Mated

AUTHOR'S NOTE:

This is a work of fiction. All characters and places are of my own creation. All characters are over 18 years of age. Copyright December 2016. This story contains Supernatural/fantasy elements: Werewolves and other Werebeings. This story contains homosexual activity/themes between males. If this offends you, please do not read. If it is ILLEGAL where you are, please do not ead.

Also...Nifty is a great site, so if you are inclined, maybe consider a small donation. ttp://donate.nifty.org/donate.html Thanks to everyone who have read the previous chapters.

Mated Chapter 11 - Wrong by mjwolfwriter@gmail.com

September 29, Sunday "Okay Sasha, what's wrong?" Ben and his fiance had just returned home from dinner with Dylan and Zack. She was clearly upset about something and he didn't think it was because of him.

Sasha glared at him. "Oh...where do I begin," she snapped, fists firmly on hips.

Ben sat down on the couch. "And by that I take it there's a list," he said, arching a brow.

Snorting, she nodded. "Uh, yeah. Did you know Dylan was gay?"

"I did," he replied calmly as he crossed his legs.

"Aaand you didn't think to tell me?"

"No, that was not my information to share."

"Yeah, right. Bullshit! Whatever. So that guy with him was his boyfriend, then?"

"No, Zack isn't his boyfriend."

Sasha frowned. "So, he's not only gay but apparently a cheating bastard as well. Some friend he's turned out to be."

Ben growled. "Dylan would never cheat on anyone!"

"Well, you said that Zack guy was not his boyfriend, so obviously he would."

Shaking his head, Ben said "You don't understand. Zack isn't his boyfriend, he's his Mate."

"Oh please...that's one of the stupidest things I've ever heard. Gay guys don't have Mates. They have...I don't know...fuck buddies or whatever. Not Mates!"

"You can't be serious. How can you say that? You saw how much they care for each other."

"That doesn't make them Mates."

"True, Fate made them Mates. But Zack is sure of it, he told me the first time I met him. It's clear Dylan loves Zack. And you could see Zack loves him. How could you not see that?"

"I'm sure they love fucking. And I bet that redhead loves playing with a rich guy."

"Sasha, I don't think for one second that Zack gives a single fuck about how much money Dylan does or doesn't have. He just really loves the big guy. And I'm thrilled that Dylan finally has someone who cares about him."

She rolled her eyes. "You care for him. Just how much, by the way? Have you two ever..."

Ben jumped up and growled. "You need to stop! Right now! Dylan is like a brother to me. We have never played around like that with each other."

"Has he ever tried? I bet he has."

Ben's eyes narrowed. "No, he has never tried anything. Never flirted or weird touched or anything like that. But I can honestly say...I think I'd have been flattered if he had. He really is one of the best people I've ever met. Smart, loyal and honorable."

"I bet he's thought about it though," she retorted with a sneer, crossing her arms over her chest.

"Whether he has or not makes absolutely no difference."

"It should."

"No, it really shouldn't."

"Well, at least we found out in time."

"Uh, what are you talking about now?"

"The wedding, obviously. You have to find someone else."

Clenching his fists at his side Ben growled "Tell me you are not saying what I think you're saying."

"Oh yeah...you need to get another best man."

"There's not going to be anyone else! Dylan is my best friend and my best man, period."

"Well, you're right about the first one. Not so much the second."

Ben's anger was rising steadily, red now ringing the irises of his eyes. "You really do need to stop talking...right now!" He swiftly went into the bedroom and returned with a blanket and pillow, which he tossed on the couch. "We can discuss this tomorrow when we're calmer. I'll sleep here tonight."

Sasha's hands returned to her hips. "There's nothing to discuss. I am not having that at my wedding."

Ben held a hand up in a stop gesture. "I'm done talking tonight," he said, walking to the front door. "I'll see you later."

"Where the hell do you think you're going," she snapped with a glare.

Opening the door, Ben replied "Out!" as he stepped outside and slammed the door behind him.

