The chaos in the large Centauri manor could be heard echoing through the massive forest. After everyone's long day had come to an end, it wasn't a restful evening. In fact, they were all preparing to greet their alpha's guest tonight, and in the center of the commotion stood Gabriel's youngest brother and the very endearing Centauri.

"Klaus!" A voice hollered from one of the bedrooms. "Where'd you move the towels now?"

"In the top drawer on the left, Viola!" he yelled from the bottom of the stairs.

Klaus had been running back and forth in the hectic kitchen all day, which he had made quite the mess out of just to cook dinner tonight.

Vincent came running into the kitchen, his hazel eyes widened in alarm. "Klaus, did you see the three red files that were in the living room yesterday?"

Klaus was hastily stirring the sauce in the pot. "Yeah, they're in the oven," he shook his head in disbelief.

Vincent shoved a hard hand through his neatly styled blond hair. "I'm being serious," he groaned. "I need them tomorrow."

Klaus dropped the ladle. "Oh right, I think I put them in the top drawer of your table," he answered. "Check your desk." The oven started to ring letting Klaus know that it had preheated.

Hunter had arrived too, his sleeves had been rolled up and he looked quite disheveled, but that was the beta of the pack when he got started on his work around the pack. "The light in our garage fused," he said idly.

"That old thing was flickering all week," remarked Vincent.

Klaus put the two trays into the busy oven and closed the door with his hip. "I'll have it fixed later," he quickly added. "So, don't go in there. Tell Hailey too."

Viola stormed into the kitchen. "Klaus, why do you change the location of the towels all the time?" she went up to the fridge, pulled out a cold-water bottle and chugged the content. "Halfway through my shower I see there's no towel-" the brothers started to laugh- "It's not funny," their sister gritted out.

Vincent patted his sister's back supportively and ran up the stairs back to his room. Klaus ran after and from the bottom of the stairs, he shouted; "Check your table, Vincent!"

"I got it!" Vincent yelled back.

Klaus rushed back into the kitchen when he bumped into his bumbling sister-in-law, Hailey Swan who was happily mated to Hunter. "Hailey, you should be resting," panicked Klaus.

Hailey was putting her flaming red hair into a braid. "I rested enough," she said. "I need to work or I'm going to die of boredom."

From hearing his mate's voice, Hunter rushed over. "Why are you out of bed?" his frown was understandable since Hailey was a few months pregnant with their pup.

"Don't you start again," chided Hailey. Hunter came around, he comfortably put his arm around her waist and placed his hand over her growing belly. "My back's all stiff from laying down."

Klaus returned to the kitchen and the couple followed him. "It's a nice night, Hailey," he said over the cutting-board. "Maybe a walk will be good for you."

Hailey looked out the kitchen window, her silvery-blue eyes looked at the vast forest. "A walk would be nice," she mumbled. "But who's helping you cook?"

"I got it all handled here," Klaus affirmed. "You just lay your feet back and rest."

"Are you sure?" asked Hailey. "I can help with the roast."

Klaus shook his head. "I got it covered. Will all of you be eating dinner with Gabriel?" he asked them.

Hunter stiffened as he was fixing his tousled dark hair. "I doubt we'll be eating with the guest tonight," he said sternly. "Gabriel and King should discuss their matters alone."

Klaus frowned. "Why?" he asked genuinely. "Is something wrong?" Hailey and Klaus looked at Hunter suspiciously.

"You met King," Hunter said to Klaus. "He probably doesn't want to eat with all of us around."

Hailey frowned. "Does he not like us?" she asked her mate.

Hunter shrugged a shoulder. "King Vitiello isn't one to do family dinners like we're used to doing."

"He didn't appear like that to me," believed Klaus. "He's actually very kind."

Hunter raised a brow. "Are we talking about the same person?"

"You just judge others too hard," said Hailey. "I don't doubt that King will get along with us. I mean, what's not to like about our pack?"

Klaus nodded in approval with Hailey. "I think he'll enjoy himself too," he added as he foiled the steak and sealed it away. Klaus quickly got started on the gravy, which was the last step for the night.

"King didn't grow up like us," alleged Hunter.

"Maybe not, but neither were any of our other friends," rebuked Hailey. "All of them had their presumptions of our pack, even I did, but that all changed." She suddenly stood to her feet. "Anyways, I think I'm going to get some fresh air after all."

"Let me take you," said Hunter. He quickly joined her side and took her through the back door.

The front door opened and Gabriel arrived. Klaus smiled. "You're early," he welcomed his brother.

