Archive of Our Own

It was a rainy day. No surprises there, the woods this time of year were always damp and cold, especially during winter and spring. You drove your SUV up the expanse of the winding road through the mist and the trees. You were just happy to have made it before sundown, but it was still well into the afternoon as you pulled up to the ranger station. 

You needed this new job desperately. Your hiking experience, time as a police explorer, awards in disk shooting, and hunting put you well above the required qualifications for the job. It seemed quaint enough, a log cabin with green metal roofing, and smoke billowing from the chimney. There were wooden totem poles that were meticulously carved and painted, adorning either side of the entrance. Between the trees and brush of the mountain range, you smiled as you took a deep breath of the brisk air. 

The scent of petrichor and pine filled you with delight as the rain began to pelt your hiking jacket. You were grateful that this new gig also came with room and board. With the rain soon becoming torrential, you were thankful that you would be able to stay put for the rest of the evening. 

You were going to meet your new coworker today. Even though the ad in the paper said they were looking for a gentleman, the recruiter back in the city was just thrilled to have someone who was even remotely qualified apply, so they quickly made an exception for you. You stepped up, seeing that the door was left ajar. The station was modest, featuring stuffed animal heads and creatures mounted for tourists to enjoy. Lining the walls were pamphlets, manuals, some supplies, and other little souvenirs and curios for sale. The old radio was playing in the background, its music faintly distinct, as the radio static of the mountain range altered the signal.

Seeing how clean and well-maintained the station was, you felt a sense of ease. It smelt like cedarwood and smoke as the fireplace crackled with the fire. 

As you looked to the surrounding lush green woods, you could see your coworker’s modern tan Jeep parked out back. All you had was the old 1994 Toyota 4Runner, which you managed to nab from a family trying to sell it in a pinch as they moved out of state. As you looked at your phone, then around at the desk, something caught your eye. You noticed there was a note left for you on the desk. The handwriting was neat and precise, not like yours. The letters were written in cursive.

“Newbie, ring the bell when you get here. I’ll be there in a few minutes, just handling some things out back. - Levi”

There was a bell at the front desk, one you decided to ring to see if your coworker would emerge from what appeared to be the offices in back. A couple of rings and minutes passed as you wondered what the holdup could be.

As the minutes turned into an hour, you decided to head back to investigate on your own.

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You found Levi’s pack, lantern, and coat all set up as if he were planning to head out on a hike or explore some of the trails that you were both to patrol during the day. You saw maps of the mountain range and forest all around the office. On the desk, books about hunting and game had been left out. 

As you looked at the walls, you noted the station had guns locked up, supplies, and food in the adjoining kitchen. The place was equipped to host small gatherings and events, or even shelter people in an emergency. You didn’t fret, having been FEMA trained to handle disasters and think on your feet. 

But you couldn’t help but worry about where your coworker was exactly, especially since it was getting closer to sunset. You came back into the office when you found the keys to your small lodgings out back and the copy of the keys to the ranger station. As you peered up, the back door was left wide open.

Finally, a clue as to what had happened. You stepped back out into the rain that had grown heavier as you called out for Levi. The response was deafening silence as the rain began to fall roughly against the metal ceiling. As you looked at your phone, you noticed there was no reception—go figure, this far up and far away from any cellular towers. Running back to the office, you looked for walkie-talkies to see if any had been taken; nothing to be seen. Then you tried your last resort— the landline phone. 

When you picked it up and dialed out, a busy tone resounded even as you tried to access EMS. The rain had taken out the connection. Nothing left to do but take matters into your own hands…

You looked at his pack and the items he had gathered for his hike, picking them up and throwing them onto your back. You made your way out to your car, grabbed your shotgun and knife, and were on your way. 

Something had to have happened to him, and no one was coming to help him but you. 

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It was already shaping up to be a hell of a first day. You huffed as your breath came out in plumes against the cold. You had locked up the station and kept the keys securely around your neck on a chain. You had a limited amount of time to find him; it was already getting dark as thick storm clouds filled the sky, angry and black. 

“Levi! Levi, are you out here!?” You called out into the forest as the pine trees and brush thickened around you. You kept yourself aware of the trail markers as you walked through the moss and rock. You called out until you were hoarse, feeling even more tense as no response came. Rather quickly, your watch beeped to let you know you reached the point in time where you would have to start heading back, despite not having found him yet. The sun was getting lower, and the dark clouds only continued to thicken.

Your heart was thundering in your chest, fretting as there was no sign of him. You sighed as you looked up into the sky, beginning to hear thunder rumble in the distance—an even worse sign of what was to come. 

“Levi, please answer me! Are you there? I have to head back! Are you alright?!” You screamed as loud as you could, hoping against hope that someone would respond. Thunder and increasing rain continued to hamper your attempts. Suddenly, a piercing howl filled the air as it seemed to reverberate against the mountainside. 

Wolves, just what you needed at a time like this. You immediately panicked as you looked around. In a downpour like this, your shotgun would be useless. You began to tremble as the howl dissipated, the sounds of whining and struggle not too much further down this steep part of the trail. Despite the instinct to run, you pressed forward cautiously.

Stepping as quietly as you could, you made your way into a thicket, hearing the sound of faint whimpering. As you stepped through the brush, you saw it. A ways down a sharp and steep portion of the trail, you saw an animal snared in a bright silver bear trap. The metal glinted in the lantern light. What a cruel trick, you knew poaching was prohibited and punishable by law, especially on your conservation preserve.

The creature was lying in the mud and water of the small creek. Large silver saucers looked back at you as the large black wolf stared with intent. You’d never seen an animal this size. A Dog? A Wolf? It was hard to discern. Something about the way it looked at you hinted at some level of domestication, but its body and rugged features told a different story. 

You were petrified as it seemed to peer at something deep within you. Upon further inspection, its eyes appeared to be weak and dim as it regarded you. As your eyes traveled down the expanse of its body, you saw its hind leg had been caught in the savage snare. Evidence of its struggle was all around. You could see that the impressive animal had fallen down the steep edge of the trail with the trap caught around its foot. Twisting rocks and thick tree roots snapped or moved as it had tumbled down. 

A fall like that would have absolutely ended a human life; you were sure of it. You could see the mud marked with the gigantic paw prints that had been dug in. This kind of mud was the worst kind, thick and pasty. The animal must have been freezing, the cold water of the creek washing over its fur and now muddied coat. 

Despite your trepidation, you couldn’t help but feel compassion as it closed its eyes and let its maw fall against the rushing water of the bank. Whatever it was, the creature was exhausted. It was a toss-up and a gamble if you set it free. It was large and formidable, but honestly, would it even really survive in this state?

You sighed as you closed your eyes. You needed to find Levi— but he was nowhere to be found. Instead, you had found this.

Sigh. No more dawdling. You decided to set it free, hoping to find Levi back at the ranger station safe and sound. You could radio or call out for help once the weather improved. 

You stepped close cautiously, using your walking stick as you inched closer. The closer you got, the more your heart began to rush in your chest. You froze as you got within feet of the animal. Its eyes opened as it turned its head to watch you inch near. 

“I’m not going to hurt you, but you had better promise not to gobble me up after I get you out of this nasty thing.” You said in a fit of anxiety. What did it know? It had freewill; it was an animal. An apex predator at that. What did it know of honoring promises?

You took two more steps before you heard a low growl rumble within its chest. Its eyes were piercing as everything in you wanted to bolt and run.  

“Hey, if you keep that up, you are going to make me lose my nerve, and you’ll be left here to die. You can have it your way, but I think if I were you, I’d want to survive. Especially being an endangered species like you.” Nerves compelled you to speak, especially as you saw its impressive maw opened to reveal rows of shining white teeth as it snarled half heartedly in your direction before letting its head flop into the waters again. You could see the conflict in its eyes, the grey nearly glimmering as it seemed to consider its options.

You shook your head; it was now or never. You came close, trying to use your walking stick to disengage the trap, but it wouldn’t be enough, as it was shut tight. The animal merely whimpered as you fussed with the trap. You had to get closer and use your boot to snap it open. 

You wedged in your steel-toe boot and pressed down with all your force. You couldn’t have known that this was a decision that would alter the course of your life forever.

With a loud snap, the trap’s teeth unlocked, and the animal hoisted itself up out of the mud with a sharp howl. You stumbled backwards as you took in how enormous the animal was. It was lean and gaunt as it took in heaving breaths. It could have come up nearly to your shoulders on all fours. You began to cower behind the nearest pine tree. It was like nothing you’d ever seen in your life. 

Instinct made you want to run, but you knew better. Never run from a predator or an animal with a prey drive… you remembered learning out on your hunting trips. It would come chasing after you in seconds. You froze as you saw it sizing you up despite the steep limp in its hind leg. Its eyes narrowed as those silver eyes seemed to glow against the ever-thickening blackness of the sky. Lightning and thunder broke overhead, a loud thunderclap causing you to scream as you winced and clung to the tree beneath which you stood. 

When your eyes snapped back to where the animal was, it had already gone, and that terrified you. How could it have moved so fast?! 

That’s when you felt a large cold nose and damp fur smooth against your free hand. The scream died in your throat as those silver eyes bore back into yours. You were face-to-face with whatever this animal was. You felt yourself frozen in place, where you stood, as its eyes seemed to hypnotize you and arrest your senses. 

There was something almost human behind the glance, only taking its eyes off of you as it moved its large head and maw against your hand. It used its massive paw to gesture forward as if it were a bloodhound. Maybe it truly was a trained dog? A huge one?

You tried to steady your breath as your hand gently reached forward to pat its fur. It merely whined softly, accepting the contact as its ears twitched before proceeding forward. You followed it cautiously, as you noted it was guiding you back up the trail. It trudged slowly through the brush, its breathing labored as it looked back to make sure you followed. Every so often, it would stumble, and you would rush to its side, helping to lift the hefty creature from the brush as it limped.

You were in awe; it clearly had to have been domesticated. Despite its feral and rugged appearance, it remained mild-mannered and tame with you. The pouring rain made sure thick mud fell from its fur as you both made your way through the darkness. You made it back in relative silence, seeing that the automatic lights had turned on as you both made it back. 

Still no sign of Levi, as all the lights were still out and the smoke in the chimney had long since fizzled out. You were worried sick, and much had happened today. The animal simply followed you in, acting as if it were at home. 

“Hey, you can go free now. No need to stick around a stuffy old ranger’s outpost. I’ve still got to radio in and see if I can get some backup.” You muttered as you began to search the station for signs of life. Nothing had changed; there was no sign of your new coworker, and everything was eerie and dark in the storm. The radio was broadcasting warnings about flood risks and thunderstorms all night. 

This was bad, pretty bad. You tried to turn on the lights in the office, but quickly noticed the station had lost power.

Great, just great.

The radio was battery-operated, and the backlights you had surmised were solar-powered. The wolf… dog… whatever it was merely tilted its head as it looked up at you, those silver eyes still seeming to glow in the darkness of the space. You knew you had your own lodgings, and so did your coworker, but since the storm was raging, you opted to stay in the familiarity of the main office. You had seen some cots in the storage room, and the fireplace could definitely keep you warm, especially on a stormy night like this. 

“Well then, guess it’s just you and me tonight, huh, boy? We’ve got to find Levi tomorrow and try to get some help. I am sure the power will be back on once the storms pass.” You said softly as you began to pat the animal on the head. Its eyes only narrowed as it pulled its head away from your hand. If you didn’t know any better, you would have thought it was insulted by your talking to it adoringly. It simply chuffed as it watched you pick up some matches and a log or two to set into the chimney.

“If you are good, I can definitely patch up that leg of yours before we get you to a vet.” You said as you turned away and began to start the fire. The logs began to crackle in no time as you turned to find the animal lapping at its wound.

“Come here, boy, let me see. I can go get the medical kit in the back office.” You stepped close as he began to growl at you, baring his fangs.

“Hey now, none of that. I need to see what is wrong with that leg of yours so we can get you some help,” You insisted as you got close. He snapped his maw at you, snarling as you backed away. 

“Alright then, have it your way, pooch. But if it heals all messed up, you’ll have no one but yourself to blame,” You said, waving your hands. This wolf-like dog was massive, and really, it had been a miracle enough that it hadn’t hurt you. Despite how even-tempered it was before, you wouldn’t force something on a creature that had a maw of that many sharp teeth. 

