Chapter Text
Chris was working at the military college. He was teaching self defense and tactical training. He had an arrangement with the college that let him leave when he was called in.
“Ok, now when you are here, you sweep the leg, move this arm and slam them down.” Chris said, slowly doing that to the cadet he was using to demonstrate. “Partner up and try it. Let me know if you need something.” Chris said. The cadets nodded and paired off. Chris walked around the room, watching to make sure they were doing it correctly. He would jump in if something wasn’t being done right. Chris was known around the college as being the nice fun one. It was a military college so people were stern and there was a lot of yelling. Chris didn’t like that much so he was funny and made all the cadets not feel like trash. He had enough experience with that with his father’s training.
Chris had a feeling that someone was watching him and he turned around. He found himself smiling when he saw Peter leaning against the door, watching. Chris rolled his eyes with a smile and went back to watching the cadets.
“Captain?” Chris heard and he looked over. “Can you just show me one more time?” A cadet asked. Chris went over to him and gladly showed him again the motions.
“Hey cap, um you see Alpha Hale too right?” Another cadet asked. Chris chuckled.
“I do.” Chris said. They hesitated.
“Should we say something?” They asked. Chris shrugged.
“I’m just ignoring him and maybe he will go away.” The cadets looked confused and Chris smirked when he heard Peter laugh. “I’m in class Peter.” Chris said looking at the wolf.
“I know.” Peter said with a smirk. “Continue.” He said. Chris rolled his eyes.
“Would you like a chair, your highness?” Chris asked but nodded to his cadet he does demonstrations with.
“I would say yes, if I knew you would get me one.” Peter said. Chris smiled, shaking his head.
“Ok this next move is a mix of the last two.” Chris said and went about demonstrating.
-
Chris walked out of the college with Peter at his side.
“That was pretty hot. Do you ever take off your shirt?” Peter asked. Chris smirked.
“Sometimes.” Chris said with a smirk. Peter smiled.
“I’ll just have to wait then.” Chris shook his head fondly.
“How did you even get in here?” Chris asked, as they neared the parking lot. Chris knew immediately which car was Peter’s. The lamborghini that cost more than Chris’s salary.
“I am Peter Hale. I can get into the white house if I wanted.” Peter said with a smirk. Chris shook his head but had a feeling Peter could. “Anyway, you are dropping your car off at your apartment and I am taking you on a date.” Peter said with a grin. Chris looked at him a little surprised but smiled.
“I can live with that. Where are we going?” Chris asked. Peter smirked and leaned on his car when they reached it.
“Well you're not going to believe me, but I am on a paintball team.” Chris stared at him, evaluating whether or not he was yanking his chain.
“I can’t tell if you're lying or not.” Chris said with a chuckle. Peter shrugged.
“My friends are wild and I never said I was good.” Peter said and Chris laughed. Peter saw that Chris looked a little excited.
“If you are lying I will kill you.” Chris said. Peter laughed.
“Excited?” Peter asked with a smirk. Chris rolled his eyes.
“You just want to show me off, don’t even try to deny it.” Chris said with raised eyebrows. Peter just grinned. “Ok, I’ll meet you at my place and you can drive us over.” Chris said, walking over to his truck. Peter grinned and got into his Lamborghini.
-
Chris was grinning widely.
“Where the fuck did you find him P-dog?” Jonathan yelled. They were all covered in paint and Chris didn’t have one spot on him. Peter laughed.
“Well technically he found me.” Peter said, taking off the helmet. They had gone 3 games and it didn’t take long for both teams to realize that Chris was a pro. The men on Chris’s team were ecstatic.
“This is crap, is he like a professional paintball player?” Morgan asked, he pulled off his helmet with a pout. “He is a human.” He complained. Peter laughed and shrugged.
“Well, he is special forces with the military.” Peter said and Chris rolled his eyes. They all looked at Chris with wide eyes. Chris shrugged.
“Woah that is awesome, C-dog.” Jonathan said with a grin. Chris chuckled at the nickname.
“Wait so how did you meet?” Drew asked with a frown.
“Remember the whole kidnapping thing?” Peter asked.
“Dude he saved you? That's so knight in shining armor.” Mack said with a laugh. Peter grinned and shrugged. He wasn’t wrong.
“Have you ever been shot?” Anthony asked, eyes wide in curiosity. He was punched by Drew.
“Dude, you can’t ask that.” Drew said. Chris chuckled and looked at Peter who was grinning.
“I’m down for another round.” Chris said with a grin.
“No no, if we are doing a round, it's gonna be of shots.” Anthony said. Noah agreed.
“Or sex.” Mack said and was punched by Noah. Mack whined. Chris laughed. He was not surprised that these were Peter’s friends.
“Alcohol.” Peter said and Chris rolled his eyes. He looked over the group. Drew, Anthony, Jonathan, and Mack were wolves. The only other human was Morgan and Noah. Chris was informed that Noah was Stiles’ dad.
“You guys can’t even get drunk.” Chris said with a chuckle.
“I still like to try.” Peter said and Chris rolled his eyes but he was smiling.
“Ok let’s go Special Forces, we are getting wasted.” Morgan said with a grin on his face. Chris chuckled and they put their gear away. Peter drove him and Chris to the bar he and his friends frequented.
“So…” Peter started. Chris looked at him.
“I had fun.” Chris said with a smile. Peter’s smile softened.
“So dinner next?” Peter asked.
“Just the two of us?” Peter laughed but nodded.
