Ch: 89-93
Chapter 89: Jacob's First Lacrosse Game
Monday morning, Jacob and the girls were having breakfast in the kitchen.
Lydia brought up a new topic. "So, should we go shopping for the winter formal?"
Jacob looked up from his food. "When is that?"
"Next Friday." She replied.
"Do we have to go?" Jacob asked, a hint of a whine in his voice.
"Definitely." Lydia stated, leaving no room for argument. "Now, about shopping..."
"I'm good." Jacob said quickly. "I have a lot of suits. I can just wear one of those. Even you girls have a lot of dresses, so why go shopping again?"
Lydia ignored him and turned to Allison. "How about you? Do you want to go shopping?"
"Sure." Allison agreed with a smile.
As the girls began discussing dresses and shopping plans, Jacob turned his attention back to his plate. 'System, sign-in.' He thought.
[Daily Sign-In Successful. Rewards Obtained:
- A Squeaky Hammer
- Wilson the Volleyball (Cast Away)
- A Flip Phone]
Jacob read the list and sighed internally. 'It seems I'm unlucky today. All the rewards are garbage.'
After they finished breakfast, Cogman drove them to school.
---
Jacob, Stiles, and Scott were heading to the lacrosse field during a free period when Jackson and two of his friends intercepted them. The two guys with Jackson stepped forward, blocking their path.
Stiles raised an eyebrow. "What do you want?"
One of them sneered. "This is none of your business, Stilinski. Take your dork friend and leave. We only want to deal with Alexander."
Jacob ignored the two and looked directly at Jackson, who was hanging back. "Are you going to help them deal with me, too?"
Jackson backed away, his hands raised. "No, no! I don't want to deal with you! I warned them not to attack you, but they wouldn't listen!"
"Is that so?" Jacob asked, his tone flat.
Jackson nodded vigorously. "Yes! I really don't want any trouble."
A slow smile spread across Jacob's face. "Well, you're not as stupid as I thought you were."
Scott tried to interject. "Jacob, they are..."
"I know." Jacob cut him off. "They're both werewolves."
Stiles's eyes widened. "What? Is that why they've gotten so brave? These are the guys you beat up at Lydia's party with Jackson! They've been avoiding you ever since. So they think they're tough now that they're werewolves?"
Jacob focused on the two aggressors. "Before I kick your asses, tell me: who's your Alpha? Is it Peter?"
One of them puffed out his chest. "Yes. Are you scared?"
Jacob chuckled. "Scared? If he were here, he'd have beaten you himself—or even killed you—if he knew you were provoking me." He turned back to Jackson. "When did these two idiots get the Bite from Peter?"
Jackson said. "I took them to him two nights ago. He asked me if I knew anyone he could turn and add to his pack."
"I see." Jacob said. "But didn't he warn you and your buddies not to provoke me?"
"He warned me when I got the Bite, but he didn't warn them. And they didn't want to listen to me when I tried." Jackson explained.
One of the new werewolves snarled. "Enough talking!" And threw a punch at Jacob.
Jacob just smirked, effortlessly dodging the blow. The other one joined in, but they couldn't even touch his clothes, let alone land a hit.
Frustrated, the two looked around. Seeing they were alone in the hallway, they let their control slip. Their faces shifted, morphing into their werewolf forms. One of them had yellow glowing eyes, but the other had eyes that glowed blue.
Jacob's smirk vanished, replaced by a frown. He stopped dodging. In one swift motion, he caught the werewolf with yellow eyes, twisted his arm until it broke with a sickening crunch, and slammed him to the floor. The boy screamed in agony, shifting back to human form as he clutched his arm, the bone visibly protruding through the skin.
Jacob then grabbed the one with blue eyes by the throat and pinned him against the lockers. The werewolf struggled violently, but he couldn't budge Jacob's arm. Jacob headbutted him hard, breaking his nose and forcing him to shift back to human form from the shock and pain.
In a deadly serious tone, Jacob demanded. "Who did you kill?"
Panic flooded the boy's bloody face. "I-I didn't kill anyone!"
"You don't have to answer." Jacob said coldly. "I'll find out myself..."
Just then, Coach Finstock came running around the corner, drawn by the commotion. "What's going on here?!" He yelled. He saw one boy on the floor, clutching his already healed but blood-soaked arm, and the other pinned against the lockers with a bloody nose. "Alexander! What are you doing?!"
Jacob clicked his tongue in annoyance and released his grip. He looked at Coach. "They tried to bully me. I was just teaching them a little lesson."
Coach pointed at the blood splattered on the floor. "You call this a little lesson?!"
Jacob shrugged. "You can check them yourself. They're totally fine."
Skeptical, Coach bent down and examined the arm of the boy who had been screaming. He found no injury, no scar—nothing. Puzzled, he stood up and addressed the boy. "Take your friend to the infirmary. His nose might be broken."
The boy nodded shakily and helped his friend up, quickly scurrying away. Coach then turned back to Jacob, a strangely eager smile on his face. "You just injured two of my players. So, you're going to play for us this evening. Otherwise, I'll have you cleaning the library for a month for beating up your fellow students."
Jacob sighed. "Are you sure about letting me play lacrosse? I have no idea how to play."
Coach patted his shoulder reassuringly. "You'll learn!"
"Then I hope you won't regret it." Jacob said, a slow smile spreading across his face. "And don't worry, Coach. I'll do my best and be the most outstanding player on your team."
Coach beamed. "That's the spirit!" He then left in a remarkably good mood.
After Coach was gone, Scott looked at Jacob with concern. "Should I be worried about my captain status?"
"No," Jacob replied. "What you should be worried about is Coach's health. I'm going to make him stop trying to make me play that stupid game tonight, once and for all."
His expression then turned serious. He took out his phone and called Chris Argent.
Chris answered promptly. "Jacob? Is everything alright?"
"I just found out that Peter turned two students at my school two days ago." Jacob reported. "And one of them already has glowing blue eyes."
"Give me his name and address if possible." Chris said, his voice all business. "I'll check his house first, then come to the school."
Jacob looked at Jackson, who was still hovering nearby. "Tell me your blue-eyed friend's name and address, if you know them."
Jackson quickly provided the information, and Jacob relayed it to Chris before hanging up. He then looked back at Jackson. "If I were you, I'd go home right now before the hunters come looking for your blue-eyed friend."
With that, Jacob, Scott, and Stiles left the hallway.
---
At lunch, Jacob and his friends were in the cafeteria when Chris called back.
Jacob answered. "Did you find anything at his house?"
"Yeah." Chris's voice was grim. "It's bad."
"How bad?"
"We found his parents. Both dead in a freezer in the basement. He tore them apart."
"Did you get to the school yet?"
"No, there's no need. He came home while we were there. We've already caught him."
"Good. You deal with him, then." Jacob said, ending the call.
He looked at his friends. "You guys heard that?"
Lydia nodded. "Yeah, we heard. That's terrible. Why would he kill his own parents?"
"Who knows?" Jacob shrugged. "Maybe they yelled at him and he lost control. Or maybe he was just a psychopath."