Soon, you got ready for sleep, making sure the main building was secured and locked. You found a sleeping bag to set on the cot and placed all of your items in a neat pile at the front desk. The storm was raging outside as you sat in relative silence with the animal who had taken to obediently curling up beside you on the wooden floor. 

“Sorry for blabbing all night, it’s just. It’s a pretty hard first night, boy. I don’t know where my coworker is or if he’s okay…plus this place is so far away from the nearest town and even further from the city— and the power is out.”

You paused as you looked up at the tin ceiling, hearing the rain crash down upon it. 

“Took this job because… well. I don’t think my ex-husband will find me out here. The restraining order is all good. The sheriffs are going to serve him our divorce papers, and my lawyer will handle the rest.” Your voice warbled a bit as you looked at the stuffed animal heads and the stuffed owl and hawk that were suspended by a fishline from the ceiling. 

“Despite how rough it’s been tonight’s been… I think it’s going to be better now. A new start. My parents and my family won't be ashamed of me getting so stuck in that shitty relationship … and I’m nowhere where he can find me.” 

The animal watched you, eyes appearing to soften as it lay on its side. It was foolish, you knew it couldn’t respond, but it felt nice, so nice not to be alone. Not talked down to for being so firmly planted in that relationship that nearly killed you. No more victim blaming or judgment. Just the comfort of what you knew and loved, nature, trees, the big vast sky, and freedom. 

You didn’t know when the tears had begun to fall, but they had. The long hike, concerns about starting over, and worry over Levi blended into the sinking, sad feeling in your chest as you sobbed.

“I hope my coworker is okay...” You said as you hiccuped. That’s when you felt the weight of the animal’s impressive black maw and head rest against your shoulder. That’s when you really began to sob. You turned, wrapping your arms around the now soft and dry fur of the animal’s neck. 

It let you cry as much as you needed, whining softly as it remained close, as the fire warmed you both. 

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The next morning, you awoke to someone gently shaking you awake.

“Oi, Newbie. Wake up.” A deep and smooth voice said as you poked your head out of the sleeping bag with a grunt. The day was still dark and dreary as you looked up to find a pair of scrutinizing blue-grey orbs looking down at you. He was dressed in his tan uniform, green bandana, and deep green cap as he looked down at you. You sat up with a start as he came into focus. 

Oh, thank goodness he was alive and well.

“Levi, is that you?” You said as you rubbed the sleep out of your eyes. He merely tutted as he looked down at you.

“Mhm, got caught out in the storm and couldn’t make it back in time… I apologize for that.” He said a bit cautiously. 

“But it was raining cats and dogs. How did you manage to stay safe? I’ve got all of your things here on the counter.” You said as he helped you up. You noticed a slight wince as he assisted you. 

“I’ve been doing this for a pretty long time. I’d left those things out for you before you, and I went on a tour. Bad weather is no stranger or obstacle out here. Shit happens. Glad you seem to be resourceful enough, though.” He said as he leaned against the counter. You simply nodded before realizing. 

“Oh gosh! Where’s the dog?” You exclaimed as you looked around, fretting. 

“Dog?” He said with the slightest hint of annoyance in his voice as his brow quirked. 

“Yes! I found a dog in a bear trap yesterday.  He helped me make it back to the station during the storm.” You said as you began to look around. 

“Ah. I see. So, you managed to rescue my… pet.” He said as the words seemed to fumble from his lips awkwardly. 

“Oh, so he’s your dog?! He’s huge! He was really wounded, but he wouldn’t let me patch him up. Now I don’t know where he’s gone.” You said, worrying even more as you remembered the limp it had or how tired its eyes were.

“I tried looking for you yesterday but ended up finding him instead,” You said as you rubbed the back of your head. 

“Hmm. Well, thank you for finding him. It kept me out on the trail longer than expected when he didn’t come back when I called for him.” Levi said a bit uncomfortably. 

“He’s a real good boy, have you seen him today?” You said remembering the snuggle you had last night as you fell asleep. Levi clicked his tongue at this, considering, as the ghost of a smile picked up at his lips.

“I let him out this morning when I got back. He’s got a mind of his own. He was a stray, so I let him come and go as he pleases. He usually comes by when I am out on the trail, preferring being outside, I guess.” He then pulled away from the counter and gestured for you to follow.

“C’mon. Breakfast is going to get cold, we can talk some more over some food.” 

To this, you smiled, feeling your stomach rumble with hunger. A night without supper left you famished.

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Levi, despite his particularities, seemed agreeable enough. Over breakfast, you noticed his way of cleaning up after you as you ate, with each plate being pulled away after you had finished your portion. You thanked him for the meal that he seemed to have prepared skillfully. And as you washed the dishes, he inspected every plate, looking you up and down as he dried and set them away into the cupboards. 

He only rolled his eyes when you asked questions he thought were foolish, as he showed you around the station and lodge that had since been closed off. He was the only one with a key to this portion of the compound; the station was intended to host overnight stays for potential new rangers and some tourists. Something that didn’t gain much traction due to the remote location. 

Then, finally, you got to see your modest lodgings: a double bed, a little furnace/stove, a bathroom, a table, and a desk. A closet was built into the wall where you could hang all of your things and store your items. Windows lined the small lodgings. It was a fantastic view of the mountains and everything you needed. 

The perfect place to start over. He gave you a set of uniforms and other supplies before excusing himself to open the station for the day, leaving you to get ready while he oriented you to the day's tasks.

You showered, making sure to conserve the water as you set your bags into the closet and got dressed. You tied on your bandana and put on your coat as it was still misting outside. 

You looked around for signs of the dog; admittedly, you missed its company despite the harrowing introduction. You also worried about the injury it had sustained. Was he okay? Would he get hurt again on the trail? You sighed as you made your way into the station, and you heard the sounds of talking coming from the back office. You stepped over quietly, wondering what was being said.

“Look, she is great… more than qualified. I am not contesting that in the least… but I requested a guy to be stationed here with me.”

Your heart sank as you overheard the conversation as you sat in the lobby. You looked down at your boots and damp jeans as you fiddled with your hands.

“I have a preference, that's all, nothing wrong with her. It gets dangerous up here, and I’m just… concerned it will be tough on her…it’s too quiet. There are all kinds of things roaming around the mountain,” He muttered as he tapped his fingers at his desk. You could hear him sigh as he sat back in the old rickety chair. It seemed the conversation was not going how he wanted as he merely gritted out a “fine” and slammed the phone down onto the receiver. 

You could hear him groan as he got up and walked back into the lobby, his eyes widening as he saw you sitting by the fireplace. 

“Hey _______, you ready to go?” He said, trying to play off whatever conversation he had just been having.

“Look… I know I am not the first choice for work like this. I get it.” You said quietly as you looked down at the freshly pressed uniform you were wearing. 

“But it just sucks to hear it, you know?” You said quietly. You thought you were hitting off well enough this morning, but guess not.

“Look,” He said with a sigh as his shoulders tensed. 

“It’s nothing personal. It’s just…”

“I’m a girl… a woman,” You said bitterly. His brows knit with guilt as he looked to the ground. 

“It’s dangerous up here and last night—“ He paused as he considered his words carefully.

“What would have happened if you didn’t find my dog out on the trail, but something worse than that? I know you said you came looking for me, but what could it have cost you if something different had happened?”

You looked up at the stuffed cougar and wildcat in the office's glass case. You knew there were bigger things than that in this neck of the woods, and sincerely, even one of those could have effectively ended your life in moments. 

“Levi, I am not scared of the things that normal people are… I suppose that’s why I am here.” You admitted quietly as you stood in the tense atmosphere between you. One psycho of a stalker ex-husband, who was more terrifying than anything you’d ever seen out on the trail. A man from whom you were still finding trackers in bags or clothing to this day. 

Levi’s eyes appeared to glint with some kind of understanding. To your words, he simply nodded quietly, considering. He said nothing as he turned and gestured for you to follow. 

“I don’t want to underestimate you… But I guess we’ll both see if you can manage in time.” It wasn’t a dig, it was a fact. You nodded quietly as you followed him to his jeep and proceeded to tour the trails. 

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Lunch and supper were quick, as the tour of the surrounding forest and trails left you feeling more hopeful. He had attempted to repair relations with you, asking where you came from and what had attracted you to work there. Your chest ached knowing you hadn’t been the first choice, but getting to know each other was better than stewing quietly. 

You shared about your time in the big city and life in the suburbs. However, hunting and hiking helped take your mind off the troubles of life. Disk shooting down at the range and in competitions made you feel powerful, in exchange for all the times you’d felt weak.

“Shooting and hunting? What got you into that?” He asked as you both hung up your coats at the station. Indeed, not the most feminine of hobbies. You smiled timidly as you set your items away and responded.

“Well, I am not the tallest person, or the biggest. But I figure if I learned how to be self-sufficient and learned how to use a weapon— I could make up for seeming so… meek?” 

He nodded; it seemed straightforward enough motivation. Though the way he looked at you led you to believe there was something he wanted to ask, he opted to leave it unsaid. 

“Well then, suppose I’ll see you in the morning. 7:00 am sounds good?” He said as he winced again, reaching down to his pant leg, tucking up the dark brown trousers to reveal a wound. Your eyes darted down to see a bandage and a gash that seemed to be bound up there.

“Oh God. Are you alright?” You said as you gasped. How had he managed to stand all day with that kind of wound, let alone drive? You could see the dark bloodstains on the bandages.

“It’s not a big deal. I got my foot stuck out on the trail yesterday. Happens from time to time.” He said as he tutted at you.

“That gash looks like a huge deal,” You said as you stared down tensely.

“Don’t worry about it. And a couple more things. At night, because it’s so remote, we tend not to go out unless we are dispatched and need to go on a search. We will conduct thosetogether. No going out on your own, got it?” He said gruffly as his blue-grey eyes peered into yours. 

“Also, there are a couple of nights a month, I take some time off. Those days, you are more than welcome to head back to town or stay here. However, if you happen to stay here at night, please stay indoors and let no one in. Got it?”

Both requests were sensible enough, and you nodded rather quickly. He seemed content with the answer as he walked away from you before you could continue to fret over his wound. 

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Back in your room, you began to journal and got the stove going. You had taken another quick shower as you got ready for bed, putting on a tank top and your boy shorts. It was warm and toasty—a remarkable change from the startling events of the night before. 

With the way you were slowly getting a hang of the expectations and making some headway with Levi, maybe he’d yet change his opinion of you. You smiled and hummed as you turned on the little battery-powered radio Levi had given you. Later in the week, they were coming to work on setting up the place with satellite internet, which would be much better than the current lack of reception. 

As you continued to write and lose track of time, you heard something claw at your door. You turned abruptly, having drawn the curtains shut. You blinked, seeing it was well into the night, about 10 o’clock or so. You considered maybe it was just a raccoon or some other critter stalking out on the deck. But when you heard the wooden deck groan and the pawing continue, you got out of your seat. You felt your heart beginning to pick up its pace. You stepped cautiously forward as you made your way to the window. 

You peeked out into the darkness when you saw them, those silver eyes staring right back at you. You screamed until you realized it was just Levi’s dog. It seemed to rear back and tilt its head. Something was horribly unnerving about the animal, despite knowing it had treated you otherwise the day previous. The darkness and the blackness of its fur nearly caused it to blend into the night. You sighed as you fumbled with the door handle, as he bolted in. 

You were nearly tossed aside as the gigantic dog slipped past you and into your tiny room. Its thick, midnight-colored fur stood in contrast to the rich wood fixtures and faded photographs on the walls. You trembled, this time feeling more anxious about seeing it in this space. Had he really been this big last time? He seemed a bit fuller, more well-kept since the night you first met him. He towered over the furniture and was certainly bigger than you remembered. 

“Oh, easy boy. Don’t you want to head back to Levi’s room? I’m sure he’s been worried sick about you,” You said as you approached, and its fur seemed to bristle. It inclined its head as it sniffed your hand with a huff. You began to reach over to give it a head pat. Despite the narrowing of its eyes as its ears pressed flush to its skull, something had changed.

Your hands came up to caress and smooth the fur of its maw and cheeks. What had been intended to be a protest… melted into a display of joy. You had German Shepherds before and knew how they would get when they met new people or immediately felt a connection. The wolf-like dog whined despite itself, nuzzling into your hands as its large tail began to thud against your bed. He was happier today, at this, you smiled with the familiarity and delight of having a pet warming your heart.

