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Once in a Blue Moon

Chapter 4

(Monday June 18-19, 2004)

A Plot and a Twist

It had been 3 days since marks encounter with Patrick, his best friend and first and so far only lover. He hadn't seen the tabby boy since yesterday when he had came over for a while to play some video games and just hang out. Neither of them talked about their experience a couple of days before, Pat even seemed to kind of avoid the subject completely. Just before he had headed for home making sure that they were alone his friend said to the Bernese boy,

"I'm sorry Mark, I've not been very good company today, my dad found out yesterday that he's being put on furlough at the factory he works at for 2 weeks. My parents try to make it seem like nothing, but I'm worried about dad losing his job."

"Oh, I understand Pat, but I'm sure it'll be ok, your parents haven't ever hidden bad news from you so if there was anything to be really worried about I'm sure they would tell you. Mark tried to sound cheerful to hopefully ease his friends fears a bit. He didn't sound so reassuring as he tried to be, not even to himself. Pat had left shortly after headed home. Mark was looking out the front door wondering what was going on. Pat almost always called him when he had gotten home ok, as Mark did when he left Pats heading for his own home. But his friend had been gone for over and hour and hadn't called yet.

Marks mom stepped into the hallway, "Mark honey, give me a hand finishing up in the kitchen and we'll get out of the house for a while and go down to the park. You look like you could use a day out."

"Sure thing mom", Mark replied as he trudged down the hall towards the kitchen. Going over to the towel drawer he got a dish towel and started drying and putting the dishes away. The phone rang and his mother answered it, "Hello? Oh hi Brenda." It was Pats mom, maybe he wants to come over and play Mark thought. But he didn't interrupt his mom while she was on the phone.

"Your Kidding!" his mother exclaimed, Mark got a bit nervous thinking about what his friend had said about his fathers job. "No I would have never thought they would do something like that. That's wonderful news." Marks mother was smiling, 'guess it wasn't bad news after all' he thought his mood brightening a bit. "Oh really? Well that explains why he's been mopping around here for the last half hour." "Yes, I'll tell him." "Yes, tell Pat I'll do that, it's no problem at all."

"Ok Bren, have a good time and we'll see you when you all get back. Bye."

"What's up mom?" Mark asked inquisitively. "Is everything alright?" a note of concern evident in his voice.

"Yes, everything is fine with Pat and his family. He says to tell you he's very sorry for not calling you when he got home but he was distracted by the news his father had when he got home."A look of worry crept into marks face, as he wondered what that news was.

"Also I'm to tell you that he was worried about nothing, his father is a section supervisor at the factory , and the furlough is due to the fact that the section he runs is being shut down temporarily for new equipment to be installed and tested. Everyone in that section are on a paid furlough, no one is going to lose their jobs. In fact once the new equipment is ready they'll probably be hiring more people. But that's not the best news." She was smiling broadly, "It seems that since it worked out that schools out Pats dad is also taking his vacation leave and they're going on a two week family vacation since he has the time off." she said.

"WOW, that's great news. I hope he has fun and brings back some pictures of their trip."

"And I'm glad to know he made it home ok." Mark turned and walked back to the kitchen and started drying the dishes again, lost in his thoughts. He was glad that things were ok with Pats dads job, and happy for his buddy that they were going on vacation. But that also meant he wouldn't see his friend for two whole weeks which made him just a little sad. While he had been lost in his thoughts, he had fallen behind on the dishes and was startled slightly when his mother, placing the last of the plates into the dish drainer said, "Ok done with my part. While you finish up I'll make some sandwiches and pack us a little picnic lunch for the park. When your done go get your shoes and what ever else you want to take and we'll go make a day of it."

After finishing the dishes Mark ran upstairs and into his room jamming his feet into his sneakers as he grabbed his backpack from the corner. When ever his mom said make a day of a trip to the park, you better be ready for anything, he knew this all too well. So he tossed two changes of clothes, (shorts, shirts, socks) into the pack along with sunscreen and his swim trunks. He stood there a moment then dashed into his closet and grabbed his inner tube and the small portable pump and tossed those into the pack also. He went over to the dresser and grabbed his game boy and a few games adding that to the pack, "Should cover it I think." he said as he shouldered the backpack and headed back downstairs. When mark reached the bottom of the stairs his mom was waiting at the door.

"Let's go slowpoke, your burnin daylight." his mother said with a broad grin on her face.

"Ok, ok I'm ready. Let's go then can we?" Mark was giggling as he headed out the door ahead of his mom.

==========

Once they arrived at the park he and his mother found a spot with a bench and Mark dropped off his backpack then kissed his mom on the cheek, "thanks for coming to the park today mom, guess I needed to get out of the house more then I thought."

"Your welcome dear, and yes you did need to get out of the house badly. You've become a bit of a hermit since your tryst with pat and a day in the sun and around other people will do you good."His mother said smiling sweetly at him.

Mark spent the next couple of hours running around the playground, swinging, going down the slide, climbing on the monkey bars, the usual for any eight year old boy with energy to burn.

A few times during his play he thought about how much fun it would be if Patrick was here with him, then remembering that his friend was gone on vacation with his family for the next two weeks he go a bit sad for a moment. Every time this happened though one of the other cubs that mark knew from the neighborhood would come up and suggest some game or race or something and off he would be again having fun.

While he was running around playing with the other cubs at the park his mother sat on the bench enjoying the sunny day and the rampant giggling and laughter of the cubs lost joyously in their play. As she was sitting there she saw a dear friend coming along with her daughter heading for the bench where she was sitting.

"Cheryl Conners, and cute little Debbie, haven't seen you in a while dear, where have you two been hiding out at hmmmmm?" Alice Jameson asked the female bunny that strode up to her and embraced her in a tender hug.

"Oh just at home yiffing everyone in the house into a frenzy as always." Cheryl Conners replied laughing.

"Cheryl, you always were an inventive slut." her female friend replied.

"Mrs. Jameson, I will have you know that I much prefer the term adventurous tramp of the world for your information."

Both women burst out laughing happily at their shared jests, glad that even thought they saw each other less often then in years past that the special bond between them was still as strong as it had been when they were cubs growing up as friends, and much more.

Debbie waited patiently while the adults were talking but started fidgeting as it seemed they would never get done. She just wanted to go play, sheeesh would they ever get done.

"So is Mark here with you Alice or is he home with the video games cranked up?" Cheryl asked.

Debbie was about to interrupt to ask her mother if she could go and play when she heard her mothers question. She liked Mark and wanted to go and find him and play with him.

"Yes, he's here. He's been a little down since this morning when he found out his friend Patrick is going to be out of town for two weeks on a family vacation. And especially after his recent activities with the boy, he's a bit lost." Alice confided in her friend.

"Recent activities huh? Marks what eight now?" the bunny woman asked.

"Yes, and a typical eight year old male he is. Let's just say that discovery time has arrived and he's a very willing learner indeed."

"Patrick finally got up the nerve to tell mark that he was gay, which we new almost from day one, and he and Mark went at it like it was a new video game."

At this news Debbie couldn't hold her tongue at all, "awe man, another one down the drain."

Both females looked at her, both forgetting she was still standing there.

"What do you mean dear?" her mother asked a quizzical look on her face.

"It's just not fair, why do all the boys I know and like have to end up butt pluggers?" she said a bit miffed. "Dang it I just can't win against that kinda stuff." at that she flumped down on the end of the bench and pouted.

"You like mark? Does he know that dear or have you been hiding it from him?" the boys mother asked the bunny girl.

"Welllllll, no not really told him yet. Was kinda hoping he'd figure it out on his own."

"And exactly how much do you like him Debbie, you two have been friends almost as long as he and Pat have been." Alice asked her.

"A lot, a whole lot, in fact I.......I think I love him. Ever since I started getting curious about sex I think about him even more then I did before. Even just seeing him starts me thinking about being with him. I really like Mark a lot, so much so that I'd yiff him in a heart beat if I got a chance."

"I'd yiff him until he couldn't move then I'd yiff him again." the girl answered blushing quite a bit with a look of desire on her face embarrassed at how quickly she had just admitted that to the boys mother.

"Oh my, I had no idea. I see another cub has entered the school of rampaging hormones." she said giggling softly.

"Yes, she most definitely has. She is my daughter after all, wouldn't expect much less from her considering how I was at her age. But I didn't even know about this crush on Mark, that's news even to me. Just how long have you been thinking about yiffing Mark young lady?" Cheryl asked her daughter with a smirk on her face.

"For only about a year since I caught a peak of him nakie when he was puttin on his trunks when we all went swimming at the lake on that class field trip. He's the one I fantasie about at night when I get myself off in bed before I go to sleep." the bunny girl admitted to the two adults blushing deeply as an image of her and Mark yiffing wildly came into her mind as it often did lately. "But I don't see where it matters now he's gone to the other side and I've lost him." she was almost in tears.

"Oh no no no no, Debbie Marks not gay, he's just doing what his father and I have always told him to and exploring all of his options dear. We've always been very open and honest with him about sex and gender preference, and told him that while we would never judge him for what he decided that he should explore sex with both boys and girls before he decides which he prefers, if he even prefers one over the other. But we've always stressed that no matter what he decides we'll support his decision completely and always love him" the Benese woman explained.

"Up until Pat told him that he was gay Mark was a total virgin dear, he hadn't even started rubbing himself off yet." Marks mother told the little bunny girl.

"In fact I've been concerned about how I was going to get him interested in girls enough for him to experience the joys of a female to be completely honest. It worries me to wait for him to think of it and find a girl to do it with." she said more to her adult friend then to the youngster.

"Well then," said Cheryl, "unless I'm mistaken I see an opportunity to solve two problems at once. I take it Mark has no experience with girls at all then?" she said questioningly.

"None what so ever. Why, what do you have in mind? Something rather devious and a bit underhanded if I know you at all. And I do know you, rather well in fact." Alice eyed her friend suspiciously.

"Well if your both willing, and if Debbie thinks she can be a bit patient and not just out right rape the poor boy and scare him off girls forever I do have an idea"

the bunny woman said.

"Do I even want to know, after all you know I am a wiccan priestess and take the Rede very seriously, especially the 'do no harm' part of it Cheryl." Alice said sternly.

"Oh that shouldn't be any problem, since your not doing anything except allowing the opportunity for your son to have a willing partner that knows quite a bit about the subject and is more then happy to help him learn about it. That's not interfering in any way at all, just allowing things to happen that you have already said he should be willing to experience. The biggest part will be on Debbies shoulders to control herself and just let things happen as they should, well perhaps with a few gentle nudges in the right direction perhaps." she said giggling at the implications of her last statement."

"Well I could certainly do that, and no it's not interfering in any way so it wouldn't be a conflict for me. And to be honest, I'd much rather Marks first experiences with girls be with a lovely little girl that he knows fairly well instead of some random girl that would be likely to break his heart or do some other fool thing like some girls do these days. While I will support his decision on which gender he eventually chooses as a mate, I have to be honest and say I hope it's with a female, I do hope to have grandcubs to spoil rotten someday after all." she blushed a bit embarrassed at her own sudden honesty. "Ok, count me in."

"Debbie what about you? Do you think you could be patient with Mark and subtly guide him to act on his desires and help him to learn about sex with girls without raping him?"

"Remember, it may take a bit to get him to take the lead and act on his feelings. You'll have to take it slow and let him take his time dear, can you do that?" Cheryl asked her daughter very seriously.

"Yes mommy I can do that. But let me make sure I understand what your saying. If we do this thing you have in mind Mark gets to find out what sex with a girl is like and I get to yiff Mark like I've dreamed about for weeks now? And that if he's willing I can do anything with him so he knows as much about girls as he can right?" Debbie asked, a clear tone of happiness and excitement in her voice.

"Yes, that's pretty much it Debbie, but again I ask you, because I need to know that your not going to do something crazy because you let your hormones take over. I have to be honest you could scare the poor boy off of girls just as easily as you could draw him to them. So you'll have to be patient and let him take things slow. You'll have to go with your instincts and let things progress normally. It's all going to be on you, since to honor his mothers wishes and beliefs I will also have to 'do no harm' and other then letting you two mate stay completely out of it. Although knowing Mark so well and how he has been raised I truly think if he decides to do things with you he would be just as likely to ask permission from me and your dad first."

