FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

OK...trying to keep some of my posts consistent...hopefully i might even have some more down the road within a week or so....

"Hey! Ok you two, I want a picture!" Mr. Vadikson said very cheerfully to Jake and Lucas. He chuckled as the two jumped and looked behind them. He had a camera in his paws and he could see Jake was trying to stop his heart from pounding. He looked between them and smiled. The bear was wearing a pair of dark blue jeans, a white shirt, and the brown jacket he'd bought for him-which made the bear look good, even he had to admit. The bear's glasses made him look sophisticated and gave him a scholarly look, which was at times undone by the way Jake would give a goofy grin. His son was wearing a pair of jeans also with a grey shirt and black jacket.

"Dad, you want to just come up...like a normal person and ask next time?" Lucas asked his father.

Mr. Vadikson chuckled, "There's no fun in that now is there?" he asked and looked over at Jake, "You OK if I take a picture?"

Jake nodded, "Yeah...I guess..."

Mr. Vadikson smiled and ushered them over to the Christmas tree. They had it up still and the wolf wanted to get a picture of the two together so that he could put it up next year-if they were still together. At the thought he stopped for a second and shook his head, he didn't think they would break up, not again. He looked through the lens and sighed, "You guys...really?"

Jake and Lucas were standing next to each other, but they weren't close. They were basically at shoulders width apart, as if they didn't even know each other. Lucas looked at his father, "What?"

"Do you two even know each other?" Mr. Vadikson asked, the two were obviously embarrassed. It was their first time taking a picture together. He gestured for them to move closer together, "Come-on, act like you at least know one another,"

Jake looked over at Lucas and smiled, as they both took a step closer to one another. The wolf smiled and they were now touching, standing side by side, but Mr. Vadikson wasn't happy yet.

"Really?" Mr. Vadikson asked and set down the camera. He walked over to the two and sighed at his son. He took the wolf's arm and slung it around the bear, and then repeated the process for Jake, making the bear put his arm over his son's neck. After a moment he took a step back and smiled, they actually looked like a couple now. He grabbed the picture and sighed again, "Come-on you two...smile!"

Jake smiled and saw a flash, which blinded him for a second. He wasn't sure why but it seemed like his glasses made the flashes worse, and he sighed. The wolf below him smiled and pulled on him gently. Jake smiled and returned the pull, "Are we done now?"

Mr. Vadikson saw the two and took another quick picture, this time not telling them about it. This one was better than the other one was though, because they actually looked a bit relaxed. As soon as he took it Jake seemed to be dizzy though, and he remembered the bear had photophobia, "Sorry...I forgot you don't do well with bright lights..."

Jake shook his head a little, "It's fine,"

"Well, you two actually looked like you do when you aren't worried...you know, like an actual couple. I couldn't let the picture go to waste," Mr. Vadikson said with a laugh.

Lucas smiled, "We don't look like a normal couple other times?"

"You two are the worst photo takers I've ever seen," Mr. Vadikson said with a chuckle, "It's like making a tree smile,"

Jake chuckled and felt Lucas pull on him. He looked down at the wolf who leaned up and kissed him lightly on the cheek. He blushed and felt the wolf move directly in front of him.

Lucas pulled on his mate's arms so that Jake was hugging him and he nestled back into the bear's chest. He smiled and felt Jake relax a little, "This better?"

Mr. Vadikson looked at the two and chuckled; "Almost..." he said and looked at Jake, who was just staring at him.

Jake wondered what was wrong and looked down at Lucas. The wolf smiled and mouthed some words to him. It didn't take him long to catch onto what Lucas mean and he leaned down. He rested his head on top of the wolf's head and pulled lightly on his mate. He stared at the camera and saw another flash, wincing a bit as the light seemed to slam against him. He relaxed, ignoring the camera and focused on the wolf below him now. He smiled and continued to look downward in Lucas's direction. There was another flash and he heard Mr. Vadikson chuckle. He didn't really notice the flashes though, instead enjoying his time near the wolf. After a second Lucas looked up and kissed him under the muzzle.

"Good job Big-guy," Lucas said and went over to his father.

Jake followed behind the wolf and Mr. Vadikson showed them the photos. The first was bad, to say the least, the second was OK, the third one was the better of those.

"I like these the most I think," Mr. Vadikson said and showed the third most recent picture. It was the one where Jake was behind the wolf holding him. They were both smiling at the camera. Mr. Vadikson smiled, "I actually think I'll use one of these though," he said and showed the next to pictures. It was the same position but neither of them were looking at the camera now. Instead it was evident that Jake was looking down towards Lucas, who was looking up at him-both smiling genuinely and contently.

Jake smiled, "I like that one..." he said and felt Lucas put an arm around him. They looked at the other picture, which was basically an exact copy.

"Much better...see, that's what I was expecting," Mr. Vadikson said with a smile. He liked the pictures, but hadn't truly expected them to be so good. He knew that neither his son nor the bear were very mushy in public, even around him. He looked back at the two, "I'll get you two a copy if you want,"

Lucas looked over at Jake who looked at him in return. He chuckled lightly and looked back at his father, "I guess we both kind of like it,"

Mr. Vadikson smiled and nodded, "I'll make some copies later..."

"Thanks..." Lucas said and looked at Jake, "So...want to watch TV?"

Jake nodded and they went off to the living room. The wolf sat down on the couch and Jake sat down beside him. He felt Lucas lean against him and he pulled on Lucas, both lying down now. His mate turned to a show, it was in the middle of it. It was a crime show about drug dealing and the usual twist that every show carried. He nuzzled the wolf and smiled, "I'm betting that the cat is a dirty cop,"

Lucas shook his head, "Nah...I think the wife knew what was going on,"

Jake chuckled, "You always think it's the wife,"

"It's the guy they're interrogating," Mr. Vadikson said as he sat down in a chair. He looked over at the two, "Sorry...mind if I join you?"

Lucas laughed, "Why would we...it's your living room...is this show OK with you?"

Mr. Vadikson smiled, "What? Yeah, I like this one...not as good as the originals...this is just one of many remakes to a crime show, but it's pretty good. You guys should know I like it...I've already told you who did it,"

Lucas chuckled and they watched the show. For the next twenty minutes it was silent until the end. Lucas looked up at his father, "You jerk! You really did spoil who did it,"

Jake laughed, "You just can't accept that you're wrong,"

"That's not the only part to it..." Lucas said with a chuckle.

Mr. Vadikson laughed, "Yeah...sure, whatever you want to tell yourself,"

Lucas sighed, "Fine...you two can be jerks, see what I care," he said sourly and turned up the volume a little. He heard the two of them laugh and felt Jake pull on him. The bear kissed him on the top of the head and he nestled closer to Jake.

They watched the next episode and this time Jake guessed who was guilty correctly. The bear seemed confident in his choice, and he was more than happy to rub it in that he had been right. When the show was over Mr. Vadikson stood up and chuckled.

"Well...I'm heading to sleep...good-night love birds," Mr. Vadikson told the two and walked off. As he did he turned off the lights throughout the house, and the last light to go out was the one in the hallway leading to his bedroom.

Lucas felt his face go red and could only imagine how the bear looked now, but knew that Jake was trying to hide his face. The bear was burying his head in the back of his neck, and Lucas couldn't help but chuckle. He turned around in the bear's arms and looked at Jake, who was blushing, visible even behind his fur. Lucas nuzzled the bear and smiled, "You may want to stop blushing now before you run out of blood in your body,"

Jake pushed the wolf, "Shut-up..." he said. He didn't know why but out of all the people he knew, he was pretty sure he was the only one who blushed so frequently. He heard Lucas chuckle and felt his mate kiss him on the nose. He looked at the wolf and returned the kiss, "Well...you're father is right in a way..."

