Work Text:
The city bustled with the afternoon rush as Xavier lingered under the shade of his office building, watching his coworkers exiting one by one. He nodded politely as they left, offering the occasional faint smile to any who noticed him and smiled back. Most didn't, which of course, suited him just fine.
One woman did pause, however, Anne from HR, who looked up and beamed when she caught his eye, her deep red hair swaying behind her back. ''Xavier, hello! Waiting for someone?''
He inclined his head, an easy smile on his lips. ''Yes Miss Anne, a friend is picking me up.''
''Oh, that's nice.'' She replied with a friendly nod, clutching her coat with one arm as she walked down the steps of the building. ''Well, have a good evening then Xavier! Get some rest, and I'll see you tomorrow.''
''You too, Anne. Give my regards to little Julian.'' Xavier replied, his tone polite as ever.
When the redhead woman walked out of sight Xavier finally allowed his posture to relax a little, sighing as he leaned against the cool brick wall of the building behind him. He tugged at his collar, loosening it as he looked up at the sun, now a bit lower in the sky but glaring down just as harshly. It had been pouring this morning, one of those heavy rains he could safely walk through, but now the skies had cleared and left only sunlight, and the lingering smell of rain against the wet pavement of the street.
He ran a hand over his face, a small huff of frustration escaping his lips. The sun's effect on him of course wasn't as dramatic as some of the old tales of vampires liked to believe; he wouldn't burst into flames or something upon stepping into the light, but it certainly wasn't pleasant either. Prolonged exposure brought rashes that looked far too unusual and felt way too painful to be worth the risk, so instead Xavier had pulled out his phone and dialed the first name in his contacts. Of course, that name was Fredrinn's.
A few more minutes passed and he checked his phone again, tapping his fingers idly against his side. How much longer would this man take? He knew he had no work today, though he did sound like he was half-awake when Xavier called, which probably meant Fredrinn had slept all the way until noon. Still, he promised to be there soon, though as the minutes passed by and there was no sight of Fredrinn Xavier began debating if he should just sprint down the street with his jacket over his head.
Just then, however, he caught sight of a figure across the road, tall and rough in appearance yet with a bright, easygoing grin on his face that Xavier would recognize anywhere. Fredrinn wove through the crowd of pedestrians walking down the street, his gaze already fixed on Xavier as he approached.
''Didn't expect to be playin' chauffeur today.'' Fredrinn smirked, holding up an oversized, black umbrella with a dramatic gesture. ''But I figured you'd appreciate this.''
Xavier only stared back, his look slightly exasperated. ''You're late.'' He remarked, though the corners of his mouth softened in relief.
''Had to stop and grab this from a shop.'' Fredrinn replied with his usual grin. ''Couldn't find the other ones at home.'' He held the umbrella high as Xavier stepped under it, instantly shielded from the sun's reach. ''Can't let ya turn into a walking sunburn now, can we?''
Xavier rolled his eyes, though the smile that flourished on his lips was soft and genuine. ''Thank you.'' He murmured, glancing at the man now walking home by his side. He tried to mask the warmth creeping into his expression, though unfortunately for him Fredrinn's eyes were a little too sharp to miss something like that.
''Anytime.''
They walked side by side through the city, Xavier noticing the rhythm of their steps falling in sync. Fredrinn held the umbrella steady, and despite him being the one holding it he kept it tipped so that it entirely shielded Xavier alone from the sunlight. It's a small, absentminded gesture, yet one that Xavier always took notice of and appreciated quietly.
''How was work?'' Fredrinn asked, his voice casual and quiet yet it somehow easily reached Xavier's ears despite the city noise all around them.
''Smooth, as usual.'' Xavier replied, stepping slightly closer to Fredrinn for more comfort under the shade. ''A little monotonous but ordinary, which is ideal.''
''Well, I ain't surprised.'' Fredrinn chuckled. ''You blend in even better than most humans I know.''
Xavier hummed at that, though a hint of a smile played at the corners of his lips. ''And how about you, hm? Slept until noon again?''
Fredrinn looked a little sheepish at that, scratching the stubble on his chin for a few seconds before finally admitting so. ''Yeah, you got me. But hey, it's full moon comin' up next week, alright? You know it throws me off schedule.''
