[ Hank and Gavin have their fair share of differences. Whether it's Gavin getting on Hank's case for the absences; the coming to work drunk and whatever, or Hank's general dislike for Gavin's obvious attitude problems and antagonistic tendencies towards, well, everyone, they haven't gotten along since around the time when Gavin was a rookie, which was well before Hank lost Cole and the divorce that followed. Still, they're coworkers. And they're cops. They have each other's backs. So when Hank offers to join Gavin for a sting that no one else will take him up on, it's not because he particularly likes the guy or anything, but he figures the lead sounds solid and Gavin will probably go it alone if no one offers to back him up.
It was a simple case. No more than two detectives required. It should have been simple, but leave it up to Hank's shitty luck for the whole thing to go sideways They've called for backup and the squad cars are on their way, but it's rush hour and there's construction because Detroit is a shit hole so even being generous, it could take about an hour. And in that time, Detective Gavin Reed will have bled out from the multiple gun wounds that litter his stomach. Because of course Gavin had to go and jump in the way of a string of bullets meant for Hank.
Of course, Gavin doesn't know that Hank would have survived. It's why Hank offered to play the bait in the first place. See, Hank is a werewolf. It's a long story, but he keeps it under wraps (besides being really good with dogs) and only Fowler and Connor have managed to put the pieces together. Fowler because they've known each other for way too long, and Connor because he's Connor. Once a month Hank leaves work extra early, spends that day being extra angry and makes it home in time to lock himself in his basement and wake up the next morning in time to be late to work. So, yeah, it's no big deal, and it gives Hank an edge at his job. That's definitely all there is to it.
But now Gavin had to go and be a hero and while they managed to shut down a pretty vital production plant for red ice in the city, it isn't worth losing a life. Hank's already been through that, had partners and coworkers get shot and die on the job, but that was before. Before Cole and before all this shit. He doesn't want to go through this again, not when Hank isn't even worth saving. Reed might not be his favorite guy, but he's young and has plenty of time left in his life to get his shit together. He doesn't deserve this. ]
Reed, you fucking dumbass, don't you die on me.
[ Hank doesn't want to consider it, but he has to. The full moon is coming up... Only an act of God could save Gavin now. That, or something worse. ]
[ Gavin's been doing his best to be something close to 'better' ever since the Everything that happened when Connor showed up. He's still a dick but there are definitely less fists flying at DPD as of late. And attempts to work with people with less bitching and loudly telling them everything he thinks they're doing wrong.
Like Hank. It does seem like he's been trying as of late. And Connor is... Connor.
So there they are on a routine little mission and of course, like everything in Gavin's life, it has to go tits up. They have more guns than they should have and when he sees them drawn he doesn't even think twice about it.
It makes him realize what he still think of Hank, in the back of his mind. 'Hank the father, Hank has a son, he can't die—' He still thinks that when he jumps in front of the man, the man who years ago when he was baby faced and still naive taught him so much.
Fuck. It's always the worst moments that make him remember how sentimental he actually is.
So there he is, bleeding out all over the place and wheezing with each breath. He coughs, blood spurting down his chin. He manages a craggy, wet, laugh. ]
Don't— [ Cough. ] Fuck, don't think I have much say in that. [ Shit. ] H-Hey, could you—
[ Hank has his jacket pressed against Gavin's wounds but it's not looking good, he knows that. He knows especially because his instincts always let him know when someone is weak or dying—easy prey. Too bad those same damn instincts couldn't have told him the guys they were tracking were armed with more guns than a fucking Walmart in Texas. ]
Fuck, Reed... Fuck. You wanna stay alive, right?
[ He's not like Hank. Or how Hank had been anyway. For all that Reed is a blowhard and an asshole, he was a good kid once. He still was, deep down underneath all that bluster. He doesn't deserve this, much like he wouldn't deserve it if Hank saved him.
He has to do it soon, but he wouldn't do it without asking, even if Gavin has no clue what Hank actually means. He promised his wife he wouldn't do this, promised a lot of people he'd never start his own thing, but here he is, considering it. Really considering it. ]
[ The full moon is usually a lonely affair for Hank. He's been doing this for long enough that he can at least make it to half a day of work, y'know, as long as no one expects to have a decent conversation with him, but this time is a little different. For one, Connor isn't getting on his case about preparation, though he was nice enough to take Sumo over to his place for the night, just to be safe. And obviously, Hank isn't alone: he's got Gavin Reed, his newest packmate and responsibility. Taking care of Reed is actually giving him a surprising amount of clarity compared to how it's been in the past, but maybe that's a pack thing, too. Somebody's gotta stay at least fairly sane to keep an eye on the new kid. It may as well be the wolf that turned him. ]
Okay, we've got water, raw meat... I triple-checked the locks and everything, so we should be all set.
[ Hank checks the lock again, then makes his way down to join Gavin. As usual, the closer it gets to sundown, the more the changes start to show. Hank's eyes have been turning more and more golden as the day goes by, his jaw taking on that familiar ache as his fangs and teeth sharpen in preparation for the night's events. He's used to a stronger pull than this, but by now the itch in his skin is familiar so he knows not to fight it. Man, being an alpha is pretty nice. ]
[ Gavin's felt more wolfy ever since that moment in the car a few days prior, and it's been getting stronger as the full moon approaches. He'd woken up that morning feeling itchy all over, deep inside, like there's a twisted muscle in his body he can't quite get to.
His eyes were glowing right from the start, his jaw aching, his hands shaking. If it was anything else he'd look like he was going through red ice withdrawals or something. He hasn't shaved in a few days and it's obvious.
Gavin's just sitting on the bed, already breathing heavier. Sweat is starting to bead at his brow, his face flushed. He swivels his head to look at Hank. His breathing just gets heavier. ]
Barely. [ His voice is rough and craggy. All he can think about is how Hank's jugular is so casually exposed. ]
[ Hank steps over and places a hand on his shoulder to try and steady him. Their nails are already looking pretty dark, ready to turn into claws as soon as the sun falls. They don't need windows or direct moonlight to change. When it happens, it'll happen, there's no doubt about that.
Oh, and their clothes are totally gonna get fucked but you know what, that's the price to pay. He doesn't really want to make things worse on Gavin by having to hang out naked with him. ]
Talk to me. [ Hank rolls his shoulders, the joints loose and ready. He takes a deep breath, shaking out the tremors. ] I'm here with you, man.
