My World of 1x1s discussion
Supernatural
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Dee N Dea (The Wolf in the Room)
Name: Luca Archibald Townshend»Alias: Archie, Townie
Age: 24
Appearance:
(view spoiler)
(view spoiler)
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 185lbs
Hair: auburn
Eyes: dark chocolate brown
Body: muscular; lean; athletic; chiseled
Occupation: Thief; Bodyguard; Jack of all Trades
Personality Traits:
∝ Independent ["I already showered, vacuumed, ate, and read the paper this morning while you were sleeping."]
∝ Guarded ["No, I will not respond to your personal questions with anything other than silence."]
∝ Tough ["Touch me again and I'll ram your head through that window."]
∝ Gentle ["Careful! You have to be delicate with small animals and children."]
∝ Child-like ["W-we're going to disneyland?"*internal screaming*]
History: Luca had a very average childhood. He grew up in a solidly middle class family in a suburban town near Portland, Oregon. He had always been an outgoing, active child, constantly involved in sports like soccer, football, hockey, etc. He was ever the social butterfly, making it a habit of his to make time for friends even if it meant sneaking out at night. On the fateful night after his fifteenth birthday, Luca had been out partying with his friends and some upperclassmen at a friend's cabin in the woods. He, his best friend, Marco, and a couple others had gone out to skinny dip in the lake when it happened. He didn't even see Marco be taken. One moment he was there and the next Luca had heard a gut-wrenching scream off in the distance. Knowing it was his friend, he started in the same direction, hesitantly, when he was attacked. He wasn't sure what happened after that. The memory of the pain and fear had been blocked out for the most part. The only thing Luca remembered was waking up in the morning, butt naked, covered in blood. He'd made it back to the cabin, but everyone had gone. There was no sign of Marco, but he did find dead bodies that traumatized him. Somehow he made it back home and his family had been worried sick. He told them everything that happened and it was chalked up to a mountain lion attack. Luca didn't realize until weeks later what had actually happened. He left town immediately, leaving a cryptic note for his family explaining the situation and why he needed to leave to protect them.
After some months on the road, he ran into a shewolf named Rhiannon. She taught him all about being a wolf and how to control it. She'd been a wolf all her life as her parents were both shifters as well. Luca developed feelings for her, though she never thought of him as anything more than a brother in fur. Nonetheless, Luca stayed with her for a few years before moving on. When he turned nineteen, Luca had made his way all the way across the states to New York. There, he reunited with his friend Marco. All these years he had assumed him to be dead, but, indeed, he was very much alive, and a werewolf to boot! Marco, unlike Luca, had taken the transformation well and stayed with the wolves that had changed him. Apparently, the whole ordeal had been an unfortunate mistake because the wolf that had sired them had just been beginning to learn to control the ability when a bunch of wild high school students showed up in the middle of the night of the full moon (a time when werewolves are at their most fearsome). The young wolf was restrained for a while until it's bondages were too weak and broke.
Either way, the rag tag recluses formed an odd pack and travelled around together. Luca joined them, happy to reunite with his best friend and have others he could rely on. The patchwork family didn't make an honest living. They stole, cheated, and lied their way to get money. They schemed wealthy men into favors and if they did work jobs, they weren't lasting. The pack saw it fit that it would be necessary to be ready to leave town at a moment's notice.
One day, Luca and Marco were wandering around the mall when they came across Sterling. The young heir didn't see them, but Marco came up with the idea to follow him home and grab some of his goods. Luca was hesitant, preferring to leave the boy alone and maybe mug him in an alley instead, but eventually came to agree with his friend.
Other: Luca really enjoys reading and values books and information. He also hasn't contacted his family since he left.
Name: Sterling Preston Fairchild»Alias: Stone (view spoiler)
Age: 19
Appearance:
(view spoiler)
(view spoiler)
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 145lbs
Hair: white-blonde
Eyes: crystalline blue
Body: willowy; slender; very lightly muscled
Occupation: Heir; Humanitarian; Adrenaline Junkie
Personality Traits:
∝Adaptable ["I can be whoever you want me to be."]
∝Friendly ["You're carbon based?! I'm carbon based too! Let's be friends."]
∝Thrill-Seeking ["What do I want to do today? If it involves possible/likely violent death, I'm in!"]
∝Persuasive ["Come on. You know you want to! It will make you so happy! No? Then do it for me."]
∝Manipulative ["Still no? Fine. Consider your darkest secrets already tweeted."]
∝Easily Bored ["Sky diving? Meh. Swimming with sharks? Meh. I know! Let's go volcano surfing!"]
∝Philanthropic ["I want to fix the whole world!"]
∝Curious ["Let's go into that creepy, boarded up building that says 'condemned.' What's the worst that could happen?"]
∝Naive ["He's smiling at us. He obviously wants to be our friend. Who cares if he's holding a bloody knife? Stop jumping to conclusions."]
History: As the son of single mother turned most successful hedge fund managers in New York, Sterling's childhood was not one that could have been considered "normal." By the time he was seven, his mother had completed her graduate degree and begun climbing the corporate ladder, clawing her way to the top of Wall Street; by the time he was twelve, she was managing her own hedge fund. Though Miranda's life was hectic, she always made time for her son, taking him to the park or shopping for school clothes, helping him with his homework, asking about his friends, even keeping up with his online life. But the bonding time was always laced with the pressure, the constant questions and suggestions. School. When he was thirteen, she bought him his first college sweatshirt. He would go to University of Pennsylvania, like his mother had. And he would study whatever he liked--so long as it brought in money and furthered the rising fame of the Fairchild name.
Unfortunately for his mother, Sterling Fairchild had little interest in fame and fortune. Instead, the stubborn boy had a passion for helping others. He never understood their need to make more money. Didn't they have enough? From a very young age, Miranda learned to keep a close eye on her son when he had cash, as it would quickly fall into the hands of whoever had the most pitiful story.
Sterling quickly found that fighting with his mother over what he wanted for his life was pointless and learned to adapt. Instead, he wore his university memorabilia, applied for colleges, participated in extracurricular activities that would look good on his transcript, and on the side, asked if he could get a job. The proud mother quickly offered him a job in her company and stated that he would be treated like any other employee. In his off time, Sterling attended the parties, shopped for the clothes, and spent time with the people he was expected to, schmoozing with the wealthy families of New York and building his own networking base. What he managed to keep secret, however, was his frequent trips to the seedier parts of town. Many times, the boy would show his face at a party, stay long enough to be seen, and slip away, changing into dirty, unassuming clothes and catching a bus to a soup kitchen in upper Manhattan or a shelter in the Projects. He knew it was dangerous; the slight-framed boy had even been mugged a few times, but it was the only way he could make a difference, and if he was truthful, the danger gave him a rush. This went on from fourteen until seventeen, and when she finally found out about his adventures, Miranda hired a bodyguard to follow her son, keeping him out of trouble and on the fast track to a successful future. And then she hired another, and then another, and as fast as she could hire them, Sterling would chase them away, becoming more jaded and hard-headed with every attempt at keeping him under control.
Fast forward to age nineteen and the day Sterling returned home from his first year at University. Rather than a happy reunion, the pair spent their first night arguing over the humanitarian trip the college student wanted to take the following year. It was too dangerous, his mother had insisted, and he had rebutted with the threat that he would purposely fail every class next semester if she tried to stop him from going. Needless to say, his storming from the house had done little for either's temper.
On that fateful night, it had not taken long for the sneaky young man to lose his newest body guard in the mall, and as soon as he did, Sterling made for the exit, slipping from the crowds and down the alley toward the bus stop. The danger of the projects and gratification of the soup kitchen always did wonders for his mood.
Other: Sterling hates math. He hates it. Though he understands the subject, the idea of a career involving numbers makes him dread the day he receives his degree. He fears his mother above all else, however, and worries that no matter how strongly he feels, he will always crumble under her pressure. His dream is to travel the world and make a difference, one underdeveloped country at a time.
Another day, another school of oblivious fish to fall prey to his stealthy claws. The blindly preoccupied faces of the general public never saw his hooded mug coming. It was almost sad. Almost.Pickpocketing was a way of life for Luca Townshend. If he ever held a job, it wasn't for long, but stealing might have been his Calling. Most days, he could blend in and out of crowds, emerging with a fresh batch of fat and skinny wallets alike. Some days, he left some of the more pitifully empty personals anonymously at the police station. The prickly beast had little sympathy for humans they targeted. How could he? They all took their normalcy for granted. They all were blissfully ignorant of the tragedy that was his existence.
They would never understand the horror of becoming a werewolf.
"Townie." A voice approached him from behind in the darkened alleyway. Night had fallen on the city labeled "The Big Apple," offering the creatures of night some cover for their sinful work. Luca's dark eyes landed on a man only a couple inches shorter than him, though no less muscular. His friend grinned devilishly as he flashed two wallets and an expensive-looking watch. "Courtesy of Mr. Rich McGee and Mrs. Moneybags. This should be good for the night, but I'm feeling really good about tonight, you know? Like the winds of fortune are blowing my way." His pearly canines flashed in excitement, though his relatively somber friend hardly shifted his unamused expression.
"You better be careful, Marco. Halloween's not for a couple months." He stated monotonously. Luca's friend rolled his eyes in response.
"Alright, sourwolf, just suck all the fun out of living life on the edge. C'mon, dude. I'll even let you pick the next one. You're looking more shady than I do with that scowl on your face." He removed Luca's hood, ruffling his hair affectionately. His actions were met by an soft, grumbled reply that he couldn't understand and a light shove before returning his cover to shadow his features.
"Fine, fine. Idiot." He growled, before turning his sights to the night life of the abundantly awake city. His eyes scanned the crowds before they landed a surprisingly light head of hair. The boy was making his way swiftly down the street, a carefree, yet daring smile resting on his features. By the way he dressed, he didn't appear to be someone of great wealth, but the unmistakeable poise and confidence he walked with spoke otherwise. Not to mention even his "poor" clothes seemed to stem from distinguished brands (brands too nice for Luca and his pack of rogues).
Marco had followed the silent wolf's gaze to the beacon striding easily down the sidewalk.
"Alright. Target acquired. Let's go." And before Luca could say another word, his companion had disappeared into the streets. The taller man lamented with a sigh. He had almost spoke in protest, unsure if he wanted to go through the annoyance of mugging someone so seemingly... vulnerable, but he remembered his apathy and followed suit.
They followed him for three blocks. During which time, the boy stopped at least three times to drop some cash in homeless hands and cups. He was so full of himself, Luca thought. He probably saw the struggling humans as a huge joke. His lips curled in disgust until Marco pulled the unassuming child off the streets into a darkened alley way.
"Hand over your wallet. Now." Marco's gruff voice sounded. Luca could almost hear the cocky smirk in his voice. He really did enjoy all of this too much. The dark wolf moved to block the exit of the alley, watching through the shadows of his hood at their victim be pushed roughly against the wall, Marco's glinting knife against the smooth flesh of his neck.
Sterling walked confidently down the streets of upper Manhattan, hands tucked into the pockets of a worn, stained Abercrombie jacket and mind finally calm. His little jaunt to the soup kitchen would go unnoticed, as he would return to the mall, don his clean clothes, and claim that he'd been there all along. He would then inform his mother that this bodyguard was also a flop, as he had been able to shake him even more easily than the last three. He would have a new one to chase off by the end of the week. As he neared the bus stop, the young man stopped at random intervals to drop his dwindling cash into hands and cans of those he passed, some were new faces, others familiar, such as Claire, the seventy-year-old who was removed from her retirement community after her son stopped paying the rent. Claire's daughter would gladly help her, but the woman was too proud to become a burden, so she stayed quietly in a shelter, refusing to tell Sterling even her last name for fear that he would find her daughter. Another friend of his held up a can to passerby across the street, averting his eyes, but breaking into a smile when he recognized Sterling as he made to cross. The boy crouching against the wall couldn't have been over fourteen, tall for his age, and lanky, with haunted gunmetal eyes and dirty black hair. This was Tito. The boy had been on the streets longer than Sterling had been coming to this neighborhood, having started his career of begging at the age of five. His addict mother had no job and spent the money he earned on her next fix. The kid was usually lucky if he could spare a dollar to feed the two of them, and he often went without so he could feed his mom. Once he started public school, he had begun to eat more regularly and successfully pretended everything was fine at home. The kid was brilliant, and it saddened but didn't surprise Sterling that he was still on the streets.
The older boy raised his hand in a wave as he neared the kid, a soft grin of his own lighting his features. Though Tito refused to leave his mother, Sterling remained hopeful; he would save this kid one day. In seconds, the scruffy teen was on his feet, moving forward to embrace his old friend and accept the bag of food held in Sterling's outstretched hand.
"Stone!" the pup yelped excitedly, but before he could even cross the street, Sterling was being dragged into an alley, the bag of snacks falling from his hand and the image of Tito's suddenly angry face haunting him. Concern clutched at him. He hoped the kid didn't do anything stupid.
Suddenly, there was a knife pressed to his neck, and the adrenaline began to flow. The knife was a first. He should have been paying more attention. But the thrill-seeker couldn't deny that the addition of a deadly weapon to the mix gave him the biggest rush he'd experienced in a while. How far could he push this without getting himself killed?
Rather than pulling out his nearly empty wallet at the demand, the boy kept his hands where they sat pressed against the wall. His lips curled into a smirk as his nose wrinkled. "Was the knife really necessary?" he asked with a grimace. "I'm pretty sure your breath could kill me faster. If you needed money for a toothbrush, all you had to do was ask."
As the boy pushed his captor verbally, he took the time to scope the area. He may not have been strong, but he was fast and stealthy. Once he was done toying with the macho man, he would need to find a quick exit. His mugger's companion stood at one end of the alley, presumably keeping watch over the scene. Both men were taller than him-- unusual, as he was relatively tall himself--and far more muscular, easily outweighing his skinny frame by likely fifty pounds each. This was good, as he often noticed the more muscle, the heavier, and the slower they ran. Aside from the blade at his throat, there was an air of danger surrounding the two that he hadn't experienced before. The few times he'd been mugged, it had been by scrawny, dirty kids or gaunt, desperate meth-heads. Though these guys were as grimy as the ones before, they were in far better shape and didn't seem like the type who would take much of his shit. How exciting.
