#sterekbingo

As soon as the call ended, Stiles threw on some clothes and raced to the school. While Eli hadn’t shown signs of shifting yet, the stress of this incident was sure to affect him. Stiles hoped it didn’t make him shift in any way accidentally for the first time.

After parking a little too hazardously for a school parking lot, he pressed the intercom button at the front door, hearing the locks click open before pushing into the lobby.

He approached the lady at the front desk. “Hi, I’m here to talk to the principal about Eli Hale. I heard he got into some trouble with another student. I’m Stiles Stilinski.”

“Yes, Mr. Stilinski. He’s in the principal’s office,” she gestured to the door, “The other student and his parents are already there. I will let you in.”

She opened the door for him, ushering him into the office. He tried not to be annoyed with the fact that Eli was stuck in the office with the principal and the other student’s parents without an adult to defend him. But he was here now, and he would defend Eli with all he had.

After laying eyes on Eli who still had very human features, thank god, he leaned over, brushing his hand across the back of his neck to scent him, and gripped Eli’s shoulder when sitting down next to him. He could see some of the tension ease out of the boy, and he felt comforted himself after seeing Eli physically okay.

He turned to the principal, not acknowledging the other student or his parent’s yet. “What happened?”

She regarded him for a second. “Well, Mr. Hale, Chad and Eli had a bit of a scuffle. As I understand it, Chad was making fun of Eli’s choice of clothes. His flannels specifically. I believe the phrase, ‘You look like a sissy’ was said. And then Eli tackled Chad, and they had to be separated. We are discussing potential consequences now.”

A familiar flash of anger arose in Stiles at that phrase. He wanted to express his disgust and disapproval by shooting Chad’s parents a dirty look, but he reluctantly kept his composure, restraining himself from breaking eye contact with the principal.

“Well, I personally don’t think Eli did anything wrong since he defended himself against being called that. And it’s Mr. Stilinski, Mr. Hale called me to come get Eli.”

Chad’s dad scoffed, sneering, “He deserves some kind of punishment for hurting my boy. Chad didn’t physically hurt Eli, but Eli came after him.”

“Yeah, after what your son said. Words matter and what your son said wasn’t okay. And I rather take offense to it since I’m wearing a flannel too.” Stiles smiled sharply at the man.

The principal chimed in again. “My apologies, Mr. Stilinski. I just assumed. Now, while both boys were in the wrong, I think what was said should be deemed the primary offense since the boys are physically fine.”

“Unbelievable.” Chad’s dad uttered, probably meant to be said under his breath, but was still heard by everyone.

The principal adjusted towards Chad and his parents, poised and in a professional tone, she stated, “Mr. and Mrs. Raider, we do have a no bullying policy at this school, and your son would be best to remember it. This is not the first incident we’ve had with harmful language, so your son will be sent to detention this week and to in-school suspension this Friday. As for Eli, this is only the first time he’s been sent here, but he was physical first so he will have detention with another teacher tomorrow. Both of you will be sent home for the rest of the day, today. Any questions?”

Stiles had to hand it to this principal, he thought it was fair. She really had a no nonsense essence about her, and Stiles could respect it. Just then, the door opened and Derek came striding in.

“I’m sorry I’m late, work held me up, what happened?”

Stiles smiled at Derek comfortingly above Eli’s head. Derek dropped into the seat on the other side of Eli, immediately scenting him like Stiles did, and putting his arm around Eli. Stiles laid a comforting hand on Derek’s upper arm, squeezing reassuringly.

Chad’s dad rolled his eyes. “Can we go now?”

“Yes, you are dismissed. I’ll catch Mr. Hale up.”

Each of the raiders left until it was just Stiles, Eli, Derek and the principal. She looked to Derek, filling him in on the consequences they decided on.

Derek tutted at Eli. “Eli, why did you tackle Chad?” Derek asked softly.

Sometimes Stiles had a hard time believing that this Derek was the same one that used to push him into walls so many years ago. This Derek was so soft with Eli, it felt hard to watch sometimes. Like he was seeing a side to Derek he maybe shouldn’t be allowed to.

“He was making fun of my flannel! And I love my flannel because Stiles wears flannel too. It looks cool, and Chad was being mean.” Eli pouted, crossing his arms.

“Aw, I appreciate the acknowledgment with the flannel, because you’re right they totally look cool.” Stiles winked at the young boy. “But one person stooping as low as making fun of you, it doesn’t mean you should resort to violence. Only if the other person starts it and you need to protect yourself. Especially when you’re still growing and don’t know your strength yet.” Stiles stated.

“Stiles is right, Eli.”

Did he hear that right? Did Derek just say he was right? In front of his son? Past Derek could never!

“We don’t want to cause more trouble than we need to. I’m sorry he was making fun of your shirt though, and that he called you a mean word. It was wrong of him, too,” Derek said.

Stiles leaned over toward Eli, stage whispering, “Why don’t we go get some ice cream? Take the edge off this stressful day.”

Eli giggled next to him, yelping, “Yes!”

They all stood up, Derek holding Eli’s hand in his, making their way out of the office. Stiles lingered, making sure he grabbed Eli’s backpack and that they had everything they came with.

The principal cleared her throat, and smiled softly at him, “You guys have an adorable son. I know it’s hard being a step parent, especially in the beginning, but you’re doing great. He really likes you.”

