Alec was more confused than anything at this point. Here he had a beautiful woman before him, and he was working his magic, though the water thing may have been a little…lame…it had worked for him before. Though, this woman obviously wasn’t like other of her gender. It intrigued him, and only made him want to try a little harder to get into her head, which was literally no problem thanks to his powers as a Hybrid. Though, as she whipped her head around to face the two behind her, those long dark locks slapped him across the face, throwing off his current mind set.

Normally, he’d have been pretty aggitated by this, and would’ve picked a fight with the woman. This occassion, however, was different. Not because he was attracted to her, but because of her scent. The smell of her hair as it brushed his nose…it was intoxicating. It almost reminded him of his mother’s, but this smell, it meant more than a motherly bond, it meant something totally different. He’s always had a hair fetish, and the smell of hair was what triggered it. At that moment, his very soul had been set on the goal of bedding this woman, and not just one night. Even Rosa had been swept from his thoughts as he even contemplated something…long term…which was a rare thought for him in general.

He was pulled from his thoughts though, as she spoke. “Hi.” she said. She took the time to turn around, and now, at the sight of this man beside them, she was crying, yet she could only manage a hello? Something was up. There was a story here, and Alec intended to sit and get the whole thing. His eyes shifted from her, to the man she spoke to, taking in his appearance as one he knew. He was a werewolf, one of the main pack. Though he himself was part wolf now, he held a slight distaste for them man, signs of his vampiric upbringing. Though, this reunion was cut short when he noticed the shortening of her breaths, and the fact, that her shoulders were not falling with each one. Alec reacted without even thinking it. He placed a hand on her upper arm, gently, almost caressing it. Leaning into her ear, so that she would hear him over the music and crowds, he spoke softly, trying to calm her. “Breathe. Your having an anxiety attack. Just…breathe, calm down, steady your heart and you’ll be fine.”

Alec’s willingness to help her even after she mocked his friend (which he seemed not to have noticed, apparently) sort of added to the comforting she received from him, and she let out a shaky breathe. She gently moved his hand, avoiding looking at him. She’d set it straight with him later that this nervous, scared girl was not her. At least, not anymore. Both Alec and her father. But for now, the shock at seeing him suddenly became an absolutely beautiful joyousness, and as her tears became happy, she completely forgot she worked for Jace, that she had just killed a vampire mere minutes ago. “Daddy!” She rushed forward to hug him, having to stand on her tip-toes even in her heeled boots. She wrapped her arms around her neck with a quiet laugh, tucking the top of her head under his chin. She knew he felt that the divorce was his fault, even though it was really entirely Sarah’s.

Tess remembered that he was always out a lot. And when he was home, he hardly acknowledged Mark as his son, usually because he had awful hangovers. But she still loved him, then and now, only this time, she wasn’t going to let him walk away or let anyone else hold her back from walking away with him.

“Now wait a minute.” Mills’ voice didn’t exactly ruin the moment, and neither did her almost spit take seconds before it. “I’m missing something. Daddy? Tes- Oh. OH.” Finally, it dawned on her, and she smiled a bit shyly, standing as Tess pulled away from Bones. Tess smiled back, now ecstatic that her father had a friend – a pretty female friend. Mills raised her hand just beside her face instead of extending it. “Mills. Already know your name. Incredibly awkward if you haven’t noticed. I’m just going to.” She brought her glass back to her lips to silence herself, looking at Bones, then Alec, then Tess again, feeling a little more out of place than before. She could smell what Alec was, but she wasn’t going to point it out. She just hoped Bones overlooked it for the moment.

Bones never cried. He drank. Even after his divorce and his wife had taken absolutely everything from him, he spent the entire night at a bar rather than cried. But in this moment he was in very big danger to cry. Bones swallowed hard. When he asked if it was Tess she had given him a simple “hi,” confirming that it was. He was in disbelief. He was in shock. It all seemed impossible and yet when he looked at her he wondered how he had even doubted it. She seemed to be a little out of breath. She seemed as shocked as he was. But before he could go to her, the guy she was with had intercepted. Bones noticed him for the first time and wanted to growl. He could immediately tell what he was. A hybrid. Half vampire. Dangerous. But tearing this guy limb from limb would have to wait, because Tess had ran to him and thrown her arms around him. Bones’s eyes began to water and he wrapped his arms around his daughter, who he hadn’t hugged in over a hundred years. It was all so unreal to him that he held her as tight as he could, as if making sure she existed. That this was actually happening. He buried his face into the top of her head, taking in her scent. It was a familiar scent. Just barely recognizable. Mills’s voice brought him back to reality, but he continued to hold Tess until she broke away. As Tess and Mills conversed, he took that moment to wipe his eyes, covering all traces that he’d been crying. He set a hand on Tess’s shoulder, keeping her in arm’s distance. He was not going to let her out of his sight for a long time. “Mills is a good friend of mine,” he told Tess. “What are you doing here?” he asked her, still in complete shock.

Galtem gulped when she said the words ‘no, don’t’. He knew why, but he had to say that he loved her there’s so many things that he regrets on doing, that now he wants to make sure she knows that he always had feelings for her, and he isn’t only using her body as a get away, or for pleasure. He done it because he had feelings for her, even when that thing with River happen. What he did to River was more lust than any other thing, but whenever he had some time alone with Jennifer, he got his brain all messed up, and took him awhile to realize his feelings. Now he knows what are they, and its already too late.
He moved his hand away from her, and took a step back, allowing her to start walking away, she needed to leave now, or she would never get out of here. He began to nibble on his lower lip when he saw her walking towards the bathroom door. He was feeling his heart ache, because he felt this would be the last meeting, and he didn’t wanted that, it doesn’t matter if they would remain friends or not, he didn’t wanted this to be their last meeting.
Taking a deep breathe, he calmed down his nerves, and looked away, as he just waited for the sound of the door closing to show up, but it didn’t. All he could hear now was footsteps from Jennifer, he turned his head and saw her getting too closer to him again, he stared down at her lips then at her eyes, he just felt like kissing her again, but he couldn’t. Having self-control is so hard. Her words hit him deep, because it was the truth. He felt like she was blaming him, but he wouldn’t censure her, they could have been perfect if he wasn’t so dumb and didn’t left her, then she said she fell in love with someone else, William of course, he wasn’t that surprised, but it was still hard to face the truth.

Galtem pushed those thoughts away and took a deep breathe, looked down at his own feet, and placed his hands behind him. While he was looking down, he was thinking if he should tell her the promise, why not? At least she wouldn’t have second thoughts about him, he wanted to let her known that this 100years of his absent he only done it for her.
“I made a promised to William.”
He started with a low voice, before look back at her.
“While I was with Selene..I found out you was drinking, turning yourself into somebody you wasn’t, so I decided to meet up with William. I told him, I would be gone, so you could be yourself again, and have a happy life. I wouldn’t interfere your guys love life again.”
He told her with a slight frown, he knew the differences between himself and William, and that William was only good for Jennifer, but not Galtem. Even if he said he wouldn’t interfere he’s here right now.
“He’s like that all good perfect boy, or something. I figured he could take care of you, so I left. We know you stay better with him, he’s only good for you. I’m not good enough.”
He told her, as he felt his lower lip tremble for couple of seconds, and his eyes getting wet. Was he really going to cry now? The hell, get a hold of yourself, man. Taking a deep breathe, Galtem turned his head away, and took few steps away from Jennifer. Avoiding eye contact.
“Just go, he’s probably wondering where are you.”

Nicole continued nodding her head when Lizzy told her the guy’s name. “Gatlem Manzenli..” She said quietly to herself. Nicole have heard of this name before but nothing in detail about the person. Lizzy then told Nicole about the goth girl, Amelia. The expression of disgust on Lizzy’s face told Nicole that she wasn’t really a big fan of hers, most likely because she was a witch and Nicole knew how Lizzy was when it came to witches. She hated them with a passion. When Lizzy finished what she had to say another women had came along behind the bar counter. Nicole assumed she was a worker as well because of that and she knew Lizzy. Nicole perked a brow when the women asked them both what they were up to. “Nothing much, just enjoying the scenery of the party and talking to Lizzy. What abou-..” Nicole had stopped finishing her sentence as she felt the presence of someone behind her. Stuff like that made her scared or nervous because she never liked to be approach that way. Quickly she looked over her shoulder to see who or what was behind her. Her expression instantly changed from nervous to surprised when she saw it was Matt, the police officer she had met awhile ago. A guy that she had a crush on for the last few years. He was now here, standing right in front of her. A smile quickly flashed across her face as she shook her head softly. “It’s been so long..” She said softly.

Galtem kept his view down, not really wanting to look at Jennifer, if she said something, he would just tell her to shut up and go away. He wasn’t going to break down in front of somebody, doesn’t matter if its Jennifer, he doesn’t cry, not in front of somebody. He needs to get some hold of himself, what he needs is a really strong drink that will make him calm down, and stop thinking so much about this matter.
He felt her hand reaching for his face, and when he felt her touch, it sent him a shiver through his spine, nobody can imagine how much he just felt like holding her and kiss her, this is how it feels to have some self-control, and stop destroying people lives, he never thought he would have to sacrifice so much of himself for make the others happy. But one thing was right in here, Galtem doesn’t deserve her, but William does, he’s good for her, she will have a calm life and happier one with him. When she was with Galtem, it was all based on adventure, passion and danger, because he couldn’t remain quiet on his spot without messing around with couple of people and get in fight with them, it was in his blood being a troublemaker.
The touch of her lips against his, made him forget those thoughts, and his mind just become blank, till it got all replaced with their memories, memories of the two of them, being so happy. This was the goodbye and he knew it, the last kiss. It was gentle but lingering kiss, it lasted long enough to make him want more, but his body didn’t moved, this time his body was doing what his mind was telling it to do.

Whenever she broke the kiss, he looked at her, walking out, leaving him here, reality’s a bitch, that’s for sure. Now that he was alone, he turned to the mirror, and saw how wet his eyes was getting due wanting to cry, then the anger was filling him, so he started to throw fists around, he broke one of the mirrors, and a door. It did left his hand bleeding ,but his werewolf abilities was healing him within seconds.
He passed his hands over his face, and looked up, taking a deep breath, and blinking a few times, controlling the tears to not fall down. He stayed in there, just for a few seconds, so it could calm him down, not enough for get all playful and smiley, but enough to not make him throw another fist. Now he was the one who left the bathroom, he noticed that Amelia nor Shane was here, they probably had left, he was going to have deal with Amelia later. He told them he would stop being a womanizer, but it already started wrong. He walked up to the bar, and told the bartender to give him the bottle and not the glass. The bartender gave him the bottle of whiskey, and Galtem took it as he started to drink it, and walking back to the couch, so he could sit down.

Seeing Nicole smile again, was like someone had illuminated the entire room. Matt stood there for a moment, as though he was drinking her in. He was a man of few words, but when he did speak, it was with a deep raspy tone, almost like he had drank too many whiskeys. Matt raked his fingers back through his hair, and then said in reply about not having seen each other in a while with; “I don’t usually hang out in the ER, unless my partner’s been shot, or..yeah..long time.” His piercing blue eyes held hers for a moment, before he noticed Lizzy and then gestured with his hand a number one, by holding up a finger. “Beer, please.” There was a bar stool just near Nicole, and Matt took a seat, placing both hands on the bar, finger interlocked. You could see by his demeanor that he was a bit of a loner, not one that was used to big crowds and lots of noise. He would be more comfortable in a back water bar. Course this was an opportune place to get a good feed, from any of the girls on the avenue, but suddenly he found the need to feed abating. Why was this? And why did he find himself attracted to Nicole again? He had kept his distance on purpose. Believing himself cursed, he shied away from attention most of the time.

“You…here with somebody?”

This was the first thing he could think of to ask. Last thing he wanted to do, was cut someone else’s lunch.

<3>

Jacque had sung quite a few songs, more than she wanted to count and she felt a little winded. Looking back towards the band, she made a ‘cut it’ action with her hand slicing against her throat. Walking over to the DJ, she blew him a kiss and waved flirtatiously“Take it away, babe.” He smirked and pretended to catch her kiss before he went about spinning some good dance beats for the patrons. The mermaid then walked to the edge of the stage and held her hands out, waiting for the two bouncers below to help her down. In one fluid motion, her feet touched the floor and she adjusted her dress. Looking between them, she flashed a dazzling smile “Thanks, fellas…” As she walked away from them, her eyes scanned the disco carefully. Teenagers were still bumping and grinding, and it made her want to join in on the fun but she was supposed to just be on a break. With a sigh, she looked wistfully towards the bar to see Galtem taking a bottle of whiskey. Raising an eyebrow, she then proceeded to watch him walk towards his couch in the VIP area. Walking towards the bar, Jacque leaned in and ordered a dirty martini, her favorite. Taking her drink, she walked over to the VIP lounge and smiled at her boss from a safe distance “Hey there, boss! You look like you need someone to bounce some harsh words off of.” Stepping up to the couch, she plopped down and crossed her legs. Turning to face him, she bobbed her shoulders and flashed him a friendly smile“So what seems to be the problem? I noticed you haven’t even bothered with a glass, so I assume you’re drowning your sorrows? Lucky for me, I know a lot about drowning…” She smirked at her own private joke and took a sip of her drink. Normally she kept her distance from her boss since she heard he was a womanizer, but something about seeing him this down made her feel bad. If a guy as strong as him could be broken, there was no hope. Jacque didn’t like that. Holding her glass in one hand, she tilted her head expectantly.
 

Galtem’s mind was still focused on Jennifer, he was still thinking about the two of them, but guilt was coming as well. He was feeling guilty because of what he done, he shouldn’t have done that to Jennifer, and now he just hurt William and probably Amelia in some way, he doesn’t know why, but something happen to Amelia or else she wouldn’t act so strange and leave the place.
While he was drowning his sorrows, he heard some familiar female voice, it was Jacque, the girl he hired to sing, she was indeed a wonderful singer, so it was worth of his money. They never become that close, since she tended to stay away from him, probably because of his reputation, having a womanizer reputation can bring you women or make them back off. She noticed how down and stressed he looked, well, he was always with a smirk or serious expression on, so it was normal if people quickly noticed if they saw some sadness on him.
“Women, that’s the problem.”
He told her, as he took another long sip from the whiskey in the bottle. Should he really tell her about Jennifer? Well its not like she knows his friends, nor William, so why not? Its normal tell to one of your workers, that you kissed some guys girlfriend, that was your ex and you done that because you missed her, and loved her. Not like she would really believe on the love part. He’s aware of how bad people think of him.
“I just come back from making out with some guy’s girlfriend. You know, the normal.”
He said with some sarcastic tone in his voice, as he took a look at her before look at his drink. 

Maha raised her glass slightly too him, grinning, before hiding her smile behind her bright-colored drink and took a sip. The only time Maha drank was to have fun. She never drank when she was sad because she felt like it just made whatever emotions she was feeling stronger instead of numbing them. If she was happy, the alcohol enhanced her fun, if she was sad, the alcohol took over and she was a complete mess. If she was angry…. Really bad things happened. But tonight she was excited to be drinking with Eric. Someone she’d had her eye on for ages. Even if he only saw her as a friend, it was much better of a relationship than she’d ever thought she’d have with him.

She nodded when he said school was good. That must have meant that nothing too terrible happened to him. This was confirmed when he said it was more calm than usual. Her smile grew even wider when he said it was the best day of his life. “Well, I’m honored to be spending it with you Mr. Manzenli,” she told him, not even bothering to hide her smile. She was feeling bold, so she looked at him curiously. “You know, you don’t have to be their human punching bag,” she said, unsure if she’d crossed the line. Before he could interrupt, she continued. “You don’t have to hit back to show them that you won’t take it.” She loved seeing Eric like this. She’d never seen him other than around the neighborhood and on his walks to school. She’d never seen him happy. Now she wanted more than anything to keep this smile on his face. But she didn’t know how that would happen if he wasn’t willing to stick up for himself.”

Bar

Lizzy walked back over to Nicole after she finished serving Giles and Lysander’s children. That’s how she knew them. She didn’t care much about the werewolf pack, but once you’d been around this long, you seemed to accidentally know everything about anyone. “Sorry ‘bout that, hon,” she told her friend, leaning back on the counter. When Nicole’s response got cut short she looked to why it had been. An attractive man came up to them. It was blatantly obvious that Nicole knew this man. And seemed to like him. A lot. The smile across her face was absolutely radiant and it made Lizzy look from her friend to the strange man and then back again, only breaking her gaze to blink.
The man looked back at Nicole and ran his fingers through his hair. He was definitely into her. Lizzy almost laughed at his response. He seemed funny. She was pleased her friend would probably have someone to take home tonight, but if she didn’t act fast Lizzy wondered if she wouldn’t. “Coming right up,” she said as she went to go get the man a beer. When she walked away, her eyes flashed with a knowing smile to her friend.

Eric stared at Maha while he listen her saying she was honored to be spending his day with him, he chuckled when she called him Mr.Manzenli. He was glad she was enjoying it as much as he was, her expression could tell him that due the smile she had, at least he wasn’t messing up with anything.
“Well, I’m not a human.”
He teased her a bit, when she told him he didn’t have to be their punching bag. He knew she was right, but if he really wanted them to stop, he would have to scare them away, he would have to hit somebody to make them back off and let them known he isn’t going to be their punching bag for long, or he could just use his werewolf powers, and show a bit of his fangs and claws, maybe that would scare them away, and Eric didn’t had to hurt anybody, but then, that could bring him some problems, even tho there won’t be much humans who will believe supernatural creatures exist.
“I know that.”
He told her as he bite down onto his lower lip. He would have to change some stuff, maybe it was really time to put a stop in this all, and allow himself have a better life. But tonight, he didn’t wanted to think about personal problems, he just wanted to have fun, and let it last as long as possible, since this might be the first and last party he went, its all like a dream, and of course, he wants it to last long.
“Let’s go dance.”
Eric told Maha, so they could change subject. He took a sip from his drink, and took Maha’s wrist, pulling her along to the dance floor, so the both of them could start dancing. He was still holding his drink, having his hand covering it, so nobody would spice his drink. 

“Well yeah, that would make sense.” She said as she placed both of her hands quickly in the air then back. Nicole then turned back around to face Olivia and Lizzy when Matt had sat on the stool next to her. By the look of Lizzy’s expression, Nicole already knew what she was thinking. A small smirk would hang over her lips as she she nodded her head slightly in agreement. For Nicole it was kind of awkward for her. She didn’t know what to say and she didn’t want to say anything silly that would embarrass her. While sitting there for those few seconds quietly, Nicole mind was racing, thinking of what would be the appropriate thing to bring up, but her eyes quickly shifted to Matt when he asked her if she came to the disco by herself.“Yeah…but now I have someone.” She said as she continued smiling. When she said someone she meant Matt. Nicole was just extremely happy to see him again.
 

Galtem was able to chuckle when Jacque said that she wasn’t a woman, well, she was a mermaid, but still female. Then she just began to call him home wrecker, well, he couldn’t call himself like that, even tho that was true, but still. He was actually tired of always flirting with other guys girlfriends or wives, but its not his fault that they come to him, and he simple gives them what they want. During those 100years, he never approached to a woman, he just waited for them to come to him, and all he did was giving them what they wanted. But this time with Jennifer, wasn’t because of lust, but love. He was literally hopelessly in love, and he hated it. Why the hell he had to let her go? Why he didn’t realized how strong his feelings for her were and keep up with her? But no, he decided to break up because he thought it would be the best thing. Dumbass.

Galtem just keep on drinking the bottle, and it wouldn’t take him that long to finish it, he was glad Jacque asked for vodka, because he needed something more stronger, he was already feeling slightly dizzy, but it wasn’t enough, he wanted to feel more wasted, enough to make forget the all thoughts he had about Jennifer that was running through his mind. He’d rather have a blank mind right now.
“What..I’m not a womanizing pig..and my liver is just fine, it heals with time.”
Galtem said with some slight frown upon his face, as he placed the empty bottle of whiskey over the table, and noticed the bartender bringing them glasses and the bottle of vodka, not sure if he should just bring a single glass, or just bring them empty and allow them to serve by themselves.
Galtem sighed out, and picked up the bottle, opening it, he poured some vodka on an empty glass, and slid it closer to Jacque, then he just poured vodka for himself.
“If we count the all years. Its over 110years, that I have been in love with her.”
There was the years he was together with her, then the others months he wasn’t with her and was with Amber, then that couple of years alone, the years with Selene, and now this 100years. Yeah, it has been pretty much time, and he never thought he would find himself so attached to someone, while he always tried to move on by dating other women.
He picked up his glass of vodka and took a sip from it. 

