#honestly the idea of them being close as mortals drives me insane.

[kettle-bird]

something something listen to Common People by Pulp.

[thunderheadfred]

❄️Todoroki HC's🔥

Aged-up pro hero Shouto. NSFW under the cut. Minors do not interact.

- - -

General

Might as well be tied with Bakugou for the #1 pro hero spot; they seem to pass the crown back and forth every other year. Everyone knows about their intense frenemies uber-rivalry. Well. Everyone but Shouto.

He's asked to speak at a lot of charity events. If he has time to prepare (and hire a speech writer) he is capable of stirring crowds to standing ovations. But if caught unawares... he gets cornered into hilarious on-the-spot interviews. He's been memed. Mercilessly.

He's an OP character, but unfortunately he rolled -500 in fashion sense. Eventually he wises up and hires a stylist. When he finally cuts his hair a slightly different and even more flattering way, it's a national event. People faint in the street.

Does god-awful sleight-of-hand magic tricks when he meets young fans, even though nobody asked him to. The second-hand embarrassment is palpable. But he keeps doing it. God, why does he keep doing it?

Has hovering arm syndrome in every fan photo.

Super into pop music. Not a fan of any particular group or artist, couldn't tell you the name of a single song. But every time he turns up the volume on the radio it's like... really? THIS? Probably pumps that shit through his hero agency to keep up morale. Has no idea what you mean when you tell him his music taste doesn't match his personality.

Similarly, he enjoys brainless romantic comedies and old silent movies. Doesn't laugh at jokes but loses it over physical comedy. Thinks Buster Keaton and Harold Lloyd are the funniest people who ever walked the earth.

He's long and limber. Runs practically a hundred miles every day just to "relax." Doesn't even get sweaty doing it. A filthy yoga addict. He'll probably live to be 200 years old.

He can regulate his body temperature for quirk use but in everyday life he's always half a degree outside the Goldilocks zone. It drives him quietly insane; he has an epic love-hate relationship with his thermostat.

Has a therapy animal pet. Doesn't matter if it's a dog or a cat or a bird or an iguana or a teeny tiny rodent. It's the best-behaved animal in the country and speaks more languages than you. It has its own room and an instagram account with millions of followers.

Lives in a traditional Japanese estate that doubles as a national treasure. Probably has government-appointed snipers at the gate, and he's just like, "don't worry about it." You are afraid to touch anything. Fuck, don't even look at anything, just to be safe.

Has an outstanding personal chef who only gets to cook five things unless (thank fuck!!) company comes over. Impossibly picky eater. He rotates between a few "safe" foods and suspiciously side-eyes everything else. If you cook something unfamiliar for him it will be the most awkward meal of your life, because he'd never tell you he doesn't like it. But oh lord, just look at his face.

This clashes directly with his love of traveling. Frequently uses his hero earnings to visit exotic foreign locales over long weekends... but rarely tries the food.

- - -

Dating

A grey-ace demisexual disaster. You could count the number of people he's been attracted to on one hand. He falls madly in love every time and always gets his heart smashed to pieces when his crush can't magically intuit the meaning of his frigid longing glances and generically courteous romantic gestures.

Which is stupid, because he gets propositioned constantly. He can't walk out the door without being flirted with. People keep slipping him their phone numbers and he always directs them to his agency like a moron. It's a good thing he will never understand how attractive he is because that's the only thing keeping him from total world domination.

Conventional attractiveness does not compute. Shouto doesn't have a type, doesn't care that he's an eleven whilst you are merely mortal. He will fall for your personality above all else.

Probably falls head over heels because your schedules overlap in a completely ordinary way and he witnesses you doing something endearing or brave or most likely: utterly mundane.

Pick a favorite, because you're his favorite coworker, or his favorite barista, or his favorite random bystander in line at the grocery store. You made him smile once; then he spent the next three months daydreaming about your future together before you accidentally stomped on his foot, initiating your first real conversation.

He's big on healthy communication. HUGE. He goes to therapy and it shows. Will talk through literally everything to the point of delirium. Sometimes his dedication to resolving every issue right away can get overwhelming; sometimes you just need some frickin time alone. But it pays off, because the two of you have practically never have a "real fight." There's just no way for bad vibes to fester.

STILL, his family wasn't exactly... erm... verbally or emotionally supportive, shall we say. For that reason, he might not give you all the compliments you deserve, because it simply doesn't occur to him to do so. He assumes you know how he feels. If you're self-conscious or insecure in the relationship, it might take him a while to notice. But when he figures it out (or even better, when you tell him directly) he will make it up to you with enthusiasm.

Will take you on lavish dates. Spoils you rotten without actually intending to. He's clueless about money. If you wanted a sugar daddy, you just hit the fucking jackpot. But if the word valet makes you uncomfortable, perhaps suggest some romantic picnics instead. He can still go all out with the food and five-star location without making you see cartoon dollar signs.

Chronic Insomniac. Stays up too late watching YouTube every night. His viewing history is an incomprehensible blur of k-pop music videos, serial killer icebergs, and super girly crafty ASMR channels. When he's watching a video, he is unreachable. Please call back later and try again.

He's disgustingly cute when he sleeps. Doesn't snore, but drools. Sometimes the drool freezes and leaves frost trails on his face in the morning. Still sleeps with the giant stuffed cat pillow that his mother gave him when he was like, zero. He'll inadvertently suffocate you with it, and you will welcome death with open arms because awwwwww!!!!!

The first time he tells you he loves you will be after your traditional Japanese shinto wedding. You won't hear it again until you start a family. Honestly, it's a good thing he doesn't say it often and is always holding you when it happens. It's a knee-buckler.

- - -

Icy-Hot

I don't even need to say it. Shouto is as old-fashioned as they come. You will never open another door or pull out another chair for yourself as long as you live. He will ask before he holds your hand. He will ask before he kisses you. He will stop and check in if you so much as breathe funny during sex.

If you don't orgasm at exactly the same time while staring into one another's eyes, he'll consider himself a failed lover. God forbid you want him to pound you into the futon... cause you are going to have to present that scenario to him in writing first.

Physical intimacy rarely leads to sex. He loves cuddling, craves physical affection. He'll sprawl all over you and turn into goo while you hold him close. He's an amazing, astounding, phenomenally good kisser. And that's... nice and all... but sometimes you have to grab his face and say, "Shouto, I'm horny," before he's like so that's why you're currently dry-humping me?

Even if he isn't technically a virgin the first time (or the millionth time) you sleep together, you won't know the difference. He's a blushing violet. Every. Fucking. Time. This doesn't mean he's a bad lay, oh no. But there's always ten minutes of confused bumbling before he hits his stride and remembers oh yeah, I DO know how to fuck good.

Absolutely silent during sex. Focused. Intense. Sometimes you have to push him a little to make any kind of noise at all, just so you know you're pleasing him (oh don't worry, you are).

His cock is Just Right. Not to big or too small. Perfectly proportioned and symmetrical. Somehow pretty. Like a fucking factory prototype. It truly is not fair.

Gets handsy and restless at night, even if you both have work the next day. Seems to crave sex at three in the morning. You've given him more than one exhausted handjob.

Gets offended if you don't cum. Will go down on you for hours. Of course he uses his quirk to tease you. He doesn't typically use it during actual intercourse, but he's all about foreplay, and he'll use every tool in his arsenal.

His sex drive is completely fucking unpredictable. Sometimes he's all over you, other times he's an icy slab. His line of work leaves him busy and stressed on a near-constant basis, so you can't entirely blame his personality for this one. Just give him some time and help him take care of his basic needs. He'll come back around soon enough.

[exo-levi]

Stuck With U

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

Jack Frost x Reader oneshot | 1.4k

Buy me a coffee? ☕️

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

I’m not one to stick around

One strike and you’re out, baby

Don’t care if I sound crazy

“We could go out and have fun in the snow?”

He pondered, thinking of what they’re going to do for today. It was a pretty boring day—for Jack—and what’s more fun than playing in the snow during a snow day to pass boredom?

“I don’t want to go outside, Jack,” She whined as she sat on her bed. She patted the space beside her, telling Jack to sit which he did. “Can’t we just stay at home and chill? You know, just you and me.”

But you never let me down, no no

That’s why, when the sun’s up,

I’m staying, still laying in your bed

Saying...

“You sure? It’s a beautiful day today, don’t want to miss the fun we’ll be having out there”, Jack pointed the window. It really is a beautiful day, it was a snow day. Jack had finished spreading cold and snow around town for the kids to have fun, and now he’s inviting his girlfriend to join in.

Ooh ooh ooh ooh..

Got all this time in our hands

Might as well cancel our plans

I could stay here for a lifetime..

The girl shook her head still refusing her boyfriend’s offer. “No, I just want to spend time with you, cold weather is cuddle weather anyway”, she winked and leaned her head on his shoulder.

“Isn’t cuddling with me not fun for you?” She added.

“I didn’t say that”

“Then stay here with me”

Jack sighed, “Fine. But tomorrow we’ll go out, I want to fly you somewhere.” The girl looked up and smiled.

“Alright” She tapped her finger on Jack’s nose, he smiled at her cute gesture. “So..” Jack said while thinking, “what do you want to do? Besides the cuddling?”

“We could watch a movie?” She suggested. Honestly, she has no plans for today. All she wanted was to spend time with her boyfriend, alone. Finals is in 2 weeks and she just needed a break from reality. Homework, projects, and deadlines are giving her so much stress for the past few days. “Or I don’t know, you choose”

“Or we could build a snowman in your backyard?” Jack smirked.

