Chapter One Hundred Thirty-two The last five hours had been a blur. Alex had made the arrangements for the flight, leaving it up to Anton pack and see that Bryn and Max were ready to go. He had managed to pack some clothes for him and Bryn, grab a stash of emergency cash, Max's diaper bag and toys. The werewolves had said that they would see to the preparations for the cows and for Petunia. And now they were at the airport about to board the plane. How they had managed to get through security posted to the freight hangar, he wasn't sure, but sure that a liberal bribe had been involved. Anton was more worried about Bryn, and how she was hanging in. Gently, he squeezed his arm around her waist. Her gaze distant, Bryn tried to keep her mind on the present but it wasn't easy. The further away from home they got, the more despair she felt. Chances were, this was the last time she would see San Francisco for a very long time. Possibly for good. The goodbyes had been painful, but not as much as they could've been. She was still feeling very numb with shock. It would sink in later just how much they were giving up, and the pain would be unbearable. Feeling the squeeze of Anton's arm, she looked up at him and tried to shed some of the grief from her face. She was so unbelievably lucky to have him. She didn't want him to see anything but thankfulness in her eyes. He leaned over and kissed her forehead. "Are you doing okay, my dear?" It was a stupid question, he knew. He wasn't doing okay, but he wouldn't let himself fall apart until later - when they were away and safe. She tried to smile, but it didn't reach her eyes. "Okay, I guess. As much as I can be." She glanced down at Max sleeping in his stroller. "I wish I could that. He looks so peaceful. Either he has no idea what's going on, or he wore himself out thinking about it." Anton's gaze followed Bryn's. "Yeah. Sleep of the innocent." His head turned when he heard approaching footsteps. While knowing that Lilith's agents couldn't already know of what he had done, it was hard not to react like any approaching person wasn't a potential enemy. Alex, who had been talking to the pilot, jerked his head in the direction of the plane. "They're about ready for us to board. It's going to be dawn soon, so you should get on now and let me and Bob load up the cattle." Bryn nodded, taking a glance at Petunia's crate. She didn't like leaving the dog alone. It felt like abandonment. Seeing her gaze, Alex said, "Don't worry. We'll get her on board right behind you." "Thank you." Alex was risking his life for them, not to mention leaving his own family behind. Thank you wasn't nearly eloquent enough to express her gratitude for his help. "I don't know what we'd do without you, Alex." Anton picked up the diaper bag and hung it over one shoulder. "Let's go, my dear." Arm still around her, he used his free arm to shove the stroller ahead of him until they reached the gangway that lead onto the plane. "Do you want to carry Max, Bryn, or shall I?" "I will," she said, leaning down to carefully unbuckle Max without waking him. He let out a soft cry of annoyance as she lifted him on to her shoulder, but quickly slumped back to sleep as soon as he was settled. His stroller had a detachable car seat, but they could wait until they were on board before taking it apart. "I guess we won't have to worry about eating any airplane food." Anton nodded. He had been concerned about a blood supply for him, but hadn't considered that Bryn and Max would need to eat during the long flight over. Wrestling with the stroller, he let her start into the plane first. "Is Alex already on board?" She looked around and shook her head. "No. We're the only ones here." Glancing at the door again, she hoped they would hurry. The longer they stuck around, the more chance there was of being caught. Jumping slightly when she heard a mechanical noise on the other side of the wall, she had to raise her voice to be heard. "I think they're loading. We should shut the door before it gets any brighter in here." Anton nodded. He guided her towards a small area where wooden partitions had been hastily raised, blocking off the light and muffling the sounds of the cargo area. Inside it were six small threadbare airplane seats. It was clear that they weren't flying in first class by any stretch of the imagination. But there was a wicker box with a note on it by one of the chairs. Frowning, Anton plucked it off and read it out loud. "Thought you might get hungry. Stay safe and well and know all our love goes with you. Nate, Lindy, and Liam." Bryn squeezed her eyes shut, her chin wobbling as she fought off a wave of sadness. Sinking down in to one of the seats, she hugged Max tightly and reached out a hand for Anton, pulling him over to sit next to her, her grip firm and unyielding. Anton settled down next to her, making soft shushing noises. "It's going to be okay, my dear." He shifted and pulled her into his lap, gently stroking her hair. "We're going to get through this and make it. Every thing's going to be okay," he whispered as he rocked her. Bryn let her head fall on to his shoulder, softly sobbing, conscious even now not to be too loud and wake Max. She mourned the loss of their friends and family as if they'd all died. They may as well have, considering they wouldn't be seeing or contacting each other. If they did eventually manage to connect, it wouldn't be for months, maybe years. It was just too dangerous. The thought made her sick. Worse, it made her feel incredibly guilty. [I'm so sorry, Anton.] Anton gently continued to rock her. "It's okay, Bryn, let it out." Despite himself, a tear leaked down from the corner of his eye. On the other side of the partition, he could hear the clomp of hooves and a moo of low anxiety. But he was focused on the woman and child in his arms. In a few minutes, Alex came inside, careful to slip past the partition without disturbing it. He was towing the pet carrier. "I think someone believed she was going to be left behind." "Thank you, Alex," Anton said, and not just about bringing Petunia with them. The werewolf was assuming too much risk for their sakes. "You should go home to your family. You've done more than enough." Alex shook his head. "It'll be daylight when you land in Hawaii, so you need someone to handle things when you touch down. And besides," he added cryptically. "I have a few things I need to atone for." Sniffling, Bryn glanced over her shoulder at Alex. She didn't understand what he was talking about, but she wasn't sure she wanted to ask, either. Wrapping her arm around Anton, she squeezed him tightly. "What's in the box? I'm hungry." Anton flipped the lid off the wicker basket. "Looks like sandwiches, some chips, and a few sodas." He looked up at Alex as he pulled out a turkey sandwich. He wasn't really hungry, but he thought Bryn might eat if she saw him eating. "You want any?" The werewolf shook his head. "We'll be taking off in a few minutes. I'm going to be up