[ So after that very memorable first full moon Gavin feels like he's finally back on his feet again. He was scared of his own shadow for days now but he feels like he's back to his usual confident self. With a different kind of arrogance splashed on top for good measure.
The next day he heads back to his apartment to start getting ready for heading back to work. Mordy is still a little annoyed but there's no hissing or biting. And all in all Gav's first day alone goes pretty well.
Except he keeps staring in the mirror until he's gripped by a desire and grabs a razor, giving himself a sudden haircut right in the middle of his bathroom. And that's how Gavin Reed now has an undercut, what with his hair in general growing faster now it might be easier to maintain. The beard is looking to be pretty permanent now too, no wonder Hank always has one. He pops in the cartilage piercing that he's happy to see still... exists. (If he wanted to think about it, he's suddenly not shying away from his family resemblance.)
That night, he climbs into bed. He can hear the sweet old woman in his building getting ready for bed and taking her pills. He closes his eyes once he's sure she's safe in her bed and... ah. He touches the bite mark on his neck, a shiver rolling through him. Fuck... now that it's the still of the night, his mind wanders. Before he knows it he's tracing the bite mark, his other hand slipping into the waistband of his boxers and. Yeah. Definitely thought about Hank's growling voice right in his ear, the feel of his teeth sinking into his flesh.
So! That's fun. He gets ready for work the next morning, wearing a leather jacket he didn't wear much because he thought it was too 'expensive' before but, like, who gives a shit? Button up, some better jeans and boots. Off he goes!!
He gets a few double takes and head turns, that's for sure. Goes to see Fowler, tells him everything's gonna work out fine. Swans over to the coffee machine to see if it's sill working right since his sudden absence.
Oh hey a new guy. Yeah he's definitely talking with him, a lot of lip biting and licking and leaning in. Well then~ ]
[ Hank lets Gavin go. He can't jut keep him captive in his house, he has no interest in ruining his life any more than he needs to, so he lets the kid go home. He definitely feels a little weird about letting him out of his sight, but he's not about to be the kind of alpha that starts a weird commune and forces his betas to live with him. He can survive some time apart from Gavin, especially since he can kinda feel him through this bond they now share.
Besides, Hank may have made Gavin his beta, but he still has Connor to worry about. The android is supportive, though he expresses concern given Gavin's less than stellar track record regarding his attitude towards androids. Yeah, that's totally fair, but consider—the dude's brother is Elijah Kamski. Anyone would come out with issues growing up with that.
In any case, Hank tries not to spend the rest of their day apart just thinking about him. He cleans up the basement, takes Sumo for a walk with Connor and enjoys a night to himself for the most part. He can feel Gavin's presence in the back of his mind, content and peaceful, which is nice. It's even nicer when that presence turns into—well, Hank's not sure what it is at first, but the arousal that hits him definitely isn't his.
Oh. That's interesting. Picturing Gavin touching his mark while jerking off is... Well, it sure is something. At least Hank doesn't have to worry about those lonely nights apparently, if Gavin was having them too. They will never talk about this, but it's good to know.
Still, getting back to work is just like any other day as far as Hank is concerned. He bathes, he shaves, he feels a little better than usual but not all they much. He shows up, that's the important thing. He dodges Fowler and he sits in his desk to start catching up on paperwork, even chats it up with Chris to catch up on how his kid is doing.
He doesn't expect the fucking heart attack he gets when he spots Gavin Reed waltzing into the precinct looking like a damn runway model. Okay, maybe it's just him who thinks that, but holy fuck. In the years Hank has known Gavin, he's never known him to be this fucking hot. The hair, the beard, the piercing? The jacket? Holy fuck, Hank has to hold himself back at the sight of him.
For one thing, that's his beta. He should get first dibs (and they're mated of course, the urge to take him and remind everyone is incredibly strong,) but then there's this new kid and he won't stop staring at Gavin's ass and it's pissing Hank off something fierce.
Finally, Hank just has to stand up and do something. He isn't gonna stand for this—nobody flirts with his beta but him. Which is how Hank ends up storming his way up to the coffee machine, (despite Connor's protests,) making the walk over as intimidating as possible. I mean Hank definitely has the angry alpha look down too. He steps up behind the new kid quietly, speaking up right when he's close enough to tower over him. ]
You gonna get back to work, kid? Or did they add 'kissing ass' to the on boarding process around here?
[ Gavin's definitely loving the attention, it's amusing him to no end. No harm in some flirting, right? The new guy's arousal is almost palpable; he gets a kick out of hearing his heartbeat tick up when he reaches over and brushes a hand against his as he shows him how the coffee maker works.
But then Hank is walking in— he knew the man was here, of course he did, but getting closer in proximity makes his blood start to sing and warm. The kid frowns when he notices Gavin light up at someone behind his shoulder.
Gavin feels a shiver run down his spine, but he leans against the counter easily. Eyelids hooded, tilting his shoulders so a little expanse of neck is shown. ]
Just showing 'im how to work the coffee maker, we'll get back to work in a minute.
[ Hank what have you done!! Gavin's your beta, your mate but he's also gonna tease the fuck out of you because he can. He wants to see what you'll do. (It's a Kamski twin thing, evidently.) ]
[ So after getting a good dressing down by their boss (and he couldn't even be mad about it because it wasn't like it was undeserved) Gavin was given a whole lot of busy work to do. ("Since you're apparently just too bored to do your job, Reed!") It at least made the week go by faster and it made it easy to not think about how hot Hank. Much.
He still brought over some good sushi for dinner that night, and tried not to be too flirty but... he did his best. He also caught himself touching his mark when he took a shower, but quickly stopped before his touches got any lower.
So, after all of that it was finally time to suck it up and go see Eli. The next Saturday morning they're in Hank's car heading up to his weird little hermit house that overlooks CyberLife tower. God, what a fucking drama queen. (He kind of loves it, what a power move.)
When they pull up, Gavin just sits there a minute. He takes a few deep breaths. That weird pressure is appearing between his eyes again and his heart is starting to pound. He rubs his sweaty palms on his jeans.
[ In terms of Fowler's outbursts, Hank has had worse. He sits through it, he takes his desk duty and he works through it. It makes the week real fucking boring but it's alright. Hank's got a lot more than just paperwork on his mind, and every time Gavin brushes the mark on his neck he has to supress a shudder over how good it feels.