“Nooo...” she whined again, “just.. lay down with me”. She crawled in her blanket, stuffed her pillows, and leaned her back on the bed’s headboard. Jack set his staff near her bed leaning against the wall and scooched in beside her. He wrapped one arm around her shoulders, pulling her close.

So lock the door

and throw out the key

Can’t fight this no more

It’s just you and me

And there’s nothing I,

nothing I, I can do

Both of them just sat there in silent. She traced patterns on his palm and Jack kissed her head. It somehow relaxed her, this is all she needed. Their breathing was the only sound they could hear, besides the kids shouting coming from her window as they play in the snow.

“I love this.” She muttered, trying to start a conversation to break the silence. Jack hummed in agreement. “We should do this more often.”

“We do this every night, (Y/N)”, he pointed out.

“Yeah, but that’s different. That’s just a routine we have before sleeping”, she replied. “What I mean is.. spending time alone, doing nothing. During the day.”

It’s true. They don’t usually do this, it’s always going outside playing in the snow or walking in the forest near the pond.

I’m stuck with you,

stuck with you,

stuck with you..

“Just you and me. No distractions, all day.” She added. She cupped his cold cheek with one hand and stared into his icy blue eyes as she let out a small smile. Jack chuckled lightly, “You’re cute”.

“Of course, I am”

So go ahead, and drive me insane

Baby, run your mouth

I still wouldn’t change being

stuck with you, stuck with you

stuck with you..

Jack continued to stare at her, admiring her beauty. He’s so in love with the mortal. He loved every little thing about her. He was already warned by the Guardians about this. Falling for a mortal is a terrible idea. It always ends badly. Of course, being the stubborn Jack Frost he is, he didn’t listen.

He couldn’t just waste his chance to love. He’s been alone for 300 years. There was no one to hold him, talk to him, comfort him when he needed it. And that changed when he met her 2 years ago. He has never been this happy before, he never felt so much love for someone until she came along. Both of them knew the consequences of their relationship, but it is not the time to think about them. They want to treasure every moment they’ll have. It’s a once in a lifetime kind of fun they’ll both remember.

There’s no where we need to be

I’mma get to know you better

Kinda hope we’re here forever

There’s nobody on these streets

If you told me that the world’s ending

Ain’t no other way that I can spend it

They wanted more than a lifetime, but that’ll be impossible for them. Jack will always remain a teenager while she grows every single day. The future gives no warning and it scares Jack everyday that she might stop believing in him and forget him in a blink of an eye. But she promised she will never and Jack hoped that promise won’t break any time.

“What are you thinking?”, she asked.

“Wish we could stay like this forever”

“Me, too.” (Y/N) pecked his lips and gave him a warm embrace. She can smell his scent through his blue hoodie. “Wish you could freeze the time, though.” She muttered in his chest.

“I know”

Oh, oh, oh, ohhh...

Got all this time in my hands

Might as well cancel our plans

I could stay here forever

"Jack?"

“Hm?”

“What was it like? To be alone for 300 years?” He was a bit surprised with her question. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to put you on the spot.” She felt guilty for asking such a sensitive topic.

“No, no. It’s fine. It’s, uhh.. it was pretty lonely. I usually talked to the moon, asking things I want to know. But of course, he never responded.” He playfully rolled his eyes at the thought of it. “But years had passed, I got used to it. I pulled pranks on random people by freezing stuff for fun, kinda hoping I would get their attention and notice me but that part failed.”

        “Ohh” was all she said. She felt bad about him for being alone that long. She couldn’t imagine herself in his position, it’ll make her go insane.

        “But I’m over it. All my questions have been answered, I finally found my purpose, I have the Guardians, kids who believe in me...” He lifted her face so she could look at him in the eyes again. “And I have you.” He whispered.

Baby, come take all my time

Go on, make me lose my mind

We got all that we need here tonight..

Her heart fluttered. She let out a small laugh and grinned at him. He’s her little sweetener. He never fails to make her smile. She’s crazily in love with Jack Frost, she’s been thanking the moon for creating him and giving her such a beautiful blessing. She loves him just as much as he loves her.

I locked the door

and throw out the key

Can’t fight this no more

It’s just you and me

And there’s nothing I,

nothing I’d rather do

I’m stuck with you,

stuck with you, stuck with you..

“I love you,” Jack brushed her hair behind her ear, “so much.”

“I love you, too” She whispered and glanced at his lips. “So, so much.” She pressed her lips against his cold ones. She ran her fingers through his hair as they kissed. Jack’s hand traveled down her waist, pulling her closer as he kissed back.

(Y/N) pulled away from the kiss, got up, and went on top of Jack, wrapping her legs around him. She intertwined her hand with his and squeezed it. Their faces were inches apart, eyes filled with love staring at each other.

So go ahead, and drive me insane

Baby, run your mouth

I still wouldn’t change all this

loving you, hating you,

wanting you

I’m stuck with you, stuck with you,

stuck with... you..

“Promise me, you’ll never leave?” He whispered, his cold breath hitting her warm face.

“As long as you promise me the same, then you’ll be having me for a long time” She whispered back.

He chuckled and nuzzled his nose against hers as she shivered from his cold nip.

“Guess I’m stuck with you, then.”

Stuck with you, stuck with you, stuck with you..

[nocturne-inuyasha-ff]

Chapter Sixteen: On the Edge of Forever

Author's Notes: Thanks for hanging in there. Keep in mind while reading that most of the scene changes are different narrators and the narrators are not always what you would call "reliable." Meaning, that we only see what they see or hear or think, so the reader may not ever see what's really going on.

Happy reading!

Nocturne - Chapter Sixteen: On the Edge of Forever

Rated - M (for suggestive adult themes, references to some violence, and coarse language)

Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha.

Sesshomaru had the audacity to look confused - his one brow risen higher than the other. "This one assumed you might desire a moment to collect yourself after an arduous journey."

Kagome set her jaw, and she almost began tapping her foot in annoyance. "No, I want to see Setsuna and make certain she is well."

"The child was well when I last saw her."

"You saw her? When?" He'd made no mention of it on the trip over, which was flabbergasting to her. "Why wouldn't you tell me that?!" she demanded.

"It was unnecessary," he began before Kagome cut him off.

"Unnecessary?! You fool, it is never unnecessary to tell a mother the wellbeing of her child!" her anger seemed to be falling on deaf ears. "What if our positions had been reversed?"

"That is preposterous. I would have never allowed myself to be taken."

Kagome groaned. "No! That's not what I meant. What if something had happened to Setsuna? Would you have wanted to know?"

"It would have made no difference."

So, he didn't care. A part of Kagome was furious while the other felt numb from his admission. "I see," she responded. "Thank you for returning me home."

Kagome strode past him and out the door to begin the walk towards the village. She could only assume that Setsuna had been left in the care of her friends. So, that was now her destination.

Sesshomaru had not bothered to stop her. Whatever his intentions were with bringing her here, where everyone was not, were as mysterious as ever.

Kagome felt overcome with emotion and unsure of which one she wanted to address first, her anger, or her misery. Anger would likely fuel her longer, so she picked up that mantle until she could decompress later. She felt foolish to think that anything occurred from the point of their first joining until now would change the way the demon lord perceived her.

Sesshomaru stepped in front of her, breaking her out of her reverie. Kagome had honestly expected him to leave after dropping her off.

"Where are you going," he asked.

"What do you want from me?" she demanded.

"It would be astute for you to collect any possession you deem worthwhile," he explained.

Kagome crossed her arms. "Why would I do that?"

"It is not safe," he answered.

"Not safe?" she repeated incredulously. "And why may that be? Because I am human and incapable of protecting myself?"

His golden eyes narrowed at her, but he remained silent for the moment, knowing she likely had more to say.

"You've already killed Fan, from what else do you need to keep me safe? I haven't needed your protection before all this, and I don't need it now," she admonished.

Sesshomaru's brow piqued, "What leads you to believe that Fan Tsenpo is dead?"

"I saw you kill him," she said almost hesitantly, now beginning to doubt herself. Why was Sesshmaru stating otherwise? Her eyes had not deceived her.

"One would be a fool to kill Fan outright. His clan must be dealt with delicately. To murder one of their own in such a fashion would be considered dishonorable; and an action of the greatest offense. They would then hunt this one down without hesitation." He stated this matter-of-factly as if it were insane to suggest otherwise.

"I merely immobilized him for the time being to afford us the ability to escape."

"So...he's still…" she trailed off.

"Correct, wounded, but alive. It will likely take Fan some time to recuperate, but when he has recovered, it would be prudent to expect retaliation of some form."

"Oh, Kami." Fear enveloped her. If Fan were alive, that would mean he could come after her again, or more likely, Setsuna. Kagome shook her head, trying to shake evil images from her mind. "It was all too easy," she lamented.

"Indeed. Fan miscalculated your abilities, and I took advantage of his misconception to escape."

"So, you knew he would tell me to kill you?" she asked dubiously.

He gave her a stern look until his right lip pulled into a small smirk. "Fan did not get the idea on his own. His penchant for collecting oddities turned out to be his folly."

Kagome balled her fists in mock anger, "Don't get cocky! He could have killed me!"

"No harm would have befallen you."

The arrogant ass! "How presumptive of you, risking our lives based on what I can only assume to be a wild hunch!"

"If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle," Sesshomaru quoted.

"Wait, are you quoting a...a book? You realize that particular tome was written by a human, right?"