“There’s a good boy! I’d missed you today. You should have been on the ride with us. Though I don’t know if a big boy like you could have fit with us in Levi’s Jeep.” You scratched behind its ears as it panted and began to whine. It’s when you bent down slightly to press a soft kiss to the top of its head that its eyes fluttered open. 

Those big, silvery, and milky orbs stared up at you. The animal had seemed to get a hold of itself, almost as if it needed to self-correct its behavior. It pulled itself out of your grasp, stretching as it yawned and began to curl up on the floor beside your bed. 

“Suppose it is that time, huh, boy?” You said, looking at the time and considering it was best to tuck in for the night. It simply huffed in response as it looked up at you timidly. You pulled off your shorts, tugging off your panties as you pulled the shorts back on. There were nights you opted for sleeping in the buff, but given that this was such a new space, you’d rather not chance it. 

As you stepped over to the other side of the bed and shut out the lights, you could have sworn that Levi's dog had covered its eyes as it swung its paw over its muzzle, only pulling it away when it was sure you were dressed. A little too self-aware for a dog… But maybe it was just a coincidence?

As you got into bed, the rain began to crash down against the ceiling anew. You were so grateful not to have to spend the night alone again. 

“So, boy, I forgot to ask Levi your name. Mind if I give you a nickname?” You chirped as you dangled your head over the side of the bed. He was already looking up at you as it simply huffed in response.

“How about Scout? You seem to know the area pretty well, guided me when we met, and you like being outside most of the time. Scouts definitely do all those things.” 

The animal seemed to consider, its tail wagging weakly as it regarded you. The eyes that had frightened you earlier seemed to mesmerize you now. Familiar. Very familiar. You yawned softly as you patted the side of the bed and made room. 

“It’s a lot softer and warmer up here with me,” You said down at Scout, who seemed to resign and accept the name. His ears twitched as he harrumphed. When he didn’t come up after the first couple of invitations, you relented and turned around, huddling into a ball.

“Suit yourself, have a good night, big boy,” You said as you snuggled into bed. Sleep came easily and peacefully that night. You hadn’t felt the passage of night as you gently stirred awake, feeling plush fur encircle you. You smiled as you cuddled into the warmth and raven colored fur, wrapping your arms around Scout as you fell into a deep sleep.  

The next couple of weeks fell into an excellent rhythm, with this part of the night becoming your favorite. As Levi took you around camp and you began to hike the trails together, something had started to soften. His reservations about you seemed to thaw, if not melt away. You picked up on his cleaning routine and got along a lot better with the passing travelers than he did; you were always happy to answer their questions or teach the children facts about the wildlife in the surrounding wilderness. He did much better with handling administrative tasks, such as finally getting the internet set up, or giving practical advice to hikers and experienced hunters who were going to camp beyond the preserve. 

You got along well, picking up on his sarcastic and dry humor. You’d dish it right back. While his face was usually devoid of emotion, you’d always catch the hint of a smile there as he spoke.

Cooking was something you enjoyed together, him showing you a thing or two about all the recipes he had learned from travelers, and you, the hearty food your family favored. Bickering and bantering as you both prepared meals together.

Then going out on the trail was also soothing. Hiking and being out in the forest, as you both went on the patrols, delighted you. You noticed how hawk-eyed Levi was, seeing the slightest disturbance as you made your way past hazards. He also appeared to appreciate your understanding of the surrounding flora and fauna, the animals that lived on the preserve, and your practicality— not being afraid to get dirty or turned off by inclement weather to see the job done. 

The company was more than he could have ever asked for, and you felt the same.

✩₊˚.⋆☾𓃦☽⋆⁺₊✧

This evening, with the internet set up, you finally managed to get your laptop going, scanning your emails to find many piled up from your lawyer, as well as a request from the court. You winced as you saw that you had to appear at least virtually in one of the hearings for the divorce to be finalized, and for the restraining order to be held indefinitely. 

Scout huffed as he looked up into your eyes, his heavy head resting in your lap as he saw your brow knitted with tension.

“Oh, sorry, I’m sorry, boy. I didn’t realize I had stopped petting you.” You ran your fingers through the soft fur on Scout’s head and took a steadying breath. 

“It’s just that I guess tomorrow I’ve got to show up for a Zoom meeting so everything can be finalized… suppose I had better let your dad know I need about an hour or so to do all of that,” You said, looking down at the silvery and milky white orbs that never took their eyes off of you. You mustered a smile as his tail began to wag and he nuzzled his head into your hand. 

You knew tomorrow was going to be a tough day, but somehow, things would be easier knowing you were so far away and at least had two new friends. Scout and Levi. 

In the morning, you got yourself ready and found that Scout was already gone. Nerves caught in your gut as you made your way to the main office to see Levi up and already getting breakfast set up.

“Good morning,” You said quietly.

“Morning,” He murmured as he gestured over to the bread— guess you would be making the toast while he made the bacon and eggs. 

“Hey, it’s kind of sudden, but today— I might need you to cover for me. Just for a couple of hours?” You said as you began loading the toaster with the multigrain bread. 

“Wednesdays are slow enough, what’s up?” He asked with his back still to you. It could have made you laugh to see him in the frilly pink apron that had been gifted to him years ago as a joke from HQ. Too bad you were too anxious.

“I’ve got some legal stuff I’ve got to handle over Zoom…” you murmured. 

“Legal stuff? And you’re working for the National Park Service?” He said as he looked back at you with a scoff. 

“It’s not like that,” You said as you rubbed the back of your head.

“I was ‘bout to say. Didn’t take you for a criminal, or are you just Poison Ivy in disguise? It would explain why you know so much about flowers and the trees,” He said with a deadpan expression. To this, you rolled your eyes and chuckled.

“Ever heard of a special interest? Well… maybe not, given this place just got the internet going and all the decoration makes it seem like the station hasn’t been updated since the 80s.” 

This earned you a smirk from him as he clicked his tongue at you and began to plate the food.

“As feisty a brat as ever,” He said as he brought over the plated meat and eggs. 

You both sat down as you brought over the coffee pot, the kettle, and all the supplies needed to prepare everything. 

“You don’t have to tell me what it’s about. I’ll handle the front desk while you step out. It’s not a problem,” Levi said as he began to untie the apron and set it away before he took a seat beside you. 

You nodded timidly as you murmured back your thanks. You were just grateful he didn’t try to pry. You weren’t sure if you were ready to tell him about what had happened. Not just yet.

✩₊˚.⋆☾𓃦☽⋆⁺₊✧

You sat at your computer, hands going clammy as your lawyer assured you everything would be just fine. You were both waiting for the judge to hop onto the call. You had used a virtual background and were thankful for the view of the forest and trees that seemed to help quell your nerves. 

That’s when the computer dinged, and the judge joined. The judge’s face was kind and gentle, and suddenly, you were grateful for everything being handled as smoothly as it was. You gave your testimony again and had a final review of the proceedings. You sighed as it seemed it was finally wrapping up. 

That’s when everything took a turn for the worse. Another two people were allowed to join the meeting: your ex and his lawyer. You wanted to slam your computer shut as he popped onto the screen. You could see that untamed and unsettling look he gave you every time he thought he had the upper hand. Your eyes snapped down, feeling your heart begin to hammer in your chest. Your lawyer immediately protested their presence, but the judge unfortunately had to share his verdict with both of you present. 

You took a deep breath, keeping your eyes straight and focused on the judge, even as you felt his eyes on you. 

Fortunately, the restraining order was to remain in full effect well beyond the divorce. The divorce and your legal counsel would be his responsibility, as he would be forced to pay for them on his own dime as recompense for all the damage done. You could hear his voice, furious and deep as he tried to respond to the judge as respectfully as he could. 

You knew if he had been anywhere near you, he would have yelled for hours or shoved you into a corner by now. You winced as the memories stung. You hardly had noticed when the calls had wrapped up, or when your lawyer congratulated you on your newfound freedom. 

You sat quietly, closing your laptop, and then sat in silence. Levi never came to your lodgings but when you didn’t return in four hours, he let himself in, gently rubbing your shoulder as he saw you frozen to where you sat.

You sobbed, having been petrified. 

“Oi, Oi, Oi! What’s going on? Did something go wrong?” He asked as he looked to you with concern.

“No… It’s just. I can’t believe it’s over.” You said in a small voice as you rested his hand on his. He gently helped you out of your chair, bringing you along with him as he closed up early; no one ever bothered to come by after 4:30 pm anyway. 

“C’mon. Let’s go into town. I’ll drive. I think I know just the thing that’ll help. My treat, obviously,” He said as he felt himself at a bit of a loss on how to help. He set a box of tissues on your lap as he drove down the winding road to the nearest town two hours away. 

You both made it to the diner, thankful it was a 24-hour one. Levi said he would come down on very slow weekends or whenever he’d had a shitty day. Two hours was quite a commitment for food at a diner, but out in the boonies— maybe it was well worth it for a change of pace.

The food smelled good, and your stomach rumbled. You had only picked at breakfast that morning because of nerves. The gorgeous waitress came over, seeming to be a bit crestfallen that her favorite customer had brought a woman along. It didn’t seem to faze Levi one bit as he ordered a steak dinner, and you opted for some chicken strips and fries. Deep-fried food and soft drinks were a salve for the weary soul.

When the food was brought out, you finally began to talk. You looked out into the night as you told him about your ex and the real reason why you had moved. It had taken every penny to relocate to a place that would have been far enough away from him and everyone he knew.  He couldn’t reach you here, at least you hoped.

Levi listened carefully, eating neatly as he considered all the details of everything said. At the end, he simply nodded and folded his arms across his chest as he sat back. 

“Well then, good riddance. Motherfucker deserved that and more,” He said with an edge to his voice that made you sink back into your booth. Levi waved over the waitress, who nearly came running. She batted her lashes as she looked into his eyes.

“Two shakes please,” He said with a huff.

“You only order a shake on your birthday or on special occasions,” She said as her eyes widened in surprise.

“Well, today is special enough. My friend is single again,” He said with a chuckle. To this, you flushed a bit as you looked back at Levi. 

“She’ll have strawberry— and I’ll take a chocolate one,” 

To this, you smiled a bit, suddenly feeling a bit better. A new beginning was dawning. A strawberry shake had never tasted better. How had he known that was your favorite flavor?

✩₊˚.⋆☾𓃦☽⋆⁺₊✧

Levi smiled to himself as you both drove back. You had fallen asleep comfortably in your chair. The food and conversation had set you at ease as you sat back and trusted him to drive. You both stayed until about midnight, talking and playing song after song on the diner’s juke box, trying to show each other a new song or two. 

Among the many songs he showed you, “You Can Do Magic” by America really spoke to him. You decided to be silly and light-hearted, playing some tunes by Duran Duran, such as “The Reflex,” which got you up and dancing in a way that made him walk to the restroom in mock embarrassment, as the cooks whooted and hollered from the kitchen.

The first of many memories, and a lovely ritual, he could see you both enjoying. Milkshakes could become a regular thing. Levi smiled with his eyes as you danced and bumped shoulders with him as you sang songs that were considered to be “classics”.

He didn’t have the heart to tell you… He was much older and ancient than all the musicians featured in this jukebox. Judging by how your parents danced to that music before you were a twinkle in their eyes, he realized he might have been hundreds of years your senior. 

Despite this, Levi felt his chest tighten as he looked over to you adoringly. He could get used to this and whatever this could become.  

What a stupid and easily enamored dog he was.

✩₊˚.⋆☾𓃦☽⋆⁺₊✧

Evenings were one of your favorite parts of the day. Only at night would he come to you. You’d whistle out into the dark, and Scout would come running. You had asked Levi for the name of his dog, but he simply rolled his eyes as he shrugged, stating he’d never really named it. He simply whistled, and it would come to him. Curious for a man who seemed to have everything else figured out. 

You always saved scraps of food for Scout despite Levi’s constant pestering about bringing food into the small lodgings for critters to be attracted to. Sometimes a girl just needed some peanut butter to go with her Oreos. There was also the draw of the spoonfuls you would feed to Scout, who never seemed to protest. The real treat was watching Scout lick the peanut butter off the roof of his mouth. You had plenty of pictures of how silly he looked while doing this. He especially loved the bacon you’d save during breakfast for him later that night. Sometimes he would skirt around in circles or paw at the place where he could smell you’d hidden it. 

This night in particular, you observed that Scout was a bit restless, his body trembling a bit as he took the bacon from your hand. He kept pacing around the room, unable to settle as he huffed and shuffled about. 

