Dawn Discovered

Chapter 34

Gina awoke to see a very alert pair of brown eyes studying her astutely. She must have fallen asleep after reading a few pages to Mouse. She rolled over, wadding her legs up into a mound of pink fuzzy blanket. She was not a morning person. But, Mouse looked chipper and well put together. Dressed for the day in a pair of jeans and a loose fitting t-shirt. Her hair pulled back into a very sleek and tight ponytail at the nape of her neck.

"Good morning." Marianne had Gina's coffee waiting. Steaming in a mug on her bedside table. Gina, much as she'd guessed, wasn't functional until she had her morning coffee. Her hair stuck up at odd angles and there was the deep crease of a sheet wrinkle across her right cheek. She looked groggy and out of sorts. Hopefully, the coffee would perk her up and set her world right.

"I must have fallen asleep last night." Gina shoved her hand through her brown locks. Gratefully she reached for the coffee mug and took a sip. Stunned by the straight up black, strong brew.

"Daddy slept with us in here," Marianne volunteered. She curled up in the blanket beside Gina. "You move a lot in your sleep. I think you had a bad dream last night," she added with a frown.

"Probably. I have a lot of those." Gina noticed the little girl's down turned lips. "I didn't wake you up did I?"

"No, not really. I'm always up early." She sat cross-legged on the bed and cocked her head to the side. "What were you dreaming about?"

"I can't remember," Gina confessed. Not mentioning that it was probably for the best that she couldn't recall her dreams. She felt the jolt of caffeine enter her system as her brain came back on line.

"Mouse, leave Gina alone. She's not awake yet." Hunter shooed his daughter out of the room. "Grandpa Nash says you're late for class."

"You'd better hurry if you don't want to miss the bus," Gina encouraged. Mouse had too much energy for such an early hour. Gina found the girl completely exhausting.

"I don't ride a bus. I go to school here," Marianne corrected Gina.

"You mean you're home schooled?" She took Mouse's eager head bob to mean yes. "What are you studying this morning?"

"Life, the universe, and everything in it." Marianne made a theatrical wave of her hands and pirouetted landing gracefully on her heels. "Biology till ten and then long division." She smiled, "But, I have art and music this afternoon. And after that, I'll do some gymnastics with my aunt. I'm really good at the balance beam." She waggled her fingers at Gina as she darted out of the bedroom. "Toodles."

Gina snickered. "That kid is really something," she said, shaking her head.

"Don't think she doesn't know it." Hunter gently removed the mug of cooling black coffee from Gina's fingers and replaced it with a fresh mug of coffee, mocha brown and very sweet, just the way she liked it.

"Oh, thank you." Gina sipped the fresh cup. Letting its rich sweet flavor linger on her tongue. "What about Daniel and Tristen?"

"Daniel is taking college prep courses. And Tristen is doing his college classes on line."

"You must be very proud of them." Gina scooted over to give Hunter more space on the bed.

"I am."

"Hunter, I've been doing a lot of thinking. I really want to try to unleash my inner wolf. I want this with you and your family. When can we try?"

"As soon as you'd like. Gina, are you sure?"

"Absolutely positive. How about right now?"

"Gina, our children spend their whole childhood, from the time they're born preparing for their first shift. You're going headlong into this. You have to be ready, both physically and mentally."

"You don't think I am?" Gina asked dejectedly.

"I think we can try. But, don't be disappointed if it doesn't happen right away. This is something that can't be forced. You've just now discovered what you are capable of. It may take some time."

"Can we try right here and now?"

"Ah Gina, it might have escaped your notice. But, we're going to need a lot more

space. You're not turning into a toy poodle. When your wolf pulls free of your skin, she's going to be big. Maybe not as big as mine, but big enough. And the first thing she is going to want to do is run. The shift is confusing and being confined and twisted in a pile of clothing is not how you want your wolf to wake up. You're going to have to be naked."

"Oh, I guess I hadn't thought of that." Naked, outside even in June didn't really appeal to her. But, for him, for his ...their family, she was willing to try.

"I'd really like for my brother, Dad, and the Great White wolf and his mate, Tala to be on hand to help. And the kids should be there as well."

"You want me to get naked in front of all those people?"