with Bob." He backed towards the panel. "Yell if you need anything." Unwrapping one of the sandwiches, Bryn bit off a small bite, then took it out of her mouth and tried to look inconspicuous as she fed it to Petunia through the crate. The dog chomped away happily, her tail thump-thumping against the plastic walls. Then, settling Max in her lap, Bryn nibbled at the sandwich without enthusiasm, her head still lying on Anton's shoulder. Anton took a bite of his sandwich as well before rewrapping it. He has noticed that Bryn wasn't eating, and changed his mind. "If you're not hungry, my dear, you don't have to eat right now. We'll probably be wanting these later on." "I feel like I should be doing something," she said, quietly, setting the sandwich down. "I don't like all of this time to think. There's too much to think about. It makes my head hurt. I just wish we could go to sleep until we get there. And maybe longer than that." "You don't have to think," he said, stroking her hair gently. "You don't have to worry. Just go to sleep and I'll keep you safe. No one is ever going to hurt you again, my dear. I won't let them." She wanted to ask him if that was really possible...but if he believed it was, that was good enough for her. Placing her sandwich back in the box, Bryn handed Max over to Anton and tried to make herself as comfortable as possible. It wasn't easy in the tiny coach-class seats. And although she knew she wouldn't be falling asleep any time soon, she closed her eyes and tried to feign it. Just so he could stop worrying about her. Settling Max on his lap, he tried not to worry. Anton slipped out of the jacket he was wearing and draped it over Bryn as a make shift blanket. He gave a little grunt of surprise as the plane shifted, and then started rolling. He let out a soft sigh as Max whimpered quietly. Trying to soothe him, Anton offered the boy his finger to nibble on or feed from. Sitting in the den, his unfocused eyes on the computer, Nate tried not to berate himself for doing nothing. It was too late to help out at the gallery. While Alex escorted Anton and Bryn to the airport, Jess and Walter were busy tearing up the carpet in Bryn's office. Later that evening, when he could help out, they would replace the carpet with a new, matching sample. It would appear as if nothing had ever happened, as soon as they got the new door installed, as well. Justinius's disappearance would be simply that. Still, he was sitting here like a lump and hated himself for it. He should've known Natasha wouldn't stop. And now, he'd lost his family because of her. Again. He looked up as Lindy stepped into the room, her expression somber. "Mulder wanted some time alone to think," she said as an explanation. "Never thought that I would be the one counseling him." She walked over to his lap and dropped into it, wrapping her arms around his shoulders and burying her head against his neck. "Where's Liam?" he asked, softly, loosely gathering her hair in his fingers. "In the hallway. He's been following me around for a while now. I don't think he understood what was happening until they loaded Petunia in to the car. He's been moping ever since." Glancing over to the doorway, Nate noticed their son sitting just outside. He was staring down at his lap, looking both tired and depressed. When Nate called to him, he was ignored. "I have a feeling this is only the beginning of that. I don't know what he's going to do without any playmates." Sighing, he settled his chin on Lindy's head. "I don't know what any of us are going to do. "Neither do I." She squeezed her arms around him tighter. "It's hard to believe that they're gone," Lindy said with a sniffle. "That it's all fallen apart." he lifted her head to look in his eyes. "Would Lilith really kill Anton because he defended Bryn?" "With as much as he's got to lose, hell yes. She's never liked me. Anton might've been in her good graces for a little while, but the only reason was because of Max. You can bet your ass she doesn't like Bryn, so she would only see one reason for saving her--Katerina. She'll see Anton as expendable. And I hate to say it...but there's a very good chance that if she did kill Anton, we'd never see Bryn or the kids again, either." "And it doesn't sound like we're going to see them now," she said. "Unless we take a sudden vacation to Hawaii." He nuzzled against him, seeking any comfort she could get. "How long do you think we can keep this from Lilith? Long enough for them to hide themselves well?" "I hope so," he murmured, rubbing her back. "You know that as soon as it's realized that Justinius is gone, Natasha will know something is up. But she's not going to expose herself to Lilith. If we're lucky, no one will make a fuss for a few weeks. I don't know if I'm hopeful enough for a month. Whatever happens, as far as we're concerned, they went on vacation and we don't know when they'll be back." Lindy nodded and rested her head on his shoulder. Then her eyes opened again. "She'll know sooner," Lindy said. "Vandala will know something's up when Anton doesn't show up and I'm in charge." Nate nodded, rubbing his closed eyes. "And when Alex doesn't show up. You could fire Vandala, but then you'd be back to the shoddy security you had before and I don't like that one bit." He opened his eyes to look at her. "I guess we're going to have to have a little talk with her. If she doesn't appreciate where we're coming from, we can decide what to do after that." Lindy nodded. "Nate, I'm scared. Things are changing, and we're losing our family." Her breath was shuddering with barely restrained sobs. "I know Anton wants you to speak for him, but what if Lilith decides because she can't punish him, she'll punish you." His hands tightened on her skin, and he pressed his forehead to hers. "I've thought about that myself. That's why I'm not facing her in person...at least not without plenty of back-up. She might have her security team behind her, but they wouldn't dare do anything in public, especially if I come prepared. If I have to, I'll get you and Liam out of town first. We won't take any chances." She melted against him. "I've just lost two of my friends," she whispered with tears in her eyes. "I don't want to lose my husband." "You won't, baby. Not if I have anything to say about it." He pulled her tight against him and looked over her shoulder at Liam. "We're going to be okay, Lindy. No matter how long it takes." It was the middle of their day--Midnight to everyone else--and her attention was focused on Max. Sitting on the floor with him, just inside the open screen door, she held his little hands to help him balance on his feet. He looked around, obviously proud of his bipedal accomplishment. Looking over at Anton, where he sat on a rattan chair, watching them, she gave him a soft smile. "Look, Daddy." Bryn let go of Max. "No hands." "Very good Max," Anton said, smiling widely from both his son's accomplishment, and Bryn's smile. He had seen far too little of