Wicked NOT Dead : Chapter 21

                                                                              Wicked NOT Dead 

                                                                                                                                                            

                                                                                    Chapter 21                                                                         

                                                                                                     

Rebecca

                                     

The next morning she awoke alone. It was just after ten, way later than she had intended to get up and start her day but the developments of last night had caused her to rethink her previous plans for the day. She got cleaned up and dressed in slacks and a sleeveless top. She wanted to look presentable but still be as comfortable as possible. It was already hotter than hell outside and it was only going to get worse. She pulled her hair up and back into a ponytail, it was growing so quickly and in this weather all it did was stick uncomfortably to the back of her neck. She took a good look in the mirror, her completion was rosy her eyes clear, but something brewed in the pit of her stomach and she couldn't help but to give it a rub as she made her way down the stairs. It was all nerves she knew no matter how supernatural her children may be there was no way that this one was anything at this point but a thought in her head. Not even hers really. She pressed her lips together to the point they stung. She stood at the bottom of the stairs for a few moments listening to the house, composing herself, letting any thoughts that might betray her release themselves into this space. Calm cool collected. She repeated it over and over until it she became the mantra. She heard voices in the dinning room, voices that ceased as soon as she walked into the room. Alcide was seated a big plate of breakfast in front of him, hungry no doubt from the previous nights illicit pursuits and possible victories. She took one look at her Aunt's face and knew for sure that Alcide had had help with his scheme. Elva was inspecting her and not very discreetly with a hopefulness that rarely crossed her face. She'd been right in her thinking to not let on to either of them. Her Mother very well may have called Elva but her Mother was not always right and Rebecca's tack on the subject was to pretend that it didn't exist. There was no way they could tell if Alcide's dream had done the trick or not and she could pretend to be ignorant because neither could bring the subject up for quite some time without outing their scheme. Not that she wasn't going to take care of herself properly but right now her future son was nothing but a evil glinting scheme filled plan in his Father's eye. 

" Good Morning Aunt." she caressed her arm as she passed and then bent down to lay a kiss on Alcide's cheek. " Good Morning my love." He gave her hand a tug which bent her back down to receive a proper kiss good morning. She smiled at him and when released she made her way to the buffet to make herself a plate of food. She was surprisingly ravenous. 

Alcide eyed her plate as she sat down next to him " Good to see you got your appetite back. Gonna need your strength." His eyes darted across the table at Elva. Who shook her head slightly and nodded for him to go back to his food. 

" You seem much calmer this morning Anna, I feel you are in better balance and that is good." She smiled and took a sip of her tea, green with lots of lemon by the smell of it.. How she could drink it when it was so damned hot outside was beyond her. She'd at least have drowned it in some ice. Rebecca poured herself a glass of juice from the carafe on the table and took a big bite of out a cinnamon roll. It tasted like heaven and she found that she craved the next bite before she'd even finished chewing and swallowing the one she was enjoying. She craved sugar from the moment she conceived Sage, she caught Elva eyeing her again and sat the roll down that fact was something her Aunt was well aware of. As much as she wanted to she didn't let herself take another bite instead she concentrated on the other food on her plate. She could feel Alcide relax as she ate, her interaction with food had apparently become a direct correlation to how she was feeling in his mind. If she picked at or ate little then something was bothering her or she wasn't feeling well. If she ate like a pig at a trough then she was in tip top shape. It didn't take much effort this morning to fall into the second category. She waited until her plate was empty before picking up and savoring the last of the roll. It took everything in her not to close her eyes in ecstasy as she did so. 

The phone rang in the other room and she heard Gina pick up the line and start talking to someone in Spanish. A minute or two later her head pupped into the room and she nodded to Elva, " For you Ms Elva, Selene" Elva walked quickly from the room glancing back at Rebecca before she rounded the corner out of sight. 

" Something up?" Alcide's hand covered hers and gave it a squeeze?

" Nothing to do with Malcom more about me. I have to take care of some things today Alcide. Do you think you can find ways to entertain yourself for a while?"

" I think I can manage as long as you are sure there is nothing that I can do for you?" He worried about her families reaction, whether or not they were going to be supportive. He was to be her rock but just as he would expect her to take a backseat in matters regarding the pack he to would have to be left on the outside of matters concerning the coven. She wouldn't abide by this forever but for now her footing was tenuous and it was best to not try to rock the boat further by bringing Alcide further into the witch part of her family. 

" I will be fine Alcide but I would appreciate if you would be nearby it would make me feel a little less alone." Her hand was squeezed again and Alcide nodded his understanding and agreement. 

" I'll be right here if you need me for anything. You don't even have to call" She leaned back and pulled him to her kissing him gently. 

" Thank you." She smiled and gave his beard a scratch then pushed her chair back and stood. " The journals are in the study but don't spend the whole day in their reading about my past okay?" His look told her that is exactly what he planned to do. " Okay at least take them out into the garden, get a little sun drink some iced tea or eat some ice-cream. Try to find a few normal moments." Everything around Alcide was so heavy, he was drowning in it

" I will" she looked at him with skepticism. " I will Rebecca I will I WILL." he jutted his chin out towards the doorway. Elva was waiting silently. " You'd better get to it" 

She walked from the room her Aunt in front of her Alcide waiting in the doorway behind her. Today was going to be filled with questions and answers. She hoped though that there would be some forgiveness and solutions involved as well. She needed those two things more than anything right now.

       

It was close to six before she reentered the house. She'd spent the day across the street at the house Selene and the members of the family in attendance here were currently occupying. She sighed and looked around longingly. She had hoped to see a big strapping hulking hunk of a man waiting for her in the living room but all she found was a tray of ice cold lemonade sitting on the console table with a note attached. She grabbed a glass and taking a sip she read the note inside. Alcide's better than normal chicken scratch covered the page " Go upstairs, rinse away your day and meet me by the front gate." 

She looked around the room knowing he was nearby as promised he had not left the house all day but she sensed he wished for her to do just as he asked and so she took her glass up the stairs and into the room they were sharing. Hanging on a hook by the window was a very sexy dress and underneath that a pair of red mile high strappy heels.  She knew the dress, vintage Versace Miami beach at night color pallet low cut bodice, split skirt it had held a prominent place in any closet that Elva's wardrobe had inhabited since the designer had given it to her in the early 90's. How many times she had begged her to wear it and now it was here the skirt blowing in the the early evening breeze. " Jeez she must really think we are all going to die." She fingered the hem of the dress and then pulled it gently down from it's perch. She held it up to her reflexion in the mirror and despite herself she couldn't help but to smile. Today had gone far better than she had anticipated, you know that saying think of the worst case scenario and it will have to end up better than you think? Well that was her day in a nut shell. They had all come to an understanding no moves would be made until Malcom made his.  She had told them firmly that she would not allow anyone to be hurt because of her past mistakes. She wanted them to all be aware of the past and prepared for the future and their support and guidance would be welcomed but until Malcom made his intentions clear they would not move against him. There was no need to open themselves up without provocation. Right now there was nothing more to go on than a power play for the Shreveport pack and the ugly thoughts of an ugly man. He was taking his time and if by chance he chose not to do anything with what he knew right away they could find ways to diffuse the situation without violence. If he did follow through with the thoughts she had seen running through his head then she call upon their help to end the threat of the Wright line once and for all. She wouldn't be alone this time but she wouldn't put anyone at risk in the name of cleaning up her past mistakes. She'd have put it much more bluntly to the company of woman she had spent the afternoon with if she had thought they could handle it. But she had not wanted to push her luck. There was still a lot of anger and mistrust in that room and Rebecca telling them point blank that she didn't want anyone killing him but her may not have gone over very well. Dress in hand she walked into the bathroom where she found the tub filled with water and bubbles. Another note sat folded on the side. " Your favorite scents, according to my well honed nose. If the water is a little cold I am sure you can fix it" She could practically see the wink and his grin spread across the paper. 

She dipped her finger into the water which was warm enough to relax in but not to hot to overheat an already overtly warmed body. She slipped inside letting herself be encased by the water and the wonderfully relaxing scent. She leaned back, closed her eyes and let her day fall away. She didn't linger long though to curious to see what Alcide had up his sleeve and not wanting to keep a man known for lack of patience waiting to long for her to get ready. She slicked her wet hair back and tied it up in a knot on the top of her head snapping it into place with a hair clip of orange poppies, which mirrored the floral pattern in the dress. She applied her make up lightly just enough to highlight the glow in her cheeks and the sparks of gold in her eyes. She glossed her lips and gave them a pucker into the mirror satisfied with the results she slipped the on the heels and clicked her way down the stairs anxious to see what awaited her. 

