The sun rose and the new day had begun. Frankly, what happened last night didn't even feel real on this brilliant sunny morning. It appeared as if the warm golden rays of the sun washed over all the shadows diminishing them away, so they wouldn't lurk behind the dark corners of the world to haunt its victims.

Klaus awoke to the sound of muffled voices outside of the hospital room. He guessed that the voices belonged to the doctors and busy nurses that monitored the VIP wing. Klaus would've called one of them inside to ask of his family's whereabouts. But the heavy wolf that slept on top of him deprived him from the function of his limbs. Even if he tried to move, it'd be a mistake, because one of them would fall off the small bed.

Even on the tight bed, King slept on his stomach with his heavy arm draped over Klaus. His head tucked into the crook of Klaus's neck; he could feel King's tranquil breath tickle his nape. Klaus noticed King's stern expression, like he was worried in his deep slumber about something.

Klaus felt an urge to calm the frown-lines between King's dark brows. He reached his hand over and delicately caressed his forehead, moving aside his tousled hair too and eventually the frown dissipated.

Klaus smiled at his mate and remained immobile in his arms, so he wouldn't wake up disturbed. It was only then, when Klaus looked down and saw the glint on his finger of the sapphire wedding band. Instantly, his stomach did a flip, his heart knotted and his entire body stormed with butterflies. He couldn't explain the sensation, except that it was special to him. Klaus found out that King wanted to be with him forever and that he'd join the pack too.

Klaus looked down at the emerald wedding band around King's finger and smiled bashfully. However, when his eyes drifted from the finger over to his knuckles, that were badly bruised, his smile dropped. Greyish blue blotches tainted each knuckle and it was rimmed with a dingy purple then a faint yellow, that made it appear painful.

Klaus skimmed his fingertips over the raw skin and he winced from the wound, like it had inflicted him personally. Klaus wondered how King had gotten this wound? Had King gotten it before coming to the hospital when he went to see Robert or after? Klaus pondered. Klaus looked over to King whose eyes were closed and was still asleep unable to answer this question for him.

The night may have passed, but the memories were still fresh to him. The memory of seeing his father at the restaurant; realizing that he hadn't moved on from his mate's death and that Klaus hadn't moved on either. Both of them were stuck in that moment where they lost Rose Centauri. However, Klaus didn't feel remorse thinking about it anymore. Maybe it was because he had been blessed to meet their creator or that King was ready to kill Robert for him but hadn't. The last thing Klaus ever wanted was to make King kill someone for him. Klaus didn't want to ever burden King like that, so when King had left to kill Robert, Klaus still felt a pang of guilt for causing that incident.

However, all that was over now. There would be no debate or raising any questions about this any longer. Klaus wanted to move on for so long, he had patiently waited for his prayers to be answered. Nothing was greater than the satisfaction of them being answered by the goddess herself. Klaus really could move on now, he felt that in his heart and knew that his life would be different from this point on.

Klaus looked down at King who looked quite comfortable despite their small space. Last night, after everyone returned home, but King and Bone were relentless about staying with Klaus. Despite his efforts, Klaus couldn't convince the two to go home and get some proper rest and just meet him in the morning.

Klaus looked around the room and realized that Bone wasn't in the room. He was asleep on the couch just a couple of hours ago, but now, the pillow and blanket were neatly folded and put onto the side. Klaus suddenly remembered the time when King had gotten himself shot and they all stayed at the hospital then too. But this time, it was Klaus who was the patient and King stayed with him all night.

"King," Klaus whispered to his mate, but no answer came back. "King, wake up. It's morning already."

Klaus put his arms around King and hugged him close to his body. Nothing was a greater comfort than being in King's arms. The warmth of his fiery scent kept all the tension in Klaus at bay. Klaus thought that with King being built powerfully, that it would be hard to cuddle. But he was very wrong with that assumption. King's body was perfect for Klaus in every way possible. From the masculine lines of his handsome face, to the corded neck that was covered in ink, and then, his sturdy shoulders; to chest; to those arms; and then those tough hands, that were always nice to hold onto. Klaus was mesmerized by his mate to the point of no return.

Suddenly, King shifted on the bed, getting closer to Klaus. "You're awake," King's dazed voice said.

"Yeah," responded Klaus, as King shifted further on top of him, their legs intertwined and King's lips skimmed Klaus's throat. "You're too heavy, King."

"Hmmm," he barely replied back, still half-asleep.

"And it's hot," complained Klaus.

"But I'm cold," mumbled King.

"I told you not to take your shirt off last night before we went to sleep," reprimanded Klaus. "Where'd you even put the thing?" He looked around the empty room.

"It's not needed," King shrugged as he cuddled closer. "You're much hotter anyways. I can just use you to keep me warm."

Klaus gave into his mate's adorable manner. He wrapped his arms tightly around King and drew him in closer, which seemed to have surprised King. He opened his sapphire eyes, that were bright under the sun rays, he faced Klaus and for a moment Klaus had lost his breath to the sight of that gaze.

"Er- good morning," Klaus stuttered out the he realized that he was staring too much.

King gave a sweet smile, that fluttered through Klaus's throbbing heart. "I have a better way of saying good morning, fiancé," he revealed, before he lifted himself off of Klaus by using his arms. He leaned in and laid his lips over Klaus's.

The slow tantalizing kiss that took them both into their own world of a dangerously dark passion, that Klaus never experienced before. He never knew that this was how it would feel to kiss someone that he knew he loved.