Gabriel rounded the foyer and joined Klaus in the kitchen. "You're not dressed?" he asked.

"I didn't know I was joining you," said Klaus.

Gabriel slid onto the stool. "Do you want to join?" he asked. "There's no force, but I would like to have you with me."

Klaus remembered what Hunter said earlier. "Maybe you should just eat with your guest."

Gabriel looked at Klaus intently. "No, I think all of you should join me," he said as he grabbed a biscuit from the tray that Klaus had prepared earlier.

Klaus titled his head. His brother's golden gaze was strangely distracted, like he was thinking of something, but when was Gabriel not thinking of something. "Alright, anything you need," he turned away and finished off the gravy.

"You're back," Gabriel's mate entered the kitchen and she went straight to her mate and hugged him close.

"I'm home," Gabriel got to his feet and kissed her softly.

Sabrina Sinclair was still dressed prettily in a beautiful pink dress that she had on from her photoshoot this morning, her chocolate-brown hair had been pulled back into a high ponytail and she looked perfect no matter what time of the day it was, since she was the most beloved supermodel of the world. Klaus adored his sister-in-law, and more than that, Sabrina loved Gabriel and to Klaus that was all that mattered.

"How's dinner coming along?" Sabrina asked as she joined Klaus's side.

"I've finished everything," he revealed. "The potatoes are in the oven, steak has been resting and the sauces are in the fridge. I just have to wash the dishes."

Sabrina grabbed the dirty pot from his hands. "Which I will do," she insisted. "You go get some rest now."

"Are you sure?" asked Klaus.

Sabrina's minty-green eyes smiled like her glossy lips had. "Go on," she went over to the sink. "Plus, I have Gabriel to help me."

Gabriel had already shrugged off his suit's jacket and rolled up his sleeves. "We got it, Klaus," he came around the counter and towered over Klaus.

He never felt it with Hunter, Vincent or even Viola, but with Gabriel it was different. Klaus always stayed the youngest around Gabriel. Despite that they were nearly the same height, but the muscular built that Gabriel had formed after his wolf's transition surpassed all the Centauri brothers. Klaus indeed felt the power from his brother, but more than that, he felt the responsibility which Gabriel carried for decades.

Klaus moved past the couple who had started to discuss their day to each other. He double checked the potatoes and when he thought it was time, he turned the oven off promptly. He swept up the mess from the entire island and made sure the kitchen was spotless. Sabrina and Gabriel had completed the dishes which was a big help indeed.

"I can't believe King is coming over for dinner," astounded Sabrina. "Even after I asked him a million times."

It was just a couple of months ago that they all found out that Sabrina and King went to the same orphanage together. They were the best of friends and relied on each other a lot, but after a terrible accident, Sabrina had to separate from King at a young age. They hadn't met for years until a few months ago. Sabrina had become a successful supermodel, but King had chosen a completely different path than her.

Klaus didn't know the details... actually no one knew the details of what King went through in his life. King Vitiello probably lived a difficult past if he had to become such a fearsome wolf in this world and the rumours about him had even reached Gabriel's ears.

Sabrina clapped her hands together. "We should get dressed now," she instructed. "King should be here any minute."

Gabriel wiped his hands with the small red cloth. "You're excited," he remarked.

Sabrina gaped at him. "Don't be jealous now," she put her hand on his cheek, when his glower was becoming clear. "Besides, King is my best friend. I will always be excited to see him."

Gabriel took a deep breath and his eyes narrowed on Sabrina. "We should get dressed," he affirmed softly. He put his strong arm around her waist and directed her towards the stairs, clearly to take her to their bedroom with him.

"Klaus-" Sabrina reached her hand out to Klaus- "save me."

Klaus looked at his brother's dark gaze. "Er- I rather not get in the middle of this...Sorry," he scurried past them.

"Gabriel, there's no need to be brash," calmed Sabrina but it didn't help. She was taken into their room with Gabriel locking the door.

They parted into their rooms to get dressed to greet their strangely mysterious guest. Klaus had no idea that the man he met on the street would be King out of all people. He was definitely worthy of all the gossip people whispered about him.

Klaus closed the door behind him leaving him standing alone in his quiet room, that was simple and clean, the way he liked it. The dark grey bed had been prepared neatly, the sheets all washed and the only thing that had a tornado of chaos on it was his desk. All his school documents, assignment and projects were piled over each other, he was still unsure how all the books defined gravity and hadn't fallen over yet. He'd clean that up some time, but right now, he needed to focus and fix his own appearance for their guest.

