Full Moon on the Lake

by D. M. Angel

  20

  Jacob felt groggy and disoriented as he fought to open his eyes. He struggled to remember where he was and what had happened. There was an unexplained weight he couldn’t account for on his left arm. Opening his eyes everything was foggy and unfocused. There was pain in his chest as is eyes moved to focus he looked down to see not only was he bandaged, but there was a hand on his chest. Slowly he moved his head to see the weight on his arm was Daniela. She was sleeping with her arm over him protectively and he smiled.

  Reaching his right hand over his body he could only touch her head as the tubes from an IV pulled slightly at his movement. He caressed the hair on her head feeling the softness, brushing it away from her face to look at her tear stained cheeks in awe. She was beautiful and peaceful in her sleep. Startled suddenly as if abruptly aware of his scrutiny, she looked up. Her green eyes regarded lovingly into his dark eyes.

  He smiled, “Hi.” She sat up and kissed him for all she was worth, hugging him tightly thankful he was awake, he would be ok. “He groaned, “Ummm, Daniela I love you too, but umm.. you’re hurting me.”

  She stood quickly, “Oh God, I am so sorry. Are you ok? Should I call Doc to come give you something for pain? Hold on.” She shot off in rapid fire then turned to leave, Jacob just grabbed her hand and held it.

  “I’m fine.” He laughed bringing her hand to his lips he kissed her. “Just don’t hold me so tight.” They just stared at each other. Jacob in wonder of this wonderful woman and Daniela in love, thankful he was going to live. Doc chose that moment to walk in.

  “So how are you feeling Jacob?” he asked as he tried to check the bandages. He glanced at the two of them then placed a hand on Daniela, chuckled, “Go get something to eat while I check on Jacob. He will be fine until you get back.”

  Daniela looked at Jacob confused as to what to do. She did not want to leave him realizing, except for breakfast yesterday she had not eaten. Her stomach growled as if a wolf had crawled in and was angry. Looking at each other they laughed at the ridiculous break in the silence.

  “Go,” Jacob said giving her hand another kiss, released her. “I will be fine.” Standing a moment longer undecided she finally turn toward the door glancing back reluctant to leave.

  Doc raised an eyebrow at her, “Shoo, go eat. Doctor’s orders.” She turned and left with a smile and a giggle as if as a disobedient child having to be told to behave.

  “So how much pain are you in?” Doc asked knowingly. “Ouch.” Jacob smiled. “It is not too bad. Is she safe? Did we get him?” He questioned Doc directly.

  Doc shook his head in amusement, “Yes she is safe from that man.” Paused and looked him in the eyes to finish, “He is dead.” Jacob sighed with relief as the pain seemed to increase with the knowledge Garret could not hurt Daniela anymore. Doc watched as Jacob scrunched his face, “Here this will ease the pain.” He said, “You will be tired for the next three days, no unnecessary movement or you will open your stitches.” Placed a syringe into the port on the IV and squeezed. “You are not allowed to shift for at least three weeks. Sleep is the best thing for you Jacob.” He said as Jacobs eyes started to close. “Sleep Jacob.”

  Just over two weeks had passed yet time seemed to drag on longer with each day. Jacob was getting antsy and his wolf did not help matters feeling they were fine and ready to shift. He wanted to run. He needed to mate with Daniela. Needed to hold her in his arms for more than just a few stolen moments. Jacob paced agitatedly waiting for Doc in his office. He was going to convince Doc he was ready to go. He and his wolf hating being cooped up.

  Doc walked into his office and stopped, eyeing Jacob pacing.

  “Jacob sit down we need to talk.”

  Jacob growled as he obeyed. It would not help his case if he pissed him off. Doc sat behind his desk looking sympathetically at Jacob.

  “Jacob there is more than one reason you are not allowed to shift yet. It is not just your wounds.” Jacob opened his mouth to speak, but Doc held his hand up stopping him. He reached for his phone, dialed, and when the other side answered simply said, “I need you in my office.” And hung up. Jacob looked at Doc, then the phone then back at Doc in question. “Just wait.” Was all Doc said as he folded his hands together on his desk.

  There was a slight knock as the door opened letting Caleb and Derrick into the room. As Caleb stood behind Doc, Derrick walked over behind Jacob and laid his hands on his shoulders.