He just hoped Tito would scram and let him handle this situation himself.
Tito, however, had other plans, and stood in the shadowy alley across the street, watching the scene play out and trying to form a plan to help his friend. If I could sneak up on the hooded one, the scrawny kid reasoned, I might be able to gain the upper hand. Though the idea of overpowering the man who probably weighed twice what he did was ludicrous, the scrappy teen ignored his flight instinct and made his way down the street, crossing a short distance from the alley and making his way back, skirting the edge of the crowd and staying close to the buildings.
Luca's sharp eyes briefly noted the almost exchange between his prey and a young boy across the street. There was a wave and an exclamation of something that sounded like "Stone!" Before the bleach-headed brat was pulled into the alley by the werewolf's eager colleague. He wondered what it had meant. Perhaps a nickname or alias or did his parents truly name the kid stone. Either way, the boy was probably another charity case of the brat's. Nothing but a cute pet to him. The concern quickly fell from his train of thought as Luca pulled his hood further over his head, hiding in it's reliable shadows."I'm pretty sure your breath could kill me faster. If you needed money for a toothbrush, all you had to do was ask." The cheeky bastard responded to Marco's demands. Did the kid have a death wish? Well, surely if Luca had been such a spoiled brat, he would have wanted to kill his annoying self as well.
"Wow, this punk's got a mouth on him, Archie." Marco laughed mockingly before grabbing the boy by his shirt and turning his back towards Luca. "Check him." The shorter wolf barked, not taking his daring eyes off of his mouthy victim, trying to size up just how troublesome he aimed to be.
The tallest wolf said nothing, moving to check the brat's pockets before finally coming across the meager wallet. Opening it, he found no credit cards and a small amount of cash.
"He's got a 20, but that's it."
Marco's expression hesitated in surprise. This kid definitely looked upper class. His skin was pale and pampered, his hair styled nicely, even his scent screamed wealth. Suddenly, the offended wolf's expression turned dark and angry, the hairs on his neck prickling as his grip tightened and he once again slammed him against the wall.
"You think this is funny? We know you have money. Where is it?" The small blade was unconsciously pressed harder onto the boy's neck, a small bead of brilliantly red blood contrasting with his unnaturally pale complexion.
Luca felt himself tense at his friend's strong reaction. Why was he being so violent? They both wanted money, but Marco was being unreasonable. The boy had nothing else on him. What's more... he seemed to be... enjoying himself? If he didn't control his anger, his eyes and fangs might start showing. Then again, if some kid ran around screaming wolf, who in their right mind would believe him?
The spoiled young man knew there was something wrong with the amount of pleasure he derived from dangerous experiences, but quite frankly, the adrenaline coursing through his veins in those moments made the youth forget reason. "And it's such a pretty mouth, too," he replied with a lazy smirk, letting his feet drag as his captor yanked him around by the shirt. To the thrill-seeker's surprise, the fingers that searched him were not rough or aggressive, merely light and thorough, checking every pocket, every fold of clothing, until they found the wallet nestled in his back pocket. He hardly felt the wallet leave his person, and he grinned at the increasingly annoyed man holding a weapon to his throat. "Muggers can't be choosers, buddy. You're robbing a teenager in Upper Manhattan. What did you honestly expect to find?"
His back his the wall with a thunk that he felt down to his toes, and the wealthy teen winced as his skull smacked against brick and the knife bit into the smooth skin of his throat. That stung. Heart racing, he held his hands level with his head, palms facing the angry man holding him. "Halitosis is no joking matter, sir," he said with a mock-serious expression. "How do you expect to get laid smelling like this?"
"We know you have money. Where is it?"
The man holding him was furious now. His eyes glinted dangerously as he snarled his demand, and it must have been the exhilaration he was feeling, but Stone could have sworn the guy's eyes flashed a deep gold color before returning to their original green. He shook off the odd sight, and replied, "better watch it with that knife, Hallie. You'll never know if you've run into a secret millionaire if you kill me. Though . . . " he couldn't stop his last action. He was too far gone, too engrossed in the thrill of danger. Ignoring the tiny dying voice of reason in his head, the idiot tapped a finger on hi captor's temple and finished, "there doesn't seem to be much going on up here, so . . . . maybe you hadn't quite thought that through."
As he continued to prod his mugger's anger, Stone glanced down both ends of the alley. He had just begun to think Tito had taken the smart road and bolted when he saw a shaggy, unkempt head of black hair peeked around the corner. They locked eyes and and he worked to keep his face from showing alarm as he stared at the scrawny kid. Was he . . . sizing up the other guy in the alley? At five-nine and maybe a buck ten, the teen was dwarfed by his possible opponent. The boy slipped into the alley at that moment, and Sterling watched in horror as his young friend crept closer to the scene unfolding. Had they seen him yet?
Marco's grip seemed to unconsciously tighten as the blonde boy continued to pester the older and stronger man. Luca couldn't understand why this kid was acting so carelessly. The knife's prick was already turning into a small cut. If Marco wasn't careful... he could seriously injure the boy. And as much as Luca would have loved to personally duct tape the human's mouth shut himself, he didn't condone Marco's... methods.The aggressive wolf listened to his prey's piece before laughing aloud. His laugh held mild amusement, but also irritation, anger, and good ol' patronization.
"And you're a narcissist. Must have got you a lot of friends, right? Only..." Pause for theatrical glance around the alley, "I don't see any of them here, prick. Just me and my best friend. And we don't like you. Maybe I'll just slice you rotten little face into ribbons before dropping you off on the doorstep of your poor family's doorstep. Shouldn't be too hard to find when the missing person ads show up." Marco's smile grew across his face, bright teeth glinting in the dimly lit passageway.
"Shall I teach you a lesson about talking like that to people like us, hm?" The knife pressed harder. "Teach you your place?" His gleeful eyes began to glow a bright, golden color. Luca stepped forward, unconsciously, unsure if he should intervene. What caught the taller wolf's attention next was the change in expression on the boy's face from amusement to pure terror. He wasn't looking at Marco, he was looking past him, towards Luca... except he was also looking past Luca. The scents he had been avoiding (the alley was not the cleanest of aromas) began to flood his senses and Luca knew he was being attacked from behind. As he whirled, he came face to face with a young boy lunging bravely at the metaphorical tank. They made contact briefly until the goliath threw off his opponent like a rag doll. The kid was scrawny and even younger than Marco and Luca's current victim. The boy appeared to be the same one that had been addressed earlier, Luca recognized. He couldn't get involved, not when Marco was on the verge of changing right here and now. No. Luca had no time to properly deal with this kid when someone else's life may very well end in the next few moments.
"Run." The Townshend boy released a gutteral growl and allowed his own golden irises to shine in warning. If he got involved now... blood would be spilled.
Turning back to the situation at hand. Luca's friend had thrown the wisp of a man onto the ground, further into the dead-end alley. He had begun his transformation, eyes glowing, hair rising and thickening, face beginning to contort into that of a wolf's.
"Marc." Luca hissed in warning, moving to remind him that he was blowing their werewolf cover. Unfortunately, his warning fell on deaf ears. The Marcowolf was charging to attack the boy, likely aiming to kill viciously.
Cursing under his breath, the quiet presence seemed to move unconsciously.
What happened next was something very primal. Two betas of the same pack turned on one another. One following their human instinct to fight, the other following their animal instinct to defend. The wolves growled and snarled at each other, biting, clawing, pouncing and, in the end, both monsters were returned to their bloodied, beaten states.
Luca stood, breathing heavy across at a friend who he no longer knew. The eyes that once held such joviality and kindness now only held hate and bloodlust. When had this happened? Where had the daredevil gone who used to plan pranks with Luca weeks in advance? Or the kid that never neglected to share a meal with him growing up? When had he been replaced by this... beast?
"I'm telling Rau. Don't bother coming back." Were his last words before Marco turned and left. Luca tried not to think about the hurt or betrayal he had just seen reflected in his pack mate's eyes. All he knew now was that his eyes would no longer be that of a Beta's, but of an Omega 's (an outcast's).
Luca could only watch as the familiar figure faded into the night life of New York and wonder how he ended up with no family, no friends, and no common sense.
The pressure of the sharp edge against Sterling's throat gave pause to his game. He knew he needed to quit while he was . . . well, alive, but the the high was too strong.He scoffed at the word "narcissist." Ironically, he wasn't often stuck with that label. When he wasn't high on adrenaline, the boy was rarely cocky or mouthy. It was only during the rush that he enjoyed pushing peoples' proverbial buttons. This was one of those times.
"You powers of deduction and reasoning are astounding, Hallie. I, too, see no one else. You should take those skills on television."
He was an idiot. He knew. He knew he should have been fighting for his life, knew that this puffed up, testosterone-driven tough guy was on his last shred of patience, but still, he pushed again, arrogantly thinking that the guy would slip up, rear back to strike and loosen his grip just enough for Sterling to slip away. The knife was new, but besides that, this plan had worked for him before.
"Shall I teach you a lesson?" The man asked, a delirious glee sparkling in his eyes. Now was his chance, but suddenly, several things happened at once, Tito charged the giant hanging back in the alley and knocked away like a pesky fly. Upon rising, the idiot made to lunge again but he stopped cold, eyes wide at whatever the man said to him, and with that, he spun and ducked into the street.
His back hit the ground and he stared up at his mugger, whose eyes had again flashed that glowing, golden yellow. But this time, they stayed that way. Sterling couldn't move as he stared at the face above him. It was morphing. Elongating and sprouting fur, teeth pushing out of his gums and forming sharp points. His body rippled with the change, back curling over, arms and legs shortening, and everywhere, fur erupted, until finally, the awestruck young man stared up at a wolf--huge and very obviously bloodthirsty, with fur the same ashy brown as the man who stood above him moments before.
"Shit. Shit. Shit." Sterling chanted, finally coming to his senses and scrambling backward as the creature advanced, searching behind him for anything he could use as a weapon. There was no way he could outrun this beast, nor could he fight him off. This was it. The thrill-seeker had finally pushed his luck too far. He wished he could apologize to his mom.
He braced himself, eyes open and alert. He wouldn't give the asshole the benefit of seeing his fear, even in his final moments. And as the creature descended on him, teeth bared, it was knocked aside by, if possible, a bigger monster? This one was a deep black, with an almost reddish tint to his fur anywhere the light touched him. His back stood a good inch taller than his opponent's, and he seemed to be protecting Stone. Surely this was the hooded companion he saw chase Tito away a few seconds earlier. Why was he fighting his own? And what were they? Werewolfs? Real shifters? What. The. Fuck.
The battle was vicious and bloody, growls and whines flew from the scuffling bodies, and bounced off of the walls, amplifying the cacophony. And finally, the red wolf had his companion pinned, mouth holding his throat but not moving to tear, and he let go, throwing the smaller one aside as they both began to return to their human state, nearly equally worse for wear.
He watched the exchange with wide eyes, ears not catching their conversation. It wasn't until his captor turned and disappeared down the alley that he realized it was over. The taller man stood a few feet away, chest heaving as he watched his friend's retreating back. He looked hollow.
Standing, Stone's eyes landed on a misshapen pile near the wall, and he walked forward to examine the object. It was the same hooded jacket he'd seen on the man before with basket ball shorts stuffed in the pocket? He swung his head around after retrieving the garments, muddled brain only then understanding that the wolf-man wasn't wearing . . . anything. Awkward.
Sterling averted his eyes and approached his reluctant savior, holding the clothing out to him. He had so many questions, but all he could get out was a quiet, "some 'best friend' he is."
He watched silently as the giant wordlessly donned his clothes and turned to leave, a tired, vacant expression on his bloody face.
"Wait!" he nearly shouted, an idea suddenly forming. The man paused and Sterling jogged the few steps forward, pulling a gum wrapper and a pen from his pocket and jotting down a number. "If you ever need a job . . . " he held the wrapper out to the man, trying to meet his eye. "I could probably get you one. Good money."
This could work out. He obviously needed money if he was mugging people on the streets, and it looked as if he'd just been banished from whatever group he'd been running with. How cool would it be to have a werewolf as a bodyguard? Especially one he could control with nothing more than his own secret. Once he came down from the rush, Sterling would likely have a heart attack at what had just happened, but right now, all he felt was curiosity and excitement. He had just witnessed a fucking werewolf fight and lived. He was going to have to up the stakes to get another high like that.
((Is the part about the clothes OK? I can take that part out or change it. I just figured that would be as good a way as any to carry a spare set of clothes. Also, I can change the description. I wasn't sure what kind of wolf you were going for, so I winged it. If you had something different in mind, let me know! :) ))
Luca hadn't stopped staring after his oldest friend even after he was no longer visible. He had essentially ended his only connection to his past life. All those years growing up with Marco, getting into trouble with him, undergoing trauma and transformation together... and now it was nil. Because Marco would have rather killed an innocent (albeit infuriating) bystander than work to control himself and his feelings. And because, as much as Luca disliked humans, he couldn't agree to murder. What would Rau think? And the rest of the pack? He'd been with them for years... though even he knew he was the odd man out from the group. The others were more... wild, aggressive, wolf-ly. Perhaps now the Townshend boy was just making the distinction official."some 'best friend' he is..." A softer voice came from behind him. The boy hadn't run away yet? The black wolf followed the annoying creature with labored eyes. He'd just lost his pack, and this kid thought it was a good time to crack jokes? The boy looked beaten as well, a black eye forming to match his scratches and neck injury. It would likely take him longer than Luca to recover from his wounds, but the sour wolf couldn't bring himself to care. The pale human was probably going to go home, fret over what he had just seen, wake up the next morning and think it had all been a dream before returning to his normal (likely comfortable) lifestyle. If he cried wolf, no one would believe him. No one sane at least. Continuing his evaluation, he saw the knife hadn't cut too deep, fortunately for the boy, so he wasn't in any further danger. He was surprised by the show of kindness the boy offered, handing him Luca's spare clothes. He took them soundlessly and composed himself.
The omega didn't have the energy to get mad about his tactless comment about Marco, nor the fact that Luca's life had just changed uncomfortably because of him. He made to leave without so much as another word when he heard a frantic "Wait!" Clenching his teeth, he stopped, turning to finally scold the brat when he did something surprising, handing him a number and offering a job if he needed one. The runaway frowned as the wrapping was stuffed into his hand. He was another one of this kids' charity cases? Luca had just saved his life and he repaid him with this. Just what he had always wanted. Exploitation.
