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Second Chances - Part Seventeen of ?

Pairings: Beau Arlen x Y/N Female reader Series Summary: A chance meeting in a grocery store brings a second chance for you and for Beau. The only thing standing in your way are your respective pasts... and a tiny little roadblock. Word Count: 5,735 Tags/Warnings: Mainly fluff. So much fluff. Some emotional insecurity. Implied smut. A/N: Comments, Likes, Reblogs, Kind feedback are always highly appreciated. Please let me know if you want to be added to the tag list! This story is ongoing and likely will never end!

Note: Please take a look at this post for the posting schedule for Second Chances! Divider: credit to @sweetmelodygraphics

Chapter Seventeen: Family Treasures

The morning sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a golden glow over the quiet home. The smell of freshly brewed coffee drifted through the air, mingling with the scent of pancakes sizzling on the stove. It was a peaceful, slow morning—the kind that Y/N had come to treasure.

But peaceful didn’t last long when Eliza was involved.

“Big Sissy, BIG SISSY, BIG SISSYYYY!”

Emily barely had time to react before a blur of curls and boundless energy tackled her midsection, nearly knocking her off balance.

“Whoa!” Emily laughed, catching Eliza before they both tumbled. “Good morning to you too, wild child.”

Eliza grinned up at her, her eyes bright with excitement. “Big Sissy play today?”

Emily smirked, kneeling down to her level. “That was the plan, but I gotta ask—is Grandma gonna let you go?”

Eliza gasped dramatically, turning toward the kitchen where Margaret stood at the stove, flipping pancakes with a knowing smile.

“Gramma, please?” Eliza clasped her hands together, her bottom lip jutting out in an exaggerated pout.

Margaret didn’t even turn around. “Mmm, I don’t know,” she mused playfully. “I was looking forward to a whole day of snuggles.”

Eliza gasped again, eyes wide. “But… but Big Sissy said!”

Emily bit back a laugh, glancing at Margaret. “I did promise her a fun day, Grandma. Maybe… a trip into town? A little sister’s adventure?”

Margaret finally turned around, setting the spatula down, folding her arms, and pretending to think. “Well… I suppose I could let you go… if you promise to bring me back something sweet.”

Eliza gasped again, bouncing excitedly. “ICE CREAM?”

Margaret chuckled. “Mmm, sounds like a fair deal.”

Emily grinned, ruffling Eliza’s curls. “Deal sealed, kiddo. Let’s get you dressed, and then we’re outta here.”

Eliza squealed and ran for her room, disappearing in a flurry of excitement.

Margaret shook her head, laughing. “You’re a natural with her.”

Emily smiled. “She makes it easy.”

Margaret reached over, tucking a strand of Emily’s hair behind her ear. “You know… I can see a lot of Beau in you.”

Emily blinked in surprise. “Really?”

Margaret nodded. “That protectiveness. That strong, steady presence. It’s in your blood, sweetheart.”

Emily’s throat tightened slightly, but she smiled. “That’s… nice to hear.”

Margaret patted her cheek affectionately before turning back to the stove. “All right, you girls go have your fun. I’ve got a little man to spoil rotten.”

The morning sun filtered through the windows, casting warm golden streaks across the bedroom as Beau buttoned up his shirt, rolling his shoulders to shake off the lingering sleep. His badge sat on the dresser beside his belt, waiting for him to put it on.

Across the room, Y/N stood in front of the mirror, securing an earring while skimming over her planner, mentally running through her schedule for the day. Between work and wedding planning, her plate was full, and the next two weeks were going to be nothing short of chaos.

Beau ran a hand through his hair before stepping behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her against his chest. “You sure I can’t convince you to call in sick today?” he murmured against her neck, pressing a slow kiss to the sensitive spot just below her ear.

Y/N sighed, tilting her head slightly to give him better access before catching herself with a chuckle. “Tempting, Sheriff, but no. I actually like my job, and I have too much to do.”

Beau groaned dramatically, letting his forehead rest against her shoulder. “That sounds boring.”

Y/N smirked, turning in his arms. “And your day of paperwork and chasing down stray cows doesn’t?”

Beau snorted. “Fair point.”

She placed a hand on his chest, smoothing the fabric of his shirt. “Besides, if I have to work and plan a wedding, you have to suffer through work, too.”

Beau smirked, leaning down to kiss her—slow, deep, full of promise. “Fine. But I expect some kind of reward for my suffering later.”

Y/N hummed against his lips, pretending to consider. “We’ll see.”

He grinned, grabbing his belt and badge as she turned back toward the mirror to brush through her hair. He watched her, the way she moved, the way her lips curled slightly as she focused. Damn, she was beautiful.

“Hey,” he called, tossing his belt onto the bed and stepping toward her again.

Y/N turned just in time for him to steal another kiss, this one deeper, longer, as he backed her up against the dresser. Her fingers curled around the front of his shirt, holding him there.

“You are so stalling,” she murmured against his lips.

“Damn right, I am,” he muttered, kissing her again.

She laughed, finally managing to nudge him away. “Go. Before Jenny calls and yells at you for being late.”

Beau groaned, reluctantly stepping back. “Fine. But I’m countin' the minutes ‘til I get home.”

Y/N smirked. “Then you better make them count.”

Beau shot her a wink before finally grabbing his hat and heading toward the door.

Y/N shook her head, laughing softly to herself. That man was impossible.

And she wouldn’t have him any other way.

Margaret was already in full grandma mode.

With Eliza and Emily gone, she had one mission: completely spoil baby Caleb.

She rocked him gently in her arms, humming softly, his tiny fingers gripping at her necklace. “Oh, you are just the sweetest thing,” she cooed, brushing a soft kiss over his forehead.

Caleb made a soft noise of contentment, blinking up at her with wide, sleepy eyes.

“Oh, I know,” Margaret murmured, gently bouncing him. “Your mama and daddy think they’re in charge, but we know who really rules this house, don’t we?”

Caleb yawned, his tiny mouth stretching wide, making Margaret chuckle.

She settled into the rocking chair, stroking his soft hair. “You, little one, are going to be so loved.”

And with that, she rocked him back to sleep, completely and utterly in grandmother heaven.

Beau had barely settled into his office, already knee-deep in paperwork, when a soft knock sounded from the doorframe.

He glanced up to see Carla standing there, her expression hesitant but open.

“Hey, Beau,” she greeted.

Beau sat back in his chair, waving her in. “Carla. C’mon in.”

She stepped inside, closing the door behind her before settling into the chair across from him. There was a pause—one of those loaded silences where you knew something was coming, but you weren’t sure what.

“I, uh… I wanted to talk to you about something,” she started.

Beau raised an eyebrow. “Everything okay?”

Carla let out a small chuckle, shaking her head. “Yeah, yeah. Nothing bad. Just… I got my wedding invitation a couple of days ago.”

Beau straightened slightly, watching her carefully.

“I guess I just wanted to check,” Carla continued, tapping her fingers lightly against the armrest. “Make sure it’s really okay. That I’m really welcome there.”

Beau exhaled, leaning forward slightly. “Carla, of course you’re welcome. Y/N and I wouldn’t have invited you if we didn’t mean it.”

Carla studied him for a moment, then nodded slowly. “Okay. I just wanted to be sure.” She hesitated before adding, “Emily’s been giving me updates. She’s been loving spending time with Y/N, with the kids.”

Beau’s lips twitched into a small smile. “Yeah. She and Eliza are practically inseparable now.”

Carla grinned. “Sounds about right. She was so excited to meet them.” She paused, exhaling softly. “I’m happy for you, Beau.”

Beau blinked, caught slightly off guard by the sincerity in her tone.

Carla leaned back, crossing her arms. “I knew about you and Y/N months ago. I could tell. You fell hard for her, and fast.” She smirked slightly. “Not that I was surprised.”

Beau chuckled, shaking his head. “Was it that obvious?”

Carla gave him a knowing look. “Beau, I’ve known you for a long time. I could tell when something changed. And I remember telling you to go for it.”

Beau exhaled, some of the tension in his chest easing. “That means a lot, Carla.”

She smiled. “It’s not weird, you know. You and me—we had our time, and we have Emily. That’s our story. And now, this? This is yours.”

Beau nodded, letting her words settle in.

Carla sighed, standing up. “I just wanted to make sure there were no weird feelings. And to say… I really am happy for you.”

Beau stood as well, giving her a grateful look. “I appreciate that, Carla. More than you know.”

She smirked, tilting her head. “Well, that doesn’t mean I won’t be making fun of you for crying at the altar.”

Beau scoffed. “Who says I’m gonna cry?”

Carla gave him an exasperated look. “Oh, Beau. Please.”

Beau huffed, shaking his head. “Fine. Maybe a little.”

Carla laughed before reaching for the door. “See you at the wedding, Sheriff.”

Beau grinned, watching as she walked out, a weight lifting from his chest.

Everything was good.

Everything was right.

And now? Now, he could focus on marrying the love of his life.

Eliza, dressed in her favorite sundress, held tightly to Emily’s hand as they strolled through town, stopping at every window display, every little shop that caught Eliza’s attention.

“Sissy, look!” Eliza gasped, pointing at a giant stuffed bear in a store window.

Emily grinned. “You do have a birthday coming up soon… should we put that on your wish list?”

Eliza gasped again, nodding eagerly. “YES!”

Emily laughed, tugging her along. “All right, all right. Let’s get ice cream first.”

By the time Beau pulled into the driveway, the sun was dipping low, casting warm golden light over the house. It had been a long day, but the second he stepped through the front door, any exhaustion he felt faded at the sound of tiny, excited babbles filling the air.

Eliza was going off in full toddler mode, bouncing on her feet, her little hands moving wildly as she tried to explain everything that had happened during her adventure with Emily.

“—sissy get me ice cream! BIG one! Had choco—choc’ate! An’ sprinkles! An’—doggie! Saw doggie! Big! Go woof!”

Y/N, standing near the counter, was laughing softly as she set plates on the table. “She’s been like this since they got back,” she said, glancing up at Beau with a knowing smile.

Emily, standing beside Eliza, arms crossed, was beaming, her face full of warmth as she nodded along to every word. “I swear she didn’t stop talking once today,” she said, shaking her head with an amused grin.

Beau chuckled, bending down to scoop Eliza up into his arms, her tiny hands immediately clutching onto his shirt. “That so, baby girl?”

Eliza nodded so fast it nearly knocked her curls loose. “Yeah! Fun! Sissy fun!”

Emily smirked. “We had a blast.”

Beau grinned, shifting Eliza in his arms. “That true, wolf-child? You like hangin’ with Big Sissy?”

Eliza’s face lit up as she turned, patting Emily’s shoulder with her little hand. “Mine!”

Emily laughed, nodding. “Yup. I’ve been claimed.”

Beau’s chest swelled with something deep, something warm.

This. This was exactly what he had always wanted.

He looked over at Y/N, who was watching it all unfold, a soft smile playing on her lips. Her eyes met his, full of love, full of knowing.

“Sounds like we had a good day,” Beau murmured, pressing a kiss to Eliza’s cheek before setting her down.

Eliza immediately latched onto Emily’s leg, babbling again. “Sissy got cookie! For G’ma! Big one! Choco one!”

Emily grinned. “That’s right. We promised Grandma a cookie.”

Beau raised an eyebrow, looking between them. “And where’s mine?”

Eliza’s whole face froze.

Her eyes went huge, her mouth forming a little o. She turned very slowly to Emily, blinking. “Uh-oh.”

Emily burst out laughing, covering her mouth.

Beau let out a deep chuckle, kneeling back down to Eliza’s level. “You forgot your old man, huh?”

Eliza made a tiny whimper sound before throwing herself against his chest. “Sowwy, Daddy!”

Beau laughed, hugging her tight. “It’s okay, baby girl. I forgive you.”

Eliza pulled back, gripping both sides of his face with her tiny hands. “You okay?”

He grinned. “Yeah, darlin’. I’m okay.”

She studied him very seriously before nodding to herself, as if deciding he was probably not too heartbroken over the missing cookie.

Emily, still laughing, wiped a tear from the corner of her eye. “That was the best thing I’ve ever seen.”

Beau shook his head, standing up. “You’re gonna fit right in with these two, Em.”

Y/N walked over, slipping her arms around Beau’s waist, pressing a kiss to his jaw. “Told you she was gonna adore her big sister.”

Beau exhaled, wrapping an arm around her, pulling her close. “Yeah,” he murmured. “And I love seein’ it.”

Emily, watching them, felt a tightness in her throat—one that had nothing to do with sadness and everything to do with how full her heart felt.

Y/N turned to her, reaching out to squeeze her hand. “She’s already your girl, too.”

Emily swallowed, nodding. “Yeah,” she whispered. “I think she is.”

And as Eliza tugged on her hand, demanding more attention, Emily knew—

This was home.

This was family.

And she wouldn’t trade it for anything.

The house was quiet, wrapped in the stillness of the Montana night.

Beau lay on his back, one arm tucked beneath his head, the other lazily tracing circles against Y/N’s bare shoulder as she lay curled up against him, her head resting on his chest. Their breaths were still heavy, their bodies warm and tangled beneath the sheets, the scent of lovemaking lingering between them.

It had been different tonight.

Not rushed, not just a release—it had been intense, raw, all-consuming. A reflection of the love swelling inside them, the joy filling their home, the way their family was growing and blending so seamlessly.

Y/N sighed softly, nuzzling into his chest. “That was… something else.”

Beau chuckled, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. “Yeah, it was.”

A comfortable silence stretched between them for a while, their bodies still thrumming with the aftershocks of their passion.

Then, quietly, Y/N murmured, “Emily fits in so perfectly.”

Beau exhaled, his hand sliding through her hair, his fingers combing through the soft strands. “Yeah,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. “She really does.”

Y/N shifted, tilting her head up to look at him. His green eyes were soft, thoughtful, his usual confidence replaced with something deeper, something almost vulnerable.

“I can’t tell you how much it means to me,” he murmured, “seeing her with the kids. With you.” He swallowed, his throat tight. “I spent so long wonderin’ if I’d ever have this. A real family. A home that just… felt right.”

Y/N reached up, cupping his cheek. “You do, Beau.”

His jaw clenched slightly as he turned his face into her palm, pressing a lingering kiss there. “I know,” he admitted. “And I don’t ever wanna take it for granted.”

Y/N studied him, sensing there was more he wanted to say.

“Beau?” she prompted gently.

He took a slow breath before shifting, rolling slightly to his side so he could look at her fully. His fingers trailed along her arm, his touch reverent, deliberate.

“I’ve been thinkin’,” he started, his voice low, careful. “About Eliza.”

Y/N’s brows furrowed slightly, curiosity flickering in her gaze. “What about her?”

Beau held her gaze, his thumb brushing absently over her wrist. “I want to adopt her.”

Y/N’s breath caught.

Beau swallowed, his voice steady but filled with emotion. “Not just ‘cause we’re getting married. Not just ‘cause she’s your little girl. But because… she’s mine too, Y/N. She feels like mine. She is mine in every way that matters. And I want to make it official.”

Y/N blinked, her chest tightening. “Beau…”

“I love her,” he continued, his voice thick. “I love her like she’s always been mine. And I want her to know that. To never have to question it. To never have to wonder.”

Y/N’s throat bobbed, emotion clogging it. “Are you sure?” she whispered.

Beau let out a small chuckle, shaking his head in disbelief. “Darlin’, I’ve never been more sure of anything.” He reached for her hand, threading his fingers through hers. “She is my little girl. And I wanna make it real. In every way.”

Y/N’s eyes welled with tears, her lips trembling. “Beau…”

He reached up, cupping her face. “Say yes,” he murmured.

Y/N let out a breathless laugh, nodding frantically as tears spilled down her cheeks. “Yes,” she whispered. “Yes, yes, yes.”

Beau exhaled, relief washing over his face before he pulled her into a deep, soul-stealing kiss.

When they pulled apart, Y/N cupped his jaw, running her thumbs over the stubble there. “She’s going to be so happy, Beau.”

Beau smiled, brushing his nose against hers. “Good. ‘Cause I plan on spoilin’ that little girl for the rest of my damn life.”

Y/N laughed softly before pressing another kiss to his lips, then his forehead, then his chest, where his heart beat strong beneath her palm.

Beau wrapped his arms around her, holding her close, breathing her in.

Their family was already whole, already perfect.

The house was alive with warmth and movement.

Morning light streamed through the kitchen window, casting golden streaks over the countertops where Y/N stood, flipping pancakes while the scent of fresh coffee filled the air.

Eliza was in the living room, enthusiastically banging together two plastic toys, her own personal concert echoing throughout the house.

At the kitchen table, Emily sat across from Margaret, who was cradling Caleb like he was the most precious thing in the world. Which, as far as she was concerned, he was.

Emily grinned as she sipped her coffee. “So… is it just me, or are you completely obsessed with this kid?”

Margaret smirked, rocking Caleb gently as he blinked up at her with sleepy eyes. “Oh, I absolutely am.”

Emily laughed. “You know you’re holding him like someone’s gonna steal him, right?”

Margaret scoffed, shifting Caleb slightly to rest against her shoulder. “I dare someone to try.”

Emily shook her head, amused. “All right, all right. But, hey… I was thinking, maybe I could spend the day with him?”

Margaret froze, her grip immediately tightening around Caleb’s tiny body.

Y/N, still by the stove, smiled to herself, already knowing this was coming.

Margaret cleared her throat, but her fingers still curled firmly around the baby’s back. “Spend the day… how, exactly?”

Emily leaned forward slightly, resting her elbows on the table. “Just—bonding! Maybe take him outside for a little stroll, get him some fresh air, let you have some time to yourself.”

Margaret arched a brow. “I don’t need time to myself. I have Caleb.”

Emily snorted. “Grandma, you do you can share him with the rest of us, right?”

Margaret gave a very unimpressed look before turning to Caleb, cooing softly. “She doesn’t understand us, does she, baby?”

Caleb let out a tiny coo, his little fingers gripping the collar of her blouse.

Emily groaned, looking at Y/N for backup. “Am I losing this battle?”

Y/N finally turned, setting a plate of pancakes on the table before leaning against the counter. “You might be.”

Emily sighed dramatically before pressing her hands together. “Okay, okay—look, I love Eliza, but she’s a lot of energy. I thought today I could get some quiet bonding time with this little guy.”

Margaret pursed her lips. “And what if he needs something?”

Emily gave her a look. “I do have basic baby knowledge, Grandma.”

Margaret sighed, looking down at Caleb again, her fingers still not loosening. “It’s not you, sweetheart. It’s me.”

Y/N chuckled, shaking her head. “Mom, let the girl spend time with her brother. You’re just being possessive.”

Margaret huffed. “I am not possessive.”

Y/N raised an eyebrow. “Last night, I literally heard you whisper ‘mine’ when you were rocking him.”

Emily burst out laughing. “Okay, that’s adorable but also exactly my point.”

Margaret let out a dramatic sigh, looking between them before pressing a kiss to Caleb’s head. “Fine. But if you need anything, you call me immediately.”

Emily grinned. “Yes, ma’am.”

Margaret reluctantly handed Caleb over, her hands hovering like she was mentally preparing herself to snatch him back at any moment.

Y/N smirked as she handed Emily a bottle. “See? That wasn’t so bad.”

Margaret huffed. “We’ll see.”

