Dawn Reclaimed

Gina was staring transfixed into a pot of boiling water. She didn't eat yesterday. And today she was going to force a box of macaroni and cheese down her throat if it killed her. An incessant pounding on the door interrupted her silent musings. She glanced through the peephole and saw a face that she recognized, but had never met before. "Hello."

"Hi, I'm Tristen, Hunter's son. Can I come in?"

"Ah... Sure." Gina stepped back and let the younger version of Hunter into her apartment. "What are you doing here?"

"Look, I know I don't know you well. But, I know what you did for my dad. He's been moping around for almost two days now. Ever since you've been gone. I've come to pick you up and take you back."

"I'm not going back." Gina flicked off the stove and dumped the steaming water down the drain. "I'm sorry about your dad, really I am. But, if he's so miserable why hasn't he called me?"

"I dunno." Tristen stood impatiently in the doorway of the tiny kitchen. "Male pride?" He leaned closer, studying her features. "Why haven't you called him? You look pretty miserable too." Her hair was sticking up in all directions. Sweats hung loosely on her too thin frame. Dark circles rimmed her eyes.

"I'm not miserable. I'm trying to readjust. "

"Uh huh," Tristen scoffed. "What about Claire's wedding? If we leave now, we can make it in time."

"I left her an e-mail, explaining that I wouldn't be there," Gina retorted. She wondered if Tristen had any idea how much like his father he really was. Pushy. Arrogant.

"An e-mail?"

"Yeah, an e-mail. Now if you don't mind, there's a Three Stooges marathon starting any minute."

"Humph, I see one stooge standing right here. Get dressed," Tristen said stubbornly. He'd drag her to the SUV if he had to. If he could just get her and his dad together one last time. If he could get them to talk all of this nonsense would be over and done with.

"I'm not going." Gina stubbornly crossed her arms. If Hunter ever wanted to talk or see her again all he had to do was dial the phone.

"Yes, you are. Claire is your friend." He said appealing to her sense of female bonding.

"Claire's an acquaintance. I... I don't have any friends." Gina gulped at her admission. The fact that she was in the city, truly and utterly alone, finally sunk in.

"Yes you do. I'm your friend. If I weren't I wouldn't have come. I'm not here just because of my dad. I'm here because of you. I saw you two in the garage. He claims it was a mistake. That wasn't any mistake. You love him. And he, he loves you. You're both too stubborn to realize it. Can we go now?"

Gina blew out a breath. Tristen had realized in less than five minutes, what she and Hunter had not dared to admit. Was he right? Did Hunter love her? Did she really love him? How would they make things work? They were separated by more than physical distance. "We don't belong together. We're not even the same species."

Tristen rolled his eyes. She was scrambling for excuses. "Come on. Go to the wedding. Throw back a few drinks and dance the chicken dance. Forget about my dad for a while. Relax. Have a little fun. Claire would love to see you."

"You'll bring me back as soon as the wedding is over. I. Can't. Stay. I belong here. I have to get back to living."

"You have my word. As soon as the 'I dos' are said and the bride tosses the flowers. Which, you are going to catch, by the way. We're out of there."

"You promise?"

"YES. Now get dressed," Tristen ordered impatiently. If they didn't make tracks soon, they weren't going to get there in time.

"Look at me. I'm a mess," Gina protested.

"Put on a pair of jeans and a shirt. You can fancy yourself up on the drive back." Tristen leaned closer and glowered down at the woman. "Move it."

Gina started to say something and then bit her lip. "You win. I'll do it. For Claire, not for your dad." She threw up her hands in defeat. Her body shook as she dressed and smoothed down her hair. She could hear Tristen standing in the living room impatiently rattling his keys.

Tristen smiled triumphantly. Holding the door open until she passed through, and the locking it firmly behind him.

Chapter 75

Claire played the part of blushing bride as best she could. Hiding her nervousness as the women escorted her along the narrow trail to the bluffs. The thick pile of the robe wasn't as warm as she expected it to be. But, sweat beaded her brow. She stopped at the tree line and took it all in. For a small wedding, there were a lot of people in attendance.

Grant's family was huge, forming a cluster on one side of a magnificent flower covered altar. Her parents, stood next to Nash and Mouse. The vampires huddled together across from the Pack creating a walkway. Thomas and Ginger stood by her parents. Claire smiled. Gina had decided to come after all standing beside Tristen and his family. Claire's eyes surveyed the crowd. Taking in all the people that had gathered here today to wish her well. They settled on the man, standing at the altar beneath a spray of white roses and fern waiting for her.

