Granola Bar

AN: A long awaited sequel to Granola Bar! Let's see how Ty and Spirit are doing!





Ty lay in bed, restless.

The sun was about to rise, and when it did, he could get up, get dressed, and go meet Spirit for breakfast.

Everyday for the past week, the little fox boy had been returning at sunrise, where he would then curl up outside Ty's front door like he had that first morning.

Ty knew. He'd sat up all night a few days ago just to see when exactly Spirit came back. He'd watched the lithe boy race across his backyard, pausing every now and then to stand straight up and flick his pointed brown ears around, obviously listening for some sound of danger. When none was heard, he'd resume his hunched running and make his way to the stone step.

Ty couldn't take much more of this. He wanted to see Spirit now. Waiting even just a few minutes seemed impossible. Being near the boy made something inside of him ease, like an ache but not quite painful. If he had to name it, he'd call it longing. But, he hadn't known such a thing would feel this sharp.

Spirit would come and share breakfast with Ty every morning, and they'd talk, Spirit revealing a little more of his life each time, telling about his home and his family and his clan. Ty had discovered that Spirit was a bit of an outcast, shying away from the crueler of his fellow kitsunes. Though, he wouldn't say why. There were hints that Spirit was small for his age, or smaller than the average kitsune, something like that. So, he'd become mostly self-sufficient. Apparently, he even had his own burrow out in the woods somewhere. Most likely close to where Ty had come upon him during his Heat.

It made sense now that that's what it had been, because Spirit being the loner that he was, of course wouldn't know the usual ways of his body. No one would have told him of mating or lust. The poor boy had been completely unknowing to what his body had been doing. Hence why Ty had found him being almost violent to his own manhood.

Thank goodness he had come along. If not for Ty, Spirit might have hurt himself.

Well...That's what he told himself to try and feel less perverted.

But, at least he'd been chaste since then. Sure, he'd kissed Spirit a few times, and once he'd pulled the boy close, kissing him until Spirit was wiggling against him and mewing in his throat. But, that had been because the adorable fox had gotten syrup on his cheek.

Ty had just been trying to clean it off. It wasn't his fault if he'd gotten carried away.

Well, okay, it was, but still.

And even after that, when he'd released Spirit and seen that the kitsune was hard, he'd held back, retying the rapidly fraying yellow and white scarf tighter around those slim hips, both their faces red.

Spirit hadn't even seemed to notice his own hardness and had continued to eat his breakfast with gusto, smiling all the while as he slowly grew soft again.

Ty found it hard to believe someone who'd been so wanton while they'd had sex could still be so innocent and naïve. But, Spirit didn't seem to have any intention of repeating what had happened that day they met.

Sure, he responded eagerly enough to Ty's small advances, always trying to kiss back though he obviously didn't know how. But, once Ty would pull away, Spirit would go back to whatever he'd been doing before, oblivious to Ty's harsh breathing or the slight tent in his pants.

There was another reason Ty wanted to see Spirit so badly. Though the Fox always arrived with a smile and a hearty appetite, Ty had noticed that each morning, the kitsune looked increasingly...unwell. Not quite sick, but not quite healthy either. A little ashen and somewhat weak-limbed.

But the little fox never complained. Never said anything about it.

Yesterday morning though, Ty had been very worried. Spirit had shown up white as a ghost and stumbling slightly, his eyes almost dazed. Though, as soon as he'd come into the house and eaten breakfast, he'd improved considerably, returning to his normal bubbly self. So, Ty assumed the little fox just wasn't getting enough food.

It was still winter after all, and there wasn't a lot of prey or foliage available. But, that could be easily fixed because Ty intended to keep Spirit coming over for breakfast as often as possible. And lunch, if he could. And dinner.

Being around the adorable kitsune made his heart flutter. Like, he was a teenager with a crush again. It felt nice. And it was nice to know he could feel so carefree again.

A red hue lightened his walls, and Ty popped up excitedly, throwing off his covers and stumbling out of bed to find his shirt. Tugging it over his head, he walked out of his room, bumping into the doorway as he tried to move, blinded by fabric. Then his head was free and he could see the outline of his front door.

A big grin lined his lips as he tugged it open, expecting to see Spirit like always, perhaps even catch him arriving. But...Spirit wasn't there. He stepped outside. “Spirit?”

No answer.

Stepping further, he leaned down to feel the step. It was cold, so that meant Spirit hadn't been there at all yet. “Spir~it!” He called, checking out his property for any sign of the youth.

Some twigs snapped off to the left side of his property and he whirled towards the noise, on instant alert in case it were a threat.

But it was only Spirit. Stumbling through the trees and looking so pale it was scary. His steps were clumsy and uneven, almost as if he were drunk, and then all of a sudden, the boy fell forward, collapsing to the ground.

Well, he would have, if Ty hadn't rushed to him the second he'd seen him and caught him just before he'd met that rough uneven forest floor.

“Oh god, Spirit!” He cried, breath speeding up as he tried to see if there were any visible marks on the boy. He exhaled in relief when those hazel eyes opened tiredly to peer up at him. “What's wrong, Spirit?! Are you okay?”

The boy smiled weakly, eyes fluttering shut again for a moment, then reopening slowly. “Ty...” Came his weak whisper, a smile forming on his lips.

“What happened?” Ty urged, feeling how cold the his skin was. “Did you get attacked?!”

With visible effort, Spirit tilted his head back to better look at Ty, eyes taking a second to focus on him. “No. I not attacked.”

Getting panicked now, Ty fought to steady his voice. “Then what's wrong? Why do you look so...sick?”

With a confused furrow between his brows, the kitsune frowned. “Spirit...hurt inside. When not with Ty, feel hurt. Here.” He gestured to his chest, over his heart, trembling slightly and knees giving out. Ty caught him again, cradling him gently. “But...when Spirit with Ty, feel good. Feel warm inside. Will get better because is with Ty.” Talking seemed to exhaust him and he leaned completely on Ty, eyes falling shut again.

That settled it then.

As carefully as he could, Ty scooped up Spirit in his arms, one arm holding his head and the other hooked below his knees. The walk back to the house was slow, since the sun wasn't even high enough to give the ground good lighting, but Ty knew his yard, and didn't encounter any holes or rocks.

