Archive of Our Own

Dinner went smoothly and Scott was fairly sedated, it seemed that his mind was too busy piecing together the last few months of missing memories to focus on the packs interactions; and how close eveyone seemed. When eveyone returned to Stilinski house it was clear that they did not want Melissa alone with Scott just incase memories came back. Luckily Lydia the ever brilliant mastermind though it was a good idea for John to fake some chest pain and irritation on his leg. Melissa offered to stay the night just to be safe and Scott was none the wiser.

Allison was grumbling that she didn’t want to go home but Chris and Santiago staying would have pushed Scott more than they were willing too. So Melissa and Scott took the living room, Derek and Stiles took his bedroom, Laura and Cora went to their room. Jordan headed in to work for the night shift. Lydia, Jackson and Isaac headed home as well, to maintain appearances at their home.

Once everyone was situated Derek and Stiles had one last test, they waited until Scott was in a deep sleep and was audibly snoring. Then Derek crept down silently and went near Scott. He let out a low growl that only would be heard by a shifter. Scott did not twitch or even move, his scent becoming more and more human as well. Satisfied that he was no longer a threat they returned to bed and tried to get some sleep.

The next morning Melissa took Scott home, Allison and Derek were supervising from the backyard careful to stay out of sight. Scott packed a suitcase and Melissa prepared to say good bye. The taxi was going to be there soon. Melissa was saying a tearful goodbye. Scott promised to call once a week and that he would come back before fall term if he decided to go to college. Melissa cried on the driveway and waved out to Scott. As soon as he was around the corner the rest of the pack appeared. They had a group huddle and decided Melissa should not be alone today.

It was an early Sunday morning so no one had plans except for Jordan who was working.
“The pack house needs some paint, it got delivered yesterday. Want to do today or do we want to relax?” Asked Derek looking at his family.
Melissa managed to perk up and smile, “I could use a distraction.”
“Then it’s settled, let’s head out.” Everyone split up into cars and drove over to the pack house.

When they arrived they saw the difference immediately, the bare bones of the house were complete. You could see the size of the home, the greenhouse was plotted out and the pool was just dug out ready to be poured. The actual house itself was complete, you knew what it was going to be. They poured out of the cars and Derek pulled out the plans. He decided the best plan of attack was to divide up the teams, he walked over to the wall of paint and started handing out buckets.

“Okay we are starting in the basement. Allison and Isaac I want you in the armory. Laura Jackson and Lydia you handle the infirmary. Stiles, you me and Melissa will will tackle the training rooms. Cora you have the hallways. Chris, Santiago and John you guys are still on light duty so you guys have the joy of painting a bunch of hardware and light switches that Lydia said the color was off on, There are a couple of tables on the ground floor that you can use. Once we finish the basement we can see if we want to keep going on the ground floor.”

Everyone took their paint cans and headed downstairs. Derek carried in the cans for the light duty workers and got them settled in the living room. Everyone got to work painting the house, Lydia had picked the colors and they matched beautifully. hours went by and the two coats were done, as they finished up their jobs they headed up to the living room and joined the worker bees painting away the small items. Isaac and Allison were the last two up and judging by the paint streaks they were wearing it was obvious what took them so long.

It was still early in the day so they decided to crank out the ground floor as well. Derek again divided up the teams between the living room, kitchen, pantry. laundry, and other rooms. Come late lunch time the first 2 floors were painted. Santiago and Melissa actually gave some input to the armory and infirmary respectively and Derek sent a text to the contractors.

Everyone loaded back up and headed to a Chinese food joint for late lunch then headed back home. When they arrived Stiles handed the grocery list and credit card that was on the fridge to Allison and Isaac who were on the food run that week. After getting everyone’s last minute additions the two headed out. Melissa seemed to be able to breath and relax; since the stress of Scott and his shenanigans were done with. This was evident when the adults headed to the living room to watch some tv and Melissa fell asleep in minutes, she toppled over sitting snug between John and Santiago.

The kids decided to stay in the kitchen to let them rest and did their homework, sure school would be over in a few months but they still had to do the work.

When Allison And Isaac arrived the others helped put everything away. Derek and Cora worked to make a easy dinner and not wake the others in the living room. Soon the smell of food woke the others and the kids Finished their work for the day.

They served up food right when Jordan came home from his long day at the office and eveyone ate happily. Since it was a school day the next morning Isaac, Jackson and Lydia went to their homes after dinner. Allison went home with her father, Laura and Santiago. Jordan was too tired to make the effort to go home to his apartment that he seldom visited so he joined Cora. Melissa insisted on going home even thou everyone offered her their own homes so she wouldn’t be alone.

The night winded down and Stiles and Derek were finishing up the dishes. Just the two of them as everyone else had gone to their own rooms. As Derek was drying the last dish Stiles creeped up and hugged him from behind.
“How are you feeling? You don’t feel like you lost a beta do you?” He asked while nuzzling the back of his neck.
Derek put down the last dish and turned to hug Stiles, lifting him and sitting him on the counter then sliding between his legs. “Honestly it feel complete this way. I always was willing to have Scott with us but he never wanted to be, and I could never be the one to force someone to stay. Felt like forcing a puzzle piece to fit somewhere it does not go. But now eveyone fits.” Derek took Stiles hand in his and linked their fingers. “I am very happy, happier than I thought I would be again.” He kissed his boyfriend and held him close. As much as he loved eveyone together these moment alone just the two of them were cherished. “Come on my Luna, time to go to bed.”

