Chapter Eighty-nine Anton and Bryn returned to their home by the tunnels connecting the houses. Anton had felt uneasy leaving Nathaniel alone, but it was clear that his brother was in no mood to talk. Not that he could really blame him, deep down. If Bryn had left him under the same circumstances, he couldn't say that he'd be willing to open up either. He looked over at Bryn. She was still carrying a sleeping Max in her arms. "So what do you think, my dear?" She rolled her eyes, the movement barely visible between the corridor lights. "I think that if your brother wants to be treated as someone more mature than a twenty-two year old, he ought to stop acting like one." She paused, kicking off her shoes, and then crouched to pick them up. "I also think I definitely want to talk to Lindy. Because if what he said is true, I don't understand what the problem is. If he offered her whatever she wanted, why did she leave?" "My thoughts exactly, Bryn. There's something more going on." He put his arm around Bryn as they came to the stairs that lead to the entrance of their home. "It may have been a case of how he offered it to her. Or she might not know what she wants." He squeezed his arm around her. "Although I'm afraid that he's right and it will be a long wait." he looked over at her. "Do you want to try to talk to her when we get upstairs, or wait a bit?" She sighed. "I don't know. I don't know if I'm really up for another confrontation tonight." She yawned softly. "Besides, she might be more willing to talk tomorrow. And her parents more willing to let her talk." Tilting her head, she waited as he opened the bookcase door. "You'd tell me if you thought I was a being a bitch, wouldn't you? Because I certainly didn't have any problem in telling Nate he was being an asshole. I don't know if that makes me a bitch...or just incredibly perceptive." "My vote is perceptive, my dear. And yes, I would tell you." Heading for the kitchen, Anton put the diaper bag down on the table and stared pulling out baby bottles. Turning on the faucet, he rinsed them out and put them in the dishwasher. "And would you tell me if I was being too rough on him, Bryn?" "Yes, I would...but I don't think you were." She leaned against the counter, still holding Max. "I think you were trying to be helpful and he was completely ignoring it. You're always trying to be helpful, and I really appreciate it. For instance, I love watching you do the dishes. I could stand here all day." She grinned at him. Anton gave her a sly smile back over his shoulder. "I think you'll use any excuse to watch my ass." Wiping his hands on a dish towel, he turned back around and leaned against the sink. "I know he resented the implication, but we'll need to watch him closely over the next few days. I don't think it's hit him yet emotionally, and when it does, I'm afraid it will be worse than when he found out about Lindara." She nodded, her smile evaporating. "I just can't believe this had to happen today, of all days. So much for them having a romantic Valentine's day." Lifting Max a little higher on her shoulder, she walked over to one the island stools and sat down. She'd changed out of her corset and skirt, and was now lounging in her sweatshirt and shorts instead. "I can't even imagine what they must be feeling right now. I mean, we've had fights before, but never to this extent. I hope they get over this soon." "So do I, Bryn." He sat down on one of the stools. "They're both hurting. I just wonder what finally pushed her over the edge. Actually, I have an idea from what he said." "What's that?" "Nathaniel said something about how she expected him to 'lay there like an eunuch.' It doesn't sound like they're physically touching, let alone having sex. She must be having residual trauma from being abducted, and him pressuring her to have sex isn't helping matters in the least." Bryn frowned, settling her feet on the middle rung of his stool. "He also said he'd do whatever she wanted him to." She settled Max on her lap, watching him sleep. He looked so peaceful, having his little baby dreams. She thought it must be nice to not have a care in the world. "They've been having problems ever since she came home," she said, looking up at him. They're very lucky that Marrok hasn't tried something again. The very threat would devastate them. "I wish we knew what Marrok was up to. And hopefully he won't hear about this. Because I doubt he wouldn't take advantage of it." Anton slipped off the stool and walked over to stand behind Bryn and put his arm around her shoulders. "I'm not sure Lindy knows herself what she wants at the moment. But she needs to figure it out soon." Anton sighed. "At least he said he'd wait for her." She nodded, reaching her hand up to grasp his wrist. The entire subject was depressing her. She couldn't even imagine walking away from Anton now. But she hadn't been abducted--at least not recently. Maybe Lindy was feeling now how she'd felt after she was brought home. Unsure of herself, unreasonably frightened, reminded so many times of where she'd been, and suspicious of those around her. It was hard to believe who to trust, and even harder to face losing them when they couldn't understand. Feeling tears come to her eyes, she closed them, turning her head and leaning into Anton's embrace. Here she felt safe and loved. "I love you, Anton." He kissed her forehead, pulling her tighter against his chest. He was reminded how incredibly lucky he was. He knew that there had been several times where he could have been where Nathaniel was right now. 