Sesshomaru made a 'hnn' sound. "I may have held disdain for mortals, but I am not so naive as to overlook the wisdom of those I may presume as weaker. Humans have not progressed this far by chance. They lack power, agility, and longevity, but some makeup for that in cunning. "

"Wow, Lord Sesshomaru, I am...speechless," Kagome said. She cocked her head to the side, studying him in a different light.

A small smile formed on his lips, "I find that to be unbelievable." His smile quickly dropped, and he looked past her and towards her little house. "Now, back to the matter at hand. It is recommended you find what you need presently or leave it."

Kagome reflexively turned her head to the house and back, "What? I'm not leaving. I am not going to run and hide. My friends are here, and they may be in harm's way because of me. No. I am staying."

Sesshomaru shook his head. "Miko, there are many preparations to be done and an unknown time to complete them. If you plan to risk your own life, I will not compel you to accompany me, but the same cannot be said for all those involved."

Why was he so wishy-washy, instructing her to come and then backing off. "Of course, you wouldn't. Just go then!" she demanded.

He did not move. Perhaps his words were empty, and he was trying to use reverse psychology to get Kagome to leave with him.

Kagome broke, her words quiet and venerable. "Please just go. This is already hard as it is. I can't keep playing this game anyway. Don't worry about us. We will be fine. I've been through worse."

"I cannot help but worry," he admitted.

"Why?" If he would even admit that much.

He reached out and ran his hands through the strands of her hair in a thoughtful gesture. "This one knows the miko can care for herself. That I do not question."

She grabbed his hand to stop the simple caress but did not let go. "Then why is it important that I come with you?"

"To leave you and the child would be dishonorable."

She closed her eyes and held her breath. "I release you from your burden. Go forth and be free from us."

He still did not move, "You are making this difficult."

"Good, because you have made my life difficult!" she bit out. "As if things weren't already hard enough for me. Now I have to deal with my feelings for you," she blurted before stopping herself. Damn.

"What feelings?" he demanded.

She spun away, having said too much. Looking at him was enough to push her over the edge, and she had to be strong.

Sesshomaru would not allow her to leave with his question unanswered and grabbed her, pulling her into his chest. His arm wrapped around her so that she could not pull free. His head leaned down to her ear, allowing some of his silver locks to cover her shoulder. His lips were close enough to graze her ear, but his words were soft. "Speak, woman. You hold your tongue no other time."

Resisting was futile, and she could feel herself melting into his chest. "I...think...I…" her words trembled upon her lips, "may love you..." The last three words came out as a whisper, but Kagome knew he heard them.

"What a fool I am. Now, please go." She turned her head away from him as much as she could. Anything to break the spell under which she was falling.

Sesshomaru would not let her go, and his voice was hard with his monosyllabic reply. "Why?"

"Why what?" she repeated with fear.

He turned his head closer to hers, "Would you think those feelings would make you a fool?" His words seemed to hold anger in them.

Kagome sighed, "Because I am human, and even if you were to return my feelings or pretend to care, I am just a blink in your life. I cannot give you what you need or deserve, and it would be selfish of me to ask."

He released her, his arm falling away, and Kagome was able to step back and turn to see him. His eyes were soft, but his lips set into a hard line. "I liken you to many things, but never a fool."

"Then, perhaps, I am overzealous."

"You have never aspired to be more than you are, and I would never ask that of you."

Kagome closed her eyes, set upon her chosen path, "Then it's agreed."

His words cut through her. "You are trying to corner me into your narrow outlook."

Her eyes snapped open, and she asked almost hopelessly, afraid to hear his words. "Then what do you want?"

"You."

"Why?" she lamented.

"You anger me."

Kagome nearly laughed in derision. "I anger a lot of people."

Sesshomaru raised his voice over her own. "You also give me pause. I've never understood my father's inclinations until now."

He stepped close to her again, trying to use his vicinity to express his words. "How a human could intrigue me, push me, plague me."

He lifted a hand and cupped her cheek, and she did not stop him. "You infiltrate my every thought, and it drives me mad. The idea of losing you is a pain insurmountable."

Tears spilled down her cheeks. "I can't love you. It's...it is not fair to you. Please... don't say these things to me."

He used his thumbs to wipe away her tears, his other hand gently grasping her face. "Kagome, do not deny yourself. Least of all to me."

The weight of his words was not lost on her. In memory, she'd not once recalled him using her name. She had to harden her heart.

He tenderly tilted her chin and possessed her lips with his own. Warmth spread through her like wildfire, and she fought an urge to pull him closer so as to melt into his body. His hands never left her face as he waited for her to signal to him that there was more to be had. She longed for it to deepen, but pulled away before she allowed it to go too far.

"No," she pleaded, turning away from him. "I must-must... Please go."

He left quietly and swiftly, to where she did not know. It was for the best, she assured herself.

o - o - o - o - o

He departed expediently. Any more time spent in her presence would have had a different outcome, one that she may not likely desire, but he did.

Sesshomaru had never met such an intoxicating and infuriating person. In a different time, he would have reacted differently, or not at all.

Like his brow, he set his course and made haste. It was only a moment before he alighted outside the Houshi's home. He could sense that the taijiya was inside, alone, aside from the presence of his young child.

Without waiting for an invitation, he walked in. Sitting next to a hearth, the woman stirred a pot with her free hand. The infant was slumbering next to her.

The woman looked startled at his abrupt appearance, abandoning her meal preparations, "Lord Sesshomaru!"

He stepped before her, "I've come to retrieve the child."

She seemed confused, looking down at the baby. "What about Kagome?!" His arrival without the child's mother seemed to unbalance her.

Sesshomaru had no time for this, "She is safe."

The taijiya grabbed the infant up and stood up. She was right to feel uneasy but also had no reason not to relinquish the baby to its father. The woman carefully placed the sleeping child into her father's waiting arms.

He stared down at the child, who was gaining size with speed. Her hair had grown even longer, curling in fine strands around her head.

"Fetch Rin," he commanded, looking back up to the taijiya.

"Is something wrong, Lord Sesshomaru?" the woman asked with concern. She looked over to a corner of the room where her gear and weaponry leaned against a wall, ready for use.

Not answering her question, Sesshomaru changed the subject. "You have called for your brother, as I suggested?"

"Uh, yes. He has arrived. I think Rin is with him."

He felt a twinge of anger at the suggestion. Rin was of marriageable age, and it was preposterous for her to be alone with a male, even one he was acquainted with and had been a traveling companion. "Accompanied by who?"

"Miroku and the children," she responded hesitantly.

That, alone, did not mollify him, but he would deal with it soon enough. "My gratitude for keeping Setsuna safe. I will send word to you with instructions."

"Instructions for what?" she called after him.

He left without another word, leaving her question heavy in the air. The miko's human companions were much too wordy than was prudent. There was no time to answer constant questions.

o - o - o - o - o

Sesshomaru followed his nose the rest of the way through the village to find Rin. He located her in a clearing at the edge of the village. She appeared to be conversing with a young woman. Upon further inspection, Sesshomaru was unable to locate the houshi, nor his brood and his irk rose towards the taijiya for her false words.

There were many people in the clearing, most carrying belongings and supplies, looking as though they had just arrived from a long journey or were displaced settlers bearing all they owned. He noticed the now grown Kohaku among them calling out instructions.

Sesshomaru's arrival caused a hush among the group who all immediately began to arm themselves with varying weaponry. He glared at them all, daring anyone to attack.

Kohaku noticed the disturbance and lifted a hand, instructing the people to lower their weaponry, but many continued to give Sesshomaru defiant looks. The young man ran over towards Sesshomaru with a wary smile.

"Lord Sesshomaru, it is good to see you well. My sister sent word to me, expressing distress, and asked that I come quickly. When I learned that the suggestion came from you, I thought it provident to bring a team." Kohaku gestured to his people, still giving Sesshomaru wary, sidelong glances.

Rin had taken the opportunity to approach and smiled broadly. "Lord Sesshomaru! You have returned, which must mean that you bring Lady Kagome as well." She saw the child, now awake and alert, in his arm. Rin looked around, trying to find Kagome, and then back to Sesshomaru. "She is not here?"

Sesshomaru ignored her question. "With your mortal caretaker dead, I wanted to ensure that you are provided for." He looked around again and back at Rin. "I will soon be away from here."

Still smiling, Rin cooed at the baby and placed a finger inside the child's grasping hand. "I am happy here, my lord," she said cautiously. Glancing up, she said slowly, "I only worry about you."

Sesshomaru noticed from the corner of his eye Kohaku staring at the girl with a particular fondness in his gaze. He figured that young Rin could do worse than the thoughtful taijiya. She may undoubtedly need his care in the time to come.

Satisfied that Rin would not be left wanting, he issued a brief goodbye. "Be well, Rin."

Rin grabbed his arm, a look of concern drawing down her features. "Where is Kagome?" she asked again.

"You may tell her I will be waiting."

"Of course," Rin replied obediently. She still seemed perturbed over the turn of events, but would not question Sesshomaru.

He bid a final farewell to the pair and departed on a swift wind.

In-flight, he looked down at the child in his arms. She sat up and looked around in marvel, never having seen the world from this vantage. Her dark eyes alight with a quiet wonder. Those were the eyes of her mother, he knew. This was the only way to get her to see.

o - o - o - o - o

Kagome stepped inside her house again, for what she was unsure. Everything was exactly as she had left it, except for a layer of dust beginning to form. Funny how dust began to move in the moment that you stopped paying attention.

She sighed at all of the work she would have to do and nearly debated on taking care of things now rather than doing them later with a child to care for.

