Kai Akua Lee

Kai was excited about going out, not only because he was going to get to stretch his scales out, but also because it was the test of a girl that lived across the street at babysitting Rhea. The little mermaid herself didn't really need a babysitter anymore, but Kai still preferred to leave a responsible adult around.

So he put on his coat and left the house, careful not to slip on the ice of the sidewalk as he walked down the street to Jason's house. They really did live near each other. Running his fingers through his own hair to make sure he looked decent, Kai knocked on the door then, a smile on his face.

Jason wasn't sure why he had offered to show Kai the lake. It wasn't like it was hard to find or that the merman needed a guide but somehow he did think maybe the other man needed a friend. And maybe Jason needed a friend too. One that didn't walk on eggshells worried to say something that might trigger his grief again.

He smiled when he noticed the scent before the knock, so he hurried to open since Kai had told him he got cold easily, "hey! You made it," he smiled and then chuckled when he noticed the coat, "you weren't kidding about the cold uh?" He said playfully, "ready to go?" He asked noticing he probably looked underdressed with his sweatpants and loose hoodie.

Kai grinned when the door was opened, envying Jason's warmth right away. "I wasn't! Look-" He chuckled, taking a hand out of his coat's pocket and reaching to press his frozen dead fingers against Jason's cheek. Soon, he pulled his hand back into his pocket. "Sure! How far away is it?"

Jason shuddered at the cold touch and shook his head, "damn! You're gonna freeze," he said with a frown aside pulled him into the house, "wait a minute," he said closing the door as he dashed to his room to get a beanie, gloves and a scarf. He handed the items to the merman, "you're gonna need that. It's not that far but he you got that cold from the walk from your place to here, then it's better you wear that," he said with a nod.

Kai was surprised when he was suddenly pulled into Jason's house "Wait, you don't-" but the wolf was already gone. The merman had a moment to look around - it looked very Jason-coded - and then he was back, offering him wool accessories "You didn't have to-" he sighed pleased, then nodded "Okay, I'll trust you" and then Kai was wrapping the scarf around his neck, pulling the gloves over his cold fingers and the beanie on "How do I look?"

Jason smiled when Kai said he trusted him and then when chuckled when they mermen asked how he looked, "like you and winter aren't friends," he joked, "come on," he said opening the door and leading the way, "it's like a 20 minutes’ walk. You think you can handle that?" He asked playfully.

Kai laughed at the joke "Oh, then we're set!" He teased, following Jason out with a smirk "Of course, then we can have warmed up by the time we reach the forest!" The merman said, his breath coming out as puffs of fog and he snuggled closer to Jason's scarf. It smelled really good, but that'd be weird to say out loud, right?

Jason nodded as they started walking, glad Kai hadn't questioned his outfit me choice. "True. The wall will help you warm up a little," he agreed, "I take it that you found a good sitter?" He asked as he kept on step with Kai, not wanting to rush the merman.

Kai nodded as they walked, not questioning Jason's lack of clothes since he knew he ran warmer than most. "I think so? She lives across the street, we're trying it out today to see how it goes with her, but Rhea was excited about it, since apparently she knows - and I quote - quite a few TikTok dances" he laughed "Did you finish the song you were working on?"

Jason smiled and nodded as he put his hands inside the hoodie's front pocket, "Oh wow! That definitely sounds like they'll have fun together then," he said with a smile. He shook his head, "not yet. It takes a while and I kept going back and forth with a new tune," he shrugged, "it's a whole process but maybe I won't finish it before I have to leave for the holidays."

"I hope they do! And I hope she teaches Rhea all the dances, because if I have to listen to one more Olivia Rodrigo song on loop, I'll bash my skull against a wall" he laughed, then his interest was piqued "You're leaving for the holidays?"

Jason couldn't help to laugh at that very honest comment, "wow! She's not that terrible. She has good songs," he said amused and then nodded, "yeah. I promised my parents I'd visit. I haven't gone back to L.A for years and I think it's time," he smiled, "they want me to spend my birthday there too, so I'll be back after new year," he added.

Kai laughed back, shrugging "She's not that bad, but I've had to listen to Good For You at least two hundred times this week" Kai said, then smiled surprised "Oh wow! I'm sure they're excited! That's so cool!" The merman grinned "Your birthday is coming soon? That should turn into a huge celebration!"

Jason laughed again, "ok that's not my favorite but I get you. I prefer Deja vu. Very catchy," he joked. "They are. I promised I'd try not to be gone for that long anymore. Maybe next year they'll visit instead," he smiled and then shrugged, "on the 31st but it's not a big celebration at all. It's just me and my parents," he added dismissively since he really hadn't celebrated his birthday that much in the past years.

Kai laughed back "Deja Vu is nice, Villain is pretty cool too" he shrugged, to show he didn't hate the singer. Kai smiled back with a hum "I'm glad, you deserve some chill time with people you care about, who care about you" The mermaid arched a brow "So your birthday is connected to new year’s? That's a recipe for hangovers" he teased "I'll make sure to have a present waiting for you when you get back, then"

Jason nodded, "Oh yeah Villain is good too," he agreed. He smiled, "thanks. I think I really need that time with family after this long," he said rubbing the back of his neck. "It is. It was crazy when I was younger but getting drunk it's hard for us. Our metabolism burns alcohol really fast," he explained and then he blushed and shook his head, "Oh no! Don't worry about it. You don't have to do that!" He brushed the idea of a present off not wanting to trouble the merman.

Kai smiled at the man as they walked. "Oh, your system probably burns off alcohol, that makes sense. So many perks of being a wolf! You need to leave some for the common peasants like me!" He teased, bumping their shoulders. Was he blushing?! "I know I don't have to. I want to, though. You've been nothing but nice to me and we're friends, right? I like to give my friends birthday gifts, don't you?"

Jason chuckled and shrugged, "well I didn't make the rules! I was just lucky to be born like this," he teased, "I'm sure there's a lot of perks of being a merman," he said with a nod. He smiled and nodded, "I do like giving my friends presents. Thanks. You really don't have to, but it means a lot," he said a little nervously. "Did you get to watch that video?" He asked to change the subject.

The merman laughed at the pride in the wolf "You lucky dog- wait, is that offensive?" Kai corrected himself right away with an apologetic smile "We actually get drunk easier, to be honest. Two margaritas and I'm gone" He said with an embarrassed shrug "We don't have a lot of ethical perks, but we can say something and tell you something different, so that's neat" he said, smiling when Jason accepted his future gift. "Oh I did! It was almost hard to recognize you, to be honest. You look very different without the tattoos" Kai chuckled "The song was beautiful though! Very chill, yet vivid in detail. And I like your voice" he smiled innocently "Did you write it about Val?"

Jason laughed, "no, it's not offensive. It's actually kinda funny," he smiled. "Now that's dangerous," he said with a small frown, considering that if people knew they could take advantage of Kai, "well that one sounds interesting," he tilted his head wondering how that power worked. He shook his head, "there were a lot of tattoos there already but I was way younger and skinnier," he teased, "thanks. I'm glad you liked it. It was a very popular song back then," he sighed with a nostalgic smile, "I did. We did some small touring and sometimes she couldn't come with us so that inspired it," he shrugged.

Kai smiled back, then shrugged "That's why I usually drink just at home, and always one or two glasses. Also margaritas are great because you can make them with different alcohol contents" he said, then grinned at the prompt. After a moment, Kai looked up "Did you see how blue is the sky today?" He said, using the smallest bit of his powers so the sky looked bright pink to Jason for a few seconds before it came back. "It's a lovely story for it. It's a vibe that I really like. I hope she did too."

Jason nodded, "that's smart. Also if you make the drinks yourself you can add less alcohol to have more drinks safely," he smiled. Jason frowned at the question and looked up, his frown deepening, "what?" He said confused as he looked back at Kai with an arched brow and then chuckled, "now that's insane! How did you do that?" He asked looking up at the sky again only to see it cloudy and dark gray. He sighed at the memories, "she loved it. Every time I sang it, it was just for her."

Kai chuckled "Yes, so I can drink basically orange juice" he joked, then his smile grew brighter. "Welcome to the mermaid hallucination land. If you hear my voice, I can give you little vision. It's particularly handy for bedtime stories" Kai bit back a smile, trying not to sound proud of it. Most people didn't really like the merman's powers, it was refreshing to see someone amused by them "That's really sweet. People say that when you're loved by a musician you never die, because they always immortalize you in their songs."

Jason snorted, "well mimosas aren't that bad, even without alcohol," he joked. "That was crazy. I bet Rhea loves it with those stories," he smiled wondering what else those powers could do. He shrugged, "I guess that's partly true. It also makes it hard for the musician to find their voice again when the muse is no longer here," he smiled sadly.

Kai laughed back "Yes, they're not that bad. You know what a mimosa without alcohol is called though, right? Orange juice!" He shrugged "She does! She's bossy though. I remember when she was 5, I was reading her this story of a bear and I made the vision of a polar bear because it was a cold night and she said Daddy, the bear is brown! Make it brown!" He laughed at the memory, though it vanished at the explanation of the song. "I can imagine that. You've never wrote about her? After she passed?"

Jason laughed again, "you can always add sparkling water to make it bubbly," he joked. He smiled when Kai described Rhea's personality even from a younger age, "she knew her stories. You can't just go around changing it," he said playfully. Jason put his hands back on the hoodie's pocket, "for a long time I couldn't even touch a guitar again. Let alone sing or write," he sighed, "then I tried but it hurt too much," he smiled a little, "a couple years ago I wrote one after I made my peace and said goodbye and started dating someone but when that other relationship failed I stopped writing again. It's just an emotional kind of thing. Some people say music is healing but it also hurts with some memories," he explained when he noticed they were getting closer to the lake, "we're almost there," he tried to smile.

Kai liked his laugh. He rolled his eyes at the orange juice comment, nodding along when he defended Rhea. His smile grew sober as Jason talked about his writing process. "It makes sense that you feel like this" Kai assured him "Was that relationship that put you off dating?"

Jason shrugged, "not exactly. We met when I was already married to Val. He was my best friend, and I probably wouldn't be here if it wasn't for him. I didn't want to date at all after Val but something happened and I realized I had feelings for him and he for me so I wanted to try but it's complicated," he swallowed hard, "I realized I'm more broken than I thought and he didn't deserve to be loved by half a men so I realized that I probably won't ever be able to love anyone fully again and no one really deserves that," he explained, "He once told me I was his person and I was stupid enough to say that Val would always be my person and then it hit me," he sighed, "no one would want to compete with someone who's not even here anymore and I'm pretty sure no one would accept to be second on the life of the person they love."

Kai listened inventively, nodding along as they got into the forest. There was a deep sigh as silence stretched between them and Kai tried to process the story "I suppose it's something people who haven't gone through that can't understand. They can't relate, so they view it as a competition." For the first time he thought about it before he spoke, deciding he should be open with the wolf since he was with Kai "I went on a couple of dates in the last few years, and they all ended the same. Because the moment a human asks about your dead wife and you speak of her fondly, they view it as a challenge, to make you forget about her because they're oh so much better and that's not just offensive, but like- I don't want to forget about Mel. I had a life before we met, I'm offering the life I'll have from here on out and if that's not enough, then... then it doesn't work, you know?"

Jason nodded when Kai described how it felt like, "yeah and sometimes I don't think in his case it was a like a competition cause he knew her. They were friends too... the thing is that maybe unconsciously he expected me to love him the way I love her and that just can't be," he sighed, "I did love him. I probably still do in a way cause he was my best friend. It just sucks that I lost him too cause it didn't work out," he shrugged. "I think it's really hard for us to have a relationship cause Val and Mel will always own a part of us," he smiled sadly.

Kai winced as he spoke "That's really shitty, I- I'm sorry you had to go through that, Jason" he sighed "You know, in my culture we don't have this concept of owning someone's heart. I mean, I totally get what you mean and you're right, but... People's hearts are considered volatile, since they can change with the right set of illusions" Kai offered a tight smile, always waiting for when the new people around him would blame those for anything that happens around the merman "So love, for us, happens in the blood. You can't control where it goes or how much you have, you can just feel it all around your body. As if it's oxygen or nutrients, because it keeps you alive just the same." The merman looked away, suddenly feeling exposed "All of that to say, loving more than one person in your lifetime is not a bad thing. They're not exclusive, and they don't override each other. It's something that comes and changes you and sometimes goes away, but they always leave marks cause your very cells remember them."

Jason smiled a little and nodded as he listened carefully to Kai's explanation of love in his culture, "that's a lovely way to see it and it makes sense in a way," he sighed, "in my case is the opposite. Just like you described," he chuckled apologetically, "werewolves just as wolves find a partner for life. And they are fully devoted to them until their last breath," he sighed, "it just really sucks when that time is cut shorten because then we feel lost. We have all this love for someone who isn't here anymore, and we don't know what to do with it. So even if I try it's just hard to wrap my mind around the idea of loving someone else," he said sadly because even if he had tried really hard and he had truly loved someone else it still felt like it hadn't been enough to make it work.