Grant was standing next to Drew. Patiently waiting for her to make her entrance. She blinked back a tear as she felt his eyes on her. He was masculine and stately looking. Dressed in soft brown leather adorned with fringe and beads.

Her dad took her arm and whispered something in her ear. She scarcely noticed him. Eyes locked with Grant's taking each step forward with determination and purpose. Chanting echoed off the craggy surface of the bluffs. The melody, whose words she did not know and could not understand, filled her heart with joy. Finally, the last step was taken, and her father placed her hands in Grant's and stepped to the side. Tear glistened in his eyes as he took his place at her mother's side.

Hunter hung back, peeking out through the thick cover of trees. Watching his brother take his bride. Repeating the words that would bind them as man and wife. And claim her lips in a kiss. He wanted to go closer. Say something encouraging and meaningful to his brother. But, he didn't know what to say. So much had happened between them. So many missed opportunities for forgiveness, a flood of water had passed under the dam. And he was drowning in the torrent.

Hunter saw her blonde streaked hair peeking up from the crowd. Easily spotted shining like a yellow sun. He slid closer. Still keeping his distance. But, inching closer and closer to his sun and his light.

Thomas looked away as Grant kissed Claire on the lips. Knowing he'd lost her forever. Not that she'd ever been his to lose in the first place. But now there was no hope at all. What could have been would never be realized. He slid back, melting into the crowd that rushed up to meet the newly wedded couple.

Claire kissed Grant for all she was worth. The warmth of his lips chased the chill away from her cheeks. The ceremony had been brief. Not more than a few sentences and repeated vows. There was little need for words. When the flutter of her heart said it all. "I love you." He had done all of this for her. Given her the wedding of her dreams. In the end, it wasn't about the beautiful flowers, or the magnificent dress. It was about celebrating her love for him with family and friends. Accepting and offering the promise that bound them as one.

Grant gently claimed Claire's lips. Loving the bright pink blush that spread across her cheeks. She was beautiful. Her voice, stirred his heart as they echoed, repeating the vows, off the bluffs. She was his wife now. And would be for all time. No matter what the future held, they would go through it as one. "I love you too. I should get you inside. Your admirers are waiting to see you."

Claire and Grant led the way into the tent. Dutifully accepting praise and happy congratulations. Hugs, pecks on the cheeks, and pats on the back abounded. She accepted the hand thrust in her direction. Hunter.

"Take care of him," Hunter said, squeezing Claire's hand.

"I will," Claire promised.

" And you, you take care of her. Congratulations, my brother."

Grant was taken aback. His brother had shown up after all. Smiling, refusing the handshake, Grant grabbed him up in a hug. "Thank you." The presence of his brother made him feel whole and complete. Reluctantly, he released his brother and shook the hand of the next person in line. Casting a glance, eye meeting eye with his older brother. There was no need for words. The glance said it all. His brother had forgiven him for all the wrongs, imagined or real that he had committed. Hunter gave him a subtle nod with his chin and melted into the crowd.

Grant ushered Claire onto the dance floor, sharing his bride with the spotlight. Holding her tightly in his arms as cheers and wolf calls raised all around him. He released her to her father. And finished the dance with her mother. All smiles and smudgy eyed, beaming happily as she babbled about nothing in particular, "Grant, I know you'll take care of her."

"I'll do my best," Grant said, giving Dena one last twirl.

Grant steadied Claire's hand. Cutting the cake, taking his bite and giving her a small sliver. After the cake came presents and another round of congratulations. Finally, he flung the garter in to the din of howling males. Snickering when struck Hunter between the eyes.

Claire turned her back and tossed her bouquet high into the air. A round of cheers rose up as it landed in Gina's hands. Finally, there was another round of goodbyes and then she and Grant made their escape. Showered in birdseed. They ran for the trail. "I didn't think we'd ever get out of there," Claire giggled.

"I didn't either." Grant agreed. Shaking birdseed from his hair he brushed off the white robe draped across Claire's shoulders.

"Where's the honeymoon?"

Grant grinned slyly, "It's a surprise."

Gina turned the bouquet in her hands. Fingering the silky petals of ivory and the soft, delicate sprigs of fern. The reception was over but the party was still going full steam. She felt a poke on her shoulder.

