King was in the car returning home from the trip with the Centauri pack. Bone swiftly drove through the city streets and into the secluded property through the forest area arriving at his manor soon.

The rush of desire was still his blood; in his bones and in his soul from when he kissed Klaus on the Ferris-wheel. King wasn't going to make such a move, rather he was going to take it slow and control himself and his raging need to mark Klaus. But in that dark pod, high up in the sky, King couldn't resist those beautiful green eyes. Klaus didn't even know what he got himself into when he had accepted King's kiss and begged for more without using words but his lips. King could still feel the burn lingering on his own lips from soft caress of his mate. And then when his control couldn't get any worse, Klaus had innocently invited King over for dinner. King still laughed when he remembered what he was about to do to Klaus in front of everyone for being so adorable.

"Stop smiling so much," Bone remarked, "you're scaring me."

King's smile dropped. He turned to his side and glared at Bone who was chuckling at his own joke.

"So, do you regret going to this trip, master?" Bone asked after.

"No," King rested his head against the seat. "I don't regret it at all." King didn't have it in him to regret anything he did with Klaus, even if it was sharing ice-cream from one bowl, he agreed to anything now.

"Did the kids like the surprise to the park?" inquired Bone.

King closed his eyes, resting them. "Yeah, they did," he answered. "I enjoyed it too." He hid his tender smile from the world and didn't know when he had dozed off to the lull of the car's engine.

"We've arrived, sire," Bone's voice pulled King out of his daze.

King got out of the car, he hooked his suit's jacket over his shoulder and got into his house. Bone unlocked the door and took King's jacket from his hands. King didn't bother with dinner or anything else since he was exhausted from being out all day. The Centauri pack had worked King all day and he needed nothing more expect his bed.

"Goodnight, master," Bone said behind him.

"It most certainly was, Bone," King smiled again.

He returned to his bedroom, that had a cold gale in the air which wasn't as pleasant as King used to recognize before. The ruthless cold had become King's best friend when he spent his time in those lifeless cages. King stripped off the layers of his clothes and his whole body could still sense Klaus's bond bleeding into his bones, like it had branded itself to King. He took a long shower, he lazily waited under the spray of the burning hot water that turned his skin raw. But it hadn't worked, nothing stopped the dire urge in his body and wolf to claim their mate.

King got out of the water that wasn't helping him relax his arousal, it was making it worse. He dried off his wet body and got into the cold sheets of his bed. He laid back on the massive mattress, wondering how long he'd be able to resist Klaus...

"Are you done for today?" Hailey asked as she walked into the teacher's lounge.

Klaus who had finished with his two morning classes looked up from his book. "Yeah," he answered stretching back into the chair, like a lazy cat under the sun.

Viola stormed inside the lounge room. "I'm starving!" she announced as she rushed over to the platters of treats on the counter. She lifted the glass lid and pulled out a delectable chocolate muffin.

"Why is your hair wet?" Hailey asked. "Is it raining again?" She quickly looked out the arched windows that circled the room.

"No, we were at the pool," said Viola.

Klaus put his unfinished book in his bag. "I thought Mary's class was at the pool today?" he asked.

Viola held her finger up as she chewed the gooey muffin in her mouth. "Mary came with her class too," she said after she swallowed. "We didn't think it was a big deal, so we joined her class."

"I would've brought my class too if I knew we were having a pool party," Hailey added.

Viola grinned chirpily. "It was a lot of fun," she jested.

"Don't rub it," Hailey nudged Viola's shoulder pushing her away from the muffins. Hailey grabbed a muffin too and they both leaned on the counter eating the sweet delight.

A couple of days had passed since they all went on their trip to the museum and the amusement park. Viola's hand had completely healed and the bandages were removed. Klaus was merely relieved, that her injuries were gone and it wasn't a constant reminder of what happened that day.

Klaus got up from his seat. "Okay, I'm going to head home," he said.

"Oh, that's not fair," Viola groaned. "I want to go home too."

Hailey laughed at her. "We'll see you tonight, Klaus," she said politely.

Klaus waved to his bumbling sisters whose loud voices could be heard in the hallways. "Don't be late, because I'm making lasagna for dinner," he announced and left too soon before he could hear his sisters freak out over their dinner menu later tonight.

He made his way out of the Institute doors and onto the massive field where the sky was grim and the sun was hiding behind the clouds, that were zipping past the top of their school. He loved the slight breeze that carried the scent of pine from the forest over towards him. Klaus didn't rush home nor did he ever forget to enjoy the view around him either. The sudden threat of a storm seduced Klaus to take form into his wolf and run, which he would eventually, once dinner was made and tests were marked. He leisurely strolled, crossing the field that was fairly empty since everyone was busy at work, except the retired elders of the pack. Klaus viewed the vacant cabins around the field and the elders were on their porches either resting on a rocking-chair or chatting with their neighbours. The middle cabins were where Dante's grandfather and John's grandfather played chess and drank afternoon tea.

Klaus approached his own house and wondered if he should go on a run right now. The desire was indeed strong, but something blocked it, or maybe because there was another desire that was much greater. The last couple of days, Klaus hadn't seen or heard from King. He wondered every day since the trip what King was up to now; or what trouble he was getting himself into; or if anyone was there to take care of him if he had. Klaus couldn't sleep all night once because his brain wouldn't stop thinking about their kiss or the truth that they were mates now, although they hadn't marked each other yet.

Klaus had spent these past three days wondering how to tell his family about this. He was sure that Hunter would practically kill King, and none of the other enforcers really liked King either. But what was Klaus supposed to do? He needed to figure this out fast because he didn't want to leave King alone anymore.

"Klaus," a voice startled him.

Klaus looked onto the porch and found Gabriel in front of him. "Hi," he smiled. "Why aren't you at work?" he asked since Gabriel was still in jeans and an old white t-shirt.

"I thought I'd work from home," Gabriel replied.

Klaus raised a brow. "It's because Sabrina's home, right?" he claimed and knew that he was right on the dot.

Gabriel bit his smile back. "Guilty," he acclaimed.

Klaus joined his brother on the porch. "Did you need me for something?" he asked his brother.

"Actually, I have a few papers that need to be signed," revealed Gabriel.

"Sure, I'll do it right now-"

"No, not by you," interrupted Gabriel. "They need King's signature."

Klaus's heart skipped a beat. "Oh," he mumbled and took a deep breath because he forgot that he was holding it all in.

"He's not answering his phone," said Gabriel, "and this is urgent."

"What can I do to help?" asked Klaus.

"Can you go to his house and get them signed?" asked Gabriel.

Klaus froze. "Er- his house?" A tornado of butterflies grew inside his gut. "I don't know where his house is."

"I have his address," Gabriel answered, as he solved that quickly. "I would've sent Hunter, but he's a bit... well, you already know," Gabriel didn't need to finish that sentence because they all knew how domineering and mean-looking their brother was. "Vincent is at work with Ryder and River is busy with Azura and her team."

Klaus looked up at his brother. "I had to tell you something-" he began.

Gabriel titled his head. "What?" he frowned.