Cheryl looked sternly at her daughter and waited for the girl to think this over.

Debbie thought hard about all her mother had said for several minutes then looked her mother in the eyes and said, "Yes mommy, I can do all that, I really do like Mark that much and I can do whatever it takes even though it'll be hard at times to be patient I know I can do it."

"Well Alice, it seems we're all in agreement then. It looks like you found a girl to 'help' Mark decide to try out sex with a girl, if she's acceptable that is." the bunny woman said to her friend with a mock look of trepidation on her face.

"Well, I suppose she's acceptable. She is the same age as Mark and very pretty as well. I guess my son could do a lot worse for a first female lover." she said rather seriously, though cracking a smile within moments of saying it.

"Ok then here's what we're going to do............."

The three females gathered into a huddle, Cheryl Conners pulling a small note pad and a pen from her bag and taking notes as they worked out the details.

=============

"One last time I have to ask, Alice your sure your alright with this? I mean it is more then a bit underhanded to plot against your boy like this, although it does meet your wishes for him to experience sex with girls as well as boys, which to some degree has already happened with his friend Patrick." Cheryl asked again. She had to be sure that she wasn't crossing a line with her unusual suggestion for her daughter, who had an enormous crush on her friends son Mark, to seduce the boy during an arranged sleep over.

"Yes, I am fine with it. As I said Bob and I have always told Mark that when the time came and he started getting curious about sex he should be open minded and experience different things with both genders as it's the only way he can honestly decide what his preferences are. When he started experimenting with same gender sex I was glad it was with his best friend Patrick. At least Pat would be gentle and caring as well as patient and honest with my son. With Debbie I feel he'll get the same consideration from her and I would much prefer his first experiences with girls be with some one who cares for him and won't treat him badly. Although, I do have to caution you as I did Patrick young lady. He also loves my son and as I told him for now you must keep that to yourself. I fear knowing it would possibly cause him to not be honest to himself about how he feels about his experiences. Telling him you like him a lot is fine, if he knows that your in love with him he may feel, well, obligated to feel the same way even though he doesn't. If he finds that he has, or develops strong feelings for you believe me he'll be the one to tell you that he has those feelings. That would be the time to tell him that you love him, and have for sometime. I know it's a strange thing to ask, but it needs to be this way. I love my son dearly, but he can be easily influenced by how others feel about him and I want him to be honest with himself in how he feels and in the choices he makes." she said.

"I understand Mrs. Conners, and I can keep it to myself unless he says it first. And I promise I'll be gentle with him and good to him. He means a lot to me and has always been a really good friend and I don't want to lose that either." Debbie said a hint of sadness in her voice.

"Ok then, Alice I believe you have a few phone calls to make and I have to write out a shopping list. There are some things I need to pick up on the way home that I think will 'help things progress naturally' as you put it. Now since this all hangs on whether or not Mark even has any interest in girls at all I have something for you to do Debbie. We need to know for sure he is interested in girls that way and I think I know just how you can find out. Mark's still over at the playground isn't he?" Cheryl asked her daughter looking towards the playground.

"Yes mama, I can see him over there by the swings." Debbie said.

"Good, now I want you to go over there and see if you can come up with a way to 'accidentally' rub up against him and see if he reacts. Once you find out and can do it with out him getting suspicious come back and let us know." she said motioning her daughter to head towards the playground "Now let me see, shopping list for 2 weeks of fun for two cubs, hmmmmmm...."

=========

Debbie Conners walked over near the swings then feigned just seeing her friend Mark. He was standing with his back to her talking to another boy that she vaguely recognized from the school they went to. She called out to him using the pet name she had given him years ago, "PUPPY DOG" she shouted.

Hearing his friends voice calling him Mark turned and saw her running towards him,

"COTTON TAIL" he shouted back to her as he ran towards her. Debbie pretended to trip just as she get near him falling into his outstretched arms and knocking him backwards landing on top of him face to face. She then quickly sat up so that she was straddling his hips and their crotches were plastered against each other. She groped him all over as she 'pretended' to check to make sure he was alright after falling onto him as she carefully ground her crotch against his. She wasn't disappointed when within moments she could clearly feel his cock hardening against her pussy. She blushed slightly and bending over her face very near to his she playfully and gently swatted him on his muzzle, "Mark Jameson, are you getting a stiffy on me?" she whispered to him letting a soft moan escape her lips.

Mark looked into her eyes blushing slightly and answered her his voice little more then a sigh,

"Yes I am, sorry cottontail didn't mean to."

"Oh then you don't find me exciting at all?" she whispered back to him a bit breathlessly.

"Well, uummmmm, yea I kinda do actually. But ummmm I am laying here in the middle of the playground with you straddling my cock ya know. Think some of the other people here wouldn't like it much if we stay like this." he said blushing a bit deeper.

"Oh, yea we are, sorry about that." she said as she stood up giving him a nice flash of her silky red panties as she stood over him for a few seconds before stepping over him and reaching out a hand to him.

Mark blushed even more seeing her panties and at the thoughts that went screaming through his mind. Thoughts he had never had about any girl, let alone his bunny friend.

"I, ummmm need to go to the bathroom." Mark said as he picked himself up off the ground and brushed the sand off his shorts. Debbie could clearly see that he did indeed have quite a stiffy going in his shorts and grinned a bit to herself.

"Oh, ok. See you in a bit then, gonna go get a drink while I wait for ya, if you want to play with me that is." she said to him smiling sweetly and innocently at him.

"Y.....yea, but I gotta go take care of summthin first. Meet you back at the swings in a little bit?"

He asked her, a slight tremor in his voice.

"Sure, cya in a bit." she said as she turned and ran off towards her mother.

Cheryl Conners looked up and saw her daughter heading towards the bench where she sat with Marks mother waiting for her return. She noticed as the girl drew nearer that she had a grin from ear to ear on her muzzle and was skipping slightly as she came across the grass towards them. As soon as Debbie had closed the distance she grinned at her and said, "What did you do young lady, and don't even try to give me that innocent look, I can see in your face you did something naughty."

"Who meeeee?" Debbie said with a mock look of shock on her face. All three females then started laughing, "What makes you think I would do anything naughty mommy? I'm just a good little girl, I could never do anything naughty."

"Alright girl, out with it, what did you find out?" her mother said giggling.

"Weeeelllllllll, if he wasn't interested in girls before, he is now." the bunny girl answered striking a cute and innocent pose as she answered.

"Your sure of that are you?" Marks mom asked her.

"Yes ma'am I'm positive. When I ran up to him to give him a hug I 'accidentally' tripped and fell on top of him." replied the girl

"Oh lord Cheryl, did you teach her that old trick?" Alice asked her friend snickering.

"Well it always works doesn't it? After all what better way to get away with groping a guy up and crotch grinding him in public to get his motor running?" she answered.

"Yea," said Debbie, "and when I did he gotta stiffy right there, I could feel it really good. Then when I got up and stood over him and let him get a good look up my skirt too. When he finally got off the ground he was pitchin a tent and said he needed to go to the bathroom to 'take care of summthin' then headed off to do it."

"Oh , my sounds like you really got to him then, and sounds like he's hooked." Marks mom said.

"Well now we just have to wait for him to finish up in the restroom and join us so we can set things in motion. Should be a very interesting two weeks indeed." Cheryl said as she settled back on the bench and gazed around the park. It was only a few minutes until she saw Mark coming out of the mens room and nodded towards him and said, "Well that didn't take him long, poor little guy must have been worked up pretty good."

Marks mother giggled as she looked over towards her son, partially because of Cheryls comment, partially because the boy had a flustered look on his face that told her the boy was struggling with his thoughts and perhaps more. She gave him a few moments to try to collect himself a bit then called out to him waving him over to them, . "Mark honey, come here for a minute."

Mark heard his mother and walked over to the bench where the three females were seated.

"Yes mom?" he said waiting for his mother to continue.

"We have a bit of a problem, your father called and he has to fly out to the east coast tonight. Seems a new clients yacht is ready and it's too big to transport by truck so it has to be sailed through the canal and to the west coast for pick up in California. He suggested that we go with him, but I told him two weeks at sea wouldn't be a good idea for you." his mother said.

"So........." Mark said waiting for the other shoe to drop.

"So I told him we'd just have to pass and stay home this time. I'm sure we can find plenty to do to keep us busy while he's gone. She said feigning a wishful expression.

"Well that's not fair to you mom, I know you'd love to spend time with dad like that and here I'm being a problem because I get a bit seasick. And with this short of a notice there's no way to even try to get a baby sitter for that long of a time. Pats out too, he's gone with his family on vacation. No mom, I'll just take a bunch of Dramamine and video games and stay in my room and cover the porthole, it's not so bad as long as I don't see the water. I'll make it just fine, you are not missing a chance to spend time with dad like this because of me, not gonna happen and I'm sorry if I'm being mouthy mom but I love you and can't let you miss out because I might get a belly ache or hurl a few times, sheeeeesh."

"I knew you'd say something like that, and I love you too but....." she said smiling at him sweetly.

"Well if I might interrupt," said Cheryl, "I have an alternate solution if Marks not opposed to it."

Mark turned his head and looked at the woman a bit shocked. Although he was just a bit suspicious he didn't let on at all, a curious look on his face to hide what he was really wondering. 'Best to wait and see where this goes, especially with the way Debbie was acting earlier' he thought to himself.

"What's that Mrs. Conner?" Mark asked being careful to hide his growing suspicion that these three women were up to something. They had after all been sitting together talking almost the whole time he had been at the playground.

"Well if you want, and your parents don't mind you could stay with us for that amount of time, it would give Debbie some one to play with and maybe keep her from driving me crazy to boot."

"Only problem I guess is that there's not a spare bedroom since we converted it to a home office last year so you'd have to either crash on the couch or camp out in the floor of Debbies room, if that's alright with you sweety." she said as nonchalantly is if she had just offered him a sandwich at a picnic as she turned towards Debbie.

"Well, I guess it'd be ok with me," Debbie said acting a bit shy about the idea. "if it's ok with Mark that is."

'So that's what they were up to!' Mark thought. ' Ok then I'll play along, could get interesting.'

"S-sure if everyone else is ok with it, it'd beat being sick for two weeks." Mark said as he wondered just what Debbie had in store for him when she got him alone in her bedroom.

"Well then that seems settled, when do you want to drop him by Alice?" she said to Marks mother.

"Well Bob said he had us booked on a 10p.m. flight out tonight so would 8:30 be alright? That'll give us time to get his stuff packed and we can drop him off on our way to the airport."

Marks mom said, playing her part splendidly she thought.

"Alright, we'll see you at 8:30 then, come on Debbie we need to do some shopping before your guest arrives."

=============

Mark and his mom arrived at home and they both busied themselves packing, Mark for his 'extended sleep over' and his mother for her trip with her husband.

Mark emptied out his backpack and started gathering his clothes together. His mom had said to take enough for one week as he could use the Conners washer and dryer to do his own laundry as he did at home. So he picked out shorts, shirts, socks and underwear for seven days sorting them into neat stacks on his bed. He then added two pairs of long pants, two pairs of sneakers (mom always insisted on having a spare pair of shoes), then he got his swimming trunks and a beach towel from the bathroom. Then he went into his bathroom and grabbed his toothbrush and tooth paste, a comb and brush were tossed onto his bed along with his fur slicker. Then back in his bedroom he went to his desk and grabbed his mp3 player and the earbuds that went with it as well as his camera. As he was turning to take the items to his bed to add to the pile of stuff he caught a glance at the calender that hung on his wall and the lovingly prepared bundle that lay on the shelf beneath it and he stopped cold. How could he have forgotten what Friday was? Had he been so wrapped up in recent events that he head let it slip his mind completely? What was he going to do now, with his parents going on this trip and him staying with the Conners. He dropped the things in his hands back onto the desk, "CRAP!!! Crap, crap, crap, crap!!" he shouted as he headed to his parents room. As he stood in the doorway he said, "Mom, I can't believe I forgot about it but we have a problem."