  “What is going on?” Jacob asked quite agitated at waiting.

  Caleb spoke first, “We did some research and need to talk to you about your mating with Daniela.”

  When Jacob would have spoken Derrick squeezed his shoulder to silence him, “Listen.”

  “Have you noticed you are still aggressive, yet the danger to Daniela is over? There is a reason for that. Once this kind of mating is set in motion the only thing that can stop it is for you to mate with Daniela.” Holding up his hands as Jacob yet again felt the need to interrupt. “We have no problems with you mating with Daniela. We have even set the time for the mating, Saturday.

  But,” he cautioned, “You need to be made aware of some things first. And, prepare.”

  The seriousness on everyone’s faces stopped Jacob from speaking as he realized he was healed from his wounds they were holding him back for another reason.

  “When can I shift?” he growled at the thought of being deceived. Doc answered him this time, Jacob you could have shifted at any time after the first week but;” Doc stressed strongly, “you would not have shifted back.”

  Jacob didn’t know whether to be mad or angry, “What are you talking about?” He snarled frustratingly.

  Derrick stepped in front of Jacob, “The mating of this type set into motion series of ancient and long forgotten order of events. We now have to follow the rules set forth by our ancestors.” Smirking slightly at Jacob, “The BDSMM.” Jacob looked stunned at all three men thinking they had lost their minds.

  Caleb continued seriously, “BDSMM- Bonding Directive Suppressing Masochism Mating; was designed to help those in dire circumstances to keep the wolves from killing off their mates during mating. It was before women had choices, but we need to follow it until we understand the, um, problems involved.”

  “We will be following the guidelines set forth to help you mate with Daniela.” Derrick Spoke then not giving Jacob a chance to rebuff the idiocy that seem to infect the men in this room. “Kyla and the women have already informed Daniela about this situation. She understands and is willing to do this for you. For the both of you. They are instructing her as we speak.” You need to listen to us on this if you want to safely mate with her.”

  Jacob could not believe what they were telling him. Caleb opened the file he had in his hands and handed it to Jacob.

  “We feel this part should take place in private with only a few on guard for emergencies Friday night before the mating ceremony on Saturday.”

  Taking it Jacob started reading as the others looked on. Jacob’s eyebrows raised as color flushed his cheeks as he read the first page. When he turned the next page he stopped looked up incredulously and started laughing.

  “Great joke, you had me going there for a second.” Gazing around the room he suddenly realized, no one was joking.

  “Wait what?! You’re serious?” Jacob dropped stunned to his chair. Derrick looked Jacob in the eye,

  “And how does you’re your wolf feel?” Jacob notice then that his wolf paced more restlessly than he ever had. His wolf’s agitation was extreme, releasing growls here and there, anger seemed to flow off his wolf to the point it was not just palatable, but was edging its way into Jacob. He did not notice how much control he had been using to keep his wolf under control. His look to the men was pleading, as he realized his wolf was on the edge of insanity. Close to going feral.

  They spent the rest of the afternoon going over what was going to happen, what had to happen to satisfy the wolf. Hoping to make Jacob as comfortable with the si
tuation as his wolf was. The animal inside of him ready for the challenge to ease his need. To gain his mate. Too save himself and his wolf.

  21

  Friday came without fanfare. Tension in the pack was high. Some with the excitement of a mating and the partying that would take pace the next day. Only a few knew about the critical event that would determine if there would be a mating the next day taking place this night. Jacob’s wolf was getting harder to control so Daniela and Jacob were kept separated for both their protection. As the men in the council, privy to the upcoming event, stayed with Jacob the entire day to give him their strength and support. The women of the council attended Daniela to support and calm her.

  The day drew to a close and Kyla walked into Daniela’s room to find her pacing like a trapped animal. Kyla spoke, “It is time Daniela.”

  Daniela continued pacing and Kyla realized she had not heard her looked to Leisa.

  Leisa smiled worriedly, knowingly, then nodded, “She has been like this for the last hour.” She whispered to Kyla, Jasmine nodded in agreement. Kyla sighed in understanding, she was nervous too they all were.