“Everything okay, boy?” You said softly as you moved to pat his head. Scout huffed as a sound warbled from his throat. His ears twitched, and he fussed. Those bright silver eyes looked upon you with an emotion you couldn’t understand, tension swirling in them. The rains and the storms never seemed to bother him before. So you decided to rub his cheeks gently and behind his ears in the way he seemed to like. 

To this, the animal shut its eyes, leaning into your touch. You smiled softly, knowing this would usually do the trick. Usually, you would be silly and plaster the animal’s face in kisses until it would paw your face away. But as you leaned down to press a kiss to the top of his head, you felt a hot, damp tongue lap against your cheek, wet nose pressing against your temple. 

You smiled brightly, pleased to see that Scout was becoming more affectionate and at ease. His nose flared as he smelled your hair, and a lick became two and then three before a growl rolled out of his chest. 

“Scout, are you—“ You could barely react as you flopped onto your back with a loud thud against the wooden floor. He trembled above you, sniffing and huffing as he lapped against your cheeks and neck. You began to panic at feeling the press of his fangs against your shoulder as he began to nip you. The sounds of your voice and firm commands were lost to Scout as he pinned you to the ground. Your body began to react instinctively, panic starting to ring out. 

You had felt this before… not again. 

Another growl rolled through his chest as you began to struggle beneath him. His eyes narrowed as his once gentle face seemed to become decidedly more lupine and hard. Soon, your palm smacked roughly against his nose as you shoved him off. 

He whimpered loudly as he jumped back onto the nightstand, knocking down the lamp in the process and plunging the room into darkness. You could make out the outlines of his form. Had he suddenly gotten taller? It seemed he might have even been standing on his haunches as those silver eyes glimmered back at you. You couldn’t deny it now; his eyes were clearly glowing, illuminating down his maw as he regarded you. Dissonance caused you conflict. It couldn’t be; it must have been a trick of your mind as you tried to calm your breathing.  

Had you fallen asleep? Was this some kind of nightmare? 

A sharp whimper left his lips as your eyes began to adjust to the darkness. Ears were lowered, tail curled between his legs as he skirted towards the door and began to paw at the handle desperately. The door creaked open as his body shoved against the opening. In a flash of fur and teeth, he bolted out of your lodgings and out into the woods. 

You called after him as you ran out onto the back deck. The night was frigid against your skin, your underwear and tank top doing little to help keep you warm. You felt terrible about hitting Scout the way you did. He was such a good dog. He hadn't done this before tonight. His strength and size were more intimidating than you had first considered. 

As you made your way back into your room after whistling after him. He never came. A howl in the distance let you know just how far he had run in the moments he had darted out into the forest. You felt yourself tear up as you shut the door and huddled into the blankets. You’d have to apologize to Levi in the morning about hurting his dog, and tonight you’d cuddle your pillow to settle and sleep.

✩₊˚.⋆☾𓃦☽⋆⁺₊✧

Deep in the woods, Levi came to awareness. He pulled on his jeans as he sat up in a pile of crunchy leaves. He sighed deeply, holding his face in his hands as he cussed aloud.

He got up with a start in the dark. The transformations were never easy. There was no amount of getting used to it. The popping of bones and ripping of flesh as he expanded and twisted into his wolf never got easier. Well… that was a lie. Maybe a little easier because you were around now?

He walked along the brush, seeing through the night as clear as day. He stalked back up to his lodgings, thankfully far across the building from you. He wouldn’t be able to handle it. He couldn’t be near you tonight, and in a couple of weeks, it would be even worse for him. The pull of the moon made him absolutely senseless during that time. 

He could smell you all over his skin. The scent of the strawberry shampoo you used, or the fruity, perfumed lotion you would rub onto your bare skin in the bathroom, while he sat on your wooden floor, facing away, always made his fur bristle. You were so trusting and kind. It disarmed him. A big, hulking beast that you invited into your room night after night. 

He was in anguish as he rubbed the damp leaves and dirt onto his skin. He was burning alive…you were burning him alive. 

He should have allowed himself to die that day... thoughts supptering as he began to reminisce.

He had fucked up, fair and square. It was a rookie's mistake. Falling for a hunter’s trap, the draw of fresh meat was too strong to resist that day. He couldn’t stop the transformation, no matter how hard he tried; the wolf within him was starving for any kind of sustenance as it tore out of him and propelled him into the woods. 

He tried so hard to starve the wolf, shut it out as much as he could. Hoping every time it would wither and die. Levi refused to go on hunts, even going so far as to lock himself up during the nights of the full moon. He never hunted humans, unlike the others. He learned early on how to subsist on wild game rather than relocate after every mishap, unlike some of his peers. Other werewolves had become so remote and rare due to them falling into traps like the one he had just fallen into.

He was just tired, so tired of existing. So tired of the hunting, so tired of the hiding. Tired of the loneliness of it all. Despite never wanting to be around people, he loathed that the pack animal within him needed and desired companionship. 

It’s what compelled him to howl and to long for something to fill the void he felt in his chest. No matter how much he ate, no matter how much he ran. It was never enough. Never enough to satisfy that ache, that yearning that clawed at him and compelled him to live. 

As he began to eat the fresh elk flesh, he struggled as the trap snapped down on his leg. He struggled and struggled; he was too weak to refine his form into a more anthropomorphic one. He tumbled down the side of the steep slope until he fell into the creek. He knew he had broken bones as he fell into the water. It had taken everything in him to swim to shore as he closed his eyes. 

As he drifted in and out of consciousness, the cold of the water and mud silenced the animal within him. It was not the best way to go or the most delicate, but it was quiet, even peaceful, as he began to lose all sensation—no more transformations. No more hunts, and above all, no more loneliness or isolation. He had finally found his out.

Just as he felt himself drifting, a voice carried in the wind, and he could hear someone calling out to him. The voice was pleasant enough to make his ears perk up and for him to catch the scent of the air. 

Strawberries. The scent of strawberries wafted down to him through the mud. 

It was you calling out for him, searching for him. He had just wanted to die in peace. That’s right, the newbie was coming in today. The one he was supposed to train, the one who came highly recommended. Had you really ventured out into the storm to search for someone you had never met? 

As the smell became more pronounced, his maw opened, and he tasted the air. A woman. A woman he would have to scare away, just like all the others when they were sent to work with him. No one ever lasted long. As soon as the women would see the gigantic beast that would stalk outside the compound or follow them out on the trail, they would leave without so much as a second thought. He followed to make sure they wouldn’t get hurt. The men would quit after weeks due to the monotony and isolation of this location.

But you, despite all the risks, had come looking for him. You deduced that something was amiss. You had all the right gear and a thorough understanding of how to search and navigate the trail. You were courageous and intelligent… despite the recklessness of being out in a storm all alone and rescuing a monster that would have scared any other human being senseless. He made a mental note to admonish you about these things later.

The wolf in him compelled him to howl and struggle as you called out to him. For the first time, both the man and wolf within him were not at odds. Your voice was sweet and your scent was even sweeter. A voice deep within him rang out.

Protect her. Guide her.

Even as he growled at you and chuffed, wanting to scare you away, the draw to have you near was even stronger still. Whatever power he had left, he willed his broken bones to snap back together beneath his skin and heal. If he were going to protect you and keep you company, he would also have to go out and hunt again. The silent command urged him to survive. 

That night, you had saved him from more than just death. 

Levi had never been drawn to anyone like this before. He felt like a teenager, impulses and desires bubbling within him wildly. He had always suspended the desire to date, only having a handful of hook-ups on the night of the new moon before he would disappear. It was the only night he was ever fully human. Every other night, he could suspend transforming unless he experienced powerful emotions that day. However, the night before the full moon, the day of the full moon, and the night after, he would run wild— no matter how hard he fought against the desire. The days were painful and volatile, too; sometimes the instinct was so strong that he couldn’t change back into a man.

And honestly, who would ever understand his condition? Had it been folly for him not to be more forceful with his employers? Had he made a mistake in not scaring you away or treating you terribly? Who was he kidding…even if he tried, the attempt deteriorated.

Maybe he was just a dumb dog? A stupid mutt— the one you had reduced him to. Night after night, he was compelled to keep up the ruse as he stole into your bed and curled around you. He listened patiently to all your deepest and darkest revelations about how that asshole ex-husband of yours used to beat you and force himself on you. Or how you were loving the new beginning here, loving the feeling of everything you enjoyed being within arm's reach. The forest and mountains. The winding trails, the weather, the peace of the quiet, and the beauty of nature surrounding. To top it off, you even had a new pet you could share with your handsome new coworker. A coworker you might have even been developing a crush on as you walked together in the woods, or began to fall into a steady rhythm with.

You told Scout everything on your mind, and Levi couldn’t help but be mesmerized. You were brilliant, beautiful, and witty. You were also compassionate and brave, meeting his quips with ones of your own. It was too much. 

And truly, that wasn’t the problem. The real problem…

Levi stumbled into his lodgings, trudging into the shower as he rested his forehead on the tiled wall. He scrubbed until he was pink, trying to get the scent of you off of him. He even drank the shower water, swishing it around in his mouth and spitting it out over and over again. 

He was burning, going crazy. He hated it, feeling himself harden and coil against his abdomen. He hadn’t wanted to force himself, not like your ex had done. 

Your taste and scent had intoxicated him. Every night, he had managed to keep you company, to keep you warm. Both of you were doing a great deal to fill the void in each other's hearts. It would have been cruel for him to date you, just to leave. How much more would it hurt to take away the companion you had found in the domesticated side of his wolf form? 

Levi thought he could be your dog, your companion. But tonight, when he finally leaned in, showing affection like you lavished on him as you kissed his cheeks and ruffled his fur in the way he had been longing to be touched in the long years he had lived. He tasted you, finding that the taste of your skin was not only pleasant as he had imagined— it was divine.

He groaned as his hand traced down, gripping his length as he swirled his thumb along his tip. The hot water did nothing to settle his nerves as he shuddered. He felt his jaw tighten with desire, remembering how your supple skin felt against his fangs. Every time you emerged from the shower, you trusted him, and why wouldn’t you? He was your pet. 

What a silly… cruel ruse. 

Levi had shut his eyes every time, catching glimpses before he could anticipate you drawing back the shower curtain. He would look away dutifully, but, despite his attempts… he had seen. Gorgeous breasts and pert nipples that would melt into the sensuous, flowing curves of your waist and hips. There was also a plump, round bottom, one he wanted to nick with his fangs and spank before bending you over and tasting your core. He knew he could take you over the kitchen counter like he had imagined once or twice. The struggle to see you focus on cooking while he rammed into you would have been more than delightful to watch. Or perhaps he could lay you down before the fireplace, the first place you spent the night together upon meeting.

Levi whimpered as he tightened his grip and began to pump himself from the base of his now aching cock to the tip in fluid motions. He wanted to bury himself in you, soothe you, and make you forget all about that other man until all you knew was him. And the wolf in him couldn’t agree more; the desire to fuck you senseless was winning out over the urge to devour you. He wanted you all for himself. 

He wanted you to be his mate.

Levi, the normally quiet man, called out hoarsely as he came roughly, spilling onto his hand, abdomen, and chest. His knees nearly buckled from the pleasure. God… once wouldn’t be enough tonight. His senses were alive as he let the water wash over him and clean the mess he had made. Just the thought of you hot and tight around him made him hard again. Never in all his years had he been this hungry or wanting for a lover, much less a mate. 

He, the man, wanted to hunt for you, be there for you, and protect you. The wolf desired to fill you up, and tie off with you— rutting until you were spent and he was certain he’d filled you with his pups. 

He panted, tongue hanging languidly from his open mouth as the thoughts intoxicated him as he pumped himself roughly, fangs forming as he felt himself growl with need for you. He bucked into his hand as he closed his eyes, imagining you breaking on his cock until morning.

As the night of the full moon approached, he needed to make sure he got you as far away from the station as possible, or these imaginings would become a reality whether you wanted them to or not. 

✩₊˚.⋆☾𓃦☽⋆⁺₊✧

The next morning, when you saw Levi, you saw he had beaten you to breakfast duty despite it being your turn. Curiously, he was wearing double-faced masks with copious amounts of Vicks smeared onto the inside of them. He cited the cold mountain air as being too harsh on his nose and lungs as the reason for wearing a mask. 