It's very distracting, but Hank doesn't mind being distracted. He has his nice dinner with Gavin, eats way too much sushi and stares way too long into Gavin's eyes but it's fine. They're fine. They get a little handsy when it's just the two of them but they're getting better at keeping a lid on it. Work is work. It's important. Being a werewolf and listening to his instincts is important too, but he already dedicates a whole day and night to that so he doesn't have to feel guilty about shutting his fucking alpha brain off for eight hours a day while he's working.
It's not so bad, really. But it does mean his alpha instincts are running just perfectly as they drive up to Elijah Kamski's eyesore of a house. Hank has no good memories of this place (except maybe the fact that Connor didn't kill Chloe,) but he cares about Gavin way too much to go back on his word and leave him alone. If things go south, Hank has plenty of experience in getting out of there. But really he doubts they will—they're twins, after all. A part of them was always gonna be with the other. ]
It's gonna be fine.
[ Hank reaches over and runs a soothing hand over the back of Gavin's neck. That oughta help. ]
Worst case, I'll grab you and we'll get the fuck outta there, alright? But how bad can a prick like Kamski really fuck with you? You know all of his tricks—he probably tested them all out on you.
[ Very handsy... Gavin exists in a constant state of wanting to put his hands all over Hank. And have Hank's big hands on him. Oh baby.
Like said hand on his neck makes him instantly feel warm from head to toe. He leans into it, letting out a sigh that comes out like a soft purr. Gavin turns his head to nose at his hand, a little smile quirking at his lips. ]
You aren't wrong. [ But then he chews on his lip, that pensive look coming back to his eyes. ] I guess it's more that he could just... not care. It's normal if he tries to mess with me.
[ The thought of Elijah looking at him with dull eyes makes it feel like his heart is being cut out with a butter knife. ]
[ Things almost calm down enough that they're normal. Hank and Gavin still haven't realized they're more than just pack mates, but Hank takes care of Gavin and they keep a lid on their instincts at work that they don't get in trouble with Fowler again. Elijah is a surprising addition to Hank's life, but he fits surprisingly well (when he's not trying to hit on Connor, anyway.)
But it feels like things are going to be okay. They talk, they stay close, it's nice. Hank even comes to work on time because Gavin usually does too. Connor, the smug bastard, is proud of him. Maybe Hank will even start cleaning up a little bit. Gavin's new look really worked for him. Hank's not about to be outdone by his beta, so today he's wearing his shirt unbuttoned a bit lower than usual, he's trimmed his beard and tied back his hair and he feels pretty good.
I mean, he mostly just has desk work and the office coffee is the same sludge as ever, but that doesn't mean he can't have a mug waiting for Gavin when he gets in. Which, speaking of, he really should be in by now. It's not really like him to be late... ]
[ So funny story: the scene he'd been sent out to the night before had Hank's ex-wife as a witness.
He didn't act like he knew who she was and neither did she, but Gavin's heart had been racing the entire time. He took her statement and she dropped her handkerchief. He reached down to hand it to her, noting a smudge of lipstick on it, and she'd smiled. 'Thank you, detective.' And off she'd went.
He would have rushed over to Hank right then, but was suddenly exhausted. He went back home and fell asleep with his clothes on and nearly slept through his alarm. Fuck, what's the deal? The full moon is soon so maybe...
He stumbles into the precinct, unaware of how pale and bloodshot his eyes look. Gavin makes his way to Hank's desk almost as if on cue. ]
[ And he smells... off. There's something like a familiar scent clinging to Gavin that Hank would try and sniff off of him if they weren't out in the open.
But it's true. Gavin looks like hell warmed over and Hank may be playing it cool but he's concerned. He'd seen that Gavin ran a little late last night with his case but there wasn't anything out of the ordinary as far as Hank could find on paper.
Hank hands him the coffee. Maybe that'll help? Though Hank has a bad feeling about it. ]
What happened, long night? I thought Chen said the case was open and shut.
[ Things are good. Really good. Super good. Everyone in the precinct can tell Hank and Gavin are dating, there's no doubt about that, and Gavin moves into Hank's house, Mordy and all. Being mated, as it turns out, is awesome. It's the happiest and most stable Hank has ever felt in his life -- sometimes it's hard to believe they still have to lock themselves in the basement on the full moon. It doesn't feel like a curse.
It feels like he could spend the rest of his life with Gavin. Hank has a pack now, and he's figuring out this werewolf thing, which is probably going to turn into more responsibilities really soon, what with the uptick of supernaturally-related crimes. But it's actually nice. Hank could do this. Forever. Holy shit.
The moment he realizes that, he goes out and buys them both matching gold bands. The boxes burn a hole in his pocket for a week before he musters up the guts to actually ask. They've just taken the days off for the full moon so they're both a little tired but they have to go to work. Hank knows his timing's awful, but he just can't hold it in anymore.
He waits for Gavin to join him in the car and turns toward him. He's barely got the keys in the ignition. Christ, it's nerve-wracking though. Maybe he should wait. What's a few more days? What's... no, he can't do this anymore. ]
Hey, uh. You know how everybody's been on our fucking asses about "when's the wedding" and that bullshit?
[ Incredibly good. Babcia's package came in the mail a couple days after their phone call and the little necklace trinket she supplied solved all of Eli's sexual frustration problems. (Although he's gonna tease his brother about this forever.)
Moved out, moved in, everything's great. Managed to rearrange things to get the piano in there and Mordy does't even mind staying with Sumo. He's always just done his own thing anyway...
So things are nice. He's so happy to wake up every morning and see Hank's face. Fuck. He didn't think he'd ever get to feel this way. And the full moon's are getting easier (but still full of wall slamming sex of course) and things are just. So good.
So there they are, heading into work. Gavin's tapping a random beat on his thighs when Hank starts to speak. He seems nervous. He's always so cute when he's feeling shy. Gavin just gives him one of his half smiles half smirks. ]
Yeah? You wanna try to explain this 'mate' shit to them or something?
[ It's a little weird. Certainly if you're not a werewolf who has to deal with instincts and all the rest. But Hank's not thinking in those terms right this second. He reaches into his jacket pocket, fishing around for the tiny box. ]
It's just, uh. I figured... I don't wanna presume or anything, but we're basically married so... do you wanna make it official? [ He's so nervous. ] I guess. Will you marry me?