“Yes Christopher.” Chris grinned and they pulled into the bar.
Chris ended up drinking more than he meant to but he had a great time. He and Noah connected well and they all drank. Jonathan made sure that Morgan got home, Peter called Melissa for Noah and after they left, he looked at Chris. “Come on soldier.” Peter said with a grin. Chris laughed.
“I think I drank too much.” Chris said, blinking rapidly and almost falling over when he stood up. Peter steadied him with a smile. “Are there supposed to be two of you?” Chris said in concern, looking at Peter. Peter laughed and helped him outside.
“No.” Peter said with a chuckle. He looked at the man who was stumbling but walking next to him. “You aren’t going to throw up are you?” Chris laughed.
“No, Pe’er I’m not.” Chris said and Peter helped him into the car. When Peter got into the car Chris flopped his head on his shoulder. “I had a lot of fun Peter, thank you for today.” Chris said with an adorable smile. Peter smiled and stroked his cheek.
“Of course.” Peter said. Chris groaned and settled into the seat, closing his eyes. Peter smiled and drove them back to Chris’s apartment building. He didn't know what number he was though. He looked over at Chris but he was sleeping. Peter pulled out his phone and called Lydia, getting out of the car.
“Hey Peter, it's late, are you ok?” Lydia asked immediately. Peter smiled.
“I’m ok. I just need you to ask Allison what number apartment they are.”
“Oh sure, why?” Lydia asked.
“I may have gotten him drunk after our date and he passed out in my car.” Peter said. He heard Lydia laughing.
“She said she will unlock the door and they are number 402.” Lydia said, obviously smiling. “Did you have fun?” Peter smiled softly, opening the passenger seat, looking at the man in the seat.
“I did.” He said softly. He thanked her and then hung up. Peter gently picked the man up in his arms and kicked his door closed. Peter carried Chris bridal style into the building and into the elevator. He got some looks but he didn’t care. He found 402 and thankfully it was open. Peter walked in and then opened the other door.
“Peter?” Allison asked. Peter smiled. He was glad she was calling him Peter now.
“Yeah.” Peter said. Allison walked into view and smiled at them.
“Come on, his room is over here. Did you have fun?” Allison asked, leading him to Chris’s bedroom. Peter smiled.
“We did.” Peter said.
“Good.” Allison said and gestured. Peter laid Chris on the bed. Then he pulled off his shoes and jacket. He gently ran his hands through Chris’s hair before he turned back to Allison, who was smiling softly at him. “Coffee?” She asked. Peter shrugged and they walked out of the room, closing the door gently.
“I should actually get home. We have work tomorrow.” Peter said. Allison nodded. Peter instinctively hugged her and pressed a kiss to her forehead before leaving. Allison grinned widely and locked up after him before going to bed.
***
“You have a meeting tomorrow Peter.” Allison said when he walked into the office.
“Ok.” Peter said and walked into his office. Another day of solid paperwork.
-
Peter watched Chris from the sidelines as he trained with the cadets. He didn’t notice him yet, or he hadn’t acknowledged him yet. Peter watched the fluid motions and smooth transitions. He never would have guessed that Chris got slammed the night before.
“Cap, Alpha Hale is back.” Peter heard one of the cadets say. Peter smirked when Chris looked over at him. Chris smiled and shook his head. Peter saw the tiredness in his eyes for a flash of a second. So he was sporting a headache. Peter wanted to take his pain, but he refrained.
When they were done Chris walked over to Peter.
“Shame, you're still clothed.” Peter said and Chris grinned. He shrugged. Peter smiled and walked to their cars. He could see people looking at them and hear the whispers. “How do you feel?” Peter asked.
“I’m fine. Thanks for bringing me home.” Chris said with a smile. Peter nodded. When they reached Chris’s car Peter caught his wrist, taking his pain. Chris gasped a little, branching himself on the car. Chris blinked at his sudden pain relief. “You didn't have to do that.” Chris said. Peter rolled his eyes.
“Thank you Peter.” Peter said in his best Chris voice. “No problem Chris. I don’t like it when you're in pain.” Peter said in a normal voice. “That's sweet of you. Wanna have sex?” Peter said in Chris’s voice, making Chris laugh. “Yes of course I do.” Peter said. Chris was laughing.
“Shot taken and point received.” Chris said with a grin at Peter who was smiling right back.
“Go home and get some rest. We have a dinner date on Friday.” Peter said. Chris nodded. Peter turned swiftly and walked to his car. Chris shook his head fondly and got into his truck.
***
Chris was teaching his class on Friday. He knew that there were rumors going around about him and Peter but he really didn’t care. His cadets didn’t ask and he didn’t tell them. The military is past the don’t ask don’t tell, and you can be openly gay, but that doesn’t mean Chris is going to go around telling people. He isn’t gay, he is bi but that doesn’t really matter.
When Chris heard the whispers break out within the pairs he knew Peter was at the door like he had been all week. Chris rolled his eyes but then paused.
“You know what. You’re here, come one, help me demonstrate the next move.” Chris said suddenly, looking at the wolf. Peter raised his eyebrows.
“Yeah, no. Fighting is not my forte.” Peter said, shaking his head.
“Come on Peter. It's for our future soldiers.” Chris said with a grin. Peter stared at him. “Come on.” Chris said. Peter hesitantly walked forward, not looking very comfortable. Chris grinned. He pulled Peter’s jacket off and threw it at a cadet.