"I bet it's the latter." Stiles chimed in. "He didn't seemed too heartbroken about his parents death earlier."
Allison said. "I think Peter should be stopped. He's turning teenagers into killers."
Jacob sighed. "Peter didn't provoke us, he isn't killing innocent people, and he didn't ask that idiot to kill his own parents. So, I don't think we should interfere with what he's doing. Let the hunters deal with him. And don't worry, even if he kills all the other hunters, he wouldn't dare harm your parents, because he knows that would be his end. You can help them if you wish, but I really don't want to get involved in the mess between Peter and Kate." He thought to himself. 'If I did, I might lose out on some nice rewards from the System.'
Allison thought for a moment, then said. "I won't get involved either, but I'll watch from the shadows when they fight to ensure my parents' safety."
"Lydia and I will be right beside you." Jacob promised.
Lydia took Allison's hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze. "Yes, we won't let anything happen to your parents."
Allison smiled gratefully. "Thanks, guys." She didn't mention Kate. She still didn't know if she should try to save her aunt or not.
---
After school ended, Jacob, Scott, and Stiles put on their lacrosse gear and headed to the field to play.
Coach gathered his players and delivered one of his famously bizarre pep talks. He finished by patting Jacob's shoulder. "I'm feeling optimistic about you, kid."
Jacob smiled, a glint of mischief in his eyes. "Don't worry, Coach. I'll be the star of this game." He then waved exaggeratedly at Lydia and Allison in the bleachers before jogging onto the field.
True to his word, Jacob became the center of attention—but not in the way Coach had hoped. Hating lacrosse, Jacob decided to create his own version of the game. He immediately started stealing the ball from his own teammates, even scoring several goals against his team, which left Coach sputtering with rage on the sidelines.
Undeterred, Jacob continued his reign of chaos. He aggressively checked players from the opposite team, committed every foul imaginable, and whenever he somehow managed to score a goal for the right side, he would sprint up to the opposing goalie to scream and taunt him. Between plays, he would turn to the bleachers to blow kisses and flirt shamelessly with the highly amused Lydia and Allison.
Coach was fuming, his face turning a dangerous shade of purple. When he tried to substitute Jacob out, Jacob simply refused to leave the field.
Then, things escalated. Jacob deliberately bumped into an opposing player, dropped his stick, ripped off his gloves and helmet, and assumed a boxing stance. He then began throwing punches at the stunned player. When the referee rushed in to break it up, Jacob shoved him aside, grabbed the other player by the jersey, tore his helmet off, and resumed pummeling him—mercifully holding back his supernatural strength, but still giving the poor guy a thorough beating.
Coach, Scott, and Stiles finally managed to pull Jacob off his victim. "What was that?!" Coach roared.
Jacob scratched his head, feigning confusion. "Aren't fights allowed in lacrosse? Like in ice hockey?"
"No, you idiot!" Coach screamed, veins bulging on his forehead.
Jacob smiled serenely. "I see. But that was fun, though. I think it should be allowed. Anyway, let's continue the game! I'm enjoying it so much; I didn't think it would be this much fun!" He looked at Coach with utter sincerity. "Thank you, Coach, for letting me play." He then turned to the rest of the players. "Alright, let's continue!"
The referee stepped forward, his face stern. "Hold on, kid. You're not continuing anything." He brandished a red card. "You're out! And kid... I think you need some serious therapy."
Jacob immediately switched to pretending to be outraged. "You can't kick me out! I didn't know fighting wasn't allowed! The most you can do is give me a five-minute time-out or whatever you call it!"
The referee looked pleadingly at Coach. "Coach, get him out of here now, or I'm ending this game and declaring a forfeit for your team."
Coach said. "You can't do that!"
"McCall! Stilinski!" Coach yelled, pointing a trembling finger at Jacob. "Get your stupid friend off my field!"
Scott and Stiles quickly grabbed a still-protesting Jacob and dragged him toward the locker room. The moment the door closed behind them, Jacob burst into laughter.
"That was fantastic!" He wheezed. "I bet Coach will never ask me to play again. Now, I'm gonna change and go annoy him some more."
Scott and Stiles just shook their heads, laughing, before heading back to the field.
After a quick shower and change, Jacob returned and positioned himself right next to a stressed-looking Coach. "So, Coach, when's the next game? And when are practices? Also, are fights allowed during practice?"
Coach didn't even look at him, massaging the bridge of his nose. "Go away. You are not allowed to play. Ever again."
"You can't do that, Coach!" Jacob protested. "I'm better than all your other players! Didn't you hear how loud the crowd was cheering for me?"
Coach muttered under his breath. 'What have I done? Why did I insist on making him play? This psycho not only created chaos on the field, he even scored on his own team!' Aloud, he said. "Go. Away. I'll... I'll think about it. Maybe I'll let you play if we're ever desperate."
Jacob opened his mouth to argue further, but Coach cut him off, shooing him away. "Go! Go! I'm busy!"
Satisfied, Jacob turned with a triumphant smile and went to sit between Allison and Lydia in the bleachers.
Allison shook her head, a small smile playing on her lips. "Poor Coach. He must be regretting letting you play."
Lydia added. "He's probably cursing your name in his head right now."
Jacob leaned back, utterly pleased with himself. "I'm not going to lie, that was fun. I'm almost tempted to play again, if only to piss him off and send his blood pressure through the roof."
Scott and Stiles had to play more seriously to help their team recover and secure a win after Jacob's chaotic performance, which had included scoring several goals against them.
After the game, the group dispersed. Cogman arrived to drive Lydia and Allison home, while Scott headed off to his after-school job.
Jacob slid into the passenger seat of Stiles's Jeep. "Is your old man home yet?"
"Not yet." Stiles replied, starting the engine.
"Then let's go get something to eat before we head to your house." Jacob suggested.
"Alright." Stiles agreed, and he drove them to a local diner where they shared a meal. Once they were finished, they got back in the Jeep and finally set off for the Stilinski residence.
Chapter 90: Telling Noah About the Supernatural
Stiles and Jacob arrived at the Stilinski residence and settled in the living room.
Jacob made himself comfortable on the couch. "So, when is your dad getting home?"
"I don't know, but he usually comes back around this time," Stiles replied, checking his phone. "Why, are you busy or something?"
"Nah, I don't mind waiting," Jacob said, leaning back. "By the way, how are things going with you and Erica?"
Stiles sat down opposite him, his expression softening. "Good. But... she gets those seizures a lot."
"Do you dislike her for that?" Jacob asked. "You know she can't control it."
"It's nothing like that," Stiles was quick to clarify. "It's just... it happens whenever she's excited or nervous, and she hates herself for it. She even asked me to break up with her and find a healthy girl." He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Hearing her say that just made me like her even more. The worst part is that I know how to heal her, but you told me not to tell her yet. That makes me feel guilty."
"You just need to wait a week or two." Jacob reassured him. "Now that the Argents have caught one of Peter's Betas, they'll use him to get to Peter. Hopefully, Derek will survive the fight between the hunters and Peter and become the Alpha."