"What's wrong dear?" his mother asked him, a look of concern on her face.

"I totally spaced what week this is. With all the excitement going on the last few days I forgot that Friday is the Summer Solstice festival. This year is the one I've waited for three years for too. This is the year that I make my intents know to the coven to start my training to become a priest of the Goddess and make my request to be allowed to be a leader for the younger cubs. CRAP, I can't believe I forgot about it."

"Now don't freak out yet, let me call Cheryl and see if I can make arrangements to get you to the festival, go ahead and pack up your stuff for the sleep over and gather your things for the festival I'm sure we can resolve this quickly dear. Go on now and give me a few minutes to talk with Cheryl." his mother said trying to keep her voice calm and even to reassure him. She knew how much he had been looking forward to taking a more active role in the coven and wouldn't allow anything to side track what he had prepared so hard for. Her son was truly growing up fast and it made her heart soar that he had decided to become so active in their faith and especially in his decision to pursue the training to become a wiccan priest. No, regardless of what it would take, even if it meant canceling this entire affair, she would let nothing interfere with him making such a commitment to his faith and to himself, she couldn't, for to do so would absolutely be doing harm and that she would not do.

Alice walked over to the nightstand beside her bed and picked up the phone dialing Cheryls number then waiting for someone to answer on the other end.

"Hello?" It was Cheryls voice on the phone.

"Hello Cheryl, it's Alice. Mark and I are getting things packed and ready, but we have a bit of an issue." She said to her friend a slight note of worry in her voice.

"Oh? Not anything drastic I hope. What's the problem dear?" her friend replied.

"In the excitement of the last several days and with Mark beginning to discover himself and all it seems we forgot about this week being the week of the summer solstice and about the festival the local pagans are having together. It's an important year for Mark as he's taking a very big step in his service to the Goddess and honoring a commitment he made three years ago. It's very important that he be there and I feel terrible that I let this slip my mind." she said.

"Oh my Alice, you really have become a bit addled haven't you? Have you completely forgotten that my family decided two years ago that we had quite enough of the dogma and stigma of so called 'conventional religion' that we parted from our church and Frank had started exploring the different pagan religions? You know him, he never jumps into anything without exploring all the options so he had to see what they each believed before deciding on which would be the best fit for him. He finally decided on wicca and we joined the coven eight months ago dear. We were already planning to be at the festival, especially since it will be our first summer solstice festival there is no way we would miss it. After we left you and Mark at the park Debbie reminded me of the festival and that Mark had told her several times in the last few months that this was a big year for him in the coven. We were already planning on taking him with us dear. So you can tell him that there is no issue. He'll be there with us and everything will be fine." she told her friend reassuringly.

"Goddess be praised, I feel foolish now. I should have known that all would be taken care of already. Blessings upon you and your family, you are all a wonderful addition to the coven. I'll go and tell Mark that everything is taken care of and not to worry, thank you Cheryl. But I do want to ask something of you. We've never been away from Mark for any length of time before, let alone for two weeks. I know that I don't need to, but I ask that you watch over him and guide him if need be. And one last request," she giggled slightly, "don't let him and Debbie mate themselves to death."

At that last request Cheryl laughed. "I will certainly watch over him dear, and if he needs I will happily guide him, but on the mating issue I can't make any promises, but I will try. After all he's never experienced the joys of a female lover, and even with his experiences with Patrick he may find he enjoys girls even more" she said sniggering. "Believe me I'm more concerned about my daughter yiffing him to death then you are. She has quite a lot of experience sexually, with both genders and is definitely bisexual. She's also rather strong willed about sex, she knows what she likes and what she wants and has no problem getting it. More like me then I ever thought possible honestly. She's also been blessed, or cursed maybe, with both my and her fathers sex drives. So rest assured that while not interfering unless absolutely necessary I will be keeping both eyes on them while they're together for these two weeks. While I think of it I also want to let you know that Debbie is not fertile yet so that won't be any kind of an issue. They can, pardon the pun dear, fuck like rabbits if they want to and not have to worry about it." she said.

"Your awful Cheryl," Alice said giggling madly. "I can't believe you just said that. But thanks for letting me know. I was wondering if I needed to get him a supply of condoms and explain their use to him before we dropped him off this evening or not. But I do have another question. Has Debbie ever mated with a canine before, does she know about tieing with a canine male?"

"No, Mark will be her first canine of either sex, but I did have a long talk with her about canines and tieing. What it means, how and why it happens, what a dog boys knot is, the whole thing so she wouldn't be surprised or freaked out when it happens the first time. I'm sure it won't be the only time by far." she said giggling slightly.

"Thank you Cheryl, I'll go tell Mark he need not worry about the festival and we'll see you at 8:30 as planned." Alice said.

"Alright we'll be waiting for Marks arrival dear, you and Bob have a good time on your trip, and IF anything should happen and it's a girl name it after me." Cheryl said laughing sweetly.

"We'll see about that, hmmmmphhh." Alice said feigning indignation before laughing also.

Marks mom hung up the phone returning it to its place on the nightstand. She then went to Marks room to fill him in.

As she entered the boys room she said, "Mark honey, it's all taken care of. Cheryl and her family are going to the festival and were already aware that you needed to be there also so everything is fine." She then looked up and saw her son standing in front of his dressing mirror and gasped slightly at the sight. There was her son dressed, not in the shorts and t-shirt as she had expected,but in a pair of well pressed dress slacks, a button down collared shirt and tie with a sports jacket hung on the back of the chair at his desk. She was struck by the realization of just how handsome the boy truly was. His black and rust brown fur combed out and slicked down, his hair carefully combed and parted stylishly. And was that, yes a hint of cologne coming from him.

She stood there for several long seconds unable to speak as she admired the confident looking young man before her. Motherly pride swelling in her heart as she lovingly gazed upon such a sight of strength and confidence, self assurance. 'When did my little boy become such a striking young man?' she thought to herself.

"That's a bit formal to arrive at a sleep over isn't it?" she was almost startled at the sound of her own voice.

"To a sleep over yes," Mark said rather matter-of-factly, "but dad always says that a suitor should always present himself properly doesn't he?"

Alice Jameson was shocked at his words. "A suitor?" she asked quizzically.

"Well, while I was gathering up my clothes and stuff for this sleep over I got to thinking about how things came together today at the park. You and Debbie and her mom didn't know that I had seen the three of you all huddled up on the bench for so long. At first I just figured you and Mrs. Conners were just catching up. But when Debbie stayed there talking to the two of you I wondered what was going on. But I figured it was just girl talk and didn't think about it again.

But while I was gathering my supplies for the festival, I got to thinking about the commitment I'm making this year and that got me to thinking about what it really means to be a wiccan. How we're supposed to be ever vigilant to search for the subtle hints the Goddess gives us each day to know her will and her intent for us and so we can follow our faith and do no harm and to know when we would do harm. That got me to thinking about what all happened at the park again. You three females all huddled on a park bench for over two hours. Then Debbie greeting me in the middle of the playground and tripping and falling on top of me. Looking back on it now, I'm pretty sure it wasn't accidental, after all dad has told the story many times about Debbies mom doing something like that when she was interested in him back when you all were cubs. Then this sudden problem with a customer and dad having to deliver a yacht to California. That parts probably true, maybe even coincidently. But you saying all that about us staying home because of my issue with boats, you knew I'd never let you miss out on time with dad because of me.And lastly Mrs. Conners unexpected offer of a sleep over with her daughter, my friend and a girl. That is just to coincidental especially in light of our talks about me and discovery and sex and gender and all that the last few days. I doubt you'd admit it but I think you and Mrs. Conners and probably Debbie are setting me up. But I'm ok with it, like I said, watching for the subtly hint of the Goddess. I'll take it that she's hitting me over the head with a stick, that I need to stop dragging my feet and discover more about myself and about sex maybe too. The more I think about it I guess it seems like she is guiding me to be what I'm meant to be. I wouldn't be much of a wiccan if I didn't follow her lead now would I?Today was a wake up call for me in a lot of ways and I need to answer that call. I may only be eight years young, but I must follow where ever the Goddess leads me, and if this is where she leads then follow I will. I know you secretly hope I'll like girls more then boys, I know you want grandcubs to spoil rotten and I hope that is what is meant to be. But the only way I guess I'll ever really know is to discover myself and my preferences. Looking seriously at the events of today it seems that by the intervention of the Goddess it is meant for Debbie to be my partner in my discovery of girls and, as you put it so often, the joys and pleasures of a female companion. The hints and clues are there, plain to see if only looked for and as a good wiccan I do see them and I will follow wherever it may lead.

As I was thinking all this over it occurred to me that I was intended to, for two weeks at least, be Debbies suitor. So with that thought in mind I knew I had to present myself properly to honor the guidance of the Goddess and to respect the honor of the mate that had been chosen for me. No matter how long or short term it is to be I owe Debbie that respect as a young lady and especially as a fellow wiccan."

Alice Jameson could only stand there doing her best to hold back the tears that threatened to flow from her as she listened to her sons words. She was struck by how grown up and wise he sounded as he spoke. It was at that moment she realized that even being a priestess of wicca she had underestimated the boys commitment to his faith and to his beliefs. No not a boy she corrected herself, after the revelations he had just made to her she could not think of her son as a boy any longer. He was a young man, more mature then she had realized. And she was proud of him, proud as his mother, as a priestess, and as a wiccan of the young man that stood before her.

After several long minutes she felt able to speak, "Mark, yes I must admit that Debbie, Cheryl and I did indeed set you up. Although after hearing your words I now wonder if even at the time we were guided to do so. In my time as a priestess I have had and heard many wonderful revelations of the Goddess love and guidance. But few that were so direct or heartfelt as what you have told me today. I must admit that to hear such strength of resolve and such wifedom spoken by one so young, let alone by my own son, is wondrous and amazing."

"Yes you are correct that our intent is for Debbie to be your female mate of sort", she continued. " I can see now that I will do no harm in telling you that the idea sprang from an admission by Debbie that she has had a crush on you for a long time. Nor by telling you that since her own self discovery began she has strong feelings towards you that she needs to explore and make decisions on."

"Then there is but one question that I must answer before I arrive at her door this evening,' Mark stated matter-of-factly, "and that is whether to let this charade continue or to end it before it begins and allow our relationship, whatever it develop into be based on truth and honesty."

"I am sure the Goddess will guide you and that you will make the right choice son, after today I have an even greater faith in you and in your decisions. Today you have grown much in my eyes, I can no longer call you my little boy, today you have shown that you are a young man and I am proud of you. If there is nothing else shall we finish getting packed for our trips then?" she asked him.

"Well there is one other thing I think I should ask. After all I am stepping into new ground for me when it comes to girls and sex, but I do know a little bit from health class. So I need to know if we need to, ummmm, pick up protection before we go to Debbies house." Mark asked blushing moderately.

"Oh, about that, Cheryl let me know on the phone earlier that Debbie isn't fertile yet and that would not be necessary" his mother said.

"Ok, then. Well I guess we should finish up the packing and be ready by the time dad gets here then. And thanks mom for telling me the truth about what's going on, I appreciate it." Mark said somberly to his mother.

==================

Marks father arrived home at 7:45 p.m. and after a quick snack they loaded the luggage into the car and headed to the Conners home. On the way there Mark asked his dad, "Dad, how pressed for time are we gonna be when we get to Debbies house? Would there be time for you and mom to come in with me for a few minutes? there's's something I have to say that I need all 4 parents there to hear for yourselves if you have the time."

"Well that's doable, I checked the reservations before we left home and the flight has been delayed for 2 hours so we'll have plenty of time I think." his dad said cheerfully.

"Good then I have made my decision on what to do when we get there mom, I hope you'll be proud of me." he said it with a resolve in his voice that his mother hadn't heard before. She wondered just what he had decided to do but didn't want to press him for an answer. They would be at the Conners home soon enough and she would find out then.