Nicole’s awkward smile was infectious, as Matt found himself nodding and a light shrug. It was reminiscent of how teenagers act when they try to hook up over the cafeteria line. Matt was way passed that stage of his life, but he sensed that Nicole was not brazen like a lot of women these days. Matt noticed that Lizzy had caught onto the interaction between him and Nicole, and didn’t fancy the idea of putting on a real show for her. So, Matt turned to face Nicole, edging closer to her on his bar stool.

“I guess introductions are in order, since last time we met was more in the line of duty for both of us.” Matt cleared his throat, and then extended his hand towards her.“Hey..I’m Matt, Matt Reed.” He hoped she’d take it, and then they could get to know each other…a whole lot better.

<3>

“Drink, drink, drink!”
Behind William, his friends was telling him to keep drinking, so they could win against this guy, and gain free drinks, they was even betting some money and other stuff, William was only there for drink and beat them. They was amazed at the fact that William wasn’t still drunk, that’s the good part at being a supernatural creature, you never get drunk that easily. The minutes passed, and he was clearly having a wonderful time, he was having tons of fun, and it has been awhile since he had so much fun. He didn’t only needed a party, he needed a guys night as well, which was what was happening right now, he thought Jennifer would be good with Seph, its not like bad would happen when she was with her, plus, the both of them were girls, despite the difference of the ages, maybe they would want some girl time.
After beating up four guys, William was already starting to feel drunk, he could feel his head dizzy, and whenever he spoke, he wasn’t making much sense, but he was still aware of what was wrong and what was right, it just would take him awhile to process the information in his brain.
“Ok, guys. Give me a break before I pass out”
William told them with a chuckle, as he slid away into another booth so his friend could replace him.

Jennifer finally showed up, she sat down besides him, but he didn’t looked at her in the first moment, he was watching his friend drinking, and he clearly had an excited expression on, he clenched his fist and moved his arm while moving it and telling him to keep going. Totally waiting for his friend to win. When he finally did, William just began to clap, forgetting that Jennifer was still there, however, her last words caught his attention, and he noticed she looked rather down for somebody in a disco that should be having fun.
“Ook.”
That’s all he said as he stared at her for awhile, before realize she wanted to go now.
“Oh you mean going now? Sure, ok.”
He told her shaking his head before push himself up. He walked up to his friends and just gave them a handshake and a quick hug.
“Jennifer wants to go now, it was fun, thanks for the time. See you some day, guys.”
After this, William just walked back to Jennifer while the both of them left the disco. He looked around, trying to find his car, and whenever he finally spotted it, he just walked up to it, and quickly got inside. Leaning his back against the seat, and rubbing his face. Oh god, his head was already hurting, but he was always more careful driving drunk, because that’s where he payed more attention, and made sure everything went right, and he never went too fast.
“Are you ok? You don’t look that well. Did something happen?”
William asked her, perking up an eyebrow as he stared at her.

Dance floor

Eric was glad that Maha allowed him to tug her along with him to the dance floor. The only reason why he was doing this was because he wanted to change subject, and also because he didn’t wanted her to think he was a boring person. Since she gave them two options, which was drinks or dance, they already got their drinks, so it was time for dance. He never thought he could have so much fun, now he noticed how much he was missing during his teenager life, that’s the dumb phase where everybody does new stupid stuff, but Eric isn’t that reckless. He would never go too far, since it was always needed somebody with a good mind to make sure nobody would hurt themselves.
While the both of them danced, Eric would take a sip from his drink, as his eyes stared around, he could see some guys staring at Maha in a dirty way, and it was bothering him a lot. He tried to distract his mind by paying attention to only Maha. He heard her thanking him because he was willing to come with her tonight, it was better her than any other person, that’s for sure.
“Its my pleasure! I’m enjoying spending this night with you.”
He replayed her with a smile, while the both of them danced.
After awhile, he noticed he finished his drink and so was hers, so he decided to bring them more drinks.
“I will get more drinks for us, stay here!”
He told her loud enough so she could hear him. Carefully, he removed the glass from her hand and just walked up to the bar. He wasn’t sure what she wanted, so he just ordered the same drinks again. This took him probably five minutes or something, but it would be enough to make some guy approach Maha, and that’s what happen.
When Eric was back with the drinks on his hands, he noticed some guy talking to Maha, he could see that she was uncomfortable with him having closer, and he also knew she could make him disappear anytime she wanted, but he couldn’t help but to interfere. Maybe it could be his possessive werewolf playing, or just his willing to help people out.
Taking a deep breathe, Eric relaxed his shoulders, and stepped closer to Maha, getting between her and the guy, Eric didn’t said anything, all he did was just show off his werewolf fangs and eyes. The guy wasn’t drunk at all, he was pretty much sober, that’s why he freaked out and just walked away. This was the only way Eric had to make people back off without hurting them. His eyes and fangs went back to normal, as he turned around and smiled down at Maha giving her the new drink.
“Here you go. I didn’t knew what you wanted, so I just asked for the same one, if you don’t mind.”  

The pack of Werewolves raced across the city, and into the forests on the outskirts. With the moon shining down its ominous glow, the fifty or so remaining werewolves had made a meal out of the Ball goers, just as the Count had planned. At the lead of the pack, the largest wolf and Alpha roared in anger as its paws clawed the earth, sending up tufts of grass and mud. The wolf’s black fur saturated from the heavy rain fall, and the blood of Edward, still soaked into its fur.

Maybe the Count did not get the true prize for the night, for the Father Amos was attacked by one of their own it seemed, causing a change in plan. But he did give Lillian one hell of a smack down, and she was now more than aware of the Werewolves declaration that they had come to London…to dominate all others in their path. So many demons and angels fell to the attack of the werewolves, it was an odds on certainty, that the war had only just begun.

Passing through the opened gates of the castle grounds, the wolf pack spread out till reaching the front drive, where each slowed down, and started to change back from their werewolf hides, to that of their human personas. Each rising to stand tall, their fur falling away to reveal the naked ones beneath. None was so notable as the Count himself, who had two bullet wounds. He had been shot, and though this did not kill him, it did injure him. Also his chest was scarred from the blue electrical attack that Edward had committed, trying to save Lillian.

“All of you .. innen. Als der Junge kommt … du wirst ihn zu mir bringen … personlich.”

(translation: “All of you..inside. When the boy comes…you will bring him to me…personally.”)

That being said, his staff and guards all nodded in unison, before reentering the castle to change into their clothing, whilst the Count stared out at the silhouette of the city.

“It’s not over. It has just begun.”

<3>

The redhead, Esmeralda appeared smug to see the Count had returned without Elvira upon his arm. She shot a sideways glance at Clarissa, who fanned herself and chuckled darkly. Clarissa was a striking woman with platinum blonde locks, done up fashionably as one would expect of a noblewoman of that era. The Count merely walked on past them, though he knew their thoughts on the matter. They saw the infatuation that the Count had for the English woman, that bore a striking resemblance to his dead love, Katarina, as nothing more than an obsession, and one that would bear no fruit.

The Count came to stand at the fire place, where Katarina’s image looked down from the ancient oil painting. Eyes that seemed to be staring straight at the Count. Why he held a candle to his lost beloved for all these centuries remained a mystery. The Count did not like to speak much of her death, or why he believed Elvira was her new vessel. Esmeralda was unable to hold back any longer.

“You found her, yes?” She said, rising from her chair, and glided over toward the Count, reaching to stroke his back with her gloved fingers. The Count allowed this. She was part of the pack, and knew her place. He used her as much as the other females, but the one he truly wanted eluded him. Without looking back at Esmeralda, the Count answered her curtly. “I did.”Clarissa actually stopped waving her fan, and closed it, setting it down upon her lap. ” And…?” Clarissa clearly wanted to hear the juicy details, of what may have transpired. Did the Count attack her, curse her with his blood? The Count glanced back at Clarissa, while Esmeralda continued to fawn over the Count. “Her Father is dead…she was in mourning. I let her be.”Esmeralda loved the sound of this. The idea that he did not bring her into the fold, gave her more time to work on him, and claim the place of mate to the Alpha for herself. “The poor girl. Too bad…so sad.” Though she appeared to be glum about this, inside she was rejoicing. “Yes…I must agree. You can hardly court a woman who suffers grief and loss. It’s far from romantic.” Clarissa added, giving Esmeralda a sly wink. The Count shrugged, and then headed off to his den, to enjoy a cigar and brandy, while the two women both cackled, and went back to plotting against Elvira when the time came.

<3>

Esmeralda was prowling around her room in a long fur coat, scantily clad in a middle-eastern bikini outfit underneath that accentuated her curves marvelously. A dream had awakened her from a long slumber, a rest she desperately craved after going on a nightly prowl in her wolf form the previous evening. As she couldn’t control herself as a wolf, she also couldn’t remember her actions when she was in that form and always felt drained when she came home. With a scowl, she turned towards her large desk in the corner of the room where various magical instruments were stored. Felix came slithering from the above raptors, crawling down to the floor and over to his mistress. Climbing up her body, he wrapped around her shoulders and a deep rumble of approval came from Esme. Turning her head to kiss him gently on the head, her thick Romanian accent came through “My love, we have much work to do…” Stepping towards the desk, she lifted a sheet off of her crystal ball. Resting her hand on it, she lifted her face toward the ceiling as her power surged through her body. Her breasts heaved up and down as she began to breathe heavily, Romanian chants leaving her plump lips. After her chants were over, she looked down at the ball and raised an eyebrow. What she saw was a bit disturbing.[/center]

With a dramatic sigh, she whirled around and stalked over to her armoire. Pulling on a simple black dress with the appropriate lace and cinching to show off her form, she then stalked out of her room to prowl down the hallways. As she walked, she could hear the cackling of the atrocious women in the estate. Growling, she caught glimpses of the conversation about the count courting a woman. Who would he be courting so suddenly? Turning away from them, she continued down the hallway.

The Den

Stepping into the den, Esmeralda looked around the room carefully. Though she knew she was perfectly safe here in the count’s home, there was still always a feeling of anxiety evident around her as she entered a new room. You could never be too careful. Walking around the room like a jungle cat, her hips swayed and her eyes flitted around the room. So many things to discuss with the count. Amos was dead, and it happened at the ball her “cousin” had thrown. To top if off, Juliette was now on a power trip and was accumulating the help of Lillith’s minions and hell hounds to help overthrow the balance of power between good and evil. And now, the count decides to have a love life. Sighing, she rolled her eyes and turned around to wait for the count to come in as she had anticipated his movements in the crystal.

After a few hours with her dressmaker and hairstylist and an hour sucking up to the ladies of the East London Gossip Circle, she finally had the location of Count Marulo’s estate.

She paused at the end of the main road, simply staring at the massive estate before her. It was impressive, much like the man himself, she admitted. With lush lawns and sprawling land, it looked as if it could have been made into a postcard.

Making sure her hat still remained on her head, she directed Jezzie into a light canter up to the main entrance of the house. Standing on the steps were two very large and identical looking men. As she approached, they met her on the walkway to render her assistance.

Before she knew what had happened, one of them had placed his very large hands about her waist to haul her down from Jezzie’s saddle. The change in height caused her to get dizzy and stumble slightly but the hands were steady and sure. The other led Jezzie to the stables to feed and rest.

Once she had caught her balance, she stepped back and had to actually crane her neck upward to stare at the two of them.

“Devil’s teeth! You’re some large ones aren’t you?” she stated in shock.

For some reason these twins found this hilarious and erupted into huge barrels of laughter. She found herself smiling against her will.

“How may we be of assistance, Madame?” the twin on the right.

“Well…yes…um. I was wondering if I could have a private word with Lord Marulo, please?” she asked, feeling nervous all of a sudden.

“And who shall we say is calling upon him?” asked the twin on the left.

“Lady Elvira Roxburg.” she replied. The twins looked at one another before stepping back and giving her a formal bow.

“On behalf of Count Marulo, we offer our sincere condolences on the passing of your father. He was well-respected and a great warrior.” the both stated. She had to turn away for a moment, quickly removing a handkerchief from her reticule to dab at her eyes.

“Thank you for your words of kindness.” she replied after she had collected herself. They took up her arms, tucking her hands into their forearms to lead her into the house. She felt kind of….lost….next to these walking, talking behemoths.

They lead her to the main foyer and indicated that she should have a seat while they went to see if the Count would be amendable to seeing her. They headed up the main stairs and out of view. Nervously, she wiped her gloved hands down the front of her dress, smoothing any wrinkles that may have been formed on the ride over before she took a seat.

Now the question was, would he be kind and allow her audience, or would he toss her out on her arse?

Esmeralda shook her head slowly as a small smile curved her deliciously plump lips. Striding over to the count, she dropped her head in a polite bow before facing him again. Raising an eyebrow, her thick accent rolled of her tongue. “They do not…” As he touched Felix, the snake lifted its head to stare at Marulo. No one hardly ever touched him but Esme, but the smell of the wolf combined with just looking at the count was enough to make the snake lower its head once more. She laughed softly and turned to kiss his head“There there.” Turning away from the count, she began to waltz around the room and rolled her eyes. “You cannot be serious…you could never bore me.” As he mentioned the twins, her dark eyes turned to gaze upon the count in mild disgust. If it were anyone else who suggested such a thing, it would not have ended well. However, she knew Marulo meant no harm and was just curious. Shaking her head, she turned away and resumed walking around the room. “I wouldn’t let those men touch me if they were the last on this earth.” Esmeralda had never had a man and hoped she never did. Deep down she feared that if she should lay with a man, he would impregnate her and history would repeat itself. Men could not be trusted and she would not leave the fate of an innocent child in their hands.

Esme was lost in her lost thoughts but was soon pulled from them when the sound of a female voice entered the room. Turning her head, her eyes fell on Elvira assessing. Stepping towards her slowly, her hips swayed and Felix lifted his head to get a look at her as well. Tilting her head, Esme stepped close enough to reach out and lift her hair, her face leaning in close to inhale her scent. Her eyes closed as her mouth set in a thin line, her face tightening in concentration. After a few awkward moments, she let her go and walked away as if nothing happened. While walking towards the fireplace, she stroked Felix’s head as her accent was rolling off her tongue again “You were interrupting nothing important, I assure you.” Her eyes flicked between the succubus and the count and she count just smell the pheromones coming off of the both of them. Rolling her eyes, Esme’s head swiveled just in time to see Elvira face the door as a blush stained her cheeks. She couldn’t help but smile at that but she remained silent. There was something familiar about this woman and she was too eager to leave.

But their conversation was to be short lived, on the arrival of the female that had aroused the Count’s desire before, and it would seem just by seeing her again, it would have the same affect. ~Elvira~ the Count could only think her name as she appeared in the door. The young Roxburg looked astonishing. So immaculately dressed, the fine attention to detail with her gown, and the way her hair had been styled. He mentally started to undress her, imagining what it would feel like, to remove the pins that held her hair in place, and watch it cascade down her shoulders and back, like a torrent. The sight of her almost stole his breathe from his lungs. Such an affect this woman had on him. The fact he wore such fine black pants of silk did nothing to hide his arousal. The only thing to break his concentration was Esme’s retort, that Elvira was not interrupting anything important.

“My cousin jests, for I was curious as to her talents with…snakes.” The Count strode past Esme giving her something of a sly wink, then headed over to Elvira, were he did the gentlemanly thing, of taking up her hand and bringing it to his lips. Pressing them softly to her gloved hand, but letting them linger a second longer than was fashionable. His eyes lit up just by presence of her , hard to believe that she sought him out. It took a great deal of courage to enter the Wolf’s den. Elvria acted like a lamb…about to be slaughtered. Timid. The Count found it endearing. His smile reassuring, that she would come to no harm.

“I must say, you do look stunning, Lady Roxburg. If I were a painter, my brushes would be wet, and I would be trying to capture you on canvas.” The words spun were meant as they were implied, though it would make her wonder, just what brushes he meant. He moved to her side, gracefully, and placed a hand around the small of her back, and gestured her to enter his den. “Do come meet my cousin, the insatiable Esme.” By the way he kept her close to him, the Count was making it clear to Esme, he wanted this woman to be shown the respect of a leading pack member.

<3>

The hairs on the back of her neck stood on end once more and she simply knew The Count was standing close. Now that she was aware of him more closely, she seemed to have this sixth sense of when he was near. Thoughts were paid into actions when he took her hand in his much larger one to place a kiss upon her knuckles, holding it much longer than politeness dictated. She turned, her hand still within his and began to feel light-headed. Too close! Too close! Her mind screamed and it was all she could do not to faint right there.What the hell was wrong with her? She mentally slapped herself. But his scent was calling out to her, drawing her in and that’s when it clicked…for both her and her succubus. MATE!?!?! OH HELL NO!!!

This was simply NOT possible!! There was no way in the Nine Levels of Hell this man, this werewolf!, was her destined mate!

She had no time to step away from him for he had stepped to her side, still holding her hand while placing his other at the small of her back. Her whole body tensed as a jolt of desire, strong and potent lanced through her. She grit her teeth as she was lead across the room. “I must say, you do look stunning, Lady Roxburg. If I were a painter, my brushes would be wet, and I would be trying to capture you on canvas.”

Oh he was a smooth talker. Her free hand clenched at her side as she mentally struggled with her succubus. She wanted out. She wanted to bond and she wanted to do it NOW! A sheen of perspiration beaded on her brow as she fought for her much-valued self-control.

It was a mistake to come here. And now she wanted to leave as quickly as possible.

“Thank you for your kind words, My Lord, and for allowing to see me.” she stated, finally finding her voice. He introduced her to his ‘cousin’ and she turned to the woman. “A pleasure, madame.” she nodded. She turned back to The Count, pulling the locket out and placing it on the table before them. “You left this behind. I knew it meant much to you so I am returning it.”

Sighing, she spotted the mess she had made earlier in the room, the cushion’s foam and stuffing strewn about in her moment of madness. It was probably a good thing, since she didn’t go cutting herself. Amelia shuffled across and knelt down, picking up the bits of foam and stuffing it back into the ruined cushion. Thoughts turned back to the night’s events, and she came to realize that it wasn’t her fault. She couldn’t be the caretaker in other people’s lives, nor should she judge them for it. One way or another, the truth would come out, but it would have to happen from someone within the triangle, not her. As for her own misfortune at love…that had come from her own choice. Now at least, she realized where the fault lay, and it was like an awakening for her in a sense. If Lysander had cared for her at all, he would have said, but in the last hundred odd years, he never even spoke to her. Or even asked her to help with the kids. She doubted they even knew she existed. That was Melinda’s job, since she was in fact their grandmother.

Rising up, she felt a change in herself, like a light coming on. The only person that can make a difference in their lives is themselves. She knew what she had to do to change that. Taking the ruined cushion outside, she headed for the trash can. Glancing across, she saw the bedroom light on at Jennifer’s and Williams. No doubt, they were up late, talking about the night at the club. Half of her wished to be a fly on the wall, then the other was like…no. As she placed the ruined cushion in the trash, she heard a tiny meow, come from behind the bin. Curious, Amelia drew the bin back, to see a tiny grey kitten. With big blue eyes, it looked half starved. Timidly, it crawled out from behind the bin and sniffed at Amelia’s penguin slipper. Amelia’s heart almost stopped, right there, right then. She knelt down and picked up the kitty. So tiny in her hands. Poor little thing. Amelia tucked the kitten into her pajama pocket and then went back inside her apartment, whispering quietly to the kitty.

Taking the kitty out of her pocket, she placed it down on her couch, and started to run her finger along its tummy. So cute, it tried to cover up its face with its paws. ~”You must be hungry.”~ she thought to herself, and went off into the kitchen to see what she could rustle up. There was a small tin of tuna. Taking it out, she emptied the fish into a small plate, and then mashed it up with a fork, so it would be easier to eat. Amelia even added a small piece of parsley, like she was serving the cat a meal in a grand restaurant. Giggling to herself, she draped a tea cloth over her arm, and brought the small plate out for the kitty, who was now sitting up and watching TV. ~Dinner is served.~ Amelia placed down the dish on the couch, then sat down beside the kitty, who ate feverishly, while Amelia stroked its back, and went back to enjoying the TV show with her new friend.