Elva was sitting in the living room a drink in hand so she stopped at the bottom and gave her Aunt a look see twirl. " Thank you Aunt Elva, I know it must have been hard to let it be worn on any other body but yours." It was such a little thing, her Aunt letting her wear the dress but her Aunt was not one for big declarations letting Rebecca wear this dress spoke volumes. 

" You look fabulous Rebecca Anna, as I am sure you have always known you would" She stood and came over offering the drink to her niece " Here take a swig of this it will calm those nerves of yours?" 

" Should I be nervous?" she took the drink and gave it a sniff before taking a long swig. It burned as it went down her throat. It was some of her father's favorite scotch. " Nice" she said between clinched teeth but as the burn made it's way through her it calmed every nerve it hit along the way. " Do you know what he has planned?" She knew the drink had been a test. She had taken it without hesitation. She was giving her Aunt no tells. 

Elva smiled but shut off the answer from Rebecca's prying mind. " You will see. The biggest surprise may be right at the beginning. Now go he is anxious to see you." 

Her Aunt gave her a slap on the rear and sent her out the doors and watched as she made her way through the garden. She called on the breeze at the opening of the garden letting the hem of the dress dance around her bare legs, wanting to give him the view he had hoped for when he'd imagined her in the dress. But the view she got nearly took her breath away. He was leaning against the wall by the gate the stance so very him aloof, slightly bored and totally dangerous. The rest of him though was brand spanking new to her, his hair and beard had been trimmed and had been quaffed and styled, he was wearing a dark black perfectly cut and fitted suit, black shinny shoes and a great big smile. 

He pushed off the wall and watched with equalled appreciation as she came towards him. " Well well well aren't you full of surprises Mr. Herveaux?" She walked around him slowly taking in the all to amazing view. 

" Wanted to show you I could be just as highbrow as you when the occasion called for it." He flipped his lapel and straightened his tie. " But you should know I don't get all done up like this for just anyone." 

" Well you should know that I count myself very lucky that I apparently have the honor, you sir look extremely fetching. I am more than a little weak in the knees." His arm came out to catch her around the waist pulling her to him. 

" You are killing me in that dress. " He said into her ear kissing her cheek and then lightly her lips.  " Absolutely sizzling as always." He sent a few choice adjectives to into her head to describe how he really felt about how she looked, words that made her blush and glad that he had been internal monologue mode only. " Shall we?" He asked when he'd finished and he lead her out the gate to where a car was waiting on the curb. Allen, Evla's driver waited for them by the back door, which he opened as she got to the curb, " Good evening Allen." she said with a smile. He was an attractive young man who Elva was helping through college. He was also an aspiring Warlock. They were two few in the Keane fold and Elva hoped that someday he would become a part of the family. For now though he paid his way by driving her Aunt and her guests around town and doing errands and other odd jobs when called upon. 

" Good evening Ms. Keane. Mr. Herveaux." Alcide gave greeting in return and then climbed in beside her. 

" You have relinquished control of the driving for the night, I must say you must be feeling very self assured." she teased him knowing that he hated to let anyone else be in control of the wheel. Often refusing her offers to drive them places. 

" Your Aunt offered and I figured why turn down the chance to get piss drunk in New Orleans if I wanted to." 

" Oh so it was just the promise of unlimited alcoholic consumption without fear of a DUI that convinced you. I see" She slid her hand across the thigh of his pant leg. " Nothing at all to do with the idea of me and you alone in the back of this big old car?" 

" That thought hadn't even entered my mind." He grinned and she laughed giving his thigh a slap. 

" You lie Alcide, LIE!!!" he let out a low chuckle as she fitted herself into the crook of his arm " But I like the way you think." She laid her head on his chest and took in the clean fresh woodsy scent of him. It felt so good to be safely incased in his arms. It had been a long day but sitting next to Alcide now it seemed the night held promise of far less tension. Something lighter a breath or two of fun an hour or two of happiness. 

" You wanna tell me about today?" He'd spent the day reading through her journals. He was now armed with all of the knowledge she could give him from that time in her life. Some of it had been difficult to read, he found he absorbed all of her pain, her fear and her anger as he did but when he finished he had no regrets about doing so. He understood what she had done. It was nothing he wouldn't have done himself if put in the same situation. But still the acts of violence seemed even harsher, more gruesome when perpetrated by the hands of a woman. Especially one he had known to be kind, loving, gentle and understanding to all she encountered. It was sexist to think that way, woman could be just as ruthless and cunning as men but still imagining Rebecca capable of such things was not something he would have ever considered before now. He was both relieved in the knowledge that she was capable of taking care of herself no matter what came her way and frightened of what she may do if she lost control that way again. The depths of that kind of darkness were hard to crawl back from. He couldn't help but worry if she fell down that rabbit hole again, would she be able to come back from it. Would she be able to hold on to who she was or loose the goodness she possessed forever.

She had felt all of his emotional ups and downs through out the day, it had added to the stress she was feeling in that house full of specious witches, she had found it hard to concentrate on all they had discussed and now as she sat next to him again and felt him stiffen beside her at his own question afraid of the answer, she knew she didn't want to tell him what had been decided but if she didn't it would just hang over the evening. Better to get it out now. " It has been decided to wait until Malcom makes a move." 

She took his hand and sent calming vibes running through him. " So far he has made no direct move against me or the coven. From what we have found he has told no one else of what he suspects happened to the rest of the Wright family. I can not even begin to imagine why he hasn't, you would think he would want them all rallied around him but Elva and some of the others believe he doesn't want anyone else to try and steal his glory. He has been on the outside looking in at the family and revealing what he knows after he has enacted the proper revenge would be a fine way to get back into the families good graces. Though I have to say there is not much left of them. They are even more scattered than they were five years ago, have melded into other packs and rarely speak to one another. Apparently the family "curse" was more than enough excuse for them not to stay in contact with one another."

" Maybe he wants to make fools of them as well. They all ran for the hills and wouldn't it be a kick to show them all how stupid they had been running away from a curse that didn't exist. That they had actually had been ki…" He stopped short. 

" Killed. Alcide. You can say it. They were killed. By me. And yes I suppose rubbing that in their face would be some peoples idea of revenge. They never had a clue but somehow he managed to get one and avenged the family name despite their shunning of him. He does like to think himself a superior son of a bitch." 

" So for now we just have to sit and wait and stew in our own shit?" He absolutely hated the idea. He knew she was right from her families perspective Malcom had done nothing. But for him the man had wormed his way into his pack life. The mere thought of that mans face made him want to punch a wall. The fact that he had even thought of Rebecca in any way made him want to strangle the life out of him. He didn't give much thought to the fact that it was actually him that Malcom had threatened. It he came for him it was reason enough for Alcide to kill him.

" I know it is hard for you, you want to take him out before he can do anything and I understand that. I have thought about taking him out myself. Simple and clean but that would be reverting back to the me that started all of this and my family would certainly frown upon it.  I don't want to go back there. I have hidden so much of myself trying to keep that part at bay and I while I know it is still in there and I am working on accepting it, incorporating it in a less destructive way back into the fabric of my being I can not just go after him. It would be giving in to deadly primal instinct that caused me to go mad." she paused and put her fingers to her lips willing them to stop quivering. Instantly drying up the tears that threatened in the corners of her eyes. She didn't want to bring the weakness of her emotions into the conversation. The guilt or the fear. Alcide needed information and convincing. He'd be far more apt to listen and believe if she remained stony and calm. His first instinct even now after all he had learned these last two days was to protect her and it was important that he really understood that she could handle herself. Putting himself into danger for her was not necessary. 