"But what if the Argents decide to go after Derek, too?" Stiles worried.
"They probably won't. Taking down Peter will cost them enough. Besides, I won't let Derek die. He can be considered our friend. And she probably wouldn't come back to Beacon Hills if he died."
Stiles raised an eyebrow. "She? Who are you talking about?"
Jacob waved a dismissive hand. "No one. Anyway, don't worry too much. I'll make sure Erica gets the Bite, if she chooses to, of course."
"Alright." Stiles said, somewhat reassured.
They continued talking for another hour before they heard Sheriff Stilinski's car pull into the driveway.
Noah entered the house and called out. "Stiles, are you home?"
Stiles answered from the living room. "Yeah, I'm in here!"
Noah's voice carried through the house as he walked toward them. "You'll have to order dinner! I'm only here to take a shower and change, then I have to head back to the station..." He stopped short as he entered the living room and noticed Jacob. "Oh, you have a friend with you. Hello, kid. What's your name again?"
"Jacob, sir." Jacob replied politely.
Stiles looked at his father, his expression suddenly nervous and serious. "Dad... we need to talk."
The moment Stiles said those words, a translucent screen materialized in front of Jacob's eyes.
[Event Sign-In Available:
You can sign-in after witnessing Stiles telling his father about the supernatural.]
'Great!' Jacob thought. 'I didn't expect to get an event sign-in from this.'
Noah frowned. "Is everything okay, son?"
"Yes, but... there's something I need to tell you." Stiles said, his voice tight with anxiety. "I need you to listen and promise not to freak out."
The Sheriff sat down in his armchair, then glanced suspiciously at Jacob. "Stiles, you're not going to tell me that you and he are in a..."
Jacob cut him off sharply. "Don't you dare finish that sentence, old man."
Noah scratched the back of his head awkwardly and looked back at his son. "Did I get it wrong?"
"Yes, you're wrong." Stiles said. "That's not what I want to talk about."
"Well, you brought him here, you're being all serious, and telling me not to freak out..." Noah trailed off. "I thought you wanted to..."
"No! That's not it!" Stiles insisted, his voice rising in pitch. "I'm straight, Dad! I even have a girlfriend!"
Noah let out a genuine sigh of relief. "Good. I'm relieved to hear you have a girlfriend." He then looked at Jacob apologetically. "Not that I'm judging you if you don't like girls, son. I just hope that Stiles continues the family bloodline."
Jacob glared at the Sheriff. "Damn it, you are really looking for a fight, old man."
Stiles couldn't help but laugh, then looked at Jacob's expression and shivered. "Okay, calm down. He's just joking, right, Dad?"
"Y-yeah, of course." Noah said, clearing his throat. "Just joking."
Jacob leaned back with an evil smile that made Stiles shudder.
"I know that smile." Stiles said warily. "You're planning something evil again."
"Who knows?" Jacob replied, his smile not fading.
Noah decided to steer the conversation back on track. "Okay, Stiles. What do you want to talk about? Did you boys get into some kind of trouble?"
Stiles turned to his father, took a deep breath, stood up, and started Pacing in the room. "Okay, okay, okay, okay." He clicked his fingers, looked at his dad, and said. "Yes, okay..." But then he lost his nerve, scratching his head and pacing again. "No, damn it, how should I start?"
"Stiles?" Noah prompted, his patience wearing thin.
Stiles stopped and looked at his dad. "I'm sorry, okay? I'm just... I'm trying to... I'm just trying to figure out how to start here."
"Hey, I don't have this kind of time." Noah said, his voice weary. "I need to get back to work. We just found a couple dead in their house, torn apart and stuffed in a freezer. It looks like they were killed by an animal, but animals can't put people in freezers. So now we're looking for the son who disappeared."
"Okay, okay." Stiles said, trying to regain his focus. "Um... for the last two months, you've had all these cases you couldn't figure out, right? The animal attacks, the dead girl in the woods, the cannibal family, and now this dead couple. It's like... it's like you're playing a losing game."
"Stiles," Noah said, his tone sharp with frustration, "the FBI is breathing down my neck and reviewing my work. The last thing I need right now is a job performance review from my own son."
Noah stood up, ready to leave, but Stiles blocked his path. "Wait, Dad! What I'm trying to say is that there is no animal attacking people in town. Well, he is an animal..."
"Stiles!" Noah barked, his patience gone.
"The animal attacking people is actually a man!" Stiles blurted out.
Noah stared at him. "What do you mean?"
"Not totally a man." Stiles clarified. "But a man who can turn into a beast. A werewolf."
Noah's face flushed with anger. "Do you think this is a joke, Stiles? Do you think I have time for your lies right now?"
"I'm not lying! The cannibal family? They were a supernatural creature called a wendigo! And the girl you found cut in half in the woods? She was a werewolf! And the couple you found dead today..."
"STILES, THAT'S ENOUGH!" Noah yelled, pushing past him to leave.
At that moment, a screen appeared in front of Jacob's eyes.
[You have witnessed Stiles telling his father about the supernatural. You can sign-in now, Host.]
'Not now.' Jacob thought. 'Save it for later.'
"Dad, just wait, please! I can prove..." Stiles pleaded.
Just then, Jacob smirked and stood up. His eyes flashed a brilliant gold, his teeth elongating into sharp fangs. He moved with supernatural speed, appearing directly in front of Noah and letting out a deep, guttural roar right in the Sheriff's face.
Noah was so startled he jumped back, tripped over the couch, and landed hard on the floor. He scrambled to his feet, drew his service weapon in one fluid motion, and aimed it at Jacob with shaking hands, his eyes wide with shock. "Stiles! Get away from him!"
Stiles looked from his terrified father to a perfectly calm Jacob. "Really, man? Did you have to scare him like that?"
Jacob shifted back to his human form and smiled serenely. "That was for him thinking I like guys." He then casually sat back down on the couch as if nothing had happened.
Stiles sighed and turned back to his father. "Dad, put the gun away."
But Noah didn't hear him; he was still staring at Jacob, the gun unwavering in his grip.
"Dad!" Stiles yelled.
Finally, Noah snapped out of his daze and looked at his son. "Put the gun down." Stiles said firmly. "Jacob isn't going to harm us. He's a friend... he's just a bit petty."
"Are you sure?" Noah asked, his voice unsteady.
"Yes, I'm sure. Put the gun away. And even if you shot him, nothing would happen to him."
Slowly, reluctantly, Noah holstered his weapon. "Bullets... don't hurt him?"
"Yeah." Stiles confirmed.
Noah sank onto the couch opposite Jacob, his entire world view shattered. "What are you?" He whispered.
"I'm a supernatural creature." Jacob stated simply. "As for what kind... I can't tell you that."
"Why not?" Noah asked.
"For my safety, and for yours. If people knew what I am, this town would become a very dangerous place."
"Okay, Dad." Stiles interjected, seeing his father's overwhelmed expression. "Don't worry about what Jacob is right now. Let me tell you what's really going on in this town."