You asked him about Scout and where he had gone. When Levi responded that Scout had returned to his room that night, you sighed. You decided to come clean and explain what had happened the night before. To this, Levi explained that it had been good to correct Scout in this way because he had moments when he got carried away. He was a big dog, one that needed reminding of his "training" from time to time. 

To this, you simply nodded, still feeling terrible about having struck Scout. You both ate breakfast silently, noting that Levi had prepared some very lightly cooked mound of bacon for himself as he took deep swigs of his unsweetened black tea. That day, you felt something shift in his demeanor. Despite it being the weekend, you felt his gaze was particularly intense the whole day. There were even moments when you would catch him wincing or his eyes seeming to change color, flashing silver back to their usual blue-grey.

A trick of the light? 

Even as you made your way out onto the trail together and hiked down to the falls, you stumbled over a tree trunk that had caught your boot. Levi had seen your mistep with with inhuman speed. He bolted over, appearing to rip the trunk from the dirt with his bare hand in frustration for it having inconvenienced you. He explained it was loose, but it certainly didn’t feel that way as it tripped up your entire person. His face loomed close as he shut his eyes, hand catching and smoothing at your hip in a tender motion.

Before you could really question, you both turned the corner, the falls coming into view. 

The rock had been eroded and smoothed over as the water spilled into the naturally formed stone reservoir at its base. It was gorgeous, framed by luscious pines and unspoiled by tourists. It was the first time Levi had brought you down to see the falls like he had promised he would. On low-traffic days like this, he promised to take you to see more sights. He knew the trails and knew them well.

“Do you like it?” He asked quietly as he peered over at you from his newly applied facemask and gator that he had thrown on over his mouth and nose to help further block out your scent. He had smothered the new face masks with even more Vicks before you headed out, the smell of menthol wafting through the air.

Your liking it was an understatement; the sight enthralled you. 

“Levi, this is wonderful. Truly, I don’t have words. I really do love it.” You said as you stepped close, feeling the mist against your face as the falls spilled over the rock. The water was clear and calm. In the water, you could see the way Levi was staring; his eyes were tender and adoring even as he looked at you. For a moment, you could have sworn that you had seen silver beginning to shine through the dark grey as you spun around. 

He had already closed his eyes and turned away before you could confirm what you had seen. 

“Let’s get going. I’ll bring you back soon. Sometime after next week. I am not feeling too well…” He said as his voice seemed to struggle in his throat. By the time you had made it back to the station, he was flushed, sweating profusely as he wiped the sweat from his brow. You brought him some water and an electrolyte drink, seeing his breathing become more labored. You insisted he rest and take some medication, something he agreed reluctantly to as he nearly found himself running back to his room.

That night, you had left supper at his door, knocking as he spoke a bit roughly, asking you to leave it on the welcome mat. Was he sick? Something happened. He was usually so composed and calm, but now he seemed weak and fidgety.

As you went to your room that night and whistled for Scout, he never came. And maybe thankfully so, because that’s when the dreams had started to begin. 

✩₊˚.⋆☾𓃦☽⋆⁺₊✧

You were lonely that night, the little stove warming the room as you settled into the blankets after your nightly shower. You plopped in some extra logs for good measure. You got dressed, hoping you would hear that familiar pawing at your door, as you waited up— you drifted off. The warmth of your blankets and the ease of your shower lulled you into sleep.

Since before you had been married, it had been so long since you’d known the touch of another in a way that was safe and caring. Perhaps that was why you had felt so at ease with Scout. Animals cared unconditionally. But the safety of unconditional care, coupled with the man who was just a couple of minutes' walk away. A man who was endearing you more and more as the days passed. All of this was giving way to something you had not felt in a long time.

You sighed softly, sleeping soundly. It was almost imperceptible as a weight slipped onto your bed from behind you. Fingers gently drew your long flowing hair back as you felt lips press to the back of your neck, kissing and adoring as they traced down to your shoulders. It felt a lot like worship, feather-light kisses pressing to your skin more firmly every time they made contact. It made you tremble and feel that familiar ache of desire warm in your gut. Every time you sighed, the warmth of the stranger's arms around your waist drew you in closer. You shuffled in your blankets, caressing those hands as they traveled up to your chest.

You moaned softly as those hands began to caress and fondle your breasts from above your tank top. 

Mmmm. 

You hadn’t had a sex dream this delightful in years. You leaned in, pressing your bottom back against the hot coal burning in the dream stranger’s boxers. You could feel his hot breath fan against your ear as breathless moans caught in his throat. 

“Touch me, please,” You whimpered as those hot hands did as you asked. He teased your nipples above the fabric of your tank top as he began to drag his bulk against your bottom. He was burning through his boxers as he pressed against you. Despite feeling as if you had opened your eyes and woken up, the unnatural darkness of the room led you to believe you were still sleeping. What an odd feeling. It made you struggle against the dark. You wanted to see him, to know who was touching you so well. No matter how you struggled, you couldn’t see him.

You moaned delicately when you felt the stranger’s hand steal its way into your panties as fingers began to roll and tease that delicate nub. You were so hungry and wanted what this stranger was giving you. It had been so long for you, and really…what did it matter? It was just a dream.

You gently rolled your hips into his hand as you felt his tongue lap against the curve of your jaw. It felt good and primal as you reached back and tugged down his boxers, gripping the hard length that you wanted to feel deep inside of you. That’s when you imagined it. Those beautiful blue-grey eyes, that dark raven hair. The delicate lines of his face or the sound of his laugh when you would call him on his shit. His name swirled in your mind as you felt those fingers keep up a steady and burning pace.

Levi’s name fell from your lips as you felt fingers replaced with a hot cock dragging between your delicate folds from behind as he rubbed and teased you to completion. You whimpered as he turned you around to face him. He needed to kiss you as he pulled you to him, hot hands gripping your bottom firmly. You felt the press of fangs against your lips as you both kissed roughly, devouring each other as you luxuriated in pressing him against you, even as he came hotly against your delicate folds. He was so big and thick, and you wanted more. So much more.  

When you woke up that morning, you found your panties had still been slipped off. Had it been so good that you’d touched yourself in your sleep? You trembled, feeling desire warm in your navel as you thought yourself hot and wanting upon waking. Night after night, it only got hotter and hotter as you rolled around together between the sheets. Days passed with you and this recurring dream that made you ache and want to run to bed. 

However, despite feeling hot and heavy, you really were missing your furry friend. While you whistled for Scout dutifully every night, you were crestfallen to find he never came. You fretted as Levi reassured you that Scout had been spending time with him in his room at night.

Levi had been scarce most days. He cited feeling a bit under the weather as he remained in his room, apologizing for leaving you to run the operation for most of the day. He only emerged for dinner; he had made you both stove-top burgers and fries that he toasted up in the oven. He sat away from you today; you both usually eat side by side. 

“Have you been alright?” You said tentatively as you looked at him. His glance was weak as he regarded you; he seemed to be pained.

“I came down with something… pretty nasty. It should let up soon.” He said in a huff. His voice rasped as he spoke and tried to eat his meal. His cheeks were rosy as he pulled down his mask only to have bites of his burger or fries.

“Don’t worry, we’ll spend some time soon,” His voice was like velvet as he said this.

Your head hung down, a little embarrassed as you recalled your dreaming. His eyes never left you for a moment as you both ate in relative silence. Again, he assured you he was fine, that whatever bug he had would pass. He also said that Scout was feeling worried about him, so that’s a reason he wouldn't leave his side at night. 

Levi tried to make things seem more hopeful. That soon you’d both drive into town to celebrate your first month as a ranger. The prospect made you smile as you ate and came over to dote on him, placing a hand on his shoulder as you walked past and set some medicine on the table before him— medicine he was trying to refuse despite his temperature. 

You could see the ripples beneath his skin or the way his eyes fluttered shut as you stepped close by. And when he did look at you, you noticed his pupils were blown open, and as he stared, his irises struggled to contract as he looked to you as if he were starving. You felt yourself flush deeply because you realized you were starving for him, too.

That night, the dream visitor nuzzled his face against your cheeks gently as he woke you up. When you began to stir with a smile, he began to lap against your lips. You were delighted your mind had drifted here again, and without hesitation, you opened your mouth to him, panting as your tongue lapped against his. His skin was hot against yours as your fingers wove themselves into his hair, as you both kissed. 

“I’ve been thinking about you all day,” You admitted, smiling warmly as you held him close. His kisses and wild manner immediately warmed you up. You could feel his voice rumble within his throat; perhaps, he had felt just the same as you did? You struggled to keep quiet as he began to undress you with care. You sighed as your breasts sprang free, and your panties were tossed aside.

You found that he was already nude and bare as your bodies smoothed against each other. It felt like heaven as you pressed against him and pulled him close. He was muscled and strong, his body lean and tight as you felt him tremble at your touch. 

“I wish you were real…” You whimpered as you felt him press your breasts together, taking your nipples into his mouth as he sucked roughly. You moaned breathlessly as you felt his fangs press against your skin, as he lapped and sucked on those tender nubs. He knew how to take care of you and how to set you on fire. Night after night, the visitor had explored, licking, kissing, nipping at your skin as he tasted every part of you. Well… nearly every part.

His hot breath always stopped just shy of your aching core. He lapped and kissed around the space, trembling and growling whenever he got a slight taste of that nectar that began to drip out of you at the thought of him. Gods, it wasn’t enough. You wanted him there. You needed him there.

The tease drove you mad. He also always avoided slipping within you. Only rubbing and teasing his thick length against you as you both kissed and fondled each other night after night. You were starving for him to be yours.

Tonight, your hands came down between his legs as you teased him. He whimpered as he leaned onto your touch. Sighing, you pressed the tip of his cock to your trembling entrance as you came to rest against his chest. 

“Baby, please. Won’t you take me tonight?” You murmured as you tilted your hips, lightly pressing his tip in as you heard a growl leave his lips. The sound should have terrified you, but you felt yourself getting even wetter and hotter for him as the sound broke against your bones. His mouth moved from your chest up to your chin as a fang nicked you roughly—a chastisement.

I can’t. I can’t do that. A faint voice said as it spoke into your consciousness. It was the first time he had spoken.

“Please, why not, baby? You tease me every night, and I need you. I want you.” You said as you pressed yourself down. His hands caught at your hips roughly, stopping you from pressing down further onto him. He loosed a deep rumbling whine as claws grazed your skin.

Because I won’t be able to let you go, I won’t let anyone else have you… The voice strained as you felt claws gently scrape against your skin. It sent pleasure down to your core as you began to roll your hips in circles against the tip that was still deposited inside of you.

“Then never let me go, stay with me, always,” You begged sweetly. And you meant it. You sincerely meant it. How could you possibly explain this to anyone? You were becoming attached to the fantasy of this man who treated you with dignity and kindness. Whatever fantasy your mind had cooked up about Levi, it had left you wild and hungry for it. 

You shuddered when he began to give. You felt that hot cock start to slip in, stretching and filling you as it moved. You moaned loudly, feeling him slip into the place you had needed him most.

Mine. Mine, all mine. The voice said as it began to distort and thicken as he spoke into your mind.

I want to make you mine. Be mine, all mine.

The skin that pressed against yours soon faded, exchanged for plush fur as it settled against you. The sensation made you whimper as you felt him push himself deeper into you. The dream man you had come to adore night after night was transforming beneath you, in the deep darkness that surrounded you. The bed groaned as he shifted, and you could hear bones pop and tendons begin to tear. He sighed as a whimper left his lips, much more animal than man. A massive paw held at your back, pads of those fingers soothing you as a single clawed finger tipped up your chin. A maw full of sharp teeth pressed itself against your lips in as much of a kiss as it could accommodate. 

Fear melted into intrigue and desire for the unknown as you pressed your lips against that maw, sighing when that large tongue swept against your teeth and deep into your mouth as it forced its way in. It overwhelmed you, dominated you as you trembled. You felt him pressing into the deepest part of you— crying out sharply as you felt him completely sheathed within. His hips barely moved as they pressed against all the places that made you want to scream. 

The unnatural darkness that filled your room night after night began to give way as you saw those glowing silver eyes lidded with desire as they peered up at you. He cradled you against his large and impressive chest. 

A monster… no wait.

A wolf. You tried to quell your fear as you pressed back against him, chasing the pleasure of this moment. His fur tickled and smoothed against your skin and nipples, giving you goosebumps as you began to roll your hips against him. He growled, pressing his hips upwards, stuffing himself deeper into you as he hit back into the pit of you. 