“I think I'm dressed too nice for this.” Peter said, looking at his suit. He rolled his eyes when Chris didn’t relent. Peter walked to the cadet with his jacket and pulled off his tie and suit jacket. “If any of this touches the floor, I will kill you.” Peter said, eyes seeping red.
“Peter.” Chris said scoldingly, but Peter turned back to him with a smile. Chris rolled his eyes and Peter rolled up his sleeves. “Ok next move, kill or incapacitate?” Chris asked the cadets.
“Kill, we have done a lot of incapacitating.” Someone said. Chris nodded. He looked at Peter with a smile. Peter was dreading this and Chris could see it.
“Ok so, you are being attacked…” Chris said and looked at Peter who just stood there. Peter rolled his eyes and weakly walked toward him. “I will have Joshua drop your tie.” Chris said. Peter growled and made more of an effort. “Ok attacking. You grab the arm, kick the knee and spin.” Chris said and suddenly Peter was in a headlock where his head was on Chris’s side and he was bent at an awkward angle. Chris was standing up right and Peter looked like he was going to do a back bend but had his head locked in Chris’s arm. “Once you are here, it's an easy snap.” Chris said and then dropped Peter who landed on the mat on his back with an umph. He glared at Chris who was grinning. Peter knew his eyes were red. He snapped his gaze over to the kids who were snickering. They immediately went quiet. “Ok next move.” Chris said and Peter stood up. “You are being attacked.” Peter ran at him and Chris was surprised. He blocked it and saw Peter’s smirk. They actually sparred and Chris was surprised by Peter. Chris kicked out his leg. “Sweep the legs, slam them to the ground.” Chris said, doing that. “Grab the arm and roll. Yes they are on top of you but they cannot move when you lock the leg.” Chris said with a smile. Peter’s hand was trapped and he couldn’t move. “Then you go for the neck.” The cadets smirked but nodded. Chris let him go and Peter rolled off him. Chris got up and ducked a punch, but Peter came back around and did the move Chris just demonstrated.
“Like that?” Peter asked. Chris snorted.
“Yes Peter like that.” Chris said with an eye roll. “You can let me go now.” Chris said. Peter hummed and did. Chris rolled off, shaking his head. He pounced and he and Peter sparred. The cadets watched in interest, excited to see their teacher fighting for (semi) real. Peter pulled a move Chris taught earlier in the week but Chris got out of it with another one. They didn’t realize that the head of the Military College was watching. “Did you see what I did there?” Chris asked.
“You used the other move to get out of the incapacitating move you showed us on Monday.” Someone said.
“Good.” Chris said. He liked that Peter was using moves he already taught and was actually expanding the lesson rather than just fighting. Chris linked their arms and rolled Peter over his back, slamming him into the ground. “That move is usually used when you have more than one opponent and you need to get one down to deal with another.” Chris said, heart racing, breathing heavily. But he was smiling and ready to keep going. Peter hopped back up. He went to trip Chris but that was when Chris saw the headmaster watching at the door. He internally swore but that was enough of a distraction for Peter to trip him. Chris fell to the ground with a thump. Peter was surprised because he didn’t expect to get that hit in. He looked over and saw a man in the door. “That is a good example of why getting distracted can spell death.” Chris said with a groan, sitting up. Peter was kneeling next to him, eyes worried. The cadets saw the headmaster and stood up straight and went into line. The headmaster, Jeremy McConnell, walked into the room more, saluting to the cadets. They saluted back and relaxed a little. Chris got up and did the same thing. Jeremy nodded and then looked at Peter.
“I’m not doing that.” Peter said and Chris slapped his stomach, giving him a look. “What?” Peter mumbled. Chris looked back at Jeremy.
“Sorry headmaster.” Peter bit his lip. Oh, headmaster.
“I didn’t realize you had a guest.” Jeremy said. Chris tried not to look nervous.
“Yes sir. He is-”
“I know who he is.” Jeremy said. “I’m sure everyone on the planet knows who he is.” Peter smirked. Chris nodded stiffly. “I am curious why he is here though.” What was Chris supposed to say? He gets bored and comes to say hi? He is so going to get fired. “How do you know each other?” Jeremy asked in his silence.
“He was the one who led the team that saved me from the terrorist group that kidnapped me.” Peter said, not intimidated by the headmaster. Jeremy nodded slowly.
“And you just decided to come say hi?” Jeremy asked. Peter went to say something but he looked at Chris. He knew the DADT policy wasn’t a thing but he didn’t know if Chris was ok with everyone knowing.
“We are friends. His daughter is my secretary.” Peter said smoothly. Chris’s head twitched toward him but he quickly looked back at Jeremy. Jeremy nodded.
“Where did you learn how to fight like that?” Jeremy asked curiously.
“My sister and things I have picked up. I got into a lot of bar fights as a kid.” Peter said with a grin. Chris clenched his jaw. Jeremy nodded.
“Continue.” Jeremy said and then walked out. It was silent until Chris slapped Peter’s chest.
“I got into a lot of bar fights as a kid?” Chris asked with raised eyebrows. Peter shrugged.
“I did.” Peter said. Chris shook his head. He didn’t want to ask Peter to leave, but he didn’t want to get into trouble. Peter eyed him.
“I’ll go.” Peter said walking to the cadet with his stuff. Chris sighed, he felt bad. Chris grabbed his wrist before he left. “I’ll call, we have....” Peter said softly. Chris knew they had a dinner date tonight. Chris nodded and then Peter left. Chris watched him and then cleared his throat.