Xavier paused at that, a faint frown on his expression for a second before he nodded. ''I see, I'd almost forgotten it was so close.''
Fredrinn, after all, was a werewolf. But unlike himself, it wasn't as though he had trouble blending in; mornings and sunlight meant little to him, and he had no issues sustaining himself the way vampires do. Still, that did not mean there were no downsides to his.. 'condition', or that he faced no hardships in his life. Once a month, on the night of the full moon, things always shifted. No matter how much control Fredrinn had or tried to muster the change always came; an instinct and a force he couldn't turn away from, the moon's influence too strong to resist. That's when he would turn into a massive, dangerous beast, his claws as sharp as his teeth, his large body built to hunt, fight and tear. Naturally, that meant that once every month Fredrinn had to stay indoors, lock himself in, and endure this horrific change until dawn arrived and returned him to his human form.
Fredrinn cleared his throat, glancing at Xavier a bit too quickly before looking back ahead. Which of course, did not go unnoticed by the vampire. ''So.. uh.'' Fredrinn muttered, his voice quieter than what Xavier knows is his usual. ''You'll be there for it, right? Again.''
Xavier's answer was immediate, easily flowing out of his lips without much thought behind it. ''Of course I will. If you want me there, I'll be there. Like always.'' He watched as Fredrinn nodded at that, a small trace of tension quickly leaving his face. It was clear this meant more to him than he'd let on, though it really was no trouble on Xavier's part at all. He'd done so each full moon for the past two years after all, ever since they first started living together.
It still seemed strange sometimes, even now, how fate had brought them into each other's lives. Xavier could still recall that night vividly in his mind, a memory he nowadays thought fondly upon despite being quite terrifying when it actually happened. He remembered how cold he felt, how his hunger relentlessly clawed away at him, how his mind was fogged with a thirst so intense he could barely even think straight. That night Xavier had wandered the streets, one hand pressed hard against his mouth to stop himself from even imagining sinking his teeth into anyone he passed by. He had never harmed a human for his needs before, and even now, dazed and confused, his mind refused to even entertain that thought. It wasn't an easy task, however; each breath he took was ragged, hazy, his senses weakening as Xavier felt himself drawing closer and closer to his limit.
Then, in that narrow, barely lit alley, he'd seen him. Fredrinn was slumped against the wall, his own breathing ragged, chest heaving with exhaustion or something even worse. Though, it wasn't just the state he was in that caught Xavier's attention.
No, it was the pointed, wolfish ears peeking through his slicked-back hair, and the long bristled gray tail curled tightly between his legs. The sight was so unexpected, that Xavier thought he may have been hallucinating it all. Without realizing it, he found himself walking closer to this stranger, with the last bit of strength he had. Their eyes had met, both sizing each other up in the flickering streetlight. Xavier could see the wolfish man's brow twitch with suspicion, yet he was too exhausted, too weak to react. Despite Xavier having no traits as obvious as this man did, he knew it wouldn't take a genius at this very moment to realize that he was not quite human. Sharp fangs visible through his parted lips, skin so pale it rivaled that of the dead.
''You.. look like shit.'' Fredrinn had managed, his voice rough and laced with fatigue though he still tried going for a smirk.
And Xavier couldn't help but chuckle at that, the reply he was offered being anything other than what he was expecting. ''Well.. I could say the same about you.''
That night was the first Xavier didn't return to his apartment alone. There was no need for words, just by a mere glance into each other's eyes it was obvious they could help each other out of their respective predicaments, and they did just that. Xavier offered shelter, and Fredrinn offered himself. The fact that this unspoken understanding during that night had developed into what they had today, Xavier doubted any of them could have ever expected.
A few more blocks of walking brought them to their building, and after stepping into the elevator, Fredrinn leaned against the wall, idly watching the numbers tick upward to the seventh floor. When they arrived he fished his keys out of his pocket, turning the lock and pushing the door open.. only to feel a familiar sensation wrap around his leg, the moment he set foot inside.