She said it so earnestly, how could Stiles burst her bubble? And his if he was being honest with himself.

“Oh, thanks.” And yeah, he wished her words were true. That he really was with Derek, that Derek let him in enough to help take care of his son, who means everything to him. And that he really was doing a good job helping, that Eli maybe saw him as a dad since he’d started to see Eli as a son. He already knew he would do anything for that kid. He would dive headfirst into any supernatural disaster just to make sure he was safe. He knew he would do the same for Derek too. They were the two most important people in his life, not counting his dad—that was a given—but he didn’t want to let either of them go anytime soon.

Exiting the office, Derek was already halfway down the hall, carrying Eli in his arms. Eli’s head propped up on his dad’s shoulder, and once laying eyes on Stiles—who was still barely a couple steps from the office—gave him a small wave with a grin on his face. The sight tore him apart. His heart pounding, Derek looked back at him, and he just knew that Derek heard the principal’s comment and how Stiles didn’t deny it. How he didn’t really want to, and maybe Derek knew. Knew how he felt about him and Eli. It would be hard not to with his super sniffer and everything.

“Hey, Stiles,” Eli said, his words muffled where he was pressed up against Derek’s shoulder.

“Hey, buddy, how’re you feeling? Ready to have the rest of the day off?”

“Yeah. I’m sorry for worrying you guys, and making you come all the way here.” Eli snuggled deeper into his father’s neck.

Derek cupped the back of Eli’s head, threading his fingers through his hair in a comforting gesture. “Eli, I’ll always come for you. Always. And you weren’t the one in the wrong. You handled your control really well, but still showed him saying that to you wasn’t okay. I’m proud of you.”

“It was definitely wrong of him, not you. Don’t feel too bad about it, son.” Stiles reached out, ruffling Eli’s hair, freezing when he registered just what came out of his mouth. He called Eli son. It had just slipped out—he didn’t mean to, but it had felt so right in his bones.

Eli didn’t seem to mind, giving Stiles a toothy smile, but he noticed Derek stumbled. Derek never stumbled. He knew—he knew it was the first time Stiles had called Eli son. Was he about to be mad with him? Derek was the best dad, okay? The best! Stiles knew that, and he didn’t want him to be mad that Stiles called Eli son, like he was encroaching on his territory, because he wasn’t! He didn’t want Eli to think of Stiles as more of his dad than Derek because that simply wouldn’t do! Unless they were coparenting or together, but Stiles needed to shut that line of thinking down immediately since it was never going to happen. Not that he didn’t want it to… but if Derek had felt that way about Stiles, they would’ve been together a long time ago, considering how Stiles couldn’t hide his emotions for shit and Derek was a werewolf. Complete disadvantage for Stiles here.

“Hey, after ice cream, why don’t you come over?” Derek asked, shrugging a shoulder not so casually.

“Uh, yeah. That would be great! You know I love spending the day with you guys.”

“We know.” Derek smirked over at him.

**

The rest of the day was spent going to Eli’s favorite ice cream shop, watching him giggle over the dollops of ice cream appearing on Stiles’ nose—which he tried to reach with his tongue just to see Eli giggle more—and tried not to let his mind wander over the way Derek was licking his ice cream, and how he imagined it was his di-

Nope, not thinking about it.

He let out a nervous laugh as Derek’s dark eyes swept over him. A knowing glint in his eye.

His palms started sweating—he couldn’t imagine what chemosignals he was letting off right now, trying to keep it in check because, oh my god, Eli could smell this!

Stiles was just going to die of embarrassment.

He went back to licking his ice cream, swirling his tongue to get as much flavor in his mouth as he could. He glanced up to see Derek staring at him, their eyes connected in a heated moment until Derek’s eyes dropped to his mouth. His breath hitched in his chest, studying the soft features of Derek’s face. His lines no longer hard and drawn tight with anger. Instead, there were crinkles by his eyes from smiling; his face now was open, inviting and warm. And still staring at his lips.

Blood rushed to Stiles’ face when he noticed how long Derek has been looking at his mouth. Stiles licked his lips subconsciously, tearing his eyes away from Derek and toward Eli, who was mindlessly eating his ice cream and trying to lick every little bit that melted onto his hands.

Stiles snorted as he grabbed some napkins, a fond look on his face as he handed them to Eli.

Eli finally looked up at them, barely patting his hands on the napkins before crinkling his nose and saying, “You guys smell weird.”

Stiles widened his eyes and looked at Derek’s flushing face. He shifted in his seat, wondering if Eli could smell his love for Derek, or his arousal or—horrifyingly—both. Oh god, this was so embarrassing.

He might not be able to look at Derek ever again, knowing Derek probably knew his exact feelings right now.

“What?” Stiles drew out. “I probably just smell weird since I haven’t showered since yesterday,” he stage whispered.

Eli giggled, “That’s not it. You guys smell sweet.”

Derek cleared his throat, “Eli. Chemosignals are private. If you smell something keep it to yourself unless the other person wants to know, okay?”

Eli huffed out, “Okay,” in a whine.

Stiles changed the subject by asking Eli, “So buddy, how’s school been other than today?” This led to Eli rambling on about the friends he made in his class and his teacher, who was super nice.

Stiles, who was too engaged in his conversation with Eli, didn’t even notice Derek looking at them with a warm smile.