Klaus opened his mouth but then held it back. "Never mind. Give me the papers, I'll go for you," Klaus held his hand out to his brother.

Gabriel nodded in approval. "Thanks, this helps me a lot," he said. "I'll text you his address and number, so if you get lost just call him."

Klaus bit his lip nervously. "Yeah, got it." Gabriel handed Klaus a blue and red file, which he guessed were contracts about the Centauri Enterprise because King was becoming a partner with Gabriel.

"Klaus," Gabriel called out as Klaus made his way back down the stairs.

Klaus looked back up at his brother. "Yeah?"

Gabriel straightened to his powerful height. His amber gaze burned bright, which lighted up a path for his little brother to find his courage. "I'm here when you want to talk," he said sternly.

Klaus smiled. "Thank you. I'll get these signed as fast as I can and bring them to you."

Gabriel's eyes filled with amusement. "Bring King over for dinner if you can," he chuckled. "The man needs to loosen up and have some fun."

Klaus laughed but agreed with his brother. "I'll be back," he waved off.

He had just opened the door to his white Tesla Roadster when immediately his phone pinged with a message from Gabriel. He copied the address from the message onto the GPS and got on his way towards King Vitiello residence; the house that no one has ever been before. As Klaus calmly drove, he wondered what the house would look like; was it was a cozy home or rich manor worthy for a man like King.

Klaus cut through the city traffic and following every turn the GPS guided him with. Eventually, Klaus arrived on the final road that was secluded away from the city and into the forest trail. He followed the singular path with only tall pines trees in sight for quite some time.

"You have arrived at your destination, Mr. Centauri," the female's voice turned off after she sassily told Klaus that he was here.

He stopped the car in front of tall black gates and wondered if he needed to ring a bell or speak to the security, but then the gates had just opened. The eerie creak of the metal gates sent a chill down Klaus's spine. He advanced towards the dark manor, that sat solemnly in the middle of a beautiful property with grey clouds festering above it.

Klaus pressed his foot on the race and the car crept inside, so the gates closed behind him. His car slowly drove down the straight path, towards the rich manor that suited King's taste without a doubt. The bricks of the house were definitely grey but since the rain clouds had kicked in, the manor appeared almost black. However, there were wild rose bushes around the sinister house. Klaus recognized that these were the same roses King had brought as a gift during their first dinner. The white roses bloomed on the dark-green vines, that surrounded the black manor making the devious home appear sensual; it was an odd notion, but that's just how Klaus saw the owner of the house too- deviously sensual described King Vitiello perfectly.

He climbed the few stairs and lingered on the porch, he held up his hand and knocked three times. The house was so quiet that Klaus even heard when the hard-sound had echoed through the manor. Klaus looked down at the two folders in his hand and wearily pondered what King was going to do when he opened the door.

The door opened and Klaus slightly panicked not knowing how to greet King. But thankfully, it wasn't King behind the door, instead it was a severely stern man that had appeared. "May I help you?" his pale blue eyes assessed Klaus from head to toe.

"I'm here to see, King," answered Klaus. "Gabriel Centauri sent me to get King's signature on some documents."

"My master is still asleep," informed the man sternly.

Klaus frowned. "It's one o'clock in the afternoon," he astounded.

The man didn't show any expression, as he simply stared at Klaus. "You are welcome to stay and wait," said the man rigidly. "But I doubt my master will wake up anytime soon."

"I'll just come back another time-" Klaus froze when he looked down at the papers Gabriel gave him- "actually, I'll wait," he said.

The man moved to the side and let Klaus inside without any resistance. Klaus wondered how this even man trusted Klaus to let him inside King Vitiello's house. Klaus would have thought that this place would be packed with security, that never allowed guests without strict routine check.

With those thoughts in mind, Klaus tentatively strode inside the massive foyer which revealed the entire vast first floor, which was wide-open space and it had no barriers created by unnecessary walls. King actually liked the style of the extravagant interior, despite the overly Victorian inspiration that made the house into an imperial castle.

"Right this way," the man dressed primly in a suit gestured towards the lounging area, that was entirely black like the entire house. The walls were painted dark grey, and then all the couches, seats even the molding was black. No colour, not even a speck of white anywhere. The place was organized and thoroughly clean, then Klaus remembered that King had a butler.

"Are you King's butler, Bone?" Klaus asked carefully. The man turned, he seemed quite young and vigorous from his muscular built. He definitely wasn't a butler for a long time and from the scars on his hands and faded tattoos, Klaus knew that his man was definitely not just a butler.

"Yes, I am," he said strictly. "You may take a seat here. Would you care for some coffee while you wait?"

"No, it's fine," said Klaus. "Thank you." Bone's blue eyes lingered on Klaus's face. He seemed to show no expression, so it was hard for Klaus to figure out what the man was thinking.

"So, you're him," Bone mumbled.

Klaus titled his head. "What do you mean?" he asked.

Bone's thin lips slightly rose into a grin. "Nothing," he said. "Please, take a seat." Bone walked off after leaving Klaus to sit alone on a black sofa near the dead hearth.

"That was weird," Klaus mumbled to himself.

For a few minutes, he sat with his legs out in front of him, and every now and then, he changed his position. But when a whole hour dreadfully passed by, Klaus started to pace on the black rug leaving a trail of his boots from his impatience. In the silent house, the sound of the ticking clock annoyed the living hell out of Klaus too.

When Bone appeared again, Klaus asked him exasperatedly; "Why hasn't he woken up yet?"

"My master is not an early bird," answered Bone.

"I understand that, but can't you tell him that Klaus Centauri is here?" Klaus pleaded.

The butler shook his head with a weary sigh. "You're welcome to try yourself," he offered. "I do not like to disturb my master."

Klaus slumped his head back in defeat. "Where's his room?" He was forced to take action since King was proving to be the most difficult.

The butler pointed to the top floor. "Beyond the double doors is my master's bedroom," he told Klaus before he sauntered off continuing his duties.

Klaus trudged up the fleet of stairs and down the long hallway to the only double doors at the end of the hall. Klaus opened the door quietly and he crept inside the massive space, instantly he knew that this was King's room from that sensually dark fragrance. Big windows were uncovered with black drapes, that hit the black marble floors. On the right, was a comfortable seating area in front of a fire place, that wasn't used right now.

The afternoon light spilled through the curtains onto the massive bed, that only had one man spread across it. Klaus came over to where King was fast asleep on his stomach, his muscular arms stretched above him and his head was turned to the side, but there was no pillow. Klaus was feeling pretty confident downstairs, but now he hesitated from seeing King asleep for himself.

Klaus stood over the bed and he pulled his hand back a couple of times from waking King up. Klaus noticed that King's frown was gone, his firm lips were held in a tight line but he didn't look annoyed or angry like he usually always was when he's awake. The blanket only covered up until King's lean waist, so Klaus guessed that this man slept naked, which wasn't unusual, but Klaus couldn't help the shy blush from colouring his cheeks red.