it in the last few days. He slipped from the chair down onto the ground and held out his arms. "Can you come to Daddy?" As if the request was too much for him, Max immediately plopped on to his padded butt. "Uh oh," Bryn said, softly. She'd been playing with Max a lot lately. Helping him stand, trying to roll his ball with him, wading in the ocean. The baby was safe, and kept her mind off of darker subjects. Which was not to say that the same wasn't true of Anton...she just wasn't sure what to say to him. With Max, she could get away with very little conversation without feeling guilty. Anton didn't pressure her, but she thought she felt his disappointment all the same. He'd never willingly let her know how much this upset him, but after all this time she'd gotten very good at reading his emotions. Watching Max crawl over to where Anton was sitting, Bryn curled her legs up and wrapped her arms around them. "Are you hungry? I can get us something to eat--or at least find out what the cook is planning for dinner." "I'm not hungry at the moment, my dear," he answered as he pulled Max into his lap. He wanted to do the same to Bryn, to pull her close and reassure her that she was safe and that nobody could harm her or Kat. That he missed how she'd snuggle close to him, practically climb on top of him, while they were in bed. That he'd give anything to remove that haunted look in her eyes. Feeling a weight against his chest, he looked down to see Max yawning as he leaned against his father's chest. "It looks like Max is ready for a nap. Let me go put him down." She nodded, watching him go. For a moment she almost wished she'd stopped him, so she still had that buffer between them. But they'd have to be alone together sooner or later. Twisting a piece of hair around her finger, she stared at the dust on the wood floor as it was blown around by wind through the open door. She was hungry. It was the first time she'd felt the sensation in a long time. Lately she ate because Kat needed it. Wiggling her toes under the pair of Anton's old socks she was wearing, she started to carefully lean forward so she push herself to her feet. He put their son down on the bed and pulled a blanket up over him. Anton was a bit envious that Max was able to sleep so soundly, seemingly untouched by his parents' worries. He knew he should be concerned about Lilith's people finding him. Hiding at Nate's home in Hawaii may not be the smartest thing, but he couldn't arrange for anything else at the moment. Not while Bryn was pregnant and still so fragile. He walked back to the living room and saw Bryn trying to rise to her feet. Before, he wouldn't have hesitated to touch her, to help her up. But now he was afraid of startling her, of reminding her of that night. So instead, he offered her his hand. "Let me help you, my dear." Bryn tried to look up at him, but her hair was in the way. Instead, she reached out blindly, allowing him to pull her effortlessly to her feet. Pushing her hair back from her face, she let go of his hand. "Thanks." "You're welcome, my dear." He tried to hide his disappointment when she dropped his hand, and then made up his mind. This wouldn't do at all. "Bryn, would you sit on the couch for a moment?" He watched her walk over and sit on a corner of it, her body hunched over in a slightly protective position. Anton also sat down in the center, hand on the cushion near her, but leaving it to her if she wanted to reach out to him if she wanted to. He took a deep breath and then began to speak. "I know you're hurting and frightened, Bryn. I know, because I've been there myself. Because I am. I'm scared that I'll never be able to touch you again without reminding you of him. But I'm not going anywhere, Bryn. I will be here waiting as long as I need to. Because one day, we will be able to hold each other and not be reminded of what happened. If you want me to sleep in another room, I'll do that. If you want me to hold you and nothing more, I'll do that. If you never want to make love again, I will accept that. But I'm not going anywhere." "I didn't say I wanted you to go anywhere," she said, in a small voice. Although they continued sleeping together, there was little more than that going on. Sometimes there was very little sleeping going on, either. She was tired of lying next to him, wide awake, staring at the ceiling. But she'd be damned if he slept in another room. She needed him there. "I don't want you to sleep in another room. I just...I don't know what I want." It felt as if her emotions were suspended, and her monotonous voice was slowly driving her nuts. "I feel empty. Like I don't really have anything to give you." He decided to risk it. Anton slid closer, right up next to her, and slipped an arm around her. "You have plenty to give me. Your love, your smiles, our daughter. And I will give you whatever you need. Love, affection, a wild orgasm, distance, or time." His voice dropped to a whisper. "I'm just afraid of losing you." Although shaky, she didn't hesitate to slip down on to his lap. She knew Anton would never hurt her. It wasn't that she was afraid of. More than anything, she was afraid of...feeling suffocated. The way she had when Justin had his hands on her, bruising her, choking her, trapping her under his weight. Lightly trembling, but with her attention focused on his eyes, Bryn leaned forward and lightly kissed his lips. "You won't." He was shaking as his arms went around her tightly. Anton returned the kiss, trying to keep his passion in check. But it had been so long since he had held her, had touched her, had kissed her, that he couldn't stop. His hand gently roamed her back and then slipped around to cup her breast, carefully watching for her reaction. She pressed her hands to his arms, about to tell him he was holding her too tight...but it felt different when Anton did it. It wasn't the breath-stealing punishment Justin had inflicted. Although it was definitely breath-stealing. Her hands slid up to his shoulders instead, gripping his muscles as she carefully returned his kisses. His hand on her breast was still a strange sensation, but as long as he kept his touch light, she'd let it stay. He shifted his hand to cup her breast, his thumb lightly resting on her nipple, shifting back and forth, barely touching her. He kept his kiss light also, gently pulling on her lips and just barely pressing his tongue inside her mouth. But Anton wasn't going to pull away unless she pushed him away. It wasn't unusual to keep her eyes open when she kissed him, or to squirm on his lap. But she didn't like the idea that someone on Nate's staff might interrupt them at any minute. Pushing back for a moment, she didn't give him a chance to show disappointment on his face. "I don't want to do this here. Take me to our room?" He gave her a wide grin. "Of course, my dear." He shifted so he had his arms under her shoulders and knees and stood up, holding her close. Almost as if it was their honeymoon night, he