''..This again?'' Fredrinn grumbled, glancing down to see Mia, the fluffy white cat Xavier had taken in a year ago thoroughly wrapped around his ankle. She purred, long tail twining around him as she walked between his legs, her fur as soft as cotton. Fredrinn tried to nudge her off, only for her to sink her claws into his jeans as if that alone would keep him in place. ''You know this ain't normal, right?'' He muttered, finally leaning down with a sigh to pick her up. The cat instantly relaxed in his arms, purring louder as she nuzzled into his chest, blue eyes closing in apparent bliss.
Xavier raised an eyebrow alongside a small smile, setting down the umbrella before closing the door behind them. ''She's been like that with you ever since I brought her home. Maybe she's a dog person.. or, she just has good taste.''
''Good taste, huh.'' Fredrinn said with a smirk, scratching behind Mia's ears as she nuzzled deeper into his chest. ''I think she's got a few screws loose, if you ask me.''
''Could be.'' Xavier chuckled, shrugging out of his coat and hanging it by the door. ''But you know that she was a stray when I found her, maybe she likes the company of the only other stray in my apartment.''
''Ha-ha, very funny.'' Fredrinn scoffed, rolling his eyes.
After changing out of their work clothes, they drifted into a comfortable routine in the kitchen. Fredrinn set up the table, laying out the plates and cutlery while Xavier did most of the cooking as per usual. The venison fillet seared to perfection in the pan, filling the kitchen with the rich, mouthwatering scent of caramelized meat. Xavier worked quietly, and carefully transferred the meat from pan to plate when he finished. Fredrinn meanwhile poured them each a glass of wine, the aged red one he knew the vampire preferred. When they sat down Fredrinn wasted no time, cutting into his fillet and digging in with a kind of intensity you'd think the man hadn't been fed in weeks.
''..I've told ya before, but you're really wastin' your talents workin' in that office building. Could've been a great chef, if you ask me.''
Xavier only raised an eyebrow, chuckling softly. Fredrinn paused for a second, before offering a forkful of meat towards Xavier. ''Here.'' He insisted. ''Try a little.''
With an indulgent sigh Xavier leaned forward and took the smallest bite off Fredrinn's fork, chewing the meat thoroughly and slowly. It was nice to taste his own cooking now and then, even if just to remind himself that he hadn't lost his touch.
''Well?''
Xavier swallowed, nodding thoughtfully. ''Not bad. Though I may have gone a little heavy on the rosemary.''
Fredrinn adamantly shook his head, already digging in for a second bite. ''Tastes perfect to me.'' He grinned, savoring the flavor of the fillet with a blissful expression and eyes closed.
Meals were usually like this. Xavier, being a vampire, meant of course that he fed on blood. It provided all the nutrients he required, and while he technically could still eat if he wanted, food in his opinion was rather unnecessary. Since it didn't really offer anything to him, it seemed like a waste of time and money alike. It was rare for him to indulge, and usually only for the other man's sake. Fredrinn, on the other hand, had no such issues when it came to sustenance. As long as it walked on four legs he would eat it; any kind of meat, though venison was definitely his favorite. He wasn't picky about it however, especially given he wasn't the one doing the cooking. He left that gladly to Xavier since the man seemed to enjoy it, and whose knack for flavors meant that every meal was something Fredrinn could happily look forward to.
''Next time, maybe I'll roast it in garlic.'' Xavier mused, watching Fredrinn lick his plate clean.
''You won't hear me complain. Though I can't say I ain't curious as to how you would actually manage to come close to garlic.'' Fredrinn chuckled as he wiped his mouth, leaning back with a satisfied sigh. ''Ya know, I almost feel sorry for you. All this great food and you're just.. sittin' there, sippin' wine.''
Xavier gave a faint smile, swirling the leftover wine in his glass. ''I survive.''
''Barely, I'd bet. You'd probably waste away without me, like you were that night.''
Xavier tilted his head at that, watching Fredrinn with that familiar, soft gaze of his. ''Maybe.'' He said, taking a slow sip of his last wine before standing up, heading for the sink. ''It's a good thing I don't plan on finding out anytime soon.'' He added, leaning down to place a small kiss on the man's cheek.