" There is a fear within those here representing the family that Malcom has put into place some sort of safeguards in the event of an untimely death. That what he knows will find it's way to the remaining family after his death and then we will be dealing with not just him and a few rouge Were's who have no real idea why they are after your pack but numerous packs from around the country who have loyalties to those who do remain in the Wright family and who would take offense to a witch taking out Were's for any reason. They are delving deeper into that possibility as we speak, searching for any evidence that he has left any type of information trail.  I personally am not so sure that he has done any such thing but without being able to read him I can't know for sure. My family has made it very clear they want me to stay the hell away from him. They fear just seeing me may set him off.  I have been forbidden from engaging him. Knowing what I do from our last meeting I have to agree with them. I have promised I would not actively seek him out." The car came to a stop but they remained in their seats. She expected to hear Allen get out of the car but he stayed inside she listened to the sound of the engine idle. Alcide was silently processing what she had said. His body language had softened. "Right now whatever he does the chance of containment is almost certain. The only threat he has made towards me has been in his head. I can't prove that. Not without exposing myself and my abilities to him. I know I have let them be known to others in Bon Temps but you and I both know that the more untrustworthy people who know the more likely that someone will want to use them. His accusations are all his word against mine now as well. I don't believe there is any real proof. But if we go after him without cause then anything he may say or reveal dead or alive will have a lot more credence. We need to be smart. Watch and wait for him to make a move. He has been biding his time, peeling away at his true motives a little at a time. I don't think he is going to to anything right away. I think he is enjoying watching you squirm, getting a reaction out of you. Undercutting you and your Father. I do believe he is going to make his move by going after the pack. He knows that exposing me will not do me in. He knows that in order to really hurt me he has to take what I love most from me. He will try to kill you before he does anything else." 

What about your Mother. What is her take on all of this? Has your Mother seen anything?" He tone held disdain. He didn't much care for the fact her Mother had failed to show up here. 

" Yes." She froze. Her Mothers prediction of the baby had not been the only one of the day. She had of course ignored that one but had almost passed out when her mother had revealed on the phone her other dozy. Rebecca hesitated. She thought of lying she had formed one in her mind but as she tried to work it onto the tip of her tongue she found she couldn't do it. " She saw you die." So much for the lightness she'd thought she'd be getting. He turned slightly in his seat so that he was looking at her. 

" What else?" He wanted to know if she saw him return, if she saw that he was indeed immortal like her.

" In the vision she only saw that you were dead. She got no specifics of circumstance or timing. Just you lying dead on the floor with several other men surrounding you."

" How did she know I was dead? Maybe I…. " She shook her head.

" There was no doubt in her mind that you were dead. Your injuries were severe. She didn't feel any life within you." 

" Well shit." His shoulders slumped slightly he'd expected her Mother's visions to be more concrete. " They aren't definite though right? I mean she got so little, she could either get more or change depending on what he does, what we do. Elva said that as the people in her visions choose their path the vision alters." 

" Elva is correct and when it comes to my Mother's visions about me they have often been sporadic, incomplete or incorrect. There is a block between us that she has never been able to break through. I go back and forth between being grateful and frustrated by that fact. Right now of course I am feeling the latter. In this instance I want her help."

" If she was here would it be any better?" he asked

" It is doubtful and Elva and Serena asked for her not to come. If Malcom has anyone watching us or is asking any questions around town their presence would not seem out of place. They visit here often. My Mother's coming here would be a sure sign that something was up. " 

" Okay that is understandable though I can't help but wish she knew more." he wanted to know if he was right. That what he felt in his bones would hold true. " You could have lied to me, I know your scared that I am going to do something stupid. Gonna go out and look to get myself killed."

" I thought about it but you'd have just asked Elva and she would have told you and then you would have been pissed that I kept it from you. You are going to do something Alcide, I know it and so do you. Even if it is not holy conscious you are going to do something. You want to know to badly. It scares me but there is nothing I can do about it. You could step out of this car right now and walk into in coming traffic if you wanted to. There is nothing I could do to stop you and I know it." 

" You could stop me." She was more than capable. 

" Not without force that would either result in you at the very least not trusting me ever again and at the worst giving you exactly what you want by killing you. That decision was never made or forced on me. I chose to live my life and take my chances. I know my fate and you have the right to choose to know yours." his hand cupped hers " I don't want to loose you but it will happen someday whether I like it or not now won't it?" At the hands of Malcom Lawrence, disease or old age. If he was immortal like her it would be best if he found out sooner rather than later. 

" I don't want to be an old man, I want to be able to stand next to you as an equal. You get that don't you?" she nodded her head. " I promise you one thing though, I won't go jumping into on coming traffic in order to find out. Fair enough?" His attempt at being cute about it fell flat inside her but she did her best to smile as if she were at least a little bit in on the joke. 

" Well that is reassuring." She sighed and looked into the darkened glass of the car windows. Not the time or subject for a joke, morbid son of a bit.. She didn't finish the thought as Alcide knocked on the glass nearest him and the door to the car opened. The air outside came rushing in cooling the interior of the car, she hadn't realized how stifling it had become in their small space. She save her palm a swipe across the skirt of her dress before pushing her way across the seat and taking Alcide's awaiting hand. 

" Arnauds." She should have known. The restaurant had been a favorite of her Aunt's for many years, she'd eaten many a family meal here when in New Orleans. " What a lovely choice." 

" Gina told me you and your family have some memories in this place, I almost didn't pick it thinking maybe something less familiar would be better. I hope I made the right choice?"

" Oh no this is fabulous, great ambiance, great food, the very best of company. No choice you could have made though would have been a bad one. I am just happy to be here with you." He extended the crook of his arm and she took it they walked past a horse drawn carriage on the curb, she listened to the flags above their heads flapping in the night breeze and smiled at the sight of the opened green wrought iron gates that fell back into the space that held the solid wooden doors. She had always found the pattern bent into the iron surrounding the building to be fascinating. As a girl she'd spent much of every visit following the curves and swirls around and around in her head. Alcide pulled the golden handle of one of the doors with ease and she walked in first taking in the surroundings while Alcide spoke to the hostess. A Maitre D appeared and greeted them both with exaggerated enthusiasm. She smiled and exchanged the proper pleasantries, finding when she looking inside his head that he had been at Arnaud's for many years and had in fact been instrumental in planning many of the dinner parties her Aunt had thrown here. She had meet him before but didn't really remember him, she acted as though she knew exactly who he was though by picking out bits and pieces of information to speak to as they made their way past the main dining areas and into one of the private dinning rooms. The walls of the room were blood red with traces of a gold leafed pattern running through alternate panels. The fireplace on one wall was shiny , lacquered black like ink with a golden mirror hanging above it reflecting the light coming from the golden Victorian chandelier and wall sconces. The many legs of the chandelier reminded her of a spider suspended from the ceiling on a long trail of silk. Equally black paneled doors lead into the main dinning room where another fireplace, mirror and chandelier awaited them as well as two matching double french doors that undoubtedly lead out onto the terrace of the building. The room could have easily fit a couple of dozen people but tonight a small rounded table was situated directly in it's middle of the room done up in a crisp white table cloth, etched crystal glasses, finely polished silverware and creamy porcelain plates. A candelabra holding five candles sat in the middle of it all. She ran her hand across the top of the flames and said a small hello to the elements.  It was unintentional on their part but finding things if fives was always it was a nice little touch for her. 

She sat down in the red seat that had been pulled out for her and took a look around the rest of the room while the Maitre D spoke. " Your waiter will be in shortly to take your drink orders. He of course will tell you of the specials and answer any questions you may have about the menu. If you need anything that he can not provide do not hesitate to call upon me. I do hope you enjoy your evening here at Arnaud's. Thank you for your inquires this afternoon Mr Herveaux it is a pleasure to have you dinning with us, Ms Keane it is equally pleasurable to see you again. It has been far to long." he backed out of the room and with a nod and a turn he was gone. 

Alcide grabbed up the menu and Rebecca situated her napkin in her lap. She was taking a moment to gage Alcide's reaction to the prices on the menu. When she saw nothing but concentration on his face she picked up the menu herself and gave it a once over. So many choices, she didn't know where to begin..

" Now you go on and order anything you like, anything you've had before that you loved and anything you have always wanted to try but haven't." He sounded excited and while she knew he wanted to make this night special and he never spoke of what things cost she knew there was a big difference between this place and the diner in Bon Temps. This dinner could cost more than a months worth of meals out back home. She opened her mouth to protest but before she could say anything the waiter appeared to introduce himself and to take their drink orders. Alcide ordered a beer and she ordered a sweetened ice tea. She saw Alcide's eyebrow raise slightly at that and her heart thumped a half beat. She should have just ordered a damned drink and after scanning Alcide's head she thought she might just have to. She'd been thinking of the scotch from earlier not that or another drink would make any difference at this point. 

