Werewolf Boyfriend: Delaynie 3 (complete)

I’ve been living with Delaynie for a few months now and it’s been wonderful to say the least. After my grandmother died, I felt like I might have a relapse again, but Delaynie was always there for me no matter what. Big Billy offered to buy my grandmother’s place for more than it was worth. Then Mrs. Locklear came in to place a bid on the house. It started a whole bidding war, which ended with me having more money in the bank than I ever expected. I ended up selling to Billy - after all, he is my family now.

I know my relationship with Delaynie might be a bit strange. Not just because of the whole werewolf thing, but because I have asked that we wait until I’m in a place where I’m comfortable with myself to move forward intimately. I am exceedingly lucky that Delaynie understands. He even confessed to me that he felt it was best that we wait, considering some of his previous history on the subject. So for the moment, sex is off the table.

It’s wonderful, though. Living with Delaynie in his apartment above the dance studio gives us a view of the forest behind us, and the beautiful downtown street in front. My favorite time of the day is morning, just as the sun is peeking over the mountains and the colors of the sky are fading from one to the other. I wake up warm and snug in bed, often smelling the breakfast Delaynie is cooking. I make the bed and start a load of laundry before I join him. 

I learned Delaynie was a bit of a mess when I first moved in. He lived among what he called ‘organized piles’, which weren’t just limited to his clean clothes and dirty clothes. I was a neat freak, something of a coping mechanism for my mental illness. I like to live neat, tidy, and organized, and not in piles. So I kept everything clean while Delaynie made sure I took care of myself. He helps me keep track of my medications and doctor’s appointments, and he’s even served as my therapy dog - or, well, wolf. He cooks breakfast, I take care of lunch, and we alternate making dinner. So far, it’s been a pretty good setup.

I walk into the kitchen, rubbing sleep from my eyes as I sit down at the table. I’ve been wearing Delaynie’s shirts to bed. They’re massive on me, but so comfy. 

“Good morning,” Delaynie sets my coffee down on the table. “Sleep well?”

“Mhm.” I reach for the steaming cup and hold my hands around it. The mornings are getting colder and colder as Fall inches closer to Winter. October is a busy month in Hearthway Hollow, and they take their Halloween very seriously. All month long, the businesses compete with their decorations and storefront windows. The restaurants and cafes create themed meals, drinks, desserts, all trying to one-up each other to win ‘Best Treat’ during the Halloween Festival. Delaynie has been working especially hard to prepare his students for their performance at the festival. Billy has begged me to work for him during October, and I’ve been working with Kamilah on decorating the store while also preparing the haunted house. I’ve never seen a town so into Halloween before. It’s nice.

“What are your plans for the day?” Delaynie sets down plates of waffles and bacon on the table, passing me the raspberry jam. 

“Kamilah and I are going down to that massive craft barn in Asheville,” I yawn, smearing the jam over the bacon and waffles. 

“Oh no,” Delaynie huffs. “What’s that brother of mine got you doing now?”

I shrug. “He just gave Kamilah and I a wad of money and said ‘don’t bring a dime back.’” I shake my head. “He has so much stuff in storage already. I don’t know why he would need any more.”

Delaynie smirks. “He’s been in a war with Mrs. Locklear since he first got here. As long as he beats her, he’s happy.”

“Why are they like that?” I ask.

He stalls for a moment, staring off into the distance as he licks at the corner of his mouth. “You know, I’ve never gotten a straight answer out of either of them as to why. I just always assumed it was a power struggle. Considering they’re both Adam’s right hands.”

“Maybe they’re each making sure they don’t become a left hand,” I giggle.

Delaynie’s smile grows bigger, and he leans over to kiss me on the forehead. “So I guess I won’t be seeing you for lunch today?”

“Kamilah says she’s taking me to her favorite restaurant in Asheville. She’s excited about it,” I say with a shrug.

“What time will you be getting home?”

“I’m hoping it won’t take too long,” I sigh. “I want to be home before dinner, because you promised to make me my favorite tonight.”

“That’s why I asked,” Delaynie says with a grin. He kisses me then places the dirty dishes into the sink. “Threaten Kamilah if you have to.”

“You know that doesn’t work on her,” I scoff.

Delaynie chuckles. “She’s too much like her dad.” He tops off my coffee for me, then looks over the calendar. “You know,” he murmurs, “after all this Halloween stuff is over and done with, I have the first week of November completely free.” He turns and looks at me with a big smile. “What would you think about a trip, just the two of us?”

“Really?” I gasp.

Delaynie lets the pages of the calendar fall, then stands behind me, digging his strong hands into my shoulders. “You’ve earned it after the year you’ve had.”

I smile up at him softly. “It’s not all bad. I did meet you.”