Her desire to be reunited with Setsuna was too great. Kagome exited the house and looked around. A shaky breath escaped her, and she chided herself for thinking that he would be here. Not after she ran him off. She left the house and set down the path towards the village.

She had gotten a mile barely before she was pulled from her thoughts.

"Oi! Kagome!" A familiar voice called out.

Kagome turned on her heel. Only one person she knew would address her like that.

Inuyasha ran up to her, pulling her into a friendly embrace. "You're okay!"

"Ungh, not if you don't crush me first," she joked.

"Eh? Sorry." He released her quickly and took an awkward step back. "I, uh, I'm sorry you were kidnapped...again."

Kagome bit her lip and smirked. "There's nothing to apologize for. You saved Setsuna, and that's all I could have ever asked."

"I was gonna come and save you, too, but it seems Sesshomaru beat me to it. Where is he anyway? Surprisingly he isn't here threatening to kick my ass again."

"He's gone. I don't know where to."

"Oh."

There was an awkward silence. "So, you were going to come to save me, huh? Like old times? How did that pan out?"

Inuyasha scratched at his head, seemingly embarrassed, "Yeah, well, once Sesshomaru came and threatened everyone, we decided to come up with an alternate plan."

"Threatened you?" She asked.

"Well, yeah, he came here hours after you were taken and apparently told Sango to get her brother here. He basically implied shit was gonna go down."

"I see," she responded, thinking to herself.

"I guess that means he didn't kill that bitch or her badass brother, huh?"

Kagome's head snapped up, and her heart dropped. The danger was only gone for the moment with no indication of when it was to return. "No, unfortunately not."

"Keh, fucking figures. He drags you and the kid into this, and now he's bringing everyone else into his fucking mess, too. Then he takes off?"

"Likely to prepare," Kagome defended. "He was able to seriously wound Fan, and any counter-attack will not be immediate."

"Nah. Probably when we least expect it. He's a sick fuck that one."

"What do you know of him?" She asked suspiciously.

"A little."

"You've never even met him. How can you possibly know anything at all?"

"I uh…" he trailed off, and he looked behind her.

Kagome caught his glance and spun around to see a woman peeking out at her from behind a tree. "Who is that, Inuyasha?"

"That's um…" he stammered, "It's Shizuka."

"Shizuka?" Kagome asked, looking at the tree the woman seemed to be hiding behind. "Why is she hiding? Who is she?"

"Don't get mad."

"Why would I get mad, Inuyasha?" she inquired the guilty-looking hanyo.

He scratched at his head and looked up as he spoke, avoiding her stare, "Because she...she may or may not have been the one who snatched the kid."

"What," she responded in monotone.

When it seemed Kagome wouldn't blow up, Inuyasha called out, "Come on over."

Kagome seethed with anger at the fool before her. She stood silent while Inuyasha led a hesitant hanyo woman out towards her.

Her first inclination had been to lash out, but upon further inspection, Kagome instantly felt a surge of pity.

The woman was an inuyokai, just like Inuyasha. Her ears were turned down like she was a beaten dog, and she trembled so like a frightened animal. Inuyasha took hold of her hand and patted it reassuringly. "This is Kagome. She won't hurt you."

Kagome glared at him, but he was oblivious to her poignant stare. He only had eyes for this timid woman. The idiot would dare attempt to pass off this woman as some kind of ally? Yet, Kagome could feel that there was nothing nefarious about her. Strange that she couldn't pick up anything at all, no sense of her yoki, nothing.

The woman glanced up, hesitantly, and back down. She began to tug on Inuyasha's arm, trying to pull away. Something about the way Kagome stared at her, causing her to feel discomfort.

"You're frightening her," Inuyasha pointed out. "Don't be such a bitch. It ain't Shizuka s fault."

"Are you serious right now! I haven't said one cross word as of yet! Maybe you are scaring her by pushing her into situations she's uncomfortable with."

Inuyasha snapped back, "Maybe she can see your dagger eyes!"

"So immature," Kagome groaned.

"Such a stuck up whiny bitch," he snapped.

Kagome frowned. "I am not whiny. I know what I want. It's different."

Inuyasha scoffed, "Keh. Oh yeah? Then why are you alone again?"

Kagome gasped. "How dare you! I am alone because I have chosen to be alone."

"Lie to yourself, wench, but you can't lie to me. I know you too well."

Kagome thought that may be true to a point, but he was wrong about his opinion of her.

Shizuka looked supremely uncomfortable but said nothing. Kagome sniffed in derision, turning her attention to the newcomer.

"So, explain to me why she is sharing your company, and I shouldn't want to hurt her if she tried to steal my baby," she demanded.

o - o - o - o - o

Inuyasha explained on the way towards the village. He told Kagome how Shizuka had been a slave to Tsering and used for everything from a handmaiden to a spy. They did not even know her real name, instead, giving her a new one.

How he had extracted all this information from a girl who was clearly mute was beyond her. Still, she gave this stranger the benefit of the doubt because Inuyasha assured her that Sango and Miroku would collaborate the story.

Kagome was skeptical but also hesitant to doubt her friend's astute judgment. It would be best to keep this woman as far away from her babe as possible, just to be safe, she thought.

Inuyasha explained that a lot had happened in the weeks she was gone. Kohaku had arrived, bringing with him his entire clan of taijiya. The lad was doing his best to rebuild that which he had taken away. His guilt was something he would battle for years, if not the rest of his life. Survivors guilt at its worst, Kagome knew.

Apparently, Sango's summons prompted Kohaku to bring his foundling people to the village to settle. The old taijiya village was gone, decimated by an old enemy, its inhabitants eradicated except for two. Kohaku dreamed of making amends due to his guilt and began by recruiting worthy apprentices and others experienced in exterminating demons.

With the village seeming to attract yokai of all kinds, it seemed an appropriate place to settle and begin anew. Of course, many of the people Kohaku had recruited held a deep-seated hatred for yokai, no matter their affiliations, and found themselves unsettled by some of the village's inhabitants.

None of that seemed to bother Inuyasha. He held the woman's hand as they walked, occasionally running a thumb over her hand for reassurance purposes. Kagome felt an odd sense of jealousy wash over her when she noticed. She narrowed her eyes at the display and quickly turned her head before the lout could pick up on her mood. Kagome cursed herself for those twinges of envy. It's not as if she even wanted Inuyasha like that. Not anymore.

He had seldom been so tender and patient with her during their time together. Both of their stubborn tendencies clashed and caused many fights. Now, Kagome could see that what he truly needed to thrive would be someone demure. Someone who needed the protection he could provide. Someone to validate him after years of being nothing.

Kagome now knew that she was never the one for him, and it stung to see him look happy over someone that was a virtual stranger in comparison to their years-old relationship. She felt her throat catch thinking about her own happiness or rather lack thereof.

It just didn't seem fair that Kagome had left her family and her entire life to come to the past for a boy that now seemed enthralled with someone else. She tried to discreetly clear her throat without drawing too much attention to herself.

"What's your deal?" Inuyasha asked skeptically.

Kagome noticed that he had an eyebrow raised and likely wouldn't be convinced by whatever she said. "I just miss her," she said quietly. That was true, and he wouldn't question her. She hoped.

His eyes suggested he had his doubts, but he didn't push the subject, instead, going along with her. "Yeah, well, she's a brat. Just like her mom." His friendly smile trying to console her.

Kagome nodded and glanced over at the new woman being led along quietly by Inuyasha's side. She had not gotten a very good look at the woman and thought she saw some similarities to another. Odd similarities. The tilt of her eyes, even downcast as they were, held some disturbing familiarity. Kagome shook her head of the thoughts, clearing her mind of such notions.

Inuyasha stopped, and Shizuka tensed, hiding behind him. Kagome was puzzled at their hesitation but felt it herself and followed their eyes up. Up in the sky, there was a figure being swallowed in the clouds settling over the land. It was a queer sensation to have her heart drop lower into her chest than it had already done not long ago.

Did I make the right decision, she pondered, looking back at the pair whose eyes were still glued to the sky.

"Bastard is leaving again. Good fucking riddance," Inuyasha cursed. "He always rattles on about pride and honor, but be is a fucking hypocrite."

Kagome didn't respond, preferring to chew on her lip. For a second, she thought he'd come back for her. Not that it would change her mind. The idea of being an aging liability seemed unfeasible.

Inuyasha scoffed. "You're better off. Maybe one of the new guys that Kohaku brought would suit you," he suggested.

If looks could kill, Inuyasha would be 6 feet under. The best Kagome could do was one. "Sit, boy!" She commanded.

The beads around his neck glowed, and his face planted into the ground with a satisfying sound. Shizuka looked at Kagome with a mixture of perplexion and horror, eliminating any amount of satisfaction Kagome would get from the deed.

"He deserved it!" She defended against her wordless accuser. "He will be fine," she waved a hand.

Inuyasha lifted himself from the ground spitting dirt, "Dammit, wench! Don't fucking do that!"

Kagome grabbed Inuyasha by his beads, pulling his neck down and looked at Shizuka. "Beads of subjugation," she explained. "If he ever gives you any trouble, let me know, and I will bring him down a few notches."

Shizuka continued to look horrified, emphasizing her fright by taking a step back from Kagome.

Kagome frowned and let Inuyasha go. He growled and rubbed his neck, muttering obscenities. He grabbed Shizuka's hand and marched off with her, leaving Kagome behind.

She sighed and followed.

The village was just a few yards away, and the trio made their way to Miroku and Sango's house.

Upon entering, Kagome was greeted with smiles and tight hugs from her best friend. Sango hiccuped, stifling a happy sob. "We were all so worried, but when Sesshomaru came, I knew you were okay."