"This mates for life thing sounds very lovely, but quite impractical" Kai said with a little frown, wondering if it had evolutionary reasons. "Both our views on it are similar though, I think. Loving Val changed you, just as loving Mal changed me. We can't expect to offer people the version of us that lived back then, because it doesn't exist anymore, you know?" He sighed "It sucks because, I don't know about wolves, but sea people are emotion-guided beings, we crave love as much as we crave the ocean. We want connection but... It seems like once you've gone through what we went through, you start living in a different wavelength than the rest of the world"

Jason laughed a little, "it is impractical. Especially when you fall in love with a human," he agreed, "and that's true. We aren't the same people but in my case I'm trying to go back to be that person cause the person I turned into when I lost her is not the person I want to be anymore," he accepted even tho Kai didn't need to know that dark place Jason had been falling back into and doing his best to get out from for years. "Oh we're very emotional too but it's kinda different the way we see it," he nodded, "yeah it feels like that. It's hard for everyone else to understand and you get to a point when you don't even want them to, you just want them to accept it instead of trying to change it wanting to cheer you up or show you how amazing life still is when you are seeing it from a completely different perspective." He stopped and smiled when he realized they were almost at the glade, "this is where the glade starts, the lake is just a couple minutes from here," he said as he looked up, noticing the moon was lighting up the open space past the trees, "it's a good thing it's not cloudy, dunno how good is your sight in the dark," he half joked.

Kai hissed playfully "Big mistake, big mistake." He said with empathy. "Welp, I don't know how you were, but if there's anything I can do to help, let me know. I'm all for self-improvement" Kai offered with a bright smile, which turned into a smirk when Jason talked about his sight "I can see in the deep ocean, buddy. No light, into salt water full of seaweed, we're golden" he winked, rubbing his hands together "So, is this when you wolf out?"

Jason snorted, "yeah, the best mistake of my life but ," he shrugged, "thanks. I appreciate it. Especially cause I just know you'd understand some things other wouldn't," he smiled. He laughed at the explanation, "see? I knew you had great upgrades for your kind," he grinned and then shook his head, "I'm not gonna wolf out in front of you cause I need to be naked for it and it's not a pretty sight to see someone's body contorts into weird position or the fur breaking out of my skin," he scrunched up his nose at how bad the description sounded.

Kai nodded, then laughed when Jason talked about his upgrades "I had to have something, right?" He teased, then winced at the description "That makes sense. I guess having your legs getting fused together isn't as bad as that" the merman said, then added "How about we move to the lake then? I can go for a dip, and you come back when you're ready"

Jason grinned, "I'm pretty sure you have a lot more of cool stuff," he said with a confident nod. "Yeah, exactly, it's definitely not a pretty sight," he said apologetically. "Sounds good. We can check if it's not frozen and then I'll go behind the bushes and then come back in a quieter and less annoying form," he said playfully.

Kai chuckled at that with a shrug, smiling brightly when they reached the lake. It was almost frozen, but that didn't bother him. He grinned with a deep breath as the cold air filled his lungs, the un-salted water making him grin. With a happy little shimmy, Kai unwrapped the scarf from his neck. "See you in a bit!" The merman said, waiting for Jason to leave before stripping from his clothes and jumping into the lake. The water was freezing cold, but it ignited his bones in a way only being in the open water did, his lungs burning before his gills broke out from his skin. His scales came out as his legs fused together and in a minute or two, Kai's head was poking out of the water, searching for the wolf.

Jason checked on the lake when they arrived and smiled when it wasn't completely frozen. He smiled at the merman reaction and how evident his excitement was, "I'll be back in a moment," he announced as he moved behind some bushes and stripped himself, taking a deep breath and letting the wolf out. It was a fast transition with the full moon so close so once he was ready, he shook his fur and let out a low howl, announcing himself before coming out from the trees, walking slowly towards the lake, hoping not to freak out Kai. His red eyes immediately found the merman and for a moment his breath got caught on his throat at the beauty before him. He had seen mermaids before, but Kai's skin was mesmerizing with that blue-ish gleam. He tilted his head as he let himself watch the details of the scales on the skin, glad he couldn't blush or make a fool of himself in this form.

Kai smiled when he heard the howl, a chill running down his spine. He swam over to the edge, his tail swinging elegantly with his teal scales. "Jason?" He asked when the wolf appeared, a smile on his face as Kai pressed his forearms onto the bank of the lake, his tail swinging happily out of the water, his wet hair pressed against his forehead. "Oh my goodness! You're huge!!" It was a surprised look, but not a scared one. Kai was excited to see him, never having seen a wolf before "Are the red eyes some alpha thing?" The merman asked, knowing the wolf likely would only be able to reply to yes or no questions.

Jason's eyes followed the way Kai's tail swung on the weather, shining under the moonlight. He took a couple of steps closer and nodded at the question as he sat by the edge of the lake, at arms reached but keeping himself away enough from the water.

The merman smiled at the clear nod he got "It suits you" then let himself sink into the water to get a bit of momentum so he could sit on at the edge of the lake, closer to Jason "Your fur looks really fluffy" he said amused "Is it rude to ask to touch it?"

Jason tilted his head and let his tongue lol out of his mouth in a dog-like smile. He huffed a little and leaned his big head so Kai could reach to touch his fur.

The merman chuckled when the wolf huffed, extremely amused of the reaction. "Okay, okay, got it" he said, reaching out to scratch the fur behind his ear with a grin. "Did you see I'm not freaking out? With all due respect, you look equal parts scary and adorable." He laughed, then pulled his hand back, gesturing to himself "What do you think?"

Jason yapped in his wolfish form at the scratches behind the ear, shaking his head and using his hind leg to scratch the other ear. He howl softly in approval at Kai showing off his true form as he tapped on the ground with his from leg as he clapping.

The reactions he got made Kai full on laugh and he reached to pet between his ears once more. "See? You ARE an expressive wolf! I can understand you perfectly!" He said with a grin, looking freer than Jason had ever seen him. "So? Wanna come in for a dip?"

Jason rolled his red eyes when the merman said he was very expressive as he agreeing. He shook his head at the question cause he wasn't a huge fan of getting his fur wet. Instead, he took a step back and laid on the almost frozen grass, nodding towards the lake as if inviting Kai to just swim around to his heart's content.

Kai laughed at the answers he got, reaching to scratch under his chin, showing no fear whatsoever. "Alright, alright, it's cold, I get it" he grinned, pushing himself off the edge and back into the freezing water, only his upper body out "Wanna see something cool?" He asked with a smirk, waiting for the wolf's agreement to submerge. Fast, Kai swam in circles, picking up speed before swimming out of the water, making a perfect arch like a dolphin, a pleased smile on his face.

It took every bit of his willpower not to tap his foot against the grass at that scratch under his chin. He nodded at the question, looking up to check every single movement from the merman, tilting his head and howling at the impressive jump.

Kai did a couple more trick jumps, basking in the admiration the wolf was showing, having legitimate fun. He'd swim around for a bit and then come back to spook Jason or jump out of the water to earn some reaction. When the night got darker, his movements got interrupted by a loud and angry howl, from not too far away. With eyes wide and a serious face, Kai stayed with just his eyes out of the water, not daring to speak. He sent Jason a very specific image in an illusion, where the leaves formed the words is it safe? in front of Jason.

Jason looked in awe at all the tricks Kai was doing. It was clear the merman was having fun and enjoying his time in the water. Jason's ears twitched before the howl echoed over the glade, making him stand up, growling and baring his teeth as he sniffed and tried to recognize the other wolf. He shook his head at Kai's particular way to ask if it was safe. He stood tall and let out a long warning howl, so whoever was around knew he was there and who he was, hoping no other wolf would come around looking for trouble.

Kai's eyes widened when the wolf shook its head and he let himself sink further, watching him from under the water, hoping the lake would hide his scent. He could hear it perfectly though, when Jason growled and bared his teeth, and he waited for a whole minute underwater before another wolf appeared in the glade. It was definitely smaller than Jason, its fur brown and its eyes yellow. Kai heard yapping and a few growls, but his view was obstructed from under the water. He could see though, when the other wolf lowered its tail and bowed its head, ears pushed back in submission.

Jason looked over his shoulder when he heard Kai going underwater but then returned his attention to the unwelcomed wolf entering the clearing. He growled in warning and moved a step closer when the younger wolf tried to challenge him but as soon as the other noticed Jason was an alpha, he lowered his head. Jason howled again, as if letting the other wolf know that he didn't want troubles and that he should leave. It took a couple of minutes for the omega to whine and back off, running off in the same direction he had came from. Jason finally relaxed and turned back to the lake, scanning the water to find Kai.

Kai watched the interaction with slight confusion and waited until Jason approached the lake again. Slowly, he came up the water, again, just his eyes out like a crocodile. With a soft gust of wind, he made the leaves on the lake spell it again, in Jason's head is it safe now?

Jason saw the leaves move again and he nodded, huffing a soft growl so Kai would come out. He wanted to explain that the other wolf was a young stray, and he meant no harm but was confused by the smells, but he just couldn't. Not on this body so he huffed and nodded towards the bushes where his clothes were before walking back to them, taking a couple of minutes to then come back in human form. "Sorry about that. I should've guess there would be more wolves around with the full moon so close," he explained and apologized.

Kai came out when Jason nodded, trusting the wolf wholeheartedly. He frowned for a moment when he nodded towards the bushes before it dawned on him "Of course, of course" Kai whispered, not knowing how far the other wolf would've been then. He watched as the wolf walked off, stirring back on the edge as he was before. The air was colder now, as there was a slight shiver on his frame, but Kai waited for Jason to come back on two legs before doing anything. "Oh no, don't worry, it was silly of me to forget there are more wolves around. Was that a friend of yours? I'm sorry I hid, I just- I'm not always welcome at first when other supernatural people meet me"

Jason shook his head, "it was my mistake, but I'm glad you didn't come alone," he huffed, "you did the right thing hiding. Wolves rarely get into the water. Not a friend. It was a lost stray, but both our smells made him curious. He freaked out a little when he noticed me," he frowned at the last part, "well then they're dumb for letting their prejudices get the best of them," he complained, "aren't you getting cold?" He asked when a whoosh of air blew between the trees.

Kai shook his head as if to say it wasn't his mistake, but he let the subject drop. "And here I was thinking I could persuade you into a dip" he joked, trying to lighten the mood "Oh, it makes sense he was curious. I'm glad he seemed to respect your position in the hierarchy" the merman said, with a shiver, then nodded "Yeah, out of the water is actually really cold" he huffed, shaking some of the water off his hair. Kai waved his tail a bit, then reached out towards Jason "Would you hand me my pants, please? They're right over there. I think it's time to go back"

Jason chuckled, "not in wolf form," he said right away, "water makes our fur heavier so it's not easy to move in the water," he explained. "I'm glad too. I didn't want this to get ugly. I don't really like unnecessary confrontations," he added seriously. Jason tried really hard not to stare at how gracefully Kai moved and how his scales caught the light, making it hard for him not to look. He nodded at the request and made his best not to blush as he moved to get the pants. He handed them to Kai, "don't you need to dry yourself before getting dressed? Just so you don't get colder," he said with a small frown, slapping himself mentally for not bringing a towel.

"Oh that makes sense! I guess I'll just have to take you for a swim on two legs then" he shrugged jokingly. The merman accepted the pants with a smile, though he blushed at the question "Erm yeah, but- I was so excited about coming over I didn't think about that. So uhm, I didn't bring a towel. But- but it's fine! I'll just dry off most with my shirt and then not wear it back home" Kai said with an awkward smile, the shirt was at his reach, so he used it to half-asssedly dry his chest.

Jason smiled, "yeah and maybe not during winter just in case," he half joked knowing he wouldn't get sick but still. He frowned and pulled off his hoodie, handing it to Kai when the merman used his shirt to dry himself a little, "here, I don't think Rhea will appreciate it if his dad get frozen on the way back," he half joked and then turned his back to Kai to give him some privacy to get dressed.

Kai laughed back, nodding along "You got yourself a deal, Jay" he nodded, then raised his brow in surprise when Jason suddenly offered him yet another piece of clothing, this time from his own body. "You don't have to-" but then it was in his hands, and it was just so warm, Kai couldn't refuse it. So he nodded, pulling it over his head before doing quick work of patting himself dry and putting his pants back over his newly formed legs. When he was slipping his shoes back on, Kai spoke "Are you always this hot? I mean- temperature wise"

Jason couldn't help to smile at the short name. One not many people used it, but he liked that Kai felt comfortable enough around him to call him that. He snorted at how the question sounded and for a moment he considered teasing Kai, but he let it slip, "yeah, we're usually this warm most of the time. Even warmer with the fur," he explained with his back still to Kai until the merman was fully dressed.