Just then, the bedroom door opened, and Beau stepped out, his hair still damp from his shower, a towel draped over his shoulders as he buttoned up his shirt.

His eyes immediately scanned the room, landing on Emily holding Caleb. He arched a brow. “Well, look at you. Movin’ up in the world.”

Emily rolled her eyes. “Apparently, it was a hard sell.”

Margaret muttered, crossing her arms. “It was.”

Beau smirked, walking over to Y/N, dropping a kiss on her cheek before stealing a bite of pancake straight off her plate.

Y/N swatted at him. “Go eat your own food, Sheriff.”

Beau grinned, reaching for his coffee as he turned back to Margaret. “You okay, Margaret? You look like someone stole your car.”

Margaret huffed, giving Emily one last look before dramatically sipping her coffee. “I’ll survive.”

Beau chuckled, grabbing a fork and sitting down beside Emily, watching as she held Caleb with ease.

“You know,” he murmured, tilting his head, “this really is somethin’ special.”

Emily looked at him, brow raised. “What is?”

Beau took a sip of coffee before smirking. “All three of my kids under the same roof.”

Emily’s expression softened as she looked down at Caleb, her fingers gently brushing over his tiny hand.

Yeah.

That was something special.

The warm glow of the setting sun stretched across the driveway as Beau pulled the truck to a stop in front of the house. The day had been long—work always felt longer when he knew what was waiting for him at home—but now that he was here, something inside him instantly settled.

Y/N stretched in the passenger seat, letting out a soft sigh. “I am so ready to be home.”

Beau smirked, unbuckling his seatbelt. “That bad, huh?”

Y/N gave him a pointed look. “Do you know how many last-minute wedding things I had to deal with today on top of work stuff?”

Beau grinned. “Nope. And that’s why I left you in charge.”

Y/N swatted at his arm. “You’re impossible.”

Beau leaned in, pressing a slow, lingering kiss to her lips. “And yet, you love me anyway.”

Y/N sighed against his mouth. “Unfortunately.”

Beau chuckled, then opened the door, stepping out just as another car pulled into the driveway.

Margaret was behind the wheel, and as soon as she parked, she got out and moved to the backseat. Beau and Y/N watched as she opened the door, carefully unbuckling Eliza from her car seat.

The second Eliza was free, she started wiggling excitedly, her little feet kicking against the seat. “Mommy! Daddy!” she squealed, bouncing as Margaret lifted her out and set her down on the ground.

Eliza bolted toward them, her little feet pattering against the gravel.

Beau barely had time to crouch before Eliza launched herself into his arms. He lifted her effortlessly, settling her against his hip. “Hey there, wolf-child,” he murmured, pressing a kiss to her messy curls. “Did you have a good day?”

Eliza nodded rapidly. “Big one!”

Margaret chuckled as she walked up the steps. “That girl wore me out today.”

Y/N reached for Eliza’s chubby little hand, kissing her fingers. “Did Grandma spoil you?”

Eliza’s face lit up as she nodded enthusiastically. “Cookies! An’ toys! An’ big slide! An’—”

She suddenly gasped dramatically, wiggling in Beau’s arms until he set her down. Then, without missing a beat, she bolted inside. “Sissy! Sissy! Mommy ‘n’ Daddy home!”

Beau chuckled, shaking his head as he wrapped an arm around Y/N’s waist. “Think she missed us?”

Y/N laughed. “I think she’s just excited to show off whatever she convinced Grandma to buy her today.”

Margaret huffed playfully as she made her way inside. “You act like I spoil her.”

Beau smirked. “Margaret, you literally just came back from taking her to a toy store.”

Margaret sniffed. “She needed a new stuffed horse.”

Y/N snorted. “Right. Needed.”

They followed Margaret inside, where Eliza was already bouncing beside the couch, tugging at Emily’s arm, trying to get her attention.

Emily, however, was completely entranced by Caleb.

The baby was settled comfortably against her chest, wide awake, his tiny fingers occasionally flexing in the air as she gently rocked him back and forth.

Y/N nudged Beau’s arm, nodding toward the scene. “Oh, look at her.”

Beau smirked, stepping forward. “Well, well, well. Someone’s got a case of baby fever.”

Emily glanced up, blinking as if she had just realized they were there. “Oh—hey! You guys are back.”

Beau raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms. “You, uh… good there, Em?”

Emily huffed a small laugh, looking back down at Caleb, her face full of warmth. “I get it now.”

Beau chuckled. “Get what?”

Emily gently stroked Caleb’s tiny fingers, her voice softer than usual. “Why people love babies so much.”

Y/N bit back a smile as she walked over, peering down at Caleb. “He is a pretty easygoing little guy.”

Emily nodded. “He barely fussed all day. Just ate, snuggled, and blinked up at me like I was the greatest person in the world.” She glanced up, shaking her head in pure awe. “It’s dangerous how sweet he is.”

Beau snorted. “Careful, Em. You sound like you’re about to steal him.”

Emily sighed dramatically, cradling Caleb a little closer. “I just might.”

Y/N chuckled, rubbing Emily’s back. “Welcome to the club.”

Margaret walked into the room, hands on her hips. “I told you he was perfect.”

Emily rolled her eyes but didn’t argue. “Yeah, yeah, okay—you win.”

Beau smirked, leaning against the couch. “So, lemme get this straight—you survived a full day with a baby, and now you’re thinkin’ about gettin’ one of your own?”

Emily snorted. “Oh, no way. I’m happy borrowing this one for now.” She grinned down at Caleb, brushing her thumb across his tiny cheek. “But yeah… I get it now.”

Y/N smiled, glancing over at Beau, who was watching his daughter with nothing but pride.

He sighed dramatically, shaking his head. “First, Eliza claims you, and now Caleb? What’s next—you takin’ Grandma out for spa days?”

Margaret lifted her chin. “Well, now that you mention it—”

Beau held up a hand. “Nope. Not entertainin’ that.”

Y/N laughed, stepping closer and wrapping her arms around Beau’s waist. “Face it, honey. Emily’s one of us now.”

Beau exhaled, pressing a kiss to Y/N’s hair. “Guess I can live with that.”

Emily smirked. “Gee, thanks, Dad.”

Beau chuckled, nudging her playfully. “Anytime, kid.”

The house had settled into its quiet nighttime rhythm.

Beau was standing at the dresser, pulling his shirt over his head, while Y/N was already in bed, fluffing the pillows and stretching out with a contented sigh. The warmth of the day still lingered, and the comfort of being home, together, made everything feel right.

Beau was just about to climb in beside her when a soft knock sounded at the door.

He and Y/N exchanged a glance before he stepped over, pulling it open to find Emily standing there, arms crossed, shifting slightly on her feet.

“Hey, sweetheart,” he greeted, voice soft but attentive.

“Hey,” Emily said, her voice quieter than usual. She hesitated, glancing past him at Y/N. “Can I talk to you? Just… you?”

Beau frowned slightly but nodded. “Of course.” He turned back to Y/N, touching her arm. “I’ll be back.”

Y/N smiled, squeezing his hand. “Take your time.”

Emily led him down the hallway to the guest room where she was staying. The small lamp on the nightstand cast a soft glow across the room. Her suitcase was half-unpacked in the corner, her shoes kicked off by the foot of the bed.

She sat down first, twisting her fingers in her lap. There was a hesitation in the way she moved, like she wasn’t quite sure how to say what was on her mind.

Beau sat beside her, leaning forward slightly, resting his forearms on his knees. “What’s on your mind, Em?”

Emily exhaled, shifting slightly. “I don’t really know how to say it. It’s… kinda stupid.”

Beau arched a brow. “Doubt that.”

She gave a small, nervous laugh, then looked down at her hands. “I love them,” she admitted softly. “Eliza. Caleb. I love being their big sister.”

Beau smiled, warmth spreading through his chest. “I know you do.”

Emily nodded, but then she hesitated, her fingers still twisting together. “But… is it okay if I feel sad, too?”

Beau’s brow furrowed. “Sad?”

Emily swallowed hard, her voice barely above a whisper. “I never had this growing up. I never had siblings. And I didn’t know what I was missing, but now that I do…” She trailed off, struggling to find the words. “I wish I had this back then. And I know that’s not fair to you, because I know you and Mom loved me so much—but part of me still wishes I had this when I was little.”

Beau’s chest ached.

He reached over, gripping her hand gently. “Sweetheart…”

Emily sniffled, shaking her head. “I don’t want you to feel bad, Dad. It’s not that I wasn’t happy—I was. It’s just… different now. And I love it so much that I wish I had it before.” She exhaled sharply. “I’m sorry if that hurts.”

Beau squeezed her hand, his voice steady. “Em, you never have to apologize for feelin’ what you feel.”

She glanced at him, hesitant.

Beau took a slow breath before continuing, “I get it, sweetheart. I really do. You had me and your mama, and I know we did our best to love you as much as possible, but I know that’s not the same as havin’ siblings.” He smiled softly. “And the fact that you love Eliza and Caleb so much that you wish you had them sooner? That ain’t a bad thing. That just means you’re a damn good big sister.”

Emily let out a quiet, breathy laugh. “You think so?”

Beau smiled. “I know so.”

She smiled, sniffling slightly before squeezing his hand. “Thanks, Dad.”

Beau leaned over, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. “Anytime, sweetheart.”

Emily sighed, relaxing slightly. “I really do love them, you know.”

Beau chuckled. “Oh, I know. Pretty sure Eliza’s never letting you leave.”

Emily laughed, wiping at her eyes. “Yeah. I’m starting to think she’s attached.”

Beau grinned, pulling her into a side hug. “Good. ‘Cause you’re stuck with us now.”

Emily smiled against his shoulder, hugging him back. “Wouldn’t have it any other way.”

The house was silent except for the soft hum of the night settling around them.

Beau quietly made his way back to the bedroom, stepping inside and closing the door gently behind him. Y/N was still awake, lying on her side beneath the covers, her eyes heavy with sleep but filled with quiet concern.

She shifted slightly, propping herself up on her elbow as Beau peeled off his shirt, sighing before running a hand through his hair. “Everything okay with Emily?” she asked softly.

Beau nodded, but there was something distant in his expression. He slipped into bed beside her, exhaling as he leaned back against the pillows. “Yeah,” he murmured. “She just… needed to talk.”

Y/N studied him for a moment, reaching over to run her fingers lightly over his chest. “About what?”

Beau let out a slow breath. “She loves Eliza and Caleb. She loves being their big sister. But she told me she was sad she didn’t have siblings growing up.” His voice was quiet, thoughtful. “She didn’t even know what she was missing until now.”

Y/N’s heart squeezed.

Beau rubbed his hand over his face. “I hate that I couldn’t give her that.”

Y/N shifted closer, sliding her hand up to his jaw, coaxing him to look at her. “Beau,” she whispered, her voice full of warmth. “Emily grew up so loved.”

Beau swallowed, his green eyes dark with emotion. “I know. But I keep thinkin’… maybe if Carla and I had worked out, if things had been different…”

Y/N shook her head gently. “You and Carla gave Emily everything you could. You were a damn good father to her, Beau. And you still are.”

Beau exhaled, his hand coming to rest over hers, pressing it against his chest. “It just… made me think, you know?”

Y/N smiled softly. “Emily isn’t mourning her childhood. She’s just realizing something new. And instead of being bitter, instead of pulling away, she’s embracing it. She’s here, she’s loving her siblings, and she’s so happy.”

Beau closed his eyes briefly, nodding. “Yeah,” he murmured. “She is.”

Y/N traced her fingers along his jawline, then leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to his lips. “That’s because of you.”

Beau let out a slow breath, pulling her into his arms. “Damn, I love you, woman.”

Y/N smiled against his skin. “I know.”

She kissed him again, slow and lingering, her fingers curling into his hair.

Beau sighed into her mouth, letting himself sink into the warmth of her touch. He hadn’t even realized how much he needed this—her comfort, her presence, her love.

Y/N shifted, straddling his waist, her hands splayed across his chest. “You know what else I know?” she murmured, her lips grazing against his jaw.

Beau smirked. “What’s that, darlin’?”

Y/N kissed him again, deeper this time, pressing her body fully against his. “You need to be thoroughly reminded of how good of a man you are.”

Beau groaned, his grip tightening around her waist. “That right?”

She hummed, nipping lightly at his bottom lip. “Mmhmm.”

Beau flipped them easily, settling between her legs, his lips moving along her neck, down to her collarbone. “Y’know, I was feelin’ a little down,” he murmured against her skin.

Y/N giggled, arching into him. “Let me fix that.”

Beau grinned before kissing her breathless, letting her take away every doubt, every weight he carried—until all that was left was them.

Together.

Always.

Tag List: @spxideyver, @deadlymistletoe, @bitchykittenconnoisseur, @aarpfashionvictim, @stoneyggirl2

@foxyjwls007, @katastrophicmind, @globetrotter28, @deansimpalababy, @daisychaingirl

@nancymcl, @deans-baby-momma, @kickingitwithkirk, @kmc1989, @ozwriterchick

Want to be a part of this tag list or others? Comment here to be added! And check out my other stories that are currently being written!

[j-eryewrites]

Hi!❤️

I just wanted to ask if you have a date for the next chapter of a sinner's redemption?

No pressure, of course. I just really love that story, and your writing is so so good!

It's one of my favorites, and I've read it again and again!

Actually, I just posted the final chapter to A Sinner's Redemption. It brings a smile to my face hearing that you love the story and my writing! I'm so happy that this is a story you can come back to.

I hope you are happy with the ending to this fic and thanks again for your support!

[haridraws]

holiday gift season approaches.

do you know a FANTASY GAME ENJOYER? or someone with a YEARNING for d&d but no opportunity/ time to schedule it?

may i suggest.... my books

Where can I obtain these: Consider US & UK indie bookstores!! But, many places, like Forbidden planet online for less than a tenner. or Target.

Into the Dungeon: FUN. SILLY. Dungeon crawl! Get loot! Get eaten!

Into the Tower: Juicy fantasy novella vibe. Multiple unique endings. Wizard tower! Weird magic! Romance and horror options if you want!

BOTH: Standalone, quick reads, <1 hour to play once, no experience needed

Replayable. Achievements. Easy and hard modes

Meet creatures, kiss monsters

guest art I'm OBSESSED WITH. LOOK AT IT

Grainy VINTAGE (2018) photos of Felix Miall & Letty Wilson's inks

^ You might recognise these as the artists for many-award-winning ttrpgs including Heart: the city beneath and Wanderhome...

into the tower pics by Shazleen Khan, Faye Stacey & Sajan rai, THERE ARE LITERALLY SO MANY MORE BUT MOST ARE SPOILERS. CAN'T BELIEVE I GOT TO WORK WITH ALL THESE COOL ARTISTS TBH

Age rating FAQ: can I give Into the Dungeon to (or play with) nerdy children? yes. encouraged.

Number of players: solo, unless you read them aloud and get people to vote on their choices (I LOVE DOING THIS WITH CYOA BOOKS)

You can see more info, links to buy, character previews and a lil chart comparing the books here.

[imaginethathaikyuu]

Em can we please talk about Tsukki. Everyone keeps writing him as a mean dom and it’s killing my soul. Please say it isn’t so 😭😭😭😭

Lowkey hc Tsukki as ace and super sweet on his person… like he just simps and is very soft in private. I just wanna kiss his pretty fingers. but I’d love to hear your takes.

okay like ive beeeeen saying this since day one, popular fanon characterization is NOT satisfying for me.....

tsukishima kei would arguably be the best partner...imo... LIKE i think he'd be an annoying little fucker at first when you don't know each other well. but as you get closer he becomes the softest sweetest kindest bf.

especially as things get more serious, when he can let go of all of his insecurities and finally start feeling equal to you, his curtain of arrogance drops and he can just be himself :]

he is sooo cat coded imo like he's just always There. he will randomly lay next to u and put your hand on his head (instead of asking u to play with his hair) and just sit in silence forever. Annoys u just for the sake of being a Bother. puts cold drink on the back of your neck, pulls ur hoodie strings closed, places ur fav snacks on the highest shelf. but also ties ur shoe for u and remembers ur coffee order and compliments u every day. wait i love him

but also like i get the fun in writing him as big mean dom who fucks like if that is what u like to read i love that for u and honestly i see why some ppl write him as like. a big doodoo meanie like thats a fun path to go down too. that just isnt the tsukishima kei who lives in my house u know what i mean

[pettyprocrastination]

as much as I love 141 medieval au's here the reader is a noble lady saved from her marriage or some lone townswomans rescued by the group of knights (looking @ my own nun!reader in this) I do love the notion of a lady knight.

A badass woman with no name or backstory that's taken up the life of a sellsword- who scoffs at the notion of "honor" when spilling blood on your blade- death is death. Honor means nothing for God or king.

Her hair is cut close to her scalp, because it's all too easy for somebody to grab a handful of those soft locks and be at the perfect position to slit her throat in a fight. Covered in scars and carried by aching bones that broke years ago but never quite healed properly.

Maybe Price is a king who sees this helmeted figure fighting at a tourney for his name day and asks for their name- their noble house only to learn you have none. Simply a desire for the money awarded to the winner.

Maybe Gaz is beloved prince who often sneaks out from his guards nose to mingle with the common folk- who enjoys sitting in a tavern with others and singing songs while drinking ale with a pretty little thing on his lap until he's walking back to the palace and finds a blade at his neck in a dark alley as you warn him that noblebloods should never walk unaccompanied- it makes the job far too easy.

Maybe a beautiful noble lady is sent to stay under the eye of a royal family in discussion for marriage- when the house offers to gift her one for their personal guards of the 141, she insists she more than happy with her own- you. The silent armor-clad figure standing close to her side. (yes I miss domentzia. she's my wife and always will be).

[spiritedstars]

Spirit Meets the Bones XXXIII

Genre: Angst/Romance/Drama Warnings: Mentions of physical abuse. Author’s Note:  Thank you for reading <3 I hope you enjoy this next chapter and where the story is going :)

thank you @elidelochans for always being my beta <3

tagging: @climb-the-mountian / @zenkindoflove / @animezinglife / @rosewood-cafe / @vanserrass / @positivewitch / @clockwork-ashes / @carnythian / @secret-third-thing / @runningwiththeoceans / @that-golden-lyre / @thedarkinmansfield / @readychilledwine / @goldenmagnolias / @mali22 / @readthelastpaage / @maidr-00 / @electromagnetic-waves / @eastofatlanta / @moobell55 / @bibliophiliaxvignette / @devilsfoodcake22 / @weesablackbeak / @ladywhilemia / @alohaangels / @feysandfeels / @corcracrow / @dawneternal / @gracie-rosee / @mage-neve / @illyrianvalkyrie / @saint-stella / @rainbowsnowflake / @queenoftheworld1998 / @wolvesnravens

Find it all here.

When two days passed, Eris gathered with his brothers and mother in her garden. For this conversation, Iris stood by his side. He had carefully shielded their scents and if his brothers noticed, they didn’t comment. 

He may trust them but as he shared a glance with his wife, Eris couldn’t help but want to keep this…gift to himself a little longer. If they made it through this, Eris would let himself reflect on how the Mother had a strange sense of humor; to give him Iris with the possibility of losing her. 

Then again, the Mother knew this would be a hard fight. Sending his mate only gave him more reason to insist on making it out. 