When the dishes are done and the kitchen is left tidy, they sank into the familiar comfort of their small living-room, resting against the soft cushions lining the couch. Small potted plants rested against the windowsills nearby, a hobby that Xavier had recently taken up; just because he couldn't handle the sunlight well after all, didn't mean there weren't those who thrived and basked under it. Fredrinn grabbed the remote, flicking the TV on to the evening news as he stretched out his long legs, propping them on the small stool in front of the couch.
''You wanna eat now? Are ya hungry?'' He asked after settling back, glancing over at Xavier with a tone so casual as though he was offering to refill his glass of wine.
Xavier paused, his gaze lowering before returning to the screen ahead. ''..I'll be fine for a while longer, if you want to relax.'' He replied, though the quietness in his voice betrayed him. Despite them both having grown used to this particular lifestyle over the two years they'd been together, he still found himself struggling to voice this specific need more often than not.
Fredrinn rolled his eyes, shifting on the couch to face him. ''Ain't any trouble for me, you already know that. I barely feel anything anymore.'' And with a reassuring grin, he easily offered his hand to the man next to him. Xavier took it with careful fingers, his grip light around Fredrinn's wrist as if he was holding something delicate, something precious. He turned Fredrinn's hand gently in his own, one last flicker of hesitation in his eyes before he lowered his head, and let his fangs descend against the tanned skin.
Feeding was a rather delicate matter, even more so because it was offered to him willingly. Xavier as a vampire needed blood often, though not every day. Three or four times a week was enough given his age and current health. And despite what most would think, it wasn't his suggestion to begin feeding regularly off of Fredrinn once they began living together, it was all Fredrinn's decision. He was the one who offered himself that night, when Xavier was on the brink of starvation, he was the one who suggested that they live together while they both got back on their feet, and he was the one who offered to feed Xavier regularly from that point on.
Before that Xavier's methods of sustaining himself had been.. complicated. Most times, it included browsing rather dubious websites of online markets, and contacting many shady individuals. They were suppliers who dealt in human blood for the right price, never asking any questions as long as you paid them what they wanted, and in return, did not ask any questions of your own. Xavier had tried animal blood too, of course, hoping it might prove to be easier and more sustainable. But animal blood was lacking; its thin, tasteless consistency did little to sustain him, much less satisfy him. Most times, it couldn't even keep him full for just one night. He'd taken it out of necessity before, but never willingly. Some may have expected that the blood of a werewolf would be just as bad given, well, that it is technically half-animal. That's what Xavier initially expected as well, although to his pleasant surprise it wasn't nearly as off-putting as he'd imagined. There was something oddly pleasant about it, the heavy, earthy aftertaste paired with that dense iron taste. It was far from what he was used to, but over time he'd grown to depend and enjoy it more than he ever thought.
Fredrinn gave him a reassuring nod, and with that cue Xavier allowed his fangs to sink in deeper, always taking it slow and gentle. The warmth of Fredrinn's blood filled his mouth, rich and familiar to his taste buds, and Xavier found himself starving all of a second, swallowing gulp after gulp after gulp like a hungry man. Despite that however he still remained in control, he still took notice of how much he allowed himself to receive; Xavier always took only as much as he needed after all, never once testing the boundaries of Fredrinn's generosity.
Half a minute or so later he lifted his head, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand before licking away any smudged drops of blood against his skin. Fredrinn only continued grinning at him, still unfazed as ever. ''I'm still kickin', don't worry.'' He teased, nudging Xavier's shoulder with his own. ''You can take some more if you want to, you know someone like me tends to regenerate very, very quickly.
Xavier laughed softly, leaning back until his head hit the couch behind. ''I will assure you I'm quite full. Paired with the wine from earlier.. I think I'm feeling even fuller than you are right now.''
The days leading up to the full moon drifted by in their usual, comfortable rhythm. Xavier's mornings always started at 6 a.m. sharp, each day identical to the one before it; he'd quickly shower, emerge wrapped in a towel, and head to the kitchen for a light breakfast that consisted of just some small fruit like berries, enough to provide him with the feeling of a full stomach and a little extra hydration on the side. Of course, he had no need for breakfast, but there was something so human about the whole routine Xavier couldn't help but indulge most of the time. Fredrinn, despite not working at the time and having no need to be awake, was always up too, a comforting presence at Xavier's side, still a little bleary-eyed but trying his best to remain awake and see the other off.