Stiles being the adult he is whined and then put his hands up motioning for Derek to carry him. Instead of giving him a piggy back ride or bridal carry he decided to tease his man, Derek threw him over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes and made a show of shaking him as he went up the stairs. Derek dropped him ever so lovingly on the bed with a plop and turned to strip into his pajamas. Stiles was too lazy and just stripped in bed down to his briefs, Derek did the same and slipped in behind him, holding him close. They cuddled and fell asleep quickly, the warmth of Derek a welcome feeling.

Hours later they suddenly both bolted up from bed, both clutching their chests. They felt it the distress that was enough to wake them. They both turned to look at each other and said in sync “Allison.” They leapt out of bed and rushed down to the cars, by now Jordan and Cora were awake from the noise. Derek called out while rushing to get outside.
“Get John to Argents, It’s Allison.”

Derek and Stiles raced to the street and jumped into the Camaro, they burned rubber on the way out and made it to the Argent’s in minutes. They both jumped out of the car and raced to the home, Derek had the key in the door and unlocked in seconds. As they rushed inside they saw Santiago standing in her bedroom by the door and Chris and Laura were in bed with her.
Allison was sitting up crying as Chris held her, Stiles and Derek rushed to her side and held her close. As the they cuddled they saw more headlights pull up and Santiago went down to let them all in.

Santiago opened the front door to see Lydia, Isaac and Jackson all in various level of clothing rush in. Then came Jordan and Cora with a sheriff in tow, they made their way upstairs as well. He was about to lock up again when he saw a familiar van pull up.
Santiago walked out to see Melissa in her car looking confused at all the cars here. Santiago was still in his sleep attire so he was only wearing sweatpants, he came out to Melissa and motioned her her to come
Inside.

“Why is eveyone Here? I just got this feeling that something was wrong with Allison and couldn’t go back to sleep.” She told him as she walked into the house.
“It finally hit Allison that her mother is gone, and partly by her hand. With things settling down she finally had time to process and it hit her hard. You felt her distress, sounds like you really are part of the pack after all of you felt it from your home.” Santiago was putting on the tea kettle and coffee pot since so many were here. Melissa just stared at him in confusion. “I take it you did not realize that both you and them saw you as pack.”

Melissa still stood there in shock, finally Santiago just moved her to a stool and placed a cup of tea in her hands. While he waited on the coffee, and pulled down the disposable cups.
“I mean… I love Stiles like a son, John is practically my brother… and the Hales I care so much for them. Known them since they were kids…” she slowly sipped on her cup as she thought back to eveything. As far back as Scott’s first shift and who much the dynamics changed since then. Thinking back how in her heart she had already adopted all of these children as her own.

Santiago gently pulled the now empty cup from her hands and gave her a stack of reusable cups and pot holders. Melissa took one of her hands and placed it on Santiago’s bicep giving it a light squeeze.
“Thank you… I don’t think I would have realized it myself.” Then she followed him upstairs while he took the tea and coffee up to the rest of them. They walked into the room and saw eveyone crunched up into her bed trying to get close.

Allison was lightly sniffling and her eyes were bloodshot, Even Chris mirrored her tears. Santiago and Melissa handed out cups of tea and coffee and everyone soothed and comforted the Argents. After a while it was clear this was not something that could be cried out so Isaac decided to try and do something. He moved and reached out to take Allison’s hand and she flinched back slightly. Isaac looked to the others and asked quietly.
“Can you give us some time alone, please?”

Eveyone gave Allison one last squeeze and hug then slowly made their way back down stairs. Isaac firmly took Allison’s and and didn’t let her shy away. Isaac moved to sit right behind her, he put a leg on either side of her and pulled her into his chest letting her cry into his neck. Allison tried to pull away and Isaac held her close.
“No, you are not doing this again. Do you remember our first talk in the preserve?” Isaac took Allison’s hands into his own and held them tightly, “you panicked that I would see you as a killer or something much worse. You pulled away and gave me an out, but I didn’t take it and I’m not taking it now.”

Isaac moved her hair out of her face and kissed her forehead. “Alli, yes you have killed, and you are deadly but you are not a monster. No one here sees you as that you know that in your heart, your brain is just playing tricks.”
“But I shot my moth-”
“No. You shot someone who planned an ambush to wipe out an innocent pack. Someone who tried to get Derek killed. Who tried to kill Laura and ended up shooting your father in the chest.” He held her tightly and unwound her fingers soothing them down and relaxing her.

“Do you know how many times I planned or thought about ending my own fathers life? How many times I actually planned for it? Messing with his truck, faking a hunting or poaching accident, hell even just swinging a frying pan at him until he stopped moving. Too many to count, do you think I’m a monster?”

“Of course not Isaac. You lived a terrible life.”