Delaynie kisses me again. “Still, I have a few options in mind for us.”

“You’ve been plotting away like an evil genius, haven’t you?” I watch him as he opens the drawer by the fridge, pulling out a small stack of brochures. 

“Runs in the family.” He sits back down, passing me the ideas he’s gathered. “After your grandmother died, I wanted to do something nice for you, but then Billy and Mrs. Locklear started that bidding war. Then you got that job substitute teaching at the school for a while, and then Fall arrived.” He huffs and shakes his head. “Everything got way too busy. So! I plotted ahead.”

I look over the different brochures he had, one is for the Biltmore House, another for the cape, then a few for several adorable bed-and-breakfasts all around the state, and another for the John C. Campbell folk school. 

“All of these look really nice,” I murmur. 

“I wasn’t too sure about the bed-and-breakfasts,” he grumbles. “I only have them because I figured you’d think they were cute and all. I’d much rather find some cabin in the woods to hunker down in.”

“You would,” I chuckle. 

Delaynie slips his arm around my waist and gives me a squeeze. “I know you’ve been trying to be more outgoing as of late, so I wanted to accommodate that.”

“Thank you,” I sigh as I look up at him. “I wouldn’t care if it was the cabin in the woods, I’d just be happy to spend any time at all with you.”

Delaynie presses his forehead against mine. “I just want to spoil you a bit, so it’s your choice of where you wanna go. I just want to watch you smile and have fun.”

“Aww, that’s so cheesy.” I press a long kiss on his lips. “I’ll think about it.”

“You’ve got two weeks.” Delaynie lifts two fingers. “I want at least one week to get everything booked and planned.”

“Okay, will do.” I stand up from the table, Delaynie’s arm still lingering around me. “I need to get ready. Kamilah is meeting me here soon.”

“Yeah,” Delaynie scoffs. “I should go get the studio ready before Cricket comes in and tries to sneak decorations everywhere.”

“Just let him set up a few,” I laugh.

Delaynie gives me a beleaguered look. “It’s a school. The students don’t need to be distracted by a singing skeleton.”

“Just the lobby then,” I chuckle.

I take a quick shower and comb out my hair, knowing it will dry on the car ride to the craft barn. Kamilah shoots me a text when she’s outside, and I give Delaynie a kiss before I go. 

“I should start calling you Auntie,” Kamilah teases. “Since you’re with my uncle and all.”

“Oh, please don’t,” I huff. “I’m only a few years older than you. It would make me feel so old.” 

Kamilah smirks at me. “So how are things going?”

I look her over, noticing her nails are manicured and painted with a pumpkin spice glitter. “Why do you ask?”

Kamilah shrugs. “You and Del both just seem happier as of late. It’s nice.”

I smile to myself. “Things are going really well.” I pick at my own nails; they’re stubby and chewed to death. Kamilah always has such nice nails, and I should ask her to take me next time she gets a manicure.

“That’s vague as hell, Lenny,” Kamilah huffs at me.

I chuckle. “It’s amazing,” I reply. “I never thought I’d be able to live with someone like this. Delaynie is a godsend.”

Kamilah nods. “That’s great, Lenny. I’m happy for you both.”

“How’s Cory?” I ask.

“Working too hard,” Kamilah scoffs. “He’s been putting in overtime so much lately. Saying he needs the money to save up for something.”

“What?” I lean forward a bit.

“Won’t say,” Kamilah shakes her head. “I’ve offered to help him, but he says this is something he has to do on his own.”

I pinch my brows together for a moment. “Maybe it’s an engagement ring.”

Kamilah’s eyes bug. “Oh, shit.” She turns and looks at me. “Why’d you have to say that, Lenny?”

“Isn’t it obvious?” I jerk my attention to the road as she swerves.

Kamilah scoffs and huffs a few times. “What with the courtship ritual and everything, I just-” She comes to a stop at a red light and breathes out slowly. “It never crossed my mind.”

“Has he been asking you weird questions about jewelry or talking to your mom lately?” I ask cautiously.

Kamilah gives me an evil stare. “Get out of my head.”

I raise my hands in surrender. “You really never considered it?”

“What about you?” Kamilah huffs. “Have you not considered Del might propose to you at some point?”

I slouch back in my seat. “I mean… It’s not like I have a secret Pinterest board about it or anything,” I grumble.

Kamilah glances back at me. “So, you’ve had it on your mind, huh?”

“I’ve always wanted a wedding, ever since I saw Cinderella as a kid. Where the birds hold up her veil and as she runs down the stairs and she loses her shoe again.”

“I always liked Cruella De Vil,” Kamilah murmurs. “I wanted her hair… and jacket.”