"What do you mean?" Kagome asked. How had Sango seen Sesshomaru already? "Did he come here?"

Sango's eyes went wide with apprehension. "He did…"

Kagome looked around, noting the absence of her child, "Where's Setsuna?"

"He didn't bring her to you?" Sango questioned.

"Clearly not!" Kagome felt the blood drain from her face and turned to bolt from the door. Inuyasha stood with Shizuka in the doorway, speechless, and Kagome shouldered past him to get outside. He protested loudly, "Hey!"

Kagome ran outside, not knowing where to go or what to do. She could feel her adrenaline start to course as she stopped and looked in any direction. People were coming and going, working through their daily chores and errands, some looking at her strangely as she stood panting and looking around frantically.

Without having a set course in mind, she began running blindly, looking for anything. She could hear her name being shouted from behind her. "Kagome! Wait!"

She ignored whoever called, dashing through women who were running errands, children who were playing, and men returning from the day spent hunting and gathering. Kagome had a one-track mind at this moment where her instincts led her rather than her rationale.

Another voice broke through her, "Kagome?!"

She didn't stop running, but a pair of strong arms grabbed her and pulled her off her feet. "What's wrong?" she heard a frantic voice call out.

Kagome was able to see Rin standing in front of her, concern marring her features. "Kagome, please calm down."

She wrestled against the hands that restrained her, trying to pull free. "Let go of me. I have to find her," she cried.

Rin grabbed Kagome's hands in her own. "Please, listen. Setsuna is not here. She is with Lord Sesshomaru."

"He took her?!" Kagome yelled. She settled and quit trying to break free, finally noticing who had grabbed her up. It had been quite a while since she'd seen the young man, Kohaku. He'd grown taller, more filled, and masculine in his slayer clothes. He also looked concerned while holding her from causing harm to herself or others.

"Yes, that is true," Rin said. She looked sad for Kagome like she felt pity for a child who didn't know the real way of the world. "He said to come," she said softly.

"What do you mean?" Kagome asked. "He said what?"

He allowed Kagome to go free, and she turned to look up at him in perplexion. Kohaku moved around to stand beside Rin.

"What are you saying?" Kagome asked. Come where she wondered.

Rin still held Kagome's hands and rubbed them in a soothing motion. "He wanted you to find them."

Kagome felt her heart fall. Now Setsuna was gone, too. Was it a punishment? Or was he using their child to bring her to him? Perhaps he did not find her capable of handling their child that would surely outlive her. "Find them?" she repeated softly. "Did he-was there anything else?"

"Yes, he said once you were ready, they would be waiting."

o - o - o - o - o

A/N: FYI, to any who may ask. No, Inuyasha isn't in insta-love with Keyuri/Shizuka. I'll just leave it at that.

Hmm, there will likely be some daddy-daughter moments in the chapter to come. That should be exciting.

Also, I know it seemed a bit anti-climatic that Fan bit the dust so easily. I mean, he's this hella strong yokai, right? Well, we've seen Sesshomaru lose an arm to his "weakling" brother, so I don't think it's a stretch to say that Fan overestimates himself a bit, or at the very least underestimates everyone else. I doubt he will make that mistake again.

[ghouls-dream]

Sinners, I went feral once again.

No one asked about it, but you all deserve it. :”)  Dewdrop x Reader one-shot  (WARNING!!! SMUT, 18+, NSFW)  ‘Burning touch - finger tips hot as flames, leaving traces down your body so gently, yet harshly the pain turns into pleasure… Wicked enough, but the objective truth everyone is so afraid of speaking. Breathe so hot it makes you shiver like you’ve been out in the cold, naked and alone. Your skin covers in goosebumps each time he lets out a moan of pleasure or a grunt. Imagine yourself begging for him to be rough, to be merciless with your fragile body, even tho you know you’ll regret that decision later - pain won’t spare you, nor will the scars he’ll leave… But you’ll enjoy every single one of them. You’ll look at yourself in the mirror (or not, depending on the place) and see the “loving injuries”. You’ve been marked as his. Scratches, bites even small blue spots that were once red, turning purple. You’re not a masochist. Or maybe you are? But it’s because he demands it… You start to question your rationality. 'Is it worth it? Is that what I imagined? Is that what I’ve always wanted?' 