Stiles then launched into a detailed explanation, telling Noah about werewolves, hunters, Peter Hale's vendetta, the Argents, the wendigos, and how the couple he found today were victims of their own newly-turned werewolf son.
Noah listened in stunned silence, then finally sighed, running a hand over his face. "Then I should go arrest Peter Hale and Kate Argent."
"You can't do that!" Stiles exclaimed. "You can't put a werewolf in jail. It's impossible; he's too strong."
"Then at least I'll arrest Kate Argent." Noah insisted, clinging to a sense of duty.
Jacob leaned forward. "You can try, but you wouldn't be able to keep her locked up. The Argents have friends in very high places. I know they have state detectives on their payroll, and they probably have FBI agents, too. So, if you want my advice, just pretend you don't know anything. And don't worry about your job. The government knows what's going on. They know the Walcotts were wendigos, and they know the animal attacks here aren't actually animals. They won't blame you."
"I'm not worried about my job." Noah said, his voice heavy. "I'm worried about murderers killing people in my town."
Jacob stood up. "Well, Stiles told you about the supernatural because he was worried about your health. He didn't tell you so you could go after an Alpha werewolf—one that even the hunters are afraid of—and get yourself killed. So, before you do anything stupid, think about your son. You're all he has left."
He started walking toward the door. "Alright, Stiles, I need to head home. See you tomorrow at school."
"Wait, I'll drive you!" Stiles offered.
"No need." Jacob said, pausing at the doorway. "You still need to talk to your dad."
"Alright, man. See you tomorrow." Stiles replied.
Jacob left the Stilinski house and began the walk back toward his mansion. Once he was a reasonable distance away, he thought. 'System, sign-in.'
[Event Sign-In Successful. Rewards Obtained:
- A chance to delete or strengthen an ability.
- The SR-6 (Despicable Me): A laser weapon that temporarily shrinks targets with an energy beam.
- Bentley Mulsanne (2011)]
Jacob quickly scanned the list, then his attention went back to the first reward. 'System, what will happen if I strengthen my Charm ability?'
[You might be able to control it. Turn it off and on.]
'Alright, use the chance on my Charm.'
[Are you sure, Host?]
'Yes.'
[Okay. Using the chance to strengthen your Charm. Please wait a moment...]
A brief, tingling sensation passed over him.
[Ability has been strengthened successfully.
Charm (Passive Ability): Makes the host charming only to women he is interested in.]
Jacob frowned. 'System, you said I would be able to turn it off and on.'
[I said when the ability is strengthened, you might be able to turn it off and on, Host. But this outcome is better.]
'What do you mean, better?'
[Now your Charm ability will only activate for women you are romantically interested in and want to date.]
'So, now, as long as I'm not interested in a woman, my charm won't affect her?' Jacob said.
[Yes, Host. Would you like me to explain that in simpler English? I doubt I can, but I will try.]
'System, are you calling me stupid?' Jacob thought, slightly offended.
The System's response was a simple, silent: [...]
'What's with the three dots? Answer me!'
He got no further reply. 'Stupid System.' He grumbled internally. 'But at least now I won't be harassed by random girls at school or women whenever I go out.'
His focus then shifted to the other two rewards. 'I got the shrink ray! That's fun. Maybe I should shrink Cogman with it the next time he annoys me. And I hope I can get some minions from Despicable Me later; those guys are fun.'
He looked around, ensuring no one was watching, then broke into a run using his supernatural speed. He stopped when he reached the empty road leading to his mansion and retrieved the brand new Bentley Mulsanne from his pocket dimension.
Jacob walked a slow circle around the sleek, luxurious car, a low whistle escaping his lips. "What a beautiful car."
He slid into the driver's seat and enjoyed the smooth, quiet ride back to his mansion.
As Jacob pulled up, Cogman opened the gate. He parked the Bentley in front of the mansion's entrance.
Cogman approached after closing the gate. "Is the car ours, sir?" He inquired, his eyes glinting with appreciation for the fine machinery.
Jacob tossed him the keys. "Yes. Is dinner ready?"
Cogman deftly caught the keys and stored them away. "Yes, sir."
Jacob walked inside and found Lydia and Allison chatting in the living room.
Lydia looked up as he entered. "Did you tell Stiles's father about the supernatural?"
"We did." Jacob confirmed, dropping onto a nearby couch.
Allison leaned forward, curious. "How did it go?"
Jacob said with a sigh. "Well, he wants to arrest Peter and your crazy aunt."
"Really?" Allison asked.
"Yeah. I left Stiles to talk some sense into him. Hopefully, he succeeds." Jacob stood up. "Now, let's go eat. I'm starving."
Chapter 91: Memories
The next morning, Jacob woke up in Allison's room. He looked down at her sleeping peacefully on his chest and smiled, remembering their wild night together. He lay there contentedly, gently playing with her hair.
'System, sign in.' He thought.
[Daily Sign-In Successful. Rewards Obtained:
- PB&J Sandwich x100
- Tomahawk Steak x40
- Nunchucks]
Jacob read the list. 'Nunchucks? Well, it's better than useless dirty underwear, I guess. The steaks are good, but my favorite is the PB&J. Let me see what kind of jam is in these.'
He pulled a sandwich from his pocket dimension and took a bite. 'Great, it's strawberry jam, my favorite.' He quickly finished it and grabbed a few more. By the time Allison stirred awake, he had already eaten over twenty.
Allison opened her eyes and murmured. "Good morning."
Jacob, his mouth full, just mumbled something unintelligible.
She sat up and saw him chewing. "What are you eating?"
Jacob swallowed. "PB&J. Do you want one?"
"I haven't brushed my teeth yet." She said, making a face.
"Who cares about that?" Jacob replied with a grin. "You can brush them after you eat."
"Fine, give me one." Allison conceded. She took a bite and her eyes widened. "Oh, these are good! Give me five more. I'm starving after what you put me through last night, you monster."
Jacob handed over the sandwiches. "You're the one who was so stubborn and didn't want to stop, even though you were tired. Not that I'm complaining or anything."
Allison snorted. "Couldn't you be a gentleman and let me win, at least once?"
Jacob looked offended. "Let you win in sex? Are you crazy? I'm a dragon, for crying out loud! What's next, you'll ask me to wear a dress?" He grabbed her and smirked. "I think you need some punishment."
Allison laughed, pushing him away playfully. "Please, no! I can't do it anymore. I'm still numb down there."
"Oh, please." Jacob scoffed. "You have supernatural healing, and it's not like I hurt you yesterday or anything."
"It's not about being hurt." She said. "It's my... the nerves down there are numb. I need to rest."
Jacob smiled and relented. "Fine. I'll punish you some other time." He kissed her, got out of bed, and headed for the shower, but not before delivering a spank to her naked backside.
Allison just smiled, finished her sandwiches, and then followed him into the bathroom.
After showering together and getting dressed, they headed downstairs. When they walked into the living room, they found Lydia patting Malia's head. But something was wrong—neither of them was moving, both frozen in a daze.
"Lydia! Lydia!" Allison called out, but there was no response.