Kicking the door shut behind him, he brought Spirit inside, walking slowly towards his bedroom and then placing Spirit upon his bed. He crawled next to the fragile boy, laying on his side and pulling Spirit close. One arm he draped comfortably over that concave stomach.

Then he realized that Spirit was as always, nude, and his house wasn't exactly warm since the fire had died down. He moved to grab one of his blankets and yank it over them, then returned his arm back to Spirit's stomach, curving his hand over a sharp hipbone and letting his fingers gently caress that warm skin.

“Any better yet?” He asked softly, not wanting to startle with his closeness. They hadn't been so... well, close since they'd had sex. Not for so long. Not except for fleeting touches.

But Spirit stirred, turning slightly brighter eyes to him and smiling. “Yes.” He whispered. “Feel warm. Feel happy now here with you.”

Ty almost melted, his heart beat quickening and a light heat coursing through his cheeks. It was good to be wanted. Specifically, good to be wanted by Spirit. He sighed happily and ducked his head closer to the Fox boy's ears, nuzzling one with his nose.

Spirit giggled tiredly and that soft ear flickered away, flattening down and making the kitsune look adorably lopsided. “You tickle ear. Stop that.” Spirit said with a giggle, squirming slightly in Ty's arms before going slack. One slender hand reached up and claws ran through Ty's hair, playing with the strands. “Ty's hair different now.”

Oh, that's right. In his haste to get up to see Spirit, Ty hadn't pulled it back. It hung loose around his face, spreading out on the pillow where his head was resting. Usually it was kept tied back, because going into town to get his hair cut was just too much of a hassle, and this was the shortest he could manage while keeping it even. “I didn't tie it back yet. Do you not like it like this?”

Spirit closed his eyes and shook his head, still twining his thin fingers through Ty's hair. “I like it, both ways. Ty's hair nice.”

Ty grinned, moving closer into that soft touch. “I'm glad you approve.”

The exhausted Fox suddenly yawned, his pointed canines peeking past his lips. “Want sleep now.” His hand withdrew from Ty's hair, curling up to his chest as he shifted closer to Ty's body. “Is okay if sleep?”

Ty chuckled softly, his tension finally leaving him. “Of course.” He yawned himself, gazing at Spirit's sleepy face. “Take a nap, if you like. I'll admit I didn't sleep too well last night, so I might join you.”

Spirit turned questioning eyes towards him. “Why no sleep?” He asked softly, sounding concerned.

With a sheepish chuckle, Ty shifted his face into the pillow, trying to hide his embarrassment. “Well...I was up all night waiting...for you.” He shifted one eye over to see the kitsune's reaction.

“Oh.” Spirit murmured, apologetic eyes peering back. “Sorry for Spirit keep sleep away.”

“Oh, no no!” Ty exclaimed, shaking his head. “It wasn't your fault! Not at all. I just...” He laughed at himself again. “I was excited to see you again. And when you're not here...I feel sorta...sad. You know? Like you. I hurt inside, too.”

“Hmm...” Spirit murmured, his eyes drifting shut once more and a sweet smile on his lips. “When Spirit gone, want to come right back.” Hazel eyes shyly glanced away, the other biting his lip. His expression was on someone trying to say something, but not quite knowing how. “And...no want to...leave. Ever.”

That was music to Ty's ears, and he shivered at the warm rush in his chest. “You should stay here, then.” He whispered, only half-joking. “Don't leave.”

“Okay.” Spirit yawned again, face resolute as it eased into sleep right as he spoke.

Ty hadn't expected that, and he blinked, struggling to keep from snickering. Instead, he quietly inched closer to the fox, nose nuzzling into one soft ear. “Good.” He breathed, almost silently. “Stay from now on. With me.”

He allowed himself to fall back asleep, the slender boy wrapped in his arms and his heart glad.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


The sun was very bright when Ty awoke next. Brighter than it had been in a long time during Ty's exiting sleep. Usually, he was up right with the sun. The last time he'd slept so late, he'd been a teenager living at home, rebellious and hiding from the world.

But...Going back to sleep certainly had been nice. It certainly had refreshed him after such a sleepless night thinking about Spirit.

And speaking of...

He glanced down at the boy still wrapped in his arms.

Spirit was just so damn cute. Like, innocence and sweetness and loveliness all wrapped into a tight little body. The body of a teen, no doubt, but still mature. If Ty had to guess, he'd wager that Spirit was about 18 or 19 years old. And he severely hoped he wasn't making that number up in his head just to seem like less of a creep.

Spirit's brown ears lay against one of Ty's pillows, twitching ever so slightly as Ty shifted to better gaze over at him. The boy's breath came deep and calm, signaling his level of sleep and how comfortable he was in Ty's bed.

Spirit should be in his bed more often. Naked in his bed and legs spread invitingly with those pretty pretty lips parted for him to whimper Ty's name...

That thought made a hot flush race down Ty's body, his hips instinctively curling up, accidentally hitting the soft warmth of Spirit's thigh.

God, he wanted to make love to that sweet little body again.

But instead, he behaved and shifted his hips away, taking a few deep breaths to bring his temperature back to normal. There was no need for sleep-humping.

Once reasonably calmed, Ty resumed his studying of the kitsune next to him.

That long black hair was so shiny, so soft looking. It felt like silk, Ty knew. He'd run his fingers through it on more than one occasion, but he never tired of its softness. Sometimes, as Spirit let him caress those gossamer strands, Ty's fingers would 'slip' and accidentally stroke over one of those pointed white-tipped ears, eliciting a soft surprised murmur from the pleased fox. Then Ty would watch as he just closed his eyes and leaned his head into Ty's hand, silently commanding more petting.

Which Ty was always too happy to oblige in. That fur would tickle the pads of his fingers, making him stroke more, eventually reaching up with both hands, one on each ear, and full-on petting. It always felt nice against his palms, tickling slightly and making him warm inside to see Spirit so soothed.

Ty sort of wanted to touch them now, but he didn't want to disturb his sweet one's slumber. Instead, he only watched, silently gazing at that face.

Spirit's lips were so soft-looking. And soft to touch as well. Ty knew that intimately too. The few brief touches they'd had of mouth to mouth had left him breathless, wanting more, but not quite sure how to approach the subject of sex with the young fox.

Did Spirit even remember what they had done together? Did he even know?

Spirit didn't seem to know. He never hinted or showed any intention of wanting to have sex again.