**

They eventually made it back to Derek’s house after a long day of outings, and Eli ended up tucked gently into Derek’s shoulder, his eyes blinking blearily, struggling to stay awake.

“Do you want to come in?” Derek asked softly.

“If I’m still welcome to,” Stiles replied.

“You’re always welcome, Stiles,” Derek stated, his eyebrows up, a little grin playing on the edge of his mouth.

Stiles tried to tamp down the fluttery feeling he was getting in his chest. If not for himself, then for the werewolves he was standing right next to that could almost certainly pick up on it.

Walking into Derek’s home, Stiles felt the warmth rush over him. Even with a growing boy taking up so much space in the house, it was always neat. Toys scattered around the rug were the only things out of place. The coffee table had a few books lying on top, a mix of children’s and whatever Derek liked to read in his spare time. Stiles could almost imagine Derek slouched into the couch, the cushions forming a spot around him with his feet propped up on the coffee table, a book in his hands, reading glasses perched on the end of his nose, and a blanket across his lap that was now strewn along the couch. The image Stiles concocted in his head was so domestic, he couldn’t help but want to see that every day.

His fantasy continued floating through his head of the two of them putting Eli to bed together. Them reading him stories with the different voices he knew always impressed Eli. He thought of helping tuck Eli in and sneaking downstairs with Derek as to not wake him up. He thought of them snuggling on the couch before him, sinking into each other, their heartbeats slowing, overlapping, and echoing in Derek’s head as they fell asleep.

Snapping out of his daydream, Derek turning to him saying, “I’m going to take Eli up to bed, you can make yourself at home. I’ll just be a minute.”

Eli, pretty much fast asleep, had his mouth wide open against Derek’s shoulder, letting out tiny snores.

“Of course, do you need any help?” Stiles asked.

Derek paused, something flickering in his eyes that Stiles couldn’t identify before he blinked it away.

“No, it’s okay. He’s already sleeping. I’m just going to lay him down and I’ll be right back.” Derek smiled that soft smile at him before going up the stairs.

Stiles took a deep breath and looked around. Might as well help tidy up, he mused. He picked up the toys Eli had lying around and put them in the toy box that was tucked in the corner, organized some books Eli must’ve knocked off the coffee table, and folded the blanket on top of the couch. He sunk into the couch when he was done, waiting for Derek. His mind wouldn’t stop wandering to what the principal said and how today went. Sometimes he himself had a hard time explaining there wasn’t anything more between him and Derek.

Stiles loved Eli like he was his own. He wanted to look after him, to be there for him, to be someone Eli could lean on, and he wanted to be that for Derek too. Someone Derek could ask to take Eli to school, to make his lunch, to come to his games or shows or whatever Eli decided to pursue. But isn’t that what Derek already did though? He called Stiles this morning to help with the situation at school, to be a support for Eli. He didn’t blame the principal for thinking him and Derek were together since he basically showed up as a guardian for Eli. Did Derek think of him as that too or was he just asking a favor?

They weren’t dating, but Stiles wanted nothing more than for that to be the case. He wanted lazy mornings with his boys, cooking pancakes and exchanging syrupy kisses with Derek; to go out for ice cream when the sun was too hot, licking dollops off their noses; to pick up Eli from school, occupying their time by going to the library or the park while waiting for Derek to get home and greet him with a kiss. He wanted so much he wasn’t sure he was allowed to have.

It was impossible to stop his mind from spiraling into what could be and wondering if Derek even felt the same.

Soon enough, Derek came down the stairs and when Stiles looked at him, he felt like Derek knew exactly what he had been thinking and feeling, and he probably did.

“We need to talk,” Stiles said.

“Yes,” Derek agreed.

“Okay, I just need to tell you-“

“I love you, Stiles.” Derek held his gaze, staring into his eyes as Stiles felt his heart beat faster, thrumming through his chest.

Stiles paused, not quite believing that Derek had said it, “Come again?”

“I love you, and I want people to think we’re together. That you’re mine and that you’re Eli’s. I want this family with you. No one else, and I’ve wanted that for a while. I just didn’t know how to say it, but I love you.”

After all this time of waiting to hear Derek say this, Stiles couldn’t help his eyes becoming misty. His heart tightened in his chest over the fact that he got to have this. Everything he’d ever wanted finally was becoming his. “I want that too. I love you and Eli so much, and I was terrible at hiding it,” he wetly laughed.

Derek approached him, bringing his hands up to wipe gently under his eyes. “It was killing me not to do anything about it. I wasn’t sure if you wanted to take on the responsibility of Eli and me, and I didn’t want to put that on you, but after today I knew. I knew you would always look out for him, and I can’t thank you enough for that and for being patient with me.”

Stiles traced his fingers up the back of Derek’s neck, sliding his fingers into his dark hair. “You don’t have to thank me for that Derek, you have me, and I’m always going to love you and want to take care of my boys.”

Derek pulled Stiles tightly against him, pressing into his mouth. Stiles wrapped his arms around Derek’s neck, kissing him deeply until he couldn’t breathe, trying to show just how much he loved Derek.

Derek had moved his hands to around Stiles’ waist. They were hot like brands leaving their mark as his thumbs stroked beneath his shirt.

Derek kissed him so passionately that Stiles was practically gripping onto his shirt for dear life. His other hand pulled on the hair at the back of Derek’s neck, separating their mouths just enough to whisper, “Can I stay tonight?”