  Stepping in front of Daniela forcing her to stop pacing she said again, “Daniela, it is time hun.” Daniela stopped and looked up to Kyla, lost and frightened.

  “I don’t know if I can really do this.” She whispered to Kyla desperately. “I don’t know if I am ready.”

  Kyla stepped forward and embraced Daniela in a hug. “You are strong Daniela, look at all you have already gone through.” She said looking her in the face to gain her attention.

  “You love Jacob?” Daniela nodded unable to speak through the fear in her heart. “You are a strong woman, strong enough to get through this, you and Jacob deserve to be happy.

  Daniela looked up again realizing Leisa and Jasmine watched her with sympathy as Emily walked in. Emily smiled walked over to Daniela, a knowing smile on her face.

  “Daniela I know you are scared, I was when I went through this. You may find it enjoyable, even,” clearing her throat and blushing slightly, “Fun.” Nervous snicker filled the room. Even from Daniela.

  “Think of the love you two will share for the rest of your lives once this is done.” Emily continued standing next to Kyla.

  “We need to get you ready, remember,” Emily continued as she walked over to the Bathroom to grab a warm cloth for the preparation. “There will be guards just outside the room so should anything go wrong and we will be there to help.” Emily walked out of the bathroom with a washcloth in one hand and a glass of water in the other. Handed Daniela the glass and the cloth to Kyla. Reaching into her pocket she pulled out a pill. “Here Doc said to take this. He said it would help calm you.” When she saw the trepidation in Daniela as she took the pills from her hand she offered, “Doc said they would not dull your thoughts and senses just relax you.” Daniela took the pill. With a nod the women got to work, they had an hour to get Daniela ready.

  Jasmine grab the brush from the bathroom, Leisa grabbed the ceremonial dress, or at least as close to the dress Emily described, they would use this night. The women worked quickly laying everything out as Daniela took a shower to help relax her. Daniela stepped out of the shower and dried off. She sighed at herself in the mirror at the thought of what was about to happen. The pills seemed to be working as she suddenly laughed at the absurdity of the situation she found herself in and was not as panicked as she had been just thirty minutes ago. Looking at the door behind her in the mirror, she turned finding her strength opened the door and walked through.

  Jasmine dried and brushed out Daniela’s hair so it fell in soft curls around her shoulders. Kyla painted her nails on her hands and feet as they had discussed in soft pink. Leisa applied makeup and rubbed lotion all over her skin. When they were done, Emily walked up to her with the dress in her arms. Standing in only a black lace strapless bra and matching panties, Daniela allowed the women to help her with the gown.

  The women stood around Daniela smiling brightly at her in envy. Leisa laid her hands gentle on Daniela’s shoulders and turned her to face the mirror as the rest of them moved to stand behind her. She stood in awe of the person looking back at her. The dress shimmered like smoky crème as it settled around her like a cloud, her toes peeking from beneath the hem. She looked like a goddess standing there. Her hair framing her face in soft waves, the smokiness of her eyes enhanced by the slight blush rising in her excitement. She had never thought she could look this beautiful. The women behind her smiled back at her in the mirror.

  Kyla glanced at the clock, “It is time.”

  Suddenly the trepidation that had left Daniela came storming back.

  Emily carefully kissed Daniela on the cheek, “You look beautiful, you are strong and you can do this.”

  The determination and support that came out in those words strengthen Daniela’s reserve. “Let’s go.” She whispered nervously and turned toward the door. Jasmine opened the door taking the front guard position and Daniela followed. Once out Emily held her left hand as Kyla held her right, Leisa stood behind her.

  They knew there was no need for guarding Daniela, but Daniela appreciated the support and the feeling of safety she felt with them around her as they walked down to the room prepared for the ceremony.

  Eric stood by the door, eyed Daniela up and down as she approached. Jasmine growled at the guard and he shuddered as his mind returned to the task at hand. He turned and opened the door smiling an apology to Daniela. She nodded blushing once again and stepped into the room. Leisa nodded to Eric as he closed the door behind them. Maybe the women guards were needed she thought giggling to herself, then froze. The room was beautiful, candles were lit everywhere giving the room a warm romantic feel but, what froze her stood in the corner of the far wall, opposite of the large luxurious bed.