'I love you too, Bryn." She sat in the guest bed room of her parent's house. Although it was noon, she wasn't able to sleep at all. In the center of the bed she sat on top of the covers, knees tucked up under her chin, arms around her legs. A plate of cold, fried chicken legs, mashed potatoes liberally covered in gravy, a cob of corn, two cans of warming soda and a unit of blood sat untouched on the TV tray beside the bed. Tears were still falling down her cheeks. Her body was tired, but her mind wouldn't let her rest. Thoughts kept tumbling through her mind, piling up on top of each other helter-skelter. [You left him. After all he's given you, and you walked away from it. From him. After telling Bryn what was the point of being Transformed if you're not spending eternity with the one you love.] [Hypocrite.] Curled up, she flopped over onto her side. Still crying. [I want to go back so badly. But will he want me?] After he had been denying himself her touch, she had offered it, and he turned her away. But that wasn't what haunted her the most. What she saw when she closed her eyes or opened them. It was the expression on his face when he said he was done fighting. She jumped at the knock on the door, hurriedly wiping at her face. "The door's open," she said, hating the thickness of her voice. Swinging the door open, Bryn said, "Is it okay if we come in? I brought visitors." Sniffling, Lindy sat up and saw that not only was Bryn holding Max against her chest...she was also holding Liam's hand. Bryn smiled, releasing his hand as he toddled across the floor to his Mommy. He let out a grunt, lifting his arms, eager to be picked up. She slipped to the floor, holding her arms wide open. She hugged Liam tight against her. "I've missed you, sweetie," she said, smiling for he first time in days it seemed to her. She looked up at Bryn. "Thanks for bringing him by." Holding Liam against her, she climbed back up on the bed and gestured Bryn towards the chair near the closet. "Not to sound ungrateful, but shouldn't you be in bed right now?" Ignoring the chair by the closet, Bryn settled down on the bed as well. She crossed her legs Indian-style and settle Max in front of her. "Well, obviously you aren't the only one who couldn't sleep." She smiled, smoothing down her no-doubt messy hair. "I told Anton I was coming over here, but he was half-asleep so don't be surprised if we get a frantic phone call while I'm here. He doesn't like waking up alone." Watching Lindy with her son, she said, "I practically had to beg Nate before he'd let me bring Liam over here. He was apparently very concerned that I'd be waking Liam up. I think he just didn't want to be there alone." Lindy's face fell at the mention of her husband's name. She looked down at Liam, who was babbling a mile a minute, undoubtedly telling her everything that had happened since she left home less than 12 hours before. Still, it felt like twelve years to her. "God, Bryn, I've made such a mess of things..." She began crying again, despising herself for doing so, but unable to stop at the same time. Bryn reached her hand out, placing it on Lindy's knee. "Oh, sweetie, no you didn't. Anton and I talked to Nate last night. He's upset, yes, but he also was very adamant that he wanted you to come home. He just about bit Anton's head off when he mentioned Nate possibly leaving. He got really mad and said he wasn't going anywhere. He just doesn't know what to do, Lindy. And I'm not sure what to tell either of you. I don't even know what's going on." "I'm not sure what happened myself, Bryn." She wiped her eyes with the back of her hand, and reached for the tissue box. "I woke up from a nightmare, well, not even a nightmare. A memory that I've repressed for a long time. I asked him to make love to me, and he told me that if I needed to get off, he'd see to it. Or if I wanted to be held, he'd do that instead." She leaned her head against Liam's, inhaling his baby scent. "So I asked him to hold me. But I've had warmer hugs from strangers. I just couldn't stay..." "I don't think that's how he sees it at all. He practically explained it as just the opposite. He said that you--" They both turned their heads toward the door, hearing the loud arguing coming from down the hall. Bryn could hear right away that it was Alex...and Nate. "I said back off," Nate growled, pushing the door to the guest room open, his attention obviously directed at Alex. Turning his head, he caught sight of Lindy and walked