King's tattoos were open for Klaus to see as well, and his whole back was covered with ink that was intimidating even though it was stunning on King's bronzed skin. Dark ink created wild flames over his broad and muscular back. Klaus couldn't recognize any of the fearsome markings, except there was an angry demonic face that seemed almost alive, as it smirked at whoever stared, frightening them away. Klaus observed a fiery dragon that twisted around on the side of King's back. There was a number on his shoulder and a few unusual tattoos, but Klaus also marked some scars between the tattoos.

Klaus took a deep breath of King's dark fiery scent. Klaus leaned down. "King," he called out softly. "King, it's time to wake up." Klaus frowned when he realized that King was even worse than Hunter. Klaus struggled waking up Hunter when they were kids, like he's having with King.

Klaus lifted his chin. "King, if you don't wake up right now-" he began his threat but it fell flat, because he didn't know what he'd do to this man. What could he do? he wondered.

Klaus leaned on top of the bed, right over King. He questioned if King was even alive, since he hadn't made a sound since Klaus arrived in the room. King was soundly asleep and enjoying himself as Klaus was losing his head.

"What do I do now?" he asked himself thinking that maybe someone would tell him how to wake up this dangerously scary man.

Unexpectedly and fast, Klaus hadn't seen it coming when in a quick second his arm was pulled out from under him. The papers fell from Klaus's hand and scattered onto the floor and bed.

It was only after all movement ceased that Klaus opened his eyes that were tightly shut. He wasn't dead, so that was a good sign, Klaus supposed, but how was he going to explain the situation he was in now.

Klaus was held under King's strong arm, that wouldn't budge even if Klaus tried to squirm away. Klaus froze in King's arms, but the hard part was that even now King wasn't awake even in this position. Klaus turned in King's arms and faced the overbearing alpha. Klaus sighed and laid still as King took the warmth Klaus reluctantly had to offer.

"King..." whispered Klaus.

Klaus ran his finger across the man's hard cheek, that had a slight stubble. No matter what anyone said about King, this alpha was incredibly handsome. Klaus's hand inched down to King's stern lips that Klaus still remembered the feel of in his memory. The captivating pull between them was drawn by Klaus as he inched closer to King's dark scent and strength.

His gut sank when his heart started to race inside his chest. "Wake up before I do something," Klaus alleged boldly.

Suddenly, those electric-blue eyes opened. Klaus's heart skipped a thousand beats in a second.

King moaned a sigh. "No wonder I was enjoying these last few seconds of my sleep," he bemused. "You were in my arms." King's lips lifted into a slight grin as he closed his eyes again.

Klaus tried to wring free, but King's strong arms didn't let him. "I was trying to wake you up," he told King. "But you-"

King's smirk lifted higher. "It's a dangerous task to wake me up," he said. "I'm sure Bone warned you."

Klaus gaped at King because that butler didn't warn Klaus of anything. "Can you let go of me?" Klaus pleaded but the devil didn't listen, instead King's arms tightened further around Klaus; the space between them closed and now Klaus's arms rested against King's chest. "King..." his voice was weary.

"In a minute," said King, as he pressed closer to Klaus. Their legs brushed against each other and Klaus purposely laid pin-straight, not daring to move a single bone in his body.

Klaus sighed in defeat. "Aren't you even the least bit curious as to why I'm here?" he asked.

King's breath fanned the top of Klaus's head. "Not really," he responded. "You're welcome into my bed any time."

Klaus's eyes widened. "Er- I..." he fumbled over his words. "Gabriel sent me to get some papers signed from you." Swiftly, King changed their position again, now he was on top of Klaus and their legs were tangled together. "Get off me, King," warned Klaus as King shifted further on top of him. "You're too heavy-" Klaus then realized that King's eyes had closed again- "Oh, no, no, no!" he exclaimed frantically. "Don't you dare fall asleep again!"

King's head lifted. "I guess I have to wake up for you," he exhaled and rolled off revealing his bare body.

Klaus quickly turned his head and looked away before he got a full shot at King's exquisitely sculpted body. "I'll wait for you downstairs," said Klaus.

"You can wait here," King moved around the massive bed. "I won't be long."

Klaus stood alone in the bedroom after King had disappeared into the bathroom. A groan released from his lips, he slumped down on the bed and couldn't believe that King had just done that. Klaus shook his head and quickly got all the papers off the floor, gathering them in his hand and orderly stacking them into the folders. Klaus moved to the chairs across the bed and took a seat, he heard the shower turn off and knew that King would walk out any minute.

Klaus tried his hardest to avoid looking at the bathroom door, so he distracted himself with his cellphone. He didn't know what he was looking at, but he needed to appear that he wasn't the least bit nervous, which he was and the butterflies in his stomach were proof of that.

"Good morning," King said as he came over to the chairs.

Klaus chuckled in disbelief. "It's long past morning," he remarked when he accidentally looked up and saw King only in a towel. Klaus's eyes widened. "Er- here are the papers that Gabriel sent." Klaus put the folders on the table near King who had taken a seat across Klaus.

King simply opened the papers and all amusement fell from his face. A strict, dark flame appeared in those sharp eyes as they evaluated the papers. This was the man people feared, right now King looked as dangerous as the demon tattoo on his back. King's black hair was still very wet, the droplets from the tips of his hair dripped down King's corded neck, the small drop trailed down those muscular shoulders caressing its way down his arms. More droplets fell streaming down King's clavicles and down his chest that had darker tattoos again. Klaus noted the hint of fresh cedar wood from the shaving gel, he recognized the touch of earthy sandalwood too since Klaus used a similar body-soap as well.

Klaus couldn't handle the crackling silence in the room as King sternly flipped through the papers. Klaus looked away but then his eyes betrayed him and wandered back. King's agile hands turned a page and then his hand would hover over it, he drummed his finger on the paper. Klaus wondered what King was thinking about so deeply, that he didn't even care he was in a towel in front of Klaus.

"Like what you see?" King broke the silence.

Klaus coughed. "Is there a problem with the contracts?" he asked, as he tried to change the subject and hoped King would play along too.

"There is one problem," King frowned. "I have to talk to Gabriel about it."

"Oh, okay," Klaus said. "I'll call Gabriel-"

"No, I'm going to meet him personally-" interrupted King.

"But Gabriel is at home," informed Klaus.

That didn't seem to trouble King. "That's fine," King said. "Can't I meet him today?"

"No, I'm sure Gabriel wouldn't have a problem with that," Klaus replied and hoped he was right about his assumption.

"Can you wait for me?" King requested. "Let me get dressed and then we can head out together."

Klaus didn't even realize how fast King had arranged the plan. "Sure," Klaus found himself agreeing.

King smirked. "Just give me a few more minutes," he said charmingly.

Klaus shot out of the chair. "Take your time," he grabbed all the documents and ran out the door ready to jump off a building for being so embarrassed.

-King's POV-

The door slammed behind Klaus and King laughed. His mate was the sweetest little devil that couldn't hide anything from King. The whole time King couldn't even concentrate on the papers as Klaus openly stared at his body.

"Ooff... Klaus," he moaned as he breathed in the sweet lingering scent that Klaus brought with him.