A rush of arousal filled his body and he couldn't pull away even if he wanted to, which was probably a good idea since they could stop themselves. Except, at this rate, neither of them wanted the other to move away and break the kiss.

King was like this last night too, thought Klaus. He was desperate to feel Klaus and his body, not that Klaus wasn't desperate either. Just as much as King, Klaus needed assurance from his mate too.

Klaus combed his fingers through King's dark hair, that was the exact opposite of his own. The roots to the tip of each strand was pitch black and he loved the strong colour even more on King. He kissed King until his lips started to burn and his tongue pained, but the pain felt sensual and erotic.

Through the thick blanket, Klaus could sense his own hard-on and King's too. They were both raring for release and for each other's taste to be all over them; marking them; claiming the other to bind them together.

As King took his time feeling Klaus's lips under his, he reached his hand over to Klaus's. His hand skimmed over Klaus's arm, feeling every curve and muscle before his left hand enclosed over Klaus's hand. King laced their fingers together and held on tightly, he brought the hand over to his lips and he kissed the finger with the ring.

"Mine," King jested with a cute glower. "Mine, mine, mine-" he kissed down Klaus's neck as he chanted more eagerly, making Klaus laugh out loud.

"Okay, okay," Klaus hushed King up.

King flopped back down and snuggled with Klaus. "It's too early for me," he muttered. "Give me another four hours."

Klaus rolled his eyes but let King rest because they needed it. "I wonder where Bone went?" he thought out loud.

"He's probably went to get coffee. But knowing him, he went home to get clothes for us," answered King.

"I hope he didn't trouble himself too much," Klaus said genuinely.

King sighed. "Trouble, is that man's middle name," he responded. "Just let him be. I tried telling him to stop, but he just gets worse. He feels the need to take care of everyone around him."

"I think he got that from you," believed Klaus.

"No, he didn't," returned King.

Klaus chuckled at the man for being so clueless. "Ow!" he winced sharply and grabbed his head.

King shot up from the bed. "What's wrong?" he panicked as he examined Klaus's head himself. "Are you in pain?" King looked down to finding Klaus snickering, when realization hit him of Klaus's prank. "Not funny."

"See, what did I say?" Klaus teased.

King's eyes darkened as he loomed over Klaus. He wrapped his rough hands around Klaus's waist and dragged him flat on the bed. "Looks like you're all recovered," he observed.

Klaus stiffened as he smelt the strong pheromones from King. "No, I still feel sore," he lied to save himself. "My body still hurts too from falling on the floor."

"Oh, really?" King's sapphire eyes clearly saw through the deception. He grinned slyly and nodded like he believed Klaus. "Where does it hurt?" King asked as his lips trailed down Klaus's neck. "Does it hurt here?" King paused over the thin skin, that did a poor job of concealing Klaus's erratic heartbeat. King's teeth revealed then; "Or here?" he asked. Klaus jerked when King's sharp teeth found his weak spot on the crook of his neck.

Klaus wasn't too bewildered not to take notice of where King's hand moved. "Or maybe, it hurts here?" King asked, as he willfully teased Klaus. King's wicked blue eyes watched savagely as Klaus's cheeks turned bright red because King's hand had seized his hard erection. His lips caressed Klaus's ear just like his velvet voice, that was low and sensual. "Tell me, Klaus," he whispered. "Where does it hurt?"

Klaus couldn't find his voice, because by that time, King had slipped his hand underneath the covers and wrapped his tight fist around his shaft.

King didn't move his hand nor his other limbs. "I can't do anything if you don't let me know, Klaus," he said dryly.

Klaus had to use every cell in his body to get himself under some control. His body reacted to every whim of King's and that was costing him his sanity. He never had any reserve when King touched him, that's why he was such an easy target when King got into the mood of playing one of his games with Klaus.

King suddenly stroked Klaus's hardened length, sending jolts of pleasure through his body. "Tell me it hurts and I'll stop," he alleged smartly, but Klaus hadn't spoken up against King, which left King bemused. "Do you not want to stop?" he asked cunningly, despite knowing the effect he had on Klaus's body. King's hand collared Klaus's throat and forced him to look into King's stern gaze. "Tell me to stop or else I-"

"Don't stop-" Klaus gasped out and King gladly complied to his mate's wishes.

King abruptly parted Klaus's legs. He settled between them and sat back on his knees as he shoved all the barriers between them to the side and onto the floor. The rush was faster when King took full control of this moment, they both didn't listen to anything except their bodies and their hearts. King didn't hold back his eagerness as he kissed every sense or thought away from Klaus. His rough hand stroked up and down his length, knowing that Klaus wouldn't be able to resist for long.

Klaus ran his nails across King's broad back, that appeared sturdier in daylight. He noticed the teeth markings on King's neck, that Klaus remembered that he had left them on him last night. But that was only two or three marks which had he left. Klaus was sure that on his own neck it was more savagely marked until no spot was left. Not that he minded, it just told him that King liked to do a thorough job.

King kissed down Klaus's throat, towards his clavicles and chest. His hot lips leaving a scorching brand over every spot it touched. The sensations lingered as the arousal grew when King slipped his thick fingers into his hole. The twinge of pain caused Klaus to move back, but King was quick to turn that discomfort into the pleasure when he latched his mouth onto Klaus's throbbing shaft.

