Posted originally on the Archive of Our Own at

http://download.archiveofourown.org/works/538425.

Rating: Explicit
Archive Warning: Choose Not To Use Archive Warnings
Category: M/M
Fandom: Teen Wolf (TV)
Relationship: Derek Hale/Stiles Stilinski
Character: Stiles Stilinski, Derek Hale
Additional Tags: Family, Single Parents, Babysitting, Learning to be a parent, Broken
Family, Transgender Child, Gender Issues, Acceptance, Scent
Marking, Mild Transphobia
Stats: Published: 2012-10-16 Completed: 2013-04-25 Chapters: 20/20
Words: 101000

Prince Among Wolves

by tylerfucklin (Zimothy)

Summary

Looking for full day/evening sitter. 2 twin boys age 4. Must have exp. w/werewolves.
Must be human. No pedophiles. No teenage girls. Pay negotiable.
 Chapter 1

Im pretty sure youre exaggerating the cost a little bit, Stiles groused, one hand scrolling
through online job postings while the mechanic on the line with him continued to list the multitude
of things that were magically wrong with his jeep. Stiles wouldnt put it past the guy to try and
write off unicorn in the alternator as one of the many fixes to add to the bill.

Okay, yeah, how long? Are you serious? What about a payment plan? Right, so can I take it to
another mechanic, because thats ridiculous. What? Well, I didnt tell you to start working on it
already. Oh my God, fine. Stiles practically chucked his phone at the desk by the time he hung
up on the mechanic, anger boiling up within him.

It was bad enough that rear-ending someone due to failed brakes was considered his fault, but that
the mechanic theyd taken the car to refused to release his jeep until all repairs were paid for?
Stiles was already at his wits end and it was still the second week of summer.

Stiles rocked his chair back and forth, staring at his cell phone for another long second and then
snagging it to dial his dad. Sure, dad was working, but Stiles knew working usually consisted of
lurking speed traps for a few hours before moseying down to the precinct to do paperwork.

His dad picked up on the third ring and Stiles sat up, staring blankly at the job ads on his computer
screen. Hey father omine--

No.

Stiles choked on air for a second, struggling to think of what he wanted to say. He floundered and
then scoffed. I cant just call my favorite dad up and see how his long, hard word day has been
going?

Another pause, and then a pained sigh. What do you want, Stiles? Im working.

Stiles fiddled with a pen sitting nearby, shrugging despite the fact that his father couldnt see it. I
was just wondering if youd be open to the possibility of me taking out a loan? I could pay it off
by cleaning things? Youd have your own indentured servant.

You already are my indentured servant, his father pointed out dryly, I pay your tuition and you
do my laundry and make food, remember?

Curses. Well, you know. Maybe I could power wash the roof? Your cruisers looking kind of
dirty and all. Stiles dropped his pen to click around on the computer, pulling up a list of job
postings that had been put up earlier that day. Wouldnt hurt to stay on top of things in case his
father--

You said you wanted to be independent. That means paying for your own problems, son.

Stiles dropped his head, whimpering mournfully into the phone. Cruel and unusual punishment,
dad.

Just think of it this way. You can spend your summer being responsible instead of partying until
your fall semester.

Picking his head up, Stiles snorted loudly and scrolled to a job marked Need Babysitter
somewhere around the top of the listing. Okay, yeah, like I was going to party anyway, he
muttered bitterly.
Ive adjusted to the idea that your form of partying is playing Xbox Live with Scott all night or
doing nothing but playing Borderlands and drinking Code Red all weekend.

Wow, it was almost sad how predictable Stiles had apparently become. Then again, Stiles liked to
think of his life as simple and drama-free; when there werent any blackout thunderstorms, at least.
Touch.

Im going back to work now, his dad said slowly, try to avoid jobs with questionable legality,
please.

You make things so hard for me, dad. Stiles feigned dismay, gasping for good measure.

Its how you know I love you.

Uh huh, yeah, Stiles laughed, bidding his father goodbye before hanging up and glancing over
the ad that hed pulled up.

--Looking for full day/evening sitter. 2 twin boys age 4. Must have exp. w/werewolves. Must be
human. No pedophiles. No teenage girls. Pay negotiable. --

Stiles was absently grateful that he was already holding his cell phone, otherwise he would have
made a mad scramble to get it. Scott was a werewolf, and had been one since high school. Stiles
had been the person who had helped him all through his change, and Stiles was very human. He
was also not a teenage girl or a pedophile. He was so qualified, and babysitting jobs could pay a
whole heap to do nothing but watch a bunch of kids and feed them on occasion.

He dialed the number listed at the bottom, leg bouncing in anticipation as it rang. The longer it
took, the more tense he got until the voice mail picked up and a very irritated sounding man came
through on the recording.

Im not here. Leave a message and Ill get back to you at my convenience.

The second Stiles heard the beep, he sucked in a breath. Hi, hey--hello, my name is Stiles. Im
calling about the ad you put in for the sitter. I was wanting to see if you still needed someone. My
name is Stiles Stilinski. Im 23 and Im a student at BHU. Im off for the summer so I wont be
taking classes until the fall--oh, Im human. My best friend is a werewolf. Stiles struggled to think
of anything important he needed to add, fidgeting with his highlighter and popping the cap on and
off as he talked.

Hes a cool werewolf, uhm. I like kids, kids are great. I used to go volunteer at the pediatrics
ward at my friends moms work. My friend who is the werewolf. I also babysat for my
neighbors kids when I was in high school and I dont like to give sugar to kids and I follow
schedules for nap times and I know how to change a diaper. Not that Im saying your kids dont
know how to change a diaper, but in case of emergency, that knowledge is there, he sucked in a
sharp breath, biting on his tongue and wincing.

So, if you still need someone, please let me know. Stiles listed off his phone number and then
his email address for good measure, thanking the faceless man for his time and hanging up just a
half second after he heard the notification telling him that his voice mail was getting too long. He
released a long sigh, dropping the phone back down and then leaning back in his chair to stare up
at the roof. He could babysit, right? All he had to do was look up some blogs about taking care of
boys and baby werewolves and hed be totally fine.

Just to be on the safe side, though

Hey Scott? Stiles waited for the rustling on the other line to die down, belatedly impressed that
Scott had actually answered on the first try. How hard do you think it is to babysit werewolves?

Uh, Scott answered intelligently, repeating it and then drawing it out a third time like he was
actually going to think about it, I dont know man. Like, you would have two evil monsters on
your hands around the full moon, probably. Are you sure you should be around kids? You might
give them sugar poisoning or something.

Obviously Scott was not Stiles friend because of his deep and analytical understanding of Stiles
as a person. Mostly, Stiles figured the majority of their friendship hinged on comic books, fart
jokes and the appreciation for nice butts.

Thats what blogs are for, man. No better baby advice than the blog of a stay-at-home mom
trying to make life easier for her fellow parents. Plus, theres a baby channel on discovery or
something. I totally got this.

Okay, man, but dont call me if you end up becoming a giant chew toy or something. Im
supposed to hang out with Allison and Isaac this weekend. Were going mini-golfing.

Stiles rocked back in his seat, stifling a groan. He would never understand the exact dynamics of
their weird threesome romance/bromance that had turned Stiles from the awkward third wheel into
the hobbling spare tire on the back that was only used during major blowouts.

He muttered as much to Scott before hanging up and staring at the clock on his laptop. Might as
well kill a few hours applying to some retail jobs and googling things about werebabies.

It was well beyond nightfall when Stiles phone started to ring with a number he didnt recognize.
At first, he contemplated the likelihood of it being a misdial, but figured it wouldnt hurt to
answer.

Hello?

A gruff, unfamiliar male voice barked over the other line, can you come by tomorrow to sign
paperwork and take a drug test?

Whuyh? Stiles floundered, jumping forward so fast in bed that he slipped and flailed off the side
in a painful heap. Im sorry, who is this?

A lengthy pause and then, the one you called about the sitter job.

Oh, yeah! Stiles rolled onto his stomach, trying not to grunt too loudly as he pushed himself to
his feet. Yeah, I can take a drug test. What time do you need me to come by? Is before eight
okay? His dad left for work at eight, so Stiles could catch a ride with him instead of trying to get
one from Lydia or Scott, who were slightly less reliable when it came to transportation help.

Seven would be better. You get a trial run. Bring yourself, a drivers license, and social security
card. I can pay you fifty an hour.

Fifty?! Stiles cried, choking on air and tripping over his pants in a mad dash for his desk.

An irritated growl. Take it or leave it. The guy made it sound like he was offering some kind of
ridiculously stingy price instead of an insanely generous one. At this rate, Stiles wouldnt even
have to take out an extra student loan by the time school started up again. He could have his car
paid off before the end of the summer.

Finally dragging himself to his desk, Stiles snagged a pen and a piece of scrap paper. No, fifty is
perfectly fine. Whats your address?

Stiles copied down the information given, as well as a phone number and a list of things they
wanted him to bring.

Once thats taken care of, you can start sitting tomorrow.

Double-taking, Stiles stared down at the paper in front of him and then up at the half-finished wiki
article on how to deal with the notorious boy jelly leg syndrome. Kind of soon, isnt it?

Youre the sheriffs son, I trust you know what would happen if my kids arent well taken care of
when I get home tomorrow.

Oh damn. It was terrifying how quickly this guy did his research. Then again, you didnt have to
look very far for a Stilinski in Beacon Hills given that there were only three, and one was in the
obituaries.

Uh, well. You dont have to worry, Stiles laughed awkwardly, tapping his pen on the paper and
then chewing on the corner of his thumb. I cant thank you enough for this job, dude. My cars
brakes went out and I nailed someone the other day so I thought Id have to be busting my chops
all summer and then--

I dont really care why you need the money. Just be here on time tomorrow.

The line went dead and Stiles almost winced at the abruptness of it. Well. Hopefully this guys
kids werent as rude as their father was. Stiles grabbed a sliver of tape from his desk drawer,
sticking the list on the side of his monitor and then going back to what he was reading. He had to
at least cover how to deal with temper tantrums if he was going to be babysitting two twin boys in
just a few hours.

After frying his brain on the pbs website, as well as wikipedia and a handful of parenting blogs,
Stiles set his alarm and shot his father a text message to let him know hed be a chauffeur in the
morning. However, he was far too anxious to sleep, and ended up spending a good few hours
sitting on his bed jiggling his legs with anxiety before he was up again and at the computer. A
little more research never hurt anyone.

Stiles alarm went off the next morning with no regard for the minimal amount of sleep that Stiles
had gotten. It was loud and blaring, vibrating itself right off of the desk and onto a stack of game
cases. Stiles groaned, loud and pained, and rolled just as gracefully out of bed.

He leapt up, though, when he remembered why his alarm was set in the first place. Excitement
was the best kind of way to bat away any vestiges of sleepiness that might have been pulling Stiles
back to the bed. He hurried to get ready, hopping in for a quick shower and using bar soap only
(Scott complained when hed first turned that body cologne was strong to a werewolfs nose) and
then gathering the things needed to fill out paperwork before he thundered downstairs where his
father was sitting at the kitchen table.

Ready?

Lets do this, Stiles nodded, inhaling shakily and then letting it out with a shake of his arms and
shoulders to try and knock off some anxiety that kept clinging to him.

The house they pulled up to was at the end of a long driveway hidden halfway into the mountains.
Stiles now understood the point of the numbers hed been told to memorize, because it was what
unlocked the gate blocking the rest of the house from access. Stiles was running a few minutes late
by the time his father finally dropped him off, just because of the distance. He rang the bell once
after jogging up the stairs, bouncing on the heels of his feet and waiting for the owner of that gruff
and irritated voice to answer.

The door swung open and, instead of any form of man on the other side, there was a girl with
wavy blonde hair and a crying boy on her hip. She released a loud sigh of relief, hand shooting
out to grab Stiles wrist and drag him inside. Its about time. This is above my pay grade-- she
stumbled, her right leg suddenly trapped in the arms and legs of the other boy, this one not crying
and looking more needy than anything. She sighed, taking the sobbing child from her hip and
shoving him at Stiles.

Here, you take this one.

Stiles did as he was told, holding the kid at arms length when it screamed and kicked at him. He
contemplated what exactly he was supposed to do, before he ignored the girl trying to lead him
out of the foyer and set the kid down.

Jelly legs made it impossible and the kid crumbled like a sack of peas. Stiles set him on the floor,
let the kid kick and scream for a second before suddenly the arms were up again and grabbing at
Stiles. Apparently the desire to be held by anyone was stronger than the need to dismiss a stranger.

Stiles picked him back up again, arms hooking under the shoulders and then pushing the bottom
for support until he had the kid cradled into his chest, crying loudly into his ear. Those chubby
arms went around his throat, hugging him tight. Stiles rubbed his hand down the boys back,
rocking him and finally heading after the blonde woman. The screaming had died down into
hiccupping cries by now, and when Stiles finally found where he was supposed to be going, there
was just whimpers and sniffles in his ear.
Stiles could already tell this was probably going to be a handful.

There you are. Oh, look, he likes you. Awesome. Okay, I need you to sign these and give me
your license and social security card. Im gonna make copies so we can get your background
check out of the way. The next few minutes were a flurry of activities, mostly because Stiles had
to do everything left handed since he currently had an exhausted boy half-passed out in his arm.
By the time it was all said and done, the woman--apparently a secretary, not a sitter--left Stiles
with an emergency contact list, a booklet full of meals and what the boys could and couldnt have,
and a farewell of, call me, Erica! Dont call Derek unless its an emergency! as the door
slammed shut behind her.

Stiles glanced around, but he couldnt find the other boy anywhere in the kitchen. He didnt even
know their names, because Erica, apparently, had just wanted to give Stiles the bare essentials
before running off to do her actual job. He heard the sound of a television being turned on, and
followed it into the living room. The boy in his arms sniffled, fingers curled into Stiles collar as he
sniffed again and then rubbed his nose up under Stiles ear, smearing snot everywhere while
snuffling like a dog. Or a werebaby.

Shuddering, Stiles bit back the urge to dry heave and push the kids face away from his ear.
Instead, he rounded the couch, taking a seat next to the other boy with a loud and melodramatic
sigh. The one on the couch was wearing a blue tee with shorts, while the one in Stiles arms had a
black tee and shorts. A small, but extremely helpful difference.

Hi, Stiles said to blue tee, wiggling the fingers of the hand not supporting the child in his arms.
Im Stiles, whats your name?

Blue tee crinkled his nose, leaning into Stiles space and sniffing before saying. Andy. You smell
funny, with that, Andy slid off the couch like a worm and onto the floor, watching Stiles
suspiciously. Stiles, normally, would have felt a little offended, but he had a feeling that Erica was
a werewolf just like the boys and their father. It was possible she was their mother, but Stiles
didnt want to jump to any conclusions. This wasnt Desperate Housewives.

I bet I smell funny because Im human, Stiles pointed out, wincing at the loud and tired yawn
that the other boy gave off in his ear. Unless I smell like farts. Do I smell bad? I didnt even fart
today. Stiles put a heap of false indignation in his voice, scowling for good measure like he was
very upset at this fact.

Andy grinned, laughing squeakily and then shaking his head. No, not bad. Funny.

Smells good, muttered the sleepy one on Stiles shoulder. Stiles preened and Andy made a face.

Ollys nose is broken.

Olly huffed into Stiles throat and Andy scooted closer so that he could stare at Stiles with wide,
curious green eyes. His hair was a mop of black, sticking every which way like hed spent all
morning rubbing a pillow on it just to make it look that way. Are you old?

Stiles snorted, shaking his head as Olly squirmed to get into a position where he could watch the
conversation. Im not that old, he informed Andy, reaching for the remote control to try and flip
for a station with some childrens shows on it. Olly whined, reaching for it with wiggly fingers
and Stiles handed it over.

You must be old, Andy said seriously, bringing both hands up to press against the top of his
head. Your hair is short! Are you going bald?

Olly, standing on Stiles thigh and propped against his chest and shoulder, fiddled with the remote.
He was still breathing a little heavy, nose stuffed from crying and mashing his fingers against the
channel button without actually looking at the television. Stiles didnt have the heart to take it from
him just yet. He had to get on their good side first.

I like short hair, Stiles said. Andy made a displeased noise, tugging on his own dark locks and
scrunching his nose up like the concept was displeasing.

Short hair is stupid.

Stiles laughed before he could stop himself, the movement jostling Olly into grunting and sliding
into a plop on Stiles thigh. You have short hair! Stiles pointed at Andy, mostly because it
wasnt uncommon for kids to claim their dislike for something just to be confrontational. Andy
released a distressed noise, jumping up to his feet and waving his arms around like what he was
about to say was of the utmost importance.

Thats because daddy makes me! I want long pretty hair! Like punzel!

Oh, this was an interesting development. Especially because Andy looked genuinely upset that he
couldnt be allowed to grow his hair out. Time for a subject diversion because Stiles was not ready
to deal with another boy meltdown already.

I like Rapunzel! What else do you like?

It was like opening a floodgate for conversation. Andy was going a mile a minute listing anything
and everything he had ever liked, making sure to point out minute details in some of his preferred
shows that he didnt particularly care for. Every now and then he would take a breath and Olly
would use that moment to quietly inform Stiles of his own favorite cartoons.

Within the span of fifteen minutes, what Stiles could decipher from half-garbled boy babble was
that Andy loved fairy tales and princesses and anything to do with a happy ending, while Olly
was a huge fan of outer space and ocean life. It made things a little easier for Stiles to already tell a
difference between the two.

Andy spoke in higher tones, sometimes squeaking when he got too excited about stuff, and
always gesturing if he thought maybe Stiles might not understand. Olly, on the other hand, was
more focused on making sure he knew the words to express what he wanted to say, and so he
took his time and didnt stumble over his words and phrases the way Andy did.

Stiles finally got them situated in front of some Disney reruns of House of Mouse after they wore
themselves down talking about anything and everything. It gave Stiles a chance to return to the
kitchen and grab the papers that Erica had left him. One paper in the booklet had two names on it,
and a list of favorite snacks and meals under each one. Those names were Oliver Hale and
Andrew Hale.

Well, at least it was reassuring to know that their father was a little more creative than Stiles had
initially assumed. Olly and Andy as nicknames were a little less surprising.

Venturing around the rest of the house, Stiles found half the doors to be locked up and the other
half with child-gates that were bolted in. Well, at least it was werebaby proof. The upstairs was
blocked off as well, so Stiles really only had access to the kitchen, living room, laundry, garage,
and a hallway that lead to a bathroom and the boys rooms. Stiles only chanced a quick peek into
each one to see a proverbial vomit of toys and stuffed animals everywhere before he decided it
would be best to act like hed never seen any of it to begin with.

Returning to the living room, Stiles wasnt particularly surprised to see the both of them had
started to fidget with boredom. It wouldnt be long before they were causing havoc if Stiles didnt
do something soon.

Do you guys wanna play a game? Stiles asked. Andys head shot up, shooting Stiles a thousand
watt smile and nodding.

I wanna be princess! Im punzel! With that, Andy rolled off of the couch and shot out of the
room. Stiles was left scratching his head in confusion, ready to ask Olly what his brother was
talking about when Andy came running back in with a bedtime blanket sitting on his head, the
blue fabric dragging on the floor behind him.

Imma princess! Andy cried again, flipping a corner of the blanket over his shoulder and
pointing to Olly. You are th knight!

Stiles looked Olly, who seemed to accept his fate as he slid off the couch and waddled towards the
bedroom hallway. Stiles glanced at Andy, feeling only the tiniest bit confused. Far be it from him
to discourage gender equality, but usually boys didnt like being called girls.

Dont you mean prince?

Andy stared at Stiles with wide eyes, looking like his entire world had been crushed. No!
PrinCESS! he shrieked, and then let out an earth shattering wail as Olly came back in with a
plastic sword. Stiles frantically tried to remedy the situation, reaching out to pick Andy up but
getting tiny clawed hands slapping at him instead.

Dont cry, Andy! Stiles exclaimed, you can be a princess! Im sure there are princess boys,
too! You can be whatever you want!

Im not a boy! Andy wailed, plopping onto his bottom and dragging the blanket off of his head
to hold it tightly. Stiles had a feeling this wasnt the first time something like this had happened.
The fact that the kid was freaking out so bad over being called a boy opened up a whole can of
worms that Stiles was completely unprepared for. Andy sniffled and Olly came close to crouch
down, tiny mouth pursed into a frown.

Issok, Andy. I know youre no boy, Olly said quietly, kissing his brother on the forehead. Andy
peeked an eye open, whimpering and then shoving his face into his blanket. Stiles decided it was
time to intervene.

Andy, he began awkwardly, sitting down next to the boy. Im sorry I said you were a boy.

Really? Andy squeaked, looking up at Stiles with watery eyes.

Stiles nodded profusely, because he was not going to discourage this kid from being whatever he
or she wanted to be. Hed seen enough articles about this kind of stuff to know that, even if it was
something of a phase or maybe more permanent, telling Andy it was wrong was never the way to
go. Uh huh. Ill even make you a crown if you want me to. That way you can be a real princess.

It was like Stiles had brought Christmas on months early, and Andys face lit up with excitement.
A crown? he squeaked incredulously, sitting up so fast he nearly knocked Stiles in the chin with
his head. Stiles laughed, nodding and then shrugging.

Of course. Whats a princess without her crown? Do you have a dress to go with it?

Andys face fell, and that just wouldnt do.

So thats how, three hours later, Stiles found himself playing castle in the living room with a fort
made out of pillows with a princess wearing an aluminum foil crown and a blue bed sheet toga-
dress. Of course, Stiles was the prince in danger, so he just had to swoon and sigh in his pillow
fort while Andy swung around a sword at Olly the knight (Olly, said Andy, was a bad knight and
needed to be put in time out for hurting the prince, AKA: Stiles) with a battle cry fierce enough to
rival Xena herself.

That, of course, was when the front door opened and all Stiles heard was an infuriated roar of,
What the hell is this? just as Andys pillow shield smacked him in the face and he sent the entire
pillow fort crashing to the ground.
 Chapter 2
Chapter Notes

omfg adslfkajds ;-; you guys are so amazing. here have another chapter.

It was like a sudden surround sound when both of the boys screamed, Daddy! at the tops of
their lungs. They scrambled over the pillows and Stiles was pretty sure he had a foot up his nose
for a second before twin sets of feet thundered across the living room towards the entry.

Stiles struggled to his feet just in time to see the both of them smack into a leg each of the man
standing there with a look that seemed to be torn between annoyed and horrified. He had a
briefcase in one hand and a cell phone in the other, and now he had a child clinging to each of his
legs while talking a mile a minute in high-pitched babble.

Stiles tripped over himself to get around the couch. He picked up Andy first, practically prying the
kid from his fathers shin, and then did the same with Olly. They were both a bit heavy, and Stiles
barely had a grip on them when both boys were reaching for their father. Mr. Hale curled the
phone in close, muttering, I need to call you back, and hanging up.

Looking at Stiles, Mr. Hales focus turned to the living room. The guy was insanely attractive,
with dark hair and a perfectly tailored suit. His eyes were pale, the same shade as Ollys, and his
face must have been cut straight from marble and stained with a permanent half-day shadow of
stubble. Stiles maybe was gaping the tiniest bit, but he wasnt entirely surprised that this guy was
the father of the two adorable boys in his arms.

So, Mr. Hale began lowly, your first day watching my sons, and you destroy the living room.

Oops.

Andy and Olly both started giggling guiltily as Stiles glanced to where the couch pillows were all
over the place, scattered with various sheets and things like that. It looked like a disaster now that
Stiles and the boys had knocked the original structure down. He glanced back to Mr. Hale,
smiling sheepishly. Its just a pillow fort, he said, hoping the guy understood that much. Stiles
realized that, considering how rich Mr. Hale seemed to be, and how immaculate the house had
been, it was likely that the guy was a stickler for cleanliness.

Daddy, Andy whined, reaching out and snagging the corner of Mr. Hales suit. He gave it a tug,
Daddy, daddy, daddy, his voice grew more frantic with each word until Mr. Hale sighed and
plucked him right out of Stiles arms with no effort at all. Damn werewolf strength.

Stiles already thought his arms were going to fall off from just keeping the two on his waist. He
adjusted his grip on Olly, watching as Andy grinned wide and cupped his hand around Mr. Hales
ear.

In a stage whisper, Andy loudly said, Diles said I dun hafta be a boy! Stiles needed to work on
stressing the importance of pronouncing people's names correctly before they made everyone
thing Stiles was part of a dishwasher or something.

The expression on Mr. Hales face was something along the lines of an agitated porcupine and a
parent who had just been informed that their child was going to go prostituting for the holidays.
Stiles heart sank just the tiniest bit. It seemed like the whole girl thing really hadnt ever been
addressed.

Stiles grinned, shifting Ollys weight in his arms and saying with pride, Andys the bravest
princess in Beacon Hills, you know.

I see

Olly nodded furiously, his forehead bumping Stiles chin just the tiniest bit. Mr. Hales frown
grew, and a loud sigh escaped him as he shook his head and plucked the aluminum crown from
Andys head.

My crown! Andy cried, reaching out for it even as Mr. Hale approached the kitchen and tossed
it into the trash. Daddy!

Its time to stop being a princess, Andy. Lunch time means you have to be a boy again. Mr.
Hale said firmly. He didnt sound angry, just exasperated. Like Andy was just trying to play more
games. Stiles scowled, and then flinched when Andy released an earth-shattering screech and
punched his father right in the mouth with a flail of a fist.

Holy God.

Mr. Hales face grew dark and Andy kept screaming, kicking and punching him in the neck. For a
split second, Stiles was terrified that Mr. Hale was going to do something violent, but all he did
was grab the hand that was hitting his face. With forced calm, he looked at his son and said firmly,
you can be a princess again after lunch, in a voice that made Stiles think that it was already hard
enough for him to just admit such a thing was allowed in the first place.

I dun wanna! Andy writhed, fur sprouting all over as he snarled and growled, kicking his father
and then trying to bite him. Mr. Hale merely moved his head and arm out of the way when
necessary, but he looked like he was a few seconds away from snapping entirely and losing all
patience.

Dont be mean, daddy! Olly yelled. Mr. Hale looked livid as his eyes locked on Stiles, because
Olly was now hiding his face in Stiles shoulder. Good grief, Stiles had started an accidental
mutiny.

He wanted to intervene, but Stiles had a feeling that it was likely he might just make everything
worse. Andy was having a full on tantrum now, screeching and fighting against his father, face
wet with tears while Mr. Hale tried to get him to stay still.

I said I dun wanna! Andy sobbed, Dun wanna be a boy!

Yeah! Olly shouted, Andys not a boy, daddy! Dont make him!

Mr. Hale ignored both of his children, approaching the kitchen counter and lifting Andy up like a
doll. He forcefully set him on the counter, lifting again when Andys knees buckled and making
the child stand up. His held Andy tight, a low, animalistic growl escaping him.

Stop it right now, he snarled, and Stiles could see the way his eyes flashed a bright red color. It
was like magic; Andy choked on a sob, hiccupping and stuffing a tiny fist into his mouth. Mr.
Hale waited until he was quieted before continuing.

The both of you had better behave from now on. This wasnt the same voice as any Stiles had
previously heard. It was half-human, accented by a glint of fangs. Olly had gone utterly still in
Stiles arms, and Stiles had a feeling Mr. Hale had totally alphad out on his children.

Andy whimpered, and Mr. Hale started tugging at the makeshift toga-dress that Stiles had rigged
from an old bed sheet. Andy didnt protest, sniffling and crying quietly as his father pulled the
thing off, leaving him in just his pants and tee shirt once again. Completely the boy hed been just
hours before.

Olly turned his face into Stiles shoulder, whispering, I dont like it when daddy yells, with a
sad voice.

Stiles had to agree entirely. It seemed like the man didnt really know how to act with his kids, but
at least he wasnt particularly violent with them. Stiles wasnt sure what hed do if the guy had
turned out to be abusive. It wasnt like 147 pounds of sarcasm was any match against a pissed off
werewolf. Not to say Stiles wouldnt fight to the death for the kids if it came to it.

Mr. Hale folded up the sheet, lifting Andy and then setting him on the floor. Stiles followed suit
with Olly, and the two boys gravitated towards one another. Go get washed up for lunch, he
told his boys.

Olly grabbed Andys hand, pulling him down the hallway as Andy continued to sniff back his
tears. Once they were out of sight, Stiles turned to awkwardly face Mr. Hale. Uh

Your paperwork went through, Mr. Hale interrupted, I came to see if you wanted to set up
direct deposit or if you wanted cash at the end of every week.

Stiles leaned up against the counter awkwardly and Mr. Hale turned to give him a long, assessing
stare. SoIm not fired? Stiles asked, grinning uneasily. Mr. Hale seemed mildly taken aback,
his pinched brows coming apart at the same time he sighed softly and glanced to where the boys
had gone.

Im not going to fire you just because Andy had another tantrum. He does it all the time because
he never wants to stop playing.

Stiles was quick to jump to Andys defense, I dont think thats what--

Mr. Hales cold look cut Stiles words off before they completely escaped him. Ive talked to the
other sitters, Ive talked to a therapist. He does it for attention. I dont want you to encourage that
behavior, or Ill reconsider your employment.

It would have been like a slap to the face, if the mans words hadnt sunk in. Did he really listen to
what others told him instead of what his own children were saying? Mr. Hale--

Derek. Mr. Hale interrupted, looking a little surprised at himself. He shook his head. Mr. Hale
is what they call me at the office. I dont really want to feel like Im at work when Im not even
there. In that moment, Stiles caught a glimpse of years of stress weighing on the mans shoulders.
They couldnt have been very far apart in age, but whatever this guy did for a living, it took a toll
on him.

Before Stiles could try to explain what might have been going on with Andy, the boys were
coming back. He didnt even know how to word what was swimming in his head, anyway. He
doubted that Andy was really acting out for attention. Stiles had gone through his fair share of
shitty therapists and doctors. He wouldnt be surprised if whoever Derek was taking his kids to
was just spewing bullshit to ensure more and more appointments as time went on. Then again,
Stiles had really only spent a day with the boys.

Maybe once he knew Andy and Olly better, Stiles would be able to bring it up again with their
father. Right now, he was little more than an observer.

Derek helped both of the boys into the small booster chairs on one end of the table, gesturing to
the refrigerator. They have juice in the fridge.

Stiles took his cue, looking into the fridge for the juice while Derek headed for the pantry and
grabbed the supplies needed for peanut butter sandwiches. It was scarily domestic, and so sudden
that Stiles felt a little detached from reality as he watched Olly and Andys father dole out the right
amounts of peanut butter and jelly onto the slices of bread.

It was almost unsettling how quiet the boys were being, though.

Put them down for a nap two hours after lunch, Derek capped the jars, grabbing two more slices
of bread to cover the sandwiches. He looked up at Stiles, gaze intense and assessing. No play
time before naps, or they wont sleep. No Spongebob. Caillou or Little Bear are fine. No story
time either. Storytime is bed only, not naps. Dereks attention snapped to the table, expression
fond for just a second. Dont let Olly convince you otherwise.

Olly gave a small, guilty grin as Andy scrubbed at his teary face. Derek cut the sandwiches into
triangles, setting a plate in front of each boy. Stiles set the juice boxes down next to the plates as
Derek returned to the pantry.

You can help yourself to whatever is in the kitchen as long as youre here, and theres a guest
bedroom for you on days that I work late. Its down the hall from the boys room and the key is
next to the back door. Derek pulled out what looked like the supplies for a protein shake,
carrying them over to the blender sitting in the corner by the stove.

Well, Stiles attempted, watching the boys eat while Derek started to measure things out to put
into the blender. Im glad you know all this. It makes things easier for me.

Only what Ive had the other sitters write down. Derek said, and flicked the blender on. The
boys winced, dropping their sandwiches and covering their ears as it went on for another minute
or so. They resumed eating once Derek shut it off again and started to pour his drink into a bottle.

Stiles watched all of it with a weird, depressed feeling in his heart. So you wont be around
that often?

Derek looked at Stiles, one eyebrow rising up high as he capped his shake. Im the sole owner of
the Center for Lycanthropy Control and Regulation. What do you think?

If Stiles had any kind of reply that was halfway intelligent, he was saved by Andy squeakily
exclaiming, Daddy is busy cus hes important! as Olly nodded furiously in agreement. Derek
looked like his children had just reached in and pulled his heart right out of his chest, staring at the
two of them blankly in shock. It did sound like something they said due to having been told that
over and over again, and just the thought of how this family really worked made Stiles want to
curl up in his bed and cry for days on end.

Glancing back at Stiles, Derek schooled his face back to an expressionless mask. Erica usually
will be the first one who answers if you call her with any problems, he explained, implying that
he must have been too busy to take very many calls for anyone other than clients or serious issues.
She can handle almost anything you throw at her, so feel free to text her or call her if you have
to.

Boss.

Everyones heads snapped up, locking on the large form of a dark-skinned man standing in the
doorway. He, vaguely, reminded Stiles of Mr. Bubbles from Lilo and Stitch, what with the dark
skin, suit and shaved head with a pair of shades perched on top of them. Guy looked like he could
snap some necks with a flick of one giant hand. Derek glanced at his watch, sighing loudly and
then reaching for his briefcase.

One second, Boyd. He tugged out some papers, handing them to Stiles. Here are the forms to
set up direct deposit if you want it.

Derek grabbed his protein shake and his briefcase, crossing over to Olly and Andy to give each of
them a quick kiss on the head. Ive got to get back to work, to Stiles, he said, make sure theyre
in bed by seven.

It was like flicking the switch from calm and right back into chaos. Derek didnt make it two feet
before Olly and Andy were both struggling to climb out of their seats. Dont go, daddy! they
cried. Stiles had to run over and grab the both of them before they made it to their father. The two
released long, mournful howls as Derek headed out of the room with tense shoulders and not a
single look back.

Stiles earned himself a few scratches before he could get the two calmed down enough to settle
back into their seats. Andys lip was wobbling, fingers picking at the crust of his bread like he
wanted to eat but he didnt want to at the same time. Olly pushed his plate away entirely, arms
pillowing his head on the table. He sniffed once, and then sighed in a way like he was just
accepting what life threw at him.

It wasnt hard to figure out that Stiles was going to be more of a permanent fixture in their life than
hed originally anticipated. This wasnt exactly what hed signed up for when he took the job, but
he had a feeling that nobody else planned on being there for these kids. He might as well make the
best of a bad situation.

So do you want to watch Little Bear, or Caillou?

[x]

By the end of the week, Stiles could already tell the food in the pantry and fridge had yet to be
replenished. He had no idea who was supposed to stock it up, but he wasnt about to face one of
Ollys meltdowns because they were out of raisins to go with snack time. That had been
horrifying enough the first time when Stiles just couldnt find them. He didnt want to think about
what would happen this time around.

Derek was more of an enigma than Stiles had anticipated. He was out the door when Stiles dad
would drop him off, and he was always getting home after bed time and shooing Stiles out before
any conversation could really be held. Not that Stiles ever really wanted to stay. Night usually had
Derek looking like hed been hit with a few trains and some wolfs bane bullets. Stiles didnt even
have the heart to do much other than bid the guy a good night and head on home.

He never came by for lunch after that first day, nor did either of the boys really seem to bring it up.
The worst time for Dereks absence was always at night, when they would ask Stiles repeatedly to
bring their father home before they fell asleep. More than once, Stiles had been pinky-sworn into
telling Derek to come into their rooms when he got home and give them goodnight kisses, even if
they were fast asleep.

Stiles could barely stand the look on Dereks face the first time hed relayed the message.

Pulling up Ericas number in his phone (because she seemed to be the only one who knew where
anything was in the Hale house), Stiles shot her a text message asking about who did the grocery
shopping.

Waiting for her reply, he ventured back into the living room where Olly and Andy were building a
castle out of toy blocks. Stiles had picked up a cheap dress from Goodwill the other day, and he
couldnt help but smile at the memory of Andys reaction when Stiles had presented him with the
purple and green little girls dress with a matching purple hair clip. Stiles was pretty sure the kid
had almost cracked one of Stiles ribs from how painfully tight the hug had been. The only deal
was that the dress and clip were only allowed when Derek wasnt home.

It had been hard to explain that to Andy. Stiles didnt have the heart to explain to the kid that his
father believed grown ups over his own kids. Hed had settled on telling Andy that he was so
pretty with the dress that daddy thinks youre playing dress up. He gets confused and then it hurts
his head when you try to tell him that its just you, and not a princess. You dont want his head to
hurt, because nobody likes when their head hurts.

So far, it had seemed to work well enough that Stiles hadnt gotten any angry phone calls in the
middle of the night or early morning while Derek was home.

Stiles phone rang right before he asked if he could join in on the building project. He answered to
Erica on the other line.

Just write down a list of what we need and Ill send someone to do the shopping.

Sitting on the couch, Stiles watched Andy start to build a moat around their awkward tower that
looked more like a jenga stack than anything. We could use a few hours out of the house. I dont
mind taking them out with me. Can you just pay me back later?

There was a pause as Erica tutted thoughtfully. She hummed, and then said, Theres an
emergency credit card under the fruit basket. No more than $300 for the next week, and only
healthy foods.

Stiles brain stuck on the $300 for a long moment before he blurted, Does that include the cost
of the taxi?

Erica laughed loudly, like Stiles had just performed an entire stand-up comedy skit for her, and
Stiles would have felt miffed if it werent for her next words.

Just take one of Dereks cars. Theres four in the garage. The keys are by the door.

What? Really? Stiles blurted, sitting up so fast he caught the attention of the boys. They
watched him curiously for a few seconds, before Olly shrugged and threw a block into their
tower, knocking it over. Andy shrieked out a laugh, doing the same with the second tower and
turning their castle into the aftermath of Godzilla 2000.

Yeah, Erica said, sounding confused. How have you been getting to work, anyway?

Of course, Stiles remembered his first conversation with Derek, when hed tried to tell his story,
only to get shot down. Maybe he should have tried talking to Erica about it sooner. My dad drops
me off before work. My cars in the shop for the summer.

This time, Erica released a huff and grumbled something under her breath. Stiles was pretty sure
he caught Dereks name, and the word Scrooge somewhere in there, but he wasnt positive.
Just use one of Dereks cars from now on. Id suggest the Hummer, since we can write the gas
and miles off on his taxes, anyway. Just make sure to save the gas receipts.

Stiles was pretty sure hed just lost the ability to speak at all. He vaguely heard himself thank her
before hanging up, but he was in a haze of newfound love for rich people and their love for
writing off taxes. He felt himself grinning, jumping off of the couch and throwing his hands up.

Who wants to go shopping?! he cried excitedly. Andy released an ear-shattering scream of

excitement, throwing up the blocks in his hands and then running out of the room.

Shopping! Andy bolted back in the room, his face now furry and hair sticking every which way
from its bushiness. Shopping! he made a lap around the couch, climbing up it and vaulting off
with his arms reaching for Stiles. Shopping! Stiles caught him with a grunt, their heads bumping
together almost painfully. This didn't affect Andy at all, though, because he was apparently on an
'we're going shopping' adrenaline high that could rival any teenage girl.

Stop screaming! Olly cried, covering his ears and shaking his head. Too loud!

Im not screaming! Andy screamed over Stiles shoulder, wrapping his arms around Stiles
shoulders. Im shopping!

Belatedly, Stiles wondered if these kids had ever actually gone out in public. He laughed, though,
because Andy had become a wiggling worm of excitement while Olly was still trying to organize
his blocks together.

Come on, lets get cleaned up and then we can go get some food. If youre good, you each can
get some toys.

It was like offering them a mountain of candy, or injecting them with adrenaline. Andy squirmed
out of Stiles arms like a jellyfish, scurrying over to Olly to try and grab as many blocks as he
could. Stiles could totally get used to the idea of bribery to get things cleaned up. In ten minutes
flat, all the toys had been put back into the storage box and all of the pillows replaced (albeit
crookedly) onto the couch.

Even Stiles took notice of how all of their toys didnt seem particularly individualized. They
mostly had cars, blocks, a few bouncy balls and matching remote-controlled helicopters. It was
likely Derek had gone to the store and asked for all the things little boys liked, without thinking to
ask his own sons.

Stiles was starting to realize that Derek really had no idea how to be a father, despite how hard he
seemed to be trying.

That didnt matter, though. Stiles knew, as he ushered the two into the garage, that he would just
have to be the best damn babysitter these boys could get to make up for it.

If part of that included putting a bit of a dent in Dereks wallet, well, nobody really needed to
know that.
 Chapter 3

When Stiles pulled in outside of Toys-R-Us, he was only passively amused to open the back door
to Andy writhing around and pulling at the harness of his booster seat with tiny, irritated growls
escaping him.

Im stuck! Andy wailed after a second, flopping with a tiny whine. Stiles thanked the Lord for
small favors (like mini-werewolf proof booster seats) and unbuckled him with a smile. He helped
Andy out and then reached over to do the same with Olly. Holding a hand each, they headed into
the store. Stiles took a second to find the sign that lead them towards the most important thing
Stiles could think of.

Child harnesses.

Stiles already knew from experience that he was nowhere near as fast as Olly or Andy when they
zeroed in on a target. If he was going to keep taking them out in public, he needed an advantage.
He brought both boys to the display, grinning. Which one do you guys want?

What are they? Olly asked, reaching for a blue harness and inspecting it like he could actually
read the package.

They make it so you dont get lost in the store, Stiles said vaguely. Andy snagged a purple one
that had a princess crown on the chest piece, waving it at Stiles.

I like this one! he shouted, a little unnecessarily loud. Stiles took the harness, nodding seriously.
Andy seemed satisfied knowing he was getting exactly what he wanted, and moved next to Olly
to help his brother pick one out. There was a black one a little higher up, it had stars all over it and
a crescent moon to boot. Stiles plucked it from the display, bringing it down to the boys height.

What about this one?

Oooh! Olly cooed, taking out of Stiles hands, staring, and then hugging it and jumping up and
down before he started to hop in a circle around Stiles. Yes! Stars and moon! I wan' it! Its got
space 'tuff!

Stiles grinned, handing the princess harness back to Andy and saying, lets pay for this stuff and
then Ill let you guys pick out one toy each. Hows that sound? which caused both boys to
screech out, yay! as loud as they possibly could. Stiles winced, shooting apologetic looks to the
other people nearby, and then taking a hand each and heading for the checkout.

He let Andy and Olly put the harnesses on the conveyor belt, and then paid for them with Dereks
credit card before pulling the two aside so he could hook them up. Olly looked uncomfortable,
like he wasnt really sure what was going on, while Andy squirmed and pulled at the harness. Of
course, he then looked up and started to scan the aisles just as Stiles finished and let out a loud
gasp.

Princess stuff! With that, Andy bolted straight for the bright pink and purple aisle. The only
problem was that Stiles was holding onto his harness. He was also only expecting the pull strength
of a regular child and not a werebaby. He was completely unprepared to nearly have his arm
dislocated when Andy shot down the aisle, the wrench just enough to pull Stiles over and send
him crashing to the ground as he lost his hold on the harness. Stiles knees and chin bashed into
the tile, his head spinning wildly.
Olly crouched, his little hands pressed against his knees as he peered down at Stiles with wide
eyes. Diles, are you okay?

Stiles grunted, pushing himself to his feet and picking up the handle to Ollys harness. Im okay,
thank you for asking, he said, smiling down at the little werewolf. Olly returned the grin,
following Stiles as they headed down the aisle to where Andy was practically drooling over a
display of Rapunzel toys. Stiles crouched down to pick up Andys harness leash, a little miffed
that he was being entirely ignored.

Andy, you cant run off like that, Stiles said sternly, just the tiniest bit embarrassed that he had
been so unprepared for the strength of a little werewolf that Andy had managed to actually drag
him to the ground from just running while Stiles was holding the harness. Hed have to brace
himself next time, probably to the degree of someone walking a great dane or bull mastiff.

Andy peeked up from staring between two boxes of dolls. His eyes went wide as a cute, confused
pout came to his lips. But the punzel stuffs here.

Stiles sighed, gesturing down. Look at my knees, Andy. You did that when you pulled me over,
he grabbed the hems of his shorts, pulling them up to show the angry welts hed gotten from
hitting the ground. Andy released a distressed sound, putting the boxes down immediately.

Im sorry! he cried, and then rushed over, grabbed Stiles right leg, and plopped a big wet kiss
right over the welt. Stiles wanted to die, watching as Andy repeated it with Stiles other knee,
releasing a loud, mmmmwah! of a lip smack at the end, just for emphasis. He was two seconds
away from lifting Andy up and smothering the kid in kisses when Olly pushed his brother aside.

No Andy. Das' not how you kiss booboos, he proclaimed, and then smushed his mouth against
Stiles knee, rubbed back and forth with more of an ubwaah noise than the typical kissing sound.
He did it again with Stiles other leg, complete with the weird rubbing thing, and then stood back
with a proud look on his face.

Ugh, Stiles was going to go into cardiac arrest from the amount of adorable these kids exuded.

Also, his knees didnt hurt at all, like theyd somehow sucked the pain right out of him. He
remembered Scott mentioning once or twice the ability to take someones pain was something a
werewolf could learn over time, and how it was instinct for others.

A huge, overwhelming swell of affection hit Stiles and he crouched down, dragging both boys
into his arms. They squeaked simultaneously, but Stiles was too busy hugging them to death.
Thank you guys so much, I feel all better now! he cried, and then started to smack loud, wet
kisses all over their cheeks. His ears rang with a set of squeals from each one, Andy giggling high
and loud and squirming while Olly cooed and squirmed his arms up to hug Stiles neck tightly.

Ew! Andy cried, Your mouf is all wet! even as he wriggled, he laughed when Stiles squished
another big kiss right on his cheek. Lemme go, Diles!

Stiles let out a big fake growl. Never! Youre mine forever! All mine, ha ha ha! with an evil
laugh, Stiles buried his face into Andys throat and blew a huge wet raspberry. Andy shrieked,
kicking and pushing at Stiles face so fast that half his fingers went into Stiles mouth.

Thats gross, Diles! No! Lemmego!

Say please! Stiles crowed around Andy's fingers before he spit them out with an exaggerated,
"bluh!"

Pleeeeeeeease! Andy whined, almost elbowing Olly in the face. Olly wasnt really fighting it,
he was just kind of cuddling the side of Stiles head while Andy continued to have a giggle fit and
tried to sound annoyed at the same time. Stiles had no idea how hed gotten so absolutely attached
to these two already in just one week.

Sighing loudly and dramatically, Stiles said, oh fine! and let them go to watch Andy scrub at his
face with a silly grin. Olly let out a whine, pulling at Stiles shirt and staring with big, wet eyes.

Whats wrong?

Can I have another hug?

Just melt Stiles heart, why dont you? Stiles swept Olly up into his arms without another word,
earning a happy noise from the child. Olly pressed their cheeks together, releasing a soft and
delighted growling rumble as he rubbed up against Stiles jaw with a big snuffle. Stiles rubbed a
hand down Ollys back soothingly. They probably didnt come to the store often, so all of the
strange sounds and smells might have made Olly need a familiar scent to help him adjust.

Aw, thats so precious, cooed a nearby woman. Stiles peered up at her, grinning and standing
with Olly in his arms. Andy had already returned to inspecting the doll display, but Olly was more
preoccupied with sniffing at Stiles throat and rubbing against it.

I know, right? Getting paid to sit for them is like a bonus, Stiles grinned, turning to rub his nose
against Ollys cheek. Olly made a delighted sound, wriggling as close as he could. The kid was
probably the biggest cuddler Stiles had ever met. Ever since day one, Olly was always wanting
hugs and kisses. It worked out well for Stiles, because he just had to hoist Olly up on his waist and
carry him around a few times a day and it usually prevented any tantrums from happening.

Stiles didnt want to think about the fact that Olly needed the affection just to keep from being in
overwhelming states of emotional distress. He didnt want to think about it because it made him
kind of hate Derek, and Stiles knew that Derek was just doing what he thought was best for his
kids. Even if he was going about it entirely the wrong way.

The woman looked confused for a second, tilting her head and breathing in heavily through her
nose before her eyes widened. Oh! I thought they were yours and then her eyes trailed to the
harness on Andy that was just sitting on the ground, looking like she wanted to say something else
when Andy ran over with a doll box in his hands.

I want this one! Andy exclaimed, shoving it up so Stiles could look at it. Stiles plucked it from
his hands, inspecting it with a very serious expression. In reality, he was looking for a price, but
hed rather Andy think that he was checking for doll quality than whether or not it was in their
budget. The woman stepped over, crouching down and smiling at Andy. Olly tensed in Stiles
arms, curling a fist into Stiles collar, apparently startled by the stranger approaching them.

You look very cute, she said to Andy, Did your mommy pick out that dress?

Andy, who had started to fluff out the edges of his dress at the compliment, went utterly still and
looked over at Stiles and Olly with confusion, like he wasnt sure how to answer that. Stiles,
himself, didnt know the status of their mother enough to really correct the woman. He opened his
mouth to tell her hed been the one to get the dress when Olly quietly interrupted.

Mommy is a gold diggin', blood tirsty hoah who will never see a single hair on our heads, he
said, dead serious. Stiles choked on air, coughing on a laugh as Andy nodded enthusiastically.

The woman looked horrified and Andy leaned in close, cupping one hand to his mouth to stage-
whisper, daddy said so!
Good Lord. Derek was going to get Stiles mauled in a public store. He was suddenly very glad
hed implied that they werent his kids, because this lady looked ready to rip Stiles eyeballs out
with her bare hands. Stiles quickly bent down to grab the leash to Andys harness, giving it a tug.
Hey, we still need to get Olly a toy, because I am a great babysitter! With no influence over what
your father says to you! Look! Space ships!

Stiles was thankful that Andy dutifully followed Stiles out of the metaphorical fire with absolutely
no protest. If there was one thing he was going to do, it was to corner Derek one of these days and
give him a verbal lashing about things you can and cant say around your children. Stiles bet half
his paycheck Derek just assumed that neither of the boys would be able to remember or recite half
the words that had actually come out of Ollys mouth.

When they came up to the boys section, Olly practically slimed his way out of Stiles arms and
made a beeline for the practically obscure section that held some toy space shuttles and an
astronaut or two. Most everything in the aisle was dinosaurs, action figures, or other particularly
violence-themed toys. While Olly meticulously picked through the selection (wandering over to
the ocean-creature display for just a few moments), Stiles quietly read the back of the Rapunzel
doll box to Andy.

Olly approached with a small package in his hands nearly ten minutes later, holding it out to Stiles
with a look of determination.

Is this what you want?

Olly nodded, letting Stiles take it and examine the package that listed the various types of glow in
the dark wall stickers of planets and stars. It was actually pretty neat looking, but it wasnt
something Olly could play with.

You sure you want this, buddy? You only get one thing. Dont want an alien or an astronaut?

No, Olly shook his head, taking the package back from Stiles and hugging it with a tiny,
pleased puff to his chest. I want this.

All righty. Hey-- Stiles gestured a few rows down to where there was housewares for children,
Lets get you some stuff for your rooms.

Within a half hour, they were heading for the checkout with a toy, a quilt, and a night-light for
both Olly and Andy each. Andy had picked out a teal comforter covered in various colored
flowers and birds, while Olly had gone for a dark blue one littered with fishes and a huge octopus
in the center. Ollys night light was plain navy with star-shaped holes punched in it, while Andy
had gone with just a simple giant pink heart.

Stiles was pretty sure that hed never seen the two of them so excited. By the time they were
putting their things on the conveyor belt, Stiles had each leash wrapped tight around his wrists
because he was afraid one of them was going to explode and run around screaming out of sheer
joy.

Loading up the car, Stiles had to pray to the higher powers that they could get in and out of the
grocery store within the hour. He didnt want to miss their lunch time, because no food meant two
extremely cranky werewolf children. No amount of raisins and pretzels could satiate their bellies
the way a sandwich and a cookie could.

Luckily, Stiles was a master of pinching pennies and already knew where everything was in this
particular store. With Andy sitting in the basket of the cart and Olly up by the handlebars, Stiles
maneuvered in and out of each aisle, grabbing the essentials and even preventing a few attempted
smuggling of things into the cart. Half of them were just for the sake of being sneaky, because
Stiles was pretty sure Andy didnt actually want four containers of beef bouillon.

Stiles should have noticed Ollys increasingly agitated behavior, though. Hed been too focused
on keeping grubby werebaby paws from snitching food and not focused enough on the way that
Olly had begun to fidget and huff. With Andy happily ensconced in a pile of foodstuffs, Olly was
a little less content in his seat by Stiles hands.

Trying to nip the crankiness in the bud, Stiles pulled the cart out of the way and bent down to
press a hand to the top of Ollys head. He pet down, cupping the back of his skull. Were almost
done. Do you want some raisins?

No, Olly whimpered, his eyes growing wet. Oh no, this was not good.

Stiles rubbed the back of Ollys hair affectionately, scratching a little behind his ear just like he
knew Olly liked. How about some juice? Stiles always brought emergency juice and snacks. It
was one of the many reasons that he had no dignity today because of the giant diaper bag that he
had sitting on his hip.

Olly whined, pushing Stiles hand off of his head with another noise of discomfort. No!

What would you like?

No! Olly cried, his ears growing pointed and fur puffing out around them. A single body-
wrenching sob escaped him before Stiles could even try to stop the meltdown from engaging.
Stiles had half a second of preparation before Olly keened and then let out a cry that soon
escalated into an ear-shattering wail.

Andys hands flew up, slapping over his ears because they had gone through enough of Ollys
meltdowns to know that the screaming wasnt going to stop any time soon.

Tears streamed out of Ollys eyes, wetting his face and sticking to the fur on his cheeks. He'd even
let loose his tiny fangs that Stiles could see clearly because of the open-mouthed cries. Stiles
shoved his hands into Ollys armpits, hauling him out of the cart. He barely had Olly up to his
chest before little arms were winding around his neck and Stiles could feel the pinprick of claws
when Olly clutched to Stiles shirt.

Stiles ears were already ringing from the intensity of Ollys screaming. He pressed kisses to the
childs temple, rocking him back and forth and rubbing his back, trying to at least calm him down
enough where people werent staring murder at them. Nothing worked, and Olly kept sobbing
loudly, heaving for air at any chance he could. Stiles wanted to die of mortification.

An employee came up soon enough, trying to remain calm as he asked over Ollys crying, I can
set your cart aside if you want to take him out of the store until he feels better.

Relief struck Stiles and he nodded, gesturing at Andy. That would be great, thank you so much,
he said as Andy shakily stood up in the cart, letting Stiles use his free arm to lift him up and set
him on the ground. Andys bottom lip was starting to wobble, in that way that meant my ears are
hurting and my brother is crying and I am not happy. He wouldnt cry, though. Stiles was
grateful that Andy was a bit of a trooper when it came to Ollys meltdowns. Stiles needed to
reward the kid about it more often.

Taking Andys hand (to which Andy pinched his ear against his shoulder and used his free hand
to cover his other ear), Stiles hurried out of the store and towards the car.

Olly was still going strong when they got in the car. Stiles got Andy situated in the passenger seat,
turning the engine over and putting on some Disney tunes from the mp3 player he had hooked up
to the stereo, and then settled in the drivers seat with Olly in his lap. Andy seemed content to play
with his new Rapunzel toy, a little less bothered now that Olly was starting to lose his voice.

Rubbing Ollys back, Stiles continued to kiss the side of his head and mutter words of comfort,
grateful when he caught the signs of the wind-down. Olly hiccupped, sobbing quietly, and then
loudly again, before he began to settle.

Another few minutes passed before the storm had finally blown over and Olly practically went
limp in Stiles arms. He snuffled, rubbing his cheek into Stiles throat with a tired rumbling noise
and then dragging his face up to repeat the action against Stiles jaw. Stiles rubbed his back,
petting it gently and letting the child seek whatever comfort he needed.

He was seriously going to have to have a talk with Derek about the lack of cuddling he seemed to
be giving his children. Sundays were Stiles day off, but Stiles seriously doubted that Derek was
the type to be down for some hardcore snuggling with anyone--even his own kids. The dude had
a stare that could crumble buildings.

After Olly had properly calmed down and Stiles had made sure to confirm that they could return
to shopping, they headed back into the grocery store. This time around, Stiles made sure to include
Olly in on a few food selections just to make sure that he didnt get too bored or agitated again.

It was a little past their normal lunch time when they got back to the house, so Stiles immediately
set them both up at the kitchen table and got them something to eat before he put away all of the
groceries. Once that was done, Stiles put Princess and the Frog on the TV for Andy and then let
Olly drag Stiles to his bedroom to put up his new glow in the dark stickers.

Olly was meticulous about the placement of each sticker, wanting to make sure they were all stuck
somewhere that could be seen easily by Olly in bed, but also by anyone who came into the room.
By the time he was satisfied, Stiles could hear the sounds of Mama Odie singing loudly on the
living room television to Tiana and Prince Naveen.

Stiles and Olly joined Andy for the rest of the movie, though Stiles quickly became a human
pillow for both boys the second he sat down. Stiles didnt mind, because it was kind of comforting
when they snuggled up to him like they cared about him as more than just a babysitter. It made
Stiles biological clock start ticking, a sudden longing that these boys were his own making Stiles
bring his hand up to rub each of them on the back gently.

By the time the credits were rolling, both Olly and Andy had passed out asleep, snuffling loudly
into Stiles chest and belly. Stiles carried Olly to bed first, tucking him in under his new ocean
quilt, and then doing the same with Andy. A little early for naptime, but theyd had a busy
morning, so it was understandable.

Stiles hunkered down in the living room, pulling out his laptop and grabbing his cell phone. Scott
was out with Allison, and Stiles needed someone who knew whats what about werewolves
because he was seriously getting concerned about how often Olly and Andy would get extremely
irritable for no reason. They expelled so much energy during the day, and Stiles would play with
them constantly and give them as much attention as he could, but there were still many times
where nothing he did would help their spirits. He was hoping it was just some sort of werewolf
thing, which was why he called the second biggest expert on his phones contacts list.

Hey, Lydia, got a minute?

A hum and then, It depends on what this minute will be used for.
I was wondering if there was anything special Jackson did when he got uh, agitated?

Besides sex?

Stiles choked on a laugh, and it turned into this kind of exasperated groan. There was a reason he
didnt ask Scott for advice. Scotts answer to everything was Allison or sex with Allison and it
was utterly unhelpful. Yeah, besides that.

Whats wrong?

Stiles pulled up his browser, grabbing Google from his bookmarks. I was just wondering if you
had any advice on helping me deal with the kids Im babysitting for. I play with them like, all the
time, dude, and they still get super pissy sometimes. Like they're bored, even though they've been
doing stuff all day long.

Well, why dont you just quit, if theyre that hard to manage? Lydia asked. The mere thought of
it made Stiles heart clench for some reason. He couldnt abandon them, that would be stupid and
cruel. No, Stiles would rather figure out some sort of solution for all of this, instead.