“Did you ever used to have weddings for your stuffed animals?” I sigh dreamily.

“I used to hold executions.” She sighs and shakes her head. “I liked Marie Antoinette and the French Revolution. But that’s not the point-” she huffs. “Have you and Del talked about it? I mean, getting married and all that.”

“No,” I sigh. “Not exactly. I’m happy the way things are right now, you know?”

“You should at least start a conversation about it. Just in case.” Kamilah grabs my hand. “Do you still chew your nails?”

“Not as bad as I used to.” I pull my hand back.

“Okay, well, we’re going to get that taken care of.” Kamilah says with a smirk.

“What about the craft store?” I ask.

“Dad said not to come back with any money. Might as well treat ourselves first.” Kamilah winks at me.

She takes me to a salon, where I get a manicure and pedicure and then get my hair done. I haven’t cut my hair shorter since I was fifteen, so it’s been a sheet of pitch black for the longest time. I get it cut a few inches, chopping off all the dead ends and split ends. I get a scalp treatment, and an oil mask, the whole deal. In the end, I’ve never seen my hair look so good. 

“Del is going to love it,” Kamilah singsongs.

I’m not used to my nails yet, but I can’t stop touching the slick, pretty polish on them. I chose red, Delaynie’s favorite color. “It’ll be a surprise, that’s for sure.”

The studio is still open when Kamilah drops me off, which means I’ll be able to surprise Delaynie when he gets home. I excitedly scamper upstairs, only to find Delaynie in the kitchen, already cooking dinner.

He doesn’t turn from the stove as he tosses something into a skillet of oil. “Back home already?” He asks.

“Yeah,” I gasp. “Easy trip. We had fun.”

Delaynie turns, glancing at me briefly. “Good. I just started.” He returns his attention to the stove. “You can go relax for a bit.”

He didn’t see me at all. “How was work today?” I ask.

“It was great. Everyone is doing really well in practice.” Delaynie murmurs.

I come up behind him, dragging my nails along the nape of his neck, just under his tied-up hair. 

Delaynie whips around, looking at my new claws, then at me. “Your hair!” he gasps.

“You like it?” I run my fingers through it. “Kamilah took me to a salon today. Got my nails done and, yeah, my hair.”

Delaynie grasps my hair in his hand, letting it sift through his fingers. “It’s pretty,” he murmurs. “Very soft.”

I place my hands on his broad chest. “Really?”

“Do you like it?” he smirks. “Because as long as you like it,” he gives me a peck, “I like it.”

“I do,” I say with a nod. “It feels a bit easier to deal with,” I chuckle.

Delaynie brushes my hair aside, kissing my neck and ear. “You smell good too,” he sighs. “Very sweet.” He bites my cheek while I laugh.

I give him a good shove. “So, I found out something interesting today.”

“Oh?” Delaynie starts taking things from the oil, letting them drip over a rack. “Can you share your new knowledge?”

“Cory is getting Kamilah an engagement ring,” I reply.

“How is she handling that?” Delaynie asks.

I shrug. “The way she does. She wasn’t expecting it. I kind of burst her bubble.” I watch him, looking for any hint or giveaway. 

“What about you?” Delaynie asks.

“Huh?” I gasp.

“Would you be expecting it?” Delaynie asks, sounding so casual about the subject.

I tuck my hair behind my ear, clearing my throat. “Well, no, of course not. That sort of thing isn’t really something you expect. You hope for it, but you really shouldn’t expect it.” I clasp my hands together in my lap. “I hope for it, maybe, one day.”

Delaynie looks back at me with a smile. “From me, right?”

I snort and nod. “No, from anyone but you.” I beam up at him. “Of course you.”

“Well then.” Delaynie picks up an onion ring, fresh from the skillet and cooling on a plate. “Will you accept this ring?” he says with a bright grin. He takes my hand, sliding the onion ring onto my finger. 

“It’s still hot,” I blurt out, laughing.

“But do you accept it?” Delaynie grins.

I kiss him. “Yes,” I whisper. “I’ll treasure it forever.” I them grimace. “It’s still so hot.”

Delaynie takes it off and places it into my mouth with a kiss. “We’ll start planning the onion wedding as soon as possible.”

“Sounds romantic,” I say through the mouthful.

Delaynie kisses my forehead. “It will be, I promise.”

After dinner, we cuddle up in bed together. I take Delaynie’s shirt, like always. We read together, and soon fall asleep.

I stretch out across the bed in the morning, grumbling as I start to come to. I can hear Delaynie in the kitchen, shuffling around and starting to cook. I lay there for the longest time, trying to recall the dream I had. It’s been a long time since I had such a vivid dream, but that’s a good thing.