“Ok so killing.” Chris said, looking at cadets. They smiled lightly.
“I thought he was very helpful to the lesson, sir.” One of them said. Chris smiled a little.
-
Chris watched as the last cadet left the room before he began packing up his stuff.
“Friends don’t usually do that.” Chris snapped his head over and saw Jeremy.
“Headmaster, sir.” Chris sat straightening up.
“Want to tell me what the real reason was?” Jeremy asked with raised eyebrows as he walked inside the room. Chris didn’t say anything. Jeremy eyed him. “No?” He asked. Chris opened his mouth but nothing came out. He closed it and shuffled. “Look Chris, I like you. I also like to know the truth.” Chris looked at him, not sure how military he was.
“He is…” Chris hesitated. Jeremy raised his eyebrows.
“Your soulmate?” Jeremy asked. Chris knew his facial expression gave him away. Jeremy nodded. Chris feared him the worse when Jeremy opened his mouth next.
“I’ll get him a pass so coming and going is easier.” Jeremy said. It took a second for that to process and the relief he felt was crushing. Jeremy smiled at him before exiting the room. Chris collapsed onto the chair and took a breath. He honestly thought he was going to be fired. He lowered his heart and then smiled. Peter was going to get a pass. Chris gathered his things and walked to his car. He felt the looks of the cadets who were still there. Chris ignored the whispering and got into his truck with a smile.
-
Chris and Peter walked around the park after dinner.
“A pass?” Peter asked with a grin. Chris chuckled. He had given him a run down at the end of dinner. They had a nice time.
“Yea. I totally thought I was about to be fired.” Chris said. Peter whined. Chris chuckled and knocked their shoulders.
“I’m excited. My own pass.” Peter said with a grin, making Chris laugh. They talked about that before Chris asked about Peter’s day. They just walked around. Peter bit his lip and looked at Chris. “Can I…” Peter started. Chris looked at him.
“Can you what?” Chris asked. Peter looked in the other direction and shrugged.
“Nothing.” Peter said. Chris frowned. He glanced down and thought maybe Peter wanted to hold his hand. Chris smiled a little and laced their hands together. Peter looked at him.
“All you have to do is ask Peter. It’s just holding my hand, we don’t have to go that slow.” Chris said with a smile. Peter grinned and nodded.
***
Chris was getting ready to leave for Talia’s house when there was a knock on his apartment door. Chris frowned and went to get it. Chris opened the door and sighed.
“Captain Argent, we are calling you in for duty.” The man in the uniform said. There were two of them. Chris nodded. He was being called back in for a mission. Allison was not going to like that. Chris sighed and looked at the time. He had to be at Talia’s… now. He had always been so excited to go on mission and be in the field, but now he had Allison, Peter and the pack. He had a lot to live for and he knew that his work was dangerous. Chris quickly grabbed his to go bag for this type of thing, changed into his uniform and went back to the door.
“We just have to make a pit stop so I can say goodbye to my daughter.” Chris said and gave them a look that said if they protested he would kill them. They nodded stiffly and led him to the car.
Chris looked out the window at the passing trees as they drove to Talia’s place. Chris got out of the car when they got there and walked down the walkway to the pool yard. Chris looked at them all laughing and playing around. Chris sighed and walked into the pool yard.
“Chris!” They looked at him and then they frowned. Allison was out of the water immediately, eyes wide. Danny quickly bended the water off her so she was dry. Her eyes caught the car and the men in the driveway.
“Daddy.” She said, eyes watery.
“I’m sorry boo, but I have to go in.” Chris said and she ran into his chest, hugging him tightly. Chris held her.
“I hate this.” She said, blinking away tears.
“I know boo, I know.” Chris said softly. She pulled away.
“I love you dad, come back to me.” She said. Chris nodded. Then his eyes caught Peter who had stood up, looking at him with wide eyes. Allison moved and Chris walked over to him, taking off his cap.
“Hey Peter.” Chris said softly. Peter took a breath.
“I had a feeling this would happen but I didn’t realize it would hurt this much.” Peter said. That hurt Chris. He looked into his eyes, wanting to apologize. Peter sighed and nodded. “You better come back.” Peter said and hugged him. Chris hugged him back. They pulled away, faces close. Chris went to kiss him but Peter pulled away. “When you come back.” Peter said and Chris knew it killed him to say that. Chris smiled a little. “Gotta give the bunny a carrot if you want it to hop.” Peter said, voice a little choked and Chris laughed. He stroked his cheek. It took all of Chris’s self control to pull away from him and walk up to the car without looking back.
***
Peter was so distracted. It had been a week. He thought he could handle this better but he was doing a sucky job. Allison helped when she could and she really did help him, but Peter missed him a lot.
Peter was sitting at his desk, trying to focus on working and not thinking about all the ways his soulmate could be dying.
Peter made it through another day and went back to his sisters where they all spent their time trying to distract Allison and Peter from the potential dangers Chris could be in. It was not an easy task. Allison and Peter appreciated it though.
***
Another week passed and nothing. Allison was getting worried because Chris usually sends a letter by now and because Allison was worried, Peter was freaking out.
“I’m sure he is ok.” Scott said and they both glared at him. They were in Talia’s backyard in the pool area. Scott held his hands up and Allison sighed, laying her head on his shoulder. Peter threw back a shot. He was sitting at the edge of the pool, feet in the water, drinking alcohol. The kids were in the deep end and Allison was next to Peter, in the pool though, arms on the sides. Peter pet her head for a second and she smiled.