"Get lost." He grumbled before leaving the rich kid's pathetic ass in the alleyway.
Sterling felt bad for the guy as he handed over the clothes. He looked genuinely surprised at the tiny act of kindness. In hindsight, it made sense. He likely didn't see many friendly faces in his current line of work. The job he was offering really could be mutually beneficial. Unfortunately for Wolfie, he didn't know what the job was. He didn't seem like the type that would willingly babysit a guy who he already didn't seem overly fond of.
"Get lost."
That was what he had for him? "Get lost?" The guy spent his time robbing innocent pedestrians, but he was too good to accept help from someone willing? Prideful dick.
Frustrated, the light-haired youth turned, exiting the alley in the opposite direction. He tucked his hands into his pockets as he walked and stopped, hands closing around familiar paper. He'd left the twenty. Why was this guy so confusing?! He mugged people but protected lives, made his living stealing money but wouldn't accept financial help? With a huff, Sterling sped, catching a bus to Midtown so he could find his car and his shitty bodyguard.
Entering his unreasonably luxe house, the legal adult crept quietly to his room, knowing his mother would trust his bodyguard to get him home safe. As he stripped out of his recently-donned "proper clothes" to shower off the grime, the pale young man glimpsed himself in the mirror. He looked like hell, a black eye forming, split lip, and a nick around half an inch long along the right side of his throat with dried blood forming a tiny streak toward his collar bone. Further examination revealed a small bloody scrape on his scalp and bruises forming across his shoulders from hitting the wall and the ground. This would be fun to explain.
He stood under the massaging spray of hot water for as long as he could stay conscious, and finally fell into bed. The high was officially gone, and he would likely sleep late into the next day. Coming down was always a bitch. The spoiled youth's final thoughts as he drifted found the intriguing stranger in the alley once again.
He hoped the wolf-man would call.
[END SCENE]
The auburn haired recluse spent the next few weeks trying to make a living for himself. He'd tried to continue his pickpocketing career, but his usual favorite spots to work the streets were already being watched by his now ex-pack and he had to keep his distance. Thus, the omega turned to bum jobs. Of course, this pursuit was also a dead end as no one would hire someone with no references, no records, and an immovable scowl on his face.Luca knew going it alone wasn't going to be easy, though he did feel a sense of freedom in having no ties. Who needed connection when he could have himself and the wilderness of Central Park?
The beast's stomach growled angrily at it's owner to be fed, but the man didn't have a penny to his name. Shuffling through his pockets for a scrap of some morsel, he noticed a small crumpled gum wrapper. Frowning at the memory of the incident that had made him homeless, he tossed the paper away from him.
"...if you ever need a job..." The boy's labored, yet gentle comment surfaced in his mind. Luca needed a job. He needed one very badly. It would have been nice to even buy a nice sleeping bag for the especially cold nights. And his stomach certainly wasn't going to feed itself.
No. How could he? The kid was responsible for his downfall. Well, Luca knew his actions were his own fault. But maybe if he had just kept his mouth shut... or been anywhere else in that moment... maybe the lone wolf wouldn't have been alone.
"Fuck." He cursed under his breath, knowing this was basically his only option. He had nowhere and no one to run to. Finding some quarters and a pay phone, Luca dialed the number listed on the small wrapper. He began wondering if the boy would answer... or an employer... what tone should he take? He wasn't keen on forgiving the kid, but if it was an employer, then he would need to make a good impression if he ever wanted the job.
Waiting as the phone rang made his stomach perform circus tricks. Was this a bad idea... maybe he should hang up.
"Hello?" It was a woman's voice. By the tone, Luca anticipated the owner to be a middle aged woman. She seemed to know exactly who Luca was and verbalized her excitement to set up an interview with him. It was the strangest feeling, having someone who was excited to talk to him and speak to him kindly.
~~~
After receiving the address, our wolf was instructed to go there at his soonest convenience (as he was homeless and unemployed, that very moment was the most convenient).
Upon arrival, Luca's jaw nearly dropped at the majesty of the building. He'd seen nice buildings, nice homes, nice apartments, but this? This was just grand. The house reminded him more of a mansion than an actual house. At first, he was sure he had made some terrible mistake when it came to the address, but before he knew it, he was being ushered in, saying they had been expecting him.
The confused man was directed to a seat on the balcony, overlooking a breathtaking view of the city. How was it possible that he was in the right place? He didn't have to wait long until the woman he had spoke to on the phone was greeting him enthusiastically.
"It's so nice to meet you!" She had smiled at him warmly. The woman was, indeed, middle aged and dressed in wealthy business attire. Still in his hoodie and shorts, Luca felt terribly underdressed to say the least. Still, he had no other clothes and had little options at this point.
Before he had time to ask any questions, the woman went into an overview about what was expected of him in this position. He was to be a bodyguard for her son and make sure he didn't get into any trouble. Apparently, he was a bit of a daredevil and a free spirit. The omega almost had a heart attack when she began discussing how he would be paid. He really wanted the job after hearing what he could be getting. Though, he had no bank account, so he would have to asked for cash directly.
"So, you start today. Sterling should be here any moment." She encouraged him as she gave him a tour around the household.
"W-wait, I'm already hired?" He sputtered, flabbergasted. He had assumed he would interview and, like always, he would be rejected.
"Of course! We need a replacement for his bodyguards immediately and I was assured you were the man for the job.
"D-don't you want to do a background check or interview or something?"
The woman laughed easily. "You'd be surprised how few men are up to this task. I'll take any chance I can get. If you just give me your name, I'll get all the information I need, but you'll still get the position." She assured him.
Luca couldn't believe his ears. She just wanted his name? And he could still get the position?
"Luca," He breathed, "Luca Archibald Townshend."
He wasn't going to call. Three weeks and two bodyguards later, Sterling had given up hope on seeing the wolf-man again. The morning after the attack his mother had questioned him tirelessly about his bruised face, to which he'd answered that he'd snuck away from his bodyguard--which came as no surprise to his mother--and been mugged outside of the mall. He then gave her an expertly altered tale of a mysterious guy coming to his rescue. He'd seemed down on his luck, so Sterling had given him her number and offered him a job.
After firing her current employee and calling the next candidate on "The List," she'd put her reckless son on house arrest--only allowing him to travel to and from work. He effectively signed his current guard's termination papers on the first night he was allowed out. Poor guy never had a chance at the company cocktail party. Getting away had been too easy for the stealthy youth, and when he arrived home the next morning, he received news that he was suspended from work as well--perks of your boss also being your mother--and he was to stay in the house at all times. Armed with a state-of-the-art security system, the house was as good at keeping someone in as it was keeping them out. And so he waited.
-------
That morning marked day ten of house arrest, and though the massive home had much by way of entertainment, Sterling was getting restless. It had been ten days since he'd volunteered anywhere, nearly a month since his last rush, and now, he couldn't even go outside.
That's when the call came. His mother found him curled in the library window seat, reading the same line of Count of Monte Cristo for the tenth time. The mysterious man had called and would be there in half an hour? Sterling sprang into action, making his way to his room to tame his wild hair and shave the stubble from his face before swapping sweatpants for artfully distressed jeans and a simple black t-shirt. That didn't look too pretentious, right? He didn't want to offend his best chance at freedom right off the bat.
Sterling spent the rest of his time back in the library, watching the camera feeds (each non-private room and the outside perimeter was fitted with multiple) for the new hire from his laptop. As he waited, some trepidation began to set in. What if it was the wrong guy? What if it was the right guy and he'd changed his mind about killing Sterling? Maybe he'd reunited with his group and decided to finish what his buddy started? But his fears were quickly banished as the camera loop switched to the front gate. There he was! And . . . was he in the same clothes? "Damn . . . " he murmured. The guy had seemed a little worse for wear the last time they met, but the tank being led through to the terrace was a wreck. He looked filthy and exhausted. Had he been living on the street? Had he been eating? Stone's humanitarian instincts went into hyperdrive has he watched his mother give the man the man a basic tour of the lower floors. This guy was proud, so he wouldn't outright accept help. It would all have to seem like part of the job.
Monica had ended the short tour in her office, several floors below the library, and Sterling decided to make his appearance. Surely the draw of the money was strong enough to stop him from changing his mind now.
As Wolfie finished giving his name, Sterling strode into the room, offering his mother a confident smile and a "Hey, mom," before turning the grin on Luca. "It's nice to officially meet you, Luca. I was beginning to think you weren't gonna call. I'm Sterling."
As the man before him seemed temporarily speechless, he took the chance to put his plans into action. His mother would follow his lead if she thought he was finally on board with having a body guard, so he continued. With a casual glance at Luca's filthy attire, he easily excused the clothes by commenting, "looks like you just got done with a workout. I'll show you to a bathroom so you can grab a shower before we eat. I don't know about you, but I'm starved." He started for the door, watching Luca expectantly. "We can get your clothes washed while you're in the shower, and Mom will have your paperwork ready, so we can talk details over lunch." With a business-like tone, he asked, "will cash or check work better for your start-up bonus?"
Not long after he had given his name, Luca heard slight footsteps headed in this direction. He could tell from the cadence of the steps that their owner was a confident individual. The shoe souls against the tile floors was also soft, indicating a younger person. The scent that came to him was somewhat familiar, but he couldn't very well place it in his current state of starvation.The doors swung open to reveal a young man with strikingly white hair. It took him a second, but soon Luca realized exactly who was standing before him: the kid from before.
"It's nice to officially meet you, Luca. I was beginning to think you weren't gonna call. I'm Sterling." He spoke, an easy grin spread across his refined features. Luca knew he could have given this punk hell. He'd gone over that night thousands upon thousands of times in his head. And every single time, he could't have imagined letting the brat die, even though he had been miserable ever since. He'd let it go, thinking it wasn't likely he would ever have to see the reminder of his loss again, but here he was, and still remembering the offer he had made him. The wolf's hands clenched into fists unconsciously. Did he want to make him some sort of guard dog? He must have remembered what he saw... and believed it, right? Why else would he have remembered giving him the number?
The recluse stood dumbly while his mind raced until the boy continued.
"looks like you just got done with a workout..." The wolf grit his teeth. He knew he looked like a street rat. He hadn't known what he was getting himself into when he called the number. He'd been sleeping in the park for the last few weeks and, while he did jump in the lake every now and then to wash up, he might as well have been a dirty mutt in comparison to these pampered poodles. He felt angry, knowing the brat probably thought so little of him. If he had any respect for Luca's strength, he would have run for the hills by now. Worse, Luca had already accepted the job and, even now, he couldn't afford to remain homeless any longer. Biting his tongue, the sour wolf followed after the prince.
"...will cash or check work better for your start-up bonus?" He asked. The runaway responded with a furrowed brow. What the hell was a start-up bonus? Still, he didn't have a bank account... but they didn't know that. Should he embarrass himself further? Hell, at this point wasn't it more embarrassing for them to hire someone like Luca? They must have been desperate... or on a charity kick.
"C-cash for now." He grumbled, sucking up his pride. They were the idiots hiring him. He needed the money and, despite his desire to battle their stereotypes, he had to take the cash route.
((Okayyyy Here Goes:- Sterling notices the way Luca looks at animals and the way they treat him and decides he wants to figure out how to get him a pet that trusts him; like maybe he either found a stray kitten or bought a puppy and maybe had it sleep with something of Luca's for a while and then when he give him the animal, it's used to his scent, or he could have him wolf-out and then show his belly to the animal in wolf form? I think it would be a crazy adorable scene to play out
- I feel like, though animals are nervous around Luca, little kids would flock to him, so if he helps out at the soup kitchen, that would be really adorable!
- Sterling gets a kick out of frustrating the people he cares about; the more he cares, the more riled up he likes to get them--part of his thrill-seeking--not to mention it would be a major turn on to get him close to wolfing out.
- When he's not intentionally annoying him, Sterling is obsessed with getting the overly-serious Luca to loosen up
- I originally wanted to have Sterling keep his philanthropic stuff a secret from Luca for a while, but I'm not sure why he would. Maybe he should just say "we're going here, please don't ask questions; you can come or not."
- As far as feelings go, these are the ideas I like the most:
** Intoxicated like you said
** or Arguing, it's tense, then one comes at the other, they're in each others' faces, and one of them leans in
** or Sterling is pansexual and flirts with anyone he finds attractive, so he flirts with Luca for a while before realizing his feelings are stronger than mild flirtations
** or if Luca realizes his feelings first, he seems like the type that would keep them to himself for as long as he could, so if Sterling flirts shamelessly without realizing his feelings, Luca can be super uncomfortable with it at first and snaps at him with something along the lines of "stop toying with my feelings" and Sterling can be like "I didn't realize there were any feelings to toy with."
- I love the amusement park idea! AAAAHHH!
This is what I've got for now! I will try to come up with more scenarios to play out soon!! :) ))
((I KNOW! I must say, I do love an angry kiss scene. The tension and build up just makes it so much better to me. Like, one person initiates, it goes for a second, then the other pulls away, is shocked for a second, that moment of 'wtf just happened,' and then the 'I liked it; I wanna do it again,' and so they do it again.https://youtu.be/p7k35zYWWZk
this scene starting at around 2:37 is similar to the type of tension I think would be great for these two. They are both so powerful in different ways--Luca physically, and Sterling personality-wise--that it seems like the beginning of their relationship would be nothing but building tension, and their first kiss will be kind of like a dam breaking.))
((Yeah that seems plausible with these two! Maybe they start getting along really well and then a friend from school comes to visit for a week, and Sterling has a fling with her, and then Luca is suddenly cranky again, and once she leaves, Sterling can confront him about it and Luca can throw out claims like he doesn't like/trust her, she's gold-digging, his wolfy-senses were sending off warning bells, etc., and Sterling could keep pushing, telling him that he can't control who he sleeps with, telling him to stop being such a buzz kill, etc. It would be cute if Stone was in the middle of yelling you're just jealous when he kisses him, cause he could pull back and be like oh, you are jealous.
And thanks! I guess we both like water symbolism (dams, rain).