Alarmed, Allison moved to shake her, but Jacob caught her arm. "Don't. She's probably reading Malia's memories."
"Reading memories?" Allison asked, surprised. "Lydia can do that?"
"Yes," Jacob confirmed. "As a banshee, she can read people's memories through touch."
"Then what should we do?"
"Nothing. Let's just wait for them to come back to their senses."
Jacob and Allison sat down. It didn't take long for both Lydia and Malia to snap out of it. Lydia took a deep, shuddering breath, then looked at Malia with profound sympathy. "I'm so sorry, Malia. I didn't mean to read your memories. I was just trying to pet your head to say good morning, like I usually do."
Malia just stared at her, and then tears began to stream from her eyes, soaking the fur on her face.
Lydia's guilt intensified. "I'm really sorry. I didn't mean to remind you of that accident."
Malia raised her head and let out a long, sorrowful howl. But there was something else in that sound—a sense of relief. Then, her eyes began to glow. The color shifted, changing from blue to a bright, clear yellow.
Allison gasped. "Malia, your eyes are glowing yellow! But how?"
"Guilt can change a shapeshifter's eye color from yellow to blue." Jacob explained. "It's not just killing."
"So, Malia didn't kill anyone? She was just feeling guilty?" Allison asked.
Lydia shook her head, her voice soft. "No, it's not just guilt. It's much worse. She thought she was the one who killed her entire family."
Upon hearing this, Malia jumped forward, burying her head in Lydia's chest and whimpering softly as she cried.
Lydia stroked her fur, whispering. "I'm sorry." Over and over.
Jacob smiled gently. "Stop apologizing, Lydia. She doesn't seem to blame you. In fact, I think she's grateful to you for showing her that memory."
Allison nodded in agreement. "I think so, too."
"Lydia, show us that memory." Jacob requested.
"Let's wait for Malia to calm down first." Lydia suggested. "Then we should ask her permission."
"Okay." Jacob agreed.
After Malia had calmed down and pulled away from Lydia, Lydia looked at her and asked. "Are you mad at me because I accidentally read your memories?"
Malia shook her head, indicating she wasn't angry.
"Good." Lydia said, relieved. "Can I show Jay and Allison your memories?"
Malia nodded her consent. Lydia closed her eyes and sent the vision of Malia's memories to Jacob and Allison through their telepathic link.
Jacob and Allison's minds were suddenly transported to an empty road on a dark, full-moon night. A car sped down the road. Inside were a young Malia, her father, mother, and little sister. Suddenly, a woman appeared in the middle of the road, firing shots at the car. Malia's father swerved, lost control, and the car careened off the road, crashing violently into the Beacon Hills Preserve.
The scene shifted. Jacob and Allison now stood beside the overturned, mangled car. They saw a wounded and terrified Malia looking up at the full moon through the shattered windshield. The lunar light triggered her first shift. She clawed frantically at the seat and the metal of the car. She was on the verge of attacking her injured, groaning family when a sudden, foreign scent hit her. Panic and primal instinct took over. She managed to crawl out of the wreckage, her small body still mid-shift. As she tried to flee into the woods, her form twisted and deformed until she fully shifted into a coyote and vanished into the darkness.
Once she was a safe distance away, she turned back and saw a woman with glowing blue eyes approaching the crashed car. Malia took one last, terrified look before running for her life.
The scene changed once more, showing a devastated Malia returning the next morning. She found her family dead, their bodies covered in deep claw marks as if torn apart by a wild animal. Overcome with guilt, the nine-year-old Malia believed she was the one who had killed them. Her eyes shifted to a sorrowful blue as despair consumed her. She stayed there, crying, until the police arrived and chased her away, mistaking her for a coyote scavenging the bodies.
After the police took the bodies and left, Malia came back and took her little sister's doll from the crash site to a cave she made her home. For seven long years, she visited the crashed car, living a solitary life haunted by guilt.
The memories ended, and Jacob and Allison opened their eyes. Allison had tears streaming down her face. She immediately hugged Malia tightly. "I'm so sorry you had to go through all of that and be all alone for seven years."
Jacob sighed heavily.
After Allison let go, Jacob looked at Malia and said. "At least now you know you didn't kill your family. And you have us now."
Allison hugged Malia again. "Yes, we are your family now."
Lydia joined them in the hug, and Jacob watched with a soft smile.
Just then, Cogman, who had been listening from the kitchen, entered the living room. "Lady Lydia, could you tell me about Lady Malia's memories? I wish to know what happened to her family."
"Sure." Lydia said, and she recounted the vision for him.
Cogman's expression was grim. "Do you know what that woman looks like? You would only need to draw a picture for me, and I would find her, wherever she is."
Malia perked up at this, her ears twitching with hope. But Lydia had to dash it. "Unfortunately, no. Her face wasn't visible in Malia's memories. The only thing I could tell was that she was a woman, and her eyes were glowing blue." Malia's head drooped sadly.
Jacob walked over and patted her head. "Don't worry. We will find her and make her pay for what she did."
Cogman clapped his hands together, shifting the mood. "Alright! Breakfast is ready. You should eat and go to school, or you will be late."
They went to the kitchen and ate.
After they finished, Malia barked at Jacob.
"What?" He asked.
Lydia interpreted. "I think she said she wants to go to the woods and visit the crashed car."
Jacob looked at Malia. "Is that so?"
Malia nodded.
"Then you can't go alone; it's too dangerous." Jacob decided. "I'll skip school today and go with you."
With that, Cogman drove Allison and Lydia to school, and Jacob went with Malia into the woods.
They reached the crashed car and sat there in silence for an hour. Then, Malia led him to her old den, where she retrieved her little sister's doll. After that, they headed back to the mansion and found Cogman tending the garden.
"Cogman." Jacob called out. "Take the doll from Malia, put it in a glass case, and place it in her room."
Cogman walked over to Malia. "May I?"
Malia gave him the doll, then followed Jacob inside.
Jacob turned the TV on for Malia and sat next to her, playing on his Game Boy. After lunch, it began to rain heavily outside. Jacob decided to take a nap. He went to the library, lay down on the window seat, covered himself with a blanket, and watched the rain, ready to fall asleep.
But Malia followed him and jumped onto the seat beside him.
He laughed. "Come here for a nap, too?" She nodded. "Then get under the blanket." He covered her with the blanket, and soon, both of them were fast asleep, the sound of the rain a gentle lullaby.
Chapter 92: A Human Once More
After the school day ended, Cogman drove to the school and brought Allison and Lydia back to the mansion.
Inside, Cogman said. "Would you like something to eat, my ladies?"
"Yes, please." Lydia said. "Make us something. The food in the school cafeteria wasn't that good."
"Right away, my lady." Cogman said with a bow and turned toward the kitchen.
"Wait," Allison interrupted. "Where's Jay?"
"He is taking a nap in the library." Cogman informed her. "Shall I wake him?"
"No." Allison said. "I'll wake him up myself."
Allison and Lydia headed to the library. When they entered and saw Jacob, they both gasped. Jacob wasn't alone. A completely naked girl was sleeping on top of him.