No, I get paid mad money for this. Also, Im a prince, now. So I have a duty to my kingdom of
two.

Aw, thats disgustingly cute, even for you, Lydia simpered, though Stiles could detect the
amused affection in her voice. He rolled his eyes, typing in how to deal with 4 year old werewolf
children on Googles search bar.

Hah, yeah. Anyway, Stiles said dryly, clicking on the first link that appeared, Im running out
of options.

Stiles, sweetie, sometimes kids have fits and you cant do anything. Oh, the joys of parenthood.

Stiles groaned, and not at what Lydia was saying, but at the website hed pulled up. This
happened way too often. Half the time he tried to run a search on anything werewolf, the website
that always showed up first was owned or funded by Dereks company. It made Stiles feel
stupidly bad for Andy and Olly when their father was never there for them, but because of him,
Stiles had an easier time dealing with the boys and their little werewolf quirks.

You know, Stiles muttered, given how many times I end up using one of Mr. Hales company
websites to research things on werewolves, you think the guy would be a better dad, not that
Derek was a terrible father--well, he was, but it wasnt intentional. He just had no idea how to be a
parent, or something. Stiles didnt really interact with him enough to know for certain.

Lydia snorted, The Hales are old blood, you cant honestly be that surprised that half the stuff
about werewolves came from his family's company.

This was true. Derek may have been one of the only ones left of his clan, but back before the
wolfsbane epidemic, Derek had been part of a huge family with ties into every single aspect of the
werewolf community. The Hales had been one of the first real named packs in California, formed
hundreds of years ago. It was scary, when Stiles really thought about it, to know that Derek,
Andy, Olly, and Dereks uncle were the only survivors of a once-prosperous and highly
influential pack.

Then again, they also werent the only ones who had suffered from the epidemic. Stiles could still
remember when it had happened. It wasnt very long after his mom had died. Some retired hunter
had been cultivating monkshood out on his property for years--which hadnt been a problem, at
first. He grew various types, some were used in Aconite Wine (a popular werewolf drink because
it was, essentially, the only thing that could truly get them drunk) and others used in various types
of medicine and cures.

The problem was when a huge storm hit, littering the town with monkshood. There was pollen,
flowers, every single part of the plant scattered all over the place. Nobody knew the water system
had even been poisoned until werewolves started getting deathly sick and some of the humans
would start to hallucinate.

It was also what started a wave of turnings. Werewolves suffering from fits of dying insanity had
started to invade the towns, biting and turning humans in a desperate bid to preserve their legacy.
Thats how Scott and Jackson had been turned, as well as a bunch of other kids in Stiles grade.

Most of the werewolves hadnt survived. There was only so many antidotes that could be given
out, and sometimes the cure wouldnt take and they still died. It was painful to even think of what
Derek had gone through, a teenager helplessly forced to watch his family perish all around him.

Stiles shook the thought off before he got ridiculously depressed about it, instead cruising through
Google until he found a blog run by a human mother with three kids, one of which was a
werewolf. Thank holy Jesus, it was a goldmine. She was married to a turned werewolf, and all she
did was talk to other moms about the differences between human and werewolf children.

Hey, I think I got something, Stiles said, perking up as he clicked around on the navigation bar.

Hm?

This lady says that werewolf kids need more stimulation for their senses. Like, they gotta work
that wolfy nose and stuff.

Lydia made a thoughtful sound, like what Stiles recited suddenly made a heap of sense. I can see
that, she said, you know when Jackson turns into a bigger jackass than normal, he usually goes
for a hike out in the woods. I asked him about it once and he just blew me off, but I bet you he
was just playing around out there like a big puppy or something.

The idea of Jackson romping around in the forest had Stiles cracking up before he could stop
himself.

I dont really want to know what youre thinking of right now, Lydia informed him, so instead
Im going to suggest you come up with some activities to help stimulate their werewolf side.

Sometimes Stiles was extremely grateful that he hadnt really pursued after Lydia during her
breakup stint with Jackson back in sophomore year. He had a feeling that, if hed been a rebound,
theyd never have become good friends like they were now. She helped him in so many ways that
he was sure hed be struggling without her, and he knew for a fact that Lydia always came to him
before anyone else when something was truly bothering her. Other than Scott and Allison, Lydia
really was one of the greatest friends Stiles could ask for.

Even now, Stiles doubted he would have been able to come up with as many ideas as Lydia. By
the time he was off the phone with her, there was now a list of activities for Olly and Andy that
challenged their other senses. He couldnt wait to hide the cups of trail mix for them to sniff out, or
to stash his socks, shoes, and overshirt in various places to try and confuse them during another
game of hide and seek.

When they woke up after their nap, though, they were going to play an altered version of go-fish
that Lydia had suggested. Stiles almost wanted to kiss her when she came up with the idea to lie
about the cards so the boys had to use their ears and noses to tell if Stiles was being honest or not.
He had a feeling they were going to love that game the most.

The other activities he would try out tomorrow. Last Saturday, Derek had stayed in the office, but
this time around he was going to be working from home. With this new set of activities, Stiles
hoped desperately that it was enough to keep Olly and Andy out of their fathers hair.

Honestly, he wasnt going to try too hard, because Stiles knew Derek was only staying home this
time around because Stiles had made sure to tell Derek, in great detail, about how his sons had
cried for hours when they woke up Saturday morning and their father wasnt there. Stiles had
even gone on to tell Derek about how distressed his children had been to have gone two days
without seeing their father. Dereks attempt to argue with they could smell me around the house
had been utterly shot down when Stiles told him how Andy had asked if Derek hated them.

Derek had looked like hed been gutted when hed heard that. He then hed looked sickened
when Stiles relayed that Olly had told Andy that Derek didnt hate them, just that they were babies
and that their father didnt have time for babies. Sure, it had been a low blow, and Stiles may have
exaggerated the details to a great extent, but it was the fact that what hed said had shaken Derek
so badly that he was actually going to work from home that made Stiles know it was worth it.

Stiles was going to fix this damn family before the fall semester, if it was the last thing he did.
 Chapter 4
Chapter Notes

I wanna thank everyone who donated to the fundraiser to help me get to Seattle.
Here's chapter four, cranked out as soon as I could, just for you guys!

Usually when Stiles showed up for his shifts, Derek was on his way out the door and the boys
were both still in bed. This Saturday, though, Stiles had completely forgotten that Derek wasnt
going to be in the office until he let himself in the house and nearly had a heart attack at the sight
of Derek sitting at the kitchen table in pair of pajama pants and nothing else.

Stiles couldnt even act like he wasnt startled, because the amused smirk he was shot from over a
mug of coffee was sign enough that Derek had heard Stiles heartbeat ratchet up the second hed
entered the kitchen. Stiles cleared his throat, tossing his keys on the counter and breezing right past
Derek for the coffee maker. There was even enough left for Stiles to pour himself a mug.

Normally he wasnt really the type of person to drink coffee--his Adderall didnt mix particularly
well with it if he had too much--but Andy and Olly could be a handful on some mornings and it
was better to be awake and prepared than to be taken by surprise.

Morning, Stiles said sleepily, dumping a load of sugar into his cup and following it up with a
splash of milk.

Morning, Derek responded, his voice sleep-rough in a way that made Stiles brain do crazy
things. Stiles took a seat at the kitchen table, pulling out his laptop and opening it. He sipped at his
coffee while it booted up, sighing and smacking his lips. Derek gave him a perturbed, disgusted
look, and Stiles didnt have to even look at his mug to know that the man drank his coffee black,
or at least close to black.

Sleep well? Stiles attempted for conversation, even though Derek looked like he was
particularly immersed in the business column of Beacon Hills Herald. Derek peeked at him over
the top of the paper, clearing his throat and grabbing his mug for another sip.

Olly had a nightmare and spent the night in my room, Derek said. Stiles would have thought he
was annoyed about it, but there was a small twitch in the corner of his mouth, and a tightness in
the way he held his mug, that meant that Derek had felt responsible in some way. Andy woke up
in the middle of the night and joined us.

Now that was an image that Stiles would have paid to see. He was sure the boys had slept better
last night than they had all week. It made Stiles stomach flutter to think about Olly and Andy
curled up asleep with their father. Dereks chest was muscular, but it looked soft, like a firm
pillow. Stiles temporarily entertained the idea of what it would be like to be able to rest his head
on Dereks chest, and then almost had to punch himself in the crotch just to stop that train of
thought before it got way too out of hand.

Instead, Stiles bit down on the corner of his lip and said, Olly always does better if you hold him
when hes upset, anyway.
Derek grunted, nodding and going back to his paper. Stiles logged in on his laptop, already
accessing the houses wifi and pulling up his messenger. If he was going to be stuck sitting across
the worlds hottest dilf, he was going to tell some of his roleplay buddies so they could understand
his pain.

Doesdoes Andy ever hit you when hes mad? Derek blurted, setting his mug down and
staring at his newspaper. Stiles waited for a second, but his eyes didnt move.

Struggling for a way not to offend the guy, Stiles tapped and rubbed his thumb over the rim of his
coffee mug. Not really. Andy doesnt have tantrums if you keep him occupied.

I do, Derek blurted, eyes going wide, I--, his voice dropped, hissing, do you have any idea
how many times Ive watched Rapunzel?

Stiles almost choked on his coffee, but he somehow managed to swallow the mouthful hed been
sipping at. He shook his head, waving vaguely at Derek. Thats a movie. Anyone can watch a
movie with a kid. Do you play hide-n-seek? What about castle? Andy likes to be the princess, but
he wants to be the one who saves everyone.

Derek made a face, like he didnt really like that idea. Stiles really hoped they werent about to
argue over whether Andy was allowed to play girl games or not.

Its too late at night to get them riled up playing games.

Stiles shrugged, setting the mug down. Maybe if you got home earlier, then you could play with
them more. A low blow, but it was nothing but the truth.

The newspaper crinkled when Derek stiffened, his brows pinching together and his upper lip
curling back into the tiniest of snarls. I have responsibilities, he said sharply, in case it escaped
your notice.

Oh, I noticed, Stiles said lightly, remembering all of the times this week Olly had cried at the
door after Derek had left, or how Andy never wanted to go to bed unless completely assured that
Derek would come in to kiss him goodnight when he got home. I noticed how you seem to think
your job is your only responsibility, and not the two children currently sleeping in the other room.
You know, your sons?

Derek slapped the paper down on the desk, a low and inhuman growl punching out from his
chest. If you think for one second I dont worry about them every minute of my day, youre so
fu--

Mmmnh, daddy? Andy appeared in the kitchen, holding tiredly to a blue baby blanket and
shuffling over in his pajamas to where Derek sat. Derek instantly fell silent, ignoring Stiles
shocked look to turn and scoop Andy up and settle the child into his lap. Andy made a content
noise, snuggling into his fathers chest. Derek went back to reading his paper and sipping his
coffee, keeping one arm still so that Andy could remain curled up, blinking sleepily and yawning
every now and then. Stiles knew Olly wouldnt be far behind--the kid was always up within a
minute or two of Andy.

Like clockwork, Olly emerged with a much more disgruntled look on his face than Andy. Olly
was not a morning person, and it was almost adorable when Stiles would see that confused,
squinty pout that Olly directed at everyone before making a beeline for Stiles.

Stiles leaned back enough for Olly to clamber onto his lap and get settled. Theyd developed a
wakeup ritual after the first few naps where Olly would come snuggle Stiles until he was
properly awake. Stiles clicked around on his laptop, resting one hand against Ollys back as the
full-on cuddle session commenced.
Olly pressed his face into Stiles chest, nuzzling up to his neck and then all the way across his
collarbone with a tired grumble. Stiles rubbed Ollys back soothingly as his entire upper body
became a giant pillow for Olly to mumble smear his face on.

Stiles glanced up after Olly finally dropped against him with a sleepy huff, surprised to see Derek
staring at him so intensely that it made Stiles feel instantly nervous. Olly burrowed into Stiles
throat and Dereks intense expression took on an almost murderous look that was also torn
halfway into utter bewilderment.

Uh, Stiles cleared his throat, grabbing his coffee and taking a sip from it. His hand hesitated on
Ollys back, where hed been sliding it up and down the boys spine, and Olly made a sleepy
whine before squirming until Stiles started up again.

When Derek spoke, his voice was pitched extremely low--though Stiles may have been distracted
by the way his pecs twitched when he adjusted Andy in his arms. Do you know what hes
doing?

Momentarily, Stiles entertained the idea that maybe morning cuddles were a foreign concept. He
then realized that every time Olly started to rub his face anywhere, Dereks face twitched. With
one hand on the back of Ollys head as a tiny nose snuffled its way along his chest and armpit,
Stiles shrugged. cuddling?

Frowning, Derek shifted Andy in his arms and, well, Stiles really was having inappropriate
thoughts about those biceps, okay. He couldnt help it. They were really nice arms. Hes scent
marking you, Derek said. All dirty thoughts instantly went down the drain as Dereks words hit
him.

What? No hes not.

Stiles knew how territorial werewolves could be. Just knowing hed been letting Olly scent mark
him could lead to a disaster if Derek took it the wrong way. Instead, Derek lifted Andy up, who
was no more than a sleepy lump, and rested the boys face right into his throat. Andys arms
instinctively came up, a sleepy grumbling noise escaping him as he started to nuzzle and burrow
his face into Dereks throat the same way Olly did to Stiles.

Dereks eyebrows did this thing where they looked like they expected Stiles to have some sort of
revelation. Stiles felt more dead than anything, and also extremely guilty. He couldnt necessarily
tell Olly to stop with the scent marking. It was something he did every time he woke up. It seemed
to be comforting. The one morning Olly hadnt gotten a chance to cuddle, hed been cranky for
two hours before Stiles had lifted him up and carried him around the house like a baby.

There was a long beat of silence, only filled by the rumbling of two little werewolves, and Derek
looked more and more constipated as he tried to think of what to say. Stiles knew this stuff didnt
happen often. Scott rarely would scent mark him, and only if he was feeling particularly
affectionate.

Olly settled into his lap again and Stiles ran a hand over his head. Fiddling with the handle to his
mug, a thought struck him and he blurted, anyone want pancakes?

Both boys perked up, and then Derek--Dereks eyebrows twitched and his back straightened just
the tiniest bit. Stiles had to bite down on a grin. It looked like the love of pastries ran in the family.

Pancakes! Andy cried, voice muffled from where his face was buried in Dereks shoulder.
Pancakes!
Yes! Olly agreed, trying to say something else and being cut off with a yawn. He shook his
head sleepily, rubbing his face and then pulling on Stiles shirt. I want some!

Stiles grinned, pushing himself out of his seat and hauling Olly up too, readjusting the child to rest
on his waist. This was one of the few times he wished that he had a womans curves, if only to
make it easier to tote Olly around during the day.

Pancakes it is, Stiles confirmed, grinning when Olly and Andy both cheered loudly.

Derek cleared his throat, shifting Andy and slowly coaxing the child to sit in his lap again.
Theres strawberries in the fridge, he offered, his eyebrows rising up the tiniest bit in hope.

Aw, Derek wanted pancakes too. Well, Stiles wasnt one to disappoint. With Olly on his waist, he
had to perform a bit of acrobatics to open the fridge and find the drawer with the half-empty
container of strawberries. Sure, Stiles knew they were there--hed been the one to buy them--but
he had a feeling telling Derek that might usurp his station as head of the house or something else
alpha-y.
Who wants strawberries on their pancakes? Stiles asked, giving Olly a bounce to let him know
he was also being asked.

Me! Olly raised both arms in the air, grinning sleepily and then wobbling on Stiles waist. He
threw his arms around Stiles neck to keep his balance, huffing his morning breath into Stiles
face. Stiles couldnt even grimace because it was kind of cute anyway.

I dont! Andy shouted from Dereks lap, wiggling and throwing his hands across the table.
Dey get mushy!

Stiles nodded seriously, searching the cabinets for the materials needed to make pancakes. Olly
grunted, squirming and then sliming his way out of Stiles arm to toddle over to the table. Derek
reached out, running a hand over his head and then pulling back to turn the page in his newspaper.

Stiles, now with both hands free, washed and cut the strawberries before deciding they needed
some music. Andy was squeakily informing Derek of the importance of yesterdays episode of
Tailspin and Olly was--

Trying to filch Dereks coffee.

Breezing over to the table, Stiles swept Olly up in his arms while plucking the mug out of his
hands. Oh no you dont, buddy, I can barely handle you on a regular basis.

Im tirsty! Olly protested, whining and reaching for the mug. Derek had this shocked look on
his face, like he had no idea how a four year old had managed to steal a mug from an alpha
werewolf. Stiles had to bite back a grin, jostling Olly a little and then poking him in the nose.

You shoulda said something, buddy! Want some juice?

Olly frowned, and then pinched his eyebrows together in this serious expression that looked
almost identical to his fathers. He crossed his arms, huffed, and then nodded like he was going to
have to settle for something other than the same thing his dad was drinking. I guess.

Stiles opened the fridge, snagging a juice box and handing it to Olly before carrying the other over
to the table for Andy. Derek took it from Stiles, their fingers brushing and making Stiles entire
hand feel like it was on fire. Stiles didnt like that feeling, and he had to stop himself from
wrenching his arm back entirely at the sensation. Derek popped the straw into the box, handing it
to Andy in his lap. Stiles set Olly down at the table, pushing the chair in so he could reach it to rest
his arms on, and then grabbed his laptop.
He browsed through the recently-added selection of calmer music, and ended up going with a play
list of songs that his mother had played when he was a kid. Olly was particularly fond of Paul
Simon, and it made Stiles heart ache to remember dancing around his own kitchen while his mom
sang with the music and cheered him on.

Stiles was flipping the last of the strawberry pancakes when Andys voice suddenly dropped off
from the middle of his story about the book Stiles had read them for bedtime (the original How to
Train Your Dragon, thank you very much) and Stiles paused to listen.

Daddy, Andy began, waiting until Derek grunted in acknowledgement. Stiles peeked over his
shoulder, seeing Andy curled up with his eyes drooping sleepily on Dereks shoulder. How
come I have to be a boy?

The pancake Stiles was flipping slid off of the spatula, making a loud splat on the pan. Stiles
hissed, biting back a curse and struggling to fix it and giving up halfway through. Derek was
silent, and the longer he went without saying anything, the more anxious Stiles got.

Sometimes we cant be the things we want, Derek responded quietly, mug clacking as he set it
down. He must have been taking a drink from it to give himself a chance to think. We all have to
grow up some time.

God, Derek really was deluded into thinking this could only be a phase. One that had to be
ignored and prevented.

The sigh Andy released was far too pained for a child. Stiles had to stop himself from watching to
see what he did. It made something inside of him wrench when all Andy said was, I dun wanna
ever grow up if I hafta be a boy, with a tiny voice.

That wasnt the sound of a child sad that they had to stop playing house. That wasnt the sound of
a child accepting that they couldnt jump on the bed anymore. That was the sound of a child
realizing that their father was never going to accept them.

That was so fucking not okay.

Stiles finished the last of the pancakes, his brain going a mile a minute, thinking of what he could
do--of what he could say--without losing his job. Finally, he brought over the food, taking note of
the startled look on Dereks face when he got his own plate full of strawberry pancakes. His
surprise only grew when Stiles came back to top off his coffee too.

Catching Dereks stare, Stiles gave him a bright smile, Cant work on an empty stomach. Even
princesses know that, right, Miss Andy? Stiles looked over to Andy, who had been lifelessly
poking at his food after being shifted to his own seat from Dereks lap.

Andys face lit up in an instant, looking delighted at the nickname, and he nodded furiously. He
glanced over, giving Derek an uneasy look, but then beamed right back at Stiles, chirping, right!
and then stuffing a forkful of pancakes messily into his mouth.

It wasnt hard to realize then and there that it was entirely likely that Andy wasnt going through a
phase. The way that Andy acted, the way Andy always wanted to be the femme fatale in all of
their games, all of it pointed to the heart of a little girl. The clarity hit Stiles suddenly, and it was
like watching the last bits of whatever boy hed seen in Andy just disappear as Andy hummed and
struggled not to make a mess while eating.

Even in his head, Stiles couldnt help but think of Andy as a girl. That was okay, though, because
she was. She was the most badass princess in all of Beacon Hills, as far as Stiles was concerned.
Derek had looked ready to say something, but apparently the way Andy was practically glowing
was enough to get him to shut his mouth. He looked confused. Like he wasnt really sure what he
was supposed to think.

Good.

After breakfast, Stiles sent Olly and Andy to get washed up and brush their teeth, sitting back at
the table and shutting the music off.

Derek was picking at a lone strawberry on his plate, sliding it across a puddle of maple syrup and
pointedly not looking at Stiles. That was fine, Stiles could do the talking. He had a feeling that
whole scent marking issue with Olly was going to help keep Derek from firing him outright.

Its not that hard, Stiles managed to say, closing his laptop and resting his elbows on the table.
Derek shoved the last strawberry in his mouth, giving Stiles a blank look like he had no idea what
they were about to discuss.

Stiles sighed, shrugging and glancing down at the table. He used a napkin to wipe at some syrup
on the table, grimacing at how it just left a sticky patch behind. To let Andy be what she wants.

Andys a boy, Derek cut in harshly.

Snapping his eyes up, Stiles was glad hed forced himself to look at Derek. Derek didnt look
mad, he looked terrified. Whatever those doctors are telling you means nothing if you dont ask
your own child first.

Derek snarled, tensing and hissing out, I doubt a licensed psychiatrist is going to lie to me.

How do you think some of them get their money? Kid keeps doing what you dont want, you
keep coming back, huh? Stiles butted in, already feeling a surge of protectiveness, a desire to
fight for Andy.

Derek opened his mouth, a noise leaving him like he was going to talk, and then he justdidnt
say anything. He frowned, trying again to speak and then growling low in his throat.

The full moon is tonight. You should leave before six to be on the safe side.

Smooth change of subject, Mr. Hale. Very smooth.

Stiles gestured vaguely, arms flailing about, just to know that he was well aware that Derek was
avoiding the issue. Derek continued to blankface him and Stiles sighed. Are you going to be fine
on your own?

Derek looked at him flatly and Stiles bobbed his eyebrows in a fashion that he was well aware
was mockingly similar to what Olly and Derek did when they were expecting an answer. Derek
didnt notice, or didnt care, because he said slowly, they have cages.

Stiles was taken aback, because he really didnt like the idea of Olly and Andy being caged up
during the full moon. Derek seemed to catch the look of horror on his face because he quickly
added, their old cribs become cages. Theyre still learning how to find an anchor.

Cant you be an anchor? Stiles asked, and Derek visibly flinched.

Im trying. Its hard when Im always working. Im not Im not--

Youre not home enough for them, Stiles interjected. Derek stared, swallowing dryly and then
giving him a stiff nod. Stiles made an mhmm, sound that let Derek know that he was well aware
of this, and Derek exhaled a sigh and stood.

Im working on it, with that, Derek walked out of the kitchen. Stiles maybe took that moment to
consider how much of Derek was a bad father and how much of him was just incompetent. He
also made sure to ogle the way Dereks back muscles flexed and that he had one of those sexy set
of dimples at the base of his spine.

It wasnt like Derek was going to be around enough for Stiles to be able to do this whenever he
wanted, anyway, right?

After the kids were cleaned up and Derek had changed into a set of comfortable day clothes and
holed himself up in the downstairs study, Stiles set about teaching Andy and Olly the art of
coloring inside the lines.

They were making progress--Stiles only had to remind them seven or eight times in two hours
that, daddys working, you cant see him until lunch time, before Andy finally gave a loud,
aggravated sigh, and chucked her crayons across the table. Olly made an affronted sound, picking
them up and putting them with his own crayons.

Andy? Stiles watched Andy stand up and stomp straight for the entertainment center. She
ignored Stiles, grabbing the familiar case for Rapunzel and flouncing out of the room. Oh no, not
again.

Stiles gave Olly a quick rub on the head, scrambling to his feet to chase Andy down. He found
her in Dereks study, setting the Rapunzel DVD on his lap. Daddy, she whined, pulling at his
shirt. Stiles made a move to grab her, but Derek held his hand up to let Stiles know he could
handle it.

I need to finish this, sweetie, Derek said quietly, stumbling over the last word. Stiles almost had
a heart attack hearing it. It was such an endearing term, one that Derek would previously never
use. He wanted to cry for Andy, because this had to mean Derek was trying, right?

Andy, it seemed, didnt care about any affectionate words in the face of being ignored for work.
She pulled at his shirt again, letting out a loud whine of, Daddyyyyyy, that had Derek shooting
her a warning look. Stiles started to move in for an intervention when Andy dragged in a
shuddering breath and sank to the ground on her bottom. She pulled the Rapunzel case back onto
her own lap, sitting her head on Dereks thigh with another sigh.

Derek clicked around on his laptop, typing with one hand while the other came down to start
petting Andys head, his giant palm running over the short strands of her black hair--cut identical
to his own and Ollys, but always messier.

It seemed they were both content with their set up, so Stiles slipped out of the room, making sure
to leave the door wide open in case Derek needed him to come and fetch Andy. He settled back in
with Olly, and they started to make up their own galaxy as per Ollys request. They had reached
the planet with two moons called Borgle, when Stiles heard the snap of a laptop being shut
firmly.

Okay, go turn the tv on, Derek said loudly, probably to give Stiles some warning. Stiles was
very grateful for the warning, because Andy came streaking into the room with a loud screech of
excitement and tripped over the living room rug. If Stiles hadnt been standing to put the DVD in
for her, hed wouldnt have had the chance to reach up and stop her fall.
Tanks, Stiles! Andy chirped. Stiles wanted to preen over the fact that Andy had said his name
properly, but he was too busy trying to stop Andy from squirming out of his arms with excitement.
Derek came into the room while Stiles was holding Andy up to the BluRay player to put the disk
in. The television was a giant flat screen HD monstrosity, one that took up a good portion of the
living room. Stiles had no complaints, though, because it just meant that they could sprawl almost
anywhere on the couch and still be able to watch without any trouble.

Once they had the movie running, Stiles sat down just a few cushions down from where Derek
was lounging with two little werebabies cuddled up on his stomach and chest. It was cavity-
inducing, because Olly was snuffling Dereks shoulder hesitantly while Andy demanded Derek
sing with her this time around. Derek grunted something that could have been agreement, and
turned to kiss the top of Ollys head.

The sound that escaped Olly was something Stiles rarely ever heard. It was so happy that Stiles
had to slouch down in his seat just to keep from choking on a swell of emotion.

When the first song came up, Stiles had to stop himself from choking on a laugh because Andy
started to swat Derek on the stomach until he begrudgingly muttered out the lyrics in a half-hum.
Stiles had a feeling that, if he werent there, Derek would be a little less mortified about knowing
all the words. Andy was more than happy, taking one of Dereks hands and swinging it up and
down in her lap while they sang.

Not long after, Olly slid off of Dereks lap and climbed across the couch over to Stiles. Stiles
didnt even think about it, picking his arm up so Olly could curl up under it with an ear over his
heart, and setting his hand on a tiny shoulder. He rubbed Ollys arm, already used to being used as
a human pillow, and kept watching the movie. It was when he felt the itch of someone watching
him that he looked over to see Derek staring again.

Olly giggled at something on the movie--making Stiles peek up to see Flynn getting nailed with a
frying pain by Rapunzel--and burrowed deeper into Stiles chest. Derek made a noise, something
soft and confused, and Stiles instantly jostled Olly in his lap.

Bending down, he said quietly, Why dont you go snuggle with daddy?

Looking up absently at Stiles, Olly gave him an owlish blink before tilting his head. Andy has
daddy, he said matter-of-factly, so youre mine.

Oh God. That probably was not a good thing. Actually, the look on Dereks face could have
meant it was good or bad. All Stiles knew was that hed never seen a werewolf look so gutted
before. It made guilt and pain coil inside of him, Stiles heart clenching. He smiled at Olly, though,
kissing him on the head. Yeah, buddy, youll always have me,

Shooting Stiles a triumphant grin, Olly plopped his head right back onto Stiles shoulder,
snuggling in and resuming the film. Stiles chanced a look at Derek, giving the man a helpless
shrug when he found himself on the receiving end of intense stare 2.0.

Whatever. If this is what Derek needed to get his head in the game, Stiles was totally okay with
that. Besides, Mr. Harris used to stare at him all the time back in high school, and Stiles had a
feeling there were a lot creepier intentions behind that stare.

After the movie, Derek reluctantly went back to work and Stiles went about hiding plastic cups
with trail mix around the living room and kitchen for Olly and Andy to find.

The rest of the morning was a little less eventful. They all ate lunch together, with Andy telling
Derek about their game of finding the snacks, and Olly proudly pointing out how he had found
three of them before Andy had. Derek listened intently, nodding where he needed to and adding
compliments and congratulations where necessary.

Olly and Andy went down for their naps a little later than usual, already starting to get edgy and
agitated from the effects of the full moon. Stiles felt run ragged by the time four oclock rolled
around. He was lounging on the couch, debating if he also should take a nap, when Derek
meandered into the room with his hands in the pockets of his slacks and his arms looking way to
sexy in the rolled-up sleeves of his Henley.

You can head on home. Im done with work for the day, Derek said quietly, shifting from
where he stood next to Stiles sprawled form on the couch.

Stiles lifted his head, giving Derek a suspicious stare. You got this, man?

Derek snorted, confirming, Yeah, I got this.

Pushing himself up into a sitting position, Stiles peered around for his laptop bag. He went about
getting ready to leave when a thought struck him and he had to turn to face Derek. Derek, who
had just been standing there and watching him the entire time. Weird.

Stiles fidgeted with the strap of his laptop bag, blurting out, you dont have to be careful with
them.

What? Derek asked sharply.

Shrugging, Stiles gave a vague gesture to the hallway that lead to the boys room. Kids bounce
backyou just have to keep showing them you care, thats all.

Derek made a face, his shoulders tensing and his back going rigid. He suddenly seemed a whole
lot bigger than just the one inch of height he had on Stiles. You dont really know what youre
talking about.

Says he who sees his kids maybe three days out of the week. Stiles had to stop himself from
scoffing at that, and instead gave Derek a pointed look. I know you love your kids, he said,
enjoying the taken aback look that flickered over Dereks face. Apparently he hadnt expected
that. Good. Stiles liked to keep em on their toes.

When Derek continued to remain speechless, Stiles went in for a follow up hit. I also know that
they need you to prove that to them every single day. This? Stiles gestured to the house, to the
open DVD case on the table and to the way the couch blankets were still ruffled from when Andy
had gotten cold and Derek had pulled one over her near the end of the movie. This needs to
happen all the time, dude.

Stiles looked back at Derek, his eyes hardening. You lose this now, and youll never get it back.

In all honesty, Stiles didnt want to know how he would have turned out if he hadnt always had
his mother and father there for him as a kid. To grow up knowing little more than a few days of
love from his only parent? Stiles didnt want that to happen to Olly or Andy. They were great
kids, and they deserved a lot better than what they were getting.

Whether or not his words really got through to Derek, Stiles wasnt sure, because all Derek did
was nod his head towards the door and say, I think its time for you to go home.

Stiles left feeling helpless. He knew there was something inside of Derek that had great potential--
he saw the way Derek acted when he really opened up to his kids. Why couldnt Derek just
realize that?
Of course, when he showed up the next day, he almost wished hed never said anything.
Apparently Derek had decided a good post-full moon breakfast was going to iHop and stuffing his
children full of waffles laden with powdered sugar.

Stiles tried desperately to acknowledge that Derek had made an attempt with his kids, he really
did. It was just hard to remember that when Andy released a battle cry to rival Xena and vaulted
off of the back of the couch and right onto Stiles back while Olly screamed and remained
wrapped around his leg like an octopus.
 Chapter 5
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

No, daddy, Andy protested, smoothing out the sides of her bright purple and teal dress and
ducking her head away from Dereks grasp, thats now how you do it!

She slid off of Dereks lap, wrestling the candy-shaped hair clips out of his fingers and hurrying to
where Stiles was trying to coerce Olly into finishing his cheerios. Diles, can you do my hair?
she asked, holding up the clips. Stiles reached out, unclasping the one in her hair and then
brushing her short bangs aside to re-clip it.

Did you ask your dad to help you?

Andy made a face, leaning in and whispering loudly, daddy makes it look ugly.

Stiles tried not to laugh as Derek made a face and stood up. He took a sip of Ollys juice (earning
a noise of protest from Olly and subsequently getting him to steal it back and possessively start
gulping it down) and then set about clipping up Andys hair to the best of his ability.

His hair is too short for clips, Derek grumbled, watching Stiles clip them right above one
another. He crossed his arms, huffing as Andy reached up to use her fingers to inspect Stiles
handiwork and nod in approval.

Looking over at Derek, Stiles shrugged. Her hair is short because you make her cut it, he
pointed out, brushing past the older man. He headed for the living room, intent on picking up a
few stray toys before Derek left for work. It made his life easier if either of the kids decided to
have a fit at the absence of their father if there was less clutter for Stiles to walk through to get to
the couch for comfort-cuddles.

Derek followed, watching Stiles toss some blocks and dolls into the storage bin in the corner.
Andys hair was never an issue before you came.

No matter how much Stiles wanted to laugh in Dereks face, he kept from doing so. Instead, he
flipped Ollys blanket onto his shoulder and turned to stare Derek down. Did this guy really think
Andy didnt care about her hair? Or did he never notice the times Andy used her baby blanket to
pretend she had long hair like Rapunzel or any other girl her age. Are you sure about that?

Glancing at his watch and scowling, Derek gave Stiles a flat look. You seem to forget which of
us is their actual father.

This time, Stiles did scoff. He passed by Derek, moving to take Ollys blanket into his bedroom.
And what a great job youve done-- Stiles choked off when he was grabbed roughly by the
upper arm and shoved up against the wall. Dereks eyes flashed red, a low snarl punching out of
his gut when he slammed his fist into the wall next to Stiles head. Stiles flinched, because he had
a very distinct feeling that only Dereks will alone had stopped that fist from going straight into his
face.
The only reason you still have this fucking job is because my kids are attached, Derek hissed,
shaking Stiles roughly by the arm, so youd better watch what comes out of that mouth of yours
before you take it too far.

Heart thundering against his ribs, Stiles struggled not to reek too badly of fear, sucking in a
nervous breath. Maybe itd be a little easier if you actually tried to be a better father, he said
nervous breath. Maybe itd be a little easier if you actually tried to be a better father, he said
lowly, anger rising up inside of him. Did Derek really think he had a right to get mad? Stiles saw
what his absence did to Andy and Olly; the fact that Derek cared more about what Stiles thought
of him as a father, and now how he actually performed as one, made Stiles blood boil.

Dereks nails dug into the wall, claws scratching up the paint and drywall with a crackling noise.
I dont need you telling me how to raise my children. he snapped, jerking Stiles and shoving
him up against the wall so hard that Stiles head spun. Ive let you get away with enough. It stops
here.

The fact that Derek was so incensed had Stiles words dying on his tongue. He had to stop and
think about how Derek must have felt, and that in itself made guilt and shame hit him like a truck.
It wasnt like Derek was necessarily a bad father on purpose, he just didnt seem to know exactly
how to be a good one.

No! Ollys scream came from across the room and Derek and Stiles snapped their heads around
to see him running over. Daddy, no! Olly cried again, running right into Dereks leg and
punching him in the knee with both of his tiny fists. Dont hurt my Stiles!

Any other day, Stiles would have been happy to note that Olly had gotten his name right, but he
was a little more distracted with how horrified Derek looked when Olly continued to hit his leg.
Olly rarely lashed out when he was upset, preferring to break down into tears, and the fact that he
was doing it to protect Stiles made something deep in Stiles gut churn with guilt.

Olly sobbed out another, stop it, daddy! while he kept beating his fists against Dereks thigh.
Derek quickly wrenched his hand off of Stiles arm, reaching down to pick Olly up and getting a
punch to the chin instead.

Derek looked like hed been punched right in the heart, wrenching away from Olly and then
trying to reach out again before he hesitated. Olly looked ready to swing at him again and
realization struck Stiles like a freight train. Derek wasnt mad at Stiles for telling him how to be a
parent. He was mad because he was losing his children to their babysitter.

Scooping Olly up into his arms, Stiles reached up to wipe at the distressed tears on the boys face.
Your daddy wasnt hurting me, he said earnestly, receiving a startled look from both Olly and
Derek. Olly sniffed, rubbing at his face.

Really?

Yep. He was just mad because I hurt his feelings, is all.

Ollys eyes went wide, looking to Derek (who was giving Stiles a suspicious stare) as if asking for
clarification. Derek flitted his eyes down to Olly and then nodded slowly in agreement.

Making a noise of disdain, Olly turned to give Stiles a very displeased frown. Youre not my
friend anymoah, he said seriously, and then turned to reach out for Derek. Stiles handed Olly
over, making a dramatic sigh like Ollys declaration had broken his heart.

Derek slowly reached out, handling Olly like porcelain as he curled the child into the crook of his
arm. He looked entirely confused as Olly reached up to wrap his arms around Dereks neck and
proclaimed, Im sorry I hit you, before smacking a wet kiss on Dereks cheek. Derek rubbed at
Ollys back, quietly muttering forgiveness and then giving Olly a tiny grin.

Thats when Andy finally made her presence known, reaching up with wiggling fingers at Derek
and giving a whine before she hopped in place. Daddy, she whimpered, pulling on his pants.
Stiles lifted her up, placing her in Dereks other arm and stepping back. It was a scene that had
Stiles heart aching. Both children were curled into Dereks embrace, their legs tangled together
and their faces resting on each of his shoulders. Derek looked overwhelmed by them, like he
didnt know who to focus on first. Stiles had to bite back a grin at the way Derek dazedly walked
towards the couch, sitting down and adjusting his kids so they could keep clinging onto him.

Just watching how they would interact was enough for Stiles to realize that Derek did care; he was
just clueless. Stiles glanced at the clock on the cable box, surprised to see that Derek normally
would have left already. Instead, he was still sitting with Olly and Andy on the couch, letting
Andy inform him that Stiles wasnt allowed to do her hair any more if he was going to be mean to
Derek. Dereks small, pleased grin made something burn deep inside of Stiles.

Derek stayed even after Andys attention span had her climbing out of his lap and running to grab
one of her Rapunzel dolls from the toy bin. She brought it back over to him when he didnt get up
right away, shoving it into his hands and demanding that he practice learning how to style hair
with Rapunzel as his test subject.

In the past week, the combined effort of both Stiles and Derek had filled the bin up with toy sea
animals, three barbies (all of them with modest clothing, as per Dereks demand), a giant plush
astronaut, an electronic baby with the batteries removed out of the back, a sticky octopus that Olly
loved to throw at the wall and make Stiles retrieve for him, a space shuttle, and three different toy
variations of Rapunzel.
Olly grabbed the remote, still curled up into Dereks side, and turned on the TV before staring
blankly at the news channel and then frowning. Stiles knew that frown. It was the frown of a child
who just realized that he couldnt decide what to watch.

Want me to put on Wall-E? Stiles chirped from the other end of the couch, mostly clicking
around StumbleUpon to keep himself entertained. Olly sighed loudly, dropping the remote and
shaking his head.

Treasure Planet?

Olly made a face, and then Stiles remembered how terrified he had been of the scorpion villain.
That movie wasnt really one that they watched very often. Stiles wracked his brain for the other
movies that Olly liked to watch. Planet 51?

No.

Little Mermaid?

Ollys face lit up and Stiles knew hed hit the jackpot. Andy seemed equally excited, her face
breaking into a grin. Technically, Little Mermaid was Andys movie, but Olly was always very
interested in it when Stiles would put it on. It was probably all of the ocean-life that had him
enraptured. That, and Olly was totally going to grow up to be a romantic.

Hed be a heartbreaker when he grew up, Stiles had no doubt.

Ill get it! Andy cried, scrambling off of Dereks lap and falling over in her haste. Her head
cracked against the coffee table and Stiles leapt to his feet as she released a cry of pain. Derek was
there first, hauling her up into his arms while she wailed and held her forehead. Stiles didnt even
think, reacting like he did every time they got hurt and kissing right on the already-fading red
mark. Derek tensed, clutching to Andy while she whimpered and sniffed.

Your kisses dont work like daddys, she said miserably--like she did almost any time he
attempted to kiss her boo-boos. Stiles sighed, petting her short hair and trying his hardest to ignore
the way he could feel Derek staring holes into him.
Thats because your daddy loves you so much that his kisses are like magic, Stiles said
seriously, watching as her werewolf powers kicked in and the tiny swell of a bump began to go
down.

Andy made a face like she wasnt sure she believed Stiles claims that her father was magic. I
guess so, she mumbled, squealing when Derek dragged her in and pressed a gentle kiss to the
healed skin of her forehead. She beamed up at him, wriggling to be put down now that she was no
longer in need of magic healing kisses. Derek set her down and she headed for the DVD shelf,
pulling them out one by one in search of the Little Mermaid case.

Stiles turned, startled to see Derek looking at him expressionlessly. Feeling more than a little
ashamed of his earlier behavior, Stiles looked away and shrugged. Sorry about... That stuff Ive
been saying I just didnt understand. In reality, it was more that Stiles assumed what he saw
Derek do with the kids around him was how he always acted. The more Derek stayed instead of
worked, the more Stiles saw that there was a lot he didnt know went on between the three Hales
behind closed doors.

Derek glanced at his watch, exhaling slowly. I forget Im not the only one who cares about them
anymore, he murmured, arm dropping as he glanced up at Stiles. There was an awkward moment
of silence, one that Stiles felt should be filled with words, but he couldnt think of anything to say.
Derek stood there for another second, and then cleared his throat. I need to go into the office,
now.

With that, Derek backed up and turned, heading for the kitchen where hed left his briefcase after
theyd had breakfast.

This time, when Derek left for work, Olly and Andy only cried for ten minutes before they settled
back down and resumed watching their movie. Even then, the entire mood for the day still felt a
little off--especially when Stiles thought about the way Derek had stiffened when Stiles had kissed
Andy on the head, or how Derek had acted like Stiles was practically replacing him. It might have
been a werewolf thing; which meant that Stiles needed to call his main informant of all things
furry and bitey.

Sounds like a territory thing, Scott said, voice muffled on the other line. Stiles sighed, wiping a
bit of juice off of the kitchen table and dropping his voice down so that baby superhearing
couldnt pick him up over the sound of Sebastian the crab nearly being murdered by a homicidal
French chef.

Its not like they can make me pack, Scott.

Well, actually, they can. Scott countered, sounding almost smug about the fact that he actually
knew something Stiles didnt. Derek said that they were scent marking you, right?

Dread settled in Stiles gut as he dropped the washcloth in the sink. Yeah, he said slowly,
whats your point?

Scent marking is to make you smell like pack.

Dude, Im human, in case you forgot.

Scott made a dismissive noise. Doesnt matter, man. Pack is pack--human or wolf.

Stiles had absolutely no idea what to do with that information. It wasnt like he could tell Olly or
Andy that they werent allowed cuddles or hugs anymore, could he? Derek was their alpha and
their father. If he wanted them to stop, then he had to be the bad guy. Stiles didnt get paid enough
to break the hearts of children.

He kind of didnt want to really think too hard about the fact that Olly and Andy apparently
wanted him in their family so much that they were trying to mark him as pack. Thanking Scott
absently, Stiles hung up and scrubbed his palm over his face. He had absolutely no idea how to
even process the information he was being given.

Stiles wanted to say this was above his pay grade, but he made $50 an hour so, really, it wasnt.

Thinking about the gravity of the situation just made Stiles gut clench. He needed to get out of the
house--and he needed to take the kids with him. They all needed some space, and a bit of fresh air.
Maybe all this cabin fever was what was causing all the possessiveness.

Probably not, but taking them to the park for the afternoon couldnt hurt.

In theory, going to the park shouldnt have hurt. Stiles, however, hadnt thought about the fact that
Andy and Olly werent the only young werewolves in town. He also hadnt even considered the
idea that maybe girls and boys had a different scent.

At least, not until Andy was having a screaming fest with one of the older boys on the playground
who kept throwing mulch at her and calling her names.

Youre a boy! Youre a boy! Stop being a weirdo! the kid chanted, hanging upside-down from
the monkey bars, hair sticking every-which-way as he chucked bits of wood at Andy, having
apparently stashed a bunch of wood chips into his pockets.

Stiles wanted to intervene, but he knew for a fact that the kids dad was watching his every move-
-like if Stiles tried to stop the mocking, he was going to get beat up for it. Stiles was half tempted
to risk his life in order to stop the tears that were rising in Andys eyes, but he didnt know what
would happen if he wasnt conscious to watch over the kids.

Shut up! Andy wailed, jumping up and down in a frustrated stomp. The boy clambered down
from the monkey bars, laughing mockingly. Olly was growling in Stiles arms, claws digging into
his shoulders and his fur puffing out around his jaw and ears.

Youre not a girl! Youre a liar! the boy teased, which was really the last straw for Stiles. He
shifted Olly on his hip, stomping over just as Andy took two furious steps forward and punched
the boy right in the nose.

In a movie, Stiles would have been cheering Andy on. In real life, however, beating the crap out
of a kid for bullying you was apparently frowned upon in society. Andy tackled the screaming
boy to the ground, punching him in the face again as the kids dad jumped to his feet.

Andy, use your words! Stiles cried, hurriedly setting Olly down and rushing over before things
got out of hand.

Okay! Andy shouted as the kids nose started to bleed. You smell like poopy an lizard breff!
Youre ugly too!

Stiles wrenched her off of the older child, ignoring her kicking and screaming protests as she
roared, Im not a boy! with a wolfish snarl and a flash of bright blue eyes. Stiles shushed her,
petting at her hair and thanking the higher powers that shed at least beat up a fellow werewolf,
because the kid was already starting to heal as he sobbed loudly into his fathers arms.

The father, though, looked utterly livid. You need to stop feeding that boy your sick fantasies.
What would his parents say if they knew you were ruining their son?
Anger hit Stiles in a rush and he rubbed Andys back when he felt her still, knowing she had
heard everything the man had said. Im sure her father would wonder what kind of parent just
watches their kid bully his daughter!

Stiles turned on his heel before the guy could say anything else. The rest of the parents were
already watching, a few of them with expressions like they wanted to get in on the argument, and
Stiles really didnt want to know whos side they were taking. Andy didnt need to listen to
anyone but Stiles or Derek.

Im not a boy, Andy whimpered into Stiles throat, breath hitching as she clutched to the collar
of his shirt.

I know, baby girl. That doesnt mean you need to hit them for being stupid heads.

Im sorry, Andy said, though Stiles didnt think she was actually sorry at all. He didnt blame
her, though. If he wasnt expected to be a responsible adult, hed have been cheering her on the
whole way.

Stupi heads with lizard breff! Olly piped up from Stiles feet, having run over the second the
yelling had stopped. Andy grinned into Stiles throat, giggling just the tiniest bit. Stiles almost sat
back down on the bench when the older woman who was there with her grandchildren released a
horrified noise.

You need to stop this nonsense. Who knows how messed up that boy will be in a few years if
you dont stop, she hissed, as if talking quietly was going to make it harder for Andy to hear
what she was saying. Olly, fingers curled into Stiles pant leg, pointed at her with a distressed
noise.

Stop being mean to my sister! he cried, looking ready to bite the womans throat out at a
moments notice. Stiles pressed his hand against Ollys head, bringing it against his leg to try and
calm him. He looked the woman down, realizing in that exact moment that, compared to a lot of
parents? Derek was a fucking amazing father, and Olly and Andy would grow up to be strong and
wonderful because of his support. And until the day Derek could be there all the time? Stiles
would be the one cheering them on.

There is nothing wrong with Andy, because she will never grow up being told shes wrong and
that she cant be anything she wants. Shes loved way too much for anyone to break her heart like
that. Stiles looked at where Andy was staring up at him with wide eyes, giving her the biggest
grin he could. She is the most perfect girl in the entire world.

With that, Stiles took Ollys hand and led them off of the playground and towards the car. They
didnt have to put up with the rest of the worlds ignorance. Sure, when they went to pre-school
come fall, there would be issues, but Stiles was sure Derek would nip all of those problems in the
bud.

In the great words of half the internet, haters were gonna hate.

Regardless of how awesome Stiles felt with their epic storm-out of the park, he made sure to text
Derek the second that they got home. He didnt go into much detail, just saying that Andy had
beat up another kid at the playground for calling her a boy. Part of it was to see Dereks reaction,
and another part was so that he was at least slightly informed if he came home and the kids tried to
talk his head off with stories of their afternoon.

As per Andys request, they set up the pillow fort in the living room for a play game of castle.
Andy was in her room, changing into a more princess appropriate dress when Derek texted
back.

Im starting to get the feeling I was being lied to by Andys therapist.

It was a loaded comment, for sure. There were so many things Stiles could say to that. He could
regale stories of doctors telling his dad that Stiles would never be able to live on his own, and how
theyd told Stiles he needed to be independent and fight his dad at the same time. It had caused a
two year long fight between he and his father before they realized the doctor was the source of it,
and that the fighting had also been the reason for bi-montly visits.

He could tell Derek about prejudice and ignorance and hundreds of other things, but there were so
many words in his head that he knew nothing he said would really come across through a text the
way it should.

In the end, as Andy re-entered with a bright purple dress covered in sparkles, Stiles only replied to
Dereks text with the words, it happens, before he tucked his phone away.

Diles is Prince Flynn! Andy exclaimed, displaying a half-crumpled aluminum foil tiara with a
flourish and then gesturing for Stiles to put it on. Stiles grinned, taking the tiara and smoothing it
out before putting it on.

I thought Flynn was a bandit?

You are a prince, Andy said firmly, staring at Stiles with such an intensity that Stiles was just
the tiniest bit frightened. He nodded in agreement as Olly whined and climbed into Stiles lap to
reach for his tiara.

I want to be a prince!

Andy scoffed, tugging on Ollys ankle. You cant be a prince cuz den you gotta kiss me!

Ew! Olly screeched, just before Andy pulled too hard and sent Olly tumbling off of Stiles lap.
He hit the ground with a thud, wailing loudly as Andy covered her mouth with a dramatic gasp.
The doorbell rang as Stiles scooped Olly up into his arms, peppering kisses on his face to try and
distract him from the momentary pain until he healed. Olly whined and Stiles resorted to drastic
measures. With one hand holding Olly up, he used the other to pull up the astronaut t-shirt Olly
was wearing, blowing a loud raspberry that made Ollys sob turn into a squealing laugh.

Stiles! Olly whined, laughing when Stiles blew on his stomach again. He slapped at Stiles face,
giggling loudly when the doorbell rang again. Relieved that the crisis was averted, Stiles shot
Andy a work that told her we will have words when I come back and he lifted Olly onto his hip.

Before answering the door, Stiles detoured to the kitchen, snagging a juice box and struggling to
open it for Olly while he headed for the foyer.

Opening the door revealed a woman who looked a little older than Derek, her light brown hair
curled over one shoulder and eyes locking instantly to where Olly was cradled into Stiles side and
tearily sucking down his juice.

Uh, Stiles cleared his throat after another beat of silence, instinctively tightening his arm around
Olly. Can I help you?

The woman, who had continued to stare at the boy in Stiles hold, flitted her eyes up to lock on
Stiles. In a heartbeat, she was grinning and cocking her hip out, one hand resting on the curve of
it with a level of confidence that made Stiles wary.
 Well hey there, cutie. My name is Kate Hale, she reached a hand out and Stiles took it, wincing
at the strength of her grip when she practically wrenched his arm in a shake.

Okay

Dereks wife? Kate offered. Stiles stared at her hand, the one still holding onto his own,
frowning at the sight of her ring finger. It was completely void of jewelry--there wasnt even a tan
line like she had recently removed a wedding band. Even if there had been a ring, Stiles knew
enough that Derek wasnt married. Whatever was going on, it wasnt good.

He withdrew his hand, moving to grab the door. Im sorry, Mr. Hale isnt married, he began,
starting to shut the door. Youll have to come back later when hes home.

Stiles didnt even get it completely closed before her hand shot out and slammed into the wood,
forcing it back open. Kate leaned in, eyes narrowed as she hissed out, I have visitation rights. Its
my turn with the boys.

In the past month and a half that Stiles had worked for Derek, that had never been a single second
in which a mother was ever mentioned (outside of offhanded comments from Erica and that whole
store fiasco with Olly). That, in itself, was enough to raise hundreds of alarms in Stiles mind. He
crushed Olly to his chest, ignoring the whine of discomfort as Kate reached out to try and take him
from Stiles. Olly whined, leaning away with a whisper of, "she's scary," that had Stiles' gut
burning with dread upon hearing just two words that were complete proof that this woman was no
one of importance to Olly or Andy.

Stiles wrenched back, instinctively slapping her hand away. Im sorry. Youre going to have to
wait until Mr. Hale is home. Until then, youre trespassing, because you arent on the emergency
contact list. Im sorry. Without even pausing to breathe, Stiles rushed through his words as he
pushed at the door, using his hip and weight to shove it closed when she tried to push it open
again. The handle barely clicked before he was flicking the lock.

There was a rap on the door as Kate knocked again and then hit the doorbell switch. Come on,
sweetie. I havent got all day just to wait for my own kids. Be a good boy and open up.

Stiles didnt even hesitate to grab his phone, dialing Dereks name with shaking hands and
bringing it to his ear.

This is Hale. Stiles had never been so grateful to hear Dereks grumpy voice as he was in that
moment, with some crazy woman at the door, fiddling with the lock.

Theres some lady here who says shes your wife. Dude, seriously, if shes right, you really need
to work on your taste in women. Shes freaking me out.

There was a pause, and then Derek slowly asked, did she tell you her name?

Uh, Stiles scrambled to remember what shed said, rocking Olly just the tiniest bit to keep
himself from having a complete nervous breakdown, Kate? Kate Hale?

Fuck.

Chapter End Notes

AHAHAHAHA.
 Chapter 6

That is not reassuring, just so you know, Stiles breathed, bouncing Olly on his hip and then
heading back into the living room where Andy was half a foot from the television, staring
unblinkingly at a rerun of Tailspin, remote control half-dangling out of her fingers while Baloo
struggled to fly his plane through a storm.

At least she had taste.

Take the kids and go down into the basement. Its reinforced.

Stiles couldnt even help himself, he stopped dead in the middle of the living room, pulling the
phone away to stare at it before he brought it back to his ear. You built a panic room in the
basement? What are you, Bobby Singer?

What?

Of course. Why did Stiles even expect Derek to watch television. Its not like Supernatural had the
best of reviews. There were a lot of werewolves that had voiced their dislike for a poor
representation of the lycan community. Stiles didnt really watch it for anything other than the gay
undertones and violence.

Nothing--just. Is she going to break in the house? Who is she? Are we in danger? that was
when Stiles started to realize what was going on. Whatever was happening, it wasnt good, was
it? Derek never worried about anything. He paced the living room, setting Olly down when he
started to whine and squirm, and then shook his arm out to try and relieve some of the tension.

She wont break in the house--I dont think she will--but she might try to get you to come outside
again.

Thats not helping, Derek! Stiles cried, his voice cracking at the very end against his permission.
Olly and Andy glanced up from the TV, watching him with mixed looks of anxiety. Stiles quickly
ducked out of the living room, forcing himself to remain calm so that his heart didnt start tripping
into double time.

Its not to keep you safe; its to keep me from worrying. Just do it.

For a second, Stiles genuinely thought Derek had meant he was worried about Stiles, and then he
remembered Olly and Andy, and felt ashamed that hed assumed Derek would be worrying about
anyone other than his children. For just that second, Stiles had felt a warmth in his gut and his
heart had hiccupped because, of course, he had somehow developed a tiny crush on Derek in the
past few weeks.

Stiles liked to blame it on that warm and fuzzy feeling that came from watching Derek hold Andy
and Olly with a look on his face like they were his entire world.

Clearing his throat, Stiles headed for the foyer to grab the diaper bag that was sitting next to the
shoe rack. Can you at least tell me what Im up against? he asked, grabbing the bag and
carrying it towards the kitchen.

Nothing. Shes just--

A gold digging whore who is never supposed to see a hair on Olly or Andys heads? Stiles
blurted before he could stop himself, remember the one and only time hed ever heard a mention
of their mother. Derek went utterly silent, so much that Stiles had to check his phone to make sure
the call hadnt been dropped. He set the diaper bag on the kitchen counter.

Just a heads up, Olly likes to parrot things because hes a four year old and thats what they do.
By the way, we need to have a little chit chat about things you can and cant say to your children.
Stiles tossed some crackers and juice boxes into the bag, grabbing an apple for himself and a bottle
of water. He hadnt the slightest clue how long Derek expected them to be down there, so it was
best to be prepared.

Stiles, Derek snarled, not the time for this--

Im going, Im going, Stiles interrupted quickly. He really didnt want to piss Derek off twice in
one day, Im just getting some juice and crackers before I lock myself in a panic room with two
four year olds. he slung the diaper bag onto his shoulder, carrying it into the living room and
quickly tossing in the first toys he saw. Andy and Olly were watching him, probably aware of
how anxious Stiles was and that his heart wasnt exactly beating normally. Stiles reached both of
his hands out, the phone cradled against his shoulder and diaper bag strapped across his chest, and
Olly ran straight at Stiles legs and clung to them. Stiles lifted him up with a grunt, setting Olly on
his waist and reaching out to take Andys hand.

Just hurry, Derek barked. Stiles headed for the basement, taking care not to go so fast that Andy
tripped over herself.

Im hurrying. Cant you hear the sound of my heavy breathing? he fumbled with the door,
getting it open and leading his hand forward so Andy could walk in ahead of him.

He shut the door quickly, leaning back against it and exhaling slowly and shakily. The way Derek
was acting was totally not helping at all.

Stiles. Derek said, voice urgent.

Im freaking out a little, okay? Just bear with me. Stiles snapped, finally reigning in his panic to
turn and flick the lock on the door.

Derek made a soft noise, one like he had a lot to say and didn't know how to say it. Shes
shes not a good person, Stiles. She tried to take them from me, he said quietly, in that soft voice
that always made Stiles heart ache. It was the voice he always used when he was talking about
Andy and Olly, the one with pained, terrified love and affection. Stiles felt his gut twist,
wondering temporarily what it would feel like to have Derek talk about him with that kind of
voice. He shook his head, dispelling the thought before it could finish forming. Stiles was not
feeding his imagination and making his crush worse. It was bad enough that the stupid thing had
practically sprung up out of nowhere--worming it's way into Stiles' heart somewhere between
watching Derek help Andy cut her food, and arguing with him over parenting methods. Normally
he was fine with ignoring it, but the panic of the situation and the stress of the day had just made
everything amplified.