Klaus looked delectable in a knitted-beige sweater and black jeans, his golden hair was tousled by the breeze from outside and the man was effortlessly gorgeous. King still couldn't believe that Klaus was in his bedroom, this was a dangerous move because King's control during his sleep wasn't the best.

King moved to his closet and took out a grey suit. He quickly got dressed and went to his sweet mate downstairs. He saw Bone standing in the kitchen with Klaus, King predicted that Bone figured that Klaus was King's mate, that's why Bone let Klaus go to his bedroom in the first place. Bone had played a little game, now King wanted to play a game of his own.

King entered the kitchen smiling ear-to-ear; he couldn't help it when it came to anything regarding his mate.

"Master, hope you had a restful night," mocked Bone.

King came around and grabbed the strawberry from the basket Bone held. "I did," he said as he bit into the summer fruit. "My morning was even better." King looked at Klaus who was tolerantly sitting on the stool.

Bone bit back his smile. "I wonder why?" he muttered.

King stared at Bone intently for him to get the message. Finally, Bone's composed face showed the slightest realization. They both nodded secretly and King knew that Bone got the message to play along.

"Master, I cannot make you breakfast today," Bone professed firmly and loudly.

King gaped at Bone. "Oh, is that so?" he said.

Klaus regarded the two of them perplexed. "You two do know that it's way past breakfast, right?" he asked.

Bone put the basket down and lifted his chin. "You will have to starve and go to work alone as well," he said grimly.

"No breakfast is tough," King nodded and looked away.

"What's going on?" asked Klaus as he sensed the lie in the air as clear as day.

"Bone has to go to the market," King thought on the spot. "Don't you, Bone?"

Bone blinked a few times before he vigorously nodded. "My master is correct," he said and turned towards King. "I apologize for sending you hungry to work."

King couldn't believe they used the old breakfast trick, when King knew very well how to cook a simple meal. "It's fine, Bone," King insisted. He glared at his butler to move it along before they got caught.

A sudden sadness swept into Bone's eyes. "My master has never gone to work without breakfast by my hands before-" water filled his eyes making King nervous because this act was getting a bit out of hand.

King laughed flatly trying to stop Bone. "It's time for you to go, Bone," King urged Bone out the back door, which he knew that Bone would just circle around and secretly enter through the front door.

"Goodbye, sire," he said. Bone trudged out the back door sending his regards to Klaus before vanishing beyond the gate. King didn't realize that he let out a breath of relief.

"If you want, I can cook you something?" asked Klaus. "That's if you don't mind me staying here a little longer."

"That was the plan," mumbled King.

"What?" asked Klaus.

King turned around. "I wouldn't want to trouble you," he said.

Klaus began rolling up his sleeves revealing his strong forearms. "It's no trouble," he said as he moved around the counter and opened the door to the fridge. He started to pull out ingredients and placed them on the counter. Eggs, sausages and some toast.

Klaus turned, his green eyes were warm. "Where are your bowls?" he asked.

King pointed beside the stove. Klaus opened the black cabinet and found white bowls, he pulled one out and started cracking eggs into it. He added pepper and salt before he blended the sunny-yellow mixture.

"Fry-pan?" asked Klaus.

"On your left," answered King.

With a small smile playing on his lips, King watched him. Klaus stood over the stove grilling an omelet. The grey clouds had parted now and the sun shined through the small window framing Klaus with warm light.

King waltzed over and stood behind him. Since he was taller, he could easily see over Klaus's shoulder. It was bold of him and he knew that he might be crossing a line, but he didn't care because Klaus was too irresistible.

King caged Klaus by putting his arms around him and holding onto the edge of counter. "Smells divine," he moaned.

"I added basil," Klaus replied with the hint of a smile playing on his lush lips.

King shook his head. He boldly grazed his lips over the skin along Klaus's neck. "I meant that you smell divine," King confessed softly.

King sensed that Klaus had stiffened by the slightest sensation, he would have backed off if he knew that Klaus was uncomfortable. However, through the smell of the eggs and sausages, King's keen nose caught the whiff of a sweeter, honeyed scent that only belonged to Klaus. That was when King's defences dropped and he couldn't move away, instead he moved a little closer to Klaus.

Klaus nudged his shoulder against King's chest. "I'll burn the food," he warned softly.

King lowered his head; his lips found their way to the crook of Klaus's neck. The sweet, enticing scent mesmerized King. He inhaled Klaus's scent, memorizing what it felt like and what it did to his body. The pleasure shot through King, his whole body grew rigid, and he was more than ready to take Klaus back to his bedroom.

"King," Klaus's low tone was a warning.

"Mmm," he softly kissed down Klaus's neck.

Klaus dropped the task and turned. Clearly annoyed at the hindrance or maybe aroused like King. "Will you stop distracting me?" he implored.

King may have stopped kissing Klaus's neck, but now, they had found a new target. King's gaze lowered from his emerald eyes over to his lips, that were held in a tight line.

"I can see it in your eyes, King," said Klaus. "And you better stop right there."

"Stop what?" asked King, his gaze fixed on every movement of Klaus's lips.

"Like you'll-" Klaus froze.

"I'll what?" King urged.

Klaus inhaled sharply. "Forget it," he sighed.

"I don't think so," said King. He pushed himself against Klaus. Their lips locked hard and fast. Mouths moved over the other, their tongues entered and King deepened their kiss. King shoved his hands through Klaus's soft hair, he pulled Klaus closer to him because King needed to feel Klaus's heat against his body. Crazed and wanting more, King was ready to drag Klaus onto the kitchen floor.

Klaus let out a little moan against King's mouth. King grew more excited, because he wanted to hear more of Klaus when he was aroused. He kissed Klaus until they were both breathless; it was to the point that their kiss was what gave them oxygen.

Abruptly, a thin line of smoke streamed into the air behind Klaus.

King and Klaus both froze.

"Oh shit!" Klaus pushed away and turned towards the stove. He closed the fire and managed to save the food. He plated the food with a cute pout on his mouth.

King went over to the freshly brewed coffee, that Bone pleasantly made before he left them. He poured them both some caffeine and they sat down together near the island counter. King's lips still burned from their kiss. His body was on fire and it was only Klaus that did this to him. He wanted more, needed more, but he was going to have to wait until Klaus was ready too. King passed Klaus a cup and grabbed the plate of food from Klaus's hands, that King was sure would taste amazing since Klaus cooked it.

Klaus had grabbed a strawberry and starting chewing down on the poor fruit, his green eyes clearly annoyed of what happened.

"I can't believe I burned the omelet," grouched Klaus.

"It still tastes good," said King as he enjoyed the meal.

"Will you stop smiling," reprimanded Klaus. "This is all your fault."

King looked up from the plate, clearly surprised. "How?" he asked with innocence written on his face.

"If you weren't kissing me, I wouldn't have burned the food," alleged Klaus and King's stomach flipped. "What are you grinning about now?"

King hid his smile behind the rim of his coffee cup. "I'm glad that my kiss took such an effect," he bemused. Klaus mumbled his disappointment through King's breakfast, but King enjoyed that too.

Klaus managed to do the dishes even though King told him that Bone would take care of it. Waiting for Klaus, King was standing in the foyer alone, he just happened to open the door when he spotted Bone who was hunched over admiring the rose hedges.