"We think nothing of nudity. We're raised around it. Clothing and wolves don't mix. You can strip down and cover up with a blanket. When your wolf comes out, I'll pull off the blanket and get the hell out of the way."

"Won't you be there all furry beside me?"

"As soon as your shift safely begins. Nothing is as exhilarating as the first hunt. I can't wait to share it with you." Hunter clasped her to his chest. "The bluffs are a magical place filled with mystery and power. We'll go there to try the shift, just before sundown. For the remainder of the day, you should rest. Save your energy for tonight. It's going to take every bit of your strength to make it through the first transition. Gina, you're going to have to unlearn everything you thought you knew and let it go."

"I know you love me."

"I'm counting on that fact to pull you through." Hunter spent the day tending to Gina's every whim. Making sure she never got too cold or too hot, too thirsty, or too hungry. He massaged her feet, kissing her toes all the way up to the center of her body, stopping between her thighs for a feast of delights and then working his way back down to where he began at her feet. He pampered her in a way no woman of the Pack had ever known before. The word screamed in his head. Mate. This is what a male did for the female he'd vowed his life to protect. Gina was his. And he wanted to make damn good and sure the she-wolf trapped in slumber deep inside of her knew it.

Gina reveled in the attention Hunter lavished on her. Others stopped by to visit. But, he quickly chased them off. Today was about her. About the two of them spending her last few moments as a human together. He made her feel good in all the ways he knew how, from head to toe. He worried about her. Worried for her. He said she didn't understand everything she was getting herself into. Maybe, Hunter was right and she didn't. But, being loved so deeply, she didn't see her losses as true losses. And the only thing she could focus on was everything she had to gain. The decades time would have robbed from the both of them would grind to a halt. She'd be stronger, faster, and most importantly, she'd have the family she'd always dreamed of. To her, this...the Pack...Hunter's kids...the man himself...it was all like coming home. She was finally where she belonged. Living the dream she never dared to dream before.

All too quickly, the seconds ticked away and it was time to tackle the rugged footpath leading to the bluffs. Gina smiled at Hunter as he bent to tie her shoelace. Her body was loose and relaxed from his tender hours of loving and care. She swallowed back her nervousness as he gave her hand a reassuring squeeze.

"Are you ready?" Hunter asked. Gina bit her bottom lip and gave him a nod. He released her hand only to reach out and grasp her fingers. The house was quieter than it'd ever been. For the first time ever the place was empty. There was just the two of them. Hunter sensed the mounting power of pack magic rippling in the air. The Pack had gathered at the bluffs, summoning the ancient energy of the goddess and the spirit of the wolf.

Gina took a steadying breath. There was nothing left to do but go to that ancient place of power and magic. Ride the wave and let it take her wherever it would. No, she couldn't say she was thrilled with the idea of everyone seeing her naked. But, it was a small sacrifice to make for something as big as finally belonging. She wiped her free hand on the hem of her t-shirt. Her palms were sweaty and her lungs felt as if they could not get enough breath. It was now or never. Do or die trying. "No time like the present," she said in a meek, wavering voice.

Hunter kissed her knuckles and then her lips. He inhaled her human fragrance and rubbed his stubbled cheek over the curves of her face. He understood her indecision. Her desire to cling to the only life she'd ever known. And he didn't blame her for her fear of this dormant gift she'd been born with. Who her parents were might never be known. But, there was no doubt of who she was born to be beneath the surface.

Fate had brought them together. He was certain of that. Without him, she would never have known of her destiny. And without her...he didn't want to think where he'd be. They were both learning and unlearning, changing to grow into something bigger than they ever thought they could. "I love you."

Gina wound her arms around Hunter's neck. Desperate for one last hug before she wasn't the woman she'd always thought she was. Truth, she was glad to get rid of the old Gina Klein and although hesitant, become this woman she was born to be. Her biological parents were dead. Despite all of Nash's digging into her past, not one clue of whom they were had been found. She'd probably never know the answer to the question. The only question she'd ever want to ask. Why? The answer didn't matter. She'd found her true family without their help. And here, in his arms, surrounded by Pack and the familiar musk of wolf tainting the air, was the only family and all the love she'd ever need. "I love you too."