Ty assumed that Spirit had either been in a different state-of-mind during his heat that was affecting his memory, or that the little Fox just plain didn't care. And that second option meant that Spirit didn't want to do it again.

But why would he kiss back with such eagerness when Ty couldn't hold back...if he wasn't interested? Why would he get immediately hard, his whole body blushing virginally as Ty held him close?

Spirit had to be interested. Spirit had to want Ty back. He just had to. It was too...lonely without Spirit. Only a week ago that Ty was living in solitude, with no one to talk to. The sweet little fox boy had burrowed right into Ty's heart, and he'd been serious before. It did hurt whenever Spirit wasn't around. And it was worst when Spirit would leave each morning, right after breakfast, even though Ty tried his hardest to keep him there.

What was the most depressing was that Spirit didn't even seem to want to stay. He didn't linger or make himself comfortable. Usually, as soon as he was done licking his plate, which was the most adorable thing Ty had ever seen, Spirit would be up and on his way to the door. All smiles and giggles as Ty followed hopefully and said goodbye.

After that, Ty would be left on his own for the rest of the day. Which was usually spent doing mindless boring tasks in a daze as he counted the seconds til he could see Spirit again.

Jeez, it was almost pathetic, but...Knowing Spirit felt the same way now, at least a little bit, made him feel much better.

With his fingertips absently grazing over Spirit's lips, it was inevitable that the kitsune would wake, even though he was being gentle. And he did, with dark lashes fluttering, slowly slitting open to reveal hazel underneath.

“Hi.” Murmured that suddenly bashful-looking kitsune, cheeks growing pink and eyes shyly looking away, though his body stayed close.

“Mornin'.” Ty murmured right back, wanting nothing more than to give Spirit a kiss. There probably wouldn't be any resistance. But Ty felt hesitant. The last thing he wanted was to push his boundaries. Until Spirit made a move, or showed some overt sign of sexual attraction, Ty would be good.

Spirit yawned then, and stretched slim arms up above the sheet, flashing his bare pale chest, and his legs brushing past Ty's legs, feeling impossibly hot.

...Ty would be good, no matter how hard it was.

He quickly shifted back, rising out of bed before he a situation he couldn't control arose. He was still in his pajamas, since he'd expected to have a normal morning with Spirit instead of that tense episode they'd experienced.

Grabbing some clothes from his bureau, Ty crossed over to the bathroom, and closed the door half-way, so he could hear Spirit if he needed to. “Are you hungry, Spirit?” He pulled off his shirt, throwing it to the floor, and then reaching for the drawstrings of his pajama pants and pushing them down. “Do you want me to make something? It's so late, we can even just have lunch if you want.”

“Hungry, yes.” Came the sudden voice from the bathroom door.

“Hey, whoa!” Ty shrieked, yanking his pants back up. “Jeez, you shouldn't just sneak up on people like that!” There was no mistaking that the kitsune got a good eyeful, and Ty was blushing furiously.

But Spirit was just looking at him, head tilted to the side and hands folded daintily behind his back. “Why?” His tail swished behind him.

Ty fought to calm his racing heart. Not only had he been startled by the youth's silent approach, but he was also embarrassed by being caught naked. He wasn't ashamed by his body or anything, but he sort felt like a pervert around the other already, so he wanted to keep himself as clothed as possible. “Because...Because...” He floundered, searching for something to say that didn't involve nudity itself. He didn't want Spirit to feel ashamed by his own state of undress. “Because it's not polite to sneak.”

“Oh.” Spirit countered, scrunching his brow. “I go back in bed?”

“Yeah, just...Let me get dressed. I'll come get you when I've finished.”

Spirit still looked slightly confused, but he obediently shuffled back away, making the bed springs squeak when he climbed on.

Ty relaxed and quickly finished dressing, making sure to keep an eye on the door. He only breathed when he was finished, stepping out to the bedroom again and seeing Spirit laying on his back, with his feet waving in the air.

He chuckled, bringing his pajamas to his hamper. “What are you doing?”

Spirit glanced over at him, his head upside-down. “Nest is comfy. Better than Spirit's old nest. Like.” Then he rolled over onto his stomach, tail waving languidly behind him. “Ty make food now?” His eyes were hopeful.

“Sure.” Ty said with a smile, gazing at the boy in adoration. Spirit was the most beautiful thing he'd ever seen, no contest. “What would you like to eat?”

Bounding off the bed, Spirit pranced over to Ty and grabbed his hand, dragging him towards the kitchen. “Meat!” He chirped. “I very hungry, very very hungry.”

Ty snorted, allowing himself to be tugged along. “Want some sandwiches? Or I can actually cook something for once. I can make us some chicken breasts, if you'd like that instead?”

That had Spirit stopping, one ear flopping down in what Ty had learned was the 'Spirit is slightly confused' face. The boy let go his hand and turned to face Ty, his face puzzled.

He cupped his hands up over his chest, covering his nipples. “Breasts?” He asked, sounding slightly offended. “Eat breasts?”

Ty snickered helplessly, shaking his head. “No no, not like that.” He pulled at Spirit's hands, lowering them down to his side. “Animal breasts. Like, the meat of the animals you hunt in the forest. You hunt, right?”

Spirit nodded emphatically. “Yes. Mice and rabbits and sometimes birds!”

“Well, that's good. Chicken is a type of bird. Ever had chicken before?” Ty continued to the kitchen, hearing clawed feet clicking behind him.

“...Yes. Steal one from fence yard before.” He bit his lip, face repentant. “Know bad to steal, but...was yummy, and...very noisy.”

Ty smiled, reaching out to ruffle his fingers through Spirit's hair, endeared by the regretful expression. “Yeah, they can be pretty noisy. Though, mine come already skinned and cut. Much less noisy.” He teased, turning to the fridge. He pulled out a package of chicken breasts, putting it on the countertop.

Spirit was standing on tiptoes and peering at the chicken with a furrowed brow. “That not chicken.” He muttered, looking worried and shaking his head. He glanced up at Ty, disappointment in his eyes.

Ty got out a knife and opened the package, lining up the meat in rows on a cutting board. “Oh, it's chicken, believe me. It's just...not as messy this way. This is just all the good parts.” He started cutting it into strips, winking at the other. “I promise.”