They rode the rest of the way to their destination in silence, Mark staring out the window as houses and trees passed by. They arrived at the Conners home 10 minutes later. Mark got out and straightened his shirt tucking the tail in tightly and adjusted the tie he had put on. Then he got his sports coat out of the car and put it on buttoning both buttons. His father walked to the back of the car and opened the trunk as Mark joined him at the rear of the car. As Bob started to reach into the trunk Mark said to his father, "Dad, I can get this, please you and mom head on in and I'll be in momentarily."

"Ok son, we'll see you inside then." his father said as he looked at his son then turned and walked towards the house. As Alice came along side him he leaned over to her and said, "And exactly when did our boy grow up so much?"

"Just recently Bob, and you have no idea yet just how much he's grown, he surprised me today when I realized he wasn't my little boy anymore, but a fine young man instead. More so then we yet know I feel in fact."

As the adults proceeded to the house Mark removed his backpack from the trunk along with the sports bag that held the rest of his clothes and the bag that contained his supplies for the summer solstice festival. He then took out a small black velvet drawstring bag and gently laid it atop his luggage. His mother was watching him from the front door of the Conners home as he unloaded his things from the trunk. When he pulled out the black velvet bag she thought she recognized it, but wasn't sure. Just then Cheryl Conners opened the door welcoming Marks parents and inviting them inside, "Where's Mark?" she asked Alice.

"Unloading his bags, he'll be in shortly, but he has asked to have all the adults and Debbie present when he comes in, seems the young man has something to say that our presence is required for." she said to her friend.

"Oh really? Any idea what this is about?" Cheryl asked with a slightly confussed look on her face.

"None what so ever dear, he just told us in the car that if we had the time he needed to say something that all 4 parents needed to be present for and that was it. He didn't seems to want to tell me what it was and I didn't ask since we would find out soon enough." she replied.

As she finished her statement Mark came in the door with his luggage and set it down to the side of the door, almost as if he thought he may be leaving with it shortly. He saw that three of the adults were there chatting and walked over to them, "Where is Mr. Conners and Debbie Mrs. Conners, I need to speak to everyone before my parents leave." his tone was direct but kindly, even gentle Cheryl Conners thought to herself.

"They'll join us in the living room shortly, Debbie was finishing up her bath and Frank was finishing up a few papers from work. They should be here in a minute or two." She said to Mark, if you and Bob would go into the living room your mom and I will join you shortly, I'd like to talk with her momentarily first."she said politely.

"As you wish , " he replied tipping his head down and bending slightly at the waist then turned and headed into the living room his father following him.

Cheryl stood there slightly stunned until the boy had entered the living room then turned to her friend speaking to her in hushed tones, "Did....did he just bow to me? And what's with the suit?What in the world is going on here Alice, you sure that's the Mark that was at the park with you today?" she was a bit flustered at the change that seemed to have come over the young man.

"Yes it's the same Mark, but also not the same I think. After I called you about the festival I finished up most of my packing then went to check on how he was doing with his own packing. Imagine my surprise when I walked into his room to find all of his things packed and ready to go and him standing in front of his mirror dressed like he is except for the jacket combing his hair. To say that I was shocked would be putting it mildly. We had a long chat about some things that although he never said so I think I'm not allowed to tell you. Don't ask, he'll tell you himself, that much he made very clear. Other then asking on the way over if we had time for all the parents to be together so he could talk to us he hasn't said a word. I'm as lost in the fog as you are" she said to her friend calmly.

Debbie and Frank Conners came down the stairs and the two women joined them as they all walked into the living room.

As they entered Mark spoke, "First let me thank you Mr. and Mrs. Conners for letting me stay here while my parents are on, well basically a vacation. I greatly appreciate your kindness and hospitality." Mark paused as the four adults and the girl all looked at him a bit surprised and took a seat. "Now having properly thanked my temporary hosts, I would like to clear the air, as everyone here knows, except me supposedly, I have been hoodwinked." He paused again, judging by the attempts to hide their reactions on the faces before him he knew they had all been in on it to some degree. "Under different circumstances I would find this rather embarrassing and perhaps insulting. But I am aware that the two primary conspirators, my mother and Mrs. Conners mean well and in their own way are just trying to help." All five of them looked at each other and blushed somewhat having been caught in their attempted deception. "Let me say here and now I forgive you all , and I do appreciate your efforts. Yes I am a virgin, well partial virgin I guess would be more accurate. My mother and father have always made it clear that when the time came and I became curios about sex that I should at least be willing to experience all that I could to be able to intelligently decided what my likes and dislikes were and what gender preference I had if any. The first of those experiences was just a few days ago with a male, and a very dear friend. I know it is my mothers hope that I will chose a female mate as she hopes to have grandcubs to spoil and I do not hold that against her. Every mother hopes the same thing." Mark paused a few moments letting what he had said so far sink in.

"Now I am also aware of the plot against me, so to speak, to get me here under somewhat false pretenses so that Debbie can seduce me with the intent that she is to be my first female partner. No my mother did not tell me, it took me a little time but I figured it out on my own. While I will admit the idea does interest me, I can not allow this to happen in this way. I am sorry Debbie but it must be this way."

It is my intent this year at the summer solstice festival to begin the training to become a priest of the Goddess, therefore I cannot enter into such activities with out dishonoring myself, Debbie, wiccans and the Goddess."

He paused again, his own idea to add a bit of a dramatic pause before continuing. He had decided to turn the tables on them, and do this in the popper way instead.

"BUT," he said forcefully, I do have an alternate proposition for all of you. After mom and I left the park today I went home and meditated. It was with the guidance of Our Lady that the events of today were revealed to me for what they were. I have to admit that I am flattered that all of you would go to such lengths as you have. I asked the Mother, Maiden, and Crone for guidance on what I should do and was answered. So instead I propose that if all parties are willing Debbie and I become hand fasted mates to protect her honor, and my decision to become a priest. Not the full intent of such a ceremony as we are both too young to enter into such an arrangement. But it is allowed to do so at our age as a 'going steady' arrangement with both sets of parents establishing up front any specific limitations. I realize that I do need to experience the things that a female can offer, sexually as well as a companion. How could I ever hope to be an effective priest and councilor if I know not of what I speak. I would be proud to have Debbie as my girlfriend, and to be her boyfriend and I feel that this way we would both have the time to attempt to establish a long lasting relationship if that is what we learn that we want as time goes by. It would also allow both of us to explore ourselves as well as our preferences in a much safer way then to just randomly be having sex with who ever came along. For my part I will abide by any and all limitations set upon us by our parents, and I will pledge to remain true to her and only to her for the year and a day of our hand fasting. No other shall know me in that way unless we both decide we wish to do so, unless that is also limited then none shall know me except her.

I ask now Mr and Mrs Conners if you would allow me the great honor of allowing me to take Debbie as my hand fasted mate under what ever terms are agreed upon by the adults present here tonight. I also ask if you Debbie would take me, and have me, as a hand fasted mate for a year and a day under those terms as well. Now that I have said what I wish to say I will wait in the car until a decision is made. Please inform me when such has happened."

Mark then walked stoically from the room, down the hallway, out the front door and to the car getting into the back seat shutting the door behind himself. He then let out a long breath and started shaking slightly. "That was the scariest thing I think I've ever done." he muttered to himself. "Well, I've either shown that I have matured or I've made a complete ass of myself. Either way, I'm glad I decided to handle this in the way I did." he said to the back of the seat in front of him. "Goddess I hope I didn't sound like a pompous ass."

While Mark sat in the car thinking over what he had just done he felt relieved that he had done what he felt was the right thing and hadn't just chickened out and let things happen the way his mom and her friend had intended. He loved his mom, but in this he couldn't just go along, he was a bit flattered that his mom would go so far to get him with a girl but if that was to be it would have to be on his terms and no one elses, not even his mothers. Also he couldn't see himself treating Debbie as just a sex toy, their friendship meant far more to him then that. If they were going to be together he owed it to her to do it the right way.

While Mark was lost in his thoughts he heard a gentle tapping on the window beside him. When he looked it was his dad and he was motioning him to come with him. Mark opened the car door and looked his father in the eyes, "I take it you've all decided." he stated flatly.

"Yes, we have. You need to come inside and hear our decision son." his dad answered, no hint of what had been decided in his voice.

Mark drew a deep breath in and exhaled slowly, "ok then, let's get this over with."

He followed his father into the house and the living room where the other 3 adults and Debbie were still seated where they had been when he left the room. With little else to do he returned to the spot he had been standing when he made his feelings on the matter known to them and waited.

No one spoke for several moments so Mark decided to take it into his own hands and know how much of a fool he had made of himself.

"I understand a decision has been made." he said very matter-of-factly.

Looks were exchanged around the room with everyone nodding at Mr. Conners, it seemed he was to be their spokesman.

"Yes, several decisions in fact have been made. First it has been decided that we are all very proud of you young man for being forthright in your intentions both in your commitment to your faith and in your request concerning my daughter. After giving that request it's due consideration her mother and I have decided that we would be proud and honored to have Debbie hand fasted to such a fine young man as yourself. You have more then proven that your intentions are honorable even in light of the attempts that were made to have you mate with her through deceit and subterfuge, for which we all offer our humble apologies. It is clear to us now that we should have taken a much more direct approach. You asked if we would do you the great honor of allowing you to take our daughter as your hand fasted mate, to this the answer is yes. But I must also ask if you would do us the great honor of accepting our daughter as you hand fasted mate. It would indeed be a great honor to us to have her bound to such a fine young man as you. In this matter how say you Mark Jameson."

This was a rather unexpected turn of events, Mark hadn't thought they would react like this but he was pleased with the outcome.

"In this matter I say I would be honored to accept such a fine young lady as my mate sir and I will do all that I am able to be the mate that she deserves."

Mr Conners then looked to his wife, "Cheryl what have you to say in this?"

"I am pleased that your interest in our daughter is honorable and I am very proud as her mother to know that a young man such as yourself would honor her in such a way as you have tonight. I also want to personally apologies for my actions in the attempt to deceive you and ask that you forgive me for them. I have no doubts that you will treat my daughter with kindness and compassion, tenderness and kindness as is in your nature. Although we have shamed you with our attempt at deception you have risen above that and shown us the error of our ways and I thank you for that. It would please me for my daughter to be bound to a young man such as you."

She then turned to Marks mother and said, "Alice, what have you to say in this matter?"

" I have seen a side of my son tonight that I did not know existed, he has shown himself to be a strong, kind, forgiving young man and I am very proud to be his mother and shamed by my actions in attempting to deceive him. I am honored by him in his wish to have your daughter as his hand fasted mate and by the family of Debbie by their acceptance of his request."

She then turned to Marks father, "Bob what have you to say in this?"

"I must first and foremost apologias to my son for the attempted deception that was played against him, although my part in it was very small I did have knowledge of it and am ashamed of myself for taking part in it. You do myself, your mother, and the parents of Debbie great honor my son by your forgiveness of us and by seeking the guidance of the Goddess and following your own heart in this matter. I am very proud to call you my son. And in your decision to ask for the honor of having her as your hand fasted mate. Your kindness and forgiveness of us all is a testament to your strength, your compassion, and your kindness and I am humbled by it.

"Debbie what have you to say in this matter?" Marks father said

"Mark, I will openly admit in the presence of our parents that I have had feelings for you for several years. I am unsure what those feeling truly are, or what they may become. But I do want to know. Although the idea that led to our attempt to deceive you was not mine, I did actively take part in the attempt and am ashamed of myself for it. I thank you for your forgiveness and for protecting my honor by asking me to be your hand fasted mate and for that I will always be grateful and thankful. You have asked me if I would take you and have you as a hand fasted mate for a year and a day to this I say yes, yes I will. I ask you now will you take me and have me as a hand fasted mate for a year and a day?"

"Yes Debbie, I will gladly take you and have you as a hand fasted mate for a year and a day. I do so gladly and humbly accept your request. Would you please come and stand beside me."