No. It’s what you’ve needed. And he provided you with it. He provided you with the sickest of all pleasures your mortal, physical body had ever experienced. And you were forever thankful for that…’ My inner monologue was probably going to continue if my thoughts weren’t interrupted by the door. It opened slowly, it let out a terribly loud “cracking sound”. I hated it… “Did I ever say come in?” I scoffed, rolling my eyes, just to see the old woman’s demanding, “fed up with everyone” look on her face. My heart dropped the moment I saw that grimace. There were two options - I was done, or… I was done in not such a brutal way as the first thought I had. “Imperator” I mumbled, immediately getting up from my seat and bowing my head. My gaze hit the stone floor, while my hands grabbed each other in front of my black long skirt. Needless to say how fast my heart was pounding. The amount of respect and fear I felt for that woman was out of charts. I’ve personaly seen (and experienced once, fortunately enough)her  in her “worst of days” and  honestly - i don’t want to revive that awful memory. Being submissive to her wasn’t so bad, after all… “I’ll let that slip, Y/N. Who else can come in without knocking?! Have you lost your mind!?” Sister’s voice filled the room. 'Oh, that old, stinking bag!’ I thought to myself 'Just because your sex life is deader than death, doesn’t mean ours’ should be as well!’ “I apologize, Imperator.” I bit my tongue before speaking those words because I knew - the moment I let my mouth run free was the last time I see light. “Apology accepted. Now, look at me and cut the fake courtesy! Someone made a mess in my office the other night - half of my library is burned! Not to mention that Cardinal’s music sheets were also nearly destroyed! Do you, maybe have the slightest idea who might have been?! Or more like… Tend to explain, young miss?!” 'Uh oh’ I thought to myself once again, before my eyes met her reproacheful gaze. Holy shit, that look could kill and I must have been long dead by now, since it wasn’t the first time I meet it… I was more than shocked to find out this woman had such an asute character. Damn right, I was a part of the mess made in her office, but… So was he! And if I was pushed down, I’d drag the fucker with me! I swallowed hardly, trying to escape her piercing gaze and crossed arms in front of my door. All I could do was shake my head in denial. “Well it must have been someone and since you’re the problematic one in the class, I decided to come here firstly. Y/N, If I find out you have something to do with that… I’ll have you…” her voice spoke once again, before being interrupted by a lower one. A male one. A very familiar male one. My eyes grew bigger as I felt his tember tickling my ears… Even the sound of his goddamn voice was able to send shivers down my spine! “Is there a problem, Imperator? Anyhow I can help?” he spoke so innocently, so fakely concerned, while I was mentally burning on a stake, it was driving me insane! My eyes met his icy blue ones that were now in a dark blue shade… Unforgettable gaze he had… “Ah, Dewdrop! Well I guess you can. Do you have any idea who could have done the mess in my office yesterday? I suppose it happened at night since I was all day in!” Imperator asked, her eyes still locked into mine. I bit my lips. 'Please, keep your mouth shut. Please keep your mouth shut, please!’ was all I could hear inside my head, while waiting for “his sentence”. I felt my nails digging deeper into my skin as I held my hands together… Panic was overtaking every cell in my body, even my pulse could have been compared to a trigger, getting ready to shoot (lol i took that from a song)… While the firey motherfucker was just looking at me, smirking at my anticipation. He loved seeing me helpless, completely left out on his “so called mercy”. In any way you could think of… “No, but Y/N might know. Have you questioned her?” the ghoul asked Imperator. “I was about to do it before you interrupted us. I have other witches to go through anyway, so If you’re here just to make my job harder, I suggest you…” “Not at all, Sister. In fact - I can finish what you’ve started with her, while you question the other girls. When I’m done here, I’ll catch up on you. After all, what happened to your office concerns us as well… Not just the Clegry. It’s our responsibilty as your servants to keep…” Dewdrop started speaking, before the old woman rolled her eyes and scoffed “Alright, fine! Just shut up and be quick! You’ve got luck I know your parents, Y/N… Either way you’d have been banished long time ago!” And with those words the woman shut the door behind her, leaving me with the cocky dipshit. His deep, mocking chuckle filled the room as I felt my body temperature getting higher. I was slightly ashamed for what I’ve done with him the other night, then slightly angry for how he behaved, then slightly aroused from his intimidating persona… A wave of unease went through my body the second his hand went behind his head, just so he could untie the thin strings of his mask, causing it to fall on the ground. The heavy silver clacked over the stone floor, making me jump slightly. “If I fall, I’m dragging you down with me. I’m tired of getting in trouble just because you cant keep your pants up!” I found the courage inside me to hiss at him. The ghoul raised an eyebrow, before walking towards me with his hands crossed in front of his chest and spoke “Look how fierce you are now… Where was that confidence few moments ago? Also, last time I checked you were the one pulling my pants down so you could get your little mouth wrapped arou..” “Fuck off, Dew, I’m serious!” I interrupted him immidately, feeling how my cheeks were slowly starting to turn crimson. I pushed him slightly away from me. I couldn’t let myself go this time… He was used to get everything done his way, each time he wanted… Not today! “Putting a fight will only make me want to destroy you in more ways!” the ghoul whispered against me, before feeling his hand gripping my upper arm harshly. I yelped slightly. He chuckled. But of course he would! An asshole of his league wouldn’t react any different to other person’s vulnarability and humiliation… “You little, naive slut…” his words were piercing my mind like an arrow. I could finally feel that hot breathe on my neck once again. The same one that was making my knees feel weak, my heart pound with abnormal speed and my lady parts drip. “You really thought I’d let you talk to me like that? If I open my mouth and tell Imperator what really happened there, no one can save you… Not even the little relation you have to her. Besides - imagine the horror on your parents’ faces the moment they find out their only, sweet girl was willingly spreading her legs to a half-demon, being absolutely submissive to him….” Dewdrop’s voice spoke against my skin. I could feel his mouth coming in contact with my collabones. And soon after his teeth were already abusing my sensitive skin. I let out a loud gasp… I thought I was used to him inflicting his sweet “pain” by now, but I guess I was wrong… Very wrong. And very stupid. The moment that gasp left my mouth, I felt his other hot palm covering my lips. God his skin smelled of amber… I don’t know if that was just his natural odor, since each ghoul had one, or it was his perfumer, but the scent was… Simply remarkable. My hands tried to fight him instinctivly, but instead Dewdrop made a swift move, turning me towards my mirror. The reflection of me, in his hands, completely trapped by his body which was standing behind me, was… Wicked. Arousing. Insanely hot. Or at least some part of my mind was thinking it. “I’m guessing you’re ready to do a lot just so my mouth stays sealed, right doll?” he whispered. I nodded. Since that was the only way possible of comunication between us… “Good. Give me your right hand” his voice was like milk and honey to my aroused mind… I was melting. The only thing holding me stable on the ground was his leg, placed between both of mine. I did what I was told. Dewdrop caught my palm with his hand gently… The heat resonating from his skin was enough to make me sweat… And drip. Down there… Where he was taking both of our hands! And all I could do was pant, watch and stay as quiet as possible… He began talking into my ear as I felt his hand guiding mine, down my body - from my neck, to my breasts, paying special attention to my nipples… Abusing them, squeezing them and fonding them so gently it almost hurt more than the actual “sensual torture”. I closed my eyes shut - a shot of pain went through my body, before I could feel our hands moving slowly down to my throbbing wet core.. “Open your eyes, Y/N! I want you to watch carefully how it’s done. Not that you can’t do it yourself, but…” Dewdrop’s raspy voice spoke into my ear, before bitting the earlobe. I did what I was told - once again. Our hands made their way beneath the black fabric of my long skirt, then quickly went under my panties… I tried to moan the moment my own fingers met the most sensitive part of me, but the ghoul’s palm over my mouth stopped any sounds produced. I arched my back, feeling how his fingers were guiding mine in circular motions, putting slight pressure on my clit. Another pathetic attempt to moan was spoiled… Dewdrop let out a chuckle “You’re so wet… It’s almost humiliating. Virgins get wet harder than you, Y/N” As he spoke those words, I felt my middle and ring finger making their way inside my wet folds, along with his own ones. Dewdrop knew exactly what was he doing. This was his game of manipulation where the winner was foretold in the very beginning… I squeezed my eyes and threw my head back on his shoulder, the moment I felt his slim fingers curl up, making mine do the exact same thing. They hit that spot in me that was able to drive me over the edge and honestly - I was close. Pathetically close. “Don’t you dare to come now or I’ll make sure you won’t be able to say your name for days!” he hissed inside my ear as I felt his fingers starting to pump in and out faster. “And for the last time… Open your goddamn eyes!” Dewdrop ordered, before moving his palm from my mouth to my throat. In that moment I let out a loud moan, feeling how my knees were getting weaker, my whole body felt in trance. But I still managed to open my eyes and lock my gaze with his in the reflection. “Y/N look at yourself… You can’t even get off properly without my help, what’s left to get out of trouble… Now taste yourself” Dewdrop whispered, not breaking contact with my eyes. I let out a small gasp as I felt our fingers slipping out… I opened my mouth on command as he put my wet fingers inside. “Suck” the ghoul whispered as I felt the salty taste of myself in between my lips. His deep-shaded blue eyes were following that exact movement strictly. My heart was pouding like crazy… Not to mention the throbbing “pain” in my core - I was so close yet so far from what I needed the most! And while I was sunk in my thoughts, I heard his zipper go down quickly. The hand that was guding mine was now frantically moving behind me… I knew what he was doing. And I couldn’t wait to have him inside! Dewdrop quickly bent me over as his hand gripped my hair, before I felt the sudden pentrating of his hard manhood. I moaned loudly, putting my palms on the big mirror in front of me for balance as he pounded harshy and mercilessly inside me.. “Look at yourself! You little, needy brat!” Dewdrop hissed as his hand gripped my hair, making me look up in our reflection… The view was more than hot. I doubt my mind was capable of finding a word at that moment that was suitable for the occasion. Just seeing his clenched jaw, his eyes pentrating mine as he was thrusting himself inside me, stretching me so good was enough to shoot me over the edge.. “Dew.. Please! I need.. I n-need to come!” I tried to whisper but it sounded more like a desperate moan. The ghoul smirked cockily, before letting out a devilish chuckle and commanded “Then fucking do it, slut!” And that was all I needed to hear… The tension in my stomach grew so big it had no other option than just… Releasing itself. I moaned loudly, arching my back as much I could and felt Dewdrop’s last pounds inside me, leaving me absolutely unable to stand on my feet. Literally. My legs became so weak that I fell on the ground, my knees hitting the stone cold floor… Needless to say my heart was pouding like crazy inside my chest, ready to rip it off.. I was coming from a very high place… “Next time…” Dewdrop panted as he started to put his pants back up “Next time… Watch your mouth more. It won’t be so pleasurable I promise you…” I looked up to his sinful smirk, just to see him picking up his mask from the ground and whispering in my ear before, leaving me alone in my room - sweating, roughly fucked and full of serotonin “And don’t worry. Nothing will come out my mouth about our little game yesterday… Or the ones before yesterday… Or the one today.”

[klbwriting]

Reborn Gods - Part 1 Zeus

Fandom: My own

Pairing: Zeus x OC 

Warnings: none for this chapter, just shitty parenting 

Request: My brain won’t stop

Summary: The Greek gods are not immortal.  They are reborn when the old Gods start to expire and assume their position when their predecessor blesses them.  The new Zeus however, doubts very much that his ‘father’ will ever bless him without a violent uprising that he doesn’t have in him.  The pressures of living up to his father’s insane aspirations has him just shuffling through life with no reason to do anything or even try to find a way out of his loneliness.  Then Dean shows up.  

Notes:  I’m going to go with this and also try to get back into taking requests again soon.  

Zeus Rogers had been alive for nearly 30 years now and he was already tired of being Zeus reincarnated.  He didn't know how many more years he had left but did they have to go like this?  He lived in a mortal cities, for now it was New York, and he just slid through life, making as little waves as possible.  Why bother?  He could only live in a city for so long before he got bored and moved on anyway.  There wasn't anything interesting for him, especially knowing that he would never live up to what the current Zeus wanted and well, having nothing to look forward too in life just weighed on Zeus's mind constantly.  He sighed as he entered the high rise building, getting in the elevator and seeing someone new, which was odd considering that the elite of every city traveled in tight knit groups that weren't easily penetrated and this guy looked nothing like the normal social elite that lived in this tower.  He hadn't meant to stare but the guy noticed, making him turn away blushing.   "I guess I would stare too if I were one of the residents here," the guy said, cocking a pierced eyebrow at him.  Zeus looked back at him, rubbing the back of his neck, feeling embarrassed.  "Don't worry, I am just here to return Mr. Pearson's wallet.  He left it in the back of the car I was driving him around in all day."  Zeus nodded.  "If you ever need a car please call us."  The guy handed him a card and Zeus took it a little too quickly, noticing the guy smile a little.   "Thank you, maybe I will call you," he said in reply.  Suddenly the card was snatched from his hand and the guy was writing on it.   "My name's Dean, and I uh, put my cell phone number on there in case you want to have me pick you up specifically," he said.  Zeus blushed again but smiled. "Thanks, I think I'll call you" he said as the elevator stopped and Dean got off to head to the Pearson apartment.  Zeus continued on up a few floors to the penthouse, tossing his coat on the hook inside the door and flipping the business card over in his fingers.  He had never honestly wanted to call someone before.  Never even thought of asking for a phone number after one of his escapades. Zeus had known for a long time that he was gay and that was just another thing on the list of reasons he should not be the next ruler of Mt Olympus.  Hell just the thought of marrying the new Hera was terrifying, of having to be with someone he could never find attractive in the way they deserved just seemed wrong to him.  But he knew he didn't have much of a choice so he would just enjoy himself for as long as he could and then do his duty when he had too.  Sighing, he put the business card in a drawer and decided he shouldn't call.  He shouldn't start anything with Dean, it wouldn't end well and he didn't want to hurt anyone if he could avoid it.   At exactly 3 AM Zeus's phone rang and he groaned, waking up from a restless nights sleep, reaching, dropping, and then finally just rolling out of bed and onto the floor, answering the phone.   "What dad?" he asked, voice foggy with sleep.  He knew who was calling, he always called.  Zeus Sr, the current king of the Gods, making Zeus call him dad just to exercise even more control over the younger God who would one day usurp him, hopefully violently and with a great duel where little Zeus would decapitate him in bloody glory.  It made Zeus sick to his stomach.  He hated the violence and fear that his 'father' ruled over Olympus with.   "Junior, how was your day?  Did you close that deal with Blackwater?  Did you take them for all they're worth?" he asked, sounding drunk and jovially at the idea of his 'son' dominating in the boardroom and buying a company to use and abuse for power.  Zeus Sr has suggested many times and that he should call Ares and ask him to join in the fun, they could both prove themselves at the same time and form a bond like the current Zeus and Ares had.   "I didn't take the meeting sir, you know I turned them down months ago.  I'm not going to buy a mercenary company and send them off for Ares to sow seeds of war with," he said, sitting up and leaning against the bed.  Zeus Sr started to rant and rave about the disappointment Zeus Jr was turning out to be but Zeus tuned him out, his mind instead turning to the business card in the drawer in the kitchen and what he could possibly be talking to Dean about at 3AM instead of this tyrant. "How do you expect to get these heathen gods to follow you?  How do you expect to keep that Hera bitch..." Zeus yelled, snapping him back to what was happening. "Don't call her that," he snapped, a fury in his voice that Zeus Sr liked. "Good, now use that anger and challenge me to the death!" the old God said, voice rumbling with anticipation.   "No, when I feel like it I take your place, without killing you," he said, sighing deeply.  He knew before the called ended tone happened that Zeus had hung up on him, and honestly, thank God he did because he was going to hangup himself and that would probably warrant a personal visit and he didn't want to deal with that at all.   Zeus sat beside his bed until 6AM just thinking.  Finally, he got up and walked to the kitchen, opened the drawer and dialed the number on the card.