Lucas smiled, "Really? About what; because he went to sleep?"

Jake smiled, "No, but I love you..."

Lucas chuckled and hugged Jake, "I love you too,"

"OK...he was entirely right," Jake said and hugged Lucas in return. The wolf nuzzled him and he let out a sigh. It felt great to be near the wolf again, he'd missed his mate every moment he had been back at his old home. He kissed Lucas lightly, "I missed you,"

Lucas pulled on Jake and buried his head in the bear's chest, breathing in the strong scent his mate held. The scent was soothing and he sighed lightly. There was no hurry, Jake was here and so was he; his mate was back. He nuzzled the bear's chest, "I missed you too Big-guy,"

Jake felt the wolf nuzzle him and let out a happy growl, his chest vibrating as he did and he held onto his mate. After a minute the wolf looked back up at him and Jake leaned down and planted another kiss onto the wolf's lips. He let the wolf turn around and they returned to watching TV. Jake ran his paws down Lucas, the wolf's clothes, a small boundary between them. He moved a paw up the wolf's shirt and tousled the fur with his paw. He heard the wolf sigh and nestle closer to him, obviously enjoying the touch. The show ended and he looked down at Lucas, who was sleeping soundly. He smiled and kissed the top of his mate's head. He muted the TV and rested his own eyes, falling asleep along with him.

Mr. Vadikson sighed as he sat up in the bed. He let out a long yawn and plopped back down into the bed. After a few minutes he got up and headed to the bathroom, taking a quick shower. He dressed and walked into the kitchen; he could see the light from the TV still on in the living room. When he fixed breakfast he went into the living room and saw Jake and Lucas were still on the couch. He smiled and took the remote, after all they obviously weren't using it. He turned down the volume and turned it to a different channel.

Lucas woke up and sighed, Jake's warmth radiating into him and keeping him warm. At some point in the night he'd turned around and was facing the bear now, but it was better this way, the bear's scent was stronger. He'd missed just being able to wake up to the bear being near him, it was always reassuring. He nestled closer to him and felt Jake pull on him and mumble in his sleep. It was always funny to hear the bear mumble in his sleep; the bear was sure of himself that he didn't. He could hear the TV and guessed the bear hadn't turned it off at night. He let out a small yawn and decided he could sleep a bit longer, at least until Jake woke up.

Jake felt his ear twitch lightly, and closed his eyes more tightly. After a minute he decided it was time to get up, apparently it was early enough for the news to be playing, even if he didn't know how early that was. He nuzzled Lucas and kissed the wolf on the top of his head, Lucas nestling closer to him as he did so. He looked at the TV and saw it change channels suddenly. At first he thought it was just either him or Lucas accidentally changing the channel, which could've been happening all night. He didn't feel the remote though. He looked up a bit and saw Mr. Vadikson sitting a chair, drinking a cup of coffee.

Mr. Vadikson looked over, seeing Jake was up and smiled, "Good morning,"

Jake blushed, realizing he was still with Lucas, and that the wolf was seeing his son with him as they were, even if it was something pretty common. He nodded at the wolf, "Good morning," he said quietly, not wanting to disturb his mate.

Mr. Vadikson chuckled, noticing the bear's discomfort, "I changed the channel on you...sorry, but I don't think you were too interested in paid programming," he said, not paying much attention to the bear's discomfort.

"No...I guess not," Jake replied with a slight chuckle. How accepting the wolf was of him was strange. He wasn't sure how he could just accept him like it was nothing, even though the wolf had consistently told him that he was OK with it. The idea was strange to him, but the wolf accepted him so openly. The wolf was watching TV and sipping on coffee and Jake shook his head lightly, guessing that if Lucas's father could accept it then there was no reason to question why.

After a few minutes Mr. Vadikson stood up and stretched, "Well, I'm going to head out to town..."

Jake nodded and the wolf handed him the remote, "OK...umm...thanks," he said and looked at the TV for a moment before looking back at the wolf, "you know...for everything,"

Mr. Vadikson chuckled, "It's not a problem...well, I'll see you two later," he said and walked off.

Jake smiled and looked down at Lucas. He leaned down and hugged the wolf a bit, making sure he was close to him. He flipped through the channels but there was nothing good on. After a bit he decided to just turn it to a channel and keep it there. He didn't mind that nothing was on, at least he was close to the wolf. The morning passed very slowly.

Lucas could hear the TV playing lightly and Jake's breathes lightly coming, unlike when he was asleep. He nestled closer to the bear and felt Jake pull on him in response. Smiling he leaned up and kissed under the bear's muzzle.

Jake felt the kiss and looked down, "Hey," he said and kissed the wolf, "Good morning,"

"Morning," Lucas said with a smile.

"It took you long enough to get up," Jake said with a smile.

"I was up once before...but you were still asleep,"

"Yeah, but I waited for you,"

Lucas chuckled and kissed Jake on the lips once again, "You're too kind,"

Jake was about to say something before his stomach growled loudly. The wolf below him laughed and rubbed his stomach.

"Want to grab a bite?"

Jake chuckled, "Maybe a bit," he said but didn't move. He stared at Lucas, who was doing the same. He smiled and kissed Lucas once, followed by another, slowly pulling his mate into a deeper kiss. It didn't take much to compel the wolf to return it, Lucas was already pulling on him. He let out a light moan and moved a paw to the back of his mate's head. It was a short kiss though and Jake pulled away slowly. He stared at Lucas for a moment, "So...what's for breakfast?"

Lucas laughed and pushed away from the bear, "So much for a romantic moment...you glutton,"

"I prefer connoisseur of food..." Jake said with a smile and stood up and pulled Lucas into an embrace, "and of other things too,"

Lucas leaned back into Jake, "Hmm...that was subtle,"

Jake laughed and kissed his mate on the top of the head, "Pervert...I just meant that generally," he said and released Lucas as he began to move to the kitchen.

Lucas laughed and caught up to his mate, "Can you blame me...like I said I missed you, but I missed you for a variety of reasons," he said and pulled out a carton of eggs.

Jake scoffed playfully, "Oh, so now I'm just a toy?"

Lucas moved closer to the bear, "You're putting words in my mouth,"

"Is that an innuendo too?" Jake asked as he put the eggs on the counter.

Lucas thought for a moment before rolling his eyes, "I'm the pervert? Hey, I won't say I didn't miss you...I missed having you near me, but like I've already told you Big-guy, you're great. I've been feeling a bit...deprived, you know? I can only be so content with memories...the real thing is really much better. How could I not miss having such a great guy around...someone whose so great in every area, not only as a mate, but also physically?" he asked with a low growl and moved his paws over Jake's chest.

Jake blushed and felt the wolf's paws move up his body. He pulled away though, "You're really good at that," he said with a chuckle.

"Well, I could admire you all day," Lucas said and saw Jake blush more. He still loved to compliment Jake, and he was sure it was working; the bear actually seemed more confident too. Sometimes the bear was still depressed, and sometimes the bear even got a bit angry, but those moments were few and far between. The way he reacted was fun though. He enjoyed to do it also, it was something that he meant also. Whatever he told the bear he meant-the bear really was great. He chuckled as Jake pulled away and took another step to the bear, closing the gap between them again.