Lydia stormed over, her anger rising. She snatched the blanket off them and shouted. "Who are you, bitch!"
The girl woke up, blinking slowly, and looked at Lydia with a puzzled expression.
"Didn't you hear me?" Lydia demanded. "I said, who are you?"
Jacob stirred awake. "Lydia, why are you so loud? Let me sleep some more." He hugged the girl on top of him and fumbled around for the blanket. Not finding it, he opened his eyes, saw it in Lydia's hands, snatched it back, covered himself and the girl, and closed his eyes again.
Allison studied the girl's face, and frowned. 'Is that Malia?' She thought. 'She does look like the little girl from the memories Lydia showed us this morning.'
"Jacob, wake up!" Lydia shouted. "And tell me who this new girl that you're sleeping with is! You told us you would ask our opinion before dating anyone new!"
Jacob, eyes still closed, mumbled. "What new girl are you talking about? It's just Malia. It's not like I don't sleep with her every day."
Lydia's eyes widened. "Malia?" She looked at the girl more closely. "Well, she does look like the girl I saw in Malia's memories."
Hearing this, Jacob started groping the body next to him and realized the form beside him was no longer furry. He sat up abruptly, letting the blanket fall away, and stared wide-eyed at the naked Malia. "Malia! You shifted back to your human form!"
Malia raised her hands and stared at them.
Jacob raised her chin to look at her face. "You're even more beautiful than I thought. By the way, do you want to become my mate? Let's go to my room and sleep togeth..."
SMACK!
Allison hit the back of his head and pulled Malia away from him. "Stay away from her, you pervert! She still looks confused and isn't used to her human body yet, and you want to take advantage of her? You creep!"
Lydia nodded in agreement. "Yeah! The last time she was in human form, she was nine! We have to teach her a lot of stuff so creepy perverts like you can't take advantage of her!"
Jacob, who had been ogling Malia's naked body, finally came to his senses. He coughed awkwardly and looked at Allison. "I was just joking! You girls help her get dressed and talk to her; she looks confused. As for me, I'll wait for her until she's willing and ready."
Both Lydia and Allison glared at him and said in unison. "Pervert!" Then they ushered a dazed-looking Malia out of the library.
As they left, Jacob muttered to himself. "Damn it. If I'd known Malia had turned back to her human form, I should have woken up before the girls came back. That way, I could have at least kissed her."
Suddenly, the library door swung open and Allison glared at him. "I heard that, you pervert! From now on, you are not to stay alone with Malia until we say so!" She slammed the door shut.
Jacob ran to the door, yanked it open, and followed them down the hall. "You can't do that! Besides, Malia isn't as confused as she looks; she's just pretending!" He looked directly at Malia. "When are you going to drop the act?"
Malia smirked and winked at him, but the moment Lydia and Allison turned to look at her, she instantly resumed her vacant, confused expression.
Lydia and Allison turned back to Jacob with looks of pure disgust. "Scum." They said in unison, then hurried Malia into Lydia's room.
Jacob just smiled and headed to the kitchen. "Cogman! Malia shifted to her human form, so we're celebrating tonight! Cook us a feast!"
"I heard, sir." Cogman replied, not looking up from his preparations. "And, with all due respect, you are a perverted scum. I can't believe you wanted to take advantage of Lady Malia the moment she turned back to her human form. She might still have the mindset of a nine-year-old."
"What do you know, you stupid tin can?" Jacob retorted. "She's just pretending! I felt someone molesting me when I was asleep, but I thought it was Lydia or Allison, so I didn't wake up. She probably realized she'd shifted back long before the girls came home from school."
"I think you are lying, sir." Cogman stated flatly. "I believe it was the other way around. I think you were the one molesting her and pretended to be asleep when my ladies returned."
"Hey, I'm telling the truth!" Jacob insisted.
"And I don't believe you, sir."
"Then shut up and just cook! And, Cogman..."
"Yes, sir?"
Jacob smirked. "Next time we fight some evil bastards, I'll kill them all myself and leave none for you."
Cogman let out a dramatic scream. "No! You can't do that, sir! I'm sorry, okay? You are a noble person who wouldn't care about the words of a lowly servant like me, right?" He then dropped to the floor and hugged Jacob's leg desperately. "Please, sir! You have to leave me some people to kill! I can't go back to my old life when my previous master wouldn't let me kill people. I might lose my mind! I need to crack some bones, rip off limbs, cut off some heads, and hear..."
Jacob pushed him away in disgust. "Okay, stop! Stop! I was just joking with you. Now, go back to cooking and stop creeping me out."
Just then, Lydia entered the kitchen. "Cogman, we're having a girls' night in my room, so bring the food up there when it's ready."
Jacob turned to her. "I was thinking we could all celebrate tonight."
"We can celebrate tomorrow." Lydia said. "Tonight, Allison and I want to talk to Malia and teach her some girl stuff."
"Then, can I join you for your girls' night?" Jacob asked with a hopeful grin.
Lydia smiled sweetly. "You know what? You can... but you have to wear a skirt."
Jacob's grin turned predatory. "You've become so bold, huh? I think I need to teach you a lesson." In one swift motion, he scooped her up and threw her over his shoulder, heading for his room.
Lydia laughed, calling back over his shoulder. "Cogman, take the food to my room when you cook it!" Then she looked down at Jacob. "You only have until nightfall. Then I have to get back to Allison and Malia."
"That's enough time to teach you several lessons." Jacob replied.
---
After having his 'fun' with Lydia, Jacob ate a quick meal, got into his Camaro, and drove into town, leaving the girls to their girls' night.
He drove to Stiles's house and saw him through the window, wearing headphones and wildly swinging the lightsaber around his room.
Jacob smiled and called him on his phone.
Stiles answered. "Jacob, what's up?"
"Open the door. I'm outside your house."
Stiles opened the door and invited Jacob in. As they sat in the living room, Stiles asked. "So, what's up?"
"It's boring at home. My girls are having a girls' night, so I came to hang out with you. Anything exciting happen at school today?"
"Nothing much." Stiles said. "But since you weren't there, I introduced Erica to Allison and Lydia."
"And why not introduce her to me?" Jacob asked.
"Because you're too dangerous for girls!" Stiles explained. "Even if you don't go after her, you might charm her, and she'd end up having a crush on you."
Jacob thought. 'Well, she won't be charmed by me now since my ability only works on women I'm interested in.' Out loud, he said. "You don't need to worry about that. You can bring her to hang out with us."
"Are you sure?" Stiles asked warily. "I mean, you never said it, but I'm pretty sure you have some kind of charm ability."
"Trust me, Stiles. Erica will be fine. You can bring her to hang out with us from now on."
"Then I'll take your word for it." Stiles said, looking relieved.
"Did you manage to convince your father not to do anything stupid?" Jacob changed the subject.
"Yeah." Stiles sighed. "I had to talk to him for hours yesterday to convince him not to go after Kate or Peter."
"And how is he handling the truth about our world?"
"Pretty good, actually. At least he didn't drink this morning."