[ Things are pretty fucking good. Hank and Gavin are married now, which still kinda blows Hank's mind sometimes. Of course, being mated wasn't all that different, but it's almost weird how happy he is. He never thought he could be this happy again.
(Sometimes he thinks he doesn't deserve it, that Cole deserved better and he shouldn't get to have anything good again, but most of those times, Gavin is there, and he holds him and Hank feels like maybe if he falls to pieces as least someone will be around to pick him up and put him back together.)
Still, things are pretty nice. Even on the werewolf side of things, being mated has allowed them a degree of control Hank never thought he could have while going all wolf-crazy. He and Gavin make it through every month without a single hitch. They're going to start drawing attention like that, but whatever. It's fine. Detroit has been a pretty much monster-free zone for decades. It's unlikely they'll start to move in now.
Haha, yeah, right. Hank may not realize it, but as the alpha in town, it's kinda on him to keep things in line. They've definitely gotten most of the department's weird cases lately, but ghosts and vampires aren't really his jurisdiction. Though they might have to be soon, considering the latest string of bodies turning up drained of blood and sporting bite wounds on their necks. Christ, even Jeffrey knew it had to be vampires.
But what do you even do when vampires move into your territory? Put up a sign? Call an exterminator? (And risk running into Beth? No thanks.) Hank's pretty sure his whole alpha-ness is supposed to be enough to scare them off, but these ones apparently didn't get the memo. They must know they're stepping in on his turf too, since so far they haven't been able to track them at all. Covering their tracks from a werewolf is no easy feat.
It's troubling, but it's work. And they both agreed that they wouldn't take too much work home, so once they both step through the door and set their holsters down, Hank flops down onto the couch. Mordy complains, obviously, but that's the cat's way of saying he's happy to see them. ]
Fuck, wish they'd give us something to work with. Can't even magic them out with Connor's magic.
[ Extremely good. Gavin thinks this is the happiest he's ever been, waking up each morning with the man he's mated and married to. He never takes his ring off and wakes up curled into Hank's chest. He's luckiest bastard in the state of Michigan. (With all of their... activities Hank has been getting into shape again a bit. And Gavin can't decide he he likes it or not? Hank's hot no matter what but he's grown to appreciate the softness... the struggle is real. They just order pizza a lot.)
But this supernatural shit, god. He didn't expect to turn into a werewolf detective too, but he guesses he shouldn't be so surprised. Babcia says that having a pack is like letting out a small beacon and they're mated so it's extra song. She's been giving them information when they need it, but like anything there are cultural differences between America and Poland. Things are different when isolated groups grow out of contact with one another, after all.
So, another day of trying to get a medical examiner who won't ask too much queestions about victims with blatant bite marks on their necks. What is his fucking life! At least he and his husband get to come home to a warm and cozy house.
Gavin snorts at what Hank says. ]
I guess when you can live for fuckin' ever you learn how to cover your tracks. [ He's about to reach down to scoop up Mordy when he just full body stops on a dime. His heart drops to his feet and his vision tunnels, skin getting clammy and sweaty.
He stands up and fists the front of his shirt with white knuckles. ]
[ Hank is back on his feet in an instant. With their connection, he can feel it too. Or at least, he can feel how deeply affected Gavin is by the sensation. Something was wrong with Elijah Kamski, and as unlikely as it seems, Hank knows Gavin's never going to be wrong about this. They all know better than to doubt their connection by now. ]
I'll call Chloe. [ He's already grabbing his phone. ] She has to have like, a tracker on him or something, right?
[ Much as he doesn't want to, Elijah does eventually go home to Chloe. He's delighted to see her of course -- Chloe is more than just his creation. She is, in so many ways, his best friend. She understands him like so few people do. Now Elijah has Ezra again, and even Hank to some degree, but the one who has held Elijah together for the last ten years has been Chloe. Always Chloe. She's certainly too good for him and he knows it.
And she nearly died because of him.
Their reunion isn't awkward, at least Elijah hopes it isn't. She'd been made aware of his condition, of the changes in his needs and all the rest and didn't seem bothered by it. Elijah knows she would never be bothered by it. By him. Chloe accepts him and cares for him and would protect him from anything. That's the problem, of course. Chloe may not be bothered by the changes, by the blood or the liquid diet or the golden tinge to his eyes but Elijah is. It had all felt so normal when he'd been with Ezra and Hank. They're werewolves; adding a vampire to the mix wasn't going to change much.
But in his home, in his space, Elijah feels like a stranger. The windows need to be tinted, the silver melted down and given away. The lights are all too bright for his eyes now. Everything feels too different, except for Chloe. Sweet Chloe. She doesn't deserve to deal with something like this. She deserves to be protected, but Elijah can't protect her.
He doesn't trust himself. He's done the research, tried jabbing and poking himself and testing a million things, but he doesn't know the full extent of his abilities. He doesn't want to know. Was there a point to testing himself for weaknesses when he could turn into mist? Was the a point in learning to fly as a bat if he wouldn't really want to?
He doesn't know. It's been a week and he still doesn't know. There is so much Elijah doesn't know, it paralyzes him with fear. He hasn't felt like this in so long that he does what he did last time his precious control was so forcibly taken from him. He retreats. He hides away.
This time he locks himself into the panic "basement" he'd had built for Ezra once he found out he'd become a werewolf. It's much larger than Hank's basement. The amenities are actually pretty good. Bed, bathroom, fridge -- it's all here. Everything is nailed down and nearly indestructible. It's safe here, and he won't hurt Chloe or anyone else, and he's free to try and work in peace on this synthetic blood project. That's definitely his reason for locking himself down here. To get work done. At least that's the bullshit excuse he tells Chloe when she finds she'd have to hack the door to get in. She can, but she wouldn't like to. ]
I'll be fine. Don't worry. This is only temporary.
[ He doesn't really like seeing Eli off but it's necessary. As fun as it is, it really isn't healthy to be inseparable like they were as children. They need to be their own people and the distance and time makes the pull of his blood in Eli lessen. His instincts tone down from "me" to "brother" after a few days.
But they're still connected, of course, so as he goes back to work and starts trying to deal with all this supernatural bullshit he can start to feel it encroach. Eli's anxiety. Eli being scared of himself. It gets strong enough that he has to excuse himself to the bathroom and splash cold water on his face with some deep breaths. So he isn't surprised when Chloe calls him, as he was just about to do it himself. He's grounded himself from Eli's feelings when she calls and he says he'll be right over.