"You're cunning...you know that?" Jake asked and stepped away again. He had an idea of what Lucas was doing and didn't really want it to happen. Sometimes he enjoyed the wolf's games, but he was afraid that they were sometimes a bit demeaning. "Lucas..." he tried to say sternly but it came out strangely.

Lucas smiled and repeated the process making Jake run out of space, he had hit the edge of the counter. Lucas smiled as he leaned against his mate. He nuzzled him and moved his paws to the bear, lightly pulling on him. He leaned up and kissed Jake on the lips and the bear let out a light moan. Lucas moved to the bear's ear, "Get cooking," he said and pulled away.

Jake stared at Lucas as he moved away, he'd been right. He realized what the wolf had done, how he had just played with him. His face was red, and he didn't know how to react. It was different to just play with him when they were in the same mood, but to dash a moment like that-it didn't settle with him. The wolf could say nice things, but play them off as jokes, and sometimes he didn't like to see that. He felt a bit deprived too, how the wolf was like that stunned him. Lucas had just toyed with him, playing off the emotions like they were a good joke. Apparently the look on his face was funny because Lucas was laughing.

Lucas laughed at the bear; how he just stood there so dumbfounded. It looked like the bear had been hit by a tree or something. He knew what he'd done and felt a bit cruel, to play with Jake like that. "I'm sorry Big-guy...that was really mean,"

Jake was still blushing, "You're a jerk," he said walking over to the oven.

Lucas felt his ears go flat against his head, the bear hadn't sounded joking. He looked down at the floor, "Jake...?"

Jake didn't reply, he wasn't sure why though. He wasn't angry, so to speak, but he didn't feel very happy at the moment. Sometimes the wolf's teasing was misplaced, it felt like the wolf's praise was more a game than to actually compliment him. He hated the ideas, he knew his mate was just teasing him, but his mind didn't really care if they were joking or not. Over the weeks he had begun to have some trouble deciding when Lucas was joking with him and when the wolf was genuinely being kind to him. He tried to play it off, the moods were rare. He had no doubt that Lucas loved him, the wolf never joked around with those words, they were too revered to be used as a joke. He loved the wolf and knew the emotions were returned but he also grew tired of the way Lucas would joke around when he said a compliment-it felt like it was just a game to him sometimes. He didn't like for Lucas to blow off some of the emotions, because Jake wasn't great at telling which was true and when the wolf would seem genuine or laugh the next at how he reacted.

"Jake?" Lucas asked again, and the bear seemed to be in a different world. He moved closer to the bear, "Jake, I'm sorry,"

Jake snapped out of his head and looked back at Lucas, "It's fine..."

Lucas took another step closer to Jake, "What's wrong? What did I do?"

Jake opened his mouth but no words came out. He didn't really know what to say to the wolf. He didn't want to criticize the wolf, not a single bit. The wolf never criticized him, not once, even though it would be so easy. How was he supposed to tell Lucas that he thought he wasn't being very supportive, Jake hated himself for it. The very fact that the wolf didn't hate him because of how he could act seemed like a miracle.

"Jake...please," Lucas said, his stomach feeling like it was in knots.

"I'm sorry...I'm just being unreasonable," Jake said with a sigh. He threw a bit of butter in the pan and heard it begin to sizzle.

"No, tell me,"

Jake didn't turn around, "Lucas...sometimes I can't tell when you're being genuine with some comments, or when you just want to see me react...I'm sorry. I should know better," he said as he cracked an egg.

Lucas felt his ears twitch against his head; they were still flat against his head. He had never thought of his teasing as being rude, or being harmful. He wanted to hit himself but stopped. It dawned on him that sometimes he was just being discourteous to Jake, just complimenting him to see his reaction. At first the reaction was just more of a side effect but he realized the bear's words were true. It was true, like he'd just done, he would take moments that were genuine and just insultingly throw them away. He moved closer to Jake, "You don't need to be sorry...it's my fault...I'm an idiot,"

Jake flinched at the wolf's words; he didn't want Lucas to be discouraged. "You aren't Lucas...you're amazing..."

Lucas sighed and hugged the bear, "No...I'm sorry...I didn't mean to do that...I didn't mean to do it," he said and hugged Jake tighter.

Jake didn't reply, he just stood and watched the egg cook. He didn't want Lucas to be sad; he wanted to see the wolf smile. The idea that he was being a depressor to Lucas made it worse.

Lucas nuzzled his mate, "Jake...I'm sorry. Please...I'm sorry,"

Jake turned around and sighed, "Lucas, please don't be like that," he said and kissed the top of Lucas's head. "I don't want you to be sad...It's just me...I'm too weak to be able to take a joke, and I end up trying to make everything like an insult,"

"No, it's not you...you're right...I am a jerk, but Jake, I really do mean all the things I say, you know that don't you?"

Jake smiled and nodded, "Yeah...like I said...I'm just too feeble,"

Lucas shook his head, "No, I wasn't being fair to you. You're right, I don't take some moments seriously...and I end up hurting you because of it,"

Jake shook his head, "Lucas...it's OK...i don't want us to sound like some stupid little soap opera, it's not a huge de-"

"It is," Lucas interrupted. "Jake, don't you get it? I want you to be happy, and if I ever insult you in any way...that's-that's something I never want to do. You're always nice, you never do what I do, you always are so kind and well...romantic during moments and I'm not...you always make me feel better, and I want to do the same for you. Whenever you compliment me I feel like I'm such a better person...I don't ever want you to feel like you're not the most important person to me. I'm sorry Big-guy; I didn't realize I was doing it..."

Jake smiled and kissed Lucas on the nose, "Then don't be sorry..."

Lucas nodded and felt Jake hug him, "Please...just tell me when you feel like I'm doing that...you know I never want you to feel underappreciated or anything, right?"

Jake nodded, "Yeah...I know..."

Lucas looked up at Jake and kissed him on the lips, "I love you Big-guy,"

Jake smiled and kissed Lucas on the nose.

"We're OK?" Lucas asked.

Jake leaned down and kissed Lucas on the lips, before pulling away, "Yeah..."

He felt his ears go back up a little and he smiled, "Thanks...you know, that's part of why you're so great...that you really are such a great guy. Jake, you're kind, honest, loving, caring, and I'm still working on being the mate you deserve,"

Jake chuckled lightly, the praise was too much. It was genuine, it was times like this that he could tell, but it had been other times he couldn't. He nuzzled Lucas, "That's fine...I'm still doing the same for you,"

Lucas felt Jake's lips brush against his own and he pushed a bit forward, his lips staying on his mate's. When Jake returned it he felt better. It was amazing how the bear always seemed so forgiving when he messed up. The feeling of Jake hugging him brought out a light whine, which made the bear pull on him more. He hugged Jake in return and another small whine escaped him, wanting the bear to be closer to him. It felt as though he couldn't really make up for what he did, and he wanted the bear to know that he really did mean what he said; as if the kiss would show that. After what seemed like a few minutes the kiss ended abruptly when an alarm sounded throughout the house. Lucas let out a yelp of pain as the kiss was broken.

Jake jumped at the sound and the smell of smoke filled his nostrils, the forgotten eggs burning behind him. He turned around and grabbed the pan and let out a hiss as his paw was burnt, even the handle was hot. The smoke alarm continued to incessantly warn them that the eggs were burning. The wolf moved him out of the way and got the pan and moved it to the sink where he disposed of the burnt eggs-his mate had done what he hadn't, put on a mitten. While Lucas disposed of the eggs he waved the smoke away from the alarm.