Derek barely uttered, “Always,” before Stiles was pressing his mouth firmly on his.

**

thank you so much to my beta reader kelpseeds for looking over everything and helping this flow!

I was really stuck on this fic for a while so any kudos and comments are appreciated! <3

That's what he's thinking, the epiphany dredging up his past agony and mulling it over, layering it over with itself, a sort of aftercare that he's giving a try. And he's tired, too, of the heartache and the negativity — his own most of all. And he is tired of the day, muscles aching, and hey. It's a good time for a relaxing shower, now that he's home.

So he smiles at no one in the apartment but at himself in the mirror he's hung in the living room, a sort of statement piece that Lydia insisted on after taking one look at his at the time barely furnished abode, and shrugs.

"You don't need anyone, Stiles."

The words don't sound quite right as he hears them, the meaning of it turned desolate instead of triumphant as his thoughts become intangibly tangible, an epiphany to something he might just have to get used to. Still, he's said it, it's out there, and it's gonna have to do.

He picks the clothes off of himself, hopes the shower will help him pick himself up. Decides a bath would be better — but he's not got that now, has he? Perhaps he should start saving for a house, now. But it's just so much harder with one income only; he could move back to Beacon Hills? San Francisco isn't bad, but the prices of real estate are no joke.

The pros and cons of that potential scenario run through his head, his legs out of the jeans now, his hoodie off of his body next. Huh, he's almost out of toothpaste; he should go to the grocery store tomorrow. He should also see what's in his fridge and what's not but — later.

He's getting ahead of himself.

The t-shirt he's wearing comes off, too, a full-sleeved one, white, that looks rather good on him. Accentuates the lean muscle thing he's got going on from his years at the Track Team in high school and college. There's this scar he has on his left palm from falling once in the middle of a tournament. He turns his hand—

It's not bare, anymore. His wrist — it has a name.

His soulmate's name.

He stares. And stares and stares because what the hell. This has to be a joke, right?

It just has to be.

He has been within 100 metres of this person before multiple times. Has been to his childhood home, to the fucking police station he works at because hello — Derek Hale is one of Sheriff's Deputies, and Stiles is the Sheriff's son.

They've been within 100 metres of each other before.

But this has never happened.

But...

He rushes to his bedroom, naked, panicked, ecstatic. Picks up the phone from where he'd chucked it on the bed, opens the contact of a person he hasn't contacted since the last project they did together in high school.

Cora Hale picks up on fifth ring, when he's about to hang up and try again.

"Stilinski?" She sounds confused. "It's been a while. What's up?" A muffled voice, a male. Cora says, "Are you fucking kidding me? It can't be him — you've known each other for — it's impossible —" She's clearly not speaking to Stiles.

"Is Derek there?"

Cora stops talking.

"Cora, is he — did he get it too?"

Sounds of footsteps, labored breathing. Phone changes hands and then: "Are you Mieczysław Stilinski?"

Stiles stops breathing. It's real.

Derek is asking him the name nobody but his father and the people at the DMV know.

"I don't know any other Stilinski’s. Just your father and you," Derek is saying. He sounds confused, happy, breathless. "And I know your name starts with an M. I saw some papers on the Sheriff's desk once, by mistake but — how is it you?" A pause. "Not — I didn't — I mean like —"

"How is it me when we have been around each other for so long. I have been at your house, you've been working at the BHPD for... fuck, 3 years now?"

"Since I came back from NY, yeah."

"I don't know, Derek, I don't but I... you were at the mall today, right?" He just wants to be sure.

"Yes. Yeah. I was, I was buying a gift for my parent's anniversary."

"And today's my birthday, I was —"

"With your friends watching Star Wars. I know. I saw you and the Sheriff let the whole station know about it yesterday."

Stiles can't fucking believe this. And also... "I'm so fucking cold. I really should wear some clothes."

"What?"

"Long story short — Shower, saw the name, called the one Hale's number I had."

Derek's chuckle is sexy and seriously, how has he never heard it before? It's a crime. And Stiles should be in jail. At least then he would have met his soulmate earlier... but wait, that's a paradox. Isn't it?

"I thought you were short story long kind of person," Derek says, and follows up with, "And if you're free right now... I know it's late but, would you forsake your shower and meet me to figure out why he haven't met before?"

Stiles cuts the call.

Then calls Cora's cell again. Derek picks it up with an exhale that seems very anxious, so Stiles closes his eyes at his stupidity and admits, "That was a yes. My brain just jumped ahead a few steps. Please text me your number so we can let Cora have her phone back," Cora cheers in the background, "And I can end the call so that I can wear my clothes and you can text me whatever address and we can finally meet and I'm sorry for ending the call so abruptly and seriously why haven't we met before? It's so —"

Derek chuckles again, and really, it's such a nice sound. "Stiles, breathe. I don't want you to die just yet."

"I can absolutely do that, yep."

Silence.

"Stiles? Wear your clothes. I promise I'll help you out of them when —"

There's a sudden struggle at the other end, and then it's Cora's voice coming down the line, "Ew! No! Do it on your own phone. Stiles, I'm texing you my brother's number, so go! Now!"

She ends the call.

Stiles lets his own phone fall onto the bed, processes what happened for just a minute, and then smiles goofily when Cora makes good on her statement.