"Wanna dance?" Tristen asked, shooting Gina a wide wolfish grin. The old man was sulking in the corner staring at Gina. Feet planted firmly in inaction. Tristen knew one way to get his dad in gear. Jealously.

"Sure," Gina laid the fragile bouquet on the table and followed Tristen out onto the dance floor. The beat changed, from fast paced dance music with a good rhythm to a slow, sappy, country song. Tristen wrapped his arms around her and tugged her a little closer than she was comfortable with. Pressing a soft youthful cheek against hers, he was just a little too free with his hands, smoothing them along the small of her back.

Tristen felt the heat of his dad's stare on his back. Definitely getting the old man's attention. And, he hated to admit, having a damn good time doing it. Gina's body was soft and warm curvy in all the right places. Her scent was a decadent heady mix of ginger and vanilla. Good enough to make him want to take a taste or two. He should feel just a little ashamed of himself for copping a cheap thrill off of what could be his future stepmother. But, he didn't. Hell, maybe if his dad didn't cut in, he'd go for her himself.

"Mind if I cut in?" Hunter poked his son hard on the shoulder. Molars grinding as he tried to hold back his jealousy.

"Actually, I do," Tristen answered. He pulled Gina closer and nuzzled her cheek. Her face was blazing hot against his. His lips curled in a grin as he rubbed it in and goaded his old man. "I'll turn twenty-one in a few months."

Gina tried to put some distance between their bodies. But, Tristen's arms were like steel bands. "I'll be twenty-eight this March." Tristen was just a kid. Handsome like his father, who was still standing there, glaring at his son. Too young to be considered and definitely overshadowed by his father, at least in her eyes.

Tristen snorted. The age difference between them wasn't nearly as broad as the age difference between her and his dad. They were separated by decades. His dad looked like he was in his early thirties, but he was actually a geezer. "Doesn't bother me. I like older women," he whispered against her ear.

Hunter cleared his throat and poked Tristen harder this time. Landing a pointy index finger into his bicep.

"You'd better let me dance with him. He doesn't look too happy," Gina said, snickering at the rivalry between the two men.

"Oh, ok. I guess it wasn't meant to be between us," Tristen said reluctantly releasing Gina. Smiling mischievously down at her, he gave her a wink.

Gina shrugged and answered Tristen's smile with one of her own. "Sorry. I'm not a cougar." She smoothed down her rumpled blouse nervously. "No hard feelings?"

"None that are mentionable in public," Tristen teased. Snickering when a brilliant red blush spread across Gina's cheeks. He leaned over to his dad. In a voice too low for Gina to hear, he whispered, "I found those Trojans if you need one. But, I'm not sure if you'll fill it out."

"Boy!" Hunter growled. Shoving past Tristen, he gathered Gina in his arms. "I apologize for my idiot son," he said, shooting a glare in Tristen's direction. He held Gina snugly in his arms. Steering her to a quiet open corner of the dance floor. Staring down at her. "You came."

"I kind of got coerced," Gina answered. Hunter's hands burned through the cloth of her blouse straight through the flesh and down into the marrow of her bones. The rest of the world was tuned out as she stared up at him. Their eyes met for a second. His heated stare boring into her. She was overwhelmed by his presence. His scent was strong in her nostrils, masculine and rugged, a blending of spice and pine. His body towered over hers. His mouth, lowering slowly, lips slightly parted, advancing for a kiss.

Hunter felt her heart pounding against his chest. Gina's flesh molded against his. Her lips, glistened, open and ready for the inevitable kiss. Gently, he brushed his mouth against hers. She tasted sweet like the cake and spicy like the heated rush of desire that seared his flesh. The party around them faded away, leaving nothing but Gina. He pressed her body into his. His feet barely moved to the rhythm of the music. "Well, no matter how you got here or who got you here, I'm glad you're here."

Gina rested her forehead against his lips. "I... I think I am too." She relaxed into Hunter. Following his slow movements and letting him lead the dance.

Blake scanned the crowded room. Searching through the mass of guests for Dena. He didn't expect her to leave without at least saying goodbye. She was good at that, saying goodbye. He slid out the crowded tent. Dena stood at the edge of the bluffs staring out across the town below. Absently twirling a white rose between her fingers, lost to her thoughts.

Dena was thinking about the past. Claire had been such a rambunctious, curious, little girl. Always questioning. Asking why. Her father always concocted some kind of an answer, never minding Claire's constant questioning about the world. A light smile crossed her lips as she remembered sunny afternoons and picnics, Claire tottering along the edge of the woods in blonde pigtails. Her tiny hand clasped in her father's big strong capable ones. No matter what the question, he always had an answer.