I need to work on my next post. I'm excited to get this stuff underway!! I think he should eventually take Luca secondhand rich-person clothes shopping under the guise of needing to buy some of his own stuff. I'm thinking that's where he buys his clothes and clothes that he takes to the shelters, like he doesn't really understand the need to spend astronomical amounts on clothing, but he likes to buy high-quality stuff that will last--especially for the people who will likely be wearing it a lot. And while they're there, he can try to nonchalantly remind Luca that he has his own money and should buy himself clothes that he likes.))
His reaction was to be expected. The wolf-man didn't seem to be the forgiving type, and had Sterling not pushed the other wolf so far, Luca would likely still be running with his group. But he'd done him a favor, getting him away from that vicious asshole who'd claimed Luca as a friend. Though he seemed defensive and on edge now, there was a definite air of goodness surrounding the intimidating man. He'd warned Tito away rather than striking, lost likely his only friends to save the life of some he didn't know, someone who wasn't acting much like he deserved it.
But he was making up for it, right? Giving the guy a job, honest work? He'd eventually see. This wasn't a charity case. It was his calling: helping those who were struggling pull themselves back up. He just hoped the stubborn wolf would see reason.
His mother nodded, not showing any signs of surprise at Sterling's improvised offer, and began drawing up Luca's paperwork as they exited the office, opening her personal safe to pull out a few straps of bills which would be the new hire's signing bonus.
What happened to make you so bitter, Luca Townshend? the pale-haired youth questioned in his head as they made their way up the roomy, circular stairwell. He would find out.
The wolf gave him a wide berth as they came to stop in front of the door leading to the sixth floor, and he turned, having thought long and hard on how to convince the proud man to move in with them. With a calm demeanor, he began his spiel, hoping his speech made it seem as if they needed him, not the other way around--which really, they did. "One more thing for you to think about before I leave you to shower. My mother prefers any bodyguard under her employment to live on-property. Obviously, you still have the job if you'd prefer to stay where you are currently living, but there is a private loft above the library on this floor. It's small, but comfortable, and if you'd like it, you're welcome to it. Your signing bonus should be more than enough to cover any early contract renewals at your other place, and we can take the rent for your living here out of your monthly pay."
Though he remained gruff in his reply, Sterling saw the first unwilling spark of intrigue in his new companion's eye at the word library, and with renewed confidence, he replied excitedly, "d'you want to see it?" Before the wolf could answer, the privileged young man swung the door wide and stepped backwards into the haven of his own design, the one place he could go to shut down the reckless, restless side of himself and find peace.
Massive windows overlooking the city lined the wall, and row after row of shelving, loaded heavily with books, cut across every available section of the two-story room's walls. The airy room was dotted with cushions, chairs, a chaise lounge, and a coffee machine. To the far left of the spacious room, a staircase led upward into the floor of the private living quarters. "This is the library," he said proudly.
What was he thinking right now? The cautious man wondered as he watched the delicate thing lead him to the showers... or wherever he was taking him. He wasn't perturbed in the least that he'd just slapped a leash on someone that could tear him to shreds if he made him too angry. Of course, this was the guy that stared death in the face and encouraged him to continue. He must be some sick rich kid...After they left his mother, Luca wanted to confront the punk. Yeah, he saved the kid's life, but he didn't want to start a relationship of who owes who more. He wanted to know exactly what he was expecting from him-if he was expecting anything from him-unless he was just some creep that wanted to observe him like some crooked science experiment. Before the wary wolf could do anything more, though, the boy began speaking again. He must really like hearing himself talk, Luca thought to himself.
"Sterling..." He tried to interject, but his protest fell on deaf ears. Still, they wanted him to... live there? Alongside the constant reminder of why he had left his wolf family? Sure, they were rowdy and a bit eccentric, but he could handle them. Living with a twisted human that could look him in the eyes and not be afraid. He wasn't sure he could handle that.
Unwillingly, Luca's mouth opened just slightly in surprise at the mention of having a library. He had imagined perhaps a wall or two of books. This family was rich, to be sure, but a proper library? Like the public ones he'd always passed on the streets? The thought intrigued him. He'd always wanted to get a library card, but they always asked for information and money that Luca couldn't give. Sure, he'd dropped out of high school and was never the brightest student, but after he left, he truly learned the meaning of "you never know what you've got until it's gone."
The towering man always wanted to learn more about the world, himself, and anything he could get his hands on. When you couldn't have access to anything, you wanted to get your hands on everything. As much as he wanted to tell the punk off, his face had already given him away.
"D'you want to see it?"
No He told himself, Don't fall for it. But before he could say another word, the doors fanned open in slow motion and the dirty creature was too stunned to move an inch. The room was simply breathtaking and far more extravagant than any public library he had seen. His heart beat faster as the vision revealed more and more of it's intricacies. The rows upon rows of nothing but books, the windows spanning from the lower to the upper floor of the library. If he died there, he would die a happy wolf.
His feet moved forward unconsciously as he marveled until he stopped right as he was about to pass through the doorway. Luca bathed in a pond. His clothes were the same ones he had been wearing for months and his dirty paws wanted to touch every book in the vicinity. He couldn't tarnish such treasures like this. He stopped his advance, taking a step back.
"I'd prefer to wash up first." He stated, settling his face back into one of disinterest and letting his eyes land again on the cheeky blond.
Sterling felt a myriad of emotions in the presence of the wolf-man, intrigue, excitement, frustration, attraction, but the one sentiment that never even crossed his mind was fear. Luca saved him. What reason did he have to be afraid?The curious man's reaction to the library was further proof that Sterling had nothing to fear. His eyes lit up like a child on Christmas when the doors swung open. Someone capable of showing such innocent joy couldn't be a bad person. Cranky, prideful, intimidating, and powerful, yes. But not someone to be feared.
With a grin, he beckoned the stubborn man forward. "The bathroom you're going to use is up there," he said, pointing a thumb behind him. "Just take your shoes off at the door and I'll show you." He watched the Tank remove his shoes and step lightly onto the ornate carpet before turning to guide him across the room and up the stairs into the loft. It was decorated in a similar fashion to the room below, dark wood, ornate furniture, and plush carpets. "Bathroom is through there," he said, motioning for another door. "There are towels and soap and stuff in the shower. I'll see if I have something that might fit you until you can get your stuff. I'm sure you have a lot to say, so when you're done, we can talk." He offered Luca an encouraging smile as he made to leave. "Take your time, Luca." He hoped the wolf would take this chance to relax, enjoy his shower, clean himself up. Sterling didn't really care how the guy looked--he'd seen grimier in his adventures to the shelters--but it had to be uncomfortable. No one deserved to feel like an animal, even someone who could turn into one.
After finding a pair of jeans and a t-shirt that might fit the giant in the bag of new clothes he had yet to take to the shelter, stopping by his mother's office to pick up the paperwork and cash he'd requested, and eliciting the help of her personal assistant to load and carry two massive trays with enough sandwich fixings, chips, fruits and vegetables, and sodas to feed an entire football team (Luca seemed like he could eat quite a bit) he made his way back to the library, thanking Ashley for her help before she left. The shower was running as he entered the bedroom to lay the clothes on the bed and descended the stairs to wait in the library.
As he waited, Sterling thought of the lengthy list of questions he had. The day after he'd witnessed Luca's change, he read everything he could on lycanthropy. Most of what he found was from supposed quacks and had been highly criticized, but much of the information seemed similar to what he'd seen. Lord knew he could spend hours picking the wolf-man's brain, but it was Luca's turn to talk. When he came back down, the relentless young man would shut up and give his new bodyguard a chance to speak.
Luca eyed the heir suspiciously, but followed him up to the bedroom nonetheless. He always had a smile at the ready, something that made the wolf unsure about the kid. He'd removed his shoes and socks as instructed, wiping his feet a little extra with his socks just to be thorough. He didn't want to trail dirt around the sanctuary of knowledge. To Luca's relief, there were no shackles or cobblestones or jail cells that aimed to contain him. The bedroom was actually very nice looking, much more extravagant than anything he had ever been accustomed to. He liked the dark wood theme that seemed to continue from the library and spill into this room, but he wouldn't admit it, of course. If he was going to be working for the kid, he didn't want to give him the impression he was wrapped around his minuscule thumb because of luxury.
"When you're done, we can talk..." The blond affirmed before offering another flippant smile and taking his leave. Luca sighed after the door closed behind him. How did he even get here? Was this some weird nightmare/dream? The wolf ruffled his hair as he stripped and got into the shower. The warm water was new. The last time he had one was about nine years ago. It was odd, knowing so much time had passed. He wondered what his family was up to now. His younger siblings had graduated high school now, probably getting ready to graduate college soon too... He wondered what Ava and Wade wanted to be. When they were younger, Wade wanted to be a stunt man and Ava was going to go to space. Luca had never quite known what he wanted to do. He looked as far ahead as his next football/soccer/wrestling/fencing match.
He took his time washing, finishing in a whopping 5 minutes instead of the usual 2-3. He grabbed a fluffy white towel, wrapping it around his waist before taking a brush to his wet locks, then returning to the bedroom. He noted the clothes and tray of food left on the bed. Looking around, the boy wasn't there, so he removed the towel and changed. The clothes were definitely more snug than the style intended, but, considering the difference in body types between the two men, they fit nonetheless. He glanced again at the plate of food. He sniffed it, searching for any chemical or unfamiliar smell. Would the try to poison him? Sedate him? His stomach growled angrily and, having no more will to caution him, he took a bite of an apple. The taste was good and he felt no side-effects other than simultaneous relief and ravenous hunger. He ate about half the tray before again going to the washroom to clean his hands and face. He didn't want his hands to be dirty when he finally got his hands on one of those books.
Finished with feeding his stomach and cleansing himself of the grime that had accumulated over the years, he made his way down the staircase into the heart of the library where the brat was waiting. His skin crawled. It was his turn to speak now and he wouldn't hold back. He could tell the boy was the only other person in the near vicinity, so they would be able to talk freely about Luca's condition. The sour werewolf knew he probably had hundreds upon hundreds of questions about what he had seen, but he didn't care to answer them.
"I don't know what you're trying to do here. If you think I'm going to be some exotic pet of yours, you're going to be very disappointed. Just because I saved your ass doesn't mean I like you. If you push me like you did my friend, I'll drop you in a heartbeat."He stated, hoping there wouldn't be any confusion about feelings. He was here to work and get paid. That was all.
For someone as massive as the wolf, he was surprisingly light on his feet. Sterling had no indication that the man had descended the stairs until he was standing a few feet away. While he waited, the youth had retrieved his copy of The Count of Monte Cristo and returned to the page he'd had such trouble with before. Again having trouble concentrating, he was glad to drop the book onto the seat next to him as Luca approached. His eyes widened slightly at the sight he beheld. Luca had been attractive before, undoubtedly, but now . . . with his damp hair and his oversized tanned body squeezed into clothes just a tad too small. Now he was gorgeous.
Sterling gave his new associate an appreciate once-over as he spoke, only mildly offended by the pet comment. He shook it off with a smirk and shot back a dry, "damn, I already had the perfect rhinestone collar picked out. I even bought one of those little bags to carry you around in." Did he really think so little of him?
"If you push me like you did my friend . . . "
Oh. Of course he thought poorly of him. The only experience the wolf had with his new charge was mid-rush. He winced at the memory even as a little thrill shot through him at the thought of getting this man that riled up. Shaking the thought, he softened his tone. "I really am sorry about that. I have a tendency to get . . . mouthy in situations like that." He didn't dwell on his apology long, however, and quickly moved into business-mode.
"What I'm 'trying to do,'" he mimicked, hand raised in air quotes, "is create a successful partnership. Consider me your business associate. We can help each other out." He grinned encouragingly at the grim-faced man. "You need a job, and I need someone who won't go running to my mother every time I breathe wrong. It's an easy job, really. You follow me around, have my back in sticky situations, and look the other way when I leave the area's my lovely mother has mapped out as 'acceptable' parts of the city. In return, I make sure you are paid very well, and your secret will remain safely with me," he finished lightly. Sterling would never actually tell anyone about the man's condition, but he might cooperate more if he thought his secret could get out, and Sterling needed his time at the shelter and the kitchen. Sometimes he thought he needed his friends there more than they needed him. Besides, Wolfie seemed intent on hating him. May as well give him a reason.
He dropped the paperwork, a pen, and an envelope with a full month's wages on the table between them, sweeping a hand toward the chair Luca stood near. "You're welcome to sit. You'll need to get this paperwork started, and this," he said, tapping the fat envelope with one finger "is your signing bonus." He leaned back in his chair to watch Wolfie fill out his papers. "Any questions so far?"
The beastly man growled warningly at his new boss. Well, technically, Sterling's mother was the boss, but something told him the kid had other ideas in mind. Still, he didn't appreciate the joke. Was he supposed to assume the boy was all sunshine and flowers with nothing but the best intentions? Now that was laughable. He huffed at the blond's half-assed apology. He didn't understand spoiled brats like him. They thought just saying "sorry" with no feeling behind it meant something. Not to Luca. The wolf crossed his arms in response and watched him. He wouldn't sit. Partly because he didn't want to level with him and partly because the clothes were uncomfortable.The wary wolf watched the papers, pen and envelope be slid closer to him. By the size of the envelope, he could tell the amount of money would be substantial (even if all the bills turned out to be $1.
"And what makes you think I'm working with you? You may know my secret, but without proof, you're just another crazy rich kid that took a little too many drugs." He countered, sizing up the businessman. The boy had an air of professionalism about him, but Luca wasn't in the mood to be swayed by a silver tongue.
In actuality, Luca knew that any word that got out about him and his pack could be dangerous even if they were from the rambling mouth of this kid. He wasn't the only human that had stumbled across his supernatural world. In fact, there were enthusiasts as well as... hunters. Rhiannon had warned him about them when he lived with her family. Apparently there were people all across the world that believed it was their duty to hunt down the dangerous beasts for the greater good of the human race or something like that. When he reunited with Marco, Luca was told that hunters were more of a joke than a threat. What human stood a chance against their supernatural strengths?
Stone, however, didn't know about this. At least, it wasn't likely. How much could he have learned from one chance encounter with two werewolves in a dark alley?
He was so easy to push! Sterling liked the guy already. "Have it your way, Iron Giant," he breezed as his towering guest remained standing. Without moving from his relaxed position, he listened to the wolf's rebuttal.