" You ain't gonna have a drink? You feeling alright." his tone was a mix of concern and hope. 

" Downed a scotch before I left the house, figured I'd better get some food in me before I had anything else. Haven't had much to eat today and the heat got to me a little. Feeling a bit dehydrated."

" Oh okay… food first sounds like a good idea then. Remember anything you want you get it. " Alcide stifled a chuckle.

" Alcide?" she reached across the table and pulled the menu he'd barely put down down so she could see him better. " What is the deal?" 

She didn't want to make him feel like he was incapable of affording the meal but he seemed almost giddy at the prospect and that was not like him at all. Something was up.

He cocked her favorite grin and told her " Elva offered to pay for the meal as a way of apologizing for having me drugged yesterday. I figure I should make payback as big a bitch as possible." 

She smiled " Well that does seem fair, I think I need to take another look see here. I promise to make it hurt real bad." They smiled at each other and when the waiter returned they ordered more than two people could possibly eat.  Her Aunt could pay the bill with the money in her wallet it wouldn't make her flinch but it gave Alcide joy to feel like he was sticking it to her and that was all that mattered. They sat back and enjoyed every course that was brought out, oysters and crab cakes, salads and gumbos, quail and duck, Filets and Veal and just about every vegetable side on they offered. Everything was delicious and hard to stop eating but eventually Rebecca reached her limit and excused herself for a moment on the terrace while Alcide polished off as much of what was left as he could. She looked out into the night, the streets below sparkled with twinkly lights and she could hear the riffs of several different bands playing in various restaurants and bars that surrounded them. She listened, catching and identifying the tunes also getting bits and pieces of conversations as people passed by. She caught a whiff of something familiar and her head whipped towards the feeling. The corner was dark, but she could just make out a shadow. Could it be? Her lips moved upward and she had just started to reach out with her mind when Alcide walked out onto the balcony. The shadow blended back into the night as he came closer to her. Damn it! She thought but tried not to change her body language. 

" Man that was a damned good meal, probably the best one I ever had." 

" Made all the better by the fact it was free." she looked back at him giving him a snarky smile. 

" Yeah I'm sure that added to it's tastiness" He put his arms next to hers on the balcony railing and leaned into her placing several kisses on the back of her neck. " You know I felt him to right?" 

" I wasn't sure it was him. He was hidden and I didn't get a chance to call out to him. It might not have been him." 

"It was Mason Rebecca, his scent is burned into my brain. I could know he was coming a mile before he got to us and he was just standing across a courtyard. Where has he been all this time?" He'd been wanting to ask since he arrived in New Orleans. Along with her Mother Mason was the one person who should be here and wasn't.  

" Until yesterday he'd been in Tennessee with the Coven. When he awoke last night he and my Mother had it out. The conversation was violent and ugly a lot of hateful words were passed between them. My Mother blames Mason and Mason blames my Mother. She censured him tried to take away his guardianship of me. Mason got very angry, refused, threatened to cut off all ties to the coven and take his children with him. He told her he would never leave me alone as she could not be trusted to look out for me. He told her if it were not for him I'd have been dead along time ago and that was probably the real reason my Mother was angry. Because he had saved me. My Mother said none of it would have happened if he hadn't handed over his duties to his crazed and inadequate son, that I never would have been put in such circumstances if Mason had commanded Alexander to cut ties with me. Mason reminded her that she had not fought him on that, that she had in fact given the decision her approval. Made it seem as if it were meant to be. Lied to the coven about Alex being chosen. She hadn't wanted the bond between her daughter and him to grow any stronger. She wanted Mason to stay with the coven and was all to happy to see distance put between us. She was afraid we would become lovers and a union between the two of us would be the final nail in her coffin as head of the coven. He told my Mother she had been putting her jealousy and ambitions before her daughters life and happiness for years and that if anyone should feel shame and remorse over what had transpired it was her. My Mother became unhinged and used her magic on him, something that was promised never to be done. Mason put her into a wall but stopped himself before he could do any real damage. 

" She told you all this?" He had respect for Mason standing up to her Mother. Alcide thought he was right. His distrust of her Mother made him forget for the moment his issues with Mason and the fact that Mason's reaction might have been caused more out of his love for her than his vow to protect her. 

" Yes. She knew better than to lie or hide any of it from me. I was angry but it was bound to happen, the two of them have a lot of issues to work out, even more than they do with me." 

" Well that is saying something." She gave him an elbow in response but he was right. 

" I had hoped he would be coming back this way." She stopped herself from saying how much she missed him and had needed him the last two days. His presence would have made them much easier as he was the only other person who could truly be on her side. 

 " Is he just lurking or is he scoping things out?" He didn't like the man him hiding out in the shadows but if something was up he felt better knowing he was out there keeping an eye on things. 

" He wouldn't just walk into the middle of our night out, not his style but he would call or at least have come out of the shadows so I am going to say that he doesn't want anyone to know he is here in New Orleans. Nothing out of place remember?"

" But Mason has been at Belle Vita since the beginning, even after being away his being here with you wouldn't be weird."

" I am sure he has his reasons. Maybe he isn't ready to be around any of us yet. He may need some additional time to cool off." She turned around put her arms around Alcide's neck. It was time for this conversation to end. Mason was gone now, she didn't know when he would make himself known again but she doubted it would be tonight. 

" Yeah I guess." He was still scanning the area around them looking himself for any possible trouble. 

" Hey we going to have some dessert?" she slid a knee into the space between his legs to get his attention. 

" What do you have in mind?" He turned his gaze firmly on her a sly smile started to form in the corner of his mouth. He brought his face towards hers preparing himself something sweet from her. 

" Everything they have to offer on the menu of course" she took his arm and lifting it off the railing and with a twirl moved out of his grasp and towards the balcony doors. 

" I thought you said you were done? Couldn't eat another bite." 

" Of everything we have tried already, I never said I hadn't left room for dessert. No come on we've got more of Elva's money to spend" That got him moving and inside they went to see what further delights Arnauds could offer them. 

                                                                                                                 

Alcide 

 It was almost two hours later, they had ordered one of everything and moved their chairs close together and savored a little bit of everything. He'd even entertained Becca when she tried to feed him. Something he thought as silly soon became very erotic and he was rewarded at the end with a lap full of woman and a whole lot of smooth sexy kisses. He'd been tempted to try and take her in the back of the car or take her back to the house right then and there but he contained the desire when she said that the evening was still young and she wanted to go dancing. He wasn't going to refuse her, not when she looked so happy, excited. No he'd take her wherever she wanted to go, do whatever she wanted to do. She told him she knew a place and so he let her tell Allen where to go. The drive was a short one but before they got out of the car Rebecca took hold of the back of his jacket. 

" Your not going to need this in there. He let her slide his jacket off and lay it behind her on the seat. "Nor will you need this" she undid his tie and put it with the jacket. 

" It's pretty hot out to so I am going to say it will be a good idea to get rid of the shirt to." She unbuttoned the shirt snapping and he undid the cuff links. She held out her hand and reached behind her to put them in one of the jacket pockets. He handed her the shirt. 

" Is there anything else I should take off?" he played with his belt buckle and raised an eyebrow at her. 

" Well the majority of this places clientele would hardly be surprised to see a naked man and the others, this being New Orleans would be hoping for it but still I think it best you keep your pants on." she pulled his undershirt out from his pants and then turned him towards the door on his side. " Come on now move it." He slid out and looked up into a big neon sign.

 " The blue moon?" He'd heard of this place. He ducked his head back into the car narrowly missing knocking Rebecca's head off her shoulders. " A Were bar?" he huffed at her. " Are you serious?" What if Malcom had some of his rogue wolves hanging about New Orleans. They could be walking into a heaping helping of shit they didn't need.

" Yes I am and could you please let me out of the car." She gave him a hard look that said get out of her way and so he did and she stepped out into the night on her own. Totally ignoring the offer of his hand. 