<3>

Her attention was drawn back to The Count as he picked up the locket, running the metal links between his fingers. She couldn’t help but admire his hands. Large and strong, but they held her as if she were delicate china. He kept an arm about her waist, and it was all she could do not to tremble. He seemed to come to a decision for he turned to her, getting to his feet as he did so. He unhooked the clasp of the necklace and placed it around her throat, his fingers brushing over the skin of her neck. She wanted to bolt for the door right then and there and held herself still by sheer force of will.

“This chain once sat on the neck of a woman I loved with all my heart. It seems only fitting that it rests upon the neck of a woman, deserving of such a gift, rather than being kept in a box and forgotten.” he spoke as he adjusted the locket between her breasts. Damnation!! her mind screamed. And did he justGROWL?

She needed to get out of here.

“Thank you…for the gift…but I cannot accept.” she stated, getting to her feet with all the dignity she could muster under the circumstances. She stepped away from him, intent on removing the necklace that seeped with his scent from her skin but she was not paying attention to where she was. Her foot became entangled with that of the table’s leg and she went sprawling backwards. It was an unexpected accident and there was no time to act. Her head hit the floor…hard…and she blacked out…

“The young lady has taken a fall, and is injured. Bring my carriage, and have her taken back to the Roxburg family manor, where she is to be seen to by the physician, Doctor Johnathon Bianchi, at my request. Ensure that a messenger is sent to the Doctor of her condition at once.” Virgo then stepped aside, so the twins could enter and pick up the unconscious Elvira and remove her from the estate.

Once Elvira had been taken out carefully by the Twins, the Count would return to his place by the fireplace, and stare into the blazing fire, lost in his own thoughts. Elvira came to him….she gave off signals, of want and desire, dressed to please him, and yet when he showed care and tried to treat her as the lady she was, Elvira tried to flee, like a jack rabbit from a wolf. Yes, a wolf. She clearly was not ready for him….and he did not want to have to bed one that was unwilling. His face looked dark, like the onset of a storm.

Glancing over at Esme, he said:

“There….now she is safe from harm.”

<3>

A look of intrigue was what showed on the Count’s face, when the messenger delivered the invitation to the Count, that he attend a dinner at his earliest convenience with the Lady Roxburg. Handling the paper that had been written in her own hand, he brought the edge of the parchment to his lips and thought for a moment. At every turn, she shied away from him, even though he had shown his most gentlemanly side. He managed to keep his beast under control, and he did so out of love and respect for her. The Count had to wonder, what exactly brought on this sudden change, where she wished to apologize for her behavior towards him. Women were such fickle creatures, he concluded. The Count was not upset at her antics, more so worried that she had come to harm in her care.

Snapping his fingers, he had one of his servants leave their station, and bow low before him.

“Travel to Roxburg manor, and inform Lady Elvira, I shall dine with her at six o’clock this evening.”

“Very good, Sir.” The servant dashed outside, to take the Count’s carriage to the Roxburg hall, while the Count strode upstairs, to find something suitable to wear.

<3>
(thread change – Roxburg Manor)

Elvira looked down at her hands. Was that true? Did he honestly care about her or was he planning something more sinister? It was confusing and she wished she knew the answers.

Fanny took notice of the locket she was wearing and leaned in for a closer look. “How odd, my great grandmother had a locket like that. Its a real antique too. Said she got it from her great great grandmother. Where did you get it?”

“The Count said it was his most prized possession.” She opened the locket and showed the picture inside of it to Fanny. “It’s his first love. She died, killed, I think he said, and he kept this locket with her picture in it to remember her and their love by. He seems to think I look like her, which is silly, since I wasn’t born of this world. He gave it to me for some reason. I don’t know why he would part with it. It meant so much to him.”

Elvira was beginning to feel tired and her head was still slightly achy. She wanted to sleep. Sally stepped into the room with a tray and saw Elvira’s eyes starting to droop. “Elvira!” she exclaimed. Elvira’s eyes snapped open and she glared.

“What?”

“The doctor said you had to stay awake for the next few hours to make sure the concussion wasn’t serious.” Sally stated, placing the tray in her lap. There was a bowl of broth and some peppermint tea. “The tea is for your stomach. Make sure you eat and drink everything, young lady or I will send Cook up here.” Sally turned and left the room once more. Elvira watched her go, amused.

“Devil take that woman. She vexes me something awful…but she good to me.” Elvira smiled before she could stop herself. She had been discovering that ever since her visit with The Count, she’d been smiling at the oddest times. It was baffling what 24 hours in his presence had done to her.

She had discovered she actually had a heart.

“I am in so much trouble.” she sighed, the words holding a wealth of meaning.

“Now what did you do? Refuse to eat your soup?” This was now a scrubbed up and respectable looking Bart re entering the room. He could see that Fanny had worked her magic on his sister, and he had to admit, he was relieved. Fanny smiled and rose from where she had been sitting, and sashayed up to Bart, wrapping her arms around him. She looked up at him adoringly and purred. “Daaahling. I missed you so.” she got on her tipe toes and nuzzled his cheek affectionately. All the earlier anger had now subsided. Bart melted almost immediately, and held onto her, keeping his arms around her waist. “I’m so sorry…I really am. Just…everything…Father…the meeting…Sissy…it was too much.”At least he was being honest about it. No sense trying to hide the truth of the fact of how much he was unprepared for the new role that was thrust upon him. “What hurts the most….I never got to say goodbye…” This was fact. Fanny could only console him by saying. “You will do that at the funeral. Though…going to be hard to have a showing with no body.” Fanny had a point. Normally, they let people come and view the corpse, before they are laid to rest. As it stood, there was no corpse.

“There might be a corpse.” Bart finally said with an evil grin. “Whose?” Fanny asked….

“Juliette’s”

<3>

Taking a deep breath, Elvira set aside her tray and moved slowly to sit on the edge of the bed, staring at the lovebirds. “Barty…are you still angry with me?” Elvira wondered. She could take Juliette’s anger, it was a fact Elvira loathed the girl…but her brother, he was her best friend and she always felt guilty when he was upset with her and she tried to avoid it at all costs.

She sat there and waited for him to answer.

“Kitten…did you tell them the news?” Course, she hadn’t, since they had all been at each other’s throats. “Oh blimey! Elly…Bart asked me to marry him….and I said yes!she said bouncing and then flashed her engagement ring. Bart was beaming and then chuckled saying. “And I get the key to her chastity belt. Wohooo!” Fanny started to giggle snort and slap him silly, and the two started having a fake slapping war, before starting to kiss like fiends. They really were a pair.

<3>

If a month ago anyone had told Elvira she’d be happy about something, she would have torn their throat out and enjoyed every minute of it.

But now, watching her brother and her soon-to-be-sister-in-law reaffirm their love for one another…

She wanted that for herself…

So thinking, she got to her feet, fighting the slight dizziness she felt and went to her writing table. She scratched out a quick note before ringing for Sally.

“Yes, Miss Elvira? And I must say it’s nice to see you up and about.”

“Thank you, Sally. Could you please see that this message gets to Count Marulo, please?” she asked, passing over the sealed envelope before she could change her mind. Sally’s eyes couldn’t have gone any wider if they’d been attached to springs.

“I’ll see to it personally.” Sally bobbed a curtsey and quickly left. Needing some air, she ignored Bart and Fanny and stepped out onto her balcony, taking in the scents of the gardens below.

Would he accept?

Elvira stood watching Sally and the other servants preparing an area in the gardens for the dinner she was hosting with The Count. She was never more nervous in her life.

Sally walked past, patting her arm.

“You need to be calm down before you faint.” Sally warned. Elvira nodded and took several deep breaths.

“I don’t know why I’m so bloody nervous. It’s just dinner.” Elvira stated.

“But it’s dinner with a man that you do not plan on adding to the menu…” Sally told her. “…unless you want to.” she stated under her breath. Elvira heard it anyway and tried to fight the blush that stained her cheeks.

“Sally! It’s not like that at all. He’s…different.”

“Keep telling yourself that, lovey.” Sally snickered.

“One of these days I’m going to forget you’re a friend and not a servant.” Elvira scowled.

“We’ll see.” Sally giggled, turning to go inside.

Elvira began to pace, the swish of her gown sounding loud in her own ears.

The Count strolled through the sumptuous gardens that edged the Roxburg family estate, its small candle lit vases illuminating the way, creating a joyous effect under the canopy of large oaks, and smaller bushes of the darkest green. Hard to believe that this same household would soon be fare welling one of it’s own. Dressed immaculately in a black suit, with matching shirt tie and boots, he cut a debonair figure, his hands held behind him and he had that noble air about him. There was no smugness, nor smile upon his lips, though his eyes told a different story as they searched for Elvria.

He was of course to be rewarded, for his sensitive hearing picked up the sound of the swish of her skirt, and the scent of her delicate perfume was to him, overpowering. Personally, he preferred the scent of a woman’s own musk, as opposed to be treated to the floral oils of a summer’s bouquet.

“I believe you were expecting me, Lady Roxburg.” The Count said, in that deep baritone voice of his. He spied Sally, and then raised a curt eyebrow. “You have not introduced me to your sister. Charmed, Madame.” He said this with a light bow, unaware she was the Lady’s maid.

<3>

His voice, deep and richer than sin, caused her to jump in startlement. She whirled around, a hand over her heart. He was looking at Sally, an eyebrow raised.

“You have not introduced me to your sister. Charmed, Madame.”

Sally looked from him to Elvira and couldn’t supress the giggle. “Sister? My Lord, you wound me to the quick.” Sally grinned, executing a curtsey before him. “I am Sally Otterburn, Lady Elvira’s personal maid. And it is a pleasure to meet you.” She grinned. “Enjoy your meal.” And with that, she took her leave before Elvira could ask her to stay as a chaperone.

There was silence between them for a few moments as Elvira wondered what to do first. He simply stared at her as if he were memorizing her every feature. She did make a beautiful figure in the black and red dress.

She seemed to look everywhere but at him, her nerves wound so tight, she could probably fly to the moon.

Calm down! He’s not going to eat you! she berated herself. And would that be a bad thing if he did? her succubus snickered. Her cheeks heated as she began to imagine what he would be like in bed. She needed to shut that train of thought down now before she made a fool of herself again.

“Would you care for a drink?” she finally asked.

She gulped, hard, sure as hell he could detect her nervousness. She needed to calm down. It was just a dinner after all.

She allowed the contact, inch by inch relaxing under his kind regard.

“A red wine, M’lady. If you have it.” he answered as he released her hand.

“That can be arranged.” she agreed, ringing a small bell that was resting on the table near her hand. Lurch lumbered into view.

“You…raaang?”

“The Merlot Red, if you please.” she requested. He nodded and did as she asked. While they waited, she turned back to The Count. “Won’t you please have a seat?” She asked, pointing to one of the two chairs at the small dining table that had been set up for them.

Now Elvira was being the hostess, and the Count played along. He felt her nervousness start to ease up, and that may have had something to do with the manner in which he was courting her. She needed a firm hand, but one that did not try to be too overpowering. He politely walked with her over to where the seats were, and with a dancer’s grace, he swept in behind her and withdrew the seat, ready to help her sit down at the table. The Count was pulling out all the stops, ensuring that she was treated as the Lady she in fact was.

“After you.” He said, waiting for her to make herself comfortable, as he assisted to glide the chair in. Once she had her skirts draped around her fashionably, the Count then took a seat opposite her, making sure to undo the lower button of his jacket first.

“Such a beautiful garden. I imagine you spend a lot of quality time here, Lady Roxburg.” This was going to be interesting, for the Count was not using any suggestive talk, to arouse her succubus nature, then again….he really didn’t have to do much to awaken that side of her.

<3>

“You…confuse me.” she stated, her eyes mesmerized by his. “I don’t know why. I never expected myself to have feelings for anybody except Barty and Alice…but you…it’s odd.” she stated. “This has never happened to me before. I guess that’s why my behavior around you has been less than ladylike.”

Unconciously, she found her own hand, the one he was touching, tangled within his own, touching him as gently as he was touching her.

“I wouldn’t have you any other way, Elvira. You are a creature of divine beauty, strength and passion. Why curb all that before me?” Under the table, she would be able to feel his foot disappear up her skirts. “Let go of your inhibitions, and be who you are. As I said to you once before, I can take it.”

<3>

The succubus within her was waking up and she had to grit her teeth to prevent it from taking control.

“You…do not…know what you ask.” she whispered tightly.

“Let ….her….out.”

<3>

With an inhuman growl, Elvira backed away from the table, knocking over her chair in the process. She turned away from him, hunched over. Her skin seemed to ripple as she struggled to keep the succubus at bay.

“Do not fight what you are! Why do you deny yourself?” she could hear the succubus rage in her head. And that was the crux of the matter. Why was she fighting who she was? She wasn’t just a Roxburg. She was a Demon of Hell, the Granddaughter of Lucifer, Lord of Hell. A succubus. A creature of sin and sex.

The succubus broke free with an almost tangible flare of her aura. Elvira’s skin took on a supernatural glow as she turned to face The Count.

Her eyes were sparkling with the promise of dark delights and hidden lusts. Her body was a painter’s dream.

He would find himself staring into the face of Elvira, Demoness of Sexual Delights.

“So beautiful.” The Count uttered, still relaxing on his chair. Why didn’t he get up, why did he seem to be drinking in her form, for it was easy to see that he was well and truly aroused. He had other plans. He started to undo the tie around his neck, drawing it down, then a few buttons of his shirt, to show a hint of skin. Then…he simply said;

“Come…to me.” His voice rich and the words rolled off his tongue. He was still dominant, even in this situation. She may be the Demoness of Sexual Delights, but he was the Alpha wolf, of the Bavarian line. “You..are mine.”

<3>

“Mmm. That sounds…delightful.” she murmured, her voice dark with sensual promise. So saying, her hands moved to the front ties of her dress, slowly unlacing them before his gaze. She stopped just above the swell of her breasts and ran her fingers slowly across her skin. “Do I…delight you…M’Lord?” she grinned, reaching forward to undo the rest of the buttons of his shirt so she could graze her nails across his skin.

“You do indeed.” The Count chortled. This was so worth the wait, after stripping back the formalities that had them practically in straight jackets, how to act, walk, talk and dine. No, this was now primal urges and lust overshadowing societies standards. Oh if only the old biddies in the tea shop could see this scene, they would have wet their knickers in excitement.

When Elvira stopped unlacing the front ties of her dress, the Count saw the locket that rest between her cleavage. This brought an inner warmth to him. He gave her the locket in a manner, like a Man who sought to make claim upon her. Now, with her upon his lap, and starting to undress him so she could run her nails down his chest, he had one question;

“Does my Demoness….love thy Master with whole heart?”

<3>

~A new beginning~

With his head in her lap, it was tipped to the side. Her voice filtering through as she whispered in his ear. The kiss of an angel, had granted each protection, though they were dark creatures by rights. Slowly, Virgo’s eyes opened, those same ones that had watched over Elvira for so long. The wolf that loved his mate without question, and faithfully, acting only to protect her whenever he thought she was in danger. This love had transcended the boundaries of what was viewed as good and evil. He reached up with his hand, and gently stroked her cheek, seeing her looking tearful, yet happy.

“You couldn’t let me go on alone, my Love. Your love brought me back.” He tried to sit up, but it was an effort. Successfully, he did and then as he pushed up off the ground, he extended his hand to hers. Love filling his eyes, as he said.

“Does this mean we are still getting married?”

He then drew her up into his arms, and kissed her with all the love she had given him.

<3>

Virgo twirled Elvira around the dance floor, like he was a strictly ballroom star, and soon captured the attentions of many of the other couples out there. He had only eyes for Elvira, and lost himself in her gaze, only to be awoken from it by her question

“Darling, you have that look in your eye again. Do you want my clothes to sizzle and melt right here?” Elvira squeezed his buttocks, and he smirked at her cheeky ways. “Maybe I do, but can I help it? I am a man…sort of.” He played along with her banter, but in the back of his mind, he was already formulating a plan on how to whisk her away. But it turns out that someone else wanted to do the whisking, and not with Elvira.

“May I cut in…I know its bold of me, but I believe good things should be shared.” It was Isabella, who was now fueled by drink to be daring. She looked up at the Count expectantly, since he knew as a gentleman, it would be difficult to say no.

Bar

As Damion sat at the bar, a tall gent came up beside him and made an order for a martini, before slouching and then tossing his packet of cigarettes down. He could see that Damion was eyeing the ladies, but this chap…was all eyes on him. He spoke with a smooth american accent, as the bartender gave him his drink.

“Same girls, every ball. Its like a whose who of who I fucked before.” He grinned and then nudged Damion. “Bet you have dipped your wick in a few of those dollies. Name’s Sam, Sam Malone. Don’t think we have met.”

<3>

“Sweetheart…you’re man enough for me and then some.” she grinned, kissing the tip of his nose. Their play was interrupted by the most annoying voice Elvira had ever heard.

“May I cut in…I know its bold of me, but I believe good things should be shared. Both Marulos turned their heads to look at the blonde woman who stood nearby. Her cheeks were flushed as if she’d imbibed in one too many martinis. Elvira’s Succubus growled low in her throat, sensing a threat.

“No, you may not.” Elvira hissed, angry at this little tart trying to steal her man from her. She wrapped herself around her husband, not releasing him from her clutches. “Go away. You’re disturbing us.”

Bar

Damion was watching his sister, ignoring some of the bolder women who tried to get him to dance. Another man moved up beside him to order a martini before facing the floor himself. He leaned close enough for Damion to smell his cologne and his wolf sat up in attention.

“Same girls, every ball. Its like a whose who of who I fucked before.” The man grinned, bumping Damion with his elbow. Damion turned to look at him, noticing he was very good-looking.

“They don’t present much of a challenge, no matter how dolled up they get.” Damion sighed, sipping his drink.

“Bet you have dipped your wick in a few of those dollies. Name’s Sam, Sam Malone. Don’t think we have met.”

“Eh. Not tried really. I’m not a bedhopper like some of these crazy dames. Even the married ones make my skin crawl.” Damion replied. He held out a hand as Sam intoduced himself. “Damion Marulo. Pleasure.” he grinned.

“Go away. You’re disturbing us.” Elvira snarled, clutching onto her husband, like he was an antelope and she was a lioness. The feisty and drunk Isabella licked her lips and stood with her hands on her hips. “Wow…that desperate that you can’t even let your partner dance with another? Don’t hold him too tight, toots, you might suffocate him, and he will come find me later.” She reached up and pulled on the back of Elvira’s hair to give it a hard yank, before marching off into the crowd of stunned onlookers. It looked like the party was really getting started now.

Chester was dancing with Dominique and witnessed his friend trying to cut in with the Marulos. “Some people…really. Hope your not a she bitch like that one.” He said with a nasally air. Chester let her go, and bowed politely. “Well…I need to find the boys room. Enjoy the night.” he stuffed his hands in his pockets and left Dominique standing in the middle of the dance floor.

Bar

“Eh. Not tried really. I’m not a bed hopper like some of these crazy dames. Even the married ones make my skin crawl.”Damion said, speaking from experience no doubt. Sam raised his glass to tap Damion’s in a show of solidarity.. “Women…I think what turned me off was this one…supposedly from a good family, so my parents said. Was all over me, and supposed to be a virgin. Gah…reeked of that fishy smell. What is it with them and hygiene? Ugh. I shudder at the very thought. Was going to ask if she was secretly a mermaid before tossing her out of my bed. Never looked back.”

Damion was surprised. Eyes wide, he stared at Sam as if he was seeing the man in a whole new light. And the conclusions he was drawing were making his pulse race.

“Not all dames are like that.” he stated. He pointed to his sister, who was now standing alone in the middle of the floor, looking ready to kill. “Uh oh. I better go diffuse her before she sets the room on fire with her stare. But don’t disappear. I’d like to talk to you a little more.” he requested. Before Sam could answer, Damion strode across the floor and swept his sister into his arms.