"It's still warm, the hoodie" he mused, wrapping his arms comfortably around himself and hiding his nose under the collar for a moment. "Oh really? That's handy" he said, picturing the wolf laying on the carpet, and cuddling against the soft fur in a cold night, movie on and hot cocoa in hand. Wait why did he picture himself doing it?! "I, uh-" he picked up his forgotten coat, offering it to the wolf "it's not as warm as your hoodie but still"

Jason chuckled, "yeah, I figured. My temperature got higher when I turned so it warmed my clothes faster," he explained as he turned only to find Kai hiding his nose under the collar of the hoodie, feeling his cheeks warm up with a blush. He tried to brush it off and smiled, "it is," especially when someone gets cold cause you can help," he said without thinking, "I mean to avoid hypothermia or something like that," he added right away. He shook his head at the offer, "you probably need that more than I do," he smiled and offered his hand for Kai to notice he was indeed warm even if he was just wearing a light shirt and sweatpants, "don't forget the gloves and scarf," he added as he leaned in to pick the items and hand them to Kai.

Kai nodded along, unaware of the wolf's reactions. "Of course, it sounds very cozy" he smiled, running his shirt through his drenched hair, trying to dry it off some. The merman rolled his eyes when Jason denied his coat, but reached over to touch his hand. "It's really warm" he mused throwing it over the hoodie "People are going to think we're both mad, with me overdressed and wet and you wearing just that, out in the cold" Kai chuckled at the absurdity, accepting the gloves and scarf. Once he was fully geared and with a smile on his face, he started walking with the wolf "So, what did you think?"

Jason smiled, "yeah I've heard that before," he said playfully as he watched Kai finishing drying up. He chuckled, "people seem more used to crazy things around here," he smiled reassuringly. He reached to fix the scarf tighter around the merman's neck, "there," he smiled, "you look pretty amazing. I bet it looks even better under the sunlight but the way your scales look is really cool," he said proud of himself for not tripping over his own words.

Kai chuckled when Jason said people were used to weird, but his breath hitched when suddenly Jason was closer to him, tightening the scarf around his neck. "Thanks" he smiled shyly, trying to will the flush away. He smiled at the compliment "I'm glad you liked it! The scales sparkle in the sunlight, I've been told it looks pretty. Maybe we can go for a swim sometime during the day" Kai bumped their shoulders together as they walked back, hiding his nose into the scarf with a hum. He'd never say it, but Jason smelled really nice.

Jason smiled back, noticing the blush and wondering if it was because of the warmth of the clothes or maybe he made him nervous. It wasn't new, his wolf side usually made others nervous, "anytime," he nodded as they fell into step next to Kai. "They are really pretty. and yeah, we should do that," he agreed, "I'm glad you didn't freak out with the wolf and all. I'm impressed of how chill you seemed. Not everyone reacts like that the first time. Even others wolves freak out sometimes," he said with an embarrassed smile

Kai smiled at that, and it grew wider when Jason talked about him being chill "I knew it was you" the merman said simply "I mean, you looked scary, and huge, but you were still you, I could see you behind the wolf skin. Like I said, you were very expressive" he chuckled.

Jason smiled back, "you're the only person who has ever told me I'm an expressive wolf," he chuckled, "I'm really glad you could see past the wolf," he said honestly, "but can we agree that it's not the best idea to show Rhea that side yet?" he said amused remembering what Kai had said that she might see him as a huge puppy.

"Am I, really?" The merman asked, surprised "You have the same look in your eyes" he said with a smile "Yeah, that annoyed, kinda amused one. Even if the color is different, it was still easy to recognize" Kai chuckled "I gotta ask though, do you like scritches in human form too? That's an honest, curious question. Do they feel the same?" The mention of Rhea made him scrunch his face "Okay yeah, maybe not the best idea right now... Her first time seeing a wolf should probably be with a smaller one, so it doesn't scare her for life"

Jason nodded, "yeah! But also not a lot of people have seen of like that," he shared. He laughed at the description, "wow! I hadn't noticed I had an annoyed look," he said with an apologetic smile. He blushed at the question about the scratches, "I guess I do," he rubbed the back of his neck, "it's been a while, but I think I do," he shrugged a little, "most times I'm on wolf form I'm with Chris and he's in wolf form too," he explained. He smiled and nodded, "we can tell Chris. He's not such a small wolf but he's smaller. He's also gray and his eyes are blue so he's definitely less imposing," he said figuring Chris would be thrilled to let Rhea meet his wolf side.

Kai smiled when Jason said not a lot of people had seen him in wolf form "Only your hike buddies, huh?" he teased, then blushed, stopping his walk to grab Jason by the arm "No! Wait! I didn't mean it like that! It's just- you have a no bullshit stance, it- it translates well to your wolf form, that's all" he let go of the wolf, swallowing and resuming their walk. A soft smile appeared on his lips at the answer about the scritches, not wanting to tease him further, but saving the information to memory. "Oh, that sounds a lot less scary, she's gonna love to meet him, if he doesn't mind. Maybe we can have a little get together once you're back, do you like barbecue?"

Jason shook his head, "Not really. My friends hate hiking," he joked. He stopped and frowned when Kai grabbed his arm, "it's ok. I was trying not to be that scary so maybe it worked," he smiled. "Chris is definitely a puppy. Both in wolf and human form. He's gonna love meeting you guys. I told him about Rhea when she started the classes with me, and he was ready to meet her right away. A barbecue sounds great. Maybe you can meet most of the unofficial pack then," he offered.

The joke made Kai chuckle, hiding his face in the scarf. "It did. It worked perfectly" he smiled, getting oddly emotional when Jason offered for him to meet the pack. As if he was invited in. They were almost back at their street and Kai breathed deeply before answer "That sounds wonderful. Maybe I could throw a little... unofficial housewarming barbecue." Kai said with a playful wink "By the way, what's your favorite cake? You seem like a dark chocolate kind of guy"

Jason smiled when Kai seemed less nervous about the question or his impression of him as a wolf, "I'm glad it did," he winked. "No way! I'm organizing that. You should just come over and meet everyone and not worry about cooking or anything," he insisted. He considered the question and shrugged, "I'm not a huge fan of sweets so any cake is ok. Chris loves chocolate and you'll be his favorite person if you bring anything with chocolate to the get-together," he encouraged Kai to bring something that would be highly appreciated so he didn't worry about people liking it.

The offer made him huff with a smile as they stopped in front of Kai's gate. "So from a house warming barbecue it turned into a welcome to the neighborhood thing?" He teased, shifting his weight from one foot to the other. Did Jason even understand how much that meant to him? Kai doubted it. "I'll keep that in mind then" he nodded "I uh- I had a lot of fun tonight. I feel like I keep thanking you over and over but... thank you, Jason"

Jason nodded and grinned, "I should apologies cause it took me too long to make that welcome to the neighborhood party," he joked as they approached and got closer to their streets, "I'm glad you did. Just please don't go back to the glad alone at night. It's a lot safer during the day. You can even take Rhea with you," he grinned, "you're more than welcome. That's what friends are for, right?" He smiled.

Kai laughed when Jason said he took too long, rolling his eyes fondly. "You've made me feel welcomed in other ways, so I forgive you" he said, then nodded "Of course, of course, I would never dare to go there at night without a strong alpha to protect me" the merman said with a playful smile "Yeah, I guess so." It seemed like they had just gotten closer, and it would've been too cold to just say bye and get inside his house once they reached his gate, so Kai took a step forward and wrapped his arms around Jason in a hug. A friendly hug, he had to remind his mind. Friends hugged.

Jason smiled brighter at that, "Good, I'm glad. Mom would be disappointed if I hadn't been welcoming enough," he half joked. He chuckled at the comment, "now you're just messing with me," he shook his head, "but really, don't risk it ok?" he asked with a more serious look on his face. Jason was a little surprised at the hug. He took a moment to react and hug Kai back, noticing how shorter than he was now he was closer, "hope the short swim helped," he said before pulling away with an awkward smile.

Kai chuckled at that, nodding along. The honest request got a more serious nod out of him "Don't worry, I wouldn't risk it. If I crave some night laps I'll call you" the merman winked playfully. Goddamn how was he that warm?! Kai took a moment too long to pull away, basking in the warmth, a bubbly chuckle on his chest "It did, you have no idea how much". With a tentative step backwards, Kai bit back a smile "See you at the gym?"

Jason smiled and nodded, glad that Kai listened and even assured he'd call him, "alright, that's good. Whenever you want to go to the glade at night, let me know," he tried not to blush at the wink. "Good. I'm glad it helped," he said as they pulled apart and took a step back, "I'm leaving the family after tomorrow, but I'll see you when I get back," he offered instead.

Kai nodded along, stepping onto his own lawn "Fair" he chuckled when Jason corrected him with his itinerary "In that case, have fun at your parent's house and I'll see you when you get back!" And lingering for a moment too long like a fucking schoolgirl, Kai smiled brightly with a "Good night!" and got into his house.

Kai: I feel like my actions ended it abruptly, and you were so kind to bring us food and all, you didn't even get to finish your own dinner bc of me

Kai: I appreciate your support, I really deeply do. I just didn't want Rhea to get the wrong idea

Jason: hey Kai

Jason: oh please forget that. It's ok. You didn't do anything wrong. Your kid needed you

Jason: I just realized that you both needed your time and privacy. It was already late anyway

Jason: please don't worry about it. It's ok

Kai: I just don't want you to feel like I was throwing you out just bc she woke up

Kai: she feels much better now, btw

Kai: I'd say 75% to her normal 100%

Jason: you didn't throw me out. I saw myself out because your daughter needed you

Jason: that's good. I'm glad she's feeling better

Kai: Okay then

Kai: How are you?

Jason: I'm ok. Having a day off cause apparently it snowed badly during the night and most people don't like the cold

Jason: how are you? Less worried now Rhea is better

Kai: I can't say much bc I'm still not used to this kind of cold 🥶

Kai: What are you going to do on your day off?

Kai: Yeah, definitely.

Kai: It's like my brain can't fully concentrate on anything else when I know she's not feeling ok

Kai: But I'm better now, stretching my legs. I'm thinking of going for a dip in the ocean in a bit, to warm up

Jason: I prefer warm weather too but since my temperature runs higher, cold doesn't affect me that much

Jason: I'm just playing the guitar. Trying to finish a couple of old songs

Jason: it's ok. I can imagine. She's the most important part of your life. She's priority

Jason: isn't the ocean cooler right now?

Kai: Luckyyy I’m getting jealous if the wolf powers!!!

Kai: Wait, I didn't know you played!! And composed!!!

Kai: Yes, the water is freezing, but it's water, so it's not that bad

Kai: No body of water around here will be as warm as my home sea, so they all kinda feel the same?

Kai: And there's so much a bath can do lol

Jason: you get cold easily?

Jason: yeah. Didn't mention it before. I stopped for a while. I used to have a band

Jason: that's kinda confusing. Doesn't water feels colder?

Jason: have you tried the lake?

Jason: 🤣 you're not helping yourself with the no showering allegations

Kai: I do, it's pretty annoying

Kai: That's so cool! Do you guys have any songs on streaming platforms?

Kai: It does, but if I have the scales out it doesn't 😛 But if I get my scales out when I'm out of water it gets very impractical very fast lmao

Kai: ...There's a lake?

Kai: Come onnnnn!!! 😂

Kai: It's kinda embarrassing, but it's a common practice, for my kind to draw a bath every so often when they're living in cities

Kai: It's like when you guys need to "stretch your legs" you know?

Jason: that really sucks. I don't really know what it's like to feel cold

Jason: it was a long time ago. Like 10 years ago but there's videos in YouTube I'm sure

Jason: I can imagine that. I don't think I've ever seen a merman before

Jason: outside from the little mermaid for sure 😋

Jason: there is. It's in the woods

Jason: makes sense. Sometimes I also feel the need to go for a real run as a wolf

Kai: Feeling cold sucks

Kai: If you'd like to send me some links, I'd like to watch / listen

Kai: Oh really?? Well if you tag along, you get to see one!

Kai: I'm gonna have to find out where then! Lakes are some of my favorites!

Kai: Where do you go to run?

Jason: it really does

Jason: I'll look for something not to terrible

Jason: I could show you were the lake is

Jason: Chris really likes to stop over there during full moon

Jason: in the forest

Kai: Okay I'll wait for it!

Kai: Ooh so it's a trail sight?

Kai: I'd like that 🙂 Would you go for a swim with me though? If the lake isn't frozen?

Jason: [link] that's old but hopefully it's not too terrible

Jason: not exactly but wolves don't need trails. I don't run in human form

Jason: sure, why not

Kai: Ooh I'll watch it as soon as I finish making lunch

Kai: But I'd need to do it in human form lol

Kai: It's a deal then!

Kai: I don't know if this is rude, so please tell me if it is, but would you show me your wolf when we're there?