[tellerford13]

MO ASTOR- CHAPTER 24

We don’t own the bikes, brothers, or any “related” Sons of Anarchy, trust us, if we did we wouldn’t have the time to write. No money is being made from our stories. So, please don’t sue. It’d be a fruitless endeavor indeed. That being said, Harley, Journee, and any other newbies are ours, and we don’t share. :Whispers in creepy voice: “My precious.” The universe This reality is a mix of cannon, and our own ideas. We strive to keep the boys cannon, but since we will be shifting around some of the events, that will reflect in our writing and their personalities as well. It’s our goal to provide you with quality fiction, and solid, fleshed out OFC. We appreciate constructive criticism and love LOVE reviews, they are a writers life blood and definitely help encourage us and inspire us. We will be posting on our Tumblr where we’ll have fun pictures from time to time as well. http://tellerford13.tumblr.com We’ll also be taking requests for one shots, preferences or imagines for all things Sons at our other Tumblr, so check it out and send your thoughts!http://tellerford13oneshots.tumblr.com/ And just for fun, we’ve decided to start a Pinterest for the story! So if you want a glimpse at our girls and see into our world, check it out! https://www.pinterest.com/tellerford/

                                                        A/N: Are you feeling that stolen hour, cause I know we are. This is a short bit, but there will be more later this week. We wanted to get something out for y’all to read in the meantime.

SIDENOTE: Telford will kill me for this but it’s also her Birthday tomorrow (or today depending where you are) SO send her some love and thanks! (She’s the brain behind the operation I just post!) 

                                         Mo Astor Chapter 24

Journee

It’s odd stepping out into the sunshine and heat. Scotland had an overcast, damp vibe that I enjoyed immensely. It was like a permanent fall. Fall, my favorite, but not an often experienced season. Filip threads his fingers in mine as he leads me toward the baggage claim and I mentally switch modes. It’s Chibs now unless we’re alone or in close company. Things are different here. There’s a lack of freedom that comes with being back home, but this is where our roots are planted. I wouldn’t know what to do with a normal life. My time spent in college showed me that. I couldn’t relate to the average eighteen and nineteen-year-olds, hungry for their first taste of freedom and making shitty decisions. In our life, you’re always older than your years.

You have no choice. You see and hear too much, and safety precautions are a real thing. It changes the way you view life. I wanted to do my time, get a slip of paper and get out. There’s something to be said about having a skill to fall back on, and I like the image it gives me. There’s protection in that. The best thing an Old lady can offer is a good reputation. It keeps them separate from the shadiness the town knows Samcro has going on. It’s a careful balance we keep with Charming. We keep the corporations away who’d end their “Charming” way of life, and they turn a blind eye to the MC. It’s a system that works as long as everyone holds up their end of the bargain.

“Do we know who’s picking us up?” I ask.

“No clue, Love.”

Deep down I want it to be Juice. Two weeks is a long time to go without seeing his face or hearing his voice. I worry about my misguided son. He wasn’t brought up in this life, and his naivety could potentially get him in trouble. I’m working on the areas someone could exploit. I’ve seen what happens to men like him before in our culture. Chibs and I will make damn sure it doesn’t on our watch.

Chibs grabs our bags, and I admire his strength and gentlemanly ways. I’ve been in love with him since I was fifteen, but the reality of being his woman is even better than my teenage dreaming. He returns, and I thank God we opted to mail the other bags home.

“Ready, love?”

“I am.”

We move toward the exit, and I smile as I spot a familiar head of hair.

“Jackie boy,” Chibs yells making me giggle. J gives Chibs a fleeting smile and a manly hug.

“Good to have you back home, brother.”

His eyes are dull, and there’s tension he’s holding. I glance around and frown when I don’t see Lee.

“What happened? Where’s Lee?”

“I needed some one-on-one with my sister,” he says sheepishly.

I sigh. “What did you do?”

“What? Me? Nothing. That’s exactly why I’m trying to talk to you. I need some advice on how to proceed.”

I glance at Chibs. “Do you mind driving , Filip?  This is going to take awhile.”

“Aye, I’ll drive, get our boy fixed up.”

“Start from the beginning,” I say as I walk between the two of them.

“Well, for starters. Wendy went off yesterday .We were there to check up on her, and I flipped out when I found her hanging over the toilet puking her brains.”

“Did she—

“No, but that was my first thought too. She’s just got really bad morning sickness.”

“Stupid bitch,” I mumble.

“Yeah, well she was right. I left, she found out she was pregnant, and I hooked up with Lee and got happy. I haven’t thought about what this would do to her or later, my relationship with my own kid. I mean shit…I’m creating a shit storm for him or her to be born into. What judge in their right mind is going to award full custody to a man with my record or my affiliations?”

“The one we buy,” I say honestly.

He shakes his head. “There’s so much shit going on at once, Journee.”

My full name is a screaming siren. He never does well when forced out of his depth.

“When isn’t it in our lives? It’s just another hurdle to climb. Wendy was already crazy. You add hormones, and a woman scorned vibe to the mix, and you get extra insane. She’ll calm down after it’s all said and done, cause she knows as well as we do, she has no choice. That bitch ain’t got the balls to try to take you to court. She knows who runs this town. You have to deal with her and keep the peace until she pops baby T out.”

“Baby T?”

“Teller, duh.”

He chuckles.

“You make it sounds so easy.”

“Not easy, just necessary. Problem solved. Can I get my Lee time now?”

“About her…”

“Jackson Nathaniel Teller, I’ve been waiting what feels like my entire life for shit to happen between you two. If you ruin this now, I will fucking kill you with my bare hands.”

“Jesus, Baby J.” He looks at Chibs. “You sleep with one eye open brother?”

“I don’t inspire that emotion in her, Jackie boy.” He winks, and I giggle.

Jax shakes his head as we finish our trip through the underground tunnel to the car. He hits the key FOB, unlocks the car and pops the trunk. I can tell there’s more. He’ll spill it once we’re in the backseat alone. I place my hand on Chibs chest and tilt my head up for a kiss. He palms my ass, pulling my body to his and I moan as our tongues tangle. The wedding changed a few things. He never would’ve done this in public before. I like it. We part, and he places his forehead against mine.

“Thank you for understanding.”

“Always, lennan. I know his happiness affects your own.” I place my hand over his heart before I peel my body from his and force myself to join Jax.

“This better be good. I should be sucking face with my old man during this ride.”

“I love her, Journee.”

I laugh. “Is that all? Bro, I could’ve told you that years ago. I tried a dozen times.”

“You don’t understand. This changes everything.”

“This is what it means to really care for someone, Jax. That fear of hurting them or losing them is how you know it’s the real thing. You’re finally ready to put someone ahead of yourself. I’m so glad I’m here to see it. Humility looks good on you.” I muse his hair, and he swats my hand.

“You’re a little shit. You know that?”

“Seriously Jay. You’re freaked out because you finally have something you don’t want to lose. It’s not a bad thing. It’ll keep you from making dumb ass decisions. The real tragedy would be living a life where you never experience that kind of love. We both know you dropping the L word on Lee right now would not be a good thing. You jump in head first. She tests the water repeatedly, waits a little more, and then she dips a toe in. You need to be patient. You want to keep her? Then you need to temper that impulsiveness and wait for the right moment.”

“When will that be?”

“I don’t know, but you will.”

He huffs.

“J, have I ever steered you wrong when it’s this important?”

“No.” he shakes his head.

“And I won’t start now.”

He takes a deep breath and nods. “Alright.”

“You good.”

“As good as I’m going to get.”

I pat his cheek. “Welcome to the land of mortals young blonde god.”

“What?” he wrinkles his nose, and I laugh as we weave through traffic. Someone’s eager to get home. The tone for Simple Man rings out. “Mama told me when I was young...” And I laugh. Of course, she has to call the minute, we land.

He rolls his eyes. “Hey, Ma. Yes, I have them. Because Chibs is driving. Nothing. Can’t a man want to catch up with his sister?” He scowls.” Seriously? They just got back. They probably have jet lag out the ass.” He grimaces. “Yeah, I’ll let them know. No, Lee isn’t pissed at me. Yes, I know. I don’t plan on it.”