Spirit chuffed and went to take a seat at the island, in one of the high stools. He didn't look too convinced. “...Okay.”

Ty quickly pan-fried the chicken, adding in some light spices, like salt and pepper and a bit of fresh garlic. He didn't want to overwhelm the boy's simple palette. He also made a few ears of corn, boiling them alongside.

Spirit watched the whole act silently, seemingly fascinated. He swallowed every few minutes, as if his mouth were full of saliva, and his stomach constantly rumbled. Spirit must be famished.

Ty was too, come to think of it. No breakfast and it was a little past noon, so Ty was starving. Thank goodness he'd made a lot.

“...Is...ready now?” Spirit asked quietly, impatience thick in his words, claws skittering over the countertop.

Ty nodded, scooping the chicken onto two plates and pulling out an ear of corn for each of them. “Do you want butter on your corn?”

“Yes? Is butter yummy?”

Ty chuckled, getting their food ready. “Yeah, it's good. Here.” He laid Spirit's food in front of him. “Eat up.”

But Spirit was studying his plate suspiciously, poking one claw at the corn. “What...this?”

With a smile, Ty picked up his corn, blowing on it to cool it down, and then took a bite. “Like this.” He urged, chewing. “Peel it off with your teeth.”

Spirit was looking at him like he was crazy, but turned his stare back to the plate. “Okay...” He picked up his own ear of corn, sniffing it delicately, then took a bite, awkwardly peeling off a small mouthful of corn and chewing it.

Ty watched him, taking another bite. “Is it good?”

After a moment, Spirit swallowed, still looking mildly suspicious and licking his lips. “Yes...” He admitted, slanting Ty a sideways look. “Is not meat?”

“Well, no. It's a vegetable.”

“Like potatoes?” Spirit's face lit up. “Potatoes yummy.”

“Yeah, kinda.” He laughed. “It's called corn. Do you like your chicken?” Ty asked, spearing a piece with his fork. He was curious as to how the kitsune would react to cooked meat. Usually they just had breakfast, waffles or pancakes, and once lunch when the Fox happened to stay that long, but that was just sandwiches with deli meats.

With all the precision of a bomb squad, Spirit carefully picked up one piece of chicken, raising it to his nose and sniffing, his nostrils twitching. The garlic made him sneeze and he blinked at Ty, darting out his tongue to lick at it.

Whatever he tasted, he seemed to like, cause then Spirit popped it in his mouth, chewing voraciously. “Chicken!” He squealed, face lighting up. “This good!”

Then it was all over very quickly, and Ty watched Spirit inhale his food, though he only ate half of his corn.

Ty took a bit longer, and after seeing his plate being stared at longingly from a pair of puppy-dog eyes, he pushed the rest of his chicken over to the younger boy. He did steal Spirit's corn though, because it was his favorite, and they ate the rest in silence.

Afterwards, Ty cleaned up their dishes, washing them and wiping up the counter. Spirit roamed around the cabin on his own, studying various things as he often did when Ty was cleaning up after they ate. He always seemed fascinated by Ty's possessions, picking some up to smell or even taste curiously.

“Hey.” Ty called, looking over his shoulder to Spirit where he was crouched by Ty's bookshelf, looking at the letters, trying to understand them.

Though Spirit did not turn from the bookcase, his ears swiveled backwards, towards Ty. “Yes?”

“What happened to your scarf?”

Spirit stood and wandered over to Ty's side, peering at the sink. “At Spirit's old nest.” One hand reached in to splash at the soapy water. “Want I go get?”

“Yeah,” Ty admitted, drying the last of the dishes. “Let's go together. You can show me where you live.”

Suddenly nuzzling into Ty's side, Spirit cooed softly in his throat. “Yes. Show old nest.”

Ty relished the touch, staying still so the boy could snuggle against him. Touches the he himself didn't initiate were rare. But Spirit didn't stay still for long, and was off to explore some more in mere moments.

After the kitchen was cleared, Ty donned his hiking boots, grabbing his purple backpack, and followed the kitsune out the front door. “How far away is this place, anyway? I can't even remember where...” Ty trailed off, not wanting to bring up how they met.

But Spirit surprised him. “Close where us first mated.” He announced cheerfully, bouncing out into the yard and off towards the woods.

Stock-still, Ty gazed wide-eyed at the other's retreating back. That was the first acknowledgment the kitsune made about their having sex. And Ty was...relieved? Was he relieved? Or...He didn't even know. That had been an awfully casual mention of such a serious thing. Spirit didn't seem to think one way or the other. Though, the fact that he'd actually known what they did, was a great comfort to Ty's guilty mind, and he followed the other's quick steps, some of the tension leaving his shoulders.

Together, they made the journey to Spirit's burrow, which was indeed quite close to where Ty had first found him. Just over a hill from that mossy patch, to be specific. And Ty was rather surprised to see how ratty it was. Just a small gathering of branches and long grass stuffed under a small rock overhang. He'd expected something a bit more...grand. How did the little kitsune possibly stay warm here? Come to think of it, how did he stay warm at all? Running around naked when it wasn't even fully Spring. And where exactly was the rest of his pack? How far did Spirit stray from them? Did they wear clothes?

He asked these questions as the boy uncovered the worn scarf, and through somewhat evasive answers, Ty learned how Spirit preferred to be on his own, away from the family he claimed to not get along with. He was different, he said sadly, not meeting Ty's eyes. But he assured Ty that he shouldn't worry about the nest, cause it was no longer his nest anymore, not saying why.

With no other reasons to stay our here in the woods, they made their way back to the cabin. Spirit seemed unbearably happy as he ran all the way back, playful.

Ty couldn't be sure, but he had the slight feeling that they were...being watched. Spirit didn't seem concerned though, so Ty didn't pay much attention and he joined in Spirit's running.

He kept up as best he could, but Spirit was quite nimble. They ended up racing each other back to Ty's house, and it was a close race, but Spirit won, much more agile than Ty, on all fours. Which afforded Ty quite the view. No one could say he didn't mind being behind the kitsune, though he stumbled from it several times, distracted from his surroundings.

Back at the cabin, he ushered Spirit into the bedroom, dead-set on getting the boy some clothing after staring at that perky little butt for a good half hour. He forced him in front of the full-length mirror, going off to raid his bureau. The smallest thing he had was some cloth shorts with a drawstring around the waist. They were good enough for now, and he returned to the mirror.