quite determinedly around to her side of the bed. Bryn grabbed Max and sat up straighter, unsure of what he had in mind. "Nate, what are you doing?" He ignored her question completely, along with the slightly frightened look on Lindy's face. Sliding his arm under her legs, he wrapped the other one around her shoulders and lifted her. Carrying her out of the room. "Nate! Lindy? I--" Bryn sputtered. Standing in his way, Alex looked as if he was ready to attack if necessary. "Put her down, Nathaniel." "Get the hell out of my way. She's coming home with me, now." Lindy blinked, not quite sure what to do. She held Liam tighter against her. But in the confusion, a glimmer of happiness shown in her heart. [He wants me home.] But Alex, overprotective, wasn't going to give ground. At least not until Walter appeared. "Alex, get out of the way," he yelled, as if he was still dressing down an unrepentant junior FBI agent. "What?" Stunned, Alex let Nate slip by him. "What the hell is going on?" "Nate's taking her where she should be. Home. Her home." Jess had appeared and was taking Liam out of Lindy's arms. He whimpered a little, wanting to stay with his mommy, but Jess held him no matter how much he squirmed. Stepping up behind them, Bryn frowned. "What the hell?" Nate bypassed all of them, heading for the den. "Nathaniel, wait!" Pausing, he turned to face Walter, accepting whatever it was the eldest werewolf handed him. Lindy only caught a brief flash of metal, before she watched Walter open the bookcase. Too stunned to form a protest, she felt her heart start to pound as her husband carried her down the stairs and into the tunnel below. She tensed the closer they got to the corridor, expecting him to yell at her or worse. Instead, he set her on her feet, picked up one of her hands, and snapped the metal bracelet of Walter's handcuffs of her wrist. She could do nothing but stare as clicked the other ring into place around his own wrist. His voice strangely calm, he said, "There. Now you're staying with me, even if I have to solder these in place." Still in shock, she pulled her arm towards her, still surprised when his arm moved as well. She looked at him like he had just lost his mind. "What are you doing?" "I'm taking you home," he said, as he started walking. She didn't have any choice but to follow. "I understand that, but what are the handcuffs for?" He paused, half-turning to meet her gaze. "I'm not letting you run away from me again. Mentally or physically. You're going to have to stay here and deal with this. With us." He tried to cross his arms, but realized he couldn't with dragging her along. "You know, I was tempted to drop you over my lap and spank your ass. That's what you've done to me, Lindy. You've frustrated me to the point of insanity. And you know what else? I just keep coming back for more. I always will. Whether I have to crawl on my hands and knees, drag myself across a mine field, or run to you in full sunlight. I'd gladly do it, too. Because that's what you do to me...that's how much I can't stand to be without you. That's how much I love you. And I'll be damned if I let you throw that away. Ever." Lindy's emotions teetered wildly back and forth. Pure happiness that he still wanted her. Relief that she was going home. Shame that she had ever been stupid enough to leave. "I'm sorry, Nathaniel. I shouldn't have left. I was so miserable while I was gone and...oh hell!" Without a further word, she threw her free arm around his waist and pressed her body against his as she kissed him. He wasn't prepared for that movement. He stumbled a step backwards, before regaining his composure. Wrapping his free arm around her waist, he lifted her off the ground, holding her tight against him, and eagerly kissed her in return. He didn't think about going slowly, or babying her...he only cared about tasting her, everywhere. Spinning her around, he pushed her up against the wall and let out a deep moan as he leaned himself into her curves. She tightened her arm, as well as wrapping her legs around him. She kissed him deeply, never wanting the moment to end. When the kiss broke, she leaned her forehead against his. "I'm sorry, Nate. I shouldn't have run away. I shouldn't have left last night." Panting lightly, he nodded. "You're right." He grinned at her as she narrowed her eyes. Rather than let her think he was an arrogant ass, he leaned closer and whispered, "I shouldn't have made you leave. I was being selfish. I wasn't there when you needed me, and I'm sorry. But I'm not sorry for wanting you, Lindy. I'm not sorry for loving you so much that I want to hold you all the time." He lapped at her earlobe, sucking briefly on the soft skin. "I miss you even when you're an inch away from me, gorgeous." She leaned harder against him, squirming as he teased her. "I've missed you too, Nate. I shouldn't have pushed you away. I'm sorry." She couldn't seem to get enough of his taste, of his touch. "I don't ever want to go through that again." He resumed kissing her, teasing