You were debauched, panting as your small hands gripped his fur to anchor yourself. You couldn’t keep your mouth shut as you gasped and savored being connected. It was beautiful for him to see you unravel before his eyes. He cradled your body with his, loving the feeling of having you right where he desired. His wolf wanted you and tried to keep you all for himself. And frankly, he wanted this too…despite the sting of morality smacking into his consciousness. Levi fought against pure instinct and even his own sentiments. 

He should have been honest with you and told you his secret. Told you the truth. He didn’t need to hypnotize you like he did with his prey or the hikers he would rescue. He cared about you, could smell the chemistry between you, and knew there was something even deeper there.

No, we shouldn’t be doing this… The voice said in a conflicted tone, having regained some humanity. Levi soon was shoved to the back of his own mind as he felt you tighten and coil on his length. The animal in him took over as he snarled, nipping at your neck as his hot tongue darted out to rasp against your skin. It felt like nothing you had experienced before as you felt him all around you. You leaned into every touch and caress as you moaned. You wanted to be his and only his. This monster…this man who made your blood catch fire. You presented yourself to him, feeling yourself get carried away. You arched up to show him the way your breasts moved every time you pressed back into a deep movement of his hips. 

Your head nearly spun as you sat up, seeing where you both were connected. Dark fur against your tan skin as your core leaked against his red-hot length.

“It’s alright, I want this…” You cooed as your hand caressed that dark panting maw, fingers running through the plush fur of his cheek.

“It’s a dream, baby… here, we can have whatever we want, be whatever we want,” You said, so far gone as you loved the sensation of being this stuffed and adored by this creature that had stolen its way into your dreams. Those bright silver eyes narrowed now, not in frustration but shining with something you had seen before. Emotion… guilt or perhaps shame as those pointed ears pressed back against his skull and whined. Levi’s mind broke through again as you spoke. To you, those silver eyes were so familiar… ones you had seen before. 

Levi couldn’t do this to you, not to the woman he saw as his mate. It pained him, but he had to let you go; he had to put it all on the line. He couldn’t lie anymore. He couldn’t take this from you anymore.

Wake up, wake up now, and forget. The voice said softly as something began to tickle in the back of your mind. The spell and deep magic were swept up as the veil was lifted over your mind. 

He had wrapped his arms around as you felt consciousness tug at your mind. His maw pressed to your lips, attempting another kiss. This kiss was deep and loving, something that you tried to hold on to as you kissed him in kind. You didn’t want to let go; you didn’t want him to leave. You had seen and hadn’t been frightened. Before either of you could finish that night, the dream faded and melted into morning. 

It was foggy and dark as you awoke. The mist was in the trees and occulted everything outside of your window. You were naked and cold as you saw the embers in the stove were barely hanging on. Your clothes were discarded on the wooden floor where you remembered your dream man had thrown them. As you came into awareness… it dawned on you that these coincidences were just too close to call.

You could still feel sore between your legs when you remembered how well he had filled you and how good it felt to have him there. Your skin was raw and sensitive to where the fur should have been. It couldn’t just have been a dream. It simply couldn’t have been. How could you forget him? This lover you had come to adore. 

His scent was all over you, even as you showered. The smell of petrichor and leaves caused you to finish what he had started as you got ready this morning. 

✩₊˚.⋆☾𓃦☽⋆⁺₊✧

This morning, you stepped out into the station, getting everything set up and ready. You mentally prepared yourself as you searched the station, putting on your ranger uniform and hat. You fussed with your bandana, triumphant that you had woken up before Levi as you turned on the lights, got the fire going, and began to get breakfast set up. 

You looked to the back door of the kitchen, your heart beginning to race.

You had to know. You had to ask. 

Was he the man in your dreams? Had the dog, who had become your closest companion…and now that creature that had known you intimately all been the same entity? 

Breakfast went cold that morning as he never showed up. You walked up to his lodgings, knocking on the door as the door creaked open. You found his bed impeccably made, all of his belongings ordered and tidied. Comic books, sweeping fantasy tomes, and survivalist texts filled his bookshelves. In your time here, you’d never dared come to his room. He had framed pictures of the surrounding woods and of other places he had been or lived in. 

Where had Levi gone? There was also no sign of a dog bed or anything needed to tend to an animal of that size. In the distance, the landline phone in the main office began to ring. You closed the door to his room as you felt worry catch in your gut. The phone kept ringing and ringing until you returned and picked up the receiver.

“Oi, you there?” Levi said on the other end of the line. You gasped, biting your lip as you spoke.

“Yeah, it’s me. Is everything alright? I can’t find you anywhere…” 

He was silent on the other end; you could hear the wind blowing against the receiver as you held your breath.

“Can you come into town? I know it’s sudden, and I have a feeling you want to talk. I would rather do it somewhere… I know you’ll be safe.” He said quietly. 

“But who will man the station?” You said as you felt yourself growing anxious, fidgeting with the telephone cord. 

“I’ve already gotten permission from HQ. I… told them we both were feeling under the weather.”

Levi had anticipated this and planned. You sighed softly as you looked out at the woods, and you took a deep breath. 

“Alright... Give me about two hours and I’ll be there.” You said as you heard nothing but silence at the other end.

“I’m at the diner, I’ll wait for you there.” He said softly before wishing you a safe drive and hanging up the phone. Feeling the tension even from this distance, you took a deep breath as you mentally prepared for the conversation to come.

✩₊˚.⋆☾𓃦☽⋆⁺₊✧

You arrived, and it was grey and overcast, and the diner was surprisingly full of bustle. So was the town. It was known for its cider and baked goods, especially around Halloween. The delightful smell was all around you. You would have appreciated it more if you were calm.

You stepped into the diner, seeing Levi sitting at his usual booth. He was wearing olive-colored flannel. It was the first time in days you hadn’t seen him in a mask as people talked and chatted all around the restaurant. He watched you cautiously as you came to sit down before him. He took a deep breath, appearing to wince as he braced on the table.

Neither of you was sure what to say. What was normally relaxed between you both was now charged and tense.

“I am sure you know by now. There is something different about me,” He said as he stared out the window and looked at the passersby on the sidewalk.

“And I know… you’ve been missing my dog, Scout.” He paused, feeling tense as he folded his hands on the table. You could hear your heart pounding in your chest as you kept your eyes on him. His cheeks were already flushed as it seemed he was trying to focus on speaking and sitting still.

“I am sorry I’ve not been honest with you,” he said as he continued.

“What I am is considered to be folklore, a superstition…But I can assure you what I am is very real…”

You felt the world around you begin to slow down as all of your suspicions began to be realized. 

“You’re Scout, and you’ve been my friend and coworker. You are also the man who has been visiting me… in my dreams,” You said as you looked up into his eyes. He nodded silently, sucking in a deep breath as you both seemed to remember at the same time. How good it felt to be together, to be tied together so intimately. You could feel your body warm as the thoughts clearly played out in your mind; now the sweeping darkness of those nights had been replaced by the sight of him, bare and pressed against your skin, as a veil seemed to lift even further from your mind.

It had been him, this entire time. Those blue-grey eyes warm with sentiment as you had both kissed and explored night after night.

He panted as he took a swig of water, those blue-grey irises flashing silver as he looked at you. The smell of all the people and food helped him maintain his sanity. You had smelled so good, and you felt even better. It was taking everything in him not to take you and run back into the woods, to take you to the nest his instincts had compelled him to build over the course of this week. He fussed as he readied the cave and dwelling he wanted to steal you into. He took little items that smelled like both of you. Towels, blankets, clothing, and other things he could find and would not be missed. He rubbed his body all along the dwelling as he thought of you. 

He was shaken from his reverie as you spoke in an even timbre. 

“Levi, I am not afraid of you, and don’t mind what you are.” You said quietly as you looked into his eyes. To this, he growled, you could feel it roll in his throat— sounds of people chattering drowning it out.

“I lied to you. Not once, but several times about what and who I am.” He said as his hair seemed to bristle at the back of his neck. 

“And I nearly claimed what my wolf wanted, whether you wanted it or not. I’m no better than the asshole you left,” He said as he huffed, feeling the tremors in his bones. It was the night before the full moon, and despite it being afternoon, it was already so hard for him to maintain his form. 

“Don’t say that, don’t say those terrible things. You know my ex was an awful man, and he is nothing like you… You are responsible, serious, and can be funny and kind.” You said as your heart began to tighten in your chest.

“You’re attentive, and you’ve been with me during one of the hardest moments of my life. He scared away all my friends…and I stopped believing in myself,” You said as your voice began to tremble with tears. 

“You didn’t treat me like I was fragile, and you kept me warm all those cold nights. You’re the first man who has cooked for me… held his arm out for me whenever we would take our walks.”

“I hypnotized you while I stole into your room at night, because I couldn’t keep my hands off of you. I couldn’t fight my instincts or my desires— no matter how much I tried.” Levi countered roughly. 

“You were afraid that I would see who or what you really were, and run. But I’ve seen you and felt you. Even when I wasn’t sure it was you, I wanted it to be. I was just as hungry for it as you were, and you know it.” You said with some tears falling from your cheeks. 

“The last night you were with me, I saw you for what you really were. I felt you turn beneath me and looked right into your eyes.”

To this, he seemed caught off guard, eyes widening with shock.

“That’s impossible,” He said as he wiped some sweat from his brow. That magic he had used was even more profound and more ancient than he was, and what his kind had used to survive all this time. How could you have broken through that and seen what he didn’t want you to see? Was the bond between you both already becoming strong enough that you could withstand his influence?

“You are only supposed to see what I allow,” He said in shock. 

You recalled the sensation of the fur of his cheek on your fingertips as you traced all along down his maw. You remembered forgetting to breathe as his tongue overpowered and danced with yours as you kissed him back. 

The intensity of what he felt for you caused him to shift that night. If he had been frank with himself, he would have admitted it was more than lust. He adored you already. He had been waiting centuries for you. You were the one who would captivate him and make him submit to everything you were. If werewolves were lucky enough, they would experience this kind of connection once, whether it was with another werewolf or a human lover. 

Werewolves were loyal, even if you hadn’t sealed your bond yet. He’d still be committed, even to the point of death… even if you didn’t choose him. 

“I loved what I saw then and still love what I see now,” You said as you wiped your tears and took one of his hands in yours. He felt as if his heart was breaking, sensing and feeling the sincerity of your words. It didn’t feel deserved. 

“Regardless, for the next three nights. No matter what we feel. You must stay here in town,” Levi said gravely as you felt the tremors in his hand as he gently squeezed yours back. He was burning to the touch.

“I’ve arranged for you to stay here at the local hotel. Because… for the next three days, I won’t be myself. I need you to trust me on this and not fight me.” He said as he withdrew his hand and huffed. 

“I won’t be able to stop what I’ll do. My wolf takes what it wants on the three nights closest to the full moon. I can’t even change back into a man if I wanted to.” 

You felt yourself shrink into your seat as you saw him struggle even now. You could only imagine how horrible it would have been to endure that level of loss of autonomy every month for a lifetime.

“I want you to choose to enjoy your life now that you have a second chance… because if I saw you on a night like this, my wolf wouldn’t consider your feelings. I’d take what I wanted… however I wanted,” Levi said, feeling a bit of disgust at this truth. The wolf deep in the pit of him leaned into lust, burning him with every image of your nude body and what could be done to it. 

You could feel the heat bubbling between the two of you; it was palpable. You wished you could take him back to the hotel to continue savoring what you had been enjoying every night he came to your room. Would it really be so bad to allow yourself to be caught up in letting yourself be used in the way you both desired?

Levi huffed as he snapped his eyes shut. His eyes had rolled up into the back of his head from longing. He could smell your desire and hear your heartbeat pick up at what he had said. You could see fangs begin to form as he tried to steady his breath. He was crumbling and crumbling fast as he sighed. He stuck his hand into the cup of ice water and dragged ice cubes along his neck. 

“We can talk about everything once you are feeling better, Levi. I’ll stay in the hotel, don’t worry. But we’ve got to get out of here before you get worse.” You urged as you motioned to stand. He couldn’t agree more, as you both left more than enough money on the table and made your way out of the crowded little diner.

✩₊˚.⋆☾𓃦☽⋆⁺₊✧

He waved at you from within his Jeep, speaking to you through his cheap phone, which he had begrudgingly bought that day to stay in contact with you. You had finally exchanged phone numbers. 