Of course. Eli's never handled not understanding something well, wanting to hide himself until he does. So scared of seeming weak or unknowing. Well, he can't hide from Ezra.
So he goes in with a nice greeting to Chloe and heads towards the basement. He knocks on the door. ]
[ They work things out. Supernatural shit doesn't stop happening, but at this point Hank is making a bigger effort to make his influence, and his authority, known in those circles. He keeps the peace, with Gavin at his side, and occasionally reminds Elijah not to abuse his powers in board meetings so much.
Elijah is getting closer to finishing his synthetic blood project. It's going to cause a lot of headaches when it's finished, but they'll take them as they come. Hank's not going to worry about it yet. They're still working on getting established in Detroit. He's broken enough faces and growled at enough monsters that people are finally starting to talk. It's not just Hank and Gavin, obviously. Connor has dealt with a fair share of ghosts and even Chloe has learned a few spells herself. They're obviously all working together, keeping the peace and all that.
Word must be getting around, because not too long after, Hank receives a letter. It smells like other werewolves, so he's not exactly thrilled about it, but it's an invitation. The nearby packs are having some kind of gathering, and they'd be "honored" or at least fucking curious to meet him. It's apparently a legit thing werewolves and other clans do, since they each have their territory, so at least it's not a trap even if Hank isn't exactly thrilled about it. He's sure as hell not going alone, he doesn't make mistakes like that anymore. Gavin is coming with him.
And Elijah too, for some reason. Elijah insists it's to provide a united front. Mostly he's just worried about his brother. Or maybe it's in case there are other vampires there and he needs to show them that Detroit isn't up for the taking on that particular field, either. Either way, the three of them end up taking Hank's car to the nearest spot they can make it before they end up at the tunnel leading to their destination.
They're meeting underground, of course. Where else would they meet? Hank sniffs the air. He didn't dress up or anything, fuck that. ]
[ The Twin Things are in full force since Eli keeps feeding on him while he works on his synthetic blood. It's not bad at all although that might just be the inherit bias they have. Of course it's good when his twin smells just like him! The mark he left on Eli helps as well, their connection stronger and more manageable than ever. He doesn't really even need the charm Babcia made him anymore either.
He's proud of Hank too, for standing his ground and not being so scared of himself anymore. This is exactly what Beth was probably afraid of, but he can't care much. Hank is Hank. He's always going to the best at whatever he does. Maybe she was just scared he'd get too powerful and not know what to do with it... but he's got Ezra and Eli now. (That probably doesn't exactly inspire confidence in anybody else...)
And Eli is so transparent in his concern as they head to the meeting spot. They walk behind Hank and Gavin shoves his hands in his jacket pockets with a snort. ]
Figures the underground is literally underground. Why waste time with metaphors?
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It was a simple case. No more than two detectives required. It should have been simple, but leave it up to Hank's shitty luck for the whole thing to go sideways They've called for backup and the squad cars are on their way, but it's rush hour and there's construction because Detroit is a shit hole so even being generous, it could take about an hour. And in that time, Detective Gavin Reed will have bled out from the multiple gun wounds that litter his stomach. Because of course Gavin had to go and jump in the way of a string of bullets meant for Hank.
Of course, Gavin doesn't know that Hank would have survived. It's why Hank offered to play the bait in the first place. See, Hank is a werewolf. It's a long story, but he keeps it under wraps (besides being really good with dogs) and only Fowler and Connor have managed to put the pieces together. Fowler because they've known each other for way too long, and Connor because he's Connor. Once a month Hank leaves work extra early, spends that day being extra angry and makes it home in time to lock himself in his basement and wake up the next morning in time to be late to work. So, yeah, it's no big deal, and it gives Hank an edge at his job. That's definitely all there is to it.
But now Gavin had to go and be a hero and while they managed to shut down a pretty vital production plant for red ice in the city, it isn't worth losing a life. Hank's already been through that, had partners and coworkers get shot and die on the job, but that was before. Before Cole and before all this shit. He doesn't want to go through this again, not when Hank isn't even worth saving. Reed might not be his favorite guy, but he's young and has plenty of time left in his life to get his shit together. He doesn't deserve this. ]
Reed, you fucking dumbass, don't you die on me.
[ Hank doesn't want to consider it, but he has to. The full moon is coming up... Only an act of God could save Gavin now. That, or something worse. ]
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Like Hank. It does seem like he's been trying as of late. And Connor is... Connor.
So there they are on a routine little mission and of course, like everything in Gavin's life, it has to go tits up. They have more guns than they should have and when he sees them drawn he doesn't even think twice about it.
It makes him realize what he still think of Hank, in the back of his mind. 'Hank the father, Hank has a son, he can't die—' He still thinks that when he jumps in front of the man, the man who years ago when he was baby faced and still naive taught him so much.
Fuck. It's always the worst moments that make him remember how sentimental he actually is.
So there he is, bleeding out all over the place and wheezing with each breath. He coughs, blood spurting down his chin. He manages a craggy, wet, laugh. ]
Don't— [ Cough. ] Fuck, don't think I have much say in that. [ Shit. ] H-Hey, could you—
[ He coughs again. Fuck, this hurts. ]
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[ Hank has his jacket pressed against Gavin's wounds but it's not looking good, he knows that. He knows especially because his instincts always let him know when someone is weak or dying—easy prey. Too bad those same damn instincts couldn't have told him the guys they were tracking were armed with more guns than a fucking Walmart in Texas. ]
Fuck, Reed... Fuck. You wanna stay alive, right?
[ He's not like Hank. Or how Hank had been anyway. For all that Reed is a blowhard and an asshole, he was a good kid once. He still was, deep down underneath all that bluster. He doesn't deserve this, much like he wouldn't deserve it if Hank saved him.
He has to do it soon, but he wouldn't do it without asking, even if Gavin has no clue what Hank actually means. He promised his wife he wouldn't do this, promised a lot of people he'd never start his own thing, but here he is, considering it. Really considering it. ]
Fuck. Just... yes or no?
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Okay, we've got water, raw meat... I triple-checked the locks and everything, so we should be all set.