Klaus rushed into the large shower and took his time cleaning every single part of himself. He quickly shaved, washed his hair and then he wrapped a towel around his waist before he got out of the hot refreshing bath. He dried his hair with a smaller towel and quickly used the hair-dryer to let it be raked back away from his eyes.

He made it back into his room but he froze in front of his closet, which wasn't much of an impressive collection, unlike his brother Vincent who had the biggest closet and largest selection of clothes. Maybe he should ask him for a nice shirt for tonight? Klaus pondered in front of his clothes for a short while. But then he simply ignored all thoughts and put on a simple black shirt and a pair of blue jeans, which he was most comfortable in. He closed the cupboard and left his bedroom towards the kitchen where most had already gathered.

Klaus entered the rowdy but finally clean kitchen. "I will get the roast ready," he directed the folks eagerly waiting for dinner. "All of you grab a tray and take it to the dining table." He took out the sauces from the fridge and handed it to Vincent who looked perfect in his silk shirt and straight-cut slacks. "Take the gravy too," he announced.

"I got it," said Viola. Her hands cupped the bowl.

"Don't spill it," cautioned Klaus.

"I won't," beamed Viola as she carefully tried not to spill the thick gravy on her white dress. She had tied her long blond hair into a ponytail which showed her light greenish yellow eyes.

Hunter came up behind Klaus. "Beer or wine?" he inquired.

"I think a bottle of cabernet sauvignon should taste the best with our roast," Gabriel had arrived just in the nick of time, already dressed in a black shirt and pants, just like Hunter had chosen too.

Sabrina came from the dining hall after she had positioned the roasted potatoes on the table. She had changed into a long blue dress and her mocha-brown hair had been left open, the heavy curls fell around her slender shoulders.

"The roast smells divine," moaned Hailey as she took out the slick knife to cut the pieces. The woman was a bundle of sunshine in a bright yellow dress that reached around her knees.

"What about River and Ryder?" asked Vincent. "Won't they be joining us too?"

Klaus wondered the same. Those twins rarely ate dinner at their own house and it was strange not to see River by Gabriel's side and Vincent bickering with Ryder, even the dining table felt empty without the domineering twins.

"I offered, but River said that King would feel pressured if the room was full of our wolves," said Gabriel as he opened the wine bottle.

"King will be fine," Sabrina waved her hand. "Call the boys over. They need to eat."

Gabriel pulled out his cellphone and handed it over to her. "Call them and ask," he left with the two bottles in his hands towards the dining room.

"I will," declared Sabrina. She speed-dialled River who was always quick to answer his calls. "Hello, River...No...Nothing's wrong...We're not being attacked..." Sabrina pulled the phone from her ear as River's panicked voice streamed through. "Can you just listen?" she begged. "Bring your brother and yourself over for dinner right now...Stop...River, don't be so stubborn..." Sabrina put her hand on her hip. "If I don't see your beautiful face in the next three minutes, I'm going to walk all the way over to your cabin and drag you here myself and Vincent will help drag Ryder."

Vincent chuckled. "I will help her, River!" He yelled so the man heard.

Klaus laughed at them. "No one can deny that now," he remarked. "I would be scared too if she showed up at my door."

Vincent and Viola both nodded. "She's getting scarier day by day," stated Viola.

"It's Gabriel's bad influence," remarked Hunter.

"You're no less," rebuked Klaus.

"That's true," mumbled Vincent. "The scariest one after Gabriel is Hunter."

Hailey walked in with Gabriel. "No, my mate's not scary," she smiled and hugged her mate. "He's just protective."

"It's been two minutes already," warned Sabrina. "Vincent, get ready."

"Yes, ma'am," Vincent snickered as he got ready with his brother's mate.

Klaus was sure that a boisterous brawl was about to break out if River and Ryder didn't show up in the next minute. "How about we all move to dining room?" he offered as he quickly ushered the group away from the kitchen into the hallway. "I'll open the door for the twins, Sabrina."

The groups loud voices dialled down as they crossed the hall into the next room. Klaus moved over to the front door and opened the door because he knew that the twins should be here soon. They may deny Gabriel's offer but they all knew no one could say 'no' to their alpha-female's demand. And like Klaus had predicted, two tall figures appeared from the forest trees ahead of their house.

Klaus waved. "You better hurry!" he shouted. "Sabrina's waiting."