Somehow, even though they haven't interacted in all these years despite all the things connecting them to the same peg on the board, Derek texts Stiles: "Stop dawdling and come meet me at the diner on 5th. Remember to wear your clothes. For now."

It's all one block of text too, the dork.

Guess that's his dork now.

Greatest. Birthday. Ever.

They needed help. Erica was knocked out, Boyd was busy, and Derek wasn’t going to put Isaac in danger of getting arrested by coming onto campus. Not to mention he was too far away. Scott was close. Besides, even if Derek wasn’t Scott’s favorite person (for whatever reason Scott decided on this time), he’d come to save Stiles at the very least; Scott’s very human best friend.

Stiles had his phone in his other hand, frantically trying to call Scott for assistance. In classic Stiles fashion though, he fumbled the phone, dropping it to the ground, releasing his grip on Derek in the process–

“Stiles!” Derek shouted desperately as he fell. “Son of a –”

If Derek thought things were muffled before, there’s nothing like being paralyzed in a pool. He was barely able to take a breath before submerging completely. Derek felt the paralysis take full hold of his body by the time he hit the water.

Powerless.

That’s how Derek felt as he slowly sunk to the bottom. He couldn’t even move his head, much less do anything to save himself. Maybe it was what he deserved for everything that has happened in his life. What Derek deserved for what he had done.

Derek’s head felt fuzzy as he lost the oxygen in his brain. His vision was starting to get fuzzy…

Then, he saw it.

Two bright, seafoam green orbs floated towards him.

Derek almost blacked out at that point, that is until he felt two hands grab him and force him back up towards the surface.

Gasping for air as soon as his head broke the water, Derek moved his eyes towards the left to see who his savior was.

“Stiles?!” He yelped, “You’re a–”

Holding him with surprisingly strong arms, the younger teen looked very different from the human Derek thought he knew. His pale, speckled skin had taken on a greenish sheen. His shorn hair was the color of seaweed, and his eyes, sure enough, were a glowing seafoam green. On each side of his long, graceful neck, right below his jawline, were real life gills, opening and closing as the water Stiles was treading entered them. The hands holding him had a thin web of green skin connecting them together.

The last thing that Stiles thought he’d be on Valentine’s Day was alone. Of course, Lydia managed to get a date which meant their best friend night celebrating unattached drifters Christmas that they didn't participate in fell through. He sighed and glanced at his phone, where the usual texts from his friends littered his notifications. Really, he didn't need their pity. All of his friends either were in a relationship or they had dates.

Stiles closed out of his notifications and ran his hands over his face. All he wanted to do was veg out and eat and watch sappy movies, which meant that he probably shouldn’t. He reluctantly got off the couch and changed into normal clothes, then grabbed his cell phone, keys, and wallet before heading out.

He may not have a date, but coffee sounded pretty good right now. Living in downtown Beacon Hills had its perks. One of them was that Stiles didn't need to drive everywhere. Not that he didn't love his Jeep, he did, but with how much it cost to fill his tank these days he could go for a walk instead. Using it to go to and from work was about as much as he used it now.

Stiles walked a couple of blocks to the little coffee shop he frequented and opened the door, the bell tinkling as he walked inside. He ordered his usual, a honey almond milk flat white, which he refused to tell anyone about, and then heard a squeal behind him. Stiles sighed and closed his eyes.

”Stiles!” came the chipper voice. “Oh my god!”

The last thing that Stiles wanted to deal with right now was enthusiastic positivity. No matter how much he loved Kira.

He turned around and smiled at her as she threw herself into his arms and hugged him. “Hey, Kira. How’s it been?”

”Oh, you know. I’ve just been traveling. I’m here visiting my parents. It’s been so long!” Stiles forgot how pretty she was. It had been years since he’d seen her in person, but they followed each other on social media so he knew all about her travels.

Stiles had really been the only one who came back to Beacon Hills after he’d graduated college. Then again, he couldn't say he hated his job down at the police station. He was a deputy, but he was pretty sure he would be a shoo-in for Sheriff the next time the position was open. He just needed to throw his name into the hat for it.

Kira continued to chatter, which gave Stiles time to think about what exactly he was going to say to her. Not that he was really listening to what she was saying anymore as his mind drifted. Before he could form a response, a familiar figure walked up behind Kira.

Dark hair, broad shoulders, and a thick beard paired with kaleidoscope eyes that were exactly how Stiles remembered them. Although, Derek had a little bit of gray in his beard now.

”Derek,” Stiles said, unsure if he could control his surprise. Derek looked just as shocked as Stiles felt.

“Stiles,” was Derek’s short response. They locked eyes and Stiles had so many questions, like he always did when it came to Derek. How was he? Where had he been for the last ten years? Because it had been at least ten years since he’d seen Derek when he left for college.

Stiles was 28 now. Derek was almost 34, since his birthday was at the end of the year on Christmas Day. And he felt like he was 17 all over again, with his chest tight and his heart squeezing with unshared emotions. After all, Stiles had fallen in love with Derek that summer they spent together looking for Erica and Boyd, when he tried to help him look for the Alpha pack. Then they’d saved their lives. It was a summer that Stiles would never forget.

It felt like so long ago and only yesterday at the same time.

”I—uh, how have you been?” Stiles asked, clearing his voice.

”Good.” Derek nodded, pushing his hands into his leather jacket. “Traveling.”