her tongue with his own. Yet she suddenly had trouble concentrating. Someone was coming. The footsteps echoing in the corridor slowed, and she could see Bryn out of the corner of her eye. Pinned against the wall, Lindy could do little more than blush. Appearing somewhat chagrinned, and also entirely too amused, Bryn shielded her eyes as she walked past them. "I'll...just...uh, pretend I'm not even here. Go about your business. I'll be...gone in a few minutes. Just passing through..." All she could do is blush and giggle slightly until Bryn was gone. Nate left her no choice, keeping her pressed against the wall. He continued to kiss her, and the only reason she thought he wasn't trying to feel her up was that the handcuff prevented the movement. "I'm so sorry for everything." "Relax your arm," he said, his voice husky. Once she'd done it, he crouched down and lifted her under her thighs, encouraging her to wrap her legs around his waist, and standing up straight once she was holding on. "You're going to have to be my eyes, baby. I can't see very much. And stop saying you're sorry. It's over. Let's just go home." He took a few steps, then added, "I hope you're not too fond of that shirt, because I don't think you'll be wearing it much longer." "I think I can handle that." She gave him a slightly shaky smile, more due to relief than hesitation. She turned her head slightly, watching where they were headed out of the corner of her left eye. That also put her in the perfect position to nip at his ear lobe. "You're almost at the stairs, beloved." His strides slowed at the very mention of that name. Lindara's love name, for him. He wanted to ask her if that meant something, if it meant somehow that she'd reconciled with his enormous mistake of abandoning Lindara for fear. But he wasn't sure he wanted to hear the answer. Instead, he kept walking, carefully choosing his steps and making sure he found the stairs before tripping over them. It was a tricky ascent up the darkened space, moving forward by feel, trying to balance Lindy as well as himself. But he wouldn't drop her. He'd break his own legs before ever letting that happen. "We're almost there, Lind. I think I left the light on." She nodded, burying her nose in his neck. Although unable to smell as well as when she was a werewolf, scent was still a very important sense to Lindy. And right now she needed to smell him, to be reassured that he was really carrying her and it wasn't a hallucination. She partially expected him to put her down when they reached the wine cellar, but Nate didn't. He continued on through the house, towards the light in the kitchen. Again he didn't stop and she wasn't really surprised. He kept carrying her, weaving around furniture and almost tripping over some of Liam's toys that hadn't been put away. But he didn't drop her, even when he stumbled. He held her tight to his body, continuing up another flight of stairs and down the hallway to their bedroom. He stopped just before the bed, holding completely still as he stared at her face. He swallowed heavily, caught in her gaze. "I don't think I actually believed this would happen. Now I'm not sure what to do with you." He gave her a shaky smile, lifting their cuffed hands to caress her cheek. "Lindy, you have to tell me--do you want this, or should I stop now? Because if you don't tell me now, I'm not sure I'll be able to stop later." She trembled under his touch from excitement. But he heard the worry, the concern, the pain in his voice. [I hurt him. Badly.] Then she mentally shook her head. [Enough with the guilt. It's time to go forward. Otherwise, you'll be like this forever. And you don't want to live like that.] Mouth suddenly gone dry, she licked her lips. "I want this, Nate. I want you." Staring at her moist lips, he slowly lowered his head to kiss her. He slid his hand up her back, shifting her weight as he started to lower her to the bed. She settled in the middle of the bed, sideways, cradling his body like the softest pillow. He shuddered at the feeling, his eyes growing moist at the smell of her hair, hands shaking as they slid down her body. She felt so real, so familiar beneath him, and it shook him deeply to realize this time he wouldn't be waking up disappointed. Releasing her mouth, he pressed his face against her neck, shivering, and let out a soft sob as he began to cry. So incredibly grateful to be holding her again. So afraid something would happen to take it all away. Teary eyed herself, she shifted her cuffed hand until it was palm to palm with his, fingers interlacing. Her free hand began soothing sweeps from his shoulders to his ass, tracing along his spine. Her head tilted a little to the side, giving him better access to her neck. Offering. He sniffed loudly, releasing his hot breath against her neck. Hesitant to bite her. Things had changed so much that even the intimate act of feeding felt unfamiliar and forbidden. He could barely smell her, but the feel of her skin against his cheek was like pure silk. Turning