After breakfast came the part of the routine that only Fredrinn could handle. Because while Xavier was a man tidy and immaculate as one can be, he was still a vampire. And being a vampire came with its own distinct limitations. One of such, was obviously, the issue of having no reflection. Every morning after breakfast Xavier stood in front of the bathroom mirror, toothbrush in hand, his gaze directed vaguely at the wall behind him since the glass ahead offered him nothing of his own appearance. That's when Fredrinn would step in for the next critical task, making sure Xavier's appearance was as impeccable as the vampire believed it was.
Every morning without fail Xavier would adjust his tie in front of a bedroom mirror that only showed his suit floating in the air, and Fredrinn standing behind him with a comb, carefully brushing and smoothing out his hair for him. This too had become a part of their routine, and Xavier had learned the hard way over the years of how crucial Fredrinn's help truly was. There had been a few too many mornings after all before they began living together that Xavier would show up at the office with rogue bed hair, some missed toothpaste smeared by his lip, or some stray crumbs lingering on his cheeks, all much to his embarrassment. For someone as independent as him it was a little strange to rely on someone else like this, but a little comforting too. The comb brushing through his blue locks was always careful, and the hands that smoothened his collar by the door were always gentle.
''There.'' Fredrinn would say when finished, tilting Xavier's chin up ever so slightly for a final, affectionate appraisal of his. ''Lookin' sharp. World's most handsome vampire.''
Xavier would roll his eyes with a smile, though he no longer bothered to fight any of the compliments as before. He would just lean closer and place a chaste kiss against the werewolf's lips, wishing him a good day before stepping out the door and heading straight to work.
When the next week came around, Xavier woke up the same way he always did. This time however it wasn't the chime of his alarm that stirred him awake, that had been turned off since the night before; it was something more familiar, and far warmer. He felt the weight of a broad, muscular chest pressed against his back, and when he blinked open his eyes he was greeted by two perked, fluffy ears right in front of his face. Fredrinn's head was nestled in the crook of his neck, and even as he came to, Xavier could feel the subtle scrape of teeth nibbling across his skin.
''Mm.. Fredrinn?'' Xavier's voice was drowsy, his words a mumble as he tried to stretch out his limbs, only to find himself locked in Fredrinn's arms.
''..Your alarm.. didn't ring.'' Fredrinn murmured helpfully, though his actions, nuzzling and trailing kisses down the side of Xavier's neck, suggested he had other, not-so-helpful intentions in mind.
Xavier sighed, though there was a hint of a smile as he replied. ''I don't have work today, Fredrinn. I took the day off to stay home with you. Today and tomorrow.''
Fredrinn lifted his head just enough for Xavier to see his interested, slightly mischievous grin. ''So you're sayin' I get to keep you all to myself for a while, then?'' He asked, satisfaction obvious in his voice.
''Yes, that's exactly what I'm saying.'' Xavier smiled knowingly.
A pleased rumble escaped Fredrinn, deep and warm and vibrating against Xavier's back. Xavier felt the man's large hand slide up to his cheek, gently guiding his head to the side until their lip met into a slow, tender kiss. Turning in Fredrinn's arms Xavier managed to position himself to properly face him, finally able to take in his partner's form as the effects of tonight's full moon had already begun to show.
Violet eyes met his own, the familiar color now flecked with a golden shimmer. Fredrinn's pupils were already showing their subtle shift, now more vertically slitted, and Xavier couldn't help but notice the tall, furry ears peeking through the other's gray hair, alert and angled in his direction. Behind him, a bristly tail twitched and wagged with unmistakable excitement.
''..Someone's happy to see me.'' Xavier murmured in amusement, trying to hold back a chuckle at the sight of it. Fredrinn's grin only widened however, leaning closer to place another gentle, open-mouthed kiss along the curve of Xavier's neck.
''I'm always happy to see you.'' He replied. ''But.. why don't I show you just how happy I am?''