carried her down the hall and over the threshold of their bedroom. Carefully, he settled her down on their bed and then laid down beside her. Resting on one elbow, Anton slipped his arm over her torso and leaned down to kiss her more deeply. She clutched his arm, partly to pull him closer and partly to keep him at bay. The indecision of her actions was probably hopelessly confusing him, but she kept kissing him so he knew she definitely wanted him to stay. Opening her mouth to his tongue, she lightly pulled at it with her lips. She was sending him mixed messages. He read the tension in her arms at the same time as she deepened the kiss. Not sure what to do but continue, he slipped a hand into her hair, combing through it. Carefully he slipped his leg over hers, working it between her thighs. Her breath caught in her throat at the feel of his leg between hers. Pulling back slightly, she stared down at it, almost as if afraid it would bite her. Swallowing heavily, she met his gaze. "I feel silly. Like I've never done this before." Sitting up, even though she had to push away from him a little further, she gave him an uncertain look. "I think I'd like it better if you weren't on top of me." "Okay." Mentally, he cursed himself for not thinking of that himself. He shifted off of her and settled back on his side of the bed, his arms spread wide and his legs open. "Do whatever you wish to do, my dear." Her own words echoing in her head, she looked away with shame. [Since when have I not wanted him on top of me?] It wasn't his fault she'd been scared. In fact, he'd been the one who saved her. And now she was pushing him away. Her husband...best friend...lover. She was wounded by her own words--and she could only imagine how he must feel. Scooting closer, she laid down next to him, then curled even closer, pressing her face to his neck as she wrapped her arms around him. "I'm sorry. I hate this. I want you to hold me, and squeeze me. I want you on top of me and...and behind me, in front of me, everywhere. Inside me. Part of me. I want to forget all of this stupid stuff ever happened." She sniffed, tightening her grip. "I need you, Anton. I need you so much." He rolled to face her, gently shifting so he could hold her close. Anton gently stroked her hair. He hated what that bastard Justinius had done to her, and would gladly kill him again if it were possible. "Remember what I told you the first time we made love?" he whispered in her ear. "That if I did something you were uncomfortable with, to say no, and I would stop? That's still true, especially now." His hand stroked over her stomach, coming to rest just above her pubic hair. "I don't know if Kat will allow me to be on top of you, but I definitely will be inside of you." She sniffled, hugging him tighter. [Not going to cry,] she told herself, clenching her eyes shut. She'd done enough of that already. Instead, she lifted her head and met his gaze with moist eyes, giving him the best smile she could manage. Then she leaned in closer, kissing him hard and determined. Letting him know she agreed one-hundred percent. He tightened his arms around her, returning the kiss with equal passion. He wanted so badly to roll her on her back and stab deep inside of her. But he knew that this would take time and care, that this may be a false start. So he continued to kiss her, his hand, staying over her clothes, slowly slipped down her back to rest on her ass. Moaning softly, Bryn fisted her hands in his shirt, yanking it up his torso, and began pulling it over his head. She wanted to feel his skin against hers, to feel the subtle flexing of his muscles as he moved, the rasp of his hairy legs on hers. He smelled so good, just like she remembered, and she wanted more. She wanted him to give her everything he had, to make her forget that other vampire ever existed. He pulled away from the kiss to let her tug the shirt over his head. Watching her face carefully, he pulled her polo shirt over her head and then bent to kiss her neck lightly as he slipped his hands behind her back. He nuzzled the valley between her breasts as he undid her bra and pulled the lacy material from her body. Still watching her reaction carefully, he reached with his tongue to her nipple and lightly licked it. Her breath caught in her throat, but it wasn't out of fear. The sensation was incredible and almost foreign to her these days. Swallowing heavily, she reached up and cupped the back of his head. "Don't stop." He smiled at her words, letting her guide him against her breast. He gently pulled her nipple into his mouth and lightly sucked. Meanwhile his hands started to ease the elastic down off her waist. Lifting up slowly, she let him strip her shorts down, kicking them off the rest of the way. Her arms moved around his back, sliding smoothly over his warm flesh. Quivering lightly, she arched her back to get closer to him, concentrating on the heat of his mouth...and the dark golden color of his hair. As long as she reminded herself the hair wasn't gray, she was all right. Anton lifted his head, his mouth coming off of her nipple with a loud pop. Then he moved to her other breast, tongue circling around her nipple as his hand lifted to continue the stimulation. He had missed this, even though it was a short time and it was hard for him not to hurry her onto the next stage. Squirming under him, she reached down awkwardly and tugged open the drawstring on his shorts. The thin material did very little to hide his erection, but that didn't bother her. She'd always liked looked at Anton, no matter what he wore...or didn't wear. Pushing her hand under the elastic waist, she lightly ran her fingers over his groin, smiling a bit when he groaned. The way she was reacting was very encouraging. Deciding that he was going to risk it, he slid his hand down her stomach, caressing her navel and then slipping down below the hem of her shorts and underwear. His fingertips rested lightly on her curls, watching her reaction before proceeding further Eyes still focused on his face, Bryn lifted her hips in acquiescence. She let out a soft gasp as his fingers slid lower, carefully testing her boundaries. Part of her wanted to slam her thighs shut around his wrist, but she thought that might give him the wrong idea. She didn't want him to stop--she wanted to keep him there forever. Becoming bolder with her own touches, she wrapped her fingers around his shaft and gently squeezed. It felt wonderful to feel that intense heat again, and know that it was entirely directed at her. Anton let out a soft moan. Her growing confidence encouraged him, his touches growing bolder. Still tucked inside her clothing, he slipped his finger around her clit. Slowly he moved his finger back and forth, his own cock wiggling in her grasp. "Mmm!" Shoving her hips in the air, Bryn panted. It felt like forever since he'd touched her like that, and she missed it very much. She missed being made love to and held every day, and it wouldn't be long