“Levi, promise me you’ll call me when you are feeling better? I’ll be worried about you,” You murmured. 

“Of course I’ll call you. Don’t worry about me, just pray that I don’t get the crazy idea to run all the way back into town and steal you out of your bed.” He said with a chuckle. To this, you laughed heartily, the levity needed to balance such an intense reveal that was so morally grey it astonished even you. 

I mean, you had dated crazy and had an insane ex-husband. But now you were considering the very real possibility of sharing a life with a werewolf— an actual creature of the night that doted on you and wanted nothing more than to break your back? You were going to make the very intentional decision to call your therapist on Monday and talk about this hell of a hypothetical. 

“I mean, would that really be so bad, babe?” You said beside yourself— to this, you heard a sincere laugh on the other end of the line. 

“Well, shit… I mean, if you want to be mated for life, then perhaps not? Especially on a night like this. But, I really think that’s a decision you should consider while you’ve got the downtime for it, don’t ya think?” He said as he chuffed.

“Mated? For life?” You said as you sat up in your chair and looked at him incredulously.

“Yes, for your natural life, you human brat,” His words were slow and intentional as he continued.

“That’s why I want you to choose and decide freely, no matter what I might feel for you,” He huffed.

The sentiment made your heart ache. Despite the desire floating between his words, his commitment to your agency made you feel deeply. 

“There’s something different about what you and I share. There is more to explain, but you've got to check in now, and I’ve got to start heading back to the station before I can’t hold back the transformation any longer.” Levi’s eyes are glowing now, his fangs just visible below his lips. 

“Please, be safe. Promise me you will?” You pleaded.

“Yeah, _____. You have my word. I apologize for lying before, I won't do it again... And no more tricks,” He said as softly as he could. 

“I forgive you, just please, hurry back to me soon,” You said with longing as you looked at each other through your car windows. You could tell he didn’t want to leave, and you didn’t like that either. You both said your goodbyes as you hung up the phone. He began to pull away from the parking lot before he lost his nerve.

The hotel was nice and cozy as you made your way in. You fortunately brought some of your old clothing along with you in your car as you stepped up to your room. Cozy and warm, and the bed was more to your liking. 

Upon turning on the lights, you saw a little stuffed wolf plushie between the pillows, which made you chuckle. He had really planned this out and planned it out well. More than anything your exes had ever done for you, as you saw a little note written in his cursive script.

“I know it’s not me or Scout, but maybe this little guy can keep you company. - Levi” You blushed at the tenderness of it as you pulled the stuffed animal into your arms. A future with a man this caring didn't sound so bad— especially since you knew he could keep you warm in more ways than one. 

You showered and got ready for bed, taking your plushie and giving it a squeeze. You closed your eyes as you left on the TV for some white noise as you tried to wait up to see that Levi had made it safely. You dozed, not feeling the passage of time, as you felt as warm and comfortable as you had felt in days.

When you felt your phone ding and vibrate, you went on to look through your social media. Upon further inspection, you saw you had some text messages. You checked your phone eagerly, hoping it was Levi letting you know he had made it back safely before he signed off for the next three days.

You saw that the number was unrecognizable and rolled your eyes, thinking it was a little more than spam and junk as you opened the message. Your heart nearly fell out of your chest. 

A picture of you and Levi talking at the diner earlier today. Your hands began to tremble as you saw the text below the image. 

“Think you could get over me so soon?” The words made your blood go to ice in your veins.

“If you want to see him alive, you’ll come to the ranger station as soon as you can. I’ll be waiting.” 

Your mind sputtered and raced as you looked at your watch. It was well past midnight, and you’d slept for hours at this point. How could your ex have found you? Out here in the wilderness?

What was worse, had he heard what Levi had revealed to you in the diner? Did he trap him or hurt him? You stumbled around your room, bumping your arms and legs on corners and furniture as you threw on your warmest clothing and weatherproof coat and grabbed your shotgun. Pure adrenaline propelled you down the flights of stairs and out of the lobby. 

You called Levi’s phone, only to find it went straight to voicemail as you ran to your SUV and revved the engine. He wasn’t going to have you or Levi, no matter the cost. 

You threw the door to your car open, fumbling with the keys as you revved the engine and set your shotgun down at your side. Before you could begin to pull out of the parking lot, a rag drenched in liquid came to wrap around your mouth and nose. You reached back, pulling a knife and stabbing backwards as you tried to control your breathing. You had made contact with your ex’s arm, shredding along before you felt yourself lose consciousness. 

✩₊˚.⋆☾𓃦☽⋆⁺₊✧

You woke up bound in the darkness. You knew you had to be outside, feeling the cold, damp earth and underbrush around you. Your ex-husband was fumbling with his wound, the bleeding proving to be more intense than either of you had anticipated. 

“So you learned self-defense. Not bad.” He said with frustration in his tone as he tightened the gauze and bandages, guided by the little flashlight he had wedged between his shoulder and cheek.

“Though it will be costly for you when I press charges. Not until after I have my fun with you, though.” He said with a chuckle, the ones he reserved for when he was furious. 

“No one makes a fool out of me. Especially not you with your new little boyfriend.” The vitriol in his voice made you feel sick. Would he send you to jail? Just what was he going to do to you? Your eyes strained as you looked through the dark. You were in the woods, but it was so hard to tell if he had taken you back towards civilization or further into the unknown. 

You trembled, struggling with your bindings as your ex began to stalk over towards you. Adrenaline caused you to scream and call for help. Your ex merely chuckled, running his fingers through his beard as he took the knife you had taken to slice into his side, and he began to cut open your clothing to expose your skin to the night air.

“Does he even know how to touch you like I do? Hmm, ______? Doesn’t matter who has you next, you’ll always be my girl, and you need to be reminded of that,” He gritted out as you began to cry. At this point, you weren’t sure you’d make it out alive. You were pretty sure he had broken entirely from reality.

That’s when impulse and instinct compelled you to whistle. Your voice trembled and fumbled as you tried, a clean whistle finally being produced before your lips could be covered by your ex’s heavy hand. Tears began to fall as you struggled and bit against his palm. He was so much taller than you, so much stronger than you.

It was over, he’d found you, and he was going to take you away from everything you had begun to love. 

That’s when you heard it, a piercing howl that broke through the mountain range and caused your ex to pause. The sound of it terrified you, too. You had heard Levi’s clean and crisp howl before, but this one was decidedly different and more horrifying than you remembered.

Another soon joined that howl as they rang out in the distance. You began to panic, hearing the sound of brush and the shuffling approach of you and your ex from both sides. Before your ex could react, a grey colored wolf crashed into him, maw snapping right into his neck as it pounced him over. He screamed as it bit him roughly and tore into his shirt— judging from the size of the hulking animal, you knew it had to be another werewolf. Its eyes shimmered a bright yellow as it snarled and snapped its fangs. 

That’s when you heard a familiar howl as a flash of black fur and fangs hopped over you deftly and snapped into the grey wolf's neck. Levi was smaller and more lithe than the hulking grey werewolf, but you could tell there was a decided difference in skill. The other creature was big and powerful, but Levi was fast, impossibly fast and agile. He took bites of fur and flesh as he darted around the creature before it could react. The other animal called out in vain as it took swipes at the ground and the surrounding trees. 

It seemed it was about to depart when it scented the air and those golden eyes began to brim brightly as they took in the sight of you. You could see intent in those eyes; they were covetous as you heard the words swirl into your mind.

I’ll take you for myself, female. The rival said as he looked at your body hungrily. 

You began to squirm as you saw your ex-husband's body lying limply a couple of feet away. It had taken seconds for that creature to end his life. You shut your eyes when you saw it begin to bolt in your direction. 

Two massive bodies collided as the wolves rolled around in the brush, uprooting trees and brush as they tumbled and bit at each other. You were worried sick, hearing Levi whimper and yelp loudly as the grey intruder mashed his fangs into his shoulder.

You were helpless to help, still bound as you wriggled on the ground. You began to try to move and roll towards your ex, hoping you could find something to cut the rope that bound you. Levi snarled as he managed to slash the intruder across the eyes before he was sent careening into a thick tree that was easily uprooted from the force of the blow. The grey werewolf unhanded him and began to make a blind charge, incensed by having been blinded. You screamed and called out, hoping it would give Levi enough time to recover. Spine-chilling seconds passed as Levi had managed to leap right back onto the creature’s back to bite onto the scruff of its neck to pull it back.

They both snarled as they disappeared into the bushes and tumbled down the expanse of the sloped side of the trail. Finally able to take the knife out of your ex’s cold hands, you worked at the ropes, first your hands, then your legs set free. Before you could stand, a large wet nose pressed itself to your cheek.

Those silver eyes were tired and weak as they regarded you. A soft whine left Levi’s lips as his eyes flickered between you and the scene, seeing that your ex had very clearly intended the worst. The animal in him was only quieted now because of how much energy the fight had taken and how much effort it would take to heal. For all intents and purposes, it was a miracle he hadn’t taken you immediately like his wolf had wanted, especially on a night like this. The other werewolf had immediately been seduced, a testament to how intoxicating you were. 

“Levi…” You said as you felt tears sting in your eyes as you reached out to pull him close. He thought himself soothed by your scent and the fact that he had been able to intervene. He had smelt your presence in the woods, detecting another person with you. He could practically sense the malice of the other person and surmised it had been your ex who had dragged you this deep into the preserve to do as he wanted with you. As he ran to your location, Levi began to sense even more concerns. 

Levi knew his woods; he was familiar with his territory. He felt you there. The biggest concern was the presence of an interloper— a rival male trying to encroach because they sensed Levi was coming into some power. Levi had been lax before, seeming to tolerate others who passed by, but now that he had you to care for, that all had to change. You were his, and this land was to be yours. 

Levi huffed— seeing the way your top had been cut open and the coat torn to shreds. The sight made him snarl as he pulled away. He loomed over your ex’s body as he roared. When he saw even a ghost of life in the man’s eyes as he looked back up at him, he leaned down, speaking in an inhuman and rough voice as he willed his vocal cords to speak.

“This ending is much too good for you sack of shit. Despair, because every time you come back and are reborn, it will be me you have to face,” Levi said as his massive paw came smacking down onto his neck with a sickening crack. 

Levi growled as he bit into the lifeless body, shaking his head feverishly as he chucked it off into the ravine where he had thrown the intruder moments ago. He hadn’t asked you for permission or even considered that there could be reservations about his actions, but when he saw the relief in your eyes, he sighed. 

Good fucking riddance; you both thought nearly in unison.

Levi bid you to hop onto his back as he inclined his massive body to you. As soon as you got a firm hold of his fur, you began to make your way through the brush and deep into the forest. 

✩₊˚.⋆☾𓃦☽⋆⁺₊✧

You cuddled into him, those silver eyes glowing brightly as he whined and curled his body around you. The gashes had begun to close up as you searched through his fur. He could heal remarkably fast, a gift and a curse to his kind, one that would heal unless the wound was inflicted with silver or their necks were snapped. He whimpered, feeling your hands soothe at his maw and head, where he had also received cuts and scrapes. 

He had brought you back to the nest that was sheltered and tucked out of view. It was hewn into the side of the falls he had taken you to during one of your hikes. The blankets and other warm and plush items helped to set you at ease. You fished one of his shirts out of the pile, smiling when you found it still smelled faintly of his cologne and sweat. His eyes had softened, seeing you in his shirt as he nuzzled into your hands. 

“You protected me, and saved me,” You said as you kissed the top of his head and his cheeks. His tail thumped weakly as he curled around you. 

Not nearly quick enough. He said as he spoke into your mind. His voice was thick and distorted, barely human. You could tell that the man within was forced to the forefront with sheer will.

“The fact you were even able to save me was a miracle enough…” You said grimly as you snuggled into his fur. He merely blinked in response, the concern still not having left his features. As he took another deep whiff of you, he whined— remembering why it would be so hard to have you here. He winced as he closed his eyes.

“Shhh, please, baby. Let's rest. I’ll hike out of here in the morning. I know this is hard for you.” You murmured as you patted him gently, as he lay on his side. His silver eyes were warm and adoring as he took in the sight of you here with him. He never thought he’d seen something more beautiful than you as he looked at you with longing. Something made you tingle as you felt him sniff through your hair. 

I wish you could stay… but I fear what I will do. He murmured into your mind. The words were sincere and enticing as he lay down his head and settled with you there. 