" I thought you would like it, that it would be fun." she was facing him but spun quickly on her very high heels and walked with purpose into the bar. There was nothing he could do but follow her.  The place was packed with as she said a mixture of were and humans. He let his eyes run over the crowd while still trying to keep up with Rebecca. No one seemed particular threatening and several Were's gave him half nods and half looks in acknowledgment. In the corner a band played what sounded like salsa and seemed out of place for the environment. But several couples were out on the dance floor dancing the way he'd watched Rebecca dance with Jesus at her party. The thought of her dancing like that made his legs weak and he had to give his lower half a shake. Rebecca was standing at the bar trying to get the attention of the lone man standing behind it. When he finally turned around he saw that it was the man he'd seen Rebecca talking to the day before. He made his way behind her as the man stretched across the bar and lifted Rebecca a few inches off the ground in a bear hug. She squealed at him to put her down and then stutter stepped her way backwards into his arms.

" Alcide I'd like you to meet my Uncle Buzz." The older man held out his hand and Alcide took it. 

" Good to meet you sir." he greeted the man with the respect a elder Were and the closest thing Rebecca had to a father with a firm hand the man took it matching him grip for grip.

" Good to meet you to kid. Nice to get a look at the man who's got my niece all tied up in knots." He gave Alcide the once over and with a slap on the bar gave his approval.

" Solid stock this one Rebecca, you can keep this one." He gave his niece a toothy grin and ran his hand through his beard. 

" Why thank you Uncle I suppose it's about time I found someone you found worthy." She replied sarcastically. " Now what does it take to get a drink in this dump?" 

" My bar young lady is not a dump, you will respect her or I'll kick your ass right out on the street like anyone else." He replied sternly while popping two glasses onto the bar. 

He filled two glasses with scotch squirting a shot of soda into Rebecca's and handing it to her. " Not to much for this one, she gets in trouble when she drinks." 

He pushed Alcide's glass towards him and gave him a meaningful look and a nod. " You tell me when you want me to cut her off." he gave Rebecca a side glance and she gave him a smirk. 

" Oh please I could drink you under the table old man and you know it." she took her drink took a swig and turned her attention to the music. Alcide watched the hem of her skirt flutter in between her fingers. 

" Maybe so, but best not try to." Buzz grumbled to her back. They shared another stare and Alcide knew that Elva had talked to her brother. All eyes in the bar were on Rebecca but Buzz and Alcide's were looking for something different than everyone else. So far she'd given no signs that he could see even though Elva and her Mother were sure his plan had worked. Rebecca swirled around a big smile on her face. 

" I want do dance, you want to give it a try?" She gave Alcide a hopeful look but when he shook his head and held up his hands she didn't object to his protest, just sat her drink down on the bar winked at her uncle and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek before slinking off to the dance floor, where she was immediately met by a willing male partner.

" Don't worry to much bout it kid, if she knows she won't do nothing stupid. She's lost to much where that's concerned already. But I wouldn't expect her to cop to it either. You all are in some shit, and she isn't the type to sit on the sidelines. Headstrong, willful, dominating. Typical in a Beniot woman pretty much deadly when you combine that with Keane blood." 

" Guess I am fucked then huh?" Alcide said " Not a chance in hell of keeping her away from a fight, even if I managed to knock her up last night?" 

" If you succeeded the only thing you managed to do was get her think more before she acts. She'll take less risks but she won't sit back and do nothing. That's not Becca. I applaud the attempt though. The only option you had and a big one for a man who clearly ain't a fan of his other side." 

" I'll do whatever it takes to see she don't get hurt."

" Let me tell you something right now Alcide and I this ain't anything you don't already know but so far you have probably only heard woman tell you and I can tell you are the type of guy who believes in protecting his woman no matter how capable they may be of protecting themselves. Maybe Mason has said a word or two but for the most part he says just what he has to without feeling as if he has betrayed Becca but I'm gonna tell it to you straight. That woman, has seen more hurt in her life than any human should. She may weep over her lost loves but that is nothing less than any person with a heart would do and she may have lost her shit after they were taken from her but you best believe she can handle herself. She could take every single person in this room out without loosing a breath. She is a fearsome foe, dangerous and I wouldn't bet against her and I wouldn't try to stop her if she puts her mind to something. If she wants Lawrence Malcom dead, he will be dead. If she had not come here to Louisiana, if she'd been off somewhere just she and Mason and this had happened he'd have been in a deep unmarked grave by now. She hesitates because she doesn't trust that part of herself she waits because it is not just about her it's about her family, her new friends and most importantly kid you. She is trying to go about things the right way this time. Though personally I'd prefer she'd do like before and just break his neck and fuck up anyone who comes along in the aftermath."

' Guess I know where she got the whole vigilante family justice from." he didn't need to tell Buzz he would have liked to do the same. 

" Witches think, plan, plot they bury their heads in their history, their spell books. Were's tear shit up. Shit like this usually works better with a combination of the two. I'm an old man, I've done my share of tearing out of my skin and going for the throat. Can't say it's always worked out for me, most of the time I ended up in deeper shit than I would have if I'd taken a hot head minute to cool my ass down. Do the best you can to keep yourself in check Alcide." the man held Alcide's gaze until he was sure he'd been heard, then reached under the bar and popped the top off four beers. he slid two down the bar at one of his bartenders who gave Buzz a "thanks boss" left one in front of Alcide and took a swing of the last one himself. 

" She is quite a woman my niece. Every Beniot woman shines, but none of the ones I have ever known shine brighter than her. A light that will never die out." They watched Rebecca on the dance floor in silence for a few minutes. Taking in the electricity that surrounded her, both watching to make sure no hands got go grabby or eyes lingered to long on any one part. 

" You never wanted to find out if you were like her?" He didn't turn around to look at Buzz as he asked.

" Yeah kid I've wondered, even tried a time or two to find out. But rarely has Etienne come across a lone immortal. For whatever reason they seem to come in pairs. Usually a Were and a Witch sometimes other sup combos. He thinks it has something to do with the instantaneous connection they feel when they meet, the cord that binds them. He thinks the immortality comes after lifetimes of separation, that it's the fates way of paying them back for the lifetimes of losing one another.  I don't know about all that, the metaphysical mumbo jumbo is above me but there is no denying the facts of his research. The few solo's he has come across have been the result of a break that came after the change or from a partner who chose to move on to the next life. Rebecca is the only instance he has found where she has found her other half after realizing her immortality." 

" Has there been talk about me with Etienne?" 

" Of course kid you've been a main topic of conversation for a great many reasons the last month or so. Etienne believes you will be by Becca's side for a very long time. But you got to die in order to find out. You ready for that?" 

He looked out at Rebecca who was clapping her hands and stomping her feet to the music laughing at her current partners antics, he couldn't imagine not knowing the touch of those hands that look on her face, the light in her eyes, that laugh, the way her body moved. 

"Yes. I am." he caught Buzz's eye. " If we're wrong and I don't come back. You all will make sure she keeps it together this time?" 

" You got my word she won't go down that rabbit whole alone again. I've kept my distance because the witch side of her bloodline has always held a tighter hold over her but that is no more. I won't let Temperance or even my sisters do wrong by that girl again. I think we have all learned our lesson but you can bet your ass the men in this family aren't gonna sit back if the shit hits the fan again." 

The music stopped and then started back up a drum beat filled the room a was more rock and roll and nothing like the Latin beats that had filled the room up to now. 

" Only Rebecca, cheeky chick." Buzz muttered under his breath and then shook his head. 

It took him a minute to recognize the song but when he did he had to shake his head to. Only Rebecca would have the band play a song called "Howling for you" in a Were bar. Not that any of them seemed to mind. In fact they all seemed to be enjoying it many of them had gotten up from their seats and were moving along to the beat. Rebecca however was standing in the middle of the dance floor staring at him, she motioned for him to join her but he shook his head. She rolled her eyes and came towards him.

"You should have come out to dance with me" She said into his head as she hop stepped onto the foot rest of his stool then onto the small exposed space in between his legs and with a swing of her other leg over his head hopped up on the bar. With a swivel of her waist and a snap of her hips she had everyone's attention as she danced provocatively across the bar to the rhythm of the song. He looked for Buzz for help when she turned around and gave everyone a few shimmy shakes from the back side. But Buzz put up both hands and pointed at him. If he wanted her off the bar then he'd have to get her. Buzz was a business man getting a free show on a Saturday night he wasn't stupid. She looked incredibly hot and for a moment Alcide sat back and enjoyed the view but when a flash of black lace panties caught his eye he'd decided the rest of this show was best seen in private. He tapped his fingers on the bar to get her attention " You wanna come down now?" 