before Kat's birth prevented part of that; she had to take advantage of it while she could. "More!" He smiled when she moaned her disappointment as he withdrew his hand and pulled out of hers. Sitting back on his haunches, he pulled her shorts off completely, staring at the dark triangle above her legs. Nudging her wider open, he lay back down and started kissing the inside of her thighs, working upwards and inwards. His hand wearing his wedding band slipped back up her stomach to stroke her breast. Thighs shaking, Bryn watched the top of his head and tried to tamp down a small bit of panic. It wasn't because of anything Justin had done to her--she just felt safer when she could clearly see Anton's face. Leaning slightly to the side to see around her belly, she felt Kat give a sharp kick that made her gasp. Especially when she saw a small bump pop up on her stomach. "Did you see that?" Hearing her voice, Anton lifted his head in time to see the small bump reappear. "Is Kat upset by what I'm doing?" Actually, he wanted to know if Bryn was upset. He didn't think so, but he had felt a slight tensing of her muscles as he had licked her thighs. She shook her head. The distraction hadn't been worth mentioning, but she took advantage of it anyway. Removing his hand from her breast, she threaded her fingers together with his. "I'm just a little nervous. I want to hold your hand." He squeezed her fingers tightly. "Do you want me to continue, my dear, or do you want me to do something else?" She shook her head. "Don't stop. I don't want you to. I'm okay." Anton squeezed her hand. "Don't be afraid to say no if you need to." Still holding her hand, Anton lowered his head again. Gently he nipped the inside of he thigh, and then ran his tongue soothingly over the bite. His bites became gentler and the licks longer the higher he went, until he was using his fingers to spread her labia open as his tongue swiped up and down her sex. Bryn whimpered, spreading her legs a little further apart. She definitely remembered this, and she couldn't keep still any more than she used to. Pushing the fingers of her free hand in to his hair, she cupped the back of his head and urged him closer. He smiled at her whimper, and pressed even closer. Anton's hips flexed against the sheet in rhythm with the lashing of his tongue. He delved into her again and again, lapping up her fluids eagerly. He let go of her thigh and rubbed his thumb against her clit also, wanting to bring her to climax as many times as he could before he came himself. "Ohhh..." Writhing and tossing her head, Bryn lifted her hips even more and tightly squeezed his hand as she got closer to orgasm. It was a little surprising to realize that she could get aroused so quickly again--although, this was Anton, and he was very good at turning her on. Her hand pressing tighter on his head, she squeezed her muscles around his tongue and gasped as her lowered body shook in to climax. He continued to lap and stroke her, coaxing every ounce of pleasure out of her he could. And when her hand pressed against his forehead, he backed away. He climbed up her body, and settled on his side next to her One hand cupped her cheek and he kissed her deeply, letting her taste both himself and her. She let out another shudder as she wrapped her arms around him and eagerly returned his kiss. He felt wonderful pressed so tightly against her, and she lightly rolled her thumbs over his nipples to return some of the pleasure he'd given her. There were so many times he'd gentled her to touch, carefully urging her towards ecstasy, and this was a perfect example. Instead of feeling smothered by his masculinity and strength, she felt cherished. Adored. Protected. And if there was any way she could possibly thank him for his patience, she thought this was it. "Anton...make love to me. I want you inside me. I don't think I can wait anymore." He shivered as much at her words as her touch. This was the Sabryn he knew, not the frightened woman who shied away from touching him. "Roll over on your side, my dear." He really wanted to be on top, but with the state of her pregnancy, there wasn't an easy way. When she was facing away, he ran his hand up and down her side, watching her expression carefully in the mirror on the facing wall. Anton bent down and kissed her neck as he helped her lift one leg so he could push inside of her. Grabbing his arm and pulling him even tighter against her, Bryn held her breath and waited for the insistent push of him inside her. She shivered lightly as he pulled her leg higher and slid his cock against her ass. Although not afraid, she was nervous almost as if it were they're first time. Meeting his gaze in the mirror, she gave him a shy smile and gave his hand a squeeze. He returned her gentle squeeze. Anton rubbed his cheek against hers and then kissed it. "I'm so proud of you, my dear. You're doing so well." He continued to shove forward, until the head of his cock popped inside of her. Kissing her shoulder and keeping an eye on her expression, he continued to push inside of her. Whimpering softly, Bryn twisted towards him and grabbed the back of his head. She pulled him closer to kiss him, pulling at his lips, almost desperate for him. If it were possible, she'd pull him closer, hug him tighter, kiss him harder. She needed him so much, and wasn't going to let him go all day long. He pushed further and further inside until he was pressed completely against her. It was awkward to be half hunched over her, but he kissed her eagerly. Anton felt almost drunk with pleasure just from feeling her lips on his and being inside of her again. Squeezing her hand again, he slowly began to thrust. Moaning, Bryn squeezed him tightly inside her and quivered around his cock. She wasn't expecting so much pleasure all at once. He made her feel alive, electric, her body undulating in waves, propelled by the movement of his hips. Already covered in a thin sheen of sweat, she clutched his hip, crying out softly with each thrust he gave her. Anton continued to thrust into her, his lips moving to her ear. He nipped at her lobe, breathing heavily. His hand went to her hip and pulled her harder against groin as he moved faster, letting out a soft groan as he felt her grip his cock. She was tighter than usual since they hadn't been making love, and he relished how she squeezed him mercilessly. Bryn couldn't catch her breath. Eyes closed and moaning continuously, she held on to him as tightly as she could. Grabbing his hand, she pulled it further over her hip and pressed his fingers between the lips of her sex. "Mmm!" He groaned as he felt how slick she was. Anton rubbed her clit rapidly as he kissed her neck and cheek. His hips pumped into her at a fast rate. He had meant to hold out until she orgasmed again, but when she dug her nails into his ass, he let out a high pitched yelp as he came hard in her. Bryn squeaked, shuddering in a smaller, but still intense orgasm, squeezing him tightly. Her hand