Spirit stood still for him as he helped to put them on, smiling at Spirit's inquisitive eyes in the mirror. They fit nice enough, though Ty had to help Spirit pull his tail over the back end of the shorts, since there was no hole for it. He sat back, biting his lip thoughtfully. It looked uncomfortable like that, and he wondered what he could do to fix it. Cut a hole in the back, maybe?

“Oh wait!” Ty exclaimed, easing the shorts off of the kitsune's slim legs and replacing them backwards. The shorts had an opening in the front, like boxers did, and when turned around, that hole worked quite nicely for tails.

Spirit examined himself in the mirror, head tilting back and forth, and his tail seeming to test out the new confinement, wagging excitedly. Spirit made soft grunts of approval as he modeled for himself, claws poking at the fabric.

“You're so...cute.” Ty whispered, not able to look away.

“Cute with a tight ass.” Spirit said innocently.

Wait. Ty couldn't have heard that correctly. “What?”

“Spirit has a tight ass.” Again, spoken with complete innocence.

He swallowed. “Do you...Uh...Where did you hear that?”

“The hunters. They make friends with Spirit. Call nice things. Make bird noises and say loud things to Spirit when see them. Like 'You'd be a tight fit!' and they call Spirit pretty and beautiful.”

Dear god. God no. “Do you know what that means?”

A flick of one ear. “No. What that mean?”

“Christ, nevermind.” Ty got a horrible feeling. “What, uh...else did they say?”

With sparkling eyes, Spirit turned to him. “They say I will feel good to wrap around them. And I will make nice noises.”

Ty fought the urge to vomit, not knowing exactly how to react when Spirit actually took great pride in those crude hunters' slang. He didn't understand what they were saying, of course, but knew that they had been admiring him.

Damn creeps. They probably hadn't even known he was a boy. If Spirit had been concealed enough, they might have only seen his face, which was quite androgynous and delicately featured. If they'd gotten their hands on him, what would they have done?

“They...They never touched you, did they?”

Spirit blinked at him, smiling and looking puzzled. “No. They say nice things, but Spirit no trust them. Ty first person I trust. Only human ever close to Spirit.”

That was a huge relief, and Ty felt like weeping suddenly. For no other reason than the moment of heart-clenching worry that Spirit's purity had been compromised, then realizing it hadn't.

Which was just bullshit, cause if anyone had taken Spirit's purity, it was Ty. But Ty was at least willing to make an honest man out of Spirit.

...Which meant what? Ty hadn't exactly thought about the future with Spirit. He'd known that every day that he'd seen Spirit this past week, that he'd been glad. He'd been happier than he had been in a long time, just being near the diminutive Fox. But what did that translate into?

There was really only one way to find out. Ty would have to actually talk to Spirit. Actually bring up what he'd been avoiding.

“Spirit...I-”

But then Spirit's ears violently twitched towards the front windows, his eyes going wide as his whole body swiveled to the glass and his tail swished in agitation. He chuffed softly, grabbing onto his tail.

Ty followed his gaze, staring out his bedroom window, but not seeing anything. “What...What is it?”

Spirit was sniffing the air, his voice quiet. “Ty must...go outside, please.”

Ty nodded his head, gesturing for Spirit to go to the bed, away from the window. “Yeah, you stay here, I'll go check it out. Don't worry,” He turned to give the other a reassuring smile. “I'll take care of whatever it is.” Then he went out into the kitchen and grabbed the walking stick he kept by the front door. It was thick and sturdy in his hands.

Carefully stepping outside, he kept his ears open for any signs of a threat. It must be a bear or maybe even one of those large mountain cats that he's seen before. He'd never been afraid of them, but poor Spirit had instincts, and he couldn't help but be afraid of them. And the last thing Ty wanted was for the Fox to fear his house.

So, if there was a threat, Ty would make a show of scaring it off. Just to make Spirit feel better.

The walk to Spirit's nest had taken almost two hours, and since it was only the very end of Winter, the sun was already going down. And Ty shivered as he noticed the sky was suddenly full of thick, dark clouds. Had it been this dark out before?

And the birds had stopped chirping. In fact, it was awfully quiet out here. No sign of lumbering bear, or even of the quieter cats. Ty shivered again, gripping his stick tighter.

There was movement at the periphery of his vision and Ty whipped his head to the side, lifting the stick reflexively.

A huge kitsune, almost a big as Ty, but definitely female, perched at the edge of the forest, hunched over on hands and feet like a wolf. She had similar colorings to Spirit, so Ty knew she was from his pack. There were differences though. She was more covered in fur than Spirit was, and much more stocky. Her face was much less kind than Spirit's too.

Oh dear...Ty wondered for a moment if he'd broken some sort of rule by interacting with Spirit. There wasn't really any recorded cases of the elusive kitsunes being near humans.

“Uhh...Spirit?” He called softly, his eyes never leaving the Fox by the woods, but his face turning towards the house. “I could use some help...”

But the boy didn't answer, nor did he come out. The kitsune by the woods started moving, large eyes seeming to flash at Ty as she approached. She was big. Without a doubt, she'd be just as tall as Ty is she weren't standing on all fours.

The closer the female got, the more Ty became aware that she was growling. Low and steady, and louder as she approached.

In the back part of his brain, Ty realized she was probably growling because of how he was holding his stick, so he carefully lowered it to the ground, keeping eye contact the whole time.

As soon as he did that, the growling ceased, but to Ty's horror, he noticed several other kitsunes appearing at the edge of the forest. All very large and all glaring at him.

Oh god, he was going to be attacked. He could feel it. He'd molested one of their kind, and now he was going to pay for it.

Defensive instincts kicked in and Ty found himself kneeling to the ground, breaking eye contact and laying flat on his stomach. People did this with bears, right? Or gorillas? Act submissive, so you don't challenge the animal's authority and provoke them to attack. But, did this work with kitsunes? They weren't completely animal. Nor were they completely human.

Soft steps arrived right near Ty's head, and he froze, his heart hammering in his chest. Act calm, don't let them smell your fear. Though, Ty was pretty sure his fear was pretty obvious.

“Spirit...” He whispered to himself. “Please, where are you...?” Why wasn't the youth helping him? Why wasn't he coming out to reassure these Foxes that he was alright?

There was sniffing right near his head, and he could feel the female examining him, tasting his scent.