his head towards her, he pressed his nose to her temple and swallowed heavily. His voice was barely audible. "I want to, so much, Lindy...but I don't understand. I don't know why you kept me at bay for so long, and then suddenly changed your mind. I can't shift course like that without explanation." She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. When she next spoke, her voice was slightly deeper, slightly accented. "When we separated the first time, you left me. You may have been the only other person in a room with me, but I would still be all alone. And instead of waiting for that to happen again, I decided I would finish it for both of us, to keep from prolonging the agony." She opened her eyes and her voice was normal. "So when you dragged me back here, I knew that it wasn't like the last time. You never chased after Lindara like you have me, and I was stupid to doubt you.' He let out a shaky moan, quivering at the sound of Lindara's voice. Lifting up a bit to meet her gaze, he stared down at Lindy with changed eyes...the gaze of someone younger, more naive, and certainly more troubled. "I was stupid to leave you, Lindasha. And I'm so sorry. If I'd been smart, maybe I would've Transformed you then...and none of the stupid things I did ever would've happened." Settling against her once more, he brushed his lips against her ear. "I'll never let you go again, my wife. My Lindy." He closed his eyes and sank his fangs in her flesh, with more certainty than he'd felt in his entire life. She hissed and moaned, arching against him. Her free hand came up to cradle his head, holding him close as her tears flowed. She let him drink freely and deeply, knowing that soon it would be her turn to feed from him. She lightly stroked his hair, surrendering to him. He drank until he was starving for air, then lifted his head and gasped in breath after breath. All the while tearing frantically at the collar of his shirt. He stared down at her, chest rising and falling rapidly, his blood-slick fangs still extended, and bared his neck for her. His lips curved into a grin, well aware that he must've looked like a nightmare at that moment...but he knew she didn't see him that way. And as he expected, she kissed him, sucking desperately on his mouth, first. She kissed him, her tongue tangling with his and gliding over his fangs. Taking little nips, she pulled on his lips and jaw, slowly working his way around to his neck. Extending her fangs, she delicately bit down after brushing her lips across his skin. She began to drink, slowly and deeply, giving contented sighs. Cradling the back of her head with his cuffed hand, he wrapped his other arm around her body and rolled her on top of him. He could feel his eyelids becoming heavy, even as he tingled with growing arousal. He couldn't seem to lose the smile on his face, and he really didn't want to--he had his Lindy back. Not the pale and timid woman who'd returned from Marrok's clutches. His woman, his wife. The one who took his body, his heart and soul, who fought for what she wanted, and never let him take advantage of her. His love, who'd made him sleep on the couch when they first met, who drove his car so cautiously and protected their son so recklessly. The arm he held around her waist tightened, squeezing her against him. "I love you so much, baby. Welcome home." Bryn carefully settled Max in his crib, stroked his soft dark hair, and pulled his blanket over his back. She couldn't help but smile as she watched him sleep, softly snoring, just like his father. Kneeling down next to his crib, she quietly greeted Petunia and gave her a good scratch behind the ears. The dog had met her at the top of the stairs, sleepy-eyed but wagging her tail. Aware that baby monitor was on, Bryn got to her feet and lightly patted her thigh so Petunia would follow her, then shut off the light, and walked across the alcove to their bedroom. She winced at Petunia's toenails clicked on the tile floor. [Gotta get those clipped.] The room was dark, save the small porcelain night-light glowing just inside the bathroom. Stripping off her clothes, she stepped out of them and made sure the dog went to her bed. Then, cautiously easing on to the mattress, she listened to Anton's breathing. It didn't seem to change at all. A little smirk crossed her face as her eyes adjusted to the darkness and she noticed his erection tenting the blankets. Moving carefully, she slipped under the blankets herself, easing towards him, and slowly pulled his cock into her mouth. She squirmed, stifling a soft moan, enjoying his familiar taste. He let out a deep sigh, settling his shoulders deeper into the pillow. His dream about Bryn seducing him was becoming more and more real by the moment. He could almost feel her tongue sliding over the underside of his cock... His eyes slid open, resting on the clock and seeing that it was only two in the afternoon. He glanced around, looking for Bryn, when he realized that he could still feel a mouth teasing him. He tossed back