swept up to grab hold of his hair in a tight grip; only the fact that she had such a large handful kept it from pulling out at the root. "Oh yes!" He let out a gasp, eyes shutting. It took all his self control to keep from biting down on her neck. His hips still moved, trying to eke out the last bit of pleasure for the both of them. Letting out one last shudder of pleasure, Bryn panted and released her grip on his hair...dismayed when a few of the strands stayed stuck to her hand. [Oops!] Quickly discarding it before he opened his eyes, she awkward massaged his head with her other hand. Sweaty and satisfied, she kissed his cheek. "Mmm. You make me happy." "You make me very happy too, my dear." He kissed her cheek and then pulled her even tighter against his body. "I've missed this a lot, my dear. Just holding you close." His hand gently stroked over her curving belly. "And I am so grateful to have a chance to do it again." She let out a contented sigh, snuggling back against his chest. She wrapped her arms over his, holding them in place. "I don't want you to ever let me go. I've been so stupid. No one could help me get past this quicker than you can. And I love you so much." "You have not been stupid, Bryn," Anton gently corrected. He shifted his wrists so his hands rested on top of hers. "You have been protecting yourself the only way that you know how, by withdrawing. Now you're learning that you don't have to protect yourself around me, no matter what has happened to you. It will take some time, my dear, but I have faith that you're a fast learner." She was quiet as her eyes teared up, his simple words of permission releasing the hurt she'd been unknowingly keeping to herself. Letting out a soft sob, she turned over to face him and wrapped her arms around him, letting out brokenhearted tears. She hated Justin--for making her think he was her friend, for breaking her trust, for attacking her. But most of all she hated him for the wedge he'd driven between her and Anton, her rock. The only person who would ever truly understand what she was feeling and how much the other vampire had taken away. "Shhh...let it go, Bryn," Anton whispered as he stroked her hair. His own eyes were misty as he gently rocked her as much as he could. "It's okay. You're safe here in my arms. Just get it all out. Otherwise it will poison you." Clinging to him tightly, she buried her face against his neck and cried out the rest of her tears. She was safe in his arms. It was the only place she truly felt it. She could feel how much he loved her in the tightness of his grip, the slight tremor of his voice, and the way he gently kissed her head. Tangling her legs with his, she spread her hands over his back and absorbed his heat, slowly calming down and feeling drowsiness set in. He nuzzled her lightly, planting reassuring kisses in her hair. He curved his body around hers the best he could, hands slowly stroking her skin as she went limp against him. "It' will be okay, my dear," he said softly. "Everything will be fine." [What am I doing here?] She was in the gallery again, heart pounding as she wandered through the halls. Looking frantically for an escape route, she only found dead ends and more offices. Behind her, she heard his footsteps and angry growling, like he was some snarling bear hot on her heels. Whimpering softly, she hurried her steps, clinging to the walls. And she was so pregnant she was nearly bursting. [Anton! Where are you!] Slipping inside one of the offices, she shut the door behind her...but it looked as flimsy as plastic wrap. Behind her, the room was bare, not even a desk to hide under. So she hurried for the coat closet, shutting herself inside. There was no room to move. She was surrounded with coats so thick she was suffocating. Trying to push her way to the back was useless. And even though the closet was dark to the outer room, she could see Justin break through the outer door as clear as day. Huddling over her stomach as much as she could, she cringed when he looked right in her direction. [Please don't see me!] But he knew exactly where she was anyway. And his body seemed to grow to twice it's normal size. Sharp claws broke out of his fingers, slicing effortlessly through the closet door. A growl that could only have come from Satan spewed from his mouth, his hot breath burning her face. She shook hard, her teeth clattering as she fought against the coats to get deeper in to the darkened space. But when he grabbed her hair, she knew it was all over. And she screamed. The shrill sound echoed through the living room, followed shortly by Max's frightened wail as he let go of her hair and plopped back to the floor. Trapped by the blanket twisted around her legs, Bryn scrambled across the couch and stared at him with wide eyes, tears clinging to her eyelashes as the little boy cried and cried. "Oh Max...s-sweetie..." He had been in the kitchen for a few minutes, warming a bottle for Max in the microwave when he heard the screams. Not certain what to expect, if Lilith's agents had found them, he hurried to the living room, eyes blazing and fangs bared, ready to defend his wife and son. But when he got there, he didn't see any threat. Letting his eyes and fangs dull, Anton hurried to Bryn sitting on the floor, clutching Max. "Bryn, what's wrong?" he said as he crouched beside her. Max was still howling, trying to get away from her and reaching towards Anton, even as she hugged him tightly and rocked in place. Softly sobbing, she buried her face against his hair and leaned towards Anton, hoping he could make everything okay. He wasn't certain what was going on, but Anton held Bryn close and tried to soothe Max by running a hand up and down the boy's back. "It's okay, Bryn. It's okay," he whispered into her hair. "I'm right here, my dear. Every thing's okay." Sniffling, she leaned her head against Anton's shoulder and wrapped her arm around his waist, hugging him tightly. She felt Max move closer in to his embrace as well, and didn't try to hold on, letting him chose who would hold him. Taking several shuddering breaths, she clung to Anton's shirt and tried to calm down, pushing the dream as far away as she could. Anton held her and Max, pressing soft kisses to the top of her head as he whispered soothing noises. He gently rocked them both back and forth. "Bryn," he asked eventually. "Think we can move this up to the couch? Or do you want to stay here for a while?" She nodded slightly, pushing herself up and on to the couch. Crossing her legs as best she could under her, she smoothed back her sweaty hair and pulled the blanket over her once more. "I'm sorry," she said, quietly. "I just had a bad dream. I didn't mean to interrupt...whatever you were doing." "It's okay, my dear." Anton settled onto the couch next to her, keeping his arms around her. There were three things her nightmare could have been about, and none of them were too pleasant to contemplate. "Do you want to talk about it, Bryn?" She shook