"Should we go?" Klaus appeared behind King.

King's eyes widened. Klaus would definitely find out that they lied earlier about Bone going to the market. "Bone, you idiot," King cursed under his breath. He abruptly turned and slammed the door shut, the sound boomed and King knew that Bone should have heard it. King leaned on the closed door and blocked Klaus from walking outside.

"What's wrong?" Klaus asked, his green eyes merely at ease and there was no suspicion in them as they stared at King, who was practically trying to save himself from being caught of their lie.

"Nothing," King fibbed boldly.

"Then move from the door," Klaus reached for the handle, but King blocked him. Klaus stared at him bewildered.

King tilted his head as he leaned back on the door. "How did it feel coming to my house for the first time?" he asked, and somehow, he completely forgot that he was trying to distract Klaus because King side-tracked himself.

"A lot of black," commented Klaus as he motioned around him.

"I didn't bother myself by choosing colours," said King.

Klaus blinked. "You don't have a favourite colour to choose from?" he asked.

King's lips lifted. "I think I'm starting to like this one colour," he said softly. "I've never seen something that steals my breath away."

"What colour is it?" asked Klaus.

"I thought it was all emeralds or maybe a summer field, but I didn't feel anything from those things," said King as he straightened to his full height approaching Klaus, he closed the gap between them. King looked into those eyes and as he whispered, his breath was stolen. "Your eyes... I've never seen anything like them before." King put his arm around Klaus. "No one has ever looked at me like the way you do," he believed. "How do you do it?"

"It's not like I do it purposely," said Klaus. "I have no control over it."

King chuckled at his mate for being so honest with himself. "So, you stare at a killer like me with such an endearing gaze because you have no control," he remarked. "We can't have that, Klaus."

Klaus's eyes saddened. "Why do you do that?" his voice was soft but weighed down on King's heart like an iron anchor. "Why do you call yourself a killer?" he asked.

King stiffened as he leaned back on the door again removing his hands from Klaus. He masked the darkness in his eyes with the flame of mischief, not letting his mate know what he really thought about himself.

From the corner of his gaze, King spotted Bone sneaking into the kitchen. "We should head out," said King.

Klaus dropped the matter and looked down at his watch. "I brought my car, so I'll just drive us," he suggested.

King exchanged a secret stare with Bone before he put his arm over Klaus's shoulders. "Let's go," he said as he opened the front door. As they climbed down the few stairs, King's mood brightened. "It's a beautiful day," he announced.

Klaus looked up at the thick grey clouds. "I think there's going to be a storm," he predicted.

King smiled even more brightly. "Even better," he said making Klaus laugh.

They both got in Klaus's sleek white car that was clean as moon crystals. King sat on the passenger side and the first thing he noticed as he closed the door was Klaus's scent in the car was heavier than normal.

"Is this your car?" King asked.

Klaus nodded as he started the engine. "I don't let anyone else sit in this car," he said proudly.

King glanced at his side, admiring Klaus's profile. "Why'd you bring this car for me then?" he jested.

Klaus shot King a grin. "You should feel even more special now," he bemused. Klaus shifted the gear into drive and stepped on the race. The car reached the gates, which opened right away. "How'd the gates open if Bone is at the market?" he suddenly questioned.

King froze. "Er- the gates are automatic," he quickly answered and Klaus bought it without doubting King, which was incredible. King couldn't wrap his head around how he found a mate that trusted him beyond reason.

Klaus drove down the streets with finesse. King inwardly smiled that Klaus was a relaxed driver who took his sweet time. Klaus kept his eyes on the road and he followed all the traffic rules, King was awed by how safe Klaus was all the time, there wasn't a single evil streak in him.

This sensation in his heart couldn't be explained but King was falling deeper under Klaus's spell. Klaus was the light at the end of the tunnel King crawled out of and Klaus was paradise to him. King hadn't even noticed when they arrived. This whole time, he had rested his head back and simply watched Klaus. He lifted his head, which was still in a daze as he viewed his surroundings that was definitely the Centauri pack territory.

"We're here," said Klaus as he unbuckled his seatbelt.

King got out of the car and the clouds were definitely gathering to prepare themselves for a storm, and by the eerie darkness, it seemed to be a forbidding one coming their way.

"King," Klaus called out. "Gabriel's inside."

King followed Klaus inside the manor. "It's quiet," King mumbled.

Klaus chuckled as he put his keys on the table. "Everyone's at work," he said. Klaus turned towards King, he pointed to the living-room. "Take a seat, I'll bring Gabriel." Klaus climbed up the fleet of stairs towards his brother's room leaving King to himself.

King walked into the living-room that was cozy for this large family, he put the files on the large table in the center. The couches all faced each other and they looked used and worn-in. The night he came here for dinner, he noticed the family photos on the tables against the walls. He couldn't see them before because he was with everyone, but nothing was stopping him right now. His gaze coasted over the large pack photos, but every time his eyes only searched for Klaus in the group. Klaus would always be smiling warmly and standing in the middle of everyone.

King found one photo on the side that showed a bunch of kids. It took King a while, but he guessed the young faces from the eyes. Gabriel stood on the side with his arm over River who was stern as a kid too. His twin, Ryder was sitting on top of that lawyer, Vincent who was struggling on the ground and covered in mud. King's eyes went over to the tall, daunting boy standing beside his rowdy brothers, King knew right away that it was Hunter, and Viola who was pretty at that supple age too, was standing next to him.

Suddenly, his eyes went to the bottom of the photo and there sat a little boy, his small legs crossed and his light golden hair thoroughly tousled and falling in his eyes, that were closed since he was smiling with all his teeth.

King's heart warmed; it was like a flame had ignited and slowly melted all the ice inside King's body. The small boy was smiling so happily, like nothing was wrong in the world. No evil had tarnished his purity, that smile had seen no dirty deed and he had never felt pain. King's mind was clouded again with the nightmares of his past and how he was even going to begin telling Klaus about it all. At this age, King had just killed an employee at the orphanage he grew up in. King didn't have a home or siblings, no one to call his own except the wolf inside him.

Shaking off the despair, King took out his phone and stole a photo of Klaus as a kid, and then he moved down the row of photos that showed more pack portraits; a photo of wolves and lots of family vacations.

King stepped in front of the last photo where the air around it changed. A sudden sadness seeped into his body like the portrait was telling a sad story without any words. A beautiful woman with golden hair, that was long and curled to frame her delicate face. She had a warm, sweet smile that reminded King of Klaus so much. This woman's eyes were brimming with joy, no sadness had harmed that strong green gaze.

Who was this woman? wondered King. She looked a lot like Viola but something about this woman reminded him of Klaus.

"King," Klaus's voice called out.

King turned and saw his mate smiling at him, then it clicked to King that the woman in the photo must be Klaus's mother.

"Gabriel will be down in a minute," Klaus informed as he came to King's side, like it was the natural thing to do. "What are you looking-" Klaus stiffened when he saw what King was in front of.

"Who is she?" King asked although he already had his guess.