She gave him an evil grin but made her way across the bar, stepping over bottles, glasses and a few grabby hands. She smacked one guy on the top of his head when he went for her ankle and he fell back against his buddies as if he'd just been hit by cupid. When she was back in front of him he stood grabbing her by the waist swooped her off the bar placing her just on the edge of it. He moved into her his hands still around her waist aware that everyone was watching as she wrapped her arms around his neck and ground herself into him. 

" You've got to stop that" he called into her head. If this were an all Were bar she would be in a lot of trouble right now, from him and possibly from others if they had the balls to try. She knew it to. She was playing with him and playing to the crowd. " Becca!" he called to her again. He could feel the need growing inside him to take her. The palms of her hands met the back of his neck and within seconds he had good vibes running through him. 

" I'll stop but you have to do something first." the heels of her shoes pressed into his backside. 

"What?"  he sent to her.

" Kiss me" She whispered and with the last few beats of the song he did just that and when his lips met hers she stopped moving. He wasn't sure if it was just in his head or if the bar actually went silent but it wasn't until she broke away and with a whoop and a smile yelled out " A round of drinks for everyone" that he heard anything but the sound of his heart pounding in his ears. 

She hopped behind the bar and started helping fill orders giving her very amused Uncle a peck on the cheek as she placed shot glasses in front of him to fill.  She flicked one of the glasses in his direction with a wink and he downed it. He sat back in his chair and watched as she worked the room making sure everyone got what they wanted, laughing away come on's and at peoples jokes. She made sure everyone left tips in the jar for the staff and teased Buzz not to worry she was good for the tab. 

" Your girl?" A female Were who looked enough like Debbie to catch him off guard came up behind him. She gave her order to the bartender closest to her and waited for both him to answer and for her drinks.

" Yeah." he replied with a sly grin and a " How you doing look" He'd expected her to look disappointed he was taken or hopeful it might not matter to him if he was but instead she looked over at Rebecca and with a sly grin of her own said.

" Lucky guy" she grabbed her two beers and with a nod to his girl went back to her table where a group of girls were waiting. She whispered something into the ear of the girl who took the second beer and they both shared a laugh. More than likely at his expense he thought. 

" Is it my imagination or did you just get dissed and complimented by a lesbian at the same time?" Rebecca elbows on the bar eyebrows raised spoke out from behind him

" Not your imagination. Not at all." He put his lips together to keep from smiling as he swiveled around to look at her. 

" Ahhh poor baby" she brushed her hand across his flushed cheek " Just think though you get to go home with me and she doesn't" He took it and gave it a squeeze. 

" Now that does lessen the sting a bit." 

" Come on Buzz wants a sit down. You up for it?" 

" You sure you wanna leave your captivated audience?" He motioned behind him.

" Sure, there will be many many more like this" She shrugged and waved them away " Besides you always want to leave the crowd wanting more, didn't you know that?"

He met her at the end of the bar " You always keep me wanting more that is for sure." He took a swipe at her backside but she wiggled out of his grasp and together they went to the corner to join Buzz for a few rounds and plenty of embarrassing stories about Rebecca as a child. He laughed long and hard and took great pleasure in watching her turn beet red but keep her sense of humor about the whole thing. The night had turned out to be exactly what they both needed and when they finally said their goodnights to Buzz and his crew Alcide conceded that Rebecca had been right. He had had a good time and it had been fun. It was nights like these that you held on to, he was happy to have another good memory to file away for when he needed it.  He held Rebecca close on the way back to the house not saying much, content to be together in silence. When they pulled to a stop in front of Elva's Rebecca stifled a yawn and sat up giving herself a stretch. He waited impatiently as she picked up her shoes from the floor of the car and gathered up the rest of their things. She handed Alcide his discarded clothes and hopped out of the car her bare toes making a slapping sound on the cobble stoned walk.  She waiting a few feet away gazing up at the stars while Alcide said goodnight and thanks to Allen. It started to drizzle as they watched the car pull away and Alcide muttered under his breath looking to Rebecca who shrugged. 

" This is all Mother Nature my friend, I am in a good way tonight." He pulled the key out to open the gate and lead her through the passageway into the garden. His mood went from relaxed to pissed, he had one more surprise planned a grand romantic gesture he'd cooked up with Gina that afternoon but the rain was going to keep it from happening. He took a look around the courtyard and said a few silent curses in his head, stupid fucking rain, while he thought about what the rain was ruining. Rebecca sensing something was off slowed her step to put some space between them. When broody Alcide came out to play Rebecca kept him at arms length. The lights surrounding the courtyard flickered and then went off. He'd expected this it was part of the plan to leave them in darkness long enough for him to grab her up in his arms.  Elva was supposed to take over from here but he didn't know why either of them would bother now. They had to know it was raining. 

"A little rain never hurt anyone." her voice lured him to find her standing in the middle of the courtyard much like the night before but this time he didn't feel she was in any danger. She was fine, calm with her head cocked to one side a sly smile spreading across her face. In the space between a single flickering candle began to glow and his gaze moved along as the hundreds of candles surrounding the courtyard came to life. The rain did nothing to stop them from shining into the night sky above them. 

" No need to be cross, nothing is ruined" He saw movement in a window to his left, a flash of red lips and black hair but it was gone quickly, the light behind the curtain going out a second later. 

" She didn't want you to feel cheated out of your alfresco illicit liaison." she held her hands behind her back her feet together her head slightly bent downward only the sexiness of the dress she wore betrayed her unassuming school girl look. You couldn't be flashing that much skin and be innocent. 

" This is private property so it may be alfresco but there is nothing illicit about it." he sat his clothes on the bench near the door and leaned against one of the balcony columns. His mood went back to good it was glad that his finale for their evening was back on track. 

" Hummmm some of those things running through that head of yours are surely illegal private closed doors or not." She slid one of the dress straps off her shoulder

" Your getting wet." He called out from under the cover of the balcony above. His eyes focused on the bare skin of that shoulder following each drop as it hit and slid down the front of he dress.  

" This is true but I promise I won't melt unless it's into you" she giggled at her own corniness and he grinned and shook his head at her. He thought of Buzz calling her cheeky earlier it sounded funny coming from a big brute of a man but the word did describe his niece very well. She whistled to get is attention and one by one she tossed her shoes at him he caught one in each hand placing them neatly ( so he wouldn't have to hear about it later) on the bench beside his shirt and jacket. As he turned he was hit in the side with her dress. 

" Hang that on the hook would you, Elva will kill me if it gets ruined." She had disappeared from view but he did as she asked before he let his eyes search for her. He caught sight of the shadow of her figure in-between the iron lines of the gazebo so he made his way along the veranda until he got to the corner where the gazebo stood. He took a peak inside and got a great view of the line of her legs stretched out on the cushions that had been spread out on the gazebo floor. The flash of black lace he'd caught earlier was now fully on display.  She turned to the side giving him a view of her backside sliding a hand down to cover one cheek and give him a wave with the wiggle of her fingers. 

" You coming in here or are you just looking for a peep show?" She'd give him one if that was what he wanted. " It's kind of pervy but if that's your kink I'll do my best to loosen it." She gave her ass a slap and let out a little yelp which caused him to take a step back taking a deep breath to keep from laughing. He'd never spent so much time trying to keep from cracking up. It wasn't in his nature. Until now. 

In a cheeky move of his own he stripped down and at the opening of the gazebo gave Rebecca a few peep show gyrations of his own. 

Rebecca didn't bother to hide her laughter and then buried her head in a pillow " To much beefcake, toooooooo much" 

He fell down beside her and grabbed her up moving himself into her while she squirmed and squealed " Okay Okay you win. Stop it" he stopped and everything slowed down. Their bodies softened melted into one another, their breathing became less shallow their heartbeats steadied. He hovered over her, her face was buried in his shoulder as he moved his hand along the back of her neck she turned just slightly so he could catch the lustful look in her eye. She placed her lips against his skin sending that longing into him and so he pulled her head back and held it tightly and when their eyes locked he pressed his lips to hers. 