[ Hank checks the lock again, then makes his way down to join Gavin. As usual, the closer it gets to sundown, the more the changes start to show. Hank's eyes have been turning more and more golden as the day goes by, his jaw taking on that familiar ache as his fangs and teeth sharpen in preparation for the night's events. He's used to a stronger pull than this, but by now the itch in his skin is familiar so he knows not to fight it. Man, being an alpha is pretty nice. ]
How you holding up, Reed?
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His eyes were glowing right from the start, his jaw aching, his hands shaking. If it was anything else he'd look like he was going through red ice withdrawals or something. He hasn't shaved in a few days and it's obvious.
Gavin's just sitting on the bed, already breathing heavier. Sweat is starting to bead at his brow, his face flushed. He swivels his head to look at Hank. His breathing just gets heavier. ]
Barely. [ His voice is rough and craggy. All he can think about is how Hank's jugular is so casually exposed. ]
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[ Hank steps over and places a hand on his shoulder to try and steady him. Their nails are already looking pretty dark, ready to turn into claws as soon as the sun falls. They don't need windows or direct moonlight to change. When it happens, it'll happen, there's no doubt about that.
Oh, and their clothes are totally gonna get fucked but you know what, that's the price to pay. He doesn't really want to make things worse on Gavin by having to hang out naked with him. ]
Talk to me. [ Hank rolls his shoulders, the joints loose and ready. He takes a deep breath, shaking out the tremors. ] I'm here with you, man.
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The next day he heads back to his apartment to start getting ready for heading back to work. Mordy is still a little annoyed but there's no hissing or biting. And all in all Gav's first day alone goes pretty well.
Except he keeps staring in the mirror until he's gripped by a desire and grabs a razor, giving himself a sudden haircut right in the middle of his bathroom. And that's how Gavin Reed now has an undercut, what with his hair in general growing faster now it might be easier to maintain. The beard is looking to be pretty permanent now too, no wonder Hank always has one. He pops in the cartilage piercing that he's happy to see still... exists. (If he wanted to think about it, he's suddenly not shying away from his family resemblance.)
That night, he climbs into bed. He can hear the sweet old woman in his building getting ready for bed and taking her pills. He closes his eyes once he's sure she's safe in her bed and... ah. He touches the bite mark on his neck, a shiver rolling through him. Fuck... now that it's the still of the night, his mind wanders. Before he knows it he's tracing the bite mark, his other hand slipping into the waistband of his boxers and. Yeah. Definitely thought about Hank's growling voice right in his ear, the feel of his teeth sinking into his flesh.
So! That's fun. He gets ready for work the next morning, wearing a leather jacket he didn't wear much because he thought it was too 'expensive' before but, like, who gives a shit? Button up, some better jeans and boots. Off he goes!!
He gets a few double takes and head turns, that's for sure. Goes to see Fowler, tells him everything's gonna work out fine. Swans over to the coffee machine to see if it's sill working right since his sudden absence.
Oh hey a new guy. Yeah he's definitely talking with him, a lot of lip biting and licking and leaning in. Well then~ ]
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Besides, Hank may have made Gavin his beta, but he still has Connor to worry about. The android is supportive, though he expresses concern given Gavin's less than stellar track record regarding his attitude towards androids. Yeah, that's totally fair, but consider—the dude's brother is Elijah Kamski. Anyone would come out with issues growing up with that.
In any case, Hank tries not to spend the rest of their day apart just thinking about him. He cleans up the basement, takes Sumo for a walk with Connor and enjoys a night to himself for the most part. He can feel Gavin's presence in the back of his mind, content and peaceful, which is nice. It's even nicer when that presence turns into—well, Hank's not sure what it is at first, but the arousal that hits him definitely isn't his.
Oh. That's interesting. Picturing Gavin touching his mark while jerking off is... Well, it sure is something. At least Hank doesn't have to worry about those lonely nights apparently, if Gavin was having them too. They will never talk about this, but it's good to know.
Still, getting back to work is just like any other day as far as Hank is concerned. He bathes, he shaves, he feels a little better than usual but not all they much. He shows up, that's the important thing. He dodges Fowler and he sits in his desk to start catching up on paperwork, even chats it up with Chris to catch up on how his kid is doing.
He doesn't expect the fucking heart attack he gets when he spots Gavin Reed waltzing into the precinct looking like a damn runway model. Okay, maybe it's just him who thinks that, but holy fuck. In the years Hank has known Gavin, he's never known him to be this fucking hot. The hair, the beard, the piercing? The jacket? Holy fuck, Hank has to hold himself back at the sight of him.
For one thing, that's his beta. He should get first dibs (and they're mated of course, the urge to take him and remind everyone is incredibly strong,) but then there's this new kid and he won't stop staring at Gavin's ass and it's pissing Hank off something fierce.
Finally, Hank just has to stand up and do something. He isn't gonna stand for this—nobody flirts with his beta but him. Which is how Hank ends up storming his way up to the coffee machine, (despite Connor's protests,) making the walk over as intimidating as possible. I mean Hank definitely has the angry alpha look down too. He steps up behind the new kid quietly, speaking up right when he's close enough to tower over him. ]
You gonna get back to work, kid? Or did they add 'kissing ass' to the on boarding process around here?
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But then Hank is walking in— he knew the man was here, of course he did, but getting closer in proximity makes his blood start to sing and warm. The kid frowns when he notices Gavin light up at someone behind his shoulder.
Gavin feels a shiver run down his spine, but he leans against the counter easily. Eyelids hooded, tilting his shoulders so a little expanse of neck is shown. ]
Just showing 'im how to work the coffee maker, we'll get back to work in a minute.
[ Hank what have you done!! Gavin's your beta, your mate but he's also gonna tease the fuck out of you because he can. He wants to see what you'll do. (It's a Kamski twin thing, evidently.) ]
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how hotHank. Much.He still brought over some good sushi for dinner that night, and tried not to be too flirty but... he did his best. He also caught himself touching his mark when he took a shower, but quickly stopped before his touches got any lower.
So, after all of that it was finally time to suck it up and go see Eli. The next Saturday morning they're in Hank's car heading up to his weird little hermit house that overlooks CyberLife tower. God, what a fucking drama queen. (He kind of loves it, what a power move.)
When they pull up, Gavin just sits there a minute. He takes a few deep breaths. That weird pressure is appearing between his eyes again and his heart is starting to pound. He rubs his sweaty palms on his jeans.