Klaus didn't look at the photo long, he avoided the photo and focused his gaze on King. "That's the previous alpha-female, Rose Centauri," he answered. "My mom."

King put his hand on Klaus's cheek. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to pry," he said softly sensing his mate's distress like a raging fire; it made King lose his mind that Klaus wasn't comfortable.

Klaus shook his head. "No, it's fine," he lied. "Would you like some coffee or wine?" he pulled away.

King grabbed Klaus's hand and drew him back. "Don't turn away from me," King said darkly. "I can smell the lie from you, Klaus."

Klaus's green eyes withered as if a flower that faced a harsh winter couldn't withstand the cold any longer. "My mom died giving birth to me-" he faced King even though it was clearly hard for him to tell this story- "and I've been carrying that burden my entire life." Klaus pulled away and walked out of the room.

Gabriel had appeared in time and saw his brother leaving. "Klaus?" he called out, but his brother didn't say anything as he left the house and closed the door behind him. Gabriel's golden eyes locked on King next.

"Tell me what's going on?" King asked Gabriel and it was like Gabriel knew exactly what King spoke of.

"Sit... and let me tell you why your mate is the soul of this pack," Gabriel's voice thickened with every possible emotion that expressed pain.

King took a seat on the chair across from Gabriel. "He told me that his mother died giving birth to him," he said.

Gabriel eyes saddened, his gaze went to the photo that King was looking at earlier. Gabriel took a deep breath before he went to the decanter on the side and poured them some whiskey.

"Rose Centauri, the alpha-female of the Centauri pack was a respected leader," Gabriel began as he passed King the glass and took a seat. "She ruled fearsomely and protected her pack from every enemy. My mother was a fighter and the happiest most lovable person you could ever find. She mated my father and like any normal couple started having kids, which they always wanted. But there were complications during Viola's birth. The doctor had warned my parents that another child would risk her life. But then-" Gabriel drew in a harsh breath and he threw the drink back- "another child was conceived."

"Klaus," King understood.

Gabriel nodded. "My mother died after she gave birth to Klaus," Gabriel's voice broke, like he was reliving that day all over again. "Klaus was a healthy baby when he was born. He had full rosy cheeks and he was the chubbiest out of all my siblings." Gabriel smiled tenderly as he quieted again. "My mom passed away and the pack was devastated, but more than anyone, my father had completely crumbled apart."

King understood that mates always had a difficult time after losing their partner. Some wolves couldn't take the loss and have known to take their lives. "So, then you took the alpha seat after your father?" asked King.

Gabriel's entire body thickened with threatening pheromones. King almost feared that Gabriel would transform into his wolf right now. King's wolf stood on all fours and was ready for the danger coming their way...but...none came. Gabriel's gold eyes darkened as he remembered another memory.

"No, I had forcefully taken the seat to the Centauri throne from my alcoholic father," Gabriel menaced.

King stiffened from the rawness in Gabriel's heavy voice. "What did your father do?" King asked carefully.

Gabriel's jaw locked. "He took Klaus's smile away," he growled as dark as a wolf does when it kills its prey. "He destroyed my baby brother's entire childhood."

Ice poured inside King's veins, killing all the life that bloomed through him. King's wolf fangs grew inside his mouth and he tasted his own blood was he bit down his anger. "Fuck," his voice was harsh with rage.

"Robert Centauri wasn't merciful," said Gabriel as he poured them more whiskey. "He abused Klaus in every way that he could. He even pushed Hailey down the stairs for standing up for Klaus. She could've died from the impact if Klaus hadn't caught her and shielded her body in time."

King's eyes widened when he remembered Hunter Centauri's kind and pregnant mate, Hailey who had been nothing but kind to King. King shook his head. "Please tell me this father of yours' is long dead?" he seethed.

"No," Gabriel cursed under his breath. "Sons-a-bitches like these don't die fast. They live long enough to see themselves crumble, only to slither back into the hole they once came out of."

King's entire body felt as if someone pushed him off a cliff and he was broken. Every part of his body had been broken to pieces. "Klaus," he said the name tenderly. "How?" That was all King could ask, how did Klaus stay the way he was now after all the pain he endured? King marvelled in awe.

Round and around in circles, King's head spun trying to understand how anyone could hurt Klaus. The one person who looked after everyone, who thought only good for everyone, who even smiled at a person like King.

Gabriel shoved a hand through his dark hair. "I wasn't able to protect him. I may have stopped my father's beatings but the words cut deeper than I could heal," his tone roughed.

King bit back the sting in his eyes. "He does everything he can to help this pack," he said. "Built a school, teaches young wolves and protects the family. How did anyone lay a finger on him?" King looked at Gabriel who had the same questions swimming in his own eyes.

"He hides it very well, but I know my brother," said Gabriel. "He carries all the pain but locks it away, so no one else gets sad for him."

King's heart clenched in his chest, his throat tightened and he almost got off the couch and hunted after Klaus's abuser. "Gabriel," his voice was low and scary as the predator he was born as. "If I meet your father... I will kill him."

Gabriel's gaze hardened because he knew that King wasn't making a joke, he was making a promise. "I understand," he returned.

"Now, excuse me," King got up from the chair and crossed the room. "I need to look for my mate."

Gabriel followed King onto the porch. "Hold on," said Gabriel. "So, what was the problem with the contracts?" he asked.

"Nothing," he said softly. "Absolutely nothing."

Gabriel chuckled. "Don't tell me you used it as an excuse," he jested.

King shrugged a shoulder. "Can you blame me?" he retorted.

"No," Gabriel smirked. "A mate makes one very desperate."

King took off his jacket when he heard the thunderous crack of lightning across the grey clouds. "He's in the woods," King mumbled to himself.

Gabriel leaned onto the railing. "Klaus loves running in the rain," he said fondly. "I used to run with him a lot. But I guess, it's your turn now."

King stripped off his shirt. "I'll bring him back," he promised Gabriel.

"I know you will," he said. "Have a good run." Gabriel waved as King ran into the woods, leaping into the fresh air was his beastly form, ready to hunt.

King chased his prey with speed through the scent of the forest trees, rich soil and the warning cry of thunder, that bellowed its rage over the world. King's wolf was trained to track his prey by years and years of brutal experience that he got in cage fights. But that was for sport... this was so he could return to his mate. King's wolf slowed as he sensed the center of the forest had arrived, the thick trees swarmed around him and the thunder grew louder above him.

King's wolf stayed under the thick trees and waited because he sensed his mate a mile away. King didn't realize that this was the mating bond that helped him track Klaus. Within nature's richness, his keen nose caught the ripened aroma of pine and warm honey. King's wolf grinned as he lingered in the darkness waiting for his mate to come to him.

A crack of lightning ripped through the sky flashing bright blue in the dark grey sky. King emerged from behind the trees when a golden wolf languidly tracked down a remote path.

King hadn't seen anything more exquisite than Klaus. The wolf was gold as the sun itself, his fur purely one lush colour all the way down to the roots. Klaus was a lean wolf but tall and dignified, he didn't hold himself as weak or submissive, except King knew that Klaus was the most compassionate of wolves he'd ever met.