“You don’t think it’s too dangerous to be gathered like this in one place?” Lady Enya asked in the silence, her hands wringing in her lap. 

“I glamored us as we arrived,” Eris assured her. “No one saw us coming in.” 

But his mother was more nervous than usual, which added to his stress. Eris could tell she was tired and it made him want to choke his father more viciously than usual; that fucker knew his wife hated his guts and yet he kept his paws all over her. 

Forcing the thought from his mind, his expression tight, he addressed his mother with a nod. “Are you prepared?” he asked. “Do you have everything you need?”

Lady Enya nodded, her hands clenching in her gown. “Yes,” she answered, clearing her throat. “I don’t wish to take anything with me but the clothes on my back. I have nothing of value that I shared with him.” 

The words made him grimace. He knew his mother hadn’t meant her words to be about her sons but it didn’t stop the sting of knowing how she had held herself back. It didn’t hurt any less that she had endured all this because of them. For them. 

The brothers shared a frown.

“I’ve checked with every one of my sources and nothing seems to be amiss,” Emil said, his arms crossed. “My soldiers are ready.”

Izak, seated next to their mother, nodded. “The same with mine. Everything is going according to plan.” 

“What about Lucien?” Finn asked. 

“I’ve been in touch. Everything is fine on his end.” Eris confirmed. “Winter and Dawn have given us passage to winnow from the court lines.”

“No questions asked?” Iris inquired carefully. 

“Lucien has enough connections that no one bats an eye when he mentions he’s passing through with people,” he explained. “Especially when Helion and Rhys are welcoming. There’s no reason to object when there won’t be lingering.”

“Does Rhys know?” Lady Enya asked quietly. 

A muscle flexed in Eris’s jaw. “Rhys has always known this day would come but he doesn’t ask questions. He knows it’s near.” 

Finn shifted on his feet. “We’ve checked and triple-checked everything. Things are going according to plan and yet…why does it feel like something isn’t right?”

“Because we’re a bunch of paranoid motherfuckers.” Izak said then glanced at his mother. “Apologies, mother.”

The corner of Iris’s lips twitched as her mother-in-law rolled her eyes at her son and she couldn’t help but let her gaze shift between the brothers and their mother, feeling slightly out of place. This was her first time meeting Emil and Izak personally and other than an awkward greeting, they kept their distance; the tension lining Eris’s back and the way he watched his brothers with every breath they took near her had Iris do the same. Given what Eris had shared with her about each of them, Iris couldn’t help but have a soft spot for the brothers who were all trying to find the light with love as they battled their own demons. It didn’t change how close Eris had her stand and if anything, his brothers understood his possessiveness too well, even if they didn’t know to what extent.

The last two nights seemed to escalate his levels of stress and Iris had watched him have to expel his anger, nearly setting their whole suite aflame to get himself through the day. He’d leave her early and return late, checking in with her periodically throughout the day and whenever he did, they would end up releasing his stress in a much more intimate way. Iris had found that whenever his body was draped over hers, was the only time he actually relaxed. 

Even in his sleep, her husband struggled and she found herself awake more often, watching him as he shuddered through every breath. 

Iris kept her eyes on Eris as he ran his tongue over his teeth, sharing a look with Emil. “We did find one idiot who was ready to sell out,” he said carefully. “He was hoping to get in with the High Lord and rise through the rankings.” 

“And what happened to him?” Finn asked, his tone casual.

“By the time Eris and I got to him, our sentries had let him know exactly how they felt about ruining our chances,” Emil said, the corner of his mouth lifting. “We aren’t the only ones desperate for change.”

“I would’ve cut out his tongue.” Izak huffed.

“Emil did,” Eris said with a smile that didn’t reach his eyes. “Then we hung him in the center of the training ring with a knife lodged in his throat.”

“That seems unnecessary.” Lady Enya muttered mildly.

But Finn nodded at them. “Nice.”

“You have a very odd definition of nice.” Iris said with a raised brow and Finn’s answering grin was a little too sinister. 

“I would’ve carved out his internal organs to hang him by and then pinned his body to the wall with knives so he could bleed to death, slowly and painfully. What they did was nice.” he said and Iris couldn’t help her grimace.

“Please –” their mother started and glanced at Eris who sighed.

“Let’s focus,” he waved a hand. “We have another week before this hell is over. Keep straightening things out. If you hear even a whisper of something, you let me know immediately.” Eris glanced back at his mother. “We wait for the signal that Helene, Theo, and Cosette are fine. We dance. We mingle. Once Father gives his bore of a speech like every year, Emil will be walking you to where you will meet Mikel and then to where you will meet Iris and Oren. From there, you two will pretend to walk towards your gardens until you cross the gates. Serphan will winnow you to Lucien and then report back to me. Helion will also be waiting.”

Lady Enya swallowed, a hand rubbing her throat. “And they – Lucien knows what to do in case something goes wrong?”

Eris nodded then gave them all a pointed look. “Rumor has it that our youngest brother was invited and he may be making an appearance,” he said. “Should he need to use it, he knows the code. Each of our sentries has a uniform color. Lucien knows my insignia and who he can ask if needed.” 

A silence fell on the group and Iris’s gaze couldn’t help but flicker between them all. She couldn’t imagine how long they’d been waiting for this and how these last few days were causing more agony than anything else. 

Lady Enya broke the silence first, rubbing a shaky hand to her forehead. “I’m – I’m sorry,” she whispered. “I’m sorry to be causing all this.” 

A collective noise of disapproval rang from the brothers and she looked at them with a watery smile. 

“But I am. I always will be,” she added, her grip tightening in the folds of her dress. “If I could stay and help avoid all this, I would but I  — I can’t anymore.”

“Mother.” Finn chasted her gently and his expression tightened when Izak wrapped his burly arm around their mother’s delicate frame and kissed the top of her head. 

“Don’t apologize,” Izak said. “We can’t keep living this way regardless.”

“Enough is enough,” Emil added solemnly. “We are more than what he’s forced us to be.” 

Eris met his mother’s gaze. “You are a phoenix ready to rise from the ashes, remember?” he asked quietly. “Don’t look back now.” 

Lady Enya glanced at each of her sons and then took a shaky breath. “You are all the light of my life. I am proud of each of you and know you will always be more than he could ever dream. Better than he could ever dare to be.” she said softly. “I love you.” 

And Iris had to look away from them as each of the brothers, including her husband, flushed lightly at their mother’s words. But she could feel their content, felt how it filled them with joy and Iris felt an ache in her chest. She hadn’t met her own mother but Lady Enya had easily and so quickly filled that role. This wasn’t her moment and yet Iris felt so honored to be a part of it.

Clearing his throat, Izak gruffly mumbled, “We love you too.”  

Lady Enya chuckled and patted Izak’s cheek. “I know, my beautiful boy,” she said, then sighed quietly, straightening. “Do not underestimate him. He will not respond well and I know he has something up his sleeve.” 

“The bridal party waiting for us isn’t for nothing,” Emil mused. “He’s invited every influential family in the court and somehow, they all have eligible daughters.” 

“We dance and we mingle,” Eris repeated his instructions firmly. “Lying is a form of art we’ve excelled at for years. It won’t kill you to dance with a potential bride to keep up the ruse.” 

“Yeah, but Helene might kill me.” Izak mumbled and Finn snorted as Iris’s lips twitched. 

“Considering Father might kill you first should you not dance, you’ll have to risk it,” Eris said dryly. “He’s surrounding himself with people like him for a reason. He believes in the strength of numbers and has purposely kept some of the guest list names from mother.”

“I think it’s a mighty coincidence that this particular ball is the one he’s having potential brides from powerful families attend,” Emil said. “If the High Lord is promising your daughter a prince, you’d be more than happy to side with a tyrant than against him.”

“It might not be to the extent that families have turned,” Finn said. “But it doesn’t help us if he has some of them present.”

Izak shook his head. “Those families have always been in his pocket, they keep each other comfortable. We knew this.”

“Those families are full of nothing but lofty words.” Lady Enya added. “Nothing in the preparations should change but I still don’t think you should trust them.” 

Finn glanced at Eris. “Once we’re done with Father, we get to clean out the garbage, right?”

“Whoever does not bend to the new ruling will be taken out immediately,” Eris said, his expression tightening. “We know who these people are. They have one chance to make the right choice or they won’t live to make another one.” He glanced at each of his brothers. “This is the only shot we have to disinfect this court and make it into something worth living in. This is bigger than just us.” 

“You should anticipate your father being there.” Lady Enya said to Iris. “He was one of the people the High Lord insisted on adding to the guest list and I don’t see Aron declining the invitation.”

Iris grimaced, her fists clenching at her sides. “I have no doubt he’ll be there,” she said then glanced at Eris. “Even if he knows he’s not wanted.” 

“Especially if he knows he’s not wanted,” Eris muttered. “He knows what awaits him should he step one toe out of line.” And he forced himself to roll his shoulders back, pushing back the surge of anger thumping in his chest at the mention of his father-in-law. He glanced at Izak instead and waved a hand for a letter to appear then flicked it to his brother. “Lucien let me know this morning that Helene and her mother have been settling in nicely. She sent you a letter.” 

Izak caught it and held it tightly, nodding at Eris. “Thank you.” 

Eris nodded back and then glanced at Emil. “Cosette?”

“She’s ready to leave.” his brother answered tightly.

“Adler?”

“He knows his orders.” 

Eris nodded again and ran a hand through his hair. “We have to be on guard for anything.”

“I know.” 

Eris shifted as he stared at his family, feeling the blood pumping beneath his skin. “If –”

“Eris.” Emil’s calm tone cut through his. “We’ve done every single thing we could. The only thing we can do is set it in motion and make it through.” 

Taking a breath through his nose, Eris let his head fall back, his eyes on the open air above them. “I won’t pretend I’m not filled with dread and it’s been getting harder to tighten the leash on my powers,” he mumbled then fixed his gaze back on his brothers. “I set fire to one of the stables yesterday because Father made a snippy comment.”

“What a pity he wasn’t standing in it,” Finn said, his lips twitching and Eris snorted. 

“Pity, indeed.” 

Iris’s gaze locked on Eris and his tightened shoulders and she couldn’t help stepping closer to him, her hand sliding to his back as she leaned into him. He glanced at her with a thin smile then cleared his throat, addressing them all. 

“He’s going to make this a hard fight. We fight as dirty as he does.” Eris said firmly. “Whatever it takes.”

It fell silent as his brothers nodded. His mother’s eyes welled up again, and Eris had to look away from her so it didn’t pain him. He glanced at Iris instead, and even though her smile was a small sad one, it managed to loosen a breath from his chest. Whatever it took, he would crawl his way out of this and back to her. 

“Well,” Finn began and Eris let out a long-suffering sigh echoed by Emil and Izak. “He can’t kill all of us, right? One of us has to survive him to continue the Vanserra line.” 

“Finn.” Eris warned as their mother made a noise of distress.

“What? I’m only reassuring you once again, that if the task comes to me, I would be happy to marry all your lovely ladies and take care of them should you all bite the dust at the ball,” Finn said graciously.

“Don’t you have a certain someone in your life?” Iris asked, holding back a laugh and Finn waved a hand good-naturedly.

“He’s very reasonable, you’ll love him,” he reassured Iris as he wiggled his brows at her. “You won’t mind having sister wives, right? As the wife of my oldest brother, you would be my first wedded, of course.”

Before Eris could do more than snarl rather viciously at his brother’s teasing, Iris held a hand to her husband’s chest and raised a brow at Finn. “It’s sweet you think you can handle one wife, much less three,” she said then turned back to Eris. “If you bite the dust as your brother says, I promise I won’t marry him.” She patted his chest gently. “But, you’ll be perfectly safe so there’s nothing to worry about. You don’t need to punch him.” 

Eris scowled then narrowed his eyes at Finn’s smug smile. “I still want to punch him.”

“We can save it for another day. When all this is over.” Iris couldn’t help but glance at the rest of them. “When we’re all safe. You can punch each other all you want then.” 

“Your wife is an optimist,” Emil noted, tilting his head at her curiously. “What a fate to be married to a Vanserra.”  

Iris’s lips twitched then made a show of stepping back to run her gaze down Eris’s body and back up. Eris’s brow lifted as she made a noise of approval. “Well, he is pretty so it balances out all the struggle,” she said and Eris rolled his eyes as she turned back to shrug at his brothers. “It isn’t much, but it’s honest work.” 

Izak’s head tipped back with a laugh as Finn hooted and Emil couldn’t help his chuckle. 

And Eris wanted to devour her when she gave him a cheeky smile that made him roll his eyes again. “Hysterical,” he deadpanned, the tips of his ears heating at his mother’s small smile. 

“I told you she was funny,” Finn said to his brothers. 

“My wife’s jokes and Finn’s enthusiasm to marry females who won’t want him aside –” Eris began, warning Finn with a look when his brother opened his mouth. “We’ve lingered enough, I think. Should anything else come up, be quick and be discreet.” 

The brothers let themselves slowly disperse with Emil vanishing first then Finn. Izak delayed for a moment and approached Iris with a thin smile. Eris’s brow quirked up as his brother ran a hand over his beard, his expression curiously cautious. “I just wanted to say…I think you and Helene would get along well,” he said and glanced at Eris before meeting Iris’s gaze. “It’s not easy being married to a Vanserra but…I think you two could be friends. If – if you wanted.” 

Iris’s smile was warm. “Based on what Eris mentioned to me, I think so too. I look forward to meeting her when I can.” she said then added quietly, “Congratulations on the pregnancy.” 

Izak flushed, pleased as he nodded. “Thank you. I’ll see you again at the ball.” 

As Izak departed and only his mother remained, Eris gave her a moment as she took in her gardens, her expression tight. He knew this place had always been a sanctuary for her and though she’d be leaving it behind for a better place, he knew it wouldn’t be easy. 

“Mother.”

Lady Enya turned towards him. “Yes?”

“If needed…will you be ready to use your magic?” he asked carefully and his mother took a breath, nodding.

“Yes. Whatever I can do, I will support your every step,” she said, her expression shifting into grim determination. “Whatever it takes, Eris.”

He nodded at his mother then shared a glance with his wife and Iris’s smile was tight as Eris promised, “Whatever it takes.” 

-

Eris blinked and as the ball crept closer, he barely slept. He went about his daily routine, spent time with his wife, and plotted through the night. He tried to be more relaxed, tried to stay focused but as everything slowly came together, he couldn’t help but anticipate that something would go wrong. He’d readjusted his plan with Oren, Mikel, and Seprhan twice already; he was driving his friends crazy. 

The feeling intensified when it was finally the night before the ball and his Father summoned him to the throne room. Eris had hesitated for only a moment in front of the door, the memory of the last time he was summoned here lingering in the back of his mind. But he forced himself forward and allowed himself a glance around the room as he walked towards where his father stood, taking in the splendor of decor as he went. His mother always outdid herself with the way she planned for these events. He knew how this particular event was one of significance and didn’t miss the little signs around the room. The abundance of gold. The wisps of fire magic. The miniature phoenix art scattered around the room. His lips couldn’t help but twitch. 

Eris paused a healthy distance from the High Lord who stood with his back to him, facing the throne. As his Father deliberately took his time to acknowledge him, Eris ran his tongue over his teeth and made himself take a deep breath, schooling his expression into that careful calm he desperately needed around his least favorite person. 

After a few moments of silence, Eris clenched his fists behind his back and cleared his throat. “You called, Father.”

Beron glanced over his shoulder and then made a noise of disapproval as he turned to face his son. The two watched each other in silence and though Eris was used to his father’s mind games, something about this summoning felt…sinister.

Beron gestured for Eris to come closer and immediately, his shoulders couldn’t help tensing further.

But Eris moved and stopped at the place Beron had pointed to, right in front of him. “Do you know why I called you here, son?”

“I really hope it’s because you missed me,” Eris said with a thin smile. “Otherwise my feelings will be hurt.” 

Beron snorted. “Funny,” he said and shifted his head slightly as he watched Eris. “I wonder if you get your humor from your wife. I hear she’s very funny.” 

A beat of silence passed and Eris felt his heart nearly leap out of his chest. “Pray tell, who has been passing along her jokes?”

His father’s answering smile made Eris’s fists tighten. “The wind carries all kinds of whispers, son. I didn’t realize it was a secret.”

The moment stretched between them and Eris tried to keep the beating of his heart calm as his father watched him. What did that even mean? Who was talking?

The High Lord’s mouth curled and Eris tried to tamper down his agitation as his father added, “Then again, everything about your wife would be a secret if it was up to you.” 

Eris’s expression flattened. “Are we really doing this again, Father?” he said and tried to keep his tone even. “I thought we were past this.” 

“Of course, of course,” Beron said casually. “Though how sensitive you are about her is still concerning, I suppose we have other things to worry about with our big event tomorrow.”

Tension lined Eris’s spine as he watched his father watch him, every sentence loaded with words left unsaid, and Eris’s mind scrambled to catch it all. “Indeed,” he said carefully. “What can I assist you with, Father?”

“Always so eager to assist, son,” Beron said. “Sometimes I forget just how much.”

Eris’s gaze narrowed slightly in confusion. He didn’t want to believe his father was bored and wasting his time like this. Eris could barely keep awake these days; with this last night, he wanted to be alone with his wife. His mate. He wanted that fucken time with her. 

Yet here he was, squandering that time with this.

“Is there anything about the event tomorrow you’d like me to do? I do believe everything has been taken care of.” 

“I didn’t call you here for that.” Beron said and Eris lifted a brow.

“If not that, to what do I owe the pleasure of being here?”

The words seemed to cause a slight shift in his father and Eris noted exactly when his expression went from amused disdain to anger.

“You overstep and I tire of it.”

Eris blinked. “Oh?”

“You are my eldest son. I acknowledge that a certain load of responsibility has been expected of you and even added to your shoulders. You have always done your duty as required and yet…” Beron pursed his lips, his gaze narrowing. “The past few months, you have overstepped so very often.”

Eris forced his expression into polite indifference. “Is there something I did in particular that bothered you deeply enough to summon me?” he asked and his father’s eyes narrowed. “I would like to ensure I apologize profusely for my errors.”

“You and that fucken mouth of yours.” Beron snarled and backhanded Eris so quickly he barely took a breath, his face snapping to the side and Eris nearly swore at the sheer force that went into his father’s hand. 

Oh, the High Lord was pissed to be this triggered by his tone.

Eris ran his tongue over his teeth, slowly facing his father again and he knew there was nothing to be done about the anger that coursed through his body – anger he knew the High Lord felt despite the bland expression Eris managed to push through on his face. “That seemed rather unnecessary.” he managed to say lightly, even though his fisted hands were shaking violently behind his back. “Was it something I said, High Lord?”

And this time when his father lifted his hand in warning, Eris leaned back, his expression flattening again. “I can handle words, Father. You don’t need to put your hands on me to tell me when I’ve supposedly wronged you.” 

His father’s mouth curled in anger and the High Lord stepped into Eris’s personal space even further. “Back away from me again and a flogging pole will be the least of your worries.”

A strained silence pulsed in the air between them and Eris knew he was venturing into dangerous territory when he couldn’t hold in his humorless laugh and his father’s eyes narrowed.

“And get blood all over the floor? That wouldn’t be the kind of welcome you’d want to give our guests.”