Oh. So, then, he was traveling with Kira? Stiles looked between the two and Kira gave Stiles a sheepish look. They couldn't possibly be dating, could they? Stiles frowned in response, then raised his hand to rub it over his face. Hopefully to wipe the look off he was sure was still fighting for purchase. One of jealousy and confusion and pain.

Stiles dropped his hand to his side and heard his name called at the counter for his coffee. He breathed deeply and glanced at the barista, then back at Kira and Derek. “Well, it was good seeing you two. My coffee is ready.”

”Wait—Stiles. We should get together sometime this week. I’ll be here for a few days,” Kira said as he stepped backward.

”Yeah, sure. Text me.”

Both of them knew that they’d never hang out again this week, much less text each other. It was a pattern all of his friends he didn't keep in contact with on a daily basis had. The promise of more, with none of the follow through.

At that, Stiles retreated and grabbed his coffee, then fled as quickly as he could. The last thing he wanted Derek to see was how much seeing him had affected him.

***

Stiles stared at his phone and clicked on his contacts. The only person he wanted to call right now was Lydia, because he wanted to tell her about Derek, but she wouldn’t have the answers that he needed. He sighed and scrolled through his contacts, landing on the only name that would know all the details from the last ten years. They didn't talk often, but they were still friends. Erica was just really busy working and making bank. Stiles couldn't blame her though. She had moved to New York shortly after graduating from BHHS.

He poked her name with his finger on the screen and tapped the speaker button.

“Stiles?” Erica’s sharp voice answered. “Is the world ending again?”

Stiles laughed. Of course. He couldn't really blame her since life in Beacon Hills was basically one disaster after another. Erica’s life had been pretty calm once she got out of this hell hole.

“Uh, no. Well, not for the world, anyway. Now my personal life, there could be an argument made there,” he replied with a chuckle.

”Well that was a disaster before we graduated high school and hasn’t really made a comeback since.” Erica snickered and he could hear the sound of a keyboard clacking across the line.

Well, she wasn't wrong. Stiles had never really dated anyone since his and Lydia’s romantic relationship had fallen apart, despite them remaining best friends.

”And that is by design,” Stiles replied, joking, but really, it probably was. He hadn’t really cared to date anyone after he’d tried so hard to be in love with Lydia more than just being best friends when he was really in love with Derek. Something that he’d told himself he’d never confess. But he’d told Lydia, which was why they’d broken up.

”Sure,” Erica replied with another laugh. “You keep telling yourself that.”

”Why are we even friends?” Stiles asked, sounding overly offended.

”Because I’m the only one that tells you how it is.”

Stiles thought about and that was a fair assumption.

”Which is why I called you in the first place.” Stiles paused, fingering the hem of his jeans. “So…I—uh, ran into Kira and Derek in town.”

Erica didn't respond, but the clacking on the other end stopped.

”In Beacon Hills?” She finally asked.

”Yeah…where the hell else would I be?” Stiles asked with a little bite in his voice.

”I wasn't sure if you’d finally decided to take that trip to Italy we talked about a few years ago. Sue me.”

Stiles sighed. “I’m sorry…I guess I’m just a little surprised and well, frustrated with the whole thing. I mean, he showed up with Kira so I was wondering—“

Erica barked a laugh. “Don't tell me you’re letting your mind overwork itself over that. Please, they’re just friends. You really think Kira would put up with Derek’s moody ass?”

”Maybe?” Stiles didn't really know what their relationship was, which was why he was calling Erica to find out. “I guess I thought—“

”No. They’re not dating. They never have and they never will. I mean, Derek’s kinda over the whole chick thing. I can’t remember the last time he even hooked up with a woman…or anyone, actually. He’s been celibate for a long time. With his relationship record, who could blame him?”

Erica did have a point. Derek had the worst luck when it came to relationships. At least the ones that Stiles knew about.

He hated that he felt relieved over Erica’s confirmation that Derek hadn’t dated anyone in a long time, though. Then again, if he’d decided to swear off people altogether, Stiles didn't have a chance. But did he really ever have one?

”Thanks, Erica.”

”No problem. I have to run, though. Text me”!

Before Stiles could reply, Erica disconnected, leaving Stiles in silence.

At least he knew Derek wasn't dating anyone now.

***

Derek’s phone buzzed and he frowned, pulling out of his pocket and staring at the notification.

There was a text message from Stiles.

Stiles.

Stiles who he hadn’t seen since he’d left for the academy. Derek thought Stiles had left Beacon Hills behind forever, but he guessed he’d been wrong about that. Stiles was the last person Derek ever thought he’d run into again. Especially here.

He’d kept track of Stiles for a few years when he’d been in Virginia, but after a while, it only hurt him because he didn't talk to Stiles. So, Derek decided he’d focus on himself instead. He’d finally worked on healing after all these years, traveling and finding himself again. Reinventing himself, mostly, and deciding what his life would be like without Beacon Hills and his family.

He was largely an Omega now, his pack having gone their own ways and living their lives, but he was happy for them and their success. What mattered was that they were alive to do so. That was the only thing that mattered to Derek.

He drew in a deep breath and opened the message. Derek stared at it, confused. All it said was Hey.

He frowned and tried to read into it, but he had no idea what hey meant.