Debbie stood up and walked over to Mark taking his hand in hers and stood by his side.

"As all parties concerned are in agreement to allow Debbie and myself to become mates we both now need to know what limitations and stipulations are to be placed upon us in this agreement. What are those limitations I ask of our parents."

At this both fathers stood up and turned around reaching for something, they then turned around to face the young couple almost succeeding in hiding the smirks on their faces as they each produced and unfurled what was supposed to be a scroll that was over six feet long. Mark nearly burst out laughing at their intended joke but somehow kept himself in control. When he didn't immediately crack his father looked at him and said,"Oh now come on you know it's funny, and I can tell your about to bust a gut trying not to laugh."

"Yes dad it is funny but I'll not give you two goofballs the satisfaction of seeing me rolling around on the floor like a fool so there, nyyyyaaaa." and he stuck his tongue out at his dad who chuckled heartily.

"Ok you win, but after that performance you gave earlier you had to know we were going to get even." he said grinning.

"Well I knew you two would have to do something crazy, and I expected it to be honest. But actually very little of that was a performance on my part. You have after all always told me that a suitor should properly present himself when he asks to be hand fasted to a mate have you not?" Mark said with obvious resolve in his eyes.

"Yes I have indeed, and you have answered the only question that I had left to ask, you truly are serious about this and fully intend to be hand fasted to Debbie don't you?" his father asked love and admiration showing clearly on his face as he looked at the truly fine young man is son had seemingly become so suddenly.

"Yes father I do. As I said earlier if Debbie and I are to be intimate I can't just let myself be seduced and , please forgive my crudeness Debbie, bang her like a bunny in heat. I have to protect her honor, and I have to properly honor her and the commitment we make to each other. So now I wonder, were you all honest with me that it is agreed to allow us to become hand fasted mates?"

"Yes young man we were and we are." Mr. Conners said.

"We have also decided on the limitations and will tell you what they are, but there is something you need to know before we do. Debbie is not a virgin, while your her first mate in our eyes, you are not her first lover. She has had seven before you and is quite experienced in sexual matters. There is much she can teach you if you will allow her to and if you still want her to be your mate knowing this. Do you still intend to take her as a mate now that you know this?" he stood therewaiting for an answer from Mark.

Mark considered what he had just been told for several moments, "Yes I do sir. What is in her past is just that. I will not hold it against her nor will it affect my feelings towards her in any way. I still wish to be her mate and have her as mine. My decision is unchanged."

"Fine then, here are the conditions that are to be imposed upon the two of you for the term of your hand fasting. First although she is not yet fertile she may become so during this time. If and when she does you are not to impregnate her as she is far too young to be a mother. Until such time as she becomes fertile there is no need for the use of birth control but should she become fertile it will be required for the remainder of the term. Is this agreeable to you both?"

"Yes sir it is." Mark and Debbie spoke in unison in response to his question.

"Second, you will remain completely monogamous to each other. No sexual activity is allowed with anyone other then your mate under any circumstances. Is this acceptable as well to you both?"

Again they answered in unison, "Yes sir it is."

"Third, and forgive us, but all four of us were cubs once ourselves and we all know how easily things can be suggested by others that sound like they may be fun to youngsters exploring a relationship. Also part of this will likely be a bit embarrassing but it needs to be put out there up front. Any sexual active other than those I will specifically forbid can be requested by either partner and the other partner has the right to allow or refuse such activity at their discretion.

There are certain activities that are not allowed under any circumstances, those are as follows,

A. No third parties in any capacity other then a parent acting in an advisory or hands off instructional capacity.

B. No sexual activity, position or the use of any objects that may cause more then brief pain or any kind of physical injury

C. No tattoos or piercings of any kind on either partner, the only exception that is allowed is temporary tattoos that are not visible when wearing appropriate clothing for being in the public eye.

D. While light to moderate bondage and discipline are allowed nothing that leaves a mark visible under the same conditions as in the case of temporary tattoos are allowed or will be tolerated regardless of the receiving partners willingness to do so.

Any thing that you are unsure of that is not specifically listed you are to consult the adult(s) present for clarification."

"Are these limitations acceptable to you both?"

"Yes they are." Mark and Debbie answered as one.

Debbies father continued." As you can wee we tried to protect you both while attempting to leave you with as much freedom as possible for exploration. There are things you may need for such exploration that you will need an adult to acquire for you and we will all do so with out judgement.

There is however one issue that has yet to be resolved and we should take care of that now. As we all know one well established requirement of a hand fasting is that the couple is to live together. How does everyone suggest we handle this?" he asked the other adults in the room.

Debbies mother spoke up, "Alice and I were discussing that in the kitchen while we made coffee and you two were talking it over in here and if your both willing we have a solution."

Debbies father nodded and Marks father said, "We're listening."

Marks mother then said, "Well each of them have their own room and their own clothes etc. either they move in together at one house that they chose or Cheryl and I can help them to divide their clothes and other necessities and they each take half to the other house and they spend one month in each house alternating between the two. There both old enough to take on certain responsibilities and since they are going to be a couple they should do so. Things like laundry, cooking, cleaning etc. Since they're going to be a couple then this is as good a time as any for them both to learn what that entails."

"That seems very sensible to me. And that way both sets of parents share responsibility for them as a couple and both children will get an idea of what it's like to deal with in-laws. And I agree completely that if they're going to be a couple they need to learn what being a couple is all about." Marks father said.

"I agree completely, that's the best solution that I think we could come up with all around." replied Debbies father.

"Well with that settled then the only thing left to discuss is when and where they are to be hand fasted. The only problem I foresee is that until they are they should not engage in any sexual activity at all and Bob and I are leaving tonight for 2 weeks." said Marks mom.

"I think I can help with that." said Mark himself. "After deciding that this is what I felt I needed to do I started thinking about when we should do it and where and who we should have perform the ceremony. As far as an official hand fasting I intend to ask the High Priestess to do it at the summer solstice festival. I'm sure that once I explain the circumstances she will agree to it. And that will give Debbie and I time to write our vows and most of the people we would want to invite will be there anyway right Debbie?"

"Yea actually your right Mark. That's a really good idea too." she said a note of excitement in her voice.

"But what about until the festival son?" Marks mom asked.

"Give me just a moment and I can answer that." he said as he walked out of the room into the hallway.

Alice Jamesons eyes went wide when he returned carrying the black velvet bag with him, she recognized it now and was stunned at her sons intentions. "Mark are you serious? Is that what you want?"

"Yes mom it is exactly what I want. Will you do Debbie and I the honor of hand fasting us to each other please?" Mark said to his mother looking her in the eyes.

"But...but I can't son, it's not allowed." she replied.

"Well now I have to be totally honest with you about something that I've been holding back about until now mom. You see once I decided what it was that I wanted to do after I figured out what you all had been up to my mind was set on it. But I wasn't sure if it was allowed, or even if it was legal. Or that it would be accepted by the pagan community, so I called the High Priestess and discussed my decision with her. Firstly she has already agreed to do the formal ceremony at the festival and already has some people working on decorations and food. I told her I was concerned because of our ages and she's the one that told me about the 'going steady' version of hand fasting and suggested that we do that. She assured me that it will be well accepted by the pagan community. She also suggested to ask you to do an abbreviated ceremony as soon as the agreement was arranged because you and dad were going on your trip and she saw no reason to delay it until the festival. She also said to tell you there is no prohibition on a priestess performing a hand fasting for a member of her own family, none what so ever. So yes it is allowed and yes you can do it. But I ask will you do it. Will you handfast Debbie and I as mates?"

"Yes my son I will, gladly and with joy in my heart I will handfast you and Debbie as mates."

His mother answered, tears of joy swelling in her eyes.

The other three adults got up quickly and cleared the furniture to the edges of the room to clear as much space as possible. They then stood together behind the two kids facing Alice as she put on her silver circlet with a crescent moon upon her brow and help up a crimson scarf. She then asked that the Goddess blessing be bestowed on all those in attendance and upon the young couple before her. She then asked them to extend their right hands and bound them together lightly with the scarf. Then taking their bound hands between hers she turned to Debbie.

"Is it your intention and wish to be bound to Mark Jameson as your chosen mate by hand fasting."

She asked the girl.

"Yes it is my intention and wish Priestess, made of my own free will and with the consent of my parents." Debbie replied, blushing slightly.

Alice then turned to Mark, "Is it you intention and wish to be bound to Debbie Conners as your chosen mate by hand fasting?" she asked her son her eyes slightly damp.

"Yes it is my intention and wish to be so bound Priestess, a choice made of my own free will and with the consent of my parents." Mark replied beaming at his mother, then looking into the eyes of the girl that would be his mate for a year and a day and smiling at her affectionately.

"Then let us proceed." as she walked in a circle around the couple she continued the ceremony, calling to each of the four guardians of the earth and to the spirits of the ancestors of both children to come forth and bear witness of the joining of these two young people as mates, as partners, as lovers , and as friends. There was more to the ceremony but it went unheard by Mark and Debbie as they stood there looking deeply into each others eyes, lost to the world for a time as their minds raced with thoughts and emotions, some old and familiar, some new and exciting. Then next thing they knew Alice Jameson was again in front of them taking their bound hands between hers and saying, "These two have been joined as mates in the presence of family, both here and already past, of friends both old and new, and in the presence and love of the Mother, the Maiden and the Crone. May their journey be blessed and may their feelings grow. Dismiss now the quarters and all spirits gathered here to bear witness, I declare Mark and Debbie to be a duly hand fasted couple in the eyes of Our Lady, her love and grace follow them and keep them. She then unbound their hands and stepped back a pace.

When she did Mark reached into his front pocket and pulling out his hand produced two rings. As he placed one upon the ring finger of Debbies right hand, he said, "This day I give to you this ring as a symbol of our binding, of our friendship, and as a symbol of my commitment to you to always honor you, protect you and keep you in my heart everyday. Please accept this symbol of my promise to you that every time you look upon it you will know that I am always with you."

He then held his hand up to Debbie with an identical but larger ring upon his palm, she took it and as she placed it open the ring finger of his right hand she said, "This day I give to you this ring as a symbol of our binding. Let it be a symbol of our friendship and as a symbol of my promise to you. To always honor you, to protect you, to keep you in my heart everyday. A symbol of my fidelity only unto you, of my promise to be your faithful and supportive mate for as long as you shall have me. Please accept this symbol and my promise to you so that each time you look upon it you will know that I am always with you and that you are always in my heart.

May it always remind you that come what may I do now and will always love you."

She had said it lost in a moment of great joy and happiness, unintended, unbidden, unhindered.

She had openly and honestly announced her true feelings for him and she was glad that she had at long last said those words.

Almost every jaw in the room dropped, all except one, Marks. He stood there unflinching, unmoved. He gazed deeply into Debbies eyes and with out thought, without care he said to her, "and I love you Debbie." He then pulled her tenderly into his arms wrapping them around her as he kissed her, deeply and passionately. He wasn't sure what it was that had come over him but he knew that he had meant those words. He did indeed love her, he wasn't sure how much or to what extent, but he knew that he did with out a doubt love this girl. And that he would never regret telling her that he loved her.

Several long moments passed with the two young lovers standing there locked in a tender embrace .

Mr Conners finally composed himself a bit and cleared his throat breaking the trance of the moment. Mark and Debbies lips finally parted and they looked lovingly into each others eyes for several moments more before turning to look at their parents gathered behind them. Both of them blushed deeply then Mark finally spoke.

"I know that it had to sound like we had planed this but I can assure you it is nothing like that. Debbie and I have been friends for almost as long as either of us can remember and as such we have spent many days, and because of sleep overs with each other and at other friends homes quite a few night together just talking. We have a very special bond between us and although I can't say for sure how deeply or exactly in what way, I do love her. I am sure that in some way she also loves me.. I can't speak for her with certainty, but for myself those vows were spoken from the heart to my friend and mate and I suspect it was the same with her. Please don't read anything into it that is not there. We may be young in years but we do know love for each other."