the covers, grinning when he saw the dark head draped over his groin. "This is a pleasant way to wake up, my dear." She pushed her hair out of the way, smiling at him...as much as she could with him still in her mouth. Tilting her head to one side, she let him watch as she swallowed him almost completely, then pulled back again. With a lazy swirl of her tongue, she released him from her lips. "I probably shouldn't have gotten you up so early. Now you're going to be tired at work. Guess you'll just have to suffer through it." "Yeah, and such torture it will be." He closed his eyes as she swallowed him yet again. Lazily he moved his hips, starting a thrusting motion. One hand resting behind his head, he stroked her hair with the other one. He wanted to ask if there had been any change with Nate and Lindy. But as Bryn flicked at his glans with the tip of her tongue, he lost that train of thought. She moaned, her lips vibrating around the rim of his glans. She drilled her tongue into the slit at the tip, excited by the sounds he made in response. Swallowing him again, she lightly grasped his balls, fondling him, as she moved her head quickly up and down his shaft. He gave a quick series of grunts in time with the bobbing motion of her head. The sharp tingles in his groin grew stronger as she continued to caress his balls. But he was still able to hang on, until she caressed his anus, lightly pressing against it. Anton gave a sharp yelp, arching up as he came, cradling her head closer to his groin. Panting, he sank back against the mattress. Bryn lapped at him for a few more seconds, then swallowed heavily. She'd never taken him that deeply into her throat before, and was embarrassed that she'd gagged a few times. Given his reaction, she didn't really think he'd noticed. Sinking down perpendicular to him, she settled her head on his stomach. She was panting heavily herself. Torn between lust and exhaustion. Although Anton had slept peacefully for most of the day, she'd yet to fall asleep herself. And she had to admit that her head was feeling a little fuzzy. Anton opened his eyes, smiling. But his smile disappeared when he saw the expression on Bryn's face. "Are you okay?" When she shook her head now, he carefully sat up, reaching out to feel her forehead with the back of his hand. "You feel warm, my dear." He helped her to settle down in the bed beside him, and placed the top sheet lightly over her. "Is there anything you want me to get you?" She shook her head, scooting closer to him. "Just you." Sliding her calf over his, she tangled their legs together. "I think I just got a little too warm on the way home. I hurried to get back, so I could crawl back in bed with you." Curling up in his warmth, she let out a soft sigh. "Nate and Lindy have made up. Either that or he was giving her artificial respiration while standing up. I saw them in the tunnel on the way back here." Anton smiled, chuckling slightly. "So he went after her? Good." He pulled her tighter against him. "I'm surprised that her parents let him into their house after our warm welcome the other night." He gently stroked Bryn's hair back from her head. "Did you talk to her at all before they made up?" "Yes, a little bit. She didn't look good at all. Had been crying before I got there, and did after I sat down, too. There was a bunch of food on a plate, but I could tell she hadn't touched it. She was glad to see Liam, though." Bryn slid her hand down his stomach, lightly rubbing his belly but not enough to tickle him. She let her eyes slip closed, nestling her head into the pillow. "I was only there a few minutes, when Nate came barging in the room. He just picked her up and walked back out. Alex tried to stop him, but Jess and Walter let him go. If he'd been anyone else, I would've smacked him. But Lindy didn't seem to mind." Anton continued to pet her, combing his fingers through her hair. "I wonder what happened. Something must have changed." He leaned down and kissed her forehead. "Hopefully we'll find out sometime." He then nuzzled her. "You want me to carry off one of these days? Ravish you in the tunnels under our home?" She opened her eyes and smiled at him. "That would be nice. It sounds so gothic and romantic...my vampire lover carrying me to his dark corridor to ravish me. I may have to dress up to become the perfect damsel in distress." Scooting closer, she pressed her lips to his neck, lingering with her head tucked under his chin. "Maybe one of these days we'll have to make love in a cemetery, too. We could dance naked through the headstones." "I had no idea that you were so kinky, my dear." 