And Ty was about to piss himself.

But then, there was yipping all around him, the various kitsunes seeming to talk to each other, and the female was walking away from him.

In fact, Ty noted with a careful upwards scan of the area, that they were all gone, and even the birds were chirping again. But he was feeling ridiculous for laying in the middle of his yard, on his stomach, with no reason anymore. He pushed himself up to his feet, still looking around for any sign of the wild kitsunes.

None to be seen. Ty shakily made his way back to the house, meeting Spirit inside. The boy was just smiling at him, sitting by the front window, where he'd undoubtedly been watching from the whole time.

“Holy shit, Spirit, what the hell was that?!” Ty exclaimed, turning to the little kitsune. “Mind filling me in?”

Spirit stood up in surprise, tail swishing quickly behind him, as if it were scared. “Ty angry at Spirit? Do something bad?”

Ty ran his fingers through his hair, leaving it messy. “No. Just. Fuck, I didn't exactly like being out there among your...family or whatever it was, feeling like I was about to become someone's dinner. Where were you?! I don't think they could speak English like you and they didn't understand me, and I'm pretty sure they could smell you on me.” He shook his head, still rattled. “They probably thought I was keeping you hostage or something, or that I was going to hurt you.” Shaking slightly, Ty made it to his armchair, and sat heavily into it, resting his face into his hands. “I don't think I've ever been so freaked out in my whole life.”

A careful palm landed on Ty's head, gentle claws running through his hair and then down to the side of his face, prompting him to look up. He did, meeting Spirit's concerned eyes. The boy knelt in front of him, hand still cupping Ty's face, and the other moving to rest on his knee.

“I sorry you scared, Ty.” The boy murmured, looking ashamed. “I not know you not know this.”

“What is 'this'?”

“Us. Ty and Spirit. Mother was making test for you.”

Ty choked on his tongue. “Mother?!”

Spirit ears were flat against his head, that black hair falling forward to cover his face, and his feet shuffling awkwardly on the floor as he stood again. “Yes, that Spirit's Mother-Fox.”

Holy hell. Ty had just met Spirit's mother. And...and what? “You said that was a test? For what? What was I being tested on?”

Spirit suddenly beamed at him, white pointed teeth peeking out to press on his bottom lip. “Test that you are a good mate for Spirit.” The smile widened. “Ty pass test very good. Mother-Fox accept us.”

“What? 'Accepts us'?” Ty's head was reeling, and he thought for a moment. “Accept what about us?”

Spirit's gentle fingers curled down over his cheeks again, prompting Ty to lift his eyes once more. Spirit was looking down at him, that brilliant smile on his face.

“I is life-mate to you now. Us be mates for all life now. So us must not fight. Us must be kind and have love.”

“Life-mate?!” Whoa, this was way too much information to take in this quickly. Ty had just met Spirit's mother, the mother of the youth he'd deflowered (at least, Ty was pretty sure he'd been Spirit's first), and just been judged as some kind of mate to the kitsune. Apparently he'd passed the test, but now what? Now they were mates? What did that even mean? He found himself standing and wandering to his bedroom, shaking his head.

Did Spirit even want to be his mate? Because Ty had happened to come along and find the kitsune in heat, and take advantage of him, they were now supposed to be mates? Just like that? Had he taken away the Fox's choice? Wasn't this basically a forced mating? Ty had been right all along about being a pervert?

He grit his teeth, eyes pleading to understand. “Why didn't you tell me this before?!”

Spirit blinked and dropped his head, lower lip trembling. “Ty...yes angry.”

“No!” Why on earth would Spirit think he was angry? Angry at what? “I'm not angry! I'm...worried.” He sighed, stepping back to fall onto his bed. “I'm worried that you are upset with me. I think...” Ty grimaced, hating having to put into words what he'd been worrying about all week. “I...did something bad to you.”

Glancing at him from across the room, Spirit frowned, eyes going soft. “Ty did nothing bad to Spirit. I like Ty.” Then the boy grabbed at his tail again, catching it and pulling it forward to his stomach, fingers kneading at it as he blushed. “I like Ty most. What you think is bad?”

Regardless of how sweet the Fox suddenly looked, well...more sweet, Ty couldn't let this charade go on.

“Spirit...” He began dreadfully, his voice low and sad. “I can't...” He sighed. “We have to talk.”

“Ty and I talking now already.”

Another sigh. This was going to be difficult. “I know. I mean...We need to talk about this...'mate' thing.”

Spirit's ears went backwards, and his face suddenly filled with sorrow. “This mate thing?” He looked down to the floor, a pout appearing on those lips. “What talk...?”

“Yeah. I think I forced you into this. And I'm...sorry. Spirit,” Ty pleaded. “I'm sorry I took away your choice.”

Spirit made a confused whine, looking back up and eyes very frustrated. “Don't...understand.” He whimpered. “Choice?”

“When you were in your Heat, in the woods, near your nest, and I found you. I...” It was so hard to say this. To admit what he'd feared all week. But...Ty had to be a man. He had to acknowledge what he did. “I took advantage of you. You were so...so desperate, and I just...I couldn't help myself.” He hid his face with his hands, feeling his cheeks heat miserably. “You were so goddamn beautiful, and you smelled so...” His cock twitched at the memory. “So good. Like the forest and like sex, and I just...I wanted you so bad. I'm sorry.”

“Is Spirit's choice, not Ty's.” Spirit assured, sounding puzzled.

That had him glancing up, just as confused. “What?”

“I let touch. I let...mate.” He blushed, shyly meeting Ty's eyes. “After it happen, Spirit ask Mother, and understand what happen. Mother say it make Spirit bold, make brave to let Ty touch, but not stupid.” There was a small disapproving shake of Spirit's head. “I not let anyone touch. Ty touch, cause Ty smell good too. Smell safe and warm.”

“Really?” Ty hoped with all his heart that this was true. “You really mean that?”

He got a stern stare. “Yes. Ty think Spirit is stupid?”

He held up his hands. “No! I just...I've been...” A coward all week, he thought reproachfully, berating himself. “Thanks. For setting me straight.”

Spirit snorted softly. “Yes Spirit's choice that day, but all else is Ty's.” He still sounded informative, like he didn't expect to have to explain this.

Ty looked up to see the kitsune playing with his tail again. “What do you mean?”