River and Ryder climbed up the porch in front of Klaus. The twins were both dressed in the usual black tones, that heightened their bronzed skin. Their broad, muscular physique fit perfectly with the expensive tailored shirt and dark fitted pants. If someone saw the twins for the first time then they definitely appeared identical, with the same icy-blue eyes and darkly raked hair. But Klaus grew up with the twins, so he could tell the difference not only with their appearance but with their scent too. Klaus didn't even need to look at them to tell which one was River or Ryder.

"Hey, Klaus," Ryder beamed a rakish grin. "We're just in time."

"Better go inside and tell Sabrina that," Klaus laughed.

Ryder raked a hand through his dark hair, that had light highlights of golden brown. "She's becoming a demon," he patted Klaus's shoulder, then moved past them and went straight to the dining room to lay Sabrina's temper to rest.

"It's good to see you join us, River," said Klaus as he turned to the quieter twin who rarely used his smooth, deep voice unless it was necessary.

The older brother by a mere minute looked down at Klaus with kind blue eyes. "I was going to let King get comfortable first," he said sternly.

Klaus smiled. "You're here for Gabriel and Sabrina," he professed because it was obvious. "You know that Gabriel will be able to stay relaxed with you and your brother with him."

River's black hair that matched the night sky, slightly blew with the bitter breeze that also carried River's fiery, deep scent that was darker than Ryder's whose scent was a lot lighter. "I guess you're right," he grinned. "Come on, let's get inside from the cold."

"You head inside," smiled Klaus. "Let me lock the door and I'm right behind you."

River strolled inside and Klaus watched him approach Gabriel who had walked out to the hall. Gabriel's face eased into a smile when he saw River. Klaus always admired their bond; the bond that even the word 'friendship' didn't compare to what these two brothers had all their life. Klaus had never seen Gabriel as calm he was with River- there was Sabrina now too, but River had spent his entire life protecting Gabriel and Gabriel had done the same.

Klaus turned his back to the door, when suddenly, something blew directly at the nape of his neck. A dark, rich scent carried around Klaus and a chill crawled down his whole body, that stood to alert now, his wolf which was usually relaxed had turned feral with this new scent around them.

Abruptly, he spun and found King Vitiello behind him. Tall and proud, he was dressed in a dark black suit, the man favoured a single-breasted jacket with notch lapels, flap pockets, and a two-button front. He definitely made his wardrobe choices wisely, with the utmost attention given to the physical demands of his profession rather than stylistic vibrato.

Klaus didn't even realize that he was staring or for how long. But it was only later did he notice a bouquet of white roses which King held. Klaus brought his gaze back to King's blue eyes, which were amused and his smirk was smug, that revealed those sharp canine teeth.

"You're here," Klaus stammered over his words.

King straightened to his full height. "Good evening," King's smirk grew into a charismatic smile. He stepped passed the threshold and crowded Klaus for a momentary second.

Klaus moved back. "Gabriel's inside," he felt the need to tell King that Klaus wasn't who he needed to talk to. King's gaze sank into Klaus, he didn't know what came over him but his heart started to skip, his breath froze and Klaus realized that King's scent alone drove Klaus into a frenzy.

"It was nice to see your face before anyone else's," King hadn't purposely kept his voice low and deep, it seemed that it was naturally a sensual tone that crept darkly like the shadows of the night.

Klaus leaned back on the door to let King further inside. "You can come in," he managed to find his voice. For a moment, Klaus found himself falling into King's eyes, those sharp, beautiful electric blue eyes. The way they looked at Klaus from under those dark lashes that framed the stare and mined into Klaus.

King grinned. "Thank you," he said softly. King surprisingly handed the extravagant bouquet to Klaus, even though Gabriel was the host for tonight.

"King," Gabriel appeared beside them. "I hope you found your way okay?" Gabriel's golden gaze stared down at Klaus, but Klaus couldn't find a moment to tell Gabriel that King unnerved him.

"Yes, it was fine," he said sternly. King's expression turned dark, those amused eyes flipped into something dangerous and Klaus picked it up right away. He sensed the difference in King, even when King's smile had faded.

Klaus stood awe-struck holding bouquet tightly in his arms, the roses choked in his grasp. King Vitiello was a force to be reckoned and Klaus felt the need to be careful around him. Standing next to Gabriel, King matched his brother's vigour and height. The man was built as the dangerous predator that he was known as in the shifter world and Klaus even spotted some of the dark black tattoos around King's corded neck and big hands, that looked rough and strong- frankly like everything else on King.