Dance Floor

Dominique had been listening to Chester wax poetic about his many business ventures from the moment he took her out onto the dance floor and she was doing all she could not to yawn in his face. She could see her brother talking to an attractive looking man at the bar and her parents weren’t far from where she was, undressing each other with their eyes once more. She shook her head at their antics, but amused to see that they only had eyes for one another, unlike others in the room.

And who was the blonde trying to insert herself between her mother and father? Dominique glared at the back of the woman’s head as she tried to get her father to dance with her but was soundly rebuffed by her mother. When the woman yanked on her mother’s hair in a fit of temper, it was all her father could do to stop Elvira from going after her. Her mother did have a wicked temper, especially when her demon was near the surface.

“Some people…really. Hope your not a she bitch like that one.” Chester caught her attention with his words and she looked at him.

“I beg your pardon?” she scowled. Her temper was every bit as volatile as her mother’s. But he simply stepped away from her with a bow.

“Well…I need to find the boys room. Enjoy the night.”

“Wow…that desperate that you can’t even let your partner dance with another? Don’t hold him too tight, toots, you might suffocate him, and he will come find me later.” the blonde grinned, staring at Virgo as if he were her next meal. Elvira’s eyes began to smoulder in anger. When the woman yanked on her hair, dislodging the clip Sally had painstakingly pinned in place and causing her long locks to cascade down her back and shoulders like a dark, silky waterfall, Elvira growled and made to leap at the woman, claws extended, ready to rend skin from bone. If it wasn’t for her husband’s arm, firm as steel, around her waist, the dance floor would have most likely been painted red with blood.

“Let me go! I’ll rip her face off!” Elvira growled, struggling in her husband’s grip.

Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 10/21/2013 06:45AM by LadyBelz.

Sam raised his glass to Damion, and was going to ask him something, when Damion pointed out his sister on the dance floor, who had been abandoned by her dance partner, Chester. “Uh oh. I better go diffuse her before she sets the room on fire with her stare. But don’t disappear. I’d like to talk to you a little more.” Sam sat himself down on the bar stool and replied “You got it, I am going to enjoy this martini, maybe another till you get back.” Watching Damion stride away, Sam picked the olive out of his martini with a toothpick and popped it in his mouth, chewing with a happy expression. This night was not so bad after all.

Dance Floor

“Let me go! I’ll rip her face off!” Elvira made an attempt to lunge at Isabella, who fell back slightly in shock at the sudden and swift reaction of the feisty succubus. Thankfully, the Count had a good grip on his wife, and pulled her back into him, whilst glaring angrily at Isabella for upsetting his wife. Just then, Rupert showed up and asked politely. “Is there any trouble here?”He saw the manner in which the Count was trying to restrain his wife, who now had her hair down her shoulders. The drunken Isabella scoffed and then spat at the floor. “Bitch tried to attack me. She’s lucky I don’t have her arrested for assault. I’m telling my Father.” And with that, she staggered off into the crowd, with Chester not far behind. Clearly the two were in cahoots, and now the game was pretty obvious to the Count. He was upset by this, and then Madeline came over and picked up the delicate hair pin. She chewed on her bottom lip and asked. “Why not come upstairs to my room, and we can get your hair fixed. I am so sorry about all this.” Looking over her shoulder at the departing Lady Chamberlain. “Oooo she is an alley cat that one.”

<3>

“Why not come upstairs to my room, and we can get your hair fixed. I am so sorry about all this….Oooo she is an alley cat that one.”

“Who the hell is she?” Elvira demanded, brushing her long locks behind her ears. Sally was going to be pissed that her hard work had been destroyed. “If she comes near my husband again, I will tear her apart.” She looked at Maddie. “Thank you for the offer, my dear. I would appreciate the help, although when I report this disaster to my lady’s maid, she may hunt the little tart down herself for destroying her hard work.”

Dominique and Damion were by her side in an instant. “Mother, are you all right?” Damion asked.

“I’m fine. Keep an eye on your father. Maddie’s going to try and repair the damage….although knowing your father, he’ll just mess it up again.” She gave her husband a saucy wink, while the twins groaned good-naturedly. Elvira linked her arm through Madeline’s, waiting for the young woman to lead her away.

“She is the daughter of a business partner…or should I say soon to be ex. She was at our house the other day, and got a little touchy feely in my den in front of her father, it was most unsettling.” The Count said honestly. He never hid this sort of thing from his wife, but in truth, he never even considered another woman, since it was clear there was only one in his heart, and that was Elvira.

Rupert furrowed his brow, upset that the Marulos had been treated this way in his home. He straightened his tux and then said sternly. “I will go find her and her father and ask them to leave. I hope this doesn’t make you think less of us, we do not encourage such behavior in our home.” Madeline waited to take Elvira upstairs, where she and her maid can fixt the damage done by Isabella.

“I’m fine. Keep an eye on your father. Maddie’s going to try and repair the damage….although knowing your father, he’ll just mess it up again.”

“Oh my!” Madeline gushed, and threaded her arm through Elvria’s to take her off upstairs.

Virgo now looked lost without his wife, even though she made the saucy remark about how he would mess up her hair again in a blink. He gave the kids a half smile, thinking they might start on him if he made any comment in return in a public place. Virgo then wandered off towards the bar, and ordered a whiskey, when he got there.

Upstairs – Madeline’s room

Walking in with Elvira, Madeline was so embarrassed about what happened, and she showed Elvira to her dresser. “I have my maid Caroline help you with your hair.” Stepping to the door, she sung out and Caroline appeared, looking slightly disheveled. “Where have you been, Caroline? And why is your buttons all done up crooked?” The maid looked down and gasped, then blushed fiercely, as the butler ran past in the hall way.

“Oh my!” Madeline exclaimed.

<3>

“Dad, let me get this one for you.” Damion requested, putting a couple of bills down on the bartop before his father could lay down his money. “Dad, I think you should keep away from that crazy dame. She looked to me like she was eying you for a tuxedo…and I don’t mean the kind you wear to this kind of party.” he warned, thinking it may have been necessary the way his mother reacted. He didn’t like to think the worst of his father, he was still a handsome man for his age. But his mother meant the world to him and he didn’t want to see her hurt. He knew the times as they were, where men and women changed bed partners, married or not, quite frequently and he would have hated to see his parents decend into that type of behavior. And being what his father was, he understood that wolves mated for life, forsaking all others.

He should have known that his warning was unneccesary. His father had his eye on one woman and one woman only.

Damion offered to buy his father his drink and took the liberty of placing down some notes. This was unusual for Virgo, to see his son offer to buy his old man a drink, but what was even more surprising was the need for Damion to express his feelings on what happened.

“Dad, I think you should keep away from that crazy dame. She looked to me like she was eyeing you for a tuxedo…and I don’t mean the kind you wear to this kind of party.” 

Virgo raised a brow and then cocked his head. “You honestly think I would give that woman some sort of come on, when you know how I feel about your mother?’ Virgo was trying not to take offence to that but it was damn hard. For all the times his kids joked about how to in detail he was about his relationship with their mother, it was a hard pill to swallow now being told how he should act.

“You do understand that when I was with your mother, I marked her for life. You …you don’t do that unless you intend to be true and faithful. If something were to happen to your mother, it would be the end of me. We are connected on a level few can understand. She is a part of me, and without her…I hate to think.” Virgo took up his glass of whiskey and drank it down in one hit, slamming down the glass and then rising.

“I’m going to go find your mother.”

And with that, he walked away….a very proud and annoyed Alpa.

Sam sidled up beside Damion and uttered. “Might be a good idea to let him cool off.”

<3>

Uh oh. Now his father was angry.

“Dad…I was just-” Damion began but his father ran roughshod all over his words.

“You do understand that when I was with your mother, I marked her for life. You …you don’t do that unless you intend to be true and faithful. If something were to happen to your mother, it would be the end of me. We are connected on a level few can understand. She is a part of me, and without her…I hate to think…”

Damion felt ashamed of himself for thinking the worse of his own father. He should have known better. Virgo downed his drink in one go and slammed the glass on the bar.

“I’m going to go find your mother.” And he stalked away.

“Dammit.” Damion sighed, watching his father move away from him. Sam moved close to his side.

“Might be a good idea to let him cool off.”

“I didn’t mean to upset him, you know. My mother and father…they’re each other’s whole world and I don’t want to see that destroyed. It would kill all of us.” Damion muttered. He looked at Sam, caught by his eyes and how warm they were. That fluttery feeling was back in his chest.

——

Madeline’s Room

Elvira laughed as Maddie looked shocked by what Caroline had been up to.

“No harm, no foul.” Elvira grinned, knowing she herself had been a participant in a few scandalous liasons with her own husband over the years…the Carriage Incident is still talked about from time to time.

“Maddie, I can’t thank you enough for doing this for me.” Elvira turned to look at the young woman, pointing to her recoiffed hair. “Even if Virgo will simply track me down and mess it up again.” she grinned.

“Sounds like some kind of fairy tale to me. I thought that there were no happy ever afters. Guess your folks are the exception to the rule. I seen so many unfaithful women…marry for money, some old guy then go prowling the speakeasies for some hot slab of meat.” Sam was telling Damion how he viewed women of their generation. He was not fond of them at all, and found his happiness in the company of men, and right now, he was more than happy with this conversation with Damion. “Another drink?” He asked…getting ready to summon the bartender.

Madeline’s room

Virgo was not in a good mood, and he didn’t even knock when he tracked down his mate, who was thanking Madeline for helping her get her hair up again. She was joking about how Virgo would bring it down again, and this was when he appeared behind the three women.

“May I have a word with my wife, please?’ The Count asked. Normally he would have barked the order in this kind of mood, and so it was something that he asked…nicely. If they left the room he would stand in behind his wife, and say to her

“You don’t believe I would actually consider a woman like Isabella? Our son, just gave me some lecture down stairs now, about integrity. Is it not enough how much I display my affections, and be then told by my son…not to entertain such notions with that sleazy woman?”

The alpha was deeply hurt, and this was his way of lashing out.

<3>

xOEsmeOx

Genevieve was actually starting to enjoy herself at the party when she heard a commotion coming from across the dance floor. Her partner set her down just in time for the angel to look around and see Isabella pulling a woman’s dark hair. Raising an eyebrow, she muttered“Now that’s class.” The man tried to keep dancing with her but she was firmly rooted to the spot. Turning to look at him, she offered an apologetic smile “I’m sorry, darling. I’m feeling a bit light-headed. Thank you for a lovely time, though.”

He seemed disappointed but he bowed his head respectfully nonetheless with a gentle smile. “Should you need another reason to smile, miss…You can find me at the bar.” Picking up her hand, he placed soft kiss on it before turning to head for the bar.

Genny watched him walk away for a moment before she heard Elvira snarling to get after the blonde. Turning around, she actually began to laugh at the spectacle. It was both pleasant and an alarming surprise to see the succubus after so many years, and she was just as feisty as ever. Reaching up to place her fingertips at her chin, the angel continued to giggle as she watched Elvira speak to her family on the matter.

She stood there waiting to see what happened when she noticed the stranger speaking to Virgo. He seemed to know the count, and that had Genevieve’s eyebrows knit together in confusion. Seeing the group disperse, she walked quickly over to Rupert before he had a chance to get away. Reaching out to touch his arm gently to get his attention, Genny smiled warmly and raised an eyebrow “I had no idea you were chummy with the Marulos…Allow a girl to be nosy and ask how that could be?”

“May I have a word with my wife, please?” By the tone of his voice, something had happened while she was gone and it was her job as his mate to calm him down before he hurt someone.

“I’m sorry. We shouldn’t be but a moment, Madeline.” Elvira agreed, not taking her eyes from her husband’s angry face. She waited until both women left before she stood. “What’s wrong, Virgo?”

“You don’t believe I would actually consider a woman like Isabella? Our son, just gave me some lecture down stairs now, about integrity. Is it not enough how much I display my affections, and be then told by my son…not to entertain such notions with that sleazy woman?”

Elvira’s eyes widened in surprise. “Did Damion actually think that of you? I swear I don’t know where his head is at some days.” she sighed. She stood in front of her husband, placing her palms flat against his chest. “Darling, of course I don’t believe you’d take up with another woman. Number one, It would cause us both great pain. And number two, I love you and only you. You were it for me the moment I laid eyes on you and no other man can even possibly compare. So how can any other woman compare to myself next to you?” Elvira was not being vain, she was speaking true. So saying, she pulled the strap of her dress from her shoulder, where the claiming mark he’d given her many moons ago still stood out in stark relief upon her skin. “I am yours as you are mine. No one can seperate us without proclaiming our deaths.” She let her aura flare, touching her mind to his so he could see, with every fiber of her being, that they were one body, one heart, one soul. She took his hand and pressed it to the mark on her shoulder, staring him in his eyes. “Yours, darling. Always yours. Never doubt that, just as I never doubt that you are mine. That little tart doesn’t know who the hell she’s messing with and I will be more than happy to beat it into her skull. Partner or no business partner.”

She was angry all over again on her husband’s behalf. Someone had questioned his honor and integrity and it pained her slightly that it was her own flesh and blood that had done so. She made a mental note to discuss lifemate bonds a bit more thoroughly with her youngest child at the first opportunity. For now, her focus was her husband and mate.

She stepped away from him, and with a thought, locked the bedroom door and windows from outside intrusion. This needed to be done. Virgo needed to express his dominance over his mate once more. She drew the straps of her dress down her arms and let the material pool at her feet. She stood before him in only the jewelry around her neck, the garters holding her stockings upon her legs and her shoes. She turned away from him and knelt on all fours upon the floor, submitting to his will as her dominant mate. She spoke not a word as she performed this action. No words needed to be said.

She arched her back and purred in delight as he moved behind her, pulling her legs apart. She waited in anticipation of what was to come. The growl he emitted was deep and throaty and she could hear the longing within it. He knelt over her back, the rough hairs of his chest brushing her skin. He was rubbing his scent upon her, claiming her more thoroughly as his. Without preamble, he pushed his thick manhood into her body and didn’t stop until his balls were pressed flat against her body. She gasped at the sensation and moaned huskily. She still did not speak, it was not her right to do so, nor did she give in to the demands of her body to meet his thrusts with her own. His free hand clutched at her right breast as his hips snapped back and forward.

His hot breath left moisture upon her neck and she bowed her head, submission in every line of her body as his excitement grew.

This was animal mating at its most primal. Alpha to Beta, Dominant to Submissive. She accepted her role fully, bending to his will eagerly and without struggle.

Her body relaxed further in his embrace as she panted like a bitch in heat (and unknown to her…she actually was), little moans of pleasure teasing past her lips as he swelled within her, larger than ever.

“Forever and always yours.” she groaned throatily, clasping the hand with her own as it laid upon her breast.

“I had no idea you were chummy with the Marulos…Allow a girl to be nosy and ask how that could be?” Rupert heard the voice of the girl that had bummed a cigarette off him out by the pool area of the back landing. The same girl that was bored with the party. Her sudden enthusiasm was surprising to say the least. Rupert had a quizzical expression and then replied with a chuckle. “I find it unusual that you know the Marulos, and you don’t have a clue who I am?

Did she even know he was the wealthy tycoon that owned the very house she was standing in, or even that this was his party? Amused by it, he didn’t wait for her reply, but carried on with the enchanting tale of how he met the Marulos.

“The Count is an avid hunter, and when I was on a tour of the United Kingdom, he was guest shot at the Tuckley’s hunt week. We found a common interest in guns and all things to do with hunting, and from there our friendship has grown throughout the years. He is a dear friend, and a noble man. Devoted husband and father. Elvira is a lucky woman, for I know many would love to take her place.”

His knowledge of the Marulos was extensive, if she wanted to know more. He offered his hand to shake and introduced himself.

“Rupert….Rupert Dangerfield. Welcome to my home.”

<3>

Now their movements were more fluid, as she bucked back to his timed thrust, and soon the room filled with the sounds of their mating. His grunts and her sweet moans of Ecstasy. Skin slapping hard against the other, and then he started to bite the back of her neck, closing his eyes, and losing himself to their love. Elvira would be able to feel the hardness growing and the size increasing. To watch them, it was an act of beauty, natural and free. How their love should be. Pulling on her skin with his teeth, the last few thrusts were forceful, and she could feel him stiffen as he was so close. The perfect timing for her to start to experience her orgasm. Rubbing her special spot inside, they would be able to cum in unison, and experience their utopia.

<3>

“Virgo!” she panted hard as his teeth sank into the back of her neck, not hard enough to cause pain and leave a mark but to let her know he was with her the entire way. She moaned, feeling every vein, the hairs brushing her back and her buttocks, the balls smacking against her and she cried out. It was the signal he seemed to be waiting for as his thrusts grew harder, deeper, as he clamped his hands tighter against her breast and hip.

Not caring if anyone heard, she screamed out her pleasure…and as before, the very foundation of the Dangerfield Estate began to shake, causing people to begin screaming about earthquakes and ducking beneath tables.

Ballroom

Damion had been having a pleasant conversation with Sam when the walls began to shake and a primal scream echoed through the estate. Damion’s gaze sought out his sister’s where she had been dancing with a young man. Dominique was glaring at him. She had seen their father storm off earlier and had asked him what he’d said to set him off. When Damion explained, Dominique punched him in the shoulder, hard enough to hurt and told him to ask their mother about the true nature of lifemate bonds. Damion felt like an absolute heel.

“Mother and Father.” he mouthed to her. Her expression cleared like rain clouds on a sunny day and she nodded in understanding before returning her attention back to her companion.

The shaking slowly began to subside and Damion breathed a sigh of relief. It seemed as if his mother had gotten his father calm once more and he made note that he would apologize to him the first chance he got.

He returned his attention back to Sam.

No words were needed….

<3>

Sam passed him a plate with the newly made sandwich and some crisps before walking around the counter. “Excuse me while I go put on something comfortable, these clothes feel so rigid.”

Before Damion could answer, Sam was already walking toward an area Damion just noticed. It was wide open and he could clearly see the bed taking up the space in the center. Damion’s mouth dropped open in shock as Sam undressed before his very eyes and Damion got a good long look at the spectacular body before him. The muscles of his back were well-defined and he watched on as they flexed and twisted with Sam’s movements. Damion’s eyes followed the lines of the body as Sam dropped trou and saliva pooled in the corner of Damion’s mouth as he caught his first glimpse of Sam’s naked arse. It was a work of art and he had the sudden urge to run his hands over those perfectly rounded globes.

Sam pulled on a loose pair of pants and Damion quickly turned away, focusing on his sandwich before Sam caught wind that he’d been staring.

He returned to the kitchen and took up his own plate before moving toward the couch. Damion joined him a moment later, trying very hard not to stare at Sam’s naked chest, and the light trail of hair leading beneath the waistband of his pants.

He looked so comfortable, and so tantalizing that Damion had trouble concentrating on his own dinner. Sam took a bite of his sandwich and chewed thoughtfully. “Not as good as Joe’s…but it’ll do. Hope you like yours.”

Damion yanked his gaze away from Sam’s chest and took a bite of his own sandwich. The explosion of flavor across his tongue had him inadvertently moaning in delight.

“This is delicious!”

Yes, he found Damion most attractive, and had virtually been going through in his mind what he would love to do to him, but he had to bury that way down inside himself, and allow Damion to get to know him, as a person first. So far, he felt he was doing a damn good job. One thing that made Sam smile, was there was a small trail of mayo on Damion’s chin, and Sam leaned over and used his finger to capture it, before sticking his finger in his mouth and sucking the mayo off.

“Heh, sorry, didn’t want to embarrass you.” Sam said, going back to finishing his sandwich.

<3>

He was uncomfortably aware that he now had a raging hard on and he strategically placed his plate in his lap, trying not to make it obvious of what he was doing.

But he was mesmerized when Sam pulled his own finger into his mouth and sucked the mayo off.

“Heh, sorry, didn’t want to embarrass you.”

Damion gulped, trying to form words around a suddenly dry throat.

“No problem.” he croaked. “Thank you for noticing.” He turned away, his cheeks flushed with arousal as he returned to his own sandwich.

“Damion….it’s okay.” Sam started, moving the plate to the table, and then bringing his hand back, only this time, he started to slowly massage Damion’s hardness through his pants. Sam edged closer, and you could see the look on his face, that he was infatuated with him.