“And you did too, sure you were never physically beaten but from what you have told me your mother was a fan of psychological warfare. You were treated terribly, she tried to turn you against your father and into another mini Gerard. She wanted you to become the next Kate. So you did what you could to survive.”
“But I killed her.” Allison said tears welling up again
“No she killed herself. If it was actually you, it would have a happened long ago. You could have done it a long time ago it that was in your heart. But it wasn’t. You didn’t go into that council meeting ready to kill. You protect above everything. It wasn’t until she shot at Laura and Chris that you did fire. Plus tell me Allison do you ever miss?”
That was the first smile she cracked, she tipped her head to the side to look up at Isaac and replied “never.”
“Do you remember where your arrow hit?”
“Center of lower spine.”
“Which means you aimed for…”
“Her spine… I didn’t aim to kill. I wanted her neutralized.”
“Exactly. You could have gone for the heart or head but you didn’t becuase in your heart you were not intent on killing her but in saving Laura and your father.” He kissed her forehead again and whispered to her “that is who you are. A protector. Anytime you forget that I will be right here to remind you.”

Allison sat up on her knees and turned to face him, she looked into his bright eyes and kind smile and took his face into her hands, she kissed him and then pulled him in for a tight hug. When she pulled back she saw the never ending kindness in his eyes and knew it was meant to be. He saw her for who she was, even when she didn’t. She kissed him again and then rested her forehead on his and whispered “I love you.”

Isaac gave her a brilliant smile and he kissed her back, “I love you too Robin Hood.” When she pulled back that’s when she noticed that Isaac was only wearing basketball shorts and one sock. Before she could ask Isaac laughed and said “we may have rushed over here and forgot a few things.” Allison giggled and took his hand, they walked down stairs to where the others were.

Allison saw her father there standing next to Santiago and Melissa and made a beeline to him. She hugged him hard and he returned it with kindness. He held her and spoke out to her “Nous protégeons ceux qui ne peuvent pas se protéger eux-mêmes.”
She smiled and affirmed back at him “We protect those who cannot protect themselves.”

Allison turned and saw Jackson and Stiles crying into some tissues and looked a bit confused. Derek walked over to her and gave her a hug. “Some sappy love birds were listening to the play by play and are crying over your quote on quote Nicholas Sparks moment.” He reached out and ruffled Isaacs hair in the same movement as he blushed.

Allison couldn’t help but laugh at them, they were holding hands and trying to hold it together. “You guys are such saps.” She went over and hugged them both. Laughing at both the tears and the one shoe Jackson had on.
“You know at least Jackson tried to get dressed.” Allison teased looking around the room.

Sure enough eveyone was in different levels of undress. Santiago and Jordan were in sweatpants, Derek and Stiles were in only briefs, Lydia, Cora and Laura were all in oversized T-shirt’s and underwear. Isaac has on shorts and a single sock, Chris was the only one in both pajama pants and a shirt due to his always be prepared motto. Since he was the only one dressed he grabbed the bags that lived in everyone’s cars with spare clothing and brought them inside, it seemed to finally hit them that Melissa came via the pack bond. When they did Allison rushed her and hugged her, this woman was born to be a mother and she realized how much she missed that.

“Kids some of you do have school in a few hours.” John called out from his chair.
The teens that had school groaned out.

“Sheriff you can take my room with Melissa it’s got an extra bed. Santiago is in our guest room. We can puppy pile in the living room.” Allison deligated, pulling down the blankets and pillows from the hallway cabinets.

Since eveyone was already in pajamas it was easy for them to tuck in, this time they placed Allison in the middle and cocooned around her. The only silver lining was that no one at school besides Danny knew that Victoria was Allison’s mother so there would be no extra questions or stares. Plus since Scott has been reclusive for so long his presence would not be missed either. They tucked in and quickly fell asleep until hours later. Unfortunately since the Argent house was smaller they had to get up slightly early to cycle thru all the showers and get all the teens in and out of bathrooms.

Derek and Stiles were designated hair braiders for the girls meanwhile Laura and Chris made breakfast. Melissa changed Santiago’s bandage and then he got called by the council since the others had to give their reports for the previous day. The kids left in various cars and then the home was quiet. Only John and Jordan remained in the living room while Chris, Melissa and Laura stayed in the kitchen.

Chris sipped his coffee and turned to look at Melissa, “So Santiago huh?” He asked his a lift in his eyebrows.
Melissa choked on her coffee for a second and tried to hide a blush, “oh yeah he Umm seems like a good friend to have.”
“Mel.” He deadpanned looking at her fiddling her her coffee spoon “I’ve known him all my life, I’ve never seen him act like he is now.”
“You’re being ridiculous. I’m sure you have just forgotten, I’m sure he was just as happy plus I you know you must have known him with Valentina’s mom. I’m sure he is just being nice.”
“Valentina? He told you about her?” Chris was visibly in shock. “Wow, for him that is more than I can explain in words. You know she was my goddaughter too. We both knew that if anything happened to us the other would step in and take them in like a daughter. All I’m saying is I know him. He likes you a lot, considering he has been able to change his own bandages and stich himself closed since 13 he likes you.”

Melissa stopped and thought about this last week. Sure she liked how he made her feel, it was a safety and and bravery he accentuated, he never shifted away when Melissa took control of a situation, never got upset when she let her emotions thru. She was pulled from the what ifs when he came back down stairs.
“All four families had no idea what happened, they had apparently just took off overnight. Local packs had no idea either, no complaints or infractions on either side. We were all blindsided.” He poured himself another mug and rubbed his eyes in frustration.