"King!" Sabrina broke the simmering silence between the three men and Klaus was so glad that she had saved his life.

Klaus stepped away and got busy locking the door, acting distracted. But Sabrina noticed Klaus's stumped expression although she didn't ask further.

Sabrina hugged King, and then, she abruptly smacked his shoulder. Gabriel and King gaped at her. "Why didn't you come to my wedding?" she pulled him and hugged King again. "Ugh, I'm so glad you're okay."

Klaus noticed King's smile appear again, it was a sweet smile that warmed Klaus's heart. Klaus knew that Sabrina had a great friendship with King, they grew up together and Klaus was glad to see that King had relaxed once again in the arms of his old friend. Maybe, King wasn't what everyone thought he was, or maybe... he was changing? considered Klaus.

"Klaus, should we go?" Gabriel asked as Sabrina had taken King already inside towards the dining hall.

Klaus swallowed the tightness in his throat. He looked at his big brother's perceptive gaze, he couldn't find his voice. "Er- let me put the roses in water," he managed.

Gabriel looked at the bouquet of chaste white flowers. "Such a pure choice for our infamous guest," he remarked.

"I thought so too," Klaus lost himself in the roses. It left Klaus wondering what else King could be hiding under that hard exterior.

Gabriel put his hand on Klaus's arm. "Be quick," he smirked. "We don't want our guest getting uncomfortable without you."

"Wh- what?" Klaus gaped at his brother who had sauntered off. It took him a moment to gather himself before he quickly went to the kitchen and put the roses in a vase with some clean water. He positioned them on the massive island before he went to the other rowdy room. But in the mixture of muffled voice, he couldn't pick up King's voice.

Klaus took a breath before he entered the crowded dining room, all the usual seats were filled and it was his seat that was empty. He quickly sat down next to Hailey and Sabrina, but just as he grabbed his wine glass, he realized that right across the candles in iron candelabra that shed some golden light, King was seated in the empty seat between Gabriel and River. Klaus froze the moment those blue eyes locked with his. Klaus pulled his feet back so he would accidentally hit King and he averted his gaze only to stay on his food, which he quickly plated and ate.

Throughout dinner, it wasn't a surprise that the room wasn't quiet. Everyone had something to say and Klaus was glad that it wasn't awkward at all with King amongst them. But they mostly had to thank Sabrina for holding the mantle with this one. She had told them stories and even managed to make King laugh, which was a sexy sound to Klaus that even he smiled from hearing it.

"The building outside," began King. They all quieted. "Can I ask what's that for?"

"It's our Institute," answered Hailey.

"A school," King's blue eyes grew intrigued, "for wolves?"

"Yes," answered Hailey.

"I was surprised too," Sabrina shared. "We didn't go to a school like that in our time, right King?"

"Surviving with humans during transition periods was definitely a pain," cursed King.

All the wolves in the room agreed because they all had to go to school with humans who didn't understand or know about the shifter-world. It was only after Gabriel became alpha that Klaus reached out to build a school for their Centauri pups. Klaus despised that any of their pups would have to suffer in areas they weren't comfortable, especially a place as forbidding as high school.

"Klaus has been managing the Institute for a couple of years now," informed Gabriel.

Klaus looked up from his plate surprised that he was brought up. "Huh?"

"It was all his idea," praised Hunter.

All the eyes were on Klaus and he almost choked on his food. "It's not a big deal," he mumbled.

"Our Institute has expanded since Sabrina joined," commended Vincent. "We were able to build more classrooms and a bigger library too."

"Is that so," King said as he smiled at Sabrina.

"I am very proud of our work at the Institute and our teachers are the best," Sabrina gloated and she smiled at Viola, Hailey and Klaus who were right beside her. "We even planned a school trip for the kids before the snow sets in."

"I didn't know about this school," said King, his head titled in a polite inquire.

"We don't give out the details of our school," responded Gabriel.

King frowned. "I understand," he tapped his fingers on the table. "Safety measures on your territory are quite impressive, Gabriel."

"What can I say, my team works really hard," acclaimed Gabriel and he grinned at Hunter and the twins.

"Azura's not here or else she would've given you a whole rundown of our security protocol here," Hunter remarked with a slight chuckle because it was true.

Azura was the main security defence who managed any trouble that broke through their security gates. She had killer skills and wouldn't hesitate before slaughtering anything that comprised Gabriel's safety or the Centauri pack.