He sighed and typed hi back. Three little dots came up on the screen and he waited. They stopped. Then started again, then stopped. Derek glared at the wiggling dots when they came up again, willing Stiles to just send the damn text already.

As if on cue, Stiles replied: Wanna meet up?

Stiles wanted to meet up. To talk? To….what?

“Hey,” Kira said as she walked into the room, looking comfortable in her pajamas as she sat across from Derek on the other couch. “Your face is speaking.”

Derek glared at her with his grumpy eyebrows and sighed. “Stiles texted me.”

”Oh?” Kira looked interested, as if she’d expected Stiles to text her instead of Derek. “What did he say?”

”He said he wants to meet up.” Derek stared at the message, not having responded yet.

Kira was quiet for a moment, watching Derek. “So…are you going to meet up with him?”

Derek wasn't sure how to answer that question. He wanted to meet up with Stiles, but he wasn't sure how well he’d take it, especially if Stiles just wanted to actually chat and hang out. Derek refused to let anyone other than Kira know that he held a flame for Stiles for so long. Since that summer they’d spent together looking for Erica and Boyd.

If he were honest with himself, he’d had feelings for Stiles before then, but he hadn’t really realized them until he’d spent all summer with Stiles. Not only had they researched and looked for his pack, but they’d hung out and watched movies…they did things that friends and couples did. Things that Derek had never really done in any relationship he’d had before, or after, then.

But Stiles had been seventeen. There was no way that Derek would let Stiles know he had feelings for him. He didn't want to take advantage of him. Plus, he doubted Stiles had more than brief horny-teenage-boy feelings for him anyway. After all, he’d ended up dating his cousin and Lydia at one point.

”I don't know…” he finally answered Kira.

Kira paused before she said, “I think you should. Even if it’s just for closure…”

Derek glanced at her and then back at the phone before taking a deep breath and texting Stiles back.

Derek: Meet you at our spot in the preserve?

Their spot. He wondered if Stiles would remember.

Stiles: When?

Derek: Two hours.

Stiles: I’ll be there.

“I guess I’m meeting him in two hours…” Derek locked his phone and shoved it back into his pocket.

He might as well go there now before he decided against seeing Stiles again. Alone this time.

“I’ll see you later,” he told Kira before standing and heading out of their hotel room before she could say anything.

***

Stiles rubbed his hands together as the chilly weather made his fingertips cold. He wasn't even sure why he asked to meet Derek, other than he wanted to look into his eyes one last time in case he never saw him again.

He really hoped that never happened. Stiles wanted so much more than one last meeting before Derek disappeared back to wherever he’d come from.

Stiles could barely see as he walked through the preserve to the lookout point he and Derek frequented that one summer together. It had to be the spot Derek was talking about, because he sure wasn't talking about the old Hale house.

When he reached the spot, he could feel Derek before he could see him. That familiar warmth Derek always gave him and the hairs on the back of his neck standing as if his body knew a predator was watching him.

“I wasn't sure you’d come,” Stiles said as Derek stepped from the shadows.

“I wasn't sure I was showing up either, so I’ve been here for a couple of hours,” Derek admitted. “I’m already here so I might as well stay.”

Stiles chuckled. “Valid argument.”

He looked Derek over slowly, studying the lethal lines of his body, the broad set of his shoulders, how Derek held himself confidently, and that little speck of gray in his beard that Stiles was a little obsessed with.

“So…” Derek started, shoving his hands into his pockets.

“Well, I thought maybe we could get a coffee, but we’re a little far out for that right now,” Stiles teased. He couldn't help himself. It was his default in most situations.

“Well…there could always be a next time.” The way Derek said it was hesitant and unsure, but it sent a flutter through Stiles’ chest at the potential for more.

“I thought you were traveling?” Stiles asked, kicking himself for not just saying yes, whatever Derek wanted was what he’d do.

“I could…stay, for a bit. I don't have any immediate plans,” Derek assured him, his eyes locking with Stiles’.

“Kira?”

“She can travel alone for a bit. We don't always travel together. We just met up in France because we were both there at the same time.” Derek shrugged, a small smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.

“Oh.” Well, that wasn't something Stiles really expected to hear. One, that Derek and Kira didn't travel together all the time, and two, Derek offering to stay. For him.

“I mean—I’d like that. I’d like that a lot.” Stiles stepped closer, taking a steadying breath. “I was hoping…we could see more of each other. At least, until you decide to leave again.”

Derek was quiet as Stiles closed the space between them and he stood in front of Derek, a mere few inches separating their bodies.

“Okay…” Derek replied with a nod.

“Okay…” Stiles said with a smile. “So… constellations?” His smile grew as Derek’s did and he chuckled as Derek nodded.

They both walked to the ledge and sat together on a large rock, staring up into the night sky. They looked for constellations, pointing them out and naming them, their voices but a whisper in the darkness.

Stiles knew he’d stay here forever if Derek let him. If Derek wanted him. He knew he’d do anything to keep him just the same.

***

Stiles smiled at his phone, checking his messages and chuckling at the memes Derek sent him. It was a thing they’d started during the last month of Derek’s extended stay in Beacon Hills. Stiles pushed his phone into his pocket and focused on the files in front of him.

Minutes became hours and before Stiles knew it, there was a knock on his door. He looked up to see Derek there, which made his heart skip a beat. It was the first time Derek had come to the station to see him at work and the first time Derek would see him in his deputy uniform.