Dylan was sitting on his couch with Zack snuggled up against him. They were watching a movie before bed. Dinner with Ben and Sasha had been fun, though he thought there was some tension from her. Not that he could blame her. She had not met Zack before so it was a surprise meeting him.

Benjamin's ringtone sounded and Dylan picked up. "Hey Ben, what's up?" It was just after 10 PM and they had seen each other at dinner so he was curious.

"Dylan," Ben started, "I know it's late and you're probably having...umm...private time with Zack, but can you spare some time to meet?"

Dylan frowned. "You okay, Ben," he asked.

"No, no I'm not. I could really use some face time if you can. I'm sorry Dyl."

"There's no need to be sorry old friend. Do you want just me or..."

"Just you. If Zack's there, please tell him I'm sorry for messing up his evening."

"I think he'll understand, Ben. He likes you. I'm sure he will be concerned for you."

"Well,I'll probably talk to him about it at some point, but I just don't think I could handle him seeing me like this now."

"Okay bro. I'll be at your place as soon as I can."

"NO," Ben snapped out. "I mean, umm, how about The Grove or something?"

"Okaaay, sure, whatever you want Ben." Something was definitely wrong.

"Sorry for snapping. Told you I'm not doing so well here."

"It's okay man. I'll meet you at The Grove as soon as I can get there."

"Thanks Dyl, I'll be waiting."

Shortly after 11:30, Dylan walked into The Grove. He scanned the main room quickly but didn't see Ben, so moved to a smaller and quieter one. He spotted him in a far corner and made his way to the table. There was a beer in front of Ben, an empty beer bottle, as well as a 'Mucho Nacho' that looked slightly picked at.

Sitting down he said "Now I am worried...there's most of a 'Mucho' left." Ben glanced up at Dylan. He looked miserable and his scent was full of agitation. Dylan's gut said trouble at home.

"Is Zack pissed," asked the blond Wolf.

Sitting across from is friend with his hands resting clasped on the table. Dylan replied "No, he's just concerned about you. What's wrong man? Talk to me."

Averting his eyes, Ben said "Sasha and I had an argument."

Dylan stroked his chin a moment. "Well...that's nothing new bro. You two have had plenty of disagreements before."

Ben clenched his hands into fists. "This one is different. I'm still trying to wrap my head around it. I could really use your woods for a few days."

"Don't be ridiculous," Dylan said after a couple of moments. "I have plenty of room for you inside."

Ben sighed softly. "That's a generous offer Dyl, but I couldn't do that to you and Zack."

"Nonsense. You're in need, you stay."

"Dylan, listen...it's great that you want to be there for me and all, but you can't just decide this on your own. You actually have a partner now. He needs to be consulted."

"But he likes you Ben, I'm sure he won't have a problem with it."

Ben nodded. "You're probably right. But since he's going to be living with you full time now, he still should be part of the discussion. Guys with partners have to talk about these things."

Sighing, Dylan nodded. "This will take some getting used to."

Ben smiled and chuckled. "You'll do fine. I'm sure he'll whip you into line in no time."

"Hey," the dark haired Wolf retorted.

Ben raised a brow. "Am I wrong?"

Dylan grinned. "Nope, not at all."

"So," Ben started, "about those woods..."

"Sure. Come on bro, let's go talk with Zack and get you set up."

"Dylan, I am not putting Zack on the spot tonight. Just let me hang in the woods and we'll talk later, okay."

"Why not...he's up, he knows I'm talking to you..."

"I am in no mood to see him, Dyl. I'm barely maintaining now. I need to let my Wolf out and run and howl and...I'm just not good company tonight. Please Dylan..."

"It's okay Ben. Whatever you need bro. But we're both there if you need us."

"Thanks Dyl."

October 1, Tuesday "Who the hell is this," the angry man snapped. He hated Unknown Number calls.

"Ah, my dear Christopher, charming as always."

Nicodemus Riverton. Fuck! "What the fuck do you want at this hour," demanded Christopher. It was after midnight and he had just kicked out his latest playmate of the moment.

"I see your manners remain the same," chided Nicodemus.