Klaus stayed focused on his food, but he couldn't help be curious of every little thing that King did across the table. The way King delicately held his wine glass, the subtle movement of his lips when he spoke, the slight allure glistening in his eyes that were alarmingly blue; so deep and vibrant as if the sea itself crashed around in his irises. Every few minutes, King would comb his long fingers through his pitch-black hair, that had stubbornly fallen over his forehead, Klaus found himself quite amused that King's hair dared to defy him.

Sabrina moved on to explaining more about the school and King had listened intently, Klaus knew that because the way King would merely stare at her with full focus.

Dinner finished and Klaus noticed that he didn't eat much, which was probably because he was so bewildered by their guest tonight. Everyone moved to clean the dining table as Sabrina took King from the crowd towards the living room with their wine glasses- Gabriel followed too. Klaus on the other hand avoided going to that room at all costs. As a mere distraction to get his mind off King, he grabbed the dirty plates.

"Oh no you don't," Viola grabbed the plates. "You cooked, so we clean."

"It's fine, Viola," said Klaus as he reached again for the dishes.

Viola raised a brow. "You know the rules in this house, Klaus," she asserted.

Klaus rose his chin stubbornly. "Since I made the rule, I can revoke it too," he mumbled.

"Is that arguing, I'm hearing," Hunter frightened them from the other side of the room, the hound could hear from a yard away if he needed to.

"No-" both Viola and Klaus shouted back to their terrifying older brother. Klaus let go of the plates and Viola handled it from there.

Klaus crept down the hall and tried his hardest to elude the entrance near the living room, where he knew that King was probably leaned back on the seat with his wine glass resting in his hand.

"You okay?" asked Hailey as she walked by with more dishes.

Klaus smiled. "I'm fine," he said as he leaned on the wall in the dark hall where the light from the room streamed through.

Hailey tilted her head; her blue eyes assessed his nervous expression which he was unable to hide. "It seems King's interested in the Institute, just like Sabrina was," she said. "They're cut from the same cloth."

Klaus's eyes lowered to his feet avoiding his sister-in-law's inquisitive gaze. "It seems so," he said. "That's always good for the school. But I really didn't think it'd become so popular to attract someone like King."

"Why wouldn't it?" asked Hailey in surprise. "You built the school. I think it deserves more recognition." Hailey sauntered off towards Hunter with the plates, which he quickly grabbed from her to take to Vincent and Ryder who were most likely stationed at the sink to do all the dishes.

Klaus didn't know where to sit in the house for some peace, since his own head was so loud with all his needless thoughts. He went to the stairway and opened the small door under it, he pulled out the spare bulbs and went to do a simple task in their old garage. Klaus escaped through the corner door through the house, that connected them right outside into the garage.

Klaus entered the dark area and the door closed behind him, so it was pitch black around him. He felt around on the side of the door to flick on the light, but that was a stupid idea since the light was what he came to change. He had no choice but to open the garage door for some light inside this place, and maybe the fresh air would be good after such a hearty meal. The large flap rumbled and then rose over the top of him, slowly sliding open it revealed the parking-lot adjoining their house. No car was parked there, except a grey Maserati that Klaus knew belonged to King.

Klaus shook his head and got to changing the bulb. The family garage was old, grim and rarely used except to store some old books, tools and any of Hunter's gear. Everything else had been moved to their underground parking area, which was newly remodelled and had much more storage space. Only Klaus and Hunter came here into their old garage for the stuff they stored.

Klaus pulled the step-ladder from the corner and got up the three metal steps. He took off the glass shielding the old bulb and placed it between his feet. He unscrewed the old bulb and quickly started to turn the new bulb into place. Once he had tightened the bolt, he clicked the glass into place and the light was brand new again.

Smiling at his effort, Klaus climbed off the ladder. He threw the old bulb in the trash and put away the ladder back in its spot, so no one would trip over it. Klaus moved around the garage and back to the switch he tried to turn the new bulb on. He flicked the switch up and thankfully golden light had beamed to its full glory in the dark garage.

Klaus had just turned to close the garage door when he sensed the air thicken around him. The cool breeze had turned hot and instead of smelling the pine from the forest, his senses filled with that unforgettable rich sandalwood scent. He looked right outside the garage door and found King standing in front of him.

King leaned against the door frame. "So, you were here the whole time."

"Were you looking for me?" asked Klaus a bit too hastily.

King's sharp blue eyes gleamed, his lips lifted into a grin that was barely noticeable because there wasn't much light, but Klaus saw it and felt it. "Something like that... it seems I just can't help but look for you," he mumbled softly.