In this dream, I was wearing a red cape and running through the woods. I was smiling and laughing, watching as a dark shadow bounded through the trees, chasing me and keeping track of my every movement. I came to a field that was wide open and surrounded by tall trees that went up into the sky, appearing to hold the full moon aloft. The big, black shadow darted around the edge of the clearing, emerging on the opposite side. I ran towards them, tackling them in the center of the field. We fell down into the flowers, and I look up to see Delaynie smiling down at me. The red cape flowed up around us and under us, and turned into a rose.

I sigh as I get up, stretching and going to the bathroom. I’m used to my hair being mussed up by sleep, but this morning it looks like I’m some sort of crazy swamp demon. I decide to ignore it and leave it for when I’m more awake. I make up the bed and start a load of laundry as I head into the kitchen.

“Pancakes sound good?” Delaynie asks.

“Mhm.” I sit down at the table where my coffee is waiting for me. “I had the sweetest dream last night.”

“That’s good to hear,” Delaynie replies. “You’ve been having less and less nightmares lately.”

I nod. “It’s nice.”

Delaynie sets my plate down before me and kisses my temple. “I’m happy for you,” he murmurs gently.

I take a drink of my coffee. “Where’s the chocolate sauce?”

“Oh, I already put it on your pancakes.” Delaynie points.

“Did you?” I then look at my plate, not having paid attention to it before. The chocolate sauce is there, but it spells out a question. I gasp for breath as my hand flutters around my mouth.

“Well?” Delaynie whispers.

The pancake reads ‘Will you marry me?’.

I start to cry, sobbing into my hands before I leap over and sit in his lap. I hug him tight, kissing him over and over. 

“Of course!” I wail. Delaynie grins, standing up and kneeling before me. He shows me a ring in his hand. “Your grandmother gave it to me before she passed.” he murmurs. “I had it fitted a while back, but I was waiting for the right time.” He slides the antique ring onto my finger. “Do you like it?” he asks hopefully.

I nod excitedly, throwing my arms around him again. “It’s perfect!” I cry.

Delaynie hugs me fast, pressing kisses to my temple and cheek. “I love you, Lenore,” he whispers to me.

“I love you too.” I grin from ear to ear. As we sit back at the table, I look at my pancakes and shake my head. “I can’t eat these!”

Delaynie grins at me. “You have to. That’s the only way I’ll take your yes seriously.”

I look at my hand, staring at the beautiful ring. “I’m kind of glad I got my nails done,” I giggle. “It makes it seem so perfect.”

“It would be perfect even if your nails hadn’t been done.” Delaynie kisses the back of my hand. 

“I guess we have to share the news now,” I murmur. “Where do we begin?”

“If we don’t tell my brother first, he would pitch a fit,” he says with a smirk. “I say we take out the whole family for dinner and tell them, after that, the news will spread on its own.”

I nod. “Very true.”

Delaynie takes hold of my hand again. “I’ll give you anything you want,” he whispers to me. “If you want to travel to Europe and get married in a castle, I’ll make it happen for you.”

As I look at him, my heart is fit to burst. “I just want the honeymoon. I wouldn’t mind a courthouse wedding,” I chuckle softly. “I already have everything I want.” I squeeze his hand in mine.

Delaynie kisses my knuckles. “Whatever you want, I’ll make it happen,” he says again. “You look so beautiful in the morning.”

“Now you’re just gilding the lily.” I rub my hand over the top of my head. “But thank you.” I beam at him, then glance down at the table. “We should eat before the food gets cold.” I look into his eyes, and both of us break into a great big smile. I have my big bad wolf, and soon he’ll be my big bad husband.

Delaynie kisses me one last time before settling down at the table. “As you wish.”

By the end of the week, all of Hearthway Hollow knows Delaynie and I are engaged. I don’t know how many times I’ve had to show off the ring, or tell the story of the proposal, but it’s enough. We’ve gotten congratulations from just about everybody in town. Billy is already talking about the wedding gift he is working on for us.

“I didn’t realize how much went into a wedding,” I grumble one day. “It’s… way too much for me,” I say in a guilty voice.

Delaynie rubs my shoulders. “Hey, it’s okay. You did say a courthouse wedding.”

“I know, but-” I’m stopped as he puts his hand over my mouth.

“This is our wedding, no one else’s. If planning something like this is going to be too stressful for you, let’s go down to the courthouse right now and do it.”

“Billy would kill us,” I huff. “And besides, I’d like it to be a one-of-a-kind special day.” I look up at him. “You know, like-” I think for a moment.

“Halloween?” Delaynie throws out.

“No, that’s too soon,” I chuckle. “Isn’t it?” My tone gets serious. “No!” I scoff and shake my head. “It’s way too busy for everybody on Halloween.”