The heat from his mouth; the glossy slickness of his tongue and the tightness down his throat sent Klaus over the highest edge. He didn't know how much more he could take as King rhythmically matched the pace of his fingers to his deep throat. Klaus's breath grew erratic and he threw his head back as King quickened his pace to an irresistible speed. But all movement seized leaving Klaus gasping for air and for release from this prison of ecstasy.

Klaus looked into King's alert blue eyes and saw lusted determination, as he stripped the rest of his clothes off. King's sculpted body aroused Klaus further than he thought even possible. He knew from earlier that King was aroused too. Except, each time Klaus saw King's hardened shaft, he was reminded just how much.

The impatient need in King's eyes was clear as he lowered himself between Klaus's legs again. Rejoining their bodies to become one; fully completed and deeply infused, that they only felt the deepest of areas with their bodies.

King leaned down, he didn't move his hips nor did he pull out. He was completely inside, his shaft swallowed by Klaus. "Does it hurt?" King whispered, his lips caressed Klaus's ear.

"No," Klaus struggled to speak as the pleasure in his lower belly built to unbearable torture. "You can move-" Klaus looked at King when he hadn't spoken for a while- "What's wrong?"

"Even though we haven't had sex in a while, your body never rejects mine. It always fits right around me," King explained. "If I move now, then I'm afraid that I might just come from being inside you alone."

Klaus brought King down to meet his lips. Their lips locked and their tongues collided. Both of them consumed by the raging fire that swallowed them whole. Klaus's body felt as if it was lit on flames and turned on over-drive. King thrusted deeper than ever before and used his entire body to keep his pace steady for Klaus to feel every inch of his thick, hard shaft.

When the rush was unbearable, "Come inside of me," Klaus had demanded more than asked of King.

King never showed such an erotic expression before, his eyes closed and he found release inside Klaus. And just from witnessing King's heat come to an end, Klaus experienced his own orgasm take over him. Klaus sluggishly fell back on the bed and waited until his breath evened out.

King although didn't appear dishevelled or tired at all. He sat back between Klaus's legs, looking more radiant under the morning light. His bronze skin glistened and the dark markings of his tattoos that covers his entire chest, abdomen and legs gleamed too. Klaus noticed that King hadn't pulled out yet, his shaft was still very hard and he didn't look ready to part with Klaus at all.

King raked his hair back away from his attentive eyes. "Bone is going to be really surprised if he walks in on us," he revealed.

Klaus gaped. "I forgot about that," he panicked. "Hold on, since when do you care if anyone sees us-" Klaus blushed harder as he saw their joined bodies- "like this?" Suddenly, King's shaft grew in size inside Klaus, filling the tight space even more than before. "King," he gasped at the sensual pressure inside his body.

"You're right," smirked King, as he leaned down and licked up Klaus's abdomen where the result of his release lingered. "I don't care who sees when you're fully aroused and underneath me. It's a beautiful sight worthy of being admired."

"It bothers me though," Klaus moaned as King slowly started to pull his shaft out of his body. "I don't want anyone to see you when you're like this with me." King thrusted deep inside arousing Klaus once again.

A laugh played on his lips as King shifted Klaus onto his knees. "I love this side of you," he bemused.

"What? When I'm on my knees for you?" asked Klaus.

King grinned and Klaus caught it when he looked back. "That too," King said as he stopped talking and started showing instead.

Klaus's eyes rolled back when King started to fasten his deep thrusts. He was relentless this time, taking from Klaus and letting Klaus succumb to the pleasure that their bodies discovered together.

Klaus bit his voice back as hard as he could because he didn't want anyone outside to hear them. But that was easier said than done, because King was so good at bringing Klaus to his knees from ecstasy.

King licked up Klaus's nape, his sharp teeth bit down sending a sharp jolt through his body and down to his groin. "Let your voice out," tempted King.

"They'll hear us," Klaus managed to whisper and not scream as he couldn't see or feel anything past King.

King snickered as he reached around and fisted his hand over Klaus's shaft again. "I know one way they won't hear you," revealed King.

"Huh?" Klaus wasn't sure of anything right now.

Suddenly, King brought Klaus up and turned him to face King. King's lips found Klaus's and that really did help from letting out his moans from pleasure. But it seemed that even King was at his limit now. He couldn't tease or play anymore, since his own arousal had taken control of his own body too. They both felt the other unravel from arousal as they fell deeper into each other's hearts and control.

Klaus whole body shattered from the hard release and he couldn't believe how forceful he just orgasmed. King was the same with his own release. They both collapsed on the bed and lost a good while to the aftermath of this carnal gamble.

"How long do you think it's going to take to arrange our wedding?" King asked suddenly.

"Considering my pack," speculated Klaus. "Probably a month."

"A month!" astounded King. "Okay, that's not going to happen. We need to elope."

Klaus laughed. "No, my brothers and sister would kill you. Bone would probably kill you too," he said. "I mean it, King."

King groaned. "Fine," he agreed. "At least I get to decide where we have our honeymoon."

Klaus's interest piqued. "Where are we going?" he asked curiously.

"Doesn't matter as long as it's somewhere very far," he answered as he kissed Klaus again. "A place no one can find us."

"Are you going to kidnap me to some remote island?" asked Klaus between King's kisses.

King smiled against his lips. He pulled away and got off the bed to put on his clothes, that were wrinkled from being on the chair all night. His shirt was still unbuttoned and the buckle to his trousers wasn't closed either.