In, out. Deep breath. ]
Fuck. What if this is a bad idea?
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It's very distracting, but Hank doesn't mind being distracted. He has his nice dinner with Gavin, eats way too much sushi and stares way too long into Gavin's eyes but it's fine. They're fine. They get a little handsy when it's just the two of them but they're getting better at keeping a lid on it. Work is work. It's important. Being a werewolf and listening to his instincts is important too, but he already dedicates a whole day and night to that so he doesn't have to feel guilty about shutting his fucking alpha brain off for eight hours a day while he's working.
It's not so bad, really. But it does mean his alpha instincts are running just perfectly as they drive up to Elijah Kamski's eyesore of a house. Hank has no good memories of this place (except maybe the fact that Connor didn't kill Chloe,) but he cares about Gavin way too much to go back on his word and leave him alone. If things go south, Hank has plenty of experience in getting out of there. But really he doubts they will—they're twins, after all. A part of them was always gonna be with the other. ]
It's gonna be fine.
[ Hank reaches over and runs a soothing hand over the back of Gavin's neck. That oughta help. ]
Worst case, I'll grab you and we'll get the fuck outta there, alright? But how bad can a prick like Kamski really fuck with you? You know all of his tricks—he probably tested them all out on you.
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Like said hand on his neck makes him instantly feel warm from head to toe. He leans into it, letting out a sigh that comes out like a soft purr. Gavin turns his head to nose at his hand, a little smile quirking at his lips. ]
You aren't wrong. [ But then he chews on his lip, that pensive look coming back to his eyes. ] I guess it's more that he could just... not care. It's normal if he tries to mess with me.
[ The thought of Elijah looking at him with dull eyes makes it feel like his heart is being cut out with a butter knife. ]
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But it feels like things are going to be okay. They talk, they stay close, it's nice. Hank even comes to work on time because Gavin usually does too. Connor, the smug bastard, is proud of him. Maybe Hank will even start cleaning up a little bit. Gavin's new look really worked for him. Hank's not about to be outdone by his beta, so today he's wearing his shirt unbuttoned a bit lower than usual, he's trimmed his beard and tied back his hair and he feels pretty good.
I mean, he mostly just has desk work and the office coffee is the same sludge as ever, but that doesn't mean he can't have a mug waiting for Gavin when he gets in. Which, speaking of, he really should be in by now. It's not really like him to be late... ]
Anybody hear from Reed?
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He didn't act like he knew who she was and neither did she, but Gavin's heart had been racing the entire time. He took her statement and she dropped her handkerchief. He reached down to hand it to her, noting a smudge of lipstick on it, and she'd smiled. 'Thank you, detective.' And off she'd went.
He would have rushed over to Hank right then, but was suddenly exhausted. He went back home and fell asleep with his clothes on and nearly slept through his alarm. Fuck, what's the deal? The full moon is soon so maybe...
He stumbles into the precinct, unaware of how pale and bloodshot his eyes look. Gavin makes his way to Hank's desk almost as if on cue. ]
Here, here. Overslept.
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[ And he smells... off. There's something like a familiar scent clinging to Gavin that Hank would try and sniff off of him if they weren't out in the open.
But it's true. Gavin looks like hell warmed over and Hank may be playing it cool but he's concerned. He'd seen that Gavin ran a little late last night with his case but there wasn't anything out of the ordinary as far as Hank could find on paper.
Hank hands him the coffee. Maybe that'll help? Though Hank has a bad feeling about it. ]
What happened, long night? I thought Chen said the case was open and shut.
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It feels like he could spend the rest of his life with Gavin. Hank has a pack now, and he's figuring out this werewolf thing, which is probably going to turn into more responsibilities really soon, what with the uptick of supernaturally-related crimes. But it's actually nice. Hank could do this. Forever. Holy shit.
The moment he realizes that, he goes out and buys them both matching gold bands. The boxes burn a hole in his pocket for a week before he musters up the guts to actually ask. They've just taken the days off for the full moon so they're both a little tired but they have to go to work. Hank knows his timing's awful, but he just can't hold it in anymore.
He waits for Gavin to join him in the car and turns toward him. He's barely got the keys in the ignition. Christ, it's nerve-wracking though. Maybe he should wait. What's a few more days? What's... no, he can't do this anymore. ]
Hey, uh. You know how everybody's been on our fucking asses about "when's the wedding" and that bullshit?
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Moved out, moved in, everything's great. Managed to rearrange things to get the piano in there and Mordy does't even mind staying with Sumo. He's always just done his own thing anyway...
So things are nice. He's so happy to wake up every morning and see Hank's face. Fuck. He didn't think he'd ever get to feel this way. And the full moon's are getting easier (but still full of wall slamming sex of course) and things are just. So good.
So there they are, heading into work. Gavin's tapping a random beat on his thighs when Hank starts to speak. He seems nervous. He's always so cute when he's feeling shy. Gavin just gives him one of his half smiles half smirks. ]
Yeah? You wanna try to explain this 'mate' shit to them or something?
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Hell no. They'd make it weird.
[ It's a little weird. Certainly if you're not a werewolf who has to deal with instincts and all the rest. But Hank's not thinking in those terms right this second. He reaches into his jacket pocket, fishing around for the tiny box. ]
It's just, uh. I figured... I don't wanna presume or anything, but we're basically married so... do you wanna make it official? [ He's so nervous. ] I guess. Will you marry me?
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(Sometimes he thinks he doesn't deserve it, that Cole deserved better and he shouldn't get to have anything good again, but most of those times, Gavin is there, and he holds him and Hank feels like maybe if he falls to pieces as least someone will be around to pick him up and put him back together.)
Still, things are pretty nice. Even on the werewolf side of things, being mated has allowed them a degree of control Hank never thought he could have while going all wolf-crazy. He and Gavin make it through every month without a single hitch. They're going to start drawing attention like that, but whatever. It's fine. Detroit has been a pretty much monster-free zone for decades. It's unlikely they'll start to move in now.
Haha, yeah, right. Hank may not realize it, but as the alpha in town, it's kinda on him to keep things in line. They've definitely gotten most of the department's weird cases lately, but ghosts and vampires aren't really his jurisdiction. Though they might have to be soon, considering the latest string of bodies turning up drained of blood and sporting bite wounds on their necks. Christ, even Jeffrey knew it had to be vampires.