It was then that Melissa’s alarm went off she had to head into work, she grabbed the bag Chris brought in that had her scrubs and changed quickly. As she was rushing out the door Santiago stopped her and handed her a thermos of hot coffee with a quick “have a good day” and she smiled at him,
Choosing to ignore Chris because she knew his face would be smug. She thanked him and called out as she left “John don’t forget to elevate that foot, I will sic Isaac on you if you fight the PT.”

Santiago watched her leave and smiled turning to look at Chris who stood there with a smirk and I told you so stance. “What?” Santiago asked looking at his life long friend.

“What?” Chris repeated back as if that question was ridiculous.

Santiago looked visibly confused and it was Laura that answered.
“Men are so dense, you better tell him because I can hear the gears turning in his head.” She kissed Chris on the cheek and took her coffee to join John and Jordan.

“Melissa” Chris replied like that was enough of an answer. Santiago cocked his head to the side and turned to look to see if she was coming back.

This time it was Jordan that called out “you may need to draw him a picture.”

“Santi. Melissa you like Melissa.” Chris finally advised putting the man out of his misery.
Santiago still looked confused but he was putting the pieces together.

“I mean I haven’t. Not since I mean it’s been over 20 years since I even… really…” he kept running the events of the past week over his head focusing on Melissa, he didn’t not even realize it but he was smiling just thinking of her.
By now John had wheeled himself into the room, “I’ve known Melissa longer than I haven’t. That woman in fearless and independent so if you want to be in her life. You have to ready. This is not a see how things go kind of a life. While it’s not my story to tell she was married and she ended that, she is strong and does not play games. If you want this you better buck up and commit. be very clear with who you are and your intentions.”
Santiago took his words to heart and really thought about it and the woman he saw in Melissa.

“Plus her best friend is a Sheriff with tenure and she has a pack with behind her so if you hurt her. I don’t care what kind of hunter you are, we will end you.” John finished his speech and refilled his coffee like he didn’t just threaten to skin this man alive. “Now come on Jordan let’s go visit the office makesure they aren’t running my town into the ground.”
“Yes Sir.” Jordan hopped up changed into his deputy uniform then loaded up John into the car.

Santiago and Chris stayed working on council documents and dealing with the hunters that had died, Laura and Derek headed to the pack house since the pools foundation was getting poured today.

Back at Beacon Hills High School the absence on Victoria was noticed by administrators, thanks to a rumor started by Lydia word around the street was that Victoria DuPont was a fake persona and that she was a Credit Card and Identity theft criminal. This helped because no one was looking into Victoria or the DuPonts instead they were trying to figure out her “real ID”. Turns out she never even told the staff there that she had a daughter who attended the school so admins did not even think to ask her.

Lunch time rolled around and for once Danny was joining them, his senior project no longer in jeopardy because of Victoria so he joined the group, since it was so sunny they decided to eat outside

“So Danny when is the big showcase? When do we get to go cheer you on?” Jackson asked him shoulder checking him as he sat down on the empty lacrosse field.
“Oh please Jackson you know you told us months ago and made sure we all would be there.” Lydia teased sitting down next to him.

“Hahah it’s okay I know Jackson is my biggest fan. And don’t worry I checked and it’s 2 weeks before the full moon so Cora you and Derek can come.” Danny answered back taking a bite from his burger like it was no big deal.

Eveyone choked on whatever they were eating or drinking and looked to Danny in shock.
“What!?” Exclaimed Cora staring at the smiling Hawaiian.
“Yeah, I know you guys are cool but it’s still something I looked at.” He said with a shrug.
“Wait Danny you know…” Stiles eased
“That your boyfriend and Cora are werewolves? Yeah I’ve known. Dude it’s beacon hills.”

“Danny!” Jackson exclaimed clearly in shock.
“I mean I can prove it if Stiles wants to give me his mountain ash Necklace or Allison’s knife.”
They all stared at Danny in shock, how did he know, Allison glanced at her boot and sure enough the blade was completely hidden no way for him to see it let alone know it was made of mountain ash infused silver.
“Danny Mahealani, Druid.” He answered giving a little jazz hand action. He turned to the group and pointed out everyone.
Cora “Werewolf”
Allison “human maybe hunter or emissary”
Lydia “not plain human getting a magic vibe ”
Jackson “not a were but sensing something ”
Stiles “not plain human maybe light magic user”
Isaac “human”
They all stared at him in shock.
“So how many did I get right?” He asked with a smile
Eveyone shakily raised their hands. Danny grinned and spoke again “and before you ask I knew the same way you use that ring Cora.” He motioned for the ring that Chris made her her to detect poison. Danny motioned to a bracelet he wore eveyday On the underneath side he flipped it over and showed a pale stone , he struck a hand out and touched Cora , his bead turned yellow and then he reached to touch Lydia. She held out her hand and Danny took it , the bead turned black and he said “Ahh black magic. So what are you?”
She glanced at jackson then answered “Banshee.”
“Oh that explains why I never felt the presence until recelty. This is your first year using it I assume.” Lydia nodded. “Sorry I was going to wait until you guys said something, but it just felt like time. I didn’t like not telling you all. I only went thru a couple years of training, it had all but died out in my family and my uncle who was training me passed away. Haven’t practiced in years.”