Beron yanked Eris by the front of his tunic. “Keep speaking in that sarcastic tone and your body hanging by the gates will be what welcomes the guests instead.” 

Eris felt his fire nearly burst out of him, his anger shooting up his spine but he held that leash on his magic and held it tight because he wouldn’t blow up here. Given the kind of pressure he’d been under the last three weeks, it would be so fucken easy to unleash everything and be done. 

But no. Not now. Not when they were so fucken close. Not when they could wipe the slate clean in front of the whole court and step into a new age with history on their side.

Nevertheless, Eris couldn’t stop the steam from pouring out of him and he certainly couldn’t stop his glare when his Father’s cold smirk appeared. 

“I don’t know if that would match the theme Mother’s going for this year.” Eris said tightly as he tried to reign in his anger even as Beron’s answering chuckle was laced with cruelty.

“You keep speaking to me that way and your mother will have more things to worry about than her tacky theme.” Beron spat then shoved Eris back. “Fix your face and apologize.” 

A muscle flexed in Eris’s jaw as father and son stared down one another. They had barely started talking and his father was already goading him just to lay hands on him. Had the High Lord sensed anything amiss? What was it that seemed to be putting his father in such a foul mood? 

Eris’s hands remained behind his back, flexing his fingers then fisting them again as he forced himself to bow his head and as calmly as he could choke out said, “Apologies, High Lord.” 

Beron’s head cocked to the side. “An apology should come with a full bow, boy. Do not disrespect me.” 

Eris’s expression blanked immediately and he forced his body not to react negatively, not to tense further. His well of power would not be blown away on this. This was nothing. He’d tolerated more. 

So forcing himself once more, Eris bowed fully to his father and said as dull as possible, “Apologies, High Lord.”

His father said nothing for a moment and Eris took the opportunity to glare at the sparkling floors they stood on. When another minute ticked by in silence, he couldn’t help but lift his head to find his father smirking at him. And that was never good.

Especially when he opened his mouth and said, “Your wife says my High Lord. You should say it the way she does.” 

Eris’s body straightened before he could stop himself, his vision going red and the only thing that managed to hold him back from ripping his father’s throat out was the laugh that slipped out of the High Lord’s mouth, mocking him.

“You’re so easy to rile these days.” Beron taunted. “Which goes to show you how bad of an influence that wife of yours is.” Giving Eris a sly look, his father continued, “Maybe you should pick out a new bride tomorrow.” 

Eris didn’t bother fighting back his eye roll, despite how much his clenched fists were shaking. “This conversation is getting tedious, Father,” he said curtly. “May I please know what it is you wish to discuss with me?”

The High Lord’s expression filled with contempt as he stared down his son, the silence between them was heavy with trepidation. 

“Tedious, you say.”

“Yes. We both know there are about a thousand other things we could be doing instead of this little dance between us.” 

Beron made a disinterested noise. “I had no plans other than to fuck your mother this evening. Though her lack of enthusiasm doesn’t make it as enjoyable as it could be, it is better than nothing.” 

“Are you fucking kidding me?” Eris snapped and nothing could stop his fists from catching flame. “Show some respect when you speak about her.” 

And Eris knew his father’s fist would fly out. H​​e let it. He let the taste of blood fill his mouth as he staggered back a step from the blow. His father seemed to be spiraling. He had lashed out at stupid things before but this? To this extent? Eris felt the pit of his stomach give out. Could it be that something had slipped through the cracks?

“I will speak about my wife as I see fit. You do not get to insert yourself between us.” Beron spat and Eris wiped a hand at his mouth with a huff of disbelief. His father’s expression of disdain remained as he took a step closer to his son. “This is your problem. You are always inserting yourself in places you don’t need to be. You do it with your mother. You do it with your brothers. You did it in a meeting the other day with our council while I was in the room.” The High Lord glared and Eris had to fight with all the willpower he had to calm his shaking hands – to smother his flames. “You know why I called you here? To discuss how you intervened between me and your brothers the other day. An intervention I did not welcome.” His father’s gaze raked over his face. “I’ve tolerated your overstepping in the past because you followed orders – you get things done. However, I will not tolerate your overstepping tomorrow, especially in front of the many important guests that will be present. You will remember your place and watch how you behave.” 

The High Lord’s voice was nothing but a lethal threat as he said, “The next time you get between me and your brothers so carelessly like that, you will take the brunt of their discipline.” 

Eris tried to keep his expression from shifting at the promise filled with violence. This whole conversation was bringing all the stress he had been carrying and crashing it down on his head. It seemed that indeed, his command of his brothers had finally seemed to bother his father enough that he was finally saying something about it. What convenient fucken timing. 

Beron’s expression morphed into one of cruel amusement. “Your hair is only just starting to grow out. It’s too early for another new look, don’t you agree?”

And the warning was clear – a reminder of what the High Lord would be happy to do again in this very room. 

Eris pursed his lips, his heart thundering in his chest at his father’s gaze filled with violence as clear as the tone he used. He nearly choked as his magic surged up again, desperately wanting to answer it but instead, Eris forced himself to breathe slowly, the leash on his magic held tight as he said carefully, “I merely wished to help, Father. I didn’t realize it would bother this much.”

“I do not require your help to make your brothers fall in line. You should be falling in line with them.” the High Lord snapped. “Your help has become an insult.”

Eris’s jaw worked and again, he forced himself to bow his head graciously even though he wanted to do anything but – his father had already laid his hands on him twice; he couldn’t afford to keep giving him reasons to lash out. So Eris only said, “Duly noted.”

Silence stretched between them and Eris waited, knowing a threat was coming up. His father liked to play games and loved to waste his time. Minutes ticked away and Eris couldn’t help the flare of his nostrils when his father’s mouth curled up.

“Eris.”

“Father.”

“Tomorrow is a very big day,” Beron said slowly and took a step closer to him. “I’d hate for things to go wrong should any of you decide to do something foolish.” 

A chill skittered down his spine but Eris’s expression remained politely bored. The comment didn’t have to mean anything. His father didn’t know anything. The High Lord was only lashing out because Eris hadn’t said the right things to him, because he wasn’t being as careful as he could be. He would blame it on the stress and would not let himself believe anything else.

“Other than drinking excessively,” he said as nonchalantly as possible, “I don’t foresee any trouble.”

Beron hummed, watching Eris in a way that always made his skin crawl. “Your father-in-law will be in attendance. I expect you and your wife to behave accordingly.”

Annoyance flashed on Eris’s face before he could stop it. “I am aware. He’ll do well to steer clear of us completely, Father. That is my only request to you.”

“And if I refused?”

Eris forced his expression to blank pleasantness again, noting the movement of his father’s hands. “Then I cannot promise there won’t be trouble should his path cross ours.” 

“Is that a threat, son?”

“Never, Father,” he said with a small smile. “I am merely setting expectations.”  

Beron’s eyes narrowed and it was a deadly type of silence between them, the type of silence that Eris knew, had his father not needed him to be presentable tomorrow, Eris’s face would’ve met his fire rather than his fist. “You were my favorite son.” his father said quietly. “I do not like who you’ve become.” 

Eris could only slowly shrug his shoulders. “I’m sorry to be of constant disappointment, Father,” he replied and wished he could tell his father exactly how sorry he was – how much being the so-called favorite had cost him. 

Beron scowled and grabbed Eris’s face with a hand, tugging him closer. “Do not think I haven’t noticed how abysmal your attitude has been lately but I will warn you one last time,” his father said quietly, enough violence in his tone that Eris knew not to move. “Should you do anything that isn’t a direct order from me – anything that isn’t what I expect of you, I will make you pay in ways that’ll be worse than your nightmares.” Beron shoved him back and Eris couldn’t help his expression darkening at his father’s glare. “All this family has ever been is disappointing. Let’s hope you and your useless brothers don’t make matters worse for yourselves tomorrow.” 

The High Lord shoved past Eris but paused half a step away and Eris turned his head without a word, only raising a brow at the loaded silence between them. 

But then his father’s nostrils flared and Eris felt his blood run cold. He didn’t dare breathe and mentally checked his shields, knowing he had reinforced it around his scent before he came anywhere near his father, and yet…what exactly was the High Lord sensing?

His father merely gave him a once over then spat, “I’ll see you and your wife tomorrow. I hope you remember to make good choices.” 

And the High Lord’s goodbye felt like a promise full of death. Eris waited a few moments in tense silence, his blood thumping in his ears and when he was sure he was indeed alone, he closed his eyes to let out a deep shaky breath, feeling steam rise from his hands. His anxiety had returned in full force at his father’s departure. His father couldn’t have sensed anything, could he? Eris had glamoured his scent well; no one could note his mating bond, especially without Iris near him. If his father had scented his wife on him, that wouldn’t be unusual but Eris was too careful even for that. 

He ran a shaky hand through his hair and let himself linger for another moment, eyes flickering around the room, letting himself see it as it was for the last time. With a sigh, he turned on his heels and left the throne room. 

He needed to warn his brothers. 

–

Iris watched as Eris finally stepped into their suite and slammed the door behind him. He had taken longer than she had anticipated and the anxiety that had been squeezing around her chest immediately loosened when she saw that he was whole and unharmed. Her heart had stopped when Eris had told her about the High Lord’s meeting and the only reason Iris had survived waiting was because she distracted herself on the piano. 

Everything was supposed to be set. Everything was in place and yet, the tension that seeped into the room with him made her nervous. She hated that what could be their final night together was filled with such emotions. 

She rose from her place on the piano and walked over to him then stopped in her tracks, noting the slight bruise on his cheek, the cut on his lip. “What happened.” 

Her voice was more hushed than intended but if not for that, Iris knew she would start to panic. She moved closer until she stood before him and let her healing senses reach out, not wanting to touch him just yet – not until she was sure he wanted her touch at this moment. But she sensed nothing amiss aside from the evidence on his face and had to swallow when she met his blank stare. “What was this about?” she asked softly.

Eris had to calmly count to ten and let out a long breath before he could speak, “I seemed to have gotten under the High Lord’s skin when I supposedly overstepped and intervened between him and my brothers the other day.” he explained and Iris watched with a grimace as his fists tightened at his sides. “He wanted to remind me of my place and to watch my tone because apparently, my sarcasm doesn’t translate well.” 

“So he finally noticed and said something about it?”

“Funny how he’s always benefited from me doing all his work for him and now has the nerve to get annoyed by it,” Eris grumbled then shook his head. “He wanted to warn us – me to behave tomorrow.” 

Iris felt her heart stutter in her chest. “Warn how?” 

“He wanted to make sure I didn’t intervene in my brother’s whore parade so they could pick wives.” 

Iris brows furrowed. “Given that they’re all in committed relationships, I don’t think it’s going to go the way he wants.”

“Hopefully, by the end of the night tomorrow, he’ll be dead and we won’t have to worry about him at all,” Eris spat and rolled his head back, breathing deeply and Iris felt his frustration seep off him.

She frowned and stopped in front of him, assessing his expression then reached out a hand to gently touch him. She waited a heartbeat, giving him the chance to push her hand away if he wanted to but Eris couldn’t seem to help but shudder at the touch, and after a moment’s hesitation, he turned his face to kiss her hand softly. “You’re almost there. Tomorrow, you all will be free of him. You’ve prepared as best as you can.” she said softly, letting her magic wipe away his hurt.

“I know and yet, I don’t feel prepared at all,” he said quietly and Iris had never seen his eyes so tired. “I feel like it’s going to all go to hell and I’m going to drag you all down with me.” 

Iris cupped his face and forced him to meet her gaze. “Everyone is ready to go down swinging with you, Eris. This is not on your shoulders alone,” she said. “Please…unburden yourself.” 

He shook his head slowly and pulled her hands from his face to hold in his own. “My head isn’t wired to do that,” he said. “I’m thinking about all of the things that could go wrong.”

“But what about all the things that could go right?” Iris asked, squeezing his hands.

Eris’s chuckle was weak. “How I ended up with an optimistic wife really is a comical event. You truly did marry into the wrong family.” 

The corner of Iris’s mouth lifted. “Fate does work in mysterious ways.” 

“Indeed,” he agreed, then took a step back, his expression shifting. “Do you have all your items prepared for tomorrow? Aside from the bag we sent ahead to Lucien and Elain’s.”

She tried not to let her face fall and nodded. “I have a small satchel and daggers to hide beneath my dress.”

“You know where you’ll be meeting Oren?”

“Yes.”

“And the drop-off location where you’ll winnow to reach Lucien?” 

“Yes, Eris,” she said wearily. “We went over all this in the morning.”

“And we shall review it again tomorrow. I cannot take any risks when it comes to you.” he said and Iris gave him a knowing look.

“I know,” she said quietly. “Do you want to try and get some sleep? It’s going to be a long day tomorrow.”

Eris shook his head, his fists clenching at his sides. “I don’t know if I’ll be able to sleep. I’m too tense. Too nervous.” he said and licked his lips, glancing at her in a way that made her pause.

She waited a heartbeat then asked, “...Is there something else?”

He seemed to hesitate for a moment, his expression tight but with a sigh, Eris explained quietly, “When he was walking away from me, he paused a step away and…seemed to sense something in the air next to me.” 

Iris froze in his arms. “And you think that means…he knows something?”

“I don’t know,” he whispered. “Why else would he do that? You mentioned in the stables he seemed to sense something around you. What if he sensed something from me? What if he knows?”

“Eris –”

“Iris, I can’t – how can I —” he growled and his grip on her tightened. “If he knows and pulls some shit tomorrow that would harm you in any way I —”

“Eris.” Her tone was firm enough that it made him pause, his expression stricken in a way that made her chest ache for him. “It doesn’t necessarily mean anything.”

“How can you –”

“And what if he does? What does it matter?” Iris asked. “Tomorrow, things will change regardless. What does it matter if he finds out about our bond now?”

Eris’s expression fell and his whisper was hoarse, “Because this is the one thing – you are the one thing that is all mine. I don’t want his mark on it.” 

Iris felt her heart crack, the same way it always did when she thought of the way he’d lived his life constantly on edge, constantly thinking and planning and scheming. She didn’t want this particular night together to be this way. He needed some peace and Iris needed him just as badly as he needed peace.

“It doesn’t matter what or if he does anything,” she said quietly but not weakly. “I am yours and you are mine and whatever tomorrow brings, we will face it. He doesn’t get to win.” 

Eris struggled not to tremble at her determined gaze. That he had someone to worry about was one thing but to have someone — her — worry about him like this? He could truly never bring her peace and yet – she looked at him like this. Like she lov— loved him. 

As he loved her.

“What do you need?” Iris found herself whispering, reaching out a hand to gently touch his face again and a thrill always did go through her at how many times she could make him shudder with her touches. Iris waited, watching as he worked his jaw, swallowing before his eyes met hers. Without saying anything, she could feel his every emotion and concern. The thread at her ribcage was a path to his every thought and she gently tugged at it as for once, her husband let his emotions flicker across his face. The panic, the worry, the desperation, and Iris would do anything to bring him ease. 

After an eternity, his response was a broken rasp, “You. I only need you.”

Iris softened and stepped closer, Eris's arm immediately wrapping around her waist to pull her into him. “You have me,” she said softly and kissed the corner of his mouth. “I am here, with you. I am yours.”

He licked his lips, his chest rising and falling rapidly, without saying a word, the look they shared conveyed exactly what he needed – wanted, and always craved. He needed her in every way. He needed to only see her tonight. To only feel her. 

Her eyes didn’t waver from his as she slowly slid a hand down his chest. She knew exactly what he needed to be able to get through this night and Iris wanted nothing more than for them to feed into their feelings. Her hand continued down, past the waistband of his trousers until her hand wrapped around his impressive length and Eris hissed as she squeezed him, slowly pumping. His arm tightened around her, tension lining every inch of him even as their mouths were a breath apart.

“Tell me what you need,” she whispered but Eris couldn’t do anything but watch the blush across her cheeks, trying not to have his eyes roll back as she tightened her grip. His breath stuttered as she leaned in closer to him, pumping him leisurely as she spoke, “Do you want me on my knees? Should I take you in my mouth?” Eris groaned and closed his eyes, leaning into her slightly when Iris quickened her pace and then slowed down. “Tell me what I can do to make you feel good.”

“I want you everywhere.” he rasped and opened his eyes, his gaze filled with a desperate kind of heat that Iris felt seep into her bones. “Anything you want. Everything you’re willing to give me. I want this night to be just about you and me. For nothing else to matter.”

“Then nothing else has to matter right now,” she said softly. “It’s always just you and me.”

Eris licked his lips, his request for permission written all over his face, and every desperate thought and emotion he had spilled into his next word, “Please.” 

All it took was a nod from his wife and any restraint Eris had snapped. His kiss was as desperate as he felt, chasing her lips and Iris whimpered into his mouth, her hands digging into his back, quickly backing her into the table of their dining room.

“I — I can’t be gentle right now.” He said urgently in between his kisses, his hands moving as quickly as hers, both trying to undress the other. “If you don’t want that — please tell me now I don’t want to —“

But she held up her hand and Eris froze immediately, breathing heavily with her barricaded between his arms. Tonight, there would be nothing gentle about their coupling. With how high stakes everything would be tomorrow, all Iris wanted – needed was him. “I don’t want gentle," Iris said quietly. "I want whatever you'll give me.”

The demand in her tone had a noise he never thought he could make slip from his throat and Eris surged forward to claim her lips once more, searing himself into her.

His hands couldn’t move fast enough; he shoved her dress down her body, undergarments with it and Eris only got a second to admire her body before getting distracted by Iris’s own hands practically ripping off his clothing and in an instant, he helped her send them flying. He turned her around, pushing her body down and Iris hissed at the sensation of the cold table to her heated naked body. She couldn’t help but lean forward even further, presenting herself to him, and couldn’t stop the mewl that slipped from her lips when he smacked her ass. 

She looked over her shoulder and found Eris’s eyes on her, spreading her legs and Iris couldn’t stop the arch of her hips, biting her lip with a soft moan when his fingers slipped into her already wet folds.

“This is going to be hard and fast. I promise to be nice to you later but now…now I need to fuck you, wife.” He said and the low tenor of his voice made her hips arch back further, her breaths in time with his fingers teasing her entrance. “You understand?”

“Then you better fuck me hard, mate.” she said and Eris’s breath shuddered as she whispered, “I’m all yours.”

“Brace yourself,” was all he said before Eris thrust into her without preamble, and Iris let out a ragged moan, clutching onto the table as he had her. Eris fisted a hand in her hair and fucked her at a vicious pace and she could do nothing but bend over further for him, whimpering helplessly.

Her body took him and his brutal pace, Iris groaning as Eris grunted into her ear and Iris felt her impending release slowly start to build. The sensation of his tight grip on her hair, his other hand firmly on her back to keep her down was fueling a lust like never before in her.

It made her realize that she desperately liked it when he unleashed himself on her. That in fact, she loved that he was fucking her like this, especially as he thrust into her so hard again, he hit a spot she hadn’t thought existed until him. 

Looking over her shoulder, her breath quickened at the sight of the fire blazing in his eyes as he claimed her.

“Husband.” She gasped and Eris’s eyes snapped up to her, the hand on her back sliding to her ass and squeezing.

“Wife.”

