Moonlight in California: The Pack pt14

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Happiness, Normal: Things that Lynn felt and Dallas feared for them both. A few short weeks later and Lynn lost their baby and then only days later the pack arrived and they were instructed to stay put until Marcus came to them separately to talk.

Lynn had kept to herself much more once the baby was lost. She had pulled away from Dallas, and worked at the daycare extra when she could. When the pack arrived she fell back into the normal routine of cooking all the meals and taking care of herself once more. She kept her tears to herself and only when Dallas was out for work. Once the pack returned she didn't let herself cry at all.

When Dallas went to work one night there was a knock at the door. Marcus had come to pay her a visit.

Lynn answers the door, she was wearing her pajama's, a pants and button up top. Her hair up in a messy bun, her skin freshly scrubbed and still wet. "Marcus? I'm sorry! I wasn't aware you were coming!" Lynn says worried he might be upset at how she looked. "Please come in! Um I'll change into something you like better... and brush my hair!" Lynn says turning quickly to go do those things, she did have sexy underwear and silk pajama's Marcus liked better. She didn't want him displeased, or any more distrusting of her than he already was the last time she went into heat.

"No." he said walking past her to have a seat, "Although a cup of coffee would be nice. If I feel the need to have you change your clothes or anything it will be after that and a little chat."

"Oh... of course. I'll start brewing." Lynn says trailing behind him slowly, when he sat she continued on to the kitchen. She had a french press which she had made Dallas splurge on for her. She pulled out some fresh beans from the freezer and her electric grinder. It only took about four minutes for the coffee grounds to be put in a paper filter, and for her to heat the water. Once the coffee was done she grabbed her cream from the fridge and brought it over on a tray for Marcus. "I know it's not the usual way you take it but... I promise it's good." Lynn sits down on the armchair next to the sofa Marcus had sat on. She pulls her hair out of it's updo at least, since he mostly likes the girls to have their hair down.

Marcus put cream and sugar into his coffee and took a sip, "It has been a very long time since we've seen each other. I want you to take your clothes off and turn several times so that I might see how the time apart has changed you."

"I gained roughly fifteen pounds." Lynn says walking across the room to close the curtains, she then stands in front of the coffee table and Marcus and began to strip. She took a deep breath and unbuttoned her top letting it slide to the floor, she then unhooked her bra and let that drop onto her top. She then slides her pants and panties down at the same time. She steps out of them and slowly begins to turn. Her hands at her sides, she turns slowly so he can see. Her hips were a little broader, and her tummy not as flat, her thighs too and rump more plump.

"No doubt from the pregnancy." Marcus said taking another sip of coffee and setting the cup down. "Lynn do you remember the rules I told you when I brought you home to the pack?" he patted the cushion beside him on the couch. His tone wasn't angry not even disappointed, just like a parent who needed to tell a child something one more time.

"Yes Marcus." Lynn said softly taking the seat without hesitation, Marcus didn't like when any member of the pack disobeyed him or refused to come when called. Also her weight was probably more because Dallas let her eat what she wished and so she ate much more. When with the pack all they wanted was barbeque and fried goods. She avoided those. But she wouldn't dare try to correct Marcus right now. She didn't tremble and she was working hard to keep her tears from even bubbling up out of her chest. She looked straight at Marcus and had her hands limply in her lap.

"We can not have children, there has never been a born werewolf as far as I know." Marcus said reaching over and bringing Lynn to him. "Dallas knows this as well, although I believe you both lie blameless but have punished yourselves with this heartbreak. You will retake your place in the pack, Dallas though will not as he was not honest about what had happened." He placed his hand over her heart, feeling the weight of her breast as easily as he could feel her heartbeat. "the severity of his punishment depends on if he repents and if you can convince him staying is the right thing to do."

"You are the Alpha Marcus. If you beleive that he will not put the pack first... then what will it matter if I speak with him? I certainly am in no position to make any real difference one way or the other in the pack, other than feeding every I have no merits." Lynn says her gaze falling to Marcus's clavicle, instead now.


"We all have our parts to play in the pack Lynn." Marcus said running his thumb across her nipple before dropping his hand to open her legs to him. "I am father and leader, Shelia and Dallas are more the defense of our little family. And you, I feel are more like mother to them." he said as he stroked her sex. "Dallas will stay if nothing else to protect you, even if demoted in the pack. And I wish for the two of you to continue exploring for me."

Lynn kept her gaze at his clavicle, but opened her legs to him. "If you wish." Was all Lynn says to what Marcus told her. Her a mother to the pack, was incorrect. Slave maybe. All Lynn had ever done was cook for them. Her wolf surged then and she quickly and forcefully shoved it back down. Hard. She refused to let her out. In fact, her wolf had only been loose on the full moon while she was in the cage. She had been keeping very tight reins on it.

Marcus stopped, it was clear the loss of the child was still heavy on her mind. "Lynn, if you wish me to punish Dallas then say so." his tone was one of finality. Dallas had changed after Caitlin and he foolishly allowed another pack female to get near him.

"I think he is already punished. But I would never dream of-... demotion would be good I think." Lynn said carefully, cutting herself off mid sentence to take a slightly shaky breath, before finishing her sentence. She places her hands on Marcus's shoulders then and leans towards him. "May I have a hug... please?" She asks softly the please a whisper. Her eyes were downcast and she didn't shake but her eyes were misty though she was unwilling to cry anymore.