“Not exactly,” Delaynie says with a shrug. “If we go in the morning before any other businesses open up, then it’ll be a perfect time.”

“Are you sure?” I turn to face him better. “Because this is really soon, and I don’t want to rush you or anything.”

Delaynie cups my cheek, tucking my hair behind my ear, then sliding his fingertip along my jaw. “I knew from the moment I first met you that I was going to spend all my life beside you. I’ve been ready for a long time. You’re not rushing me.”

I take hold of his hand, gripping it tight. “Okay, then,” I say with a nod. “First thing Halloween morning!”

Delaynie pulls me close, kissing me while he cups the back of my head. 

“What about the honeymoon?” I ask him softly. 

“I told you, the trip was your choice,” Delaynie chuckles. “Now that we’re getting married now, the trip will be our honeymoon, but you could pick anything.”

I frown, thinking for a long moment as Delaynie twists my hair around his fingers. “Halloween night will be our wedding night,” I murmur. “Would we be able to go somewhere private once the festival is over?”

Delaynie gasps softly. He looks into my eyes, and I meet them with a smile. “Oh, you’re thinking of me in a carnal way already. I thought I was marrying a chaste girl,” he teases me.

I shove him. “Oh, come on,” I giggle. “I think things in lots of ways.” I fidget in place for a second. “So, would it be possible or not?”

“Of course it is,” Delaynie grins. “The dance routine ends at six, we can be out of here and in a cornfield by seven. Six-thirty if I go offroad.”

I roll my eyes at him. “A bit more romantic than a cornfield, dear. I think you owe me that.”

Delaynie laughs and nods. “Canvas has properties by the lake that are empty at this time of year. I already got one for us for that night, and a couple of days before we go on our trip.”

I break into a big grin. “You were just going to tease me the entire time, weren’t you?” I playfully shove him again as he puts his hands around my waist.

“Not very much, just until you got frustrated with me.” He kisses my cheek, picking me up from the chair and carrying me into the bedroom. He lays me down on the bed, where we cuddle up together. 

“Now I have to think of what I want to wear,” I grumble. “I’ll have to go visit Charlie, see if she has anything available.”

“What about your grandmother’s things?” Delaynie asks. “She said she kept her wedding dress after all these years. Maybe if you dig it up in storage, Charlie can alter it for you.”

“It’s just a courthouse wedding,” I grumble. “I wouldn’t want to wear anything like that for something so simple.”

“You can wear whatever you want,” Delaynie sighs. “You can get as fancy or as casual as you want to. It’s your wedding day, and you get to decide what you want to do.”

I nuzzle my cheek against his chest. “Maybe I will find my grandmother’s dress. I’m wearing her ring.” I run my fingers over the ring, gently tapping the diamond in the center. “It would be fitting.”

“It’ll be your something old,” he says. “All you gotta do is find something blue, and borrow something else.”

I giggle softly. “I can’t even remember what her wedding dress looks like. I haven’t seen it since I was five and I took it from her closet to play dress-up.”

Delaynie kisses the top of my head. “Wanna go down to the storage unit now?” He asks. “We can go down there right now and see what needs to be done with it, so when you take it to Charlie you’ll be prepared.”

I sit up from the bed. “You sure? It’s getting late.”

“There’s lights everywhere. It’ll be okay. Call me excited.” He stands up and gets the car keys. I throw on a pair of sweats, and we drive down to the storage unit where we packed all of my grandmother’s things. Opening the unit, I had expected a musty smell, but instead it smells exactly like her. Some of her old perfume must have broken open or something, because I am hit smack in the face with memories.

Delaynie rubs my back when he sees my expression. “You okay?” He whispers gently to me.

I look around the storage locker. Delaynie and Billy had done this for me back when she first died. I was so stressed and upset, they didn’t want to add any further pressure by asking me what to do with everything, so they packed it up for when I was ready to decide. I gave some of the clothes and jewelry to my friends, and gave Billy my grandfather’s old hunting rifle, but everything else is still here. Maria has done a wonderful job; all the clothes are on racks and wrapped up in plastic to protect them. Everything is safe and neat, the way Grandmother would have liked it.

I find the rack with the wedding dress garment bag and take it out. The dress is made from slipper satin, with tiny tulip sleeves and pearl beads down the center. It’s much simpler than I remembered as a little girl. 

“Is that it?” Delaynie asks.

“It is.” I take the dress out of the bag, noticing the hem is frayed and full of moth holes. I scoff and frown over it.

“Hey, it’s okay. Charlie will be able to fix it up easy. You should have seen the work she did on the vintage coat I found at the thrift store. She made it look like a million bucks before I lost it.” Delaynie gives me a big grin. “She’ll make it look like you were born into that dress.”

