EPILOGUE

Beacon Hills

12 years later…

EXCERPT FROM APPLICATION FOR STATE DOCUMENT

To Whom It May Concern,

This letter is a request for the State of California to recognize to recognize the Native American tribe known as the Aeiwa by the government of the United States. In accordance with the Native American Graves and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), the government officials for the city of Beacon Hills would like to recognize that the area of following area surrounding the woods and mountains of Beacon Canyon be returned to the Aeiwa and be recognized as an independent society separated by the town residents.

In addition, the town officials would like to apologize for their ancestors claim to the land and wish to return all natural resources including the gold mines that were extracted by force by the Beacon Hills forefathers during the gold rush of the 1850's. All cultural items removed by the town shall be returned in order to preserve and maintain good relations between the residents and the tribe.

Beacon Hills would also like to work with the tribal leaders in order in full cooperation to strengthen both the town and reservation communication. We would like to ensure the safety and welfare of the tribe and submit this application for recognition. Please contact our department for any further inquiries.

Sincerely,

Sheriff Stiles Argent

Beacon Hills Law Enforcement/Town Ambassador

Sheriff Stiles drove his squad car down the half-moon rock where the rural road still existed. Rumors had surfaced that members of the Aeiwa tribe had returned and he wanted to see for himself. Pulling into the lake, he noticed the construction of cabins, trailers, and agricultural farm structures being built as he pulled into the main building.

Standing on the roof of the cabin, he remembered him. Strong virile muscle displayed in every perfect line of symmetry that connected to the six pack abdomen that showcased his shirtless body. Tight blue jeans hugged his hips and he placed his hands on his hips to see the police car approaching. Scratching the dark beard that he now sported, the green eyed Spirit Wolf watched curiously as the town sheriff got out of the car.

Derek's heart beat rapidly. The hazel eyed man had not changed in over twelve years. His innocent baby face still illuminated a vibrant glow as his brown hair grew longer and fashionable. Stiles appeared taller than when he last remembered him. The Spirit Wolf admired the young boy that now had become a man as the sheriff filled every pore of his uniform with athletic physical perfection. Seeing their tribal shaman Adrian Harris coming out of the cabin, the aningan climbed the ladder down to join them.

"Adrian Harris?" Stiles extended his hand. "I sent a letter to you about a meeting?"

The tribal shaman happily shook the law enforcement officer's hand. Except for few gray hairs and crow's feet, the former history teacher still looked the same.

"Oh yes," replied the shaman. "I'm very much interested in working with the town on tribal relations."

A bearded Derek approached as Adrian directed his focus to introduce the tall gentleman.

"Sheriff Argent," said the tribal leader. "This is our leader Derek Hale. Derek, this is Sheriff Stiles Argent."

"Please to meet you," Derek smiled taking his hand. Stiles was surprised by how personable the Spirit Wolf and become. Normally, he was all brooding.

"As I told your shaman," explained Stiles. "The town officials of Beacon Hills have applied for a government document that states for the protection and welfare of the Aeiwa tribe. They want to apologize for the bad history that your people have endured and are returning the surrounding land and gold mines to your people." He handed the document to Adrian. "In addition, they want to work with you on preserving the traditions and ensuring the ecological safety of the land. They'll even agree to let the reservation maintain their sense of privacy if you request it."

"How do you fit in to all this?" Derek asked.

"I've been appointed the tribal ambassador for the Aeiwa," informed Stiles. "I'll act as a liaison between the reservation and the town for anything you might need including law enforcement."

Adrian read through the document. "It's legit, Derek. They're serious. I think it's time that it's time to forgive and make a change."

"Again, it's all up to you," suggested the hazel eyed man.

"How do we know that we can trust you?" Derek wondered.

Stiles smiled. "A person that I deeply cared for once told me that the longer he lives…he would never stop loving me…"

Derek's eyebrows shot up. "You know? You remember?"

"O-let-te didn't take away my memories, Derek," he responded. "I still remember everything."

Romantic tension drew the two men together. Sensing it, Adrian awkwardly withdrew.

"I'll leave you two alone to discuss the formalities," the shaman exited into the cabin.

Derek stared at Stiles. It had been twelve years and he reached to touch his face. "What about Danny?"

Stiles looked down. "Danny and I…are still great friends. We broke up during college and instead decided we're better off as friends than lovers. He's now living in Hawaii where he coaches lacrosse in high school on the island of Maui. He and his partner are planning to open a surf shop soon."

"And you? Are you still seeing anyone?" Derek questioned.

"Single and ready to mingle," laughed the sheriff. "I was wondering if those hot springs are still open this time of year?"

"All year long," purred the Spirit Wolf.

Grabbing his arm, Derek pulled Stiles close crushing his mouth with his own. Electric heat surged through their bodies as their hands explored each other resolving the emotions that they felt in their hearts. It had been a long time and those same feelings still existed. All of it had finally became unlocked.

Pulling away, the sheriff released a giggle. "I like the beard on you." He stroked the dark hair. "It tickles."

"Would the gay community consider me a bear then?" Derek teased rubbing his nose against his.

"Well technically you do grow fur," replied Stiles. "I think we should make up a new label. Timberwolf?"

"Aningans, skin-walkers, and timberwolves! Oh my!" Derek exclaimed.

"Okay Dorothy, you're not in Kansas anymore!" Stiles clucked escaping his embrace.

"You want to see my special pot of gold somewhere over my rainbow?" Derek growled.

"Down boy!" Stiles laughed. "I have to be getting back to work. We'll have to work out something with the town with respecting the tribe's privacy especially with full moon nights." He opened the door to his car. "So should I pick you up at seven tonight?"

"Consider it a date," Derek called out. "I'm sure we'll be steaming up those hot springs tonight!"

"That's what I'm hoping for," giggled the sheriff.

Pulling the squad car out of the reservation, Stiles grinned happily with glee. Everything had fallen into place.

He finally was at peace.

Safe. Happy. Content.

Admiring the long road that headed into the main highway, he already knew what lay ahead.

A new beginning.

THE END.

NOTE TO READERS: Thank you for reading and liking my Sterek story. I've done some recent updating and editing and you can find the revised version on Wattpad.