“Harder.” She demanded and Eris’s eyes glazed over, the words driving him into a frenzy. He growled so deeply, goosebumps erupted all over her and the hand fisted in her hair pulled her head back so he could claim her lips, bruising her with a kiss.

“Gladly, mate.” he purred.

She shuddered and tried to meet his pace but Eris had unleashed himself completely and her husband was gone. Pushing her down fully on the table, the grip on her hips was deliciously painful as he thrust wildly.

There was no hope for her to catch up and Iris happily let him claim her, her release creeping closer – knowing how much they needed this with all that tomorrow would bring. The sound of his heavy breathing, the sound of their bodies meeting, and finally when he smacked her ass hard enough she knew there would be a mark, Iris shattered with a delicate cry.

Eris grunted and didn’t give her a moment to shudder through her climax as he pulled out, his length hard and wet with her release. He turned her over so fast and before she could realize what was happening, her husband had her flat on her back on the table.

Yanking her to the edge, he spread her legs for him and slapped her cunt, rubbing the slickness of her release in her folds. “I didn’t ask you to come.” He purred, his tone just a little mean and Iris arched her back off the table with a throaty groan as he slapped her sex again. “You like it when I slap your cunt, wife? Your cunt that belongs to me?”

But Iris was having a hard time getting her mouth to form words and could only breathe heavily, nodding. 

“I want to hear your answer, little gazelle.” he growled and slapped her cunt again, the sting a little harder and Iris cried out.

“Yes.” Iris wouldn’t bring herself to be embarrassed at the whimper that left her lips when he did it once more with a savage grin.

“That’s my good girl.”

Iris’s eyes rolled to the back of her head as his hips snapped into hers and held, the sensation so overwhelmingly good she could already feel another release building. 

The blaze in his eyes become more prominent, predatory as he pulled back only to pound into her again, his thrusts frantic and the pace merciless, watching her take his cock; a choked sob slipping from Iris’s lips when he pushed her legs further apart and held down, the angle deepening his reach. Her hand slid to her clit and his smirk was wild as he watched her play with herself, her pace trying to match his.

“You take me so fucken good, wife. I need to fuck you in front of a mirror so you can see the way my cock fills you up. So you can see how your swollen cunt drips with need for me.” His voice was guttural and Iris bit her lips, the words only igniting more fire in her – more want. “You like it like this? You like it when I lose control? When I fuck you like an animal?”

“Yes.” She breathed and Eris clenched his jaw, his thrusts now desperate. 

“My hand — your throat.” his words were barely understood as another choked whimper slipped from Iris and she begged, 

“Please.”

Her plea had Eris’s hand slide to her throat and Iris’s mouth fell open at the sensation of his grip tightening slightly.

“You like that?” He ground out, snapping his hips into her hard enough, it caused her to shift back onto the table slightly.

But Iris could only gasp as he pulled her back to the edge of the table with a growl, his grip on her throat heightening all her other senses, her free hand clenching the hand on her throat desperately.

“I’m —“

“I’ll have you dripping all over this table momentarily, wife.” He snarled. “Patience.”

And Iris let him lose himself inside her as she lost herself in him. The feeling of being at his mercy like this would’ve had her breaking out in hives once upon a time but now she trusted him so thoroughly that giving him this type of control — control he needed – was so freeing. She was free falling and the sound of his rough grunts as he fucked her senseless sent her right over the edge once more with a tight moan.

“I said pati — fuck.” He growled and his thrusts became even more erratic as she clenched her walls around him, her body bowing off the table with a silent scream, her release coursing through her.

“Eris.” She whined and the sound of his name whispered from her lips undid him.

Eris cursed, pumping hard as he spilled himself inside her and Iris watched him through hooded eyes, relishing the way his eyes closed, the hand not on her throat gripping her thigh tight enough she knew it would bruise. He leaned over her, resting his head in the crook of her neck,  his breathing unsteady as his thrusts slowed and Iris could only moan softly when he pressed himself in her and held again, his cock still pulsing inside her. Her thumb caressed the hand still wrapped around her throat and Iris licked her lips, pleasure still coursing through her. 

When he finally opened his eyes and pulled back slightly, the sight of her underneath him, splayed beautifully, almost had him come again; he couldn’t bring himself to pull out of her, and judging by the way her walls still tightened around his shaft, Eris was sure she didn’t mind. He loved being inside her, loved it when she warmed his cock.

The fingers around her throat stroked her neck gently before he let go and peppered it with soft kisses that earned him a breathless sigh from his wife’s lips and he couldn’t help his small smile when he pulled back to meet her gaze.

And Eris felt his whole being crumble when she smiled softly at him and he couldn’t stop himself from leaning in and kissing her with such tenderness that Iris felt her heart break a little. This was the way it was between them – a little rough balanced in with a little soft; she was the only one who made him realize how much he needed that softness. 

She pulled him closer with a hand on the back of his neck, the other on his chest, and wrapped her legs around his waist, the movement pushing him deeper inside her, and Iris had to bite her lip to swallow the wanton sound she knew would come out of her mouth. But she wanted to wrap her very being around him and keep him close to her heart, where he would be safe and whole and hers. She wanted him forever like this, in her arms as he kissed her and touched her and looked at her like she was the only one who mattered.

Their kiss deepened and when he shifted slightly, she wasn’t sure who made the breathless noise between them as she tightened around his cock again.

He shifted slightly, brushing a hair out of her face. “You’re trying to torture me, aren’t you?” he gasped and Iris giggled. 

“I’m only giving you what you wanted.” 

His gaze was smoldering and Iris felt her whole body heat as they shared a breath but Eris forced himself to pause, his eyes roaming her face. “Are you okay?” He asked quietly and Iris felt his nervousness start to creep up. “Did I —“

“You didn’t hurt me.” She said immediately and leaned up to leave a quick kiss on his neck, running a hand down his chest. “I liked it. I liked it a lot. In fact –” Iris slid her hands up his toned arms then down his back slowly until they settled on his backside and she squeezed, digging her nails into his flesh. Her cheeks flushed as he groaned, rocking into her. “I think you and I are far from finished.”

Eris’s eyes flashed with desire as her words ignited a fire within him; she always knew what he needed without saying a word. His wife. His friend. His mate.

She was his and he was hers and Eris – who had never even dreamed of this, would hold on to this glowing thread between them like the lifeline it was.

“You’re right,” he said and his voice was a sensuous caress as he leaned closer. “I am far from done with you, little gazelle.” 

Little else was said as the two moved, and there was nothing soft about this claiming, nothing gentle about the need and desperation in their touches. Everything would change tomorrow and Eris couldn’t stop himself from letting himself be all wrapped up in her. For having this night of forgetting. 

And Eris promised himself he would do whatever it takes for their tomorrow to have a tomorrow. Whatever it takes to bring them peace. Regardless of how many pieces he had to break himself to do it. 

[deoidesign]

Thinks about my next series again... I drew the icon for it!

I'm planning to have it launched within a year! I'm hoping for summer 2025. I want to make a prelaunch page before Time and Time Again ends so people can subscribe if they're interested, but I'm worried the series return would be too early...

[hungharrington]

Your last ask’s tag shfjfkdk BYEEEE. Giving Steve a handjob in the theatre, (bonus points if it’s a super fancy one byeeeee)

ALSO giving him a handy whilst staying at your parents’ house for the holidays because you both know you are way too loud to do anything else discreetly. He’s such a good boyfriend, and he really is acting like the model son in law, but you just want to ruin him ❤️😮‍💨 kissing his face, cooing at him, lifting your top and bouncing your boobs around his face, just doing the most so that he’ll whine

you 🤝 me  obsessed with giving steve a handy in places you absolutely shouldn’t hehe

at your parents house oh my god yes - and look, steve’s known to be respectable enough around town, with his parents name and all that, he really shouldn’t be too worried but it’s undeniable how sweet it is that he is worried :) he just wants this weekend away with your parents to go well, okay? he’s been forbidden to date a girl once before and while you’re certainly worth the scraped hands from sneaking in windows, steve’s not sure his knees can handle it— so, yeah, he wants this weekend to go as swimmingly as it can. you, however, are feeling devious. you’re not outright with it, you know better than to do that especially around your parents but you certainly are pulling out the stops that you know drive steve mad — like those sweet short summer dresses he drools over every time, but forgoing a bra of any sort this time. it’s a lethal combination and you know it. best of all, is the like unspoken ban on sex between the two of you; even if your parents were trusting enough to put you in the same room, it’s only because they share a wall with it, meaning unless you figure out how to bounce on his cock without wrecking your vocal chords, sex is out the window

steve knows this- so really, he should be anticipating a little bit of tomfoolery from you — but it doesn’t cross his mind when you come and meet him out by pool. in fact, nothing crosses his mind at all when he see you in the sundress, rucked up in your hands, showing off a dangerous amount of thigh as you wind around the pool loungers to his. you smile down at him, shirtless and stretched out to soak up some sun. “budge up,” you say, knees leaning into the cushion and steve obeys without a word, scooching over so you get sit beside him— there’s not quite enough room for two people so you end pressed against him, head leaning against his shoulder as your hand comes to rest on his chest. steve curls his arm around you with a content hum, keeping a generous distance from anything too touchy — his hand firmly on your shoulder. 

“what are you up to, hm?” he asks, pushing his sunglasses up atop his head. your fingers start to stroke lightly, soft touches along his chest as you think about your reply. “just missed you,” you say, pressing a quick kiss to his shoulder. your hand on his chest shifts a bit, swirling little patterns down across his tummy, which tenses for a moment beneath you. “miss touching you,” you murmur, pressing another kiss to his skin, adoring the way steve’s sucks in careful breath. his hand on your shoulder gives a light squeeze and he smiles, leaning over to brush his lips against your temple, “me too, honey,” he assures, voice low, “but we can’t—“ he swallows a bit as your hand wanders about, fingertips teasing along his v-line tantalisingly, just enough to get him interested. “your- your parents.” he reminds you, voice a bit shakier this time— his eyes are glued to your hand, muscles rippling under the skin wherever it scratches over. 

“just be quiet then,” you counter, a teasing smile toying on your lips. “and be quick.” this time, when your hand travels back down, you follow his v-line all the way down to his cock, which twitches the moment your hand nears it. steve is protesting in an instant, a little ‘wait, wait, wait’ but it dies off when you palm against his cock and shit, the couple days apart must be getting to him because just one touch is enough to have his head dropping back, giving a raspy exhale, “fuck, honey.” his hardness grows beneath your touches quickly, cock pushing up against the fabric of his shorts but he’s still got that niggling worry in the back of his mind, “baby,” he pants a bit, his hips shifting about under your touch. he doesn’t try pull your hand away, just fixes you with a pleading look, “your- your parents could…” but his sentence trails off when your hand snakes up to tug on the front of your dress, letting your tits peak out and steve full on groans, lust clouding his gaze as he sinks his teeth into his bottom lip. your spit in your hand and resume, slinking your hand back down his body, this time you sneak your hand into his shorts, fingers curling around his hot, leaking cock and steve stammers out another breathy moan— bringing his fist up to his mouth to try quieten himself. 

you pump his cock, starting slow, purposefully ignoring the head of it and instead starting to press more kisses into his shoulder and along his collar. steve’s breaths come a little heavier, coming out with a hint of a whine to them. you pull him out of his shorts, hidden behind your own body and greedily stare; his tip so pink and the vein down the side you always want to drag your tongue along. “missed this cock,” you hum sweetly, beginning to twist your hand, stroking him faster. steve’s tummy clenches, hips chasing your hand instinctively and when you finally thumb over his sensitive tip, steve whimpers loudly. “and your noises,” you say, almost teasingly, nosing along his collarbones and dragging your tits against his chest. “but you’re being too loud, stevie,” you pout, purposefully rubbing along his slit repeatedly in that way you know makes steve fall apart— he whines, jagged sweet little noises that accompany every harsh breath of his. “baby,” he whimpers again, pleading. “please, please, please,” 

you pick up the pace, the slick sound of your hand on his cock getting louder and louder as you try bring him to the edge. steve lets out another soft moan, his volume climbing in his desperation. “christ, fuck, honey, y’gotta- ah, y-you feel so good,” and his eyes switch between clenched tight and staring hungrily at your tits. “c’mon, baby, gotta be quiet,” you insist in a rasp, “you can be good and quiet right? or else i’ll have to…” you change your pace, slowing til you’re barely  stroking him and steve is hips buck up against you in an instant. “no!” he cries, too loud, then lowers his voice, brown eyes finding yours as he begins to plea. “no, please, i- fuck, i’ll be quiet and— oh my god, uh,” and his voice breaks off into another whine that he smothers into his fist as you work his cock faster again. steve tilts his head back, baring his throat, mouth open as another whiney warbles out, mixing with his whispered curses, “fuck, fuck, ah, fuck,” and it’s not until you speak with a tone of faux-innocence, nodding down to his cock and coo at him, “y'gonna let him cum? :( he just wants to cum, baby” and steve just falls apart, hot cum spurting from his tip and you just keep stroking him, teasing out those pathetic whimpery noises as he writhes in pleasure, all hot and bothered- he’s so noisy too, little, “thank you, ah, fuck, thank you” slipped between his moans as he fucks your hand through his orgasm, coated in his own cum. you actually consider stroking him through to another one, with his cum as lube, when there’s a faint call through the house for lunch and you just grin, releasing his cock and licking up what’s on your hand. steve’s chest is heaving, eyes still cinched shut as he tries to reel himself in — already thinking of ways to get revenge on you for making him sit through a lunch with you parents with his cum-stained shorts, especially considering you seem to enjoy his blushing face far too much 

[mostlyghostlyy]

I feel like dale would tease the fuck out of his partner, trying to make you horny at the most inappropriate moments

Oh, absolutely. He's always horny so I can see him trying to drag you down to his level.

Especially during phone calls. Imagine you're on the phone, fully enthralled in a conversation that does NOT include him, and he's jealous. So he comes up behind you and slips his hands down the waistband of your pants. Fingers grazing over your panties, and his mouth hot on your neck. Doesn't matter if you try to pull away or not. You're stuck in his grasp. His goal is to get you to pay attention to him instead, but he wouldn't necessarily deny how you moan into the receiver. Blushing and apologizing to the person on the other end. Dale would tell you to "keep talking" and he "doesn't want to interrupt" all while fingering your pussy. He wants to make you horny and he wants to embarrass you. Unfortunately for you, both are working. Dale enjoys hearing you scramble for an acceptable excuse.

Another phone one because that's all I can think of tonight; Dale loves calling your workplace. Calling and asking for you by name. Hearing the "Okay, just a second," then a moment later, your friendly "Hello?" On the other side. He'd let rip some of the most lewd noises you've ever heard. (Think Billy Lenz from black Christmas) loudly keening into the mic. Letting loose strings of garbled nonsense about how he's touching himself and how he's gonna fuck you. Muddled ends, beginnings of thoughts caught between grunts and whimpers while he strokes himself. Begging for you to come home early. Planning out how he's going to lick you clean; inside and out.

Dale would pretty much expect you to be touching yourself as well, or at least become aroused by it. Dale is expecting you to stay on the line until he cums, breathing heavily through the receiver. You might have to hold it away from your ear tbh. Hang up on him, and he's going to be pretty upset. I'd honestly be pretty afraid to have him on the line, coworkers constantly eavesdropping. Imagine the gossip if someone overheard one of these conversations....

He is constantly trying to make you horny when you're out with family. I don't know why, but he strikes me as the type of guy who wants to shove it in their faces that you're with him. Especially if they don't like him. He typically enjoys any kind of family reunion for this reason. Coming up beside you and leaning close to you. Nibbling on your ear while you continue the conversation. If that doesn't prompt a response, he's sticking his tongue in your ear. He'll keep trying to outdo himself until he's got you horny or you're angrily telling him off. Either way, Dale is probably not getting invited to anymore family events.

Lots of teasing when you sit down at restaurants. Starts with cute compliments from him, platonic to romantic to obscene. If you give away any feelings of excitement, he's doubling down. Rubbing his hand on the inside of your thigh, teasing at the more sensitive flesh higher up. Trying to stimulate you while being coy. He'd purr about how "we're in public. Naughty Angel, you're already shaking"

If you seem to be receptive to all his advances so far, he'll try to get you to give him a bj in the bathroom, the absolute degenerate.

[xxplastic-cubexx]

Why is Erik taking a shower and is fully prepared to fight naked in that panel 😭

my man turning into a baby is a typical tuesday activity but the second he wanna little naked shower fight NOW its suspicious 🤨

[twentyfivemiceinatrenchcoat]

Priest getou and nun reader or villager reader....(anything other than the word both isnt acceptable...😡😡😡 /j) -🪄

🪄 ANON I SEE YOU AND YOU RAISE A VALID POINT but please consider…… priest!geto and non-believer!reader.

imagine just waltzing into a church one day. almost as if on a whim. you don’t believe in god, you aren’t interested in praying, but you’re exploring this quiant little town, and the church looks pretty from afar, and you figure it could be a nice way to burn time.

you enter the building to find that a sermon is taking place. a priest is speaking to the few rows of people listening. the church is fairly small, but paintings and sculptures and the mellow glow of beautiful cathedral glass give it a sense of mystique that you’re drawn to. you take a seat and listen along, halfheartedly, not praying like the rest, not singing along to the hymns… you stick out like a sore thumb, but hey, it’s not as if anyone is paying attention.

except someone is, and it happens to be the priest that was holding the sermon just a second ago. the same one you spent most of your time oogling once the paintings started to bore you, because he’s so pretty for a priest. beautiful long black hair, amber eyes, sharp facial features, pretty hands and fingers — and the smoothest, silkiest voice you’ve heard in your life. like a sun-soaked bundle of lillies.

… also, his cassock is just a little too tight of a fit to tear your eyes away from.

you stick around a little longer once almost everyone has left, just scrolling on your phone and basking in the quiet, and that’s when he approaches you. he jokingly tells you that it’s always obvious when a non-believer enters a place of worship, but he’s not mad; he’s amused. you end up chatting a bit about your beliefs, he’s a lot more chill than you expected, and…. well. he’s just really, really charming.

so maybe you end up coming back the week after. maybe his smile is a bit like a spider’s web. maybe it becomes a kind of routine to speak to him after his sermons; you still don’t sing along to the hymns or spend any time on prayers, and he still finds it funny. maybe once in a while you end up liking a paragraph from the scripture he’s reciting, and he’s always more than happy to discuss it with you. but mostly you’re there for him. for your chats, for standing outside and badgering him about his beliefs while he smokes and listens with an amused grin.

rain hits the ground with a steady rhythm, earthy tobacco floods your veins, spiders by the ceiling weave a web of dew, and his presence is just a little more intoxicating than you’d deem appropriate.

suguru just… isn’t a very orthodox priest. he doesn’t care for the bible as more than a literary piece, he has his own view of god, his own thoughts on worship. he smokes. he may or may not occasionally manipulate church-goers into donating money so he can invest in another overpriced painting. you ask him if there are any bodies in the basement you should know about, and he answers that any self-respecting priest wouldn’t conduct their blood rituals in the basement of their own church. he knows how to pick locks. he tells you once, very quietly, that he doesn’t believe man was created in god’s image. there’s a look in his eyes that you don’t comment on.

he’s funny. charming. pleasantly suspicious. your conversations are enjoyable for the both of you, and eventually the edges of his cedar eyes begin to crinkle the slightest bit whenever you walk into his field of vision. sometimes he eyes your lips for a little too long, and a honeyed irony seeps into his grin when you call him out on it. he asks you if you’re tempting him on purpose, and you shrug. whatever exists between the two of you remains unspoken.

one day, he tells you that he believes it was god who sent you to him. you furrow your brows with a protest, a mutter reminding him of your beliefs, how you believe in free will — how you waltzed into his church out of your own volition. no one else’s.

he only smiles, and flicks the butt of his cigarette. you think he remains unconvinced.