Suddenly they heard a car and everyone's heads snapped to the sound. Allison jumped out of the pool, eyes wide. They saw a man get out of the passenger seat and start walking down. Allison felt the tears falling down her face. Where was her father? He looked at them. He saw Allison and then looked back to the car, which confused them. Allison followed his gaze and saw two men helping… Chris, helping her father. Allison has never been more relieved.
“Daddy!” She yelled. Chris’s head looked up. They could see the bruising on his face but he smiled at them. Peter and Allison ran to the fence, where Chris was making his way down. Chris’s arm was in a sling and he was limping but with the help he made it to them. “Daddy?” Allison asked, tears falling and her lip quivering. Chris smiled.
“Hey boo.” Chris said. She looked at him and shook her head.
“What happened?” She asked, gently touching his bruised face.
“You know I can’t tell you.” Chris said softly. She sighed and nodded.
“I know.” Allison said, gears gathering in her eyes. “Are you ok?” She asked.
“I will heal.” Chris said and she nodded. “Am I gonna get a hug?” Allison chuckled and hugged him tenderly. Chris hugged her back with his one arm. It hurt but he didn’t care. Chris looked at the soldiers. “Thank you.” He said. They nodded and then went back to the car. Chris smiled at Allison. She smiled and then pulled away. Chris looked over and saw Peter, eyes watery. Chris smiled. “Hey Pete.” Chris said softly. Peter walked over to him quickly and stopped in front of him. He quickly helped him stand. Chris winced in pain. Peter went to pull away but Chris spoke. “It's ok, there isn’t a place that you can touch me that won’t hurt.” Chris said with a chuckle.
“Christopher.” Peter said, eyes wide. Chris smiled.
“I’m ok. I just think I need to sit down.” Chris said. Peter immediately brought him to the lawn chair and sat him down. Chris let out a breath.
“Chris?” Melissa asked, eyes worried. Chris smiled at her.
“If I asked you to change some bandages, would you?” Chris asked hesitantly. “I just, really don’t like hospitals.” Chris said.
“Of course!” Melissa said with a nod. “I will always help you Chris.” Chris smiled in thanks to her. Peter sat next to him on the chair. Chris looked at him with tired eyes.
“Why don’t you get some rest?” Peter said gently. Chris nodded, eyes fluttering.
“I want my carrot.” Chris said. It took Peter a second to realize what he was saying and he grinned.
“I’ll give you your carrot when you aren’t about to pass out.” Peter said with a small smile. Chris smiled and nodded.
“Ok that's fair.” Chris said. Peter nodded, eyes teary. Chris shushed him and touched his face gently. “I’m ok Petey. Don’t cry.” Chris said gently. Peter nodded, bringing his hand to Chris’s and lacing then and then nuzzling his face into them. Chris smiled and closed his eyes. Peter took a breath. He looked at Talia and she offered him an encouraging smile. Peter took a breath and looked back at Chris’s face. What happened to him?
***
“Melissa?” They all snapped their heads to Chris who was now standing in the doorway of the kitchen.
“Yes.” Melissa said standing up. Peter was at Chris’s side, helping him stand.
“The doctor said to change the bandages in the morning every few days.” Chris said. She nodded. Peter walked Chris to the stool and sat him down.
“Ok clear the room please. I have good light in here.” Melissa said. They all hesitated but left. Only Melissa, Peter and Allison were in the room now. Chris explained what the doctor had said and that his arm was just a dislocation. Chris looked at Peter.
“I have a task for you that you might enjoy.” Chris said with a gentle smile. Peter tilted his head curiously. “Can you take off my shirt?” Chris asked. Peter smirked.
“That's more my speed.” Peter said with a grin. Chris chuckled. Peter felt that he was nervous. Peter was standing between his legs, unbuttoning Chris’s shirt. Chris looked up at him.
“Can I have my carrot now? I’m getting tired of hopping.” Chris asked, eyes twinkling. Peter grinned and leaned down, pressing their lips together. Chris smiled and kissed him back. Melissa and Allison looked away respectfully. Peter was cupping Chris’s cheeks and kissing him passionately, pouring all his emotions into it. Chris had his good hand gripped on Peter’s shirt. He was kissing him back just as passionately. They barely parted for air before Peter was kissing him again.
“Is my little bunny satisfied?” Peter whispered. Chris grinned, eyes closed as they had their foreheads pressed together.
“Very.” Chris said with a smile. Peter smiled.
“I missed you so much, Chris.” Peter said. Chris nodded.
“You were on my mind everyday.” Chris said, but Peter got a feeling it had more depth than Chris was saying. Chris pulled away with a smile. “Mel?” Chris said. She looked over and smiled softly before walking over. Peter gaped when he pulled off Chris’s shirt. He was either covered in bandages or bruises. Allison gasped and covered her mouth. Melissa sighed and went to work. Peter and Allison watched as she changed the bandages. They saw the stitched up slashes on Chris’s back. They saw the other deep slashed on his chest and then some burn marks.
“Daddy…” Allison said, eyes watery as she looked him in the eyes. Chris smiled softly. “You were taken weren’t you?” She asked. Chris didn’t say anything but they knew. Peter held Chris’s hand, and realized his wrists were bruised, like he was cuffed. Peter pressed a kiss to his palm. Chris smiled at him.
“Almost done.” Melissa said. Chris nodded. When she was done, Peter slipped Chris’s shirt back on. Chris smiled at him.
