at the Bordelon house, a car had been parked out front, and it’s owner was sat on the front stairs, waiting. Peter had given it a few days before deciding to see Donnie. He knew he would have to see her at the alliance barbecue, and didn’t think it would be best to overshadow the celebrations of said night. As he was sat down, he thought about the past and what used to be.

/////////////////////////////////////////////

9 year old Peter was sat in the backyard, his parents were inside in a meeting, and his older sister was upstairs in the house. As Peter was fiddling about with his toy cars, he looked up to see a girl walking towards him. She was wearing a pair of denim dungaree shorts and had her hair in two cornrows down her head. “Are you Peter?” her southern voice asked as she cocked her head. “ I am, but who are you?” He responded just as inquisitively.

“I’m Dondra. Your mom said I could play with you whilst she talks to my momma.” The girl responded as she plopped down next to the dark haired boy. Peter looked up to watch the girl that had crossed her legs next to him, “Can I call you Donnie instead?” He asked.

“Only if I can call you Peetie” She answered. The boy in question thought for a second, before stretching his hand out. “Deal.” He nodded.

12 year old Donnie was dragging Peter through the arcade, as they made their way around the various machines, “Donnie! Sarah P was walking towards me before you grabbed me.” Peter complained. “ You see her every day in school, you only see me in the summer. Now shut up and let’s go on the dance dance revolution machine!” She scolded stopping in front of the new shiny machine. “You know I prefer racing games D.” Peter crossed his arms looking at the excited girl in front of him. “I play them all the time for you! So can you go on this once with me?” Donnie responded, preparing her puppy eyes. “Please Peetie” she almost begged, dragging out the please. “Fine, but just once.” Peter acquiesced.
That summer they both collected the high scores on the machine.

16 year old Donnie was at the county fair, Peter was next to her, carrying 11 year old Nate on his back. They had spent the day on rides, eating their weight in junk food, and were now waiting for the fireworks display before they made their way back home. They had made their way back to Peter’s car so that they could lean on the hood to watch. Peter sat in the middle, one arms one Nate’s shoulder giving the tired boy the option to lean on him, and the other hand was holding Donnie’s. She was always one for physical affection, and Peter was never one to say no to Donnie. After the fireworks ended, Peter placed Nate in the backseat, before grabbing a small bag out of the glove compartment. “I saw something earlier and it reminded me of you, so here you go.” Peter said softly handing the bag to Donnie as he leaned back against the hood. Inside the bag was a little velvet box, Donnie opened it to see a gold wrap-around ring. It had the head of a dragon on one end, and a dragon’s tail on the other. “Peter I-“ Donnie spoke softly.

“You’ve been obsessed with Dragons since we were kids, and I saw it and instantly thought of you, so I bought it for you.” Peter explained, as he took the ring from her hand and carefully placed it onto her right pointer finger. Donnie looked up at Peter, eyes wide, before wrapping her arms around his neck and tucking her face into the corner there. Peter instantly reciprocated. “ I love it, thanks for being my best friend Peetie.” She sniffled into his neck. Caressing the back of her head Peter responded “thanks for being mine too Donnie.” Two days later Donnie surprised Peter with a gift that she had bought months prior to her visit, but was waiting for the right time to give to him, she had bought him a pendant, specifically a St Michael pendant. “Someone needs to keep you safe when I’m not here.” She explained.

18 year old Peter had parked right outside the Bordelon summer home, and was leaning against his car door, waiting for Donnie to come out. They were taking a day trip to the beach just the two of them. Brought out of his musings by the sound of the screen door, Peter looked up to see Donnie. Her hair in a crisp bob cut, tortoise shell sunglasses perched on top of her head, she had on a pair of cut off denims, with a short sleeved white shirt. She walked with a tote bag on her shoulder, and a lemon popsicle in her other hand.

Donnie stepped out and looked at Peter leaning against his car. He was wearing a pair of beach trunks, and an unbuttoned Hawaiian shirt. She could see the clear outline of his muscles through the open gap in the shirt, and well? She was impressed. Miami by Will Smith was playing from the radio in the car, the sun was shining, and Donnie was excited for the day. Walking up to him, Peter lifted his eyes from where he had been observing Donnie’s outfit, and smirked at her. “ You managed to come out just as our song started playing, huh?”

“It’s a sign that today will be a great day darlin’” She responded, placing her bag in the trunk. Walking over to Peter, she gave him a quick hug, before she made her way to the passenger seat. “ Well let’s get going buttercup.” She grinned, placing her sunglasses over her eyes.

The rest of the day was split between sunbathing, swimming, eating, and throwing around a football Peter had left in his car. At one point Peter had been sitting up staring at the water, with Donnie sat between his legs leaning back on his chest. She had been fiddling with her disposable camera, when a person walking by offered to take a picture of them with it. Peter had tightened his arms around Donnie, as she pressed her cheek to his and smiled at the camera. At the end of summer when Donnie got all the photo’s printed, she got copies made of that beach photo. She kept the original and gave a copy to Peter as he requested.

Shaking his head before his mind could play his last memory of Donnie, the last summer he ever saw her, Peter stood up and walked towards his car. He wasn’t sure if he should stick around and wait, or leave. Before he could decide however, he heard a car making its way down the road. So Peter stood there against his car, and waited.