“Thanks,” I murmur, zipping the dress back into the bag. “Wanna go to the diner then?” I ask. “I mean, might as well while we’re out.”

Delaynie’s grin shows off his sharp canines. “That is why I’m marrying you,” he bops the tip of my nose. “You read my mind before I even knew what I wanted.”

“I know how much you like bacon and coffee,” I giggle as we lock up up the storage unit. 

“You know, I bet Charlie would have a field day with all your grandmother’s vintage clothes. If you ever wanted to, you could let her tailor them all to you.” Delaynie suggests. “That way, you get to keep them and look extremely cute all the time.”

“You just like me in vintage fashion,” I tease. “I’m not built like Dita Von Teese, I wouldn’t suit that type of fashion.”

“Hence, Charlie,” Delaynie says as we get back into the car. I lay the wedding dress in the back seat. 

“She has a new baby. She’d appreciate the business, plus getting to work on her favorite thing in the world, vintage fashion. She’d make everything in there fit you exactly.”

“I’ll think about it,” I murmur. “It would be nice to save some stuff. Grandmother never got rid of anything,” I sigh as we drive towards the diner.

“Oh, I know,” Delaynie chuckles. “I emptied that place out, remember? I don’t think there was a closet in that place that wasn’t utilized to its absolute max.”

“She was always good at Tetris.” I look up at Delaynie as he drives, watching as the light of the streetlamps cut across his face when we pass them. I am really lucky to have someone like him. I don’t want to ruin anything.

The diner is quiet and almost empty as we walk inside. There are a few of the usuals, a couple of the local cops who are getting off their shifts, and a group of teens trying to find a way to waste their night. Delaynie and I take a table in the back corner, where we order coffee and plot what we want to eat.

“I have something else for you to consider,” Delaynie says to me. “I know we’re happy where we are at, but I was thinking about a house.”

I nearly drop my coffee mug. “A house?”

Delaynie nods. “Yeah.” He stretches out and cups his hands around mine. “Something cute, simple. A backyard, maybe a pool, maybe a fire pit. Something fun so the kids will want to hang out there.”

“What kids?” I ask incredulously.

“The ones who are like our kids,” Delaynie murmurs. He looks up at me, suspecting my expression. “I know you don’t like the idea of being pregnant, but we could always adopt a pup or two. Give someone a home, do something that I wish had happened for Billy and me.”

“How long have you been thinking about this?” I ask him, squeezing his hands.

“Ever since I saw you,” he chuckles shyly. “I never wanted a family until I got to know my brother and his kids. I never realized how good that was until I had Ellie, Ivan, and Kami screaming at me and pulling my hair.”

“I can see Kami doing that, but Ivan and Ellie?” I giggle.

“Ivan was a crier, and Ellie liked to braid everything.” Delaynie gives me a look. “The point is, I want our kids to scream at me and pull my hair in one of those houses with a pink door and white picket fences.”

“Pink door?”

“Don’t interrupt me,” he smirks. “I’m not done with this little dream scenario.” He rubs his thumb across my knuckles. “I keep thinking about how my life would be different had I been given a second chance as a kid, and raised by a family who wasn’t feral. I see how amazing all my little kids are and I’ve watched a ton of them grow up. I wanna do that with you.”

I blink tears from my eyes as I look down at his hands.

“I know it’s scary for you,” he whispers gently. “Raising a kid is probably one of the most terrifying things a person can willingly do. But I know you’re strong enough, and I think you would be an excellent mom.”

“Then why the hell did I sell my grandmother’s house to your brother?” I sniffle.

Delaynie slips out of his side of the booth and sits beside me. He puts his big arms around me, hugging me tight and kissing the top of my head. “We’ll find someplace nice, with a bigger yard. Maybe something with a big front porch and a great big bay window surrounded by bookshelves.”

“I’ve always wanted a window like that.”

“I know,” Delaynie smiles. “I’ve seen your Pinterest.”

I hug him tight, laughing as the waitress sets the food on our table.

The next day, I take the dress to Charlie. We decide to cut off the excess length, make the skirt knee-length, and fluff it up with a tulle underskirt. She then uses the excess material she cut away to form the top part of a veil.

“This is a beautiful dress,” Charlie sighs. “I don’t get to work with vintage motifs like this anymore.”

“Well,” I murmur as I pose in front of a mirror, seeing how amazing the dress fits my flat-as-a-board body, making me look like I’m dainty with a touch of curves. “I have a warehouse full of vintage stuff from the forties up that need a loving touch.”

Charlie grins. “Bring me three outfits a week, I’ll give you three for the price of two deal.”