"Of course." Marcus said drawing Lynn into his arms. She still cared for Dallas and that would prove useful to him later. He pulled her onto his lap so they were as close as could be and waited for what Lynn would wish for next.

Lynn made herself comfortable and burrowed her face against Marcus's shoulder and chest. She sat for several moments just taking in the calmness and closeness of Marcus. When she was at peace again for a moment she tilted her head and kisses Marcus's jaw. "Thank you. It... helped." She says softly before stifling a yawn.

Marcus allowed one hand to hold her as the other came to rest on her thigh, "Lynn, what do you wish for in the pack? Surely you enjoyed your time away or did you long to be back in the kitchens and from time to time grace my bed?" He wanted the truth from her, and he knew he'd get it with her now so calm.

"I don't really know anymore. Things have gotten so... confusing." Lynn says softly taking a moment to collect her thoughts. "It was so nice to go to restaurants and even the mall to pick up a few more clothes. But it was terrifying being out here with only Dallas and no pack. I want to cook. But I don't want to cook just barbecue and almost flavorless meat all the time. I want to bake cakes and souffles. I... I don't think, I mean, I just... I don't want sex for a while. With anyone. I just... Want to be me?" Lynn says trying to put her feelings into words, she knew she might get chastised but he had asked and with all she had done and all he had been forgiving. She needed to give him everything and trust in him again.

"I understand, and I will grant you what you request. Is there anything else?" Marcus asked already realizing what she might need to again be fully a member of the pack. Dallas would not be back until the morning and already he had decided to have him come back to the pack's current den.

"Just time... and forgiveness for any more mistakes I might make." Lynn says closing her eyes and giving him a soft squeeze. She was trusting Marcus with everything, she couldn't do this on her own. She simply didn't know how, and couldn't on her own. Lynn was no Alpha, and while she was no omega either, right now she was just a woman who was lost.

"I can grant that Lynn, for am I not the Alpha. I have a perfect idea for you, I will however need time to make it reality." he said still letting his hand rest on her thigh. "I will give you leave to do as you see fit in feeding our pack." Marcus told her.

"Are you sure?! Some of the guys won't like it... Thank you Alpha!" Lynn says smiling and relaxing thoroughly against him, while she was curious of the idea she was at ease with how gentle Marcus was being with her, especially with the whole situation that had happened. She was also relieved that she didn't have to fear for Dallas's death.

"They will learn to enjoy what you make." Marcus said slipping his hand around Lynn to her backside. "I also give you leave to decide who you wish to be, although I admit the little extra to your backside and breasts make you very desirable." he whispered. Part of Marcus wanted to reclaim her, mount her here in their den and show Dallas that everything of the pack belonged to him.

Lynn snuggles close, "I didn't gain that much... " She pouts touching her stomach, and then looking back up at Marcus. "Will it really be okay? To let me be me?" Lynn asks softly looking down at her hands again.

Tipping up her chin Marcus smiled letting his hand slowly fall to hers, "You must find balance with your wolf and in turn you must find balance with the world around you. No, you did not gain that much and in time anything you do not like will work itself out."

"Thank you Marcus." Lynn says kissing his jaw near his neck and then just laying her head on his shoulder. It soothed her to have him near, sometimes it didn't but right now it was peaceful and she knew he was looking out for her. She felt tears begin to well up once more and she forced that back down too. "Are you hungry? I could whip up something better than just coffee if you would like." Lynn asks/offers. She felt silly just being naked on his lap.

He chuckled, "If you continue to rain kisses upon me the only hunger I will have is for you. I ate earlier tonight before I decided to come speak with you. The coffee is fine, I will stay here for a little while and talk with you. Then I will leave and speak with Dallas tomorrow morning."

"I hardly would think two is raining Marcus." Lynn gives a quick giggle, before taking a soft breath and letting it back out. "May I... at least put my panties back on?" She asks softly her hands still over her stomach, while she wasn't really looking at it, it was fairly clear she was uncomfortable with her stomach at the moment.

Marcus looked down, "Do you wish to cover up so soon? I rather like looking at your body Lynn and I remember what it feels like. However, if you truly wish it then you may put them back on." He looked back up and smiled at Lynn, she was a natural woman and Marcus as Dallas obviously enjoyed every inch of her.

"I'm not putting clothes back on!" Lynn laughs and unfurls one leg to use her toes and snag her panties from the pile near the couch. She scoots them back on quickly without too much movement, though she did have long legs and wide hips to work them up and over. She was not commenting on anything else he said because quite frankly she had a negative interest in sex at the moment.

"Lynn, is there something to help you heal and come back to the pack? If so name it, anything." Marcus said as he watched her. Her becoming pregnant was complicating his pack and if he needed the impossible to right them then he might have to make that happen. The next move, and for that matter his next visit on his journey would depend on Dallas and Lynn. Keeping a step ahead was what kept his position secure, and Lynn would keep Dallas in line and giving her something she wanted would keep her in line.

"I am healing. Sometimes it takes time. That's what the books say." Lynn says stretching out her buttocks on Marcus and laying out on the couch properly. She yawns and relaxes out putting her hands behind her head to prop it up. "Sometimes you can't speed up the process like cake. You just have to let it rest and cool down before you ice it, and rest again before slicing it and serving it." Lynn says looking at his thoughtful face. He was planning again, that much was clear.