They continued talking for another two hours before Jacob finally left. He drove to a fancy restaurant, had dinner there, and then ordered several dishes to go. With the takeout bags in hand, he drove to the hospital.
He arrived and found Melissa sitting at the nurses' station, typing diligently at her computer.
Jacob greeted her with a smile. "Hey, Melissa."
Melissa looked up from her computer. "Jacob! What are you doing here? Your kind doesn't get sick, right?"
Jacob's smile widened. "No, I don't get sick. I haven't seen you in a few days, so I came to visit. I even brought you dinner." He held up the bags.
"Let me see what you brought." Melissa said, her curiosity piqued.
Jacob handed her the food. She peeked inside and her eyes widened. "This is fancy! But wait... how much did you pay for this?"
"Don't worry about that." Jacob said dismissively. "Just enjoy it."
Melissa hesitated. "Jacob, I can't accept this."
"Sure you can. Just invite me over for some of your home cooking sometime, and we'll call it even."
"Okay." Melissa relented with a small smile. "I'll invite you for dinner when I have some free time."
"Can I sit with you?" Jacob asked.
"Sure." She said, gesturing to the chair beside her. "Do you want to eat with me?"
"No, you enjoy it. I just had dinner."
As Melissa started eating, she asked between bites. "So, have you gotten into any trouble lately? Fought any evil creatures?"
"No." Jacob replied. "But Stiles and I told the Sheriff about the supernatural side of the world yesterday."
"You did?" Melissa said, surprised. "How did Noah take it?"
"Well, he aimed his gun at me." Jacob admitted. "But in his defense, I did roar in his face and scare him first."
"Why would you do that?" Melissa asked, a mix of shock and amusement on her face.
"He said something stupid that I don't really want to talk about."
"What did he say? You can tell me." She pressed, leaning forward.
Jacob sighed. "He thought that Stiles and I were dating."
Melissa burst out laughing. "Really?"
"Yeah," Jacob said, slightly annoyed. "And stop laughing."
Melissa tried to contain her giggles but failed. "But you and Stiles do look..."
"Don't you dare finish that sentence." Jacob sai. "Or I'll take the dinner back."
Melissa protectively pulled the food closer. "You can't do that! I was just joking!"
They continued talking amiably for a while longer before Jacob decided to leave. As he was walking out the front entrance of the hospital, he ran into Scott.
Scott narrowed his eyes suspiciously. "What are you doing here?"
Jacob smiled innocently. "What, no 'hello'? No 'how are you doing'?"
Scott repeated, his voice tight. "What are you doing here?"
Jacob shrugged. "I was just passing by and visited Melissa."
"Stay away from her." Scott growled.
"Scott, you don't have to worry. I'm sixteen, remember?" Jacob said. "Besides, she's going to date someone someday. Wouldn't it be better if it was me?"
Scott's face began to flush with anger, but before he could retort, Jacob slung a friendly arm around his shoulders and lowered his voice to a whisper. "Look, I'll make her stronger and take care of her. She wouldn't need to work here anymore. I could even buy her this hospital if she wanted. And I'll help you gain a cool ability, like fire control or lightning control... if you don't stand in my way when I try to date her after I turn 18. So, what do you think, son?"
Scott growled, shoving Jacob away violently. "I think I'm going to kill you!"
Jacob just laughed and sprinted toward his car. "Think about it, Scott! It's a good deal for her, and for you!"
He jumped into his Camaro and sped off, leaving a fuming Scott standing alone at the hospital entrance. Scott sighed in frustration, running a hand through his hair, before turning and heading inside.
Chapter 93: Malia's Choice
The next morning after Malia had turned back to her human form, Jacob was sleeping alone in his room since the girls had held their girls' night in Lydia's room and slept there. He was abruptly woken by the sound of a commotion outside. He got up, grumbling, and walked out onto his bedroom's balcony to see what was going on.
In the mansion's front garden, a bizarre scene was unfolding. Cogman was fighting a deer. Not with weapons or his full strength, but in a ridiculous, hand-to-hoof brawl. As Jacob watched, Cogman deftly ducked a charge, then delivered a series of theatrical karate chops to the deer's flank. The deer, looking more annoyed than injured, shook itself and head-butted Cogman in the chest. Cogman staggered back, then charged forward and head-butted the deer right back, the two of them locking heads in a surreal standoff.
"Cogman!" Jacob yelled down from the balcony. "What are you doing?!"
Cogman, without letting go of the deer's antlers, looked up. "Lady Malia said she likes deer, sir! I hunted one for her!"
"Then why are you beating the poor thing? Just put it out of its misery already!"
"I'm just tenderizing the meat, sir!" Cogman replied, before the deer broke free and tried to kick him.
Jacob sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Stop playing around and dispatch it already. Then go make us breakfast."
He turned to go back inside, still hearing the sounds of the struggle—a thump, a grunt from Cogman, and an indignant snort from the deer. He just shook his head and headed for the shower.
After cleaning up and getting dressed, Jacob left his room and almost collided with Malia in the hallway.
"Good morning, beautiful." Jacob said with a smile.
Malia smirked, a mischievous glint in her eye. In a swift move, she grabbed him, spun him around, and slammed him against the wall. Before he could even react, she kissed him deeply. Jacob was surprised, but he was never one to refuse, so he kissed her back with equal fervor. He then reversed their positions, pinning her against the wall as the kiss intensified.
Just then, Malia's ears picked up the sound of a door opening down the hall. She instantly began to struggle, pretending to push him away. Lydia and Allison emerged from Lydia's room just in time to see Jacob pinning a "struggling" Malia against the wall, seemingly forcing a kiss on her.
Malia finally broke the kiss, panting, and looked at Allison and Lydia with wide, frightened eyes. "Help me!" She pleaded.
Jacob looked from Malia's perfect acting to the furious faces of Allison and Lydia. He realized how guilty he looked, still pinning her to the wall. He quickly let go and raised his hands. "It's not what it looks like! She was the one who pinned me against the wall and started kissing me!"
Malia didn't wait for a rebuttal. She ducked under his arm and ran downstairs, leaving Jacob to face the music alone.
Allison crossed her arms. "But that's not what we saw. All we saw was you pinning a struggling Malia against the wall and kissing her."
Jacob started backing away. "I swear, she started it!"
Lydia advanced, a dangerous glint in her eye. "I think you're lying. Allison, let's beat his ass."
"I'm not lying! I'm telling the truth!" Jacob protested, but it was too late.
The two girls didn't listen. They closed in, and a flurry of punches and kicks—without using their supernatural strength—rained down on him. He let himself fall to the ground, taking the beating. It didn't hurt physically, but he felt profoundly wronged.
When they were finally satisfied, Lydia and Allison shared a smirk. Lydia headed downstairs, leaving Allison standing over him.
Jacob looked up at Allison, who was looking down at him with an amused smirk. "I swear I didn't force her." He said. "I'm not that kind of person. She kissed me first."
Allison smiled. "We know. After talking to her yesterday, we realized she's not as confused as she acts. She's just playful. And when she ran downstairs just now, she was laughing."