Klaus followed after him and got off the bed too. He slipped on his own shirt from the floor and put on his boxers. He kind of felt like he needed fresh clothes, which would feel much nicer than these old, raggedy ones.

A knock on the door interrupted the silence in the room. "Come in," Klaus said thinking maybe it was Dr. Stone. But it was Bone who had arrived with several bags in his hands.

"How are you feeling now, Klaus?" Bone asked as he walked up to them fully dressed in his own suit, looking shaved and clean this morning.

"I'm fine, Bone," smiled Klaus. "Where'd you go off to?"

"I went to get you both clean clothes and some coffee," answered Bone as he set the bags on the bed. "From the looks of you two, it seems I made the right call."

Klaus wanted to give the man a big hug. "You're the best, Bone," he amazed.

Klaus rummaged through the bag and found his comfy white hoodie, blue jeans and a pair of clean boxers. He was so glad that Bone even guessed that he wouldn't want to wear a suit or anything formal. Bone really was a genius for noticing even the small details.

"I got you a hot chocolate," Bone revealed, as he rummaged through the three coffee cups. "I thought you'd want something sweet today."

Klaus went around the bed and hugged Bone. "I love you," he said and he surprised Bone with the tight hug.

"Er- what?" King crossed his arms and glared at Bone then Klaus.

Klaus pulled away and laughed. "I mean it, Bone," he said. "You are a genius and I am so glad that you are part of the pack now." Klaus grabbed the bag of clothes and escaped to the washroom to change, but mostly he ran away from his scowling mate.

King and Klaus both got dressed and freshened up around the same time. While Klaus stood comfy in his hoodie and jeans with sneakers; King walked out all dolled-up in a fine blood-red suit and black shirt- the top buttons which were always opened showed Klaus's bonding marks clearly amongst the tattoos. King had even done his hair and artfully fixed his silky hair to be raked back and arranged. The man really knew how to make everyone feel undressed. Klaus continued to stare over the rim of his cup of hot-chocolate.

"I'll bring the car to the front," Bone said. "You two, don't take too much time." He left Klaus standing all by himself to fend off King.

"Like what you see?" King asked as he closed the bathroom's light. He approached Klaus and Bone- who snickered along as he left.

Klaus choked on his hot drink. "Is that a problem?" he retorted with a cough.

King used the pad of his thumb and wiped the bit of whipped-cream from Klaus's lip. He brought his finger over to his own mouth and licked it off. "Not at all," he said as he skimmed his hand over Klaus's cheek. "I'm all yours to admire and fantasize about."

But it seemed that King didn't try any more games now. He simply moved his coffee cup to his other hand and wrapped his arm around Klaus. They walked out of the room together and made their way towards the car.

"Are you feeling steady on your feet?" asked King. "Or are you dizzy?"

"I do feel dizzy. Maybe, you should carry me," jested Klaus.

King looked at him with a raised brow. "Don't tempt me," he retorted making Klaus laugh. "Come on, let's get you in the car before I make a detour back to room."

Klaus leaned onto King, his head rested on his shoulder that always felt so sturdy and firm, like nothing could shake them of their resolve. The darkened scent mixed with sweet pine hugged Klaus into a cocoon of warmth that always kept his comfortable. Klaus realized that this felt like home to him and he never wanted to be anywhere except by his mate's side.

They reached outside of the building when Klaus heard a disorderly group of voices, that couldn't have been anyone other than his pack members. Klaus noticed the strangers around the hospital staring at the Centauri pack who had gathered at the front of the hospital to pick up Klaus.

"Will all of you stop causing a scene," instructed Klaus as he frowned at them, but was so happy to see them in high spirits.

"Klaus!" Viola ran over to him with her arms wide open. King had to grab the cup from his hand, so it wouldn't spill when she rammed into him and hugged Klaus tightly. "Don't ever scare me like that again!"

"Us either-" Klaus recognized those five voices. He looked over Viola's shoulder and he saw his five students running at him with full force. If King hadn't grabbed a hold of Klaus, then he was surely to fall over with five, big kids on top of him. Azura joined and so did Ryder and Vincent, all of them squeezed the life out of Klaus.

"All of you get off of him," Hunter scolded as he slugged off everyone from his little brother, but when he had, he only found his own chance to hug Klaus. "We missed you," he whispered.

"I've only been gone a day," Klaus said as he hugged his brother back.

"Which feels like a year," said Hunter as he pulled back and eyed King too. But they didn't talk instead Hunter supportively put his hand on King's shoulder, which was louder than words anyways.

"We should take you home now," said Viola. She ushered the five kids into her car and in Hunter's car.

Klaus noticed that Gabriel wasn't amongst them. He wondered if something was wrong that his brother didn't come. He guessed that Gabriel was probably still asleep, since he went home from the hospital very late last night.

Hunter noticed Klaus's weary expression. "Gabriel wanted to come," he said right away because Hunter distinguished the reason behind his brother's frown better than anyone. "He got caught up in something though."

Klaus frowned deeply. "Is everything alright?" he asked.

"Don't worry about that now," Hunter said. "Let's get you home safely first."

Klaus didn't argue more than that against Hunter because Hunter wasn't one to reveal any secret, that's what made him such a formidable beta. No one could get any piece of information from this man, so Klaus didn't even try to attempt. He simply got in the car with Bone and King, as they all drove back to the Centauri property.