Marcus stayed only a little longer and then he left, Lynn would have at least an hour or two before Dallas would be home from work. She could still smell Marcus and knew that Dallas would be able to as well. She just needed to think of what she would tell hi when he arrived.

Lynn tidied up and dressed properly in clean clothes that only smelled like her. Kahki's and a button up. Hair up in a bun on her head. She had a fashion belt on and flats too. She had a meatloaf in the oven, it was a quick and easy meal that would finish after Dallas returned and showered.

Dallas came in and set his bag down in the usual spot before coming in and giving Lynn's shoulder a light squeeze, "Meatloaf smells pretty good, how was today?" He was unsure on how to approach her lately, he tried to make sure she knew he still loved her and wanted to help her even though those weren't really the words she might want to hear. And to top it off Marcus was here and wanted to see him today, he knew there would be punishment for what happened. Although with a look back at his bag which held his gun, Dallas decided Lynn would not be punished not if he had anything to say about it.

"Better... Marcus stopped by... I'm not sure if that was better or not... I tried to make him food he didn't want any." Lynn made fists took a soft breath and released them before turning around. "My food is good right? It tastes good?" Lynn asks softly not looking at him. Her heart was racing and yet her emotions were low. She wanted to bite something and run away.

Dallas put a finger under her chin and raised her eyes to meet his, "I love your cooking just like I love you, babe." He had wanted to kiss her, to wrap his arms around her but was unsure how she'd react to him. "What did he say? I assume he plans to talk to me later." his tone was flat he wouldn't show disdain for the alpha, not outright anyway.

"He asked me how I was. He gave me permission to cook only what I want to cook, and said that if I don't want to be around or with the others I didn't have to. He also said he wouldn't push for me either, if I wasn't up for it." Lynn spoke softly almost a whisper, her chest hurt when Dallas looked at her, when she could tell he wanted to make things better. She began to tremble softly and quickly looked away hugging herself a little. "Yes he does want to speak to you. I was scared he might do something... bad. I asked him not to do anything to you. I don't want to see you hurt." Lynn says softly, she wanted to have him hug her again but even that hurt her heart.

Dallas put his hands on her shoulders, "I'll take what punishment he hands out as long as he doesn't hurt you." Marcus would not let them go without punishment being handed out and Dallas was fine with it. "Let's not discuss this any further, how about a nice dinner and maybe a little tv." Dallas suggested taking his hands away and going to the sink to wash his hands.

Lynn didn't say another word. She hated how Dallas tried to shoulder everything, but she also loved that about him. She prepares them both plates of food and gets the silverware and napkins, she would make a second trip for drinks, and set them on the coffee table in the living room. Her chest was tight again but she was doing her best to squash it down and continue prepping the little coffee table. She turns to go get the drinks then, she knew Dallas liked drinking from cans rather than a glass so she grabbed him a can of pop and got herself a glass of water.

After washing up Dallas joined her at the coffee table and took a moment of quiet before eating. Marcus had told him when and where to met the pack without Lynn, so he knew that there would be punishment handed out. Taking a bite of meatloaf he smiled at Lynn, "Great as always. I think the idea that you cook what you want is a good one."

"I... I'm really relieved he is going to let me, and a little scared too." Lynn says softly cutting everything up on her plate before setting her knife aside and simply using her fork, napkin in her lap and small sips of water between bites. She also liked meatloaf and was glad it had turned out well. She was much more scared of being back in the pack though... with all the others.

About an hour later Dallas changed back into the clothes he wore as part of the pack and left to go see Marcus. "I'm going Lynn, don't wait up for me I don't know how long I'll be." he said taking a long look at her. He wished this last couple weeks hadn't happened that they didn't lose the baby and that the pack had not arrived here.

"Be safe..." Lynn said before standing and kissing his cheek. She watched him leave through the window and once alone curls up on the couch hugging a pillow tightly to her chest. She was very worried about everything now, and she was alone.

It was hours later before Dallas got back to the house, his body still knitting itself back together. The rules of his punishment had been simple, if he fought back before Marcus called them off then Lynn would also pay the price. True to his word Dallas allowed them to do as the pack would and then headed back to his home to rest before tomorrow. His shirt and jeans went into the garbage and that into the larger can outside, they were covered in his blood and Lynn didn't need to see that. He then got into the shower and washed the rest off, he'd sleep on the couch so he wouldn't wake Lynn.

Lynn woke when Dallas came home, she stayed very still and kept her breathing even. He got into the shower, and out. She heard him walk away then. She realized he was staying away, he must either be hurt or angry. Her eyes filled with tears and she blinked rapidly to dispel them and curled up under the covers to make herself sleep again.

When she woke up, Dallas was still asleep on the couch half an empty bottle of beer and some random pain medication was on the coffee table. He would not have needed it except to get to sleep sooner. He would be hungry when he woke up, but Lynn had noticed that the clothes he left in last night weren't in the hamper this morning.

Lynn covers him with a blanket before going to the kitchen, she got a loaf of bread and eggs mixed thoroughly. She starts making french toast it was a high carb food which Dallas tended to like and would help him curb his hunger from whatever it was that happened last night. She was trying to be quiet for Dallas's sake though.

As the first couple pieces came off the griddle Dallas woke up and groaned, "Mhhh, something sure smells good." Getting up he walked out into the kitchen in his boxers and put his hands on Lynn's shoulders. "Hope you don't mind that I slept on the couch, I got back late and did not want to wake you."