“Tell me to stop….if this is too much.” Sam whispered, his lips close to Damion’s ear, as his fingers undid Damion’s pants, and his hand delved inside, and he started to stroke him harder, from the base to the tip. His breath was hot and ragged upon Damion’s neck. The two men upon the couch, now being intimate as the lights of New York shined upon them.

<3>

“Damion…it’s okay.” Sam whispered, returning his hand to Damion’s lap. Damion gulped harder, struggling to breath as desire crashed through his body, swift and hard. “Tell me to stop…if this is too much.” Sam’s breath ghosted across his ear and Damion’s eyes slid closed, his cock jumping in his pants. He didn’t dare move as Sam undid his pants, but he let out an unmanly “Eeek!” when a hand not his own touched his bare cock. Sam pressed his forehead to Damion’s cheek, his hot breath ragged across the skin of his neck as he was stroked.

“Sam…” Damion moaned. He never felt anything like this before and it was rather startling to him. But it felt so right.

He drew his hand away for a moment, and undid the tie of his cotton pants, so now Damion could see Sam’s throbbing member, which had grown in size and was plainly visible. He gave it a light stroke, then went back to handling Damion’s as he licked his lips.

“I can’t keep myself from touching you, Damion. Feel free to run now…or I am going to take you here, on this couch.”The alpha warned, his face glowing with desire. He then leaned over and kissed Damion hungrily, his hand now pulling on Damion’s cock, as his own tapped his thigh.

<3>

“I’ll stop if you want, Damion.” Sam repeated, his hand still in motion. Damion couldn’t even find the words to express what he was feeling. He shook his head, not knowing what to say.

He made a disappointed sound as Sam released him from his hot grip and couldn’t look away when the man he was quickly becoming infatuated with removed his own pants. Damion inhaled sharply as he got his very first look at another man’s cock. It was no different than his own as far as where it was. But the size of it had him drooling. Sam touched himself under Damion’s hot gaze before his touch returned to Damion’s own hardness.

“I can’t keep myself from touching you, Damion. Feel free to run now…or I am going to take you here, on this couch.” was the only warning Damion received before Sam’s mouth was covering his own, passions ignited. Damion couldn’t protest even if he wanted to. Sam’s mouth was hot and sensual, his tongue sliding against his own and the hand on his cock a silken sheath.

Damion didn’t know who moved first, but he suddenly found himself pinned to the couch on his back, his hardness trapped between their bodies and Sam’s rubbing hard into his still-clothed thigh.

“Oh fuck!” Damion gasped, releasing Sam’s mouth as he tossed his head back with a needy sound. This was better than even what his own dreams had conjured up and he didn’t know if he wanted it to stop.

“This will feel so good, Damion.” Sam said with a husky tone, as he got between his legs, and then started to lick from the base of Damion’s cock, right up to the tip, making sure Damion could both see and feel it. Sam closed his eyes, as his tongue darted and flicked the head, and then without warning, he parted his lips, and took him inside his mouth, all the while running his hands up and down Damion’s sides. At first the sucking was strong, but slow, with his tongue lapping under the shaft. His head started to bob up and down, and hopefully Damion enjoyed Sam’s attentions.

<3>

Sam moved over him and Damion’s eyes snapped open when he felt a hot breath ghost over his twitching member. Sam was staring at him over the purple head and Damion felt all the blood he had left in his brain move south. He knew what Sam was about to do before he did it, but it was still a pleasant shock to the young man when a hot, wet mouth surrounded his cock.

“Sam!” Damion cried out, arching his back. His shirt was clinging to his body, slick with sweat and he couldn’t even draw the energy to remove the offending item from his body. His pants were hanging off of one ankle but he took no notice of this fact as heat licked his body like a raging inferno.

“Oh god!” he moaned as Sam’s head bobbed up and down in his lap, the feeling of a hot, slick tongue sliding over his skin overriding his senses. There was no thought in his head but of the man currently lavishing his attention on Damion alone. Of his own volition, Damion’s hands slid through Sam’s hair, trying to anchor himself in the raging sea of desire that claimed his body.

Damion’s wolf whimpered with need, sensing the Alpha within Sam and wanting to submit eagerly. But was Damion ready to be that submissive?

“Want to taste me, Damion?” Sam said, easing back on the couch now, fully exposed. He was daring him to see if he would take to the alpha….if he was ready for such a bold move. “Do what you want to me, I want you to get to know me inside out.” he said with a growl to his voice.

<3>

Perhaps God did have bigger plans for Lucan. Who was to know that the magic cast upon the son of Desmond, would finish weaving and turning him to a young man, right before the eyes of the Throne Casterly. Orion had to admit, he was impressed by this, but at the same time wary. The now, young man approached and said what he believed to be true;

“It is now finished. The growth spell has taken it’s course and I shall age as I should.” Orion placed a hand under his own chin and stroked it thoughtfully, while his wings beat slowly. He hated having them drawn in, and liked the freedom of movement they offered. “Perhaps God has bigger plans for me.” The boy was indeed hopeful of this, and really there was only one way to be sure of that. Orion kept his thoughts to himself on this matter, since the immediate family had to deal with Selene and her son. Orion was only an extended member of the family, an observer to this scene.

Lucan wanted very much to be the man in Selene’s life, by the way he wanted to thank her for protecting him, but in the same sentence believed that she should go home to face the man she loved. There were others at stake. Tempest being one, and in a sense Joffrey. He wasn’t completely guilty in all this, for it sounded like he was tricked as well. When the boy offered to take the Princess home, Orion waited for Selene’s reaction. It was no surprise really, when she asked that HE join them on the journey home, to ensure her safety as well as be company to Lucan and herself.

“I don’t see why not. Henry is probably going to be too busy to entertain me, what with him making doe eyes at his wife every five seconds. Sickening really.” He smiled broadly at Lucan. “And Rashna seems to have taken a shine to the young wannabe pony killer. I always knew she was good with children.” Moving to Selene’s side, he offered his arm and said. “Shall we?” A quick head wobble and he was his usual suave egotistical self. Hard to believe a Throne of God was like that.

Clarice’s room

Rashna glanced up to see that Clarice had held her arm closer so that the Throne could get a better view of the turtle to paint. Rashna studied the turtle for a few minutes, then went back on to painting, quietly just as before. This must have been unsettling for the child, and perhaps it was meant to be. The Elder angel was something of a mystery to the Casterly family, and there was a very good reason as to why.

“Why are you here?”

Rashna stopped her painting a moment, and wiped her finger. “I like to paint.” she said simply, then changed her choice of colours, and started to work on Clarice’s dress. Truth was Rashna was a special type of Throne, and one that actually specialized in children. Not that she had any of her own, or ever planned too. She was a watcher, a guardian of sorts. She was not there to be a scolding authority, or even to tell Clarice what to do or how to act, in fact….she emulated her. Head down, she worked her magic in creating a likeness to Clarice’s dress. Part of it was smudged, imperfect. And she did nothing to change it.

Throne Room

Henry had been relieved to hear that his daughter had listened to his confession with a good heart, and actually realized that she was committing the very same mistakes. It was not at all easy for him to come clean on what had been plaguing him for the past eight years, but he also didn’t lay blame at anyone but himself. He now understood that only you can be responsible for your actions, and should amend them as soon as you realize you are at fault. Henry just wanted his wife…he wanted his family whole, even if that meant, losing Selene to Joffrey again. Though with Orion tagging along, things could get interesting. Henry approached his daughter, and shot a look at his older brother. Kissing his daughter’s forehead, he said. “God’s speed, and use what you have learned wisely.” He then said to Orion. “Try not to beat Joff to a pulp…okay?’

<3>

Metia after speaking, she watched her daughter reactions, she seemed to be in deep thought about this matter, and she should. She couldn’t run away from her life, from what she wants/likes, just because something went wrong, if Joffrey didn’t listen her, it meant Selene did not stand for herself, and had too much fear in herself, she needed to be strong and face the reality. She is a mother, she cannot leave her daughter behind, about Joffrey, she doesn’t have to be with him again if she doesn’t want to. Of course, Metia knows Selene still loves Joffrey, its extremely obvious, and no matter how much Metia didn’t wanted her to not love that demon, Selene still wanted him, and if she wanted him, she needs to go after her happiness.
She took a look at her grandson from the corner of her eye, and noticed how he suddenly started to growing up and probably stayed stuck on a teenager body, wow, that was fast, so Desmond’s magic was apparently strong, and now Metia began to wonder if such teen boy could control such power. She didn’t interfere on the moment he was having with his own mother, she would let Selene realize what it was the best to do for her. Which was going back and explain herself, go after her happiness.
Metia smiled and nodded when Selene finally understood she couldn’t run away from her problems. Then she wondered if Orion would go with her, it would be good have somebody with her, for her own sake and the boy’s too, we are not that aware of what Joffrey can do.
The Queen stepped closer to her daughter, and rose her chin, departing her lips as soon as Henry finished speaking.

“And if he doesn’t listen to you. Stand up for yourself, yell, scream, throw stuff at him, till he gives you the right to speak.”
She said with a grin. How did people thought Metia always had the right to speak? Because she never backed away, she stood up for herself, which sometimes it could be troublesome, because the argues with Henry would only get worse, but she was doing it for what she thought it was the right thing to do.

Clarice’s Bedroom

Clarice huffed out when Rashna said she liked to paint, for some reason Clarice didn’t felt like that was the entire truth, and she thought her aunt was only here because she was being forced too. Plus, she had other questions running through her mind, why was her father like that, what had happen between him and her mother, what did he told to Metia and so on. But sometimes it wasn’t really her business so she remained quiet and started to find out things on her own, slowly.
When she finished drawing her little wings, she removed her hands away from the draw, and grabbed on a clean cloth that was there, as she began to clean her fingers, and the turtle as well, even tho the ink was already dry so a cloth wouldn’t work. Clarice placed the turtle back in its box, and picked up another clean cloth, she left her bedroom, and went straight to the closest bathroom, so she could make the cloth wet. This took her five minutes probably, because she was trying to figure out how she would reach the sink.
Going back to her bedroom, she removed her turtle from its box again, and sat down on a chair. She began to clean the turtle, while leaning her back against the chair, and swing her legs back and forth.

With Selene having left with Lucan and his brother Orion, this left the Queen and King alone in the throne room. Clarice was still away with his sister Rashna, who was probably keeping the child well entertained, but lord knows how. Henry let out something of a sigh of relief, when the door was closed and it was just the two of them. He had already explained how he took responsibility for the way he had acted over the years, but he also knew he could not undo the damage that had been done to his relationship, or that of the bond between himself and Clarice. Henry’s appearance had changed drastically, but had his personality? Now was the moment of truth.

Glancing down for a moment, the King went silent, as he gathered his thoughts and then decided what he felt fitting to say.

“For the longest time, I have done everything I can think of to…shut you out of my life. In effect, to make you loath me to the point you would leave our bed chambers and never return.”

The King started to walk towards Metia slowly, as he raised his gaze, his wings opening out in full, and you could see his holy aura returning to the fore.

“When you decided that you would do what I had more or less pushed you too, I realized what I had done. I felt there was no turning back. But in this act, I realized I had not only hurt you, but our daughter and myself. I couldn’t face what I had become, and so I left for the Temple.”

Henry stood before Metia and then asked her the most important question of them all as he brought his hand up to cup her cheek

“Will you have me, Metia?”

Clarice’s room

Watching Clarice sitting well away from her, with her turtle and swinging her feet, Rashna wiped her hands and turned her sitting position so that she faced the little girl. With her elbow resting upon her knee, her fist under her chin, the angel asked the child a question;

“If you could have anything in the world, what would it be?”

<3>

Metia smiled at her daughter and nodded while watching her leave with her son and Henry’s brother. She just hoped everything went alright, and nothing wrong would happen. Well, Orion would be there so its not like something that bad could happen, right? He seemed to be a strong angel. Plus, if Lucan knew about his magic, and could use it, they would be fine, as long as the little boy knew how to control it, he seems to hold so much power.
Now the both of them, The Queen and King, were alone in the Throne Room, things got awkward and silent again, since none of them knew what to say, Metia just started to walk, heading to the throne so she could sit down, but she stopped on her way, whenever she heard Henry talking. She slowly turned around, to face him and listen to what he had to say. She took a deep breathe when he started to get closer to her, but her eyes would never leave his. She wanted to know if he meant his words, if that was the truth, and for now, he wasn’t proving anything that could make her doubt.
She leaned in his touch, feeling the warmth of his skin against her cheek, made her feel good, she brought her own hand up, and placed it upon his, not wanting him to step away from her. This was the final decision, if she took him back, they had the chance to build up everything, to make them have a good and normal family, not like those seven years, they deserved better, they needed better. If she said no, they would stay away from each other till the rest of their lives, and Clarice would never have father love, Metia wanted to do what was right for her daughter, and herself as well.
“Yes, yes.”
She answered him with a gentle smile.
“That’s all I want, to fix our marriage, our life, and our family.”

Clarice’s Bedroom

Clarice kept cleaning her turtle, and whenever she was done, she just threw the wet cloth on the ground, and placed the turtle back on her palm, wanting to see if it would pop out its head and start walking, but it seemed like it was kind of scared right now, so it remained quiet.
She began to play with the inside of her mouth, by biting the inside of her cheek or lip, she was bored, that’s for sure, and her mind wouldn’t stop with the all questions. Her eyes laid back on her aunt, when she asked her “If you could have anything in the world, what would it be?”.
Well, deep inside, Clarice just wanted everything to be alright, to have her mother’s and father’s love, to not be a troublesome child, and not make people hate her, but she didn’t felt like saying this all to Rashna, she never liked to show people that she had some kind side in here, she thought people would take advantage of her if she done that.
“I don’t know..Maybe a place only for me, so nobody can bother me.”
She said with a shrug and stared down at the turtle.
“Or just a normal life.”
Since she didn’t wanted to talk about everything ,father, mother, herself, hate, love, she just said having a normal life, it was like a summary.
“You?”
The child asked curious while staring at her aunt.

Metia’s smile had such an affect on Henry, coupled with the word he longed to hear. And she said it not once but twice. “Yes yes.” It was more than just a commitment, it was a promise. That’s all I want, to fix our marriage, our life, and our family.” The King felt a huge wave of relief, and he exhaled heavily, like he had been holding his breath too long. Feeling the touch of her hand on his, he moved his hand down, and interlocked his fingers with hers. Looking into her eyes adoringly, it was obvious the King had changed. He brought his forehead down to touch hers and uttered;

“I promise not to rush you. But believe me when I say, I want to get to know you again. Spend nights with you, and exploring you.” He brought his other hand up to rest on the small of her back, pulling her tighter towards him. “I’ve missed you so much.” Henry then moved to kiss her lips, ever softly, but not letting her go from his hold. While part of him wanted to go and see Clarice, he felt the need to build the bridge back to his wife. If both parents were united in their love, then surely this would flow onto their daughter, well..hopefully.

Clarice’s room

“If I could have anything in the world, I would wish to be back in Heaven.” The angel said simply, barely moving from where she sat on the floor. Rashna was not about to say why she wanted that most of all, though she had very strong reasons for it. “We might be more alike than you can imagine, Clarice. You want a place only for you, I want to be with God. Though you say you might like a normal life, I really don’t know what a normal life would be like. I’m anything but normal.” The Throne said simply, now drawing with her finger on the stone floor. Lifting her head, she then asked Clarice; “It’s hard being different, isn’t it?’

<3>

Metia smile’s grew bigger when she noticed how relieved Henry felt all off sudden with her words, and his touch against her forehead, making them kept more closer, the way he held her closer to him, made her feel good, feel the love, feel like everything was right, even if they were still half way, it still felt right, and Metia wasn’t regretting this moment. She listened to his words carefully, nodding at each one, she was glad that he had really changed, not only his appearance but his personality as well, she felt like the old Henry was back, not that extreme lame one, but the one that love inside him, and wasn’t such an ass towards other people, and kept putting them out of their lives. He was a warm heart person, always willing to help, and full of love, Metia wanted that man back, even tho she hated that man long ago, but things change.
“I missed you too.”
Before she could say something else, she felt Henry’s lips against hers, and this time he was the one who kissed her, and she wasn’t the one who kissed him, that’s why it felt even better and right. The kiss was soft, but none of them had the intention on breaking away, or staying away from each other, his hold on her would tell that. She stretched out her hands, and wrapped her arms around his necks, while tip-toeing, and deepen more the kiss. Of course, whenever this lovely moment was finished, they had other trouble to deal with, Clarice.

Clarice’s Bedroom

Clarice stared at Rashna and waited for an answer from her. She wanted to be back in heaven? Even if Clarice was this mean, she knew about heaven and god, she was from Casteryl after all, her mother already told her about that, maids, servants, and some conversations she tends to hear from her father, whenever she decides to stalk him. Yet, she didn’t felt like God would like her, that she deserved some place in heaven, that’s why whenever a maid yells at her to be a good girl, or else god won’t like her, Clarice just says she’s going to hell anyway, or says that heaven must be boring with everyone being so polite and not doing anything for their fun. But everybody had different points of fun, Clarice’s fun was destroying the other lives, or maybe, she only done that to call attention, to let people know that this kid existed.
“Maybe boring?”
Clarice mumbled when Rashan said she had no idea of how normal life could be, and she admitted she was far from normal as well, what was the secrets within this woman? Did she felt different? Felt left out? Like she was ugly, but the only thing she was, was just different from the others?

Clarice nodded and looked down at her turtle, when Rashna asked her if it was hard being different.
“Yes, it is. People don’t like it if you’re different, they think its ugly.”
Clarice was using the word ugly, because she was still a child, so she was comparing what people thought about her, with what her brother thought about her black fish, since he called it ugly. 

Such a tender moment. The royal couple alone at last and able to share in an intimate embrace, kissing each other not out of lust or hunger, but of love. True love that had broken through the boundaries of years of sorrow and pain. Beneath all that had happened to them, that one solid bond, could never truly be broken. Henry used to be so lame and goofy in his attempts to keep his wife on her pedestal, something she probably hated and rightly so. She needed a man to love her not the Court jester. But this moment, felt right for both. They needed this as the foundation on which to start over. A new flame of love arose between them, and armed with this, they could well go on to fix their fractured family. If this was a sign that nothing was impossible, than they should use it to the full.

Releasing her from his hold, he stared down at her warmly. He took her hand, and then with his free one, gestured that they go to find their youngest, Clarice.

“I think we have left Rashna to sit for our child long enough, wouldn’t you agree, my Love?”

Clarice’s Room

“Yes, it is. People don’t like it if you’re different, they think its ugly.”

“In a manner of speaking, many people despise what is different. It shows a lack of tolerance.” The Throne said truthfully, rising from the floor, and smoothing out her dress. She then gazed down at the child and continued. “However, I see being different as being unique…special. Why would anyone want to be the same as everyone else?” She started to stroll over to a nearby window, and raised a hand to the pane, speaking as though she was also telling herself.

“True beauty comes from being imperfect. Its not what you see…it’s what you don’t see that truly makes us what we are. So many are quick to judge, especially with children. All too busy with their own lives…they forget the children are in the shadows…watching, learning….reacting.” Rashna sighed, and looked back at Clarice.

“When did they stop looking at you?

<3>

“Is everything ok here?”

Rashna glanced at the door, when she heard the knocking, and then seeing Metia start to enter. The Throne stayed by the window, but turned fully to face the Monarch. She was curious of course, to know how things went between Henry and his wife, while she had been sitting with Clarice, but she had more pressing matters, like kicking Henry’s ass further for his inattention towards his own daughter Clarice. In her mind, Clarice was the product of her Father’s depression and lack of attention. She knew now was not the time to discuss such things openly, especially after getting the child to open up about a lot of things. Children are inquisitive, active and always learning. This is why its important to pay heed to their questions, no matter how silly or simple they may be. They grow with what knowledge they are set at a very young age. From what Clarice had told Rashna, it looked to be that she was ignored from the moment she stopped being a baby. Not by her Mother, but definitely by her father.

“Clarice has been showing me her pets and we have done some drawing together.” Rashna said, gesturing towards the small table, where there were a number of draws. “Your daughter is truly gifted.” The Throne said, and gave Clarice a polite nod of recognition.

Henry stood still outside the door, listening to what was being said. In a way, he was scared to enter. The King knew the harm he had done to his daughter, but would have to suck it up and deal, if things were ever going to be right.