Later when the lights had gone out and Rebecca was curled up at his side he lay awake looking through there small cracks in between the vines of the morning glories and let his mind wonder. Rebecca and her family believed that houses held onto memories. That the spaces where they dwelled were living breathing extensions of themselves. The day before she had said that this space had known it's share of stolen moments. He figured she knew what she was talking about and he couldn't help but want to ask ( if it were possible) where this night and the love between he and Rebecca would rank in this houses memories. Without a doubt it was one of the best of his. He rested his chin on the top of Rebecca's head and let his eyes fall shut. He'd never been a praying man but at that moment he found himself praying to the powers that be for more nights like this, an eternities worth of nights like this, if that wasn't to greedy he asked silently with one last peak up at the sky. 

Rebecca

                                                                                                                      

They had brunch with her family the next morning. The coffee was hot, the mimosa's flowed and the benyas were heavenly. Her Aunt and Gina made more than their share of innuendo laced remarks about the night before but to Alcide's credit he didn't let them get to him, hiding the one moment he almost lost it by pretending to choke on a piece of bacon. In fact he handled her family very well and they all were more at ease with one another at the end of the meal. Her family were suspicious yet excepting if that made any sense at all. They said their goodbyes soon after arriving back at Elva's. Of course there was more to say, more they wanted to discuss, go over, but Alcide needed to get back for work. His absence would surely be noticed if he didn't show up bright and early on Monday morning. Rebecca was happy to use the same excuse for her returning as well. Their visit could be chalked up to a long weekend to do a little business and a chance for Alcide to meet the family. Stay away to long and prying eyes might start to wonder their way down to New Orleans. 

They had to drive back separately, she let Alcide take the lead but their connection allowed them to stay in contact with one another. They stopped in the late afternoon at a small roadside stand that Alcide and his crew loved to have dinner. Everything was fried, fattening and exactly what Rebecca wanted. She drank buckets of sweet tea and had to stop in Bon Temps proper to take a leak because she simply could not hold it any longer. This exasperated Alcide and lead to a mindful of thoughts about women and their constant need to pee. She told him to bite her and had a thought of her own "If you think it's bad now buddy wait five months" as she ran inside the mini mart to take care of her business. The look on his face when she returned earned him a middle finger and her squealing out of the parking lot no longer willing to let him be in front.  When they pulled onto the lane to  Belle Vita it was dark but the flood lights along the drive came on as they drove past as did the porch light when she stepped out of her car. The night jasmine the Whitestaffs had planted around the fountain in the center of her new circular drive filled the night air with a sweet scent and the crickets chirped loudly as if greeting her. 

She grabbed her bag out of the trunk and as she shut it she noticed that Alcide's engine remained running. She looked back to see he was still in the driver seat and he was looking out his window to the house. 

" You not coming in?" He was tense and didn't look at her. Oh come on she thought he couldn't be that pissed about her being pissed about him teasing her about needing to piss..

Alcide's face softened a little 

" No that was some good shit. I like you like that." he smiled her smile but stayed put.

She perched herself onto the step of the truck" Okay then why are you not getting out?" 

" I need to go home and take care of a few things." She started to protest, she didn't like the idea of him going back there tonight. She wanted to have things checked out. " I'll be fine Becca besides you got company inside, your gonna need some time without me here."

She felt him then, she didn't know why she hadn't before but when she turned her head she saw him standing there on the edge of the porch. 

" Mason!" she said softly but she didn't move.  Despite her staying next to him the happiness she felt at seeing her her best friend wasn't lost on Alcide. 

" Go on Becca. It's alright you go to him." She didn't sense any jealousy. He was relieved Mason was there he hadn't wanted her to be here alone. He'd planned on going by Bill's before heading to Shreveport to make sure she wasn't. 

She pulled herself into the cab " You be careful and don't you dare stay away to long." she hugged him and he held on to her for a good long second before pulling her back. Meaningful looks passed between them and kisses were exchanged and once her feet were back on gravel she watched as he maneuvered around her car and went down the drive. 

" He will be fine. Lawrence Malcom isn't even in Shreveport at the moment. He left Friday night no one has seen him there since"

She walked over and climbed the steps  finding she was still a head or two shorter than him on the top one. " Hello Mason."

" Hello Dearest." a space opened up between his body and his arms and Rebecca inserted hers  into it, stepping up and wrapped them around his waist. 

When his arms enclosed hers she breathed a sigh of relief. " I am glad you are here that you are okay and I am sorry for what you went through with Mother." she pulled back to look into his face. His expression was stone cold and though the look was not meant for her it still sent a shiver through her. His arms tightened about her a bit more to calm her fears. 

" Your Mother and I had a lot to say to one another, it was part of the reason I went there when I left here. I had a little prediction of my own, that the time was coming for you to come clean with your family. I knew that if I was there she would take her aim at me and leave you to Elva and Serena. I of course was right. She stayed where she was and that alone was worth the sting of your Mother's words and her magic. Still packs quite the punch for an old woman." He furled his brow " She wounded me and I will not lie I wanted to hurt her back. I had her against a wall fangs bared ready to take her life."

" What stopped you?" she asked

" The old saying, One bad apple doesn't spoil the whole bunch. My ties to your family run to deep. Thousands of souls, countless generations. I couldn't let my disdain for your Mother ruin that. I removed myself from her direction when I left with you, that was strain enough on the bond my family has with yours. I didn't wish to cause an irreparable break. I was also surrounded by a coven of witches who surely would have killed me. If I was going to kill your Mother I'd do it when there was no one around to bare witness and no chance that I was going to die to. There was also the slim possibility that you would be angry if I did it. That of course was the most important reason to restrain myself." She doubted that that was true but it was good of him to add it on at the end just in case he happened to be right. 

" Oh yes I am sure that was foremost in your mind."  He was charged with protecting her even if that meant from her Mother. Something all three of them were well aware of. There had been a few times she'd been angry enough with her Mother she wouldn't have minded at all. But now wasn't one of those times. Mason had done the right thing in walking away though she doubted he would ever forget her lashing out at him, it was a personal affront on his ego, a challenge to his Vampire superiority. No one would ever accuse Mason of being weak but walking away from being assaulted in such a manner would make him feel as such and he would never forget it. 

" How are you?" He lead her inside the house taking a good look around before closing the door. There was no one out there but he was in guardian mode he'd be looking over both of their shoulders until Malcom was taken care of. 

Her answer was interrupted by two little fur balls who came running down the stairs and did circles around her fighting for her attention. She bent down and gave each girls head and chin a proper scratch. " Hello Ladies." she had asked Sookie to look in on the girls while she was away but they didn't need much. As long as they had fresh food and water they were perfectly fine on their own. " Did you behave yourselves while Momma was away?" she didn't think she'd have any revenge tinged surprises awaiting her for abandoning them but it was best to never think yourself home free with cats.  She walked into the living room and flopped down on the couch. A girl plopped down on each side of her and she took to petting them while she answered Mason's question.

" I am fine. A bit drained. It was difficult but it needed to be done. Having Alcide there, coming clean with everyone at the same time helped. Prolonging it would have just made it harder for me. My family was far worse than Alcide, he took it amazingly well, barely phased him really. Once I said the words out loud to him I felt the remaining shame and pain from that time melt away.  I am glad that part is over."

" Yes you have held on to that part of you for far to long. I am glad to see Alcide stood by you this time. It was good to see you together in the city looking happy and relaxed. I was genuinely pleased by that." He took a seat in a nearby chair after Saffy and Emmy made it clear they didn't want to share her at the moment. She shook her head at them and shrugged at Mason as if to say what can you do? Once they realized their space was safe they settled down and relaxed into her affection. 

" You had your doubts I take it? What his reaction would be?" Or perhaps he just hoped Alcide would run again.

" I was not sure what he would do. Before I left I believed him to be vested, prepared but with the enormity of what you had to tell him I did have doubts. When I didn't feel a breakdown in your emotions. I knew he had met your expectations. He made you feel safe, loved, protected. I am grateful to him for giving you what you needed. What you deserved."

" He was wonderful, more than I could have hoped for. Our bond is stronger, solidified I have complete faith in that. I am however frightened of what he will do. He is not happy about waiting for Malcom to make the first move and I know he is going to do everything he can to keep me from the fray." Mason's eyes fell to her stomach. She hand went to cover it dreading what was coming next.