Hunter took Gina's hand and led her out of the house and down the familiar path that cut through the heart of the woods. Gina's steps were sure. Boldly, she walked beside him. Never faltering or lingering, even as he guided her up the steep cliffs of rock and shale to the bluffs on the other side. His city girl of glamour, bright lights, and crowded places was gone forever. And in her place, a woman of substance and unimaginable bravery took her first step out onto the bluffs and to her destiny.















Chapter 35

Thomas sat at a table tucked away in the corner of the bar. Pushing catsup around on his plate with a soggy fry, he sipped his drink. The day had been a tough one. Sick kids were the worst. And he'd had plenty of them in his ER today. The humidity and relentless heat had filled the hospital to max capacity. Anyone with a breathing problem was suffering thanks to the weather.

Summers were like this. Nothing set off a case of asthma or COPD like weeks of non-stop humidity. And then there were the usual summertime ailments like head to toe poison ivy, falls, sprains, lacerations, and sunburns thrown into the mix just for fun. The campgrounds at the lake were filled with families trying to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and they all ended up in his ER. Everyone, especially the nurses who worked overtime to keep the tiny rural hospital staffed to meet the demands of the community, was on edge.

He was no exception to the rule. He'd gone in at four this morning and now at seven this evening, he was finally off work. Between Anna and his mom, his fridge was stocked with food. But, he simply couldn't muster the energy to drag his tired ass into the kitchen to pop a pre-made meal into the microwave. He needed greasy, not good for you junk food and a chance to unwind.

He pretended not to notice as Jan blew in on a wave of humid air. Obviously, seeking some relaxation after her busy and relentless day as well. She shot him a nod as she slid her purse off her shoulder and draped the strap over a barstool. He replied by placing his foot on the rung of the chair at his table and kicking it out for her in silent invitation for her to join him. Why not? He was sleeping with her on a limited one time only basis. But, they'd already made an exception to that rule hadn't they.

Jan slid over to the offered chair and took Thomas up on his offer. Sitting with Thomas was better than sitting at the bar alone. The locals knew she was off limits. She'd shot down every advance one of the brave or incredibly stupid had made at her. And they'd gotten the hint. But, with camping season in full swing the bar was hopping, filled with strangers who didn't know any better. At least now, she didn't appear available or a lush. "Today sucked," she announced as she gratefully sipped the jack and coke Thomas had ordered for her.

Thomas chuckled, "Sorry."

"Not your fault. But, there is literally no more room at the inn." Jan took a long pull on her straw and set the drink down. The whiskey went straight to her head. Reminding her that she hadn't eaten since six this morning. At work she hadn't had time and after work, the only thing she wanted was a hot shower and a drink to ease her frazzled nerves.

Thomas hoisted his beer and clanked her glass. "Here's to all the happy campers."

"I'll drink to that." Jan chuckled as she sucked down the rest of her drink. Her head spun dizzily. When Thomas ordered another round, she should have declined but didn't. She was off tomorrow and she'd be damned if she was planning to answer the phone. She was coming off her fifth twelve-hour shift in a row and needed this day off. Desperately.

"You ever think about making an exception to our rule? Call another truce, just for tonight?" He was a little buzzed. He had to be. Otherwise his thoughts would have never left his lips.

Jan studied Thomas over the rim of her glass...her second glass and Thomas had already ordered her a third round. She was not in a good mood. But, she bet Thomas could put her in a better one. She chuckled and said, "I'm exhausted. If I find a soft bed, I don't care who's in it. I'm staying."

"You don't care who?" Thomas poked at her.

"I didn't mean it like that. I'm very choosey about who I share a bed with. I just mean that this time I'm not being the one to leave in the middle of the night."

"And I hate getting stuck with the dirty sheets," Thomas interjected. The sheets on his bed had never been cleaner. Ever since his last night of fun with Jan, he made sure to keep them changed and his condom drawer fully stocked. He knew, despite all their promises and declarations to the contrary they were going to end up in bed together again. When something was good it was good...until it wasn't. But, he had a feeling with Jan it would never be anything but good.

Jan sucked on an ice cube. The third drink was tempting. Especially, since Thomas was paying the tab. But, unless he was into necrophilia she'd better not drink it. She was literally dead on her feet. He hated getting stuck with washing the sheets. And she hated walking the walk of shame afterwards. "Ok, I'll tell you what. We'll go to my place. I won't have to leave and you won't get stuck with the dirty sheets. But, I'm warning you, no hickeys," Jan negotiated.