Not looking up, Spirit very slightly smiled. “Ty finally say okay to move nest here.”

“Huh?” When had he done that?

“Yes. This morning, Ty say to stay with, and Spirit finally allowed to live with mate.” The smile grew. “Happy now.”

That's right. This morning, Ty had jokingly told Spirit to stay with him, but...Well, he had been sort of serious, though he hadn't expected to be taken as such. Has Spirit really just been waiting to be invited? That made Ty feel like a dick. Though, in his defense, they'd only known each other for a week. And normally, people didn't move that quickly.

Then again, people also don't normally find themselves mated with a humanoid. So, for the sake of the argument, Ty was willing to let a few social rules slide.

But... “Why did you have to wait for my permission? I would have said yes in an instant, if you'd just asked. I gotta admit, this is all news to me.” He laughed at himself. “I didn't even know you wanted to be with me like that. If you'd just told me...”

“Is all Ty's choice.” Spirit stated again, stressing his words.

Ty blinked. “What's my choice?”

“Ty is Spirit's Alpha. Is Ty's choice now. Spirit not make any choice. Must wait for Ty to say his choice. No want make Ty unhappy. Must wait for...” He paused, seeming to think of the word to say. “Pe...Permission.”

“Oh...Spirit...” Ty shook his head, frowning. He grabbed Spirit's hand, pulling the other closer. “No, that's...That's not right.” Beseechingly, he caught the other's gaze. “I don't really understand the dynamics of how your clan works, but...If we're really going to be...” He tripped over the word. “...M-Mates, then...This is going to be on even grounds. I'm definitely not..an 'Alpha'.” And he wasn't. He couldn't even say the word without laughing. What was Alpha about him? “So, I wish you hadn't waited for my permission to move here, and I hope you're not waiting for anything else.”

The boy hesitated at that.

“Are you? Waiting for something else?”

Spirit's cheeks grew red. “Now...I only waiting Ty to...” Spirit flicked his ears, looking away again. “To mate.”

Ty blinked. “Huh?”

“You not mated with Spirit again. Not except for day, when in Heat.” Those cheeks got even pinker. “I...” The kitsune looked up shyly with one eye covered by hair. “I waiting for mate again. Ty always...always stops mating. Starts then stops.”

Ty blinked, for the moment speechless. Spirit was waiting for him? Like, all Ty had to do was go over and say...'Let's do it now', and Spirit would have sex with him? He glanced to the shy boy in front of him. The idea that he could just...decide when they could have sex, was sorta...Well, in a way, it was exciting. But so totally not what Ty wanted.

He wanted equality. He wanted Spirit coming to him, wanting him, telling him what he wanted. He wanted to see the desire in those eyes. Not decide for them both when it would happen. He rose to his feet, quickly crossing the small space between them and winding his arms behind the Fox's back.

“Spirit...” He uttered, lowering his mouth close to the other's and watching as Spirit's eyes grew big. “Do you want me?”

The answer was only a soft exhalation of surprise, and the kitsune looking away with his cheeks aflame. “That...that not...for Spirit to...Ty is Alpha...So, Ty must...” He stammered to silence, wiggling in Ty's arms.

“It's not just my decision.” Ty tried again, tightening his grip. “You have a say in this, too.” He lowered his eyes to gaze at Spirit's mouth, seeing the boy nervously licking and biting his bottom lip. “I have to admit, I've wanted you all week.” Spirit whimpered, fingers clutching at Ty's shirt sleeves. “And now I find out all I had to do was basically tell you I wanted you, and you'd give yourself to me. But, Spirit...I don't want that. I want you to want me too. I want you to tell me you want me. I've felt nothing but guilt ever since we first met, coming upon you so desperate, I just didn't think. I had to touch you. And you've been my only thoughts ever since. Tell me, Spirit. Tell me you want me. Please.”

“I...” Spirit was shaking, kneading at Ty's arms, small whimpers leaving his lips and his hair covering most of his face. “Y-Yes...”

Ty moved close to that pink mouth again, whispering. “Yes, what?”

“Spirit...want...Ty...” The words were forced, but truthful. Soft and vehement.

And that was good enough for Ty. He kissed Spirit, burying his fingers in the other's thick black hair and moving the other hand down to cup that pert little bottom.

Something like a muffled howl left Spirit's mouth, vibrating down Ty's throat and sending shivers through his body. Finally. Oh god, finally. Every fiber of his being was screaming 'yes', and he pulled the other closer. Picking him clear off the floor.

Spirit howled again, breaking away and panting as Ty walked them both to the bed and lowering them both down, mindful of his weight.

They kissed again, Ty sliding his tongue past those parted lips and tasting the other boy. Spirit returned it awkwardly, shaking against him and trying his best to keep up. It was hot and making Ty shake in return. With a gasp, he broke away to tear off his shirt, and quickly thrust his pants down to his feet, kicking them off. Then he turned his attention to Spirit, grabbing those shorts, for the moment regretting putting them on, and yanked them down.

“Ouch!” Spirit yelped, kicking out at Ty's hands.

“Oh god, what's wrong?!” Ty asked, pulling away in worry. Had he inadvertently broken him?

But Spirit sighed and rolled over to his stomach, raising to his knees. “Clothing hurt tail.” He scolded, pulling them off, turning back to look at himself. “Okay now.”

Ty just pushed him down like that, onto his stomach and falling over that lithe form. Spirit's skin smelled of grass and dirt and all the things Ty associated with the outdoors, making him feel feral and hot. God, he hoped Spirit never lost that scent. Never stopped smelling like the wild. He couldn't wait anymore, it felt like he'd been waiting forever already to have Spirit like this. Gasping and shuddering and making those sounds again, those soft sweet needy sounds.

“Oh god, Spirit...” Ty groaned, running his palms up and down the kitsune's thighs as he pressed against his back. “Spirit, you're so...Oh god...I want...” There were no words to describe it. Ty felt his insides on fire and all he wanted to do was push into that writhing hot little body and make him cry out with that melodious voice. Just sink over and over into that welcoming heat, Spirit's whole body aflame.

For him. Only for him.

“Ty! Ty!” Spirit barked, his tail trapped between their bodies and twitching against Ty's stomach. “Ty!”