Christopher heard sounds in the background. Probably a television. "Yeah, whatever. What...do...you...want?" Snobby bastard.

"I think we need to meet again," Nicodemus stated.

"I don't," Christopher retorted.

"Not your call, Mister Carver. I will see you at 12:30 for lunch at Czar's Palace. Please do try to look presentable." Silence.

Fucking smug bastard! He would have to show up, of course. No telling what the asshole would do if he didn't.

At a quarter after twelve, he entered the restaurant and approached the Host's station. He was greeted by a Bear bigger than he was. The man was easily 6' 7" and broad of chest (understatement). His buzzed blond hair and dark blue eyes gave off a somewhat menacing vibe. Of course that could also be from the sharpness of his features. Or the scar down the left side of his face. Or just the way he moved. In any case, he wouldn't soon wish to cross the guy.

"How many in party, sir," he rumbled in a thick Russian accent.

"I'm meeting someone. For 12:30 lunch."

"Name?"

"Mine or theirs?"

"You did not make reservation?"

"No, I did not make the reservation."

"What does person look like?"

"Male, tall with red hair."

"You will be following me."

Christopher growled lightly under his breath. It was bad enough that Riverton was ordering him around, now some restaurant host was as well. "Please goes a long way," he grumbled.

The big Bear chuckled. "As you say. Please...little Wolf. This way."

The blond Bear's grin did nothing to ease his irritation. But he knew enough not to challenge the man. Who knows what the Bear would do to him later. After all, a scar like that isn't likely earned from being a pacifist. The guy was probably ex-military.

He was led to a table in a back corner, at which sat Nicodemus with his back to the wall. Just where he himself would have chosen. Asshole!

The Bear pulled a chair out and said "Server will come shortly," before placing a menu on the table and departing. Christopher noticed a glass of red wine in front of Nicodemus as well as a menu, water and a small basket of bread and butter.

Seating himself he asked "I trust my timing is acceptable?"

Nicodemus nodded. "It will do. Though your wardrobe needs more work."

Dressed in dark slacks and a casual button up shirt, Christopher said "Not everyone likes suits. And there is nothing wrong with my outfit, snobby bastard."

Nicodemus smirked "I assure you I am most certainly not a bastard."

"I didn't mean it in the old context, and I'm sure you are smart enough to know exactly what I meant," Christopher glared.

"Still charming as ever I see," Nicodemus sneered.

"Yeah, whatever. Now...why the hell are we meeting this time," snapped Christopher.

Just then the server arrived. Christopher ordered a beer and then checked out the menu when the server left. A short time later the server returned with his beverage and they placed their orders.

A moment after the server departed, Nicodemus spoke. "I can't help but notice that it has been almost a full lunar cycle since we talked and nothing has happened with Zack."

"True," Christopher replied.

"Are you getting cold feet? Or just not up to the task?"

Christopher glared and gritted his teeth. "I have a plan," he bit out.

"A plan? And just how much longer is this plan of yours going to take?"

"Are you wanting to take this from me," the dark haired Wolf snapped.

"No, of course not," Nicodemus soothed. "However I must advise you that your window of action is dwindling considerably. I have learned that Zack will be cohabitating with his man extremely soon. I should think your opportunity will be gone once this occurs."

"Not necessarily gone, but surely more difficult."

"I suggest that you move your plan along then."

"I'm getting tired of you ordering me around. I will act when I am ready. My plan has been going for some time and I do not need your interference."

The redheaded Wolf smiled. "Don't think of it as interference, then. More like...motivating."

"I am plenty motivated, so you can stop doing it."

They remained quiet until after their meals had been brought. Several minutes of enjoying the food passed, then Nicodemus spoke again. "So, would you care to enlighten me of your grand plan?"

"No, no I wouldn't. I don't need you criticizing or trying to alter it."

Nicodemus perked a brow up. "Have you given any thought to what you will do if they begin cohabitating before your grand plan is executed?"

"I don't need to alter much I think. The plan calls for getting him while he is away from home anyway. It really doesn't matter which home it is."