The adults continued to stand there, stunned by all they had heard spoken between their children and yet proud of the young couple also.

Marks father was the first to speak, "Words spoken from the heart are the thoughts and hopes of ones love. I never thought I would see a day such as this so soon in the life of my son, but I am happy to see it. I am very proud of you Mark, you have shown far more maturity then I though a young man could have and an amazing amount of commitment to wicca then I expected. You have done yourself, your mother and I and especially Debbie a great service this night and I am happy that you did the right thing young man, you make me proud to call you my son."

"Now, while your mother and I could spend hours telling how much we love you we do have a flight to catch. And I suspect that you and Debbie would like to get settled a bit and get better acquainted as mates." his father said grinning slightly at the young couple, causing them both to blush deeply. "So your mother and I will take our leave of you and leave you in the capable hands of Debbie and her parents. Stay safe, be careful, and have fun."

Mark kissed each of his parents on the cheek and hugged them then escorted them to the car. After they had driven away he turned and walked back towards what would be his home for the next month. Debbie was standing in the doorway waiting for him, watching him as he strode up the steps and walked inside then closed the door behind him. As soon as she turned around mark took her into his arms again drawing her to him and tenderly pressing his lips to hers. She returned his kiss pressing her lips against his a bit more firmly letting them part slightly a low moan escaping her.

Mark slowly released her breaking the kiss looking into her eyes, "Well I guess we should take this else where. I don't think your parents would appreciate us making out standing in front of the door like this." he said as he reluctantly let her slip from his embrace. "Probably be a good idea to get these bags taken care of too." He said as he reached down and gathered his backpack and the other bags he had left by the door in case the night hadn't gone well.

"Yea, probably a good idea, you'll probably need some clothes at some point huh?" Mark looked up at her and they both blushed at her comment.

"Ms. Conners, are you trying to seduce me?" Mark asked his mate a mock look of surprise on his face.

"Yes Mr. Jameson, I am trying to seduce you, you are after all my mate now." she said smiling at him sweetly as she clasped her hands together before her and twisted slightly.

"Well I do believe it's working."he said blushing again at his own admission as he hefted his pack to his shoulder and grabbed the remain bags. "Shall we retired to your room?" he asked her.

"Not my room anymore Mark, our room." she said as she placed her arm through his and motioned for him to accompany her.

They walked up the stairs and down the hallway to what was to be their shared bedroom, Debbie opened the door and ushered him through it closing it behind him. Mark walked over to the dresser and placed his bags next to it. Then took off his jacket looking around for a place to put it.

"Here let me take that," Debbie said as she reached for the garment. Mark handed it to her and she walked over to the closet. "Closets over here, mom and I cleared part of it out to make room for your clothes. The chest of drawers over there is cleaned out for you too. After she and your mom talked the living arrangements over the three of us ran up here and got things ready as best we could."

Mark looked around the room and jokingly said, "Place looks kinda girly though."

"Well what did you expect, I am a girl ya know. Just be glad it isn't all pink with bows and flowers." she said placing her hands on her hips in a mock expression of being insulted.

"I'm kidding Debbie, it's fine. The room is as pretty as you are."he said.

"Mark can I ask you something?" she said fidgeting.

"Sure, you can ask me anything." he replied.

"Why?, Don't get me wrong I'm happy that you did all this, but why? You didn't have to make any kind of commitment to me but you did. And went to a lot of trouble to do it too, I don't understand why you went to this much trouble when you didn't have to." she said a genuine look of confusion on her face.

"But I did have to Debbie. All of what I said tonight is true. Here, let's sit down and I'll try to explain it." he said as he took her hand and led her over to her bed. They sat on the edge turning so that they were looking at each other. "After mom and I left the park I got to really thinking about what all had happened. The more I thought about it the more confused I became. So I decided to meditate on it and ask the Goddess for help in finding the answers, As I was meditating I started seeing images in my mind, images of us when we met for the first time, of the many times we played together, of the sleep overs we had those first two years. It was kind of like watching home movies of us together. I also became aware of feelings that I had not realized I had felt at those times and at times that we would happen to see each other, at a store and at school, things like that. Sitting there actually focusing on those images and those feelings, instead of just being a goofy little boy playing with his friend, I realized that some of those feelings were pretty strong. I thought that maybe I had gotten off track from the answers that I started out searching for. So I went back to the park again in my mind and the Goddess took me back down the exact same path of memories and feelings that I had just traveled. She was letting me know that she was trying to show me something, to tell me something that was important and that I needed to listen. So I gave in and let her lead me to what ever it was that I needed to see. And I did, she made me see how when we were together there was always something different then when I was with anyone else. That I felt different when I was with you, and acted differently too.

The more I focused on you, and on us when we were together the more I became aware that these thoughts made me feel, well all warm and fuzzy inside I guess, it's kind of impossible to explain really. Then she showed me something else, another image of us that had never happened, we were standing together, hugging each other tightly and kissing, not a peck on the cheek as we've always done. But a lovers kiss I realized, and then I felt passion, desire, no I realize what I felt was love. Love for you as much more then a friend. That sudden realization shocked me. I had never thought of you, or of us, as anything more then a friends. But there we were, locked together in a lovers embrace with all these feelings and emotions flooding my mind. Then she showed me one last image, an image of me kneeling in front of the high priestess asking her guidance. That hit me like a stone and I was sure that I needed to contact her and speak with her immediately. And I did just that, I called her and we spoke about everything the Goddess had shown me, about the events at the park, the feelings I had experienced during the visions, everything. I poured out my heart and soul unable to stop myself from doing it.

She let me ramble on for over an hour, just listening and waiting for me to finish. When I finally did she waited a few moments and asked me only one question. 'What does your heart tell you to do?' That was all she said, and in that instant I knew that no matter what may happen I had to find out what the love I feel for you truly is. That's when I believe the Goddess intervened one last time, an image of you and I being hand fasted popped into my head and I knew that was the answer. I could not just date you and chance giving into hormones or lust, no I could not dishonor you like that, you mean too much to me to allow that to happen. But a hand fasting would protect you and your honor, that I could do, I had to do. I asked her about it and she asked me about our ages, our parents, many things. I told her all she wanted to know. She told me that because of our ages we couldn't enter into a normal engagement agreement, but that if all parties concerned, you and I and all of the parents were in agreement we could enter into a going steady arrangement following any and all limitations imposed by the parents of both of us. I thanked her humbly and repeatedly for guiding me in finding the answers that I sought and was about to hang up when she told me to wait. That was when she offered to do the full ceremony at the festival and suggested the abbreviated ceremony be done immediately. If it was truly what I wished, to be bound to you and you to me then I should not wait. I asked her who I could get to do such a ceremony on only a few hours notice. She told me that as a priestess my mother could do it and that is was allowed." Mark paused, letting all he had told her sink in, waiting for a response.

"Oh Mark, I I," she covered her muzzle with her hands tears welling up in her eyes.

"What is it, have I upset you? Oh Debbie I didn't mean to upset you in any way." Mark was now on the verge of tears himself.

"Oh no, no, not at all, I'm just so happy to hear you say such things. You haven't upset me, if anything I may love you even more knowing how much you did to be with me." tears streamed freely down her cheeks as she looked lovingly into Marks eyes.

Mark took her into his arms again, hugging her to him firmly, holding her to him, feeling her warmth. He whispered into her ear, "Debbie I don't know where this relationship will take us, but I can tell you this with all certainty. No matter what the future may hold for us, you will always have a piece of my heart that no one else will ever be able to touch. Your are my friend, and my first love, nothing can ever change that, or take that away from me. You will always be in my heart and in my memories."

They sat there embracing each other for several long minutes before Debbie was able to compose herself again.

Once she finally had herself under control again she said, "Well this changes things a lot then. I have to be honest with you Mark, our moms only came up with that scheme because of me. Your mom was telling my mom about you and Pat and I mouthed off about all the boys I knew and like ending up butt pluggers and then that I loved you. That just gave my mom the idea since your mom had been telling her she was wanting you to have sex with girls too so you could honestly make up your mind what you preferred and it just snowballed from there. When they told me that if I helped them I could, well basically that I would get to yiff you silly, which I have been dreaming about for over a year now." she said blushing a bright red as she admitted this to her new mate. "So I was more then happy to go along with it. But after you told us we were busted I felt really bad about what I was planning on doing. And then you go and say all those beautiful things and come up with being hand fasted mates and going steady and all. I'm I'm not sure I deserve someone as wonderful as you Mark. At least not yet, but I will try to.." she was on the verge of tears again.

"Yes Debbie I think you do. And I hope that I deserve someone as wonderful as you. You may not think so but to have the feelings you've had and not say anything but wait until a goober like me figured it out shows a lot about you too." He took her face in his hands and kissed her gently on the lips holding the kiss for several seconds before releasing her. "Well, Ummmm I'm new to this sex and being mates stuff so what do we do now?" he asked her.

"Well, we can jump right in and go at it like rabbits, or we can take it slow and steady.Which would you prefer?" she told him blushing slightly.

"Well, we do have a whole year to figure this stuff out and I don't wanna get too boring for you. Or make you wait too long either, so how about some where in the middle?" he said.

"In the middle it is then. So you never seen a girl naked before have you?" she asked.

"Nope not naked, seen a bunch of girls in bikinis though." he said grinning a bit.

"Well then, wanna get naked with me?" she batted her eyes at him playfully.

"Yes, I would like to get naked with you." he said as he started unbuttoning his shirt.

Debbie reached up to her shoulders grabbing the strings of her sundress tied there in bows and pulled on them letting her dress fall to the floor. Mark had unfastened and unzipped his pants and was bent over pulling them off . When he stood up she was standing in front of him in just a pale green pair of panties. He gasped softly and felt his cock twitch and thicken as it started to slide from his sheath. Debbie then hooked her thumbs into the waist of her panties and swiftly pushed them down to her ankles and off her feet. She now stood completely naked in front of the dog boy that was her boyfriend and first ever official mate blushing deeply. She had been naked in front of three other boys before Mark, but this was different. She knew he had feelings for her that didn't involve just his cock. He had said he loved her, and meant it, and she loved him. Yes this was different. It wasn't just rampant sex with some guy. It was Mark her love, her mate and soon her lover.

Mark stood there taking in the naked body of his girlfriend, he couldn't seem to move just stand there like an idiot looking at her his cock continuing to stiffen and slide from his sheath tenting his underwear.

Debbie walked over towards him a sultry look in her eyes. As she drew near she wrapped her arms around him pressing her body against his embracing him tightly. He could feel her fur against his, soft and warm and exciting. His cock was at full attention now as she pressed her tummy against his bringing their crotches together as she did so sandwiching his hard on between them.

"My, my, my, someone has a stiffy doesn't he?" she cooed into his ear."Did I do that?" she whispered teasingly to him grinding her mons against his balls and rubbing his cock against her tummy. She hooked her thumbs in the waistband of his cotton briefs and pushed them down his legs as she knelt before him. "Oh my, you are a big boy aren't you." she said breathily as she got her first look at his rigid member. It had been a year since that stolen look at him in the changing booth at the lake, and then she had only seen his balls and sheath which had been enough to fuel her fantasies. She let her tongue slide from her mouth and licked his cock from sheath to tip, his taste, his scent, the feeling of his smooth warm cock meat on her tongue were exhilarating. As she stood up she took him by the hand and led him to the bed that they would share for half of the next year. She dropped his hand and bent over the bed turning down the blanket and sheet and arranging the pillows for them leaving Mark to stand behind her gazing down at her firm ripe ass as she did so. When she finished she crawled into the bed and lay on her side patting the empty side of the bed. "Care to join me?" she said in a low whisper as she gazed into his eyes.

Without a word Mark lay down beside her facing her. He reached down and pulled the covers over them up to their waists.

"Don't you like what you see ?" Debbie asked pouting her lower lip at him.

"What? Oh no, no that's not it at all. I'm just a bit, ummmmm, embarrassed is all."

He stammered.