“Let me stay by your side tonight. I know you wouldn’t hurt me. Let me help bear your burdens just like you’ve helped me.” You said as you nestled in close. He huffed as he closed his eyes, the words seeming to touch something within him. You both fell into a warm, comfortable sleep before either of you could come up with a response.

✩₊˚.⋆☾𓃦☽⋆⁺₊✧

In the cool of the morning, you felt hands trace along your skin. The warmth and familiar weight of the dream visitor, who you now knew had been Levi all along, made you tremble. You smiled softly, feeling his hands gently begin to tease and coax you back to wakefulness. 

“I should have sent you home while I had the chance,” He murmured breathlessly as he lifted your shirt and began to kiss the curve of your breasts, savoring the taste of sweat and dew that collected there. You sighed as you slowly drifted into awareness.

“But I wanted to be there for you, remember?” You said sleepily, as you pulled up your shirt and began to fiddle with your pants.

“But, what if I get carried away? I won’t be able to stop myself,” He whined as he helped you out of your pants. You felt yourself shudder as he tugged off your panties in an easy movement, too. The early morning air and mist highlighted the heat of his skin against yours. His lips were relentless as they left a trail of open-mouthed kisses down your chest, your stomach, and then your thighs.

“Your body might make me decide,” He rasped as he panted and nipped at the soft skin of your inner thighs. You gasped softly, sleep still clinging heavily to you as his actions began to flood you with a delightful, languid warmth. You could certainly get used to waking up like this, especially as you felt his lips finally kiss and suck gently at that delicate nub. You began to moan softly, feeling his tongue and lips in that place you had longed for him to be since the dreams had started.

“What if I want to be yours? What if this is what I chose, baby?” You said with sincerity, weaving your hands into his raven hair. His tongue began to taste greedily. Hot hands parted your thighs and held them securely. Steel colored eyes locked with yours in a way that made you quake. 

Then be mine. All mine. The words rang out in your mind clearly.

He pulled away, a thin line of your dew and his spittle at his bottom lip as he huffed, and bared his fangs at you. His pupils were blown open, a thin ring of silver barely hanging on as he lapped you off of his lips without shame. The sight alone made you moan, as you felt him press his face and lips against your folds as if he wanted to drown in you. He let his tongue swirl and taste even as he panted and hummed against your core.

“Please, I want to be all yours,” You moaned aloud as you pressed against his face and made him snarl between your legs. Last night made it very clear that you cared enough about him to come and find him, that you might be falling in love with this creature that you had completely undone.

You felt his body begin to snap and pop in the way it had when you had first seen him for what he really was. Levi, the man, melted into the wolf, your wolf, as his cold nose pressed itself to your clit while his long tongue lapped against your folds with a deep huff. He bared his fangs as his nose flared and his tongue pressed against your entrance as it lapped its way all the way into the deepest part of you. 

You moaned loudly, feeling that long, inhuman tongue taste and soothe you in a way you had never known was possible. Everything was hot and scalding as you pressed against the maw that hung open against you. His fangs excited you, where his nose rubbed mercilessly at your now swollen clit while his tongue worked its way into you in circles that made you see white. His tongue searched and tasted you from deep within, coiling and pressing where he felt you twitch and tighten. His tongue caressed and pressed against whatever tender wall that would make you leak against maw. He wanted it all. Your cries and whimpers were music to his ears as he huffed and drank in the taste of strawberries. 

You came without warning as he growled, lips of his maw pressing against your folds as he brazenly lapped up every bit of your nectar that had spilled for him. You could practically feel his pleasure as he groaned and turned you onto your stomach. His large paws caught at your hips and pulled you against him as his tip pressed in, slipping into you entirely with a pop as you whimpered.

This was it, and you couldn’t be more wanting for it as he held you up against him. You could feel his fur against your back as his paw held securely at your navel as he began to buck into you with a snarl. You were already so wet and sore, and his cock was so hot and burning that it shocked you when all you could do was will your hands to take hold of his arm as he smacked his hips onto your bottom. Your mouth hung open as you panted, moans coming out in delicate huffs as you looked back up into those silver eyes. 

His tail curled as he bent over you like the animal he was. He leaned down, pressing his maw onto your lips as his tongue overwhelmed and danced with yours. You could taste yourself all over him, trembling as you felt the way it intoxicated him. Have you always tasted this sweet? Smelt this good? 

My human, my mate, my beloved. Levi said as he spoke into your mind, unable to occult his sentiments any longer. You could feel yourself grab hold of those words, your body giving and opening to him as you came again. Maybe what you both shared was inevitable and just as ancient as his lineage…

He nearly howled as he lapped against your lips, pressing himself deeper as you felt him begin to expand within you in a way that burned and felt sharp. You wanted this pain, wanted it to burn as you heard the sound of his feverish movements reverberate off the smooth stone of the nest. The skin of your navel expanded in a way that made you go breathless. 

Pads of his paws smoothed at your nipples, to coax out as much pleasure as he could. He finally gave in to what his instincts had compelled him to do. The words in your mind spoke in a language more profound and more ancient than the two of you. Something about it made you greedy, and hungry for it— the longing you’d felt for years for a lover now directed solely towards him and every deep and luxurious move of those hips. You knew it was the same for him, you feeling the devotion and yearning he had held onto for years as he held you close. He kissed you deeply as he rolled his hips. The pain melted into pleasure as a thick knot pressed into you, something else slipping in as his hips continued to buck. You broke again, feeling him spill hotly within you and against your thighs. 

His howl broke over you as everything went white and burning for you both. You screamed his name like you had been wanting to since the first time he had filled you. While his howl was a song, announcing to all that you were his and his alone.  

✩₊˚.⋆☾𓃦☽⋆⁺₊✧

He looked to you with eyes filled with adoration. For the first time in all his years, he had finally been able to rein in the wolf who submitted itself to you without hesitation. The fireplace crackled as he pulled you into his arms on the shared mound of sleeping bags and blankets you had piled into the lobby of the ranger station. 

You had scarcely been able to keep your hands off each other for these past three days. He was going to get up soon, make you breakfast to help you replenish what had been lost when he had taken you on the lobby counter a couple of hours ago. He smirked at the memory.

What had been a light-hearted joke had become a rough make-out where he tore down your pants as he sat you down and unbuckled his own. 

You had some tricks of your own, or so he was learning very quickly. You had already hopped off the desk as you tugged down his boxers and licked a scalding trail from the base of his cock all the way to his tip. The sight was so sultry it had set him on fire instantly.

His thumb traced the curve of your jaw as you took him between your lips and deep into your mouth. He growled as he looked down at you and groaned. Your hand deftly held at his base as you worked yourself up and down, languidly savoring his taste. He felt so good in your mouth and tingled at the back of your throat. You knew he felt even better from within as you began to play with yourself at the thoughts. You were already hot and achy as your fingers coaxed and rubbed at your clit and folds while you sucked at him with longing. He could smell how wet you were already, if not hear it as you played delicately.

The sight alone could have made him come. He had to close his eyes and bite his lip in a way that drew blood as you gagged when he pressed his hips forward. Seeing the bit of tears that formed at the corners of your eyes made him moan your name aloud. After a couple of pumps, he pulled you up to his lips.

“Sit on the counter,” He panted. He couldn’t wait for you to comply as he lapped the taste of himself from your lips. He picked you up as he laid you down onto the documents and maps strewn there. Files, books, and papers were shoved off the desk as you giggled with thrill. 

He leaned down to have a taste. Sweeter than candy and sugar, as he began lapping up what was gathered there and spitting it against your folds before gathering it all up in his mouth again. He finally drank from you. The taste had destroyed all decorum as he let some spittle fall from his lips to yours as you lay against the counter, thighs in his arms. He was just as hungry and needy for you as you were for him. Your cheeks were rosy as you panted, seeing him so sultry and hot for you. 

He shoved the wolf to the back of his mind, wanting you all for himself as he held your legs at your shoulders. His fangs nicked at your ankles as he looked down at you. He groaned as his aching cock teased before slipping into you languidly. 

“Touch yourself for me, show me how you like it,” He commanded as he forced himself to still. You brought your hand down to gently tease and soothe that nub as your other hand came up to palm at your breast. You could feel him twitch, his hips moving slightly as he saw you pant, loving the feeling of being filled by him. 

“Good, very good,” He growled, as he began to pump himself deeply within. He loved the way your breasts moved as he smacked in as deep as his balls would allow. He had already memorized the way your mouth would hang open as you got close. He had also memorized how to work hips in those circles he knew would make you scream. He would never get enough of this and could never have enough of you. 

You were beautiful when you came and even more gorgeous when he had been the one to bring you to that peak. He trembled with satisfaction, wanting nothing more than to please you.

The memory had made him hard again, his lips pressing against yours. He kissed you tenderly. You were sleepy as your leg came to drape over his hip. You knew just what your good boy wanted, even if you wanted some more sleep. You nodded and permitted him, sleepily kissing him back as you felt him sheathe himself within you gently. 

“I’m supposed to make you breakfast, but…,” His body quaked as he held you close. You sighed softly as you wrapped your arms around him, pulling the blankets close. 

“Mmm, slowly, baby? Can you give it to me slowly?” You murmured. He nodded as he rolled his hips gingerly and deeply from within. The pressure and heat this would build would feel amazing at its peak. You kissed each other in the way you had been longing to, slowly and lovingly, as you ran your fingers through each other’s hair, as the gentle pumps gradually picked up their pace. It was bliss as you began to move against him as he cradled you.

As you kissed and bodies entwined, the words for love had slipped from both of your lips as you made love to the man within him, and he made love to the animal within you. 

✩₊˚.⋆☾𓃦☽⋆⁺₊✧

3 years later. 

The police report had officially cited that your ex had tried to kill you and had been mauled by a bear while out in pursuit of you. Fortunately, the hotel had logged your absence, and the parking attendant saw something strange as he saw a man emerge from your car when you had been the only one to get in. One of your ex’s friends, a sheriff, had been paid off to leak your address and number from his database.

The case was so bizarre that the local news outlets had even covered it, and it went down in infamy. It earned you the position of a local celebrity who had survived her ex and even survived a bear attack all in the same night. 

You smiled as you stepped into the dark of the woods. Your body was warm and achy, as you felt the draw of the moon tug and pull you into the brush. It felt so good to be bare against the cool night air. Levi had said being naked was best, especially the first time you would shift. It would allow your body to move as it needed to when you did. As you stepped through the brush. That’s where you caught sight of him already bare and waiting for you.

Your husband was waiting for you in the pale moonlight. You and Levi had gotten married, down at the little diner where you had milkshakes and burgers on Fridays. The pastor down the way was more than happy and thrilled to have a new couple in the congregation, and all the line cooks and waitresses were happy… save the one who had a long-standing crush on Levi. 

While it took much consideration and time, time he strongly urged you to take... it was only a month ago that you finally decided. 

You walked into Levi’s arms, his skin warm and soothing against yours as you felt the transformation burning in your bones. He leaned in to nuzzle your cheek with his, peering at the two little marks he had left at your shoulder when he had bitten you and turned you. His lips were soft as he kissed you there tenderly. All of his knowledge and wisdom had flowed into you from the moment his fangs broke skin.

You hadn’t transformed before tonight, feeling nerves catch in your gut as you looked into his eyes. 

“Don’t worry, I’ll be right beside you. Your first hunt will be the one you remember for the rest of your life, so remember our training. I’ll also be in charge of keeping you from snacking on any campers, so you don’t have to worry about that, alright?” Levi said with a hint of sarcasm. You chuckled as you leaned in to kiss him, needing the bit of levity as he tried to still your nerves.

It was as you kissed that you felt your body begin to transform. Your bones expanded as he gently let you go. When the burning pain subsided and you came to, everything was alive and brimming with life as you heard the sigh of the trees and smelt all the little creeping creatures and beasts in the woods. Your mate nuzzled you, with beautiful black fur and silver eyes, a contrast to your dark brown coat and glowing orange optics. 

You both ran side by side into the forest and trees. You both disappeared, finally hearing the beautiful words in his howling deciphered as he sang with pride. 

He declared that his singing would no longer be bitter and lonely. Those days were long gone, with the one he loved the most running at his side until the day his fur and muzzle went grey. Your singing joined his as the chorus, vowing to never yield to loneliness again. All your days would be honeyed and abundant as you supported one another and kept each other strong.

You both looked fondly upon this night as just the beginning of your eternal love story.