“Derek.” He put the folder in his hand down and smiled.

“I thought it would be a nice surprise to show up at the end of your shift and take you out to eat,” Derek replied where he was leaning against the doorframe. Stiles’ eyes traveled over Derek’s body from head to toe, knowing that Derek could hear his heart flutter.

“I could eat.” Stiles grinned and pushed away from his desk before standing and stretching, turning to face Derek. “But, I was actually hoping we could stay in. I—uh, bought some stuff so we could make dinner together. How does that sound?”

“I’m up for whatever you want to do, as long as there is food,” Derek replied with a chuckle. “So, what are we making?”

“I thought we could make homemade pizza.” Stiles grabbed his jacket and shrugged it on.

“I don't think I’ve ever had homemade pizza…” Derek looked at him dubiously and Stiles laughed.

“Well, it’s taken me a long time to learn how to throw the dough. I’m pretty good at it now, but there were plenty of disasters and plenty of sacrifices made for that skill.” When Derek smiled, it reached his eyes and Stiles wanted to kiss him stupidly when he looked like that. He managed to refrain as he walked up to Derek, who was still leaning against the doorframe.

The faint hint of sandalwood and earth filled Stiles’ lungs. A scent that was uniquely Derek which Stiles longed for the more Derek was away from him. “So, you ready to head home for some homemade pizza?”

“I’m going wherever you’re going,” Derek said softly, not moving away as Stiles stayed in his space. It made Stiles’ heart flutter, even though he knew it was only his home and not their home. But Derek never corrected him.

After a few more moments, Derek added, “After you,” and reluctantly stepped back to give Stiles room to walk through the doorway.

Stiles nodded, stepping through the threshold, and led the way out of the police station.

Right.

Pizza.

***

The night had been partially a hilarious disaster and a success at the same time. Stiles tried to teach Derek how to throw the pizza dough and they’d made a mess, but Stiles saved the night by making a pizza for them. He let Derek put the toppings on in the end since Derek lacked the coordination to throw a pizza crust.

It had entertained Stiles more than it should have. He smiled as he sipped his wine. He didn't often indulge in it, but tonight was special. Or, at least, that had been Stiles’ plan.

“So…what did you think?” he asked, setting his glass on the counter and leaning back against it.

“I think your pizza was amazing. Much better than the one I didn't make.” Derek laughed. “Please tell no one.”

“Oh, that’s blackmail material for years to come,” Stiles teased, laughing as Derek walked closer and set his wine glass next to his, causing Derek to lean into Stiles’ space. Stiles reached out to grip Derek’s jacket, letting his fingers run along the zipper, keeping Derek close to him.

Derek didn't speak. If anything, it looked like he was holding his breath as much as Stiles was. This was it. This was the moment. It was either happening now or never again.

Stiles let his hand drop from Derek’s jacket, but only to press against his shirt over his abdomen. His breaths came shallower as his eyes met Derek’s and before Stiles could say anything, Derek was leaning in and closing the space between them.

Stiles melted when Derek’s lips pressed against his, one of Stiles’ hands moving to grip the back of Derek’s neck as Derek’s hands found Stiles’ hips. He moaned as he licked into Derek’s mouth, their tongues tangling together. It made Stiles’ skin burn for more, even as they broke from the kiss to breathe and Stiles leaned his forehead against Derek’s.

“Stiles—”

“Don't—” Stiles said softly. “I know you’ll eventually leave, but you’re here now… so be here with me,” he whispered against Derek’s lips. “Stay with me…”

Derek didn't say anything, kissing Stiles again instead. Stiles closed his eyes and breathed deeply as he wrapped his arms around Derek, lifting himself as he felt Derek’s hands on his ass and then the back of his thighs. He wrapped his legs around Derek, moaning softly against his lips.

“Bedroom is down the hall on the right,” Stiles breathed between kisses.

He kissed Derek’s neck and shoulder as Derek carried him to his bedroom, impressed that Derek managed to open the door without letting go of him too much.

Stiles laughed as they made it to the bed and Derek dumped him into it, pressing him against the mattress as Derek’s lips found Stiles’ again. His hands moved to push Derek’s jacket off, both of them letting it fall somewhere on the floor before Stiles’ hands moved under Derek’s shirt, fingers exploring.

“God, Stiles…I’ve—” Derek started, groaning softly as Stiles nipped his bottom lip. “You’re going to kill me.”

“No dying,” Stiles replied with a grin. “If it was my choice you’d be safe with me forever.”

Stiles’ stomach felt like it was twisted into knots at his confession as Derek’s kisses slowed and he pulled away just enough to meet Sties’ eyes.

“How long is forever?” Derek asked, as if he didn't believe Stiles.

Stiles cupped Derek’s face, smoothing his thumb over Derek’s bearded cheek. “However long you want it to be. I want you, here, with me. I know I should have said something sooner…years ago. I just—”

Derek’s hand moved to rest on Stiles’ against his face. “I know. Me too,” Derek assured him. “But I’ll stay as long as you want me…”

“I never want you to leave,” Stiles confessed, kissing Derek softly. “Please, Derek.”

“Then I won't,” Derek promised.

It had taken them ten years, but Stiles always felt like he was with Derek, searching for constellations in the dark. He’d been waiting, just as long as Derek had, for this moment.