“Thank you.” Chris said and then looked at Mel. “Thank you.” She nodded and kissed his cheek. Melissa walked out of the room leaving Peter, Chris and Allison. Allison sighed and kissed Chris’s cheek before leaving. Chris looked at Peter and smiled a little. Peter just looked into his eyes and gently stroked his face. Chris closed his eyes and nuzzled his face into Peter’s hand.
“Are you hungry?” Peter asked. Chris nodded.
“Can we come back? I’m hungry.” Stiles said from the other room. Peter chuckled and nodded.
“Yeah come back.” Chris said with a smile. They piled back into the room and Talia and Peter started making breakfast. They all chatted softly.
Chris ate his eggs slowly. He wasn’t that hungry. He didn’t eat much for the two weeks he was… away. Chris couldn’t tell them but he was taken on mission and he was tortured. It wasn’t anything that he wasn’t used to but it still hurt. He was barely fed so the idea of him eating this much food made him dizzy.
Chris pushed around the eggs on his plate.
“I thought you were hungry?” Lydia said softly. Chris looked at her.
“I was. I ate some of it.” Chris said. She nodded, but Chris could see that she was worried. Chris looked over when Peter sat next to him, finally finished with making food. Peter looked at Chris’s plate and then at him.
“Babe?” Peter asked softly.
“I’m just not that hungry.” Chris said and dropped the fork. Peter bit his tongue and nodded. Chris sighed and looked at him. “I’m sorry.” Chris said softly.
“It's ok, Chris.” Peter said, pressing a kiss to his cheek. Chris smiled softly. They all ate with a soft chatter before moving to the living room. Eventually the kids had to get to their college classes and Talia had to go. Chris looked at Peter.
“Don’t you have work?” Chris asked him. Peter shrugged.
“Talia gave me some time off.” Peter said. Chris wanted to protest. “There is no way I’m budging on that Christopher so don’t even try with me right now.” Peter added sternly. Chris looked at him. He was sitting on the couch, feet on the coffee table, flipping through a magazine. Chris nodded.
“Can you take me home?” Chris asked softly. Peter nodded, standing up and changing before coming back downstairs. Peter watched as Chris struggled to get up but he knew Chris wanted to do it on his own. Chris looked at him and slowly walked toward him. Chris grabbed Peter’s shirt with his good hand. “Thank you.” Chris said and Peter knew it was because of letting him do it on his own.
“May I?” Peter asked softly. Chris nodded and Peter wrapped his arm around Chris and helped him to the car.
-
Chris and Peter settled on Chris’s couch. Peter didn’t know if Chris would allow him to stay the night, but he would cross that bridge when he got there. Peter just took a book off Chris’s shelf and read it and when he looked over, Chris was sleeping. Peter sighed. He really wanted to know what happened, but he knew Chris wouldn’t tell him. That just killed him.
Peter got up to make lunch, looking at Chris.
“Love?” Peter said gently. Chris’s eyes snapped open and he looked at Peter. He was alert but then he seemed to remember where he was and he relaxed. “I just wanted to know if I could make you something for lunch.” Peter said gently. Chris blinked sleepily.
“I’m not that hungry.” Chris said. Peter hesitated, running his hand through Chris’s hair.
“Babe, you barely ate this morning.” Peter said. Chris nodded. “Ok, promise me you will have dinner and I’ll let you skip.” Peter said. Chris smiled and nodded.
“Ok Peter, I’ll eat what I can for dinner.” Chris said, looking at his wolf. Peter looked worried. “I’ll get better Peter, you just have to… stick with me.” Chris said softly. Peter pressed a kiss to his temple, staying there for a minute.
“I will always stay with you Christopher. Always.” Peter said. Chris smiled and nodded. “I’m going to make myself a sandwich.” Chris nodded and smiled at him. Peter kissed his forehead and then went to the kitchen. This was going to be a long few weeks.
-
Chris did eat dinner for Peter but he felt like he was going to throw up. He kept it down though and knew this is what he had to do to get better. Peter still looked worried. Chris ignored it.
It was getting late and Peter looked at the time.
“Christopher?” Peter asked. Chris looked at him. Peter hesitated.
“You can stay. I know you want to.” Chris said and Peter smiled at him.
“Thank you.” Chris nodded and they sat on the couch. Chris cuddled into Peter on his good slide and slipped back into sleep.
-
Peter snapped awake when he heard yelling. He bolted upright and looked around. There was whimpering and begging, coming from Chris’s room. Peter ran to the room and saw Chris tossing and turning, he was sweating and sounds of pain coming from his mouth. Peter ran to his side and looked at him.
“Chris, Chris, come on.” Peter said and gently touched his arm. Chris woke with a shout. Peter saw his eyes wild and… terrified.
“No no, please, no more.” Chris begged, shaking his head, getting tangled in the sheets.
“Chris! Christopher, it's Peter!” Peter yelled, grabbing his hand. He hated it but he forced Chris to look at him and slowly he saw Chris blink back into reality. They were both on the bed. Peter was on his knees, one hand on the bed the other on Chris’s jaw to make him look at him. Chris was sitting up, his good hand bracing him and the other in the sling.
“Peter?” Chris whispered. Peter nodded.
“I’m here Christopher.” Peter said softly. Chris swallowed hard and nodded. Peter went to get off the bed but Chris’s hand shot out and grabbed him.
“Please don’t go.” Chris said, voice a little broken. Peter nodded immediately and sat next to him.