King's wolf prowled around the golden wolf who had already taken notice that he wasn't alone anymore. Just like King had used their bond to find his mate, Klaus had sensed the bond too. They both had followed their mates trace back to each other.

The golden wolf back sat on the dark soil, his green eyes staring ahead of him as if he wasn't the least bit curious about his mate.

King and his wolf both were caught off guard. They didn't expect that Klaus's wolf would be on the mean side. Offended but also wildly amused, King's wolf narrowed his gaze on Klaus. The black wolf would have charged with full force to play with Klaus but King stopped his wolf, because right now something gentler was needed. King sauntered over calmly and glued himself to Klaus. The golden wolf's vibrant green eyes that had heightened in their vibrancy stared at King. King's wolf froze when he met those beautiful eyes.

The black wolf got up and started circling around Klaus. He would nudge or caress as he slowly got Klaus used to him. The golden wolf simply sat and let King explore to his heart's content. However, King's patience was a wearing thin and he wanted to play with his endearing mate.

King's wolf started off softly. He licked the golden wolf's pointy ear, surprising the wolf but he hadn't moved away. King wondered more and more how he met someone so complacent to meet King's desires. King didn't wait anymore, he shoved Klaus down using his massive paw and pinned the wolf to the ground. Now, the golden wolf had grown feral because no wolf liked being pushed down, mate or not, it didn't matter with these predators.

The golden wolf used his hind legs and pushed King's off him. But the black beast was stubborn, he simply got back up and attacked again. But the golden wolf wasn't a less of a player either, he took off into the forest with great speed, except it wasn't enough to match King's wolf.

The black wolf dashed across passing Klaus and blocked the path from letting the golden wolf run any further. But the smug look in the golden wolf's eyes was clear as day. He knew the terrain much better than King, and he simply took off down the jagged path off to the right. The path down a sloped hill was dangerous, but King wasn't one to back away. Instead, he was fired up to chase Klaus down even more now that Klaus was such a pleasant opponent.

King's wolf jumped the hill, ignoring the tricky steps on the rocks, he landed on his feet and his muscular body took the impact of the fall without any trouble. He bolted across the flat land and crossed the field tracking Klaus as he ran ahead.

Another flash of lightning and then thunder bellowed shaking the ground. A black beast ran across the wet field chasing his golden mate who had outsmarted him. The black wolf ran into the thick trees navigating through the branches and bushes, when suddenly, the ground under him disappeared and he fell.

King's wolf opened his eyes when the fall hadn't killed him. Instead, the black beast was drenched in water. The wolf got onto his paws realizing that they had ran into the lake. From the corner of his eyes, he saw the golden wolf appear perfectly clean and smug. The black beast got up in the water, alarming the golden wolf and he was about to take off again, but the play in King's eyes had left. King's wolf had darkened and the golden wolf sensed it right away, so he stayed put waiting for the black beast to get out of the water, which he had.

The black wolf approached with controlled ease, because he knew that the golden wolf wouldn't run anymore. Klaus took the control now. He stepped forward and morphed into his human form now. He appeared dishevelled in the same pair of jeans but his shirt was gone showing his beautifully refined chest and faint scars that brushed over his gold skin.

Klaus sat on the ground and boldly put his hands over King's fur. He didn't hesitate, which King adored and didn't know that he actually preferred Klaus being so comfortable, even though King's wolf was dangerous. Klaus caressed the black wolf's fur, running his hand through the thick coat and enjoying the feel of it under his hands. King didn't show it but he enjoyed it too.

As they shared a few quiet moments, King noticed Klaus hadn't smiled yet or showed any emotion in those green eyes. Not being able to bear it, King shook his body getting all of the water off his fur and giving Klaus the taste of his own medicine.

"Stop-" Klaus blocked his face- "Stop it, King!"

The black wolf jumped on top of Klaus making him just as wet as King was, taking his revenge from being tricked into the lake, King flopped down on top of Klaus taking the warmth Klaus had to offer.

"You're crushing me," Klaus choked out.

King's wolf shifted to the side, so the man could breathe but he still didn't get off him. Suddenly, Klaus started to laugh and King felt as if he won a tournament. Never before had King felt satisfaction from a victory, but this, this had taken him to the moon and back. The black wolf used his pink tongue licking across Klaus's cheek, then neck. The urge to mark had pained the wolf, but he bit back his desire because right now, all Klaus needed was comfort.

The rain started to drizzle on the entire property and gradually it started to pour down harder.

"We should head inside," said Klaus as he played with the black wolf.

The black wolf didn't move away or make any attempt to leave this sweet spot in front of the lake.

"Did you come here to comfort me?" Klaus asked as he scratched the wolf behind his ear. "I have to admit, you're a beautiful wolf." Klaus laid his head on the wolf's thick neck and hugged the beast close as the rain quickened. "Thank you," he whispered. "I feel much better after running with you." Klaus got to his feet and dusted off the mud from his jeans. "Let's go inside."

King morphed back into his human form and joined Klaus's side. He still had his pants on that were drenched, although he had discarded his shirt earlier. Klaus didn't take King the normal route to the front of the house. King found himself standing at a door to the back of the house, which didn't seem to lead into the house, but somewhere else.

"Where's this door lead to?" asked King.

Klaus pulled out a key. He unlocked the door and opened it. He motioned for King to go inside first. King looked beyond the door and found a narrow, twisted path of stairs.

King pointed up the stairs. "You want me to go up there?"

Klaus simply waited until King moved, which he did. Klaus closed and locked the door behind him as they entered the narrow route.

King wondered how'd they see in the dark, but as soon as the door closed, a warm light flickered on brightening the way. They climbed the path and reached the end to another door; it was a small space for such big men. Klaus slid past King and unlocked the second door, it creaked open to a massive bedroom that was simple and clean. King knew immediately that this was Klaus's bedroom from the scent.

King's eyes surveyed the entire area out of habit. His eyes landed on the large cabinets that took up one side of the wall. The massive bed was neatly cleaned, no sign of dust or disorganization except the messy work table. The television was off and faced the bed; King imagined Klaus sleeping against the grey headboard, watching a show or flipping through channels, after freshly out of the shower. King's eyes glowed when he spotted the moon globe, that was seated on the table right beside Klaus's head when he'd sleep, which made King giddy in his heart.

Klaus moved around his personal space, not even the slightest bit unnerved that King was standing right here and that there was a bed too. There was nothing stopping King from taking advantage of this situation.

"You can use the shower," said Klaus. He opened a door and turned the light on.

King sauntered over. He stood alone in a clean, huge bathroom that was all white marble and sleek metal and glass. There was a massive tub and stand-in shower that had the expensive steam shower option too.

Klaus returned behind King. "Here's a towel," he gave it to King.

"What about you?" King asked.

"There's a spare shower in the guest bedroom," said Klaus. "I'll just take a shower there."

King wasn't surprised that Klaus would give up his own shower to King and use the guest shower himself. The man was just nice this way. "Are you sure?" asked King. "This is your room."

"No, I'm more comfortable with you using my bathroom," affirmed Klaus.