<3>

The Curse of the Ring.

Chapter one.

Devotion into Death.

Writers:
CharlotteCarrendar
LilithValeFluer.

LilithValeFluer: -Midnight took a deep breath and watched as the ‘couple’ exited from the council room, prancing merrily into the night. “Thank heavens…” She had felt her blood boiling, her anger building and she sensed herself nearing her daughter’s stages. The overpowering feeling of wanting something so bad she’d kill for it. If it wasn’t for Sebastian’s methods she would have seized every moment to do what she wanted, but instead she turned on her heel and kept her composure, distracting herself with the work of an alliance the work of her home and the little work of her Dominion. “Why must this be so hard?” And again she shook her head noticing she was talking to herself. She didn’t let it bug her any further; she simply moved from her place in the center of the council room, banners in hand and headed towards the doors sealing it as she exited.
The sun shone over the horizon just as it began to rise. She figured it was late but didn’t think she’d been up this long, her lips curved into a smile and she parted and yawned. Her feet stamped about the cobblestone floors and it was then did she bring her fingers to her mouth, whistling loudly into the early morning rays. Midnight giggled and shook her hair from its bun. She’d forgotten she ever put her hair up. And just as she placed her hands to her sides Epona came scrambling into the view, pushing past the gates and halting in front of her owner. Midnight smiled wide and placed her hand upon Epona’s soft skin, patting her gently before climbing aboard her back. Epona neighed in delight and turned her head to the right, as if trying to communicate with her owner, making sure everything was alright and she was safely aboard. Midnight nodded and patted Epona’s mane and instantly they were off, racing in the direction of the sun. “Thanks for always being here, girl.” Midnight spoke as they ventured towards her home. “I am still shocked I was up for so long. I know you don’t understand most things I say, but having some company is better than none. You know what I mean?” Epona raced through the forest and past and jumped a number of logs along the way as her owner continued to speak, shaking her head in confusion at the speech.

45 minutes seemed like hours, but at long last Epona raced up the base of the mountain, bounding for its summit. A wide smile formed on Midnight’s elegant features and she couldn’t contain her joy and how happy she was to be home. And then it hit her once more, something about Izu… it was then that the headache took place, the images following soon thereafter. Her premonition hit like a tidal wave. Bits and pieces played out. A band, a microphone, a crowd and of course… Izu. She knew something was missing, something important. She couldn’t exactly tell what it was so she pulled on Epona’s mane and made her way in the other direction headed back towards the streets they’d passed on the way out the forest. It took them awhile but at long last they had made it. And just as Midnight climbed off Epona she smiled and patted her down. “Go back home, girl. I’ll return soon.” Epona neighed and did as instructed racing towards the summit of the mountain they’d once reached before Midnight turned and faced the streets. “Now to find some way to get to Lorewall.” Midnight took in a deep breath before turning her head to the left, then the night, her dress picking up all sorts of debris and dirt from the ground. The morning sun shone brighter and in the far distance Midnight eyed something yellow. It was a Taxi. Midnight blinked wearily and as tired as she was, waved her hands and jumped up and down trying to get its attention.

The drive to Lorewall lasted longer than she had wanted it too, she yawned in between each skipped light and finally drifted to sleep. It wasn’t until the Taxi came to a complete stop did she fly forward, hitting her head on the seat. “Uh, what the…” Midnight woke up and rubbed her head before looking at the driver. Her eyes widened and he spoke. (Bassy) “Forgive me…Miss.” It was Sebastian. Midnight took a deep breath and placed her hand to her chest and then kicked his seat inward. (Midnight) “You bastard, when did you get back!” He didn’t answer her and instead placed the Taxi in park, opened his door and closed it to open his Empresses. (Bassy) “Come Miss, we’ve arrived.” The city of Lorewall was so full of life, her eyes sprung to attention gathering the amount of sleep she was able to get in. She smiled wide and then made her way out of the taxi, turning around and shutting door. Sebastian grinned and looked at her before opening his mouth. “So, where to now Miss?” He stood at attention before Midnight spoke. “I saw images, of a band and music. (Midnight) “I have to find Izu… or at least something of his.” And with that Sebastian slowly made his way into the city of Lorewall.

It was now ten til twelve and they’d been around the city twice. “Sebastian I order you to find this place, immediately.” When the words left her lips he took off in a single blinding motion, his image blurring as he took off. It took Sebastian a total of 10 minutes before he returned. (Bassy) “Miss, if you’ll follow me.” Midnight raised a brow and they slowly walked down the streets of Lorewall once more. (Midnight) “Oh by the way. Izu wanted me to say ‘thanks for the sob story. I almost believed it.’ “Sebastian smiled and let a small. ‘Hmm’ escape his lips before they both veered a corner and stood face to face with the palace. Sebastian hurriedly pushed the doors open and instantly felt the whispers of the wind. (Bassy) “It seems no one is here Miss…” Midnight followed in line behind him and peeked under his waist coat and shook her head. (Midnight) “There has to be someone…” He looked at her with a disturbed look upon his face. (Bassy) “What if it isn’t someone, but something…Miss.” Midnight shook her head at him and scowled as she always did with him. (Midnight) “I think I’d have seen it. But this is exactly the place.” Sebastian blinked and wandered to the center of the room before pointing in the direction of the stage. In the instance it happened she slouched and walked over in the direction he pointed, and then she saw it, glimmering as the sun continued to shine its rays. Spinning round and round, she had to wonder, how long it had been doing that. And it wasn’t until her hands pressed against its silvery circlet did it stop and fall to the floor. (Bassy) “Seems you’ve found it.” The minute he spoke she yelled. (Midnight) “Sebastian, be quiet!” She picked it up and then handed it to him to examine. (Bassy) “It’s so dirty…” She raised a brow at him and sighed before snatching it out of his hand and rubbing it counterclockwise in an attempt to make it shine like new. }e{

CharlotteCarrendar:- On Izu’s return to Lorewall, he managed to drop off Danni at the local blue oyster bar on Main street and left him be with an outrageous group of tango dancing policemen in tight leather. He should be right at home in that environment with the cops with handle bar mustaches, and hips that don’t quit. Truth was, Izu was far from being into men, well, not that far. Years ago, he had but one love his wife Dezi, who had died tragically after the laying of her son’s eggs. Now, he was the sole parent of five boys, all of which he kept at his island fortress, far from the issues and humans in Lorewall. Strutting down main street, he realized something on his person was missing. Checking his left hand, he saw the tan mark of where his signet ring should have been. “Furk…must have dropped it at the alliance meeting. God dammnit.” He exclaimed. Exhaling hard outwardly, he reached the corner of the street, when suddenly he felt a pulling on his very soul. “Oh…no..” someone had the ring, and was using it. “Don’t…Don’t….AAARRRRRGGGHHH!” soon he was bathed in a fine black mist and simply popped from the site he stood, and into a room with a stage and sure enough…there was the holder of the ring. “Empress…Midnight. I should have known you would be rubbing something this late at night.”- Izu said, patting down his suit. He stared at Sebastian, then pointed, “You got anything to do with this…Bassy? Is it?”<3>

LilithValeFluer: Sebastian shook his head and took the line in beside Midnight. (Bassy) “See miss, it doesn’t seem to…” And with that a smog of white and black mist emerged from out of nowhere, immediately before the Empress and himself. Midnight shook her head in disappointment and sighed heavily. (Midnight) “You were saying?” She shook her head and stepped forward, kicking off her heels and looking into Izu’s grey eyes once more. “I’m sorry… I’ve been a mess, and I won’t bother to worry you with a sob story. So I guess that’s it. You said you wanted someone to be more like Danni, but I can’t give that to you… If you were joking that’s fine. But know since I laid eyes on you, I felt the same connection you did. A pull unfathomably remarkable on so many levels I thought impossible.” Sebastian shook his head and walked passed Izu, staring him down all the while before heading towards the Taxi. (Bassy) “I will leave you be Miss. You need only call if you need me.” And with that he left, she waved and continued speaking. (Middy) ” I honestly don’t know what to say sometimes, I become so choked up and I lose the will to speak. I just wanted to see you again… a somewhat mental image for me.” She smiled and walked forward and stood but two feet from him and leaned up to kiss his cheek if he so allowed the movements. }e{

CharlotteCarrendar:- Izu’s eyes crossed from Sebastian and then back to Midnight again, before he folded his arms indignantly. The emotion on his face was indifference, and that was due to being pulled from where he stood, to that of being presented before the pair, after the awkward affair from earlier that evening. Midnight was first on, to start with apologies, and then turned it on how she could not be like Danni, the deaf butt boy. “Wait, you think I am actually into guys? Eh, no…I did that for the lulz, since you pissed me the hell off with your…”smack, attack and then how about a cuddle routine.” You’re harder to read than stereo instructions. And as complicated as ikea furniture.” Izu frowned, and then looked at Sebastian who was heading out to catch a taxi. “Yeah….nice talking to you to, bud.” He waved him off, only to see Midnight approach, and then ramp up the sad tale of how she had been, and the fact she wanted to see him again. ” I honestly don’t know what to say sometimes, I become so choked up and I lose the will to speak. I just wanted to see you again… a somewhat mental image for me.” Slowly Izu lowered his arms to his sides, and as she got up on tip toes, to kiss his cheek, he cocked his head to the side, and then asked her “Is this the part where you knee me in the chest again?” Sure he was standoffish, but he wasn’t sure he could trust her. “We all have our stories, Midnight. I could write a freaking series. Doubt anyone would read it though.” His steely gaze softened some, seeing she was trying to be heartfelt. “Shall we sit?” <3>

LilithValeFluer: Midnight smiled before lowering herself to the ground, her eyes met Izu’s and instantly she felt herself grow weak. This man had an effect on her that no other did, but she knew better than to give in to easily. She simply raised her hand, ran it through her hair and listened to him as he spoke, and then he stopped for but a second and continued once more. “No, I won’t knee you in the chest again.” She smiled towards him and nodded as he softened his gaze. “I actually… um. I should probably get home to change, I practically ruined my dress on the way here.” She motioned to the tattered edges of her dress and the debris caught in its ends. “I mean, if you’d like to come with me, that’s fine. I’d love the company. Whichever you prefer though is fine with me.” She smiled widely and closed her eyes for a moment and then looked at him, trying to remember a few things, and then it hit her. She reached over to her index finger and pulled the ring off, only to extend her arm and hand it to him. “Here. This belongs to you… I’m sure you want it back.” }e{

CharlotteCarrendar:- The ring. Izu stared down at it as she held it out to him with her thumb and index finger. “Here. This belongs to you… I’m sure you want it back.” For a moment, he scratched his temple, and then took in a breath. That ring was worth more to him then she realized, or could even imagine. “It actually belonged to my wife.” Now, the mention that he had a wife, might be a bit of a shock to the system. He took the ring from Midnight’s fingers, and then turned it over, so the gem in the centre captured the light. “First time I have lost it since her death.” Realizing this might not make sense, Izu then explained. “It’s a ring I gifted her…on our wedding day. It allowed her to summon me, in case of an emergency. No matter what part of the country or plane I was on, all she had to do was rub it. The last time….was when she…” the look on his face, was like he was seeing his wife in her death bed…the eggs of their children hanging around the room in white sacs. Her final act of devotion before succumbing to the fatal virus. There was silence as he seemed to no longer be attentive to Midnight…he was lost for words. <3>

LilithValeFluer: Midnight blinked and stared as he took the ring from her, she smiled and nodded, glad he accepted it back. But as soon as he’d done so something in him changed, not only the way he spoke but the way he looked. It wasn’t until the mention of his wife did Midnight’s face lighten up. Indeed a shock it was, but at least he was honest, and for that she had to give him credit. She tilted her head and listened to the words that came from his mouth. Her mouth ran dry as he continued his story. It was a sad one at that and it shed more light on the situation before them, Whatever it was. Her hands quivered for but a few moments and instantly she knew she was succumbing to this man before her. Her hand moved from her waist to his face, brushing it softly given he’d allowed her to do so. “I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to rub it. Forgive me I know it sounds wrong. But you don’t have to worry about me using it again. It holds sentimental value to you, and that is all that needs to be said.” She couldn’t help but let a small tear trickle down her face before her right arm wrapped around his neck. Midnight was bold, but at this moment she was at a crossroad, risk kissing him, or simply let him continue venting. Her normal decision would be the alternate and kiss the man, but for some reason, she couldn’t, something stirred within her and she could no longer push something onto him if he didn’t ask. She merely removed her hand from his neck and placed it into his hands, closing the one with the ring and letting her fingers slip into his soon thereafter. “Shh, it’s alright. You don’t have to explain….” All she could do now was hope she could calm him and bring him out of his distressful state. }e{

CharlotteCarrendar:- In Izu’s mind, all he could see, was his beloved wife, her skin so pale, and her hair limp and just trailing down on the pillow and onto the sheets. She gazed at him with blackened aura’s around her eyes, and her lips cracked and pale. Her trembling hand, reaching out to touch her beloved, as she took the final breaths, her face suddenly radiating as she stared past Izu and then there was the stillness. Her hand falling from the air and landing with no further movement, the ring falling from between her fingers. She had rubbed it with the last of her strength, just so she could see him that one final time, before death consumed her. Izu’s face in this reality was marred with pain and loss; tears rimming his steel coloured eyes, and he clenched the ring tight into his hand, fingers locking around it so you could see the white of his knuckled pierce his skin. Midnight’s words seemed hollow to him, like speaking through a wind tunnel to reconnect him to the present. “I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to rub it. Forgive me I know it sounds wrong. But you don’t have to worry about me using it again. It holds sentimental value to you, and that is all that needs to be said.” Snapping out of the daze, the nightmare of his loss, he then came to realize she was standing there, and had approached him in a romantic fashion, then held his hands. A single tear rolled down his cheek as he said softly. “Men are not supposed to cry…” He sniffed hard and then wiped the tear away angrily. But she continued to shush him “Shh, it’s alright. You don’t have to explain….” He rounded on her, and then threw his head back, looking to the ceiling. “I have kept this bottled up for years…my own sons do not know…what she did for them…” his voice cracking. <3>

LilithValeFluer: Midnight couldn’t possibly imagine the amount of pain he had been through, the willpower it took to hold everything in, let explain everything to her. She could feel everything he felt and it tugged at her heart. Her eyes moved from his face to his hand and then back to his eyes. The glimmering rim of tears swelled in his eyes and she could hear the broken-heartedness in his tone. It wasn’t until he snapped from his daze, she took a step back and let him breath, and just as she did so he rounded her and let his words seep in. “Men are not supposed to cry…” A small smile crept upon her features and she turned to face him. “Very true… but it doesn’t mean they can’t.” She watched as he moved about and threw his head back, and it was then she could see the glimmering in his eyes, his voice breaking in between breaths as he continued speaking. “You know, you don’t have to go through this alone. If you need me at all, let me know. Please… I’ll stand by your side and help you through this. Just know you are not alone.” She stepped lightly and moved around so as her body wouldn’t shut down, waiting patiently as he slowly let himself go. }e{

CharlotteCarrendar: – Her small smile did so illuminate the warmth of her features, as she spoke with understanding, even though he had not rightly explained himself, or the loss of his wife in detail. He had hardened himself from the anguish of ever having to experience such tragedy again. What she saw of his bold moves of play at her realm was merely a façade. He did it on purpose, to see just how virtuous she was in the face of the company of his adored sisters and uncle, Baldrick. Creasing his brow, when she said that she would be at his side, to help ease the burdens of his life, he said “I have a confession. The whole, Casanova act in your home. I did that for a reason. Sure, I am a demon at heart, but I wanted to see what kind of woman you were. If you would be suited to the alliance hopes of my younger sister, Charlotte. All too often, Empresses are ready to jump on the nearest dick that passes their tasteful fancy.” It was a bold admission, and at least he was being honest. “You…passed with flying colours, so I must congratulate you on that note. I imagine you think I am a cad, but I will do all I can to protect the interests of Charlotte, and my family.” This may have stung her pride, but least he was now upfront. The true Izu, was not the romantic rogue he portrayed in her foyer. Far from it. He was a devoted father and widower, and commander of his air fleet. <3>

LilithValeFluer: Midnight could only muster up a smile as she shook her head. His words pushing out into the room, the crease of his brow and the sudden confession. “And I have a confession for you my dear Izu.” She smiled wide and took note of his movements before she stood before him. “I knew what was happening, why do you think I acted the way I did?” Her eyes glimmered in the sunlight and she wrapped her arms behind her, tying her hair in a bun. Listening and awaiting anything more, and then he spoke. “You… passed with flying colours.” Midnight couldn’t help but brighten at the thought, but this was serious. She continued on and spoke in turn. “You did what you had to do in order to play the part, I know how to do this very well. Protecting ones family is also something I do very well.” She looked towards the ceiling and sighed, letting herself take in a deep breath. “ You know, I didn’t think it suited you at first… the whole romantic play. But now… It’s different. You can easily put up the act of not being said person. But doesn’t mean you CANT. You can do anything you set your mind too, you just have to believe it.” Midnight giggled at her words and turned to look at him. “And I can see it… you can be a romantic.” She honestly didn’t know what came over her, what pushed her to want this man so much but she didn’t care, she could have done worse. But she chose not to, listening to her heart was all she could do at this point, if he left she wouldn’t beg him to stay, if he stayed it would mean that much more, showing his true colors must have been hard enough. But Midnight gathered there was more to this man than meets the eye and she had a feeling this was only the beginning. }e{

The Curse of the Ring.

Chapter Five

Battle of Wills

Writers:
IzuCarrendar (CharlotteCarrendar)
MidnightDarkPhoenix

Midnights eyes slowly lifted from their deep slumber to cringe at the sight of the solar flare in which the sun’s rays had slowly cascaded over the city’s horizon, seeping through the window in which Midnight was facing, Izu’s arm wrapped around here naked body and her back cradled into his chest as she looked upon his face. They fit so perfectly together. But as she slipped from his grip and out of the bed she noticed one of his shirts, a long sleeved white button down. It’s perfect. She couldn’t help think to herself. Midnight ran her hands along the sleeves and before long slipped into it, and with little to no effort, it fit. Perfectly, just as she had thought. The sun was bright this morning, and all she could do was smile to herself. How could one man have all this? Yet another thought. The sight before her was truly magnificent, but what was even more so was him. Her demonic Bebilith, her love, her mate. >e<

IzuCarrendar: The Demon bebilith male slumbered peacefully, though of course the sheet peaked at his lower regions, for he had stirred with the show of morning wood. A light crooked smile adorned his rugged features, and you could just catch the flutter of rapid eye movement beneath his eyelids. His chest rose and fell in a smooth rhythm and he clearly was enjoying whatever it was that had caught his mind’s eye. Midnight’s escape from his bed, had his hand move along the creased silken sheet, causing him to yawn and then blink his eyes open. Silvery hues that had a swirling centre, set in a dark tanned skin. A shock of silvery hair that was tousled from their nightly tryst, though messy, still suited him to a t. Gradually, you could see his legs start to shift and move beneath the sheets, and he smacked his lips, as he raised both arms over his head and stretched out. Dark pecks hardened and he ran his hand down his chest then stomach, before giving his length a light stroke. Glancing out from the bed, though his head was still nestled on the pillow, he caught sight of Midnight placing on his shirt. This brought a chuckle from him, a deep one that resonated up from his throat. “Morning Love. Going to leave me with anything to wear?” <3>

Midnight had never felt so at home, so at peace with someone. Not until now. She was enjoying the warmth of the sun kissing her skin, and it was then that she heard the small amount of movement in the bed. It was Izu, he must have finally woken up. She hoped it wasn’t her that disturbed his sleep. Oh god how she wished he’d have slept more, even though they had a very intense night it didn’t mean he didn’t need his energy. She smiled at his figure and then noticed his hand movements under the sheets. Morning wood. Her smile curved and she shook her naughty thoughts while her inner goddess pounded on the walls, begging for a peek. “No, not if you keep letting everything you own be tossed everywhere.” She smirked and walked over to him as she spoke and then lifted her hand, back showing a clear view of his ring, the very ring he gave to his late wife had now graced her ring finger. “Just like this ring…” She jumped onto the bed and crawled on top of him, messing up the sheets even worse than they had before. “Besides, you look like you’re having fun without your clothes…” It was then her hands ran down his chest, fingers lacing into the small chest hairs that protruded from it and then venturing further down his chest, a smirk ever enchanting as she slowly straddled his knees. “Or am I wrong…?” >e<

IzuCarrendar: Though dainty and petite Midnight may appear, she was a strong willed woman that knew what she wanted. Izu was still lazily stretching beneath the sheets, with no real clear indication that he had intended to get out of bed. The demon bebilith found amusement in Midnight’s declaration that if he tossed his clothes about she was going to claim them, just like the ring, that she proudly showed off on her hand. Ira had almost forgotten about that, and winked at her for her saucy ways. What surprised him was how she clamored back onto the bed. She had obviously caught sight of him lightly handling his morning wood, and it would appear that she wanted to play too. You could see the rise of his cheeks as his smile grew wider, watching her straddle him. Her fingers lightly brushed his skin, teasing, as they travelled down his chest, seeking what lay beneath the satin sheets. “I always have fun in the morning. Don’t you?” Izu said darkly, only arching his back, so she would feel the sudden rise of his hips, pushing into her. “You could always help yourself, Love.” A roguish expression crept over his features, daring her.