Xavier's breath hitched as Fredrinn licked a long, slow stripe across the side of his neck, both of his large hands lowering, trailing over Xavier's torso and ribs until they reached the dip of his hips. They're strong but careful as they easily pull his body closer to his own, one of Fredrinn's legs bending as his knee presses between Xavier's own legs.
''..Oh?'' Xavier sighed out, his voice barely above a whisper. ''You're certainly off to a convincing start..''
Fredrinn's eyes gleamed at that, his gaze sly as can be as he nudged his knee higher up, shamelessly pressing against Xavier's crotch. ''Just you wait.'' He replied, his words a warm rumble. ''I haven't even started yet.''
Today, Xavier ended up leaving his bed two or so hours later than usual. And while being a vampire meant he had no reflection, he didn't need a mirror to see the sorry state his body was currently left in after Fredrinn was done with him. Standing in front of the bathtub filled with lukewarm water Xavier tilted his head down, idly staring at the bite marks and hickeys riddling his body, spreading from his neck and collarbone down to his chest, abs and inner thighs, alongside several dubious fluids dripping down his skin that he wasn't sure whether they were his or Fredrinn's. With shaky legs he stepped into the bathtub, his sore muscles instantly relaxing inside the warm, soothing water. Werewolves had a little too much stamina, Xavier thought as he calmly gazed against the tiles on the ceiling. Especially during the full moon, and especially considering the transformation wasn't even through yet.
While the rest of their day leading up to the full moon was filled with calm moments and easy smiles from both of them, the same couldn't be said for the night. As the sun lowered and the inevitable came closer Xavier and Fredrinn moved through the apartment with purpose, preparing the rooms for the transformation ahead. Although the apartment was soundproof, something they had decided on implementing early on when they first started living together, there were still steps they had to take. They locked each door, closed the shutters on every window, and carefully stashed any easily breakable items away from the living-room, where they planned on spending the night as per usual. Xavier moved quietly around the apartment, watching Fredrinn double-check the locks with practiced moves, his expression a little more serious than usual. Not that Xavier could blame him.
The full moon didn't drive Fredrinn to madness as most would think, not entirely. He'd spent too many moons mastering this change, and in a controlled environment like their apartment, he'd managed to at least retain the part of himself that recognized Xavier. It was a small reassurance, though that didn't erase the truth; a creature of his size and strength, wild and instinctive, was still dangerous.
As the final preparations were set and the moon rose high up into the night sky Fredrinn turned to Xavier, his eyes darker by now, with that gleam of gold shimmering through the violet. His breathing had deepened, and though he still had the form of a man the shift about to happen was unmistakable. He clenched and unclenched his hands by his sides, flexing his fingers as the urge to let his claws extend crawled under his skin.
''Are you ready?'' Xavier asked quietly, voice calm and steady.
Fredrinn nodded, his jaw tense. ''Yeah. As I'll ever be.'' He said, his tone already rougher, lower.
Xaver reached out, taking Fredrinn's hand into his own and briefly squeezing them in reassurance. They sat that way on the carpet for a moment, Fredrinn's gaze locked into his own, as if savoring his last conscious moments until tomorrow came.
''You know..'' Fredrinn murmured awkwardly. ''Just.. stay where I can see you.''
Xavier gave a small nod, the smile on his lips even smaller. ''Always.''
The vampire took several steps back, giving Fredrinn the space he would need to go through with the change while keeping his eyes steadily on him. As the moonlight spilled through the slits of the closed shutters Fredrinn closed his eyes, his body beginning to shift as this familiar surge of energy took over. It was a sight that no matter how many times Xavier laid eyes on he could never stomach properly, too cruel and gruesome for Fredrinn to deserve every month. His form grew, his muscles reshaped and his bones broke and rearranged themselves as his limbs extended. The skin on his arms and torso slashed open to reveal warm fur underneath, his face elongating as the snout of a wolf took shape until there was no human trace left. Ears were perked, sharp and alert, while his tail swayed in powerful, irritated movements.
And there he stood, towering and terrifying, a massive wolf with an unmistakable glint of darkness in his golden gaze. He huffed once, shaking his coat of fur out before locking eyes with Xavier, a faint rumble resonating from within its chest.