"I've got bacon in the oven for you too. I don't mind honey." Lynn says turning her head and smiling at him sweetly. She wasn't sure what happened or why he was in a strangely good mood. Especially since something had to have happened. Lynn looked at her hands again and put another ready piece in the pan.

Dallas opened the oven and picked up a piece of bacon, he hoped that Lynn wouldn't notice he was moving slower than normal. Trying to be in a good mood would hopefully hold off any questions about last night. Before getting a seat he poured a cup of coffee and watched Lynn cook, "How long have you been up?"

"Not very long, I thought a big carby breakfast would make us both happy today though. Fuel us for the day." Lynn gives Dallas a small smile at her own little joke. She flips the pancake in the pan expertly and puts it back on the stove. "Mind pouring me a cup too please?" Lynn asks then opening the oven and pulling out the bacon, she was getting ready to plate everything for them to eat.

Dallas poured her a cup and added cream and sugar as she liked before he sat back down. "Marcus told me last night he isn't too sure how long we will be here. More than likely we will pull up stakes and move on before the pack starts selling here. Which means we will have to quit the jobs and break the rental here." he said almost like he wished they didn't have to.

Lynn didn't pause in her work, but she did clench her jaw and slowly let out a breath before putting the plates full of food down, and then she opened the refrigerator door and grabbed both the butter and maple syrup. She let out her breath in the fridge then closed the door and sat down at the table smiling softly at Dallas. "If it is what the pack needs then we will do what we must. I'll have to get rid of some of the clothes I have too many for a bike right now." Lynn said softly as she filled her plate with pancakes and buttered them as well. She was once again avoiding eye contact again though.

Dallas reached out, "You don't have to, they can bring them in the van. And it's just us so you don't have to do that with me." He wanted to hold on longer, like before but knew that they still had somethings to work through. After a few moments he let go and dug into his breakfast, they would have to meet with the pack later today.

"It would just be more to carry around, I honestly probably won't wear many things again." Lynn smiles softly watching him dig in to her food. "Besides we enjoyed them. That's all that matters." She says before also starting to eat. She also didn't want the other girls going through her stuff, sniffing around and touching important things. Better they stay a memory than a physical thing. Lynn only ate three pancakes and that was more than she particularly felt she wanted to but she was a little worried Dallas was picking up on her loss of appetite.

"I was thinking about taking a couple hours to just chill out. Care to join me?" he asked hoping perhaps they might be able to talk a little more.

"Chill out? What does that mean?" Lynn asks as she takes her plate to the kitchen and into the sink. Normally when he wanted to 'chill' he sat on the couch and watched tv and drank beer. She wasn't certain what he was referring to now though.

"Unlike my normal 'chill' I figured maybe just sit on the couch, maybe if you'd like use that afghan you got last time we went to the thrift store." Dallas said watching her go to the kitchen. He cleaned up the last of his food and followed her. So many times he wished he knew what to say or do for her other than try to just be there.

"Do you think it a wise idea? Shouldn't we prepare to join the pack again?" Lynn asks softly looking up through her eye lashes at Dallas, peaking shyly. She was beginning to become timid again like when they were in the pack previously, but she reaches out to take his dishes from him if he wished. It did sound nice, sitting and cuddling on the couch. There hadn't been much contact between them since...Lynn shakes her head once and disrupts the thought quickly. "It... it sounds nice." She says even more softly her voice just shy of a whisper this time.

Dallas took one hand of his dishes and used two fingers to raise her chin and eyes to his. "No, when it's just us no being timid. Be Lynn, the woman who enjoyed going to that restaurant, who we rode out of Oklahoma together. If we are leaving most all of this behind then we will just pack up our clothes and go. Let's just go and relax for a little while." he said setting the plate in the sink and taking her hand.

Lynn nodded her head, gripping his large rough hand with her own soft smaller ones. She took a deep breath and let it out slowly, then looked up at him with an apologetic smile. "Okay Dallas, let's 'chill'." She says with a small teasing smile as she used his words. Clearly he was wanting to cuddle and whether it was to comfort her... or himself she didn't really care because she still did love him and she wanted skinship too.

Once they got on the couch Dallas tossed the afghan over them and got comfortable. He put his hand back into Lynn's and gave it a small squeeze. This was what he found himself missing, just holding her hand or holding her. Taking in a breath he didn't mean to but emotion overtook him and he felt the first of his tears. He hadn't really let himself mourn their baby yet and he just couldn't stop that pain from escaping.

"Oh Dallas..." Lynn whispers softly as her own eyes filled immediately, she however blinked them back and turned her body so she could wrap her arms around Dallas's broad shoulders and hold him tightly to her. Even as she mostly lay across his lap and chest, she wanted to give him comfort and solace, her and her inner wolf. If it could ease the guilt and her own sadness, or just his own even she would do anything for it. "I still love you." She whispers softly laying her cheek against his shoulder.

He wrapped his arms around her as well, "Gods babe, I'm so sorry. I love you too." The pain which was coming from his heart made the beating he took last night look like a papercut. There was no other way to say it, if he could have found a way to have spared her the pain he would have in a heartbeat.