He was such a naughty man, but underneath it all, he was so much more. His eyes brought her closer, and hypnotized her further. She was already under this man’s spell as he was hers, what more did she need. It was more than anything she could ever ask for. That was unless this man had other plans. And of course, it was true, indeed he did. He had winked at her and she brightened at the way he did it, and sooner or later she had to figure out a way around that, some form of control. How this man made her weak, she would never know. His words parted through his lips and she listened intently as he spoke. “I always have fun in the morning. Don’t you?” was what was said. “But of course…” And as soon as her lips parted way she felt his body lift, his hips rise and a small push go against her. His member had slowly rubbed its way against her inner thigh. Oh he was sneaky, and she had to give him credit for it, but she was more intent on keeping him well energized and well pleased for the upcoming day. So for mere playfulness she moaned and gave in, her body slowly slipping into his erotic fantasy, and then all too soon she rose from his lap. “Come on love, maybe we can have sex in the kitchen this time.” She was having fun with this, and she was going to make sure this lasted. Her feet rubbed against the carpet as she slowly got off the bed once more, her hips swaying in motion as she rose and walked towards the bedroom door. Hands rising towards the curtains to shed some light on his ‘situation’, while all but making the sheets fall to the floor. A small ‘Oops’ escaping her lips as she did so. And he thought he was so innocent, but this witch knew and she wasn’t surprised to find out, he was the devil in disguise. >e<

IzuCarrendar: Such a tease, so sinful and delicious. Course she played on the way his body moved. The light moan that escaped her lips, and then like that, she was off and talking about how they could do it in the kitchen. So, she wanted to christen ever room in the house? He shrugged, and then found it amusing when she made sure the sheet slipped away that covered his modesty. Cat was out of the bag…so to speak. Non fussed, he simply rolled out of bed, and then sauntered off to the bathroom, most likely to relieve himself. He did shut the door after he walked in. His light humming could be heard from within, which changed in tempo and then got thicker and a lot huskier. Oh well, her loss. Not long after he emerged, content within himself and stepped across the floor to dress himself. “Bacon and eggs love…over easy. Toast…and I think a juice too.” He was putting in his order for breakfast, as he tied back his shoulder length hair neatly with a silver ribbon. He was a lot neater out of bed then in it. Soon, he was ready for the day, and headed downstairs towards the dining room, adjacent the kitchen.

As she sauntered down the spiral staircase she couldn’t help but notice something was different. And then it hit her, it was the smell of food, already coming from the immaculate kitchen her love had owned. And little did she know, she was right. Because who better to have outdone himself as usual but the demon known as none other than Sebastian. As soon as her eyes caught his gaze she scrambled halfway back up the stairs and wrapped herself more comfortably in the little clothes she had on. “Sebastian Mikaelis, what in the hell are you doing here?!” A scream as loud even a banshee would cower in filled the room, but even so Sebastian seemed unfazed by it and continued placing items on the dining room table. (Sebastian) “Well, you see your Eminence, last I heard of you was from last night, so I slipped in this morning to come and check on you. It is a magnificent place the young master has here.” She was glaring at him by this time, infuriated with his actions. She took a deep breath and composed herself before making her way back down the stairs, her eyes catching in all sorts of food. Foods ranging from eggs benedict to smoked hickory bacon. Midnight knew Sebastian knew how to cook but this was a meal fit for a king. Izu was surely going to be in for one hell of a surprise. (Midnight) “Next time, try and think before you act. Use your head.” She took a deep breath before walking into the kitchen and veering the corner towards the dining room. (Sebastian) “Yes, of course Miss.” He nodded and stepped away from the dining room table and left her to sit alone as she waited for Izu to finish her business in the bathroom. >e<

IzuCarrendar: Izu was about to head down the stairs, when he heard the banshee like scream of Midnight, but then the delicious smells of delectable delights coming from the kitchen. Now either she was a lot faster at cooking than he could ever have imagined, or someone else had prepared the meal. Sure enough it was Sebastian. Now her carry on might have left him miffed, but soon as he heard Sebby’s voice filter up with that calming way, he knew things were going to be alright and not turn into some grand food fight. Good food should never be wasted. Not far behind Midnight Izu followed and took a seat at the table, and started reaching for large helpings of the tasty treats and delicious morsels. “And here I was expecting toast and water. Well done, love.” Izu said with a chuckle, clearly amused. “This will spoil me though. I might like this every morning.”

By this time Sebastian had gone from cleaning the kitchen, to the living room, and even the guest bedroom Midnight didn’t know Izu had. She wondered about that. It was quite unusual, but she was never one for sitting down for a meal, usually it was a grab and go routine with her. But this, having breakfast with the man she loved, was perfect. “Well, my love, you are going to have to learn to cook sooner or later, because neither I nor my butler will be here forever, and you would do well to retain that information now.” She smiled and played with the last bit of her potatoes and thought to herself as she did so. I still have yet to create that spell I wanted….Immortality, I wonder what his thoughts on it would be. Should I ask? And just like that she was snapped back to reality, Izu clearly enjoying his food and scarfing down every piece. “Anyway, Sebastian, If you could… A mimosa please.” She looked called out into the open air and just like that he was there, glass in hand and extended towards her. “Thank you Sebastian. You do so much for me and I’ve yet to hear a single complaint. (Sebastian) “Well, if I cannot please my Lady; what kind of butler would I be?” Midnight smiled and nearly choked on her drink before nodding to him and then looking over to Izu. (Midnight) “So, love, what do you have set on the agenda for today?” A small smile set on her lips as she placed the glass down and swiftly felt a blush rise in her cheeks as she waited for him to answer. >e<

IzuCarrendar: Izu was a man that loved his food. Breakfast he considered to be the most important meal of the day, and while he scoffed down fork full after fork full, Midnight started to tell him that he needed to learn how to cook. This brought a belly full of laughter from Izu, and he even dropped his fork. “Oh, I have five sons, trust me, Love, I know how to cook. When the children’s mother died, it was sink or swim. If you think me issuing orders for breakfast was a cop out, cause I can’t cook, errr no. I just wanted to see you in a frilly apron, bent over a hot stove. Me and my wild ideas.” Izu picked up his fork again, then noted that Sebastian was back, tending to Midnight’s every need. Izu was unsure how he felt about this odd relationship they had, but when he mentioned that if he can’t please his Mistress, what good would he be. “Not much at all.” Izu said under his breath, before realizing he was under the spotlight. Midnight asked him about his plans, and he dabbed his lips with his napkin, saying; “Possibly introducing you to my sister…not sure yet.”

It was when Izu had laughed did she blink rapidly and drop her own fork. “Wait, what’s so fun—“and then she laughed. “Oh, well then… in that case, you’re cooking dinner.” Midnight smiled wide, picked up her fork and finished the last of her potatoes before then listening to what he had said about her in a frilly apron bent over a hot stove. “Well, we can arrange something later on.” At this time she couldn’t help but laugh a bit because of his alternate comment on Sebastian. “Izu… please. Try and be nice, just because he works for me, doesn’t mean you have to be rude.” Her plate had then been picked up by Sebastian and she slowly rose from her chair before moving towards Izu. “Seeing as how we have yet to take a shower, why don’t we go do that…?” A kiss to his cheek and she waited, slowly and uneasily for his response, hoping he wouldn’t burst on about Sebastian working for her. “Sister?” She questioned, as if she hadn’t known. “Well alright, that is fine by me, I’d love to meet her. But we will need that shower, so come on mister grumpy panda.”

IzuCarrendar: Now Midnight was taking a tone with the bachelor Bebilith that he was not all too thrilled about. It was one thing to speak to hired help one way, but a whole nother to try it on him. He pushed his chair out and rose to standing, while she went on about how he should try to be nice, and he made an odd grunting sound under his breath. Much taller than Midnight he towered over her diminutive frame, and then he met her half way as she suggested we take a shower. Before she could go further, and yes she called him Grumpy panda, he seized her arm, to pull her towards him. “Now, I know you may well be Empress, or whatever royal title they give you over in your lands, but here….under my roof, you are my woman…AND I shall do as I please. I am not a toy boy, or some simple crush, love. You take me as I am…or not at all.” His silver eyes caught hers and this was when he became serious. “Am I understood?” Now, how would she react?

Midnight had taken no more than two steps towards the kitchen towards the staircase, and it was then Sebastian moved in. Inching towards her to try and help with the situation. But Midnight put her hand out and spoke calmly and collectively. “No, it’s alright Sebastian, stay. I’ve got this.” Midnight hadn’t known any man to place a hand on her, much less grab her arm the way he did. It was true Izu’s form did tower over her, but just as before she showed no fear and spoke to him. “That other land you speak of, is my home, my dynasty. And I was given the title of an Empress, but I am very much a human and can handle my own. And as for the rules under this roof, well, far be it for me to tell you what to do. But the way I spoke was in no means meant to be disrespectful nor demanding, it as you who chose to take it that way, was it not? And furthermore, “by this time she had removed her hand from his grasp and placed it upon his cheek. “Just because it seems I am being nice doesn’t mean I always am, and no babe, that is not a challenge for you to continue acting the way you are now. I am simply letting you know, not to lay a hand on me again… I do hope I’ve made myself clear.” By this time she was standing tall and firm in her spot, her arm nestled against her waist and her other hand rubbing her arm to soothe its pain. “Now, I am going to go upstairs and I’m going to take a shower, whether you care to join me or not is up to you. But I expect you in a better mood if you do… And no… that is not me giving you an order. It is after all… YOUR home and not mine.” And with those words she turned her back on him and removed his shirt, stalking up the stairs naked and alone, but not before turning and saying another thing to him. “And for the record… I’m not your woman. I am your girlfriend, there is a big difference.” She had nothing further to say so she continued her venture up the stairs and opened the front door so as to let Sebastian know to leave. >e<

IzuCarrendar: Clearly there was a battle of wills going on, and this was a test of the first hurdle of their relationship. Izu shot daggers at Sebastian, whose closeness to Midnight was not entirely appreciated. What did bother Izu, was how she spoke down to him. A condescending, or belittling tone. So, she was a monarch in her land, which meant diddly here. He soon folded his arms, and let her continue on, since really to interject was only going to cause more strife. She clearly preferred being the dominant, and that was something he was not going to tolerate. “I am simply letting you know not to place a hand on me again.” Oh really? Izu thought, she thinks that was serious? But the part that really drove it home, was how she said she was not his woman, but a mere girlfriend, that just so happened to be wearing his dead wife’s ring. A ring that held more importance than a simple trinket. He watched her shed his shirt and then go up the stairs naked. His eyes followed her as the front door opened, clearly for Sebastian. “I take it that is for you.” Izu said, glancing at Sebastian. “Unless you want to go up and scrub her back.”

It was nearly 11 in the morning and she didn’t honestly want to be arguing with her love. It was pointless, and honestly she didn’t even know why they were arguing. Well, okay that was a lie. She knew very well it was the way she spoke to him at the dining room table, but she didn’t mean it in a disrespectful way. Sighing heavily she looked up and let the shower fall over her body, her arm stinging in the process of it all. In this moment of pain she closed her eyes and let small the tears fall down her face, a sign she was coping, she was adjusting and a sign she was healing. Focusing her will power she let the pain subside and instantly re-opened her eyes. Sometimes there were perks to being an all-powerful witch, but at other times, it was a pain. The suds gathered around her feet and dripped down her body as she slowly began to rinse the newly colored dye from her head. Wine color, it would suit her for the day, or however long she decided to keep it. A deep breath and a small sigh was all it took for her to finally let herself calm. She wasn’t mad, she was simply… disappointed. She knew too well forgiveness wasn’t going to come easily for either of them, but this was their relationship, and she wasn’t going to lay that down on the line for a petty argument. But she knew she was wrong when she’d spoken to him about being his girlfriend. Although true, she did belong to him, in every way shape and form aside from marriage. All she could hope for at this point was that he’d forgive her soon, but apologize if anything. >c<

Sebastian took a deep breath and eyed down Izu before shaking his head in disgust and exiting from the suite. His eyes then turned to the ground just as he exited and he pointed up the stairs and spoke. “You don’t meet a girl like that every dynasty.” And with those words he turned and left down the hall and out of sight, not to be heard from nor called upon until the Empress did so. But gathering the situation that occurred, it may be a long while before he was called for his services once more. >e<

IzuCarrendar: Izu let the man servant take his leave, knowing full well he did not approve of the situation at hand. The door closed and Izu stood a moment, before raking his fingers through his silvery locks, then decided he was not going to let a simple argument destroy what they had. He took to the stairs, two steps at a time, and without knocking, he opened the bathroom door, and entered to see her in the shower. He wordlessly removed his clothes, letting them fall simply to the floor. His dark tan glistening in the steam filled room. Izu opened the cubicle door and stepped in, letting the spray of water cover him, running in trigotries down his body, and yet he did not touch her. He merely stared at her, with those silvery orbs of his, as his chest rise and fell, showing off his muscled pecks. He was a fine specimen of what a man should be, and as his hair was now drenched, and she would be no longer getting the spray of water upon her he asked her one simple thing. “Do you love me?”

Midnight felt the last of her tears cease as she hadn’t remembered continuing to bawl and instantly she watched as the dye stained Izu’s shower. Great, just another thing for him to be mad at her for. She’d never catch a break today. The spirits of nature were obviously working against her this day. And then it happened, she heard the door slam shut and footsteps coming up the stairs. “Oh god, please…” And before she could continue he entered the bathroom. Stepping in without a care in the world, removing his clothes wordlessly and then entering the shower with her. What could he have wanted now? Yet again another thought of hers racing around. His body now covered the way of the showers water and instantly she gazed into his hypnotic eyes, and she fell for him. She fell for him all over again, but not before he had asked her the daring question she hadn’t heard in years. “Do you love me?” It was something no one had ever really asked her seriously. Most meant it as a joke, but this man, the one person she loved more than her own life had asked her, all with a serious expression on her face. And she smiled and sniffled before raising a hand against his cheek slowly. “How could I not, you are who you are for a reason. And I wouldn’t ask you to change that, for anyone. But honestly, I’d have to say… Yes, I do. I love you Izu Carrendar, with every fiber in my being.” >e<

IzuCarrendar: The stain of tears had made their way down her cheeks, clearly she had been upset by the argument earlier in the dining room. They were two very different individuals, still learning about each other, and for them to co-exist was going to mean a great deal of effort on both parts. Agreeing to disagree, and compromise where possible. Izu stood stoically as Midnight reached for his cheek, and confessed the truth of her feelings. A simple yes would have sufficed, but she needed to be clear in her words. Izu didn’t need to speak in return, for his actions would do say what his mind was thinking, and she would pick up on this very fast indeed. He reached for the side of her face, and pushed back wet locks of hair, so he may see her better. Reaching for the soap, he then lathered his hands with it, before setting the bar back in its holder, and started to wash her shoulders, and moved lower to her breasts. Kneading and rubbing as he did so, so her backside would be pressed hard up against the glass. The bubbly foam was now running down her belly, into her navel, and his right hand descended till it cupped her mound, and the glistening foam seeped between her legs, while the spray of water continued to rain down upon him. Izu didn’t kiss her, not yet, all he did was hold her gaze as he washed her thoroughly. Enough to make her want more than just a wash. “Turn around” He said firmly, so she would have her back to him, and he may cleanse it.

Midnight had confessed, she had spoken truth and shed light. And by this time she knew something would change, and indeed it did. For Izu didn’t speak, he only moved. Moved about the shower so as to grasp the soap bar, lather it up and spread it across her shoulders. As he did this her entire body settled into his, it was relaxing, and she enjoyed it. The lathery suds slowly dripped down her body as he kneaded her breasts and rubbing them softly. But her position changed, and she was against the glass, back closed against it and her frontal regions exposed. The bubbly foam continued to fold over her body, down her chest, running its course over her naval and lower region. His hands firm and moist now cupped her mound and she clenched her eyes and gasped a moan. Her hand now guiding against his arm before wrapping into his open hand. But it was all too soon, because no sooner had those feats been formed he had asked her to turn around. Strange as it was, he apologized with his love and had yet to kiss her, which made her wonder what he had in store. But now all she could do was smile and do as she was told, submitting to him as she held her inner goddess chained. >e<

IzuCarrendar: Again with the bar of soap in his hand, he lathered her back, rubbing the soap in swirling patterns, and then set it aside, as he treated her to another massage and scrub all in one. Skilled he was at this and of course it had purpose. His body was now thoroughly soaked through, and at the end of lathering her, he set down the soap, then moved himself so he sandwiched her between the glass wall of the shower and his wet body. Now with her all soapy, she became incredibly slick, and he moved against her slowly, as he drew back her hair from the back of her neck, and bent his head down, to nip at the back of her neck, then round to the side. Izu’s hands trailed up and down her till reaching her hips, where he took a firm hold. He tugged at her earlobe whispering. “Is this how you want to be loved?’

He was at it again, the soap bar, this time reapplying it to her back, lathering her up left and right. A small massage and a scrub in one, he was definitely skilled. By this time he had placed himself in between her and the glass wall. His own body now wet and dripping with lather filled her core with juices she wasn’t ready to unleash. Her body quivered and before she knew it he had moved against her. Slowly he moved, and he drew her hair, his breathing marred her neck and she felt the nip at the base of it. Hands traveled fast and slow up and down her hips and in mere seconds he held her firmly, a small gasp escaped her lips then and she turned slightly as he tugged at her earlobe. His question seemingly simple but filled with riddles. “Is this how you want to be loved?” She closed her eyes and thought about it for but a few moments and smiled. “I want a love that consumes me, passion and even adventure.” Her words slipped out and she couldn’t help but feel proud of her response, for it was true, although riddled with words of her own she was correct in responding the way she did, and she’d hoped what she’d said was nothing he couldn’t handle. >e<

IzuCarrendar: Izu turned her back around, so now she was facing him, as the soap started to wash free from her body as the spray reached her, warming her skin. “Then you need more, than just physical pleasures.” He then stepped out of the shower, leaving her wanting and this was done to show he was not just about to use her. She meant more to him than that. This was a chance to give her a moment to breathe and to think as he took a towel and left the room. Midnight wanted adventure and to be consumed by love. Could he give that to her under the circumstances? Would his love be enough?
Midnight had smiled at him and then frowned as he turned her around and spoke. “Then you need more, than just physical pleasures.” The words stung slightly, and instantly he stepped out of the shower. He was right. She would need more than just the sex, and the kissing. Something that surpassed even the physical boundaries. He had meant so much to her, and she knew he felt the same about her. Possibly the reasoning for what he said when he did. But when he spoke, she felt a spark, and it was then she knew. She laughed to herself and then opened the door, turning the knobs to the shower off and scurrying out of the shower. A towel hung and she grabbed it quickly, dried herself and placed on her silk white mini dress, simple flats and then blow dried her hair. All while doing so she thought, what was it that she needed more than physical boundaries? Was his love enough? The questions nagged at her and it was then she’d had it. She pulled the plug and ran out of the room and into the master bedroom. Her eyes now a lit with hope, faith and love. A pure love that was undeniable and clear to show. She stepped forward and watched as the fireplace suddenly lit aglow. She’d known she’d done it. Possibly nervousness but she wasn’t sorry for any of it. And it was her turn, her turn to speak. And so she did. “Fine, then I’m not sorry either, I’m not sorry that knowing you has made me question everything, and that even now you’re the one that makes me feel most alive. You’ve been a terrible person, you’ve probably made the worst choices, and of all the choices that I’ve made this will prove to be the worst one. But I am not sorry that I’m in love with you. I love you, Izu.” She wasn’t finished and she closed her eyes and stepped forward, her hand rising to his face as she gazed into his eyes and spoke the last of her words. “Marry me…” >e<

IzuCarrendar: Izu had dressed himself in the time he left the shower, to when Midnight emerged, looking resplendent in white with her hair blown dry and wearing dainty white slips. She appeared in a hurry though as what she wanted to say, simply couldn’t wait. Izu turned to watch her approach, and she didn’t hold back. Not at all sorry for her behavior, as he wasn’t for his. But for all sakes and purposes, she discovered that it was Izu that made her feel most alive and most loved, even if he didn’t actually say it. His standoffish attitude, and not touching her as she did say he was not to lay a hand on her, made it all the more difficult for him to express himself physically. She had imposed walls, that if he broke them he would feel her wrath. But her boldness captivated him, and a slight amused smirk appeared when she finally said she was not sorry she loved him, as he wasn’t either with her. The question “Marry me” got one answer. He swept her into his arms and kissed her with such passion, growling in her mouth the word “yes.”