[lightdancingwords]

Me too! But we know Dean--his road is never smooth!

One Day - Part Five of ?

Pairings: Dean Winchester x Y/N Female character Series Summary: You were rescued by Dean Winchester a long time ago. Over time, you kept bumping into each other.

Word Count: 2774

Tags/Warnings: So much angst, mention of c*ncer, profanity

A/N: Comments, Likes, Reblogs, Kind feedback are always highly appreciated. Please let me know if you want to be added to the tag list! Please see this post regarding future story posts. This is the first of I don’t know how many parts, haha. Enjoy the ride!

Dividers: credit to @talesmaniac89

Chapter Five: Never Let Me Go

It had been five long years since Dean Winchester had spoken to Y/N. Five years since the fallout that neither he nor Sam ever truly discussed. The Men of Letters bunker had become a sanctuary of sorts, where old wounds remained hidden under layers of silence and avoidance. And alcohol. So much alcohol. And meaningless sex when Dean could get himself a woman to share the night with him.

The Sam’s cellphone rang sharply, its tone echoing through the quiet halls. Dean looked up from his whiskey, a frown forming. “You gonna get that, or should I?”

Sam, who had been pouring over one of the ancient tomes spread across the library table, sighed and picked up the cellphone. “Yeah, hello?”

“It’s Bobby.” His familiar gruff voice immediately set Sam on alert. Dean stood, watching his brother’s expression carefully.

“What’s going on?” Sam asked, leaning onto the desk, switching the phone to speaker so Dean could hear Bobby too.

“I need you boys to gear up and move fast,” Bobby replied. “Got a hunter in trouble. Been taken by a bunch of vampires. They’re holed up just outside of Lawrence.”

Dean’s eyes narrowed. “Who’s the hunter?” he asked, his voice sharp.

“That’s not important right now,” Bobby said curtly. “What’s important is you get your asses out there before it’s too late.”

Dean shared a look with Sam. “You can’t just drop this on us without details, Bobby. What are we walking into?”

“I told you what you need to know. Now, move!” Bobby barked before hanging up.

Dean and Sam exchanged a look. “Guess we’re doing this,” Dean muttered, already moving toward the weapons cache.

It didn’t take long for them to gear up and hit the road. The Impala roared to life, and they sped toward the coordinates Bobby had sent, both running through worst-case scenarios in their heads.

The vampires were tucked away in an old, decrepit farmhouse surrounded by overgrown fields. Dean and Sam approached quietly, their weapons drawn.

The rescue mission was bloody and brutal, but the brothers worked in perfect sync, clearing out the vampires with a precision born of years of hunting together.

The farmhouse was silent now, the metallic tang of blood thick in the air. Dean and Sam descended into the damp, musty basement, their flashlights cutting through the oppressive darkness. The growls and snarls of the vampires above had faded, replaced by the low hum of adrenaline in their ears.

Finally, they found the captured hunter in the basement, bound and bloodied but alive.

“Dean,” Sam whispered, gesturing toward the far corner of the room. A figure sat slumped against the wall, bound in chains and barely conscious.

Dean froze when he saw who it was. “Y/N?” The name slipped from his lips like a ghost, laden with disbelief and the weight of unresolved history.

Dean’s heart stopped for a fraction of a second when the flashlight beam illuminated her face. It was Y/N. Five years might as well have been five days. The memories, the fight, the way things had ended—all of it came rushing back with such force that it almost knocked him off his feet.

“Y/N,” he said, his voice barely audible.

Her head lifted weakly, eyes squinting against the light. “Dean?” The word was more a breath than a sound, but it carried a weight that struck him to his core.

Sam was already at her side, inspecting the chains. “She’s hurt, but alive. Let’s get her out of here.”

Dean finally moved, his hands steady despite the turmoil inside him. Together, they worked to break the chains, the sharp clicks of the locks echoing in the otherwise silent room.

Y/N winced as they pulled her to her feet. “You always knew how to make an entrance,” she muttered, her voice tinged with both sarcasm and exhaustion.

Dean couldn’t help the flicker of a smile that tugged at his lips. “Yeah, well, saving people is kinda our thing.”

The journey back to the Impala was slow, Y/N leaning heavily on Dean as Sam kept watch for any stragglers. Dean felt the weight of her body against his, a stark reminder of just how fragile she was in that moment. But there was also a strength in her—a resilience that hadn’t dimmed, even after all these years.

Once they were safely in the car, Sam took the wheel, leaving Dean in the backseat with Y/N. She sat slouched, her head resting against the cool window. Dean watched her, his mind racing with questions and emotions he wasn’t ready to face.

“You’re staring,” she said without opening her eyes.

Dean shifted uncomfortably. “You’re hard to miss.”

That earned a faint chuckle. “Still the charmer, I see.”

“Why didn’t Bobby tell us it was you?” Dean finally asked, his voice quieter, more serious.

Y/N opened her eyes and looked at him, her expression unreadable. “Would you have come if he had?”

The question hit like a punch to the gut. He wanted to deny it, to argue that he’d always show up when it mattered, but the truth was more complicated than that.

“Of course, I would’ve,” he said, though even he wasn’t sure how convincing he sounded.

Y/N gave a tired smile, one that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Sure, Dean.”

The rest of the drive passed in tense silence, Sam occasionally glancing in the rearview mirror, clearly aware of the storm brewing between them but choosing not to intervene.

Back at the bunker, they got Y/N cleaned up and bandaged. Dean hovered nearby, watching as Sam played medic.

“You’re fussing,” Y/N said, her tone light but her gaze sharp as it met Dean’s.

“Just making sure you’re not gonna keel over,” he shot back, crossing his arms.

“I’ve been through worse,” she said, wincing slightly as Sam wrapped a bandage around her arm.

Dean scoffed. “Yeah, well, doesn’t mean you should’ve been out there alone.”

Y/N’s eyes narrowed. “And whose fault is that, Dean? You walked away, remember?”

The room went still. Sam froze mid-wrap, his eyes darting between them. “Maybe I’ll, uh, give you two a minute,” he muttered, quickly exiting.

Dean stepped closer, his jaw tightening. “I didn’t walk away—you pushed me out.”

Y/N stood, wobbly but defiant. “I pushed you because you couldn’t see past your damn pride.”

“Pride? You’re the one who—” Dean stopped himself, taking a deep breath. “You know what? This isn’t the time.”

“Right,” she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “Because there’s always gonna be a better time for you, isn’t there?”

For a moment, neither spoke, the air between them heavy with the weight of their shared history. Finally, Dean ran a hand through his hair, the anger draining from his face.

“Look,” he said quietly, “I don’t know how we fix this. Hell, I don’t even know if we can. But I’m glad you’re okay.”

Y/N studied him for a long moment, her expression softening just enough to let a flicker of vulnerability show. “Me too.”

Dean shifted uncomfortably. He wanted to ask how she’d been. He wanted to kiss her, bury himself in her. He wanted to apologize. He wanted… God. What did he want?

Sam gently knocked on the door, having guessed the fight was over for the moment. “Hey, I got one of the spare rooms set up for you if… if you, uh, wanted to sleep in an actual bed instead of our little medic room.”

Y/N hesitated, glanced at Dean, and nodded. “Yeah… thanks, Sam.”

Dean felt like an idiot, standing there, silent as a post. He just couldn’t talk, couldn’t get past his pride, his wounded heart. Seeing Y/N again opened it all up again.

As Sam took Y/N down the hallway, Dean watched her leave. Once they were out of earshot, he dialed up Bobby.

“Yeah?”

“She’s safe,” Dean said without preamble.

“Oh good. So you decided to stop being an idiot and did something, huh?”

Dean winced at Bobby’s sharp tone. “I’m not—”

“The hell you aren’t! She told me what happened,” Bobby said, his voice unyielding. “She had to keep a secret from ya and you decided to be an idjit and pushed her away! Or is that not what happened?”

Dean was silent. It was more or less what happened.

“Thought so.” Bobby gave him a moment then said, “So what are you going to do about it?”

“What?” Christ, Dean could win the award for densest idiot out there at this rate.

“Go apologize!”

“And then what, Bobby?” Dean demanded. “Make merry while she keeps a secret from me?”

Bobby rolled his eyes. Dean was one of the best hunters out there, but John left their social skills in the dust, not really knowing how to handle a lot of situations. Sam made up for it when he went to college, but Dean never really had a relationship with a woman.

“You really wanna know why she’s obsessed with spirits, Dean?”

“Yeah! I do!”

Bobby snapped: “Then ask her!”

“I did! She wouldn’t tell me!”

“Then you didn’t ask her the right way!”

“What other way is there?!”

Bobby rubbed his forehead. “God help me, boy, I love you like you’re my own son, but you can be thick as a rock. Ask your brother for some tips!”

And he hung up. Dean stared at his phone, shocked. “The fuck?”

Sam cleared his throat from the doorway. Dean looked at him and scowled. “Y/N all settled up?”

Sam nodded. “Yeah. She fell asleep the minute she laid down.”

Dean rubbed his thigh and nodded. “Good.”

“Everything okay?” Sam asked, his brows lifting.

Dean hesitated and shook his head. “I don’t like secrets, Sammy.”

“I know.”

“I didn’t…” Dean stopped. Could he tell Sam? “Why’d you call her?”

“What?”

“Five years ago. Why’d you call her? Why didn’t you come to me?”

Sam regarded his brother with concern, his brows furrowed. “I tried to, Dean. You punched me and walked off, or don’t you remember?”

Dean paused. That night had been a blur, messed up by alcohol and grief. He had a dim memory of Sam talking to him. “No,” he admitted roughly.

“Well, I tried. I really did. I know…” Sam paused, took a breath. “I know dad dying messed us up. It hit you more than me because of what he did for you.”

Dean looked away, his jaw clenched so tightly his muscles bunched.

Sam pressed on. “So I called her. I… I know we barely knew her but dammit, Dean… I-I needed help!” He stepped forward, drew closer to his brother. Dean had been the rock he could lean on; to see his brother crumbling like that in the past and seemingly again now was breaking him. “But when you came back… y-you… you weren’t my brother. Just someone looked like him. For the longest time.”

Dean cleared his throat, fighting the lump. “Sammy…” His voice nearly broke and he stopped, cleared his throat again. “I ain’t… I ain’t doin’ too well.”

Sam scoffed, fondly. “Yeah, I could tell.” He sobered and went on. “Did I mess up calling Y/N?”

“No, Sammy,” Dean admitted quietly. “I messed up.”

“What are you going to do?” Sam asked, his voice low and soft. He knew his brother, but there were times when Dean was mercurial and unpredictable.

Dean sniffed, blinked back tears. “I’m gonna go talk to Y/N.”

Gently but firmly, Sam caught him. “Dean… she’s asleep.”

“Shit. Right.” Dean hesitated. “I’ll check on her. If she’s awake, we’ll talk. If she’s asleep, then after she wakes up then.”

“Okay,” Sam half-whispered.

Dean nodded to his brother and headed down the hallway of the bunker. He wasn’t even sure what to say. Apologize? He wasn’t even sure he could get those words past his throat. Ask her upfront what the hell her obsession was with spirits and the afterlife? He envisioned her clocking him and he’d deserve it.

God. Chicks were easy if he could just sleep with them and leave the next day. But he’d asked Y/N to stay, she said she would, and then he pushed her to break her secrets. He was such an idiot. He just didn’t know how to make it work.

He slowed down as he neared the spare room that Sam used for Y/N and peered around the door. It was cracked, so he slowly pushed it open. For a moment it seemed as though she were asleep, and he felt the conflicting emotions of both relief and frustration. Then the door creaked and her head turned, her eyes open.

“Dean,” Y/N murmured. He couldn’t make out her tone. Soft, definitely, but maybe also expectant? As though she had expected him.

“Hey,” he said quietly, entering the room, and shutting the door behind him. “I thought you’d be sleeping.”

“Can’t. Too tired to,” she said, and absurdly, he knew exactly what she meant by it.

He stood awkwardly near her bed. “Yeah, I get that.” He raked his fingers through his hair. God, he couldn’t stop the nervous energy.

���For God’s sake, Dean,” she said in exasperation. “Sit down before you make me break my neck.”

He sat down so abruptly she had to smile. Especially after he nearly fell off the edge of the bed. “Thanks,” he muttered. He couldn’t meet her gaze; he felt so vulnerable. He never felt that way, ever. Yet there was something about Y/N that stripped his guard. But then… she’d seen him at his worst and actually wanted him.

Every time he looked at her, he remembered the way she looked at him when he asked her to stay, the way she felt when he kissed her and held her. Dammit. Dean Winchester never fell in love; he wasn’t about to now.

“Dean…” Y/N took a careful breath. “It’s my mom.”

He gave a start and stared. “What is?”

“The reason I’m wanting to learn about spirits, about what happens to us after we died,” she replied quietly.

He leaned forward, resting his weight on his hand on the bed. “I’m listening.”

Y/N shifted to sit up in the bed, wincing at her injuries. She leaned against the headboard and let out a breath. “So… my mom.” She looked at Dean and studied him at length. She was remembering his home in Kansas, and seeing the spirit of his mother. “She… she died a year after you saved me from the vampire.”

“Shit. I’m sorry.” He paused. “How…?”

“Cancer. Fast acting.” Her voice was thick, her eyes suspiciously wet. “I barely had a chance to go home to say goodbye before she…”

Dean nodded. He resisted the urge to take her hand, uncertain whether she’d welcome his touch.

“A-anyway… after that,” Y/N continued, swallowing hard. “I started seeing signs that she was still around. Not malignant, but present. Missouri basically confirmed it when I spoke to her. My mother is still here, and she won’t pass. I burned everything—and I mean, everything—of hers that she would’ve lingered within. She’s still here.”

Dean frowned. “I’ve never heard of that happening before. Pretty sure Sam hasn’t either.”

“Neither has Bobby, Rufus, all the hunter contacts we could find.” She closed her eyes for a moment. She looked pale, tired, and sad. Dean wanted to kick himself. He was exhausting her for his own selfish reasons.

“Y/N, get some rest—”

“No. I… please. Let me finish this.” She made the decision for him; she covered his hand with her own. After a moment, he squeezed her hand. “I could’ve just given you a simple explanation that didn’t reveal it all. I could’ve… realized you were in a bad place and handled it better. I’m sorry, Dean.”

“Y/N… I’m the one who should be apologizing,” he said slowly. “I wanted you to stay… and I pushed you away instead.”

“You can stay,” she whispered.

Dean hesitated. “I don’t… I don’t wanna hurt you.”

“You won’t,” she said simply.

That level of faith nearly broke him then and there. He nodded tightly, swallowed hard. She shifted over to make room for him and he crawled into the bed next to. He slipped an arm around her, light and gentle.

“You okay?” he asked softly.

She nodded slightly. He could feel her body relaxing as sleep began to overtake her. He waited until he saw her breath slowed and moved closer, tightening his arm around her. He didn’t know what possessed him to do so, other than he desperately didn’t want to let her go.

Not ever.

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[zombie-bait]

my favourite fandoms are the ones where you cannot tell at fucking all what the original media is about from the tumblr content. I was seeing Deadpool & Wolverine posts for like a MONTH before getting to watch the movie in cinemas and I did not know a single lick of plot but oh boy did I understand what went down in that honda odyssey. It gets better the further it's removed from how your average "I've never even touched twitter" human being would interpret that piece of media. I'm talking Star Wars sequel trilogy on ao3 (iykyk), the whole Marauders experience built from the burning remains of Harry Potter, the fanart of Better Call Saul I spotted during my brief time on twitter, just everything about my favourite show Hatecrimes MD. Try explaining the concept of old man yaoi to Greg from Dominos who's only watched the Marvel movies his kids tell him about and you'll really get to see what a big and beautiful world we live in

[morverenmaybewrites]

Post-JJK Orpheus! Reader and Eurydice!Gojo.

That is all.

[spiritedstars]

Spirit Meets the Bones XXXII

Genre: Angst/Romance/Drama Warnings: Mentions of physical abuse. Author’s Note:  Thank you for reading <3 I hope you enjoy this next chapter and where the story is going :)

shoutout to @divinerivals for being on this journey with me <3

tagging: @climb-the-mountian / @rosewood-cafe / @vanserrass / @zenkindoflove / @animezinglife / @positivewitch / @clockwork-ashes / @carnythian / @secret-third-thing / @runningwiththeoceans / @that-golden-lyre / @thedarkinmansfield / @readychilledwine / @goldenmagnolias / @mali22 / @maidr-00 / @electromagnetic-waves / @eastofatlanta / @moobell55 / @bibliophiliaxvignette / @devilsfoodcake22 / @weesablackbeak / @ladywhilemia / @alohaangels / @feysandfeels / @corcracrow / @dawneternal / @gracie-rosee / @mage-neve / @illyrianvalkyrie / @saint-stella / @rainbowsnowflake / @queenoftheworld1998 / @wolvesnravens

Find it all here.

A day passed, then two more, and the end of the week found them quicker than they expected, husband and wife wrapped in a lavender haze.

Eris woke up each day with the sole purpose of claiming his wife and Iris sank into the intensity of his frenzy. She met every part of his needs and his desires with her own, knowing how much he needed it. Knowing how much she had craved it. 

And while Iris tried to have Eris keep it in their bedroom, she found that any moment the two of them were alone, regardless of location, they would be skin on skin within seconds. 

What Eris had a hard time saying with words, he had no issues saying with his body and Iris experienced a side of him that she’d only seen in fleeting moments, when he allowed his seducing to emerge. And seduce her he did; her husband was downright filthy with her and Iris was going through the type of pleasure she had only read about. 

She had expected to be sore. She had expected to be shy about the highly erotic things her husband had promised her but it took all of one look and whatever sense of modesty Iris may have had vanished when Eris had his hands on her. She loved that he was slowly becoming more demanding with her. It made her crave it more. 

They were currently in his study and Eris had just straightened from where he had been on his knees feasting on her, before flipping her over and lifting her dress. Iris looked over her bare shoulder and bit her lip at the sight of him behind her; his shirt was loose and his skin was as flushed as she was. When he met her gaze with a smirk, Iris couldn’t help but buck backward into him, his chuckle skating across her skin and she had to swallow hard as he kneaded her backside. He hadn’t even bothered to fully remove her dress when he demanded she lay against his desk and spread her legs for him; he only pulled it down her shoulders, exposing her breasts, and now lifted it to expose her very needy cunt to his antics. 

Iris had found that in the last few days, she liked being a good wife who listened, especially when her husband had his cock fisted in his hand and was now rubbing it against her throbbing clit.  

“I - I thought you had a meeting.” she breathed and arched into him again. 

“I do. But my cock is going to meet with your pretty cunt first. It missed you too much.”

“Eris, you – oh.” 