"That may be true, but have you considered the difficulties if you enact this action after he moves in with his man? Surely you understand the man will be expecting Zack to return home at a certain time."

Christopher frowned slightly and brows furrowed. "Minor details."

Nicodemus chuckled. "Minor details indeed. Well, I hope so for your sake."

Snorting, Christopher said "Don't go acting like you give a shit about my welfare. I know full well you don't."

"Touche. You are quite correct. But I do care about the end goal being reached. And your safety is needed for that."

"Don't worry, I'll finish it just fine."

Conversation ended and both men finished their meals in near silence. When they were done, Christopher got up to leave. "Thanks for the lunch. I trust I will not be bothered further?" He received a curt nod and left the restaurant.

October 3, Thursday "Okay, out with it," said Dylan. He was leaning against the driver's side door of Ben's Hummer, legs crossed at the ankles and arms folded across his muscled chest. All in all, a rather effective barrier to just getting in the vehicle and leaving.

The morning sun was just barely beginning to show it's light as the white Wolf emerged from the edge of the woods and into the clearing that was the driveway of Dylan's estate. He stopped and let out a soft, resigned hufff sound before shifting into his human form. Goose bumps from the cold air raised over his naked skin as he walked over to where Dylan stood at his vehicle. He adopted the same crossed arm pose, feet apart. He arched a brow and asked "A bit early to be standing around out here for you, isn't it?"

"A man does what he must when his best friend avoids speaking to him in the morning and evening," Dylan countered.

"I don't avoid speaking to you. I talk to you everyday."

"Uh huh. Cut the bullshit Ben. You've been here for four nights in my woods, never coming inside to talk, shower, dine or watch TV with me, or Zack when he's here. I think it's past time you told me what's going on."

Ben couldn't seem to meet his eyes, looking all about him. "I told you, Sasha and I had an argument."

"Yes, you told me that. But I know you. You've had arguments with your girlfriends before. You never stayed away from home though. So I ask again, what's going on?"

"It's, uh, taken me some time to sort through it in my head."

Dylan stepped closer and put a hand on Ben's shoulder. "Is there anything I can do to help? You know I'm here for you, man."

The blond Wolf sighed. "No, there's nothing you can do, Dyl. But thanks for the offer. It's my problem and I'll deal with it."

"Our problem. If it bothers you, it bothers me."

"This is something you can't fix Dylan. Just trust me on this. There really are some things you can't do. But if you really want to do something, you could help me move my shit when I'm ready."

"Wait...move your stuff? It's that serious? What the fuck, Ben?"

"For now, let's just leave it at we have come to a point of irreconcilable differences."

"That's still an evasion, Ben."

"Yes. Yes it is, but it's all you're going to get for now. I've just lost a relationship this week. I don't need the grief, Dyl."

"I'm sorry Ben. I really didn't mean to be a dick. I just worry."

"I know, and I love you for it. But right now I need to focus on the problem at hand, okay?"

"Do you need help looking for a place?"

"If you don't mind, sure."

"Okay then," Dylan nodded. "I'll see what I can do."

"Thanks Dyl. Now...can I get dressed and go? I have to get cleaned up and get fresh clothes."

Dylan frowned. "There's a shower in there, you know," he said, pointing to his house.

"Dylan. What makes you think I'm going to break the pattern just because we chatted? I'll shower at work, like I have been."

Stepping away from Ben's vehicle, Dylan asked "You want a cup of coffee, at least?"

Ben sighed. "Is Zack awake?"

"No, he's still sleeping. But he will probably be up soon to get ready for work."

"I'm in and out...five minutes or less. He sees me I scream kidnapped," Ben chuckled.

"Asshole," Dylan laughed, clapping his friend on the shoulder. "Better hustle, soldier," he remarked as he set off for his front door.