After the long and tiresome ride, they arrived at the pack territory. Klaus was so glad to be back home. He wanted to eat some hot food and go to sleep for the entire day again. Hunter grabbed the bag with old clothes and the empty cups from Klaus and they all entered the house.

The house was quiet, but when he turned towards the living-room to meet Gabriel before anyone, he froze in his tracks.

"Klaus," Gabriel rose from his chair where Sabrina sat with him.

Klaus only looked at Cedric who sat alone on the couch. Usually, he would've been dressed in a suit looking prim and clean. But he was in a simple knit sweater and jeans this time, looking rather exhausted and mournful. "What's wrong?" he asked.

Gabriel stiffened. "Cedric has some news about Robert," he revealed.

Klaus noticed that everyone stared at Klaus now, like they were afraid of what might happen to him. But he was fine, more than fine actually, because he didn't care about his father anymore. "Is he dead?" Klaus asked Cedric bluntly without beating around the bushes because he had his guesses for a while now.

Cedric arose from his seat too. "No," he replied. "But he has little time."

Gabriel frowned. "Did you know about this?" he asked Klaus.

"Yes," Klaus replied. "When I met him at the restaurant, he looked very sick and pale."

"The cancer has spread through his liver and it's not looking too good," informed Cedric. "I already admitted your father in the hospital."

"Is there any treatment?" Klaus asked gravelly.

"Your father doesn't want it," Cedric frowned, he appeared older than Klaus remembered and sadder. "He doesn't even take anything to stop the pain, despite my efforts to help him."

Klaus and his siblings were quiet. None of them really knew what to do about this since they were never really prepared. But from the looks of it, none of them seems bothered except Gabriel who had a cold, desolate expression.

"He's gone into shock at least three times after he met up with your mate," informed Cedric. "It's looking bad and you should know that."

Klaus looked to his side where King stood, with his arms crossed and his face showing no emotion or remorse.

"I tried to make him as comfortable as possible. I also handled all the legal and funeral work. So, I wouldn't have to bother any of you," Cedric explained wearily. "But your father kept calling out for you, all of you."

"Like that's going to happen," scoffed Viola.

"All of a sudden he remembers that he has kids," added Vincent. "What a joke."

Both of them zipped their lips when Gabriel threw them a strict glare. Klaus got what Viola and Vincent were saying. But what he didn't get was why Gabriel's mood had turned cold and distant?

"Thank you for arranging all the details, Cedric," Gabriel spoke sternly. "I'm sorry that you had to go through the trouble for us. We could've managed and helped you out."

"It's no trouble," Cedric reassured. "I am always of service to your family."

"You can stay here if you want," offered Gabriel. "You always have a home here with us."

Cedric gave a sad smile. "Thank you," he said. "But I will retire to my home in Italy. I served Lady Rose and now I think I have paid my debts to this family."

"Alright," said Gabriel. "Thank you for your service, Cedric."

He smiled widely. "You make a great alpha, Gabriel," he said. "I'm very proud of you. All of you for sticking through this together. You don't get to see bonds like this a lot anymore." Cedric came over and gathered Klaus's hands into his own. "I heard about what happened-" his black eyes looked broken and dejected- "I am sorry that he caused you so much pain and that I was helpless."

Klaus shook his head. "It's not your fault," he encouraged. "Don't blame yourself."

"He's right, you don't deserve that," added Viola. "You shouldn't think about all this just before you retire."

"Vincent," Gabriel called out.

"Yes, brother?" Vince moved ahead to his brother's side.

"Arrange Cedric's return home," he instructed and Vincent was already taking mental notes from the looks of it. "Book his flight first-class and make sure he's comfortable as he retires."

"There's no need, Gabriel," Cedric objected.

"Yes, there is," said Gabriel. "You raised us, kept us clean, fed and disciplined us. You took us to our first picnics and lots of trips. So, let us take care of you now."

Vincent took Cedric to the office upstairs and arranged all that needed to be done, so Cedric could have more than a comfortable retirement in Italy.

After the two men left, a silence bore over the entire room. Klaus stood amongst his pack members and family. None of the knew what to say or what would be appropriate at this grave moment, except Viola and Hunter who definitely appeared unbothered.

No one said anything, but it was River who stepped forth in front of Gabriel. "You good?" he asked.

"I'm fine," Gabriel replied meekly.

"Really," River raised a brow. "Out of everyone, you had good memories of your dad. You missed him the most. You think I don't know what's going on inside your head."

"That father died a long time ago, River," alleged Gabriel. "I laid that father to rest. Now, it's time for this one to go too."

"Will you really set up a funeral for him?" King entered, his voice a menacing growl. "That man doesn't deserve it."

Gabriel rubbed his forehead. "I don't know," he admitted as his eyes locked with Klaus. "Is it really okay to just let him die alone?"

Klaus didn't say anything because he agreed with Gabriel and everyone was going to go ballistic if they found out.

Sabrina moved past them and came in front of Gabriel. Her aquamarine eyes were full with regret and remorse, but it wasn't for Robert; it was for her mate. "Can everyone give us the room?" she asked politely of them.

They all left upon request. Klaus went to his bedroom to rest because he couldn't handle this all right now. Although, each of them was curious of what Sabrina and Gabriel were talking about...

Sabrina put her hand on her mate's cheek. "How are you holding up?" she asked.

"King's right," Gabriel sighed despairingly. "Robert doesn't deserve a funeral."

"Maybe not," responded Sabrina. "But don't you think we should put the man who loved Rose Centauri to rest next to her? We'll convince the others somehow. Besides, they never disagreed with you before and they won't do it now either."