After a minute the alarm quit and Lucas let out a sigh. He looked over at Jake, "Can I make a joke?" he asked and waited till Jake nodded, "That was a hot moment..."

Jake looked at Lucas, the wolf blushing lightly. He laughed and felt his own face redden a bit. "That was a terrible joke..." he said and looked over at the eggs, "So...want me to try again?"

Lucas looked at Jake, "Is your paw OK?"

"A bit burnt...but why did you yelp? Did I hurt you?" he asked, remembering the wolf's yelp as he pulled from the kiss.

Lucas chuckled, "Well, kissing you comes with its dangers...if you're surprised you tend to clench your jaw shut...which my ear and tongue can attest to,"

Jake remembered each moment the wolf was referring to; the most current one for his tongue, the time he'd bit Lucas's ear when the TV static filled the room, and when his mom yelled throughout the house which violently broke their kiss. He looked at Lucas and frowned, "Sorry...guess it's just a reflex...you OK?"

Lucas smiled, "Yeah...I'm fine,"

"You're tongue OK?"

Lucas stuck his tongue out at Jake who chuckled.

"I'll kiss it later and make it better," Jake said, chuckling lightly at the double standards the saying now held for when he kissed the wolf.

Lucas smiled, "I'm not sure I want to take that kind of chance,"

Jake broke an egg and began to fry it, "I really am sorry,"

"Don't think about it...make it up to me by cooking a good breakfast,"

Jake smiled, "Do I ever not?"

"I don't think toaster strudels count," Lucas replied with a chuckle.

Jake smiled and began to focus more on the meal in front of him. After a few minutes he'd made what he thought was an adequate breakfast; an omelet and toast. He put it all on a plate and set it down in front of his mate. "I hope it's OK...I just kind of made it up as I went along,"

Lucas smiled and took a bite, "This is fine...you're a great cook,"

Jake smiled and began to eat also. The wolf mostly asked him about his time at home and told him about his own; it was fun. After they finished Jake helped the wolf clean up and they went into the living room. Jake sat down and smiled, "So...what do you want to do?"

Lucas sat down next to Jake and laid his head on the bear's shoulder, "I don't kno-" he was saying before his words were cut off. His head was bounced up as the bear jumped to his feet.

"Your present!" Jake said, more to himself than to Lucas.

Lucas looked at Jake and sighed, "You almost gave me a heart attack,"

"That's not what it is..." Jake said as he looked down at the wolf.

Lucas sighed, "Fine, just go get it already," he said and was glad when Jake ran outside. He quickly ran to the tree that was still up and grabbed the box from under it. He sat down and waited for the bear to return, but made sure to put the box behind his back so Jake couldn't see it. When he did his mate returned he smiled, "So, what'd ya' get me?"

Jake smiled and handed the wolf a package, which he began to unwrap slowly. He felt a bit nervous as the wolf did so. He saw the wolf's face change a bit as he looked at what was in the package. When Lucas looked up he began to fidget, the wolf's face not showing whether he liked it or not. It wasn't anything great, but he knew it was something Lucas had talked about.

"You didn't have to do this Big-guy,"

"Do you like it?"

Lucas stood up and kissed Jake on the cheek, "I couldn't hate anything you give me, and yes, I like it...this is what I needed," he said and looked at his gift. It wasn't something breath taking, it was a disc and a chip, things that the would use on his computer. They was supposed to increase processing speed, add memory, just increase his computer's effectiveness in general. He knew that he'd been complaining about how bad his laptop was for a long time, but that he still needed it. After a bit he set the gift down and picked up his own for the bear, "Here ya' go,"

Jake looked at his gift and opened it, seeing what was inside. He leaned forward and kissed the wolf on the lips, "Thanks," he said, and looked at the gift for a few moments. It was a small assortment of things; a new wallet to replace his tattered one, a light to attach to books so he could read in the dark, a small book, and a few other things.

Lucas nuzzled the bear, "I'm glad you're here,"

Jake smiled and hugged Lucas. The exchange wasn't anything amazing or romantic, it was just a gift exchange. Neither of them had some amazing, breath taking gift to give the other, they didn't really have much honestly. As corny as it was he was willing to accept the wolf's presence as a gift. The gifts were small; it was about being close to each other, that was what mattered. Lucas pulled away and kissed Jake again.

The rest of the day passed slowly. After a few hours Mr. Vadikson returned back to the house, and a few hours after that so did Mrs. Vadikson and Ana, who'd been at Lucas's aunt's house. Jake felt a bit uneasy with the wolf around but he calmed himself down as she just cast the occasional glance at him. It was much better than last time, where he'd felt like he was about to die. When nighttime came back Jake wondered about how he would sleep, but that was answered when the wolf pushed him onto the bed. The wolf helped him to relax, but he still had trouble sleeping, fearing what Lucas's mother was thinking.

The next morning Lucas woke up early and let out a long yawn. He felt Jake pull on him and chuckle.

"You're too loud...it's still the morning," Jake said and pulled on Lucas more.

Lucas chuckled, "I'm sorry Big-guy..." After a few moments he sat up and got out of the bed. He went to his bathroom and showered and brushed his teeth. When he got out the bear was still asleep. He walked over and kissed Jake on the top of the head before walking to the kitchen. His father was sitting at the table working on a cross word puzzle of some type. Lucas leaned over and stared at the puzzle for a few seconds.

"Can I help you?" his father asked, his son blocking some of his light.

"Row nine is sanguine," Lucas said.

"I don't thin-" his father was saying before he stopped. He filled it in and looked back at his son, "You're cheating,"

Lucas laughed and went into the kitchen, "I'm just that good,"

Mr. Vadikson sighed and looked over the page. He got up and went into the kitchen to see his son, though the paper was still with him. "So...did you sleep well?"

Lucas nodded, "Yeah, pretty well. How about you?"

"Good,"

"We go to your family today right?"

Mr. Vadikson nodded, "Yeah, we'll head up there for supper later on today,"

"Cool, and I guess and tomorrow is the New Year party...geez, it seems more like a scheduled life than a break,"

Mr. Vadikson chuckled, "Well, you still have two weeks after this one...and after Wednesday you're practically free...you don't have to go back to work next Monday,"

Lucas laughed, "I guess I don't...you excited to go back?"

"To those ruffians who think that they can just sleep through class because I'm a sub for the year? Yeah, I'm overjoyed..." Mr. Vadikson said with a sigh. He was a substitute teacher for the rest of the year, he was covering for a teacher that was pregnant. The school informed him he would teach for the rest of the year, which he had no problem with. He talked with his son as he fixed breakfast. The time with his son in the mornings was always nice, he missed having it whenever Lucas went away. He stared at a word and sipped a some coffee, "Tell me college boy...what is a knelling place for prayer...I can't think of it,"

"Priedieu," Jake said, Lucas's father jumping as he spoke up. Even Lucas was a bit surprised by his sudden appearance.

Lucas sighed as Jake walked into the kitchen, "I'm going to buy a bell and tie it around you Big-guy,"

Jake chuckled and looked over at Mr. Vadikson, "Well...is that right?"

Mr. Vadikson penciled in the word and thought for a few seconds before looking back up, "I guess it is...where do you guys pick up on these?"