I know, man. I figured, he replied, moving to sit down on the cot and then help Andy climb up
next to him. Both children were silent, Olly clutching to his shirt and Andy pressed up into his
side. Stiles hoped desperately that they couldnt clearly hear what Derek was saying on the other
line when he spoke again.

She tried to hurt them.

Stiles forgot to breathe, shock hitting him from out of nowhere. What? You mean, like,
postpartum style? just thinking about anyone bringing harm to Olly or Andy had Stiles reaching
out and running his hand over Andys head, brushing the soft hair back and letting it fall against
her forehead again. She pressed into his palm, snuffling at his wrist and leeching off of the small
form of comfort. Olly whined, planting his face into Stiles throat and snuffling. They could both
tell something was wrong. It was clear as day.

She tried to have a third trimester abortion after I found out she was only with me so she could
steal company information and give it to a network of werewolf hunters.

Well, if that one didnt shoot him right in the gut. Healthy abortions were one thing--especially if it
was early on and for the health of the mother--but to kill your almost fully-formed unborn children
because things werent going according to plan? How fucked up was that? Did she not care at all
that she would have been just a few months away from having two healthy babies?

Jesus, Stiles breathed, taking his hand off of Andys head to fumble around in the diaper bag,
way to rip the bandaid off, he muttered, because hed noticed that Derek did have this thing for
just dropping bombs at a moments notice. He handed Andy a juice box, helping her get the straw
out of the wrapper and popped into the box before he did the same with Olly.

Are you in the basement?

Stiles handed Olly his juice box, grinning at how Olly eagerly started to suck it down. If there was
anything that Olly loved more than cuddles, it was juice. Thats when he realized something, and
dread filled him. Yeah, buton a scale of one to ten, how pissed would you be if I told you I left
the back door unlocked? which was completely unintentional. He never locked it, mostly
because sometimes Andy and Olly got the jiggles as Stiles called it, and needed to be unleashed
into the back yard to get out their energy before they broke something in the house.

Stiles! Derek barked, an edge of panic to his voice that paled in comparison to the anger Stiles
could hear.

What? Were in the panic room! Anxiety clutched at his lungs, sucking the air out of them. Olly
must have sensed his distress, because he released a tiny grunting whine and settled into Stiles lap
so that he could rub his face all over Stiles shoulder, sucking his juice slowly. Andy pressed
against his hip, curling up so that Stiles had to put an arm around her because there was no room
for it anywhere else.

And what if hunters break into the house? Do you have any idea how much the black market
pays for werewolf children?!

wh-what? Stiles felt sick to his stomach at the mere thought, but there was no way Derek
could be telling the truth, right? Then again, it doesnt sound unrealistic. Hunter extremists were
essentially the KKK of werewolves; no telling what they would do if they had a little one in their
possession. He swallowed heavily, staring down at the way Olly and Andy were pressed in close
to him, uneasy and nervous at the way Stiles was behaving.

Just, FUCK, stiles. Youre so -- just dont move, okay? Im coming home now. Call me if
ANYTHING happens. Derek hung up before Stiles could even form a protest. Stiles sighed,
setting his phone down and leaning against the wall with both kids still snuggled up to him.

Your dad can be a poo head sometimes, he declared--not even bothering for intelligent
vocabulary at that point. He felt utterly drained from everything that had happened since that
morning.

Andy, playing with the hem of her dress with her empty juice box sitting nearby, shrugged in a
move that was far too adult for a little kid like her. Ony sometimes, she confessed. Olly slurped
at his juice, nodding into Stiles throat in agreement.

Letting out a long breath that he didnt even realize hed been holding, Stiles brought a hand up to
brush at Ollys hair. Well I hope you guys like me because youre stuck in this room with me
until your daddy gets home. he said, grinning down at Ollys big, wide eyes.

I love you! Andy cried, standing up and then throwing her arms around Stiles neck to lay a big,
wet smack on his cheek. He supposed it was intended to be a kiss, but it felt more like Andy had
just smashed her face against his cheek and hoped for the best. She shifted, trying to climb onto
his leg to give him another kiss when Olly shrieked out, ow! That hurt, Andy! and pulled his
hand up to his chest, dropping his juice. It tumbled off of the cot, hitting the ground with a splat.

Stiles was barely trying to understand the situation when Olly sniffled as Andy, still holding onto
Stiles, stared in shock at her brother. Im sorry, Olly!

No youre not! Olly cried, turning and shoving at her so that she fell right out of Stiles lap and
onto the cot.

Woah! Stiles lunged, picking Olly up just as Andy howled, wolfed out, and swung at Olly,
scratching him in the face and catching Stiles in the hand. Stiles was still trying to process the
blood welling up on his skin. while Olly screamed and dug his newly-formed claws into Stiles
arm. Stiles dropped him without thinking, watching as Olly fell forward and scrambled after
Andy.

It was a flurry of screaming, howling, claws and biting before Stiles finally managed to grab the
both of them by the backs of their underwear and wrench them away from one another. Normally
he would cringe at the idea of giving two children wedgies to stop them from fighting, but there
was no other way for him to break it up without getting seriously hurt in the process.

Stiles had absolutely no idea where the sudden rage of a thousand toddlers came from, or why it
had to manifest when they were trapped in, essentially, a panic room. However, he had been
down this road enough times to know that no amount of reprimand was going to get through that
initial haze of animalistic rage that overcame Olly and Andy when they were full-on fighting. No,
he had to be underhanded.

Im bleeding! he cried, choking on a fake sob and sniffling, you hurt me!

Olly was the first to freeze, Andy still growling and gnashing her teeth. He lifted his head, sniffing
the air as Stiles said, it hurts, and Im human and I cant heal. By now, Andy was starting to
calm, her eyes dimming to their normal, human color. You guys hurt me, Stiles added sadly.

Andy stepped on my hand! Olly cried, struggling to be let go, pulling at his pants with small,
grunting noises. I diint do it!

Did too! Andy shouted back, not even bothering to fight the wedgie. She was more focused on
being the innocent party. It was a axe-a-dent!

Was not! Olly screamed, and that was just about enough for Stiles. His ears were hurting and he
had gashes on his face, throat, and arms from these two. Today was not a good day.

Time-out, then. he said firmly, because neither of you even told me you were sorry.

Olly stared at Stiles with a horrified look, eyes wide as saucers. Very rarely did Olly get put in
time out, considering he was the more mellow of the two, and the very idea seemed to shake the
whole foundation of his world. Stiles had exactly two seconds to register the whining sound
before Olly burst into tears.
But- Andy tried to protest, and Stiles shot her with a look that clearly portrayed that Stiles was
not up for any debates. Her bottom lip wobbled, face screwing up as a loud wail escaped her. Oh
no, Stiles was having none of that shit today. Crying children were nothing in the face of a
babysitter scorned. It didnt help that Stiles was well aware that Olly had a penchant for crying his
way out of things, and that Andy had tried a few times to mimic the technique in moments of
desperation.

He let go of Andy, but only to shove his hands under Ollys arms and lift him up. Instantly, Olly
wrapped his arms around Stiles neck, sobbing loudly as Stiles carried him to one corner of the
room. His claws came back out, ripping into Stiles shirt as he clutched to him, screaming when
Stiles tried to put him down in the corner. Stiles, without a doubt, loved these two with all of his
heart. That didnt stop him from wanting to smother the kid when he would react this way. Stiles
already knew the second Olly sunk those claws in that this was another shirt ruined, and sighed to
himself when Olly noodle-legged the moment he was put on the ground.

Stiles took a second to attempt to get his shirt free, but gave up and wrenched Olly off so that his
collar snagged and ripped. He tried to set Olly down again, but it was a pointless effort as the child
went limp. That was no matter, because the floor was completely clean and new, which meant he
could just let Olly flop there while he continued to wail out his sorrows of the accursed time out.

Standing, Stiles turned to see Andy frozen like a deer in the headlights, trying her best to look like
the innocent party. This too, was common. She liked to make herself out to be the perfect princess,
and that any wrongdoing was never her fault.

Stiles pointed to the opposite corner of the room. Normally, hed tell her verbally to go sit there for
time-out, but Olly was screaming so loud that it was hard to even hear himself think. Andys
bottom lip trembled, her fingers curling into the fabric of her purple plaid dress. Again, Stiles
pointed, hoping she would just give in like she usually did.

It was probably the stress of the day that caused it, but instead of obeying, Andys face pinched up
before a tiny sob left her. MSorry Stiles! Dun wanna go ttime-out! she protested, hopping a
little in place and stomping her feet. Stiles sighed, stepping forward and picking her up. She
started to lean into his arms, but then realized he was carrying her for the time-out corner, and
instead screamed.

No! she roared, kicking and clawing in Stiles arms, I dont wanna! No!

Stiles was starting to get used to the mauling of a werebaby temper tantrum, he really was. That
was probably why all of the scratching and kicking and punching in the world did not stop him
from plopping Andy in her corner and spinning her to face the wall. She leaned forward, pressing
her face against the concrete and sobbing loudly. They wouldnt get up; Stiles knew this because
the only time theyd tried to leave time-out, Stiles had refused to talk to them or play with them all
day. The distress that came from the neglect had been enough for them to know that fighting back
was not worth the resulting punishment.

Stiles sat down on the cot with a sigh, sagging just the tiniest bit. He felt like just giving up and
taking a nap. Too bad he would set an awful example if he curled up on the cot and just stopped
monitoring time-out. They didnt fight back, but Andy would sure as hell try to aggravate Stiles
into lessening the amount of time she was forced to spend in the corner.

In the end, Andys crying died down first, even while Olly was still going strong. His screams
echoed off the walls, deafening in the small room as Andy stood up and started hopping. Stiles
kept an eye on her, one hand cupping his ear to try and drown out Ollys wailing. He even sat up
as she began spinning in circles, keeping close watch when she swayed after the fifth circle.
Instead of continuing, she wobbled back down onto her bottom, sniffling and kicking her feet out.
Today wasnt a day for her to get so dizzy she ran into the wall, it seemed.

Stiles, can I come outta time-out? Andy asked over Ollys sobbing. Stiles shook his head.

It hasnt been ten minutes yet, Andy.

Olly hiccupped, coughing and sobbing quietly while Andy released a loud, pained sigh. She
picked at her dress, whining and then pulling at it. Stiles was tempted to tell her to keep it on, but
she hadnt even pulled it halfway off when there was the sound of a door slamming upstairs,
followed by the thud of feet running towards the basement.

Is it ten minnis yet? Andy asked when Stiles stood up to unlock the door for, undoubtedly,
Derek.

No, Andy. Ill let you know when time out is over. Stiles opened the door and had less than a
second to breathe in relief when Derek burst past him and made a beeline straight for the closest
child.

Daddy! Andy squealed, reaching up just as Derek wrenched her into his arms. Olly immediately
ceased crying, just in time for Derek to haul him up as well. Stiles could only stare in a dumb haze
as Derek practically crumpled to his knees, clutching both children to himself in a manner that
looked almost brutal. If it was painful at all, neither kids gave any indication as they clutched to
Derek, both releasing soft noises of delight when Derek started to rub his face along their cheeks.

As heartwarming as the scene was, Stiles couldnt help but feel seriously frustrated. He was
bruised and cut up because of their little tantrums, and then all of his work trying to get them
separated and put in time out was completely ruined by Dereks appearance.

Stiles stepped over, putting his hands on his knees and bending down. Hey, dude. Did you not
see the time-out corners? Come on, I look like I just came out of Jurassic Park III and youre
making them think thats totally okay by--

Whatever Stiles had been saying completely oozed out of his brain when Derek snapped his head
up--eyes burning red--and pulled his hand from behind Ollys head to smash his palm into Stiles
face. He didnt just touch Stiles, he smeared his hand down Stiles forehead, rubbed it over his
nose and mouth and then down to his neck and throat.

Dereks hand was Still on Stiles clavicle, rubbing up to his jaw line when Stiles finally managed
to release some sort of noise that could have possibly been confusion. It was like breaking an
invisible line, and Dereks eyes flickered back to their plain teal and brown hue. He stared at his
hand in horror, like it had betrayed him, and then wrenched it away from Stiles as if burned.

There was a long, awkward moment where Stiles tried not to focus on the electric warmth of the
skin Derek had touched while Derek struggled to look like he wasnt completely freaked out.
Then, Stiles opened his mouth and Derek looked away to resume hugging his children.

Thank you for taking care of them, he grunted out, hands large against Andy and Ollys backs.

Uh, its my job, Stiles head was still reeling, caught in those seconds where Dereks hand on
him had been the only part of his body he could focus on. He could still feel those fingers,
callused and warm, like a brand on his body. It was way too intense for Stiles, considering he only
had a tiny crush on Derek.

Well, he hoped it was just a tiny crush.

Its not your job to care, but you do anyway. Derek pressed a gentle kiss to Ollys forehead
before he tilted his head to snuffle at the boys temple. It was so reminiscent of a wolf that it took
Stiles by surprise. Sometimes he forgot that Derek was also a werewolf--his control was a hundred
times better than his childrens.

Children who had yet to utter any other noise than small happy growls as they continued to
snuggle into Dereks arms. Children who Stiles did care about. He cared about them so much that
he couldnt really argue with Derek about it at all.

Instead, he sighed, since I care so much, could you please explain who that was and what just
happened?

Derek took a moment before even reacting, dragging in a deep breath with his face buried
between Andy and Ollys shoulders, and then he lifted them up. Okay, he said, walking out of
the room without another sound. Stiles followed him upstairs and into the living room, watching
Derek get the children settled in front of the television and putting on Caillou for them. He
gestured for Stiles to follow as he headed for the back of the house.

First, Derek locked the back door, gesturing for Stiles to do the same with all the windows in the
room. Then, without warning, he said, I payed her five million dollars not to have the abortion
and to give me custody of the bo- the children.

Five MILLION? Stiles spluttered, his brain struggling to even wrap around the mere idea of so
much money. Derek grunted, walking through the house and systematically locking all the
windows.

She took it, and then fought for custody after some --some whack job hunter told her how how
much werewolf children could sell for, Derek paused, jaw clenching as he shook his head to
dispel whatever thoughts were knocking around in his mind, and then reached for the front door to
lock it again. He flicked the deadbolt, swallowing heavily. Kids kids with powers like ours,
who dont know right from wrong yet? Their minds are like clay moldable to what you want.
She doesnt care that theyre our children.

Derek hesitated, his hand falling from the lock before he leaned in and pressed his forehead
against the door. Stiles had never seen him so distraught before in all the time that they had known
one another. It made Stiles want to do things, like hug him, or rub his back and tell him it would
be okay. Stiles didnt get those kinds of feelings--at least, not with anyone except Andy, Olly, and
his father.

He licked at his lips, watching Derek for a moment and trying to figure out what he could even
say. It made him wonder how Derek knew this; what Derek had heard or seen that made him so
sure of what he was saying. The question was out of his mouth before hed even thought it
through. Are you sure?

Derek didnt say anything for a long moment, jaw flexing before he opened his eyes and looked at
Stiles. It wasnt a glance or an angry scowlit was intense and observant. Something that made
Stiles skin crawl and his lungs refuse to cooperate properly.

Youre hurt.

Taken aback, Stiles had to take a second to assess the situation. Apparently Derek either didn't
want to talk about this anymore, or he had actually not noticed the state of Stiles face and arms
before. Both were likely possibilities. It could even be a combination, when Derek was concerned.
Uh, well werebaby tantrums dont mix well with fragile human skin, he pointed out.
Derek kept staring, his mouth pursing into a thin line. It was hard for Stiles not to notice the little
details when he did that--the way Dereks brow puckered when he was focused on something, or
how his nostrils would flare when he breathed in through them. Right now, Derek looked like a
combination between confused and something else that Stiles really couldnt identify. It made his
skin crawl in a way that wasnt entirely unpleasant.

Finally, Derek rolled his eyes, sighed, and walked away with a gesture for Stiles to follow.

They headed for the hallway bathroom, Derek shoving Stiles into sitting up on the counter while
he rummaged around in the cabinet under the sink, procuring a dusty red first-aid kit that looked
like it had never been opened.

Wow, I didnt even know you had one of those, Stiles teased. He couldnt help himself. A first-
aid kit in a house of werewolves seemed almost absurd. Derek glanced up at Stiles, and then back
down to the kit, unzipping it and setting it on the counter next to Stiles hip to stare at its contents.

There was a chance Andy and Olly could have been born human, was all he said in
explanation, rifling around to try and find the right items. The kit was decently loaded, from things
like betadine, gauze, and medical tape, to even an epi-pen and ipecac tucked in the corner. It
looked like Derek had a vague idea of what to do, but the way he was frowning showed that he
had either forgotten how, or had never really used a first aid kit before.

Deciding to save Derek the agony, Stiles reached into the kit, grabbing the alcohol wipes,
Neosporin, and a pack of rainbow-colored bandaids. Derek took the bandaids first, staring at them
and then at the smile Stiles shot him. He snorted, setting the box down and ripping open the first
packet of wipes. Tilt your head back, he said, pulling the wipe out. Stiles bared his throat,
almost jumping at the sharp inhale that came from Derek, and then tried not to jerk at the icy feel
of the alcohol wipe dabbing at the deep cut that led down from his jaw to his throat.

She never wanted anything to do with werewolves. She hates our kind, wants to wipe us out. I
didn't know, at the time-- I didn't know that all she wanted was a way into the company.

Why are you telling me this? Stiles watched Derek hesitate from where he was folding the now-
bloody wipe to a clean section before he brought it to Stiles cheek. Stiles felt flushed, like every
breath he took was oozing the slight attraction he was feeling. Derek was entirely too close, focus
intense as he dabbed each cut with a gentle determination. Stiles knew Derek didn't interact with
humans much, could tell with the way that Derek acted like too much force could possibly break
Stiles.

Thats when Derek looked him in the eyes with so much emotion that Stiles was taken aback,
heart tripping in his chest. You cant let her in. If she comes back, if she ever even looks at them,
you call the cops, he said firmly, still holding the wipe to the cut on Stiles brow, Call me. Just
dont let her have Olly and Andy. Do you understand?

Derek didnt move an inch, not until Stiles realized he was waiting for an answer. Stiles had been
so caught up in Dereks words and expressions that hed completely forgotten to respond. He
nodded quickly, swallowing the lump in his throat and watching as Derek finally pulled away,
setting the dirty wipe down and reaching for the Neosporin.

Why didnt you get a restraining order? Stiles managed to ask.

The money I gave her would have been brought up. Derek actually looked ashamed of
himself--jaw ticking as he clenched it, eyes refusing to connect with Stiles--and dabbed the cream
onto each of the cuts with small swipes. It was company moneymoney Im still trying to earn
back.
Suddenly, it made a lot more sense why Derek was never home. It made so much sense that Stiles
kind of wanted to kiss him right then and there. Instead, he waited until Derek reached for a
bandaid, ducking his head so that Derek caught his eyes.

You did the right thing, because youre a great dad, and he meant every single word of it.

Derek watched him, slowly peeling the backing off of first bandaid. He broke eye contact first,
staring at his hands, voice quiet when he finally spoke.

Thank you, when he looked up again, the corner of his mouth was pulled up into a smile. A
tiny, pleased smile that was for Stiles and no one else. There was a crinkle in his eyes, a softness
in his brow, and an overall happiness that radiated him in a way that Stiles had never before
experienced. It was like he had spent years waiting for someone to assure him that he wasnt
fucking up, that he wasnt ruining his kids. That single crook in his mouth was enough to wreck
Stiles in ways he had never really experienced before, and it wasnt even big enough to show his
teeth.

Stiles dragged in a breath, lungs expanding as understanding struck him and he felt his gut drop
and his heart clench.

Stiles wasnt running the risk of falling for Derek.

Hed already fallen.

 Chapter 7
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

The first time Stiles had seen Derek wearing reading glasses, hed been utterly confused for two
days until hed snuck them on later to find out they were essentially fitted magnifying glasses.

The effect of seeing them on Derek's face was the same now as it was then. Utterly distracting.

Stiles, Derek repeated for the second time, setting his coffee down and peering at Stiles over his
laptop. Did you need help?

Stiles fumbled with the plate of eggs, trying to sprinkle a bit of cheese on them and almost
dropping it when he slipped his finger right under the spot where the eggs had heated up the
ceramic. He cursed, setting it on the counter and shaking his hand. No, he said, sucking on his
finger to try and ease the burn, Im good. Kids up? the one thing Derek was good for in the
mornings was giving Stiles a two-minute warning when Olly and Andy would come stumbling in
looking for food and cuddles.

Derek stood abruptly, walking around the table and grabbing Stiles wrist. Dont do that, he
snapped, giving Stiles a shove towards the sink. Youre supposed to be the adult here.

Sighing, Stiles ran his hand under the sink, even though the pain was already gone, and watched
Derek carry the two plates of eggs and toast over to the table. When he came back to start filling
up the next two plates from the skillet, he made a pass by Stiles to bring one hand to the back of
Stiles neck. This was something Stiles was still getting used to; Dereks increased touching. It had
been a few days since the appearance of Kate, and every day since then, Derek had made sure to
swipe his hand over Stiles every so often--be it from a rub on the head, a pat on the shoulder, or
the occasional full face palm.

Get the juice, Derek said, squeezing the back of Stiles neck and then pulling away like it was
the most natural action in the world. Stiles was barely getting the hang of keeping his body under
control when Derek would get up in his space with the intent of scent marking.

Thats what Stiles figured it was, but he couldnt be sure. Olly and Andy used their whole bodies
to hug Stiles and rub his throat and shoulders when scent marking him. Derek limited it to touches
of his hand. Was he letting Stiles into the pack? Or was he only doing it enough so Olly and Andy
would recognize Derek was the alpha or something?

Stiles had absolutely no idea, but his heart could only take so much of it.

He headed for the fridge, snagging the orange juice for himself and Andy, and apple juice for
Derek and Olly. Derek slid the other plates onto the table, looking thoughtful as he went for the
silverware drawer. I watched that show you told me about, with the chemistry teacher.

Stiles perked up, fumbling with the lid to Ollys cup (shaped like a space shuttle with a slot for a
straw so Olly could wander around with it when need be) and grinning. Breaking Bad? Whatd
you think?

Derek made a face, taking the cup from Stiles and opening it himself. Too intense for me, but the
thing with the pants was funny, he filled the cup up with juice, capping the lid again and handing
it for Stiles to take to the table.
Thats cool, Stiles said, glancing at the clock and taking note that Andy and Olly would have to
be woken up if they didnt get out of bed soon. Its not for everyone. Have you ever watched
Firefly? he set Andys Tiana cup down next to her matching Princess and the Frog plate. Derek
hummed for a second, pausing mid-step to bring some napkins to the table.

Didnt they make a movie out of it?

Stiles beamed and snagged the salt and pepper, resisting the urge to hug Derek. Yeah, it was
called Serenity. Its a good show; you might like it.

Lifting his head, Derek peered in the direction of the hallway--a sure sign that the kids had woken
up. Write it down for me and Ill look into it on my break sometime, he said absently, just as
Olly and Andy sleepily trudged into sight. Stiles set the salt and pepper on the table, crouching
when Olly reached for him with a whine.

Derek hoisted Andy up as well, petting some of her hair from her eyes while she snuffled into his
naked shoulder. Derek never wore a shirt until he was showering to leave for work. It was
probably one of the most aggravating things for Stiles, because he wanted to pay attention to
everything except that dark thatch of hair leading down from Dereks navel and into the line of his
sleep pants.

Realizing he was staring at Dereks happy trail while thinking about it, Stiles quickly turned away
and sat down at the kitchen table. He gave Olly another minute of sleepy cheek rubs before
kissing his head and setting him in his booster seat so he could eat his breakfast.

After eating, Derek disappeared into his room to get ready for work while Stiles cleaned up the
kitchen. Both Andy and Olly were sprawled on the couch, hands on their stuffed bellies as they
lazily watched some morning cartoons.

On his way out the door, Derek stopped to kiss both kids on their heads, rubbing a hand through
their hair. When he passed Stiles, he nodded and then reached out to pat the side of Stiles neck
and drag his hand away so that his fingers lingered until the last possible minute.

Stiles lungs were still struggling to draw air as the door shut behind Derek.

He wandered into the living room, joining Andy and Olly to catch up on the latest excursion of
Oswald the octopus. They only had the attention span for an episode or two, so by the time things
drew to a close, Andy was rolling off of the couch and crawling for the toy bin to rummage
around. Olly scooted down the couch to where Stiles was sitting, grunting and climbing into his
lap like it was the feat of the century.

Mtummy hurts, Olly whined, lying with his upper back against Stiles stomach and his belly
sticking out. Stiles cooed, reaching out to rub Ollys stomach.

You asked for seconds, he pointed out, fingers running over Ollys outie belly button as Olly
squirmed and whined again. I told you it would give you a tummy ache.

I was hungry, Olly wriggled onto his side, breathing heavily as he tried to maneuver himself
into a more comfortable position. Andy approached with a giant magnetic drawing tablet. She
climbed onto the couch next to Stiles and Olly, giving it a shake to erase the remains of her last
doodle (a butterfly that Stiles thought looked more like a bumblebee) and set the tablet on her lap.
Olly moaned, and Stiles resumed rubbing at his stomach.

Do you want me to get you the heating pad? he asked. Olly shook his head, face buried into the
crook of Stiles elbow.
Juice, Olly mumbled.

Juice will make it hurt more, Stiles said gently. Olly whimpered and then sighed in defeat,
muttering, okay, sadly. Stiles couldnt help but snort softly under his breath at how pathetic he
sounded, an overwhelming wave of affection hitting him as he watched Andy fumble with the
drawing pen before she started to scribble.

Once Ollys stomach felt better, the first thing he did was demand they go and play in the yard.
Stiles barely had time to grab a Frisbee and a basketball before he had little hands hustling him out
the door. The Frisbee didnt go over that well (it never did after the first handful of failed
attempts), but the basketball and hoop in the driveway was enough to keep both kids occupied for
the better part of the morning.

Stiles nearly had a heart attack when he saw an unfamiliar car coming up the road. He grabbed the
basketball the second it was near him, putting it down and gesturing for Olly and Andy to come
close. He hadnt expected Kate to return, but now he felt foolish for taking the children outside
within a week of her attempted visit.

Stiles? Andy asked, Whats wrong? she pulled at his jeans and Stiles shuffled them both
behind his legs as the dark blue SUV pulled up into the long driveway. He crouched, putting an
arm around both Andy and Olly in preparation to lift them and dash into the house when he
actually caught a clear glimpse of the person in the drivers seat.

Oh, Jesus Christina, its just Erica, he breathed, barely slurring his curse into something a little
less blasphemous when he remembered he was in the presence of children. Relief made him
slump to his bottom in the middle of the driveway while Erica parked and climbed out of her car.

You look like youve seen a ghost, Erica pointed out, shutting the door as Olly and Andy
shrieked her name and went running for her. Oh my God! Andy, look at you! Erica screamed,
dropping to her knees and dragging both children into her arms. She rubbed their cheeks together
for a second before pushing them away and petting at Andys hair.

Arent you the most precious thing? she gasped out, grinning wide as Andy beamed, Look at
that dress! Did you pick that out?

Yes! Andy cried, throwing her arms up and spinning in a circle so Erica could see the way the
little purple and green sun dress twirled around her ankles. Erica cooed again as he dragged Olly
in to give him a big, sloppy kiss on the cheek. He yelped, wiping at where the lipstick had
smeared all over his face while Andy laughed loudly.

Standing, Erica brushed imaginary dirt from her jeans, flicked her hair over her shoulder, and
sidled Stiles with a smirk. Id hate to say it, but youre doing a pretty good job with these two,
she said. Stiles stuffed his hands into his pockets, grinning bashfully and then shrugging.

They just needed someone to listen to them, he pointed out. Erica walked up to him, pinching
his cheek and then wriggling it firmly.

Thats exactly why I hired you, she said, letting go when Stiles started to cringe at her
superhuman grip on his face and patting the red mark she left behind. Thats also why I
convinced Derek not to fire you three different times for sassing him.

She brushed by, heading for Andy and lifting her up and then flouncing into the house. Stiles
gaped, sputtering for words while Olly pulled on his hand insistently. I do not sass! he cried,
lifting Olly up and following after the sound of Ericas cackling.
What are you doing here, anyway? Stiles asked after he closed and locked the front door. He
turned around, double-taking when he realized she was nowhere in sight.

Derek left his address book here and I need the number of one of our clients. Figured I could
swing by and see the babies while I nabbed it, Ericas voice came from Dereks study, and Stiles
followed it just in time to see her coming out with Andy on her hip and a small brown journal in
the other. She turned, rubbing noses with Andy.

Besides, I could use a few hours off from being around your cranky old daddy, huh? she said,
grinning when Andy giggled and bumped their foreheads together gently.

Stiles frowned, putting Olly down when he started to wiggle. Is he crankier than usual? He
seemed fine when he left earlier.

Well, you and the kids are here, Erica carried Andy into the living room, pausing to spin her
around in the air, and his uncle is at the office. Guess which one puts him in a bad mood.

Andy squealed as she was tossed up and caught again, and Stiles soon found himself the target of
Ollys puppy eyes. Stiles was okay for toss-up, but there were times when the kids got too excited
and wolfed out and then he ended up with a few new scratches on his arms before the end of the
day. Whats wrong with his uncle? Stiles reached out for Olly to climb into his arms, tossing
him up (though not as high as Andy was getting from Erica) and catching him into a hug.

Dereks splitting the company with him, but Peter wants more control than Dereks willing to
give. You have no idea how grating it is on my nerves to hear those two fighting for hours on
end, Erica sighed, bringing Andy down to press kisses all over her face. Stiles, his arms already a
little sore, drew Olly in close to give him a tight hug and kiss his temple. Olly rumbled in delight,
tiny arms wrapping around Stiles neck.

Reaching for one of Andys hands, Erica inspected them and released an extremely dramatic gasp.
I thought you were a princess! she cried with false horror. Andys eyes went wide, and she
began to nod furiously.

I am!

Lifting Andys hand, Erica tutted. A real princess should paint her nails to match her dress, she
said seriously. Andys face fell immediately, pulling her hand out of Ericas grasp and crossing her
arms so her fingers were hidden from sight.

Daddy doesnt have nail polish, she said sadly.

Well, Erica huffed, bouncing Andy on her hip and grinning, thats what Walgreens and
Daddys credit card are for, she reached up, poking Andy in the nose and smirking. Andy looked
confused, face devolving into a pout, and Erica rolled her eyes. Ill get you nail polish, sweetie,
she barely finished her sentence before Andy was throwing her arms up and shrieking in delight at
a decibel that even Stiles had to wince at.

Erica was a whirlwind of power that had Stiles head spinning as she bustled around the house,
snagging the diaper bag to toss in some snacks and juice. Stiles was still trying to tie Ollys
shoelaces when she came back with the bag on one shoulder and keys in hand.

Have you even put Andys shoes on yet? she asked, brushing past him to where Andy was
struggling to get her feet into her flashing pink sneakers. She knelt, grabbing firmly to Andys
ankle and pushing the shoe all the way on without the bat of an eye at Andys soft whine of
discomfort.
Stiles barely had Olly on his feet when Erica hoisted Andy up with both shoes now on and tied.
Lets roll, boy wonder, she jingled the keys at him, flouncing out the door while Stiles was still
trying to decide if he should grab Ollys stuffed octopus or not.

Deciding that they wouldnt be out long enough for Olly to really need his octopus, Stiles
followed out the door, making sure to lock it behind himself.

After they had the kids buckled in and the car rolling its way to the main road, Stiles started to
fidget. Erica was a werewolf; one who knew Derek as well as Stiles did. If anyone knew how to
explain his behavior and maybe some of the Kate situation, it was probably her, right? Only, Stiles
kind of didnt want to know more than he already did about Kate, because that was a whole can
of worms he wasnt prepared to open up.

Erica reached down to flick off the radio, shooting Stiles a suspicious glance out of the corner of
her eye. All right, pipsqueak. Youve been silently freaking out for the past five minutes. Start
talking.

Does Derek touch your face? Stiles blurted, almost jumping out of his seat when Erica barked
out a loud, shocked laugh. I mean, notwell he justtouches my face sometimes. When I
hold the kids, hell take them after I put them down just to hold them. Which is good, I guess. Its
just that he didnt use to do that. Stiles paused, thinking hard as Erica waited for him to continue.

He also didnt use to do the face-touching thing, either. That part Im still confused about. I tried
asking him, you know. He broke a cantaloupe with his bare hands. It was like I asked him if he
likes to stick his--erm love rocket into vacuum hoses or something.

Love rocket? Erica echoed, snorting loudly. Stiles shrugged helplessly.

I dont know, dude. Two weeks ago he wasnt rubbing his hand on my face and throat, so its
not like hes the most predictable guy in the world, he muttered under his breath, slinking down
in his seat when Erica laughed again.

Once shed calmed herself down enough to breathe properly, Erica flicked her hair over her
shoulder, turning into the parking lot for Walgreens. It could be a pack thing, she explained
quietly, Derek is an alpha without a mate, with two children who are attached to you. Theres a
chance hes started to see you as a beta, even though youre human. Erica looked thoughtful as
she spoke, like the words were coming to her at the same time the realization was. Stiles hadnt
honestly expected what shed told him, but it made more sense than anything else he could think
up.

Huh, seems legit, he agreed, lips turning down in the corners and eyebrows rising. They parked,
slipping out of the car and grabbing a kid each before making their way into the store.

Stiles barely had a second to blink before Erica was plucking Andy out of his arms and shoving
Olly in her place. Here, take this, she grunted, and then disappeared around the corner and off to
the cosmetics section with Andy. Looking down, Stiles was happy to note that Olly looked just as
disoriented as he felt.

Want a toy?

Ollys grin was answer enough, and Stiles carried him to the section of the store that held a fair
amount of toys for almost all ages. There wasnt a very large amount of space-themed things, but
Olly was content to slime out of Stiles arms and inspect the display of pirate ships they had up.

I want this one, Olly picked up a box that contained a medium sized ship in it. Stiles almost
agreed--because it was a pretty badass looking ship--but then he realized that it came with ten very
small pirate figurines. Pirate figurines that would be extremely painful for Stiles to step on if Olly
forgot to clean up after himself, which he did a lot.

That ship is lame, Stiles scoffed, picking up a smaller, plastic-looking ship that had all of the
parts glued in place. This one is better, which was true in the way that it was less hassle for
Stiles.

Olly scowled, clutching the box to his chest. Is not, he protested vehemently, this has moah
pirates! An that one sblue!

Stiles looked at the ship in his hands, surprised to note that yes, it did have a surprising amount of
blue paint on it. Still, Stiles had his feet to defend.

This one will be more fun to play with, he pointed to the flag with the skull and crossbones,
trying not to take note of how it looked so cheap itd probably fall off the second they got it out of
the box.

Olly gasped, dropping the box and jumping up and down. You ah lying! he shouted. Stiles
winced, throwing a hand out and waving it around in a desperate attempt to quiet Ollys affronted
screeching.

Im not lying!

Yes you ah! Your heart went ba BUM, so you lied! Olly looked ready to throw a tantrum, but
Stiles was too busy having a mini aneurism over the fact that Olly had actually used his senses to
pick up on Stiles fibbing about the ship.

You heard my heart? he asked, grinning and putting the ship down. Olly nodded, looking cross
as he picked the ship up and huffed. Thats so good! Im so proud of you! You can get this ship
just because you did a good job hearing my heart! Stiles tried his hardest to ignore the way Olly
looked far too smug for a four year old.

I know, Olly nodded, grabbing Stiles hand and pulling him over to the plastic toy bin. We
gotta get mermaids, now.

Mermaids? Why dont you get a shark?

Ollys nose crinkled and he gave Stiles a flat look like Stiles was the dumbest person in the world.
Stiles, he sighed, sharks eat pirates.

Oh, Stiles said absently, mouth twitching into a smile. I didnt know that. Im very sorry.

Its okay, replied Olly, lifting up a giant floppy octopus toy and holding it up to his box like he
was trying to decide if the two toys could go well together. Andy and Erica came into the aisle
with a bag of their purchases dangling from Andys elbow. Stiles reached out, fluffing Ollys hair
and then giving in to the urge to style it up into a little duck butt at the front.

Time to go, buddy. Those what you want? Stiles grinned when Olly nodded after another
moment of contemplation, Ill carry the ship, but can you carry the octopus for me? Olly
nodded, toy in one hand and reaching up to grab Stiles fingers with his other before they headed
for the register.

By the time Derek came home for lunch, both Olly, Andy, and Stiles had all gotten a mini-
manicure (though Andy had done Stiles nails so his looked more like hed dipped this fingers in
paint) and Erica was lying on the couch with her feet in Stiles lap while he studiously painted her
toenails. Shed weaseled him for ten minutes before pointing out that she had painted Andy and
Ollys nails, and it was her turn.

Derek came up to the couch, slowly curling his hands over the back of it and frowning. Why are
you even here? he asked Erica roughly, looking more annoyed than angry. Erica grinned,
pooling her hair up into her hands and then letting it fall around her shoulders again. She wiggled
her toes in Stiles lap and Stiles swatted at her ankle to keep them still. If he was going to do this,
he would rather do a good job than have her give him hell about it later.

That wasnt helping the hot burn of mortification rising on the back of his neck in a warm flush
with the knowledge that Derek was seeing him in his moment of weakness.

Andy needed a womans touch, Erica said flippantly, sitting up and pulling her feet out of
Stiles lap, and besides, look at Stiles cheeks; theyre baby soft now. I taught him the power of
facial scrub. Erica snagged Dereks wrist as Stiles fondly remembered his half hour of peace
where hed lounged on the couch with a facial mask and cucumbers while Erica painted Olly and
Andys nails. He almost jumped out of his skin when Dereks palm was pressed roughly up
against his cheek.

I dont--huh, Derek said thoughtfully, cutting himself off as he started to poke and prod at Stiles
face. Stiles was still trying to process that Erica was encouraging the molestation of his face when
Dereks hand abruptly changed course, palm squishing up against Stiles temple and rubbing
down to his jaw and then back up again.

Now that he thought about it, Erica had probably planned this all along. He grunted when Dereks
fingers scratched against his scalp, eyes fluttering as he barely stopped himself from groaning at
how nice it felt. Derek pulled away, hand dropping and a soft huff leaving him. Stiles peeked up
just in time to see Derek rolling his eyes at the both of them as he said, its time for lunch, and
walked out of the room.

After lunch, Derek barely wasted any time with dragging Erica back to the office with him, mostly
with threats of telling Boyd you were cheating on him with my babysitter that had Erica
squawking and rushing to get her keys and shoes back on.

With the house a little quieter and both children fed and glued to the television, Stiles pulled out
his laptop to check on his bank account and his fall classes. He still had some time to change his
courses; and there were a few online classes he wanted to look at.

The more he thought about it, the more Stiles felt nervous about going back to school. It wasnt
the classes--he had almost all of his credits and enough scholarships that he could go for another
year after his degree-- but the idea of leaving Olly and Andy with some other babysitter who
wouldnt know them the way Stiles did. He started to think about what would happen after he was
gone, about who would care for them, and if Derek would keep trying to be more involved in
their lives the way he was now.

Stiles didnt even realized hed switched completely to online courses until he was logging out of
his school email and blankly staring at the new tab hed opened in his browser. A quick glance at
the clock told him that it was time for naps, and Stiles shut his laptop and stood with a stretch.
Alright, buddies, time to snooze, he yawned, cracking his knuckles and then frowning when
both children let out loud whines of protest.

Come on, dont be like that, Stiles cajoled, reaching down to pick Andy up from where she was
laying in front of the television. She shouted, kicking out and wiggling until Stiles lost his hold on
her and she dropped to the ground.
No! Andy screamed--and with that, she was off running across the house, shouting a chant of,
no nap! No nap! No nap! until Olly was up and joining her.

Stiles was too tired to even argue, and he stood with a sigh. Okay, outside then, he crossed to
the back door, opening it up and watching two werebaby blurs shoot out into the yard. It was
likely that Ericas presence had gotten them a little riled up, or maybe it was just one of those days
where they didnt need to take a nap, Stiles had no idea. Either way, the two of them were tussling
in the back yard like a pair of puppies.

No claws! Stiles called out, watching as Olly climbed on top of Andy with a yipping giggle
before they both started to roll all over the lawn in a flurry of fur and human skin.

The thing about werewolf kids was that they had twice the amount of energy that normal humans
had. It was well past four by the time they were worn out enough to lose their shift and leave
Stiles with two exhausted children covered in dirt and grass, sprawled sleepily in the back yard.
He hustled them both back into the house and into the bath before they all curled up on the couch
in front of the television.

Technically, it was past nap time, and Stiles usually didnt let them go to bed early because then
they were up in the middle of the night. The only problem was that hed stayed up too late the
night before, and with Little Bears calming voice coming from the television, Stiles found himself
drifting off against his better judgment.

He woke up to the feeling of something brushing his cheek, and groaned before opening his eyes
to see Derek with his hand gently rubbing Ollys back. Olly, who was curled up on Stiles chest,
while Andy was squished between the back of the couch and Stiles side.

Wtimesit? Stiles mumbled sleepily, blinking as Derek continued to pet Ollys hair. He looked
upset and confused, like there was something bothering him greatly.

Suddenly, Stiles wished he could ask about it. He wanted to ask Derek about his day, wanted to
wake up to Derek kissing him with a teasing, morning sleepyhead like it was something that
happened all the time. His heart ached, and Stiles brought a hand up to rub at his face in hopes of
distracting himself from the things he couldnt have.

Its a little after eight, Derek said quietly, picking Olly up and cradling him in the crook of his
arm. You can head on home. Ill put them to bed.

Stiles pushed himself up, catching Andy when she rolled into his lap, and then handing her off to
Dereks other arm. Okay, he croaked, a little taken aback when Derek just turned and walked
away. Normally hed at least pat Stiles on the head or shoulder before leaving. Had he done
something wrong?

Worry niggled in the back of Stiles head as he gathered his things. There was no telling what was
going on in Dereks mind. It could have been anything from work, to annoyance at messing up
the childrens sleep cycles, to feeling territorial after Erica had been around getting her scent
everywhere.

Stiles was putting his sneakers on when Derek came back into the room, still looking frustrated.
Be here early tomorrow, he said, making Stiles hesitate in opening the door. When he didnt
elaborate, Stiles nodded and bid him goodnight. He was halfway out the door when Dereks hand
landed heavy on his upper back, patting once and then withdrawing.

Uh, night, Stiles repeated, slipping out the door and trying not to smile at the wave of relief that
hit him from that single touch. Whatever was bothering Derek, it wasnt Stiles doing. That was all
 he needed to know.

Chapter End Notes

If you feel like commenting just to tell me what you don't like about this fic, please
remember that it's just a fanfic and nobody is getting paid for this ;-;
 Chapter 8
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

How did you know Allison was the one? Stiles tossed up the hackey sack, hearing it hit the
ceiling with a satisfying thud before it came back down. Scott glanced up from his computer to
peer curiously over to the bed, watching Stiles for a moment before narrowing his eyes.

I thought you said you didnt like Lydia anymore?

I dont! Stiles sat up, throwing the hackey sack at Scott and frowning when Scott plucked it out
of the air with a skill that only a werewolf could possess. Its not about Lydia.

Scotts face broke into a grin. So you like someone else? Who?

Panicking, Stiles mind scrambled for the first thing that might deter Scott from prying. He leaned
off the bed, hand wiggling as he reached for the hackey sack until Scott handed it over. Its just
for one of my buddies online. You know, hes got this huge chance of making a name in the
gaming business--hes got a demo in the process-- and his birthday is coming up. I figured I could
write him some sort of fan fiction about his game characters that are supposed to be in love, but
you know.. I really only have the whole Lydia thing to go off of and that wasnt really love.

Stiles peeked up from where he was picking at some loose threading on the hackey sack to see
Scott staring at him blankly, and then frowning like he wasnt sure if Stiles was telling the truth or
not. The thing was, Stiles did have an online friend in the process of making a game, and he had
written the guy fan fiction for his birthdaybut that was back in April.

I dont know, dude, Scott sighed finally, turning back to his computer so he could resume
wandering around a mountain in Skyrim, I just

Oh, come on, Scott, Stiles groused, throwing his arms up, any other time I ask you to talk
about Allison, my ears are practically falling off.

Scott shrugged, clicking through his inventory on the game. I just, I wanted to be around her all
the time. I would be happy without sex if I knew that I would be able to hold her in my arms, to
see her for the rest of my life. I just want to be with her.

Define be with, Stiles urged, only to get an aggravated sigh from Scott.

Thats the thing. Theres so much that you cant put into words. Its not just love its like
you know that youll never be the same without them. You want to see that person grow old, and
you want to do it with them. Jesus, Stiles, she could have irritable bowel syndrome and I wouldnt
care that all she did was poop because I love her. Scott looked away to stare at Stiles, eyes wide
like he was trying to mentally transfer the concept of love in a way that Stiles could understand.

So thats nice, Stiles said lightly, you even love her when she poops. he didnt know how to
feel about that, not when the idea of being ten years older and brushing his teeth while Derek used
the bathroom was actually not something he was weirded out by, but wanted.

With a roll of his eyes, Scott turned back to his game as a troll came on screen and started to attack
him. Its hard to explain, he muttered, like Stiles couldnt wrap his head around it. The problem
was the opposite, though. Stiles was fully aware now that he was way too gone on Derek and his
family for having worked with them just a handful of months.
No, its cool. I get it, Stiles said, and then pushed himself to his feet. Hey, I gotta head home
and sleep. Derek wants me in early tomorrow. I think it has something to do with that crap at his
company, he grabbed his backpack, hoisting it on his shoulder as Scott paused the game to turn
around and look him dead in the eyes.

Do what makes you happy, man, but if youre gonna write this guy a fic I mean dont you
think you should at least meet him in person before you think youre in love with him?

Stiles sputtered, hand flying up to slap himself in the forehead before he gave into the urge to deny
it. As awkward as it was for Scott to jump to the idea that Stiles had an online boyfriend, it was a
better excuse than anything else Stiles could think up. He shook his head, slipping out of the room
and trying to look as embarrassed as he felt.

It was wholly unsettling how fast and how attached hed gotten to Olly and Andy, and even more
with Derek. It didnt help that there was already a significant change in the way that Andy and
Olly behaved because of Dereks increasing presence in their lives. Olly was having less
spontaneous meltdowns already, and Andy had gotten more independent and confident in herself
to where Stiles didnt need to keep a constant eye on her.

And Derek.

Fuck.

Just thinking about Derek drove Stiles completely out of his mind sometimes. He was so proud of
Derek, and how hard he tried to be there for his kids that Stiles was loving him more and more for
it against every alarm in his head that told him it was a bad idea and that he was getting in too
deep.

It took hours for Stiles to fall asleep, his mind spinning and twisting with new worries and desires
that he didnt want to have in the first place. He was beyond exhausted when he got up the next
morning, moving in a state between waking and sleeping as he showered, dressed, ate, and
climbed into his borrowed hummer to head over to the Hale house.

Derek was already out the door by the time Stiles pulled into the driveway. He only stopped to tell
Stiles, the boys are still asleep, Ill try to be back by dinner. Tell them Im sorry, and rub a hand
down Stiles arm and climbing into his camaro and driving off.

Stiles headed inside and settled into his morning routine. Andy and Olly were up within the hour,
and Stiles only had to deal with ten minutes of whining about Dereks absence before they quieted
and ate their breakfast. The day was rather uneventful compared to one prior; Andy spent half the
morning running around the back yard with a whiffle bat, hitting at an imaginary dragon while
Olly struggled to keep his hula hoop going.

They had ham sandwiches for lunch with ants on a log and sugar free juice before curling with
Stiles in front of a few episodes of Peter Rabbit before naptime.

Half an hour before supper, Derek texted Stiles to let him know he was running late, adding on
that Boyd had picked him up something to eat, and to go ahead and feed the kids. Stiles felt a little
bad breaking the news to Olly and Andy, but from what hed gathered through the few texts hed
gotten over the day, Derek was going over heaps of contracts with his uncle to officially give him
25% of the company. It was a huge deal, one that merited Derek falling back to his old hours of
working from dawn until dusk.
The amount of moping in the house was just getting ridiculous by the time their plates were
cleaned. It was making Stiles feel depressed just looking at the way Olly and Andy were listlessly
looking at the door every few minutes to see if they could hear Derek pulling in the driveway yet.
They needed a distraction; a rewarding distraction because they had behaved a lot better about
Derek not being there for dinner than Stiles had anticipated.

Who wants to make cookies? Stiles blurted, whirling around to see Andy and Olly pop their
heads up like excited puppies.

Me! Me me me me! both of them cried, scrambling out of their seats to jump around Stiles in
dizzying circles. He laughed, trying not to trip over either of them and struggling to get to the
pantry.

Okay, okay! Let me get the stuff! I need a big bowl and the measuring cups. Can you get them
for me? Stiles watched his little helpers as they scrambled for the cabinet with all of the cooking
supplies in it. Andy went for the mixing bowls, sitting on her hands and knees to reach far enough
to grab one of the bigger ones. Olly was on his tippy toes next to her, hand rooting around in the
kitchen drawer that had the dry measuring cups. His tongue flitted out, wiggling around as he
knocked spoons, a whisk, and a spatula out in his search. Stiles grabbed the flour, sugars, baking
soda and salt from the pantry, carrying them to the kitchen table and lifting Andy up so she could
stand on one of the chairs and set the mixing bowl down.

Got it! Olly finally cried, running over with the measuring cups clacking around in his hand.
Stiles grinned, thanking Olly as they were set on the counter and then tapping his chin
thoughtfully.

What else do we need? he mused, pulling his phone out of his pocket and pulling up Dereks
name from his contact list to shoot a quick text of, were making cookies, just fyi, before tucking it
away and nodding. We dont need chocolate chip cookies, do we?

No! Andy and Olly protested with dismay, scrambling to cling to Stiles legs as he was heading
for the fridge to grab the eggs. Noooo! Please, Stiles, please?! they begged. Stiles laughed,
stumbling and then dragging his new legs weights along with him, snagging the eggs and bringing
them back to the table.

I guess, since you guys asked so nicely, Stiles mused, even though he already had a bag of
chocolate chips sitting next to the brown sugar--it didnt hurt to tease a little. His phone buzzed
and he pulled it out, heart clenching when he read, pulling in the driveway now, from Derek.

God, sometimes they were so much like a family that it physically hurt him.

Derek came in through the front door just as Stiles was putting his phone back into his pocket.
The only reason Stiles knew this was because he went from having Andy and Olly latched onto
his legs like living weights while he tried to crack the eggs into the mixing bowl, to having them
scream, daddy! and run for the front door.

Stiles gathered up the egg shells, dumping them in the trash as Derek came in with Olly on his
shoulder and Andy under his arm, the two of them talking a mile a minute. Derek set them down
at the table, turning and looking at the growing mess of the kitchen. Are you sure youre making
cookies? It looks like youre just making a mess, to me, he said skeptically. Stiles scoffed,
dumping a cup of flour into the bowl and pointing to the sticks of butter so that Olly could hand
him them over.

Obviously you dont know how to make cookies, then, Stiles pointed out, grinning when both
children started to giggle. Derek hummed, peering into the bowl and then grabbing the bag of
chocolate chips and dumping the entire thing in. Hey! Stiles cried, pushing at Dereks arm to try
and stop all of the chips from making it into the batter. He wanted to save some of them for
pancakes, after all.

Its not chocolate chip cookies unless you use all the chocolate chips, Derek pointed out
smugly, using his hip to nudge Stiles out of the way and gesture for Andy to climb across the table
to where he was. She did it quickly, knocking utensils this way and that before Derek picked her
up and sat down with Andy on his lap. Stiles rolled his eyes, dropping in the last teaspoon of
vanilla extract as Derek helped Andy to coordinate the giant spoon in her hand so she could stir it.

I wanna stir it! Olly protested, clambering out of his seat and running over so he could try to
climb into Dereks lap with Andy. Derek kept one hand around Andys stomach while she
struggled with the batter, and turned to rub a hand on Ollys head with the other.

You have to wait your turn, Derek said gently. Stiles shrugged, sitting down next to them and
grabbing another spoon.

Come here, Olly, he hoisted the child up into his lap as Derek let out a sudden gasp and bent
over to look into the batter.

Whats that? he asked with over-dramatic curiosity. Andy stood up on his legs, peeking into the
batter bowl and frowning.

Whats what? she exclaimed, frowning when Derek pointed into the bowl. She bent in closer,
squinting and then shrieking when Derek scooped a finger full of dough and smeared it on her
nose. Stiles couldnt help but laugh with Olly and Derek as she whined and rubbed at her face
before taking the dough and rubbing it all over Dereks mouth. Gross, daddy! she shouted,
giggling as Derek made a mock shout of dismay when his face was covered in cookie batter.

Olly scrambled forward, shoving his hand into the bowl before Stiles could stop him and then
whirling around and slapping a handful of dough right into Stiles cheek.

Dereks laugh was loud and shocking, echoing across the kitchen with the giggles of his children
as Stiles slowly reached up to pull the dough from his face and stare at it with, mouth gaping open.
He glanced up and Olly squealed, oh no! when Stiles tried to get him back. Daddy, help! he
scrambled off of Stiles lap like a worm, running around to Dereks chair when Stiles chased him.

Thats when Dereks business cell went off, trilling loudly over the sound of their laughing and
shouting.

It was like putting a silencer in the room, the laughter dying down as they all watched Derek pull
his phone out with a frown. He stood, setting Andy down and walking out of the room to answer
it.

Daddy just got home, Olly whined, jumping up and down in place in a motion Stiles knew
often would prelude a tantrum. He quickly wiped his hands and face on a paper towel, scooping
Olly up and setting him in his booster seat.

Maybe theyre just telling him hes doing a good job. Here, its your turn to stir, Stiles pushed
the bowl towards Olly, Andy, cmere so I can wipe your face, sweets.

Andy slipped out of her chair, following Stiles to the kitchen sink so he could wet the paper towel
and wipe at her nose and cheeks. She was rosy-faced and grinning again by the time Stiles was
done, joining Olly at the table so they could keep mixing the dough into something bakeable.
Derek slipped into the kitchen, making a beeline for his children and kissing them both on the
head.

Daddy has to go get something from work, he said, sounding pained even as he spoke--like it
was the last thing he wanted to do. Ill be back soon, the look on Dereks face belied that he
wasnt sure if that was true or not. Most likely, he had no idea when he would be back.

Andy and Olly started to voice their protests, and Derek rubbed them a little shy of forcefully on
the heads. No crying, or you dont get cookies, he said, grinning when they both fell
begrudgingly quiet. Stiles frowned.

Its already six, theyre really going to make you go back into the office?

Derek shrugged, lots of messes to clean up right now, he explained, reaching out and pressing
his hand to the side of Stiles throat before sliding it down to his shoulder and squeezing gently.
Ill try to get back before ten.

Olly and Andy dragged Stiles to the door to see Derek out. The last light of the day peeking out
over the treetops as a fog rolled in from behind the house, adding an eerie bit of darkness with the
cloudy sky overhead..

There was a river that ran through the forest surrounding the estate; one that Stiles was hesitant to
take the children to because of how fast moving it was. It caused a lot of fog in the mornings and
at night, though, which added another bit of difficulty in navigating the long road up to Dereks
house.

Once Dereks car was out of sight, Stiles spent a few minutes trying to get the children inside. The
both of them started arguing profusely and Andy even made an aborted attempt to hit Stiles. He
lifted them both up, carrying them kicking and screaming into the house, shouting their hatred of
Stiles and how much they wanted their father. It had been a while since the two of them had
reacted so badly to Derek leaving, but Stiles figured it made sense since Derek was supposed to be
home for the night.

Sitting the both of them in the living room, Stiles grabbed the remote while Olly wailed and Andy
slid off the couch to lay on the floor and kick her feet, shouting, I want daddy! I dont wanna
watch TV! at the top of her lungs.

Both children were wolfed out to the nines, all claws and fur as they rolled and screamed. Stiles
sighed, turning the TV on and heading for the kitchen to let them cry their problems to Dora the
Explorer. He finished mixing up the batter, pulling out the pans and spraying them down before
laying the dough out and turning the oven on. By the time the cookies were in and the timer was
set, the screaming had died down into the sound of snarling and yips.

Stiles washed his hands in the sink slowly, straining his ears and hearing the sound of ripping
fabric that had his babysitter senses going wild. He shut the sink off, drying his hands on his jeans
and hurrying into the living room.

What are you guys-- Stiles trailed off, startled to see Olly on the arm of the couch, clawing at it
while he growled loudly, baring his little teeth--eyes glowing bluer than Stiles had ever seen them-
-at the coffee table. Andy was under the table, curled up and yipping at Olly, her whole body
shaking violently.

Hed never seen either of the kids freaking out this badly, but his first instinct was to go after the
closest child. Kneeling down, Stiles reached a hand under the table for Andy. Whats wrong,
baby? he asked, pressing his hand to her shoulder. Andy snarled, whirling around and sinking
her teeth into his arm so deep that Stiles could feel his skin breaking, blood welling up around her
mouth as she clawed at his arm and yanked--still biting it.

Oh my God! Stiles screamed, wrenching out from under the table so fast that his head hit the
underside of it. Andy came with him and Stiles grabbed at her mouth, prying her teeth out of his
arm. He dragged it to his chest, stepping out of the way while Andy snapped her bloodied teeth
and, wow, Stiles was fucking terrified at the sight of a four year old with fangs and blood on her
face.

What the fu-- Something hit his back and Stiles barely had a second to register the sound of
Ollys snarl before claws were scratching at him and he was being bit again as Ollys teeth sank
into his shoulder.

Stiles did the first thing he could think of, which was to writhe around and pull at Ollys legs to try
and dislodge him while wailing, Unhand me, you zombie child! as hysteria bubbled up inside of
him.

It seemed like his shout was enough to startle Olly, who let out a little howl and then leapt off of
Stiles and landed on the couch in an awkward flop of limbs. Stiles brought his hand up to his
shoulder, stumbling back until he hit the window. He could hear thunder outside, the sound of rain
pattering against the glass, and then he realized something.

Whirling around, Stiles flung open the curtain, staring at the cloudy sky and searching it
desperately. Thats when he caught sight of it; the full moon, hidden behind storm clouds and
almost concealed entirely from sight.

Shit.

Knowing that neither child had an anchor, Stiles fumbled for his phone, pulling it out while Andy
and Olly were distracted by sniffing one another and rubbing their cheeks together. Hed typed
out half of the text whenever Olly let out another snarling howl and Stiles almost jumped out of
his skin to see those glowing eyes staring at him. He dropped the phone, arms coming out like he
could stop the little werewolf from advancing.

Olly, dont. Its me, Stiles, remember me? he asked shakily, blood dripping from the bites and
cuts on his arm. Olly, on all fours, released a yowling noise and lunged forward. Stiles yelped,
stumbling back when Olly hit him in the stomach. He hit the ground, holding Ollys squirming
and growling body, wincing when claws slashed at his face.