"Let me speak to Klaus first," said Gabriel.

"Should I tell the others for you?" asked Sabrina.

"That would be nice," he smiled woefully. "Thank you."

"Anything for you-" Sabrina kissed him.

Gabriel put his arms around his mate and held her for a long moment. He took in her comforting scent and embrace to relax the nerves in his own body and heart...

Klaus was in his room, which felt like ages that he hadn't been here. The room was a bit stuffy and too warm. He went over the balcony doors and opened them wide to let some air into the room and his lungs. He heard the bedroom's door close behind him, which King probably had done.

"Are you okay?" King's voice spoke behind Klaus from across the room.

Klaus leaned down on the railing of the balcony, unaware of how he felt actually. The man who tortured him was on a deathbed calling out for the kids that he abandoned. Bottom line was that Klaus was more confused than ever.

"To be honest, I don't know how I feel," revealed Klaus.

King walked over and stood beside him. "I can sense everything, Klaus. Your pain, your sadness, your guilt," he said. "Even confusion. Why?"

Klaus was glad that he stood outside where there was fresh air because he felt his lungs collapse on him. "Because I don't forgive him- I can't forgive him. Not for what he did to me, but what he made my siblings go through," he said. "Does that make me a bad person?"

King wrapped his arms around Klaus. "No," his said. "That makes you the most lovable brother in the world."

Klaus's hands fisted King's shirt and he clung to his body. "I'll never forgive Robert for the pain he caused my family," he said softly.

"You don't need to," answered King. "But I think you should make peace with it and close that chapter, like you once told me to do. Don't run from this, just end it, and that's all there is to it."

Klaus smiled although his eyes slightly stung with tears. "Did you just quote me to me?" he asked.

"You are a very smart teacher," said King as he smiled too.

Klaus hugged tightly. "Thank you," he said.

A knock on the door interrupted them. Gabriel opened the door and found them on the balcony. "Can I come in?" he asked with a solemn voice.

"You never need to ask, brother," said Klaus as he met his brother half way into the room. "Are you okay now?"

Gabriel put his hand on Klaus's cheek. "I should be asking you that," he said. "How are you?"

Klaus laughed. "We both have to stop asking the other's well-being," he jested, which finally made Gabriel smile. "I'm fine and you don't need to worry about me."

Gabriel's golden gaze bore into Klaus and it seemed that he trusted Klaus's decision before anyone else. "What do you want me to do?" he asked.

Klaus knew that Gabriel spoke of their father's matter. "Whatever you think is necessary," said Klaus. "I stand with you no matter what you decide." Klaus looked behind where King stood. "We both do."

Gabriel regarded King with a dependant look. "Now, it's time for me to get your siblings on board," he sighed wearily.

Klaus couldn't help but laugh a little. "Good luck with that," he said.

They were all gathered in the kitchen; either drinking coffee or snacking on sugar cookies. When Gabriel revealed his thoughts, the group grew loud with their objections.

"Just because he's dying you want us to forget what he did," scoffed Hunter. Klaus knew that Hunter would have the hardest time because of what Robert did to Hailey.

"Hunter's right, Gabriel," added Viola.

"I know," interjected Gabriel. "But I just want you all to make peace with him and let it go."

"Not after what he did to Klaus," snapped Vincent. "I can't forgive him and probably never will."

"Besides, the old man was going to die by the amount he drinks," grumbled Hunter. "I'm surprised he lasted this long without his heart failing on him."

Viola sneered. "He doesn't have a heart that could fail on him," she said bitterly.

Klaus didn't expect anything different from his siblings. This was the consequences of their father's abuse towards them. Now, the thought of actually not caring about their own father's death was in debate seemed unreal. Instead of getting in their cars and heading to be beside their father for the last few days, they were condemning him to his fate.

"Gabriel's right," said Klaus, surprising his siblings that he agreed with Gabriel about this whole matter. "I think we should respectfully meet our father and put him to rest."

"But Klaus-" Klaus stared at Hunter grimly silencing his brother.

"I don't want to argue about it," Klaus said wearily. "I'm tired, too tired from all this fighting and abuse and resentment."

Gabriel straightened and drew in a deep breath. "We'll meet Robert tomorrow," he ordered. "Be ready by nine o'clock."

Klaus left the house before he could hear the rest of his siblings' conversation, which was probably along the lines that they hated this plan, but they would listen because Gabriel wanted their cooperation.

"Shouldn't you be in bed?" asked King who had playfully tagged along with Klaus.

"I was in bed all night in the hospital," said Klaus. "I need some exercise."

"Are you sure about tomorrow?" From King's voice alone, Klaus could tell that King was nervous.

"Not really," Klaus admitted. "I don't know why Robert would even utter our names during his last breathes, when the mention of them before poisoned him."

King put his arm over Klaus's shoulder and they calmly walked across the field over to the Institute. "Well, whatever the bastard wants better be good," he said smugly. "And I'm coming with you. If Robert even tries anything stupid, I'm going to make sure he sees our goddess early."

Klaus chuckled with him. "Is it unbelievable?" he marvelled. "The goddess came to us when we needed her."

King shrugged his shoulder. "I don't think it's that unbelievable," he replied. "She came to save you. The man who helps everyone and is kind no matter the pain he suffers in his heart. Why wouldn't she come to save you?"

