Winter sucks. Not only because of the layers of snow and the cold temperatures, but also because it’s when he hibernates. Hibernating’s not all that bad, it’s mostly just annoying. He has to take time off work, he can’t always be around for his kids and wife.

His instincts are also at an all time high. To protect his mate and cubs. To provide for them and keep them safe from every threat, even if the threat is just a tree rattling in the backyard.

John wakes up with a start, a growl ripping past his lips as he frantically looking around, his ears pinned back, twitching at every sound. It’s just somebody walking past their house with their dog, he doesn’t care, he growls until the sound is gone.

He remains vigilant, glancing around for a moment before laying back down, making sure his cubs are between him and his mate before wrapping his arms around all of them, grunting before letting his eyes shut again.