Come on, Olly. Youre hurting me, please stop! Stiles cried, choking on an actual sob. He
dragged Olly into his arms, squeezing him so tight that it made it hard for the child to move
around. Teeth nipped and gnawed at his throat before suddenly, Olly went utterly and completely
still. Thats it, you know who I am, buddy. Come back to me, Stiles begged shakily, hearing
and feeling as Olly sniffed at his throat in deep huffs.

Good boy, I love you, come on, Olly, he encouraged, eyes focused onwhere Andy was pacing
back and forth, watching them unblinkingly.

Stiles rubbed a hand down Ollys back, sobbing in relief when Olly weakly mouthed at his throat
and then, in confusion, turned into Stiles throat and said, Stiles?

Yeah, Stiles choked, heart thundering in his chest as he felt the fur and point of Ollys ears
starting to recede back into a human face.

Hurt! Stiles hurt! Olly exclaimed, pulling back and staring at Stiles with large, watery eyes. He
sniffled, reaching for Stiles bleeding shoulder and whimpering. I hurt you! as Stiles grabbed his
wrist. Stiles shook his head, reaching out to run a palm through Ollys hair. The last thing he
wanted was for Olly to take his pain. His entire body was on fire, heartbeat roaring through the
sluggishly bleeding bites and cuts all over him.

You didnt mean to, he said quietly, you controlled your shift all on your own, Olly. Im so
proud of you.

Whining, Ollys face scrunched up as big, fat tears slipped out of his eyes. He rocked into Stiles
chest, sobbing out, Im sorry! and clutching to Stiles shirt.

Its okay, baby, Stiles soothed him, kissing at his temple when Andys growling reached a
crescendo. Stiles had half a second to look up before Andy was lurching forward. Olly whirled
around in Stiles arms, howling, No, Andy! and slashing his claws across her face.

Andy stumbled back, blinking and gnashing her little teeth, pawing at the blood on her face as it
slowly began to heal. Stiles frowned, hissing, Olly, dont hurt your sister! and ignoring the fact
that Olly looked taken aback at the reprimand. He crawled over to Andy, pulling her clawed
hands from her face. It was mostly healed, but Stiles dragged in a deep breath and hoped for the
best as he leaned in to kiss over the injury--like he always did.

Slowly, the claws that had been digging into his palms began to recede. He exhaled in relief,
kissing Andys forehead when she weakly said, Stiles? and then looked up at him with scared
bewilderment.

Relief hit Stiles like a truck and he sagged back, giving her a crooked grin. He felt utterly
exhausted, pulse roaring in his ears and pain in every part of his body. Still, Stiles ruffled her hair.
Yeah, sweets. How are you feeling?

Whining, Andy snuffled into Stiles hand as Olly came up and crawled into his lap, face rubbing
all over Stiles stomach. Im sorry, said Andy, kissing the cuts on Stiles arms to try and heal
them. Stiles pulled his hand back, sighing.

Its okay, honey. How about we take a bath, though? because they both had blood on their face
and it was probably one of the creepiest things Stiles could come up with when he remembered
that it was his blood they were wearing.

Even though Olly and Andy seemed okay with this, it was a struggle to get them into the bath
because of their refusal to let him go. It was only after they were settled in the tub with Stiles on
the toilet, cleaning his wounds, that they started to calm down.

It was probably the most adorable thing in the world, watching the two of them splashing around
excitedly, almost like babies again. Stiles figured it had something to do with the full moon and
their more primal side, but Stiles didnt mind watching them squeal and splash at each other while
he finished bandaging himself up to the best of his ability.

Luckily, the bites werent as deep as hed thought, so he didnt have to think about calling Derek
off of work to take him to the hospital for stitches or something.

Stiles had barely put away the first aid kit when Andy and Olly finally started to calm down. He
wrapped them up in their towels, drying their hair and then helping them both get dressed when
they refused to let him out of their sight. Stiles was exhausted, and he wanted to cry in relief when
both children started to yawn loudly.

Stiles, Olly whined, latching onto Stiles leg while Andy pulled on her night gown and pajama
pants, wanna sleep.
Sure, buddy. Want me to tuck you in? Stiles reached down, lifting Olly up and receiving a
whine for his efforts. Olly shook his head, snuffling into Stiles throat and rubbing a cheek against
his collarbone.

Wanna sleep wiff you, he mumbled. Andy came over, nodding and pulling on Stiles shirt
frantically.

I wanna sleep with you too! she exclaimed. Stiles sighed, but nodded in understanding. It made
sense that they didnt want to lose their anchor; and Stiles wasnt up for round two of Who Wants
to be a Werebaby Chewtoy.

The only problem was that there was only one bed in the house big enough to fit more than one
person.

That bed happened to belong to Derek.

Stiles didnt even have to think about it for very long. He doubted Derek would be too mad about
it--not when he realized hed completely forgotten about the full moon and had left Stiles to fend
for himself. Dereks scent would probably help the kids fall asleep anyway. How about we all
sleep in your daddys bed, huh? he asked, grinning at the enthusiastic nods of both Olly and
Andy. The timer for the cookies went off and Stiles detoured into the kitchen to take them out,
shutting the oven off and then having Olly and Andy help him wrap up the rest of the batter and
put it in the fridge before heading for Derek's room for bed.

Dereks bedroom was locked, but he had a key above the door for Stiles to use to get into. It was
mostly to keep the kids from wandering in there and hiding when Derek wasnt home. Stiles
kicked his shoes off while Andy and Olly climbed onto the bed. He contemplated keeping his
jeans on, and then decided against taking them off in case the kids woke up wolfy and Stiles
needed a layer of defense against their clawed feet.

Climbing into the bed, Stiles gingerly settled himself up in the center of the bed. He dragged Olly
into his chest while Andy climbed over his stomach to get to his other side and curl under Stiles
arm. Yawning again, Stiles ran his hands over both their heads, petting their hair from their
foreheads as he found himself on the receiving end of more sniffing and sleepy cheek rubs.

He was almost completely asleep when the sound of the front door opening and slamming shut.
He could hear Derek shouting first Stiles name, and then Olly and Andys. Before Stiles could
even call out their location, Derek was bursting into the room and freezing dead in his tracks, eyes
widening comically.

Stiles brought a hand up, putting his finger over his mouth in a shushing motion to keep Derek
from talking. It wasnt every day the kids fell asleep so easily--if they woke up now, the sight of
their father would get them riled up all over again.

This is a little above my pay grade, Stiles whispered, yawning and trying desperately to ignore
the clawing relief that shot through him at just the sight of Derek standing there, looking like hed
run a mile. This couldnt get weird; Stiles was not going to handle it if things got too weird. He
needed Derek to be okay with this and to not freak out.

Come on, big bad alpha. Its bed time, he gestured to the bed and then to the kids, hoping to
signify that, since he was home, he might as well join in on the cuddle pile. Stiles himself had
experienced more than one full-moon pack puddle thanks to Scott and Isaac. He knew it was a
form of comfort, like being in a safe place.

Derek continued to stare, eyes raking over Stiles and locking in on the huge bandage Stiles had
 taped to his shoulder. Stiles swallowed heavily, his heart skipping a beat at the intensity of Dereks
focus. Andy shifted, sighing sleepily into his chest, and Stiles tightened his arm around her.

Dude, come on. Im tired as all get out. Can we just do this nap pack thing and never speak of it
again? Itll be like the full moon version of Vegas.

When Derek continued to remain motionless, Stiles sighed, shifting Andy so he could move his
arm and pat the bed with an expectant stare in Dereks direction. It seemed to be enough to get
Derek moving, and he awkwardly advanced towards the bed, shucking his suit jacket, and then
his tie, slacks and shoes. He pulled up the covers, slipping under them as Stiles moved Andy so
that she and Olly were in between Derek and himself.

Hesitantly, Derek brought his hand up, brushing it over Ollys cheek. Olly snuffled awake, nose
and cheek rubbing into his fathers hand, pressing up into the contact. Derek touched his children
like they were made of glass, hands ghosting over their heads and bodies as gently as he could,
watching as they wriggled and moved in closer to him before drifting off to sleep again.

Stiles let his head drop against the pillow, yawning, thats a good papa wolf, and then letting his
eyes start to droop. He blinked them awake, started to see Derek watching him again, hand
hovering the bandage on Stiles forearm. Stiles shrugged when Derek gave him a concerned look,
muttering, snot so bad, and closing his eyes.

The last thing Stiles felt before he drifted off again was a pair of callused fingers caressing against
the inside of his wrist and palm.

Chapter End Notes

all of the nice things you guys said helped a lot. thanks so much <3 have another
update for your troubles. :)
 Chapter 9
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

The worst kind of dream to have is the kind that ties in with the state of your physical body. That
was why Stiles spent a good minute struggling to drag himself out of the throes of a nightmare
where a wolf cub that dream-Stiles knew to be Olly was viciously biting at his throat. When he
finally gained a fair amount of lucidity, he realized the pain had been realistic because his injuries
from the night before were throbbing and aching in a way that suggested he get up and take some
painkillers.

The only problem was that someones face was pressed into his throat--and it was not the face of a
child. He could feel the rasp of stubble against his throat and shoulder, a soft sandpapery scrape
that made Stiles almost shudder from the sensation. Instead, he dragged in a sleepy breath that
bordered on a yawn, blinking his eyes open and trying to figure out exactly was going on.

He was lying on his back, covered in a nest of blankets with one arm threatening to fall off the
side of the bed. He couldnt feel the press of little bodies against his own anymore; meaning Andy
and Olly were either on the other side of Derek, or gone from the room entirely.

Speaking of Derek

There was an arm slung over his stomach, a callused thumb brushing just under his ribs, and
Derek was a hot line all up against his side, cheek on Stiles shoulder and breath warm against his
jaw. The longer Stiles was awake, the more he realized just how intimate the position was, and
just how much he was enjoying it.

Of course, the sound of Stiles heart beat ratcheting up must have been enough to wake Derek,
because he shifted and awoke with a snuffling noise. Instead of moving, though, Derek shifted
closer, rubbing his cheek against Stiles shoulder in a way that reminded him of Olly, and then
murmured sleepily, wherr thkids?

Luckily, months of taking care of two werewolf children with a penchant for pointing out any odd
smells they picked up on made it a little less impossible for Stiles to try and think of boner-killing
things as Dereks thumb rubbed up and down his side. Prolly watching TV, he mumbled,
almost jumping out of his skin when Derek chuffed and dragged his hand away.

As much as Stiles wanted to bring that hand back, it was a little less aggravating on his injuries
without a 200 pound werewolf cuddling up close to him. Then there was also the part where Stiles
had a big fat schoolboy crush on Derek and cuddling was not something his heart could take.

Derek made a noncommittal noise, chin and cheek scraping gently against Stiles shoulder one last
time before he rolled out of bed. The way he stumbled awkwardly towards the bathroom, one
hand scratching at his side, was proof enough that he wasnt even fully awake. The upside was
that Stiles got a fantastic view of Dereks ass, and sent a short prayer of thanks to the higher power
for having boxer-briefs put into existence. The master bathroom shut and Stiles allowed himself to
relax when he heard the sound of Derek going pee. He brought one hand up, scrubbing at his face
and cursing himself for getting aflutter over the fact that he, apparently, become pack enough to be
on the receiving end of sleepy cuddles.

Stiles had spent the night at Scotts enough to know that it was a werewolf thing to hold onto one
another in sleep. He was pretty sure hed never forget the time Isaac had also stayed the night and
Stiles had spent ten minutes slapping gently at Isaacs hand on his hip at three in the morning
before suddenly both Scott and Isaac had crushed him between their bodies. The sniffing part he
could live without having ever experienced.

When Derek came out after finishing his morning routine in the bathroom, he approached the bed
smelling like bar soap and toothpaste, and grabbed the covers to pull them up to Stiles shoulders.
Stiles kind of wanted to protest because his eyes hadnt been completely closed, just close to it.
Instead, the words were lost on his tongue when Derek brought a hand out and grazed his fingers
over one of Stiles bandages, frowning at the spots of blood.

Get some more sleep, he said quietly, standing there for an awkward moment before he turned
and left the bedroom. Stiles didnt move right away, but he finally let out a long breath, turning
gingerly onto his side and burying his face into his pillow. Even though the kids had slept with
him last night, Dereks scent was the strongest above anything else. Stiles heart ached just to
breathe in the musk of his cologne and body wash, and couldnt help but curl the covers in tight
and wonder what it would be like to wake up like this every morning.

It hurt to think like that for too long; especially knowing that Derek was treating him like family--
werewolf family. He knew well enough from Scott and the day they covered werewolves in sex
ed that intimacy was natural to a pack, but was very commonly platonic; scent-marking, cuddling,
caressing, could all be interpreted as natural between werewolf pack mates.

As much as Stiles liked the touching and the attention, it hurt all the same. It hurt in a way Stiles
really didnt know how to deal with because none of his relationships had lasted long enough for
Stiles to feel the same emotional connection he did with Derek and the children.

Maybe it was time to ask his dad for advice. His dad seemed proud enough that Stiles was
working a steady job--but it also meant that they saw less of each other. Outside of the occasional
chat before or after work, the most Stiles saw of his dad was on days Derek sent him home early
or let him come in late, and his dad happened to be off shift at the same time.

Just thinking about it made Stiles feel guilty; he was all his dad had. It might not hurt to bring
Andy and Olly to the house some time so his dad could meet the two reasons why Stiles never
had any spare time for father-son bonding. He was pretty sure his dad would love the kids,
anyway.

Guilt abated, Stiles let himself drift off to sleep for a little longer.

When he woke up again, only an hour had passed, but he felt more rested than he had earlier.
Slipping out of bed, Stiles had to wince at the way the bites and scratches twinged on his body.
He shuffled his way out of the master bedroom, passing Derek in the living room on his laptop
and the kids watching TV, and made a beeline for the kitchen--where a pantry full of medicine
was located.

He was popping a handful of ibuprophen when Derek stepped into the kitchen.

They hurt? he asked, frowning. Stiles shrugged, licking his lips and sipping at his orange juice.

Not as bad as youd think, he said, a thought hitting him and making him frown, Im not going
to turn, am I?

Derek snorted, shaking his head and leaning his hip against the counter to watch Stiles drink his
juice. No, theyre betas; they cant turn you.

Stiles, despite having two werewolves for friends, one for a boss, one for a sometimes-friend
(Erica was growing on him) and babysitting two miniature werewolves, really couldnt grasp the
concept of the whole alpha/beta/omega hierarchy. With Scott and Isaac, it didnt really come up,
and so he just never thought to ask.

Didnt betas turn people during the epidemic? he asked.

Derek made a face, if that were true, the whole town would be crawling with werewolves, he
pointed out. Stiles made a thoughtful noise, rinsing out his glass and sticking it in the dishwasher.
Derek gestured for him to follow and Stiles trailed after him, following the path to the bathroom.

So like--what determines an alpha? I thought my friend Scott was an alpha, but apparently he
isnt? Hes not an omega, though? Stiles hopped on the counter while Derek went rooting around
for the first aid kit again, kicking his legs just the tiniest bit.

An omega has ties to no one, Derek began, standing up and dropping the kit next to Stiles leg
before turning to give Stiles shirtless body an assessing stare. There are such things as beta
packs; just like alpha packs.

Ah, Stiles said intelligently. Derek rolled his eyes, lip twitching like he was hiding a fond smile,
and he reached out to start removing the bandaging on Stiles shoulder.

Being an alpha is likehaving a certain, but rare, blood type, he began, frowning like it was
hard for him to properly explain the dynamics. Stiles craned his neck to look at the wound on his
shoulder, sighing in relief to notice that it wasnt as bad as he had thought it was last night. Thank
god four year olds had small teeth.

You can become an alpha by killing one, or by inheriting it. Its likegetting an HIV positive
blood transplant, if that makes sense.

So being an alpha is like having AIDS? Stiles joked, earning a flat look from Derek.

Instead of dignifying Stiles with an answer, Derek made sure to rip off the bandaging for the bite
on his arm with a little extra force. Stiles yelped, feeling his arm hair being wrenched out, and had
to glower at the smug look on Dereks face. He waited until Derek had re-cleaned both bites
before speaking again.

Uh, so, are we going to actually treat last night like werewolf Vegas? Cuz theres this thing
where Im wondering if--

You are, Derek interrupted, not even looking up from where he was swabbing antibacterial
ointment onto Stiles shoulder.

Stiles, momentarily confused, fish-mouthed for a second, bwuh?

Tossing the q-tip into the trash, Derek grabbed a new bandage and began to gently lay it over
Stiles shoulder. Youre their anchor, he said softly, eyebrows pinching together like it was hard
for him to wrap his head around the words. YoureI could feel it--when I came into the room
last night, he paused, head lifting and eyes locking with Stiles.

Youre pack.

Suddenly, Stiles couldnt breathe. His heart was roaring in his ears and his face felt hot. He was
pretty sure his eyes were bugging out of his head, and by the time he forced himself to drag in a
shaking breath and exhale, Derek was looking at him with apprehension.

If, he began hesitantly, fingers slowly moving to grab a bandage for Stiles arm, if thats too
much for you, I understand.

Swallowing dryly, Stiles wanted desperately to tell Derek how much he wanted that--but not in
the way it was being offered. Instead, he dropped his gaze to where Derek was finishing up the
bandage on his arm. I dont know, he confessed quietly, guilt eating away at him.

Derek didnt stare, not really, he just watched Stiles as if trying to understand the implications of
his words. After a beat, he nodded, finishing off the last of the bandaging. If you want out, just
let me know. We can work on weaning you off the kids--its notuncommon for a human or
even a werewolf to disown their pack.

A pang of hurt shot through Stiles as Derek looked away and pursed his lips. I know that school
starts soon for you, but if you could--

Im working on it, Stiles blurted, not quite sure if he wanted to tell Derek about the online
classes just yet. It was a huge implication--just as big as Derek claiming him to be pack. It was just
too much, too soon. So instead, Stiles shrugged weakly when Derek shot him a confused look.
The school thing, I mean. I dont want to quit at the end of the summer; this is a great job and Im
kind of in love with yo--your kids, and fuck, Stiles had almost screwed that all up by fumbling
his words.

Derek didnt catch it, though. He was too busy looking relieved that Stiles was willing to
compromise with the children. Grinning thinly at Stiles, Derek started to pack up the first aid kit
with a soft, thank you.

Slipping off the counter, Stiles winced at the tenderness of his injuries. He brushed it off to shoot
Derek a smirk, might as well give this pack thing a try. I did say on my scholarship applications
that Im always open to new things, anyway.

Making Derek laugh was worth the playful shove he got--one that was a little too forceful from
werewolf strength and had Stiles bumping into the wall.

From there, things fell into a new routine that felt as natural as the last one. The only real
difference was that Derek didnt seem as uncomfortable when he would pat or touch Stiles. It was
also apparent that both Olly and Andy had picked up on the change.

Stiles didnt realize how much being an acknowledged packmate meant until Andy had been in
the midst of a tantrum and Stiles had snapped at her in his frustration. Instead of her sassing him
back, she instantly started to quiet, staring up at him with watery eyes and a face red from
screaming, before apologizing and bursting into tears.

Other than having it a little easier in getting the children to listen during tantrums and fits, and
Derek being more accepting of Stiles position in their life, it was mostly the same as before. Stiles
almost forgot that there was any sort of problems going on outside of the Hale house until one
afternoon when coloring-time was interrupted by the doorbell ringing.

Though Stiles did abuse Dereks card to sometimes order quirky t-shirts or some of the harder to
find toys for Olly and Andy online, he hadnt made any recent purchases to warrant a postman
coming to the door. Erica and Boyd usually let themselves in with their copies of Dereks key, and
there was literally no one else that would bother the huge journey up the driveway to come
knocking at the door.

Still, it was possible that maybe Derek had ordered something, or that someone had gotten lost on
their way up to the mountains.
Stiles set his crayon on the table and headed for the door. He couldnt see anyone outside the
peephole, but it had a huge blindspot because of the ridiculous sign hanging on the door that said
NO SOLICITORS on it.

When he opened the door to see Kate standing on the other side, he immediately started to close it.

Of course, just like last time, Kate slammed her hand against it and shoved Stiles back with the
force of her push. She stuck her head in, a snarl on her face as she instantly started talking. Look,
kid. I dont know what their dad told you; but he wont let me see my own boys. Just because my
family is a bunch of hunters, doesnt mean I am one, she forced out, slipping her boot in the
doorway so that Stiles couldnt close it no matter how much of his weight he threw into it.

Stiles fumbled for his phone in his pocket, heart racing a mile a minute while Kate continued to
talk.

Im getting real tired of him acting like a child just because I broke up with him after having the
boys. He wasnt exactly husband material, you know? I dont see why Im being punished
because hes still nursing his wounded pride.

Just for a moment, Stiles hesitated with his thumb still scrolling through his contacts for Dereks
number. He looked up to see Kate watching him with wide eyes--like she was just pleading for
him to understand. It threw him for a loop; possibly because he had heard nothing good about this
woman, and had expected more psychosis and less desperation.

Kate curled her fingers around the door and Stiles absently noticed how nice and well-maintained
her nails were. She tried to push it open more but Stiles jammed his toe up under the door,
thankful that hed worn his skate shoes because they just barely fit.

Just a few hours with them, thats all I want, she pleaded, breathless from the energy it was
taking to try and just get in the doorway. Stiles frowned, and she brought a hand up to tuck some
of her hair behind her ear. I dont have a lot of money, but I can give you what I have. I havent
seen them since they were babies--never saw them take their first steps, or heard their first words,
and thats when Stiles hesitation left him in a heartbeat. There was no way she had already spent
five million dollars in just a few short years.

He wont let me see my babies, dont you understand? Kate cried, sniffing like she was on the
brink of tears just from thinking about it. Again, Stiles felt conflicted. Could it be possible Derek
was lying about all of this? Lying about the money, even?

Thats when he heard the children laughing in the other room, and Andys voice calling for him,
Stiles! Stiles, we cant play castle without a prince! she called. Stiles almost turned to answer
her, when he realized something.

Kate wasnt affected.

The sound of her children laughing--of them begging to play, it didnt affect her at all. She was so
busy trying to get Stiles to listen to her, to sway him to her side, that she didnt even seem to care
that her babies were just in the other room. Any normal parent who truly was going mad with the
need to see their kids would be beside themselves in this sort of situation.

It wasnt much to go off of--but it was enough for Stiles.

Dragging in a deep breath, Stiles reached up to pry her fingers off the door as gently--but
forcefully--as he could. Im sorry, but Im not paid enough to get involved in Mr. Hales personal
life, he said thinly, tucking his phone into his pocket so he could use both hands to push the door
while trying to nudge her foot out of the frame. If you come by here again, Im going to call the
cops.

That was the exact moment that the longing mother faade was dropped, and Stiles saw her for
the snake she was.

The cops? she scoffed, rolling her eyes, Call them for what? Tresspassing? Im not inside the
house, sweetie, she sneered, grabbing Stiles wrist and holding it just tight enough so he could
feel her nails dig into his skin.

Harassment, Stiles spat, wrenching his arm out of her hold, because all I have to do is ask my
dad, the sheriff, to put your name on file, and with that, he kicked her toe as hard as he could,
knocking it out of the frame.

Dont come here again! he shouted, almost slamming the door on her fingers when she pulled
back just in time. He flipped the locks on the door, hands shaking, and then rested his back against
it to look at the new crescent marks on his wrist.

Just another mark to add to his growing list, it seemed.

This woman, though, she was bad news. Bad news in a way that she wasnt just messing with
Derek anymore--she was messing with Stiles, because Stiles was pack and the kids were his
responsibility.

Which meant he needed to get the kids out of the house for the day, because he didnt feel safe by
himself with two werewolf children.

He wanted his dad.

Actually--that was a great idea. He had already thought about taking Olly and Andy to his house
anyway; now with Kate on the prowl, itd be safer there than it would be at Dereks.

With that in mind, he headed into the living room, grinning and clapping his hands together. Hey,
do you guys wanna meet my daddy?

Of course, even with all the time it took to get both of them bundled in the car and all of their
supplies packed (blankets for nap time, snacks, some toys, movies, and coloring books), Stiles
dad was still working for another couple of hours. It was probably a good thing, because Andy
and Olly seemed to be entirely overwhelmed to discover an entire house besides their own that
smelled completely of Stiles. Not only did it smell like Stiles, but it smelled like his father, Scott,
and faintly of Isaac.

Well, Stiles assumed thats what his house smelled like, but he wasnt a werewolf so he couldnt
be sure. Either way, Andy and Olly were completely preoccupied with touching everything and
anything in Stiles room that they could get their hands on. It was only when they tried to climb
his dresser to grab the photo of his mother that Stiles finally decided to reign them in and take
them downstairs to play some video games.

It took a few attempts to get his old N64 running, but after he blew in the cartridge for Kirby and
the Crystal Shards a good four times, he finally got it to work. Pink blobs that made cute noises
and turned into cool stuff seemed like a good enough game to keep them entertained. It was either
that, or something a little more violent--and Stiles avoided violent shows and games like the
plague. It was bad enough that Andy had managed to beat the shit out of him with a frying pan the
one time she asked to help him make pancakes.

When the game grew too complicated and boring to keep their attention, Stiles busted out the
building blocks and cleaned off the coffee table. They were halfway through building a castle
when the door opened and Stiles father came in through it.

Instead of being cheerful and happy to meet him, though, the kids seemed shy. Olly crawled up
into Stiles lap right when his dad came over, and Andy ducked down under the coffee table.

Well, hi there, dad said, smiling and reaching a hand out to shake Ollys. Stiles had texted him
beforehand about the kids, so hed made sure to take his gun off in the car. Olly stared at his hand
for a second, and then buried his face into Stiles shoulder.

Stiles laughed, rubbing Ollys back and shrugging at his father. Come on, Olly, its just my dad,
he coaxed, catching sight of Andy peeking at the exchange from over the top of the coffee table.
Olly gave a halfhearted shrug, turning his face deeper into Stiles shirt.

Turning to smile at Andy, Stiles dad tried her next. So you must be the princess, he said, still
smiling. Andy brought her arms up on the coffee table, hiding shyly behind her hands and then
nodding.

Well, Stiles dad began, nodding seriously, you are much better behaved than Stiles was when
he was little, and that just seemed to be the catch to get their focus. Instantly, he had twin sets of
eyes watching him, Olly peeking out just enough to show curiosity.

Dad, no, Stiles pleaded--because he knew exactly where this was going.

Andy spoke first, pulling one hand off of her face to whisper, what did he do? in a
conspiratorial voice.

Olly practically perked up the second Stiles dad started to laugh, both twins grinning a little at his
easiness.

Well, he hated potty training, he began, earning a giggle from Andy, and he didnt like to wipe
his butt-- this time, both kids burst out laughing. Stiles shushed them, but it was in vain as their
high pitched tittering filled up the room. It was only made worse when Stiles dad leaned in to
stage-whisper the last part.

--and when his mommy wouldnt come wipe his bottom for him, he would rub it all over the
walls like a big baby, and stink up the entire bathroom.

Stiles groaned in mortification as his ears almost bled at the loud shrieks of laughter from both
Andy and Olly. He shot his dad a dirty look, earning an innocent shrug in return. Stiles poked
Olly in the stomach, and then did it again until Olly was squealing and giggling so hard he had to
suck in a breath every now and then between laughs. If you tell your daddy that story, Ill tickle
you to death! he threatened, pinching and wiggling his fingers across Ollys belly.

No! Olly cried, gasping for air and wiggling in Stiles arm, No! this time, he managed to roll
out of Stiles grasp, and ran straight for Stiles father, practically jumping up into his arms to
escape the tickle torture. His dad seemed surprise, but he easily held Olly while the child caught
his breath back, all grins and laughter in the safety of Stiles fathers arms.

The look on his dads face was one Stiles didnt really recognize. He looked almost sad as he held
Olly, but he was smiling like hed met an old friend. Maybe the kids would be good for his dad--
maybe he missed being around children. This could be good for all of them.

Andy climbed under the table, pulling on his dads pant leg and then loudly asking, will you save
us from the tickle monster? in a way that had his dad looking beside himself with delight. He
nodded seriously though, lowering himself to the couch with a grunt and then letting Andy climb
 up next to them while Olly got settled and then sniffed curiously at his shoulder.

Well, Ill try my best. Hes been poisoning me with lots of vegetables lately, so Im not at my
strongest.

Scratch that; his dad was a terrible influence.

Chapter End Notes

the sterek campaign is doing a charity auction. you can bid on me as an author to get
me to write something for you! have at it.
 Chapter 10
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

Stiles barely remembered to text Derek with his house address before lunch time rolled around. It
would have been bad news if Derek came home to the smell of Kate and his children missing. He
wasnt really sure how to explain exactly why he had taken Olly and Andy to his house--not
without bringing Kate up. Derek would figure it out either way, but it was never fun to try and tell
someone bad news through a text message.

So he waited until Derek pulled up into the driveway, and jogged out to meet him. Hey, he
began, talking before Derek had even gotten out of his car. So miss crazy pants showed up at the
house again, thats why we came here. My dads the sheriff, so I figured this would be the safest
place to go.

Derek froze halfway to shutting his door, head snapping to stare at Stiles with a look of disbelief.

Kate came back? he asked sharply, slamming the car door closed and then clenching his jaw,
palm resting on the roof. Did she do anything?

I didnt even let her in the door, Stiles assured, I told her if she came by again, Id get a
restraining order for harassing me.

The front door opened, twin screams of, daddy! echoing across the block as Andy and Olly ran
for Derek. For a second, Stiles was worried Andy was going to fall in her mad rush to get to
Derek, but she righted herself easily enough and kept running. Derek crouched down, picking
them both up into his arms and holding them tight. He stood up, letting both children snuffle into
the starch fabric of his suit.

Thanks, Derek said, his frown still evident. I know you didnt sign up for her--

Im pretty sure you didnt sign up for crazy either when you were with her, Stiles pointed out,
grinning as Andy and Olly finally sniffed their fill and began talking a mile a minute.

Stiles was perfectly happy to let Derek carry the kids inside while they chattered--pressing his side
up against Stiles to rub their bodies together in a manner that suggested it was his hands-free form
of scent marking. Thats when Ollys words and mischievous look pinged on his radar.

Daddy, Stiles daddy said when he was lil' he would--

Eat lots of candy! Stiles cried, jogging forward and plucking Olly out of Dereks arms. He spun
Olly in the air, dragging him in tight and rubbing their cheeks together while whispering,
remember the tickle monster, Olly. He likes to eat up little boys who dont keep secrets.

Olly and Andy let out matching gasps of horror, and Derek had a very distinct look on his face
like he planned on waiting until Stiles wasnt around to interrogate and possibly bribe his children
for some stories they had learned from their morning at the Stilinski house. Stiles hoped
desperately that their short attention spans caused both Andy and Olly to forget the horror stories,
but he knew it wasnt likely.

Im sorry! Olly cried, I wont tell!

Thats right you wont, Stiles assured, reaching up to pinch Ollys nose and wiggle it until Olly
was slapping at his hands with a giggling whine.

When Derek grabbed the diaper bag, Stiles frowned. I can take them back later, you can eat
lunch here; its fine.

Peering up, Derek frowned and glanced at his watch before putting the bag on the couch. Were
going out to lunch, he explained, reaching up to pet Andys head and brush her bangs out of her
eyes. They have an appointment for a hair cut at two, he added.

Andy went from content to upset in the blink of an eye. She jerked back, pushing Dereks hands
from her face and shrieking, no! at the top of her lungs. Derek, confused, had to fumble her
when she began to kick and writhe. Even for a werewolf, Derek was no match for the writhing of
a hysterical toddler. Stiles had to put Olly down on the couch to come help when Andy was
hanging upside-down from Dereks arms, kicking her feet and reaching for the couch like it was
her only way of escape.

She doesnt like hair cuts, Derek grunted, taking a foot to the throat and reaching for Andys
shoulders. Stiles had to wince in sympathy when he ended up getting a handful of werebaby
claws dug into his arm for his efforts. Stiles put his hands under Andys arms, plucking her up and
holding her in the air as she continued to kick and scream.

Derek decided to just let Stiles keep holding her while he gathered everything into the diaper bag
and then lifted Olly up. In that time, Stiles had managed to get a better grip on Andy and had
avoided a black eye from a rogue fist. He tried to put her on his hip but she just kicked him in the
thigh, so instead he put her under his arm while she wailed and carried on with her tantrum.

Thats when Stiles had an idea. Obviously Andy was expecting the same boy cut she had been
getting for the past however-long, and Stiles wasnt going to let that fly. He picked her up again,
carrying her to the couch and sitting down with her. When she tried to get away, he hauled her
into his lap. Do you want a hair cut? he asked.

No! Andy screamed, hiccuping and sniffling. Stiles reached into his pocket to grab an
emergency napkin, wiping at the snot under her nose and then pulling her in when she tried to
squirm away. His ears were starting to ring.

Okay, Stiles said, watching Andy cough on her tears and then quiet to blink owlishly at him.
Derek had this expression like he wanted to argue that the appointment was already made, but
Stiles ignored him in favor of wiping at Andys cheeks.

Did you know that Rapunzel cut her hair? he asked. Andy scowled, shaking her head and
grunting when Stiles pinched her nose with the napkin. She took it from him, holding it and
blowing into it before folding it to scrub her face. Stiles grinned, taking it from her and thanking
her. Yep. She had to cut her bangs so she could see. So can daddy take you to get your bangs cut
too? You dont wanna be blind, do you?

Andys eyes went wide, and Stiles brought his hand up to cover her eyes, youll have so much
hair youll never see anything! he teased, relieved when Andy giggled a little and pushed at his
hands.

When Andy didnt give him an answer, Stiles jostled her a little and pinched her cheek. so is it
okay if we take you to get your hair cut? Its just a little bit so its not in your face.

Slapping at Stiles hand, Andy released a grievous sigh and said, okay,.

A look to Derek to make sure it was okay showed Derek just staring at them with an unreadable
expression. Once he noticed he had Stiles attention, though, he nodded curtly to let Stiles know
that what he did wasnt overstepping his bounds.

The haircut went over better than expected after Stiles helped Andy explain what she wanted to
the hair dresser. There were a few tears shed during the initial process, but when the stylist
brought up the mirror to show a cute pixie cut instead of the short boy crop, Andys tears were
instantly gone.

On the car ride back to Stiles house, with Andy and Olly passed out asleep in the back of the
camaro, Derek clenched the steering wheel and then reached for the radio to turn it down.

Erica said I need to show Andy Im okay withher being a her, he said stiffly, in that manner
he always used when talking about something he wasnt quite sure about. Stiles sat up, interest
piqued.

Youre doing a pretty good job already, he pointed out, better than before.

Derek shook his head, exhaling heavily through his nose. No--not really. I dont think she gets it.
I think shes waiting for me tofor me to make her be my son again.

Thats when Stiles realized that they were actually, legitimately talking about it. Do you want her
to be? he ventured.

Derek swallowed. I dont want her to be bullied, he said weakly, I want her to be happy.

Stiles reached for Dereks shoulder, squeezing it even when Derek gave him a surprised look from
the corner of his eye. Dude, I think shes pretty happy knowing youre not going to make her
stop being what she wants to be, he said, smile coming to his face. Being bullied by some kids
at school is a cakewalk for a kid who has her dad backing her up the entire way.

But how do I tell her that? Derek cried softly, shes four! Its not like we can have a serious
heart to heart about this and I know shell be able to comprehend all of the issues shes going to
have!

Stiles glanced back, but the kids were still out cold, and took his hand from Dereks arm before he
let it wander. Then show her, dont tell her.

Derek side-eyed him and suddenly, Stiles remembered an article hed come across online. A smile
came to his face before he could stop it.

I think I have an idea.

Two days later, Derek was making it well known that he didnt care for Stiles ideas. In fact, he
was loudly voicing his complaints from the other side of the master bathroom.

Im going to fire you. Im withdrawing our contract. Youre a terrible babysitter. I dont know
how I ever thought you were pack.

Stiles couldnt help but grin wickedly, leaning back against the foot of the bed and crossing his
feet at the ankles. Thats okay, he said flippantly, knowing Derek could hear him in the
bathroom. Next time Andy goes streaking through the house, you can be the one to catch her and
make her put clothes on again.

Stiles didnt have to possess super hearing to pick up the sound of Dereks amused snort. Nudity
is natural for a werewolf, he scoffed, cursing as a thud came from the bathroom. Hed probably
tripped over himself. Stiles couldnt help but burst out laughing--partially because he knew exactly
what was going on in the bathroom, and partially because Derek hadnt even been convincing at
all in his claim about nudity.

The door opened just as Stiles caught his breath, smiling like a madman when Derek popped his
head out. He could see fondness there--a familiar look that Derek often got when he was feeling
particularly like the alpha he was. Stiles wanted to kiss him, then, to kiss him and hold him and
breathe him in.

Until Derek stepped fully out of the bathroom and Stiles took a gander at what he was wearing.

A while back, Stiles had read an article about some kids dad wearing dresses to encourage his
son that it was an okay thing to do. So Stiles had taken a leaf out of #1 Dads book. Which was
exactly why Derek was standing before him in a deep purple bridesmaid dress that they had gotten
from the thrift store.

It was the only one they had found that could fit Dereks broad shoulders--with a broach near the
clavicle and a halter that wrapped around the neck instead of over the shoulders. It cinched just
under Dereks pectorals and made it look like he almost had breasts. The rest of the dress was long
and flowing in the typical manner of a princess gown, and it brushed just above the toes of his
bare feet.

Stiles suddenly couldnt breathe because he was laughing so hard. Sure, Dereks arms and
collarbone happened to be the epitome of sexy, but he looked so awkward and out of place that it
just made the entire ensemble utterly ridiculous. Derek crossed his arms, biceps bulging, and he
turned to walk back into the bathroom.

With a shout, Stiles leapt up, hooking a finger in the back of Dereks halter and pulling him back.
Oh no, buddy, we already got the dress. Youre doing this. For Andy.

Derek turned to give Stiles the bitchiest face of all bitchfaces. I cant just tell her?

Grinning, Stiles reached a hand out to pat Dereks chest and then brush away a bit of lint on the
dress. Actions speak louder than words, he pointed out. Derek swatted at Stiles hand.

You just wanted to put me in a dress, he snapped. Stiles shrugged--because that wasnt untrue--
and then stepped back to grab the two presents on the bed.

Youll never live it down.

I kind of hate you. Derek informed him grouchily. Stiles laughed, lifting the presents for Olly
and Andy.

Preaching to the choir, buddy, he smirked, saluting to Derek and then marching out of the room
to execute phase one of their plan.

Olly and Andy were both in front of the TV, Olly playing with his toy space shuttle and making it
run over some of his fish toys while Andy watched Franklin the Turtle with detached interest and
brushed the hair on her Rapunzel doll. Stiles pulled out the two gifts, the crinkle of paper catching
their interest faster than anything Stiles could have said.

Presents?! Andy cried, jumping up off of the couch while Olly pushed himself to his feet. They
both ran over to Stiles, hopping in circles around him like excited puppies while Stiles attempted
to at least reach the coffee table. He finally gave up, laughing and handing Olly and Andy their
gifts.

Ollys present was a planet picture book and a plushie of Dory from Finding Nemo, but Andys
was the one Stiles was focused on.

When she pulled out the new purple dress with a shriek of delight, Stiles grinned and said, now
you match.

Huh? Andy looked up from fawning over the dress.

Stiles moved the boxes out of the way while Olly snuggled with his new toy. Want to see the rest
of your present? Cover your eyes.

Both children threw their hands up to cover their eyes and Stiles felt a pang of guilt because this
part was for Andy only. He would make sure to play astronaut with Olly later, and give him extra
hugs and juice as well.

Derek stepped out of his bedroom, dress swaying around his legs as he approached with a cheap
dollar store tiara on his head, and another one in his hands that was meant for Andy. Dereks face
turned into a myriad of expressions before he nodded at Stiles.

Okay, open your eyes, he said softly, watching Andy pull her hands down and stare at Derek
with a blank look on her face. Derek looked horrifically uncomfortable, but he still stammered
through the line they had rehearsed.

Its okay to be a princess, if thats what makes you happy, he said stiffly, brandishing the tiara
like a peace offering. Stiles gave Derek a thumbs up, and then looked to see Andy still staring
speechlessly at her father.

The first sound she made was a tiny hiccup of a sob. It had all eyes on her in a heartbeat, and
Stiles watched in horror as her face screwed up and she burst into tears. Panicking, Stiles crouched
next to hear, pressing his hand to her back and taking the dress from her when she crinkled it in
her hands. He rubbed a hand down her spine, setting the dress aside. Whats wrong baby? he
asked, watching as Andy nearly dissolved into hysterics, why are you crying?

Derek looked like he was going to have a coronary, the tiara stiff in his hands and his body rigid--
he was probably freaking out because he had no idea why his daughter was so upset.

Sucking in a shuddering breath, Andy rubbed at her eyes and cried out, Daddy loves me! at the
top of her lungs, like it was the most mind-shaking realization shed ever had.

Stiles froze, and he turned to see Derek looking utterly devastated. It was like someone had ripped
out his heart and put it through a shredder. That look was gone quickly, though, because Derek
surged forward, dropping to his knees and dragging Andy into his arms like a rag doll.

Andy curled up into his grasp, her arms wrapped around his neck and her body looking
unbelievably tiny in his embrace. He cradled her to his chest, hands huge against her back while
they clung to one another and Andy continued to sob loudly. He shushed her, bouncing her gently
and rocking back and forth. Its okay, honey, daddy loves you, he said quietly, eyes clenched so
tight that Stiles could see the tears being squeezed out of them as Derek kissed at her head and
neck and continued to rock her.

Daddy is so proud of you, youre such a good girl, Derek whispered, barely audible over the
sound of Andys crying. Stiles had to look away from the scene, feeling himself tear up, and he
rubbed at his nose while glancing over at Olly.

Olly, who was standing there with Dory hanging limply from his fingers, watching the scene with
a tiny, confused frown.
Stiles stood, moving over to lift Olly up into his arms. Olly let himself be lifted, but he kept
watching Derek and Andy holding one another. He dropped his Dory plushie, bringing a hand up
and fisting it into Stiles shirt. Stiles rocked him, swaying back and forth as Olly stared at Derek
and Andy before peering up at Stiles with a distressed look.

Daddy loves me too, right? he asked quietly. Stiles struggled to breathe, bringing a hand up and
rubbing it over Ollys head.

Of course he does, Olly, he assured vehemently, leaning in and kissing Ollys head. Olly made
a tiny noise in the back of his throat, and Stiles rubbed his lips over Olly's temple in a typical scent
marking fashion. Hes just trying to show Andy that he knows shes a girl and that hes sorry he
was ever mean to her, he added.

Olly sighed, shrugging and saying, okay, before resting his head on Stiles shoulder.

Derek stayed home from work that day, spending all morning playing house with Andy and Olly,
and only changing out of his dress when lunch time rolled around. They all exchanged stories
over sandwiches; Stiles regaling the time Olly had fallen asleep in the middle of snack time and
woke up with raisins all over his face.

The kids went down for their nap with little fanfare--though Olly clung to Stiles for a good ten
minutes before Stiles had finally gotten him to lay down and sleep.

It was bordering on domestic bliss, with Stiles playing on his laptop and Derek doing paperwork
at the coffee table while the kids slept. Every time Stiles looked up lock eyes with Derek, he had
to smother a grin at the memories of that morning. Derek wasnt much better, because he had been
all smiles and cuddles with both children for most of the day.

When the kids woke up, Stiles closed his laptop in preparation for sleepy snuggles. Andy made a
beeline for him first, much to Stiles surprise. She did take Ollys place sometimes, but he would
have thought that shed go straight for Derek given their bonding earlier.

Olly stumbled over himself when he realized Andy was climbing up on the couch and into Stiles
lap, still rubbing at his eyes and his frown increasing. Stiles put a hand on Andys back, listening
as she started to animatedly tell him about the dream shed had where Stiles was an abominable
snowman. When she leaned in to press her cheek to Stiles shoulder, she only rubbed once before
Olly let out an unearthly screech.

NO! he screamed, running over and grabbing Andys leg. Stiles didnt even have time to react
when Olly physically dragged her from his lap. No Andy! he cried, pushing her onto the ground
and hitting her in the cheek with his fist.

Andy jumped, and then burst into shocked tears. Derek leapt to his feet when Olly jumped on
Andy and hit her again. He quickly scooped Olly into his arms, ignoring the childs screams and
protests. Andy was crying loudly and Stiles bent down to lift her up.

Sobbing, she put her arms around his neck and Olly went ballistic. He started thrashing, biting at
Dereks hands and scratching him. No ANDY! NO! MINE! it was the first time Stiles had
heard Olly so upset he couldnt articulate anymore. Derek seemed just as confused as he did,
while Andy continued to cry onto his shoulder--despite that her body was healed by now.

When she rubbed her cheek on Stiles shoulder, Olly screamed like he was dying, clawing like
mad in Dereks arms. No! Let go LET GO! he sobbed, reaching for Stiles and making grabbing
hands.
Dereks eyes went wide and he held Olly out to Stiles like an offering. Switch. he demanded.

Stiles stared blankly and Derek snarled, Stiles, put her down.

What? Why? Stiles head was reeling with confusion, still trying to register the fact that Olly
was having his first violent tantrum.

Put her down now. Dereks voice held no room for argument, and Stiles quickly set Andy on
the couch. The second his arms were free, Derek was shoving Olly into them. Stiles didnt even
have to put his arms around Olly because he was clinging to Stiles like a monkey.

Olly was instantly calmer, whining and crying into Stiles throat, clutching him like a lifeline.
Stiles sat down, rubbing at his back and making soothing noises while Derek kissed at Andys
face to make her booboos feel better.

Andy pushed herself out of Dereks lap, crawling over to Stiles and frowning. Why did you hit
me, Olly!? That hurt! she exclaimed. Olly tensed, squeezing his arms tighter around Stiles neck.

Stiles looked helplessly at Derek, shrugging when he was given an equally confused face.
Nonetheless, he continued to rub Ollys back as he fell into his usually meltdown that consisted of
endless crying. Andy reached for Ollys hand, and Olly wrenched it away.

You dont get him too! he screamed into Stiles throat.

You have to share, Olly! Andy argued. Thats when Stiles realized they were talking about him.
He gestured at Derek, trying to get him involved in the argument somehow, but Derek was staring
uselessly like a deer in the headlights.

Olly lifted his head, sniffling and slapping at Andys hand when she tried to reach for him again.
You dont share daddy! he screeched.

Derek looked stricken, face paling and his jaw tensing. Stiles could see him visibly swallow, like
he was trying to ingest what he was hearing and suffering pain from it. Standing, Stiles took Olly
out of the living room, rocking him and carrying him for the kitchen. Being around Andy wasnt
helping him calm down and Olly was struggling to breathe through his tears.

He caught Derek following out of the corner of his eye, and turned the second he was in the
kitchen. Derek watched as Stiles paced around the room, looking like he wasnt really sure what
to do. Stiles walked over to him with the intent to hand Olly over for the daddy hugs he really
needed, but even with Dereks hands under his arms and Stiles trying to pull him off, Olly refused
to let go. It was like trying to pull off a persistent leach.

Shrugging helplessly, Stiles pressed a kiss into Ollys temple. Daddys here, he wants to give you
a hug; will you let your daddy hold you? he asked. Olly shook his head furiously, little claws
digging painfully into Stiles neck and shoulder.

The more Olly protested, the more distressed Derek started to look. Stiles rubbed a hand up and
down Ollys back, trying a third time to pry him off. This time, Olly screamed and dug his claws
in more deeply so that it was actually painful for Stiles to pull him off.

That alone was enough for Derek to back off. He looked heartbroken, like hed lost Olly already.
Stiles didnt want Derek to think that--he didnt want Derek to ever think that he was losing one
child just because he was trying to be there for the other. It wasnt fair at all.

Dereks expression changed, though. He went from upset to determined, mouth thinning and a
scowl of focus coming to his face. Stiles stood there rigidly as Derek surged forward, wrapping
 his arms around Stiles and dragging him into an embrace with Olly crushed between them.

Stiles breath hitched, tensing and then forcing himself to relax as Derek held them as tightly as he
dared. This made sense--as much as Stiles was loathe to admit. Hugging Stiles had Olly still in his
comfort zone, but it also showed that Derek wanted to be there. Olly was actually starting to calm,
breathing heavily and probably being soothed by the scent of his father mingled in with Stiles.

Oh, how it hurt, though. It hurt because Stiles could feel Dereks hands, strong and warm,
pressing into his back. He loved it, wanted it more than he could afford. Where there should have
been worry for Olly because of the situation, Stiles could only long for another chance like this to
present itself because he wanted this again and again.

He was so screwed.

Chapter End Notes

sorry about the emotional roller coaster of a chapter. there were some things that had
to get out in the open. don't worry, the next chapter is a beach day chappy. :)
 Chapter 11
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

It wasnt exactly surprising when Stiles woke up the next day to a text from Derek stating that he
was taking another day off and bringing the children on a trip to the beach. Stiles couldnt recall
them ever having a family day--let alone one where they took the three hour trip out to the coast to
have some fun in the sun.

Stiles made sure to text back an affirmative, telling Derek to have fun and even adding a smiley
face for good measure. What he wasnt expecting was the reply text.

Youre coming too. Be ready by 9.

There were a lot of feelings attached to that text. Stiles was sure hed read it at least four times and
felt things ranging from excitement, to anxiety and confusion. The last thing was depression after
remembering that Derek paid him to watch the kids, and that he probably needed Stiles help on a
trip like todays.

He didnt think about that, though. Instead he thought of the ocean and how he was totally down
for a beach day if he was getting paid to sit and roast in the sun and sand.

Actually, it happened to turn out that Stiles was not as up for beach day as he had thought. Okay,
no, that was a bad choice of words. The sight of Derek in swim trunks made Stiles way too up
for beach day and by the time he saw Dereks nipples bounce with the flex of his chest, he had to
shove his face into Ollys throat and try not to sob pathetically. Olly was oblivious, though,
because he was more focused on studiously holding onto the towel and bucket that Stiles had
given him.

Theyd stopped at a small seaside store first, and Stiles had stocked up on sunscreen (more for
himself than anything), as well as some beach toys and a new bathing suit for Andy to replace her
little trunks from a few months prior. Derek had actually helped to choose, picking an orange and
pink two-piece that had a skirt for the bottom.

To hide you know hed muttered softly when he had shown the swimsuit to Stiles.

Sometimes Stiles thought he wasnt falling in love with Derek, and then the guy would pull shit
that made Stiles heart ache in new ways each and every time. The look on Andys face when she
had come out of the dressing room was reflected on Dereks own at the sight of his daughter in
her swimsuit, hopping excitedly around the store and spinning in circles.

Theyd headed straight to the beach after the store, and Derek had shoved almost everything into a
massive beach bag that made his biceps flex sinfully when he lifted it up. Stiles was stuck with
Olly and some extra towels, feeling horrifically inadequate when Derek hoisted Andy up like she
was a sack of peas and let her sit on his shoulder before marching them all onto the sand from the
parking lot.

They set up far enough from the water that there could be sufficient castle building with minimal
water damage, but not so far as to make it a struggle to retrieve water in case a moat was required
for their castle. Stiles thought he was home free after he developed a habit of keeping his eyes on
Dereks face the entire time, but then Derek had to sit in the sand while scooping out bucketfuls
for a castle and make Stiles itch to reach out and swat off all of the sand stuck to his rear and
maybe sneak in a grope or two.

Stiles wasnt skin and bones by far; years of lacrosse and running around on campus had toned his
body down and given him the tiniest definition in his chest. Still, the hours of video games and
snacking down on food meant for werewolf children had made his belly grow a little soft. He
couldnt help but feel self conscious when Derek lifted Andy onto his shoulder with a laugh and
all the muscles in his stomach twitched from the movement.

Even Dereks happy trail was better than Stiles. That was just pathetic.

Maybe Derek noticed Stiles moping, or maybe he just was feeling evil. All he knew was that one
minute Stiles was sitting there, innocently making a horse in the sand (that looked more like a
pinata) and then the next, Derek and the kids were teaming up to get Stiles buried under the sand.

Come on, now, lets not be too hasty, Stiles attempted to reason, hands coming up before he
remembered his only line of defense was a 3 inch plastic blue shovel. All Derek did was laugh
and then Andy and Olly were releasing primordial war cries and tackling Stiles into the sand.

He struggled--albeit very weakly and dramatically--and pleaded, please, princess, dont bury
me! to Andy. Andy, of course, struggled to move her bangs from her forehead without getting
sand on her face, and then dumped a bucketful of sand onto Stiles stomach.

Dun be sucha baby, she commanded, nodding seriously in approval when Derek started to pat
the sand down. Olly was at Stiles feet, scooping sand onto his ankles and legs and giggling when
Stiles wiggled his toes and tried to poke him with them.

I cant help it, princess! Stiles moaned, I think you got sand in my butt! This proclamation had
both children bursting into laughter and Derek rolling his eyes dramatically before firmly patting
down the sand on Stiles hips. It was supposed to be done in jest, but all Stiles could think about
was how they were one layer of sand away from an almost-intimate encounter.

Its in his butt! Olly shrieked, giggling with his hands still trying to get Stiles feet buried. Stiles
kept moving his feet, laughing when Olly climbed on his legs with a shout of, hold still! and
tried to resume his task.

Andy was in the process of dragging heaps of sand onto Stiles shoulder when a flock of gulls
landed nearby with loud warbling. She gasped, jumping up and bolting after them with a scream
of, Birds! and kicking sand all over Stiles face in the process. Derek burst out laughing, low
and heavy while Stiles attempted to spit sand out, tongue wagging and a grimace on his face.

Looks like the birds are more important than the sand in your trunks, Derek teased, reaching up
and dusting his hand off on his hip before he tried to wipe the sand from Stiles mouth and cheeks.
Except that really only made it worse since he hadnt gotten his hands entirely clean. Stiles
cringed, and tried not to focus on the brush of Dereks fingers over his lips. When one thumb
circled Stiles bottom lip to flick away sand, Stiles realized his dick was starting to react to the
touch and hurried to remedy it.

Rrrhaaaah! Stiles cried, I am the Sand Monster! he started to push himself out of his gritty
prison, shaking sand everywhere and letting out another roar as Olly released a playful scream and
bolted for the water as soon as Stiles reached for him.

Andys reaction to Ollys cry was to echo it with a scream of her own, joining her brother in his
escape to the ocean. Derek jogged next to Stiles, and the both of them grabbed a child each. Stiles
hauled Olly up into his arms, curling him in close and blowing on his laughing belly before
making loud nomming sounds. Derek hoisted a shrieking Andy into the air, tossing her high and
then spinning her around.

He lowered her, grinning as she laughed out a loud, no! when her feet hit the water. She kicked
and splashed, clinging to Dereks arm like a leech.

Stiles crouched down until he and Olly were half submerged, unable to help himself from letting
out another monster roar. I love the taste of baaabies! Grawwr! and started to nom dramatically
onto Ollys throat.

No! Olly cried, laughing and squealing when Stiles blew another raspberry, Daddy help! Im
being eated! he wailed, pushing at Stiles face with another giggle.

Oh no! Andy shouted, pawing her way up onto Dereks shoulders and wrapping an arm around
his forehead before pointing to Stiles. The sand monster is eating my brufah!

Derek, cringing against little fingers poking into his eye and nose, released a patheticlly fake growl
of, nobody eats my children! and shoved both hands into the water to send a wave of splashes at
Stiles and Olly.

Ach! Splash attack! My weakness! Stiles cried, holding Olly up in the air and then sinking
underwater with a gurgling noise. He waited until Derek plucked Olly from his hands before
surfacing and shaking water from his face and head.

Olly and Andy were both being held tight in Dereks arms, singing their praises to his rescuing
abilities while Derek preened and gave Stiles the smuggiest of smirks known to man. Stiles made
another roar, splashing loudly towards the Hale family. Olly and Andy both latched onto their
fathers head from where they sat on a shoulder each, squealing to deafening levels the closer
Stiles got.

Dereks hand shot out like a flash, snagging Stiles wrist while the other wrapped around his hip.
Stiles had a half second to wonder if Derek was going to drag their bodies in close when he felt a
foot kick behind his ankle and he was shoved down into the water.

Figuring he should play dead this time, Stiles was content to remain under the water until his lungs
began to burn. He contemplated coming back up, but there was a hand coming into the water and
groping around before snagging on the side of his swim trunks and wrenching him up. Startled,
Stiles coughed on water, wiping it from his face while Olly cried, did you drown-ded?

Laughing, Stiles blinked saltwater from his eyes and almost jumped out of his skin when Dereks
knuckles brushed his abdomen before snagging the elastic of his swim shorts, pulling them up
higher on his hips from where they had been pulled dangerously low. He shot Derek a thankful
look, because the most mortifying thing would be if he flashed everyone on the beach, and then
shook his head at Olly.

Nope! Stiles hoisted Olly from Dereks shoulder, setting him on a hip and taking on a serious
look, your dad was just saving me from the evil sand monster that possessed me.

Even though neither of them had any idea what Stiles had just said, Andy and Olly cheered and
threw their hands up in the air. Derek, however, was staring at Stiles stomach. Stiles felt his heart
clench and his stomach do a little flip --who thought being checked out by someone could turn
him on so much?--and then he looked down and grimaced at the seaweed stuck to his belly.

Picking it off with a laugh--half in shock, half at himself for thinking Derek might have been
looking at him for any other reason--he brought it to Ollys face and wiggled it around until Olly
shouted, Ew! and slapped it out of Stiles hand. The abused seaweed plunked back into the
ocean, disappearing quickly from sight.

I think its time for lunch, Derek blurted, clearing his throat and then frowning at the loud whine
that Olly let out. He squirmed, exclaiming half-worded protests about wanting to stay in the water
and Stiles, wanting to avoid a meltdown, jostled him affectionately.

Want to set up the cooler? I could use Ollys help catching fish. Olly seems like hed be good at
that, right buddy?

Ollys face lit up and he nodded enthusiastically, looking ready to plead with Derek if he had to.

Instead of denying Olly, Derek merely adjusted Andy into his arms, brushing her wet bangs off of
her forehead and shrugging. I like catching fish, he said-- sounding almost uneasy. It didnt take
a genius to see the way Derek was looking at Olly. Things were still a little raw from the day
before, and Stiles had left the Hale home late last night because theyd had so much trouble getting
Olly down for bed without a fuss.