Klaus put his arm around King's waist and leaned in closer. "Maya came for both of us," he said softly. "That means we both were worthy to meet her."

"Let's not push it," King groaned. Klaus didn't push it but he believed it wholeheartedly.

They entered the main doors of the school, since it was still early noon, the exams were still in procession. All the kids were in their reserved seats bent over white sheets of paper, scribbling away as the clock ticked past the hour.

The charming sunlight streamed through all the doors and windows letting bountiful light illuminate the school. As Klaus passed the main foyer, he smiled and loved the way his school was so peaceful and the haven for this pack.

"Where are those five pups?" asked King.

"They probably went to the library or the gym to play basketball," answered Klaus, as they made their way to his own classroom through the long hallways and down a few staircases.

The bell in the school rang and he knew that the exam currently going on was completed. All the doors opened and the students slowly started to stream out. But once they all noticed Klaus, the rush grew and so did all the noise in the hallways.

Tons of kids looked up at Klaus with frowns and concern-ridden faces. "Are you alright, sir?" They all asked and waited for an answer.

"I am perfectly fine," answered Klaus.

"Should you be on your feet?" asked Mr. Aldean who had taught the English major for the senior students. He was a slender man with brunette hair and bright hazel eyes. He mated Mrs. Aldean who taught at this school too where their three kids who just recently joined the Institute too. More teachers came with the same question.

"The doctor said that I should rest, but you know me, I can't stay seated for long," said Klaus. The teachers objected but didn't push.

More kids arrived and worried over Klaus. None of them let him relax at the school and eventually he had to run away from the crowd with King. Klaus really loved his school and this was all he needed to keep himself busy and happy.

Spending time in the library where kids needed him to study or cleaning up after them once they went home for the day. Klaus adored making a cup of coffee and making sure everyone was well fed too. Once Leo and his friends joined too, King was kept busy between them.

Klaus built this school as a sanctuary to feel safe and free. Now, being surrounded by his students, colleagues and with his mate, this really was Klaus's safe haven.

At the end of the long day when the sun had set and the moon peeked from behind a single round cloud, Klaus really was feeling the aftermath of his high fever from yesterday. His body was sluggishly stiff and his head was starting to pound, which caused the space behind his eyes to burn greatly. Klaus told the other teachers to lock up the school for him before he left for the night, making sure all the kids went home too.

Klaus made it out where King was waiting outside at the door for Klaus to come back to him. King got off his cellphone the moment Klaus appeared. "Ready?" he asked as he put his phone away and turned his full attention towards Klaus, which he always liked about King.

Klaus rejoined at his side. "I wonder what we're having for dinner," he said as they both walked back home.

"They've been busy for dinner," answered King.

Klaus tilted his head. "Why would they be busy?" he asked. "I'm pretty sure they just ordered pizza because they got too lazy to cook anything."

They reached the house and King's amused smile still lingered, which kind of bothered Klaus because he didn't know the reason behind it. Klaus shrugged it off though and pushed the front door open with the intention to go to his bedroom and take a long shower. But that wasn't what happened when loud canons went off and cheers hollered around him.

Klaus opened his eyes to his whole family holding green balloons, green confetti canons and Hailey held a massive vanilla cake that said 'Welcome Back Home' in green cursive icing. Lots of green, thought Klaus, but he smiled at his family for being the best anyone could have been blessed with.

"You didn't have to do this for me," said Klaus.

"It's a tradition to celebrate when anyone comes home from the hospital," responded Hailey.

"You can't get out of this one, Klaus," said Ryder as he stood with his brother who held a bunch of balloons with Azura too.

Klaus smiled at them. "I'm glad to be back home too," he said, when a pang of sorrow passed over him. Klaus remembered the night when he had exploded his feelings that he had bottled up inside him. No one deserved to go through that.

Gabriel moved to the front, his golden eyes melted into a sweet glaze that only his oldest brother could conjure. "You are the baby of our family, Klaus," he said. "Our centre and heart. So, if we lose you then we'd all collapse and lose our way." Gabriel hugged his brother close. "Never scare us again, brother because we won't be able to accept losing you."

Klaus's heart squeezed tightly like someone seized that organ in their tight fist. His throat tensed and his eyes blurred as he hugged Gabriel back. "I love you," he whispered.

"Not fair! I want a hug!" exclaimed Sabrina, as she ran over and joined her mate and brother-in-law.

"Does this call for another group hug?" asked River. "You know, I'm not very fond of those."

"Stop whining," grumbled Gabriel as he yanked his two best friends into the group. "You too-" his hand reached King's collar before King could escape. But as King was being dragged in, so was Bone who was laughing at King's struggle.

Klaus was in the middle of a really big group by the time everyone had been pushed into the circle.

"We should cut the cake," suggested Hailey. "I want to try the new strawberry filling I created."

"Ooooh, that sounds very good," awed Viola. "I need a slice right now. Should we pop open a champagne bottle?"

"The doctor said no alcohol for Klaus," informed King.

"It's fine," said Klaus as he followed them into the kitchen. "You guys can drink it. I'll just have some water."

"We still have some sparkling water from Hailey's baby shower," offered Hunter. "Want some of that?"

"Sure," chimed Klaus and Hailey who couldn't drink either.

"So, when are we going to plan this wedding?" asked Sabrina. "My best friend and cute brother-in-law are engaged. I think we should get them in some tuxedos and down the aisle."