It’s always amusing to see Jax read the riot act by his mother. Partially because it means she’s not going in on me. She took the mother role to heart, and never let go. I’ve had my ass chewed out by her more times than I want to remember. “She’s right here.” He thrusts the phone at me, and I know the shoe is now on the other foot.

“Hey, Ma.”

“Hey, baby, good to hear your voice. I worried that he’d chained you to a bed and decided to keep you over there permanently.”

I laugh. “It’s more likely it’d be the other way around.”

She chuckles. “That’s my girl. A woman’s got to know how to control things while letting the man think he’s running the show.”

“You taught me well.”

“That I did. We’re having a family dinner tonight. I expect to see the two of you there.”

I mentally sigh. “Ma, we just touched down.”

“Exactly. So you’ll have enough time to spruce up, bring those vacation photos, and get home.”

I roll my eyes and bang my head against the seat.

Jax chuckles, and I elbow him in the ribs. His laughter becomes a groan, and it’s my turn to smirk.

“Fine, we’ll be there.”

“Good. I can’t wait to have my babies all together again. Especially now that you’re married and soon to be carrying a grandbaby. The first one with a mother I love.” I shake my head. That’s Gemma always light years ahead of everyone else. The ink is barely dry on the marriage license, and she’s talking about kids.

“We just got married.”

“And it’s past time we had some little brown babies running around here.”

I snort. “Only you could get away with saying that.”

“Damn straight. “ I hear her exhale, and I know she’s smoking.

“We’ll be there, but we might be late. I have to hunt up clean clothes.”

“I can’t wait to see you, baby. Love you.”

“Love you too Ma.” I hang up and shake my head.

“You miss Scotland yet?” Jax asks.

I laugh. “Meh, this is home. Besides I’m about to have a niece or nephew, and I wouldn’t miss that for the world.”

“It’s coming up fast.”

“How are you feeling about that?”

“Ready. I had a talk with my dad, and I got my head on straight. I can be a good dad.”

“I know you will be,” I say sincerely. “You got a lot of people who’ll kick your ass if you aren’t.”

He chuckles. “Never one to mince words.”

“I hear it’s a family trait of mine.”

“Yeah. I hear your big brother is pretty cool.” He wraps his arms around my shoulders and pulls me against him.

“God, you are so conceited.” I roll my eyes and shake my head. “Tell me what else I’ve missed while I’ve been away.”

I lean into his warmth as he tells me in a boyish animated way that fills me with joy. He’s changing in the best possible way.

[kc-anathema]

The Allowances for Eternity

The Allowances for Eternity

Disclaimers: Do not own vamps, Anne Rice does. I make no money off of this.

Warnings: Implied slash. A naughty Louis.

Spoilers: TotBT

David's body was hard, nearly as hard as his maker's. The skin was smooth, yes, but it didn't give as well as normal skin. Touching David was much like touching an elder vampire. You didn't lay your hand on his body as much as you feeling up a marble statue. Lestat's David was a harsher one than Michelangelo's. At least the statue didn't try to hug its admirers.

Lestat sighed and rolled to the side of the bed. He'd thought it'd be exotic and exciting, or at the very least interesting, but he was left feeling vaguely disappointed. A wild, meaningless one-night fling with his British fledgling had seemed like such a wonderful idea. The promise of bondage, whips and rough sex had been a powerful lure and a refreshing break from the steady vanilla relationship he had with Louis, except...something was wrong.

There's something missing, Lestat thought, glancing over his shoulder at David. His fledgling was fast asleep, still wearing the titanium handcuffs. He seemed to enjoy all of it. So what's wrong with me?

The room was unbearably quiet. The only noise was David's steady breathing and the constant ticking of the clock that was slowly but undeniably driving Lestat insane. Hot. It was so painfully hot inside. David's body was nice enough, but he was also almost horrendously warm. The heat of his body kept the bed sheets from getting cool, making the bed feel like a cloud a bat might have ridden out of hell.

Lestat tossed to his left side, turning his back to David. He rose up on one arm, trying to escape his hot pillow. Why had he made his fledgling so strong? His skin gave off nearly as much heat as some of the oldest vampires. A handy trick, when trying to pass as mortal, and usually other vampires loved the illusion of living flesh beside their own. Lestat sat up, trying to breathe in cool air, but the warmth was everywhere.

That's it, I'm going home, Lestat decided. He slid out of the bed, careful not to wake his fledgling, and grabbed his clothes from the floor. His shirt was torn to shreds so he tossed that in the wastebasket, but his pants were still in one piece. He pulled those on and jerked his sneakers on, not bothering to undo the laces, then quietly escaped through the window, forgetting that he had the keys to the handcuffs in his pocket.

Moisture hung in the air, making it difficult to breathe. Lestat did not have to breathe, of course, but he still enjoyed the feel of air rushing through his mouth into his lungs. Right now, however, he felt as if he was drinking instead of breathing. And even the nighttime breeze did not diminish the intolerable heat. It radiated in waves up from the sidewalk and pavement, invisibly warping the background in the distance.

A tear slipped down his cheek, and he wiped it away absent-mindedly. It had been a long time since he had felt depressed, but he still recognized the feeling after so many years. An icy well formed in his chest and stomach, as if there were gigantic moths fluttering around in his body and ramming into his sides.  What's wrong with me? Why am I feeling this way? He sighed again and looked down at the sidewalk as he went along, not knowing why he was still crying or why he hadn't enjoyed the time with David.

Hours of walking usually gave him the answer, but this time the lonesome stroll did nothing to clear his thoughts. It was too humid. He had been raised in a cooler climate, and despite years of living down here in Louisiana, he still missed real snow and cold rain. But Louis would freeze in that kind of environment.

Lestat smiled to himself. Louis. Just thinking about him lifted his spirits. Cool, green eyes that sparkled in the starlight, creamy white skin purer than milk, not the mottled mess of mortal flesh. There was not one blemish on Louis' skin, and despite the lack of attention paid to his hair, a strand was never found out of place. Sometimes Lestat wondered if Louis was more of an ethereal spirit than an immortal wanderer of the night.

By the time he came up the steps to his front door, he was feeling much better than when he had left David's temporary apartment. Lestat closed his eyes for a moment before entering, imagining Louis upstairs reading in bed, some dreary boring novel. He would be stretched out entirely nude again, draped over the blankets instead of under them, like an enticing banquet. Of course the book would have to be dragged out of his hands, but once his attention was where it should be, on his lover...Lestat grinned as he pictured it. Still wearing his usual cocky grin, he turned the knot and went into the darkened living room.

He crept through the pitch black room, doing his best not to hit anything and make any noise. He wanted to surprise Louis in bed and steal a few kisses first.

It was much later that Lestat lay next to Louis, cuddled up close between the bedsheets. The old manuscript of some author Lestat didn't care about, and honestly hadn't heard about, had fallen beneath the bed, joining many other forgotten books, taken from Louis' mind in a fit of surprised rapture. Lestat smiled, looking kindly down on his fledgling. Louis' head rest on his shoulder, his dark hair spilling out over his arm and partially hiding his face. Lestat brushed the stray strands aside and gave him a tiny kiss.  He knew Louis loved being "surprised" in bed, why else would he stay there without any clothing on, with only a candle to light the room, sometimes with the sheets provocatively dropped down one thigh, barely covering what the rest of the coven believed was a perfect model of the Victorian gentleman.

Nothing like David, Lestat said to himself. But what had been different this time? They had not played with any sexual toys, not bound each other up like prized slaves, not played master and servant...Louis wore no handcuffs. Lestat had no wicked designs of inflicting pain. Their love-making was honest, sensual, full of trust despite their complicated history--

Love-making...Lestat thought, catching himself before he lost that idea. We make love. I screw David, but Louis makes love with me. Content with that simple explanation, he snuggled closer to Louis, enjoying the way his soft body gave slightly to his touch. The way his skin was cooler, so Lestat did not feel as if hot air was suffocating him. The way his steady breathing was a comfort in the darkness. The way that, if Lestat happened to move a certain way, Louis was groan and nestle closer, trying to keep him still even in his sleep. Louis woke up if Lestat tried to leave. Louis wanted him there. Lestat's smile turned into a grin and he closed his eyes, falling fast asleep.

Louis' eyes opened just a tiny bit, so he could stare at Lestat's flawless face. Of course love made him see Lestat differently than other people. Where someone might see tangled hair or eyes that sparkled naughtily, Louis could only see golden hair and eyes like jewels. He'd never seen him in a truly clear light. Lestat had been a winged angel, a beautiful tyrant, a grieving Narcissus, a stone saint on a dusty floor, and it was only recently that Louis could see some of his faults as character traits, not something to be repaired or white-washed over, but little crosses in his personality, evidences of past hardships. It only made him love Lestat more.

So what if Lestat had a small tryst with David? He'd come home right after, obviously depressed, and only Louis could improve his feelings. Not David, who had called earlier for the keys to the handcuffs, using the excuse to call and make Louis jealous. Not David, who was a pretty plaything Lestat toyed with once in awhile. After all, eternity is a long time, and immortal lovers should be allowed a change of pace now and then.

Still...Louis glanced at Lestat's pants, draped over the back of a chair. The keys hung precariously on the pocket's hem.

I'll mail the keys to him, he nodded to himself. In a few nights. After all, I do not need to be bound to love Lestat. And when Louis fell back asleep, his smile was as broad as Lestat's, and if they'd been open, his eyes would have sparkled naughtily.

But of course, Lestat never saw that naughtiness in his fledgling. He would have seen it as Louis' rare playful side.

The End