Theo had pulled into the driveway when he sensed a change in Donnie’s mood, her shoulders had tensed and her face looked as if she had come to terms with something. However before he could ask, he heard another heartbeat, Peter’s.

Slowly pulling into his usual spot he hid his chemo-signals, got his heart beating precisely and perfectly, before stepping out, and walking straight to the smirking Peter. Once he was a few inches away Peter attempted to antagonise the chimera. “Relax Raeken. I come in peace.”

But Theo stood unwavering, and continued to stare at the former Alpha. Peter noticing, stopped smirking and sighed, “Seriously, I’m not here to cause trouble.” Theo looked back at Donnie who had been watching from the trunk, once reassured by her smile, he looked back to the older Hale in front of him.

“I’m going to take the groceries inside, and prepare lunch, If I think you aren’t behaving yourself, I have no problem reminding you how I was the McCall’s pack biggest foe, and not you.” Smiling in a sickly-sweet way, he dusted off Peter’s shoulders before taking the bags from Donnie and walking inside the house.

“He’s protective that one.” Donnie attempted to ease the tension, but upon Peter’s silence she lowered her shoulders as if giving up. “Pete-“

“You left.”
Donnie’s eyes widened in shock “I-“

“You left, and I didn’t.”

Peter finally lifted his head to look Donnie in the eyes.

“You left, and I was so scared, for myself and you.”

He took a step towards Donnie whose eyes were still wide in shock.

“I asked about you everyday after they told me you were missing. Then I hear you had been spotted. I was so relieved Donnie, so I waited for you to come back to me.”
Taking a step towards Donnie, Peter’s eyes watered as he continued.

“I waited and waited for 10 years. Then I find out that you had been here for 6?”

Donnie had started crying in response to Peter and his words.

“Six years, Donnie I-“ Peter choked on his words. Donnie leaped forward to wrap her arms around him. Peter immediately reciprocated the embrace as they both sobbed loudly.

“Peetie I’m sorry, I’m so sorry.” Donnie spoke through tears.

“But I’m here now- we’re both here now together.” Donnie continued as she squeezed Peter as close as possible. From the living room window, Theo looked on at the two, a small smile on his face as he realised Donnie was encountering some of the healing she was always on about.

11:57pm
Undisclosed location

Monroe sat at the table, her index finger tapping in steady motions. The diner she was in was quiet, she could hear the electric hum of the neon lights, and the occasional sound of a fly hitting the electric fly catcher by the kitchen. Monroe had been in Arizona when she received a letter, or more so had found it. Someone had bumped into her, and when she checked to make sure she hadn’t been robbed, she found the envelope. All it said, was a location, time and that it would be worth her while.

Hearing the bell above the door ring, she looked over her shoulder, but saw no one. Turning her head back, her heart nearly jumped out of her chest at the man sat directly in front of her. He was clearly tall, if his shoulders and posture indicated anything, his eyes were blue with eyelids that seemed half closed, as if he was tired, or high- but something told Monroe that he was more aware of his surroundings than he gave off. He had short brown hair and a sharp jawline, framing his face that was rugged but still appealing to look at.

Placing his hands on the table, the man’s eyes finally flickered over to the woman in front of him.

“Tamera Monroe, Beacon Hill’s very own Buffy.” The man’s deep voice drew out.

Not trusting her voice to respond, Monroe swallowed and nodded once. She placed the envelope that she was holding on the table, and slid it over to the unnamed man.

Taking the offered letter, the man spoke once more. “ You’ve been in hiding for over half a year now, well enough for a certain Argent to not be able to find you.”

“What do you want” Monroe finally asked.
“ We can help each other Monroe. You still have unfinished business with the McCall pack, and now I do too. Help me, and I’ll help you.” The man answered, keeping still.

“How do I know that this isn’t a trick?” Monroe asked as she crossed her arms.

“Because if this was fake, or some sort of scam I wouldn’t give you this.” The man responded, handing over a folder he had kept inside his jacket.

Slowly taking the folder, Monroe opened it and scanned the pages, after a brief moment she looked up at the man.

“Why did you give me this?” She asked

“ Because that is how our problems intertwine. I’ll help you deal with the true alpha, and you’ll help me capture them. You supply the home town knowledge, and the manpower, I’ll supply the gear, secure locations and some more manpower, because why the hell not.” The man finished smiling at the woman in front of him.

“What do you mean capture, to eventually kill right?” Monroe asked confused.

“Do what you want to the McCall pack, but these?” He stated pointing to the folder.

“ They’re mine to do what I want with.” He finished sternly.

“Okay. Deal.” Monroe answered, handing over the folder.

“Keep it.” The man answered as he pushed his chair back.

“You should read it over, you need to know who they are and what they’re capable of.” He ended, as he stood up.

Monroe’s reaction was to stand up quickly, almost knocking over her chair. “Wait!” She said loudly as he took a step forward.

“You know my name, but who are you? I don’t get to know who I’m partners with?” She asked, folding her arms.

“We aren’t partners Monroe, you are a means to an end, I am one to yours.” He disregarded, tucking his chair in.

“Fine! At least a name?” She almost pleaded.

“Williams” He answered

“Just Williams?” Monroe asked, slightly confused.

Shaking his head, he responded “Conrad Williams."