They all starred at him processing everything that he was saying. Danny just sat there eating his lunch, picking fries off of Jackson like it was a normal Monday. A few minutes later Stiles was finally able to put words together.

“So you knew.”
“Since I met Cora, when I felt Jackson’s change and then met Derek at the game I put two and two together figured he was the alpha. Felt something coming from the Hot Cop there too, don’t worry Cora I know he’s yours, doesn’t mean I can’t appreciate a good looking guy when I see them.”
Again the power of Danny’s observations astounded them.
“I really only ever mastered reading people, makes for great gaydar. Like how I knew Victoria was a bad seed and had beef with you all. That’s why I pushed Isaac into telling me exactly how the dynamic was. I can sense general things but I’m not skilled enough to pinpoint anything.”

Again they all just took everything in. And stared at him.
“Well way to ruin the surprise Danny, we were going to let you in after your big showcase when you had more time to spend with us.” Jackson teased locking him in and headlock and messing with his hair.

“That’s actually why I told you today, I finished it early so I am free to hang out again like before.” Danny explained breaking out grin under Jackson.

“Well that’s great, why don’t you come with Jackson after school. We hang out most days. He can take you.” Stiles invited just as the bell rang.

It was agreed Danny would be joining them that day to get to know everyone, plus since he knew about the supernatural then it was a smoother transition that they expected.

As they headed in for their last two classes Stiles texted Derek.
User- Hi Love
Sourwolf- what did you do?
User- DerBear I resent that. Why do you think I did something?
Sourwolf- because every time you text me Hi Love or Love-bug or Love-muffin it’s because you did something or want something.
User - well I was going to say let you in on a secret but maybe I’ll just wait and surprise you.
Sourwolf- you and I both know that won’t last.
User - Derek Hale you know I hate you sometimes. You are the worst.
Sourwolf- Stiles.
User- ugh you’re lucky I love your furry butt.
User- we have a plus one joining us today at training. Turns out you are not my dirty little secret.
Sourwolf- who spilled it this time? I’m assuming you mean Danny.
User - yes Grumpy and no one spilled it turns out he has known all along. Danny boy is a Druid.
Sourwolf- good for us. one less person to risk exposure.
User - that’s it! I tell you Danny has known your secret all along and you are not even worried or curious!
Sourwolf- If he was a threat he would have used it already.
User - >:(
Sourwolf- Hey now. No frowns for my Luna.
User - no fair Der, you know I can’t stay grumpy when you say that.
Sourwolf - which is why I said it. Aren’t you supposed to be in Econ anyways.
User - yeah but Finstock loves me since I’m to use his exact words “Doing the tango with a Beacon Hills Legend.” It’s a free period at this point. He might actually ask to face time to talk strategies for next year if he sees I’m talking to you. Well you’re not Derek Hale in my phone so he may not actually ask.
Sourwolf- don’t tell me you don’t still have me as Creepy Woods Guy , or Sugarplum or what was the last one SuperMegaFoxyAwesomeHot.
User- DerBear come on let me live a little. I have the best boyfriend who happens to be burning hot so forgive me for getting creative.
User- so let me live a little. if I want to list you as SugarLips, My ObiOne, Hubby with a few eggplants, HoneyBuns or Pookie.
Sourwolf- well I liked one of those I’ll let you read thru your word vomit. See if you can figure it out.
User - no.
User- that did not count
User - I did not mean to say that
User - you do not get to use this agaisnt me later and say that it was me that suggested it!
User- Finstock will want to officiate if he finds out that I referred to you as husband for the first time ever in his class!
User- Der
User - Derek
Sourwolf- don’t worry. I’ll still propose.
User- I’m changing your name to be “literally the worst.”
Sourwolf - I’m sure I’ll change your mind later. With the what did you say my Sugarlips.

Luckily the bell rang giving Stiles an out for a few minutes while he made his was to his last class. He met up with Allison to head to their last class.
“You don’t think your dad could teach me to skin a wolf?”
Before she could even ask what happened Stiles pushed his phone over to her so she could see the messages. She was in a fit of tears by the time they caught up with Lydia and Jackson. Luckily the 4 of them had class together, so they grabbed a table as always.
Stiles was still in his spiral when he turned to Lydia and Jackson.

“Who said I love you first?” He asked not giving them any context.
Allison jumped in to help, “Stiles in panicked because he referred to Derek as husband first.”
“He calls you his Luna, that is basically married Stiles.”
“I know! But this is different I called him husband!” He slid his phone over to Jackson and Lydia. He did get a strange look from the teacher that overheard his little exclamation but they ignored her.
“Jackson told me he loved me first, but I was the first to say I love you.” Lydia advised passing the phone back between them.

“What no, you said I love you first! I didn’t say it for a while after.” Jackson returned looking confused.

“You did, it was almost at the end of freshman year. We had already been dating since October, we were going to have brunch with your parents for the first time. It was the first week of June. Just after our 8 month anniversary. Your parents bailed on us and we had brunch at yours just the two of us. Then you came to see my parents for dinner. We ate and they ignored us and worked on their research, they left early to head back to the hospital lab . And after that we watched The Princess Bride again. Before you left that day do you remember what you said?”
Jackson thought back to the night. “No, but that is the night you told me you loved me for the first time. June 3rd.” He smiled looking at the beautiful red head.