'Well, if you don't like the idea--" "I didn't say that, my dear. It has definite possibilities." He kissed her neck, nipping lightly at her scar. "What other fantasies do you have, my dear? Do you think about what it will be like to make love once your Transformed?" "Yes, I do think about that, a lot. I wonder what it would be like to both be feeding from each other at the same time, straining, while trying so hard to reach orgasm at the same time." She looked up at him, licking her lips. "I've imagined us having sex in a church." She grinned at that. "Or in some other public place...and when someone interrupts us, we can just flash our eyes at them. But mostly, I wonder what your blood tastes like. I bet it's delicious." He continued to nip her neck between his sentences. "And you'll know soon, my dear. I promise you that." He paused, thinking. Unlike werewolves, who would Change a human with almost any saliva/blood contact, vampires could only be made when the victim was dying. "And there's no reason you couldn't find out now." Without hesitation, he bit down on his index finger, much as he would have for Max, and lanced his finger with his fangs. Waiting until a fat drop of blood welled on the tip, he then held it to Bryn's mouth, offering. She held his gaze, feeling somewhat hesitant now that he was offering. She just hoped she didn't make a fool out of herself and gross out. Opening her mouth, she grasped his wrist and sucked on his finger. The first taste was tangy on her tongue, what she'd heard described as coppery. It didn't taste like copper to her. It was almost like a light spice, barely touching her taste buds and quickly followed by surprising sweetness. She pulled more firmly, keeping the flow moving, suckling with obvious relish. Anton shivered. He hadn't expected to be so rapidly aroused by her sucking on him, tasting his blood. He watched, panting lightly as she continued to pull on his finger. His erection was back and fully hard as he pressed closer to her. She watched him, a smile forming as his breathing sped up. Sucking his entire finger into her mouth, she slowly let it slide from her lips and kissed the tip. Pulling his hand out of the way, she kissed his mouth, letting him taste his own blood on her tongue, whimpering softly. With his erection trapped between them, she wiggled her hips and rubbed him against the softness of her belly. "You do taste delicious, my love." He kissed her again, relishing her taste. His hands slid down her bare back, caressing silky skin as he reached her ass. After squeezing both cheeks, he tugged her closer. Nipping her lips, his mouth started to trail over her neck and shoulders, pausing at her nipples. She squirming, watching under heavy eyelids as he pulled her nipple into his mouth. She let out a soft moan, threading her fingers through his hair. Still feeling a bit lightheaded, but not at all eager for him to stop, she coaxed him along with her as she settled on to her back. Bryn smiled, feeling his warmth as he slid his thigh over hers, the intense heat of his cock, the reassurance of his weight settling on top of her. She cradled him with her thighs, rubbing his legs with hers. He gently sucked on her nipple with a slight chewing motion. He toyed with her other nipple, brushing his thumb lightly around her areola. She felt warmer than usual, and he wondered if she was catching some sort of flu. His hands continued to caress her skin as he suckled on her. "Mmm..." She wanted to touch him, to make him tremble the way she was, but couldn't reach very much. Sliding her hands between them, palms up, she gently rubbed his nipples with her fingertips, rolling them, flicking them back and forth. She smiled at his resulting purr. Rubbing her thigh against his cock, she gave him a slight pout. "Sugar...I want you. Stop teasing me." "Yes, my dear." With one smooth motion, he pushed his cock inside of her, but held still, just relishing her feel. She was wet and slick and gripped him so tightly he thought he might pass out. Pushing himself up on his elbows, he kissed her lips lightly before starting to thrust, watching her expressions change with fascination. She wrapped her legs around his hips, her brow furrowed slightly in concentration. She loved being able to tighten her sex around him, feeling his width push her open over and over again. Grabbing his ass, she held on tightly, enjoying the play of his muscles, clenching and releasing. "I love the way you fuck me. How you get deep inside me, like you're try to climb in my body." She gasped, opening her legs wider. "You feel so good, filling me completely...you always make me feel so tight...and stuffed." He moaned at her words, thrusting faster. "You grip me so tightly, sometimes I wonder how I'm able to move." His eyes shut and he lowered himself against her, breathing heavily as his chest skimmed over her nipples. His hand crept down between her legs to lightly circle her clit as he started kissing her mouth. She jerked her hips against him, shocked by intensity of his touch. Kissing him hungrily, she wrapped her arms around his neck and sucked on his tongue. He smelled so good, so familiar and comforting, like curling up with her favorite blanket...she loved that about him. She loved how much he'd come to mean to her, until she couldn't live with him, couldn't function or breathe without him, didn't even want to think about life before they met. He