Kai: I've never seen a werewolf in wolf form before

Jason: not rush at all

Jason: well there is a trail. What I meant is that when I go for a run I don't do it in human

Jason: it's not rude. Just unusual. People don't really want to see a wolf up close

Jason: but sure. It's just a bit  annoying cause I can't communicate when I'm in wolf form

Kai: Oh that makes more sense lol

Kai: Well I think wolves are really cool

Kai: Ah that's annoying, but I'm sure you're a pretty expressive wolf!!

Jason: it's different to run like that. I feel freer

Jason: I don't think you need the warning but just don't freak out

Jason: most people do the first time

Jason: I don't know, I don't think I am, but we'll see

Kai: I can imagine it, swimming with my scales out also feel like that

Kai: Will do my best not to freak out, I promise

Kai: I'll give you feedback later lol

Kai: When are we going tho?

Jason: I bet it's similar. Your scales and my fur are probably our real self

Jason: thanks

Jason: ok

Jason: dunno. When do you wanna go?

Kai: Is it more of a night or day thing? To go to that part of the forest?

Kai: Bc I work from home, so I'm free whenever, I just need to talk to that girl across the street, so baby sit Rhea for a few hours

Jason: it's better to go during the day

Jason: just let me know when it works better for you, and we'll go

Kai: Ok!

Jason: text me when you know when it's a good time to go.

Kai: tomorrow afternoon?

Jason: sure! Sounds good. Where should we meet?

Kai: You can text me the address or I can meet you at your place and we go from there?

Kai: You can text me the address or I can meet you at your place and we go from there?

Jason: ok

Jason: [sent location]

Jason: see you tomorrow then

Kai: See ya!!

It was easy for Jason to find Kai's house. His nose never failing him as it guided him to a pretty little house just a few blocks from his own, which shouldn't surprise him since the merman had said he lived by the beach too. He smiled a bit as he climbed the stairs and knocked on the door, carrying the bag with the tai food and the cookie fortunes for Rhea.

Kai had just realized he hadn't sent his address to Jason when he heard the knock on the door. With a small frown, he walked towards the front of the tiny home, and a smile appeared on his lips when he opened the door and saw Jason there. "Jason! I was just about to text you, oh my god, how did you find where we live?" The merman asked surprised, then stepped aside "Come in, come in"

Jason chuckled when Kai said he was about to send the address even if he was already there, “I had help,” he tapped his nose again as he got into the house with a small nod, “Thanks. Is Rhea asleep?” he asked noticing the quietness inside the house, imagining it wasn’t that calmed with a kid in.

"Ah! The wolf thing, of course" he laughed softly, rolling his eyes. He always forgot people weren't humans around here. "She is upstairs. I think she got a stomach, but she's getting better. I'm going to wake her up after we eat, so she can rest a bit longer" he closed the door, waving towards the living room "So welcome to Lee Manor. Please don't mind the mess, I'd say it's usually tidier but-" Kai shrugged playfully, taking the bags from his hands "Are you hungry?"

Jason smiled and scrunched up his nose, “Sorry…. It’s not something I can turn off and it just helps,” he said apologetically. “Oh, that’s good, I’m sure sleep will help her recover faster,” he said even if he wasn’t sure since he didn’t get sick. “Thanks! It’s nice, very homey,” he smiled as he handed Kai the bags and shrugged, “Yeah, sure, how do I help?” he said as he put his hands in his pockets unsure of what to do with himself.

"No worries, I'd probably use it if I had it too" he shrugged, taking the bags to the kitchen table "Would you grab the cups for us? In that cupboard over there" he nodded over, setting the bags around the couple of plates he had just set on the table "Juice or alcohol?"

Jason smiled, "it just comes naturally. Like breathing," he explained with a shrug. He nodded at the requests, "sure," he agreed and reached for the cups and set them on the table, "whatever you're in the mood for," he said unsure of what Kai might want.

Kai let out a tiny moan when the smell of the food hit his nose, doing a little happy shimmy, then smirked "Is this when I get you to try my margaritas?"

Jason couldn't help to chuckled at how cute and excited for the food Kai was, "maybe another time. The blender might wake Rhea up. But I'll have a beer if you have one," he smiled leaning against the counter as he watched the merman get their plates ready.

The merman clicked his tongue playfully, then turned to get to the fridge, coming back with two high-end beer bottles and handing one to Jason. "Please, have a seat" Kai smiled, taking the seat across from him, reaching for his beloved pad Thai to serve it at the plate. "What did you get for yourself?"

Jason smiled and accepted the bottle with a nod, “thanks.” He reached for the other box, “Panang Thai It smelled too good to not order it,” he grinned as he opened the box and tilted it towards Kai, “wanna try it?” he asked with a smile, unsure of when was the last time he had eaten with a friend.

Kai was halfway through pouring his pad Thai onto the plate when Jason opened his own box, earning a hum from the mermaid "It does smell amazing." Searching in his hazel eyes for a moment, to check if it wasn't overstepping, Kai smiled "Sure" before reaching with his chopsticks and taking a bite of vegetables covered in sauce. "Wow, it's- it's really good" Kai said with a surprised expression, finishing chewing "Where did you find this place?"

Jason nodded, encouraging Kai to try his food and grinned when the merman tried it and approved it, “Told you! I ordered it with beef cause it seemed like it’d go better than with sea food,” he shrugged as he served himself half of the box, leaving the rest in the middle in case Kai wanted more, “well it’s a small town so there aren’t many places of the same kind of food. This one is downtown, and my beta is not the best cook in the world so thanks to him I know all the restaurants in town,” he chuckled before taking a bite, humming happily at his choice.

Kai nodded along at the explanation "Yes, the beef compliments it much better. I'm a fan of shrimp, but it can taste weird with coconut sauce depending on the spices that are mixed" He said, then waved at his own plate "Wanna try the pad Thai? It's usually my order when I'm somewhere new because it's hard to go wrong" the merman shrugged, then laughed at the story "So you're beta is super friendly and nice, but can't cook?" Kai offered, remembering what Jason mentioned last time "I guess nobody is perfect, huh?"

Jason nodded enthusiastically,. “Exactly! Chris would argue that for sure,” he chuckled, “I like shrimp too, but I prefer it with spicy sauces or in spring rolls,” he grinned, “Thanks, it’s cool. Go for it, you were craving it so I’m not gonna steal it from you,” he teased. “Yes, that’s Chris. He’s a really good kid,” he said fondly, “I told her about Rhea being my new student and he was so excited about it. He likes kids and he probably doesn’t know it but he’s good with them,” he said proudly.

Kai chuckled at the enthusiasm, fond of how Jason talked about his beta. He seemed to care for him very much. "Oh have you ever had Hawaiian garlic shrimp scampi? I think you'd like it, it's spicy, but it's so delicious!" He said, gesturing excitedly. The comment about stealing his food made him roll his eyes before he picked some shrimp and rice noodles with his chopsticks, placing them on the edge of Jason's plate without saying a word. Kai started eating his own food then "Is that so? Well bring him over next time, maybe Rhea can get another friend" he smiled "You seem to have quite the kid-friendly pack"

Jason shook his head, “I’ve never had it, but I’d like to try it,” he smiled and then chuckled when Kai shared some of his food on Jason’s plate, “I have the feeling you’re very used to sharing your food,” he said amused. “Maybe next time I should invite you both over when Chris is around,” he offered, “we’ll it’s just us. I’m not sure about Sebastian but I feel like he likes kids too,” he shrugged as he resumed eating.

Chewing, Kai smiled and nodded "I'll make it for you sometime then! Do you like cayenne peppers?" A light blush spread across his cheeks at the amusement "Well, where I grew up sharing your food was something you did with the people you loved, so it was common for everyone in the household sometimes to eat from the same cooking pot" He shrugged, then smiled "I'd like that, I think." then Kai frowned at the mention of the other one "Sebastian is...?"

Jason smiled and nodded, “Sounds great to me,” he agreed and then hummed, “I do, they’re really good with certain foods,” he agreed and tried to bit back a smile at that blush and how coy Kai was acting, “that makes sense. Even with the bad traditions it sounds like you had a lovely community to grow up in,” he said honestly. “oh! Sebastian is Chris’ fiancé… he’s the human I mentioned before. The one I do trust,” he smiled, “I know I said I didn’t have a pack but I kinda do. Unofficially,” he smiled as he ate some more, “My best friend Erik is a dragon who recently married a former angel,” he started, “Seth, the husband, is my beta’s and Devon’s best friend, Devon is a fae who is dating another friend of mine who is a vampire. His name is Adam,” he chuckled at how crazy it all sounded, “Devon has a brother who you already met, Cameron and he is dating Trevor who is a nephilim. All of them are my unofficial pack. They’re my friends and I’m sure once you meet them, they’ll welcome you here and you’ll have a good community here too, so Rhea doesn’t miss that experience, even if it’s a little unorthodox,” he shrugged.

Kai nodded along, a melancholic smile on his face "It was. History paints us as lone killers, but sea people are social beings, we strive for community. The village I was born in was a really knit community, which can be good, but can also be a bit suffocating at times" he shrugged.

Seeing Jason talking about his pack, being it official or not, made Kai smile. For the first time since they met, Jason actually looked happy. The whole story made the merman laugh though "I feel like I might need a map, or a family tree or something" Kai teased "I think being orthodox is overrated. Your pack sounds amazing as it is, and maybe it's time to make it official" Kai gestured with his chopsticks as he spoke, then sighed with a smile "It's really lovely, you know, your determination to make us feel welcome in town. It means a lot to me, that you want to include me and Rhea."

Kai nodded along, a melancholic smile on his face "It was. History paints us as lone killers, but sea people are social beings, we strive for community. The village I was born in was a really knit community, which can be good, but can also be a bit suffocating at times" he shrugged.

Seeing Jason talking about his pack, being it official or not, made Kai smile. For the first time since they met, Jason actually looked happy. The whole story made the merman laugh though "I feel like I might need a map, or a family tree or something" Kai teased "I think being orthodox is overrated. Your pack sounds amazing as it is, and maybe it's time to make it official" Kai gestured with his chopsticks as he spoke, then sighed with a smile "It's really lovely, you know, your determination to make us feel welcome in town. It means a lot to me, that you want to include me and Rhea."

Jason noticed the sadness, "it's ok to miss it, even if you didn't agree with all the traditions. You grew up there. It's normal that you feel a little lost cause that was the world you knew," he said cause somehow Kai reminded him the way his dad used to talk about the pack that rejected them.

He laughed, "I know it's a lot to digest. But just wanted you to see that you can have that community event if comes with different species," he shrugged, "well it can be officially a pack cause of the hierarchy and mental connection and all that but I think family fits best anyway," he smiled. He blushed a little when Kai said it was lovely that he wanted them to feel welcome, "they helped when I felt lost and you two aren't that lost but maybe they can help too," he said simply.

Kai offered him a thankful smile, nodding "Thanks, it... it was a long time ago."

The merman laughed back "I'm fine with a school- or a pack, with different species, it sounds fun" he smiled. Was he... blushing? "Found family is still family, right?"

Jason nodded, "it doesn't matter. I've seen that look before. My dad still misses his old pack even if they kick him out. I know it's not time same but it makes sense that you miss the good things you had there," he reached and gave Kai's hand a squeeze.

"Sometimes it's more chaotic than you think but it's a good thing," he grinned and then he nodded, "yeap! Sometimes it's also stronger than blood family," he agreed.

Kai took a deep breath when Jason touched his hand, his eyes following the movement before he spiked softly, his voice a little lower "I feel like I keep thanking you when we talk" The werewolf's words touched deeply though, Kai couldn't remember the last time someone validated his feelings.

He had his lips parted to say something probably stupid when he heard a soft and sleepy "Daddy?" coming from the balcony of the loft. In two seconds flat he found Rhea's sleepy form with a confused look and followed it to their joined hands. As if it burned him, Kai pulled his hand back, getting to his feet "Hey baby, how are you feeling?" but she didn't care, for the moment she recognized the other man at the table she all but ran down the stairs with a "Mr. Jason!"

Jason nodded, "well you're welcome. I think it's different when someone understands what you've been through, maybe that's why it help when we talk," he smiled.

Jason looked up when he heard Rhea's voice but he frowned when Kai pulled his hand away and just then he realized that maybe he had crossed a line. He smiled when the young mermaid ran down the stairs, clearly feeling better, "hey, Rhea! Feeling better?" He asked with a small smile.

Kai noticed the frown and he sighed. He so would have to explain this to him later. She all but threw herself at Jason, offering him an unrequested hug. "I am, yes!" Rhea still had the pasty skin and slightly sunken eyes of someone definitely dehydrated and exhausted, but she at least seemed lively.

"Had I known all you needed to feel better was Mr. Jason, I'd have brought him home earlier" Kai joked, to which Rhea readily ignored, focusing on the much more interesting wolf. "Do we have class today?"

Jason huffed a little when the young mermaid threw herself at him but easily picked her up and hugged her back, "I'm glad to hear so. Your dad was worried about you," he said with a small smile.