" His successful attempt at impregnating you is surely a sign you are correct on that count. Do not bother to deny it Rebecca. You knew the moment you conceived your other children and when you were pregnant with Sage you refused to entrain anyone's inquiries until you were sure you would not loose her. I know you know have another reason to keep such matters to yourself but there is no point in trying to keep it from me. I felt your panic the moment you realized what Alcide had done. I also stopped by unannounced at Elva's before you returned Saturday night.  I overheard them discussing it. You did a good job in convincing them nothing was amiss while you were there. Not that they expect you to tell them anything, nor do they wish to cop to their part in the plot. " 

" Elva gave him the idea, though he'd been searching for something to use to keep me from engaging in battle with Malcom. It was only a matter of time before he came up the idea with it himself.  I was surprised given how apposed he was to having children but still I should have seen it coming but he caught me at my most vulnerable and needy."

" Yes it was smart of him to come to you then, you were a wreck. It was quite easy to lure you into baby making intercourse." She nudged him with her foot and was glad when he reacted as he normally would by nudging her back. 

" Your Mother believes your child will be born. Elva believes your connection to Alcide will insure it as well. I believe you will successfully bring this child to term but none of this means that you are to take undo chances. Not even now when there is nothing there but a wish. " 

" I understand all of this."  He was saying all of this out loud so she could hear it in another voice. One that she would listen to one that she would not dismiss and his need to lay it all out for her didn't stop there though. 

" Etienne is convinced Alcide is immortal. I discussed this with him myself and listened as he spoke to Elva on the phone. We all agree that he will want to find out if it is true soon. He wants to kill Malcom but your Mother's vision has given him doubts that he will be successful. If her prediction comes true if he does not succeed he has hung all of his hope on the idea that he will still come back to you. If he does not die battling Malcom you should prepare yourself for him finding out another way." 

" I will help him find out myself." she had decided this last night. In the brief time he slept she had seen his hopes for their future, she had also fully registered his fears. It was what he wanted. She would be the one to help him find out, the one there when he awoke. " I will be ready if that time comes."

" I am glad to hear it. I'd hated to have to have been the one to do it." the idea shocked her and the look she gave him told him so.

" I would be the next logical choice would I not?" He flashed her some fang. 

" More likely the next logical person who'd want to kill him." she replied snarkily

" But I believe he will come back, so what would be the point?" He deadpanned in return.

" It is good to see you again dear friend, it has been to long." Rebecca was thrilled to have them interact as always had before. The rift between them the one thing she wished she could change about the last few months. Mason had regained control of his feelings for her. She didn't think they had dissipated but he was resolve in the knowledge they were pointless and would lead to nothing but the destruction of what he held most dear. Mason did not believe in pointless pursuits. He had adjusted and refocused. 

" It is good to be here dearest." he gave her hand a squeeze. " We will be fine you and I."

She nodded, pushed back tears and changed the subject. " You said Malcom isn't in Shreveport, do you know where he is?" 

" Dallas Texas. He is being watched by Were's who have allegiance to Buzz. They say he is there on business something about land that he wants to buy in Shreveport to develop with Herveaux construction. I am sure it is another step in forging a alliance with Alcide's Father. From what I have been told he return flight isn't until mid-week. He hasn't seemed to be paying any attention to you or Alcide's whereabouts." his eyes squinted together " I know for sure that he is fairly unaware of the extent of your abilities and he has not yet declared openly his intent towards you or the family but he also seems to be making nothing but small strategic moves against Alcide. Do you think he intends to prolong his scheme for as long as possible in the effort to drive Alcide mad?"

She did think just that, " Malcom knows for sure who I am, is convinced of what I did but he doesn't know that I am aware of this and his intent toward Alcide. The one thing he is completely sure of is Alcide hates him and that Alcide believes he is after the pack. He will continue to prolong coming after him for as long as possible in the hopes of Alcide will do something rash. Something that would give him cause. He wants to look like the wounded party when he challenges Alcide. What we have to do is keep Alcide from doing what Malcom wants, turn the tables and force him to make a move. He likes getting under peoples skin if he see's Alcide just going about his business, spending his time with me, another thing that will piss him off, and nothing he does gets a reaction out of Alcide he will crack. He's being patient now because he has hopes of getting everything he wants. If that endgame starts to look like it is going to unravel he won't like it. He expects to win. He won't except failure." 

 "Interesting" Mason looked thoughtful. " Undoubtedly you are correct in everything you say. Still I'd like to go there myself and see what he is up to. I've made arrangements to be there by nightfall tomorrow. I would like to get my own feel for the man. I have found having a first hand assessment of your enemy is always best.

" You are not going alone?"

" No. I wish to as we want to keep our arrival as quiet as possible but I will be bringing a couple of my men with me. I trust the Were's that Buzz has sent, they will have more of a chance of getting any information that I would. We can't go poking to closely without raising their suspicions but I would just like to be near by in case we are needed." 

" And look to see if there are any chinks in the armor yourself." she gave him a little smile. 

" Yes a little look see would be a good idea I think." he smiled back. 

" You will be careful?" Part of her wondered if he was going to do to Lawrence what he'd have liked to have done to her Mother.

" Of course." he replied slightly offended. Mason was always careful. 

" When do you expect Alcide to return, I'd prefer to wait until he returns before I take my leave. I will go to ground in Shreveport and be transported from there to Dallas" 

" He did not say when he was coming back" Or what exactly he had to do for that matter "But he should already be home. He will probably want to check in at work and make sure Janice is okay. I hope he doesn't stay away to long. I didn't want him to go back there." 

" I don't think he wanted to go either, he just preferred the idea of dealing with Malcom over being in this house waiting for us to finish our reunion." his words rang true to her ears.

"More than likely. But not out of jealousy, but respect. He knows you would do the same if the roles were reversed." 

" Indeed and I will prove that once he returns." he turned away and took a look at the clock on the mantle. Time was something Mason knew well he had no need for a clock. 

" We ALL will be fine will we not Mason?" she looked at him expectantly. It was what she needed.

" Yes Dearest."  This time it had taken some work and time but Mason always gave her what she needed. 

She nodded her head satisfied with his answer ( and the thoughts running through his head). The two people she valued most were both back in corner. This gave her an enormous amount of reassurance. She couldn't have asked for a better ending to a weekend she had feared to be a disaster. It had turned out far better than she could have ever imagined.  She snuggled into the cushions of the couch smiled down at her girls and let herself relax...

     She awoke with a start she wasn't sure what had shaken her awake but now that her eyes were open she was even more confused as to where she was and how she got there. The last thing she remembered she'd been lying in on the couch in the living room talking to Mason, it had been almost two am. She was worried about Alcide, trying desperately to stay awake waiting for him return. She remembered Mason reassuring her. If anything was wrong they would know. If she was tired she should let herself sleep. He or Alcide himself would wake her when he got back. She must have finally given in and fallen asleep and Mason had carried her upstairs for now she was lying on her bed a blanket half covering her. She had been having a nightmare, maybe that was what had jarred her awake. In it she'd started to believe Alcide had changed his mind again. That he wasn't coming back, that he whole weekend had been a ruse, a lie and that it was over. She felt a rush of panic go through her and she sat up throwing the blanket off and jumped off the bed. She saw no signs in the room that he had been there, no bag, no clothes tossed about. Her mind was cluttered, foggy with sleep she couldn't concentrate enough to send out feelers for who was in or about the house. She was walking towards the bedroom door when she heard the front door close. She ran to the railing and looked down. Alcide was standing by the front door two bags thrown across his shoulders. He sat them down at his feet and then looked up at her. She could tell he was tired but otherwise intact. 

Silent words passed between them as she made her way down the stairs, the last being an apology for taking so long and making her worry as he met her at the bottom wrapping her up in his arms kissing the side of her head. " I had to get my things. I don't want to be torn in two any more. From now on I wanna be where you are. I wanna stay here if that is alright by you?" 

" Yes, that is more than alright by me. I want you here with me. Let my home be your home, our home." he grinned and she smiled back at him while happy tears ran down her cheeks. " Welcome home, Alcide" 

" Man, it's sure good to be HOME" He said the last word with extra emphasis. It had been a long time since he'd felt like he'd had one. 'I'm exhausted. Let's hit the sheets." She put up no protest and let him wrap his arm around her waist and lead her up the stairs to spend the first night together in THEIR home.