He felt his eyebrow twitch downward at the term "crazy rich kid," and held up a hand. "Ima stop you right there, Wolfie. A, I don't do drugs, period. Anyone trying to use that excuse can have me tested at any time. B, I'm not just some ditzy rich boy with mommy's credit card. I'm at university on a full-ride scholarship, and I pay rent for room and board when I'm home on break. Don't presume to know me, Luca." He pulled an older model smartphone from his jeans and tapped at the screen a few times before pressing play on a video. Growls and whimpers of pain erupted from the speakers as he faced the screen towards the wolf, keeping the phone close to his body. "And what makes you think I've got no proof?" The young man's voice had become grim. "Don't think destroying my phone will work. I've already uploaded the video to my laptop. It's stored on several flash drives for safe-keeping."
Dropping his phone onto the cusion next to his novel, Stone crossed his hands over his stomach and looked up at the man, smile back in place. "We can make this work very nicely, I think, Luca. In my opinion, I don't need a bodyguard, but if my mother wants to waste her money on protecting me when she could be putting it to far better use, I will at least make sure she throws quite a bit of it your way. All I'm asking is that you work with me here. Help me get some of my freedom back. If I like you, your job here is secure. If not . . . well, why do you think my mother is so desperate to hire someone? I can't count how many I've run off."
The brat was annoying. It was like he liked pushing Luca's buttons. He was definitely sick even if he denied being crazy."Don't presume to know me, Luca." He finished his "I'm not your average rich kid" speech. Luca may not have expected to hear those unimportant details spew from Sterling's mouth, but he didn't care. He had no idea what it was like to not have the privilege he was born into. He wouldn't have had the tutors or the protection or sense of safety that he took for granted. He was able to complete high school and go to college. He could get a job, even when he didn't need one. His words were wasted on the unsympathetic wolf.
Luca's irritation was only inflamed more by the video? How had neither he or Marco noticed the filming taking place? How on earth did he have the calm or sense to record when a werewolf fight was raging on in front of him? He lurched forward, aiming to grab the device when Stone's voice stopped him.
"Don't think destroying my phone will work. I've already uploaded the video to my laptop..." Sterling's change in tone sent an unconscious shiver down the werewolf's spine. This wasn't good. He couldn't up and leave... he needed the money. He couldn't quit either or him and Marco could end up all over the New York Times by the next morning. His stunned face turned to glare at the delicate creature that had single-handedly trapped the beast.
"And if I decide to destroy you?" His voice was gruff and angry, his eyes flashing a bright angry blue. Screw the money, this was his life he was messing with!
"...I don't need a bodyguard..." Sterling noted as he continued with his proposition (though, at this point, how was Luca to refuse him?). He couldn't grab the money, run and risk his and Marco's secret being exposed. The boy couldn't be trusted. That much was obvious. He was underhanded, spoiled, and manipulative. And yet, Luca couldn't harm him (not fatally at least).
"...I can't count how many times I've run off." Luca almost smirked at this. He'd never had a werewolf trailing him. If this "iron giant" had been watching him, he wouldn't have been able to get a mile away without Luca knowing precisely where he was. If this kid even thought about running, he'd be caught. If anyone was getting the dark wolf out of this hideous position, it would be himself.
((That sounds great! If you want, I'll set up my last post to have Sterling request that they go to the mall, and you can do one more and end the scene? Then, if you want, you can do a one off, and then I can start the week later post with him getting Luca up early one morning and telling him they are going on a field trip.I love both new ideas. And here's one of my own.
--I think Sterling's thrill-seeking might start becoming destructive, and I'm wondering if that might be something Luca can help him work through, maybe helping him channel that need for a rush into something safer than picking fights with werewolves? I'm also thinking the only times he doesn't crave that rush is when he's busy at the shelter, in his library, and now I'm thinking he'll notice he craves it less around our sweet Luca.
--Specifics on the puppy. For some reason, I really feel like Sterling would want to give him a chocolate lab puppy. Are there any dogs you would prefer I do instead? (view spoiler)
And thanks!! I'm still kind of getting used to him. He's so different than any character I've done before! But i love him too.
And I adore Luca. He's so damn loveable!!))
Sterling ignored the growing look of scorn that finally boiled over into fury in his bodyguard's eyes. He had him now. The wolf would do what he asked, and eventually, he would understand why Sterling needed his freedom. He would wait a while before taking Luca to the shelters he visited, take some time to ensure he could trust that the wolf would really stay silent. If he gave away the locations of his favorite haunts and Luca gave that information to his mother, she would find a way to ensure he would never get close to them again. She had no problem with his humanitarian tendencies--her company gave to charities all the time--Monica just felt that he had no business physically visiting the shelters and soup kitchens. He, on the other hand, needed to meet the people he was helping. Sterling knew he had a leg up above those around him, several legs even. Even though his mother required him to work, she still provided him with quite a bit. So, he liked to make it his business to give others that same leg up. Giving money to soup kitchens and shelters was great, but it was a band-aid fix.Without visiting the people, how could he learn their story? How could he get the alcoholic into rehab or help the dropout study for his GED without face-to-face time? His work was far too important to quit now.
"And if I decide to destroy you?"
A shiver of excitement zipped up the young man's spine as the wolf's eyes shone an unnaturally bright blue. Blue? In the alley, his eyes had been yellow. What caused the change? Yet another question to add to his list. But right now, the murderous glare of his colleague was clouding his judgement. He was already so pissed. It would be cake to make him snap, show off just a little of that beastie side. That familiar, aching pressure started in his chest, squeezing extra beats from his overworked heart. It wasn't until he heard himself quip, "Don't make promises you're not gonna keep, Wolfie," that Sterling realized he was on his feet, leaning forward across the table towards the angry man. No . . . not in here. He tossed a glance at the several cameras in the room and forced himself to pull back. "I apologize," he said, finding his seat once more and averting his eyes for a moment. "That was rude."
"Now," he continued breezily. "If you'd like the position, I'd suggest you sign the paperwork; it's basically stating that you understand the rule (keep me safe), know where in the city is off limits, and always report back to Monica with any suspicious activity. Then," he said, perking up at his own sudden idea, "we can go to the mall for your first assignment. I need some new stuff, and I'm sure you can find something to spend some of that signing bonus on." He held the envelope up as a peace offering as he waited. Would the wolf keep fighting? Sterling wished he would give in already. The sooner they began their little agreement, the sooner he could pick the man's brain and help him find his leg up.
"Don't make promises you're not gonna keep, Wolfie," The heir jabbed arrogantly.Luca growled in response, wishing to defy the boy's assumption, though he knew he wouldn't ever kill him intentionally. Not yet... He justified himself internally. Sterling had taken a standing stance, leaning forward against the table, eyes challenging Luca's own. The wolf leaned forward instinctively as though he were up to whatever obstacle Stone would try to throw his way. This kid was out of his mind if he aimed to get into it with the giant, he was aiming to lose.
"I apologize, that was rude." Sterling suddenly noted, leaving their tense bubble and returning to a sit. Why had his demeanor changed course so suddenly? Crazy rich kid...
"Now...I'd suggest you sign the paperwork..."
Luca eyed the tempting envelope. Accept, he would be the brat's personal guard dog... deny? Chances of survival without a pack were slim to begin with... and he'd be risking revealing his location and the world could be enlightened as to the existence of werewolves. Was his pride worth it?
The wolf calmed his heart, returning his eyes to their normal state. He watched Sterling, the distaste making his skin crawl. Without so much as another word, he snatched the envelope, leaving his pride in it's place.
His life had officially been flipped inside out.
***END OF SCENE***
Closing the door behind him, Luca's posture finally relaxed from it's usual hunched, mildly threatening stance. He kicked off his shoes, dropped the bags of recently purchased attire onto the floor and fell on the bed with a huff. The day's events following signing papers had been rather tiring, at least to Luca. He and his charge had gone to the mall to do some shopping for Sterling. Surprise, surprise, no one tried to kidnap/attack/ even threaten the kid, so the wolf's abilities were essentially unused for the day. He would never admit it, but he almost felt... average. It had been a mix of nice and odd. He knew he wasn't like the humans. His company knew he was far from human... and yet even through the teasings and threats, it reminded the wolf of the times he and Marco had gone to the mall to buy some sports equipment, meet up with girls, and general tomfoolery. Except he was stuck with a narcissist rish boy that didn't seem to ever shut up. Luca couldn't be bothered to answer in anything but grunts, huffs, or silence if he wasn't persuaded through blackmail. They didn't get along swimmingly, too be sure, and the bodyguard didn't expect that fact to change any time soon. He just hoped that the blond would eventually take a hint and stop bothering him more than necessary. Luca would be gone as soon as he got a proper opportunity.
Opening his eyes from the rehash of the day's adventures, Luca marveled at his situation. He slept here now. In an actual bed with proper sheets, blankets, pillows, a frame. He had his own bathroom, small kitchen, closet. And he lived above a library. Today, he was too tired, but tomorrow he would have to be sure to at least swipe a book or two to look over. He couldn't be sure if he was blessed or cursed.
Somehow, his mind wandered to his pack. They were likely still living in squalor... stealing/conning/plotting and anything else they had to do to put food in their bellies and clothes on their backs. Did they miss him? At all? Marco had to at least a little, right? After everything they had been through together... he wouldn't have thrown their friendship away because of one night of losing control... would he? Gliding his fingers through his hair, Luca hoped they were all doing well and finding what they needed. It almost seemed unfair that the giant stumbled into such luxury on accident and the pack worked daily to support each and every member.
"It takes a village to raise a child." His father had always said. "That's why family is so important." He'd finish cryptically, leaving Luca and his siblings to complain about their old man never making any sense. The parents raised their kids. Luca and his siblings had never even seen the inside of their neighbor's house!
His mind drifted to sweet memories of his family in Oregon. He'd dream about the wonderful things they went on to do after their eldest child had removed himself from the picture.
***END OF SCENE***
Sterling woke an hour earlier than normal that day, and unable to sleep again, had made his way in a hoodie and sweats to his rooftop to sip his coffee in the last cool hour of predawn. He was getting restless. It had been too long since he'd seen any of his friends. Not seeing them all semester was bad enough, but now this? His thoughts turned to Luca. Could he trust him? The week had gone about as well as could be expected, considering his new bodyguard seemed to want nothing more than for Sterling to jump off the roof of his own house. The wolf answered him in nothing more than illegible, grumbly noises, and when he did use words, they weren't the kindest. Though the distaste was not unwarranted or surprising, the privileged youth wished there was something he could do to sway the tank's opinion of him. He invited Luca to dine with the family every night--Ashley, Monica's assistant usually did, along with Zack, her bodyguard. He also suggested the recluse join him on the roof in the mornings. The normally early-to-rise young man loved the dewy air in the mornings, and enjoyed having his first cup of coffee on the roof when he was at home. Both offers, had been consistently declined, but he wasn't giving up.
There was one place in which the pair were able to coexist in some level of peace, however, and that was the library. Aside from that first day when he was forced to tie his new colleague's hands, the only time the two seemed not to be at odds was in the library. They didn't talk, but the pair got on in a relatively companionable silence, Luca ensnared by his books, and Sterling by watching the wolf read. He wished he could understand what was going on in his new acquaintance's brain. Luca seemed to be starving for knowledge. He devoured books, reading and rereading pages, often flipping through the dictionary he kept close by, lip between his teeth.
It went on like this every day. They spent a few almost normal hours in the library, where Sterling kept his comments to himself and Luca didn't seem to hate him. Then, they left the house to run simple errands, Sterling veering closer and closer to the prohibited parts of town, and Luca saying nothing. The older man's reports to Monica were positive, if a little boring. He was tired of waiting. It was time to take a chance on the wolf.
Draining his mug, Stone hopped up, and strode quickly to the door, descending the stairs three at a time before landing at the library door and swinging it wide. Luca sat in his usual spot by the window, open dictionary on his lap when Sterling came in. He didn't like to interrupt the tank's reading time, but his patience was nearly gone.
With a wide grin, he stopped in front of his guard. "Morning, Wolfie! Get ready to leave. We're going on a field trip." He eyed the brand new clothes the man wore and added, "and wear that hoodie your wore on your first day . . . and your shoes."
He didn't explain further even after the odd look he received from his companion, merely winking and turning towards the door. "I'll meet you downstairs in ten."
Eight minutes later, Sterling arrived at the door, worn, dingy clothes on his back and three oversized duffel bags in his hands. One was packed with every size of clothing he could find from infant to grown man, some girls, some boys, some neutral. Another contained a similar range of sturdy, comfortable tennis shoes, and the third was loaded with snack foods, high in calories, and (for the most part) high in nutrients. He liked to bring things that they couldn't get at the shelters, treats that his friends might not otherwise have access to. These would be dropped around the corner from the shelter with the man who ran it before the residents saw him. He didn't like them to know they were from him.
Tossing a bag to his companion--who was already waiting for him--he stopped in front of the towering wolf. Sterling was giddy. He would get to see them so soon! Bouncing on the balls of his feet and smiling up at his bodyguard, he asked, "you ready?"
Luca hadn't always been a morning person. Pre-werewolf, he was the type of teenager to sleep in until noon if he was allowed. After a couple years on the road, though, he had to start taking care of himself and that meant waking up early to get ready for the day. Now living in a metaphorical palace, he arose even earlier in the mornings just out of anxiety and the opportunity to make his way down to the library in his free time.Living at the Fairchild residence was like being a well-kept pet. He was given anything he could ever want, but, if he ever left, it was with his owner. Sterling continued to insist on ridiculous things like hanging out on the roof or eating together with him and his mother. What was he trying to accomplish? Did he want him to make the rest of the table uncomfortable with his silence? Was he acting nice so Luca would forgive him for forcing him into this situation? Whatever the boy was thinking was likely just some crack delusion of his twisted mind.
This morning had been no different. Luca had been the first one to wake in the house, and, after swiftly showering, dressing, and eating, had made his way to the library to pick up where he had left off the day before. Surprisingly, the wolf and the heir got along peacefully in the library. They had developed a sort of rhythm with not speaking and flipping through pages. It was probably the only time Luca could not be completely bothered by the kid's presence.