“You said “I’m sorry my parents didn’t prioritize you. And I’m sorry I wasn’t enough to get your parents approval. But you are my Buttercup and I will choose you, as long as you let me. Maybe even longer.” Then I said.”
“I love you too.” Jackson finished remembering that night. “I went home and was in a panic because I thought you said I love you and I didn’t say it back. I just kissed you goodnight.”

“Stiles! You cannot seriously be crying over that already.” Allison cried as she saw Stiles eyes filled with tears.
“I’m a sucker for romance you know that.” Stiles cried back wiping his tears away.

“Mister Whittmore if Im not interrupting your social time could you please answer me; In the United States Constitution, where is the congressional power of taxation found?” The teacher called out starting at the table.

“ Article I, Ma’am.” He answered back not bothering to look up or pretend to read a text book. The teacher gave a scowl and went back to her lecture.

The group went back to whispering and pretending to pay attention when really were planning on the best way to get Danny up to speed and also they came up with one issue.

“So one issue my dad hates druids.” Allison finally dropped her bomb. “Not to want to have the extermination of all druids. They should die but in the I hate who they are as a person hate. Like worse than the people that are rude to servers or take up two parking spots.”

“What why? I’ve never met any but From what we have learned they seem fine? Right they like balance so you’d think it’s hard to rock the boat with them.” Stiles asked her.

“That’s the thing. They like balance a lot, rarely do they pick a side, he said you never trust a Druid emissary because they could betray a pack if it meant keeping the balance. He says they play secret keepers.” Allison explained while Lydia skimmed thru the digital Beastiary.

As the teacher circled the room during her lecture she caught a glimpse of Lydia’s tablet and saw her looking at old lore not AP people and politics so she pounced.

“Miss Martin, if you could please answer number 1 on the board since you are clearly done with the text I assigned.”

Lydia glanced up at the board and saw the quiz she put up there. As she continued reading the Beastiary she answered, “ C,B, A, C,B, A, C, B,C,A and none of the above the correct answer is Consent of the Governed.” Snickers around the room were heard and the teacher left them alone for the rest of the day.

As Stiles was free to slack about now that Lydia had handled the teacher he went back to texting Derek. Deciding to own his romantic self he sent him various wedding color pallets and asked him what he wanted for his first dance song to be. The end of the day came quickly and they all met at the front of the school to head to the Hale house. Of course Derek had to one up Stiles and he parked at the front of the school, in his nice Camaro and leather jacket with a bouquet of roses. You could hear the gossip flutter around them as the teen girls to swoon over. Stiles made a few faces at the girls gossiping saying there was no way that man was here for Stiles.
As they made their way outside Stiles couldn’t help but smile at his man, choosing to ignore both the awww and scoffs he heard he waltzed right up to Derek and kissed him graciously taking the flowers and giving him a hug.
“So do I get down on one knee now Orr…” Derek teased in his head feinting that he was going to kneel.
“Don’t you dare.” Stiles teased back laughing and enjoying how comfortable they felt that they could joke about things like this. Isaac and Allison plus Jackson and Lydia walked to them hand in hand. Danny was right beside Jackson and was with Cora too.
“Wow way to make a guy feel single.” He laughed “is that some secret rule I don’t know yet. “Thou must have incredibly hot parter to join the secret circle.”” He teased jostling Cora as they walked to Derek.
Danny while still smiling did change and greeted Derek formally, he stood tall looked him right in the eyes and turned his head slightly to bare his neck before reaching a hand out. Derek nodded slightly then took his forearm and grasped it.
“Derek Hale.” He introduced in a firm voice
“Deiniol Mahealani.” Danny replied not letting go until Derek stepped back. When Derek did Danny relaxed and went back to his bubby self. “But you can call me Danny.”

Derek threw an arm around Stiles and the made small talk until the parking lot cleared out, and they could avoid the congestion. They all jumped into various cars and headed to the Hale house. They drove over and were met by Laura and Chris plus the army of small foxes rushed that pack. As they exited Danny walked toward the house and faltered in his stride slightly and reached for a tree to catch himself.
“You built right on the Ley Lines smart, and who ever created these wards I’m impressed.” He noted taking a step and shaking off what looked like a shiver. “Sorry I haven’t practiced in years and it’s a strange feeling to be on a land that you don’t have access to.” He explained as he continued to follow the others.
“So you can feel the Ley Lines?” Stiles asked excitedly
“Kind of,” Chris couldn’t hold back the scoff at his choice of words, Laura have him a kind poke to the ribs. “I know they are here, but I can’t locate them. It’s kind of like a phone on vibrate I know it’s ringing somewhere but not exactly where. I feel like when you’re at a party and you know one person. No one else will kick you out but you don’t feel welcome.” Danny finished and grabbed an empty seat at the fold out plastic tables.