"I just knew that one," Jake said with a chuckle, "I suck at those things,"

Lucas smiled at his mate, "You want some breakfast?" he asked and when Jake nodded began to fix it for the bear. He listened to the bear speak with his father, and could tell Jake felt it was a bit awkward to say he slept well. He understood how Jake felt though, it was weird to speak about certain things. After he fixed the meal he set it down in front of Jake who smiled at him, "Here ya' go Big-guy,"

"Thanks," he said and took a bite from the bread.

"So, what do you two plan to do with your time over break?" Mr. Vadikson asked as he filled in another blank.

Lucas looked over at Jake and smiled, "We'll just relax I guess...maybe we'll find something to do. You have a death project for us like you did during spring break?" he asked with a chuckle.

"No, I think I'll let you two enjoy your time," Mr. Vadikson said and looked over at Jake, "You know what we're doing today right?"

Jake looked over at Mr. Vadikson and swallowed down the drink, and then looked at Lucas, who mouthed something to him. It dawned on him that it was the reunion and he looked at Mr. Vadikson, "Yes sir...is it OK? I don't want to intrude on anything you guys do with your family for holidays,"

Mr. Vadikson smiled at the bear, "Jake, you're pretty much just the newest edition to the family,"

Jake felt his face drop a bit, and he tried to respond but there was nothing that came to him. The words were heavy to him, they were important; they meant more than most things to him. He could tell the wolf was serious too, and that Mr. Vadikson was letting the full effect sink into him. He closed his mouth, knowing that he looked like a moron with his mouth hanging open.

Lucas smiled at his mate, seeing how much he was affected by his father's words. They were important, and Jake took them as they were meant, he didn't downplay them or try and push it off. His father wasn't someone to say the words lightly, and the fact that he'd said them to Jake said a lot about his feelings for the bear.

Jake smiled lightly, "Umm...thanks...I...I don't really know how to respond," Jake said, his words spaced out.

Mr. Vadikson smiled, "Well, don't then...just take it as it is," he said and looked over at his son. After a few moments he stood up, "But...regarding both of you," he said and made sure he had both their attention, "I want to talk with you both before you guys head back to college,"

"About what?" Lucas asked.

"You'll know when we talk..." Mr. Vadikson said and saw the two look at each other, wondering what he meant. He sighed, "Don't worry...it's nothing bad...but, it'll be good to talk,"

Lucas nodded his head and his father walked into a different room, the TV now playing in the house. He walked over to Jake and smiled at the bear, "You're pretty high up on his list,"

Jake looked towards where Mr. Vadikson was and looked back at his mate, "Does...he mean it?"

"Yeah," Lucas said with a chuckle.

Jake just nodded, still waiting for it to really sink in. He felt Lucas's arm go around him and himself being pulled towards the wolf.

"Want to watch TV?"

"Is that all we're going to do?" Jake asked with a laugh.

"No...but come-on Big-guy...what else is there to do at the moment? I mean, my town isn't all that interesting...and there's not any really great spots to go see outside either so, our options are limited,"

Jake smiled, "I can thin-"

"I said that we can do at the moment..." Lucas said, stopping the bear's words.

Jake chuckled, "I was talking about installing your computer program..." he said, serious about the words.

"Oh..."

Jake couldn't help but laugh at the wolf's embarrassment. It was funny to see his mate be the one blushing. "You're a pervert,"

"No...you can't blame me..." Lucas said and lowered his voice, "I've said it before and I'll say it again, you're just that good looking...I mean, it's a compliment Big-guy...I can't help it if my mind wanders a bit...or my paws,"

Jake chuckled and pushed Lucas away, "You really are a pervert,"

"Just for you though,"

Jake smiled, "Come-on, let's get your computer up to date...pervert..."

Lucas chuckled and they sat down at the table. He Looked other at Jake and smiled, "So Big-guy what's the plan?"

"Well..." Jake said and looked over the wolf and chuckled, "First we have to wait on the software to run a few diagnostics on your computer, which luckily the CD is taking care of, along with some more things...then I'll just need a screwdriver..."

Lucas chuckled, "How did you learn so much about computers...you say you're terrible with them,"

"Well, part of your present is that I'm going to install all the programs and stuff," Jake said with a small sigh. He felt the wolf kiss him on the top of his head and smiled, "So...can you go get my a few screwdrivers...I'm not sure what type I'll be needing...nothing large though...it'll be a lot like installing a flash drive or something...you'll never even notice it's there,"

"OK, cool, I'll be right back," Lucas said as he went to get a screwdriver. He returned and saw the bear going through documents, ensuring that the programs were working well. He knew that Jake was terrible with computers, the bear hardly knew what a cookie was, but there he sat and he looked confident. After a moment he realized that Jake must've learnt how to do what he was doing, and he smiled a bit more, "You had to learn all this yourself, didn't you?"

"Ehh...It wasn't too bad," Jake said as he closed a file. He looked at the test timer, they still had awhile before it would be ready. He let out a sigh and leaned back into the chair, "Well, we got about half an hour or so till the CD finishes installing the new stuff...we can relax,"

"OK..." Lucas replied with a smile. He sat down next to Jake and they began to talk lightly. The bear asked him a few questions about his family, and Lucas could tell the bear was nervous about it; though it was for different reasons now. His mate didn't seem as worried about intruding on them so much as he did them liking him. It still took a lot of convincing to convince the bear that they weren't going to hate him. While Jake was installing the software he told him some stories, and the bear seemed to be relaxed a little more.

Time passed quickly and the whole process for trying to make sure the computer would run well took a lot longer than Jake thought it was going too. He worked on it during lunch. Even though he told Lucas that he didn't need to stay with him the entire time the wolf insisted on it-which he was glad for. They talked and he focused on everything. As the wolf continued to tell him about the family he couldn't help but chuckle. Jake smiled and looked over at the wolf, "I think I'm going to stand out...and you probably do at these things too,"

"What do you mean?" Lucas asked with a chuckle.

"Well...I'm not exactly a wolf now am I? And...well, you're fur isn't the color like your dad's is,"

Lucas laughed, "I didn't ever really think about it...I guess you have a point,"

Jake smiled as he screwed in the last screw on the wolf's computer, happy to be done with it, "Well...it's not going to be bad I guess," he said and flipped the computer back onto its correct side, "OK, let's try it out," he said and got to a screen. He couldn't get the password though and looked over at the wolf, "Password?"

Lucas smiled, "You want me to tell you?"

"Yeah, sure why not?"

"You figure it out..."

"Jake..." Jake said and typed in his name, but to no luck. He looked over at the wolf who was staring at him, "What? It was worth a shot,"

"Nice try Big-guy," Lucas said and saw the bear's face light up. He couldn't stop his blush though as the bear gained access to his account.

Jake smiled and looked over at Lucas, "That doesn't seem like a great password,"

"Well...who else would know that though?"

Jake chuckled, "I guess you're right, and...it's flattering," he said. The wolf's nickname for him was the password. He looked at the computer and logged onto the internet, getting on quickly. It already seemed better. The speed was much better, it was able to hold a good many tabs open and it processed much more quickly, he didn't even have to pause to buffer videos, which Lucas usually had to do every time even for the shortest of videos.

Lucas smiled and kissed Jake on the cheek, "Thanks so much Big-guy!"

"So...this is good? I mean, I could look for something different if i-" Jake was saying before the wolf cut him off, putting a paw in front of his face.

"It's fine...I couldn't ask for more," Lucas said. It almost seemed as though he had a new computer, and not just an update.

Jake looked at the wolf, "So...you're happy?"