He chuckled when Kai said that he should have brought him sooner to make her feel better, "no, we won't have class for a few days until you're completely recovered," he said seriously giving Kai a look so he knew he would only return to class when he thought she was ready to.

Given the opportunity to be picked up, Rhea wrapped her arms around Jason's neck, so they were at eye level. She rubbed at her eyes sleepily with a confused frown when Jason said they didn't have class "Why are you here then?" Rhea asked, making Kai huss an exasperated "Rhea!" as if she had offended Jason.

Jason laughed at her honest question, "well, I texted your dad to check about class and he said you weren't feeling well and that he was taking care of you so I offered to bring him dinner cause I live nearby so we were just eating when you woke up," he said simply, "I brought you some fortune cookies," he said with a wink.

Kai relaxed a bit when Jason laughed at her question. She seemed to be having some trouble to follow all the story, but at the end she smiled and nodded resolutely that it was an acceptable excuse. Her smile grew brighter at the mention of fortune cookies. "I love those!" she did a little shimmy, still in his arms, much similar to Kai's, before turning to the merman "Can I have them, dad?" she asked with a pout and Kai lifted a finger "One. And you're drinking a glass of water too, little lady."

"I know. Your dad told me about it. That's why I brought them," he chuckled at her excited reaction. "See? You get one," he smiled as he handed Rhea to Kai's arms, "I think that's probably my cue to leave. You still need some rest and your dad needs to finish eating," he said with a nod, realizing that maybe he was intruding.

Rhea smiled brightly at him when he said she got one, and easily went to Kai's arms. The merman was going to argue that Jason hadn't finished his food either, or that he didn't have to leave, but when their eyes met he realized maybe the situation had pulled on some triggers he wasn't aware of. He had been thrown into a domestic setting with a young girl after having lost a baby girl, after all. So he didn't argue, instead he just said "If you're sure" before putting Rhea on the chair he had been sitting and offering her a fortune cookie. She entertained herself with opening it carefully not to crack it while Kai turned to Jason "Thank you, again. For uh, everything"

Jason smiled to Kai so he didn't worry but he was sure the best was for him to give them some space, "yeah, I think you two need some time," he assured rubbing the back of his neck, "I can see myself out. If you two need anything just text me. I do live just a few blocks from here," he assured as he walked towards the door, "you're welcome. Hope she feels better soon."

The way their nice dinner just turned on its head still didn't sit right with him, but Kai didn't push. Instead he nodded and thanked Jason again, wishing him good night before he watched him leave. His worries were ignored for a moment though, when Rhea spoke out of nowhere, reading the tiny piece of paper "New acquaintances may taw emotions that were left frozen" she frowned "...What does that mean, dad?"

Kai: Jason hi! Nice to hear from you!

Kai: can't say I have no 😦 Rhea has been a bit under the weather this week so I stayed with her

Kai: she insists she's gonna be healthy in time for her class with you tho lol

Kai: how are you?

Jason: oh! I'm sorry to hear that. Is there anything I can help with?

Jason: let her know that we can reschedule when she feels better

Jason: I'm alright. You?

Jason: I wanted to ask if it was ok for me to get Rhea a Christmas present

Kai: It's fine, don't worry

Kai: will do! tho last time I said that I got the biggest pout of my life in return

Kai: I'm ok, a bit of a cabin fever from not leaving the house for too long lol

Kai: oh

Kai: I mean yes, that's really kind of you!

Kai: she's going to love it, whatever it is

Jason: you sure? I could stop by the store if you need anything or cook something

Jason: yeah I can imagine

Jason: ok, cool, thanks! I need to ask tho, what's her favorite color?

Kai: well

Kai: if I'm being honest, I’ve been having soup for the past three days bc of Rhea, so if you wouldn't mind bringing me something solid to eat, I'd be eternally in your debt

Kai: Her favorite color is cyan, it's the same as her tail, it's always been her favorite since she was little :3

Jason: I figured. Is there anything in particular that you'd like?

Jason: ok. Got it. Thanks

Kai: Surprise me :3

Kai: Also

Kai: May I ask what you're planning on giving her? Or is it a secret?

Jason: I'm not great at surprising people

Jason: what if I bring something you're allergic to?

Jason: her own boxing gloves. Ones that fit her hands better and with the right weight for her

Kai: That's fair, that's fair

Kai: What were you planning on having for dinner?

Kai: Omg that's adorable

Kai: She's gonna be so happy

Jason: I had nothing in mind yet. So you can choose

Jason: I heard they have good things at the brewery

Jason: I hope she likes them

Kai: Do you like Thai food?

Kai: I'd kill for some Pad Thai rn

Kai: She will, she adores you

Jason: I do, and I know a good place downtown

Jason: you got it then

Jason: should I bring something for Rhea?

Jason: it's probably cause I'm the only big pup she knows

Jason: she asked what I looked like as a wolf so big black pup seemed like a safe description

Kai: You don't exist, Jason

Kai: I don't think so, her stomach is still healing, but she loves fortune cookies, if they have some? Those should be safe

Kai: Lmao now I can't help but imagine a puppy version of you

Kai: Good idea, though by the way she tried to steal Charlie, she might try to steal you too so be careful

Jason: I'm pretty sure I don't but ok 😆

Jason: fortune cookies for her then

Jason: it's way scarier than a puppy but I didn't want to freight her

Jason: wolves don't tend to be as cute as dogs and we're also bigger than normal wolves so yeah

Kai: No, I meant like

Kai: Like I must be imagining you lol bc you're so great

Kai: Now I'm curious to see it 👀

Kai: Please tell me if I'm overstepping, but I am wondering now, are you in control when you're in wolf form?

Jason: oh! 🤣 I'm pretty sure you can imagine someone better for sure

Jason: have you seen a werewolf before?

Jason: yes. And unlike other wolves, I can change back and forth in demand. Not just with the full moon or a burst of emotions

Kai: Never seen one, nope

Kai: Where I come from we're pretty traditional, my community was always just sea people and humans

Kai: I've met a handful of supernatural people on our moves, but never got to see them be themselves

Kai: You do?! That's really impressive!

Jason: makes sense. Wolves’ packs usually keep to themselves too

Jason: it's not always safe

Jason: born wolves have better control over the wolf than bitten ones. Most alphas can turn on demand but others can learn too. It just takes a lot of control and a good connection with their wolf

Kai: I guess being friends is an act of revolution, huh?

Kai: Is that where the yoga comes in?

Jason: I didn't grow up in a pack so it's not for me, but I can see why it can be for you 😊

Jason: partly. Being a wolf requires lots of self-control cause it's dangerous when we lose it and as teenagers it's hard to keep a cool head

Jason: most wolves have their first change in their teen years

Kai: Ah that makes puberty really complicated, I imagine

Kai: Do you have that self-control?

Jason: it does. It's also dangerous for them and others

Jason: I do. That's why I started yoga and boxing at a very young age

Jason: my father made sure I could control the wolf in me

Jason: do you in through something similar?

Kai: Your father sounds like a thoughtful man

Kai: How much do you know about the powers of my people, Jason?

Jason: he's a very smart man. I'm lucky to have him

Jason: not much. Persuasive powers, lethal in water, sensitive to fire and heat, unnatural beauty

Jason: that's pretty much all I know

Kai: Well, our powers also strengthen considerably around puberty

Kai: But you see, there's no unnatural beauty in Merpeople

Kai: What happens is, if you can hear our voice, we can tap into your memory and create a sort of hallucination around you

Kai: It's very hard to tell what's real and what isn't

Kai: And teenagers have difficulty controlling those, so it's very complicated to be around them

Kai: So the teenage years are very lonely, and you question every day if the people around you are there because they want to be, or because you created a reality they like without meaning to

Jason: that's sounds harsh

Jason: are you worried about Rhea's going through that phase?

Jason: is there a way to protect yourself from those hallucinations?

Kai: Yeah, it takes a big mental toll

Kai: I am, yeah, but I'm trying to do it differently than my parents did

Kai: Remember I told you about the village being traditional? They don't tell us what to expect

Kai: So I've been telling Rhea

Kai: People usually plug their ears, since it doesn't work if they can't hear us

Kai: But I've heard some enchanted tokens going around, like jewelry, that promises to lower the effectiveness too

Kai: Are you worried I'll do it?

Jason: it's good that you're telling her

Jason: it's good for her to know what's coming and what to expect so she can reach out to you for help

Jason: interesting

Jason: No. I can sense when someone has ill intentions. You don't

Kai: I hope so, she's a smart girl, so my goal is that her emotional maturity is better than the people from our hometown, at least

Kai: we also have an open communication way that I never had with my parents, so when she has questions she knows she has support

Kai: Is that a wolf thing or a Jason thing?

Jason: I'm sure you're succeeding. She's very smart and mature for her age already

Jason: that's a good thing. I'm sure she's gonna be fine

Jason: both

Kai: Thank you, Jason, you're very sweet

Kai: Oh well

Kai: Even though I don't need to, I'd like to say anyway that I don't do those unless people ask me to

Kai: So you don't have to worry around me ok?

Jason: I'm just honest

Jason: ok. Like I said, I can tell you wouldn't do something like that just because

Jason: I'm on my way, anything else you need?

Kai: Okay

Kai: Nope! I'm set with Pad Thai and some company!

Jason: you sure? I don't want to importunate you

Jason: I know you have your hands full with Rhea and her recovery

Kai: I mean, unless you don't want to

Kai: But I could really use a couple of hours talking with an actual grown up for a change lol

Jason: oh it's not that, I just really don't wanna trouble you

Jason: yeah, sure, I'll stay for dinner since I already got my own too

Kai: Jason, you're the one BRINGING the food, all my troubles would be to set a table and wash the dishes afterwards

Kai: Both things I'd have to do regardless

Kai: And I happen to enjoy your company

Jason: ok good. Almost there

Jason: well that's good I guess

Things were looking up. Slowly, but surely, they were settling into town. The first gymnastics group class had been a success, even if Rhea was still quiet and didn't talk much with the other kids. The boxing lessons though we're the highlight of the week, with the girl questioning almost daily about when the next would be. And then there was Cassidy, the kid from out of town who Rhea instantly connected with the other day. She wasn't human, that's for sure, but Kai wasn't sure what flavor of supernatural she was yet.

He traded phone numbers with her guardian and then, the morning after, texted him thanks to some mermaid's doe eyes. She was set to leave that night, so he was able to set up an afternoon play date at the beach. Kai still had work to do, so he took his tablet and sat on a beach towel, by the edge of the beach line, watching as the kids play in the water. He was surprised though, when he looked up at some point, to find a familiar face on a walk. "Jason! Hi!" The merman waved him over, a big smile on his face.

Among all the things Jason was going back to was his morning runs at the beach with Charlie. His companion had been ecstatic when they started running again since the golden retriever had noticed the improvement in the wolf. This time Jason had a tennis ball for Charlie to chase and even if they were in the late fall, he was running shirtless and with some loose shorts thanks to the wolf's higher body temperature.

He was distracted by Charlie who had proudly brought the ball to him and started barking so he would throw it again when he heard a familiar voice nearby. He looked up and smiled when he found Rhea's dad sitting by the beachline, "Hey, Kai, how are you?" he waved back as he walked towards him while Charlie was happily running and jumping on the waves.

Kai watched with an endeared smile as the dog barked happily and then chased after the ball. His smile faltered a bit in surprise when the wolf approached him, noticing his naked chest covered in tattoos. The merman's own couple of tattoos were in display as well, since none of them were wearing a shirt, but Jason's build was definitely bigger and more defined than Kai. Why was he even thinking about it anyway?! "H-hey, good good. I'm in play date duty today" he nodded over the water, where Rhea and Cassidy were squealing at the golden retriever that ran past them. "Cute dog"

Jason smiled and looked towards the sound of kids laughing, "I see... Looks like Rhea found a good friend," he smiled, "and not human, even better," he chuckled nodding towards the space next to Kai, "Is it ok if I join you for a minute? I need to catch my breath," he said playfully even if he could run for hours, and he was fresh as a lettuce. "Thanks... That's Charlie and I think he just made friends too," he chuckled, "he's my emotional support dog but more than that he's a dear friend," he smiled watching Charlie chase after the girls.

Kai hummed at that "Yeah, I'm not sure what she is yet, but she's been perfectly nice and polite, so I have no complaints" he shrugged, then chuckled when Jason talked about catching his breath, highly doubting it "Of course. My beach towel is your beach towel" the merman teased, scooting to the side and putting the tablet aside "He seems very friendly. What's his name?"

Jason hummed and took a deep breath, closing his eyes to try to identify the smell, "Celestial... Nephilim for sure cause there's some human in there," he grinned cause he recognized the scent from Trevor, "Some angel has been misbehaving but I haven't sense any new one around," he frowned confused about where she had come from. He smiled and sat next to the merman as he kept an eye on Charlie and chuckled when Kai asked for the name even if he had said it already, "Someone seems distracted today," he smiled, "His name is Charlie," he repeated as the dog came running with the ball in his mouth, dropping it by Jason's feet, "he is very friendly, more than he should sometimes," he said playfully as his dog only tilted his head and let his tongue lol out in a canine smile, "stop being a goof," he said shaking his head as he threw the ball again for the dog to chase it.