“Let’s go inside. I have take-out menus on the fridge.” Rodger was passive in his actions and helped her out of the car, before walking off ahead of her. Amelia, who was dressed casually and with her hair down to her shoulder, followed in behind like a stray puppy, looking at him with large eyes, wondering when he would start to go off about Shane and Jarvis. Everything.

“Come on, Vampira.” He urged, and Amelia quickened her step, so she was just in behind him when he took out his keys and opened the door. Watching him go inside, she looked down a moment, so when she crossed the threshold, she didn’t trip, only to gaze up and feel him grip her hand and pull her inside. Here it comes…..

But it was nothing what she would have expected. Rodger buried his face between her shoulder and neck, saying he was so sorry…for everything. The feeling that ran through her, as he pulled her close. She truly felt home. She hiccuped a small cry, her face radiating her love for him. Forgiveness was something she was more than capable of.

“So am I. Rodger, I should have been more careful. I won’t make the same mistakes again. I promise.” Amelia blurted, fighting to hold back the tears that were welling in her eyes. Rodger then presented her with a small box. Opening it, she found a beautiful lace and metal studded collar. It was so sweet…and so her.

“Oh Rodger…you shouldn’t have.” Awe struck by the pretty collar. But it was not just the collar that had her so happy, it was what the collar symbolized. Once she put it on…she truly belonged to him. “I love it.” She enthused, undoing the clasp and then handing it back to Rodger. “Can you put it on me, please?’

Amelia turned around and lifted her hair out of the way, so he could once and for all…claim his girl.

<3>

He couldn’t stop the smile that spread on his face as he watched her undo the clasp. Soon she spun around and lifted her hair while asking in her irresistible voice to put it on her. Oh, he had every intention of putting it on her again, and no one would ever take it off.

Stepping forward, he took the collar from her wordlessly and clasped it around her bare neck. His green eyes focused on her soft pale skin and he felt himself hardening. Leaning down, he snaked his arms around her waist and pulled her flush against his hard on. While gyrating himself slowly into her so she could feel just how much he needed her, he leaned down to hoarsely growl in her ear “You are mine now, Amelia Reed. You belong to me, and I’ll never let you go again.” Without another word, he bit down on her neck sharply before he began to trail delicate kisses across the back of her neck. His left hand grasped her hip to keep her against him while the other hand reached up to knead her breast mercilessly.

He couldn’t control himself any longer, and he had to claim what was his with his body.

The hard grasping of his hand upon her hip pushed her tight up against his rock hard member, that she craved so desperately to fill her aching need. Her panties were already wet, and the pressure of his forced grip of her breast had her begging…pleading..

“Please…god please Rodger…take me…take me now. Claim me.” She begged, her hands trembling as she touched and pawed at him tenderly. He could be hard as he liked on her, and she would always be that welcoming lover…bringing him home.

<3>

Wrapping his arms around her waist, he then hoisted her up to carry her into the living room. They would christen every room of his house, he didn’t care if he was up all night. Bringing his woman to the couch, Roger set Amelia down on her feet and didn’t push her back onto the couch. Not yet. Falling to his knees, he lifted her shirt up slowly while looking into her eyes. His were soft and loving, but his hands were quick and needy. Placing a kiss to her hip, he then moved to tug her bottoms down.

With her bottoms and panties off, the lieutenant snuck her a sneaky look. Smiling like a predator, he leaned in to bite her hipbone. He wanted her pleasure to be mixed in with pain, and he had to hear his name on her lips. She was begging him and it was just what he needed to hear. Standing up straight, Roger tugged his shirt off and tossed it over the couch. Looking down at his woman, Roger became dominating as he was meant to be. “Take my pants off. Then you will taste me.” Placing a hand on her shoulder, he then forced her on his knees before him. His knees quivered in anticipation but he was careful not to rush Amelia.

“Take my pants off. Then you will taste me.” 

The force of his hand guiding her down, had her sink to her knees, all the while gazing up at him, before looking to his pants, where she reached up and undid the clasp, then slid the zipper down slowly. Both hands reached for either side of his pants and she pulled them down slowly, shaking her head as her hair fell off her shoulders. His pants down, she followed the same with his boxers, lowering them carefully, and exposing his cock, the tip already moist with pre, and pulsating with blood.

Wishing to be truly submissive, she placed both hands behind her back, interlocking her fingers. This would draw her shoulders back tight, and with her kneeling with her legs partly spread, and a curve to her spine, Amelia looked more than ready to accept her duty, to taste her Master. She wet her lips with her own tongue, and tipped her head forward, at first giving kitten like licks to the head, before her tongue slowly started to curl around and under the hood, so to reach his most sensitive spot, where she applied light flicks of her tongue. Eyes closed she was going by taste and touch. To watch her, she demonstrated skill, obedience and tenderness. Treating his member with care, to enhance the experience.

Her tongue then found its way to his shaft, and slowly she tasted, licked him right to his stomach, before drawing back and repeating this. Rodger had only said to taste him, and she knew that when he wanted her to truly take him in…he was going to do so by force. She opened her mouth further and sucked the tip of his cock, with slight popping sounds as she released. It wouldn’t be long before he would feel the need to take her head, and guide her onto him fully, and the real taste test would start.

<3>

As Amelia sank to her knees, Roger ran his fingers through her hair encouragingly. He was beckoning her to do as he commanded sweetly, but soon she would feel just how pain was when mixed with pleasure. With hooded eyes, he watched the way her hands locked behind her back. Nodding once, he growled hoarsely “Atta girl…don’t touch me.” And she didn’t, only with her lips. Amelia took Roger into her mouth like a skilled lover, starting out teasingly slow before taking him completely in her sweet little mouth. The sensation was enough to send him rocking back on his heels as his fingers tightened in her hair. Loosening his grip long enough to form pony-tail with her hair in one hand, he yanked on it gently at first. After a few gentle tugs, her jerked her head back hard, unable to take anymore of her ministrations without finishing right then and there.

It had been too long in his mind since he last had his woman, and he had to have her now. Pulling her up to a standing position by her hair, he leaned in to nip at her ear. Roger then stooped down to wrap his arms under her ass and whispered in his gravelly voice “You’re coming with me.” Lifting her up in one swift movement, he tossed her over his shoulder and carried her upstairs to his room.

Once inside, Roger quickly slammed the door to his bedroom and held her against the nearest wall. His lips crushed against Amelia’s hungrily as his hands pinned her hips to the wall. After a few moments of licking and nipping at her mouth, he pulled back to ask in a breathy voice “Here, or the bed? Make a fast decision or you don’t get any of me.” His eyes flashed darkly as he taunted her. Roger would have Amelia even if he had to take her on a dumpster outside.

Watching his face with anticipation of what he would ask her to do for him, she fell silent, to hear his voice, and see the look of lust in his eyes.

“Here, or the bed? Make a fast decision or you don’t get any of me.”

“Here…Sir, Here.” Amelia called him Sir. Why? Cause she believed he owned her, and that was what he should be called. Would he accept this? One could only wait to find out. She was very quick to make her response, for she desperately wanted him…more than anything.Amelia drew her hands back, not to touch him, till he wanted her too. The wait was excruciating. Already her panties were wet, and she knew that they would soon be off on the floor discarded…very soon.

<3>

Pressing Amelia into the wall, Roger reached over to rip her panties clean off. It was a nasty habit he was developing, but he was all to eager to just buy her whatever she wanted. With her panties out of the way, Roger smiled down at her darkly “Judging by how moist those were, you are more than ready for me.” Amelia wanted him right there against the wall, and her raw desire to be taken there instead of a bed had him still raging hard. Reaching up, he unhooked her bra and tossed that aside with a free hand as the other kept her against the wall.

Bare against bare, Roger pressed his chest to hers so he could feel her breasts against his chest. Leaning down, he brushed his lips tenderly across her shoulder as he slowly guided himself to her opening. Suddenly, he simultaneously slammed into her womanhood while biting down on her shoulder hard. Soon he fell into a rhythm that had him slamming into her hard enough to make her head bob.

The day had been a long one, with a project that Sam had had on the back burner for sometime, needing completion by four pm, he was really pushing it to get the final specifications done. He had organised a delivery boy to collect the tube from his apartment, to take over to Mister Delowan’s to reach his office by three, so although Sam had arranged to cook a wonderful dinner for Damion for around 7pm, he knew that he would be pushing it. One of his neighbors, Shirley Winters, an older lady that often looked out for the young Alpha, checked in on him at about two pm and sure enough, he had his sleeves rolled up and was working frantically. She let herself in, and heard the worried muttering of Sam. Pushing himself as per usual. He didn’t even lift his head from what he was working on, and she crept into the kitchen, easily seeing that he had preparations for a dinner. Questions raised as to who it might be? He had a lamb roast in the icebox and lots of vegetables on the counter. Looked like he was going to go all out for his guest. Sam never went to this much trouble for himself. Shirley chuckled and put on an apron, singing out to Sam.

“Such a busy boy. You keep working on that project and I will get this meal started.”

Sam looked up with a quizzical expression, only to have his face soften as he saw who it was. She was a widower who had been married some forty years before her husband finally succumbed to illness. Ever since then, she always looked for others she could help, rather than wasting away in her apartment, staring out the window.

“I don’t know what I would do without you, Shirl. You’re one in a million.” Sam chortled, taking off his glasses a moment and wiping the lens, that had become a bit grimy. Shirley pawed at him and then held a stern look. “Make me proud and get that work done.” She knew he did his work from home, and often popped in to catch up with him. Thought the world of Sam, and knew about his…sexuality.

“So…whose the lucky man?” She quizzed, looking up with a twinkle in her eye.

“Oh…only the most handsome bachelor in all New York.” Sam chimed, with a sing song like way of saying it. This only had Shirley near drop a knife in shock.

“Not…Lord Damion Marulo?!”

“The one and only. He …is beyond words. Shirley, I am madly in love with him. Just…wait till you meet him.” Sam seemed to gush about Damion, like a new lover would. Shirley giggled like she was back at school. Talking about love and boys.

“I intend to. You better introduce me, Sammy.” The sweet Shirley said, now getting the roast ready for the oven. This chatter would go on for a few hours, and thankfully, Sam got his work finished on time. Shirley was still in the kitchen, doing a little clean up, when Sam came in behind her and kissed the top of her head.

“If I was straight…I’d so marry you.” He teased, but in a way he meant it.

“I’m too high maintenance…and beside, I don’t compare to this young dish you are having for dinner.”

Sam found that statement all too funny. “If I’m lucky, I will get to eat him too.”

<3>

Shirley could not help but overhear the words of a tearful Damion, who was now unloading all his troubles on Sam. It was not unheard of for a boy’s parents to be upset about their life choice, in particular a father, who had pinned such hopes and aspirations upon their only son. She watched the two young men with old eyes, and felt like she herself had seen this same scenario before, only many years before. Shirley knew it was not her place to interject, and so she went on with preparing dinner, so the men could deal with this crisis.

Sam’s face fell when Damion pulled away from him. He could hear in those first few mumbled words that Damion was devastated with his father’s reaction.

“I think he hates me.” 

“That’s very strong words, when you know that a father’s love should be unconditional.” Sam offered, as he watched Damion pad over to the window, looking lost and ashamed.

“My mom and my sister…they’ve been great about this, my mum especially because she’s a demon…a succubus, you know?”Sam nodded and said. “They are two very proud and beautiful women. I am grateful to see they have your back, Damion.”

But Dad…he takes great pride in our family and our pack…the way he looked at me today…it hurt. I know I need to talk to him, make him understand how I feel about you, about myself…but I don’t know if I could stand to look at him and see the loathing in his eyes.”

These words truly cut into Sam’s heart, and you could see the sadness now, as he realized that perhaps by his attentions, he had made Damion so very unhappy. Shirley motioned with the ladel, for Sam to go over to him and comfort the young man, which is exactly what Sam did. Quietly getting up from his stool and then walking over before reaching Damion and placing his arms around him, just holding him close.

“Damion. You aren’t alone, you know. Tell you what, you want to talk to your old man, bring me with you. I want to be the one to tell him, what a remarkable and fine man you are. That he would be a fool to lose such a wonderful son, whose only crime was falling in love with another man.” He then bent his head down and whispered in his ear. “I’ll stand by you.”

<3>

“Sam.”

“Hmm?” At first he thought he was about to ask him something, but then when he actually gazed into Damion’s eyes, it was like he was staring right down into his soul. There was a moment where the two simply bonded on a level that was high above anything measured. Sam could see that Damion wet his lips, in anticipation. A simple kiss.

At first Sam tilted his head closer so their lips were but inches apart, and there was a light pause, as though the anticipation was building, on both ends. Sam blinked and then he closed his eyes, and gently pressed his lips to Damion’s. It was light, with no sexual tension behind it. Soft and subtle. But his hands, his hands now were gripping to his shirt. Part of him wanting more, the other part trying to go slow. It was like an internal fight to keep himself in check.

The kiss…was romantic…and beautiful.

<3>

Damion inhaled sharply as he caught the scent of Sam’s desire and appreciated the fact that Sam wasn’t acting on them. He gave his mate a loving smile and turned in his arms so they were pressed front to front.

“I won’t break, Sam. Kiss me like you mean it.” Damion whispered, giving his permission for his mate to really and truly kiss him.

Sam had been holding back, purposely. His kiss was to show that he respected Damion, and didn’t want him to feel pushed into an act he was not ready for. But Damion could now read Sam a lot better, and turned himself over, giving permission for Sam to kiss him properly. Slowly Sam took off his glasses, revealing his striking blue eyes, and that chiseled chin. He set the glasses down on the table, just near his reach, then brought his arms back around Damion’s back, as their faces were so close. Eyes wide open now, Sam leant in to kiss, but at first he tugged on Damion’s bottom lip, almost sensually, before releasing and letting his tongue flicker just across the inside of Damion’s lips. From there, he drew Damion tighter upon him, and his kisses were more hungered, like he was feasting on his lips, taking a kiss, then another, while his inner wolf growled with satisfaction.

<3>

He feasted upon Damion’s lips with a hunger Damion had never felt before and he moaned unconciously, his eyes falling closed as he wrapped his arms around Sam’s neck. Damion had never such passion from anyone, had nothing to compare it to and he felt as if her were burning up from inside out. He was pressed into the couch, Sam’s body covering his own and he whimpered when he felt Sam’s thigh pressing against his hardness. Sam’s tongue slipped into his mouth and Damion was assaulted with a whole new set of sensations as his tongue reached out to battle with Sam’s own.

This was desire…and Damion was falling deep.

“I..can’t help it. Stop me now…if you don’t want this.” Sam groaned, ducking down to suckle at the skin of Damion’s neck. Damion arched his back and whimpered as he felt Sam’s hands wandering over his body.

“Sam…please…I…I need you.” Damion whimpered, not realizing that his wolf had taken over his body and his wolf wanted to mate with his Alpha right this second. But Damion was conflicted, much like his mother had been when his father first desired her. He was wolf but he was also a man. It was hard to seperate the two, especially at a time like this.

And then he thought back to something his mother had told him once.

“Damion, you are both wolf and man…there is no seperation between the two. Once you understand this, there will be no more struggles, no more conficts. Once you understand this…will you truly be one with yourself.”

Damion realized the same thing his mother had, that his father made her realize. That he was two personalities in one body, but it was his mind that was fighting who he was, not his heart. His heart belonged to this man, and it was this man who he wanted to be with for the rest of his life.

He relaxed fully in Sam’s arms and smiled. This was where he wanted to be…with his mate.

Sam drew back, to hear Damion say no…to tell him he was not ready for this, but instead, the look on his face was one that completely took Sam by surprise. Sam could actually feel the rigidness of Damion leaving his body, as he began to mold into Sam’s hardened form. Damion was smiling, and it was the most beautiful thing that Sam had ever seen. He accepted him, not only as his mate, but so much more than that. Sam’s eyes glistened with real tears, as he then kissed Damion, and held that kiss. He was overjoyed, that they had reached a point where he knew that he had been right. They were meant to be together. Sam propped up and slowly unbuttoned his own shirt, and slipped it off, before taking Damion’s hand to rest to his chest, so that he could fee his heart beating, then he took that same hand and started kissing each of his fingers, before starting to suck them. Sam wanted to discover each and every part of Damion….inch by inch.

<3>

“No tears, Sam. This is where I want to be.” Damion reassured him. Sam sat up and slowly unbuttoned his shirt, slipping it off of his lean form. He took Damion’s hand and pressed it to his heart and Damion took comfort in the feeling. Keeping his eyes on his soon-to-be-lover, Sam took Damion’s hand and started kissing each of his fingers before sucking them into his mouth. Damion let out an explosive breath at the feeling of Sam’s tongue surrounding his fingers and his pants felt uncomfortably tight.

“Sam.” Damion moaned, running his other hand along the hard planes and angles of Sam’s chest and stomach.

Sam’s eyes closed as he savored each digit, and teased them with his tongue, before he released Damion’s hand, and smiled down at him. The look was one of unashamed love. Sam placed a kiss atop of Damion’s head, propping himself up with one arm as he did so. Both of them were now getting uncomfortable in their pants, for obvious reasons, and Sam decided to act, standing up and undoing his pants, whilst keeping his eye on his soon to be mate. He let them fall and then stepped out of each leg hole, before kicking them away. Sam reached for Damion’s hand and pulled him up to standing before him, where he started to slowly unbutton Damion’s shirt, again kissing him like he was stealing kisses as he went.

Sam had no intention of making fast moves, or speeding up this moment. He wanted Damion to be comfortable in his own skin, as he discovered that of Sam’s. The shirt he would peel back, and then kiss his bare shoulders, whilst Damion was still half dressed. Again he was gentle in his interactions, though his scent that he gave off was incredibly strong, and heady. Sam wanted Damion to explore him, feel his chest and stomach with searching hands as they stood not far from the window, that overlooked a sparkling city night.

<3>

The moves were slow and deliberate, as if Sam didn’t want to frighten Damion into changing his mind. Damion had no intentions of changing anything that happened from this point forward, including his mind. Sam peeled away his shirt from his body, leaning over and pressing a light kiss to his shoulder as he did no. Damion caught Sam’s scent in his nose and closed his eyes. His heart was beating fast in his chest as he stood near his mate.

Taking a chance, Damion dragged his eyes open and slowly reached out his hands to place them on Sam’s shoulders. He was surprised at the smoothness of Sam’s skin beneath his hands. Moving slowly, he ran them down along broad shoulders and down the lean arms that held such strength beneath the taut muscles. Upward and across his chest, he felt a muscle jump beneath his hand and smiled shyly. He brushed his hands across Sam’s nipples, watching them pebble to hard little points. There was a sharp intake of breath and he jerked his hands away.

“I’m sorry. Did I hurt you?” Damion whispered, looking up at Sam’s eyes.