Stiles sometimes forgot how little Derek got to interact with Olly. It had become to natural to let
himself be latched onto that he never thought to ask Derek how he felt about it. Watching Derek
look longingly at his own son right then was enough for Stiles to hum and ask Olly, wanna help
your daddy catch a fish? Hes got butter-fingers, he teased, watching Olly mull over Stiles offer
for a moment before nodding seriously.

After making the switch, Stiles half-carried, half-danced Andy across the water and towards the
shore. They reached their umbrella, settling down on the blanket as Andy began to dig excitedly
through the cooler with the intent to select the right food for everyone. When Stiles looked up, he
forgot how to breathe upon seeing Derek with Olly in the water.

In reality, it was nothing outside of a father/child interaction--but it was seeing Derek and Olly that
made Stiles ache, made him want to cry with how much he really loved this family.

Derek had his arms around Ollys stomach, chin hooked over a tiny shoulder as they waded into
deeper water. With Olly pressed close into his chest, Derek merely watched his son grasp at the
water in an attempt to catch the minnows they had seen swimming about earlier.

They moved in slow circles, following the ebb and flow of the water while Derek tried to
encourage Olly. It didnt take a genius to figure out what he was saying when Olly nodded,
frowned, and suddenly wolfed out with a puff of hair. Derek was smiling wide, kissing Ollys
head firmly as his son clawed at the water.

The sound of Andy shutting the cooler was enough to draw Stiles attention back to her. She was
frowning at the sandwich bags in her hand, unsure of what to do with them. Thats when Stiles
noticed that her hair was dripping water everywhere, including in her face.

Here, he grabbed a towel, wrapping it around her body. She let out a surprised noise, laughing
when Stiles plopped a second towel on her head and began to scrub furiously.

Giggling, Andy flailed inside her towel prison. Stiles! Stooooop thaaaaat! she cried, voice
wobbling dramatically in pitch when she dragged out her words.

All dry! Stiles tugged the towel down, but only enough to duck in and smack a wet kiss to the
tip of her nose. Andy squeaked and grinned, pawing at Stiles cheeks and then kissing him right
back on the nose before rubbing hers against his in an Eskimo kiss.

The sound of squealing and cooing drew their attention to the group of teenage girls nearby. Stiles
felt himself grow hot, feeling oddly vulnerable at the idea that someone had seen him so intensely
affectionate with Andy. Five months ago hed have never been caught alive being so openly
affectionate with a child; now he couldnt help it.

Andy flourished under the attention, though. She preened, making a show of putting her arms
around Stiles neck and planting a kiss on his cheek with a loud, ubuwaah! that the girls going
off into titters once more.

Is she your daughter? one of them called, attempting conversation. Of all the questions he might
have expected, that wasnt one of them.

Shaking his head, Stiles played with some of Andys salt-fried hair, attempting to smooth it down.
Naw, Im just the sitter. Her dads out in the water with her brother, he gestured behind himself
to where Derek was in shallow water, sitting with Olly in his lap and digging up handfuls of sand
to find seashells.

Judging from the noises of admiration from the girls, they had no qualms about Derek being the
daddy. At all.

Andy frowned, swatting Stiles hand from her head and proclaiming, youre daddys boyfriend!
so loudly that the nearby girls laughed in shock.

Stiles gaped, and then struggled to find words. Uh, not exactly, sweetie, he managed. Luckily,
the teenagers took pity on him, one of them even standing and coming to crouch in front of Andy.

Whats your name?

Andy puffed her chest out, preening in a fashion eerily familiar to a certain alpha. Andy, she
said, palming her swim skirt and straightening it like she was preparing for a royal audience.

The girl grinned at Stiles, and then said to Andy, thats a pretty name. Whats it short for?

Andr-- Andy began, but then stopped and scowled. Stiles realized right then that she probably
was so used to the name Andy that she hadnt thought of the origin. Just thinking about the name
Andrew had her showing signs of distress. She stumbled over her words, like she wanted to have
a full name but hated the one she was given.

Andrea, Stiles blurted, right, sweets?

Andy snapped her head up to look at Stiles, face splitting into a blinding grin. Yeah! she
exclaimed, turning to look at the girl. Andea!

Stiles wasnt expecting her to climb up into his lap, but he caught her easily as she jumped up and
down on his legs and shouted, My name is Andea! like a battle cry. The girls were watching
with signs of amusement, but the one closest stood up suddenly.

Thats a really pretty name, Andy, she said, and then headed back to her friends just as Ollys
scream echoed across the beach. Stiles whipped his head around, started to see Olly howling and
kicking at Derek, hitting him in his distress.

Stiles put Andy back on the blanket. Why dont you get the drinks? he said, and then stood and
hurried to where Derek was trying to calm Olly down from his tantrum.

He cursed softly, realizing maybe it was too soon for him to be hugging Andy so much after last
nights events, but when he reached Derek and tried to grab Olly, he barely pulled back in time to
avoid being clawed. Derek snagged Ollys hand, eyes flashing red and a low growl escaping him.
Stop it, he barked, so sharp and unlike the father he had become in the past few months that
Olly quieted with a startled look. Derek sighed, pressing a kiss to Ollys forehead while his son
sniffed and looked at Stiles like hed been betrayed. Derek reached forward, pressing a hand to the
join of Stiles shoulder and neck. Pack, Derek said firmly, hes pack.

Olly frowned, and Stiles let Derek lift his hand up and press it to Ollys cheek. Uh, yeah, buddy.
Im pack, remember?

Though he didnt seem entirely satisfied, Olly let it drop, nodding tearily and clinging to Derek as
they headed back to their umbrella. Andy had attempted to set out lunch, each sandwich with a
water bottle and all set in a circle. Stiles was kind of proud of her; he knew she got it from always
helping Stiles with lunch during the afternoons.

No matter how many times Stiles tried to ask Derek--and even the kids--what had transpired, he
really didnt get any clear answers. The best that Stiles could figure was that it had something to
do with the girl that had come over and that Olly wasnt fond of strangers (which Stiles already
knew).

Once theyd eaten, Stiles let Derek take the kids to the shore to build a sandcastle and hunkered
down on a towel to take a nap and hopefully put some color on his pale skin. There was
something about the sound of the ocean and the chirrup of seagulls that had Stiles getting sleepy--
especially after eating. It was so calming that it brought out his inner laziness.

Of course, he probably napped for maybe all of fifteen minutes when he awoke to the feeling of
water being drizzled onto his stomach. It was quickly followed by twin giggles that had Stiles
cracking one eye open suspiciously. Derek was standing over him, tightly holding to a bucket that
was full to the brim with seawater. Stiles stared, and Derek gave the bucket a slow tilt that dripped
more water onto Stiles chest and stomach and had Andy and Olly tittering evilly nearby.

Derek looked ready to dump the whole thing and Stiles rasped out, I will murder you in your
sleep, dont you dare, as he reached down to rub at where the water was tickling at his stomach
and ribs.

Andy started to hop, flailing her arms around and clapping, Time to wake up, Stiles! Wake up,
wake up! so loud that if Stiles had still been asleep before, he wouldnt be now.

Groaning dramatically, Stiles threw his arms up and stretched. His toes curled and his back arched
as muscles warmed by the sun were pulled at to a point where it sent a tingle down Stiles spine.
He was about to flop when Derek decided he was done waiting and dumped the entire bucket
onto Stiles--the water cold from having been sitting for so long. Stiles let out an entirely masculine
shriek, jerking into a sitting position and gasping for air while he was laughed at by the children.

No sleeping on the job, Derek said, plopping the upended bucket over Stiles head like it was
the proper thing to do.

Derek was never this playful. It was kind of a turn-on.

However, Stiles was not someone who woke up all sunshine and rainbows when someone
dumped a bucket of water all over him. In fact, Derek totally needed to be put in his place. Stiles
lunged forward, grabbing a fistful of sand with one hand and the elastic of Dereks swim trunks
with the other. Even for a werewolf, Derek had no time to react when Stiles crammed the sand
down the front of his shorts.

At first, there was no reaction other than Derek jerking and staring blankly at Stiles in a state of
did you really shock. Then he let out a growl and Stiles didnt even have time to screech and run
before he was being tackled into the ground, sand kicking up everywhere.

The children started to cheer, their cries garbled into mish-mashes of Derek and Stiles names
because they apparently didnt want to pick favorites in a wrestling match.

However, no amount of academy training from his dad, or sparring with Scott, could ever prepare
Stiles to hold his own against Derek. The best he could do was to wrap around Dereks back like
a monkey and try to choke him out. Derek merely grabbed Stiles arm, pried it off, reached back
and Stiles felt himself being bodily manhandled onto his stomach.

Stiles tried to get up--he couldnt look weak in front of the kids; theyd never take him seriously--
when Derek sat on his hips and shoved his face into the sand. Stiles was torn, because he didnt
like being forced to eat beach dirt, but on the other hand, Dereks thighs were strong on either side
of his body, and his weight was so warm and heavy that Stiles could already feel himself starting
to get hard.

The sand in the face won out, though, and he spat some out before shouting, mercy!

Werewolves show no mercy, Derek said flatly, and then pressed forward with his entire fucking
body to keep Stiles pinned. That only made Stiles boner even worse because every movement
had him rubbing hard up against the sand. He sucked in a sharp breath, wincing at the jab in his
spine and mentally cursing Derek for having to take his phone everywhere with him.

Seriously, he wheezed, your cell phone is stabbing me in the spine and I dont get paid enough
to eat sand.

Derek froze, sitting back quickly and allowing Stiles to sag onto the ground in relief. He let out a
soft snort, climbing off of Stiles and going back to the children to pick them up and play with
them. By the time Stiles dick went down enough for him to come over, hed watched the teenage
girls not-so-discreetly tucking away their cameras and chatting with one another.

Even as the day drew to a close, Derek seemed a little more distant. Stiles wondered if his
comment on getting paid enough had been too much. He didnt want Derek to think it was about
the money, after all.

Olly was asleep even before they headed back for the car. Hed left the castle to come lie down
and just passed out before Derek or Stiles could really register what he was doing. It was sign
enough to pack up, and Derek kept Olly asleep on his shoulder while doing his best to help Stiles
get everything put away.

The trip back home had Andy snoozing in the back as well, both children snuffling softly,
wrapped up tight in their blankets to keep from getting chilly. The first hour, only the radio filled
the silence in the car, and then Derek finally turned it down once he seemed to figure out what he
wanted to say.

Is it just the paycheck? he asked quietly. Stiles lifted his head from the window, blinking tiredly.
The sun and water combined had drained him as much as it had the kids, and he had almost been
asleep when Derek had started to talk.

Huh?

are you just here for the paycheck?

It was a question Stiles had both expected and equally assumed would never be asked. He was so
surprised by it that he made an unintelligible noise trying to find the right words. Derek clenched
his teeth, thumbing the steering wheel and staring straight ahead.
 They--theyre attached to you; they think you care about them.

That was enough to have Stiles sitting up, pushing himself away from the window in his mad
effort to change Dereks train of thought before it got too far derailed. How could he even think
Stiles didnt care? Seriously--Stiles had sassed Derek so much over the kids that this should be
written in stone.

I totally do, dude. Theyre probably the best kids I could have asked to sit for--I mean, yeah, I
need the moneybut I would have quit ages ago if I didnt love them. Which I do. I adore your
kids, man. Totally worth the scars theyve given me.

It wasnt apparent whether Stiles claims comforted Derek or made it worse. An expression
crossed his face like someone had shoved a tampon dipped in aconite under his nose, before he
relaxed just the tiniest bit, exhaled, and nodded.

Despite how uneasy Derek still seemed, Stiles felt better knowing at least one confession of love
had cleared the air.

Chapter End Notes

ok here you go! I have to work on commissions between chapters so after two fics go
up, you'll get another chapter of PAW. Just so you get an idea of when it'll be
updated. :) in the mean time, please feel free to read the other fics if you want.
 Chapter 12
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

To make up for the impromptu beach day, Derek had spent the entire week heading to the office
two hours earlier. Today was no different, complete with Derek making sure to let Stiles know
hed be staying after as well, and that he was free to do whatever he wanted for dinner (as if Stiles
didnt do that before). Still, being granted permission was like Dereks way of saying go crazy.
Stiles took it as an excuse to take the kids grocery shopping (other than the fact that their raisin
supply was already low).

It was also a good reason to get out of the house, given how mopey Andy and Olly had been ever
since waking up to find that their father had already left for work. Now that he knew Andy was
the runner and Olly would stay by his side, Stiles made sure to keep her in the front of the cart and
let Olly lounge in the basket amongst the bread and cereal. He was nibbling on some cookies that
Stiles had brought along, fingers sticking out the bars of the cart and wiggling around.

Stiles was rounding the cart to the frozen foods section when he caught a familiar face. Smiling,
Stiles leaned down and said to Andy, my friend Allison is here, before he lifted an arm up and
called her name.

Allison turned, grinning. Stiles! she called out, beckoning with her hand until Stiles started
heading for her. He was almost there when someone walked around the corner that made Stiles
blood run cold.

Kate tossed a package of blood sausage into Allisons cart, looking so normal that Stiles would
have never known the kind of person she was if he hadnt experienced it first hand. Stiles fingers
tightened on the cart when she looked up, instantly locking on to Stiles and the children.

Her children.

The way Stiles could see Kates face light up from across the aisle was the complete opposite of
comforting. She curled her fingers into Allisons cart, dragging it along and approaching with a
look in her eyes like everything had just fallen into her evil clutches.

Allison, oblivious, leaned forward to gesture between Kate and Stiles. Stiles, this is my aunt
Kate, she said, smiling nervously like someone always did when introducing family to friends.
Stiles was all for feigning ignorance when Kate merely chuckled.

Weve met; he works for Hale, after all, she said vaguely, stepping closer and locking in on
Andy and Olly. Stiles was suddenly terrified. Olly was too far away, sitting in the basket and
watching the exchange in confusion. He felt like a parent being forced to watch their child in
danger, chest seizing up when Kate let out a theatrical coo of, oh, how adorable are these two?
and reached into the cart with the intent of lifting Olly up.

Stiles surged forward, slapping her hand away at the same time Olly whined and hid deeper into
the mountain of groceries in the cart. Kate didnt recoil, she just looked at Stiles in shock and
slowly lowered her hand, while Allison let out a strangled noise.

She wasnt going to hurt him, Stiles, she tried for. Stiles knew Allison had no idea what was
going on, and he knew she was just trying to keep the peace, but that didnt stop him from putting
himself between the cart and Kate.
Werewolf kids and all, he said quietly, voice strained, cant smell like anyone but me, and this
excuse seemed to be enough for the people watching in shock to go about their shopping. Kate
just laughed and put a hand on her hip.

Honey, if that were true, then the world would be a lot more segregated, she retorted dryly, head
titled just enough to the side that some of her dark blonde hair curled over her shoulder and into
her face. In that second, Stiles wanted to cry when he realized that Andy and Olly had her chin
and lips--and that the little smirk on Kates lips was familiar in a way that Stiles couldnt bear to
think about.

Stiles dragged in a shaking breath and muttered, yeah, well tell that to their dad.

It was, apparently, the wrong thing to say. Kate perked up like someone had turned on a light
switch in her brain. You know what, I think I will, she agreed, reaching past Stiles and setting
her hand on Andys head, palm dragging down in a fashion that couldnt be anything other than
scent marking (Stiles knew this because Derek did it to him all the time).

Stiles wished he could say he didnt flip out just the tiniest bit, but that would be a lie. He felt
violated on Dereks behalf--angry and frustrated that this woman could try to force her way back
into the childrens lives when they didnt even know who she was. Andy was rubbing at her
cheek in confusion, nose crinkling like she didnt understand the reason a stranger would mark her
the way her father, brother and Stiles did.

He grabbed Kates hand, shoving it away from Andy as quickly as he dared and hissed, okay,
woah. Not cool--you think I dont know what you just did? That is so far over the line and you
know it, while pushing the cart just enough behind him that the kids wouldnt be in her reach. He
kept his fingers on the basket, though, because Olly had stood to clutch to his hand with a nervous
whine.

Kate was watching Stiles like he was some kind of interesting specimen, and Stiles felt the anger
in his gut grow hot. Allison seemed ready to die of mortification, but he could tell she knew there
was something else happening that she shouldnt be interrupting.

I already told you that Id file a restraining order if you came by Dereks house again, Stiles said
lowly, running into us in the store and scent marking his kid? You really think thats smart?

His breath hitched when she leaned in close, palms resting on his throat and dragging up to cup
his jaw. She dug her fingers into the hair at the nape of his neck and Stiles couldnt move if he
tried--her grip was as strong as Dereks.

Sweetheart, she whispered, thumbs caressing Stiles cheekbones in a way that should have been
intimate but only made his skin crawl, I think its utterly genius.

Stiles had never wanted to hit someone as hard as he did Kate when she leaned in to press her lips
to his forehead. Her nails were sharp against his skull, just shy of breaking skin when she finally
pulled away and loudly said, I didnt mean to upset you, so that Allison could hear her
apology.

He didnt know when his hands started shaking, but Stiles could only watch as Kate returned to
Allisons cart and flippantly said, I think thats all we need for dinner, dont you? and dragged
her niece away. Stiles felt weak-kneed, and he rested some of his weight onto the cart for support
as Allison turned around to mouth apologies at Stiles before they disappeared around the corner.

In his twenty years of life, Stiles had always envisioned himself as strong-spirited; someone who
would always face their fears and never let anyone get the best of him. To know that another
human; someone who Stiles had only met in the past couple of months, could leave him so
unsettled that he had no witty comebacks.was fucking terrifying.

Kate wasnt someone who could really hurt Stiles--but she could hurt Derek, Olly, and Andy; and
Stiles wasnt sure what he would do if something were to happen to them.

Whirling around, Stiles reached down just as Olly was stretching up for him. Dragging him into
his chest, Stiles clutched to Olly and then moved so he could pull Andys head in for a kiss.
Neither of them knew who Kate was, and Stiles planned on keeping it that way.

Once everyone was calm (mostly Stiles; the kids were just confused more than anything), Stiles
pulled out his phone to see a string of texts from Allison. He didnt even know how to begin to
answer her questions, so he put his phone away and focused on finishing shopping first.

After they got home and put everything away, Stiles first sent Allison a few texts giving her the
most vague information possible--just that Kate had been with Derek and Derek wanted nothing
to do with her-- and then spent almost fifteen minutes agonizing over how to tell Derek he was
going to come home smelling his ex-wife all over Andy.

Instead of getting lunch ready, Stiles finally mustered the courage to text Derek, dont be mad but
we ran into kate at the store. Kids are ok tho.

With Andy and Olly enraptured with Wall-E, Stiles wandered into the kitchen to nose about and
decide on what he was going to make to eat. His phone went off and Stiles had to take a minute to
wonder if Derek actually went out of his way to use caps when he read, DID SHE TOUCH YOU.

Technically yes, but Stiles was pretty sure Derek was more concerned about the childrens
wellbeing. Hed been touching Andy as much as possible since theyd come across Kate--going
so far as to bribe Olly with yogurt raisins if he kept snuggling his sister on the couch during the
movie.

naw, were good. is what he settled on answering with. It would be better to wait until Derek got
home to explain because Stiles really wasnt in the mood for a) the panic room or b) Derek
barging into the house in a panic for what would be the third time since Stiles started working for
him.

are the kids ok. Derek messaged back. Stiles pulled some eggs out of the fridge for egg salad
sandwiches and fumbled with his phone.

Yeah. They didnt even pay much attention to her. She was trolling me. Stiles set a pot of water on
the stove, cranking it up and then peeking into the living room where the kids were snuggled into
the couch watching Wall-E. Overwhelmed with affection, Stiles hurried to put the eggs in the
water before making his way into the living room just as his phone chirped.

Ill be home in two hours.

Stiles frowned at the clock, sitting down next to Olly and Andy. It was barely one; when Stiles
had first started working, Derek used to work until nine, sometimes later, and occasionally all-
nighters. Being home at three was pushing it, even with how many hours Derek had already cut
back now that he was starting to shift the company ownership over to his uncle.

Laying down on the couch, Stiles reached for the little pile of limbs that made up the twins,
dragging them onto his stomach and hugging them like he would a massive cat. With his arms
hooked around their bodies, and Olly and Andy arranged so they could curl into his body and still
watch the movie, Stiles sent Derek another message.
we havent eaten yet. come home for lunch, check on the kids, and go back. if you come home at
three, they won't go to bed and I am not dealing with cranky kids. Not even bill gates could pay
me enough for that.

When Derek texted back ok just as Stiles was playing with Andys hair, he couldnt help the
punch to the gut that came with realizing exactly how domestic things had gotten between all of
them.

The sad part was that it really was natural for Stiles to refer to the Hales as home. Not home like
with his dad; but a second home all the same. He was there so much that it couldnt be anything
else--especially given how deeply attached he was to the kids and to Derek. The thought terrified
him when Stiles realized how badly he wanted that; how he wanted to call this place home all the
time.

Except when Derek came home, the first thing that happened was for Andy to demand a hug and
for Derek to comply. No matter how hard Stiles had tried to get rid of Kates scent, it was
pointless against Dereks nose. The worst part was that Stiles hadnt even gotten the chance to
explain what had occurred.

In fact, he wasnt even aware that Derek was hugging her until he heard the low growl of, you
said she didnt touch you, from behind him. He dropped the lettuce that hed been preparing for
their sandwiches, turning around and staring at Derek in surprise.

She didnt hurt us, he blurted, gut dropping into a painful burning sensation that always
happened when he was caught in a lie or when he knew something bad was going to happen.
Derek was standing there with Andy in his arms, hand rubbing her back and his nose crinkled in
disgust. Thats what I thought you were asking; and she didnt. I stopped her.

Dereks face twitched and he murmured something into Andys ear before setting her down. Stiles
was so focused on watching her clamber out of the room that he almost jumped out of his skin
when Derek snapped, did you think I wouldnt smell it? Or did you assume that you could just
cover her scent and I wouldnt care?

Stiles pressed back against the counter, throwing his arms out in desperation, I was going to tell
you--

When? Derek shot back, after I caught the scent? Or how about when I came home one day
and my children were gone?

It was worse than a slap to the face, and Stiles couldnt even force himself to speak over the ache
of hurt that burned inside of him. It was one thing to wonder if he really was considered pack; but
for Derek to practically tell Stiles he wasnt trusted to keep the children safe was like sticking a
thin knife right under Stiles ribs. Derek was struggling to control his breathing, looking a half
second away from strangling Stiles for merely existing.

Its not like that, Stiles started, only to cringe when Derek moved forward like he really was
going to resort to violence. There was a loud crack and Stiles flinched so badly that the kitchen
was only filled with the sound of their breathing. He slowly opened his eyes to see Dereks palm
against the fridge where he had slammed it, and had to use all of his self control not to sag in
relief.

Do you know how many times Ive heard that? Derek hissed quietly, how many times Ive
been promised their safety and wellbeing, only for it to be thrown back into my face for some
fucking easy money?
Stiles couldnt speak even if he wanted to. Derek dug his nails into the side of the fridge--
surprisingly human, despite his anger--and lurched forward until he was crowding in close to
Stiles.

Dont treat me like an idiot, Derek rasped, not when you dont know half the things I have
gone through for those two.

Stiles dragged in a shaking breath, his heart thundering in his chest. Id rather die than see them
hurt, he said softly--and that was the truth. He had no idea what Kate was capable of, but he
would never hesitate to put himself between her and the children like he did at the grocery store.

Derek stared him down, eyes flitting all over Stiles face like he needed to see, as well as hear, the
way Stiles was telling the complete truth. Stiles swallowed, trying not to take note of their
proximity, and continued. I wanted to wait until you came home to tell you, because I wanted
you to see them and know they were safe before you heard the whole story. You asked me if it
was just a paycheck and it isnt. Its so much more than that, Derek.

Derek narrowed his eyes, nostrils flaring as he scented Kate all over Stiles throat and face. He
went completely still, one hand coming to curl around Stiles shoulder the second he realized that
Stiles had put himself between Kate and the children. Whatever Derek was picking up, it was
enough to make him lift his head and scowl.

Are you hurt? Derek asked quietly, one hand coming up to rest on the same spot that Kates
palm had been only hours before. Stiles struggled to breathe right, his mouth feeling painfully dry.
He knew this was supposed to be a pack thing; a family thing, but that didnt stop his body from
reacting like Dereks touch was passion itself.

It was in the middle of a grocery store--with her niece. All she did was get way too touchy feely
for my liki-- Stiles trailed off when Dereks hands dragged up his throat and over his face. They
didnt stop there, rubbing firmly at Stiles jaw and cheeks, and then over his forehead like Derek
was trying to wipe away all traces of Kate.

Kind of like that, Stiles muttered absently, stomach flip-flopping despite his attempt at sounding
irritated, only less annoying, and more creepy.

Derek flicked Stiles ear, palms scrubbing over his head and snippily telling him, if you or the
kids smell like her, they get used to her sent, and then pausing to lean in so close his nose
brushed Stiles upper lip as he dragged in a deep sniff.

Stiles wanted to sob from the sheer sexual tension that he was probably leaking everywhere.
Derek didnt even react to it--and Stiles knew there had to be some kind of scent coming from the
way his dick twitched when Derek got that close to him--and instead brought both palms up to
smear them across Stiles cheeks and mouth one last time.

Standing back, Derek nodded to himself. Now you smell tolerable, he said, and then walked
away like he hadnt just been one bad 80s pickup line from a Wolfman porno right in the kitchen
with the kids sitting nearby.

Stiles stared blankly as Derek sat down at the table and called Andy and Olly in to come sit down
with him. He continued to stare as Derek looked up at him, flicked his eyes to the half-finished
sandwich, and then back to Stiles as if to say finish my sandwich. Which, okay. Stiles could do
that. Making food was easy and it did not require extensive introspection like conversation did.

Returning to the sandwich, Stiles finished adding the lettuce and tomato before doing the same
with everyone elses. A quick request had Andy and Olly scurrying to get their cups out of the
living room so Stiles could fill them up again.

Setting the plates down, Stiles took that moment to look Derek dead in the eye and say, I think
we need to have a talk about your-- he paused, making a groping hand motion that had Dereks
eyes widening, --problemlike; boundaries, man. You used to have them.

Not that Stiles particularly cared about the lack of boundaries, but it was bordering on torture
sometimes. Derek pulled his plate in close as the kids came back with their cups. He helped Andy
pour herself a cup of sweet tea while Stiles filled Olly up on some apple juice. They made you
pack, Derek said, chastising Andy gently when she didnt hold her cup still enough. This is
what pack does.

Is Erica pack? Stiles wondered--mostly since he saw her the most out of anyone else involved
with Derek other than Boyd. Boyd liked to stay in the shadows and loom at Stiles, but he figured
that was because he was still annoyed about the time Stiles had asked if he was emulating Cobra
Bubbles from Lilo and Stitch and Erica had burst out laughing.

Derek set the tea down, watching Andy take a tester sip and grinning when she said, yum!. Olly
was already chowing down on his sandwich when Derek finally shrugged and said, sometimes.

Sometimes?

Not when she wants to go on shopping sprees, Derek said bitterly, taking a vicious chomp out
of his sandwich. That was the second that Stiles figure they were basically not going to discuss the
face groping outside of Derek implying it was something he had to do. He didnt really mind;
Stiles had a feeling that Derek was still trying to process what had happened earlier to really
initiate any type of deep conversation anyway.

After lunch, Derek sat down on the couch with the twins, holding each of them close to his body
so he could get in some scenting-time before heading back to work. When the front door opened,
Stiles leapt up in a fit of startled terror, shutting his laptop and wielding it like some sort of
weapon. Everyone who lived in the house was already home and--

Its Boyd, Derek muttered, and the children giggled at how Stiles had taken on a battle stance
with the charger chord still attached. Just as Stiles sheepishly set his laptop back down, Boyd
came into the room, pushing his sunglasses up on his head as Andy and Olly screeched his name.
They scrambled off the couch, running for him in a mad dash.

Is something wrong? Derek asked, watching Boyd bend down so each child could latch on to
one of his arms. Boyd stood, lifting the kids up like they were toy monkeys wrapped around his
forearms.

You shut your phone off so I had to come get you, Boyd said, taking on a bodybuilding pose
and lifting both children up and down, their giggles drowning out Stiles nervous sound at seeing
them hauled around so effortlessly. Peters been messing with the accounts since you left. We
should head back before he starts to get too nosy.

Derek scowled, pushing himself into a stand and heading for the entry where his wallet and phone
were. Has he touched anything?

Boyd and Stiles followed--Stiles more to make sure the kids wouldnt fall while Boyd swung
them back and forth like a living jungle gym--as Derek hurried to get ready to leave again. Boyd
grunted, tossing Olly up like he was a stuffed animal and catching him all with one arm as Olly
squealed and giggled. Ericas keeping an eye on him, but you know how her patience goes.
 Derek grimaced, taking Andy from Boyd when she reached out. Head on back, Ill be there
soon, he ordered, reaching out and clasping arms with Boyd just long enough that Stiles knew it
was probably a pack thing for an outside member.

Boyd left after a hug each from Olly and Andy, and Derek rushed to get his briefcase together
from where hed taken some things out while on the couch with the children. Before he headed
out the door, Derek hesitated and looked to where Stiles was waving at him with the kids.

Suddenly, Derek was marching back over to Stiles, reaching out and hooking his arm along Stiles
neck and shoulder. At first, Stiles thought Derek was going to pull him into a kiss, and his heart
went wild when Derek leaned in.

He had to exhale sharply when all Derek did was rub their cheeks together; stubble rasping as he
pulled away just as quickly as hed leaned in. Stiles couldnt help but gape when Derek inhaled
deeply and then reached for Andy and Olly to do the same.

Standing, Derek looked torn between staying and leaving. Instead, he grabbed at Stiles shoulder
firmly. Call me if anything happens.

Duh, Stiles grinned reassuringly, Ill protect these kids with my life, dude.

Dereks expression fell into one of stoicism, mouth curling in the corners before he said, I know,
in a way that told Stiles that, despite what had happened earlier in the kitchen, Derek really did
trust him to keep Andy and Olly safe. It was a huge weight off of Stiles shoulders, and he
clapped Derek on the shoulder before shooing him out the door.

After all, it wouldnt do to leap into your employers arms and declare your undying love for him
and his children. Stiles was pretty sure that only worked in romance novels.

No, his life was far from a romance novelbut at least he had a nice set of abs to look at in the
meantime.

Chapter End Notes

i was 500 words short of my usual page count so i gave you guys some more ust to
turn them balls blue. <3
 Chapter 13
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

It was like everything fell back into place soon enough. Derek had security cameras installed
around the property within two days of Kates second appearance; but other than that, it was like
they had fallen into a familial routine. Derek shifted 25% of the company over to his uncle Peter
and went down to working eight hours during the weekdays, and the rest he did from home.

Part of it was a need to spend time with his children, and the other part was (Derek confessed
begrudgingly over carrots and dip snacks one Saturday afternoon) because he was getting
stretched too thin and it was wearing on him emotionally. Either way, it was amazing to see the
changes that had begun to happen in just a handful of months since Stiles had been hired on.

What really blew Stiles mind was that Derek had started to turn his phone off for dinner and story
time. Hed even gone so far as to shut it off and demand Andy hide it from him on one particular
day where hed come home aggravated about something or other. Then it sometimes became a
game for Derek to find where shed hidden it--though he never got frustrated when he would have
to beg her to tell him where his phone was.

For Stiles, his online classes started with little fanfare. Sure, he had an entire week before anything
was actually due, but it was easy to crank the work out during naptime or when Derek had the
kids distracted for an hour or two. He didnt even bother mentioning it to anyone; mostly because
he knew the implications of what that kind of change would do. No normal babysitter shifted their
entire life around for two kids--no, that was what someone did when they were in too deep.

Stiles didnt care, though. He was okay with being super nanny first and focusing on school
second. It was amazing just to watch Derek ease up every day that passed when he got to be
around his children more. There were times when he would get to his wits end (more than once,
Derek had begged for Stiles help in trying to catch Andy during one of her fits where she decided
to streak naked around the house, screaming and knocking down anything that wasnt glued in
place or too heavy to topple over), and there were times where Derek could do nothing but watch
his kids with this look of amazement on his face.

Stiles was pretty sure he had that own look sometimes, but it wasnt the same as Dereks. As
much as he wished it was possible, Stiles knew hed never get the opportunity to openly look at
Andy and Olly like they were his children--the loves of his life.

It was just after lunch on a day like any other when Derek came into the kitchen where Stiles was
sweeping up some rogue cheerios and dropped his head against the fridge with a thud. I dont
know how you do it, he muttered tiredly, pressing his face into the cool metal just as Stiles turned
to get a look at him and burst out into surprised laughter.

Derek had a cluster of rainbow clips in his hair and planet stickers all over his face. He looked like
a Barbie left victim to the wiles of young children. Stiles was only in the kitchen for ten minutes;
christ, those kids could make some chaos.

Stiles walked over, setting the handle of the broom against the counter and reaching up to peel a
sticker of Saturn off of Dereks forehead. It wasnt the first time this had happened, and Stiles was
becoming an expert at de-snickering. Derek tended towards biting his nails when he was working,
and it was easier for Stiles to pinch them off than for Derek to scratch at his skin until he could get
the sticker to move.
The paycheck is a bonus, but Im really here for the cuddles. They do wonders for the ego.

Derek released a loud, full belly laugh just as Stiles was trying to extricate Jupiter from his cheek.
He grinned, cupping Stiles cheek suddenly and rocking in. Stiles didnt think--so startled that he
instinctively leaned back just before Dereks mouth would have touched his. It had been so
natural--if Stiles werent so skittish against sudden movements, there was a likelihood Derek might
have just kissed him.

Realizing thats exactly what Derek had been trying to do, Stiles tried to rock back in with a sense
of desperation in his chest. He couldnt lose this moment; couldnt fuck this up.

Derek jerked away, a look of growing horror on his face that made Stiles gut churn and a bile rise
up in his throat. The hand on Stiles face was wrenched back like Stiles was fire himself. Derek
went completely rigid, staring half at Stiles and half at his hand like he didnt really understand
what hed done or why.

I need to get back to work, Derek said sharply, the laughter and easiness of the moment gone in
the blink of an eye. Stiles struggled to breathe, left speechless. It had to have been an accident for
Derek to act that way. Had Derek only tried to kiss him on instinct? Stiles couldnt help but
wonder if he repulsed Derek so much that the realization of what almost happened was enough to
send him back to work just to get out of the house,

It was like all the brightness in the kitchen had been sucked out--drained away as Derek turned on
his heel and marched out of the kitchen. Stiles was left with a sharp pain in his chest and a reeling
head as Derek went into the living room where his children and briefcase were.

By the time Stiles managed to unfreeze his feet to follow, Derek was packing his paperwork
away, leaning in and letting Andy take the clips out of his hair. He stood, pulling the kids into his
arms and kissing them each on the head. Hed gotten the stickers off on his own, and Stiles could
see the fading scratches on his cheeks in their place. Stiles tried not to think too much about it,
instead watching as Derek ruffled the childrens heads and made his way out the door.

When Derek passed by Stiles to leave, he didnt stop--didnt touch Stiles, or even look at him--just
walked out the door like Stiles wasnt even there.

Stiles waited an hour before texting--just a picture of Olly asleep on the couch with his bum in the
air--but got nothing in response. He didnt let it get to him; maybe Derek was having some sort of
crisis or somethingyeah.

The more Stiles thought about it, the more he wondered if maybe Derek was panicking because
he did feel something for Stiles. It was hard not to get his hopes up but it was plausible that Derek
was maybe falling for him right back. It would explain the kiss and subsequent panic, especially
given Dereks obliviousness to hidden signals. If they could just talk about it when Derek came
home, maybe Stiles could stop another misunderstanding before it got out of hand.

Except Derek didnt come home for dinner. His phone went to voicemail and Stiles texts to him
were left unanswered. He tried the house phone but it was no better, and that left Stiles with one
extra plate of food and two confused children who kept asking him when their father was coming
home.

It was all Stiles could do to answer, soon, instead of I dont know.

The longer time passed without Derek, the more Stiles started to panic. He was an alpha--one of
the only ones left in Beacon Hills-- with a psychotic hunter of an ex-wife who was back in town
and literally anything could have happened to him. Stiles was helpless at home, and he was
probably one speed dial away from calling his dad and asking them to put a cruiser out in search
of Dereks car.

Andy and Olly were hell to get down to bed. It took all of Stiles ability to white-lie his way
around a werewolf just to get them to believe that Stiles knew Derek would be coming home
soon. Olly had a tantrum the first time Stiles left his room, and it was only by carrying them into
Dereks room that he could get the kids to even settle.

They ended up both curling up in Dereks bed because the idea that theyd wake up without their
father was too distressing for them to stay in their own rooms. It made Stiles wonder how bad
things had been before hed started working for Derek.

Three bedtime stories, two glasses of water, eight kisses and five nighty nights later, Stiles finally
managed to slip out of Dereks room and shut the door without Andy or Olly bursting into tears
and begging him to come back.

He barely made it to the couch before the panic attack hit. It wasnt a bad one--just enough to
leave him with weak legs and a gasping need for air. He couldnt feed his panic; couldnt think
about Derek dying, about the kids falling into Kates hands. Stiles had to keep positive, had to
hope that maybe Dereks phone had died and he was just working late.

Still, anything could happen. Stiles was pretty sure it was just a normal day when the first
werewolves started to die off from the epidemic. It hadnt been instantaneous, and Stiles had spent
almost a week at home with his mom because his parents were too afraid of Stiles being killed or
bitten.

Stiles didnt want to think what would happen if Derek went rogue--be it from poisoning or
something else. He knew the kids were supposed to be given to Dereks uncle, but that didnt stop
the slight panic that Kate might fight for custody. It was a great idea, kill Derek and take the kids
and--

Stiles sucked in a ragged breath, reprimanding himself for letting his worries get the best of him.
He pressed against the back of the couch, muttering the lyrics to veggie veggie fruit fruit under
his breath like his mother had once done. It was just enough to get Stiles back onto a level of
rational thinking, and he shakily wiped at his face before giving his whole body a shuttering
wiggle--arms and legs getting flopped around to try and knock out some of the tension that had
built up.

Even a little attack had Stiles feeling weak. He wanted to just climb into the guest bed and sleep
forever--but he knew that hed never be able to get any rest if he didnt get some sign of assurance
that Derek was okay.

By the time Stiles heard the sound of a car pulling up into the driveway, he was scrambling for the
door and wrenching it open just as Derek rolled his way out of the back of a cab. It wasnt hard to
tell from the way Derek stumbled to the passenger window and shoved the driver a handful of
cash that he was drunk--possibly wasted.

The scent of aconite wine was potent even as Derek shuffled his way towards the door. Stiles was
glad for the warm fall air in that moment, because that made it possible for him to stand there,
barefoot and in his t-shirt and jeans, and watch Derek squint up at him in surprise. The gravel
shifted under Stiles toes as the anger and terror that had been boiling inside of him finally came
bursting out.

You have children! he cried, more of a whisper-yell than an actual shout, what the hell is
wrong with you?
Stiles felt hysterical; raw from his panic and drained from hours of reassuring Andy and Olly that
their father was on his way home. Just to see Derek alive and well, drunk as a skunk, was like a
slap to the face. Hed spent hours worrying for nothing--and the rage wasnt just his own. He was
angry for Andy and Olly--and for himself for thinking maybe that Derek cared about him and
needed time to work his thoughts out.

But no--he just wanted to drown himself in werewolf liquor and let the only two family members
he had left that cared about him go out of their minds with worry.

Derek seemed taken aback, standing there dumbly and staring, just letting Stiles rant and rave like
he had nothing to say. You dont get to do this, Derek! You dont get to fuck off and go missing
for hours! Do you have any idea how terrified Andy and Olly were that you werent going to
come home?

Stiles shoved forward, driveway gravel digging painfully into his feet as he pushed at Dereks
chest to try and get some kind of reaction. How many times has that happened? How many times
have you just abandoned those two because your head is so far up your ass that you can't even see
that there are two small children here that love you?!

It hurt so fucking much to see Derek barely bat an eye--like hed fallen into some glazed stupor. It
hurt so much to know that Stiles had reached the point where hed rather lose his job than let
Derek get away with doing this to Olly and Andy; to himself.

You are their WORLD, Derek," Stiles croaked, voice hoarse from trying to keep himself from
screaming at the top of their lungs, and each time you do this, youre going to destroy it more and
more until theres nothing left. We were doing so good, dude. What the hell happened?

We? Derek rasped, pushing forward until Stiles was stumbling back to the door, we? Derek
grabbed Stiles shirt, dragging him in close before Stiles could react.

You act like you own me, Derek hissed, breath reeking of alcohol and the distinct bittersweet
stench of monkshood, you talk to me like youre better than me, like you fixed me--like I dont
know you want me.

That was not the direction Stiles was expecting their argument to head in. His breath hitched and it
took all of his self control not to shove at Derek and run and hide in the house out of sheer
mortification. Derek knew--had known--and any hopes Stiles had ever entertained of them being
together were shattered like glass.

You cant deny it, Derek said, one palm pressing against Stiles chest, adding pressure until
Stiles was forced to hear the way his heart was rocketing against his ribs. I smell it on you every
time I touch you-- ducking down, Derek mouthed sloppily at Stiles throat, wet, sucking kisses
that made so much noise that Stiles was terrified it would wake the kids up more than the yelling,
--know you want this.

Stop, Stiles breathed, even when Derek dragged his mouth up, pressed it to the corner of Stiles
lips and then leaned in to kiss him.

It was everything Stiles wanted and hated all at once and it hurt. It hurt more than anything Stiles
had ever experienced in his entire life. Dereks mouth against his, wet and open and tasting of
liquor was like someone had injected poison into Stiles heart and let each pump spread the toxins
through him until he was left shaking against the door.

He couldnt do this--couldnt let Derek poison him from the inside out. It was like he was rotting
away with each misunderstanding and fleeting moment between them that really meant nothing at
all. It took less than a second for Stiles to realize he was better than this--was stronger than the part
of him that wanted so badly to let Derek keep kissing him.

Stop! Stiles gasped, twisting his head to the side and trying to push at Dereks chest. He curled
his fingers into the lapel of Dereks suit, using it to fortify himself as he clenched his eyes shut.
Stop it, he said, more firmly this time, dont fucking--

All you ever do is make me listen to you, Derek said hoarsely, make me do the shit you want,
make me change for you--and the one time I do what you want without you asking, you tell me to
stop?

Derek cupped Stiles face, trying to pull him back in for another kiss. Stiles grabbed Dereks
wrists, pulling them and then snapping his elbow up until it smashed against Dereks cheek. Derek
jerked back and Stiles pressed himself as hard as he could against the door, hurt and frustration
and anger twisting up a hurricane in his heart. This isnt what I want, he snapped-- because it
wasnt. He didnt want Derek to use him for sex.

He wanted Derek to love him.

Even though any form of injury Stiles might have caused was healed by now, Derek still kept his
palm over the spot Stiles had hit him. I hate you, he spat the words out like a bullet straight
through Stiles chest, I hate that you came in here and changed our lives and now you throw this
in my face like--what--, Derek let out a bitter, sharp laugh, like you're better than me? Is that
what it is? Dereks hand curled into Stiles shirt, shoving him so hard into the door that it rattled
and Stiles toes were barely scraping the welcome mat.

Each word was like a knife in Stiles gut, twisting deeper and deeper. Stiles kicked out, toes
flaring in pain when they hit Dereks knee, but it was enough to get Derek to lower him down.
Even then, when Stiles tried to protest, Derek shook him silent, just because I didn't-- I didn't get
that my own child was different? That I tried to help him and do what people said and I didnt
understand? Does my ignorance make you better than me? Does it make me a bad father? is that
what it is? Im not good enough for you?

Stiles felt like a wire stretched beyond its limits. He was tired and raw and he just wanted to go
back like none of this day had ever happened. Fuck you, Derek, he snarled, hands curled into
Dereks coat to try and make them seem more equal. Each breath came in as a wheeze, panic
blinding him the longer this went on. He was desperate to fix this, desperate to try and undo the
damage wrought. You dont-- you made me pack--

The children made you pack! Derek roared, hand slamming into the wall next to Stiles head
and rattling the door with how loud the crack of his fist had been, They dragged you into this
fucking family whether I liked it or not. You're everywhere! When I'm not at work, I'm either
asleep or here where you are!

Derek was dangerously close, looking half a second from wolfing out on him as he hissed out,
Everywhere I go, you're there, I can't get rid of you, like it was the deepest, darkest confession
that Derek had ever hidden from Stiles.

It was like being gutted; like Derek had taken his claw and shoved it right under Stiles ribs and
wrenched out everything held purpose for maintaining life. It must have shown on Stiles face--a
shocked, pale and broken look--because Derek was stumbling back and struggling to speak.

He shook his head frantically, hands trembling as he reached for Stiles like he was going to
apologize. The only problem was that there was screaming coming from the other side of the door,
the handle jiggling before it was wrenched open and Olly burst out of the house screaming.
It was like watching a scene in slow motion, Olly thundering towards Derek with his octopus
plushie in one hand and his other hand curled into a tiny fist. Dont be mean to my Stiles! he
cried, punching Derek in the leg and the hip and wherever he could reach. Stiles had this sinking
feeling that, if his heart made a sound the second it had been broken, the children had likely heard
it as well.

Derek was staring numbly at Olly, head lifting to see Andy hovering in the doorway in her
nightgown, looking distressed and clutching to her Naveen frog plushie like a lifeline.

Andy, Derek croaked, reaching down to try and grab Ollys hands. Olly wrenched away with a
howl and Stiles crouched down to scoop him up. Ollys octopus slapped him in the face in the
childs mad scramble to cling to Stiles, a sob of Stiles name escaping him.

Stiles ignored Derek; it wasnt hard to avoid eye contact. He buried his face into Ollys throat,
squeezing his eyes shut and wishing it was sweat he felt pressed back against his eyes--all while
knowing it was his own tears. He rocked Olly, swaying back and forth and then pressing against
the wall when he felt Andys arms hesitantly close around his leg.

Im sorry, Derek said from somewhere nearby. Stiles shrugged, dragging in a shaking breath as
he sat down and let Andy climb into his lap.

Stiles, Derek urged, Stiles, you have to understand, thats not what I--

I get it, Stiles interrupted, turning his head to wipe his face on his shoulder and then pressing a
kiss to Olly and then Andys head. They were warm in his arms, shaking and sniffling in obvious
fright over what had occurred. I got it loud and clear, man.

Even though he got the message, that didnt make it hurt any less. Stiles had never needed anyone
like he needed this family. Yeah, he was Scotts best friend and Lydias hopping buddy; but hed
never really known what it was like to have someone rely on him before (babying his dad was
more out of a need to take care of someone than anything). To have these kids and their father
look to Stiles for help gave Stiles such a great sense of purpose and belonging that he knew he
was finally in too deep.

He couldnt get any more attached. He just couldnt--Stiles was too young to feel this way; it was
too much, too soon, and too strong.

This was the last time hed let himself hold the children, because there was no way hed be able to
return tomorrow like none of this had ever happened.

Derek was still apologizing, spewing excuses like being drunk and tired and how his word had
come out wrong, and Stiles was done.

He wrapped the children tight in his arms, rubbing Ollys back and whispering soothing words to
the two of them, waiting until Derek stopped talking. The second there was a moment, Stiles
closed his eyes and swallowed against the lump in his throat--the swelling there that begged him
not to say the words already leaving his mouth.

I--Im putting in my resignation tomorrow, and fuck if Stiles didnt purposefully use a word he
knew the kids hadnt learned yet. He knew because he always liked to teach them new things
every day--trying to catch them up to the other children their age for when they got into pre-k next
fall.

Not that it mattered now.

Dereks eyes widened, already locked with Stiles, and looked so utterly stricken that it took all of
Stiles self control not to retract his statement. Instead, Stiles tilted his chin as defiantly as he could,
tongue darting out to lick his lips and taste the salt of his own tears dried at the corners. I have to
get ready for when classes start, you know? I cant be doing this and studying. Its a lot of work--
and, you know. My jeeps paid off and all, so I dont need the money anymore.

I thought you said it was more than just the paycheck, Derek said quietly--sounding so lost and
broken that Stiles almost forgot he was still drunk off of the wine from whatever bar hed gone to.
Stiles shrugged, rubbing his cheek against Ollys head and closing his eyes.

School is more important. I cant multitask kids and getting my degree, no matter how hard he
tried not to, Stiles couldnt stop the way his chest clenched at the lie--the way Dereks eyebrows
ticked was enough of a tell that they both knew he was lying. It was the worst feeling; to be
caught in a fib you didnt want to tell and for someone to act like they didnt know it.

He almost wanted Derek to protest--to fight for him or beg him to stay. Apologies were nothing if
Derek couldnt just give him a reason to stay. Thats all Stiles needed.

Stiles lifted his head, hoping to see something in Dereks eyes. He wanted hurt, pain or maybe
anger.

All he saw was a broken man accepting defeat.

Derek sighed, crouching down and pressing his palm against Andys head, stroking her hair and
then tucking a few strands behind her ear. Theyll miss you, he said quietly, looking at Stiles
like it was the only reason Stiles needed to stay. Maybe a month or two ago, it would have been--
but now? Not so much.

Derek had learned so much about Andy. Theyd worked hard to understand her and let her do
what made her happy. Theyd talked about counselors, and Stiles had looked up websites on
transgender children and how to deal with gender identity at a young age. Derek had taken all of
it, had bookmarked the websites, had discussed therapy methods with doctors, and had done it all
for Andy.

Olly was just as well off--especially after his breakdown. Involving Stiles and Andy Derek always
made sure to hold him just as much as Andy, made sure to give him toys now and then and
always made sure Olly had his turn with the TV and with picking out the bedtime story. Stiles was
still the first person Olly went to, but he was starting to warm up to his father in ways he hadnt
before. Maybe it would be good if Stiles was gone--maybe it would take out the thorn keeping
them from being a proper family.

Stiles swallowed back the bile in his throat, shrugging once and then exhaling. Theyll get over
it, he said, the words bitten out because of how hard it was to even think of being forgotten by
them in just a few years. Derek didnt look like he was much better off, eyes filled with so much
guilt Stiles wanted to shake him and remind him of the things hed told Stiles earlier.

Are you sure about this?

Just think of it this way, Stiles pointed out, handing Andy over, instead of being everywhere
you go, youll never have to see me again.

As much as it pained him to think about it, Stiles would never forget the stricken look on Dereks
face when he hoarsely croaked out, okay.
Chapter End Notes

*stocks up on phoenix down*

 Interlude: Derek's Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
Chapter Notes

:)

Derek fiddled with the irons dial, switching it from cotton to silk in hopes that his shirt wouldnt
get burned, but that he could still flatten out the wrinkles in the chest where Olly had curled
Dereks shirt into his fists during an earlier tantrum. It was nearing midnight already, and Derek
still had four more suits to get through before he could even think about getting to sleep.

The past week was harder than anything Derek had ever experienced. Without Stiles there it was
as if every behavior switch in the children's brains had been shut off, leaving Derek scrambling to
find a sitter who wouldnt quit on the first day.

It's almost unbearable to remember the initial heartache and shock that rendered Derek speechless
and immobile as Stiles had yelled at him that night. He had taken so long to even react to Stiles'
words that all he could muster was anger to hide the pain in his heart. Sure, Ericas advice hadnt
really been the best, but after an entire bottle of her suggested liquid courage, Derek had been
more focused on getting home and asking Stiles to stay forever than actually thinking about what
it would look like to Stiles.

And oh, had it been bad.

Just thinking about the way Stiles had pushed at him; Stiles voice turning him down with no pity
for Dereks feelings at all. It was enough to make Derek want to press the iron into his palm to
distract himself from the pain in his heart.

Still, there was no turning back time. There was no way to rewind things--no way to go and tell
his past self to remember to charge his phone at lunch, or to only drink a little wine, to talk to
Stiles about the almost kiss before running home drunk to spew his emotions likewelllike a
lonely drunk with attachment issues.

All he could do now was try to keep going, try to be there for the children in place of Stiles, and
hope for the best.

The one thing he knew no amount of trying would fix, though, was the way Derek sometimes
wanted to claw his skin up just to feel some sort of punishment for what he put Stiles through that
night. It was sometimes suffocating--the guilt and mortification that he felt each time he tried to
call Stiles and was sent to voice mail. He had nearly thrown up in his office when Stiles finally
caved after the third day and had emailed him to curtly say,

You have nothing to apologize for. My work was done. I have other priorities to focus on as you,
obviously, do as well.

The smell of burning fabric dragged Derek out of his thoughts--of the embarrassment of
remembering how excited he had been in the cab at the idea of asking Stiles to be with him--and
Derek looked down to see that he had started to singe the collar of one of his best suits. He cursed,
pulling the iron back and thumbing at the burn to try and distract himself from his own thoughts.
The sound of Andys sobbing was what really distracted Derek. He shut off the iron, pushing it
aside so he could get out of his room. He had to get to her before she woke Olly up and made him
start up too.

Pushing her door open, he tried to ignore the way all of her posters and princessy things had been
taken down and hidden away. It was a surprise, to say the least, when Derek had come home one
day to see it all gone.but each child had their way of coping with a loss, and Derek figured
having a room full of stuff that was bought by Stiles was not going to help Andy forget him. It
must have been why she would go through with hiding the stuff she loved.

Andy, whats wrong, honey? Derek asked softly, sitting down on her bed and letting her sob
and crawl into his lap. He rubbed a hand down her small back, kissing her cheek and reaching up
to wipe at the tears on her face. Why are you crying?

Moaning sadly, Andy snuffled into Dereks shoulder and said, want my froggy, with a sniffle.
Derek glanced around the room, still holding her and rocking her, and tried to find the frog plushie
that she usually slept with. Derek had originally been repulsed by the doll, wondering if it was
supposed to be high or something, until Stiles explained that it was Prince Naveens suave face.
Hes a ladykiller, Derek, to him like Derek was a total idiot.

I dont see it, Derek looked again, turning to search the bed and see if maybe it had gotten
knocked under a pillow, did you leave it in the other room?

Suddenly, the volume of Andys cries ratcheted up and she clutched to her father. Derek was torn
between panic at the loudness of it, and panic at wanting her to stop being so upset. Lifting her up,
Derek carried Andy out into the living room on a quest for the toy.

What did you do with it, baby? Derek asked when he had searched every nook and cranny with
no success.

Gigi took it! Andy warbled. Derek felt his gut drop and his lungs burn hot. Gigi was what their
most recent sitter went by (because Gertrude was too difficult for the children to pronounce), and
though she was an elderly woman with a sharp smileshe was also a werewolf who was strict in
the traditional ways. Upon hiring her out of desperation, Derek had undergone harsh, backhanded
comments about young alphas ruining tradition by having pups out of wedlock. He hadnt cared
for her words, but she had been the only person that was able to deal with the violence that came
from the childrens temper tantrums.

Stiles, apparently, was the only human who didnt quit the second he got a miniature set of fangs
sunk into him.
Realization that the woman had probably noticed Andy wasnt entirely a girl--from scent or
something else--made Derek turn to his daughter and frown.

Andy did Gigi take your other stuff too? The posters and your dolls?

Face buried into Dereks neck, Andy hiccupped on a sob and nodded.

Derek had never wanted to beat up a little old lady so badly in his life. He sucked in a sharp
breath, exhaling slowly and then patting her on the back. Well find him, dont worry, and
headed for the front door. The trash didnt pick up until the morning and Derek wanted to thank
the higher powers that he had hired her only a couple days prior; there hadnt been a garbage
pickup since her arrival.

First, Derek checked the bins, but there was nothing in there but kitchen garbage and some broken
glass from the lamp that Olly had kicked over on Tuesday. Andy was curled up into the curve of
his arm, head on Dereks shoulder and breathing heavy as she started to calm a little. When Derek
started to walk across the lawn (he should have worn slippers; cold grass was not pleasant, even
for werewolves) for the garage, she shifted enough to watch where they were going. The garage
had been an add-on back when Kate had still been early on in her pregnancy with the children,
when hed still been ignorant. Derek had hired someone to build it because Kate refused to leave
her car parked outside overnight like Derek did with the camaro.

Since then, it really only served as more of a massive storage shed than anything.

When he saw the cardboard box that was dust-free compared to the ones full of his familys old
belongings that Derek couldnt part with, he wanted to sag with relief. Instead, he bounced Andy
a little and said, look, baby, your stuff is in that box!

Andy perked up, but stayed in Dereks arms while he knelt down and rifled through the box. It
took a few minutes but Derek soon realized that it was mostly full of the missing DVDs from the
shelf (Rapunzel, Tangled, Little Mermaid, Thumbelina, and a few others), her quilt, night gowns,
all of her dresses, and a few toys from the bin. The posters and frog were missing, and so were
some other toys Derek couldnt remember off the top of his head.

Lifting out Andys baby blanket, he let her take it and then cringed when she asked, wheres
mfroggy?

I dont know, honey, Derek said plainly, its not in here--but we can get you a new one
tomorrow.

That was not what Andy wanted to hear. Derek hardly had a moment to catch the hitch in her
breath before she whined and shook her head furiously. I want im now! she cried, and then
burst into tears again.

Derek wished he could be infuriated; filled with anger and ready to file a lawsuitbut he
couldnt. He had a distraught child in his arms and at that moment, she was the most important
thing to him. Derek pressed apologetic kisses to Andys head and temple, carrying her back into
the house and bouncing and rocking her in his arms when he reached the front door.

The last time he had genuinely had to deal with Andy crying this much had been back during
Dereks maternity leave. He had taken it before realizing just how in-debt the company had
become. Back then, Derek had spent day and night caring for his two baby boys who were
nothing but blobs of crying and poop--and the brightest fucking smiles Derek had ever
experienced in his life.

This Andy, though, Derek had absolutely no idea how to comfort. No amount of bouncing and
kisses and whispered words was calming her down. He stood outside the front door, rocking her
and trying to at least lower her sobbing to where Olly wouldnt wake up.

Please stop crying, honey, Derek begged, his exhaustion of the past week creeping up on him.
He rubbed Andys back, please, Andy.

All Derek got for his efforts was some drool on his naked shoulder as Andy continued to wail.
Derek sighed, going inside and making a beeline for the kitchen. He struggled to get a small cup
of hot chocolate (something his mother used to make him as a child when he was upset) when the
sound of whimpering caught his ears from across the house.

Oh no.

Ollys bedroom door opened and Derek barely had time to set the milk down and shut the stove
off before Olly was sobbing quietly in the living room. Daddy, he whined, daddy!

Derek rushed to reach him as Olly started snuffle into his palms like he was holding back his tears.
Daddy, I want Stiles, Olly pleaded. Only Derek couldnt give him Stiles; just like he couldnt
give Andy her frog toy; just like he couldnt keep anyone in his life except two children who were
forced to be dependent on him.