It was mesmerizing to watch Jason sniff the girl out, as weird as it sounded. He looked peaceful. The answer made him frown, though "Nephilim? I thought those were myths" he said, a bit shocked to see an actual angel around. "Maybe Cameron is an angel then" he mused, watching them okay around with the dog. "What? Oh sorry" Kai shook his head with an embarrassed smile "Your tattoos were distracting me" the merman teased, bumping their shoulders together as the dog came running. It was one of the most adorable things he's ever seen that dog smiled, and Kai couldn't help but to smile back "Why, nice to meet you, Charlie" he nodded, watching the dog run away again "So you live nearby? Or just like long walks on the beach?"

Jason laughed when Kai suggested Cameron was the angel, "Oh no, that one is far from an angel. He and his brother are faes, the brother, Devon is one of my beta's best friends, his other best friend is an angel... well was, long story," he sighed, "there's also an adult nephilim in town, probably one of the very few in existence, but as far as I remember those can't have kids so now I'm curious where she comes from," he smiled as he provided Kai with some information about the supernaturals in town, it was safer for him to know. He laughed again when Kai blamed his distraction on his tattoos, "sure, go blame the wolf's ink," he shook his head, "he said nice to meet you too but was more focused on not losing his ball," he said playfully, "I do live nearby, just past those cabins one street up. I grew up near the beach so I kinda needed that when I moved here," he sighed, "you found a place nearby too? cause it's kinda obvious you and Rhea would want to be near the water," he smiled.

Kai liked that laugh, though he was confused what he said wrong to make it happen. "Oh wow, they weren't kidding when they called this town a supernatural hot spot, huh? So many species walking around... Maybe she's the daughter of Cameron with an angel then? No, wait, but then she'd be half fae, not human... This is really confusing" he chuckled "It's great ink though, I'll give you that. You're like a walking waldo puzzle, every time I look at you I find something different." He traded with a smile "Very polite of him" Kai hummed at the answer, looking towards where Jason mentioned "Oh that's actually pretty close to where we're living, I think we're two blocks apart. Yeah, we are Sea People, so we needed some salt water nearby, that's why we've always lived around coastal towns. If we spend too long away from the sea it... gets bad" Kai shrugged, not giving him further context "I'm glad we're neighbors though! Now I know where I can go when I need a cup of sugar or something"

Jason smiled and shook his head, "They weren't and that's not even half of it," he said amused, and then laughed, "Doubtful, very doubtful, I'm not sure if Nephilims can have kids but Trevor and Cameron haven't been dating for long, I'll have to ask around, " he smiled, "I'm sure it gets worse when it's interspecies," he joked. "Why thanks, I thought these through, and to be fair, this is all there is so no more surprises, " he said leaning back a little and pointing to his mostly inked skin, "I'm pretty sure I already ran out of space," he shrugged, "yours look pretty cool. Just the right design and a great spot," he smiled admiring Kai's chest tattoo, "Oh cool! We're neighbors," he smiled and nodded, "yeah I imagine so, it seems safer for you two to be near the sea," he nodded in understanding, "sure thing, anything you need, " he offered.

"I feel like I need a freaking phone list of people" he joked with a shrug "Cameron is dating the other Nephilim? The one you mentioned?" Kai asked with a confused frown, trying to connect the dots. He leaned back as well when Jason did, so they were at the same level "Wow, so you're tattooed everywhere? That's gutsy" he mused, then smiled "Thanks. I got this one back at home" Kai pointed to the one on his peck, then his shoulder "And this one when I left" He chuckled when Jason offered it "Anything I need? You know, that's a dangerous thing to offer to a merman."

Jason was really amused by Kai's reaction, "You weren't joking when you said you didn't know many creatures from other species right?" he said and relaxed, ready to give the merman some context, "yes Cameron the fae is dating Trevor the Nephilim. Not sure where that kid nephilim came from but I imagine it has something to do with Cameron," he shrugged. He nodded, "Yeah... chest, back, arms, legs, hands, and neck," he tilted his head to the side to show some flowers he had gotten lately. He smiled when Kai showed his ink, "What language is that one?" he asked not recognizing it and then he hummed at the other tattoo, "is that a map?" he asked confused. He chuckled, "Why? you plan to ask for more than coffee, sugar, and salt?" he joked, "I also have a pool you and Rhea can use whenever," he said with a shrug. Jason smiled and shook his head, "They weren't and that's not even half of it," he said amused, and then laughed, "Doubtful, very doubtful, I'm not sure if Nephilims can have kids but Trevor and Cameron haven't been dating for long, I'll have to ask around, " he smiled, "I'm sure it gets worse when it's interspecies," he joked. "Why thanks, I thought these through, and to be fair, this is all there is so no more surprises, " he said leaning back a little and pointing to his mostly inked skin, "I'm pretty sure I already ran out of space," he shrugged, "yours look pretty cool. Just the right design and a great spot," he smiled admiring Kai's chest tattoo, "Oh cool! We're neighbors," he smiled and nodded, "yeah I imagine so, it seems safer for you two to be near the sea," he nodded in understanding, "sure thing, anything you need, " he offered.

Kai shrugged "We're low profile, and we never got to settle into the places we lived long enough to actually get to know people. And I don't have a nose like yours, so I actually need to talk to people to figure out what they are, and that's always a hassle" the merman laughed "Besides, getting the gossip from you is far more entertaining" he shrugged again with a playful smile. A low whistle was blown when he showed the tattoos, Kai taking a moment to unashamedly look at the other's skin "Now I get why Rhea liked you so much, you're basically Maui" Kai teased, then nodded "Yeah, it's the map of my old underwater town. I lived... here" the merman pointed to a particular dot near his shoulder blade "And this is Nā kānaka o kai, the language of my people. It's the end of a children's bedtime story. It means something like And so their fins curled together in a spiral of bubbles, and they danced down to the ocean floor, where they'd stay for the next six months." Kai laughed out loud at the implications of that last question "When you say you have a cute dog and a pool, you make it really hard not to want to ask for more, Jason!"

Jason nodded, "makes sense. Not everyone is as confronting as wolves," he admitted with a shrug. He laughed "it's all my beta's fault. He's very energetic and friendly and when we're on werewolf mode we share this mental link and he thinks loudly," he said playfully. He shook his head, "she hadn't seen this much in class," he assured, "and I'm not Hawaiian so I'm not sure I'd qualify to be Maui," he chuckled. "That's a really cool tattoo idea. It's nice to have those important things under your skin," he smiled as he listened to the story about the language of his people, "that's a sweet story, very meaningful tattoos you have there," he nodded. The laugh was fresh. New and he appreciated that but was he flirting? Nah! That couldn't be, "I'm trying to be a good neighbor," he smiled and shrugged.

Kai was enthralled when he started talking about the mental connection "Oh that sounds both wonderful and terrifying, to have that mental connection. It sure must make you guys very close" he said, then chuckled "I'm sure Rhea would consent to the cultural appropriation, so you're fine" Kai teased. Talking about the story made his smile grow soft "Yeah, it's... sort of like our version of the Little Mermaid. In this story this mermaid falls in love with a human, and she goes to a witch to ask for legs, but at the same time the human is praying to his god to get fins to be with her. They both get their wishes granted but then they keep being apart, just the other way around. Stuff happens and in the end they get to spend six months in the water and six months on land each year, together forever." He sighed, looking away "This give and take, this balance of energy put into it, that's love for me." Noticing how he got deep fast, Kai cleared his throat "I think you lost your dog" the merman pointed out, nodding towards the two girls who now threw the tennis ball back and forth as Charlie ran happily between them trying to catch it.

Jason smiled, "it's actually really comforting. Before accepting Chris into my two people pack it was very quit in here," he tapped his temple, "sometimes silence isn't the best when you're not alright," he sighed. He smiled, "we'll have to ask her tho long hair really doesn't suit me," he scrunched up his nose at the memories of his youth. He listened at the story, nodding understanding the implications, wondering if Kai's wife had been human too but unsure about asking, "I believe in balance too even if sometimes it feels unfair but that's a really pretty story," he said with a sad smile. He looked at where the merman had pointed and faked a huffed, "I've always known he'd change of for a happier companion in a heartbeat," he joked and then chuckled, "I assume pets weren't on the plans right? With all the moving," he said with a smile.

"It sounds like he's good for you. I'm glad you have him. Loneliness can be... all-consuming sometimes" Kai said simply, then smiled tentatively "It is, isn't it? It was my favorite story growing up. Did you have one too? Rest assured, I reserve my right to laugh if it is Beauty and the Beast" he teased with a smirk "Then I suppose you'd just need to get happier to get him back, huh? Sounds easy enough" Kai winked at him, then shrugged "I adore animals, but one living being as my responsibility has been more than enough. Now, though, we might think about it, since we're not supposed to move for a while... but don't tell her, or Rhea won't stop until I get a puppy."

Jason nodded, "He really is. Sometimes I feel like Val sent him my way," he smiled sadly. He laughed at the joke and shook his head, "Our stories aren't romantic tho. Most are about how we're children of the moon and she sing for us and guide us to protect the pack and our loved ones," .d smiled remembering the legends his father used to share, "it kinda defeats the purpose when the pack my father grew up in casted us out but still he made sure to pass on the legends so I could pass them on my kids one day," he explained with a melancholic tone. He smiled a little and shrugged, "Oh I've been trying but it's harder some days," he admitted even if the wink made him smile a little. "Don't worry about it! I won't tell her. She can borrow Charlie when she feels like she needs a playful friends around," he offered.

Kai offered him a sad smile himself "Val? She's your Marina then?" He asked softly, glad to finally put a name to her mental image. "That's a sweet story. The moon is sacred to my people too, with the change of tides and all... well, you have a pack now, right? Is your beta a born wolf too? Maybe you could pass on the stories to him" the merman shrugged, trying to find a silver lining. He sighed when Jason talked about it being hard, being happy "Tell me about it. And it gets so much worse around their birthday, or the anniversary of it, right? Mari's in September, it's always a miserable time"

Jason nodded and sighed, "Valerie. She was the sweetest and kindest creature in this world," he smiled a little. "The moon has more power over every little creature than everyone think," he said with a shrug, "I do have a pack but I'm not sure. He's not a born wolf. He was bitten and left alone. I meet him before his first full moon and it's crazy but it's like he was meant to be a wolf. He's so natural about it, even more than some born ones, very Bella of him," he joked with one of the Twilight references Chris always used. He huffed “it's horrible. It's like having an open wound again," he sighed, "then we can be miserable together. Valerie's birthday was on September too and the accident happened right on our anniversary and October and she passed a couple days later so two months are pretty much the shittiest part of the year for me," he admitted.

Kai offered him a kind smile "I believe you. Was she human?" He asked softly, leaving it wide open in case Jason didn't want to talk about it, yet still giving him the opportunity to, if he did. The Bella comment made him laugh "That sounds like... he was supposed to be a part of your pack, then. If he's such a natural, I think he'd like to learn about the stories of your ancestors" Kai smiled, watching as Cassidy and Rhea were now determined to build a Charlie sculpture out of wet sand. "Marina's birthday was in September, she passed in January, so it's just enough time to start getting better until it hits you again" the merman sighed "I think I'd like that. Being miserable together."

Jason nodded, "She was. Story repeats itself apparently," he smiled remembering his own mother is human. "I'm not sure if he was meant to be part of my pack but I'm glad it was of who watched over him. I've met other bitten wolves and most grow bitter and resentful of the wolf in them. They see it as a monster and a curse when it's actually a gift," he shrugged not wanting to let his mind go there. He smiled a little at how much Charlie was enjoying himself playing with the girls and the sand. He was gonna hate the shower later. "Oh man. It sucks cause you're barely getting back to yourself when the pain comes back," he sighed. "I think it might help. It's always worse when you're feeling miserable and everyone around you wants to try to make you feel better and you feel even worse cause you just can't turn it off... it comes in waves. Some easier to deal with than others that drown you," he said confident that Kai would get it. Most people didn't.

That made Kai smile, the cyclical nature of life always gave him hope. "It does. Balance, right?" He asked, remembering them talking about it before. "I can imagine. They're kinda hype right now, but if a human suddenly turned into someone like me, I doubt they'd think of it as a blessing" Kai shrugged, trying to relate. It was refreshing to have someone who understood perfectly how she felt, his pain and longing. Kai had never had that before. "It really does. It's... god, it's so hard to keep face around Rhea when it hits. I love my baby with all my heart, but sometimes I look at her and-" his eyes grew wet, and Kai was surprised by it, it was almost too late when he wiped them with the back of his hand "And all I see is her mother. How do you explain that to a kid, you know?"