The tip of his cock was now toying at her entrance and Iris tried not to pant as he teased her, rubbing agonizingly slow. He leaned against her, barricading her to his desk, and nipped at her ear.

“You were saying?” he taunted.

“You’re insatiable.” she whispered but couldn’t help rocking back into him.

“I know and I’m only going to get so much worse,” he said. “Especially when I come inside you and have you walking around with it dripping down your legs.” 

A breath stuttered out of her as she flushed. “That – I won’t –”

His hand ever so gently gripped her hair and Eris pulled her head back, their lips a breath apart. He took in her flushed face, how her eyes were glazed over, and tightened his grip just so. He saw the way her eyes had flashed the first time he’d done it. More importantly, he’d felt how her cunt had tightened around him and that was a sure sign he’d be wrapping his hand around her hair more often. Eris would work his way up to getting rough with her; he knew she’d like it even if she was still embarrassed about it right now. 

Since that night they’d finally become one, Eris had been unable to stop himself from being all over her. If he thought he was touch-obsessed before, he was downright insane now that she’d allowed him the privilege of intimacy. The frenzy had hit him hard and only because he prided himself on being someone in charge of his emotions did he manage to keep some sort of restraint on himself in public settings. But once they were alone? He watched her every breath. Her every movement as they dived into each other day in and day out. He touched her in ways he’d been dreaming about.

And when she looked like this, undone, flushed, so artfully exposed like this, what was a husband to do?

“I don’t want to hear the word won’t from you.” he commanded quietly. “I already told you how often I will keep you filled up, wife. You should get used to my come dripping down your legs.”

She whimpered and Eris couldn’t help but kiss her fiercely with a growl, his tongue meeting hers in time with his hard thrust into her. He filled her to the hilt and held, relishing in the way she contracted around his cock and he pushed against her again, her firm ass snug against him. It had only been a few days of this bliss and Eris knew he would never be the same – nothing would ever feel like this. This right. 

He swallowed her moan before he released her lips and pulled out to the tip before rocking into her with another hard thrust and Eris had to restrain himself from coming undone as she tightened around him; the sound of her breathless whine would be his undoing. 

“You make such pretty noises, little gazelle,” he whispered in her ear, rolling his hips and delighting in the way she rocked back to meet his movements. “I’ve only claimed your cunt for a few days and all those pretty little sounds you make whenever I touch it are going to drive me crazy.”  He pulled out an inch to thrust into her again and held. “Are you trying to drive me crazy?”

“Always,” was her breathless reply, her walls clenching around his cock. “It only seems f-fair.”

Eris hummed, his grip tightening on her hair once more to pull her back just enough to leave a chaste kiss on her lips. “Am I driving you crazy? Is that why you want revenge?” he whispered and Iris clenched around him again, a stuttered breath slipping out of her lips.

“You’re driving me crazy right now,” she whined and bucked back against him. “How long are you going to keep me waiting for you to fuck me, husband?”

Eris’s smirk was filled with feral delight as he released her hair, his hand sliding to an exposed breast and he slapped it quickly before squeezing, Iris’s choked cry as enticing as ever. “However long it’ll take you to say please, wife.”

“You’re going to have your mate b-beg?” she asked and very nearly did beg, trying and failing not to roll her hips for some relief. 

“I have to teach you manners somehow.” he teased and thrust into her, rocking her into the desk. “Say please, wife.” 

“Eris –”

“That doesn’t sound like please.”

“I thought you liked your name coming out of my mouth.” she said and rolled her hips again as he squeezed her breast once more. 

“Oh, I do. I’ll like it even more when you’re saying it while my come drips out of your mouth,” he said, leaning in to kiss her shoulder as Iris’s eyes squeezed shut, the words making her flush deeply. “Now say please so I can fuck you like I know you want me to, Iris, or I start pulling out.”

“You’d only be punishing yourself if you pulled away now,” she said and didn’t even know why she was arguing with him. She wanted him to fuck her so desperately, she knew he could sense it. But in the way she couldn’t help teasing him on a daily basis, Iris couldn’t help but keep with tradition.  

Eris’s dark chuckle had her tightening around his cock again and Iris felt the slickness of their joining as he bent her a little further with his chest against her back. “There are other places I can come but it’ll leave your pretty pussy empty and I don’t think you want that, do you?” he mused and nipped at her ear. “Say please.”

Iris couldn’t help the needy moan that slipped from her mouth, arching back into him. “Y-you’ve only started having me like this and already being so pushy.” she groaned. “And so d-dirty.”

A grin couldn’t help from spreading on his face as Iris made a noise of protest when he indeed started pulling out slowly. “You were so shy a few days ago and now look at you, spread like this and worried about me being dirty,” he said, teasing her entrance with his tip once more. “If only you could see your dripping cunt, you’d think you wouldn’t be so reluctant to ask nicely. Say please or I will tie you to my desk and leave you like this until I’m done with my meeting.”

The image he presented had Iris biting her lip hard, her core pulsing in desire. She wanted to be embarrassed by how wanton she felt, especially when the idea only seemed to turn her on and as she tried to arch further into him, she knew as tempting as the idea of him experimenting with tying her up, Iris needed him now.

“Please.” she caved and she felt his smile against her skin as he kissed her shoulder again.

“Say pretty please.”

“Eris.”

“Pretty please, handsome husband of mine.” he only said.

“That’s not –”

“You’re running out of time.” 

And when he did lean back as if to leave her, Iris couldn’t stop herself from saying exactly what he wanted from her in one quick breath, “Pretty please, handsome husband of mine.”

Before Iris could take her next breath, Eris had sheathed himself into her with a hard thrust, pressing her down onto the desk and she couldn’t help the choked moan that escaped her. 

“That’s a good girl,” he praised and Iris whimpered as he smacked her ass. “See? Now, how could I deny such a request?”

He wrapped her hair in his fist once more, pulling her head back to give her another soft kiss then released her to grip her hips and began to fuck her in earnest. The sound of skin slapping against skin quickly filled his study and in a very concerningly disturbing way, the scent of their sex overwhelming the room spurred him on. Iris took his cock, squeezing it perfectly as he fucked her, drilling into her. The same thoughts that had swirled in his brain whenever he was inside her returned in full force and Eris wanted to imprint himself on her soul, her body to memorize his, and again, he knew sex would never feel better than this. 

His hand slid to push her down a little more, arching her body exactly how he wanted it as he pounded in her, and Eris couldn't help himself from letting that same hand slide down to knead the flesh of her backside, blotched red from his earlier teasing. He’d work her up to take more. He had so many ideas for her. So many ways he wanted to have her and so many things he wanted to do to her and have her do to him. He wanted to fill her in every way, and even though Iris was his, Eris’s need to claim her in every way he could wouldn’t go away.

He was a male possessed, entrapped, and enthralled by everything that she was, and when she shifted beneath him to meet his thrusts and look over her shoulder at him, the desperation in him intensified. 

“My hand –” he grunted, the pace of his fucking brutal and intensifying as he watched her breasts bounce with the movement. “Take my hand – on your throat. I want to hold it.”

“Yes –” she cried, panting as her pleasure built. Iris had lost count of how many times he’d made her come since they’d been intimate the first time but she was a woman addicted and while the idea of his hand around her throat had been something she’d hesitated about once upon a time, she wanted it now – now as he fucked her like she was made only for this – like she was made only for his hands and Iris wanted his hands all over her. 

Her hand met his as he reached for her and Iris clutched his hand as it wrapped around her delicate throat, pulling her up against him. The angle had him thrusting deeper into her and again, the timing of his thrusts seemed to match her whimpers. Her husband took her hard and his grip on her throat tightened just slightly, her hand still gripping his.

“I’m – close.” she breathed and Eris’s growl in her ear made her eyes roll back, her legs starting to shake. 

“Who does your cunt belong to?” he demanded, his voice guttural.

“You.” she panted and tightened her walls around him, her fingers digging into the hand at her throat. “And your cock – who does it belong to?”

“It’s yours, wife. Only yours and it’ll fuck you until the day I perish.” he promised and shifted, slamming into her at a particular angle that had her seeing stars. Her breathing became heavy pants and when his free hand slid to her breast and pinched, Iris’s whole body shuddered, a cry sounding as her orgasm crashed through her. 

Eris held her through it and despite his rough thrusts, his thumb was gentle as it caressed her neck. He allowed himself to pull her head back for one more kiss and then with a firm hand, pushed her flat on the desk to arch her body once more, chasing his release. Her body was loose and welcoming as his cock drilled into her and her quiet mewls edged him on. He was close. He only needed – 

“Eris.” she sighed and the sound of his name slipping from her lips in such a way was what finally sent him over the edge. He came with a growl, spilling himself inside her with one final thrust and Eris had to grip the edge of his desk so he didn’t crush her beneath him. 

The room was silent except for the sound of their heavy breathing and as Iris shifted beneath him, his hips still rocking into her slowly, it took him a few moments before he pulled out of her with a wet sound. He licked his lips, watching as his come dripped from his cock and out of her glistening cunt. 

“When is this going to calm down?” Iris asked breathlessly, straightening shakily, even as Eris couldn’t help but rub the tip of his cock into her again. Iris arched slightly, sucking in a breath, her body rolling her hips on its own accord. “We just finished and I know if we didn’t control ourselves, we’d go again.” 

“The frenzy wins another round.” he mused and finally, with much effort he forced himself to take a step away from her, forced himself to take a breath, and started cleaning them both up. They didn’t speak as Eris pulled her up and began to fix her dress, his touch gentle and Iris couldn't help but bite the inside of her cheek, slightly embarrassed as she watched him. He knew how to turn her on to the point where she’d likely let him do anything but when the moment calmed, she always felt embarrassment creep up on her for being so…lustful. 

And while she liked the very sensual side he’d been showing her the past few days, Iris would always find herself deeply attached to this attentive one. 

“Are you alright?” he asked quietly, tugging the shoulder of her sleeves in place. “I didn’t –”

“You didn’t hurt me.”

He focused on fixing her hair in place, his gaze flickering to her once then away. “Even when I held your throat? It didn’t bother you.”

“Did it sound like it bothered me?” she asked and Iris felt her heart nearly burst when he pursed his lips in response. 

“I don’t want to take you by surprise or do anything you won’t want,” he said, his tone soft. “I get carried away in the moment.” 

“And yet, you still gave me a warning. I liked having my hand with yours. I liked it a lot.” Iris answered and bit her lip when the corner of his mouth twitched up. She had clearly liked his hand on her throat a little too much and Iris’s eyes were locked on him as he gently shifted her to straighten the dress. The way he cared for her after their intimacy made her heart want to burst out of her chest. In contradiction to his behavior while they were being intimate, he was so careful – tender afterward. It almost embarrassed Iris more than how wanton she was during the act itself. 

“Thank you.” she said and the corner of Eris’s mouth lifted at her soft tone.

“Are you embarrassed again?”

“No.”

“Liar, you answered too quickly,” he said, giving her too knowing of a look. “You have nothing to be embarrassed about.”

“I know I don’t,” Iris said, a light blush coloring her cheeks. “But you’re used to engaging in all this and for me it’s all so…”

“Sinful? Obscene? Scandalous?” he teased and Iris rolled her eyes.

“New. And it's happening so fast,” she answered. “And you always make me feel so…untethered.” 

Eris watched her with a small smug smile and he was not a male who used the word cute but his wife was sure being cute as fuck. It thrilled him endlessly that he was the one to corrupt her. “Untethered because I make you feel so good you forget all about your modesty nonsense?” he taunted playfully. 

Iris swatted him lightly. “What I’m trying to say, asshole, is…it scares me a little bit how quickly I can sink into this with you and be so taken.” she said and glanced away for a moment then looked at him beneath her lashes as she added quietly, “I know the bond influences the…intensity of it all but when we come back to reality, I’m a little embarrassed that I would let you touch me the way you do.”

Eris’s grin was roguish and Iris pointed a finger at him.

“Don’t you dare make fun of me.” she warned. 

“Make fun? How could I when you’re complimenting me?” he said with a wink, a hand reaching to smooth down her hair. His lips twitched when she narrowed her eyes at him and Eris, leaned in to leave a featherlike kiss on the corner of her mouth continuing quietly, “I understand the privilege it is that I get your firsts. I want it to feel good. I want you to enjoy it.”

“It – it feels great,” she said quietly, the color in her cheeks deepening. “But the way I get so wrapped up in you…overwhelms me.”

Eris felt his heart leap to his throat and he tried not to let himself get too excited at her words. He hated that she was embarrassed but he understood. He was the first and only person to ever get this side of her. He would cherish it. And continue to defile her. 

“For the record…it has never felt this way with anyone else,” he confessed, his eyes on the sliver of collarbone peeking from her dress. “It overwhelms me too.” 

“Yeah?”

“Oh, yes. So overwhelmed that I can’t help but seduce you on the spot, depraved as I am.” he said, his smirk full of wickedness and Iris had to fight back a smile.  

“Well…” she began and glanced away from him, flushing as she admitted, "You make me want to be depraved with you. So.”

Eris’s face broke out in a wide grin. “That is the most romantic thing you’ve ever said to me.” 

“Of course you’d say that,” Iris said with a snort. “Should I be thanking you for your corruption?”

“Naturally. You can thank me with words or actions, the choice is yours.” He said with a heated gaze. “We can get right back to debauchery as soon as you’d like.”

Iris’s cheeks heated at the promise. “Scoundrel.” 

“Still your husband.” 

“And a little more than that, hm?” 

Eris licked his lips and forced himself to close his eyes and take a deep breath, especially as she giggled at his reaction. He’d just fucked her and her giggle would be what does him in. Who was he becoming?

Shaking his head, his smoldering look was a warning as he turned and adjusted his own clothing then ran a hand through his hair. He made to turn but Iris had come behind him, wrapping her arms around his waist, her face settling in the middle of his back. 

“Wife?” he asked tentatively as he rested a hand over the one she had slid up his chest. 

“The closer this ball comes, the less I want to leave,” she said quietly. “Do I really have to?”

He sighed. They’d had this conversation thrice already and each time Iris thought she came closer to wearing him down, he’d stand his ground. 

Eris turned and faced her, his expression already set in a scowl, even as she stood with her arms around him, her chin resting on his chest. “You already know the answer is yes, you have to. It’ll be safer,” he said. “Lucien has already sent word that everything is getting in order on his end.”

“Helene is settled in?” Iris asked and when aimed to step back, Eris’s grip only tightened around her. 

“Yes.” he said, his hands tracing her arms still around his waist. “And Helion is preparing for the backlash of my father. In the event it’s needed.”

Iris’s expression immediately dimmed. “And you and your brothers?”

Eris nodded. “Getting there. I’m seeing Izak later to get an update,” he said. “Will you be alright if I’m running late?”

“As long as you don’t take too long. I’ll start to worry,” she said with a small frown. “I’ll be reviewing notes from Nevien so you don’t have to worry about me.”

Eris hummed then cupped her face, forcing her to look up at him. “Regardless. Two of the hounds will be in the room with you.”

“You better have one with you as well.” 

He chuckled. “Of course. Antares will be with me since Lyra has officially declared herself glued to you.”

“I can’t help it if the puppies love me so much,” she said with a smile and Eris rolled his eyes.

“That’s only because you bribe them.”

“With hugs and kisses.”

“With more snacks than they should be eating.” he corrected with a snort. “And I give them hugs. You’ve been spoiling them ridiculously and now they’ll never listen to me the way they used to.”

Iris laughed softly and the corner of his mouth lifted. “Aw, someone sounds jealous.” she teased and patted his chest when he rolled his eyes. “Don’t worry, I’ll talk to them for you. Convince them to give you another chance.”

“Alright now.”

“All children have off days with their fathers. They still love you, don’t worry.”

“Enough from you.” he finally said, though there was no real heat in his words. He was as much of a lovesick puppy as his hounds were. Apparently, they had been sucked into her orbit even quicker than he was…when he thought about how quickly they accepted her, he supposed it made sense. 

He couldn’t wait for her to see his other hounds come out to play. That would be a surprise for another time.

With a small smile, Iris pulled away from him and quickly ran a hand through her hair, smoothing it down. “Are you ready for us to walk back?”

Reluctantly, he nodded. He’d had to shield her scent everywhere they went and shield his own whenever they were apart. Despite how they danced around his father’s goings and comings, it was as if his father’s leash had tightened on them and the High Lord seemed to sense something was different. 

Even seeing his mother had gotten harder with his father keeping her…busy. His mother refused to even acknowledge it was happening, claiming she was used to pretending but Eris had to walk away each time, trying his best not to set the room on fire. He forced himself not to dwell on it and focused on preparation. They’d endured long enough. They would have to endure a little more.

His body grew more and more tense as each day passed, the countdown to the ball ticking away. He wanted to feel guilty for the way he consumed his wife but this release, these moments where it was just the two of them – whether it was talking or touching, it soothed his weary spirit to the bones. The bond chafed at them both with the only thing left was for Iris to offer him food and they kept skirting around it. It was something Eris truly wanted to wait for – he refused to celebrate this until he actually had the chance to celebrate her. He wanted it to be something to look forward to.

So, he continued to watch her and touch her like a depraved beast, craving even the smallest of glances from her. 

The day he started teaching her how to dance made him realize exactly how in control of him she was. And Eris knew she had no idea the extent of this control on him. No idea the kind of chaos she caused inside him when she almost tripped and laughed it off as he taught her the steps to the Autumn Court’s signature waltz. 

But he’d hold her waist, correcting her stance and she’d smile up at him, the smile turning into a coy little smirk the longer he stared at her and suddenly everything was right in the world for those few minutes. 

Eris went through the wringer with his fucken feelings. Somehow, he felt the bliss of being near her, then the guilt for keeping her there, the anxiety about what was to come and how it would end, and then the frenzy would hit him at the most inconvenient of times…he was hanging on by a fucken thread.

And the cycle repeated itself as each day passed.

When the middle of week two trickled in, the High Lord sent for his sons. 

There was an ominous feeling in the air as Eris made his way to his father’s study. He had just finished meeting with his sentries, finalizing stations for the perimeter of the ball when he received word of his father’s request. Whenever his father summoned all his sons, it surely spelled trouble and Eris didn’t like it one bit.  

When he found his brothers by the entryway, awaiting his arrival, he tried not to take their expressions as a bad omen. 

“Do we know why he called us here?” Emil said quietly but Eris shook his head, tension lining his back.

“He only said he had some sort of announcement,” he replied and had to roll his shoulders back before sharing a look with all his brothers. “Watch your reactions.”

They filed in behind him and Eris paused a few feet away from where his father stood in the middle of the room. Eris kept his stance as casual as possible, his brothers lined next to him. His expression neutralized, clasping his hands behind his back and he forced himself to bow his head slightly to his father, his brothers following. “You called, Father?”

Beron stood with his back to them and Eris looked around the study in distaste; given the pleasant memories in this place, he hated it almost as much as he hated the throne room. His fists clenched as the High Lord dropped the reports he had been holding on the desk and turned.

“Your mother’s ideas for the ball seem tackier than usual this year.” Beron mused by way of greeting. “I hope the rest of whatever she’s planned won’t be as tasteless.”

Eris resisted the urge to roll his eyes but Finn had no such reservations and Beron lifted a brow, glancing at his secondborn. 

“Do you have something to say, boy?”

“No, Father.”