She bent down and kissed him gently. "And I know you would never force yourself on a girl."
Jacob sat up, still feeling emotionally bruised. "Then why did you two beat me up? It didn't hurt physically, but I'm hurt emotionally!"
Allison stood up and smiled. "Well, I know we can't stop you from dating other girls. But the least you can do is take a little beating for adding a new girl to our family. Since we'd already accepted Malia a long time ago, we went easy on you. But I can't guarantee we won't hit harder next time."
Jacob stood up in one fluid motion and pinned Allison against the wall, kissing her deeply. "That's a beating I'm gladly willing to take." He murmured against her lips. "Now, how about we have some fun before heading to school?"
Allison responded by driving her knee into his stomach—this time with her supernatural strength. He grunted, releasing her as she slipped free. "No. We're going to be late for school."
"You could have just said no." He wheezed, clutching his stomach. "Why did you have to hit me? I think you need some punishment."
Allison batted her eyelashes innocently. "Punishment? Didn't you just say you'd gladly let me beat you?"
Jacob was stunned into silence. He couldn't refute her logic.
Allison laughed, a clear, bright sound, and headed downstairs.
After she left, Jacob just smiled and followed her, thinking. 'As long as they don't cause real trouble and don't try to stop me from having more wives, I don't care if they beat me up a little. But I need to teach Malia a lesson. Just wait until we sleep together... she'll learn the consequences of teasing a dragon.'
Jacob walked into the kitchen and found the girls already at the table, with Cogman busy at the stove. He grabbed some juice from the fridge, sat down, and addressed his butler. "Cogman, bring Malia to school at lunchtime. We need to take her to the Sheriff's station to report what happened to her family. After that, you'll become her legal guardian."
Malia groaned. "Do I have to go to the sheriff's station?"
"Yes." Jacob said firmly. "You need to fix your situation legally so you can enroll in school with us."
Malia let out a low growl. "No, no, no! I hate school. I don't want to go."
Allison chimed in gently. "Then are you going to stay home all day? That's boring. Besides, you don't really have to study; we can help you during exams. You can just come with us to hang out. It's kind of fun."
Seeing Malia's continued scowl, Allison sighed. "At least try it. If you really don't like it, you can stay home."
"Fine." Malia grumbled.
Lydia added. "But no growling at school." She then glanced at Malia's hands. "And no claws, either."
Malia looked down at her hand, where sharp claws had unconsciously extended. "That's going to be hard."
Jacob raised an eyebrow. "You can use your claws?"
"Yeah." Malia said, a hint of pride in her voice. "Allison and Lydia taught me how to shift yesterday. It wasn't that hard."
"Can you still turn into your coyote form?"
"Yes."
"I see." Jacob said thoughtfully. "But I'll have to teach you control. I don't want you to lose it and hurt someone at school."
"How are you going to do that?" Malia asked warily.
Jacob gave her an evil smile that made her shiver. "By beating your mischievous ass, of course."
"What?" Malia exclaimed. "No, thank you! I don't know exactly what kind of monster you are, but I know you're very strong. And terrifying. You almost gave me a heart attack the first time I saw you. I'm not stupid enough to let you beat me up."
"Is there another way?" Allison asked.
"She has to find an anchor." Jacob explained. "An anchor is a person, an emotion, or a memory she can focus on to maintain control. Concentrating on it will remind her of her humanity."
He then turned his gaze back to Malia. "By the way, do you want to be my mate? And by mate, I mean..."
Malia smiled and cut him off. "You already told me what it means when we were in the woods. And Allison and Lydia explained it more yesterday. They also told me that if I don't want to be your wife, I have to leave."
Jacob looked at Allison and Lydia, surprised. "They did?"
Lydia nodded. "Yes. We told her that if she wants to be a real part of our family, she has to be your wife, you pervert. And we told her you'll have more wives. So, if she can't accept that and chooses not to be with you, she should leave now, before you two fall in love only to break up and get hurt."
"I see." Jacob said, his expression softening. He looked at Malia. "Then, what's your decision?"
Malia took a deep breath. "I don't know much about emotions. All I know is that I don't want to leave you guys, especially you, Jay. So, I'm staying, and I definitely want to be your wife. All I ask is that you don't abandon me, and of course, you have to satisfy me whenever I want."
Jacob smiled. "Don't worry. I'll never abandon you. In fact, once you become my wife, you won't be able to leave even if you wanted to. Now, shall we go to my room and sleep to..."
"Not so fast, you unromantic pervert!" Lydia interrupted. "At least take the girl on a date or two first! Besides, she's on her period, so you can't sleep with her even if you wanted to."
Jacob blinked. "That's a shame. Wait, her period?"
"Yes," Allison said. "What's wrong?"
"Well, female werewolves lose control twice a month: once during the full moon, and when they're on their period. I don't know if werecoyotes are the same."
Allison looked at Malia. "Do you feel like you're losing control?"
"Nope," Malia replied, shrugging. "You told me I might feel agitated and have mood swings during my period, but I don't feel a thing. The only thing I feel is a food craving. I'm craving some deer meat."
"That's good, I guess." Jacob said, relieved.
Cogman, who was setting the table and serving food, spoke up. "I already hunted a deer for you, Lady Malia. I've skinned it, and it's hanging in the cold room. I can cook some right now, but it's preferable to let it age for at least 24 hours for better flavor."
"Then let it age." Malia decided. "Just cook me some of that meat that Jay calls Sea King meat. It's way better than deer."
"Right away, madame." Cogman said with a slight bow.
Jacob added. "Malia, I don't have much of that meat left, so you'll have to save it for special occasions, or at least eat it only once a month. At least until I get more."
Malia panicked. "What?! How much do you have left?"
"I had 500 kilos, if I remember correctly." Jacob calculated. "We've already eaten about 400, so we only have about 100 kilos left."
"How much is 100 kilos?" Malia asked, confused.
"Not much." Jacob admitted.
"Then buy more! You're rich, right?" Malia insisted.
"I am, but I can't buy it with money." Jacob explained. "Anyway, if we only eat it once a month, it'll last us a while."
Malia said. "How about that Weego steak? Or Wago steak? Or whatever it's called?"
"It's called Wagyu." Jacob corrected with a chuckle. "It's a Japanese breed of cow. It's expensive, but you can just tell Cogman, and he'll buy you all the Wagyu you want."
Malia turned to Cogman. "Then, old man, buy me a whole Wagyu cow and cook some of it for me every day."
"As you wish, my lady." Cogman said.
With that, they began eating breakfast. The girls started excitedly discussing buying clothes for Malia. Jacob tried his best to become invisible, focusing intently on his food in the hopes they wouldn't drag him shopping with them.
'System, sign in.' he thought, seeking a distraction.
[Daily Sign-In Successful. Rewards Obtained:
- Toilet Paper x35
- Canned Sardines x50
- A Pot]
Jacob scanned the list and thought. 'Useless.' He then returned his attention to his meal.
After breakfast, Cogman drove Allison, Lydia, and Jacob to school, leaving Malia at home happily watching TV.