Jason nodded, "balance indeed," he agreed. "If humans could turn into Merpeople, Val would have been very happy and she probably would still be here," he sighed. Jason realized that maybe not having his daughter was a blessing in disguise because he wasn't sure he could deal with that, "you're definitely stronger than me. I don't think I could handle having such a bright reminder," he sighed and reached to give Kai's shoulder a soft squeeze when he noticed the tears, "I don't know what you could say to her... it's a tough situation. You still have her but it's a living reminder so it must be bittersweet."

"Funny thing is, if Merpeople could turn into humans, Marina would be around too" his smile had no color and Kai let out a wet chuckle when Jason squeezed his shoulder, wiping at his face when more tears threatened to fall "god, I'm not usually such a crybaby, I swear" he said embarrassedly, then sighed "I think she knows, even if she doesn't have the words for it just yet. I'm just glad that now when this wave hits, she can hang out with some new friends and not... just watch me mope about"

Jason sighed cause it rounder unfair all around for them both. "Well you have all the right and reasons to be," he assured, "that's a good thing and if you ever need a moment just send her my way," he offered with a smile.

"...Thanks" he mumbled, then chuckled when Jason offered that "Okay, so let's recap. You offered me sugar, salt, flour, coffee, access to your pool, play dates with your dog and now you're offering to babysit Rhea" Kai smirked, wiping the last of his tears as he chuckled at the absurdity of it all "Are you sure I'm not in a dating show or something?" He looked around playfully "Tell me, where are the cameras?"

Jason faked a frown, "I don't remember offering you flour tho," he said in a teasing tone. The word dating made his frown for real this time, "I'm pretty sure it's not. That's one thing I'm pretty sure I wouldn't do," he said with a light smile, "I guess I kinda know what you're going through so I'm trying to help," he assured.

That joke made the merman laugh out loud, throwing his head back in amusement. "Not a big fan of dating shows then? There are some crazy ones out there nowadays" he said with a smile, then sighed, dropping the jokes "I know. I really appreciate it, Jason. It's... refreshing, to have someone like you to talk to" Kai paused "I wish I could offer something in return"

Jason winced at the question, "not a fan of dating at all..." he admitted with a shrug, looking away. "Same. I appreciate that you listen too, and it helps having someone who can relate even if it's in something so shitty like this," he sighed, "you already help. It's nice knowing one is not alone in these kind of feelings," he smiled a bit.

Kai nodded along "I get it, a 100%. I don't think I could do it again, not now that I know how it feels to lose them" the merman sighed, then offered a smile to the werewolf. He opened his mouth to thank him when a tiny hurricane of a person came running with a golden retriever by her side "Dad! Dad! Can we keep him?" She asked with puppy dog eyes, then blushed deeply when she noticed her instructor was sitting beside her father. "Sorry! Hello, Mr. Jason."

Jason smiled sadly, "oh I tried it, it backfired big time and I lost a friend so yeah, maybe that's not for me anymore," he shrugged. It was hard not to smile when he could sense certain little mermaid running towards them and he wasn't that surprised when she interrupted her dad, "It's ok. Hi, Rhea, having fun?" he asked not commenting how Charlie was his.

"I'm sorry to hear that" was all he got to say before Rhea came running. The honest question made him chuckle and he smiled when Jason entertained Rhea. "Yes! Me and Cassy made him a castle and we played catch and he's super smart! Pleeeease" she said, kneeling in front of them and hugging Charlie, who seemed excited with the attention. "Baby, we can't keep him, he has a collar, see?" Kai said, showing it to her, to which she frowned "But he was all alone!"

Jason was glad to be interrupted during that part of the conversation. He tried really hard not to laugh when Rhea insisted on keeping Charlie and how he was alone and honestly, he wasn't sure how Kai was able to say no to that. If it was him with his daughter, he'd spoil her so damn much. "Charlie really likes making friends, but unfortunately he signed a contract to keep me company, little one," he said with a little smile.

Rhea's heartbreak was immediately replaced by honest confusion "Wait, he's yours?!" She hugged Charlie tighter "Why is he never around when we have class?" The question made Kai chuckle, and he pushed her damp, salty hair off her face "Dogs don't need to learn how to fight, do they?" The merman asked, but she was enthralled by the conversation with her teacher "Can he come to our class, Mr. Jason?"

Jason laughed a little at her question, "He is, yes," he smiled, "because he stays at home taking care of it," he joked and smiled at Kai's answer. He considered it for a moment, "I think he might get bored, and you might get distracted, so how about I talk to your dad, and we schedule playdate with him?" he offered instead.

The way Jason entertained the conversation with Rhea melted the merman's heart and he found himself smiling as he watched. She nodded seriously when he said he was taking care of it, though it vanished quickly when the offer was made and she was left squealing "Wait, can I? Please please please dad, can I, please?" She was pouring again and Kai sighed playfully "Fiiiine. But only if you let poor Charlie go home with no pouts today" She thought for a moment and then nodded "Deal!" Before she went off running back to the sea, excitedly telling Cassidy about what just happened, with Charlie running after her. "I hope you realize you created a monster."

Jason was gladly amused that Rhea agreed on the deal and how Kai seemed to know his daughter so well to add more to the deal. He tried his best not to laugh at how easily the merman was convinced. He shrugged, "They both deserve a friends, besides I did say we had to schedule those so you still have the power," he winked, "She does have you wrapped around her little finger," he teased.

"True, true, you're smart, Jason" Kai teased, though the wink took him by surprise, and he took a moment to react "Of course she does, did you see that face? How can anyone say no to that face?"

Jason laughed a little, "just a little bit," he joked as he looked back to Charlie chasing on the girls. "I saw. It's gonna make it hard for me to say no go class but hopefully she'll take some time to learn it'll work with me too," he said playfully.

Kai laughed when Jason said he wasn't immune to Rhea's pleading face. "Good luck" he said simply, then added "Though she respects you a lot, I don't think she'd use these low blows with you, at least not in class." Kai sighed "She's very excited about the classes, she asks me about them pretty much everyday"

Jason smiled, "I think I'm gonna need it for sure," he joked and then nodded when the merman said Rhea respected him, "I know. She's a good kid. You're doing a great job with her," he assured. "I'm glad she's liking it. She works hard."

Kai: sorry to text you out of the blue, I just didn't want to embarrass Rhea yesterday asking while she was there too

Kai: how did the class go?

Kai: what do you think?

Jason: Hi Kai, yeah I remember you

Jason: no it's cool. I figured I'd hear from you soon either through text or call cause it was clear you wanted to know how she did, but Rhea seems quite self-conscious about not wanting to be treated as a little kid

Jason: it went well. She definitively has the energy and seems compromised to keep up with the lessons

Jason: she's eager to learn and she's a good kid, she listens and asks for clarification when something isn't clear

Jason: if it's ok with you and she liked the lessons I'm more than happy to take her as a student for as long as she want to keep up

Kai: oh no, she's in that pre-teen phase that doesn't want to be a kid anymore

Kai: that's great!

Kai: she is a great kid, it just takes a while for her to warm up to people

Kai: she came home super excited, but I wanted to hear from you too

Kai: I think she'd love to continue the classes

Jason: Good luck with that. I can only imagine how hard that might be

Jason: I know I was a nightmare to my parents when I was a teen, but also I guess it's very different with girls

Jason: I gotta admit she wasn't as shy as I thought. She was talkative enough and kind. Also funny

Jason: I'm glad to hear she wasn't disappointed by the class. I explained that we need to work on condition first and the punching part of the class is the shortest

Jason: fantastic! Then I guess I'll see you both next Tuesday?

Kai: it's a balance

Kai: she wants to be treated like an adult, but still wants to be called my princess lol

Kai: oh she liked you then!

Kai: she told me you told her a super-secret secret that she couldn't tell me 😮 so I guess you're best friends now lol

Kai: yup! should we keep it at 4pm?

Jason: everything in life is so that makes sense

Jason: and obviously you'll always treat her as such as you should

Jason: I think she did. She looked intimidated at first, but that happens often

Jason: well like I said, I don't hide what I am to other supernaturals so she was excited to know I'm not human and I suppose that must be the secret

Jason: if it works for you, then it's fine, we can keep that time

Kai: obviously, she'll always be my little girl

Kai: oh so I know the secret now! 😈

Kai: she hasn't met a lot of people from other species, apart from humans, so she's usually excited when she does, bc our home rule is that she can't tell what she is to humans, but supernaturals are fine

Kai: she's at the stage that she hates hiding it

Kai: specially bc when she gets to play with other girls her age they always want to "play mermaids" apparently lol

Kai: perfect! thank you so much!

Jason: I'm sure she loves knowing that

Jason: you already knew!

Jason: oh well, she's gonna feel more comfortable here being able to tell other supernaturals what she is. It's nice not having to hide yourself

Jason: well I get her. I hated it too

Jason: that must be very annoying for her not to be able to show she's actually one

Jason: You're welcome. Hope this helps a little with the settling in. At least it helps taking a worry off your head

Kai: I knew the information but not ✨ the secret ✨

Kai: I hope so, my kind usually has to revert to not-always-consensual hallucinations to hide itself, I’m trying really hard, so she doesn't have to learn to do it

Kai: did you grow up in a pack, Jason?

Kai: she said the most annoying part is that the girls "play mermaids wrong" lol so apparently accuracy is the biggest problem

Kai: it does! she's gonna try the gymnastic group class next week as well, I’m hoping she feels safe enough to interact a bit more with the other kids, hopefully make some friends

Kai: kids shouldn't be lonely when they're in their teens

Jason: Don't tell her, I don't need her to dislike me too soon

Jason: It's good that you're looking for a different way to raise her. You know what's better for her and maybe give her a home where she doesn't have to hide so much might be good for her

Jason: I didn't. My dad was expelled from his pack when he fell in love with my mom. She's human, so I grew up playing human

Jason: as it should be. It annoys me to no end to watch inaccurate werewolves movies

Jason: hope the class goes well. The kids that come to the gym are mostly humans, but they are good kids, we've never had any troubles

Jason: that's true, but she's a sweet girl, I'm sure she'll make friends soon

Kai: oh I wouldn't dare!

Kai: hiding is never ideal, but it's necessary when you want to fit in.

Kai: and we have a lot of things to worry about rn, I don't want hiding to be one of them too

Kai: oh wow! traditions do suck huh

Kai: in the tribe I grew up in, if the mother of a kid died, the kid was to be given to a "capable" couple to raise, be adopted out

Kai: I had just lost Marina, I couldn't lose Rhea too, so we left

Kai: so I get it, I guess

Kai: lmao are there too many incoherences? no full moon and silver bullets?

Kai: thanks, Jason (:

Jason: now you have a secret to keep too

Jason: that's true. With time you learn that fitting in is not for the best all the time tho

Jason: I hope things settle down soon for you so all you and her have to worry about is being happy

Jason: they really do but it is what it is

Jason: wow! Sorry but that's stupid!

Jason: completely understandable you took your daughter and left.

Jason: Losing a partner is devastating, losing them both is something I don't wish on anyone

Jason: yes, but the moon and silver are true tho, other things aren't

Jason: anytime

Kai: true true, look at you sharing all your secrets 😛

Kai: you're really kind, Jason

Kai: thanks, I thought so too

Kai: I would never let Rhea lose her father after just losing her mother too

Kai: lmao I get it, it happens with mermaids too

Kai: the most ridiculous one I’ve seen was that we turned back into fish if we get wet like

Kai: do humans think we never shower???

Jason: only with those who look trustworthy

Jason: thanks

Jason: you're very fortunate to still have your daughter

Jason: does she ask about her mother a lot?

Jason: you don't have to answer tho, that's too personal. Sorry

Jason: lmao! well now that one is ridiculous, see? all the dumb stories humans make up about supernaturals are just annoying

Kai: aw thanks (:

Kai: I’m sorry if I’m overstepping but

Kai: you speak as if you had a daughter too

Kai: she did before, now just a bit, every now and then

Kai: she doesn't remember her, Rhea was four when her mother passed, but sometimes someone's mother does something and she asks about Marina

Kai: it's fine, please, don't worry. I don't mind telling you, I have the feeling you understand my situation better than most

Kai: not fond of humans, are we?

Jason: anytime

Jason: it's alright

Jason: I didn't have the chance. My wife was pregnant when she passed

Jason: it wasn't until a few years ago that I found out the baby was a girl. I have a friend who used to work with the people who passed. He told me about my kid, my daughter and allowed me to say goodbye to them

Jason: She was too young. It's good you keep her memory alive telling Rhea about her

Jason: yeah. It sucks but it's also kinda nice to talk to someone who understands

Jason: not everyone does and people tend to get frustrated cause some wounds don't heal so fast

Jason: just some. My mom is human and she's fantastic. My beta's fiancé is one and he's pretty cool too, so it depends on the human I guess

Kai: that's

Kai: god, nobody should ever have to go through that

Kai: I’m glad you got to talk to them though

Kai: I’d kill to have that chance

Kai: it really is nice to talk to someone who understands, isn't it?