Claire would spend hours in her room, playing dress up; oversized shoes, blouses that trailed the ground on her tiny frame, transformed into dresses, yards and yards of beads and baubles, makeup and perfume. Dena never minded when Claire got into her closet. Sometimes, she'd even join in. Applying the makeup, brushing out Claire's long blonde hair and pinning it up into a French twist. Helping her pick out just the right pair of heels to go with a make believe dress. Now her little girl was all grown up, married and about to become a mother.

Blake slid an arm around Dena's shoulders. Expecting to be coldly and harshly shaken off. Instead Dena rested a cheek on his shoulder. "We did a good job raising her," he said softly.

"Yes, we did." Dena agreed. She sighed, a mixed sigh of happiness and contentment. "She was the only thing we ever got right."

Blake cupped his arm around Dena's shoulders, pulling her closer. Claire was the light of his life. He looked down at Dena. Studying her face, laugh lines bordered the corners of her eyes and faint smile lines edged her mouth. There were strands of silver mixed amongst the blonde. She was still so beautiful. Beautiful as she had been the day they met.

Her cheeks glowed pink in the dimming evening light. Tendrils of her hair blew wild and free, the blonde tresses curled and danced on the breeze. For a minute, he saw the girl he fell in love with a lifetime ago. He took the rose from her fingers and ran the soft petals along the curve of her cheek and tucked the fragile blossom into her hair. "No, not the only thing."

Dena looked up at Blake. He'd been so handsome as a young man. Time, had been kind to him. He was still handsome. His hair was shot through with salt and pepper, thinner than it had been back then. Deep lines etched across his brow, around his eyes, and in the corners of his mouth. His stare, meeting hers, was warm and soft, glittering with boyish charm and enthusiasm. For him, life had always been a wonder and held him in rapt fascination. "It was never lack of love that drove us apart."

"I know." The day-to-day struggles of life had taken hard and heavy bites out of them. Until there was nothing left but bitter arguments and fragmented pieces of a marriage. He settled his fingers against her jaw. Gently stroking her cheek with his thumb. "I think about you everyday."

"Is that a good thing or a bad thing?" Dena asked. He was warm against her. Chasing away the chill with the heat of his body. She smelled the scent of his cologne. The same cologne he wore on their first date. The same cologne he always wore. Cheap stuff, smelled wretched in the bottle. But, she'd always loved the way it smelled on him. And he'd always worn it, for her.

"Do you ever think of me?" Dena's skin was soft beneath his thumbs. Her cheeks were heated in a blush. He recognized the look that glimmered in her blue eyes. Her gaze and the silent message it conveyed pierced right through him.

"I try not to," Dena confessed.

"Is that a good thing or a bad thing?" He acted without thinking. Following the impulsive nature of his heart. Kissing her on the mouth. Driving his tongue between her lips. Coaxing them to open and let him in.

Dena was shocked by the kiss. Taken completely be surprise. Even after all the water that had flowed under the bridge. The kiss was familiar, like slipping into an old pair of jeans. His lips were as comfortable as a soft, fuzzy blanket on a long winter's day. She kissed him back, opening for him. He tasted the same as she remembered. Like cool mint and hot spice. His lips molded to hers and his tongue invaded her mouth. Her hand slid up, around his neck. Gripping the short strands of his hair and pulling him forward. Closer. For all the kiss's familiarity, it was new and exciting. The kiss took her back while pulling her forward.

Blake gripped Dena's hand, reluctantly breaking the kiss with a series of tiny pecks to her lips. Smiling. Her eyes glimmered with a light that he had not seen in a very long time. Desire. For all the fighting, crying, and cursing. For all the years that followed the divorce, carefully avoiding one another while raising their daughter. For all the hurt that they caused each other, the look was still there. He wrapped his arms around her shoulders. Resting his chin on the top of her head. "This is how it should have been with us. You feel so good."

Dena didn't question her decision. She was weary of her life. Over her 'what ifs and strategically planned decisions. Maybe, it was the heat of the moment. Maybe it was nothing more than the fact that he was a man and she was a woman. And her needs had been too long neglected and carefully stuffed away. She slid free of his arms, grasping his hand with her trembling fingers and led him into the woods. Placing her feet on the rugged path worn path. For the first time since she'd fallen in love with him decades ago, she walked, not knowing or caring where that path would take her.