Stiles isnt here, Derek rasped, finding himself sinking to the ground before he could really
register what was happening. Olly lost all his resolve, lip wobbling and eyes going wet and then
the first of many wails escaping him. Derek scooped Olly into his arms, struggling to stand with a
crying child on each hip. He was so tired--he hadnt slept properly in days, had been run ragged at
work and at home, and he just was done.

Heading into the guest bedroom, Derek maneuvered the children under the covers before climbing
in and pulling them onto his chest. When he pulled the quilt up, Stiles faint scent encompassed
them and both Andy and Ollys cries instantly seemed to die down. The longer it went, the calmer
they got until Stiles scent, like a soothing balm, was able to help lull them--and Derek--to sleep.

First thing in the morning, after Derek got himself and the children showered and dressed for the
day, he decided to have a chat with their sitter before heading out. She was probably in her 70s to
80s, with white hair pulled into a messy bun and layers of fur and cloth that reminded Derek of a
distant relative who insisted they should just hunt for food and clothes instead of going to the
store.

Gigi, Derek greeted her when she came in just after breakfast. Gigi nodded back, frowning at
the sight of Andy in one of the dresses theyd fetched from the garage, but not saying a word
about it.

Derek stood, gesturing for her to follow until they were alone in the living room. He turned the
baby monitor onto white nose (that had taken a while to dig out of his closet) and then facing the
elderly werewolf. I saw you took some of Andys things.

Yessir.

You had no right to do that; especially throwing some away.

Im sorry, Mr. Hale. I just felt the toys werent appropriate for Andy, Gigi said kindly, her smile
thin-lipped. Derek wished desperately that he could growl and snap at her, intimidate her into
begging forgivenessbut he couldnt. He wasnt sixteen anymore and he wasnt so foolish as to
behave like a petulant child.

All he could do was narrow his eyes and ask icily, Theyre childrens toys. How are they
inappropriate?

Gigi clasped her gnarled hands together, head inclining towards Derek as if she had a secret to tell.
I think you know, sir.

Get the fuck out of my house, Derek spat, the words bursting out of his chest before he could
even fathom trying to fire her in a more professional manner. How was it that he had let Stiles get
away with so much, and all this woman had to do was throw away a few toys and Derek wanted
her gone for good?

Oh yeah. Stiles did it because he wanted the children to be happy. Hed done so much for Dereks
family and now he was gone.
Gigi stared,, spluttered protests, and Derek wasted no time in getting her out of the house after
pulling a $10 out to cover her gas expenses for driving to the house. Looping back into the kitchen
after she was gone, Derek at where Olly and Andy were sleepily eating their cereal. They were
still exhausted from the night before--but that made it easier for Derek to bolster himself on the
idea of taking them into the office. He had meetings all afternoon, but Erica got along well enough
with them, he could probably foist Andy and Olly onto her until he was done with the meetings.

The trip to the office was almost scarily simple. Derek had to help them both get dressed because
they were so tired, which mean that the drive was filled only with the soft snuffles of Ollys half-
snores and Andys heavy breathing. He pulled into the parking garage, thankful that executive
parking meant he didnt have very far to go to reach the elevator with a diaper bag on his hip (full
of toys, snacks, movies, and a portable dvd player) and two snoozing children in his arms.

The look on some of his employees faces was almost unsettling when Derek was trapped in the
elevator with a few interns. At least he could ignore their gaping stares in favor of pressing his
nose into Ollys hair and kissing his temple as he rocked them to keep either one from waking up
until he at least got to give them over to Erica.

Ericas face was a mixture of horrified and disbelieving when Derek stepped into her office with
them--which almost made all of this worth it.

Are you crazy? She hissed, you have three meetings today--how are you going to watch them?
What happened to the sitter?

Derek frowned, pushing Andy into her arms and then setting the diaper bag on her desk. Erica
instantly caught on, shaking her head and trying to shove Andy back at him. Oh no, buddy. You
pay me to redirect phone calls and answer emails pretending to be you; not to babysit your
children.

Frustration rising, Derek pulled Ollys blanket out of the diaper bag, flicking it open and then
laying it on the ground beside Ericas office chair. Consider it a means to keep me from firing
you after your amazing advice lost me the love of my life, hm? Derek set Olly on the blanket,
jaw clenching and his chest burning at the memory of it all. Erica looked startled, pulling Andy
back into her arms and looking away.

I didnt--

Its fine, Derek interrupted, sighing and running his hand over Ollys head. At least the children
had slept through his outburst. You didnt make me drink the wine.

Well, Erica cringed, I kinda did.

Derek stared at her, because sometimes he wondered why people ever bothered to come up with
more reasons why they should be blamed for something. Then again, Erica was his beta and she
probably got it from him.

When Erica only shrugged helplessly, Derek rolled his eyes and then took Andy to lie her down
on the blanket with Olly. He crouched in, kissing the both of them gently on the head and then
hesitating before rubbing his mouth and hand along their small cheeks, scentmarking them just
enough to get rid of Gigis lingering smell.

Standing, Derek gestured to the children one last time, watch them until Im done with the
meetings, he said before heading out.

Erica released an indignant sound, shoving her head out the door and whisper-shouting at him, if
I wanted children, I wouldnt be on the pill! just before Derek disappeared down the hall towards
the conference room.

The first meeting wasnt so bad, other than Peter constantly putting up an unnecessary
commentary in Dereks ear during the presentation. They discussed the pros and cons of funding
the project--one designed to create a chemical that could be used to slow the werewolf healing
process. It would be a great scientific step forward for things like plastic surgery and an easier
method of tattooing and body modification.

Derek, despite Peter and a few other chairmen voicing their reluctance, was eager to put the
approval forth. Who knew how advanced it could be in, say, twenty years. In case Andy ever
needed surgery for something, now Derek knew that she would still have a chance at getting it.

It was halfway through the second presentation on the proposal to get funding for clinics catering
towards expectant mothers when the loud scream of a child broke echoed across the entire
building. The entire conference room fell silent and Dereks gut sunk down somewhere to his feet.

He could recognize the sound of Andrys tantrum battle cry anywhere in the world.

While everyone in the meeting started to look around in confusion, Derek slowly sunk down into
his seat, hoping that the scream would be the end of it. He buried his face behind a palm, cringing
when another scream and crash followed.

Derek tried desperately to pretend he couldnt hear the sounds of shouting coming from down the
hall, but now the entirety of the conference room went to the door to investigate. Peter had been
suspiciously absent for the past ten minutes, and Derek should have known his uncle going near
the children would end in disaster. Peter was, if nothing, an instigator.

When he reached Ericas office (and the source of the wailing), his secretary was nowhere in sight
and Peter was standing in the corner with his phone out and pointed at the desk. The desk where
Andy was standing on the chair, screaming, No! NO! and swiping everything off in a clatter of
pens and paperwork.

Olly, at least, wasnt crying. He was just standing in the corner with his hands over his mouth
dramatically. Derek didnt know which child to go for first when Andy wailed, I hate you! and
swung her arms in such a huge arc that she knocked Ericas computer monitor off the desk. The
screen cracked and Andys shrieking increased over Ollys loud gasp.

You broked it! Olly cried, Andy!

Derek swooped forward, hand reaching out to grab Andy when she vaulted from the chair with a
screech that made Dereks ears ring. He tried to grab her again, desperate to stop the madness,
when she ran around him, grabbed the chord for the monitor, and bolted out of the office as fast as
her little werewolf feet could take her.

He felt lost, frustration welling up and making Derek want to burst into exhausted tears as he
watched his daughter go bolting through entire office with a computer monitor smashing and
thundering behind her. It only got worse when people started to poke their heads out of their
cubicles and offices, wondering where the origin of the screaming and crashing was coming from.

Derek looked down at Olly, but all his son did was throw his hands up in the most innocent it
wasnt me! pose that Derek had ever seen him do.

Erica chose that moment to come bursting back in, her hair wild and chest heaving as she pointed
an accusing finger at Peter. You said you would watch them while I took a piss! she shrieked.
Peter shrugged, holding his phone up and wiggling it about.

I am watching them, he said easily, tucking his phone into his blazer and strolling out of the
office while Erica seethed. Andy was still screaming, and Derek got ready to go after her when
her screaming abruptly cut off in a loud choking grunt.

Erica and Derek looked out to see Boyds hand rising from the maze of cubicles, holding Andy
like an offering to the gods. Or to Dereks thinning patience. Boyd pulled her back down, and
there was more yelling that soon died down as he headed back to Ericas office. By the time Boyd
reached them, Andy was curled into his large embrace, crying softly and coughing every now and
then.

When Boyd went to hand her over, Andy clung to his shirt and whined. It hurt, but Derek had a
feeling that she was more terrified of Derek being mad at her than anything. He reached out,
sighing loudly.

Come here, honey, he said, getting a hand under Andys arm to pull her out of Boyds hold.
She whimpered, sniffling and then twisting and reaching for Derek like a needy monkey. Derek
tried to ignore how all of his employees were watching, instead taking Andy back into Ericas
office and gesturing for Boyd to shut the door.

I diint do it, Olly proclaimed softly, coming over when Derek sat in Ericas chair. Uncle Peta
did!

Derek kissed away Andys tears, rocking her as she finally started to calm, and looked down at
Olly in confusion. Boyd crouched down next to Olly, brushing his head and asking, What did he
do?

Olly fidgeted, scowling and huffing like he was having trouble remembering all the words they
wanted him to repeat. After a second, he whined and pointed at the trash can and cried softly, he
said it was cuz Andy was bad! Andys not bad! Andys my sister!

Dread filled Dereks stomach as Boyd approached the trash can and frowned. Andy was quieter
now, sniffing and whining a little when Boyd pulled out the decapitated body of her favorite
Rapunzel doll. Derek felt infuriated, but he kept his anger in check and turned to look down at
Andy. We can fix it, he said firmly, and get her a new dress, too.

Andys head snapped up, eyes wide and cheeks ruddy as she stared up at him. Really? she
whispered, as if afraid to hope. Derek nodded and Andy sniffed again with a moan of, okay.

As much as Derek wanted to punish Peter, he had too much on his plate. He didnt really want to
involve the company, and after a week of running on too-little sleep and trying constantly to keep
up with work and the children, Derek was too tired to deal with it.

Boss? Boyd piped up, lifting the doll and its head, want me to put this in the kids bag?

Derek nodded, yeah, and schedule someone to key Peters car next month, he sighed, earning a
snort from Boyd. Passive aggression had always been Dereks favorite method of dealing with
things, anyway.

Right now, more than anything, Derek wanted Stiles.

He wanted Stiles to rant and rave, to talk about injustices and go mouth off to Peter until Derek
had to pull him away and act like he was mad at Stiles for saying all the things that Derek
couldnt. He wanted Stiles to be the one to hold Andy, to tell her she was beautiful and to
somehow whip up some temporary fix for the doll just to make her smile.
He wanted so much, and was left with nothing in return.

They ended up leaving the office early. It was a little later than the normal lunch time, but Derek
had been so busy issuing out apologies and letting some of the employees coo over the children
that hed lost track of time. Derek made a point to swing by one of the nearby drive-thrus on their
way home.

What do you guys want? he asked, trying to read the menu when they were three cars back in
line. Andy sighed from her spot behind Derek, feet kicking the back of his seat hard enough to
make Derek bounce as he looked over his shoulder at them.

Olly stared forlornly out the window, hands fidgeting in his lap. Derek reached back, poking him
in the leg and prompting a sad noise out of his son. Stiles, Olly muttered crankily, scooting as
far down in his car seat as possible.

Biting back the desire to swat Olly (because Olly wasnt the only one who missed Stiles, despite
how much he thought otherwise), Derek took a calming breath. Well, Stiles isnt here. Tell me
what you want to eat.

I want Stiles too, Andy piped up, throwing her hands in the air like she could magically conjure
him from nothingness. Derek growled, hand curling into the steering wheel before he looked
around to see if any cars were blocking him in. Seeing that he was free, Derek pulled out of the
drive-thru. If the children were going to be difficult, they could just wait to eat until they got home.

Of course, even though they had refused to cooperate earlier in Dereks attempt to feed them, that
meant the last ten minutes of the ride was hell. Olly kept whining about being hungry, and Andy
wouldnt stop kicking the back of Dereks seat and going on about how Stiles would have gotten
her a doll and that Stiles liked to hug Olly when he cried, and that Stiles always played Raffi for
them to sing along to.

Dereks patience finally snapped near the end. He slammed on the brakes at a red light, whipping
his head around at the same time he pounded his hand against the empty passenger seat. Stiles
isnt coming back! he cried, voice cracking, now be quiet until we get home!

At first, Derek thought hed gotten the silence he had wanted all along. There wasnt a peep from
the back seat for the time it took him to turn around and start driving again when the light went
green, and then Olly whimpered and Andy let out a sob.

He turned the radio on, cranking up the volume to try and drown out the sound of their screaming.
He couldnt do this--he just wanted to go home and sleep forever and let the children take care of
themselves. He couldnt though, and no amount of exhaustion or depression was going to make
Derek ever fathom the idea of abandoning his children.

Pulling into their driveway, Olly was still wailing his lungs out while Derek parked, got out, and
fetched them from the back. Andy wasnt as loud, still sobbing a little, but Olly was deafening as
he howled the entire trip into the house and even through being put in his booster seat at the
kitchen table.

Derek tried to tune out the crying, hurrying to make the sloppiest, fattest PB&J sandwiches known
to man. He put a handful of baby carrots on each plate, grabbing the childrens glasses and putting
some juice in each one. Andy was completely calmed down when he handed her food over. She
dug in with gusto, stabbing her carrots messily into the gut of the sandwich and then chomping on
it once there was goo all over it. Olly, however, was still having a fit. When Derek set the cup
down, he screamed and slapped it over, making juice spill everywhere.
Derek rushed to clean it up, his suit staining orange when it got all over his stomach. He sighed,
searching the pantry for Ollys space shuttle cup and filling that up, the lid screwing on tightly so
when Olly swatted it, nothing happened.

Come on, Olly, Derek pleaded, sitting down tiredly in his own seat and bringing a carrot to
Ollys mouth, I thought you were hungry?

No! Olly shouted, and smacked the carrot out of Dereks hand. Andy was munching innocently
on her own food, plate a decimated massacre of bread and jelly, but at least she was eating.

Looking up, Andy licked peanut butter messily from her hand and then made a loud sound of
disappointment, Daddy! You dint get him any raisins!

Oh, how Derek wanted to flip the table and storm out in a fury. Instead, he sighed and stood up. It
took him a good couple minutes to find the tin of raisins in the pantry, and when he upended it on
Ollys plate to make a small mountain of them on his sandwich, it was like turning off a switch.

Quieting, Olly snuffled, wiped his face, and then started to eat with no noise other than a few sad
whines.

Derek exhaled shakily, ears ringing, and dragged his feet all the way into the living room. The
kids could eat on their own, because he needed to go sit down for a little while.

He didnt even realize hed fallen asleep until he awoke to the sound of childish whispers.

Daddy? Andy breathed, shaking his leg gently. The shaking stopped and Derek almost drifted
off again when Olly piped up next.

Shh, hes sleeping!

Derek kept his eyes shut, trying to remain relaxed so, maybe, they would just watch TV or
something and let him be for a little while.

Hes daddy! Daddys dont need naps, Andy hissed.

Maybe he needs a nap cuz you broked stuff.

Daddy breaks stuff and doesnt need a nap,

Maybe Daddys broked too, Olly said quietly, releasing a pained noise that almost had Derek
opening his eyes.

I dont want Daddy to be broked. Andy whimpered, and Derek felt her hands grabbing onto his
fingers and shaking his hand a little.

Stiles says cuddles fix everythin, Olly offered. There was a moment of quiet, and then the
couch shifted as the children climbed up onto it. Derek shifted, yawning and picking up his arms
when Andy and Olly snuggled up under them and against his chest. Olly echoed his yawn, cheek
rubbing Dereks stomach as he curled his fingers into Dereks shirt.

Daddy, I miss Stiles, he murmured sadly. Derek pulled them in tight, holding them in his arms
in a way that meant hed never let them go.

Me too, baby, he muttered, letting Andy and Olly snuffle into his shoulders and throat and
falling back asleep.
The sound of his phone trilling loudly in his pocket was what woke Derek up. He jerked, catching
Olly before he tumbled down Dereks chest, and shifted until he could get his phone out.

The caller ID flashed Stiles name and Dereks heart froze in his chest. He rushed to answer,
thumb shaking as he flicked it over the screen and pulled his cell up to his ear.

Stiles, Im so--

This is Stiles dad, Sheriff Stilinski cut in. Derek cringed, but exhaled slowly. The reason Stiles
had been hired in the first place was because Derek knew the sheriff personally due to the
company being a direct correspondent in werewolf/law enforcement relations. His heart sank, and
it took him a second to really try and compose himself after such a sudden disappointment.

Is Stiles okay?

A grunt, and then a sigh. I dont know what caused you to fire my son, but he misses those kids
like hell, Sheriff said firmly, now I dont normally call in favors, but I know you owe me
more than a few.

Derek tightened his arm around Andy and Olly, I do.

Well, Stiles is getting stitches right now--

What? Derek barked, sitting up so fast that this time he did knock Olly off. Olly rolled, hitting
Andy and then whining before he wiggled his way down next to his sister. Is he okay?

Hes fine, Sheriff assured, sighing again. Its just that the kids been miserable all week. I
know he was just a sitter, but he loved those kids

They loved him too, Derek assured, swallowing back the urge to say, and I did too, for fear of
getting himself shot the next time he had to stop by the station. Sheriff snorted, muttering
something under his breath that Derek couldnt pick up over the phone.

If its not too much to ask, do you think you could bring em by for a little while? Hell be on
painkillers, but I think he could use the cheering up.

Derek wanted to cry, wanted to thank the sheriff over and over again because this was exactly
what Derek needed. Stiles refused to talk to him--but if his father was the one who invited Derek
in, then he had to listen. Derek had fucked up a lot, and he knew that sometimes Stiles pride kept
him from trying to fix arguments, but if they could just talk, there might be another chance hidden
somewhere.

Of course, he breathed out, clearing his throat and then sliding just enough so the children were
fully on the couch. He stood, stretching his legs and shaking his limbs out. When would be a
good time.

Hell be home soon--are you busy in two hours?

Derek looked at the clock, surprised to see that it was already six. Yes, thats fine, nine is okay.

The kids had napped plenty long; they'd still be awake when eight rolled around. He doubted they
could sleep through seeing Stiles again, anyway.

You sure?

Looking to where Andy and Olly had curled up together on the couch, Dereks heart panged at
the thought of letting them see Stiles again. That pang became an ache that burned through his
entire core at the thought--the hope--that he could somehow fix this.

Positive.
 Chapter 15
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

To say Stiles had misjudged how badly he would miss the children would be an understatement.
The entire week dragged by with a deadened ache sitting heavy in his chest, making it hard to
even want to do anything outside of lying in bed on his computer and coming out only for food
and to use the bathroom.

Stiles had told his dad that Derek had fired him, but that was because it was easier than trying to
explain the fight and how Stiles and Derek were apparently suffering the worlds largest
miscommunication in the history of ever.

Either way, that didnt make the pain any less. Sometimes he would walk around expecting to
hear giggles or to feel hands pulling at his arm and begging to be lifted up. Instead it was just
silence that was only broken by Scott and Isaac coming by a couple times during the week to try
and cheer him up.

Stiles knew that they were just being good friends, but it hurt when Scott or Isaac would reach out
to grab his shoulder or neck. Most of the time it was an instinctive movement--trying to replace
Derek and the childrens scents with their owntrying to subtly erase all signs that Stiles had ever
been a member of that broken pack.

Thats pretty much what Derek and the children had been at firstand Stiles had tried with all of
his heart to bring them together. Hed gotten himself in too deep and thats when it had come to
the breaking point. Stiles couldnt even bear to think about Derek for fear of losing his breath in a
way that was entirely unpleasant. He had left with no closure, no goodbyes. Just a kiss to Andy
and Ollys head after tucking them in, and trying his hardest to ignore the soft, pained plea Derek
had made that was really just Stiles name.

Stiles had practically run out the door; grabbing his things and heading out to where Scott was
waiting outside to pick him up after a call from Stiles.

Yelling at Derek had been a bad idea in the first place, because resorting to anger never got
anywhere. The way Derek had looked haunted Stiles--how he had seemed so stunned that the
words were barely registering. Stiles knew he had overreacted, that he had said things that came
across just as wrong as Dereks words had.

Quitting in the midst of an emotional fit was probably the most idiotic decision Stiles had ever
made. Stiles had left and he was pretty sure the children were beside themselves. Actually, Stiles
was positive that they were. Derek had left him a few text messages and voice mails, all of them
filled with apologies for things he said but none of them taking his words back.

Stiles wondered if Derek even remembered half of what he said

He may have also taken a page out of Dereks book and gotten gloriously shitfaced when things
came to be too much. Yeah, it had been in the middle of the day, but couldnt help it--he was only
human. The more time he thought about that night, the more he realized how epically he had
helped screw things up.

The only downside was that trying to take a shower while inebriated had resulted in Stiles slipping
and cracking his head open on the bathroom counter. The alcohol had helped the pain but had
made the bleeding twice as bad. It hadnt been one of Stiles most shining moments to lay naked
on his bathroom floor with a hand on his head, warbling for his dad while trying to stop the room
from spinning.

Which would be why Stiles had ended up chilling in his dads cruiser, high on painkillers with his
head throbbing from the three stitches that hed needed, waiting for his dad to come back from
picking up some rubber gloves in the store. Apparently they didnt have the necessary equipment
to clean up the mess of blood Stiles had left all over the bathroom. It was only a stroke of luck that
he hadn't used the giddy buzz of hydrocodone to blather on to his dad about Derek and the
children. Instead, Stiles had used it to remember them much more fondly than he had in the past
week.

On the upside; he wasnt drunk anymore.

Now Stiles was sitting in his room on his laptop, trying to do some homework while riding the
high of his painkillers. The upside to them was that it made him a little emotionally numb as well,
which kept his depression at bay. He missed the children something awful; missed Derek just as
much. This was probably some process of mourning--like getting over a bad breakup that hed
been responsible for.

The doorbell rang and Stiles almost wanted to get up just to text Scott and tell him--for the fourth
time--that he was fine and did not need any special wolf mojo, but decided he didnt feel like
fetching his phone from the desk. Instead, Stiles sighed and strained his ears to try and hear if his
dad was talking to Scott and if Isaac had come along. If anything, their company would be nice.
The sucky thing about the meds they gave him was that they weren't strong enough to make him
feel anything other than a little numb and high, which meant Stiles wouldn't be out of it enough to
justify avoiding any mother-hen lectures from Scott.

Dad knocked on his door, head peeking in to say, youve got some friends here to see you, with
a sly smile in the corner of his mouth. Stiles frowned, because Scott and Isaac practically let
themselves in whenever they wanted. In that moment, as his dad started to open the door, Stiles
knew.

He knew, and he suddenly couldnt breathe or even feel his hands or face from the burning in his
chest when the door was pushed open to reveal Derek standing there with the twins in his arms.
The side of Stiles head throbbed with the tension, stitches aching while Stiles tried to swallow the
massive, suffocating lump in his throat.

Andy let out a screech of Stiles name, wriggling out of Dereks arms and running straight for the
bed. Stiles helped her up, dragging her small body into his arms before he could even think about
what he was doing. It was like the weight on his chest that had been slowly crushing him day by
day was finally lifted. Andy was talking a mile a minute, her voice loud and trembling before she
broke off into tears. Stiles rubbed her back, his entire body shaking in disbelief.

How had this happened? How had they known? Was this some sort of sign? All Stiles had to do
was pine hard enough and the whole Hale family would appear?

Im fine, sweets, Stiles rasped, stroking Andys hair while she continued to cry. Stiles looked up
when he realized that Olly still wasnt on the bed, heart breaking to see Olly holding onto Derek
for dear life and shaking his head furiously.

Stiles held a hand out, trying to silently beg Derek to hand Olly over. Derek rubbed his hand
down Ollys back, muttering something into his ear that had Olly shaking his head and sobbing
out, no! like it was the worst thing to possibly happen to him. That hurt more than anything
Stiles could fathom. Olly didnt even want to see him--he must have felt so betrayed, and there
was nothing Stiles could do to make up for it.

Olly, Stiles pleaded, shakily rubbing Andys back and trying to get her settled into his lap more
comfortably. Olly made a broken noise, whimpering and hiding his face into Dereks throat.
Olly, Im sorry, Stiles tried again. Suddenly he needed Olly in his arms, needed to hold him and
be assured that he was okay. It was an urgent, panicky feeling that made Stiles heart pick up and
his lungs constrict.

Derek took a step closer, and then hesitated. Stiles gestured for him to come closer and it was like
finally snapping the tether that held Derek trapped in the doorway. He crossed the room, sitting on
the foot of the bed and saying softly, Come on, Olly, dont you want to see Stiles?

No!

Stiles winced, head throbbing and body shaking as he said, Olly, Im sorry. I didnt mean to
leave. I love you, and those were the magic words, because Olly scrambled out of Dereks arms
and ran across the bed towards Stiles. He tripped over Stiles leg, falling face first into his
stomach, but Stiles quickly hauled the child up into his arms. Olly wailed, throwing his arms
around Stiles neck and clutching to him.

Andys sobs muffled down into heavy, uneven breathing as she clung to Stiles. Olly, however,
wasnt getting any better. He was hysterical, crying so hard that his face was red and each breath
was sharp and pained. When Olly started to cough, Stiles rubbed his back and peppered kisses on
wherever he could reach. He brought both arms around the children, heart aching just at the
feeling of having them in his arms again. It was terrifying how much it felt like they were his own
children.

Its okay, Olly, Stiles soothed, I love you, Im sorry I left. Youre okay, I love you, he started
to rock them both, turning and kissing Andy on the cheek and temple and whispering the same
sentiments to her. When Olly finally, finally calmed down, Stiles used the corner of his bed sheet
to wipe tears and snot from his face, cleaning him up and kissing his forehead before resting back
against the headboard with the children on his chest and lap.

Looking up to see Derek staring at him was not something he expected. Stiles had been so
absorbed in Andy and Ollys distress that he hadnt noticed Dereks. Derek didnt look upset, he
looked devastated.

Come back, he blurted, like their lives were on the line if Stiles didnt agree, please come
back.

Those words did something inside of Stiles, made his very bones ache and his jaw hurt from how
hard he was clenching it. This was exactly why he had ignored Dereks pleas--because there was
no way Stiles could turn him down, not when he looked so desperate. Stiles hand stilled on
Andys back, the other still brushing over Ollys head.

Derek shifted, making an aborted gesture with his hand like he didnt know how to express what
he needed. Ill raise your pay--let you pick your hours. You dont even have to sit full time. I
just-- Derek choked, mouthing wordlessly and then dropping his eyes to where Olly was still
crying into Stiles shoulder. He looked like it was physically painful to see his children so upset,
like he was being tortured with each second that passed.

They dont eat, they dont sleep none of us are happy without you and they keep fighting me,
Derek breathed, they bit the last two sitters and just--please. Come back.

And there it was, right? Thats what Stiles had been waiting for? For Derek to beg forgiveness
and to have him come back? Wasnt he supposed to be pleased?

No. Stiles wasnt pleased; wasnt angry or smug or any of the other emotions he should have felt
at Derek finally breaking down in front of him like this. Stiles just felt horrified. Horrified, guilty
and distraught.

What had he done? Hed nearly broken this family all over again, and Stiles was pretty sure that
no matter how hurtful Dereks words had been, Stiles had hurt him back just as bad by leaving the
way he had.

I shouldnt have left, Stiles rasped, swallowing the pain in his throat that made it almost
impossible to talk. Just thinking of what the children must have gone through in his absence made
a bile rise up in his throat.

"I don't care that you left, just come back," Derek blurted out, sounding half out of his mind as he
curled his fingers over the top of Stiles foot, just a layer of blankets separating their skin. His hand
was shaking, grip firm, and it sent an electric shock all the way up Stiles leg and straight into his
rapidly beating heart.

Stiles clutched to the children, the word, okay, practically punched out of him.

It really was that simple. Stiles wondered if the entire visit was some elaborate dream. Andy and
Olly spent an hour telling him in excited, garbled childspeak about their time with the other sitters,
their visit to Dereks office (what Stiles would have given just to see that happening. Judging from
Dereks face, it must have been particularly memorable) and the mean sitter that had taken all of
Andys toys away. If it weren't for his medication and the dull ache in his head, Stiles would have
pitched a fit and demanded they go to the store for new toys right away. He hoped later, once
things started to go back to normal, that maybe a trip could be made to the store and Stiles could
get the children some gifts and things as an apology for leaving.

What Stiles remembered more than anything was the way Dereks hand resting on his ankle the
entire time felt like a brand he could never get rid of.

By the time Derek finally had to leave, it took at least a hundred assurances that Stiles would come
in the morning. Stiles had ended up giving Andy and Olly one of his shoes each with the
explanation that he had to come over in the morning if he wanted to get his shoes back.

Stiles had arrived early, making a beeline for the kitchen to start in on breakfast like hed always
done. With the children still sleeping, Stiles felt suffocated in the kitchen while Derek sat at the
table and watched him with endless scrutiny.

Im sorry, Derek finally said, his voice a sleepy gravel that made shudders go down Stiles
spine, what I said it was out of line.

Stiles turned the burner off, twisting around and leaning against the counter. Do you even
remember that night?

Taken aback, Dereks eyes went wide and Stiles could see the way his bare chest expanded with a
sudden nervous sigh. Most, Derek admitted, but not all of it.

You said you hated me, man, Stiles croaked, giving a weak laugh and gesturing vaguely, I
thought you didnt want me here any more.

No matter how stricken Derek looked to hear his own words laid bare, Stiles wasnt in the mood
to see it. He turned back around, flicking the burner on once more and going back to flipping the
eggs he was frying up. He heard Derek get up--chair scraping on the wood of the kitchen floor--
and clutched to the frying pan like he could just Rapunzel his way out of an upcoming bad
situation.

Dereks body was warm as he hovered in close, but Stiles refused to look up. Instead, he grabbed
some pepper, dashing it onto the eggs and pushing them around the pan.

I was angry at myself, Derek muttered, reaching up and wrapping his fingers around Stiles
shoulder, I was projecting and I shouldnt have done that...I could never hate you.

Stiles glanced up, finding it hard to breathe at how close Derek had gotten. Yeah, well I guess I
make a better punching bag for your issues, huh? he asked bitterly. Dereks fingers tightened,
and he leaned forward to turn the burner off and force Stiles to face him.

Dont talk like that, Derek said harshly, dont talk like you think you deserve whatever I did to
you. I forced you and you--you stopped meand I acted like a child.

Stiles wanted to shrug, but Dereks hold was firm. It was like he was trying to keep Stiles from
fighting against his instinct to self-blame. He ducked his head, breathing in slowly and closing his
eyes. I still shouldnt have left like that, he admitted weakly, so I guess we both fucked up.

When he lifted his head, Derek was close--too close. Stiles felt suffocated with this painful urge to
lean in and kiss him, but he couldnt. He didnt want a repeat of last week, to find out if it had
really all been lust. It was terrifying and daunting and Stiles didnt even have the courage to just
ask Derek how he felt.

If thats what you want to think, Derek said lowly, watching Stiles every move. Stiles pulled
out of Dereks hold, twisting back to the food and trying to ignore the way the back of his neck
and ears burned.

Yeah, works for me, he said weakly, and wanted to weep in relief as the children sleepily
stumbled into the kitchen before Derek could move any closer than he already was.

Derek worked from home for the entire day, mostly holed up in his office, but coming out every
now and then to hover while Stiles played with the children. There was a few times that Stiles had
needed to push the children onto Derek and lie down when his head bothered him too much, but
he made sure to turn down any offers Derek made to send him home. The worst thing that could
happen would be for Stiles to suddenly leave all over again. They ate lunch and Derek was still
quiet as ever, only answering when someone would directly as him a question. The way he
watched Stiles was unsettling--like he was trying to pick apart Stiles brain. It was intense and
overwhelming when Stiles had spent the past week in relative solitude.

When it was time for him to go home, Stiles couldnt. The children refused to go down for bed,
constantly pleading that Stiles might not be there when they woke up. Finally, Derek had enough.

I can pay you for the night, he offered, Olly clinging to his arm and looking at Stiles like he was
about to betray him all over again. Stiles swallowed back the lump in his throat, shaking his head
and trying to ignore the way guilt ate away at him.

You dont have to its my fault theyre like this, he said quietly--because it was. That night he
had just left and never come back. To do that to these children, who had already suffered enough
abandonment only months before, made Stiles hate himself all over again. Ill stay.

Dereks shoulders sagged in relief, mouthing, thank you, and then hurrying to inform the
children that Stiles would stay the night if they went to bed.

Stiles took the guest room (surprised to see the sheets rumpled like it had been used recently),
going to bed early after hours of exhausting himself playing with the kids when he had gotten
used to slacking off and doing nothing for the past week.

He woke up to the sound of crying children. Blearily, Stiles caught that it was just past one in the
morning on the bedside clock as he rolled out of bed. He followed the sounds of sobbing,
knocking on Dereks bedroom door and then letting himself in to see Andy and Olly clutching
their father and crying their eyes out. Derek looked disoriented, holding them and blinking tiredly.

Stiles didnt really think, he just walked forward until he reached the bed. Derek had half a second
to stare at him in sleepy surprise before Stiles climbed in on the other side of the bed. He gently
eased the children off of Derek and instead between them so that they were sandwiched between
Derek and Stiles bodies, flinging one arm over both their tiny forms and nuzzling into Ollys hair
when he clung to Stiles t-shirt. Stiles rubbed Andys back, kissing Olly on the head and feeling
Dereks arm mirror his own by draping over the children.

Stiles barely registered the back of Dereks hand stroking his stomach before he fell right back
asleep.

He woke up in increments, first sensing the feel of two small bodies snuggled into his side, and
then the warmth of soft sheets and the sound of an overhead fan creaking while wind blew in from
an open window. The room smelt like a combination of musk, baby powder, and fresh air; so
comforting that Stiles almost didnt want to get up at all.

Stiles opened his eyes slowly, staring down at Olly and Andy under the protection of his arm, and
couldnt help but feel a sharp pang in his gut that wished desperately that these two were his
children.

Thank you.

Stiles looked up, surprised to see Derek sitting in an office chair at the other end of the room,
typing on a laptop in nothing but his boxers. Stiles felt his heart stutter, but ignored it in favor of
sitting up properly. Andy snuffled, face rubbing into his stomach before she fell back asleep.

You shouldnt be thanking me, Stiles denied quietly, Im the one who left you here with no
sitter and no explanation to the kids.

It was my fault, Derek countered, I said things I didnt mean, and acted out of line.

Stiles really didnt want to start playing the blame game, especially because if either of them won,
it would still leave a whole lot of pained, awkward silences to be dealt with. He sighed, rubbing a
hand down Ollys side and shrugging. Everyone screws up, he said, that doesnt mean I should
have left.

Derek stared for an exorbitant amount of time, his fingers stilling on the keyboard, before he shut
the laptop and quietly murmured, I have to go into the office today.

It took a second for Stiles to register what he meant, and then he laughed awkwardly, oh yeah, let
me just-- he tried to wriggle his way out from under the children, but Ollys whine was loud and
pained when he got shifted off of Stiles chest. Derek snorted, getting up and coming over to lift
Olly off the bed. Stiles grabbed Andy and they carried the kids into the living room to sit with
Stiles while Derek got ready for work.

Stiles turned the TV on, pulling a blanket over Olly and Andy and then heading in the kitchen to
make breakfast. They got up halfway through, coming into the kitchen and climbing up into their
chairs to sit and watch Stiles cook.
Stiles made sure to finish Dereks food first, sliding his fried egg sandwich onto a plate just as
Derek came into the kitchen in full business gear, briefcase in hand. His face lit up when Stiles slid
the plate towards him, looking excited to see that he had food waiting for him. Stiles couldnt help
the small coil of want in his gut, missing all of this terribly and simultaneously wishing there were
more to it.

Before getting his sandwich, Derek headed for the table to kiss both Andy and Olly on the head.
He came back to reach for Stiles, hand freezing right before he started to do his customary
scenting-touch that hed always done before. The hesitation was obvious--and so was the conflict
in Dereks eyes. He didnt know if it was okay anymore.

His guilt grew, and Stiles exhaled before stepping forward and pressed his cheek into Dereks
palm.

The look of shock on Dereks face was almost comical, eyes daring to Stiles face and then to
where his palm was curved over his cheek and jaw. Stiles could hear Dereks breath hitch, and he
practically nuzzled into the soft skin of Derek's hand, seeking more pressure as he said, Im pack,
right?

Derek nodded.

Sometimes pack messes up, but that doesnt make us no longer pack, right? God, was he
nervous. He was pretty sure his heart was going to beat out of his chest. He needed things to be
okay--needed to verify that the things Derek said that night were not true, that this, here and now,
was really what Derek felt.

With a heavy swallow, Derek gently stroked his thumb over the high point of Stiles cheekbone.
Stiles let his eyes fall shut, tilting into the feeling as he heard Derek softly exhale, yeah, youre
pack.

Stiles was pretty sure that, if this were a movie, he would have opened his eyes to Derek kissing
him. Instead, he felt Dereks hand pull away, and just barely heard Derek muttering about being
home for lunch before he was heading out of the house.

Stiles tried to calm his heart, but fuck, he had missed that so much. It was like being away had
increased the sensation tenfold. Just a single touch from Derek had him clammy and shaky,
wanting and wishing for what he couldnt have.

The children--despite Dereks claims that they had been utter hell all week--were on their best
behavior all morning. Stiles almost wondered if they had been replaced by weird alien clones
until Andy had punched Stiles block castle over with a cackle, which was sadly reassuring.

When Derek came home for lunch, Stiles made sure to have everything ready. His heart almost
jumped out of his chest when Derek not only slipped into the kitchen quietly, but came up behind
Stiles at the sink to press a hand against his lower back.

Need any help?

N-no, foods all ready, Stiles rasped, shrugging his shoulder to the four plates on the counter,
just washing my hands.

Derek hummed, we can eat in the living room today. The kids are watching a movie anyway.

Stiles nodded, gesturing for Derek to take the plates, Ill get the drinks, he said, and then started
to dry his hands off while Derek miraculously balanced all four plates full of made-from-scratch
pizza (thank you internet) out into the living room.
Stiles got milk for the twins and water for himself and Derek before remembering Dereks
apparent distaste for water. He poured a cup of apple juice instead--because if Olly got his love of
juice from anyone, it was Derek. The guy had some sort of secret pleasure for the drink. Stiles
knew this because they were always short juice boxes every week no matter how many times he
tried to ration them.

What days do you need off for school? Derek asked, taking the cup when Stiles handed it over
and staring in surprise at the juice inside. He sipped from it, putting on a faux look of
disgruntlement but then taking a second, bigger gulp when he thought Stiles was focused on
setting down Andy and Ollys cups on the coffee table.

Stiles sat himself on the couch, contemplating if he should get napkins and then deciding the
tissues on the end table were good enough. He avoided eye contact with Derek, shrugging and
grabbing the tissue box, I actually have online classes, he admitted weakly, they started two
weeks ago.

Handing Andy and Olly some tissues to wipe the pizza off their face when they were done eating,
Stiles tried not to let his guilt get to him. I yeah. I dont need any days off.

Derek was silent, watching Stiles over the rim of his cup, pizza untouched on the end table beside
him. Stiles felt his heart skip, turning to the TV instead and grabbing the remote so he could crank
up the volume.

A little over halfway through the movie, with the children curled up in between Derek and Stiles,
Olly let out a whine, squirmed, and whispered, I want juice, loudly.

Stiles snorted, reaching out to pat Ollys tummy, of course you do, buddy, he teased, feeling an
overwhelming ache of fondness for him. Derek reached for the remote, pausing the movie while
Stiles stood up to take in the dirty dishes and get some juice. Stiles could hear the children asking
Derek random questions, mostly because The Princess Bride had a lot of stuff that went over their
heads.

Stiles filled up Ollys cup and then Andys as well. Just for good measure, he did the same with
Dereks, sipping some off the top and then heading back into the living room.

Here you go, my darlings, Stiles said, dramatically handing over the cups. Derek stared blankly
when Stiles tried to give him the juice, taking it gingerly and looking surprised that Stiles had even
thought of him as well. Stiles, feeling smug, wriggled back into his seat and grabbed the remote
control to try and find the play button.

Derek made a pained choking noise and Stiles glanced up from the remote. You okay, dude?

Marry me, Derek gasped out, just as Stiles hit the play button.

Stiles fumbled the remote, dropping it and whipping his head around to stare at Derek. He felt
lightheaded, like he was trapped in a dream as the movie played loudly and Dereks eyes never
once wavered from where they were locked with his own. What? he breathed out on a half-
whimper, desperate for something to make sense.

Putting his cup down, Derek sucked in a sharp breath, We dont have to-- I just want you to stay
in our lives. Nobody else knows us, no one understands us. I know you dont feel that way about
me, and thats okay, I understand. I dont expect--

Who says I dont feel that way about you? Stiles felt hysterical, like he was about to shatter into
a thousand tiny pieces if he didnt remember to breathe. Derek went deathly still, face
expressionless in that way that always meant he was too overwhelmed to react. I mean, if you
want to be heterosexual life partners, I guess we could Stiles trailed off, suddenly feeling
unsure the more Derek went without responding.

Olly lifted his head, tilting it and frowning, Stiles? Yuh heart is goin super fast, he pointed out,
pressing a worried little hand to Stiles chest.

Im fine, Olly, Stiles muttered, his voice wavering as he continued to watch Derek for any sign
of reaction. Im just excited.

Ill fix it, Derek blurted, it needs more juice.

What?

Derek leapt to his feet, you need more juice to help your heart, he grabbed Stiles wrist,
wrenching him to his feet and dragged into the kitchen. Stiles stumbled, wanting to laugh and cry
and leap in the air all at once. He was dizzy with so many sensations that it took all his self control
not to break into hysterics. Derek cared about him. Derek wanted him-- and suddenly everything
was brighter and more intense than Stiles could ever recall.

They hit the kitchen and Stiles had a half second to head for the fridge to actually get juice when
Derek pressed him up against it. Stiles sucked in a sharp breath, blinking and opening his eyes just
as Derek pressed their lips together in a near frantic kiss. Stiles mouth parted, gasping out the
startled noise that had been bubbling up and having it muffled into the seam of their lips. Derek
dug his hands into Stiles short hair, clutching to his head and kissing and kissing until Stiles was
sure he was going to die from the overpowering passion that came with it.

Stiles pawed at Dereks shirt, curling his fingers around the silk tie hed decided to wear and using
it as a means of grounding himself. Dereks tongue flicked out, licking at his top lip and then
nipping before kissing apologetically at his mouth in urgent butterfly touches that grew deeper and
deeper with each passing second.

Arching, Stiles vaguely registered the sound of some of the pictures getting knocked off of the
fridge when Derek shoved a hand up under his shirt. Stiles gasped, teeth scraping at Dereks
mouth and then biting at them instinctively.

Stiles, you knocked down princess daddy! Andy whined from the entry. Stiles jerked back so
fast his head cracked against the fridge door while Derek shoved his face into Stiles throat,
panting heavily. Stiles' head roared in pain and a wave of nausea hit him as he struggled to say
something without sounding like he'd just concussed himself.

Sorry Andy, Stiles croaked, uh why dont you go back and watch the movie?

I want more juice, Olly chirped, holding his cup in the air and Stiles really hoped that their angle
made it look like Derek was just vigorously scent marking him and not shoving his tongue down
Stiles throat. The throbbing in his head made it hard to focus without squinting, but Stiles
studiously tried to ignore it as best he could.

Letting his hand fall out from under Stiles shirt, Derek sighed and turned to take the cups from the
children. You get water, he said firmly, and Stiles had a feeling it was more as to get his revenge
for interruption than to actually moderate their sugar intake. Considering the juice was sugar-free,
Stiles was pretty positive, actually, and that made him extremely giddy to think about.

Stiles got himself a cup of water and took one of his painkillers while Derek helped the children.
When he tried to go back into the living room with Andy and Olly, Derek dragged him back with
 a hand on his bicep. Stiles was a little more prepared this time for the kiss, but was still thrown for
a loop when Derek kissed him slow and desperate this time. His hand was hot against the back of
Stiles neck, lips touching Stiles with a near-reverence that left Stiles shaking in a way he had
never experienced. He brought a hand up, clutching Dereks wrist and kissing back with
everything he had.

This time, when Derek pulled away, he pressed their foreheads together. Please stay, he
breathed, eyes closing and taking in a deep breath, please stay forever.

Nothing could have prepared Stiles--no amount of wishing and daydreaming and hoping could
have ever prepared him to hear those words. He choked, sobbing out a laugh and nodding tightly,
yeah, he chuckled, jesus, Derek, yes Ill fucking stay. You jackass--how the fu--

Derek kissed the curses right from his mouth, their teeth clacking from matching grins. Stiles
didnt want it to ever end.

Chapter End Notes

*pops confetti*
 Chapter 16
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

No matter how much it all seemed like some kind of fantastical dream, Derek still had to go back
to work eventually. Until then, Stiles would remember this as probably the best hour of his life,
even if all he did was curl up against Dereks side in front of the television with Olly and Andy in
their laps. It was the little things that made Stiles heart pound; the way Derek would randomly
kiss the back of his ear, or rub a hand up his side and rub his nose against the back of Stiles head.

When the phone call finally came--no doubt Erica or Peter having a fit about Derek being over an
hour late from his lunch break-- Derek went utterly still, palm hesitating halfway to rubbing up
Stiles side. Stiles tilted his head up from where it was pressed into Dereks chest. Dont you
need to answer that?

Reluctantly, Derek reached into his pocket, pulling out his cell and answering it with a grim, this
is Hale.

Stiles couldnt pick up what the person on the other line was saying, too distracted by Olly
wriggling and grunting in an attempt to burrow even further into the small space between Derek
and Stiles bodies. Stiles reached a hand up, petting Ollys head and tucking a few locks of hair
behind his ears as Derek finally hung up on whoever hed been talking to. It didnt take a genius
to know what the conversation had been about, and Stiles sat up slowly.

Gotta go back to work?

Yeah Derek shifted, trying to maneuver the children off of his lap. Andy and Olly let out
identical whines of protest (ones that Stiles kind of wanted to echo with his own) but willingly let
their father up off of the couch.

While Derek went to get his things together, Stiles made himself comfortable on the couch now
that he was the only pillow left for the children. Olly was yawning loudly, fingers curled into
Stiles shirt, and Andy wasnt much better with the way she kept stretching and then flopping
against him. Once Derek left for work, Stiles would probably put them down for their naps and
maybe take one of his own to help with the mild throb of a headache that hed had for the past
hour.

Derek came back in with his suit jacket and tie in place, bending down to kiss Olly and Andy on
the head. Stiles grinned crookedly, feeling a little awkward, and opened his mouth to say goodbye
when Derek hooked a hand behind his neck and pulled him into a slow, loving kiss.

Stiles breath hitched, lips tingling as Derek leaned back just enough to mutter, see you tonight,
before he stood up, smiled fondly down at them, and then headed out the door.

For some reason, despite the fact that it was a sentence Derek had said hundreds of times, it felt
like there was a heap of implications beneath it when Dereks hand had been burning hot against
his skin and his teeth had just barely nipped the corner of Stiles lips.

Stiles head was still reeling even by the time both Andy and Olly had drifted off to sleep. Their
snores were soft against the hum of the television, and Stiles suddenly felt wide awake. Finally
alone to his thoughts since early that morning, he couldnt help but think over the insanity that was
his day so far. Dereks words rolled around in his head on repeat until Stiles was practically
itching inside of his own skin. He maneuvered around the sleeping lump formerly known as
Andy, grabbing his phone out of his pocket and giving into the temptation to text Derek.

could we put off the wedding until after I graduate.

Though the text was meant as a joke, Stiles nearly dropped his phone when Dereks reply popped
up to read, as long as it isnt a spring wedding.

It made him grin like a total idiot. Yeah, they had a ton of issues to work out--and Stiles knew
right now that they were both avoiding the huge elephant in the room that was what had occurred
the week prior--but he didnt care right now. He didnt care because he had missed this banter
almost as badly as hed missed the children. He never thought hed be able to have this; be able to
flirt so openly with Derek and have no fear of repercussions.

breaking my heart, buddy.

only the best for the super nanny. Derek texted back not a minute later. Stiles snorted so loud that
Andy whined and rubbed her face against his stomach--smearing drool everywhere. He felt a
sharp pang somewhere deep in his stomach. These children were Dereks, but they were also HIS.
Derek wanted him to be a part of their lives. Their family. Fuck. It was so much all at once. but it
felt so right that Stiles wasnt even terrified at the intimacy of it all.

He sat up, setting his phone on the couch so he could pick Andy up first, carrying her to her room
and tucking her in for her nap before doing the same with Olly. It wasnt the first time Stiles
wished he had a camera; utterly endeared at the sight of Olly hanging from his arms like dead
weight and snoring softly.

After tucking Olly in, Stiles headed back into the living room and sat down with his phone in both
hands. He stared at Dereks last message, fingers hovering the keys while trying to think of what
to say. There were so many different ways he could take the conversation in that moment, but
there was only one way he really wanted to steer it.

do you kiss most of your nannies? Stiles sent it before he could stop himself, exhaling the nervous
breath stuck somewhere in his chest and pulling up Scotts name on his contact list. He was in the
middle of asking if Scott was free to hang out later in the week when his phone buzzed with
Dereks reply.

only you.

Stiles face split into a grin, cheeks hurting as he hurriedly answered with, good.

He might have graduated three years ago, but Stiles suddenly felt like he was in high school all
over again. Realizing his last message was, essentially, an awkward conversation ender, Stiles sent
Derek another text telling him, just put the kids down. They were totally wiped.

Scott texted Stiles back with an affirmative, listing when he was free from work and class, and if
Isaac could hang as well. Stiles let him know it was okay before opening the text hed gotten from
Derek.

its good theyre sleeping. They havent slept well in the past week.

Guilt hit Stiles right in the middle of the chest, knowing it was his fault that Olly and Andy had
gone through such a rough week. If only hed gone about it better--or if hed waited until things
had calmed down instead of running away.

Im sorry.
dont be. Derek responded immediately.

It was frustrating that Derek didnt know how to accept an apology, that he constantly took the
blame for everything--even if they were both at fault. im sorry because I shouldnt have up and
quit like that. It was stupid.

given what I remember from that night, you had every reason to quit.

Anxiety crushed around Stiles like an invisible fist, recalling the way Derek had sounded, the pain
of being pressed up against the house, how the autumn wind had been the only thing to soothe the
flush of humiliation in his face. did you mean what you said? About hating me? That I was in the
way?

Stiles turned the television on, flipping nervously through stations and almost dropping his phone
when Derek finally responded. no. jesus no. I dont even remember why I said it. I thought you
didnt want me. I was being a drunk idiot.

I figured. Hed hoped.

if you dont want to do this I understand.

He stared at his phone in disbelief, starting at least eight different messages that were some varying
degree of self-depreciating before he realized what Derek was really doing.

are you giving me an out?

yes.

The anxiety that had been taking hold of him was replaced with anger and frustration. He didnt
want this to be how every conversation went; with Derek doing something, hating himself, and
then never apologizing because he was so focused on what hed done wrong that he didnt even
think about how to properly fix it. Stiles had no idea if it was a pride thing, or if Derek had just
never thought that an apology would solve anything and therefore didnt try.

well fucking dont. im not leaving. And fuck you for thinking I would.

Stiles dropped his phone on the couch, standing up and taking a deep breath. Getting angry wasnt
going to get anywhere because Derek would just get hostile right back. Hed found that out plenty
of times already. Heading into the kitchen, Stiles got himself some juice, pouring half a cup and
sipping at it until he didnt feel so aggravated. There was no way he was going to turn this into
another argument--not if he could help it, and not so soon after they had just gotten things out in
the open.

His head started to throb and Stiles rubbed at the back of his skull, counting to five. He put his
juice on the counter, heading back into the living room to hear his cell phone buzzing loudly as
someone called him. Stiles wasted no time in snatching it up, barely glimpsing at Dereks name
before he answered with, shouldnt you be working?

You have every right to want to leave, Derek didnt just say it, he practically demanded that
Stiles just accept what he was saying.

Stiles curled his hand into a fist before shoving it into his pocket. He stood for a moment, jaw
clenching before he turned and dropped down onto the couch.. Why? Because running away is
the perfect solution, right? he snapped back bitterly.
Youre not running away, Derek protested.

But YOU are, Stiles tried to keep his voice down, tried to keep himself calm if only for the sake
of his growing migraine.

Im giving you options! Derek cried, voice loud even through the phone.

What makes you think I need them? I left because I thought you didnt want me anymore--not
because I didnt want to be with you and definitely not because of the children!

Look, Im sorry, okay!

Stiles choked, his heart seizing in his chest and all the air leaving him in a whoosh. It was like a
massive weight had been taken off of him. The burning in his gut that had been there during the
entire conversation was gone so suddenly that Stiles had to lay back against the couch just to
process the sheer relief he was being overwhelmed with.

A soft, pained sound came from the other line, Stiles?

Stiles breathed--really breathed-- for the first time in over a week, his voice shaking when he
uttered, thats all you had to say.

Derek was quiet for a long time before he finally blurted, Im so fucking sorry. I should have
never put you through that.

Stiles made a strangled noise, scrambling for the words to articulate what he needed to say. They
all caught in his throat, half-formed sounds that sounded pathetic even to his own ears.

Tell me, Derek urged, sounding so earnest that it would have been possible for Stiles to ignore
him.

Sagging into the couch, Stiles mumbled, youd better get me a nice wedding ring if I have to talk
about feelings.

Would you like to have batman engraved on it? Derek teased, and it shouldnt have made Stiles
heart clench the way it did, but the fact that Derek remembered Stiles obsession with the Batman
franchise was enough to make his stomach flutter all over again.

Does that mean youll be my superman?

If you want.

Stiles knew he was grinning like an idiot, fiddling with the remote control and thumbing
mindlessly over the buttons. Derek was quiet, waiting for Stiles in that obnoxiously patient manner
that always made Stiles skin crawl with the urge to just talk the silence away. He sighed,
dropping the remote onto his leg.

Im not good with family, he croaked, Its always been me and my dad since my mom died.
Im just this annoying babysitter and youre going to realize that and get tired of me one day,
there it was--the thing that had been hiding in the back of his mind, haunting his every action no
matter how much he ignored it.

Derek doesnt saying anything, and the longer hes quiet, the more anxious Stiles started to get.
He curled his hands into fists, unclenching them and feeling the tingle in his nerves. Yeah, its
stupid, he mumbled, sorry--never mind. I just think too mu--
What do you think of a winter wedding?

Stiles choked on a laugh because yeah, of course Derek wasnt good at this either. Neither of them
had much track record for previous relationships--and Stiles was amazed he was just figuring that
out.

Okay, but Im not wearing a dress, he said.

Already wore one once, Derek replied dryly, its your turn.

Aw, but you make such a beautiful princess, Stiles cooed with mock sorrow, picking up the
remote again and bouncing it against his knee.

Andy is the princess.

Stiles heart clenched, yeah. Yeah she is.

--and youre her prince. Derek added solemnly.

Yeah, Stiles snorted, overwhelmed with a sudden affection for Derek and his tiny pack of two,
Im a regular prince among wolves.

Derek huffed in amusement, his voice gentle as he muttered, will you stay tonight?

Stiles couldnt say yes fast enough.

After Derek hung up to go back to work, Stiles felt like the entire day was dragging to a point
where he found himself constantly checking the time. When Derek finally came in through the
front door, Stiles had to stop himself from jumping up with Andy and Olly as they ran screaming
through the house for their father.

Derek lifted both children up with a grin, peppering their faces with the exact kind of playful
kisses that made kids squeal and squirm. Stiles came over at a more sedate pace, hesitating just a
few feet away when he realized that he had absolutely no idea how to greet Derek now that they
were together. Derek glanced up from where he was scenting Ollys cheek, watching Stiles
calmly.

He must have looked like an idiot, standing there when hed worked for Derek for months and
what they had now was beyond just a fling or a tester relationship. Dragging in a breath of
encouragement, Stiles grinned, welcome home, he chirped, crossing the distance and giving in
to the desire to finally kiss Derek hello like hed always dreamed about.

Pulling back, Stiles had a good second to admire Dereks dumfounded look before the man was
lurching forward--completely ignoring Andy and Olly in his arms--to kiss Stiles back. Stiles heart
leapt up into his throat and he grinned against Dereks mouth, tempted to sneak in a bit of tongue
when Olly shrieked, ewwww!

No, Stiles! Its my turn with daddy! Andy shouted, her little fingers pushing at Stiles face until
he was forced to pull back so that Andy could rub her cheek happily against Dereks. Stiles
laughed, his chest feeling like it was going to explode from some kind of weird, exhilarated
sensation.

Pinching Andy's cheek, Stiles wiggled his hand a little, youre lucky youre a princess, otherwise
Id send you to the dungeons for hogging your daddy, he teased, having exactly one second of
composure before he cracked up laughing at the scandalized look on Andys face.
Opening his eyes to see Derek staring at him only made Stiles face burn and the back of his neck
tingle. He smiled, feeling ridiculously shy for no reason, and gestured to the kitchen, hungry?

Starving, Derek agreed, sniffing the air with a hum when he caught the scent of pork chops
wafting through the house. They settled down at the table, the room filled with the clinking of
silverware and the muffled chatter of Andy and Olly attempting to tell Derek about their day while
also fitting as much mashed potatoes as they could into their mouths.

After dinner, Andy and Olly sat at the table with a pack of crayons and coloring books while
Stiles cleaned up the dinner dishes and Derek disappeared to take a shower. It was almost the
same routine theyd always had, the only difference being when Derek emerged dressed in a pair
of sweatpants and nothing else. Stiles was trying to scrape at an unruly pan when warm arms
slipped around his stomach, Dereks chin resting on his shoulder.

Missed you, Derek mumbled tiredly, giving Stiles a gentle squeeze. Stiles, even though his heart
was thundering in his chest, turned to rub his nose against Dereks--because he could.

You were only gone for a few hours, dude, he pointed out.

Derek sighed, pulling away but not before planting a kiss behind Stiles ear, I meant this past
week, he said, and then went to join Andy and Olly at the table.

When bedtime finally rolled around, the both of them crowded onto Andys bed with her and
Olly. Derek narrated the story, letting Stiles help with the voices until they were interrupted by
sleepy snuffles. Stiles almost didnt want to get up--curled tight into Dereks side with Andy and
Olly just within arms reach. He scooted off the bed, lifting Olly and carrying the sleeping child to
his room to tuck him in. Olly, of course, woke up just enough to demand two kisses and for Stiles
to close his closet door before he went back to sleep.