Klaus didn't know what to say or how to react, so he stayed quiet thinking King would get bored and be on his way. But King didn't leave, he stayed right in front of Klaus as if he enjoyed the silence too.

"Is something wrong?" asked Klaus.

King's lazy smile flipped Klaus's heart. "No, I'm just watching."

"What?" asked Klaus.

"You," answered King.

Klaus searched those deep blue eyes. "Why?"

King titled his head. "You seriously don't know," he stated more than asked. Klaus stayed puzzled. "You're more innocent than I thought."

Klaus frowned. "Is that a bad thing?"

King laughed hotly at Klaus. "No," he managed. "But I guess I have to teach you a few things if this is going to work." Before Klaus could say anything, King spoke first; "Would you mind showing me the school?"

"Right now?" he asked King.

King nodded. "I just want to get a closer look at the building," he specified.

"Yes, of course," answered Klaus. He walked past King and lead them outside onto the field leaving the garage. Crossing the large field, Klaus noticed that King never walked hastily or with purpose, he idly used his long legs with a relaxed pace that matched Klaus's too.

Klaus didn't even need to look where he was going, instead he secretly stole a few glances at the man next to him. King's hands were tucked into his pockets and his eyes surveyed the entire grounds.

"Gabriel told me that you run the school," King broke the silence first.

"I don't run it," Klaus shook his head. "The Centauri Institute has no headmaster or mistress."

King froze in his tracks and he looked down at Klaus. "So, who's in charge of the kids?" he asked.

Klaus inwardly smiled that someone like King was even curious about their small school. "No one is in charge of the kids," answered Klaus. "All of the students simply listen to their teachers."

"And what happens if they get out of control?" asked King after.

Klaus stared blankly at King. "They don't get out of control," he said and it was hard to believe but it was the truth. "The staff manage all their classes and we just have a weekly board meeting to ensure that all the kids are on top of their studies."

King looked surprised. "How'd you manage to do that?" he astonished.

Klaus froze for a moment. "I don't know," he said honestly. "But I think it's because I just wanted the Institute to be a fun and safe place. Not where kids or teachers come and stay locked up for eight hours a day."

King's lips lifted into a warm smile. His blue eyes looked at Klaus as if he could stare at him forever. "Gabriel was right," he admitted. "You do run the school singlehandedly."

Klaus shook his head. "I told you this school has no principle-"

"It doesn't have to," interrupted King. "It's clear that no one wants to disappoint you."

A blush crept up Klaus's cheeks. "The school is right over there," he mumbled and changed King's direction over to the Institute building. An elegant castle was the Centauri Institute that sat perched on a slight hill. A few concrete stairs lead to massive blue doors into the vast school. Still so much time had passed since this school was founded but Klaus still felt excitement in his body.

"When was the school founded?" King asked.

"Five years ago," answered Klaus. "It'll be six this Christmas."

"And this was your idea?" King turned towards Klaus.

Klaus nodded. "I was in college when I came to Gabriel with this idea," he told King. "But I was only able to build the school after graduating."

"Why did you want to build a school?" asked King. "I would think that you'd join Gabriel at your family company."

"I didn't want to sit in an office all my life," shared Klaus. "I liked being around my pack and teaching has always been the easiest for me."

King nodded. "You have intrigued me, Klaus," he said softly.

Klaus gaped. "Er- I'm glad you're interested in the school."

"Yes, the school," said King. "But it's more 'you' that I'm fascinated about."

"Why?" asked Klaus. "Why would someone like you be interested in me?"

King's hand came out of his pocket, he brought his fingers near Klaus's cheek and Klaus had already prepared himself for the heat, but nothing came. Klaus realized that King froze right before touching him. King's blue gaze had trailed down Klaus's face over to his lips and a darkness seeped into those feral eyes.

What was this? Klaus wondered frantically. Why did he feel so much disappointment that King hadn't touched him?

King stepped back letting the cold air seep between them. "Will you show me the school tomorrow?" he requested politely.

Klaus felt whiplash. "Er- me...school?" he lost his voice and stumbled over everything.

King smirked. "Yes, the school," he confirmed. "I would like to see the school."

"I can tell Gabriel and he'll-"

"No," interrupted King. "I only want to see it with you."

Klaus warmed as he stared at King. "I'll cancel my classes tomorrow," said Klaus.

King smiled back. "Thank you." He made his way down the stairs.