Was she really going to do this again with him? Were they really sitting here in a bar discussing the terms of a one-night stand? Clearly, they were. His eyes glimmered with a hungry gleam of anticipation. And what do you know. Her body was on line with the plan. Why were they both selling themselves so short? Settling for meaningless sex when out there somewhere was their special someone? How was she ever going to meet him or Thomas, meet her, if they were sitting here wasting time with each other? Whatever this was they had. It wasn't going to go anywhere. It was sex. Good sex. Great sex. Amazing sex. Their bodies got it right. But, their heads were all messed up.

They were both reasonably attractive people. Thomas was a little thin on top. He styled his sandy brown hair to compensate for his receding hairline. And it worked for him. But, he was lean and hard muscled. His blue eyes hadn't lost their spark. And when he smiled, which wasn't often, his face lit up like a thousand spotlights.

"Fair enough," Thomas agreed. He gathered up her purse and draped the strap over her shoulder. Yeah, he was a true gentleman like that. His cock was hard as a rock from being in such close proximity to Jan. Definitely ready to deliver what ever she required. Loosely gripping her hand in his, he led the way through the crowd of strangers as they made their escape.

"This isn't a relationship. You know that right? I don't do relationships," Jan huffed. They walked the block and a half to her apartment locked hand in hand. The rotten day had turned into a rotten evening. Sundown offered no relief from the humidity and heat. The air was thick and stifling, draped over everything like a big, hot, wet blanket pulled too soon from the dryer. "Don't think this is going to turn into some kind of a routine thing."

"I don't." Thomas didn't get any mixed signals from Jan. There was nothing for him to misinterpret. And by her very declaration, she misinterpreted nothing from him. She wanted sex. He wanted sex. And apparently, they were both very good at what they did for each other. What possible expectation could he have other than a few minutes of mind blowing satisfaction and a cold bed the morning after?

Jan's apartment was simple, if not a bit sparse. Didn't matter how utilitarian the space. He wasn't interested in her décor. She lived in the loft above Ginger's garage. He had no doubt that Ginger had cut her a generous break on the price. The gossip alone would be worth any money she lost on renting the place out cheap. The light was on above Ginger's kitchen window. And so what, let her talk about shit she didn't know a damn thing about. Fuck it. He'd sell tickets and give her a front row seat just to make sure Ginger had plenty to talk about.

A set of sliding glass doors looked out onto a wooden deck terrace. The tiny living/dining room/ kitchen combo was neat and tidy. Jan led him down a narrow and short hall. A miniscule bathroom with the basic necessities, a shower stall, sink, and toilet in a color long lost to the ages was off the hallway. Straight ahead was the promised land of her bedroom.

Jan was a woman who wasted no time. He liked that. She kissed him and shimmied out of her clothes on the way to her bedroom. She got down to business. She knew what she wanted and was damned determined to get it. He had no complaints about that. He was one hell of a happy guy and aimed to give it to her. Thomas sucked in a breath as she stood naked in the doorway to her bedroom. Her curves were sleek and dangerous, illuminated by the scant amount of light filtering through the white mini blinds over the windows.

Nimbly, Jan's fingers worked his zipper down as her tongue worked its way inside of his mouth. Oh yeah, no dillydallying for this girl. Good thing, he was horny as hell and ready to work off some pent up frustration. Obediently, he lifted his arms and let her rid him of t-shirt.

Thomas's hands warmed up quickly as they slid along her curves. With the end result in mind Jan stroked him until he was fully erect and ready for action. And that took about half a second. Thomas was always ready, always eager. Her breath hitched in her throat as his fingers sought out the moisture between her thighs and honed in on the sweet spot between them.

She loved that it took almost no effort to get him up and ready to go. Her boy toy was hot and bothered, groaning against her lips. Yeah, maybe she was a slut, a tramp, or whatever label society might cast upon her...maybe. But, she'd had a rough couple of shifts and she deserved a good working over. Her legs grew shaky as the Good Doctor's skillful hands massaged her breasts. His lips replaced his hands, suckling hungrily at her nipples. His fingers traced along the sensitive nerve endings of her core. Far too easily, his fingers found her favorite spot and circled the blossoming nub until she tensed and rocked against them. Her fingernails scraped across his back, digging in and urging him along.