“I’m right here Christopher, like I said, I’m not going anywhere.” Peter reiterated. Chris nodded, tears bubbling in his eyes and they cuddled together.
***
Over the next few weeks Chris did get better. He didn’t have horrible nightmares when Peter was next to him in bed, he finally could take the sling off and Melissa had been changing his bandages. He wasn’t allowed to shower because it would get into the wounds so Peter had to wash Chris’s hair in the sink. Chris enjoyed it immensely because he also got a head massage but he wanted to shower. His bruises were going away and the physical wounds were getting better. He was also eating in more increments so the pack was happy. Peter started going back to work a few days a week to give Chris some time. The military college told Chris to not come back until he was fully healed. He was on paid medical leave right now.
Chris stood up, hand on his side. It hurt but it was better than before. Peter refrained from asking where he was going. Chris looked at the man, tensely reading on his couch. Chris smiled. Peter was more than he could ever ask for. He was patient and kind and considerate. Even when Chris yelled at him and snapped at him, Peter kept his cool and helped him.
“I want to shower.” Chris said softly. Peter looked at him. Melissa said that the deepest cuts were healed enough too where he could shower if he wanted to. Chris wanted to. Peter nodded.
“Do you want help?” Peter asked. Chris shrugged.
“I’ll call if I need something.” Chris said. Peter nodded and forced himself to look back at the book. He couldn’t bring himself to read the words though. Chris walked to the bathroom. He looked at himself in the mirror and sighed. The bruising on his face was better, very light. Chris unbuttoned his shirt and looked at his chest. It was mostly just the stitches in the cuts. Chris winced and pulled the shirt off, dropping it on the floor. He looked at his back which was pretty scarred to hell as well.
Chris sighed and went to turn the water on before he unbuckled his pants, pulling off his boxers. Chris stared at himself. He had burn marks on his inner thighs, from a hot poker. He had cuts on his hips. Why would Peter want him, he was damaged. Chris shook his head, letting Peter’s voice tell him that he would always be here for him. Chris got into the shower and washed away his worries. It was quick and Chris found himself drying off in no time.
Chris wrapped the towel around his waist and went to his bedroom.
“What do you want-” Chris turned and saw Peter looking at him, eyes seeping red. Then Peter suddenly turned around. “I’m sorry, I should have knocked.” Peter said. Chris looked at himself and back at Peter.
“It's ok Peter.” Chris said. He had a sinking feeling, did Peter not like what he saw? Chris internally snorted, who would? He was messed up. But Chris saw Peter’s eyes seeping red, that… was because he was feeling emotions too much to control his wolf. He was either really angry or… turned on? Chris looked at him. “Peter.” Chris said.
“Yes hon?” Peter said, back still facing him.
“Look at me.” Chris said. Peter hesitated but turned around, looking into Chris’s eyes. Chris walked over to him so they were standing a few steps away from each other. “Look at me.” Chris said. Peter did, his eyes trailed down his chest, eyes seeping red again, but Chris saw no trace of anger. Peter closed his eyes.
“I… can’t.” Peter said, Chris realized he was holding back a lot. His fists were clenched together.
“Why?” Chris asked. Peter looked him in the eyes, his own red.
“Because I want you so badly, Christopher, I’m afraid I’ll lose control.” Peter said. Chris felt a huge burden lifted from his shoulders.
“You don’t mind…” Chris gestured to himself. Peter shook his head.
“Not even a little.” Peter said. Chris smiled and nodded. “Now get dressed and come to the kitchen. It's time for dinner and I don’t know what to make.” Peter said and walked out of the room. Chris grinned and quickly put on some clothes. He walked into the kitchen with a smile. Peter turned to face him about to list off the dinner options but Chris just flat out kissed him. Peter made a muffled noise of surprise but he kissed him back. Chris had his hands on Peter’s neck and Peter put his hands on Chris’s waist, kissing him, open mouthed and passionately. Chris melted into him, kissing him back just as passionately. Chris pulled away a little and had a smile on his face. Peter growled a little. “You little devil.” Chris chuckled.
“You said something about food?” Chris said with a grin. Peter shook his head fondly and pulled away from Chris and went to the stove.
“You're gonna eat what I make now.” Peter said. Chris chuckled and went to the stool.
“What a punishment.” Chris sassed. Peter gave him a flat look but went back to making food. Chris watched him make food with a smile.
“So you're feeling ok?” Peter asked.
“Yeah, I am.” Chris said with a smile. Peter smiled back at him.
“Would you tell me if you weren’t?” Peter asked. Chris hesitated and he thought about it. Would he? Chris pursed his lips.
“I think I would.” Chris said honestly. Peter smiled and nodded. They chatted while Peter cooked. “Gosh what am I going to do when you leave? Your cooking is amazing.” Chris said, eating the chicken Peter prepared for them. Peter chuckled.
“You’ll manage, wanna know why? Because you’ll likely be coming to Talia’s for dinner anyway.” Chris laughed but he did have a point. Peter smiled. “Well, I have to work a full week next week.” Peter said, looking at Chris. He nodded.
“Good, you should get back. I have been talking with the college and they are willing to take me back and do a test run.” Chris said. Peter hesitated but he nodded. Chris pursed his lips. “Just say it before you explode.” Chris said.
“Are you sure that's a good idea, you're still healing and your job is physical.” Peter said immediately. Chris chuckled.
“Yes, I will take it easy, this is not the first time I have been injured and gone back to work.” Chris said. Peter eyed him. Chris met his eyes.