Lynn held onto him tightly. She was silent for a long while but when he had calmed just a little she spoke again softly and a little hesitantly. "We will be okay, you and I Dallas. As long as we are near, and as long as we are allowed to scout together. This is... just the way it is, and I love you." She finishes her words reaffirming her love once again, even as her own chest felt constricted and she felt overwhlemed with emotions, she again held them tightly and refused to give in to them.

Dallas rested his forehead against her neck, "We'll be okay...I got you and you got me...together." It felt good, it felt like a first real step on a new road together. He hoped they could continue to move forward together, maybe get far enough away from the pack to try and find a place they didn't have to worry about Marcus.

"Yes, together." Lynn says smiling softly, though sadly. She loosened her hug just a little but didn't move an inch to change their position or anything else about the moment, this was what she was most afraid of losing. What she feared Marcus would tear apart.

An hour later the phone rang, Dallas let her go long enough to get it from the coffee table. "Hello?" he said, Lynn could hear Marcus on the other end giving him instructions. They would have a week to get everything in order and then they were leaving Oklahoma and heading northwest and then at some point to California. Dallas didn't say much except that he understood and they'd come to the pack in the morning for more instructions.

One week to leave her job, pack up her things in a duffle bag and leave this little house that for a short time had been a nice cozy little den for them. "I should clean things up from dinner, and we should probBly start getting rid of some of extra things we bought fir this place." Lynn says with a sigh as she stood from the couch.

"We may as well just leave it here, whatever we don't take." Dallas said letting her up. He got up and went to take a long look at some of the stuff in the bedroom that they may or may not take with them.

Lynn washed their dishes and the pots that had soaked from dinner. She then scrubbed the counters and the table and even the sink after that. The pots and pans would be left behind, the only thing she would take was the good knife she had splurged on and bought herself. Then eventually she joined Dallas in the bedroom.

He had a couple drawers open and the closet too, there was a lot here in only a short time. "We can take the extra clothes to the thrift store, squirrel whatever they give us away for a rainy day." Dallas said looking at the outfit she wore on the interview for her job. He knew she'd miss the children and her boss as well. This life wasn't for her, and if it wasn't for her then it no longer was for him either.

"We knew it was temporary." Lynn says softly taking his hand in her own and leaning against his arm. "I'll keep anything you want me to, I just... can't keep much it has to fit on your bike after all." Lynn says resting her head on his shoulder, this town had been so full of life and happiness when they arrived but, it much like her job painfully reminded her of what she couldn't have and what the pack did not allow.

"I wouldn't even know where to start, we bought things that looked good on you and that you liked. Your necklace we keep of course, other than that pick the stuff you'll wear and we'll start there." he said smiling briefly when she took his hand and again when she put her head on his shoulder.

"Only if you promise to at least keep the button up shirt for special occasions." Lynn smiles softly. "I still can't get over how you look with the sleeves rolled up to your forearms." Lynn let go of his hand then and stepped forward putting her usual pants and shirts she wore on a daily basis the one side in a pile and she put a pull over she liked in the pile too. She then made a second pile of extra's and give aways and put the outfit from her interview in that along with some of the 'home cloths' they had bought like slouchy shirts and loose shorts.

Dallas smirked, "Yeah, a right spiffy looking goon. But alright if you want me to keep that one, I want you to keep that one pair of panties the dark red lacy pair." He opened the drawer that kept most of his stuff and pulled out three pairs of jeans and a couple shirts, socks and so forth. There wasn't much he needed to hold onto, really just Lynn.

"Okay." Lynn agreed with a small smile for Dallas as she pulled them out and put them with the keep pile, as well as her other underwear and bra's and socks. She only had a few things left to decide on now, her dress being one of them, she knew she should get rid of it should anyone go through her clothing but at the same time it had been such a wonderful night and it was a very fine dress.

"Keep it." Dallas said reading her mind, "Never know when you might need it. And if they ask say we used it while scoping out a trendy area to sell in." it wasn't the truth nor was it a lie. He sat on the edge of their bed and watched her for a long time. This place had been as much home as sanctuary from the pack and the things Marcus made them do.

Lynn looked up at Dallas a worried look on her face but gives him a small smile. "Okay, thank you." Lynn says folding it carefully and putting it with her keep pile. Almost the rest she put in the give away pile. "I guess that's... everything important other than toiletries done." Lynn says sitting down next to him then and once more putting her head against his shoulder.

Dallas leaned back until they were laying half on the bed with their legs dangling off and just looking up at the ceiling. "I remember the first night we slept here, watching the headlights of passing cars play across the ceiling. I half expected a phone call telling us coming here had been a mistake and to head for Mexico."

"I was just glad to be in a bed that wasn't in a motel." Lynn says softly snuggling close by wrapping her arms around his. "I was worried everyday that we would be here for a day or two before we would have to move on again, or that I'd have to go back in the van." Lynn made a face just thinking about the van.

"First, I have some fond memories of a hotel bed." Dallas said touching his forehead to her's. "Second, you won't have to ride in the loser-mobile any more." he chuckled wrapping his other arm around her.

"It was half the van and half who I had to ride with." Lynn says with her slight smile still, it was good to see Dallas in better spirits, she was really worried about what the pack had done to him but it couldn't be so bad if it only took one night to recover. Lynn wrapped her arms around him properly as well and just snuggled close.

Without really thinking Dallas kissed her temple and let himself relax with her. The beating hadn't concerned him much, wasn't the first and wouldn't be the last. It was Marcus who made him concerned, the threat to what he would do to Lynn while the other males would be beating him that made him concerned.