"Does this mean that you'll join Gabriel?" asked Klaus, he knew he was being a bit nosy but he needed to know if King was becoming a part of Gabriel's team.

King looked up towards Klaus with amusement gleaming across his handsome face. "Would you like me to join your brother?" he retorted.

"Gabriel needs you," said Klaus.

"I was thinking more along the lines of joining you," revealed King. "What do you think of that?"

"Join me?" asked Klaus. "Oh, you mean the school?"

King laughed again. "You're cute," he started to walk back towards the house.

Klaus rushed down the stairs joining King's side. "Are you going home now?"

"Yes," answered King.

"Where do you live?" asked Klaus after.

"On the other side of town," King shared openly. "Would you like to see my house some time?"

Klaus gaped. "You would show me your house?"

"I don't see why not," said King as he unlocked his car with his keys.

"But I thought you were big on secrecy," remarked Klaus. "No one knows anything about you, let alone where you live."

"I don't mind sharing anything with you," whispered King as he opened his car's door.

"Right, because you don't feel any danger from me," rebuked Klaus.

King smirked cunningly. "No danger, just honesty," he said, "very sweet and gullible honesty."

Klaus's heart fluttered. "Oh," he mumbled.

"I'll see you tomorrow then," King confirmed again.

"Yes," said Klaus. "I will meet you at the front doors of the school."

King's eyes gleamed as they stared at Klaus without ever once faltering. "Looking forward to it," he smiled. "Goodnight, Klaus."

"Goodnight," Klaus took a deep breath when King closed his car's door. The car's ignition roared alive and the front lights beamed at Klaus. King reversed the rich car and drove off the property leaving Klaus all by himself wondering what the hell just happened between them.

Klaus went back and closed the garage door, he left through the outside and climbed up the front porch where he heard Sabrina's voice. He found Gabriel standing with his mate who was happily talking about the dinner and how much of a success it was tonight.

"Did King leave?" Sabrina asked Klaus as she spotted him come up the stairs.

"Yeah, he left," answered Klaus.

Gabriel nodded. "Did he say anything?" he asked.

"King wants to see the school tomorrow morning," answered Klaus.

Gabriel straightened. "And I'm thinking he requested you to show him," he said.

Klaus gaped at his brother. "How'd you know?"

"Just a hunch," Gabriel shrugged before he went inside to get another glass of wine.

Sabrina's mint-green eyes gleamed as she watched Gabriel move back inside towards River who was lounging on the side. Klaus always caught the silent moment when one mate looked at their mate; it was a longing to return to their side. Klaus understood that feeling even without a mate.

A mate, thought Klaus. That simple word resonated inside Klaus and he wondered why he felt so strongly about it now. He remembered King's electric blue eyes that watched their surroundings with upmost importance and attention.

"Did King say something to you?" Sabrina asked quietly.

"No," he shook his head. "King was nothing but polite to me."

Sabrina smiled showing her pretty dimples. "He's only polite to people he likes because it takes a great deal of effort for him," she said.

Klaus looked down at his laced hands. "He's nicer than I thought he'd be," he said.

Sabrina put her warm hand on his. "I know," she said. "And I am glad that he respects you. I probably would've punched him if he didn't. But I guess I worried for no reason." Klaus smiled with her. "You see, whenever someone meets you, they can't help but admire you."

Klaus stared at Sabrina in bafflement. "I didn't do anything though."

"You don't have to," said Sabrina. "King saw your good heart like we all do." Sabrina patted his hand and went to Gabriel and River inside.

Klaus lingered on the porch because he didn't think he had anything special. He merely took care of his family and the pack because it was responsibility to help Gabriel however he could. Klaus's worth was only in being the best he could for Gabriel and the pack. However, Klaus didn't understand why King had taken such liking to him. Klaus sighed grimly and looked up to the vast night sky full of stars that swam with the crescent moon.

Mate... the word sank deeper into his heart and his calm wolf started to pace inside him. Klaus would only figure this out in due time, but something inside him told him that he already knew what King meant to him. But now Klaus needed to know if King knew about this unexpected bond that bloomed the night they met.

"Klaus, come inside!" Sabrina shouted from the house. "We're going to eat ice-cream and watch a movie!"

"Coming!" he yelled back. Klaus stole one last glimpse at the moon and asked his goddess to give a simple sign if King was his mate or not.

Although, deep down, he didn't need a sign. Klaus knew that King was his mate and now he had no idea what to do with it. The most dangerous wolf known to the shifters had ended up being Klaus's mate of all people in this vast world.