her head, leaning over to kiss Max on his head. The little boy was no longer crying, but still looked slightly wary of her...as if she might shriek at any moment. "I guess I'm done with my nap for the day. I certainly don't feel like going back to sleep anymore. And I doubt Max will be pulling himself up using the couch any time soon." She looked up at Anton, her eyes sad. "I didn't know it was him. I felt someone grab my hair and I...didn't know it was him." Anton gently stroked her head. "I know, my dear. And I think you just startled him as much as he startled you." He lightly kissed her temple. "Is there something you want to do, my dear? Something I can do to make you feel better?" She licked her lips. "Maybe you could give me and Max a bath, and then climb in yourself when he's ready for his own nap?" "Sounds like a good idea, my dear." He kissed her cheek lightly. Anton stood up and took Max. "Although I think he might be ready for a nap now," he said as his son blinked sleepily. "Let me go put him down and I'll start drawing a bath for you," he said as he squeezed her hand. She smiled softly, watching him go. Pushing the blanket aside, she stood up and stretched, a light shudder going through her limbs. It was warm in the house as usual, but she still felt a bit chilled from the sweat in her hair and her clothes. That stupid dream was clinging to her just as effectively. Making her way towards the bedroom, she began stripping her shirt off along the way. Rocking Max softly, he put his son down in his crib. "It's okay Max," he said as the boy stretched out. "Mommy just had a bad dream." He stroked Max's stomach until the boy was asleep. Then he headed to the bathroom and started the bathtub filling. Placing in a few scented bath oil beads in to dissolve, he then called out. "Bath is just about ready, my dear." She was completely bare by the time she made her way in to the bathroom. She had grabbed a box of Goldfish crackers from her nightstand and was munching happily. Her lips were tinged with orange as she lifted up on her toes and kissed his cheek. "Thank you, sugar." "You're welcome, my dear." Anton held his hand to help lower herself into the tub, and then began stripping off his clothes. "Is there anything else I can get you while I'm still dry and relatively decent? he asked as he started to unbutton his slacks. She shook her head, setting the box of crackers on the floor. "No. I just need you." Sliding her legs together in the warm water, she settled back against the tub. Watching him strip out of his clothes, she let out a soft sigh of relief that he was with her. "I think I might have to start taking my nap with you with me." "If that would help you, my dear," Anton said. He stepped out of his slacks and boxers, and then pulled his shirt over his head. "Scoot forward, Bryn." He waited for her to slip forward and then slipped inside behind her. He sat back and pulled her back to rest against his chest. He lightly kissed the top of her head as he wrapped his arms around her. She let out another sigh and snuggled back against him, turning her head to rest her cheek on his chest. "I love you, Anton. You always make me feel better, no matter what." "You'll always be safe in my arms, my dear." He gently caressed her arms and stomach. "Do you want to talk about what happened, Bryn? Or do you want to to leave it alone?" She was silent for moment, sliding her fingers over his skin and leaving a wet trail behind. "I had a dream about him. He was chasing me, and I couldn't find my way out. So I hid in a closet, but he found me anyway. And I was all alone with him." Anton squeezed his arms around her, trying to reassure her. "That will never happen, my dear. I will never leave you alone." He nuzzled the top of her head, kissing her lightly. "He can never hurt you again, Bryn. I'll never let anyone else hurt you ever." "I know." Turning a little bit more, she wrapped both arms around him and hugged him tightly. "It was just a dream. And you were there when I woke up. So was Max...even if he probably didn't want to be, at that particular moment." She managed a half-smile. "I'm sure Max won't hold it against you," Anton said as he picked up the wash cloth. He dipped it into the water, letting it soak up warmth. "I wish I could stop these nightmares, Bryn. Because you don't deserve to have to relive this pain." She licked her lips. "It will go away. It's just stress. From having to move so quickly and everything." Sucking in a deep breath, she added, "And it wasn't that long ago. I'll forget about him sooner or later. I hope." Brushing some hair back from his forehead, she smiled. "I'm sure you'll help me with that." "I certainly will," Anton said, bending down to nuzzle her neck. "I'm going to do everything I can to erase those unpleasant memories and replace them with good ones." His hands rested on the swell of her stomach, gently curving around it. "Do you want me to try doing that now?" She smiled. "That would be nice." Sliding her hand down in to the water, she slid her fingers over his hand that still held the washcloth. "You could start with this. Or maybe wash my hair?" Anton turned his hand to lightly squeeze hers, washcloth trapped between them. "How about both, my dear?" he asked as he grabbed the soap. He then freed his hand and started to scrub it against the cloth. Once it was nice and soapy, he started to rub it against her upper chest and shoulders. "Mmm." Arching her back a bit and settling her head back against his shoulder, she closed her eyes and relaxed. He was deliciously warm beneath her, like a hot pad on her back, and she couldn't resist wiggling against him. "That's nice." Anton smiled as he felt her melt against his stomach. "I'm glad you like that, my dear." His lips kissed her neck and then the corner of her jaw. "And do you like this?" he asked as he cupped a full breast. "Yesss..." She lifted her arm and slipped her hand behind his neck, turning her head to kiss his temple. The hot water was easing the tension out of her muscles, making her legs go limp and her head hard to hold up. Lightly tickling his knee with her free hand, she laughed softly as he squirmed away from the touch. He sloshed the water over the edge of the tub as he wriggled. The hand holding the cloth slipped down to her breast, terry rubbing lightly against the nipple. "I shouldn't reward you for trying to tickle me, my dear," he whispered in her ear before nipping the lobe. Grinning, she wiggled under the onslaught of his attack. "So you decided to tickle me back instead?" she asked, ducking her head. He grinned widely, although he wasn't certain that she saw it. "Well, do unto others..." Splashing a bit as she scooted to a more comfortable position, she turned her head and kissed his mouth. "I'd much rather you concentrate on what that other hand is doing. It's lovely." "You mean this?" Anton's other hand went to her breast and kneaded her other nipple. He continued to kiss the edge of her jaw as