“Good. I do hate it when you speak.” 

Eris could feel the heat from Finn’s body and hoped his brother wouldn’t open his mouth and say anything else. Given how often Beron’s hands found Finn, his brother held the least tolerance from their father and it didn’t go unnoticed. 

But none of them said anything as Beron took a step towards Izak, looking him up and down with contempt. “Izak. You haven’t graced us with your presence in a moment.”

“I am here whenever you call me, father.” 

Beron hummed. “You look like a barbarian. Before the event, shave your disgusting beard,” he said and waved a hand. “I can’t have you looking like a beast with a room full of your potential brides in attendance.”

A tense breath of silence and Eris tilted his head in confusion as Izak snapped a little too sharply, “Potential what?”

Beron’s eyes narrowed slightly at his tone and Eris cleared his throat to divert the attention.

“It seems you have something to share, Father.”

It took a moment before the High Lord looked away from Izak and addressed them all. “Yes. I called you all here because I decided it’s time to have you all settled down,” he said and collectively the brother’s brows went up. Beron’s gaze flickered to Eris. “I made the mistake of letting you get away with being unwedded for too long and then not enough time vetting your troublesome wife. I won’t make that error with the rest of you.” 

Eris had to take a breath through his nose to hold himself back from snapping. “My wife isn’t nearly as troublesome as her father is and yet you chose to tie our families together.”

“Her father’s wealth and accessibility is the only reason your marriage was of value,” Beron said with a snort. “But she holds no value.” And Beron seemed to watch Eris, daring him to say something more as a muscle feathered in his jaw. “This time around, it’ll be more about what each female brings to the union. I can’t allow the rest of your brothers to breed with useless ones.”

“My wife is not useless.” Eris nearly spat and the corner of Beron’s mouth lifted cruelly.

“Her being fuckable isn’t an asset. It’s her only job.” Beron mocked and Eris’s jaw clenched so hard, it was a miracle he didn’t crack it. “Don’t say another word or I’ll make you regret it.”

A tense moment stretched between them as Eris’s expression hardened and his magic thumped beneath his veins, so desperate to dig into his father but he forced himself to take a deep breath through his nose; soon enough, the bastard would get what he deserved. 

Emil cleared his throat, glancing at Eris for a fleeting second then back to their father. “Forgive me Father but, if I am to understand correctly,'' he started and shifted. “You are…suggesting we all get married.”

“It’s not a suggestion. By the end of this year, you three will be engaged to a female of my choosing from a respectable family. Families with females we can benefit from.” The High Lord said, giving Eris a pointed look that he couldn’t stop himself from rolling his eyes at. “By Spring, your wedding ceremonies will be taking place. Depending on whose daughters I decide on and if she’s worth her own wedding, we’ll see whether it’ll be one big family wedding to get it done or scattered monthly.” 

His sons stared at him in stunned silence but Eris’s brows lowered. Why was his father doing this now?

“You will clean yourselves up and mingle at the ball. I expect you to be on your best behavior and woo each of them. Should I deem it unfit, there will be time to find you another female worthy of being a Vanserra.”

“Just like that?” Finn said with a snort. “If you deem them unfit, you’ll just find another one at the drop of a hat?”

“You’ll find that there are many females who would be delighted to be a bride for a prince,” Beron said and his expression hardened when he looked at Finn. “You’ll make it work with whomever I choose and if you don’t like her, you can always pretend she’s someone else while she’s sucking your cock. A mouth is a mouth, isn’t it?”

Finn flushed and Eris shot his brother a warning look as his hands fisted at his sides. 

“Father.” Eris said lightly.

“Yes?” Beron said, turning to Eris with a pleasant tone that did not match his expression. “Am I wrong? If he doesn’t like her, he can choose another or be content with flipping her over and fucking her from behind without even having to look at her face. A hole is a hole, is it not?”

“What the fuck is the matter with you?” Finn snarled and Beron’s hand snapped out faster than any of them could stop it, backhanding Finn hard enough he staggered back a few steps.

“When will you learn not to speak? I am sick of you.” Beron said, his voice deadly quiet. “Do as you are told and save me your objections that I do not care for.” 

“Father,” Eris interjected but Beron held up a hand, his mouth curled in anger.

“I don’t want to hear it.” 

“But –”

“I said I don’t want to hear it.” the High Lord snapped and the room heated as he glared at Eris. 

Eris didn’t flinch at the look, blood pumping in his ears but he’d rather his father glared at him than back at his brothers. He could sense their anger bubbling and knew this little surprise was snipping at their pride when they were all in committed relationships. At least his father didn’t know about that. 

“But Finn isn’t the only one who has a problem with this,” Izak stated and Eris finally looked away from his father to his brother, finding his expression dark. “I don’t want to get married.” 

Beron’s expression shifted to mock amusement. “Is that so?”

“I don’t care for the females in the court.” Izak continued. “All they’re interested in is my money and gossiping. It’ll be a nightmare.”

“Your money?” Beron said with a snort. “You have nothing to your name. My money is the only reason any female would be tempted enough to marry someone as stupid as you.” 

“I’m not stupid,” Izak growled, his face heated. “I’m a General of your armies.” 

“Brute with no brain. Don’t forget that you’re my wild dog who was trained to fight and nothing more.” Beron cooed sarcastically, waving a hand as Izak’s eyes flashed. “You can save any objections you have alongside your brothers. You don’t have a choice.” 

“What are you going to do, tie us to a bed and force us to get married?” Finn sneered. 

“Maybe I will have you tied down like a prized mare and let your wife fuck you. You’d like that, wouldn’t you?”

“Enough of your loaded comments, Father. Tell me what you —” 

Eris tried to shield Finn but Beron’s fist connected with Finn’s nose faster than Eris could move and Finn’s head snapped back as blood came gushing out. His brother let out a choked laugh.

“Father, I think we all need to calm down,” Eris said, stepping between the two of them, and holding out both hands to Beron. “You’ve taken them by surprise. This reaction shouldn’t shock you.”

“I don’t care. I have a whole court that bends to my will and suddenly you four think you have opinions and choices? You will all do as you are told.” Beron snapped then glared at Emil. “I haven’t heard from you yet, quiet one. Do you have anything else to add?”

“I do despite knowing you don’t care for my opinion,” Emil said coolly. “You can’t be surprised that we have reservations about this, Father. This arranged marriage situation doesn’t work for everyone and the idea that the three of us have to do this has emerged from nowhere. What is the reasoning for it now?”

Beron looked down at his son, his lips curling. The High Lord didn’t have to open his mouth to demean them; his expression alone did it. “It’s the way you think I have to explain myself to you,” Beron said with a snort. “An order is an order.” 

“Who else do you –” Finn began angrily, holding a cloth to his bloody nose but Eris shot him a look that quickly shut him up; he was still standing between Finn and his father. With the way Beron glared at them both, the High Lord was not liking it. 

“You owe us that much if you’re going to whore us out for brides.” Izak spat and Beron shot him a withering glare.

“I owe you nothing but since you barely have a brain, let me spell it out for you.” Beron seethed and Izak flushed deeply. “We need heirs, you idiot. Long-term connections with powerful families. The Vanserra line needs to be kept strong.” The High Lord glared at each of his sons. “Other courts have begun securing their lines and building connections within the strongest families in and outside of their regions. I will not be upstaged by them when I have so many of you for this exact purpose.” He spat. “Despite you all trying and failing to weed each other out, I’ve accepted that you four have somehow remained and I will use you how I see fit. Your lives are for my court and my throne and I will not have my line die out because you don’t know what’s good for you.” Straightening, his glare intensified. “You will meet those potential brides and you will woo them at this fucken ball or so help me, the only information you will get about your wedding is a date and I will have you tied to a flagpole until it’s done.” 

The room was deadly silent as they processed what he said and Finn’s heavy breathing was the only sound as Izak glared and Emil’s expression was tight. It didn’t matter that their little game of being at each other’s throats was his fault and it mattered even less that their father had such little interest in their lives; they were things – objects made to be used as he wished. It was all the same with the High Lord; do what you’re told or you won’t be able to oppose for long once he’s decided to make you.

But it wouldn’t be this way for long. Soon. Soon.

Eris worked his jaw and turned to his brothers, meeting each of their eyes before slowly saying, “Father has our best interest at heart,” he started. “There’s no harm in getting to know the options of females. He will choose only the best for you. Let’s all calm down.” 

Collectively, the brothers’ expressions flattened and Eris knew they’d chew him out for this later but they were too close, too close to the end. This was a petty thing, they could tolerate this. He was already on edge himself and if they couldn’t leash themselves, they’d be in worse trouble.

“I think we all would’ve appreciated a little more time to process this, Father,” Emil said, clasping one hand over the other in front of him. “This feels very short notice.”

“You’ll survive.” Beron merely said. “They’ll be presented to you on a silver platter and if you’re discrete, it shouldn’t impact your dalliances outside of it.” He glanced at them with a pointed look that none of them appreciated, “I made sure they’re all attractive. You’ll be tempted enough.” 

“I bet you were.” Izak muttered and Eris flashed him a look of warning but Beron smiled.

“You’re right, I was.” the High Lord mused with that nasty smile. “So if I was tempted, you’ll find them all agreeable.” He waved a hand at Eris. “Take your brother. He didn’t even care when I told him to marry Iris and now look at them. She was pretty when I chose her and she certainly seems tolerable enough to take care of his needs, doesn't she?”

Eris’s expression blanked, his hands fisting at his sides. “I’d rather not discuss my wife.”

Beron snorted. “Your wife is the reason I had to be pickier about who the rest of your brothers will wed. I can’t have them as controlled by their females as you are by yours.” He shot Eris a look full of disgust. “No matter how pretty her cunt is.” 

Eris nearly detonated, his fists clenching so hard, that steam began to rise and he forced himself to breathe, to try and let the words bounce off him even as the mating bond thumped in his chest. His instincts to shred any male who even thought of his wife were already reaching their limits before they even brought her up and he was trying not to be stupid enough to fall for his father’s tactics. He knew better. He knew better. And yet, the guttural noise couldn’t be helped when Eris snarled, “Father. Do not mention my wife.”  

Beron rolled his eyes. “Why? Your brothers know she’s fuckable. Finn was chasing her skirts in the stables not that long ago.”

Eris’s head snapped to Finn, his rage irrational as he gripped the front of his brother’s tunic tightly and Finn stared at him in disbelief, appalled at Eris’s glare. 

This was why he had hesitated to give in to the mating bond urges. He was about to wring his brother’s neck when he knew Finn had been with Iris. He had sent his brother himself and yet – and yet. 

Finn immediately straightened, his own anger barely leashed as he glared at their father. “That is not what happened.” 

“Denial isn’t the tone of the innocent, boy.” Beron taunted as Eris’s gaze slid back to his Father and that gleam of cruel amusement immediately doused Eris’s anger. His father was toying with them as always. And he had —

“What the fuck is your problem?” Finn snarled at their father and Eris held his father’s gaze, slowly releasing Finn but holding him back with a hand to his brother’s chest.

Eris couldn’t help but release a little of the damper he usually held on his power, rage blazing in his gaze and the High Lord’s eyes narrowed. 

“Enough,” he commanded, and despite the anger coming off him in waves, Finn managed to stand back and Eris knew his brother couldn’t help his expression of disgust at their father. “There will be no more talk about my wife.” he said then his gaze shifted to his brothers. “And no more negotiations on this matter.”

The tension in the room rose tenfold. It was a challenge to stand like this, to face the High Lord and command his sons in front of him. They had always listened to Eris but they were good at keeping it discreet. Not too obvious. 

Eris forced himself to shove Finn back, fully facing his father. “Let’s all remember how Father…has a sense of humor,” Eris said slowly. “Nothing more.”

Beron watched Eris with a raised brow and a few moments of silence stretched between them before the High Lord snorted. “A sense of humor,” he said then his face pinched in distaste. His gaze washed over Eris and again, he hated how tense it made him.  “This conversation is done. I have nothing else to say to you all. You have one task at the ball. Do not embarrass me.”

“We’ll try while whoring ourselves out.” Emil asked flatly and Beron tilted his head, that look of disdain still on his face.

“I do not care for the tone you speak to me in. All of you,” he said and waved a hand carelessly. “Apologize.” 

“Do we get an apology?” Izak asked with a snort and though Izak had at least six inches on his father, the High Lord had grabbed him by the front of his shirt and yanked him down to his eye level. 

“Do not test me, boy. Or I will rip your tongue out.” he snapped and shoved Izak back. “You’re all lucky I already gave my word that you’d meet with the families and I want you to look presentable. Otherwise, you would’ve been reminded of exactly what happens to people who get disrespectful with the High Lord. Apologize.” 

It was silent for a suspenseful moment before in unison, the brothers choked out, “Apologies, father.” 

And the four of them stood before him, waiting to be dismissed; sons watching their father and father watching his sons. Eris was ready for whatever may come as long as there would finally be an end to this. 

Beron watched them all with narrowed eyes, the seconds ticking by, and as if sensing them so miserable in his presence, his mouth curled into an ugly smirk and he finally nodded toward the door. “Get out of my sight.”

Without acknowledging each other, the brothers angrily stormed out and Eris forced himself to give his father a tight nod before he turned and made his way to leave. He didn’t trust his father’s parting expression one bit and Eris was only able to take a deep breath after the study door sealed shut behind him.

His brothers stood before him but Eris shook his head. Not here. They couldn’t say a word here. Their father was absolutely listening.

“I’d rather not see your hideous faces until the ball. Stay out of my way.” Eris said, then held up two fingers to Izak and Emil and they both nodded back; they’d speak again in two days. 

“I’ll show up if I feel up to it,” Emil replied casually and waved a hand for a report to appear, handing them to Eris. “You don’t have to nag.”

“I have nothing to say to either of you so if I don’t see you until the ball it’ll be a fucken blessing.” Izak added and pulled his own reports rolled up from his jacket. 

“You.” Eris said and pointed to Finn then jerked his head for him to follow. 

“What?” Finn, his tone purposely aggressive and nodded, saluting casually as Izak and Emil disappeared without a sound.

“We need to have a word.” 

And Eris made sure his tone was threatening enough, sounding like it promised violence as they left. They walked in silence, Eris’s blood pumping as they descended down the front gates and he knew he needed to get far enough away – far enough to not feel like his father was still looking at him – like his father’s gaze wasn’t watching him now. Turning suddenly, Eris grabbed Finn by the collar and before his brother could object, winnowed them to a hidden dwelling in their forests.

“What the hell, Eris?” Finn said as Eris shoved him back. He held up a hand until his shield was in place, then he let out a long breath.

Finn watched him and Eris knew his brother could see him struggling. His hands were starting to shake, steam starting to rise from them again as Eris began to pace.

“Well. At least I know you’re not going to murder me.” 

“The jury is still out on that,” Eris muttered and when Finn grunted, he shot his brother a glare, grateful that his nose wasn’t too badly bruised. “You know better than to keep answering him. How many times does he have to break your nose before you stop?”

“He fucken hates me. It doesn’t matter if I spoke up or not, he would’ve knocked me around regardless.” Finn snapped. “At least I can get some things off my chest.”

“You’re an idiot,” Eris grumbled and took another deep breath as he paced, steam rising from each step he took. “He knows something.” 

Finn instantly straightened. “What makes you say that?”

Eris shook his head. “This little move isn’t for nothing and I don’t fucken like it.” He paused, glancing in the direction of the open field then flickered back to that hidden dwelling. A narrow, half-broken trail, partially concealed by overhanging branches and tangled roots led through the towering trees and to the right, a stream on the other side of the cabin that led to the river running throughout the Autumn Court. It made him pause. He’d been looking for a place like this within the court. The little cabin in the woods to whisk away his wife off to.

His wife. 

Eris shook his head, pushing his father’s stupid taunting out of his head, and focused back on Finn who watched him with furrowed brows.

“Are you alright?”

“No.” Eris answered too honestly.

“Do you…want to talk about it?” 

“I’d rather die.” 

Finn held up his hands with a snort. “I had to ask. You’re more on edge than usual.” 

“Given our circumstances, I’m grateful to be standing,” he said dryly then jerked his chin towards Finn. “Are you alright? He decked you pretty hard.”

Finn shrugged and Eris hated seeing that nonchalant shrug that haunted this family. “Nothing I’m not used to,” he said. “But why did you bring us here?”

Eris glanced again at the little area, hidden away. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d ventured to this side of the court and how he used to find some peace and quiet here when he needed it. His gaze flickered to the stream and Eris let himself listen to the sound of nature around them for a moment. He would need to come back. He could shape this place to be a little hideaway he desperately needed. 

“I could feel his eyes on us.” Eris finally answered. “I needed him to think I was going to beat the shit out of you.”

“Because of what he said about Iris?”

Eris felt his anger surge through his body and whatever calm he had briefly found was gone as he paced. He forced himself to take another deep, slow breath. He knew Finn wasn’t saying anything wrong. He knew his brother meant nothing by the question but his answer was still a tight, “Yes.”

A moment of quiet passed before Finn licked his lips and said, “Eris, you know I would never, right?” he asked and Eris glanced at his younger brother, his expression uncharacteristically nervous. “He keeps making stupid fucken comments like that and said the same shit in front of her but we told you everything that happened at the stables. I would never disrespect either of you like that.” 

“I know, Finn. My reaction wasn’t about you.” Eris said and for once, let himself sound as tired as he felt. “He’s a piece of shit. He does it on purpose.”

“He is always saying shit like that to me.” Finn muttered, rubbing the back of his neck.” I’m sure he knows or at least has a feeling I swing both ways and he acts like I’m some kind of sexual predator when the only fucken predator around is him.” 

Eris grunted in agreement then rolled his shoulder back, glancing down at the reports his brothers had given him; he had forgotten he was holding them. Scanning them quickly, it seemed that all was well with their respective areas and Eris also read between the lines; their people were ready. He glanced up at Finn who was now waiting with his hands folded across his chest. “Things on your end?” 

“All is set.” He waved a hand and handed Eris his reports. “They’re starting to get in place.”

Eris nodded then straightened. “Stay out of his way for the next two days. We’ll meet in mother’s garden. Tell them to connect with their spies. Double then triple-check your sources. Find out what he knows. I need to know if information is getting out and if it is, who I need to kill.” he ordered and narrowed his eyes slightly at Finn’s nod. “I’ll reach out to Lucien to update him on this little announcement. What of Theo?”

“He’s going to leave right before the ball.” 

His brother’s quiet tone had Eris clench his fists. Without having to say anything, Eris already understood how Finn felt; Iris hadn’t left him yet and he already felt like he was being skinned alive at the idea of the distance. “That’s cutting it a little close, no?”

A muscle flexed in Finn’s jaw. “He’s gotten a lot of commissions for the Equinox. People want gifts and he’s the best we have.” he said. “He can’t leave too early. He’s too well-known and it’ll make things suspicious.” 

“Depending on what happens, he might not have much of a choice.” Eris said quietly and Finn’s expression hardened. 

“We only have one choice, Eris.”

And that dread that coiled in his chest since they started planning for the ball tightened; it would end one way or another. Eris could only hold on to the hope they were all left standing in one piece. 

[dollyyun]

dkp hyung line are the main characters BUT LISTEN!!! what if dilfs dkp (as in hyung line dads) as semi-main characters kinda….if that makes sense