Lucas smiled, "Yes...I'm ecstatic..." he said and saw the bear give a small smile.

"OK you two...it's about time to head out," Mr. Vadikson said as eh walked to the kitchen.

Jake looked down at himself, he was in plain clothes. He looked over at Lucas, "Should I wear something nice? I mean, you know...I don't wa-"

"Don't worry...I mean, you can wear something nice if you want to, but don't dress up for them," Lucas said and looked at himself, "Personally, I'm just going to put on a different shirt,"

"I guess...I feel as though I should at least wear a nice button up or something," Jake said. He stood up and went into Lucas's room, throwing his shirt to the side as he did and dug around in his bag for a nice shirt. When he finally found one he stood back and up felt arms wrap around him. He relaxed into the familiar feeling and smiled, "You're know we need to leave,"

Lucas smiled and nipped at the bear's shoulder. He pulled away and chuckled, "Yeah, I guess you're right...," he said and threw on a white shirt. He got a green button up and put it on. He walked over to Jake who was buttoning up his dark blue shirt. He placed a paw on the bear's chest and traced his fingers through the bear's chest fur. After a moment he looked up at Jake and smiled, "You should leave it that low,"

"No," Jake said and buttoned the shirt up to the last bit.

Lucas smiled, "Well, you still look nice anyway," he said and kissed Jake lightly. He walked to the door as Jake followed behind him and they found Mr. Vadikson waiting for them. He looked around, "Where's Ana?"

"She'll arrive with your mother,"

"Oh, OK...so it's just us," Lucas said and his father nodded. He helped his father carry a few things, and he set the things in the front seat. Lucas sat in the back, along with Jake. The drive wasn't too long, only a few miles into town to a local hall. It was reserved for them, one of his uncles knew the owner. On the way there they talked lightly and as they approached Lucas could tell Jake was getting nervous. He put a paw on the bear's chest, "Relax Big-guy,"

Jake sighed, "It's not that obvious is it?"

"Ehh...maybe I just know you that well," Lucas said with a shrug of his shoulders.

"No, it's pretty obvious," Mr. Vadikson said with a chuckle.

"Wow, that's really helping," Lucas said and saw Jake just face down.

Mr. Vadikson smiled at the bear, "Hey, don't worry about it, they'll all like you. Honestly I'm the most picky with people out of my family...so you've made it past the hardest part-me,"

Jake looked up at the wolf and gave a weak smiled, "Thanks..."

Mr. Vadikson chuckled, "Don't worry...you'll be fine,"

Jake nodded and they son found themselves there. He helped the two carry a few dishes inside and walked with them into the area. It was wired to see them all though. It was like he was a drop of blood in a field of snow. Everyone around was a black furred wolf, save for himself and his mate, but Lucas was at least considered family-he wasn't sure what they would consider him. He stayed behind Lucas, not giving himself any room to fall away from the wolf.

Lucas could feel Jake's breaths on his head and knew that Jake was still nervous, but that he would calm down soon too. When they put down their dishes one of his uncles came up and shook his paw, then shook Jake's, introducing himself while he did so. Lucas smiled, "That was my uncle Jerry,"

"OK," Jake said and looked around a bit more. "So...what do you guys do at these things?"

"You mean family reunions?" Lucas asked.

Jake nodded his head.

"Well...what does your family do?"

"We eat...we talk...we leave...and then we see each other again in a few months," Jake said. It was really that simple with his family.

"Well, it's practically the same here, though you make it sound like yours is unbearable," Lucas said with a laugh. He guided the bear to a table and they sat down with his father and two of uncles and aunts. "Hey guys,"

"Lucas, how have you been dear?" his aunt asked, as she stood up and hugged the wolf.

"I'm good...it's going well,"

"What did you bring with you?" his uncle Murphy asked, nodding at Jake.

"Umm...my name is Jake," Jake said, trying to sound as though his social skill was at least above a fourth grader's. He extended a paw and shook the wolf's. After a moment he realized something-he was the second largest person around. Mr. Vadikson was bigger than him, but only by a few inches. Everyone else was much shorter than him, he was practically a giant to some of them.

"It's nice to meet you," Murphy said and shook the bear's paw.

Jake noticed his size once again, his paw practically engulfed the wolf's. He smiled at the wolf, "Likewise,"

"So Jake...you staying with my brother?"

"Umm...Yes sir,"

"I'm guessing you're a friend of Lucas?" Murphy said but thankfully didn't give Jake time to answer, "You're pretty big...you know that?"

Jake chuckled lightly as the wolf looked up at him, "I guess I'm a bit tall," he said. As far as adults went it did look like Murphy was the shortest. Jake found it hard to believe that Mr. Vadikson was truly related to everyone else in the room.

"So you're with Lucas?" Murphy asked, going back to the original question.

"Yeah," Jake said and looked down at Lucas who smiled up at him.

"You plan to badger him all day?" Mr. Vadikson asked, which made Murphy laugh lightly. Mr. Vadikson looked over at Jake, "Murphy is the oldest of my siblings..."

"Really?"

"Yep, even though he's a shrimp. I'm the second youngest of five. He's my only brother out of three sisters," Mr. Vadikson said and chuckled lightly.

"Four siblings...wow," Jake said and thought he had it bad with just two.

"Yeah...it was...interesting to say the least," Murphy said. He looked over at Lucas, "And Lucas here had it great...an only sibling and by the time Ana was born he was basically getting out of the house,"

"I enjoyed my time with having a sibling," Lucas said with a chuckle.

"Yeah, but you're nice to Ana...it is usually isn't like that when you're about the same ages," Jake said and remembered his own childhood, "Usually the youngest is beat up a good bit...though you do have the sympathy factor for you,"

Lucas chuckled, "Personal experience?"

Jake nodded his head and laughed, "I'm a master of it," he replied. During his younger years he had usually been picked on, though it hadn't been all build. As the old saying went, it built character-or he told himself it did.

"So you two go to school together?" Murphy's wife asked.

Lucas nodded, "Yeah, we're both at Kirson," he said and looked over at his father.

Mr. Vadikson caught his son's look and directed his attention to him and Jake, "Why don't you two go get drinks for us?"

Lucas nodded and got up, patting Jake on the shoulder as the bear got up behind him. he asked what everyone would like to drink and they both headed to get them. He could tell Jake knew something was up too. They were pouring the drinks and Jake looked back to the table a few times.

"Am I doing something wrong?" Jake asked, pouring a cup with a grape flavored soda for Lucas's uncle.

"No, just act a bit natural...right now especially," Lucas said, trying his best to live by his words.

Jake tensed a little, "Why?"

"Because my dad is telling them about us,"

"What?"

"Sorry Big-guy," Lucas said, talking quietly, "I probably should've told you, but it was kind of a sudden thing...my dad kind of decided he would tell them so that it wouldn't really be awkward for me...or you,"

Jake tried not to look back at the table, "Lucas..."

"Don't worry Big-guy, it'll be fine,"

"Yeah...I know that..." Jake said with a sigh, "I just want to filled in before hand you know..."

Lucas frowned lightly, "You're right, I'm sorry...I messed up again,"

Jake smiled at Lucas and poured the last cup, "It's OK...well, you know,"

Lucas smiled and he looked at Jake, "I guess we can head back,"

Jake grabbed a few drinks and nodded, "Yeah...I don't feel any fires burning so this may not be too bad,"

Lucas scoffed, "No, they'll drag you outside to burn you,"

"What? Why me?"