"Morning, Wolfie!" The sprightly blond chirped in greeting after his daily trip to the roof. The giant was not fond of his newly acquired nickname. Nor was he fond of being interrupted amidst his reading. Fortunately for Sterling, Luca was working on getting through Shakespeare's Macbeth, a particularly challenging piece that was already tiring out his brain. He used the dictionary for help, but the flowery language and stylistic devices were making it incredibly difficult to make his way through the work easily.
His boss announced they would be heading out for the day and requested Luca wear the hoodie and shoes he met him in. The wolf-man furrowed his brow in confusion. Why was he telling him what to wear now? He gave up on trying to understand the strange human. He made little to no sense. Nonetheless, it was pointless to argue and Luca did as he was told, meeting his captor after he had changed clothes.
Sterling was dressed down to be comparable to the dress of an underprivileged youth. Luca was reminded of the night they met and the boy had been dressed similarly. What was going through his head? The heir tossed a bag overflowing with snacks to his bodyguard before coming to face him directly, energy emanating from his slight frame.
"You ready?"
Ready for what? Hell, this kid was a nutjob. Might as well just go along with it. It wasn't like Luca could refuse. He nodded simply and followed Sterling's lead.
The pair made their way to the cab waiting at the curb and stuffed themselves in after loading the trunk down with bags. Giving the driver the address to a bus stop closer to his favorite shelter, he sat back, tossing another gleeful smile to his seatmate before falling unusually silent, knee jiggling as he anticipated seeing Tito and Claire. He wondered if Alexis was still there with her daughter. The five-year-old, Lupita, was a firecracker, tiny for her age, with hair as long as she was tall. She loved light-up shoes, and he grinned thinking about the pair he'd picked out for her. With a grin and a generous tip, Sterling left the cab with Luca not far behind, and the pair grabbed the bags again, this time stuffing them through the doors of a bus that had just pulled up. The driver, a formidable-looking woman with a tightly tied silver bun and a very prominent taser on her belt cracked a small but genuine smile at her newest passengers. She didn't spare the bulky bags a second glance, merely offering a gruff, "Stone, long time no see."
"Carol!" he quipped to his favorite of the drivers on this route. "It's been too long, but don't worry," he said with a conspiratorial grin. "You'll be seeing a whole lot more of me." He took a seat right behind the driver after helping his hulking shadow stow the bags and continued their conversation as the vehicle pulled away from the curb. "This is my new friend, Luca." He turned to the wolf with a smirk. "This is Carol. She acts tough, but she's a big softy."
She glanced in the rearview mirror at the two, rolling her eyes at his comment and quirking a brow. "You finally find one you can trust?" she asked cryptically. Carol was one of the only people who knew the entire story, and rough as the woman was, she had a soft spot for the boy.
"I think so," he said, beaming into the mirror.
She made momentary eye contact with the auburn-haired man before averting her eyes to the road again. "It's nice to meet you, Luca. Any friend of Stone's is a friend of mine. Watch out for him," she added, eyes finding the wolf again, this time sharp. "Kid may be an annoying little shit, but we like him quite a bit around these parts."
The blonde laughed goodnaturedly at his friend. "Oh trust me. He knows how annoying I am, don't you, Luc?" he asked, elbowing his companion lightly.
-----
Before long, the pair found themselves standing at the door of Hope House, bags safely deposited with Bruce, who ran the house.
He was bouncing again, one hand in the pocket of his hoodie, the other on the door handle, as he gave a surprised and skeptical-looking Luca a cheeky smirk. "Don't embarrass me in front of my friends, okay? At least try to be nice." And with that, he pulled the door open and stepped inside.
The bunk-filled room, was loud and busy. Groups of children huddled in corners, oohing and aahing over some small trinket someone found, older patrons reclined on their beds, reading tattered paperbacks or visiting with their neighbors. Some people were new, others Stone recognized from many visits before. A group of kids ranging from early elementary to mid-teens suddenly spotted the pair and ran forward, a chorus of "Stone! Where have you been?" -- "Look what I found in the garbage today!" -- "Hey, Stone, look what I learned to do!" -- "I made an A on my book report in school today!" following them.
He was always overwhelmed by the exuberance of the kids in the shelters. They never acted sad, never took things for granted. These kids celebrated happy times, stuck up for each other, pushed through difficulties, and never had a shortage of energy. It was inspiring. With an apologetic glance back at his bodyguard for abandoning him, Sterling let himself be led into a corner and sat on the floor, a captive audience for the kids as they told stories, performed songs they'd learned, pulled out freshly graded papers. All of the younger ones wanted a turn on his lap, and a group of three little girls stood behind him, patting, twirling, and brushing through his white-blonde hair with tiny fingers, whispering and eyeing the giant man who still lingered at the door.
Suddenly, the smallest of the trio, a girl who couldn't have been even three feet tall with thick black hair pulled into a ponytail that reached her thighs stepped from the group and walked forward, head held high. She came to a halt a few feet from Luca and peered up at him, leaning back to see his face. "You're really tall." she commented in a matter-of-fact tone. The youngster still had trouble with her "r" sounds, but confidence oozed from her voice anyways.
While some of the children eyed the gentle giant nervously, and others in awe, the mighty mouse before him showed only curiosity. "And you have pretty hair." With that comment, she lifted her hand and beckoned for the man to kneel down. "Can I touch it?" She asked, more of a command than a request.
Stone looked on nervously as brave little Lupita approached the stranger, shooting her mother an encouraging smile when she made to stop the girl. He trusted Luca not to harm her, but how would he talk to her? Treat her? How was he with kids? Would he have the patience for them? Or would he clam up like he did with him? It was, he supposed, the moment of truth.
((Ooh Ooh. Another scenario! What if, after they have already decided they have feelings for each other, and it's going good for a while and Sterling tries to get him to talk to his family, or worse, contacts them himself, they can have a fight and Sterling can run off angrily. Luca can almost not follow him but change his mind after a while and goes to find him. Sterling could use his new self defense skills to pick a fight with some random guy and hold his own for a minute but then start getting his ass handed to him; maybe he passes out. Then Luca could show up before he gets too hurt and run the guy off and take Sterling home. Once he's snuck him into the house, he can take him to the library loft and once he wakes up, chew him out for being a reckless idiot. Sterling can apologize and promise to leave him alone about his family until he's ready. Luca can begrudgingly forgive him and call him a few more half-heartedly mean names and they can make up and he can help him get cleaned up.))
The cab ride took the two far beyond the limits that Sterling's mother had outlined for him. The black wolf's eyes stayed on the young heir suspiciously. They'd gotten close to the boundaries before and that would always seem to excite him some, but this? The blond brat was bouncing with pent up energy. It made the shifter nervous as to what was actually in store for them.The car pulled up to a building in a run down neighborhood characterized by graffiti, garbage, and a distasteful smell wafting about that Luca feared to place. The sign came into view and it appeared that they had arrived at... a homeless shelter? They were here to do charity? Or was this some kind of sick game where he threw things on the floor and watch the poor fight over it? The boy was ecstatic, quickly moving past his bodyguard to enter the building. They were first greeted by a rough older woman with a mischievous glint in her eye.
"Carol!" Stone exclaimed, beaming at the old biddy. He... knew her? By name? Luca was struggling to comprehend what was unfolding before him. The kid was a pain. A git, bastard, brat, pain, thorn... and these people... they liked him. Not only that, but, they were familiar with him.
"Don't embarrass me in front of my friends, ok? At least try to be nice." He referred to them as his friends? The giant didn't sense any jest or dishonesty in his words. He was perfectly serious. On the contrary, he was more worried about Luca's behavior.
The quiet werewolf followed Sterling further into the fray of ragged humans. It was as though he knew almost all of them by name. Everyone seemed to greet him warmly regardless of the bags of supplies he carried with him. Before long, the slender youth was swarmed by a school of dirty children, all frantically communicating whatever was on their mind they needed to share. Stone's smile made the wolf wonder how he ever could be compared to a hard rock. This was the most vibrant, happy, grounded image he had viewed him in since they had met.
It wasn't long before the children started noting the wolf's looming presence. Luca shifted nervously in the doorway. He had been watching the scene in awe and wonder, wondering how such a phenomenon could have existed. Was Sterling...no-could he be... actually nice? The children's whispers caught his attention, drawing him out of his thoughts. Small children and creatures had a way of worrying the towering man. They were fragile things and he could punch through a wall. He always had to be extra mindful when he was around them lest he so much as touch one and leave a scratch.
A tiny girl found her way directly in front of him. Her stance held pride and confidence. Luca eyed her cautiously.
"You're really tall," She expressed, though it was apparent her pronunciation wasn't the sharpest, she spoke as though it were. The wolf's lips twitched, begging to smile at the little lady.
"And you have pretty hair... can I touch it?" Her chubby hands motioned for Luca to come down to her level so she could properly assess his mane. She certainly had a lot of spirit. He doubted anything would diminish it in the future and hoped he was right. His eyes flickered momentarily to Sterling, wondering how much of his pride had been damaged today after this bomb had been dropped on him. The blond heir was encouraging the mother to have faith in Luca. The wolf supposed he had been hasty in judging the kid. Maybe he was more of a man than he had assumed.
Kneeling down, Luca came to a seated position and bowed his head to the little princess, offering his apparently 'pretty hair' up for her appraisal. The child's hands were gentle and thorough, patting and combing their way through his auburn locks. Before long, more children had let their curiosity get the better of them and joined in on the investigation. Before he knew it, the little ones had flocked around him and were feeling his scruffy cheeks, his hair, poking his muscular arms, climbing onto his back, demanding he lift them, and many more games that he tried to accommodate. Luca could help but let out a genuine laugh when one of the children grabbed his cheeks and pulled his mouth into a wide smile. He couldn't remember the last time he had even genuinely chuckled now that he thought about it...
((I think he'll start talking more after this. Or at least after they leave the shelter.oh my gosh. Lupita is so freakin cute! That was perfect. yes. do not change. I like very much<3 perfect nod to luca's adequacy with kids. should I go on more?
nice! I really like that idea! I'm thinking, though, that Luca is more of the get up and leave type when frustrated. maybe he could leave first and stone tries to follow him but gets lost/into it with some guy. Luca's off brooding until he realizes he's being a butt and decides to go back. Maybe he gets back to the house but then realizes stone was gone looking for him and he freaks out and goes after him, finds him in time like you said and then same thing from there?))
It was as if the whole shelter had fallen silent, watching with bated breath as the mouse reached a hand out to the wolf. And when he came to rest on the floor, the place was suddenly buzzing with activity again. Sterling laughed as the younger half of the crowd swarmed the hulking man, poking and prodding, chattering away unintelligibly. Lupita, though the smallest, was also the toughest and managed to stand her ground in front of the wolf's now smiling face as activity buzzed around them. She rolled her eyes as if to say, "excuse these imbeciles around me," and spoke up, literally up, as even in a seated position, his eyes looked over her head. "My name is Lupita, and I'm four," she beamed proudly, holding up four tan fingers. "What about you?"
Sterling looked on in surprise as the sour wolf not only handled the antics of the children, but seemed to enjoy it. In the short time he'd known him, he'd never seen the man smile, and now he was grinning as if it was the most natural expression in the world. His heart warmed as he watched Lupita demand his attention and him give it enthusiastically.
"Better watch out," he heard one of the regulars, Lester, say. "Looks like our little queen might have found herself a new favorite knight."
"No," he replied, mock horror on his face. "She wouldn't. You wouldn't choose this scruffy old thing over me, right Lupe?" the melodramatic youth asked, kneeling and taking one of her tiny paws in his.
She giggled and shrugged, pulling her hand away to return it to Luca's hair. "His hair is softer than yours. And he smells like trees."
"Take it back," he cried, pressing a hand to his heart.
"Never!" the girl played along, failing to control her laughter.
"I thought what we had was special, Lupe." Sterling moaned, then paused in his act, pulling his face out of his hands. "Wait . . . what do I smell like?"
The girl shrugged again, moving to settle into Luca's lap without so much as a word of warning. "Coffee," she said simply. "And I like trees better than coffee."
Dissolving into laughter, Sterling looked at his bodyguard. "Better watch out with this one, Luc. She's a heartbreaker."
"My name is Luca and I'm twenty four." He responded gently, catching a kid's fall as he tried to clamber up to the wolf's shoulders. The pup admired his hair until the energetic blond came to win back her favor."You wouldn't choose this scruffy old thing over me, right Lupe?" Sterling lamented jokingly, coming to kneel next to Luca and the children. He took the small girl's hand into his own as though he were a faithful knight returned to his queen. The little angel laughed and retracted from the sentiment.
"His hair is softer than yours. And he smells like trees." Was her ruthless response. The wolf creature's lips curled into almost a smug grin as he turned to face Stone victoriously. Did he really smell like trees? After all of his showers, he thought he would have gotten the park smell off of him by now. Perhaps it was the sweater?
The heir continued his play with Lupita. Watching the two further convinced Luca that he had been wrong about his boss. He was still a jerk for blackmailing him, but... he wasn't a bad person. Not in the way that he had originally assumed. Sterling was relaxed here. He always had a casual air about him, but this was different. He laughed more and smiled genuinely. It was almost like he felt more at home here than he did at his actual house. Luca didn't like humans as a whole. Rather, he disliked how the masses walked around, blissfully unaware of their privilege, avoiding contact with those too low to deserve a second glance, the ones who valued image and luxury and cared little for anything of substance. These people knew what it was like to be considered less than human. Though, they at least didn't have to worry about becoming overly emotional.
"Better watch out with this one, Luc. She's a heartbreaker." Sterling teased, laughing easily.
"Nah." He leaned back onto his hands. "She's just bettered her standards." He retorted with a sly grin. He might actually apologize later, but now wasn't the time.
"Or maybe you shouldn't use so much product for your hair and check your caffeine addiction."
The tiny girl wrinkled her nose. "That's alot. I don't even have twenty-four on my fingers and toes," she muttered staring at her fingers. After their their tragic play, Lupita remained curled in the wolf's lap, perfectly at ease with the stranger.
Seeing the serious man smile was infectious. Sterling decided he liked it, relaxed and lopsided, with a dimple in his left cheek and straight, white teeth. He liked it a lot. Luca needed to smile more often.
" . . . maybe you shouldn't use so much product for your hair and check your caffeine addiction," he countered easily, as if banter between them was commonplace, not brand new.