King bit back his smile that threatened to appear from just hearing the hint of possession in Klaus's voice. Klaus left with a change of clothes and closed the bedroom's door behind him. King took a deep breath to relax.

The shower was quick. King stepped out completely refreshed, he wrapped the towel around his waist and stepped out from behind the glass door, that had steamed and grew foggy like the massive mirror. He swiped a hand across the fog, clearing his way to the hazy reflection of himself. He swiped a hand across his wet hair. He heard the distinct sound of the door opening in the bedroom again. It had to be Klaus when King heard cupboards open and close.

King sauntered out of the bathroom, the door opened and the steam swept into the bedroom. The white light illuminated his bare body. King knew he was a tease but he couldn't help it. He came over with just a towel wrapped around himself, nothing else, unlike Klaus who was dressed in blue jeans and a dark green hoodie, like his eyes. Klaus's golden hair slightly damp from his shower, the loose strands fell over his forehead and used the air to dry.

Klaus shyly averted his gaze. "Do you want to wear something of mine?" he asked behind the open cupboard. "Or I can quickly wash your clothes?"

King sat on the edge of the bed. "I'll borrow something of yours."

"I don't have anything fancy to fit your style though," Klaus hesitated.

King got to his feet. He walked up behind Klaus surprising the man. Klaus tried to move but King caged him closely. King purposely tried to appear unaware of his actions, but the blush on Klaus's cheeks made it hard to do so. He loomed behind Klaus who smelt divine and King wanted a taste all over again. He bit the insides of his cheeks so hard, he was sure blood would be drawn. Control finally settled inside King and he refrained from kissing Klaus.

King averted his attention to the line of clothes. Shuffling through the hangers, he picked out a simple black shirt and some jeans, that appeared loose for Klaus, so it should fit King perfectly.

"These should work fine," he said. He moved back to the bed and took a seat with the shirt and pants in his hand. He draped them over the mattress. He guessed that he'd have no boxers underneath the pants.

"Your hair's still wet," said Klaus disapprovingly. He moved around the room and returned to King. The distance was inches away, King was surprised that Klaus even came so close since King had thoughts to use the bed right now and it was for more than just resting.

It was sudden when something white and soft covered King's eyes. Klaus had taken a short towel and put it over King's head. Never before was this done to King, no one dried his hair, but Klaus boldly treated King like he was a child. The towel moved over King's hair, gently and Klaus's hands were nothing but careful. King's heart fluttered, stomach churned and body ignited like flames. Seated on Klaus's bed, letting the man dry his hair and take care of him was getting unbearable to resist any further.

Klaus ruffled the wet strands that fell over King's forehead and into his sterling blue eyes. King looked up from under the towel into kind emerald eyes. He stood to his towering height, looming over Klaus. The small towel fell from King's head and pooled around his bare feet. His hair that was thoroughly ruffled by his mate stayed in a sweet but disorderly state.

"How are you feeling now?" King asked softly.

Klaus's smile had returned. "I'm fine," he said. "Running with you helped."

"Good," said King as he couldn't help but touch Klaus, his hands skimmed over Klaus's cheeks; then his neck and then those lips.

Klaus tugged on his hoodie. "We should head downstairs," he said. "Get dressed."

King didn't move an inch until Klaus had, which was awhile later. They both moved back and Klaus left the room. King took off the towel and slipped on the pants and shirt. He sauntered out of the room, and Klaus had waited outside the door.

They went to the spacious, comfortable kitchen where no one else was expect for King and Klaus. The moment Klaus had entered the space of the kitchen, a glow appeared on his face. His eyes lit up and a smile appeared. King slid on top of a stool, out of Klaus's way, but close enough to enjoy his mate.

The front door opened moments later and the Centauri pack's beta strode inside. His amber eyes tracked every movement, every person and as Hunter entered the kitchen, his eyes softened on Klaus but they glared at King.

"Where's Hailey?" Klaus asked Hunter as he tossed around pots and pans.

"She's upstairs resting," answered Hunter who always kept track of his mate's whereabouts.

"Is she alright?" Klaus frowned.

Hunter's eyes remained on King. "Yeah, she's just tired," he replied to his brother.

King wasn't one to back away from a clear challenge, that Hunter was declaring. King sensed his wolf rake his claws inside him to challenge the opponent. But King would never attack Hunter for Klaus's sake. Hunter's amber glare was a clear warning to King, so King understood that Hunter had already sensed the bond between King and Klaus.

"Good afternoon, Hunter," King broke the tension between them.

"You and I need to have a chat," said Hunter. He prowled back and opened the front door. "Outside. Now."

Klaus intervened. "Hunter, what are you-"

"It's fine, Klaus-" King slid off the stool. He joined Hunter on the porch knowing exactly what was going to happen, but he was prepared for this since the beginning.

The door closed behind Hunter. The last thing he saw with Klaus's warm gaze reminding King that this was all worth it.

"You bonded with my brother," declared Hunter.

King faced those amber eyes with unwavering disposition. "I did," affirmed King. "And I plan on keeping it that way. Is that a problem?"

Hunter raised a brow at King's cocky tone. The beta's whole body grew rigid, and King clearly saw his feral beast in Hunter's amber eyes. "In fact, it is," Hunter gritted out. "I don't like you for my brother."

King's eyes glowed with amusement. "Really, I think we make quite the pair," King grinned.

"It's not a joke," growled Hunter.

"I never said it was," reassured King. "My bond with Klaus was never a joke to begin with either."

"You're a dangerous man, King," said Hunter. "And you don't deserve Klaus. You'll hurt him."

The amusement fell from King's face. Possessiveness was clearly emitting from his whole body. "I know what I am," King's tone was low and threatening. "But I never was nor will I ever be a threat to Klaus." King straightened to his full height, matching the immense gravity in Hunter, challenging him back. "I know I don't deserve him, but no one really does because your brother is nothing short from perfect," he gritted out. "And that last point-" King glared straight into Hunter's eyes. One mated wolf to another- "I will never hurt Klaus. I'll die before I harm him, that's a promise."

Hunter's jaw tightened. "I'll make sure that promise is kept."

King smirked. "Well, get in line, beta, because I'm sure your whole pack is ready to do just the same," he retorted smugly.

"What are you two doing out here?" Hunter's brother, Vincent appeared with Ryder.

"Just letting King know that I'll kill him if he fucks with Klaus," Hunter crossed his thick arms.

Vincent and Ryder exchanged an amused look. "Well, this was a great way to end my night," said Vincent. "Stop threatening Klaus's mate Hunter and get inside." Ryder pushed Hunter into the house even after he didn't budge earlier.

"Sorry about him," said Vincent. "He's a bit protective."

King smirked. "I didn't expect anything less from Klaus's family."

"But he's not kidding when he says that he'll kill you," said Vincent. His hazel eyes turned feral. The intense fire matched the scary beta insanely. "Obviously, not before I hurt you though... badly."

King shook his head. "The line just keeps getting longer," he grumbled.

Vincent chuckled and patted him in a friendly manner. "Come on, let's get you safely to Klaus," he said. "He's your only shield here, otherwise you're dead meat, buddy."