  ‘So,’ Daniela thought, ‘that is a St. Andrew’s Cross.’ Eyebrows raised she turned to find the same expression she felt on their faces. Except for Emily, who stood, smirking? A blush rosy on her cheeks. Nervous giggles filled the room as the women were not sure if it was nervous excitement or fear that held their attention. Emily hearing the men approaching, became serious,

  “It is time.”

  As one the women placed Daniela behind them and faced the door in strength the giggling gone as the seriousness of what was to happen taking over.

  Jacob’s pacing became more frustrated as the hour passed. A knock on the door halted him mid step as the door opened. Eric stepped in,

  “They are ready.”

  He said standing at the door. Jacob looked to Doc, Caleb then Derrick. Was this finally going to happen? Would he be able to control his violet tendencies and keep Daniela safe? Realizing if his didn’t go through with this he would lose his wolf, himself and Daniela; forever. This was unacceptable to him and his wolf. His wolf calming the anticipation in fear Jacob would change his mind allowed Jacob the control they needed. Jacob his determination to do this turned to Eric and nodded.

  Eric leading the way much as in the tradition the women followed; Derrick stood to his right, Caleb to his left with Doc behind. As they approached the door Doc checked his pocket once more for the tranquilizer he hoped he would not need to use. Eric reached for the door knob, turned it and looking to the men pushed it open and stepped in.

  The men surrounded Jacob as they entered the room to stand in front of the women blocking Daniela from Jacob’s view. The wolf howled in Jacob’s mind in frustration but remained calm. At Derrick’s nod the women separated two on either side of Daniella as she stepped forward next to them. The order of procedures written with purpose to protect the women followed closely. The room tensed as Jacob moved to step forward toward Daniela, Derrick laid his hand on Jacob’s arm halting him. Jacob’s wolf growling his unhappiness, ripped through Jacob’s chest, yet he refrained from going further.

  Jacob stared at the beautiful woman in front of him; the one he needed by his side. Her hair flowed as a halo around her face down h
er shoulders softly. Her eyes dark and sensual, the green in her eyes glowing as a wolf’s, looked back at him. His wolf though anxious calmed into the moment; to the courageous mate in front of him. The gown shimmered with starlight reflecting off the candles flickering around the room enhancing her beauty. She looked like a dream to Jacob and his wolf.

  Derrick and Emily nodded to each other when they were both confident Jacob had control. Emily moved in front of Daniela. Raising her hands to Daniela’s face and holding her lovingly, she looked at her waiting until she had Daniela’s complete attention.

  “Are you ready?” She asked quietly and waited. Daniela looked back at Emily and smiled,

  “Yes.”

  Assured of her answer, Emily nodded and the women gathered around her.

  As agreed Emily pulled the blindfold from her pocket and covered Daniela’s eyes. They waited as Daniela took a sharp breath and held it. Letting her breath out shakily she whispered, “I am fine.” Each giving Daniela a kiss on her cheek to signify her as family and to pass her the support of what she was enduring then they stepped back.

  As defined, Derrick and Caleb stepped forward. They were both mated and less of a threat to Jacob’s wolf for the next procedure. Eric stood to Jacob left ready to grab him if the need arose, Doc to his right. His hand in his pocket clutching the syringe. Jacob inhaled deeply closing his eyes and sighed to his wolf who was becoming agitated. ‘We have gone over this we need to remain calm or this will not happen. We knew this was going to be hard, but we must go in this direction,’ Jacob paused to assure his wolf’s attention, ‘to protect our mate.’ His wolf looked back whimpered at the hindrance he felt then gave in. Jacob offered his support and love to the wolf and the wolf gave Jacob his strength. Blowing out the breath he had been holding he relaxed his stance.

  The tension in the room relaxed. Derrick and Caleb brushed Daniela’s hair back and undid the ties at her shoulders in unison. Assuring Jacob was still in control, allowed the garment to slide caressingly down her body to flow to the floor. Daniela shivered as the cool air touched her skin, anticipation rising to the sensations exploding on her skin. She felt both men take her arms and turned her leading her to the cross. She heard the cuffs rattle as they each lifted her hands, then felt them as they clasped around her wrists. She thought she would be frightened and she was but she was also excited and this confused her as they spread her legs and chained her.