October 7, Monday Zack took the two to-go cups from the barista and said "Thanks," with a smile and left the counter. He wove his way through the place and up the stairs to the Bean's upstairs seating. Reaching his destination, he handed the seated Coyote one of the cups then sat in his own seat. As was his habit, he took a moment to inhale the scent of the divine beverage that was coconut latte. He sipped and enjoyed the sweet coconut flavor that coated his tongue, a soft moan escaping his lips.

"Do you need to be alone," said Dustin, brow perked up.

"Shut up and drink your mocha," Zack shot, sticking his tongue out.

"On second thought, you clearly want company" laughed Dustin.

'If I want company for something hot and creamy in my mouth, you are most definitely not that company."

Dustin got a sad, pouty look. "You mean our time together meant nothing to you? I'm hurt, man."

Zack spewed the mouthful of latte he'd just drank...to Dustin's wild laughter. "Gods, Dust. That was a one time thing. And we both agreed it didn't work." He reached over to the table and grabbed several napkins that were there and cleaned up the mess.

The Coyote took a deep breath and exhaled. "I know, but if I don't rib ya about it, who will?"

Tossing the soaked napkins on the table, Zack feigned a scowl. "Well fortunately you're the only one that knows it happened. So unless you told," he looked pointedly at his friend.

Dustin held up his hands. "No one, I swear. Though when you think about it, it is part of a certain pattern you have."

"A pattern I have," Zack inquired.

"Oh yeah, for sure," Dustin grinned.

"Care to share with the rest of the class?"

"You have a deep attraction to the letter D." The Coyote winked and nodded. "Dildos, dicks, Dustin and Dylan. That's a pattern of behavior my friend."

Zack took another sip of his beverage. "I can think of another D if you don't shut up." He tried to look menacing, but totally lost it in a fit of laughter himself. His friend knew him so well.

Dustin took a drink of his mocha and then looked at Zack. "So, what are we doing here Zee? Don't you usually spend your evenings with Mr. Man?"

"Yes, I do spend most evenings with him, and I will be tonight. But I wanted to ask you for something."

"What do you need me for that he can't help with?"

"Well, you know we're Mates."

"Yes, you've told me several times. And yes, I can smell it."

"So...he's actually asked me to move in. And I could use all the help I can get. I know it would be easy to just ask him, but if I do, he'll want to do it all. Probably while I'm at work. He's got 'Alpha' real bad with me," Zack chuckled. "Anyway, I just don't want him to have to do everything, ya know/"

"And when is this grand move to occur?"

"I want to be in by this weekend, optimally," Zack smiled.

"So, maybe I grab a couple of the guys?"

"Thanks, Dust. Between your help and Dylan, because I hold no illusions that I can keep him out of it, we will get this thing done."

They sat for another while, chatting and making a rough plan before getting up to leave. They hugged in the parking lot before going to their own vehicles and heading their separate ways.

Christopher watched the Wolf and Coyote embrace and then depart in different directions. He knew the two were friends, but this little meeting was out of pattern for Zack, of late. He had a feeling something was up. Quickly, he decided to go ahead and follow Zack further this evening, just in case something interesting came up. The Wolf drove back to his place of employment and left in a pick up. Needless to say, he was a bit surprised to end up at EveryMart.

He parked where he could watch the spot Zack parked in. After 20 minutes, the redhead returned with a cart full of flat looking items and a store shopping bag. It did not take a genius to guess what that was all about. FUCK! It looked like Zack's move was closer than he figured.

Christopher followed Zack back to his apartment. He watched him as he took his purchases inside. Two trips. Ten minutes later, Zack emerged with a duffel bag and got in the truck. That indicated the man was going to his Alpha. He figured he'd follow a bit to be sure though. Once it became clear that Zack was indeed headed to the man's house, Christopher gave up the tracking for the night. He didn't need to know any more tonight.

********** Comments are appreciated, so let me know what you think. However, flames are not constructive. If you didn't like the story because it just wasn't your taste, just let it go. Feel free to contact me at mjwolfwriter@gmail.com. Also, join the Google+ community (https://plus.google.com/communities/114866523029526571301) to talk about characters, chapters, etc.

Thank you to all who commented on previous chapters.