Xavier, was unfazed. He watched everything through as he always did, quietly and without moving an inch. He extended out a hand, and spoke in a soft, low voice. ''You're still here with me, right?''
Fredrinn's wolfish form dipped his head, nudging Xavier's outstretched hand. The rough fur was warm beneath his palm, and at the gesture, Xavier felt any and all tension easily drain from his shoulders. Despite the size and strength beneath this thick fur, it was still Fredrinn. With each gentle stroke across the wolf's neck Xaver felt the shudders of pain begin to fade from Fredrinn's body, though an occasional whimper still escaped as an aftermath of the transformation.
''..There, there.'' Xavier murmured softly, his fingers trailing along the edges of Fredrinn's ears, where the fur grew the thickest. ''It was hard, I know. But you're okay. We're okay.''
Fredrinn huffed as he nestled closer, his warm weight heavy yet comforting as he rested against Xavier's body. The wolf tilted his head up and Xavier could see the tiniest hints of Fredrinn's familiar gaze deep inside those golden eyes, listening to each one of his words as if he was trying to make sense of them. He couldn't, Xavier knew full well, this wolf form of his couldn't understand much beyond his tone and a few familiar words such as his name. Still, Xavier spoke anyway, knowing through experience that the sound of his voice seemed to calm the wolf down.
''Since I'm free tomorrow as well, how about we head to that restaurant you like so much downtown? The barbecue one.'' He continued on, his voice always gentle. ''Or, if you're still tired, we can just order in. Put on a movie you like, whatever you want.'' He scratched gently under the wolf's jaw, watching as Fredrinn's ears slightly flicked as though he was listening, though his gaze remained that of a wild creature in half-awareness, seeking comfort more than anything else. The wolf nuzzled into the touch and then came even closer, settling his head against Xavier's shoulder. Despite all the restraint Fredrinn had managed to achieve during his transformations over the years Xavier knew the temptation he felt to break free, to run around and hunt still simmered underneath the surface, especially now when the full moon was at its highest up in the sky. He could practically feel it in the tension of the wolf's muscles, how he would sometimes go still, his nose lifting up and his ears flicking, catching even the faintest of scent or sounds drifting in through the closed windows.
Yet Xavier's presence grounded him there, on the spot. The moment he spoke the wolf's gaze would immediately flick back to him, massive paws pressing closer against him as his chest released a low, content rumble. ''You're doing very well.'' Xavier whispered, resting his head against Fredrinn's own with a soft smile on his lips. ''Just a few more hours, and you'll be back. We'll be back to normal.''
Things were calm for the next hour or so, until Xavier suddenly noticed the wolf's ears flicking, moments before his lips curled back into a snarl, sharp canines exposed as a deep growl rumbled from his throat. Xavier knew it wasn't directed at him, it couldn't be, so he raised his head and glanced around.. only to spot the cause of Fredrinn's aggression just a small distance away, striding towards them with an air of pure confidence.
Xavier couldn't help but sigh. ''Mia.. I really tried to defend you when Fredrinn said you've got a few screws loose, but this is just absurd. How fearless can you be?'' He asked, unable to hold back a small smile at the sight of the fluffy white cat strolling towards the massive wolf as if he was merely a plush toy, and not a wild, dangerous creature that could eat her whole in one bite. Tail high and eyes blinking lazily she ignored the wolf's every warning, nuzzling her head against his snout as a soft purr rose from her. The wolf let out a low growl and snapped his jaws toward her in one last effort, though Mia only gave a slow blink, utterly unfazed. She circled him a few times on the carpet then confidently curled up on his back, her paws kneading his thick fur with a look of pure bliss. Fredrinn, the mighty wolf, fell silent, looking at her almost bewildered as if he couldn't believe his eyes at being so blatantly ignored. After a few moments he ended up resigning himself, his growl fading to a soft huff.
Xavier bit back a laugh as he saw the look of defeat in Fredrinn's glowing eyes when the wolf turned towards him once more, ears flat on the sides of his head. ''Well, look at you.'' Xavier couldn't help but tease, reaching out to ruffle Fredrinn's fur. ''Reduced to being a cat bed for tonight. How the mighty do fall..'' And although the wolf couldn't understand him, something in his tone must've alerted him that he was currently being teased, because Xavier's cheek ended up dripping with the wolf's saliva after a sharp, indignant lick.