"You're big...you'd burn for a long time," Lucas said with a chuckle. The fact that Jake was joking made him feel better, as if he wasn't worried.

"I don't think that's exactly the best way you can classify who dies first...I seem to remember that I targeted you in the park after that movie," Jake said.

"Jake, you do realize you just compared yourself to a serial killer," Lucas said and looked at the bear, "I think you just lost this one,"

Jake shrugged his shoulders, "I don't really know what kind of analogy I was going for there,"

Lucas chuckled and they walked up to the table. He handed out the drinks, giving them to his aunt and uncle while Jake handed them to Mr. Vadikson and for themselves. He could tell that they were a bit surprised but at the same time it didn't seem too bad-in fact it felt comfortable.

"So Lucas...you have a special somebody?" Murphy asked, looking at his nephew with a slight smile.

Lucas looked over at Jake and smiled, "Yeah..."

"Well good for you...I was beginning to think you'd never find a solid person to hold onto," Murphy said and laughed.

Lucas blushed and looked down at the floor.

"Well, it explains why you never brought one of your dates to meet any of the family..." Murphy's wife said. She looked over at Jake, "So, you're Lucas's boyfriend?"

"Well, we're mates..." Jake said, not sure whether to smile or to just let his face go red.

"Mates?" Murphy asked and looked over at Lucas.

Jake remembered that being a mate wasn't the same as just dating the wolf, that it was a deeper bond than that. He looked over at Lucas who smiled lightly.

"Yeah...I'm Jake's mate...and well, he's mine I guess," Lucas said and smiled.

"How long have you two known each other?" Murphy's wife asked.

"About a year and a half...a bit less," Lucas replied. He knew where this was going and didn't really mind. He had expected it in honesty; the fact that they didn't reject him was good enough.

"That's a pretty short time period," Murphy said, echoing his wife's tone.

Jake looked around, as though everyone was looking at them, but in truth practically no one was. He wasn't sure if what was happening was a good thing or a bad thing now. The sudden change in the tone was strange; it wasn't hostile, but more questioning.

"I guess so, but...hey, you know when you love someone," Lucas said and smiled at Jake.

"Yeah, but you're still pretty young," Murphy's wife said, and looked over at the two, "Don't you think it might be a bit early to just go making huge decisions?"

Lucas was about to answer, but to his surprise Jake did.

"No, you need to take life with the promptness that many people feel is a bad thing. Lucas said it, and I agree, when you love someone that is pretty much what it comes down to. I hope it doesn't sound rude, but you're wondering what it'll mean if we were to break-up or something...and it wouldn't change anything. Lucas is my mate, and I plan to be there for him...it doesn't matter what our status may be on a different level because what we'll always be is mates," Jake said and looked at Lucas's uncle and aunt. He looked over at Lucas, "Right?" he asked.

Lucas laughed, the bear had been doing so well till he asked that simple question. He patted Jake on the shoulder, "Yeah..." he said and looked over at his uncle, "See?"

Murphy looked at the two, and then at his brother, who didn't give any indication of having an opinion. He looked back to Lucas, "I hope you're right...but it's not so simple,"

Lucas shrugged his shoulders, "We'll see,"

"We have seen deary," Murphy's wife said.

Lucas chuckled lightly, "You guys have...but me and Jake haven't and it's all a matter of how you tackle it, just like anything else,"

Murphy chuckled, "Lucas, you're mature for your age and I'm guessing if you're dating Jake then he is too, and I hope you two are right. Well, I need to give the greetings so we can eat," Murphy said and stood up.

Jake looked over at Lucas who smiled at him and felt the wolf gently squeeze his paw, which the wolf had taken hold of at some point. He watched as the wolf talked and looked at his own mate, a bit nervous. The paw that squeezed his own was a constant comforter. When the greeting was over the wolf exclaimed that it was time to eat, all the family more jubilant about the occasion. Jake jerked a bit as Lucas kissed him on the cheek, more like a peck. He opened his mouth to say something but closed it after a bit, deciding there was really no reason to object. He realized that they were the only ones at the table and chuckled, "Your family is big on food?"

"See, you fit in already," Lucas said with a laugh. He stood up and pulled Jake with him as they walked over to the area where the food was. The line was pretty long, and since they had waited they were at the back. They finally got up and Lucas guided the bear through the foods. He suggested the ones he liked, the ones he knew Jake would like, and told the bear what he may want to avoid. They eventually made it back to the table and Lucas realized that Ana and his mother had joined them. "Took ya'll long enough to show up,"

Lucas's mother smiled at her son, "We were a bit delayed getting here...hello Jake,"

Jake forced his best smile, "Hi," he replied simply. Despite how much he tried he just couldn't be himself with her nearby-not after she last approached him. Fortunately Mr. Vadikson took over and struck up conversation before even the slightest hint of disorder could be seen or hinted at. Throughout the meal he became less tense and to his surprise there were even people who came up to him.

Lucas smiled as members of his family talked with Jake, being kind to him and never making him feel nervous. He blushed whenever someone would tell Jake they were happy he was with Lucas, and they meant it as a partnership. Apparently someone had seen him kiss Jake on the muzzle, and someone had asked his uncle Murphy, and that person told someone, who told someone. Now it was basically common knowledge, and no one even seemed disturbed by it. He couldn't ask for more, the fact that they accepted Jake was the most vital part of it all.

Slowly the meal passed and the family began to leave. Most of them once again dropped by and told Jake they hoped to see him again, or at least told him good-bye. The bear himself had actually relaxed a good bit. The food was good, the people were kind, and the atmosphere seemed tranquil. When they began to clean up he helped to put the chairs and tables away, his size once again being noticed by those still around. It was a bit embarrassing in some respects. Lucas was pretty big compared to some of his family, but Jake was bigger still. It wouldn't have seemed like such an issue if it weren't for his width too. His height was one factor but his general physique added the real difference. Whenever someone would say how big he was he blushed a little and tried to play it off, but Lucas took every chance to call him by his nickname too. Soon they were leaving and back into the car.

"So Jake, how did you like the family?" Mr. Vadikson asked.

"Aww come-on Dad...how's that fair for you to ask? He won't say anything bad...you aren't going to let him be honest?" Lucas asked, teasing Jake. He was leaning on the bear's shoulder and nuzzled his mate. It was still strange to know his father was watching them but he knew that it wasn't anything terrible.

Jake laughed, "I really like them. Everyone...was nice...I don't really know how to thank you for this," he said, the last part more serious.

Mr. Vadikson smiled, "It was nothing...they genuinely liked you,"

"So...getting your approval...really was the hardest part?" Jake asked, a bit of disbelief in his voice.

"Yep..." Mr. Vadikson replied with a chuckle, "And I judged you harder than I did any of Lucas's past friends...for obvious reasons...but Jake, you're a good guy, who wouldn't like you?"

Lucas saw his mate blush and chuckled, "That's what I keep telling him..."

"I've got a list...it's kind of long," Jake said with a sigh, but tried to hide it with a chuckle.

"Well, either way you're always welcome here...regardless of whether you and Lucas are together or not..." Mr. Vadikson said, watching his tone carefully on the last part.

Jake nodded and looked down at Lucas who was just resting on his shoulder now. He smiled and looked out the window at the passing street lights. After a moment Mr. Vadikson struck up conversation again, and Jake was glad that the wolf was always so happy-it made him easy to talk with. He was glad to hear about the job that Mr. Vadikson had found, and they both talked until they arrived back at the house. When they pulled in he looked over at Lucas who had fallen asleep on his shoulder. He couldn't help but smile as Lucas only nestled closer to him when he tried to wake him up, "Hey, Lucas we're back,"

Lucas groaned and moved closer to Jake, who just chuckled lightly.