"Woah, now!" the blonde pointed a finger at his companion, lips twitching to contain his own smile. "You can slander my personality and fabulous hair all you like, but don't you talk about my coffee that way. That relationship is sacred."
This tiny glimpse of how their friendship could be gave Sterling hope. He could see the man was a gentle giant. It was apparent in the care he took with the toddlers climbing all over him, in the way he carefully handled the doll reclining against his chest. Maybe now, now that he knew the reason for Sterling's secrecy, the reason he had to blackmail him, he would understand. Maybe they could start over.
But for now, he had work to do.
"Now," he stood, clapping his hands together. "Our donors," he started, never mentioning that he was the sole donor, "got some really good stuff this time, guys!" Stone's voice was suddenly all business.
"Youngest first, get in line if you didn't get shoes last time--walk!--and I'll know if you're not being honest--Henry, don't push Jordon, and don't look at me like that. You know the rule; go to the back."
As the kids formed a tidy line, Sterling lugged the first bag forward, unzipping it to reveal shoes of every shape, size, and color imaginable. The kids' eyes lit as two by two, they were allowed to pick a pair of shoes. He helped each of them try their choice on, made sure it fit, assisted with fastening the velcro or laces, and also spent some one-on-one time with them, asking about how they were, if they needed anything in particular.
Sterling glanced at Luca, now surrounded by a smaller group. Lupita had stayed behind as well, though she was due for another pair. For a four-year-old, the child was surprisingly mature. She never fought for a spot in line, and waited until everyone had gone before going herself. She shared her toys, her food, helped her classmates practice counting and the alphabet. And today was no different, which was why Sterling had saved a special pair of light-up shoes, an outfit to match, and her favorite snacks--skittles, raisins, and cheesy popcorn--to give the girl after everyone else had gotten a chance.
Once all three bags were empty he folded and tucked them away into a corner before approaching Luca. Only Lupita remained, the rest of his admirers now off eating their snacks or trying on their new attire. He sat gingerly next to the two, quietly dropping a bag with the girl's new shoes, clothes, and favorite snacks behind Luca on his way by. Lupita lay nestled in the big man's lap, giving him the appearance of a teddy bear rather than a wolf. She had pulled his hand close to her face and was comparing the size of her hand to his. Stone wasn't sure which person looked more content.
"Hey Lupe," he greeted her quietly. "Why didn't you get in line for shoes?"
The girl lazily held one foot up and examined her filthy, tattered shoes."You can't see my toes yet. I could see Gracie's toes."
"And what about clothes?" he countered.
"The big kids wear holey pants all the time," she whispered, pulling at the strings around the holes of her torn jeans. "They say it looks cool."
"Well why didn't you get some snacks?" he asked, figuring he'd finally got her there.
"My mommy can get me food," she said easily. "Not everyone here has a mommy to get them food."
His heart broke for the little caretaker, only four years old and already putting others' needs before her own. He always kept a special eye on this one to make sure she had what she needed. "Well," he began, peeking theatrically behind Luca's back where the bag of gifts hid. "It looks like Luca here might have a present for you. You would take a present, right?"
She nodded with round eyes.
He winked encouragingly at a mildly confused-looking Luca, "What're you waiting for, dude? Give the lady her gift!"
Luca couldn't help but chuckle at the little queen's antics. He found her brutally honest words endearing and adorable. The wolf admired her spirit and reflected that she reminded him a lot of his younger siblings. It had been nine years since he had seen either of them... he wondered what they were doing right now. Probably far beyond the age when wrestling with their older brother is still cool. Shaking the thought away, he again focused on the blond heir. Luckily, he didn't retort with a sly comment as to Luca's uncharacteristically social behavior. He continued with the jest easily, joking about his coffee addiction instead. He wondered if he was at all smug since Luca had indeed assumed the worst of him. So maybe Sterling wasn't as conceited and shallow as he thought. Did that mean they would be... friends? No... maybe he should just focus on helping out around the shelter for now.
He stayed calm, allowing the children to investigate his hair and supernatural strength until Stone announced the gifts he had brought from the "donors." Of course, Luca knew firsthand that Sterling had bought everything himself (well, him, his money, and some of his mother's). The children were so excited, one would have thought it was christmas (It certainly felt like the brat was playing Santa). Still, as many of the small ones ran to receive their gifts, a few stayed behind to play with Luca, including little Lupita. It wasn't that he minded the attention from the kids, but he was unsure why Lupita hadn't gone to collect her gifts like the rest.
After everyone had got their share, the blond heir returned to their side dropping off something behind him before addressing the little princess.
"Why didn't you get in line for shoes?" The response that came next floored the supernatural creature.
"You can't see my toes yet. I could see Gracie's toes." Was her blatant, unaffected reply. And it continued, question after question, answer after answer. She had not idea that what she was saying was not natural for the majority of the planet. She must have been the sweetest kid on the planet. At least, the nicest one he knew. It made him feel almost ashamed how selfish he was stealing from others for himself and his pack when these people played by the rules and still ended up with so little, but so much kindness.
"What're you waiting for, dude? Give the lady her gift!" Sterling encouraged with a wink.
Wait, what was happening? Oh, right. The thing behind his back. Reaching back, he grabbed a bag of supplies and handed it to the enthralled hands of the tiny four year old with a nervous smile. He hadn't actually had any part in the gift whatsoever... but, she wished he did.
"Stone, here, helped me with it." He noted softly. Was he expecting the credit? Surely, the rich brat didn't expect him to lie completely to the little angel.
The care Luca took with the children impressed but didn't surprise Sterling. His large body, so capable of violence, was careful and gentle, righting kids as they fell and offering an easy smile and a soft voice when they spoke to him. The wolf's expression toward him remained unreadable during the few times they made eye contact. Could they get along now? Or would he think this time at the shelter was just another rich-kid game of Sterling's? Playing Santa? These people were better friends than any of the people who ran in his mother's circles. They had taught him so much growing up: patience, love, appreciation, humor, and so much more. This wasn't charity. They helped him more than he could dream of helping them; the supplies he bought were merely an attempt at giving back.
The light-up shoes drew a squeal of delight from Lupita as she pulled them from the bag and tapped them against the wolf's leg so they would light, grinning up at him. Rifling through the remaining contents in the bag, Lupita tossed out a string of thanks and smiles, wrapping her short arms around his neck when she'd finished viewing her gifts. "Thank you, Luca!!" she offered sincerely.
"Stone, here, helped me with it . . ." the bodyguard murmured quietly. He sounded embarrassed, ashamed even. Stone waved a dismissive hand at the mention of his help. Only because you didn't know her when I bought it, he thought to himself. Seeing him now, the heir had no doubt that the wolf would have sold the clothes off his back to get those shoes for Lupita. Why had this kind-hearted man been running with those thieves? He wasn't like them in the slightest.
As some of the credit was returned to Stone, he accepted the thankful hug from the girl quietly, giving her small frame a gentle squeeze before releasing the tot. She dropped to the floor between the two, pulling the skittles from her bag and opening the box. Unsurprisingly, the mini-mother offered the box to both men, only taking candy for herself after each refused.
"You have to keep an eye on this one," he muttered over the happily distracted girl's head. "If we're not careful, she'll have given away all her candy before we even leave." He shook his head. "Don't get me wrong, I'm all for sharing, but she takes it to a whole new level."
The pair spent the day at the shelter, helping out at lunch and dinner, participating in the activities in the rec room, helping the kids with homework, and merely being there to listen if someone wanted to talk. By the end of the day, Sterling was famished and tired, but happy as they packed up their bags and said their goodbyes. As they waited for the taxi he'd called, Stone turned to his formidable-looking companion, suddenly unsure. The day had gone so well. Now that they were alone, would he revert to the angry, brooding man he'd been before? "So . . . you hungry? I was thinking about grabbing a bite on the way back . . . "
The little fairy lit up with pure joy at the unveiling of the gift: light up shoes, candy, and clothes. Simple things that most kids took for granted. Luca couldn't help but sympathize with them. He knew they wouldn't have welcomed it, they were the happiest people he had met and they had nothing! He supposed, without the luxury of stuff and things, they learned to appreciate each other and know a blessing when they saw one.Impossibly small limbs found their way around his neck, which he reciprocated with a feathery hand to her back. She was so small, he thought any force would surely snap her twiggy limbs into multiple pieces. The hospital bill would be horrifying. It was nice, though, the affection. Maybe if he could treat the kids here with kindness, somehow his own family would know he still cared for them.
After distributing her gratitude between the two men (albeit Sterling's was more deserved), the tot grabbed her candy and began munching on it after the wolf and heir declined politely. How could someone in so much need be so selfless? It didn't cease to amaze the gentle giant.
"If we're not careful, she'll have given away all her candy before we even leave." Stone intoned privately while the princess was preoccupied with her treat. Luca tilted his head, nodding solemnly at the truth behind his words. His eyes didn't leave the precious child. How did such a big heart fit into that itty bitty body of hers?
Throughout the day, the wolf man developed a sort of comfort around the shelter. The people were kind, funny, wise, and didn't seem to mind Luca's silent nature all that much. They always referred to Sterling as "Stone." And he wasn't sure why. Did they not know the heir's actual name even though he was very familiar with all of their's? Or was this by design? The heir was rather secretive about his project... it had taken him weeks before he dared to invite the wolf into this fragile little world. Still, even if Stone wasn't his real name, the connections that had been made with the homeless and struggling was undeniable and genuine. It stung at his chest every time he realized how short sighted he'd managed to be in the beginning.
Luca was lost in thought as they left the slums and went on their way. His memories returned of the night when the two had first met. The dumb blond in his "peasant" clothes, his obvious cocky nature... and that stupid giddy smile on his face that the giant recalled seeing for the second time this morning. The duo wandered the streets in silence for some time before Sterling broke the silence.
"So...you hungry? I was thinking about grabbing a bite on the way back..." His searching tone implied he was hoping to get some kind of response from his bodyguard. Stopping, the tower turned to skeptically face his captor.
"You were headed to the shelter that day, weren't you?" He asked, referring to the fated night. In his stomach, he already knew the answer to the question. Sterling's kindness wasn't a new development. It was likely the reason why he kept running away from his other bodyguards. Well, that and that he had some kind of sick need for danger. Luca shook his head and sighed.
"I think there's a burger place up the street. You're buying." His long strides started up again, passing the brat easily. Philanthropist or not, the kid was still blackmailing him into this situation. He'd take his jabs where he could.
After witnessing firsthand the violence the wolf was capable of, his gentle nature showed, if possible an even greater strength. The way he moved around the kids was graceful and careful, as if he was afraid he might break them if he even looked at them too hard. Quite frankly, it amazed the young heir. He had guessed the giant wasn't a bad guy, but this surpassed his wildest expectations. Luca was the perfect person to help him carry out his work. He just hoped the man would stay. Surely he knew by now that Sterling couldn't possibly use something so sinister as revealing his secret. Or did he still believe him capable? As if he hadn't even heard the offer, Luca answered Sterling's question with one of his own.
"I was," his surprise at the random memory evident in his lifted brows. "I'd had a fight with my mom and needed to cool off. My friends always know how to cheer me up, so I was on my way to see them." He glanced up at his companion, cheeky grin back in place. "Never got the chance though. Some asshole werewolfs decided to mug me. Fucked my plans right up," he finished, tapping the man's arm with his elbow.
He wasn't sure how his teasing would settle with the big man, but he was pleasantly surprised at the answer.
"You're buying." The heir pursed his lips to contain the smile that threatened to escape at the Big-Bad-Wolf act. Suddenly, his great mood had become even better. "Sure, Wolfie," he teased again, quickening his pace to keep up. "I'll buy."
Shoulder-checking his bodyguard on the way by, he jogged the last few feet to the diner and swung the door wide, the light from the restaurant illuminating his Cheshire grin as he slipped inside and held the door. The place was on the dingy side. Cracking red plastic covered the booths, and faded fake flowers in tiny pots accompanied the condiments on each checkered table. A tired-looking waitress with a sweet smile and a baby-bump showed the two to a table and introduced herself before returning with their drinks.
Not long after they ordered, Chelsea appeared again with two plates piled high with tantalizingly greasy food.
Sterling tucked into his burger in silence at first, enjoying the feeling of sitting across from the wolf without that niggling feeling the inhuman wanted to injure him. He hoped the man wouldn't clam up now that they were away from the shelter, that they could find a way to be friends even after the way he'd treated him in the beginning. Could Luca ever forgive him for his threats? For breaking up his family. The other wolf had been bad news for sure, but Luca seemed to consider him family, and family was a hard thing to lose--no matter how bad they were. Sterling pushed thoughts of his absent father to the side and refocused on his prospective friend. Wiping his mouth and returning the napkin to his lap, the young man peered across the table and spoke. "Today went exactly how I hoped it would, Luca, if not better," he started sincerely. "I'm glad you came along."
"Never got the chance though. Some asshole werewolfs decided to mug me. Fucked my plans right up," The blond heir chided easily enough. Luca's lips pulled into an appraising smirk at the little man beside him. He was full of surprises, this one. Never in his lifetime would he have guessed some Richie Rich kid would dare call some dirty homeless people "friends" and mean it so sincerely. Prior to the duo's adventure for the day, the wolf would have never believed Stone's claims. Now, though, things were different. His interactions had been nothing but kind, sincere, and playful rather than the attention seeking brat he was used to."Yeah... well, that stupid mug of yours was asking for trouble." He retorted, nudging him right back. He supposed the guy wasn't so bad. Maybe they could really start to get along now.
Upon arriving at the shabby diner, Luca and Sterling were seated at one of the nicest looking empty tables in the joint. It only had a few dents, scratches, and unmistakeable sharpie drawings of a child. Their waitress was a kind looking lady with a child that looked as though it only had a couple more months until it arrived. The walking tank felt like if he so much as looked at her too harshly, she might fall over. The nervousness had the man clenching his fist under the table, digging his sharp nails into his palm. Luca ordered two of their biggest burgers, two milkshakes, and a plate of fries. Imposing or not, Luca was starved. He wasn't sure how all the growing kids at the shelter managed to survive on so little.... Perhaps that was why Lupe was so small...
Their food appeared moments later along with a polite smile from the expecting mother. The food couldn't even be compared to the delectable edibles that always seemed to magically appear in his fridge, but food was food in the end no matter how much you pay for it. Everyone gets hungry.