"Embarrassed at seeing me naked, or at me seeing you naked?" she asked him giggling softly.

"Well at you seeing me naked kind of." he said

"Oh, then made it's because of this?" she said as she reached down and gently grasped his hard cock in her hand then started to slowly stroke her hand up and down his hard on.

Mark gasped, at the touch of her warm soft hand encircling his cock. As she began to slowly stroke his boyhood he moaned softly. It had felt really good when Pat had done this, but now with Debbie it was fantastic. He lay there a tingling spreading through him as she stroked him slowly and tenderly.

She watched his expression as she gave her mate the first of what would be many hand jobs to come. His expression relaxed from slight shock into one of bliss and she smiled as she saw that he was enjoying her touch.

"Mark, I do want to take our time and not go too fast for you but your going to cum soon aren't you?" she asked him

"Y Yea I am, pretty soon to." he said panting slightly as her slow steady rhythm slowly drove him towards his orgasm.

"Well since I don't want to change the sheets or sleep in a puddle of cum and, well because I want to, would you mind if I suck you off?" she whispered softly into his ear.

"N no not at all." he replied panting and moaning.

"Good" she said as she pushed him onto his back and slid herself over his left leg to lay between his legs." Then lay back, relax and enjoy, my love. Let me reward you for being my mate, and for saving me from my own bad decision." she said as she lowered her head slowly taking his length into her mouth savoring his taste. He was delicious much better then any of the other three boys she had sex with. And he smelled wonderful, clean fur, he kept himself well and that cologne, she had smelled it on a few other boys and it almost stank. But on Mark it was intoxicating and invigorating at the same time. From the first time she had tried giving oral sex to a male she had always liked doing it, but this was divine. She suddenly stopped mid stroke, half his cock still buried in her mouth. Had she just heard that noise or was it in her head? At that same moment Marks head jerked up and he was staring at the door. Yes she must have heard it, he had heard it too.

"Shhhush Frank they'll hear us." Debbies mothers voice in the hallway.

"It was your idea to check on them without disturbing them." and her fathers as well.

Mark looked down at Debbie as she lay between his legs half his cock in her mouth as she looked up at him. The sight was too much for him and he moaned again as he lay his head back onto the pillows.

"Ok so they sound like their fine, let's go and leave them in peace to have their fun honey, it is after all their first night together as mates." Jack said to his wife.

"Yes they seem to be alright, let's go." she answered. The sound of them creeping away from the door were not as quiet as they thought .

"Sorry about that, nosey mother I have." Debbie said as she let Marks rock hard cock slip from her mouth.

"It's ok, but expect about the same from my mom our first night at my house, she's as bad if not worse." Mark chuckled sightly.

Debbie didn't give him a chance to say anything else, his knot was fully formed by now, even with the interruption. He was very close to cumming and she wasn't about to leave him with blue balls, he was getting his reward, and so was she. She took his cock into her mouth again bobbing her head faster then she had before on his cock as she felt him tensing up. He didn't buck wildly into her mouth like the others had always done, he lay very still his legs twitching in spasms as his orgasm rushed on to completion. She felt his cock twitch in her mouth and she buried it to the knot in her throat. That was the last straw as Marks orgasm hit him like a tidal wave crashing on the shore. Spurt after spurt of thick creamy cum shot from his tip into Debbies throat as she swallowed quickly to keep up with the amount of seed he gave her. She reveled in the feeling of his hot cum filling her throat, Goddess he really was delicious, even his cum was heavenly.

For 15 seconds that seemed to the young lovers like minutes he shot his first load into his mates mouth and throat. As his orgasm subsided and the last of his cream was given to her Debbie slowly sucked the length of Marks slowly deflating cock using her tongue to clean him as she let his cock slip from her mouth. Mark lay there panting heavily, as he felt her mouth finally release his cock he opened his eyes and looked down to see her smiling up at him sweetly. He looked deeply into her eyes and with a huge smile on his lips said, "Oh God that was fantastic." He sat up reaching down and grabbing her under both arms and easily pulled her up to lay on top of him face to face as he said, "Get up here my sexy cotton tail." Mark slowly stroked her back from her neck to her butt, squeezing her firm ass cheeks each time his hands wandered there.

"That was amazing!!" he said as he tried to steady his breathing.

"Glad you liked it." she replied as she kissed him tenderly.

Mark pressed his lips tighter to hers, his lips parting as did hers as he slid his tongue into her mouth as he deepened the kiss. Their tongues sliding against each other as they explored the others mouth. They kissed passionately for several minutes before Mark finally pulled his tongue from her warm sweet mouth and she pulled her head back slightly to look him in the eyes.

"So what you want to do now?" he asked her still breathing heavily.

"Would you mind if we just lay here like this for a while? Your really nice to cuddle against like this, and I really like the way your hands feel on my fur and how it feels when you squeeze my butt like that." she asked looking deeply into his eyes moaning softly as his hand gently but firmly squeezed the twin globes of her pert round little ass again.

"Wouldn't mind in the least, your really nice to cuddle with too my pretty little cotton tail, never realized before you had such a nice ass either. Can't seem to keep my hands off of it." he said playfully as he gave her butt another squeeze causing her to moan softly again.

"Thanks." she said as she scooched down slightly laying her head on his shoulder and nuzzling against his neck.

Mark carefully used one foot to move the covers up until he could grab them with one hand a pull them up over them to their shoulders as his girlfriend lay atop him breathing slowly and deeply, nuzzled against his neck on one side, her hand gently caressing his cheek on the other.

Sometime ago Mark had developed a habit of reflecting on each day, examining the events of that day looking for any hints or messages from the Goddess that he may have missed along the way. Today had been a very big day indeed. When he had woke up this morning he had been missing his friend Pat and wandering why the tabby boy didn't seem to want to discuss the sexual encounter they had shared just a couple of days before. He had soon found out that it was because of the tabby boys concern about his father losing his job, a concern that the tabby boy soon found out was needless and the situation had ended with Pats family going on vacation with everything being fine. Mark thought hard about that. Yes, the Goddess had seen to it that Pat would be away for a while as things for Mark went forward. He found that curious indeed but not surprising, he knew very well that the Goddess worked her will in ways that seemed a bit strange at times but he had come to accept it as her way.

Then his mom had taken him to the park to cheer him up since he seemed a bit down that his friend was going out of town for a while. That had been a lot of fun actually. Just to be outside, enjoying the sunshine, fresh air and the comradry of the friends and schoolmates that were also at the park today. Looking at things a bit closer now he realized he had missed something, there had been a couple of girls somewhere near by that had been talking about Patrick He hadn't really caught their conversation but he seemed to recall one of them saying P

at was kinda cute, and something about his cute little butt. Mark giggled as he recalled this thinking he wished the girl good luck in what ever she was cooking up. Then his mind focused on the events at the park centered around his mom and Debbie and her mom. That had bothered him even at the time but he hadn't payed it a great deal of attention at that time. It was only after he returned home and was preparing for the arranged sleep over that those events came to mind again and he grew concerned. He had then asked the Goddess to guide him in the matter because it bothered him but he was unsure why. The Goddess answered his plea, usually so in fact, her messages were usually pretty vague and one would be left to decipher them alone. This time her answer was very direct, showing him the events he had not been witness to concerning what they were planning. She had also shown him how things would progress if those plans had come to fruition and what the consequences of those plans were. What she had shown him then had been horrible, nearly terrifying. No, he could not let those things she had shown him then come to pass. He had to stop it before it started although he had no idea how. But in her grace and love the Goddess showed him the answers. How he could honor his mothers wish that he at least experience the graces of a female, and give her hope that she may someday have grandchildren to love and cherish and spoil. How he could answer his own questions about females and his preferences for a life long mate. How he could turn the situation that would end with him exactly where he was at this moment around. To take it from being based on deceit, deception, and lies which she had shown him would eventually lead to the harm of all involved by their actions, and perhaps the destruction of more then one of them, and make it based on love and caring, make what it should be. She had shown him that he should take this girl as a mate for a year and a day by being bound to her as a hand fasted mate. In so doing he could protect the girls honor, and protect them all from the terrible consequences that would have befallen them all. That was what he had not spoken of tonight to anyone, those terrible things that may have come to pass if he had not acted upon what he had been shown. He would never speak of them, no one need carry the guilt of what they had almost done as the Goddess had shown him how to avert them. He would carry the burden of that knowledge alone forever. As he thought of this Debbie stirred slightly bringing him back to the present. As he lay there feeling her warmth, her soft fur against his, her slow gently breathing he though about how this cute, no not just cute, beautiful girl had been his friend for so long and how he had treasured her friendship. Yes the Goddess had indeed shown him the way and he was happy that he had done as she had asked of him and taken this treasure as his mate. He knew that whatever the future held for them, it was a decision he would never regret. He drifted into slumber with that happy though still on his mind.

==========

When Debbie opened her eyes the room was fairly bright, it was well after sunrise, but it didn't matter it was summer vacation and she usually slept in later when they were out of school. And especially after the day yesterday had been. And with the wonderful dream she had last night she felt warm and happy, very warm she realized. Then she tried to scootch over in her bed and felt something very soft and very warm pressed against her back and draped across her waist. She blinked several times and moving her brown furred arm saw another arm wrapped protectively around her waist. Then she smiled realizing it wasn't a dream at all, the white and rust brown and black furred arm wrapped lovingly around her was Mark Jamesons arm. Her long time friend and because of all that had happened yesterday and last night far more. "My mate, he really is my mate for a year and a day.."she whispered very softly. Oh thank you Goddess for giving me this time with him. I will be good to him, and gentle with him. I will be faithful to him and love him, though I don't yet know the depth nor breadth of that love, I thank you for the time to find out.

Thank you for this new day to spend in the embrace of my mate and my friend."

Debbie slowly and carefully turned herself around so that she was face to face with Mark

and kissed him tenderly. "Good morning puppy dog." she said softly and sweetly to him.

Mark opened his eyes blinking a few times, "Hmmmmm, ohh, good morning cotton tail."

He said sleepily. "So it was all real?" he said.

"Yes, it was. Any regrets?" she asked him hopeful of his answer.

"No, not a one. There isn't anyone I know that I would rather be with or be mated to then you."

He stretched and wrapped his arm around her again pulling her into a deep passionate kiss as he said, "Come here you." They lay there wrapped in each others arms, their tongues dancing and caressing the others both moaning softly into each others mouth.

They were interrupted by a soft tapping on the door followed by Cheryl Conners voice, "Debbie honey are you two awake yet?"

"Yes mom we're awake." Debbie said a hint of annoyance in her voice she hadn't intended.

"Can I come in for a moment, please?" her mother asked.

Mark pulled the covers up to cover Debbie and himself appropriately then nodded to her.

"Yes ma'am, come on in." she said to her mother.

Cheryl came into the room walking over beside the bed and as she saw the couple snuggled together in her daughters bed she smiled sweetly, "Well you two look rather happy this morning. And this is such a sweet sight to behold. I have to admit though I thought it would be a few more years before you took a mate dear. But I'm very happy with your choice, both of you. But I have to ask Mark, if you can tell me why you decided to do this, or at least what you can please."

Mark took a deep breath, 'Well, after we left the park I went home and was packing my stuff as I said last night. I asked the Goddess for guidance about what all had come about because I was confused. She showed me all that I didn't know about the talk between you and mom and Debbie. Then she showed me the two paths I could take in making that choice. I was still confused so I asked for her further guidance. She, well let's say she showed me things that may have come to pass for each choice and left it to me to make my decision. I knew then what I had to do and so I did it. Will that be enough of an explanation for you?" he asked her a bit uncomfortable that he had said even that much.

"Yes dear boy it will. I may not know the details and I'd say I was not meant to know them. But I am sure that you made the choice you felt had to be made. I am more then satisfied with that.Thank you for helping me to understand your reasons." she said as she bent down and scooped up the clothes that had been forgotten in a pile on the floor. As she took them and deposited them into the hamper beside the closet door she added, "Well I'm going to town for a few hours, I need to go do some shopping so your mate won't starve to death. I imagine he eats a bit more then salads all the time." she said giggling.