Kai: I don't think I’ve ever been able to be open like this about it with someone

Kai: so thank you, Jason

Kai: well for him to be a human you like, he must be quite the guy 😛

Kai: I don't blame you, though. the worst days of my life have all been brought by humans

Jason: I agree but I've been old so many time that it's just the way life is that kinda helps to know it wasn't personal

Jason: thanks. It helped a little

Jason: wish I could help. Unfortunately said friend changed species so now he's on the unalive team

Jason: I'll ask tho, maybe he still knows someone who can help

Jason: it is. It's refreshing not having to filter things down so people don't get uncomfortable

Jason: thank you for the trust and for listening too

Jason: he's an honorable man, that counts a lot for me

Jason: mine too, so I get you

Kai: I’ll keep that in mind

Kai: wait, changed species? unalive team???

Kai: is he a zombie??? 👀  bc I’m deadly afraid of those

Kai: hey, whenever you wanna talk, I’m here

Kai: tho I’ve learned talking about loss hurts less over coffee

Jason: zombies aren't really. He's a vampire. He's not dead but not alive either so unalive sounds more fitting

Jason: thanks. Same for you. If you want to talk you know where to find me

Jason: or tequila but coffee works 😊

Kai: and he's your friend? aren't vampires and werewolves deadly enemies?

Kai: oh you're a tequila man? I know how to make some mean margaritas, so I might take you up on that 😛

Jason: just another inaccuracy

Jason: well we are enemies, but Adam is an exception

Jason: tequila is meant to be drank straight so let's stick to coffee 😆

Kai: so that's not that inaccurate lol

Kai: I'll keep that in mind in case I meet someone called Adam

Kai: :OOOOOO you only think that bc you've never drank my margarita 😛

Kai: but I suppose liking tequila straight might as well be the only straight thing about me so that works too lol

Jason: just slightly inaccurate

Jason: he works at the graveyard in case you wanna meet him sooner

Jason: that’s true. I might give them a chance one day

Jason: you too uh? Too many coincidences. You're sure you're not a spy or something?

Kai: how morbid and kinda on themed of him 😛

Kai: if you do, give me a call! I’m saying man, they're my specialty

Kai: damn you got me! I was sent all the way from Hawaii with a kid to get dirt on you, how did you know?

Kai: Rhea is totally a paid actress 😛

Jason: he was a reaper before so maybe he does have a morbid humor

Jason: I'll think about it, and I already have your number so

Jason: the government have done worse to catch some supernaturals so now I'm not sure I trust you 🤨

Jason: I do trust her tho

Kai: deal

Kai: hey! I was kidding!!!

Kai: tho if I wasn’t, she'd totally be our secret weapon 😈

Kai: but i AM kidding, so you're safe 😇

Jason: deal

Jason: you never know

Jason: 😮 spy kids are real?

Jason: are you?

Jason: I don't know now...

Kai: lmao

Kai: I guess you'll never know 😛

Kai: gotta go now, little rascal is asking who I’m texting

Kai: if she knows it's you she might suspect something is up and I know about ✨ the secret ✨

Kai: see you tomorrow afternoon, Jason!

Kai: enjoy the rest of your night!

Jason: I'm sure I will. We're great at reading body language

Jason: careful then. Remember you have a secret too now

Jason: see you

It was a quaint little town, Hollow's Creek. Most people he met seemed to be nice, he found a place two blocks away from the beach, and he had heard there were rivers in the woods - it seemed like the perfect place to live. His main worry right then was for Rhea to settle in, which had been proven to be harder than he thought. The little mermaid was to be homeschooled until at least after the holidays, and their block was filled with elderly people, so Rhea didn't get to interact with many kids her age and make friends. Kai knew his daughter well, he knew she was shy and took a while to warm up to people, so he decided to sign her up for group classes on something she was interested in, maybe dance or painting? But no, she had been in a She-ra phase, so what did she want? Fight lessons.

That was how the merman ended up in that gym, a smile on his face as he spotted the tattooed man "Excuse me, do you work here?" He said "I'm in need of some information"

Jason wasn't sure if his encounter with Gilmore and his talk with Erik had helped or not but at least he wasn't feeling that gloomy anymore. It was as if something had clicked, and he had realized he couldn't keep living his life in pain. He had to find a way to move on.

The past two weeks he had gone back to his regular schedule on the gym and was slowly going back to his normal self. He had just finished a yoga class and was organizing the room when an unfamiliar scent hit his nose and then it came the question. He turned to find a mermen he hadn't seen before so he arched a brow, "I do. You're new in town," he pointed as he moved closer, "sorry, I've lived here for a few years and it's easy to notice when someone new here," he smiled apologetically, "what can I help you with?"

Oh, he was handsome. Kai stood a bit straighter when the man turned and moved closer, a slightly embarrassed smile on his face "I am, yeah. Is it that obvious?" He joked, afraid he stuck out like a sore thumb in a tight knit community. The merman offered his hand "I'm Kai, we got to town a few weeks ago, just finished settling in the neighborhood" He said with a smile "I saw outside that you guys have fighting lessons, right? Is there a children's class?"

Jason realized that his movement were probably a bit intimidating, especially when the shorter man stood straighter and smiled embarrassedly, "Oh no! I'm sorry, it's just," he tapped his nose as he scrunched it up, "it's a wolf thing. We notice new scents right away," he said with a shrug as he accepted the hand, "nice to meet you, Kai, I'm Jason," he added with a nod, "Oh cool! Hope you're liking it around. It's pretty calmed here and most people are welcoming," he said as he let go of the mermen's hand. "We do, yeah. Boxing lessor but not really for kids. I'm actually the boxing and yoga instructor. I've never really worked with small kids before tho," he said apologetically, "but I'm sure there must be some activities here in the gym for your kids," he smiled as he pointed to the counter, "I'm sure we'll find something."

Living his whole life in the same merman village didn't leave Kai with loads of reference to different species, though he had heard Hollow's Creek was a hot spot for it, so I had never crossed his mind that this man could be anything but human. "Oh! A wolf! That's- of course! That makes a lot of sense" he chuckled, running his fingers through his hair with an embarrassed smile "Nice to meet you, Jason. Yeah, the neighbors seem nice, and the beach is beautiful, so we're excited" he nodded, though Kai deflated a bit when the wolf said he didn't work with kids. "Not kids, just one, actually. She's been into this new She-ra cartoon, and she was excited about learning to fight. I told her I'd try to find something, because... Well, you know how kids are when someone moves to town, I hoped she'd make some friends." The merman admitted, following him to the counter "I have to say, you have the vibe of a boxing instructor, but not so much of a yoga one. It's interesting that such opposite things interest you. Have you been an instructor for long?"

Jason chuckled at the reaction, "you didn't know," he pointed a little amused, "haven't met many wolves before?" He asked curiously. "I'm glad to hear it's been nice so far. The beach is awesome. Really calm," he agreed since his place was nearby. "Sorry, thought you had more than one," he smiled apologetically, "there aren't many kids in town. Just a few humans. Hope your daughter makes friends soon," he said with a tight smile since he actually didn't have any idea how kids were. "How old is she?" He asked thinking to maybe considered giving the kid private classes if she wasn't too young.

He went behind the counter to look for some brochures and then laughed a little at the comment, "I've heard that before. I'm sure it's the tattoos," he joked, "well you do need some balance in life right?" He shrugged, "yeah, I was an instructor before moving here so like fifteen years or so," he said as he handed the merman some brochures for gymnastics for kids and ballet, "I think this is all we have for kids here. Sorry," he added.

Kai shrugged at that "I've lived most of my life in a Merpeople village, I've met a few people who are... different, but most of them aren't so direct in telling me what they are, and I don't like to assume so-" he chuckled, embarrassed "So you're in a pack? I didn't know there were any here in town" Kai mused, grinning when he was asked about his baby. "She's eleven, three months from twelve. Her name is Rhea"

His laugh was soft, it was pleasing to hear. "It's a lot of tattoos" Kai agreed with a chuckle of his own "That's a long time! But I get it, about not teaching kids. They're not everyone's cup of tea" he grimaced at the mention of ballet "Oh, we tried it once, back in Cali, worst mistake of my life." He sighed "But it's okay, thank you

Jason nodded, "that makes sense. Well a perk of my kind is that we can recognize others just by their scents, so we always know and for me it makes no sense to hide it," he shrugged, "sorry if that was too straightforward," he apologized tho cause not everyone was used to. "Not like a pack pack but I have a beta. I'm an alpha," he cleared, "it's just the two of us but there are other packs nearby," he added just in case. "Wow! Almost a teenager," he smiled a little.

Jason arched a brow and smirked, "Oh there are more but that's probably more beach attire appropriated," he joked since the shirt he was wearing were only showing his arms and collar bones. "No, It's just that I don't really know much about kids," he added so the merman didn't think it was something else. He perked up when his hometown was mentioned, "you're from California too?" He asked with a smile, "well maybe gymnastics? I mean I could offer private boxing lessons but that would defeat the whole making friends in a group activity. Maybe you could consider both, one to make friends and the other to do something she wants," he offered.

Kai chuckled at that "Ah that's a great perk of your kind! Mine are more... ethically questionable / hallucinogenic" he joked with a shrug, unsure if Jason was familiar with Merpeople. "No, no it's fine! So I'm talking to the boss then?"

The joke made him chuckle too, nodding along "That's fair, that's fair. Mine are as well" Kai winked back with a smile, tilting his head to the side when Jason said he didn't know much about kids "Oh, there's a lot of time to learn, if you want to have kids. I learned most of what I know on the go. Do you and your partner plan to have kids?" He said conversationally, nodding towards Jason's ring "I've lived there for a couple of years after Rhea's mother passed. Then Seattle. Then Long Island. Then New Orleans. And now we're here, but we're actually from Hawaii" Kai thought for a moment about Jason's idea "And would you be willing to teach her?"

Jason couldn't help to laugh at the joke about the Merpeople, "Oh don't even start me on the ethically questionable part, "Oh no, not at all. I'm not anyone's boss," he brushed it off.

He was a little surprised at the wink and where this whole tattoos conversation had led to, "don't want to be an ass but that's to be expected on your kind right?" He half joked but his smile quickly fell at the comment and the question. Jason closed his hand unconsciously and moved it under the counter, "No. No kids and no partner either," he said simply hating how easily one question still had the power to shake him. He tried to smile again when Kai talked about those places he'd been, and Jason almost missed that little detail of his wife's passing. He looked a little surprised, "sounds like you've been everywhere. Hope you two like it here," he said simply with a nod. "If you two are ok with it, I would," he kept the offer.

His laugh was really nice. "Aren't you? I thought alphas were the bosses" For a moment Kai frowned, wondering why he'd be an ass, then bursted out laughing "I MEAN, considering my beach attire is my birthday suit, you might have a point" Kai joked, though his smile softened into a melancholic one at the answer "Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't realize, that was rude of me" the merman apologized earnestly "We've moved a lot, after we lost my uh- my wife we couldn't stay at the village we were in. Old traditional bullshit" was the explanation he gave with a shrug "Oh that could be great! Could we schedule a trial class maybe? To see if it works, for the both of you? She's really shy so it's not always that it works out"

Jason shrugged, "Technically they are but I don't see myself as anyone's boss," he said simply because it was true.

It had been a long time since Jason had made someone laugh like that but it was nice, at least he was still funny, "good point," he smiled at the joke he had in return. "It's ok, it a common question," he admitted, and it was his fault for still wearing the ring, "I'm sorry for your loss," he added because he knew how it was like. "Sometimes traditions suck," he agreed remembering how traditions made his parents leave their pack. "Sure. You can stay too if you think that could help her feel more comfortable," he added.

"A leader not a boss, then?" he said with a teasing smile "I'm glad you have a pack though, even if it's small. Community is really hard to find these days"

"Thanks. I'm sorry for yours too" Kai offered a tentative smile, sharing a level of understanding that just someone who went through the same could have. "Thanks for being so accommodating. Would Tuesday afternoon work?"

Jason couldn't help to smile when those words reminded him of his father's words, "I sure hope so, but you'll have to ask my beta about it. It'd be conceited to say it myself," he joked a little, "it is. Hopefully you'll find here it's easier to find. Most supernaturals here are very welcoming," he assured.

Jason only nodded at the condolences, knowing Kai would understand it wasn't easy to deal with. "You're welcome. Tuesday works perfectly. Just bring her in and we'll see how that goes for her," he smiled.

Kai chuckled at his words "I respect that" the merman shrugged "Or so I've been told! That's what brought me to town, to be honest" "Thank you, really, Jason. I'll bring her over on Tuesday, she'll be excited" he smiled, offering his hand to be shaken once more.

Jason smiled, "I'm sure you'll meet my beta soon enough. He's one of the friendliest in town," he said with an amused expression remembering Chris' antiques. "You won't be disappointed then," he assured.

"You're welcome. I'll see you both on Tuesday," he smiled and accepted the hand to shake.