Lynn hugged Dallas tight when he kissed her temple, it was good that he could still be with her like this. This was some of what she was afraid of losing going back to the pack. Until she and Dallas bonded in this way she had been alone in a group of unsocialized wolves, Marcus while she clearly understood he was Alpha and could take care of her scared her. And it was the fear that kept her in line more than anything else. Sure he had never harmed her unnecessarily, but it wasn't like she was close to him either and she wasn't on terms anyone could call friendship with any of the others either, which is probably why she fell so hard so quickly for the sweet caring Dallas.

Sure enough, two days later they were back with the pack entering back into a run down hospital in Guthrie Oklahoma. The pack had gotten the power and water back on and it was secluded enough from the eyes of the curious. Marcus had wisely had some comforts of home added for his children and when Lynn and Dallas arrived he was busy with Kristy bent over his desk to speak to them. They would retake their places in the pack until he had need of them.

"Kristy, would you offer yourself to Dallas? If I asked you to, for the pack?" Marcus asked as he thrust himself into her darker hole. He as a rule kept anyone from having that part of his pack mates, it was the alpha's right to have them anally if he so chose.

Lynn had to honestly say this was one of the worst places they had lived in while she had been with them yet. Like one of those cheesy horror flicks she enjoyed so much, but this she did not enjoy. Nor was she particularly enjoy what was happening right now either, though she was keeping herself carefully calm for the moment and her wolf squashed down inside if her.

Kristy moaned beneath him. "Of course Marcus, anything for the pack." Kristy offered pushing back against him willingly. Lynn had fucked up bad, and Dallas had chosen once again the wrong girl. Which meant if Lynn did anything else at all Kristy was that much better. Even if Dallas was, well, if it made Marcus happier then she would do him.

Lynn was given a room near the other two girls and Dallas was told that he could take his pick of what was left for the men. It didn't leave any place he really wanted to sleep, but he managed to find a room that with a bit of work rivaled a world class shit hole. Hopefully he wouldn't have to call this place home for too long.

Marcus finished with Kristy, casting his seed into her body. Normally he would have used a condom, but since he took her in such a way there was no possible way for her to conceive. "Go and clean up, I may give you instruction to approach Dallas later. But be ready for when I do." he instructed her then set behind the desk they had found in this office.

"Of course Marcus." Kristy said after getting to her feet and pulling on her denim skirt and tube top she showed her neck before quickly leaving to go to her room. She liked being here because she had her own room and her own shower. She scowled though, Marcus clearly didn't want Lynn and Dallas close and was putting her between them.

Lynn made her way to her room. Opening the door she was disheartened further at how gross it all was, but by the door was a bucket and mop and cleaning stuff. Clearly she was supposed to make it cleaner. Though the bed didn't look terrible that was set up, the whole room was gross. Sighing she set down her duffle bag and decided getting to work cleaning would be the wiser option, leaving the door open to help vent the smells she started cleaning the bathroom first and then worked on the room. It took an hour or so but it made the room tolerable so she considered it worth it. She had no idea where anything was in the hospital though and wondered if anyone would get her for dinner or if anyone had even thought to buy groceries.

A knock at the door only for a small courtesy as Marcus opened the door and entered her room. "I see you have found your room. I wanted to make sure it met with your approval, or is there something else you needed?" he asked as he came up and drew her into his arms and inhaled deeply her skin. She had changed a lot from the last time she graced his bed, he had yet to decide if it was a good or bad thing. Part of him briefly thought of taking her now and reinstilling her part in the pack, but he had promised her to let he return in time to her position. "I will show you to the kitchen and dining room. Then tomorrow you may go and buy our new "diet", or send one of the others to buy your list."

Lynn had turned and shown her neck like a good wolf, when Marcus entered. She didn't fight his embrace in the slightest and pressed into him slightly pressing close, no hint of rejection but clear signs of trust. "It is... my own room and that is enough for me. I will go. I don't think anyone else would even begin to know the better choices or know half of what the ingredients would be." Lynn says simply, she missed the home feeling if the house with Dallas, but she wanted the small amount of freedom Marcus had promised in going shopping for the pack and choosing the menu freely on her own.

"I will leave you to decide who goes with you and leave the van at your disposal." Marcus said taking another deep inhale along her neck. She was acting as she had before leaving with Dallas, so time would tell what was going to happen next. "Change into something else since you've been cleaning, something clean and comfortable. Then I will show you the kitchen and you can then leave to do the shopping." he said going over and sitting in the only chair in the room.

"Thank you..." Lynn says softly. She squated down to rummage through her bag. All her stuff and Dallas's smelled the same. The same detergent snd water had washed them after all, but she grabbed a tank top and a pair of jeans. When she stook she began to strip. Shirt first because she knew Marcus liked to see the females. She keft her bra and panties on, and undid the jeans she was wearing. She pulled off her sneakers and slipped on her slacks, then pulled on the soft tank, tucking them in and closing up the pants.

The trip to the kitchen was quick and Marcus assured her anything she needed would be supplied, but that their time here was limited. And that she and Dallas would be on the road again before the pack pulled up stakes here. The kitchen was an antique to be sure, the hospital had been closed for ten years. The dining room was spacious enough that everyone could have a meal without others in the way. "So, who do you wish to go get supplies with you?" Marcus asked, even though he did not give her any rules on who could not go.