“What are your intentions in coming here today, Druid?” Chris asked bluntly the table shot him a few looks but they also wanted the answer.
Danny “ I’m not here as a Druid, I only trained for 2 years back when I was 11, haven’t had a trainer since then. I didn’t know we had any thing in beacon Hills until I met Cora. My family moved here post Fire. When I met Derek and felt the change in Jackson is when I wanted to say something. Then Victoria was interfering so I held back. I know a lot has happened and I don’t expect you all to trust me with the details but I am good at reading people.” Danny answered honestly, “like I can spot a Hunter who has dealt with one too many Fortune Cookie Druids In their days. I speak computers I like yes and no’s and binary’s. I will not be giving you half answers and if I ever do you have all the right to call me out on it.”

Everyone cracked a smile at that, even Chris seemed satisfied.
“Jackson has already vouched for you before he knew you were a Druid. It’s a long story, Isaac can tell it to you while the rest of us train.” Derek answered standing up and motioning the others to move outside.
“Cora Jackson and Laura, I have hidden a tshirt from Melissa somewhere in the preserve, Find it. Allison, Chris, Stiles and Lydia: knife close combat.”

“Ooo wait Love can we do show and tell before so Isaac can tell the story better.” Stiles asked quickly. The others looked around and were ready to show off. Derek gave a single nod and they faced Danny.
Derek, Cora and Laura shifted and bared their teeth, Lydia let out a short scream, Stiles held up a ball of magic. Allison shot an arrow at a tree then Chris threw a knife and split the arrow. Finally Jackson shifted next to him and used his tail to knock him over. They all looked at Danny’s shocked face and broke out laughing before rushing off to their training grounds.

Issac took a star struck Danny and pulled him over to the porch and whistled for the foxes who loved Danny, over to where he normally hung out in while they trained. While Isaac prepped various arrowheads for Allison he explained to Danny everything that had happened this year. A few times Danny mentioned that he had felt imbalances but couldn’t pinpoint it de anything, and the Ley Lines kept him off the preserve until he was invited. About an hour later the three shifters came tumbling back thru the trees, Cora was complaining to because Jackson cheated.
“Derek said no Paralytic venom!” She tacked Jackson and tried to grab the shirt from him.
“And I didn’t! I just used my tail to pull you down. You weren’t paralyzed.” He goaded and tossed the shirt over to Isaac. And joined them on the porch.
“So have we scared you away yet? It’s been a crazy year.” He asked sitting next to his tan best friend.
“No not completely but it does make sense as to why you all grouped up so fast. And why the team thought you took Steroids.” Danny teased. “So when we’re you going to tell me you were part fish?” Danny joked. “ No but seriously that’s crazy I didn’t know there were any other kind of shifters, guess we never got that far in my 16 months. Really I only ever mastered throwing down mountain ash circles in like life of death situations oh and I’m kinda an animal whisperer.” He joked as he had all four foxes asleep on him expect for the runt that woke up and beelined for Derek when he arrived.
Danny fit in nicely and said he would join as best he could, his parents didn’t know about his Druid training, apparently they only shared it with those who showed the natural ability.

Derek called an end to the training and ushered the rest of them to the porch. “So Danny you ready for the grand tour? And before everyone gets into a fight you can show off your own room only, I will do the rest of the house. They took Danny around the home, showed off everything the basement the library the floors and then the soon to be greenhouse and pool. He was really impressed by what he saw, and fit in nicely with everyone.

—————————

Flashback to the Argent household just before the kids got out of school.

“Santi, Derek said you’re welcome to come to the Hale training grounds with us.” Chris called out while packing his items for the days training.
“I will go tomorrow. got things to handle today. Tell him I said thanks.” Santiago called out heading out the door and into his fleet car. He drove to the closest flower shop and gave himself a pep talk then headed in. He strode confidently all the way to the pre made bouquet section and as soon as he was there facing the wall of bouquets all that confidence drained out of him. He stood there staring at all of them.
“Come on Santi, Buck Up. It’s just flowers. Just flowers just flowers.” He muttered to himself as he looked at all of them.
Some little old lady came by and managed to get the jump on this seasoned hunter. “Honey need some help.” She motioned to the flowers.
“Yes umm I want flowers.”
“Yes dear well you came to the right place.” She smiled sweetly and continued “first time in a long time I take it.”
“Yes ma’am.” He replied
“Well flowers can do the talking if you are a man of action.” The little lady spoke softly “Now, is this for a wife or old friend maybe?”
“Well it’s a… it’s for a first date.” He stammered out.
“Okay what do you want to say? What do you want to give?”
“Loyalty. Stability. Protection.”
“Why I’m sure you could protect her just fine.” The kind woman teased poking his large biceps as he looked over her. “Well then let me make you an arrangement with Scilla’s, daisies and white Heathers.”
“Thank you ma’am and maybe a nice vase.”
“Of course Dear.” The little old lady humored and prepared him a large bouquet. She wrapped up the bouquet nicely, arranged them into the crystal vase and placed it on the counter.
“Here you go. Only 60 for the new love, I’ve got a good feeling about this one.” She told him.
Santiago pulled out a hundred and left her the change. He loaded up the vase and headed to the hospital.