Yeah, just like that, so hot, so heated. Crying out and shaking and squirming against him, with those hands gripping his headboard with both hands, knuckles white from exertion. Ty made him like this. He wanted to make him...

He wanted to feel him.

Shifting back minutely, with one hand on the small of Spirit's back, he lowered the other to tease at the boy's ass, softly stroking over that puckered skin. As before, Spirit's entrance was slick already, marveling Ty with its miraculous self-lubrication. The boy must have some sort of built-in gland in his ass, which wasn't so odd. Kitsunes may look like animalistic humans, but they weren't as similar as one might think. If they had something in them to send them into a Heat-like state, then who's to say they don't have some anatomical additives that can help them during such a thing. Like males with extra glands.

Regardless, Ty didn't feel like focusing on it at the moment.

Instead, he eased one finger into that slick heat, shuddering when Spirit yowled and thrust back at him. Those muscles were flexing around him, pulling him in almost, and Ty slid another finger effortlessly. Spirit's body seemed to crave him, speeding up the process of preparing him for something bigger. Spreading his fingers, he felt the boy's body growing hotter. It was now or never, he decided, and he pulled his fingers free.

Shaking and panting, almost too much to even grab hold of himself, Ty gripped Spirit's hip with one hand and positioned himself with the other, rubbing the head of his cock against the impossibly tight puckered entrance, wincing as a particularly strong throb of lust washed through him and he accidentally dug his nails into Spirit's hip.

But there was no complaint, and Spirit merely purred, thrusting himself back into Ty and those ears flat against his head, twitching like his tail. “Please, Ty, Please...!”

But Ty couldn't see Spirit's face, and he wanted to. Just like before. So, he flipped him over onto his back, grinning savagely down at him. “Better.” He growled, falling down to kissed Spirit again, hard and desperate as he inched his hips between those wide open thighs, blindly finding that tight ring of flesh again and using his other hand to bring himself close.

Then he thrust, steady and slow, ignoring how Spirit suddenly thrashed beneath him, biting at his shoulder and yipping in increasing volumes. They weren't bad vocalizations though, and Ty pushed himself all the way in.

Once fully sheathed, he paused for breath, wincing as Spirit still weakly nipped at his shoulder with those sharp little teeth. “Spirit...?” He murmured. “You okay?”

He didn't answer, but claws dug into Ty's back, urging him to move, and slim thighs lifted up to frame his hips. Spirit's hips moved back and forth, inadvertently making himself slid back and forth along Ty's length.

Ty's breath exploded from his lungs as he tried not to just grab Spirit's hips and fuck him senseless. Keeping himself in check, he wrapped one hand around Spirit's back and the other behind Spirit's neck, anchoring himself to the other so not an inch separated them. Then he withdrew about halfway and immediately thrust back in, grunting at the feel.

“Ty!” Spirit yelped, shifting below him like a storm about to break. “Want Ty, please Ty, more!”

The boy's stilted speech only spurred him on, and Ty sped his thrusts up, his back arching as he pulled out as far as he dared, then slammed back in, panting roughly. Spirit was hotter than he remembered, but just as tight, and it took all his willpower to hold his orgasm at bay. He'd wanted this all week, wanted to feel this again. And this time, he didn't suffer any fear or guilt that what he was doing was wrong.

Spirit was his mate. And he was Spirit's. He wasn't quite sure what that entailed, but they were each others. Spirit would live with him from now on, and they wouldn't have to suffer being apart. Which sounded perfect.

Ty dragged his lips along the Fox's neck, kissing and sucking anywhere he could. And then he grabbed Spirit's chin, forcing his face forward for more kisses.

“Oh god...Spirit...” Ty groaned, slamming his hips harder, goosebumps all over his body at the sound of skin to skin. “Spirit!”

“Hhaah...Ty...Mmmahh!”

Feet locked behind Ty's back, and Spirit was digging his claws into Ty's shoulder, pieces of sweaty black hair sticking to his forehead. Ty realized he was close, and not wanting to take the chance, he reached between his and Spirit's bodies, gripping the boy's little cock, and began to jerk him off, trying to keep his rhythm right.

After a moment, Spirit gave a long, high yowl, bucking against Ty's hand, and ass tightening around him, his head thrown back. “Tyyyyyyyyyyyyyyiiip yip yip!”

Torn between a moan and a laugh at Spirit's helpless barking, Ty came soon after, yanking the boy flush against him and burying himself as deep as possible, stifling his shout into Spirit's neck as he rode out the waves of his orgasm.

Panting heavily, Ty went slack, a shudder running through him as Spirit's muscles still clenched sporadically around his cock. “Christ...” He groaned, sucking in a sharp breath as he carefully pulled out. Spirit trembled at the loss.

Ty laid on his side, pulling the kitsune into his arms and nuzzling his face, seeking a kiss. Spirit tiredly turned towards him, meeting his lips. Ty kept it chaste, just enjoying the feel of lips on lips, the barest hint of tongue.

Giggling suddenly, Spirit pulled away, averting his face. “Ty's kiss funny.” He murmured with a smile.

Ty lifted a brow. “What do you mean?”

Spirit giggled again, giving him a shake of his head. “Ty use mouth and tongue wrong. Kiss is like this.” And he leaned close again, nuzzling Ty's face and then darting out his tongue to languidly lick at Ty's cheek. “This.”

Ty chuckled too, nuzzling back. “You don't like how I kiss?”

“No, Spirit likes. Is just silly. Mates lick-kiss. Not kiss-lick.” Spirit giggled again. “But no matter. Like both.”

“Good.” Ty rumbled, closing his eyes and cuddling his mate closer. “So...Is this where I say...I love you?”

“What that mean?” Spirit asked quietly, tilting his head against Ty's chest. “Love?”

Ty wasn't surprised the boy didn't know. He smiled faintly and thought how to best describe it. “Love is...the stronger feeling of 'like'. It's when you want to always be with someone, and you accept their flaws and everything about them, because it doesn't bother you. You only want them in your life and they're all you can think about when you're not with them.” Okay, that was a little extreme, but Ty thought he'd done a pretty good job.

Spirit was quietly thoughtful for a moment, but then he scoffed. “Ty is only talking about Mates. Spirit already feel that with Ty. Already...'love' Ty, if that love.” He shook his head. “Humans have such silly ways.”

Ty blinked, then laughed once, and shut his eyes again. “Yeah, we do.”

THE END