“You are the most stubborn man I have ever met.” Peter said, shaking his head. Chris grinned.
“You clearly haven’t met yourself.” Chris said, innocently eating more chicken. Peter growled and ate his chicken with a pouty face. Chris grinned.
***
“So he is good?” Allison asked when Peter came into work. Peter chuckled at her. She asked this each day he came in.
“Yes Allison, so far so good.” Peter said with a smile. She nodded.
Peter was working all day, he texted Chris when he could.
“So Peter, what do you want for your birthday?” Allison asked when she walked into his office. Peter frowned and looked at his calendar. Shit, his birthday was next week. Allison laughed. “You forgot.” She said. Peter shrugged and smiled sheepishly at her.
“I don’t want you to get me anything Ally.” Peter said. Allison raised her eyebrow at him. “Don’t look at me like that. I don’t want you wasting your money.” Peter protested.
“Suck it up, what do you want.” She said. Peter muttered how she was just as stubborn as her father. Allison smiled. “Yes, my stubbornness is double the strength because I got it from dad and you.” Allison said with sass as she walked out of the office. Peter was speechless. “I’ll figure it out without you.” She said and shut the door behind her. Peter stared at where she left. She said… that she got her stubbornness from him… that means… she sees him as her father. Peter’s face broke into a smile and he went back to work.
Chris was at the college with his cadets. They all were worried when they heard he was on medical leave and were happy that he was ok and back. Chris knew to take it easy and he did.
At the end of the day Chris walked to the headmaster’s quarters. They had some talking to do.
***
Peter’s birthday came a lot faster than he realized. He was on his way to Talia’s house because they had set up for a small party.
Peter walked into the house and smiled at all the streamers and the giant happy birthday sign in the back.
“Happy Birthday!” They all yelled. Peter smiled and looked around.
“Thank you guys.” Peter said and tackled the pack playfully. Then he hugged his sister and family before looking at Chris.
“Happy birthday babe.” Chris said with a smile. Peter smiled and kissed him gently.
“Thank you.” Peter said softly.
“Let’s get this party started!” Erica yelled. They laughed and played around for hours before they ate cake and started on presents.
Peter opened all his presents and thanked the pack. It was simple things like Isaac gave Peter a scarf and Stiles got him a shirt and Lydia got him a tie. Peter looked around and saw That he was missing Chris’s present and Allison’s. He didn’t mind, he told them not to get him anything. He looked at Allison.
“I’m surprised you listened.” Peter said. Allison laughed.
“I only kind of listened.” She said. “I didn’t pay anything.” She said and handed him papers. Peter frowned and looked through them. His face went slack when he realized what they were.
“But, you're 18.” Peter said, looking at her. She smiled.
“I want you listed as my dad, Peter. I don’t care if I was 30.” She said. Peter’s eyes watered and he pulled her into a bone crushing hug. She chuckled and hugged him back. “Sign the bottom Peter.” She said. Peter pulled away and without hesitation, he signed the bottom. Allison grinned and then he put the papers on the coffee table and hugged her again. Chris smiled at the scene. Chris had his present for Peter but he didn’t know if he would like it, or think it was too girly. He made Peter a necklace. It was pretty manly. It was a brown and black circular braided rope that had a charm on the end. The charm was a moon, and it was enchanted to change with the phases of the moon. Chris thought it was very cool and Peter was always forgetting what phase it was.
“I hope you listened.” Peter said, snapping Chris out of his thoughts. Chris smiled.
“I didn’t buy you anything.” Chris said with a smile. Peter eyed him. Chris shrugged. “I made you something.” Chris said. Peter’s gaze softened. “I just don’t know if you will like it.” Chris said. Before Peter could say anything Chris handed him the box. “You don’t have to wear it, I just… thought you might like it. It's ok if you don’t though, I under-” Chris was cut off by Peter kissing him. Chris’s umph was muffled by Peter’s lips. Chris kissed him back. Peter pulled away and pulled the necklace out of the box.
“It's beautiful Christopher, I love it.” Peter said, looking at him with such honesty in his eyes. Chris smiled. Peter put it on and grinned. The pendant rested right at the base of this throat. Peter grinned, touching it.
“It’s enchanted, it changes with the moon phases.” Chris said softly. Peter’s eyes went surprised and he looked at Chris. “You forget all the time so I figured you could use a reminder.” Chris said with a small smile. Peter leaned over again and kissed him, not caring that everyone was watching. Chris smiled, loving the feeling of Peter’s lips on his own.
“I love you Christopher.” Peter said gently, looking Chris in the eyes. Chris looked at him in surprise. He knew it deep in his heart but they hadn’t said it yet. Chris smiled, gently stroking Peter’s face.
“I love you Peter.” Chris said and Peter smiled.
“I said it first, you're supposed to say you love me too.” Peter said. Chris grinned.
“I don’t love you too, I don’t love you because you love me. I love you because you are funny and silly. You take care of me and my daughter. You are the light when all I see is darkness. You are my heart Peter, and I love you.” Chris said. Peter’s eyes watered and he hugged him. Peter held Chris tightly against his chest and Chris smiled.
“You saved me more in more than one way when you pulled me out of that cell.” Peter said, eyes watering. “I literally don’t know where I would be without you.”
“Well, you are my alpha boy.” Chris said with a grin. Peter laughed.
“Alpha man, Christopher, man.” Peter whined and they laughed.
“Whatever you say, love.”