As he parked near the emergency room he realized what he was about to do. He checked himself in the mirror. His hair was a bit longer than he would like on top, his beard was nicely cleaned up to nice thick stubble. His black shift fit him a bit tight on the arms and chest but they all did, at least his jeans and shoes were clean and he did a final check to makesure there was no food in his teeth before grabbing the bouquet and striding in.
He approached the reception desk and the two nurses working it confidently, focusing on not breaking the vase in his hand with the stress he felt. The two women looked at him in appreciation and he cleared his throat.
“Hello, These are for Melissa McCall.” He gestured to the flowers in his had. The girls swooned and one answered him.
“Oh we can take the delivery to we need to sign anything?”
“Oh um I’m not delivering I was hoping to take her to lunch if she had time.”
“Santiago!?” Melissa did a double take and came rushing over. Her voice caught the attention of the rest of the staff on this fairly calm day. They all hovered to watch Melissa approach this tall dark and handsome man with flowers in his hand. “You okay did you burst your-“ she cut herself off when she saw the bouquet and a smile crept across her face.
“I’m fine I was actually hoping to see maybe I could take you out for your lunch if you had-“

Another nurse pushed her forward and spoke for her “yes she’s free now. She was about to head to her lunch.” Another male nurse quickly took the charts and towels she had in her hands and started handing them out whispering instructions. Melissa couldn’t help but laugh at her staff. Sure it had been a while but she was still able to date it wasn’t that crazy of an idea.
She walked to Santiago and took the flowers, “thank you they are beautiful Thank you. Give me a minute let me clock out and grab my bag and Ill be right out.”
Before she could turn around a doctor was handing her her purse and another called out from behind the wall “I clocked you out!”
Melissa just laughed and handed the vase to one of the nursing assistants and turned back to Santiago.
“Guess I’m ready to go.” She laughed again and Santiago smiled at her sticking his arm out for her to take. She tucked her hand into the crook of his elbow and they walked out, they heard one last voice call out “you are taking a full hour at least! No Rush we can cover!”

Melissa and Santiago couldn’t help but laugh at that and it helped break the awkward silence. He opened the car door for her and she slipped in, and Santiago went around to the other side.
“So what did you want to eat? I uhh actually didn’t plan this far ahead…” he laughed scratching the back of his head.
“So much for the Hunters always being prepared.” Melissa teased
“This is…let’s just call this uncharted waters.”
“There is a nice bistro in downtown town. I’ll tell you where to go.”
“Sounds good to me.”

The pair drove off, leaving behind an emergency room full of gossip, plus a few swooning nurses and doctors because not only did this mystery man bring her flowers and take her to lunch, but he held the car door open for her.
They had a lovely late lunch and ate comfortably, they were able to get a nice table outside alone so they talked about everything. Santiago talked about single fatherhood life, his history as a hunter and joining the council. Melissa talked about her nursing career, she talked divorce and why she kept McCall for Scott’s sake, when she made lead nurse at the hospital and everything else. She realized they had nearly pushed a 2 hours lunch so she headed back, even though the staff probably would have covered for the rest of the shift if she stayed away. Melissa was the brave one and reached out to take his hand as they walked back to the car. Santiago smiled and held her tiny hand in his. Then opened the car door for her again and headed back to the hospital. When they pulled back up the curb of the hospital, Santiago again parked the car and got out to open the car door. Melissa made a fuss about being able to get her own doors.
Santiago took her hand and helped her up, “Yes you can get your own doors, but you don’t have to. Call me old fashioned.” He replied closing the door behind her.
She smiled and laughed placing a hand on his forearm.
“How old fashioned?” She asked slyly locking eyes with him.
“Not that old.” He replied hesitatingly putting a hand on her waist.
“Good. These nurses covered me for over two hours after I already had a lunch break. Would be a shame for them to have done all this, snuck into patients rooms to peek out the blinds and not see this.” She decided to be brave and used a hand to pull down on the hem of his shirt, she went up on tiptoes and pulled down his large 6 foot something frame down to meet her and kissed him. Santiago used the hand on her waist to pull her tight. Even with the foot size difference it felt like she fit perfectly. After they broke apart Melissa looked at his green eyes and saw a faint scar and remembered he was a hunter.
Santiago saw the hesitation and sadness and thought he messed something up.
“Sorry if that was-“
“No.” She interrupted placing a hand on his chest placing on the side where the scars were. “I just remembered you hunt.I don’t even know where the council is or if you can stay.”
Santiago took her hand from his side and held it in his hands.
“I go where I need to for work, but the council goes where I go. I can promise I would be here every night, if that my job is safe. But I’ve got a really good reason to stay. I will have to talk to the local hunter, they can get a bit territorial those drama queens.” He laughed easing her worry. “You seem to have quiet an army of nurses and doctors watching you. I didn’t realize I was taking out a local celebrity. Maybe I should give them something to gossip about, break a few hearts?” He teased and before Melissa could ask what he was planning, he moved with the grace of a dancer and bent her back like they were dancing and kissed her one last time before spinning her up.
“Santi! Your Stitches!” She squeezed as she was spun around.
“I’m fine, they are fine you are fine. Just had to give the kids over there something to talk about.” He glanced over to window where 2 nurses were holding up two children so they could watch.
“You are a menace. I do have to get back to work. Thank you for lunch. Really.” She gave him one last kiss on the cheek and rushed back inside. Santiago had the decency to wait till she was out of sight before giving himself a fist pump in celebration and driving back to the argent house.