"I think... Shiela if she is willing would be the best." Lynn answered after her tour and carefully kept neutral face. The kitchen was a disaster and would need a thorough cleaning of the area's she would be using first, but they had brought in her box of pots and pans from the van so it was a start. Lynn was keeping herself very much careful from expressions to feelings. Not once did the wolf in her get a chance to come to the surface near Marcus.

"Very well, I will have her get ready. Dallas will start cleaning in here, make sure you leave him a list." Marcus said as he turned to leave the kitchen. It would only be a matter of weeks until he sent Dallas and Lynn of to the new state, and he and the rest of the pack would follow after a detour. In truth he didn't care as much if Dallas and Lynn continued to fuck when they thought no one was looking. Dallas knew that if he showed any possessiveness over Lynn that she would be killed and a new female would be found.

"Yes Marcus." Was the answer that followed as he left the kitchen. Now that she was back in the pack she worried. She had never been comfortable with how things were but since she always stayed in the kitchens nothing had ever happened and no one paid real notice to her. Now that this was all happening, she feared Marcus more. She felt her wolf try to surface and it wasn't anger that made her do so. Dallas had never said anything about the pack but had warned her enough that she while soothed by the strength of the Alpha feared his attention at the same time. She quickly found a notepad and pen and wrote down instructions leaving them taped to the units she would be cooking on and in that needed the cleaning. Once done with the note she wandered out to look for Sheila and the van wherever it was parked at, probably not far from the bikes.

Shelia was waiting when Lynn made he way outside, she had the keys and dropped her cigarette crushing it out with her boot. Once they were driving she looked at Lynn, "So, why ask for me? I assume you either want to talk or keep suspicion down on the attachment you and Dallas have found." She turned the van east and they drove for a while. Part of the beauty of this hideout was it was far enough away from snooping eyes.

"Maybe I just want to be around another woman for a little while and not the little whore Kristy." Lynn says with a frown, she wondered if everyone was aware of her and Dallas. Or how close they had actually gotten. Lynn held onto the seat belt and watched the road for a little while.

Shelia said nothing else for the rest of the ride to the market, when they arrived she did look at Lynn and say one thing before getting out. "Which means more to you, hanging around with a woman who isn't Kristy or losing your place in the pack because she's been in Marcus's bed for the last two weeks."

"I can always best her in a fight if I have to. My only option is not only to sleep with Marcus. I am useful to the pack. I am loyal. Why would Kristy sleeping with him make that any different?" Lynn stated and then asked. Dallas had never said anything about how the pack life worked and Marcus was the one who told her everything. Had things changed while she was away? Is this why she felt uncomfortable in the pack now? So much so that the very idea of pack made her wary of harm?

Shelia looked at her for a long moment, "When Kristy was in trouble and you were being good, Marcus took you into his bed. He sent you out with Dallas to scout our next den, but then because he didn't want me in his bed he allowed Kristy back in who wants to be the second female not the third. She'll do anything to get that spot and be second in case I die or Marcus dismisses me." Shelia let it travel off, Marcus had been teasing for years that he would dismiss her and make Caitlin the alpha and then little miss perfect ran away, but in the pack dismiss and dead were pretty much the same thing.

"Would Marcus promote her even though she isn't as strong as I am?" Lynn asked softly, Kristy often made snide comments about Lynn not knowing the packs real work. Was this somehow connected? Lynn also knew their Alpha was in complete control and it was only his whims and rules that drove the pack. Sheila had that look on her face that meant she was thinking about Caitlin again, Lynn was getting really tired of that girl. Marcus still didn't speak of her, but Lynn knew that Marcus thought her powerful enough to be an Alpha like himself.

"One never knows." Shelia said as she followed Lynn with the shopping buggy. She felt this was beneath her, but at the same time if she had to pick the next girl in line under her she'd rather have Lynn. She didn't seem as power driven as Kristy and of course there was the Dallas situation now. "So, was it true?" she asked when they were far from any people, "Did you two become a mated pair? Your answer stays with me I promise." she said looking at the meat counter and everything inside.

Lynn was taking great care in looking over the meat and choosing only that which she deemed the best for what she wanted for the evening. "Dallas... is a very cautious man." Lynn says softly finishing her meat selection and going next to the fresh vegetable area. "Yes. We did." Lynn eventually said waiting for people to be further away once more. "But please! Do not tell Marcus." Lynn says softly turning her face away and exposing her neck to Sheila at the same time, begging her not to tell Marcus. He would probably kill Dallas for certain if not herself if he found out.

Shelia said nothing else about it the rest of the trip, when they arrived back at the den they found Dallas had been very hard at work on her list. Most of the equipment had been scrubbed clean and looked in working order and the floor and counters also were clean. Dallas was arms deep in a sink of hot water scrubbing pots and pans.

Lynn once everything was carried inside was delighted to see how much had gotten cleaned. Letting Sheila know to put the bags on the counter, she came over to the sink. "Can I steal the nozzle for a moment to wash my hands?" She asks with a smile for Dallas. She was trying very hard to act casually while back with the pack, even though the new information Sheila had given her worried her greatly, and all she really wanted was a comforting hug.

