Page 2 of Howl You Doin'

"At least the kids still think you're scarier than Victor," Wade said.

"That's because they haven't seen him try to dance at the Autumn Enchantment Fair." Caleb waved back at the kid. "That was pretty terrifying."

"Speaking of terrifying, you never told me what happened at that peace talk last month."

"You mean when he suggested we 'merge our packs for the greater good'?" Caleb rolled his eyes. "I told him I'd rather french kiss a troll."

"Harsh."

"The troll would probably have better breath."

Caleb kicked a loose cobblestone, sending it skittering across the street. "If Victor wants to prove he's such a big bad alpha, he should come challenge me directly instead of harassing innocent pack members. Coward's way out."

The salty breezecarried the scent of fresh bread from the bakery, mixing with the ever-present tang of ocean air. A group of merfolk hurried past, their scales glinting in the afternoon sun as they gave Caleb a wide berth. His reputation for protecting his territory preceded him.

"You know that's not his style," Wade said. "He's trying to wear everyone down first. Make them doubt."

"Yeah, well, I'm done playing his game." Caleb's wolf prowled beneath his skin. The beast understood what needed to be done - show strength, protect the pack. "Time to remind everyone why Eclipsed Moon's still standing after all these years."

"What are you thinking?"

"I'm thinking it's time for a pack gathering. Right in the town square." Caleb's lips curved into a predatory smile. "Let Victor watch from the shadows while we show exactly how united and strong we are."

"A show of force?" Wade raised an eyebrow. "That's... actually not a bad idea."

"Try not to sound so surprised." Caleb dodged a witch's familiar - a rather plump orange cat that shot him a disapproving look. "We'll have food, music, maybe some friendly sparring matches. Show everyone that we're not hiding."

"And if Victor shows up?"

"Then he'll see exactly what he's up against." The wolf in Caleb's chest rumbled with satisfaction. "And maybe, if we'relucky, he'll finally grow a pair and face me properly instead of picking on cubs and elders."

"You really want that fight, don't you?"

"Want? No." Caleb paused at the intersection, watching another group of pack children chase each other through the magical fountain's spray. Their laughter echoed off the old buildings, reminding him exactly what he was protecting. "But I'll end it if he forces my hand. Nobody threatens our people and gets away with it."

The red-brick community center loomed ahead, its weathered facade a testament to decades of pack gatherings, celebrations, and sanctuary. Caleb's jaw clenched at the sight of the "Open to All" sign. That welcome had been weaponized against them.

"Third one this month," Caleb muttered, running a hand through his dark hair. "First the bookkeeper, then that new security guard, now Thompson."

"Could be worse." Wade dodged a puddle. "Remember when Victor tried bribing the entire janitorial staff at the town hall?"

"Yeah, with counterfeit leprechaun gold." Caleb snorted. "Turned their hands green for weeks."

The community center's double doors swung open, releasing a group of young shifters from their after-school program. Their laughter faded as they spotted him, eyes wide with recognition. Caleb softened his expression, offering a reassuring nod.

"I'll handle the center myself for now," he said, watching the kids scamper off. "At least until we can find someone trustworthy."

"You?" Wade's eyebrows shot up. "Mr. I-Set-The-Microwave-On-Fire-Making-Popcorn wants to run a community center?"

"That was one time." Caleb shot him a look. "And in my defense, those instructions were clearly written by a vampire. Who measures time in heartbeats?"

They climbed the worn stone steps, the afternoon sun warming the railings beneath their hands. Inside, the scent of floor cleaner mingled with traces of anxiety from their pack members - and underneath it all, the lingering smugness of Victor's presence.

"You can't run this place alone," Wade said, following him through the lobby. "You've got enough on your plate with-"

"Watch me." Caleb's wolf stirred, responding to the challenge in Wade's tone. "My pack, my responsibility. Besides," he grinned, "how hard can it be? File some paperwork, organize a few events, keep Victor's goons from terrorizing everyone-"

"Schedule maintenance, manage the budget, coordinate with other community leaders, handle complaints-"

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