By the time Stiles was back out in the living room, Derek was waiting for him. He hesitated,
struck again by that anxious feeling of not knowing what to do. Gesturing vaguely, Stiles
shrugged, I guess Ill get some homework done if you want to watch TV or something?

Stiles headed for his backpack sitting against the couch when Derek gently grabbed his wrist--just
tight enough to keep Stiles from immediately pulling away. Stiles hesitated, looking up as Derek
asked, is it due tomorrow?

Swallowing, Stiles shook his head, not until next week.

Derek stared for a long moment, eyes searching Stiles and his fingers loosening like he was
waiting for Stiles to pull away. Stiles didnt, and he soon found himself being tugged closer to
Derek. He walked forward, letting himself be pulled in until they were kissing; each second slow
and aching and everything that Stiles had been waiting for.

Wrestling his wrist free from Dereks hold, Stiles cupped his face, fingers scraping against two-
day stubble as his lips parted, pushing and nipping with increased fervor. Stiles moved, coaxing
Derek into walking back until he was crowded up against the hallway wall. Stiles felt greedy and
overwhelmed at all once to know this was something he could have--something he could do all
day, whenever he wanted.

Derek pulled away, indulging Stiles when he surged forward to steal one last kiss, and then
smiled. It wasnt a big smile, just an upturn at the corner of his lips, but it was one meant only for
Stiles eyes and that alone was enough to rob the air from his lungs.

Come on, Derek said quietly, grabbing Stiles hand and heading for his bedroom.
Stiles felt like his skin was wired up to an electrical socket, nerves alight with nervous anxiety as
they tumbled into Dereks bed, lips crashing together once more. Stiles straddled Dereks hips,
hands trying to reach everywhere all at once while Derek mostly focused on the press of their lips
and the gentle scrape of his fingers against Stiles scalp.

Curling his fingers into the elastic of Dereks sweatpants, Stiles started to tug them down when
Derek jerked, gasping, wait, wait, and grabbed Stiles hand. Stiles leaned back, breathing
heavily and feeling a sense of panic well up inside of him.

Whats wrong?

Derek shifted his hand, sliding it down Stiles arm until he could lace their fingers together. I I
need to take this slow, he rasped, looking up at Stiles and frowning, we justI need this to not
be about sex.

Shame hit Stiles like a punch to the gut. He glanced at their hands, thumbing over Dereks
knuckles and nodding, yeah, dude. I get it. I mean-- we dont have to if you dont want to.

I want to, Derek interrupted, but the last time I rushed into sex, things didnt exactly turn out
that great.

Kate. Of fucking course. She didnt even have to be near them and she was still in their lives.
Stiles swallowed, nodding again, yeah, no, it makes sense. We just got together today--

Derek reached out, cupping Stiles cheek and forcing him to look up so that they locked eyes,
weve been together for a while, I think, even if we didnt realize it.

It didnt make a lot of sense to point that out if Derek was trying o argue as to why they needed to
take it slow. Stiles opened his mouth to say as much, but Derek was pulling his hand in to kiss
Stiles knuckles. Andy and Olly love you. If it werent for you, I dont know where I would be--
probably still working fifty hour weeks and taking Andy to sessions with a therapist who cared
more about money than her happiness. Olly would still be crying all the time because I wouldnt
know how to talk to him, and my family would be falling apart. You kind of saved us.

Stiles was pretty sure hed forgotten how to breathe, watching as Derek rubbed the very edge of
his lips over each finger. Derek was looking at him as he did it, holding Stiles palm like it was
made of cherished glass.

This is new, for the both of us. If if I have all of you at once, Ill be distracted and I cant
afford that with the children and my job right now.

It was probably the most flattering, unrealistically loving thing Stiles had ever heard in his life--and
it was most likely true. Stiles face split into a grin, crawling up Dereks body and dropping down
until he was draped on top of him.

You like me, he sang airily, nose bumping Dereks chin as he tried to get comfortable, you like
me a lot.

Derek quirked an eyebrow, I thought that was established.

Mmmh, but hearing it wouldnt hurt, Stiles shifted, kissing at Dereks throat before he squeaked
when Derek snagged the back of his neck and pulled his head up.

I like you, Derek growled, kissing him, I like your awful taste in movies, another kiss, this
time with a nip of his teeth, I like your laugh, your smile, the way you hold my children, the way
you argue with me and can be so fucking annoying because youre always right-- Derek rolled
 them over, ignoring Stiles laughter to push him down into the mattress and kiss away his smiles.
Stiles threw his arms around Dereks neck, snickering whenever Derek made one last guttural
noise of irritation and muttered, I like that you like me, before focusing on the press of their lips.

They had all the time in the world, Stiles realized, because there was no rush to any of it. Each
kiss was as languid as the last; soft touches and softer caresses that were more intimate than
sexual. Even when Derek nibbled at his throat, sucking gently and kissing over the red welt that
Stiles knew would be there the next day, it was just like coming home after being away for an
unbearably long amount of time.

Each touch helped fill in the last pieces to the scattered puzzle that had been Stiles heart for the
past couple of months. Stiles never wanted it to end--wanted to cherish and memorize each second
because he knew things would never be the same after this.

Stiles struggled to stay awake even as his eyes drooped and he spent more time yawning than
actually kissing Derek. He fell asleep feeling warm and full in a way hed never really
experienced before.

Chapter End Notes

and then peter happens.

 Chapter 17

After a week of drizzling autumn weather and hardly any sunlight, Stiles wasnt surprised Derek
took the first dry and sunny day that came to call off work Stiles had his laptop set up on the patio
table, half hidden beneath the porchs awning while Derek rolled around in the yard with Andy
and Olly.

It was really the first time all week that Stiles and the children had really gotten to spend time with
Derek. He was in the last process of splitting ownership with Peter and had spent countless hours
pulling up contract after contract to fine-tune what his uncle could and couldnt access as the new
CFO.

Stiles was trying to finish up his homework as quickly as possible, feeling a sense of longing to
just run out into the yard and join in on the game. Both Andy and Olly were in their beta forms, all
furry cheeks and tiny fangs as they ran screaming around the yard while Derek chased after them.

It was only the second time Stiles had ever seen Derek in any shifted form, and the first time hed
been fully awake for it. To see Dereks eyebrows disappear beneath a pronounced forehead and
for his face to sprout with long sideburns of fur had made Stiles burst out laughing from sheer
surprise. Derek had shot him a particularly dark glower and stomped off into the yard to play with
the kids. He hadnt meant to laugh but it had been a knee-jerk reaction to the change.

Now that hed had some time to think about it, all Stiles could think about was trying to get Derek
in bed and convince him to shift. It would be a new experience to at least kiss Derek when he was
all fangs and pointy ears. It might be fun to pull him in by the fur at his jaws.

Alas, Stiles still had half an essay to write before hed allow himself to play with Andy and Olly.
Derek was on his hands and knees, growling playfully and trying to sound menacing at the same
time. Andy was blindingly fast in her shifted form, dodging Dereks every swipe. Olly, on the
other hand, seemed more focused on screaming and flailing. Stiles had to bite the inside of his
cheek to keep from laughing whenever Derek hauled the boy up into his arms, making loud
chewing noises as he nipped and blew raspberries into Ollys stomach.

It quickly devolved into tickling, with Olly gasping and punching Derek right in the nose so
suddenly that Derek reared back with a startled barking noise. Olly sat up, giggling as Andy
dashed over and grabbed onto her fathers arm.

Doggy daddy! she cried, go doggy daddy, pleeeeeease?

At first, it didnt make sense what she was asking, and then Stiles remembered Derek was an
alpha and almost all alphas had a wolf form. Some were more animal than others, though. Stiles
had never seen Derek in any form other than his beta one.

Derek, rubbing his nose, shook his head. Andy, its not time for doggy daddy, he said gruffly,
leaning down to rub their cheeks together apologetically.

Not wanting to miss an opportunity, Stiles sat up in his chair and called across the yard, I think
its a great time for doggy daddy!

Olly stood up, hopping in front of Derek as he and his sister started to chant, doggydaddy!
together in rapid childspeak until Derek sighed loudly and slumped his shoulders in defeat.

Stiles cheered with Andy and Olly while Derek stood and gave him one of his best glares and
wrenched his shirt off. Stiles gaped--not at the angry shirt throwing, but at the hair that was
rippling and growing down Dereks chest, stomach and arms. It was mesmerizing to watch the
way his shoulders shifted and rolled, hair spreading down his nose and jaw moving forward into
the shape of a snout. Derek turned, back facing Stiles as he started to pull his jeans off with fur
sprouting down his spine. From his tailbone grew more skin, bare at first, but rapidly filling with
fur as it became a long, dark tail.

It was gross, but at the same time it was kind of cool to see Dereks legs and arms begin to shift as
well, bones cracking and rearranging while Derek grunted in discomfort. He got onto all fours just
as the final stages of the shift completed, shaking his body and then stepping out of his underwear
as it fell off his canine body.

Andy let out a loud squeal, climbing onto Dereks back without a second thought. She wrapped
her little hands around his ears, tugging and causing Derek to flinch and whine. Stiles shakily
closed the lid on his laptop, head spinning, and said, Andy, if you pull his ears, youll hurt him.

Sorry, daddy! Andy cried, throwing her hands from his ears and then winding her arms around
his neck to hug him tightly. Dereks tail started to sway to and fro in a half-wag and he began to
trot around the yard like her own personal steed. Olly followed after them, reaching out to grab
gently onto Dereks tail and swing it like a jump rope.

Stiles stood up, overcome with the need to at least touch Derek--to kind of verify that he really had
just witnessed an alphas full form shift for the first time. Olly had moved to try and climb onto
Dereks back as well, but with the way Derek was bracing his legs and shaking with the strain of
letting Olly pull himself up, it was likely his body wasnt designed to support that much weight.

Hey you, Stiles reached out, scooping Olly up and swinging him around, dont you wanna ride
on my shoulders instead? Im way taller than your daddy, and I smell better!

The pout on Ollys face turned into a grin, reaching out in the universal sign for hug me!. Stiles
pulled him in, squeezing tight. See? No wet dog smell here, h--ahh! Stiles yelped at a sharp and
sudden pain on his right butt cheek. He whirled, looking around as Olly and Andy shrieked with
laughter to see Derek bounding away with a madly wagging tail.

Dude, did you just bite me?

Derek yipped and Stiles tush felt very violated all of a sudden. Rude, he snapped, rubbing at
his behind. It didnt really hurt that much--no more than a slap or pinch. In reality, Stiles was
totally okay with booty bites if it meant Derek was feeling playful. Months ago, it was harder than
pulling teeth to even get him to smile.

Watching Stiles and Olly from the other end of the yard, Derek lolled his tongue out while Andy
set her head on top of his and grinned at Stiles. Daddy got you, she sang, on the BUTT!

Stiles growled, far less terrifying than any of Dereks, shifting Olly until he was being
piggybacked. Oh, it is on, buddy. Im going to go Kung-Fu Panda on your furry butt, he said,
crouching onto his knees and then crawling forward.

They played for a good hour, all four of them covered in grass stains as they tussled and rolled
around in the yard until Stiles found himself exhausted and out of breath. He finally had to call for
a breather just to flop against the grass while Andy and Olly played hide and seek with one
another--making sure to keep away from the property line.

Derek trotted over, flopping on the ground beside Stiles and then licking at his elbow. Stiles
picked his arm up and Derek took it as permission to lay his head across Stiles stomach.
Threading his fingers through Dereks thick fur, Stiles pet him tiredly, muttering, Id like it better
if the licking were with human-you, and earning a groaning huff from Derek.

Stiles grinned, tweaking Dereks ear before stroking a palm down his back. He brought one arm
behind his head, sighing and looking up at the clouds, listening to the sounds of Andy and Olly
giggling as they chased one another around the yard.

As badly as Stiles wished that moment could never end, it had to when Dereks ears perked up
and he lifted his head to look towards the house. Stiles sat up and Derek stood to trot back to his
clothes, shifting back and getting dressed without a single word.

Derek? Stiles got up just as Derek wrenched his shirt on over his head, whats up, dude?

Someone just pulled up to the house, Derek explained. Stiles gut sank, knowing their time
together was likely getting cut short by some sort of work related issue. They hustled the children
in the house, just to be on the safe side, and Derek went to answer the ringing doorbell while
Stiles tried to coerce Andy and Olly into taking a bath.

Stiles tried not to think about who could have come over, and hoped desperately that it was no one
that would drag Derek into work for the day. Theyd hardly gotten to spend any time together
since Stiles had spent the night a week ago. What they had was still new and there really hadnt
been a chance to work beyond the usual family time and a stolen kiss here and there.

Andy and Olly finally gave into the bath and were splashing around in the tub with some of their
toys whenever Derek poked his head into the bathroom.

Peters here, he said softly, grinning at the sight of Stiles giving Olly a shampoo mohawk while
Olly drove his plastic space shuttle through the water. Andy chattered to a rubber duck with a
bow, making it float back and forth in her hands.

Stiles brought up a cup of water, tilting Ollys head back to rinse his hair off. Do you have to go
in to work?

No, we just have to revise some paperwork. It should only take an hour or two. Should be done
by lunch.

Oh, alrighty then, Stiles tried not to sound too relieved, shooting Derek a smile, you get on that
and Ill get these two squeaky clean.

Derek nodded, hesitating in the doorway for a second before he left and shut the door. Stiles
washed and rinsed Andys hair next, letting the two of them play about for a little longer before he
drained the tub and busted out the biggest, fluffiest towels in the closet to dry them off with.

Stiles hustled both children back into their rooms, leaving Andy to dress herself (something she
was very adamant in doing on her own) and helping Olly with getting his favorite overalls on and
the shoulders snapped in place. Andy came in once shed pulled on a pale blue dress covered in
purple cartoon flowers and bumblebees, practically climbing all over Stiles with her hairbrush and
clips in hand.

Stiles, can you do my hair? she pleaded, waiting for Stiles to sit on Ollys bed before clambering
up into his lap. Stiles took the brush, holding it up and sighing.

It would sure be nice if someone said please around here, he said dramatically, grinning.

Andy reached up and grabbed his cheeks, pulling on them and whining out a long and needy,
puh-leeeeeeeease? that completely melted Stiles heart.
Okay, fine, but only because you said please, he brushed her hair, even though there wasnt yet
much of it, and curled the long bits behind her ears, sweeping her bangs to the side and out of her
eyes. He fastened the two candy colored clips on the side of her head, making sure they helped to
hold some of her bangs from her face, and gave her a pat on the shoulder to let her know he was
all done.

Can we play tea-time?

Ask Olly if he wants to play tea-time, Stiles gestured to where Olly was rooting around in his
toy bin for the perfect thing to play with. Andy walked over to her brother, kneeling down next to
him and putting her arms around his shoulders.

Olly, will you play tea-time with us?

Okay, Olly agreed, picking up a giant rubber shark, can Chomp play?

Chomp can play.

Olly grinned, wiggling the shark around and then turning in Andys arms to hug her back. Stiles
breath caught in his throat, overwhelmed for no reason at all as they rubbed their cheeks together
and then stood to hurry into Andys room to find her tea set.

Derek and Peter were sitting at the kitchen table when Stiles and the children came out to set up
their plastic parlor. Stiles had Andy and Olly pick spots around the coffee table instead, reminding
the both of them to keep quiet as a place was made for Andy, Olly, Stiles, Chomp and Rapunzel.

It was only ten minutes after Andy had poured Stiles first cup of fake tea when Derek abruptly
stood, shoving his chair away.

I think I can read this without your help, he hissed, stacking the papers together and plucking his
glasses from his face. Stiles couldnt help but watch, confused, as Derek brushed past his uncle
and headed for his study, slamming and locking the door and leaving Peter standing awkwardly in
the kitchen.

Not wanting to get caught staring, Stiles quickly turned back to Andy and Olly, and pretending to
sip his tea. He kept one pinky out, listening to Andy explain to her brother the importance of not
letting dragons have any of your cookies and how they could explode if they ate too many.

Is it all cookies or just chocolate chip? Stiles asked, plucking a plastic chocolate chip cookie
from the toy plate in the center of the table and dipping it into his invisible tea. Andy huffed,
tucking some hair behind her ear.

All of em, duh, she sighed, rolling her eyes.

Stiles didnt realize Peter had come into the living room until the man suddenly piped up from
behind them.

If I recall correctly, Derek has two sons.

Stiles went still, calmly setting his cookie down after he bit into it and peering at Peter over his
shoulder. Its okay, everyone makes mistakes.

Andy prattled on obliviously, chastising Olly for sipping his tea without his pinky poking out.
Peters gaze was sharp and calculating, watching the children in a way that made Stiles skin
crawl with anxiety. He turned his focus to Stiles, smiling thinly. I see. Well, this behavior is to be
expected. After all, mental illness does run on their mothers side of the family.

Shocked, Stiles gaped at the man, eyes darting to Andy. It was a huge relief to see she hadnt
really paid attention to what Peter was saying, too busy trying to figure out how to make a shark
hold onto a teacup to really listen in on grownup conversation. Looking back at Peter, Stiles felt a
surge of protectiveness overcome him and clutched to his cup.

I dont know, man. Derek turned out okay and hes related to you.

Must have skipped a generation, Peter said airily. Stiles gave Peter the tightest, most simpering
grin he could manage, mentally reminding telling himself he couldnt get mad. This guy was
Dereks uncle and Stiles knew it would be treading thin ice to cause any sort of confrontation if he
could help it. It didnt help that the whole situation felt like some sort of test--like Peter was just
seeing how far he could push before Stiles snapped.

Unca Peet, do you wanna play? Andy asked suddenly, holding up her teapot and waving it
around. Peter came closer, palm resting over the back of the couch and then wiping some
imaginary dust or lint from it.

Im sorry, dear, but Uncle Peter doesnt like to play girl games because hes a boy.

Even though Andy shrugged, unbothered by it, Stiles couldnt help but slam his teacup down on
the table. His throat felt painfully tight and he had to swallow before he could force out the words.

You know, I think Uncle Peter has something he needs to go do, he said with as much false
cheer as he could muster. Turning to face the aforementioned man, Stiles narrowed his eyes and
said firmly, you can leave. Now.

Peter didnt even bat an eye, tilting his head in a fashion eerily similar to the way Derek would
sometimes do. I think Im fine right where I am.

The way Peter would deflect Stiles words like they were meaningless made Stiles skin crawl in a
bad way. He wanted to punch this guy in the face, or at least have Derek do the punching. The
problem there was that if Derek got pulled into this, it would only escalate. He had to try to control
the situation--before Peter did something to upset Andy or even Olly. Stiles was not in the mood
to have his great day ruined by Dereks antagonistic uncle.

Hey Andy, Stiles began, why dont you go show Olly how to braid your big Rapunzels
hair? he suggested. Big Rapunzel was what theyd taken to calling this larger head model with
hair you could brush and style. It sat on Andys vanity and had been used many times to teach
both Derek and Stiles how to braid hair in anticipation for when Andys would grow out.

Andy pouted, but were having tea time!

Andy, Stiles repeated firmly, please.

She seemed to catch on that Stiles wanted them to leave the room. Even for a four year old, Andy
had a sharp wit when she wanted to. She also had a streak of sass bigger than Dereks on a bad
day, because she let out a dramatic sigh of, okay, and rolled her eyes, taking Ollys hand and
leading him towards her bedroom.

Stiles waited until he heard her bedroom door shut and then pushed himself to his feet. He kept his
voice low, for once grateful for the soundproofing Derek had put in his office to help drown out
distracting noises. Just because youre Dereks uncle doesnt mean you can say crap like that
about his kids and think its okay.
Peter quirked an eyebrow, shrugging innocently. I was only making an observation.

Yeah, well you can observe the door, Stiles snapped, and how easy it is to walk right out.

Chuckling, Peter shook his head and turned around with a dry chuckle. At first, Stiles thought he
was actually going to leave, but he was only disappointed to see the man wandering back towards
the kitchen. Stiles followed, watching as Peter picked up a framed photo of Andy and Olly that sat
next to the coffee maker and inspected it. I dont know why you feel the need to be offended, he
said, putting the picture down and looking back at Stiles.

They arent even your children.

Stiles gut bottomed out, hands curling into fists as Peter kept talking.

Given how unfortunate their conception was, Im amazed my nephew even hired you in the first
place. Youre just a human, you see. You could never love and protect them the way--

Peter didnt have time to finish before Stiles fist was flying towards his face. The only issue was
that Stiles was just a human, and Peter wasnt. He grabbed Stiles wrist, wrenching on it so fast
that Stiles tripped forward. It was a blur of movement before a hand caught the back of his neck
and Stiles face was slammed into the marble counter. Stiles head flared in pain, his shoulder
screaming when Peter shoved his arm behind his back. Stiles gasped, clenching his eyes shut and
wheezing.

Peter bent in close, waiting until Stiles stopped squirming before he spoke into the shell of Stiles
ear. Dont think youre important to this family. Youre just the means to an end--someone to
keep the children out of Dereks hair while he does his job.

Fuck you, Stiles spat, jerking and trying to break free of Peters iron grip. He wanted to scream
and yell for Derek, but he knew for a fact that starting a fight between Derek and his uncle was
the worst thing that could happen at that moment.

Chuckling, Peter dragged his nose along Stiles neck, murmuring, why bother? My nephew
seems to be doing a good enough job of that on his own.

Stiles clenched his teeth, breathing heavily through his nose as the hand that wasnt holding Stiles
arm hostage came up, pulling at the collar of Stiles shirt to expose his throat. You have so much
potential, you know. Ive seen the way youve changed him--the way youve manipulated my
family and wormed your way into their lives. a sharp claw traced the vein in Stiles throat,
sharp and dangerously close to cutting his flesh open. Suddenly, the touch was gone as Peter
pulled away.

I should thank you, Peter mused, watching Stiles push himself off of the counter and roll the
pain out of his shoulder. After all, if it werent for you, I wouldnt have a single say in the
company and my poor nephew would still be working those long, stressful hours.

All hope Stiles had of telling Derek later went crashing to the ground. He stared, chest aching with
the stomach-burning realization that Peter was right. They both knew if Derek found out about
anything that had just occurred that he would throw Peter out the door and that things would go
back to the way they had been months ago.

And fuck if that doesnt hurt. Stiles didnt even have to question the knowledge that Derek would
go to the ends of the earth to protect his family, even if that meant almost killing himself by
doubling up his workload again just to keep Peter out of their lives.

The door to Dereks office opened just as Stiles was rubbing away the last of the soreness from his
cheek. His glasses were sliding down his nose, paperwork in hand as he muttered under his breath
and used a pen to keep from losing his place.

Peter pressed a hand to Stiles shoulder, giving it a squeeze that should have been reassuring but
felt more like a warning. Stiles wanted to wrench away, but Derek glanced up at that exact
moment. He frowned, head tilting to the side.

Is everything all right?

Stiles swallowed, his heart going into double-time and causing Peters thumb to dig in painfully.
When Dereks eyes narrowed suspiciously, Stiles blurted, yeah, peachy keen, and practically
wrenched his shoulder free.

He hurried out of the room, sidestepping Dereks reaching hand without thinking. If Derek
touched him, hed break and tell Derek everything. He couldnt afford that--he had to at least wait
until there was a chance for him to explain things in a way that he could at least keep Derek from
doing something irrational in his anger.

Stiles could feel Dereks eyes on him the entire time, following him until Stiles finally slipped into
Andys room to see them on the bed with one of Andys books between the two of them. Shutting
the door, Stiles let out a weary sigh and took a second to let the sound of Andy and Olly bickering
over how to say certain words be used as a calming agent.

The shaking in his hands didnt stop right away, and Stiles finally had to walk over and sit down
on the bed because he was overcome with a crashing wave of fatigue. He was so mad and
frustrated that it made his bones ache with the urge to push Peter out of a moving car. The fact that
he was helpless only served to make Stiles feel even more miserable.

Stiles? Andys soft voice distracted him and Stiles looked up to see both children watching him
with worry. Olly pushed away from his sister, crawling over until he could clamber up into Stiles
lap. Stiles wrapped his arms around Olly, giving in to the need to cling tightly to him. Andy came
over quickly, wriggling her way under his arm so that Stiles had an armful of wiggling, fretting
children.

I love you guys so much, Stiles breathed, suddenly terrified at the prospect of somehow losing
this; of losing them. It was irrational and Stiles knew deep down that there was no way hed
willingly give them up again, but the thoughts and the fear were still there.

Olly rubbed his face into Stiles throat and Andy pressed a sloppy kiss to his cheek as they both
made their exclamations of love.

I love you more than Mister Noodles! Olly proclaimed, which was a lot coming from a kid who
was always dragging his stuffed octopus wherever he could go. Andy released a noise of
agreement.

I love you more than Froggy! she cried, more than punzel and Bear too!

Aw, Stiles laughed, feeling teary-eyed, you guys really love me more than all of your toys?

Duh! Andy shouted while Olly nodded. Stiles sniffed, pulling them in tight and giving them a
big squeeze before he started to smother the both of them in big kisses until they were squirming
and giggling from it.

It was amazing how quickly Andy and Olly could bring Stiles mood up. He reached for the book
theyd been reading, settling the children in his lap so they could all see the pages and letting Olly
show him where they had left off.
They stayed in Andys room, reading through two copies of the Bernstein Bears before Stiles
stopped at the sound of the front door shutting. He leaned in, pressing a kiss to Andys temple and
softly asking, is Uncle Peter gone?

Olly and Andy nodded and Stiles sagged in relief.

What did he say to you?

Stiles snapped his head up, breath hitching at the sight of Derek standing in the doorway with a
scowl on his face.

Nothing. Stiles blurted nervously, turning and running his fingers through Ollys hair to try and
keep himself distracted. Just some stupid stuff. I think hes jealous because Im young and
beautiful and hes getting gray hairs.

Derek stepped into the room, hands curling into fists and then uncurling. Stiles, he repeated,
voice slow and stiff, what. Did he say.

Turning away from Olly, Stiles sighed and said again, nothing important, Derek, because he
needed Derek to drop it. He needed time to process the situation and Stiles really wasnt in the
mood to deal with any more werewolf drama if he could help it. Derek didnt move for a long
moment, looking close to infuriated, and then he shut his eyes and forcibly relaxed his shoulders.

When he opened them again, he was calmer, head jerking in a tiny nod of acceptance before
crossing over to sit down on the bed with them.

Andy wasted no time clambering into Dereks lap and getting comfortable with her head pillowed
on his chest. Stiles shifted the book over, wriggling in until his thigh and hip were pressed up
against Dereks. Derek leaned in, turning so that his lips brushed Stiles ear.

Were talking about this later, he murmured.

Yes dear, Stiles hummed, petting Ollys head. He turned, giving Derek a kiss and then surging
forward to steal a second and a third one. Each kiss was longer and lingered more and more until
Dereks frown finally disappeared. Begrudgingly, Derek kissed back the last time and then turned
to pull the book in close and find the sentence that Andy was indicating theyd left off at.

As Derek started to read, Stiles couldnt help but let out a soft sigh of relief to know that, just for a
little while longer, he could have this.
 Chapter 18

Derek narrowed his eyes, leaning in closer to look at the screen of Stiles laptop. It was still early--
the kids digesting their breakfasts in the living room with some reruns of Playhouse Disney. Since
Derek still had a few minutes before he needed to head into work, Stiles had decided it was as
good a time as any to bring up the subject of hormone treatment in Andys future.

Is it dangerous? he asked, shoulder bumping Stiles.

Stiles shook his head, its a hormone blocker, not a remover. It wont hurt her and its completely
reversible. If anything, it gives everyone more time to decide.

Youve thought a lot about this.

I get bored during naptime.

Derek fell silent and Stiles turned back to his laptop to pull up another page detailing hormone
injections.

When she gets estrogen around fourteen or fifteen, thats when she really starts to physically
become a girl Stiles glanced up at Derek, his words trailing off when a pair of lips pressed
against his own. Derek kissed him, slow and lazy, muffling away any and all words that tried to
escape Stiles mouth. Stiles let him, returning the kiss and enjoying the few minutes of alone time
they had. Derek cupped his cheek, giving Stiles one last peck that was loud in the quiet kitchen,
before he finally pulled back with a tiny smile.

Thank you.

For what? Stiles grinned back despite his confusion. Derek shook his head, leaning in and
stealing another kiss.

Being you, he answered, standing up and ruffling Stiles hair. I have to get to work.

Hey, Stiles turned in his seat, watching Derek head for the fridge to grab his protein shake. Is it
cool if some friends come over? Theyre great with kids and well its my best friend--I think
its be good if he got to meet Andy and Olly sometime.

Shaking up his drink, Derek contemplated Stiles request for a moment. Its fine--you mean
Scott, right?

Stiles couldnt help but grin at the fact that Derek actually remembered, yeah, and Isaac too,
probably.

Derek sipped at his protein shake. Dont break anything.

You say that like Im throwing a party.

With you? Derek crossed back over to the table, reaching out to fluff Stiles bangs, its always
a party.

Hah. Youre hilarious, Stiles swatted at Dereks hand, go to work.

Mhm, Derek hummed, snagging Stiles hand and moving it away so he could steal a kiss. Ive
got a lunch meeting, but Ill be home around six, he muttered, releasing Stiles hand and walking
backwards out of the kitchen like he was trying to keep looking for as long as possible.

Stiles rolled his eyes, pulling his phone out to text Scott about coming over.

Isaac and Scott ended up being a hit with the children. Andy took instantly to Isaac, falling in
complete adoration with his clumsiness and ability to construct any castle with her building blocks.
Olly spent a good hour hiding in Stiles side before he finally was coaxed out by Scotts charm
and plethora of knowledge involving sea animals that came from being a veterinary assistant.

While Scott had gotten a lot of family and friend support after hed been turned, Isaac hadnt been
so fortunate--instead falling back to the care system provided by The Center for Lycanthropy
Control and Regulation. It was a little unsettling to see him in awe of Dereks house in the same
way a person would be when interacting with their favorite celebrity.

He settled down after the initial half hour of looking around the house in amazement, finding
himself dragged into a round of tic tac toe with Andy. Scott, on the other hand, switched his focus
from drawing sea animals with Olly, to Stiles.

Dude.

Stiles looked up from his coloring page, huh?

Scott gestured to Stiles person, mouth twisting into a grimace. Olly picked up his crayons and
paper and shuffled over to Stiles to climb into his lap. Stiles made room for him, rearranging
Ollys legs so they were both comfortable and that Stiles could continue coloring even while Olly
took up most of the space in front of him.

I dont know sign language, Stiles pointed out, and I dont think that was actually sign
language, anyway.

Looking thoughtful, Scott shrugged and waved a hand at his throat. I guess I know why you un-
quit.

Stiles hand shot up to his neck, fingers touching where hed completely forgotten that Derek had
eagerly bit and sucked a hickey into his skin that morning when Stiles had shown up. He felt his
skin burn hot--Andy and Olly had been completely oblivious about it and he hadnt thought about
the fact that Scott and Isaac would notice it eventually. A big purpling bruise poking out of his
shirt collar wasnt exactly subtle, after all.

Yeah, Stiles said intelligently, shrugging, I mean, well, you know.

I get it, Scott interrupted, fiddling with his crayon. Youre happy, man.

Huh?

Andy let out a delighted laugh as she beat Isaac for the third time. Isaac stared down at the tic tac
toe paper in confusion.

While Stiles pet Ollys hair absently, Scott gave him a nod. Yeah, I mean. Its hard to explain, I
guess. You just feel better?

What, does being a werewolf come with psychic powers, now? Stiles teased, even though, in a
way, he kind of understood what Scott was trying to say.

Scott rolled his eyes, reaching across the table to steal one of Stiles blue crayons. When you
stopped working for them, you kind of just stopped trying. Like, dude, seriously? I think you only
showered one or two times that week.

I totally showered more than two times. Stiles protested, even though he couldnt honestly
remember if that was true or not. Scott snorted in that way that meant he knew Stiles was lying but
he wasnt going to argue.

Yeah, sure you did, he muttered with a smothered grin. Anyway, me and Allison are gonna go
bowling tonight. Wanna come?

Stiles entertained the idea of turning him down, if only because that meant he could spend some
more time with Derek when he got home, but decided that he missed Scott too much to say no.

Yeah, dude. Im game.

Scotts smile was blinding and delighted, not even dimmed when Olly reached across the table to
take all of his yellow crayons. Cool.

It was a couple hours later when Isaac and Scott left so that Stiles could put Andy and Olly down
for their naps. Scott had to meet up with Allison for a late lunch with her family and Isaac had
laundry to do. Stiles wasnt sure how much of their excuses were true and how much were said in
a panic when Andy started to pitch a fit and run streaking through the house at the mention of
naptime.

Luckily for Stiles stress levels, as soon as Isaac and Scott left, Andy settled down and went to
sleep with much less fuss than shed initially been putting up. Olly was a little easier, if only
because Stiles just had to give him a few extra kisses on the head and tell him how well hed
behaved and that Stiles was proud of him.

The rest of the afternoon up until Derek came home was passed by with hide and seek, a round of
castle, and two hours in the back yard. Even Stiles felt exhausted by the time Derek walked in the
front door and scooped Andy and Olly up for their welcome home kisses. Stiles got a kiss of his
own--which was still something Stiles was trying to wrap his head around--and they all settled
down at the dinner table with the takeout that Derek had brought in with him.

How was work? Stiles put some noodles onto Andy and Ollys plates, making sure to pick out
the onions for Andy as he did so. Derek grunted, making his own plate and shrugging.

Peters been hell, he began. Just hearing Peters name made Stiles gut twist, and if Derek
noticed, he didnt acknowledge more than flitting his eyes up to lock with Stiles before going
back to his plate.

Yeah? Stiles urged quietly, dumping sweet and sour chicken onto his own plate.

Derek paused mid-chew of an egg roll, thought for a moment, and then shook his head. Hes
trying to take more of the company than we agreed on. Idont trust him enough for that.

He does seem a little skeevy, Stiles admitted weakly, he broke Andys doll that one time.

And he did something to you, Derek added, eyes lifting, that you wont tell me.

Stiles gut clenched like lead ice had been dropped into it. He sucked in a sharp breath, forcing a
tight smile and taking a forceful bite of chicken. Nothing to tell, sweetheart.

At Dereks frustrated stare, Stiles ducked his head down and dug into his food.

The subject didnt come up again until after Andy and Olly went down for bed. Stiles was
heading into the living room to pack his things up when Derek caught him by the elbow.

Scotts not picking you up for another hour .

Yeah, but I was gonna get my stuff ready so we could make out for a little bit, Stiles blurted,
because when all else failed, blunt honesty seemed to work well with Derek. Derek made a face
between amusement and exasperation before he sighed.

Are you going to keep avoiding this? Why wont you tell me what he did?

I dont want to, Stiles said truthfully, scrambling for an explanation without bringing up any
inkling of what had occurred. He dragged in a deep breath, pulling Dereks hand from his elbow
and intertwining their fingers. I dont want to because, for once, I would like a few days without
any drama, okay? I justI want to enjoy what I have. So excuse me for trying to keep it that
way.

There was truth in his words, too. He did long for a few days of peace. He wanted just a week or
two where the biggest worry of his life was what to make for dinner, and not who he would have
to go head-to-head with that day.

Derek looked down at their hands and then dragged his eyes up to lock with Stiles. Okay, he
said softly, for now.

Relieved, Stiles grinned and pulled Derek in for a much-deserved kiss.

When Scott finally showed up to pick Stiles up, it was with great reluctance that Stiles woke up
from his power-nap on the couch with Dereks thigh as a pillow. They had been talking about
Andy and Olly starting school next fall, but between the calm atmosphere and Dereks fingers
carding through his hair, Stiles had drifted off like a babe lulled to sleep.

Derek saw him off at the door with a parting kiss and a reminder not to drink too much since he
still needed to watch the twins tomorrow. Scott was driving his moms car (which meant he was
dressed to impress since his beat up beamer left something to be desired on most days) and
greeted Stiles with a wry grin at the sight of his kiss-swollen mouth.

Yeah, dude. You totally turned into one of those pornos where the dad bones the babysitter.

Better than the porn about the lonely cat guy who works at a veterinary clinic. Wait. They dont
have one. Because your life sucks too much to make into a porno.

Scott made an affronted noise, pulling onto the main road. I feel like youre insulting my cats.

Thats what you got from that?

Krypto and BamBam are nicer to me than you are. Scott pointed out, they love me
unconditionally.

I still dont get why you named the cat after the kid and not their dog. You had the potential for a
theme with Krypto.

Dude, Scott cried, weve had this argument like, five times!

Okay, okay. Jeez. Stiles slunk down into his seat, biting back the urge to grin and harp on Scott
just for the sake of being difficult. Hed missed their easy bickering--even if it was over something
as mundane as what Scott had named his cat and why. He had that with Derek, but it wasnt the
same. This, with Scott, was familiar and natural in a way that only came from years of knowing
something. There was also the added aspect that conversations with Scott werent charged with
loads of sexual tension like with Derek.

The car rides conversation went over topics varying from which gaming console was superior, to
the probability of choking on Cocoa Puffs when Scott finally pulled into the bowling alley. Stiles
heart felt lighter than it had in months now that the weight of his and Dereks relationship was
gone and he was able to spend some quality time with his best friend.

That happiness was like breathing a new life into Stiles, giving him a second-wind after an
exhausting day with the twins and trying to avoid discussing Peter with Derek. He couldnt wait
to see Allison and give her the biggest hug to make up for almost two weeks of not being able to
see her.

Stiles excitement at seeing Allison again drained out of him like water through his fingers when
he saw the woman sitting next to her by their lane.

Kate laughed at something Allison said, flicking a few blonde locks over one shoulder and
smiling. Her grin only widened when she caught sight of Stiles and Scott, eyes landing on Stiles
like he was her favorite toy in the world. Stiles didnt feel much better than a mouse caught
between a cats claws, especially when Scott was pushing him forward obliviously. He was pretty
sure the intent was to introduce Stiles to the only person that could effectively ruin his night with
just a few choice threats.

Threats that involved things like Derek, Andy and Ollys wellbeing.

Despite how Stiles feet felt glued to the ground, having a werewolf for a best friend meant that
Scott had no problems manhandling Stiles towards the two women saving their spot.

I need bowling shoes, Stiles squeaked desperately, trying to find at least some reason to avoid
going over to Allison and Kate. Scott huffed.

Dude, you texted me your shoe size earlier, remember? They already got our shoes. Come on,
man. Youre making me look bad. I want her aunt to like me.

Of course, since Scott didnt know about Kates history as being an evil child-snatcher, he would
see nothing wrong with getting on Kates good side. Stiles would really rather not. In fact, the
only side of Kate he wanted to get on was the one where Stiles pushed her off a cliff.

Resigned, Stiles allowed Scott to guide him to their lane, greeting Allisons apologetic look with a
tight smile and taking the bowling shoes she handed him. Kate mostly ignored Stiles in favor of
gushing over Scotts eyes and face and general existence. It made Stiles sick to his stomach--just
thinking of the way she would have used those same words on Derek. Even the idea of her
touching him and being intimate with himit made Stiles stomach burn with unease.

He loved Andy and Olly with all of his heart, but he did not love the woman who gave birth to
them. Just listening to her act like nothing was wrong--talking and teasing with Allison and Scott--
it made Stiles even more determined to keep her away from the children and from Derek. He
wouldnt let her break this family up. He wouldnt let her hurt them again.

Not when they were his now.

Most of Kates behavior stank of falsities, like a front put up to make herself more likable. She
would flick Scotts bangs or squeeze Allison into a sideways hug, but always made sure to
politely include Stiles into the conversation. It was like she was mocking him, saying here I am,
and theres nothing you can do. Im everywhere, poisoning the people you love. Youre helpless.
When Scott decided it was time to get nachos and that he needed Allisons help carrying the food,
Stiles used it as an excuse to escape to the bathroom. There were two restrooms in the bowling
alley, but Stiles went to the one close to the front desk because it was more secluded and had the
added protection of a security camera in every direction. Theyd been installed two years ago and
Stiles was only aware of that fact because his dad had been the one leading the investigation on
the gunpoint robbery that had resulted in the cameras.

He hid in the stalls for ten minutes, texting back and forth with Derek--who was apparently
staying up past his normal bed time. Stiles had no idea why, because even though they were now
in a relationship, Derek was cranky when he didnt get enough sleep, and all they were talking
about was if Nathan Fillion was more entertaining as Captain Hammer or Captain Mal.

When enough time passed that Stiles figured Scott and Allison were back, he stuck his cell into his
pocket and wandered back out of the bathroom. He wasnt expecting to bump into Kate upon
exiting. Then again, it was less of a bump and more of Kate standing outside the restrooms, arms
crossed and shoulder leaning against the wall.

About time. I was starting to think youd drowned yourself from a swirlie or something, she
chuckled. Stiles stiffened, reflexively dropping down a hand to his pocket where hed stuck his
phone. Kate pushed herself up, stepping in close to him. I bet you were the king of swirlies in
high school, right? Getting them, I mean.

If were judging based on personality, Stiles began tightly, Id assume you were one of the kids
who had to pretend to be someone else. Why? I dont know, probably because nobody liked your
real personality enough to be your friend. Its kind of toxic--like that kid in class who never
showers.

The only outward sign that Kate gave to Stiles words affecting her was a thinning of her smirk as
she shouldered herself in close. Come on, sweet cheeks, she said lowly, tell me about those
cute boys. I want to know everything.

You would if you hadnt tried to kill them before theyd been born. If you actually cared about
them as more than experiments.

Kate snorted, rolling her eyes dramatically. He sure does play it up, doesnt he? So how much is
he paying you for this. Youre what, the super nanny with a side of sweet ass for daddy wolf?

Hes not paying me, Stiles hissed, swallowing thickly and then struggling to keep his breathing
calm. Unlike some people, I actually have a heart.

The smirk on Kates face widened as she reached out to flick one of the buttons on Stiles plaid
overshirt. Youd have to be paid to put up with his depressing attitude. Boo hoo, my whole
family died and Im all alone. I dont trust anyone because I have all this responsibility because
Im practically an orphan. Come on, Kate drawled, upper lip curled in disgust. Stiles curled his
hands into fists, willing himself not to break his personal rule on violence against women.

Grabbing the lapel of Stiles overshirt, Kate gave it a tug as she ducked in until to whisper,
whatever hes paying you? I can double it. Just let me see my kids.

Incensed, Stiles pried her hand from his shirt and backed up to try and get around her. You
couldnt pay me five million dollars to let you see those kids. You lost that chance a long time ago,
lady, he snapped, cringing when her hand snapped out and grabbed his shoulder.

Hes got you wrapped around his finger, doesnt he? What are you, a sympathizer? After him
like a bitch in heat Kate snorted, upper lip curling in a sneer, Allison doesnt know any better
yet, but I do. Hell hurt you. Hell kill you one day. They all do. Thats what they do. Theyre
monsters; just a bunch of dogs that will go rabid one day.

Stiles tried to pull his shoulder free but Kate dug her nails in and dragged him close.

Dont touch me! he barked, goosebumps rising up along his arms and the back of his neck. His
entire body was overcome with the need to shudder--to shake off the thing touching him.

Kate smirked, sliding her palm along his chest until her fingers curled loosely around his throat.
She squeezed once in warning before adjusting her hold so it looked more like a lovers caress to
any passerby. I thought all boys loved older women?

Stiles shifted his focus, glancing over Kates shoulder to clarify that, yes, they were in the security
cameras line of sight. Most of his anxiety left him in a rush when he realized it, and it helped to
give him the nerve he needed to put a hand on her collarbone and push with enough force that she
had to lean back out of his space. Yeah, sorry, but Im not really down for an STD from the
silent film era.

The smirk on Kates face dropped into a dark, annoyed look. She moved back into Stiles
personal bubble, brushing her fingers down his chest and grabbing his hip with her other hand.
Honey, you wish you could have some of this.

The only thing I wish for right now is a restraining order, Stiles gritted out, and thats exactly
what Im going to get.

Kate snorted.

No, really, Stiles urged, you should probably check for security cameras more often. I know
they didnt have those during when you and your fellow australopithecans were in their prime, but
hey, times are changing.

In an instant, Kate went from self-assured to taking on a more infuriated and disbelieving
expression. Stiles pointed up and she turned her head.

Installed them two years ago after the second robbery. Snazzy, huh?

Slowly, Kate pulled back. Cute, she huffed, but good luck getting anyone to believe you didnt
want it.

Well, Stiles dug hs hands into his pockets, turning his mouth down in an exaggerated frown,
Im pretty sure my dad will believe me and since hes the sheriff, that really helps my case.

While Kate was in her buffering stage of coming up with a response, Stiles pushed past her to
head back to their lane. He suddenly wanted to be gone--to be anywhere but near Kate or even
Scott or Allison who didnt really understand the situation. He hopped down to where Scott was
sitting and holding Allisons hand, interrupting their coupley-eye-fucking.

Hey, Im not feeling too hot, he said, glancing back to where Kate was heading over, Im
gonna head home. Dereks picking me up.

Aw, dude, really? Scott groaned, mouth opened for more protest when Allison jumped in.

Yeah, thats fine. You know, you were starting to look pretty tired. We can always hang out
later, right?

When Allison glanced over to her aunt warily, Stiles caught on in a moment that she knew exactly
why he wanted to leave. God, he could kiss her for being so brilliant. Scott had to marry her, or
Stiles would disown him.

Yeah, sounds good. Talk later?

Ill call you, dude, Scott promised, just like, gimme your schedule or something, okay?

Will do! Stiles backed up, shoulder-checking Kate accidentally and then waving to Scott and
Allison as he made a beeline for the exit. He fumbled for his phone while he walked, hitting
Dereks number on speed dial and bringing it to his ear.

Did you lose already? Derek answered, sounding just the tiniest bit teasing.

Stiles sucked in a sharp breath and he suddenly wanted to cry just from hearing Dereks voice.
Instead, he blurted, I need you to pick me up.

Dereks tone changed instantly. Are you okay? Is something wrong? There was a rustling on
the other line, like Derek had been lying down before Stiles had called him. Stiles, momentarily,
wondered if hed been playing around on his tablet before tucking in for the night. He tried to
shake that thought, stepping outside and cringing at the cold bite of wind that had been kicking up
all evening.

Mostly, he sighed, I just. Yeah. I ran into someone and I would really rather not be here.

Who?

Stiles entertained the idea of not telling Derek about Katebut hed honestly had enough of lying
to last him a lifetime. Uh. Well. Lets just say the cameras have enough for us to get a restraining
order.

Kate? Derek barked, sounding more shocked than Stiles could ever recall.

If Stiles chuckle was a little hysterical, that was neither here nor there as he laughed and then
whimpered, I dont even know whats gong on with my life anymore.

Dont move, Ill be there in ten. Derek commanded, his voice shaking like he was already
jumping into a pair of pants and hurrying out the door.

Dude, Stiles said faintly, the bowling alley is like twenty minutes away.

Ill be there in ten.

Derek hung up and Stiles stared at his phone, felt a pang of fondness for Dereks gruff form of a
worry-wart, and then dialed his father.

It took two tries before his father picked up, having been preoccupied with finishing the
paperwork for a drunk driver. They chatted about this and that for a moment before Stiles
recapped the entire ordeal at the bowling alley--with a smidge of explanation about Kate and
Dereks history--and then awaited his fathers input.

Sounds like solid evidence for a restraining order, dad muttered, if you want, I can get ahold of
the security tapes from the grocery store you mentioned? Its all electronic now. They should still
have the video stored in their database. If anything, thatll just get you a better ground for your
case.

Youre the best, pops, Stiles grinned, seriously. I love you, like, more than I love video
games.

Thats a helluva lot, son. You sure about that?

Harsh.

Mhmm. I just want you to know were going to go at her with everything weve got, okay?
Nobody touches my son like that and gets away with it.

Stiles felt his heart clench, startled by the sound of tires squealing. He glanced up to see Dereks
camaro peeling into the parking lot and bit down on a smile. So.. Uh about Derek

Nobody touches my son against his will. Dad clarified.

Glad we had this talk. Stiles waved at Derek as he pulled up to the front of the bowling alley.
He headed for the passenger door as his dad muttered things to one of his deputies.

Ive got to get back to work. Ill keep you updated on that restraining order, okay?

Sure thing. Love you.

You too.

Stiles hung up, opening the door to Dereks camaro and sliding into the car. He grinned at Dereks
scowl, reaching for his seatbelt on instinct. Hey--that was my--

Derek grabbed the back of Stiles head, turning it and pulling him into a kiss.

It wasnt like any of their normal kisses. This was one was bruising and demanding as Dereks
palms shoved their way across Stiles face and throat, leaving a burning and claiming path in their
wake.

Stiles returned the kiss with as much enthusiasm as one could muster when entirely confused by
their boyfriends aggressiveness, until Derek started to wrench at his overshirt. He pushed and
pulled, hands scraping everywhere until Stiles had to pull back enough to gasp out, calm down,
Cujo, before Derek was biting at his bottom lip and down his chin.

I can smell her on you, he breathed harshly, teeth clamping down on Stiles throat right where
Kates hand had been only a little while ago. He didnt bite to hurt, he bit to bruise, kneading at
the skin and sucking hard enough to make Stiles release a ridiculously high pitched moan when
the sensation shot straight to his dick.

Shoulder twinging, Stiles squirmed and pawed at Dereks arm. Dude--du-oh God. Derek, were
in the parking lot. We cant--FUCK-- Derek bit down again, higher up on Stiles throat while his
hand started to rub soothing circles over Stiles chest like he was trying to calm a skittish animal.

Stiles weakly punched his arm into Dereks shoulder, hissing, jackass, halfheartedly. He was
only placated when Dereks teeth eased up and his hand came to a stop over Stiles heart, a
gentling weight against the way it was thundering against his ribcage.

It wasnt long before Derek started to settle. He pressed slow, apologetic kisses to Stiles throat,
trailing a path up Stiles neck before ending up at his mouth. Derek nibbled gently on Stiles upper
lip, tugging it as he finally sat back to admire his work. He waited until Stiles was looking at him
to firmly state, youre coming over.

Stiles exhaled, chest clenching in nervous excitement as he weakly replied with, okie dokie.
The first thing Derek did when he got Stiles back to his house was to practically strip him and
manhandle him into the shower. Stiles didnt even need to ask to know it had something to do
with eliminating the last of Kates scent. That being said, he had absolutely no complaints when
he turned around from sticking his head under the warm spray to see Derek--gloriously naked--
stepping into the shower with him.

Holy shi--uh, fancy meeting you here? Stiles squeaked, voice cracking when his eyes were
drawn to the thick, dark trail of hair on Dereks stomach that led down. He had to snap his eyes up
to keep from getting an eyeful, and that was only because he figured they were in the shower to
get rid of Kates scent and not for hanky panky.

That is, he thought that until Derek pushed him up against the wall so that they were chest to chest
and proceeded to mouth at Stiles neck and run his hands down Stiles back until his fingers were
brushing the dip in his spine.

She touched you, Derek hissed into Stiles jaw line, palming his ass and then dragging his hands
up until he was crushing Stiles to his chest. She touched you.

Its okay, Stiles blurted, she didnt get away with it, he tried to keep his voice calming, hand
brushing the back of Dereks head in a slow pet. She didnt hurt me.

--but she could have. Just like she could have taken the children.

Oh, Stiles said weakly, because this wasnt a possession thing. It was something else. It was
something that Stiles was kind of terrified to really think too deeply into. Derek was putting him
on the same level of importance as Andy and Olly. Derek was making him invaluable in a way
that Stiles stomach and chest hurt when he started to dwell on it. It was overwhelming and intense
and way too much to worry about when Dereks mouth was starting to kiss a path down his chest.

It seemed like Derek was more than finished talking, but that might have been because he was too
busy biting kisses into Stiles hips. Each nip was followed up by a lingering swipe of his tongue
and a press of his lips, making a path closer towards Stiles crotch. Stiles almost whined for
something to happen when, finally, Dereks hand was wrapping around Stiles half-hard dick like
it was something made to be worshiped. Stiles pawed at the shower walls, warm water trickling
over his shoulders and dripping onto Dereks head as he leaned in and wrapped his mouth around
Stiles cock.

Stiles didnt even know what to do--if he should rock into Dereks mouth or if he should stay
there and shake his way through the overwhelming rush of sensations. Dereks mouth was
burning hot, eyeteeth tapping every so often in that way that meant this was something Derek
didnt do much. It gave a pained thrill to the overall feel of it, and when Derek would suck too
hard or squeeze too tight, Stiles only had to tighten his hand in Dereks hair for him to ease off.

Each suck was like a yank, a tug trying to wrench his orgasm out of him. Stiles was reduced to a
panting mess, legs trembling to keep himself standing. Derek massaged at his thigh with one hand,
the other tight around Stiles shaft--squeezing every so often in a way that had Stiles back arching
and his stomach fluttering.

Stiles only had a creeping warming sensation and a tenseness in his muscles to warn him of his
impending climax. He tugged at Dereks hair, breathing out, Im gonna blow, dude, fuck,
Derek.

Derek pulled off with a loud pop of his mouth, cheek brushing the head of Stiles cock. His hand
sped up, moving faster as he kissed at the underside of Stiles dick just as Stiles tensed up and
came with a low groan. Stiles shook and quivered, spilling all over Dereks hand in messy ropes.
Holy shit, Stiles whimpered. Derek mouthed at the inside of Stiles thigh and Stiles was pretty
sure he was falling apart at the seams when Derek nipped and sucked a hickey at the skin right up
by his groin.

Once he was satisfied with marking up Stiles thigh, Derek stood, stealing Stiles mouth into a
kiss. Stiles reached down, fumbling for a second until he palmed at Dereks cock--hard and heavy
between them. Water was spraying against their heads, making a messy waterfall down their
shoulders and chests as Derek chased after Stiles lips like a man starved.

Yeah, yeah, Stiles panted, squeezing Derek and trying to get a good enough angle to try and
bring him off.

With a groan, Derek batted the showerhead out of the way, hiking Stiles leg up to his hip and
slotting himself into the perfect position to start fucking up into the vee of Stiles hips. Stiles dug
his fingers into Dereks hair, returning Dereks kisses with fervor and rocking into each thrust of
Dereks hips until Derek was coming in messy squirts all over Stiles stomach and chest.

You smell so good, Derek panted into his mouth, kissing him and then reaching down to smear
his cum all over Stiles torso. Stiles was too preoccupied by Derek sucking on his tongue to
protest--even when Derek started to swipe that same hand over Stiles throat and shoulders. He
knew it was some kind of marking thing, but he was pretty much nothing but goo at that point to
even question the productivity of rubbing jizz all over his chest.

He felt completely drained by the time Derek pulled away to grab the soap. Each touch was slow
and firm, Dereks fingers seeking out the sore muscles in Stiles back as he completely soaped him
down. Stiles felt almost like a puppet, leaning into Dereks arms while he was guided under the
spray to be rinsed off.

Man, Stiles muttered, groaning as Derek rubbed shampoo into his hair, I think Im going to
sleep forever. Im so tired. Oh my god, how am I gonna keep up with you.

Derek snorted, gently washing Stiles hair. Well build up your stamina.

Oh my god, Stiles let out a dramatic sob, feeling more excited than anything for the anticipation
of even more sexy-time with Derek. He just hoped that Derek didnt drain him like this every
time. Stiles usually felt energized after sex--but now he just wanted nothing more than to take a
nap right in the shower.

Derek chuckled, shutting the water off and getting out to fetch towels.

When they crawled into bed--Stiles in Dereks boxers and a t-shirt, and Derek in some
sweatpants--Derek didnt spoon him. Instead, he maneuvered Stiles onto his back and then
practically draped himself over top. It was like he was trying to smother Stiles, snuffling up to him
and kissing at his throat and earlobe.

Stiles looped one arm around Dereks hips, skin hypercharged with each touch and nuzzle from
Derek. It didnt feel sexual at all, but not platonic either. It just felt natural, like coming home to
Dereks caress was something that happened all the time.

He fell asleep feeling more loved than anything else in the world.
 Chapter 19

Stiles woke up feeling so hard that he was pretty sure his dick was going to fall off if he didnt do
something about it soon. He was trapped in that bleary state between asleep and awake, where
every blink brought him closer to the edge of sleep again. His sheets were softer than normal, and
there was a heavy weight along his back that helped to press him down into the mattress. Stiles
couldnt really remember what hed been dreaming about, but it must have been something good
if he woke up to find himself sleepily rutting against the bed.

Groaning quietly, Stiles curled one hand into a fist, holding the sheets tightly, and rocked his hips
in an attempt to relieve the ache between his legs. It wasnt until the weight against his back
moved that Stiles was able to wake enough to register that he wasnt even in his own bed. He
stilled, trying to quiet the sound of his own sleep-heavy breathing.

Derek snuffled, wriggling and bearing down against Stiles back like he was some kind of
massive pillow. His half-open lips were pressed against Stiles shoulder, and his face was smushed
enough that Stiles could feel the very edge of Dereks teeth on his skin.

None of these things were helping with Stiles current predicament.

Cracking an eye open, Stiles waited a moment for the sleep-fog to clear from his eyes so he could
read the bedside clock, which told him it was barely six in the morning. He was lying on his belly,
one leg hiked up and the other sticking out with Derek draped over his backa massive weight,
and probably the cause for Stiles heavy breathing.

Derek shifted and Stiles was struck with a flashback to their day at the beach.

That was not his cell phone, he whispered angrily at himself, vividly recalling three things from
that moment; the weight of Dereks body, the taste of sand in his mouth, and something poking
him in the back in a way much like what Dereks dick was doing right now.

Thinking about Dereks junk only made Stiles imagination roam into dangerous territory. He was
sleepy enough that a few stray thoughts had him slipping into a waking dream that involved
Dereks hands, coffee, and then sex on what Stiles subconscious decided Dereks office desk
must have looked like. He woke himself up when he let out another soft moan and squirmed
enough in his sleep to unsettle Dereks arm from his back and make it slide down to his hip.

Dereks breath hitched and Stiles struggled to stay awake when he heard him tiredly snuffling at
the air like he was attempting to register the scent. Stiles shifted, his cock so hard that the head of it
had gotten trapped in the elastic of his borrowed boxers. It hurt so nicely that Stiles had to bite the
inside of his cheek to stop himself from making any noise when the fabric rasped right against the
sensitive spot along the underside of his cockhead.

Stiles? Derek muttered in a tired, sleep-rough hum, dragging his palm up Stiles back in a way
that had Stiles hips giving an instinctual twitch back into Dereks hand. Stiles huffed, able to feel
the moment-long transition Derek underwent from asleep to awake, because his hand started to
travel down Stiles spine before palming at Stiles ass with a sleepy grope. Stiles let out a strangled
choking noise and arched his back just enough to part his legs into a more comfortable position.
Dereks chest was vibrating with a low grumbling noise, nose rubbing up along the back of Stiles
neck. He sounded content, happy to just press and massage his fingers into Stiles skin, dragging
them between Stiles asscheeks as much as he could with boxers impeding him.