“She has a vintage Dior dress from her prom. What could you do with that?” I ask her.

“I would make love to it and have little vintage Dior babies,” Charlie says with a crazed look in her eye. “You bring me that first and maybe I’ll give it back.”

“Oh, uhm-” I start timidly. “Actually, one more thing before I go. I was wondering if you had anything in the way of, uhm… lingerie?”

“Thinking of the wedding night?” Charlie smirks. “I have a few options in the back, just things I’ve played around with. Feel free to pick out any one you want.”

She shows me her options, and I pick out the only red one I see. It’s Delaynie’s favorite color - I simply have to choose it.

Halloween comes around, and I spend the night at Kamilah’s. Delaynie and I have decided to not see each other twenty-four hours before the wedding. I’m so nervous, and I’m trembling as Kamilah and Maria help me into my wedding dress. I found a pair of vintage blue shoes at Charlie’s to go with the dress, and Billy has lent me one of his handkerchiefs for the day.

“I remember getting married to Billy,” Maria sighs. “Or well, actually, I don’t. It was my first night without Ellie, and I got too drunk. I suggest you don’t do that.”

As I walk into the courthouse, I hold Maria’s hand tightly. I see Billy ahead of us in the hallway as they wait outside the judge’s office. Delaynie steps out from behind him, and my heart flutters wildly.

Delaynie races forward, taking my hand from Maria and grinning down at me. “You look… I can’t think of any words.”

“You look very handsome,” I swallow my heart back down into my chest. 

“Did you take your medicine this morning? Full stomach.” He then looks to Kamilah. “You did have her eat something, right? She can’t take her-”

“I know!” Kamilah snaps at him. “She ate something, and she took her medicine.”

The judge’s door opens, and he waves for us to come inside.

“Ready?” Delaynie whispers.

I nod. “Yeah, you?”

A bright smile spreads across his face. “I’ve been waiting my whole life for you. I’m ready.”

I cry almost the entire day. Delaynie had gotten us wedding bands, a gift I hadn’t been expecting. He also had them engraved with my favorite lyric from Cinderella; ‘The key to all heaven is mine’. After the wedding, Billy took us out to celebrate where he had reserved the entire cafe for us and our close friends. We had a brunch feast of Halloween themed treats and food, including a pumpkin spiced latte actually served in a pumpkin.

Right before the dance troupe is going to perform their routine, they present Delaynie and me with a gift from the entire dance school. They had apparently been working on it behind our backs, and made us a quilt. 

Once we can leave at the end of the festival, we drive to South Paw Lake, where Delaynie has rented us a cabin from Canvas. It’s right on the lake, and I’m excited for the morning view we would have.

Already, I’m nervous. I had been thinking to myself how this night was going to go for so long, and now that it’s here, there is some doubt in my heart. After all, there are fifteen years between Delaynie and me. He has so much more experience than I have, being a virgin and all.

I look at myself in the negligee I got from Charlie. The red silk looks good against my skin, and it feels comfortable too. I take in a very deep breath, trying to calm down, convincing myself that all Delaynie wants is me, and the past doesn’t matter. 

I step out of the bathroom, seeing Delaynie has his back turned to me as he fiddles with a record player. He has candles lit and rose petals scattered across the bed. He’s really thought of everything. My eyes become locked on his back though, a big wall of muscle that his long hair cascades down. He gets the record started and he turns, seeing me staring at him from the doorway.

Delaynie holds his hand out. “Come on out. Let me see.”

“Don’t laugh,” I squeak.

“Trust me, I would never.” His expression shifts as I stand out from behind the door. His gaze becomes dark, heady. He bites down on his bottom lip and I notice his teeth have become sharper. 

The nerves melt away, and I no longer feel that anxiety bubbling up. Instead, I feel sexy and confident under this new and illicit gaze he has on.

“Do you like it?” I drag my hand down the middle of my chest.

Delaynie moves towards me. “You look good enough to eat.”

My face is like hot coals as I step towards him. His strong hands grab my hips, and I gasp softly as his fingers dig into my ass. Already I can feel the bulge growing in his pants. 

“Is there-” I try to catch my breath as Delaynie starts kissing my neck and biting my shoulders. “Is there anyone else here in South Paw?”

“No. Just us. Even Canvas and Winnie are away.” He looks up at me, his dark eyes have become like full moons glowing in the sockets. “Why do you ask?”

“It’s warm out,” I smirk, kissing down his chest. “I was thinking we could, you know, but put an old Hearthway Hollow tradition into the mix. We didn’t get to do it when you courted me.”

A wicked grin changes Delaynie’s face entirely, and I sort of like the savage quality to it. “I am even more happy that I married you.”