The rest of the night passed without incident, much to Xavier's satisfaction and despite Fredrinn's earlier worries. Under Xavier's calm, steady watch the wolf remained serene, though he did manage to run a few laps around the apartment after misinterpreting Xavier's brief water break as an invitation to play tag. Naturally, Xavier did get his revenge; he always kept a few tennis balls stashed away for such occasions, after all. Tossing one across the living-room he couldn't help but chuckle as the wolf darted off to chase it down, retrieving the ball with a proud gleam in his golden eyes as he brought it back to him. Thankfully, come morning, Fredrinn wouldn't have any memories of being treated like an oversized house dog.
After that bit of fun Xavier settled down and picked up a soft brush, taking his time to work it through Fredrinn's thick, bristly fur. He knew it wouldn't matter come tomorrow, but he also knew that this wolf version of Fredrinn wouldn't object; quite the opposite, given the low rumbles of contentment he kept hearing from the wolf's throat. Gentle strokes helped soothe him, easing out the still lingering tension from his earlier transformation until the wolf's eyes grew drowsy and he finally curled up, tail neatly tucked, and allowed his golden eyes to close.
Once Fredrinn was comfortable Xavier stretched out on the carpet right next to him, resting his head on the wolf's broad, warm back. The rhythm of Fredrinn's breathing helped lull him, and they both soon ended up drifting in and out of sleep for the rest of the night, Xavier's slender fingers lightly buried in the fur all the way until the early dawn.
Xavier felt Fredrinn's transformation begin beneath him before he could see it; a sudden, violent shudder, muscles tensing underneath his head as the wolf's bones began to shift and reshape. Quickly rousing to full awareness Xavier backed away to give Fredrinn more room, noticing the soft light of early dawn creeping in through the shut blinds, finally signaling the end to their monthly ordeal.
The transformation back was as raw and grueling as before, every inch of the process accompanied by low, guttural growls of pain as the wolf's form contorted, fur retracting and giving way to tanned skin and tight muscles. Xavier's face remained steady, hands clenched as all he could do was quietly wait it all out by his side. Then finally, after half a minute or so the wolf was finally gone, and in its place lay the human Fredrinn, sprawled out on the carpet and breathing heavily, tired and naked. Xavier approached him carefully, letting his hand reach out to cup Fredrinn's cheek, thumb tracing gentle patterns along the stubble on his skin. Slowly the man's eyes fluttered open, revealing the familiar shade of violet that Xavier loved so much.
''..Hey there.'' Fredrinn coughed out, his voice rough though he still managed a hint of his usual grin.
''Hey yourself.'' Xavier replied softly, smiling down at him. ''Rough night?''
Fredrinn chuckled, and with some help from the other managed to sit up on the floor, muscles still aching and burning. ''Could've been worse. I'll be much better once my back hits the bed instead of this floor here, though.''
Xavier's fingers brushed back a few stray strands of Fredrinn's hair before helping him back to his feet. ''Mm, sure. It's still early, we can sleep some more.''
Fredrinn's hand found his, fingers curling around Xavier's slender ones as he exhaled a long, calming breath. ''Also, remind me when we're back in bed,'' He murmured, ''That I still owe you for the tennis ball stunt.''
''..You remember?''
''No, but you forgot to hide the ball away. It's still on the carpet.''
Xavier laughed, low and soft, relieved to see Fredrinn fully returning to himself. He leaned closer and planted a brief, warm kiss on his cheek, right at the corner of his lips. ''Alright, alright. You can throw that one out. But I have more hidden, and I'm not telling you where.''
And at that, Fredrinn himself let out a tired laugh, just before placing an arm underneath Xavier's knees and swooping him up in the air, held comfortably against his chest in a show of strength as he walked them both back to their bedroom. Taking a look around as he did so he was glad to see the apartment wasn't destroyed to bits as he often feared, though with Xavier refusing to leave his side for a while now, perhaps he could stop worrying so much over it. With him by his side, it didn't truly matter whether the moon was crescent, waxing, waning or full.
It was just another night home.