The pair sat comfortably in silence for the first few minutes they began devouring their meals. Finally, Sterling broke the silence.
"I'm glad you came along." He smiled genuinely at his bodyguard.
"For me... I had no idea what we were doing. I thought you were crazy. Well, actually I still think you're odd." He admitted, finishing off his first shake. "I'm really glad I got to meet everyone as well. The trip... surprised me pleasantly to say the least. Who would have thought a brat like you was actually friends with a whole shelter full of people." He noted, "How does a rich kid like you end up friends with homeless people?" He asked curiously, still wondering how he had strayed from his silver spoon throne.
"This 'ugly mug' was minding its own business. You're the one who offered me trouble. I just accepted." He grinned sheepishly. "I kind of have a thing for danger."Luca's reaction to their waitress piqued the heir's interest. He seemed scared of the young woman--or at least skittish. His voice suddenly became hushed when he ordered, and he kept a careful distance from the girl as when they were seated. What was that about?
Sterling shook the thought away for the moment, looking on in silent amusement at his companion's massive order. His single burger and coffee suddenly seemed inadequate in comparison. How on Earth had this beast survived on so little? How much did an entire pack of these guys eat? He hated that anyone as nice as Luca had to go through something that awful.
". . . I still think you're odd . . ." Luca conceded as he wolfed--no pun intended--down his food, causing a chuckle to escape the younger man. "Says the werewolf who's about as ferocious as a butterfly," he shot back. "And honestly, I'm lucky to have them. Have you seen the people who run in in the rich-kid circles?" He shook his head sadly, letting his question hang. "When I was fourteen, the private school I was in went on a 'field trip' to give us an understanding of what poverty was and to learn how we could help. And it was a good idea, but my classmates . . . they couldn't take it seriously. They treated the kids at the kitchen like lepers, or worse, like . . . wild animals, talking really slowly like they couldn't understand them or something," he shook his head in disgust. "At one point a kid in my class said something rude to me, and without a second thought, this scrawny, dirty little thing stepped up to him." Stone grinned, always impressed by the bravery little Tito showed that day. "Said there was no reason to be rude, and if he didn't have anything nice to say, he'd personally show him the door. The kid was nine. And he was taking up for me, some random rich kid he'd never met." Returning from the fond memory, he eyed his dining companion. "That was the day I decided I needed better friends, so I got 'em. They treat me like family, welcomed me into the fold. You won't find better people."
As the waitress returned to refill his coffee, Stone noticed again the way Luca tensed, then relaxed when she was gone. "She'd just pregnant, you know. She doesn't bite. What's got you so worked up any time she comes around?"
"I kind of have a thing for danger." The lambish nature of the heirs admittance incited a quick scoffing laughter from the large man."Yeah. I've noticed. You know, most people wouldn't provoke wolves with nothing to back them up. Let alone blackmailing one into doing their bidding. Plus you had that creepy giddiness thing when you got into it with Marc- I mean my friend." He noted, slurping some more milkshake. He didn't understand why this kid had such a fetish for deathly circumstances. He got adrenaline junkies, but Sterling took it to a whole new level. He was the guy that served himself to Death on a silver platter, but so unappetizing that Death always sends it back. One day the god would tire of his play and finish him off for good. He didn't know why, but the thought made him sad. So, the large wolf pushed the thought aside in favor of enjoying his paid for meal.
"Says the werewolf who's about as ferocious as a butterfly..."
At this, Luca rolled his eyes. "Just because I can't be a human doesn't mean I can't choose to have a conscience." He shrugged nonchalantly. Stone continued on to explain exactly how he had come to know the shelter folk and how his dirtbag friends were blinded by class and wealth. He found it... nice, the way his face lit up with a happy, proud, loving expression when he talked about his homeless hero. It was like the boy was the first real friend Sterling ever made. He wondered if he actually was.
"You won't find better people." He finished.
The creature nodded in agreement. "As humans go, the homeless aren't too bad." He smiled, thinking of the little queen he had come into acquaintance with that day and the many, many other people he had met that day that always seemed to know something the rest of the world didn't. They reminded him of Rhiannon, the kind she-wolf that always had an understanding and calm about her like she knew some big secret that Luca wasn't ready to learn. It was both frustrating and enchanting all at once.
The waitress returned momentarily to refill the addict's coffee. Luca kept his eyes on his food, his body tensing from her presence.
"...What's got you so worked up any time she comes around?". The blond questioned, obviously finding the wolf's behavior odd.
"Kids are one thing... they're a lot sturdier than they look. I can be careful enough that I don't hurt them. But babies?" He shook his head, "They're scary fragile. If I so much as accidentally throw her off balance-it's just stressful. Here-" He grabbed Sterling's wrist and motioned for him to hold his palm out. Luca positioned his hand in front, arching his fingers in preparation to flick the heir's palm. Should he? Well, he wouldn't have to show the full extent of his strength.
"This might hurt a bit." He warned briefly, watching the philanthropist's face to see if he had any hesitations or nervousness about him. Finally, he released his poised finger in a simple flick and watched the heir's reaction to the blow. Would it bruise, he wondered?
"It's just too easy to go overboard." He explained. "If I so much as accidentally leaned in her direction at the wrong time, who knows what could happen." He shook his head.
"In my defense," Sterling began, "I had no way of knowing you were wolves, but . . . " he looked thoughtful for a second before finishing, "no I still would have done it." With a shrug, the youth tried to describe his problem. "I'm not really sure why I get this way, but if I go too long without a good rush, I start to get really cranky. And when I finally do get it, it's like I'm a different person. I don't know when to stop; I just think I'm invincible." He shook his head. "You should see me crash after a rush. I slept for seventeen hours after the night we met."" . . . doesn't mean I can't choose to have a conscious . . . "
"Oh, it's no choice for you, Wolfie." He offered up with a coquettish grin before becoming mockingly serious. "There's no easy way to say this, dude. It might be hard to take, but you're just going to have to face the harsh reality that you're a good person." His happy smile was back in place as he retold his tale, loving how Luca had finally seemed to open up. It was as if they were actually friends.
He slowly shook his head as Luca admitted his fears. Was this unreasonably gentle man really so terrified to be near a baby? With how great this man was with children, no wonder he seemed so sad sometimes.
Before he could argue, however, he found his wrist being carefully encircled by a massive hand. The flick almost surprised him too much to feel the pain. It was a solid blow to his palm, with force comparable to a punch from a normal human. Had the wolf not been holding his hand in place, his entire arm would have likely moved backward. "Woah!" he yelped, yanking his wrist free and massaging his palm for a moment. He was impressed. The initial shock past, Sterling shook his head. "That was pretty cool."
"It's just too easy to go overboard . . . ," the big man went on to confide.
"Somehow, Luca, I doubt you would. I've only known you for a few weeks, and I can tell that you're not a clumsy person." He shook his head sadly. "You don't give yourself enough credit."
"That hardly seems healthy." Luca noted after Sterling's admittance. "I knew adrenaline junkies were a thing, but you really take it to a whole new level, don't you?" The wolf commented. He wondered if it was a spoiled rich person thing. Sure, the young heir had a better head on him than he had originally perceived, but he was still rich and had beef born with a silver spoon between his lips."...you're a good person." Luca chuckled rolling his eyes. Sure, he had morals, but did that make him good? Who knew how many lives he had accidentally taken the night he was turned... or the pain he had caused those around him for just being what he was. But, according to Stone, he was a "good person." Forgive me, if I disagree... He thought bitterly.
"Doesn't mean I couldn't level your house if I wanted to." He responded with a sly grin. "Or if I huffed and I puffed a lot." He wondered if his words would ever get through that dense brat's head. He was careful for a reason. If he ever let down his guard, even for just a moment, he was one careless instant away from hurting someone. All the time. And no matter how much faith the heir had in Luca "being a good person" and have the "ferocity of a butterfly," he couldn't lose that fear of hurting someone. So what if it meant he had to keep his distance from overly fragile beings? If he wanted to do right by them, he had to stay alert and as far away as acceptable.
Stone's expression lit up with surprise and astonishment from the wolf's little show of strength. The tank's lips twitched upward, pleased by the momentarily shocked expression, before he released Sterling's frail wrist and finished off his meal as the boss went on, "...You don't give yourself enough credit."
Luca shrugged at this. "You wouldn't understand." He stated, dismissing his captor. His tone held no ill regard, sadness, or frustration. Rather, it was spoken as fact. Stone didn't have the constant pressure of his existence being a walking hazard to the life of everything around him. He was a human. He'd never understand what it was like to be in Luca's shoes. And... the bodyguard could accept that. He still wasn't bad as most humans went.
(view spoiler)[
Sterling is the son of a very prestigious and wealthy couple. Wolfie is a social recluse, a werewolf, and high school drop out. The two meet one day when Wolfie's friend gets the brilliant idea to rob Sterling. In the middle of the plan, though, Wolfie changes his mind and protects Sterling from his friend. Sterling's parents understand this to mean that Wolfie can protect Sterling and hire him as Sterling's personal bodyguard. Wolfie, eager to get off the streets and put some food in his stomach, takes the job. Right off the bat, the two are constantly at odds. About a week later, Wolfie's friend returns, this time, with plans to kidnap Sterling and hold him for ransom. Wolfie, seeing the benefits of getting money and not having to watch such a brat, agrees. While in captivity, Mort discover's Wolfie's secrets: he is a werewolf and was involved in kidnapping Mort in the first place. Mort uses this information as blackmail to have Wolfie do his bidding, but keep his job. The two become quite the duo and, after some time, even become close. What happens next? We'll have to wait and see what the combination brings us.
~marco starts losing control and wolfing out because Sterling and Tito are pushing them to get aggressive. Luca's keeping his cool for the most part until Marco is ready to kill both of them to keep the secret. Maybe at this point Sterling gets evidence like a video while Luca is trying to calm down marco, but then the two get into a fight and both start wolfing out. The fight eventually comes to an end and bad blood is born between the two.
Maybe Sterling is grateful for Luca's help and gives him a card to call if he ever needs a job (purposefully vague about what the job is).
A few days later, Luca is desperate for work and calls, talks to Sterling's mother, and they set up an interview. Sterling surprises him by saying he has just come into the position of being his personal bodyguard. Luca wants to refuse as this kid has given him enough trouble as it is, but realizes he can't because of his leverage that he gained the first night they met ((or maybe he figures out Luca's identity and could use that as leverage idk)). Sterling needed someone he could control to make his mother feel like he was safe but also because he liked the idea of having a werewolf under his thumb. He was intrigued and eager to see what his world was like (?). Also, this means Sterling can do whatever he wants and Luca had to be alright with it.
More:
-in the end end they go on a philanthropic trip together. Sterling gets to get his abroad experience and Luca watches out for him while working towards his GED.
-unlike raevin, Stone and Luca get together sooner in the RP
-Stuca/Lune are getting along until stone contacts luca's family and the two get into a big fight
-caught in a thunderstorm, run and find cover in some barn, it's both incredibly hot and impossibly cute all at once. i think i have a huge thing for rain if you can tell haha
-they go to the amusement park together (i need this so much)
-general stone pissing off luca with his leverage and demands in his annoying/cheeky way
-as far as feelings go, i imagine that if luca is the first to find out about his feelings, sterling teases him about it, though not yet reciprocating and when he does, he's very confident
-OR if luca is last to realize his feelings, then sterling just openly flirts with him unapologetically until something happens and he realizes he is annoying in more than one way
-OR their feelings both spark by accident-maybe they're intoxicated and fall into one another
-Luca loves animals, but they are often hesitant around him. some run away while others openly attack him.
- Sterling notices the way Luca looks at animals and the way they treat him and decides he wants to figure out how to get him a pet that trusts him; like maybe he either found a stray kitten or bought a puppy and maybe had it sleep with something of Luca's for a while and then when he give him the animal, it's used to his scent, or he could have him wolf-out and then show his belly to the animal in wolf form? I think it would be a crazy adorable scene to play out
- I feel like, though animals are nervous around Luca, little kids would flock to him, so if he helps out at the soup kitchen, that would be really adorable!
- Sterling gets a kick out of frustrating the people he cares about; the more he cares, the more riled up he likes to get them--part of his thrill-seeking--not to mention it would be a major turn on to get him close to wolfing out.
- When he's not intentionally annoying him, Sterling is obsessed with getting the overly-serious Luca to loosen up
- I originally wanted to have Sterling keep his philanthropic stuff a secret from Luca for a while, but I'm not sure why he would. Maybe he should just say "we're going here, please don't ask questions; you can come or not."
- As far as feelings go, these are the ideas I like the most:
** Intoxicated like you said
** or Arguing, it's tense, then one comes at the other, they're in each others' faces, and one of them leans in
** or Sterling is pansexual and flirts with anyone he finds attractive, so he flirts with Luca for a while before realizing his feelings are stronger than mild flirtations
** or if Luca realizes his feelings first, he seems like the type that would keep them to himself for as long as he could, so if Sterling flirts shamelessly without realizing his feelings, Luca can be super uncomfortable with it at first and snaps at him with something along the lines of "stop toying with my feelings" and Sterling can be like "I didn't realize there were any feelings to toy with."
-Maybe Luca really dislikes Sterling because he's holding leverage over him or something (maybe he threatens to tell his family where he is idk) and luca threatens him only to find that he gets a kick out of it and since he isn't the kind of werewolf to kill, so he's stuck. Then maybe after a little time working, they go to the shelter and Luca's opinion of his starts to change. The more time they spend together, his feelings start becoming stronger. Maybe something happens while they go to the amusement park that makes Luca start to see him in more of a romantic way, then Stone gives him a puppy and he thinks maybe, just maybe he feels the same and then the fling happens and then the confrontation turned angry kissing session.)
-Yeah that seems plausible with these two! Maybe they start getting along really well and then a friend from school comes to visit for a week, and Sterling has a fling with her, and then Luca is suddenly cranky again, and once she leaves, Sterling can confront him about it and Luca can throw out claims like he doesn't like/trust her, she's gold-digging, his wolfy-senses were sending off warning bells, etc., and Sterling could keep pushing, telling him that he can't control who he sleeps with, telling him to stop being such a buzz kill, etc.
It would be cute if Stone was in the middle of yelling you're just jealous when he kisses him, cause he could pull back and be like oh, you are jealous.