"Great idea," chimed in Gabriel. "We should invite the guests and arrange the night-"

"A simple ceremony should be fine-" interrupted King.

Vincent scoffed. "We don't do simple around here," he gloated. "This is going to be a big, fat wedding for sure."

As glasses of sparkling water and champagne went around, it seemed everyone was too lazy to cook dinner like Klaus predicted. So, they just ordered seven extra-large boxes of various pizzas. It was a big order for their massive family, but Bone was swift in handling the entire order and numerous different pizzas to suit everyone's taste. Of course, Gabriel paid for it all.

They all gathered in the living room when the boxes of pizzas had promptly arrived. Plates in all of their hands, boxes wide open, coke with ice in glasses around the room and the 'Nightmare Before Christmas' played in front of them.

Klaus had filled himself with cheesy hot pizza with extra jalapeños and lots of pepperoni. King surprisingly didn't have a favourite style of pizza and could eat any of them, so he just stuck to eating with Klaus. Bone only liked the veggie style as he enjoyed the classic movie for the first time as well.

Dinner passed and everyone helped clean, except Klaus who was forced to sit through the entire process. He was given another slice of cake, which he gladly finished, and then was sent on his merry-way to his bedroom to get some rest after taking his medication. He went up alone since King and Bone were forced to clean too, which they gladly complied. Klaus was glad that he didn't have to worry about King and Bone now because they appeared to be getting along with everyone smoothly.

He entered his dark bedroom, without turning on any lights, he went to the bathroom and freshened up. After taking a warm shower, Klaus changed into a pair of shorts and prompted to grab a t-shirt but then he left it. He grew accustomed to sleeping without clothes now that he was with King all the time.

Klaus turned on the moon-lamp that was perched on the shelf near his bed. The silver glow was cozy and pretty as it danced in the dark room. He took a seat near it and smiled at the memory attached to it too. He remembered the day they went to the museum and King was with them. King had bought Klaus this lamp with the intention that he'd never forget that whole day. And it worked. Klaus never forgot, and he never would. So much time had passed since that night in the Ferris-wheel, when Klaus had experienced his first kiss with King- or with anyone for that matter.

A lot had changed. Now, Klaus even had an engagement ring on his finger from the man he never thought would even have the slightest interest in someone like Klaus. But King surprised Klaus again. The man truly was remarkable.

The door opened, letting the light from the hall into the room making the dark floors glow golden. "Did you shower yet?" asked King, as his broad figure stood out with the light framing him from behind.

"Yeah," answered Klaus.

King closed the door and locked it too. "Let me freshen up too," he said as he stripped off his suit's jacket and unbuttoned his sleeves.

"Is Bone in bed too?" he asked as King went into the shower only wearing his boxers.

"No," replied King. "Those twins and Vincent kept him to play poker. Poor bastards are going to regret it."

Klaus's ears perked. "Why?" he asked as he heard the shower turn on.

"Bone is ruthless at poker," King answered. "I was never able to beat him, neither could Trez or Axe."

Klaus was surprised, but then, he remembered Bone's stern face, that barely expressed anything, which was probably the reason why he dominated the game.

Klaus laid back on the bed when he heard the shower turn off and King sauntered out in a towel. His hair was slightly damp but he had thoroughly dried it from the roots. Klaus turned onto his side and faced the balcony, where the drapes had been pushed aside to let the moonlight inside.

King slipped under the duvet after a few moments. King snuggled to the middle of the bed and gathered Klaus into his arms too. Klaus didn't mind, he moved closer willingly and let himself be wrapped in a cocoon by King.

"Are you sleepy?" Klaus whispered as he saw King's eyes closed.

"Aren't you?" asked King.

"Not really," he said softly as King's eyes stayed closed to the world, but right now only Klaus watched him. "I mean, I thought I was. But now that I'm bed, I don't feel sleepy at all. Maybe, I should go play poker with them," Klaus suggested. "No, never mind. I suck at poker."

King's lashes lifted and those sapphire eyes revealed. "You just have too much energy, don't you?" he bemused as he grinned widely. "Don't worry, I can help you feel sleepy again." King lifted from his side and moved over Klaus. "I know a great exercise that will drain all of your energy."

Klaus's heart skipped a beat when King's lips found the sweet and sensitive spot on his neck. King used his lips, teeth and tongue to leave as many marks as he could onto Klaus's neck. The sensation of when he'd bit down of the skin, then soothed the sting with his glassy tongue, but then sweetly laid a faint kiss over it, made Klaus's heart sing. He combed his fingers into King's damp hair and brought him closer, so he could kiss him, but King held back.

"I need you to promise me something first," said King.

"What?" asked Klaus.

"Promise that you'll always share what's in your heart," gambled King.

Klaus enclosed his hand in King's palm, their rings glinted by the light of the moon-lamp. "When you gave me this ring, I promised that I won't keep secrets from you," he revealed.

King nodded in approval before he grinned down at Klaus. "You promised something else that night too," he jested.

"What?" asked Klaus, acting innocent although he clearly remembered what mistake he had done. "I promised something? I don't remember."

"You promised me that you'd let me do whatever I want once we came home," revealed King word for word.

Klaus groaned. "I thought you had forgotten," he mumbled regretfully.

King's smile broadened. "Oh, I could never forget something like that," he said cunningly.

King made sure that Klaus fulfilled his promise, until they both were sated with pleasure and nothing else. No matter what difficulty they were about to face, nothing ever stopped them when they needed to feel each other's need for the other.