Mr. Vadikson smiled as his son slowly woke up. He waited till they were all outside and he handed both Jake and Lucas something to carry. They began to head up the stairs and went inside. It was funny to watch as Lucas quickly put the stuff away and went over to the couch and both lay down. He walked into the room and looked at them, "Are you two going to sleep?"

Jake looked down at Lucas who was already seeming to be dozing off again. He chuckled and looked up at Mr. Vadikson, "I think one of us is,"

"Lucas...why don't you go to your bed...no reason to take up the space on the couch if you're going to sleep. I think your mother may want a place to sit down,"

Lucas sighed and sat up. He looked over at his father, "OK...Good-night,"

Jake watched as the wolf walked off and stood up to follow after him.

"You don't want to stay?"

Jake looked over at Mr. Vadikson and knew there was a frown on his face, "I'm sorry..."

Mr. Vadikson shrugged his shoulders, "Take your time..."

"I just don't want to make any of you uncomfortable,"

"You wouldn't Jake," Mr. Vadikson said and the bear just looked away for a moment. He knew that it was more the bear than it was anyone else. Jake wasn't ready to be around them, at least not as Lucas's mate. He knew the bear was scared of his wife, at least to some extent. He waved the bear off though, "It'll be fine you know you're already part of the family...don't worry. Like I said, you already got my approval...and that was the hardest part,"

Jake smiled lightly and nodded his head. Even though he knew the wolf was just trying to cheer him up, but he didn't feel amazing. During the diner Mrs. Vadikson hadn't spoken to him but twice, both having the minimum amount of words to them. He looked back at Mr. Vadikson again, who smiled lightly at him. He walked off to the wolf's bedroom and found Lucas lying down. The wolf looked up at him briefly and then returned to lying down and resting his eyes. The room was dim, only a lamp was on near the wolf's bed. He walked over and sat down next to his mate, "You OK? You seem tired,"

Lucas shrugged, "Just a bit tired...sorry Big-guy,"

"It's OK..." Jake said and put a paw lightly on the wolf, who sighed lightly.

"I guess it was a bit more...stressful to have my family find out then I thought, even though it all worked out well," Lucas said and nuzzled the bear's paw.

"I'm sorry,"

Lucas looked up at Jake and glared at the bear, "Don't be, I wouldn't have changed any of it..."

Jake stared at Lucas for a minute, the wolf's tone was a bit more aggressive, and it sounded strange since he was tired. After a moment he just gave a light smile and lay down next to his mate. He kissed Lucas on the top of the head lightly and felt Lucas nestle closer to him; putting an arm on his chest as he did so.

"I'm sorry we haven't had any real personal time," Lucas said, yawning in the middle of it.

Jake smiled and ran a paw over Lucas's side, "It's fine...I'm just glad to be back with you,"

"You aren't tired,"

"No,"

"You don't have to be wherever I am you know," Lucas said and felt the bear shuffle a bit. He realized that Jake just didn't really want to be around any of his family, at least not without him around. It was sad to see Jake seem so nervous about it all, but he couldn't really blame him-he didn't want to be without his mate either. Even though most of the family accepted their relationship he could tell Jake was mostly distraught about his mother. "But...I don't mind the company," Lucas said, adding in the last part so Jake would feel better.

Jake sighed and nuzzled Lucas, "I'm a coward...sorry,"

"No you aren't,"

"Your entire family knows, and so do your friends...but no one in my family know about us. How am I not a coward?"

Lucas didn't really know what to say. He didn't think of Jake as a coward, but what the bear said was true. For one of the only times he couldn't think of what to say to make Jake feel better. He just nestled closer to the bear and pulled on him more. Looking at Jake he could tell the bear was gloomy at the fact. After a few moments he just looked at the bear, "I don't think you're a coward,"

Jake looked down at Lucas then gave a weak and brief smile, but it wasn't very convincing of anything. He could feel Lucas staring at him and he sighed again, wondering why it suddenly seemed so difficult. About a year ago, telling his family seemed easy, but he told himself there was no need to; he was single. Now, when there was something worth telling he was silent. He thought about the signs he dropped to Jim, but could tell the gorilla didn't get hints, and also about the time his family had tried to look at his phone-he almost wished he'd let them. Somewhere in his mind he wondered what it meant about him because he didn't tell his family. All the thoughts were even more depressing and he just wished they would go away. Even in high school he'd thought about his family finding out, but he never wanted them to-he feared it. He could use all types of reasoning and thought to justify not telling them, but in the end there were still the doubts and guilt that accompanied him. "I'm sorry,"

Lucas hugged Jake more and rubbed his chest a little, "It's OK Big-guy...I don't care if they know or if they never know. Remember I didn't exactly tell my parents...my dad just jumped us with questions and, well, he just knew about us. My mom told some of her side and well...my dad told his side for us...it's not like I really decided for any of them to find out. It doesn't mean I wouldn't have told them...it's just...all a matter of perspective and time,"

Jake sighed, "But Lucas...I want to be with you for the rest of my life...and I don't really think you just being my 'roommate' to my family will slide forever. I tried to give some hints to Jim, but he's slow on those...I really don't think I'm exactly hiding it like I did in high school, but most of my family don't even know who you are,"

"That's fine...Jake, I don't want to sound rude but do you think you're thinking too much of yourself? I mean, it's not like they're all going to do nothing but think about you and your life..."

Jake chuckled lightly, "That's true...you already know that I can't really hold conversation with most of them...but I still want them to like me,"

"Jake, don't worry about it too much. You can't force them to accept it and you can't really change it. Jake, I'm not ever going to hate you for not telling them or for telling them, I'll support you no matter what. You've said it before and I know you mean it, that you wouldn't ever deny the fact that we're mates, and that's enough for me. After all I'm not exactly a catch,"

Jake shrugged his shoulders, "This is just a small phase I guess...I go through them periodically, but with you...with your family knowing...it feels different. And Lucas, you're the best I could ever ask for,"

Lucas nuzzled the bear lightly, "You're just a suck up Big-guy," he said and sighed as Jake seemed to relax also. It wasn't an easy discussion but he really did want Jake to be happy. Whether his family accepted them or not didn't matter to him, so long as the bear was happy. He looked up at Jake and smiled, "I love you,"

Jake smiled lightly, "I love you too...now go to sleep, you're tired aren't you?"

Lucas smiled and rolled over, pulling on Jake's arm as he did. He felt Jake hold him and he nestled back into the bear. After a few moments he relaxed and felt Jake rubbing his chest lightly. He looked up and licked under Jake's muzzle, "Good night Big-guy,"

Jake smiled and kissed Lucas on top of his head, "Night," he said and held onto the wolf as he slept. It took about ten minutes for Lucas to fall asleep. He just watched the wolf sleep, not carrying about anything else. It was nice to just be near Lucas and as more time passed he became unaware of any of his past troubles. He just enjoyed being close to the wolf; it was calming to him.

It was nice how Lucas would even nuzzle him in his sleep and he wondered if he did the same. The wolf was great, even if he was out like a log. He didn't really care about time, instead just staying near the wolf. The small actions always made him smile; the way Lucas would mouth something in his sleep, or nuzzle him, or just nestle closer to him; all the actions made him feel better.