It was entirely too surreal, the way Derek mouthed sleepy kisses into his shoulder and continued
to rub his ass like it was some kind of everyday routine. Stiles twisted his head, giving Derek
enough room to snag one earlobe between his teeth and nibble on it. Stiles entire body felt like it
was on fire, lungs constricting and breath tight as Dereks fingers shifted and pressed against his
hole, teasing him through the fabric of his boxers. He hissed, muffling a groan into his wrist and
rocking his hips into the touch.

Wanna fuck you, Derek mumbled tiredly, like he wasnt halfway to fingering Stiles already, and
then kissed the back of Stiles ear and nosed at it in a puppyish manner. Stiles rolled his hips back
until Dereks fingers were almost pushing inside, boxers rasping against his skin. He clenched his
teeth when a shudder shot through him right from the base of his spine and made his arms and legs
break out into gooseflesh.

Yeah, he croaked, almost losing his voice in a yawn that came from nowhere, yeah, ok. Im so
down for this.

Derek stilled, halfway in the middle of nibbling a hickey onto Stiles shoulder. His breath came in
fast and sharp, and Stiles was ready to wiggle his way around and ask Derek if he was okay when
the body on top of him retreated abruptly. De Stiles yelped when Derek scrambled over his
body, foot catching on the sheets and taking away every ounce of werewolf grace as he
faceplanted onto the floor with a loud grunt. Stiles didnt mean to, but he burst out laughing
quickly covering his mouth as Derek stumbled to his feet and hurried to lock the door.

Oh my God, he gasped out, biting the corner of his lip and hoping the pain would be enough to
keep him from cracking up again when Derek whirled around with sleep-mussed hair and a half
wild look in his eyes that made Stiles instinctively turn on his back. Dereks dazed expression
quickly turned predatory and Stiles didnt even have to think about it before he was shimmying
out of his underwear.

He didnt get a chance to kick them off before Derek was there and clambering up onto the bed.
Stiles tried to wiggle his foot and get the boxers off of his ankle, but it was futile when Derek was
caging him in with his body and kissing him breathless. Stiles tilted his head up and looped his
arms around Dereks shoulders, grinning into the kiss as Derek dragged his palms greedily up
Stiles sides.

So does this mean you...fell for me? he mumbled. Derek snarled, biting the corner of his mouth
in reprimand and then pinching his side when all it did was made Stiles laugh softly. The pinch
tickled more than anything, and Stiles jerked to the side and breathily muttered his apologies
through a snicker.

Shut up, Derek growled, tweaking his hip again and making Stiles yelp and playfully punch
him in the chest. Derek pulled away, sitting on Stiles thighs and staring down at him with a
thoughtful look. Stiles didnt like that look, and he liked it a lot less when Dereks eyebrows
pinched in the center in that evil, mischievous way they got sometimes when he was teasing the
children.

Tugging at the hem of Stiles shirt, Derek pulled it up and off so that Stiles was laying bare
beneath him. Stiles felt exposed under the way Derek was staring down at him, neck growing hot
and his hands coming up to instinctively cover his nipples like that would save his dignity in some
manner. I dont like that look, he said, narrowing his eyes warily at the way Dereks gaze
dragged along every inch of his body.

Good. Derek said, and then poked him in the side. Stiles jerked, trying to wriggle free and
slapping at Dereks hand when he realized he was trapped under the massive weight of one fully
grown werewolf sitting on his legs. That evil look was back full force as Derek grabbed his sides
and dug his fingers in, flexing them and making every single ticklish spot on Stiles stomach go
wild. Stiles bit back a shriek, arching up and writhing to try and escape Dereks touch. Dereks
hands danced along his sides, mouth pulled back into a tiny grin as he continued his relentless
assault.

Stiles pawed at Dereks arms, trying to buck him off and then panting out, mercy! with an
embarrassingly high-pitched cackle. Any attempt to beg Derek to stave off his attack was muffled
when Derek ducked down and kissed him. His hands stilled as he did so, palms huge and warm
when they finally settled on Stiles hips. Stiles gasped for air, smiling helplessly into the kiss even
as he grumbled, asshole.

Instead of answering, Dereks thumb stroked softly at the curve of his hip and his mouth pressed
feather-light kisses to Stiles. He rocked his body, bearing down onto Stiles and rutting against
him. He grabbed one of Stiles legs, pulling to the side so he could settle in between his legs for a
better angle. Stiles trailed his fingers along Dereks back before finally hooking them into the
elastic of his sweatpants to push them down. He was distracted for a moment when he got two
handfuls of Dereks ass, making a delighted sound into the kiss and grinning when Derek flexed
instinctively into his hands.

Like that? Stiles hummed, resting his head back against his pillow while Derek nodded and
started to tap slow, lingering kisses down his chin and jaw. Stiles dragged his hands up Dereks
back again before bringing them down once more to pull at Dereks pants. Derek shifted,
grumbling into Stiles throat where he was trying to nibble a hickey into his skin, and then sat
back to climb off of Stiles long enough to shuck off his pants. Stiles was pretty sure his mouth
started watering when Dereks cock bounced free, thick and hard between his legs.

Derek didnt waste another second, climbing back onto the bed and kissing a slow path down
Stiles chest and stomach. He stopped around Stiles belly button, snuffling and kissing the soft
muscle there before nuzzling his cheek under Stiles navel. Stiles reached down, threading his
fingers through Dereks hair and scratching gently at his scalp. Derek took another second to hug
his abdomen before he started to push Stiles over onto his stomach. Stiles rolled easily, peering
over his shoulder, a sudden yawn overtaking him. Dude, hurry up before I zonk out or
somethin.

I could make a lot of jokes about waking you up, if you want, Derek offered, leaning over to the
bedside table and rustling around in the top drawer before he pulled out a small tube of KY.

Snorting, Stiles scooted his knees closer to his chest, wiggling his ass in the air and flexing it for
good measure. Im pretty sure you have more important things on your agenda.

Derek paused, reaching out and pressing his hand against Stiles right butt cheek, squeezing and
massaging it almost tenderly. I wouldnt call it an agenda... he said faintly, its just... he trailed
off, bending down until he could kiss softly at the base of Stiles neck. He took a second to nuzzle
the tip of his nose there before kissing again. Right.

Huh? Stiles tried to twist and look over his shoulder, but all he could see of Derek was his hair
as he kissed down Stiles spine while kneading his ass. It felt great, and Stiles was starting to
worry he might blow his load before they even got to sex, but that didnt stop him from wondering
what Derek meant.

Shaking his head, Derek kissed the dip above Stiles tailbone. This. Us. Its just right, isnt it?

I--I guess, Stiles stammered as Derek clicked open the lube. I mean, I think I get what you
mean. Stiles rolled onto his back, splitting his legs wide so Derek could get a hand between them
while he watched the look of concentration that came over his face. Its natural. Sometimes I
forget we havent done this already. I mean, dude, were pretty much already married--unnh,
Stiles broke off with a groan as Derek slipped a finger inside of him, twisting and wriggling it
around.

Go on, Derek urged, hiding a grin in the way he kissed Stiles knee and started to pump his
finger in and out of Stiles. Stiles shot him a withering glare, dropping his head against the pillow
and clenching down around Dereks finger. Derek nipped his leg in retaliation.

Throwing an arm over his eyes, Stiles forced himself to relax. Are we really going to have a heart
to heart before sex?

If you want. Derek pushed in another finger, making Stiles inner walls flutter for a second
before he stopped fighting the sudden intrusion. Stiles rolled his eyes, peeking down at Derek and
almost forgetting to breathe at the way Derek was looking at him like hed hung the fucking moon
or something.

Stiles closed his eyes again, face burning, and shrugged his shoulders. I didnt think I could have
this.

...but you do, Derek urged.

Yeah, Stiles agreed faintly, which is like...crazy hard to believe sometimes. I just...wanted you
and the kids all for myself and now I do, but that makes me sound like a creepy possessive person
and --I dont know, dude. Ignore me. I dont know what Im saying.

No.

Stiles jumped when Derek abruptly added a third finger, pushing in and twisting and curling with
a wet noise from the lube. His fingers brushed Stiles prostate, sending a jolt up his spine and
making Stiles right foot twitch. Huh?

If I spent any of the last five months ignoring you, Derek began, stretching Stiles with each push
of his fingers, things would be a lot different than they are.

Uhm, ohfuck, Stiles clenched down when Dereks pinky wriggled inside of him with a twist,
nnh, I think thats a good thing?

It is, Derek confirmed, nuzzling Stiles knee and then pumping his fingers. Stiles panted, each
movement shooting a thrill up his spine and making heat flush up his chest and his cock twitch
against his stomach. He brought a hand up to card through his hair, wiggling his ass when Derek
curled his fingers and then pushed just right in a way that had Stiles breath leaving him in a
woosh.

Grinning, Derek bent down to kiss Stiles gasping lips. Its a very good thing.

Yes, lets speak in vague terms right before buttsex, Stiles croaked, sighing when Derek pulled
his fingers out and left his ass clenching on empty air. Derek reached for the lube, hesitating for a
moment and frowning. Stiles knew that look, and he laughed and poked Derek in the side with his
big toe. Dude, my best friends a werewolf, you dont have to give me the big talk about
condoms and super healing. I know already.

Derek gave him an odd look, I knew that, he said, I was wondering which way I should fuck
you.

Oh, Stiles replied, suddenly feeling a mix between mortified and insanely turned on. Well. I
think youll have like, a bajillion chances to fuck me in all possible positions so uh, lets not get
too complica--oh okay fuck, Jesus, yes this works-- oh my God, Stiles clutched the sheets as
Derek pushed in slowly, opening him up inch by inch. He kept one palm on the base of his cock,
the other pushing Stiles left thigh wide to give himself enough room to move. Apparently hed
gotten tired of Stiles chattering.

Pawing at Dereks shoulders, Stiles clenched and forced himself to relax at least three times before
a soft noise from Derek had him shuddering and going still enough to let Derek push the rest of
the way in.

Oh yeah, Stiles groaned, thats the stuff.

Pun intended? Derek rasped, the corner of his mouth quirking as Stiles cackled and then
groaned when the movement of his stomach had Dereks cock rubbing against his prostate.

Yeah, we can go with that, he breathed, dragging his hands down Dereks chest and then up
again, admiring the way his muscles flexed and rolled beneath his fingertips. Derek bent down,
stealing a kiss and then giving his hips a sharp and sudden rock forward. Stiles hummed in
contentment, momentarily entertaining the thought of just staying like this with Derek for the rest
of the morning. Derek must have had other ideas, as he kissed his way down Stiles neck and
nibbled at his collarbone before thrusting again.

With the sheets bunched around them like a nest, Dereks body was practically a furnace when
pressed in close. Sweat made their stomachs stick together,beading at Stiles temples and behind
his ears with each downward thrust Derek gave that drove them closer and closer.

Stiles wiggled a hand in between their bodies, getting a hand around his dick and willing himself
not to blow his load too early on. Derek sucked kisses into his throat, picking up his pace into a
steady rhythm of in and out that only stuttered when he would get too distracted trying to make the
biggest hickey known to man on the curve where Stiles shoulder met his neck.

Does it feel good? Stiles blurted, muscles fluttering around Dereks cock. Derek grunted,
nodding and nosing up against Stiles jaw.

Feels great, he mumbled, pulling away to straighten his back. Stiles rested against the pillows, a
yawn overtaking him as he gave himself a few lazy strokes. Derek watched with a hungry look in
his eyes, and then hooked both hands under Stiles knees and pushed them up until they were
nearly to Stiles shoulders.

Hnngh, Stiles wheezed, I dont bend that way--

Sorry, Derek eased back a little, shifting Stiles legs and then pulling them up onto his shoulders
and dropping down to cage his hands on either side of Stiles head. Sorry.

Shh, Stiles snuck a hand up to press his finger against Dereks mouth, shhh child. No more
tears, only sex.

Shut up, Derek snapped at his finger, nipping it and then snapping his hips forward. Stiles hand
moved to grab Dereks elbow, fingers digging in when he started to fuck into Stiles in earnest.
Stiles grabbed Dereks other elbow, ankles hooking behind his shoulders and toes curling as
Derek started to piston right against his prostate. Each thrust was sending a white shock of
pleasure up Stiles spine. He muttered a litany of curses under his breath, shoving one hand down
between his legs to get a hand around his cock.

Gonna come? Derek asked softly, slowing down for some sharper, deeper thrusts before he
sped up again. Stiles shrugged one shoulder, grinning around a moan and stroking himself in time
with Dereks thrusts.
I might, he hedged, laughing when Derek growled and ducked down to bite kisses into his
mouth before staggering his thrusts to shift his weight and get a hand between their bodies. He
curled his palm over Stiles, coaxing him to stroke faster, to squeeze tighter.

Kissing Stiles, Derek began to mutter softly, you feel amazing--youre so tight, so good. I love
how you feel, love when you talk, its so good, in a way that sounded almost reverent. Each
word made Stiles nerves burn and his lungs constrict. It was like Derek was trying to pull his
orgasm out with his words alone.

Okay, he whined, choking down a moan and panting, okay, yeah, yeah, yeah oh God oh--
Stiles clenched, climax ripping through him and making all of the muscles in his stomach tense as
he spilled all over their hands in messy ropes. Shit, Stiles sagged against the bed as Derek
continued to rock into his body, kissing the side of Stiles knee as he leaned back to rub Stiles
cum all over his stomach, making a complete mess of things.

Thats nasty, Stiles griped, Im not cleaning that up.

Mmh, Derek hummed, still thrusting slow and lazy, like half of his frenzy had been a
desperation to get Stiles off alone. Stiles slid one leg off of Dereks shoulders, catching it in the
crook of his elbow and rocking up into Dereks thrusts. He was going to wring Dereks orgasm
out of him if it was the last thing he did.

Man, Stiles reached out, pushing his hand against Dereks stomach so he could grope at the
muscles there, when I top, Im going to rock your world.

You sure? Derek teased, grabbing Stiles hand and bringing it up to kiss his fingertips. I think it
will be the other way around.

Stiles scoffed, yeah right. Youll be begging for it.

Derek looked thoughtful, and then he slowly pulled out, cock bouncing up and hitting his
stomach--shiny with lube. Well see about that, Derek muttered, wandering into the bathroom.
Stiles stared at his ass as he walked away, mouth agape.

Dude! We werent done yet! Are you going to rub one out in the bathroom? Not cool, man!

No.

Derek came back out, holding a wet cloth and approaching the bed. He took a few seconds to
wipe Stiles belly off before grabbing the lube and dropping it onto Stiles stomach. Get to
work.

What?

Youre going to rock my world, right? Prove it.

Stiles groaned, flopping back against the bed. Oh come on, man. Im totally beat. I dont even
know if I can get it up again. Ill probably fall asleep on top of you. Im only human!

At first, Stiles thought Derek was going to relent and give Stiles a few hours to recuperate, but no.
It was probably the werewolf part of him that gave Derek infinite stamina and a dick harder than a
trigonometry final, because Derek sighed in annoyance, grabbed the lube to squirt some on his
hands, and started to open himself up.

Thats not fair, Stiles whined, can you at least turn around?
Derek glowered, as if to say, you would get a free show if you werent being lazy, and then
grunted and shifted his arm. Knowing Derek, he was probably abusing his super werewolf
healing to prep himself as fast as possible. Stiles was tempted to actually get up and try to at least
get a good peek in, but his legs and arms felt like jelly and he really was tired.

Butthole, Stiles grumbled, and then squealed when Derek apparently finished what he was
doing and all but leapt onto Stiles.

I can go rub one out in the bathroom if you want, Derek offered, reaching for Stiles limp cock
and giving it a few teasing strokes to fatten it up. Stiles squirmed, already feeling sensitive after
having gotten off not long before, but he shook his head.

No bathroom sessions needed, he said vehemently, you can use my dick all you want. It has a
name. If you talk to it, Im sure itll get hard faster. You can call him--

Shut up.

Okay, fine. Dont use his name. Are you this rude with all your bed partners.

Derek glared, and yeah, it was likely that being so tired and riding on a post-orgasmic high had
Stiles saying some stupid shit that he normally kept from spewing out of his mouth. He gave
Derek a sheepish smile, pushing himself up so he could steal a kiss.

Mollified, Derek returned the kiss and snuck a few of his own before he pushed Stiles onto his
back when he deemed Stiles cock sufficiently hardened. Stiles had a half second to watch Derek
climb up his torso and rise up on his knees before he was sinking down onto Stiles dick in one
swift drop.

The squawk that tore from Stiles lips was entirely accidental. He wasnt expecting to go from the
cool bedroom air to tight, slick heat in the span of two seconds flat. If his dick hadnt been hard
before, it was now--especially when Dereks inner walls clenched and fluttered around him. He
pawed at Dereks thighs, hips aching to thrust up into the suffocating clutch of Dereks body.

Derek grabbed one of Stiles hands, bringing it up to his lips and kissing the inside of his wrist.
Stiles groaned, twitching his hips up as Derek nipped his palm and then kissed the pad of his
thumb and began to slowly bounce himself on Stiles cock. Stiles curled his fingers around
Dereks jaw, rocking up into his body while Derek rode him slowly. Derek snuffled into his palm
again, mouthing at the heel and reaching for Stiles other hand to push it down towards his cock.

Stiles knew a cue when he saw one, and wasted no time in stroking Derek slow and firm. Derek
settled Stiles hand on his hip, reaching out to brace himself on Stiles chest and then rising up and
lowering himself in quick little rolls of his hips. Stiles dropped his head back against the sheets,
breath coming out in short rasps. I think youre gonna break my dick, he whined.

Youll heal, Derek muttered, kissing Stiles on the nose and sitting back to set a pace that worked
best for himself. Stiles could feel sleep pulling him under, but he blinked rapidly to wake himself
up. If he noticed Stiles moment of dozing, Derek didnt say anything in lieu of rocking back and
finding that perfect angle with a soft grunt. He started to rock, not pulling off fully and instead
grabbing Stiles hand to help stroke himself off.

Come on, man, Stiles coaxed, you got this, he squeezed Dereks cock around the head,
thumbing the slit and snapping his hips up. There was a slight shudder in Dereks body, a quiver
in his arms that let Stiles know he was close to the edge. Stiles used the last of his energy to push
himself up, fucking into Dereks body with fast, sloppy jabs that had Derek tensing and then
clamping down on Stiles cock as he came messily all over their bodies.
Stiles whined, wiggling and thrusting to try and get himself off a second time in the heat of
Dereks body--loose and pliant from his recent orgasm, save for the occasional spasm of muscles.
It was almost enough, and then Derek reached down and tweaked Stiles left nipple and Stiles
came with a shout, clutching to Dereks thighs like a lifeline.

He came down in increments, struck with an impossible wave of sleepy fatigue as Derek climbed
off of him. Ive died and gone to heaven, he moaned, my body is merely a vessel for
otherworldly pleasure, now.

A soft snort came from Derek as he went to fetch another cloth while Stiles watched him tiredly.
I love your butt.

Thanks, Derek said, coming back spunk-free and in a pair of clean boxers. He sat on the bed,
taking his time wiping Stiles down and sniffing occasionally until he was satisfied. He pulled off
the sheet theyd soiled, carrying it into the bathroom with the dirty wash cloths and coming back
with a fresh one. Stiles didnt move, and so Derek ended up rolling him onto one side of the bed,
putting the sheet down, and then pushing Stiles onto the fitted side to finish the other end.

Such a good husband, Stiles murmured, rolling onto his belly and grabbing the nearest pillow to
snuggle up to. Derek snorted, and there was a moment of shuffling before a wet cloth pressed
right between Stiles asscheeks. It was cold, and Stiles yelped and tried to wiggle away as Derek
gently wiped at his hole and the underside of his balls.

Its cold! he whined tiredly, but only got a gentle swat on his bottom for it. That made Stiles
grumble and settle down as Derek finished and then disappeared again. He was almost entirely
asleep when the bed dipped and a warm body draped itself over his back. Derek took a second to
nose around at the back of Stiles neck, making a whuffing breathy noise before kissing behind his
ear and settling in to sleep.

Some time later, the warm weight of Dereks body left and Stiles registered the sound of whining
children on the other side of the door. He felt Dereks lips press against his temple before the bed
shifted and Derek got up. Stiles drifted off to the sound of happy chatter on the other side of the
door and Dereks voice chastising Andy and Olly for being so loud when Stiles was trying to
sleep.

He woke up again when the bed was jostled and a small body climbed its way over his legs
before settling on his stomach. Stiles cracked an eye open, staring down at Ollys wild mop of
black hair. He panicked for a second, worried about the smells that Ollys nose would pick up,
before remembering that Derek had spent nearly a half hour wiping him down until he was
satisfied. Wrapping an arm around Ollys body, Stiles kissed him on the head and then shifted so
Olly could happily snuffle into his throat.

Mrrh, Olly grumbled sleepily, curling up into the tiniest ball a little four year old could muster
and then wrapping his arms around Stiles neck. Stiles hummed in agreement, patting him on the
back while Olly continued to scent mark at his jaw and neck. After another moment, Olly let out a
second, more contented rumble. Ysmell good, he murmured, voice cracking on a big yawn,
mine.

Stiles looked down at Olly, head craning to try and see his face. It proved futile with how deeply
hed buried his face into Stiles neck, breath already evening out into a sleepy doze. Stiles figured
it was another werewolf thing, but hed talk to Derek about it later. He curled both arms around
Ollys body, hugging him loosely and nestling back into the bed with a tired sigh.

He was almost asleep when the door cracked open again and Derek came in bearing a steaming
mug of coffee. Stiles sat up as best he could with Olly draped over his chest, grinning when Derek
handed him the mug. It was so normal--so much like a family--that Stiles was hit with the
overwhelming need to burst into tears because this was real. Instead, he gave Derek a tiny smirk
and said, gotta love a man who knows how to serve me.

Snorting softly, Derek gave Stiles head an affectionate shove before pausing and looking
thoughtful. He reached out, fluffing Stiles short bangs and then playing with them for a minute
before an unbearably fond expression crossed his face. He leaned in to steal a kiss, maneuvering
Stiles mug so he could steal some coffee as well, and then snagged Olly up to carry him out of
the room and let Stiles wake up and shower in peace.

Stiles didnt get up right away, though. He slunk down in the bed, rolling until he was pretty much
wrapped up in the sheets, and then stuffed his face into Dereks pillow. He bit down on a grin,
recalling vividly the entire night and the way Derek had held him so intimately--so lovingly-- even
long after, when Stiles had been practically asleep.

This was real, this was his. Waking up to Olly snuggling him was just a reminder of that fact. An
uncontrollable wave of giddiness hit him right in the gut and Stiles curled up with a tiny, happy
noise before shoving his face deeper into Dereks pillow and inhaling the scent of his shampoo
and sweat. Yeah, he could get used to this.

Eventually he got up, taking a quick shower and stealing a pair of Dereks sweatpants and another
shirt before shuffling his way out of the bedroom. He followed the scent of food, sipping idly at
his coffee (Derek had made it with a little too much cream, but Stiles wasnt complaining) and
smiling when he saw Derek at the stove and the children at the kitchen table. Andy was scribbling
in a coloring book, hoarding all of the purple crayons, while Olly was looking through an
encyclopedia on marine life, poking and tracing the glossy photos of sharks and fish that covered
each page.

It was a long moment of indecision for Stiles--did he want to pester the children first, or Derek?

Derek ended up winning out, but only because Stiles caught sight of tray of chopped strawberries
next to the oven that had him scooting his way on over. He set his mug on the counter, taking a
second to admire the way the muscles on Dereks back flexed when he flipped a pancake, and
then pressed himself all up along those same muscles while slinging his arms around Dereks
belly. He hooked his chin over Dereks shoulder, watching him shuffle some of the pancakes
around and letting his palm rub up and down the soft expanse of muscle on Dereks abdomen.

No strawberries for me, he murmured, rubbing his cheek against Dereks jaw and taking
pleasure in the thrill that came from the rasp of stubble. Derek tilted his head, leaning enough to
the side so that he could steal a kiss hidden in the corner of Stiles mouth.

I know, he rumbled, putting down the spatula to settle his hand over the one Stiles had snuck up
his chest, even though strawberry pancakes are delicious.

Stiles crinkled his nose, scoffing, they get mushy.

Yeah! Andy piped up from the table, super mushy! Like gross poop mushy, bleh! No
straburries ever!

Yeah, what she said, Stiles laughed, even as Derek rolled his eyes and went back to flipping the
pancakes.

Stiles took another moment to press up against Dereks back before giving him a kiss behind the
ear and then making his way to the kitchen table to sit with Andy and Olly. Andy handed him her
least favorite crayon (medium poo brown) and a corner of a picture she had apparently decided
was a lost cause for majestic coloring. Stiles doodled stick figures of Derek and the twins on it
while Andy began to blather on about the dream shed had, and how Thomas the Tank Engine
was not a rocket, but a tank--but not a tank that went boom, he was a tank that went choo choo.

Derek set the pancakes down once he was done cooking them, and Stiles got up to fetch the
drinks as Derek cleared the table of all activities to make room for breakfast.

After eating and washing up, they migrated into the living room to zone out to some morning
cartoons in a pile of limbs and full tummies. Derek was at the bottom, smothered by Stiles draped
across his lap and the twins curled up into his sides with Olly sitting on Stiles hip at an awkward
angle that looked uncomfortable. Things didnt stay that peaceful for much longer, though,
because as soon as all the sugar from their juice and maple syrup started to work through Andy
and Ollys tiny bodies, they began to wiggle and squirm. That turned into fidgeting, which ended
up with Olly oozing off of Stiles and crawling over to his toy box.

One minute, Stiles and Derek were watching the twins start to play house, and the next they were
faced with two screaming and excited balls of energy. Derek tried for a good minute to calm them
down, even going so far as to bribe with new toys, but gave up when Andy threw a toy frog and
nailed him in the face with it, screamed, and ran down the hall.

Olly chased after her, echoing her screams and swinging around a fairy wand like it was a
lightsaber.

What just happened? Derek asked softly.

Sugar rush. Stiles said solemnly, cringing at the crash from down the hall and two identical
shrieks. The rush of thundering feet followed soon after as Andy and Olly bolted back into the
room with their blankets tied around their necks like capes. Andy ran for the toy bin, grabbing a
bouncy ball and flinging it at Olly and then clambering up the couch. She jumped up and down on
the cushion, yelling and laughing at the inflections in her voice that came from the bouncing
motion. Olly (who hadnt gotten hit by the ball) was spinning in circles, holding his cape out and
making it swirl with his movements.

From his spot next to Stiles, Derek watched them with a terrified expression. Each time Olly
started to sway towards something breakable when he began running in circles around the coffee
table, Derek cringed. Andy flopped on the couch and Olly wobbled before stumbling his way
towards the hall with a warbling shout. Stiles only looked away for a second, turning to grin at
Derek, and then a loud thud had both of them jumping up in surprise.

Olly was laying on the floor with a dazed expression as blood started to trickle out of his nose
from where hed run into the wall. It was a tense moment, nobody sure of how Olly would react.
He sat up, breath hitching, and then smeared his little fist over his mouth as a tiny whine came
from deep in his chest. Buh, he whimpered, staring at the blood on his hand--even though his
nose was probably already healed. Another hiccup, and then Olly threw his head back and wailed,
papaaaaa! at the top of his lungs. Stiles froze halfway to running to him, something clenching
tight in his chest as he turned to look to Derek.

Derek rushed over to Olly, scooping him up and cradling him close as Olly continued to cry and
scream. He made soft shushing noises, using his thumb to swipe away the blood on Ollys top lip.
Olly kicked and squirmed, shaking his head and trying to get free of Dereks arms. No! Iwan
poppy! he moaned, poppy!

Confused, Derek looked over to Stiles and then back down to Olly. He slowly held Olly out to
Stiles like an offering of tears and snot. Olly whimpered, sobbing a little and making grabby hands
at Stiles.
Im poppy? Stiles said weakly, walking forward and taking Olly from Derek. Olly didnt waste
a second in clinging to him like a monkey, shaking with sobs. Stiles breath hitched, shock
wearing off after another moment before it gave way to a suffocating feeling of elation. He rubbed
Ollys back, bouncing him a little and grinning at Derek like a madman. His eyes were burning,
and Stiles was pretty sure he was about to burst into tears right alongside Olly.

Andy bounced over, pulling on Stiles shirt insistently. I want poppy hugs! she cried. Stiles
burst into tears, hiccuping on a laugh and dropping down to his knees to drag Andy into his arms.
Derek was there in a heartbeat, huge arms engulfing all three of them and holding them tight.

Stiles wasnt even sure where he ended and the others began. Olly was cradled tight against his
body and Andy was trying her best to wiggle up next to her brother while Derek refused to let any
of them go for even a second. Olly snuffled, mumbling something into Stiles throat that had Stiles
biting his lip, sniffling back some tears, and then turning to kiss him on the head. What was that,
buddy?

Cn you put tha wall inta time out? Olly asked meekly.

Sure thing, Stiles grinned, kissing Ollys temple again and peering up at Derek. Mind doing the
honors?

Derek stared for a long and painful moment, as if questioning if Stiles really wanted him to put
their living room wall into time out. Stiles jerked his head (because his hands were full of snuggly
werebabies) and bobbed his eyebrows expectantly.

Frowning, Derek pulled away and stood, dusting invisible dirt from his knees and awkwardly
walking towards the wall. There wasnt even a sign that Olly had run into it, but Derek knelt
down in front of the space his son had smacked into and cleared his throat. You need a time out,
wall. he said stiffly.

Stiles snorted, biting the corner of his mouth to keep from cracking up entirely. Olly peered over
from under Stiles chin, watching his father with a judgmental look. Derek glanced back at them
and then to the wall again.

That wasnt very nice of you to hit Olly.

Olly made a noise of disdain, I dun fink hes sorry.

Letting out a sharp laugh, Stiles rubbed Ollys back and called over to Derek, you gotta make
him feel really bad about it. Master the art of guilt tripping.

You would know, wouldnt you, Derek muttered under his breath, hands flopping uselessly at
his sides as he glanced up at the roof like it could answer how this had become his life. Staring at
the wall again, Derek scowled.

You are a bad wall.

Oh my God, Stiles laughed, standing and carrying Olly over while Andy ran to go get Ollys
octopus. Here, you take this, Stiles handed Derek Olly, and let me work my magic.

Olly threw his arms around Dereks neck, resting his head on one broad shoulder and watching
Stiles expectantly.

Stiles rubbed his hands together, pulling on the knees of his jeans so he could crouch down in
front of the wall and give it his best disappointed frown. That wasnt nice at all, wall. Olly was
just playing and you hurt his nose. You made him bleed! What if he broke something? He can
heal but that doesnt mean it wont hurt. He was really good today-- he even washed his hands
and didnt make a mess at breakfast. You made him cry, wall.

There was a tiny, strangled noise from behind him and Stiles turned to see Derek turning red in the
face like he was trying not to laugh. Stiles glowered at him, smiled at Olly and then turned back to
the wall to scowl. You need to go to time out. Ten minutes. Ah-ah! No buts, mister wall! You
made Olly cry! Ten minutes. Im going to let Olly count, too.

Stiles waited a beat and then nodded. All right then. Olly, dont forget to let wall out of time out
in ten minutes, okay?

Okay! Olly peeped from Dereks shoulder.

Standing, Stiles hauled Andy up and brought her over so she could give Olly his stuffed octopus.
Derek grabbed Ollys chin, tilting it up so he could inspect his nose for any missed bits of blood.
He used the bottom of his shirt to wipe a few flecks from the corners of Ollys nose and Stiles
took that moment to oggle Dereks abs shamelessly. Derek caught him looking and Stiles hid his
grin in Andys hair, giving her a tight hug.

Youre such a nice sister, he cooed, rubbing his nose against her temple.

Beaming, Andy proclaimed, nobody hurts my brufah! before leaning out of Stiles arms to
smack a kiss on Ollys cheek. Olly grinned, hugging his octopus. Derek pulled Stiles in close,
ducking forward to peck him on the lips.

Stiles didnt ever want this to end.

 Chapter 20
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

With Halloween just around the corner, the weather had only just begun to dip into that crisp state
of almost-cold; which was a temperature perfect for hustling wee werewolves out into the
backyard for a few hours to help them burn off some energy. Stiles had situated himself on the
patio table again, making sure to keep an eye on the twins while simultaneously texting his dad
about the restraining order on Kate and trying to get an essay cranked out before Derek came
home.

Lately, Andy and Olly had been easier to keep occupied since two massive packages mysteriously
appeared on the doorstep the week prior. Derek later opened them to reveal a set of electric ride-
on cars in their respective shades of hot pink and dark blue. Andys scream was bloodcurdling
when Derek busted out the Rapunzel decal and slapped it on the hood, and Olly plunked down
and blubbered when he got his own set of stars and planets to spatter all over his own car.

Stiles couldnt help but grin to himself, remembering the way Derek had been so delighted with at
their reactions--like being the cause for their happiness was a gift just for himself. It was even
better when Andy and Olly had started zooming around the back yard and Derek had pulled Stiles
aside just to bury his face up against Stiles throat and hold him tight. It might have been a simple
gesture, but Derek had held him like he was made of something precious and fragile--something
adored.

The advantage to having little werewolves around was that they were free miniature alarm
systems. When Andy pulled her car to a sudden stop and scrambled out with a squeal, echoed
only by Ollys, Stiles knew Derek was home.

He shut his book, hopping to his feet and jogging after them to keep up with the fast toddling of
Andy and Olly on a warpath. They ran around the side of the house, arms stretched for Derek
even as he struggled to get out of his car with his briefcase and empty coffee mug. He saw the
twins coming, though, and quickly put both items down to grab Andy at full speed. Olly was right
behind her and Derek knelt down on the gravel driveway to hug both of them tightly.

When Stiles finally caught up, it took him less than a second to realize Derek was clutching to his
children with a near-desperation. He hovered, waiting until Derek got whatever it was out of his
system, and then knelt down to pick Andy up while Derek grabbed Olly.

Something wrong?

Derek frowned, shaking his head to let Stiles know he would tell them later. Stiles shrugged,
rocking in to Dereks personal space to peck a kiss into the corner of his mouth. Derek didnt react
much, seemingly distracted by his thoughts as he carried Olly into the house with Stiles right
behind him.

After a good half hour of family time together, Derek had the twins plunked down in front of the
TV while he pulled Stiles into the kitchen. It took him a second to find his words, and when he
did, it was like each syllable was forced between his teeth. Peter posted a video of Andy having a
tantrum in the office.... its not going over well with the public.

Not going well as in...? Stiles pushed, moving to lean up against the counter next to Derek and
bump shoulders with him. Dereks frown deepened.
As in...things are being said about my ability to provide for my children--and if I really deserve to
be head of my parents company.

Stiles snorted, shaking his head and blurting, no offense, but your uncle is a total asshole. Im not
even surprised--it sounds like something he would do.

Derek twisted his head, staring at Stiles in a way that reminded Stiles that, yeah, there was kind of
a huge elephant in the room about Peter and what hed said to Stiles that they were supposed to be
ignoring.

What did he say to you?

Stiles shrugged, wondering why his palms felt sweaty and his heart was speeding up when he
wasnt supposed to be making a big deal about this. Not to me, really. Just stuff about
Andy...and I might have mouthed off.

Define mouthed off. Derek snapped, though there was more tired acceptance than aggravation
in his tone. Stiles shifted from foot to foot, shrugging for the umpteenth time like he could shake
off the anxiety that came with the prospect of confrontation. Dereks jaw twitched, pushing off
from the counter heading for the coffee maker. Stiles picked at a hangnail on his pinky, absently
watching Derek prep the coffee maker.

Flicking the machine on, Derek turned around and gave Stiles a flat stare. So youre just not
going to say anything, then?

It doesnt matter. Its over and done with. Stiles reasoned, chest tight.

The scowl was back on Dereks face, this time deeper and more frustrated than ever. Why wont
you tell me?

Why would I tell you? What would that accomplish? Dude, if you fire him or whatever, you
pretty much go back to working all the time! Stiles blurted, gesturing vaguely and then crossing
his arms before he did something stupid like swat Derek on his ridiculously muscular chest. The
next sentence came out of his mouth involuntarily when he hissed, Id rather take a counter to the
face than have the kids lose you again.

The mug Derek had been pulling from the cabinet let out a deafening crack before falling to the
counter and shattering. Derek was still holding the broken pieces of the handle hed snapped when
he whirled around to stare at Stiles with a disbelieving look.

You what.

Stiles cringed, scrunching his face up and peeking over at Derek. Theoretically speaking?

Derek looked ready to rip the counter out and throw it through a window, the way his eyes were
practically bugging out of his face. Really, Stiles? Because it sounds like this was a theory that
Peter put into practice.

Oh yeah, Stiles forgot about the fact that werewolves had that annoying habit of knowing when
people were lying. He shrugged, well, in the great words of Rafiki, its in the past--

Stiles. Derek put down the broken mug pieces onto the counter a little more forcefully than
necessary.

What, Derek? Stiles hissed, you cant exactly tell me that you wouldnt have done something
crazy to get back at him, would you?
What did he do? Derek crossed over to him, reaching out to grab his upper arm. Did he hurt
you in any other way? What did he say to you?

In his defense, I did kind of deserved it? Well, no, I didnt...but... another shrug, I didnt like
what he was saying about Andy...so I tried to punch him in the face and he shoved my head into
the counter. I kind of forgot the whole super reflexes thing you guys have.

Derek reached up, cupping Stiles temple and rubbing a thumb over his hairline like he could
stroke away the pain that would no longer be there. He hesitated, finger brushing the light scar
from where Stiles had knocked his head weeks ago. You should have told me.

No, I shouldnt have.

Pulling away, Derek sighed like Stiles was being the difficult child in their discussion. I had a
right to know-- hes my uncle, and he hurt you, and he said things about my daughter.

Telling you wouldnt change anything! He still would have said it! Hes testing you, seeing how
far he can push, dont you see that?

Dont you see that? Derek bellowed, throwing his arms out. His voice was loud and sharp,
cutting straight through Stiles and making him cringe involuntarily. Dont you see that letting him
get away with those things isnt going to stop him from doing them again? Or do you think just
ignoring it is going to make it go away!

It doesnt matter! Stiles snapped back, It doesnt matter because hell win either way! At least if
I dont tell you, I dont run the risk of forcing you back to working those ridiculous hours again!
Do you really want to lose all of this so easily?

Thats not the point, Stiles! Derek slammed his hand into the counter. The broken mug bits
rattled and one tipped off the edge, hitting the ground and shattering into even smaller pieces. An
ear-splitting howl came from the entry and both men turned to see Olly falling to his bottom as he
burst into tears. Andy was standing next to him with wide, frightened eyes. In her hands was a
movie case, fingers white-knuckled with how tightly she clutched it. She must have been wanting
to ask them to watch a movie with her and the shouting had frightened them both. Guilt flooded
Stiles, knowing that one of the worst things he and Derek could do would be to fight in front of
the kids.

Derek hurried to pick Olly up, shushing him and rocking his small body as he squirmed and kept
crying. Stiles quickly came over to lift Andy up, holding her tight while she wound her small arms
around his neck.

Are you going to leave again? Andy asked in a tiny voice. Stiles felt his heart break, and he
shook his head while brushing her bangs from her forehead. They were getting long--growing out
into a cute, wispy style that gave her an impish look.

No, sweets, Stiles assured, we were just arguing about something--like you do with Olly when
you think youre right and Olly thinks youre wrong. Olly was still going strong, sobbing into
Dereks throat and tearing at his shirt with little claws. Stiles headed for the living room, glancing
back to see Derek following before he looked at Andy and gave her a small smile.

Hm, Andy snuggled into his lap, watching as Derek continued to try and comfort her brother.
Daddy broke a cup.

Yep, Stiles confirmed, hell clean it up, too. Here, why dont you trade spots with your
brother? I think Olly needs some poppy cuddles. It sent a thrill through him to say those words,
and he smiled before he could stop it when Andy obediently wiggled out of his lap and Derek
handed Olly over. Olly instantly clung to him, small fingers curling into Stiles shirt.

Please dun fight with daddy! Olly pleaded, sniffing loudly. Stiles reached for a tissue from the
box on the table, handing it to Olly so he could use it to wipe his nose.

Its okay, Olly. Were not fighting anymore. Everything is fine. Stiles assured. Olly scrunched
up the tissue, slowly bringing it to his face and blinking at Stiles with big, wet eyes.

Promise?

Stiles nodded, I promise.

It seemed like that was enough to satisfy Olly, because he made a tiny sound of contentment and
then blew his nose. Stiles waited until he handed the dirty tissue over, taking it and leaning to the
side to dump it in the trash can by the arm of the couch.

When Stiles glanced up at Derek, he was expecting Dereks well finish this later face. Instead,
what he saw was begrudging acceptance--like Derek finally understood what Stiles had been
getting at about how Derek was needed at home more than anything. It was a huge weight off of
his shoulders, enough that Stiles could truly focus on holding Olly and comforting him without
worrying about the future. There was a teeny bit of pride swelling somewhere deep inside of him
to know that Dereks stubbornness wasnt winning against his love for his family, and maybe
even for Stiles.

Unthinking, he reached out to grab Dereks hand--the one closest to him, resting on Andys leg.
Derek twisted his palm up, lacing their fingers together. Stiles couldnt help but grin a little in
relief and a little in encouragement. Derek peeked over, the corners of his mouth pulling into a
return smile of his own. Theyd get things straightened out, as long as they had each other.

Most nights, Stiles either went home or stayed over depending on his dads work schedule and
how much homework he had. After putting the twins to bed, Stiles lingered for as long as he
could before knowing his dad would be waiting for him to come home. Derek saw him to the
door, holding Stiles hostage in the doorway for as long as possible with tiny, feather-light kisses
until Stiles finally pulled away and headed for his jeep.

He spent the evening watching reruns of NCIS with his dad, bickering over a case of Blue Moon
(which Stiles had nabbed on his way home, snickering maturely over the name the entire time he
was in the purchase line) and a bag of tortilla chips with the healthiest salsa Stiles could find at
nine on a Thursday night. Unlike his high school days, Stiles was already getting exhausted by the
time theyd gone through their fourth episode, spending more time yawning than actually sniping
comments back and forth with his father.

Going to bed with a belly warm from beer and a heart light with the special, unique contentment
that came from being with his dad, Stiles fell asleep quickly and easily.

He showed up at Dereks bright and early the next morning, setting up coffee for Derek and then
waking him by sitting on the bed and using his lips to tickle the sensitive spot just behind Dereks
right earlobe. It was probably one of his favorite things about getting up early--that, and the
moment that Olly and Andy would inevitably come demanding wakeup cuddles.

Olly was crankier than usual when he got up, whimpering and refusing to let go of Stiles even
when Derek was heading out the door. He kept his face in Stiles chest all morning and spoke in
as few words as possible--most of them mumbled. Andy took it in stride, letting Olly hog Stiles
attention and occupying herself with attempting to build the biggest castle in the history of ever
with her and Ollys combined Legos.

It was afternoon by the time Olly finally pried himself away, and that was only because he didnt
like the way Andy was building the towers on her castle and felt the need to police her against
using all the colors willy-nilly. The peace didnt last long, because after lunch, Olly pitched a fit
the second Stiles tried to put him down for his nap.

Stiles didnt figure it out until he sat down on the edge of Ollys bed and noticed a dark spot in the
center of the bed. He stared, leaning towards it and giving a sniff. He didnt need werewolf senses
to pick up the stench of urine--and he didnt need werewolf hearing to catch the way Ollys breath
hitched loudly before he burst into tears from his spot in Stiles lap.

Olly, Stiles began softly, reaching up to wipe tears from his cheeks, did you wet the bed?

Olly blubbered, pushing Stiles hands away and scrubbing his eyes, nodding furiously as he
bawled harder. Msorry!

Chest clenching, Stiles cradled Olly to his body, rocking him and making loud shushing noises.
Its okay, Olly, its okay. It happens, its not bad. Youre not in trouble.

I dinnt mean to! Olly cried, shoving his face into Stiles collarbone. Im not sposed to no
more!

Hey, Stiles cupped the back of Ollys head, stroking his soft hair, everyone has accidents,
thats okay. You just didnt wake up to go potty in time, thats all.

No, Olly moaned, curling up into a tiny ball, I hadda bad dream an I dint wanna get up.

Ahhh, Stiles said lowly, heart aching for the small child in his arms, thats even more normal.
Sometimes I get so scared when Im awake that I almost pee myself, you know!

Andy peered into the room and Stile made a shooing motion at her, holding a finger to his mouth
to let her know she shouldnt make a peep. Sometimes Olly got easily embarrassed if Andy was
around when he did something wrong. He got competitive with her, and this was definitely
something Stiles knew Olly would not like Andy to find out about. Andy put a hand over her
mouth in a mimic of Stiles gesture, and then nodded before popping back out of the doorway.
Most likely, shed gone back to her room and was going to wait for Stiles to come tuck her in.

Stiles rubbed Ollys back, mentally telling himself to reward Andy later for behaving so well. He
ducked down to lay a kiss on the crown of his head. Wanna tell me what your dream was
about?

Olly shifted, shrugging his shoulders a little and sniffling. There was another beat of silence, and
then he quietly whispered, I hadda dream you nevah came back.

Stiles heart shattered into a thousand, million pieces as Olly whined and curled in close. He
wrapped his arms around Olly, shaking his head and taking a second to find his words. Olly...
Im so sorry you dreamt that. I promise Ill never ever leave again, okay?

Desperately, he hoped it was a promise he could keep. Knowing that his fight with Derek had
affected Olly so deeply that it stuck with him even after Stiles had gone home. Olly must have
gotten up in the middle of the night and realized Stiles wasnt there, and it had scared him into
thinking that a repeat his and Dereks falling out was going to happen. Stiles could still remember
the way Olly had sobbed and screamed into his arms after hed finally seen Stiles again. That
couldnt happen again--it shouldnt have even been in Ollys mind at all.
Olly shoved his face into Stiles throat, breathing in with a stuffy nose and making little whuffing
noises as he nodded and used Stiles scent to calm himself. Stiles gave him a little longer to calm
down before carrying him into Andys room. Andy was already snuggled in with her Rapunzel
doll, and Stiles pulled the covers back to tuck Olly in with her.

Can Olly nap with you, sweets?

Andy nodded, sleepily turning and throwing her arm over Ollys shoulder. Olly snuffled,
snuggling in close to Andy. Stiles pulled the quilt over them both, bending down to give each
child a kiss on the head before he got up and headed back into Ollys room.

He changed the sheets, putting a fresh pair on and throwing the soiled ones in the wash before
going to call Derek.

The first call went to voicemail, so Stiles spent a half hour cleaning up before calling again in case
Derek had been in a meeting. This time, when Derek picked up, Stiles blurted out the first thing
that hed been thinking.

Olly wet the bed last night.

A pause, and then Derek said, I thought they were over that.

Plopping on the couch, Stiles sighed. He had a bad dream...did he come to you at all last night?

After a second of uncomfortable silence, Derek muttered, I told him to go back to his own bed,
in a sheepish, guilty voice. Stiles held back the urge to smack his forehead, instead flopping back
with a grunt.

Seriously?

I thought he just wanted to sleep with me again!

Come on, dude! You didnt stop to think maybe he had a nightmare?

Are you seriously blaming me for Olly wetting the bed? Derek snapped, sounding hurt more
than anything.

Stiles didnt feel like he was blaming Derek for what had happened, but he sure as hell felt kind of
pissed that Derek had turned his son away in the middle of the night. Wasnt it a parents
prerogative to give stupid oclock cuddles when needed?

No, but Im totally blaming you for making him go back to bed last night instead of seeing what
was wrong.

I was tired, Stiles!

Standing, Stiles crossed his way over to the kitchen to get himself some juice. Thats not really an
excuse. I mean, come on. Every parent has to put up with the nightmares and kids crawling in the
bed at night when theyre upset. You cant just tell him no because youre tired. He cursed
when some of it got on the counter, setting the phone between his ear and shoulder and looking
for a paper towel to clean it up.

Im not perfect, Stiles, Derek said wearily, the fight already gone out of him. It was such a
stupid, simple thing to say, and it drove Stiles out of his mind.

You dont have to be perfect to take care of your kid. He wouldnt go down for his nap because
he didnt tell me about the bed until I tried putting him to bed. Hes napping with Andy because I
have to wash his quilt and air the mattress out. He cried for like, an hour.

An aggravated noise came from the other line before Derek mumbled, Im still figuring this all
out.

Huh?

Im nothing like I was last year, Stiles. Sometimes I forget, okay? I forget and then you do a
really good job of making me feel like shit about it.

Stiles tensed, hand tight around his cup of juice as it froze halfway to his mouth. He clenched his
teeth, chest aching with guilt and a burning sensation that he couldnt really identify. Sorry, he
spat, I didnt realize you hated me that much. Derek didnt hate him, though, and Stiles knew
that. Still, it didnt stop his mouth from blurting out things just for the shock value in an argument.

You know that isnt true, Derek growled, you know more than anything that I dont hate you.

Yeah... Deflating, Stiles sipped at his juice, I know. I just...

I get it, Derek interrupted, I do. Theres a lot going on right now, neither of us are really...

Rational? Stiles grinned despite himself. He set his juice down, heading for the hall to peep in
on the children. Their naptime would be over soon, but sometimes they got up early if they
werent too tired.

Yeah, that.

Its fine, I said some stupid stuff too. Dont feel so bad. I know you dont hate me. Stiles
creaked the door open, chest freezing when he caught sight of an empty room.

I dont. I lo--

The kids are gone. Stiles blurted, having pushed his way through the room to try and find some
trace of them. Hang on, I just-- Stiles rushed out of the room while Derek demanded answers on
the other line. He shouted for Andy and Olly, scouring the living room, Dereks room, and even
the guest room for them.

There was nothing.

Derek was screaming through the phone, and Stiles brought it up to his ear, Derek--Jesus, Derek,
the kids are gone. Just saying it was like flipping that switch from panicked to full blown terrified
hysteria as he wrenched open the back door and stared into the empty yard. Fuck. Fuck--theyre
gone, Derek!

Stiles, you need to calm down, Derek snapped, you cant find them if youre panicking. Did
you look in the yard?

The yards empty, Derek! Stiles screamed, choking on a sob when a thought hit him. The
river.

What?

Fuck, the river! Stiles didnt think, just dropped the phone and bolted through the yard and
towards the river that wasnt far from the house. Andy and Olly were so little--they couldnt swim
yet. Stiles knew they wouldnt be able to keep themselves up in a fast current. They might have
been werewolves, but they were still practically babies.

There had been so many times that they had begged to play in the water but Stiles had refused
because the water ran too fast for it to be safe for them. Some tiny, rational part of Stiles told him
that Andy and Olly would never go to the river unsupervised--but it was outdone by the larger
part telling him that his children were gone and he needed to find them and save them before it
was too late.

He reached the river with a loud scream of Andys name, followed quickly by Ollys. With winter
just around the corner, the current was faster than ever as it rushed over rocks and stone. Stiles
didnt think, leaping in and hoping that maybe they had just slipped and were somewhere under
the water. He didnt know how concussions worked with werewolves, but he did know that it
could, at the least, daze them long enough to let the river sweep them under.

The river was ice cold, robbing Stiles of the breath in his lungs. He choked on Ollys name,
splashing and struggling his way downstream the best he could. Andy! Olly! his voice was
growing hoarse, clothes sticking to his skin and body already shivering violently. He ignored it for
the panic eating away at him, fingers scrabbling through the water, desperately searching for the
small bodies he was equally terrified to find.

Stiles didnt know if he was sobbing or if it was just water splashing up on his cheeks, feet
slipping over rocks and his palms getting scrapes and cuts each time he tried to remain upright.
Andy! Olly! Andy, where are you? Olly, please!

He was quaking, body soaked and chilled to the bone. Each breath was like icicles stabbing into
his lungs, wretched and heavy. They werent here--there was no way they would have floated
faster than Stiles could run downstream.

The only other place they could have gone would be down the road--the road that was open and
exposed and practically begging Kate or someone else to come find them and take them away.

Stiles dragged himself out of the water, jogging his way towards the house. He went around the
side, doing his best to ignore how the weight of his watered down clothes was making his entire
body feel a thousand times heavier than normal. His breath was coming in short, wheezing gasps--
hed lost the children and Derek was going to hate him. Derek would kill him if Stiles didnt end
up killing himself from sheer exhaustion, first. He might have had a restraining order against Kate,
but that wouldnt stop her from being able to take the children if she came across them.

He hit the forest next to the road, stumbling and trying to look for small footprints--shaking when
he realized there were too many fallen leaves to even be able to find any.

Andy! Olly! Stiles called out, coughing and then tripping over a root that had him crashing to
the ground. He couldnt breathe, coughing again and then hacking until he started to heave dryly.
Stiles pushed himself to his feet, stumbling and sucking in a pained, sharp breath before he pushed
himself to keep going.

Olly! Andy, where are you?!

The sound of tires screeching on the road had Stiles freezing in place. He squinted, peering
through the trees and almost bursting into tears when he recognized the sleek black shape of
Dereks camaro. The drivers door opened and Derek clambered out, hands cupping his mouth as
he shouted Stiles name in a loud bellow. Stiles swallowed heavily, heart ready to beat out of his
chest as he stumbled his way towards the road.

Im sorry, Im so sorry, he wheezed upon breaking through the trees, I lost them, Derek. I lost
them!

Derek shot forward and Stiles barely caught a glimpse of Andy and Olly peering at him through
the dark, tinted windows of the camaros back seat. Every last iota of energy that Stiles had been
clinging to left him in a rush of relief. Jesus-- holy God, Stiles sobbed, legs giving out. He
would have crashed to the ground if Derek hadnt reached him just in time to catch him. Stiles
couldnt stop trembling, eyes locked on Andy and Olly in the car.

Fuck, Stiles. Youre soaking wet. Derek cried, lowering Stiles to the ground as he barely kept
himself from hyperventilating. Derek caught on quickly, sliding his arms around Stiles back and
holding him tight, one hand warm as he rubbed it along Stiles back.

Theyre okay, were okay. Theyre fine, Stiles. They were walking down the road. I found them
when I was heading home. Everything is okay. Theyre safe.

Andy and Olly scrambled their way out of the car, rushing over and crawling all over Derek until
he moved enough so they could squeeze in and cling to Stiles.

Shakily, Stiles pulled them into his arms as Andy cried, we thought you dint want us
anymoah!

The laugh that came from Stiles was more hysterical than anything. He swallowed it back,
shaking his head furiously as Derek dragged all three of them into his arms. They didnt stay like
that for very long--not when Stiles tremors were getting so bad that his teeth began to rattle.
Derek stood, quickly hustling them into the car. He didnt even make a peep when Andy and Olly
sat in Stiles lap in the drivers seat instead of getting into the back. They were only going up the
road, anyway.

Derek still cranked up the heating in the car, side-eyeing Stiles every chance he got and frowning
deeper and deeper at the way Stiles shook and clutched to the children. He bustled them all into
the house as soon as he pulled up to the driveway. When Andy went for the couch, Derek pointed
down the hall, No. Both of you go to your rooms. You scared Stiles half to death and you made
me come home from work because of it.

Stiles expected them to protest, but instead Andy drooped like a kicked puppy as she took Ollys
hand and they shuffled their way down the hall with sniffled apologies. Stiles had never seen them
so ashamed in all his life. It was kind of nice to know that making Stiles worry out of his mind had
been enough of a guilt trip for them to actually obey punishment without hesitation.

Without wasting another second, Derek pushed and hustled Stiles towards his bedroom. He shut
and locked the door before turning and practically wrenching Stiles shirt off. Get out of those. I
can hear you shaking from across the room.

Stiles had no qualms in obeying, instead shucking out of his jeans and boxers while Derek shifted
through his drawers for some of Stiles spare things that had gotten left there at some other point in
time.

Im sorry, Stiles rasped, putting on the clean boxers and t-shirt Derek gave him. I panicked. If I
had just walked down the road--

Shut up. Derek snapped, pulling the comforter off the bed and bundling Stiles up in it. He
shoved Stiles onto the bed, making him sit before going to get a towel from the bathroom.

Swallowing the lump in his throat, Stiles watched silently as Derek came back and started to scrub
at Stiles hair. He didnt have a lot of hair--but it was still just enough that it dripped ice water
 down onto his face and neck. The look on Dereks face was intense as he wiped away all the
excess water. Finally, he sighed, You didnt do anything wrong, Stiles. Christ, youre...

Derek hesitated, kneeling down between Stiles legs and pulling the towel down so it rested
around Stiles shoulders. Youre a great father, he said vehemently--in much the same way
Stiles had said to him all those months ago.

The breath in Stiles lungs left him in a woosh, heart thundering rapidly against his ribs as he
reached out to drag Derek into a kiss. Derek surged up, cupping his face and pushing him against
the bed. Stiles went with it, legs falling apart so Derek could slot between them as he kissed back
with fast, frenzied gasps coming between each press of their lips. Derek bit and sucked and kissed
like a man starved, palms burning hot as they roamed all over Stiles body.

Stiles didnt want this to end, wanted to soak Derek up and never let him go. Dereks teeth bit into
his mouth, leaving it bruised and swollen and marked so fully that Stiles was pretty sure his dad
was going to give him disapproving looks for days.

Just when Dereks hands were fumbling to pull Stiles boxers down, Andys voice was loud and
screechy as she hollered out, Issit ten minnits yet?!

It snapped the mood in half, and Stiles wrenched away from Dereks lips with a cackle. He buried
his face into Dereks throat, grinning like an idiot as a swell of affection hit him right in the gut
until he felt ready to burst. Kids, he chuckled, gotta love em.

Derek pulled away, just enough so he could stare down at Stiles with a fond look. He reached up,
the back of his knuckles tracing the curve of Stiles cheek. Yeah, Dereks thumb brushed the
underside of Stiles eyelid as he came down to steal a gentle kiss, whispering, you too, into
Stiles mouth before sealing their lips together.

Chapter End Notes

*POPS CONFETTI*

Works inspired by this one

Safe in My Arms by KenneStu (xMissxSpunkyx), [Fanart] Kids, gotta love
em by wielka_mi_mecyja, [Fanart] Poppy Hugs by wielka_mi_mecyja,
[Fanart] Family Walk by wielka_mi_mecyja, Andy and Olly by
Blackbird_singing, [podfic] Prince Among Wolves by FelixFeroxFilia

Please drop by the archive and comment to let the author know if you enjoyed their work!