close to her mouth as he could. "You are right, my dear. This is lovely." She nodded, eyes dreamy. "Very." Sliding her legs against his, she let her hands drift through the water, brushing against his thighs and lazily raking through the hair there. "You know what would be even lovelier? If you drifted down a little further." "How much further?" Anton teased as is hands slowly started to move southward. "Here?" His hands rubbed against the sides of her stomach. "Or perhaps here?" They drifted down to the tops of her thighs and kneaded lightly. Bryn jumped slightly, her thighs flexing under his touch. Her breath sped up a bit as she shook her head. "Somewhere in between." Anton tilted his head to one side, as if thinking hard. "Somewhere in between? Perhaps here?" He let the fingers of his right hand teasingly glide over the lips of her sex. She jumped again, a gasp leaving her mouth. "Yeah..." Shivering lightly, she opened her legs a bit wider to give him more room. Rolling her head against his shoulder, she lifted her hips against his touch. "Perfect." He put a little more pressure on his fingers, stroking her firmly. "You sure?" he whispered in her ear, tongue flicking out to tease her lobe. "Or is this better?" he said as two fingers of his left hand sank into her. "Ahh!" Bryn squeezed his fingers, squirming against him. Arching her back, she pressed her ass against his groin and rubbed herself on his erection. "Better!" "Good," he whispered in her ear. She had seemed to have forgotten completely about her nightmare. He moved his hand in time with her squirming, not even attempting to tease any more. Right now all he wanted to do was give her pure, unadulterated pleasure. Sobbing in pleasure, Bryn lifted her hips in rhythm with his plunges, pushing him as deep as she get him. Her muscles squeezed hard around his fingers, trying to trap him in place. The heel of his hand was pressing tight against her clit, and every little brush made her hair stand on end. "Yes...sugar..." Anton continued nipping at her neck, thrilled and awed by the trust she was putting in him. She really couldn't see him, and she had been so spooked by the nightmare, he had expected her to panic slightly at one point. His fingers sped up slightly as he pulled back to whisper in her ear. "Now cum for me." Pressing her hand down over his, Bryn let her fingernails bite in to his skin as her teeth bit in to her own lip. Throwing her head back, she shuddered hard around his fingers, her thighs trembling. Clenching his fingers, she pressed her face to his neck and tried to catch her breath. Anton continued to pump his fingers inside of her, slowing down gently. He turned slightly to press a kiss to her forehead, soothing her as she came down from her high. His erection remained trapped beneath her, throbbing with ignored need. Nuzzling his jaw, Bryn lifted up slightly and reached behind her, carefully guiding his cock under her ass and between her thighs. Lazily stroking him, she pressed her lips to his cheek. "Sugar...inside, now." Anton bit his lip lightly as he pulled his fingers out of her. They didn't quite move completely away from her sex, but up to rest lightly on her clit. Taking a deep breath, he arched his hips and pushed his cock inside of her. "Like this, my dear?" Letting out a shuddering breath, she nodded and pushed her hips down to drive him even deeper inside. Lifting her feet, she settled them on the rim of the tub and let her head settle on his shoulder. "Perfect. I love you, Anton." Anton let out a soft moan. "I love you too, my dear." His fingers began to stroke her clit as his hips pumped into her. He breathed heavily on her ear as he braced his feet and thrust upwards. "Ohhh..." Reaching her hand up, Bryn grabbed the back of his neck and pressed her forehead to his jaw. She was sliding against his wet belly with every thrust, her ass brushing his pubic hair, and her thighs squeezing his. His moist skin felt like velvet against hers, except on her sex, where it was like fire, burning and quivering over her flesh. His breath was gusting against her hair. Anton was straining upwards, intent on getting deeper and deeper inside of her. His fingers slipped faster and faster around her clit as his grunts became almost pained. His free hand cupped her breast, teasing her nipple. "Gonna cum," he moaned against her hair. "Yes, sugar," Bryn whined softly, spreading her legs wider. She tangled her fingers in his hair and lightly pulled. Rocking her body against his, she tightened her sex around his thrusting cock and gasped as she started to cum, pulling him along with her. Anton groaned again, his cock throbbing with release as she milked every last drop out of him. He held onto her tightly and then relaxed as the pleasure flowed through his veins. Moaning softly, he sank a little deeper into the water, cradling Bryn tighter against him. Chest heaving, she licked her lips and panted as she pulled his arms tighter around her and held them there. Her feet slid back in to the water, legs still framing his. Sleepy and peaceful, she knew she could easily fall asleep and dream sweet things in his arms from then on. "I love you. My sweetness." Anton squeezed his arms tightly around her. "I love you too, my sunshine. My dear." He gently nuzzled her temple, kissing her lightly, feeling slightly drowsy "Would you like to stay here for a few more minutes, or would you like to head to bed?" "Bed, please." She smiled at him over her shoulder, then leaned back for a soft kiss. Reaching out with her foot, she slowly started the tub draining. "Did you ever notice that we never seem to actually reach the washing-up part of our baths?" Anton chuckled. "At least not of the ones we take together, my dear." He gently rubbed his hand over her stomach as the water level dropped away. "You know, my dear, you're going to have to get out of the tub first so I can carry you to the bed. She stuck her lower lip out in a pout and then carefully moved her legs over his before scooting forward. "You're going to have to help me get up. I don't want to fall over." Anton smiled and pulled his legs away to stand up and cautiously stepped out of the bathtub. After a quick wipe down with one of the fluffy towels, he reached out a hand to his wife. "Here you are, my dear," he said as he helped her out. "Let's get you tucked into bed." Cuddling close to his side, she wiggled as he rubbed the towel over her body. Then, wrapping her arms around him as he lifted her, she kissed his cheek and murmured, "Will you hold me super tight, tonight, please?" "Of course, Bryn." Anton hefted her a little higher in his arms and carried her to their bedroom. Reverently he lowered her to the bed, and then tucked the comforter loosely around her body. And then tucked himself tightly around her as well. "Is there anything else you would like, my dear?" "Just you, Anton. You're everything I'll ever need." End Chapter One Hundred Thirty-two <- Previous Chapter | Home | Next Chapter ->