But what do you even do when vampires move into your territory? Put up a sign? Call an exterminator? (And risk running into Beth? No thanks.) Hank's pretty sure his whole alpha-ness is supposed to be enough to scare them off, but these ones apparently didn't get the memo. They must know they're stepping in on his turf too, since so far they haven't been able to track them at all. Covering their tracks from a werewolf is no easy feat.
It's troubling, but it's work. And they both agreed that they wouldn't take too much work home, so once they both step through the door and set their holsters down, Hank flops down onto the couch. Mordy complains, obviously, but that's the cat's way of saying he's happy to see them. ]
Fuck, wish they'd give us something to work with. Can't even magic them out with Connor's magic.
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But this supernatural shit, god. He didn't expect to turn into a werewolf detective too, but he guesses he shouldn't be so surprised. Babcia says that having a pack is like letting out a small beacon and they're mated so it's extra song. She's been giving them information when they need it, but like anything there are cultural differences between America and Poland. Things are different when isolated groups grow out of contact with one another, after all.
So, another day of trying to get a medical examiner who won't ask too much queestions about victims with blatant bite marks on their necks. What is his fucking life! At least he and his husband get to come home to a warm and cozy house.
Gavin snorts at what Hank says. ]
I guess when you can live for fuckin' ever you learn how to cover your tracks. [ He's about to reach down to scoop up Mordy when he just full body stops on a dime. His heart drops to his feet and his vision tunnels, skin getting clammy and sweaty.
He stands up and fists the front of his shirt with white knuckles. ]
Eli. Something happened to Eli.
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I'll call Chloe. [ He's already grabbing his phone. ] She has to have like, a tracker on him or something, right?
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And she nearly died because of him.
Their reunion isn't awkward, at least Elijah hopes it isn't. She'd been made aware of his condition, of the changes in his needs and all the rest and didn't seem bothered by it. Elijah knows she would never be bothered by it. By him. Chloe accepts him and cares for him and would protect him from anything. That's the problem, of course. Chloe may not be bothered by the changes, by the blood or the liquid diet or the golden tinge to his eyes but Elijah is. It had all felt so normal when he'd been with Ezra and Hank. They're werewolves; adding a vampire to the mix wasn't going to change much.
But in his home, in his space, Elijah feels like a stranger. The windows need to be tinted, the silver melted down and given away. The lights are all too bright for his eyes now. Everything feels too different, except for Chloe. Sweet Chloe. She doesn't deserve to deal with something like this. She deserves to be protected, but Elijah can't protect her.
He doesn't trust himself. He's done the research, tried jabbing and poking himself and testing a million things, but he doesn't know the full extent of his abilities. He doesn't want to know. Was there a point to testing himself for weaknesses when he could turn into mist? Was the a point in learning to fly as a bat if he wouldn't really want to?
He doesn't know. It's been a week and he still doesn't know. There is so much Elijah doesn't know, it paralyzes him with fear. He hasn't felt like this in so long that he does what he did last time his precious control was so forcibly taken from him. He retreats. He hides away.
This time he locks himself into the panic "basement" he'd had built for Ezra once he found out he'd become a werewolf. It's much larger than Hank's basement. The amenities are actually pretty good. Bed, bathroom, fridge -- it's all here. Everything is nailed down and nearly indestructible. It's safe here, and he won't hurt Chloe or anyone else, and he's free to try and work in peace on this synthetic blood project. That's definitely his reason for locking himself down here. To get work done. At least that's the bullshit excuse he tells Chloe when she finds she'd have to hack the door to get in. She can, but she wouldn't like to. ]
I'll be fine. Don't worry. This is only temporary.
[ Obviously, Chloe calls Gavin. ]
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But they're still connected, of course, so as he goes back to work and starts trying to deal with all this supernatural bullshit he can start to feel it encroach. Eli's anxiety. Eli being scared of himself. It gets strong enough that he has to excuse himself to the bathroom and splash cold water on his face with some deep breaths. So he isn't surprised when Chloe calls him, as he was just about to do it himself. He's grounded himself from Eli's feelings when she calls and he says he'll be right over.
Of course. Eli's never handled not understanding something well, wanting to hide himself until he does. So scared of seeming weak or unknowing. Well, he can't hide from Ezra.
So he goes in with a nice greeting to Chloe and heads towards the basement. He knocks on the door. ]
Eli, it's me. Let me in nerd.
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Elijah is getting closer to finishing his synthetic blood project. It's going to cause a lot of headaches when it's finished, but they'll take them as they come. Hank's not going to worry about it yet. They're still working on getting established in Detroit. He's broken enough faces and growled at enough monsters that people are finally starting to talk. It's not just Hank and Gavin, obviously. Connor has dealt with a fair share of ghosts and even Chloe has learned a few spells herself. They're obviously all working together, keeping the peace and all that.
Word must be getting around, because not too long after, Hank receives a letter. It smells like other werewolves, so he's not exactly thrilled about it, but it's an invitation. The nearby packs are having some kind of gathering, and they'd be "honored" or at least fucking curious to meet him. It's apparently a legit thing werewolves and other clans do, since they each have their territory, so at least it's not a trap even if Hank isn't exactly thrilled about it. He's sure as hell not going alone, he doesn't make mistakes like that anymore. Gavin is coming with him.
And Elijah too, for some reason. Elijah insists it's to provide a united front. Mostly he's just worried about his brother. Or maybe it's in case there are other vampires there and he needs to show them that Detroit isn't up for the taking on that particular field, either. Either way, the three of them end up taking Hank's car to the nearest spot they can make it before they end up at the tunnel leading to their destination.
They're meeting underground, of course. Where else would they meet? Hank sniffs the air. He didn't dress up or anything, fuck that. ]
Sure smells like this is the right way.
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He's proud of Hank too, for standing his ground and not being so scared of himself anymore. This is exactly what Beth was probably afraid of, but he can't care much. Hank is Hank. He's always going to the best at whatever he does. Maybe she was just scared he'd get too powerful and not know what to do with it... but he's got Ezra and Eli now. (That probably doesn't exactly inspire confidence in anybody else...)
And Eli is so transparent in his concern as they head to the meeting spot. They walk behind Hank and Gavin shoves his hands in his jacket pockets with a snort. ]
Figures the underground is literally underground. Why waste time with metaphors?
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