Mark laughed at her comment but Debbie was shocked, "Oh crap, I hadn't even thought about that. I 'm sorry Mark but all this came about so fast..." she started to apologize but Mark held up a hand stopping her.

"Cotton tail, there are going to be things that we haven't thought of on both sides, we did after all jump into this kinda on the spur of the moment But that is part of being a couple, making adjustments and compromises along the way is just a part of it. That's something my parents have told me at least a thousand times. But at the moment I have a problem that I have to take care of if you ladies will excuse me for a few minutes." he said as he quickly slipped out of the bed making a beeline for the bathroom.

Cheryl was slightly stunned that the boy had just gotten out of the bed and walked through the room naked as if he didn't have a care. Then she chided herself, hi is a wiccan after all and nudity isn't an issue to him in the slightest, she told herself. "Cute butt." she said instantly clamping a hand to her mouth as she realized she had said it out loud.

"Yes, he does have a cute butt, and it's all mine for the next year." Debbie said matter of factly, though she surprised herself at how possessive her voice had sounded.

"Well, anyway while he's in the bathroom, I'll be gone for several hours actually. I'm going to buy you some new clothes to take over to Marks house for the moths your living with his parents. Plenty of time to get things together but no sense in putting it off until the last minute. And I thought perhaps you two might want some alone time today with it being your first day together and all. You want to keep it plain Jane or is there anything you would prefer?" she asked her daughter.

Debbie sat up in her bed and blushing lightly said," Well do you think you can find sexy undies and maybe some sexy sleep stuff that would fit me. I'd really like to wear that kind of stuff for him. And maybe a new swimsuit a two piece this time?"

"Hmmm, yes, I know of a few stores in town that sell those sort of clothes for adult females of the smaller species like mice and other rodents. I'm pretty sure I can find things like that Anything else you can think of?" her mother had a mischievous grin on her face.

"You mean like naughty toys and stuff? No not yet, I think I need to wait a while and see how other things go first mom. As you said, lots of time and I do want to take my time with Mark and I don't wanna do anything he's not ready for." she said to her mother.

"Then you two haven't....." she started but Debbie cut her off.

"Had sex yet? No not yet, he seemed pretty nervous just getting naked with me last night so I didn't push the issue at all. After cuddling for a while he seemed to relax some and I did suck him off last night. Which is what I was doing when you and daddy were outside the door being noisy." she admonished her mother.

Cheryl blushed at being caught listening at her daughter door, "Whaaaaaaat? I was just checking on you two, that's all." she said

Debbie giggled heartily and rather loud, "Right mom, just checking on us."

"Soooooo, how was he then smarty pants." Cheryl jibbed back at her daughter.

"He was delicious, and I mean that honestly. He tastes gooooooood, even his cum does. But that's another reason I want to take it slower with him. He's pretty big down there, bigger then I was expecting really. So I'll be extra careful and probably be on top the first few times so I can get off him if it's too much. But I'm not too worried with as gentle as he is. I'll be careful mom, I promise. If he's too big for me I'll stop." she said seeing the slightly worried look on her mothers face. "I won't do anything that's gonna hurt me, you have my word."

They sat silently for a few moments and Mark poked his head out of the bathroom. Looking at the two of them he said, "Is it safe yet or should I hang out in the bathroom a while longer?"

"It's safe dear," Cheryl said, "I was just leaving. Debbie, you have my number if you need to contact me or if you two think of anything you need or want me to pick up while I'm in town. I'll be back later, you two cubs have fun and don't do anything I wouldn't do." she said as she went out the door closing it behind her giggling.

After she had left the room Mark walked over to the bed and grabbing her by the ankles slid Debbies butt to the edge of the bed. Then he held out his hands to her, "get up lazy bones. We can't spend the whole day in bed, besides I'm starvin. Wanna go get some breakfast?"

"Sure, why not. Kinda hungry myself now that you mention it." she said placing her hands in his.

He pulled her to her feet, hugging her and kissing her on the lips. Then he walked over to his bags and started rummaging in one of them.

"What ya doin?" she asked him.

"Well since it's just us and no adults, I think we might better at least be partially dressed in case someone comes to the door or something."he said as he pulled out clean underwear and pulled them on followed by a pair of shorts. He started to grab a t-shirt but thought what the heck and left it.

"Good point."she said going to the closet and grabbing a light summer dress and slipping it on as she headed for the door.

"Gasp ce, sans sous-vêtements ma chère?"he said snickering.

"Of course not, If I was I couldn't do this." she said as she flipped up the tail of her dress giving him a shot of her ass as she walked out the door, " and when did you learn french?"

He followed after her as she headed for the stairs, "Well I didn't really, just have picked up random phrases in several languages from reading books. But how did you know what I said?"

"My grandmother is cajun and doesn't speak a lot of English. So I've picked up a lot from spending time with her."

As they walked into the kitchen Debbie said, "Well since your a resident of casa del Conners make yourself at home puppy dog. This aint no restaurant and I aint no waitress as mom says."

"Ok then I will." he said chuckling.

Mark opened a couple of cabinets seeing what he could find for breakfast. As he opened the third he said, "Oh really now?" as he pulled out a cereal box.

"What?" Debbie said over her shoulder as she dug around in the refrigerator and grabbed the milk.

"A bunny that eats Frosty Bones cereal?" he said laughingly.

"Yea, what of it, huh big boy?" she replied.

"Well I guess there is much to learn about my girlfriend outside the bedroom too." he said winking at her as she stared at him blushing slightly at his comment.

"Grab a couple of spoons and bring the box, meet ya at the table." she said reaching in a cabinet and grabbing two bowls.

They sat across from each other at the small table in the kitchen area eating their cereal. Debbie raised a foot and rubbed it along Marks thigh, the unexpected contact caused him to jump and drop his spoon. He got up and kneeled down to get his spoon and Debbie said,"Hey Mark look up." As he did so she spread her legs under the table, giving him a peep shot of her cunny. He jumped and banged his head on the table top.

She giggled at him as he got back into his chair rubbing the top of his head. "You will pay for that cotton tail," he said a mock evil grin on his face.

"I certainly hope so." she replied grinning broadly.

As they were finishing the breakfast they heard a knock on the front door.

"Guess putting on some clothes was a good idea after all Mark." Debbie said. "I'll go see who it is, be right back."

Mark got up and gathered the dishes, tucking the cereal box under his arm and grabbing the milk jugs handle. He put the dishes in the sink and returned the box to the cabinet. He put the milk in the refrigerator and was just shutting the door as he heard Debbies angry voice coming from the hallway.

"What the HELL are YOU doing here?" she was practically screaming.

"That doesn't sound good." Mark said as he headed for the hallway to find out what was going on.

As he stepped into the hallway he saw the reason for Debbies anger. An older bunny boy, maybe 10 or 11 was standing in the doorway. He was wearing a leather jacket, torn up pants and a bandana tied around his head, yea mark thought a real bad boy type.

"Well I wa in da hood and gots me a boner so iz figerd I'd swing by an knoks me off a piece. So cumon sweet cheeks les gets it on," the punk said.

"We broke up months ago and I told you I never wanted to see your face again jerk and that's what I meant. Now get the hell out!" she was screaming, just the sight of this asshole set her off. It had ever since he had all but raped her when she turned him down one afternoon when they were at the park and he wanted her to blow him in public. Goddess she hated this guy.

"What's going on here." he had spoken before he even realized it as Mark walked towards the door his fury rising.

"Whz is, you doin pupehs to now sugah, ha figers yo such a slut. Tez ya whut pupeh, takz yo azz back in dat Kizn and midz yo biz while Iz buneh humps my bitch an Iz wan hafa hurz ya.

Mark wasn't sure how to handle this jerk, but then the bunny boy did something stupid, he grabbed Debbie by the arm trying to force her into the living room. He was at her side in a flash as he grabbed the boys wrist and started squeezing, harder and harder until the boy finally let her go saying, "Get Your Damn Hands Off HER!!" Then he squeezed harder still as he used the boys arm like a pole to push him backwards towards the door as he kept walking. The boy struggled trying to break free of Marks iron grip but failed. So he used his other hand and tried to punch the dog boy but Mark simply moved his head and dodged the attempt.

"Whoz da fuck yoz tink ya iz pupeh to be tlzin meh whut ta do huh?" the bunny boy said.

"It's not who I THINK I am but who I KNOW I am that matters to you jerk. And who I am is I am her friend, and her boyfriend, and her mate, and NO ONE puts their damn hands on my mate.She is no ones bitch and especially not yours. You ever insult her like that again and I find out about it, I will personally knock those buck teeth of yours down your throat. You EVER touch her again," he said twisting the boys arm to emphasize the point causing the boy to lean to his side to counteract the pressure on his arm,"and I'll rip your arm off and beat you bloody with it. She's made it clear that she doesn't ever want to see you again. So I'm only going to tell you this once, stay away from her, leave her alone, don't even let me hear of you speaking about her in any way or you will deal with me. She is my mate, do you hear me MY mate and I will not tolerate anyone even trying to harm MY MATE. Never let me see your face in this neighborhood again." Mark drew back his clenched fist, and in that moment his fathers words came to his mind. 'With strength like ours son, comes great responsibility we can hurt people easily, always be mindful of that'. As he swung at the bunny boy he opened his fist and instead of punching him he slapped the boy soundly across the face sending him tumbling backwards all the way out to the street.

It took several moments for the boy to regain his bearings but when he finally did he jumped up and ran off shaking visibly.

Mark just stood there, trembling with anger and rage as he watched the boy running away from him he looked to the sky, "Thank you Goddess for giving me the strength to control myself and not hurt him badly."

As the other boy ran off Debbie ran down and stood beside Mark, "I'm so sorry about all this Mark, I..."

"No, you have nothing to be sorry for, since you told him to stay away and he didn't then that's on him, not on you. Don't ever take blame that is not yours. You can't be responsible for the actions of an asshole like him. It's not your fault. I want you to tell me everything about you and this jackass, but not right now, not today even, for now I need to calm down and relax. And I think us going back into the house would be a good start, think I've made enough of a spectacle of myself to the neighbors for one day. " He waved his hand towards the street as he said this and Debbie finally noticed the people standing in their yards and driveways like they had just seen a car wreck.

"But before we do I want them all to see this" he said as he took her in his arms and kissed her deeply and passionately, right there in full view of the neighborhood. He didn't care who saw them, he wanted these people to see them kissing like mates, like lovers. Then they would know he had meant every word he had said to the bunny boy, that it was all true. That Debbie was his mate and he would defend her and her honor at any cost. As he continued to kiss her he wrapped one arm around her back and bending slightly used his other arm to sweep her up quickly turning so no one would see she wasn't wearing panties. He carried her back into the house closing the door behind them with his footpaw never breaking the kiss. He stood there with her in his arms for several long moments before she finally draw away from him slightly breathing heavily.

"M Mark, why did you do that? Why did you kiss me like that in front of the whole neighborhood. Now everyone will know we're mates, our parents can get into serious trouble for that." she was panting with excitement, but the concern in her voice was genuine.

" I did it because I want them all to know. That we are mates, that you are MY mate and that I will protect you no matter what. I want them to know so no one else tries something stupid. And don't worry about our parents. Before I left the house last night to come over here I got online and checked the laws governing cubs and sex. They're not as strict as you think. While it is against the law for an adult to have sex with a cub under the age of 16 no matter what the circumstances, under the age of 14 consensual sex between cubs no more then 3 years difference in age is completely legal, and under the age of 12 it's a 2 year age difference with the knowledge and consent of all parents involved. So we are fully legal my dear and don't have to hide it from anyone if we don't want to. And more then anything I wanted that creep to understand that I was your mate and you are mine and I will protect you from him. But enough of all that for now. I really do need to calm down and relax." he said. But he didn't get any farther with that thought.

Debbie took him by the hand leading him to the stairs. As she started up them with him in tow she said, "Well I have a few ideas on how we can take care of that problem."

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