"Suppose so, it's your kitchen after all." Dallas said noncommittally although she did see him wink at her. It seemed Dallas was trying also to find a way to let her know nothing had changed even if he had to act like they weren't a mated pair any longer. He still belonged to her and he hoped she felt the same.

"Thanks... you did a really good job here in the kitchen thank you." Lynn says with a smile in return. She washed her hands quickly and dried them before going to her bags and unpacking everything. Preparing things would take some time and setting everything up would keep her busy. She also had to actually make the food, though that was the easiest part for her to do. She was more than ready to cook this all alpne like she usually did and was curious why Sheila was still hanging around or perhaps it was because Dallas was also in the kitchen.

Shelia did not linger very long, in truth she didn't much care about Lynn and Dallas being together. She did care that Kristy thought she was going to get second female then challenge her. Moreover, she really hated the pack itself and at times Marcus and how he controlled all of them but he was the alpha and his word was law.

Once Shiela was gone Lynn let out a sigh of relief. She was so anxious and tense around everyone in the pack now. Especially after what Sheila had told her about Kristy. "Dallas can I ask you something?" She asks softly as she unpackaged everything she had bought. She wondered if he would give her a better answer than Shiela had.

"Sure." he said putting some more things away and then moving across from her at the island.

"Would..." Lynn paused a moment and then started again "Am I in bad standing in the pack?" She asks softly her original question to dangerous to say out loud. Sheila warning her had scared her and she Knew of Marcus's anger and his iron fist. But now she worried about more than just a beating and being de ranked. She couldn't ask anyone else in the pack simply because she wasn't close to anyone, to be able to talk to them about things.

His eyes narrowed, "What did Shelia say?" Dallas knew where the question was coming from and he didn't like it one bit. If this question came out now, it only meant that Shelia had said something while they were out.

"She warned me. Said Kristy was trying to take my place as second. She was being cryptic though and... wouldn't really answer my questions. I'm worried now." Lynn says softly having paused in her work, letting everything sit on the counter while she spoke to Dallas.

"It's been tried before." Dallas told her, "Before you and Kristy, Marcus had another alpha female and Caitlin who he promoted up above her. She though spent more time in his bed and continually tried retaking her position. Then we had the hunter attack and she was killed, Marcus moved Shelia up behind Caitlin and picked up Kristy. Then when Caitlin left he brought you into the pack and demoted Kristy for trying to get pregnant." he explained, it was a long explanation but showed that those under alphas sometimes scheme to get power.

"This... doesn't make me feel, safer." Lynn says softly looking down at the ingredients, most people had warned her to keep Marcus happy, be useful to the pack. She thought she still was, but now with Shiela's warning. "Has... he taken any sort of action personally, against females?" She asks, trying not to say it outright. Would she have to have sex with Marcus? She couldn't do it with Dallas yet, after what had happened.

"Marcus never has dirtied his hands against a female." Dallas said flatly, "He'd send one of the lower males and the action is less psychical and more emotional. You are safe." he didn't say anymore about how he knew she was safe. But, if Lynn was a betting woman she had to figure Dallas bought her safety by letting the males beat on him. That and his place in the pack was keeping her safe and in place behind Sheila.

"Because... of you?" Lynn asks softly, "I'm safe." She said outloud this time to herself, a deep breath and a sigh followed it. "Thank you... Thank you Dallas." Lynn says softly she blinked quickly before looking up at him with a small loving smile. How she wished it was just the two of them again. But the pack was what kept them safe, They needed an Alpha, the strength.

Dallas said nothing, but his eyes showed more than he could put into words. "Couple days and we are back on the road, this hole will be in the rear view." he said before turning to leave. His work was done, he'd check in with Marcus to see if there was another chore for him to do.

Couple of days, she held on to that. It would be her mantra. She quickly began washing and prepping all the food once again, putting the extra's and things for later in the fridge. Even though she was the only one cooking she was quick and efficient. Even with multiple things on the stove and in the oven all at the same time. She also had meat in a marinade in the fridge for tomorrow.

When Dallas left the kitchen he almost tripped over Kristy who was lurking outside. He glared at her like he normally did and got her to retreat a bit. "If you're thinking of bothering Lynn, think twice." he warned before turning to go to where his bike was parked. He wanted to make sure they could leave at the moments notice.

Kristy had backed down, even with his rank Having dropped in the pack she didn't want to fight him. "It's not Lynn I'm here for Dallas." Kristy says following him as he stalked down the hall away from the now noisy kitchen, Kristy was wearing another mini skirt and a cut off tank that exposed her stomach and had been cut to expose more cleavage, she left her hair down but styled it. She was even clean not smelling overly strong of Marcus. "Marcus wants you and I to fuck." Kristy said bluntly following far enough that if he turned he couldn't grab her.

"Not interested." he said not even stopping to look back at her, this was a whole new low for the Alpha. So, now he was going to have to watch both his and Lynn's back from both the male and females of the pack. Two Days he repeated the mantra over in his head, two days and they would be away from this hell hole and these people.

"Dallas! Marcus asked me to lay with you! Are you really going to turn your back on that? On his wishes?" Kristy cajoled following him still. She wanted Marcus happy with her, Dallas could fuck a cactus for all she cared, the rhyme however made her giggle before she watched Dallas's back once more. "Fine then I'll report to him exactly what you said... and that you came out of the kitchen after spending time alone with Lynn." Kristy says flippantly stopping in the middle of the hallway.

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Moonlight in California: The Pack pt16