I grab my red hoodie and put it on over the lingerie. “Let me get my shoes on,” I murmur. I take a small bag from my purse and tuck it into my pocket. “And give me a head start.”

“A chase?” Delaynie looks excited. “You sure?”

I nod. “Sit down,” I coax him. “Count to one hundred.” I slip on my tennis shoes and go to the front door. “Once the door is closed, start counting. When you’re done, come find me.”

I step outside, catching a chilled breeze, but otherwise, the night air is balmy. I shut the door and sprint, going out along the hitchhiking path that winds up a trail going to the scenic overlook. I want to get a good head start, but I am not much of a runner. I’m not sure how much time has passed, but I come upon a lighted trail with signs directing towards the scenic overlook. Behind me, I hear the wind, and a low, dark snarl.

I turn to see two eyes glowing in the dark. 

“Excuse me, Miss,” the owner of the eyes breathes, “have you seen my wife?”

I giggle excitedly and sprint up the path. I hear Delaynie running beside me in the trees, his snarling, his breathing. Eventually, I come out onto the overlook, where there are picnic tables and wildflowers everywhere. Delaynie is perched on one of the tables, his massive body like a void in the night. He steps down, rising up on his two back legs, towering over me like a behemoth.

“Now,” Delaynie chuckles. “Let me ask you again, Miss. Have you seen my wife?”

“That’s Missus to you.” I poke his stomach. I unzip my hoodie and guide his hand to my chest. Delaynie grabs me up, laying me down on the picnic table, which he’s laid a blanket over. He kisses me, sharp teeth dragging down my skin. I whimper softly as his fingers knead over my panties.

Delaynie’s dark moans fill my mind as he breathes into my ear. “Is this okay?” He whispers. “How do you feel?”

I moan out loud and nod. “I’m fine. I want more.”

Delaynie kisses me as he pushes aside my panties. His fingers rub me directly, finding me wet and eager for his touch. His mouth opens, snarling into my mouth, and I thrust my hips forward, demanding more of his touch.

“Big bad wolves usually eat the girls they chase,” he growls into my ear. “Mind if I try it?”

I sputter out a giggle and watch as his head moves between my thighs. “Oh, god!” I yell out loud as his tongue laps at my folds, teasing my clit as his finger moves inside me. “Oh-” I trail off, sighing breathlessly as Delaynie slurps and snarls like I really am a meal. My thighs start to quiver, and an electric shock travels up my spine, setting off fireworks in my brain that cause me to spasm on the picnic table.

Delaynie chuckles proudly as he rises up from my legs. “Having fun yet, Missus?” he teases.

I whimper, cupping my hand over my mound.

Delaynie kisses me, nuzzling to my cheek. “I can stop here if you want,” he whispers. “No need to push yourself.”

I reach for the bag in my hoodie, and hand it up to him. “You have to use one of these.”

Delaynie takes a condom from the bag and chuckles. “I brought one too, just in case.” He rips it open with his teeth and very easily slides it over his cock.

“You really are a big bad wolf,” I whisper. “Bigger than I thought.” I glance up from his cock to his eyes. “You’ll be gentle, right?”

“Always,” Delaynie whispers to me. He eases me back down, rubbing himself against me. I can feel his heat against me, and I cling to his back. He guides himself to me, placing the tip at my entrance. Slowly, he eases himself inside of me, watching me from the corner of his eye. He slips into place, feeling like a perfect fit.

“You okay?” He asks me.

I nod, moving my arms around his neck. “Does it feel good?”

Delaynie licks his chops. “The best feeling in the world.” He kisses me. “I’m going to start moving,” he whispers. He goes slow at first, rolling his hips, always mindful of me and my body. Once he’s confident I’m enjoying myself, he goes faster. I squeeze myself around him, wrapping my arms and legs about his body.

I gasp softly, eventually letting my voice get louder and louder. His snarls and moans fill my senses, making me surge, knowing I am bringing him this pleasure. The electric jolt goes up my spine again just as Delaynie throws his head back, howling out into the night air. I tremble, feeling an ache in the arches of my feet as a warm sensation comes over me.

Delaynie lays on top of me. His soft, warm fur covers me like a blanket. “You alright?” He murmurs to me, planting kisses in my hair. 

“Very alright,” I sigh, still trembling with aftershocks. “What about you?” I look up expectantly at him. “Was it… did you?”

Delaynie kisses me hungrily. “I’m glad you brought more than one,” he whispers to me. “Because I’m not done with you just yet.”

I squeak and he chuckles, nuzzling to my cheek as we relax. “I love you,” he says. “I was worried you would be scared.”

“I love you too.” I hug him close. “I was never scared,” I reassure him with a smile. “A little nervous, but I know there is nothing to be scared of.”