was far more than just her best friend and lover; he was her everything, her missing half. And she knew she was everything to him, too. He stroked her a little harder, pushed into her a little faster, and kissed her more intently. He tangled his tongue with hers, pressing his finger against her clit. He wanted, no needed her to cum first, to feel her spasming on his cock. He nipped at her neck before sliding his tongue into her ear. "Ohhh God..." She dug her fingernails into his shoulders, using her feet to lift her hips into his thrusts. He felt so good she was shaking all over, vibrating with the tension. She squeezed him tighter, harder, gasping with pleasure. It only took a few more lunges of his hips before she cried out, cumming hard. "Anton!" Anton let out a drawn out groan. His eyes rolled back i n his head and he gave one final thrust with a shout. Panting, Anton sank against her and he pressed his forehead against her shoulder, coming down from his high. It always amazed him how she could make him feel so incredible. "Bryn," he whispered softly before turning slightly to the side and kissing her neck. She whimpered, tugging him back. "Stay on top of me, please? You feel so good." She gave him a pleading look, and then a sweet smile when he shifted back on to her. Still squeezing his cock lightly, she wrapped her arms tightly around his back. "I wish we could stay like this all night. I don't want you to go." She closed her eyes for a minute, then met his gaze again. "But you probably should. I don't want to be one of those annoying wives that always nagging. Could you at least come home a little early?" Anton gently stroked her hair. "I'll come home early, my dear. And you're not a nagging wife." He pressed his lips against her forehead, frowning slightly. She still felt awfully hot to him. "Bryn, are you sure you're okay?" She frowned. "I have a headache and my throat hurts a little bit, but it's not a big deal. I'll feel better after I get some sleep." She gave him a small smile. "But it would be helpful if you brought Max in here before you leave, so I can hear him. I'll probably fall asleep soon. I'm tired enough." Her eyes slipped closed, as if proving her point. "You don't have to move until you the alarm rings, though. You're really warm." "Okay." He grabbed the sheets and pulled them up over his shoulders, adding another layer of warmth to their bodies. He didn't like how pale she looked, but that could be because of how tired she was. "Do you want me to bring home something to eat also?" he offered, not sure what else to do. "Hmm?" She lazily opened her eyes, swallowing heavily. "Um, if you want to. I can make something. Just let me know what you want to do." She closed her eyes again, tossing her head on the pillow until she found a comfortable position. It took a while...her hair felt weird against the back of her neck, almost intolerably texturized. "I think...there's some steaks in there...somewhere." "Okay. I'll call you before I leave." He nuzzled her again, and then settle down, letting his eyes close. He was wondering what was wrong. [Could she be pregnant again?] Anton immediately dismissed the thought. [It's probably too soon. Something else could be going on.] "Anything more I can do right now?" She opened one eye a crack to look at him. "Actually, yes. Can you do me a favor? It's really important to me, so I want you to listen closely, okay?" "Okay." "You can't mess this up--" "Bryn, just tell me what it is." "Okay...Anton, I want you to...be quiet so I can go to sleep." He gave a slight grin. "Okay, Bryn. I'll shut up now. I can be quiet with the best of them. Dead silent. You won't hear me make another..." He was cut off as Bryn smacked on the head with a convenient pillow. He grinned wider, but didn't say another word. Hoping she'd feel better by the time he had to leave for work, he nestled down more securely on top of her. She dropped the pillow back to the bed, determined to keep the scowl on her face. She wasn't successful. Still, she managed to keep from giggling as she smiled. Settling back to the pillow, she let her chin settle on his shoulder. His warmth lulling her to sleep. Before she could allow herself to drift away completely, she whispered, "I love you, Anton." He kept her cradled close to his body. "I love you too, Sabryn." She had slept better than she had in a long time. Perhaps that was because Nate was back to using her for a body pillow. Lindy let out a soft little moan as her eyes opened. After feeding from each other, they had both been too exhausted to do much more than drag themselves them under the sheets and fall asleep, still handcuffed together. Lindy looked at her husband, and ran her fingers through his hair. She still felt stupid for having left him, but maybe it was something that needed to happen. Eyes still closed, Nate clung to the edge of sleep. He was having a wonderful dream, listening to Lindy's laughter, her scent all around him, and a curtain of long blond hair parting to show the flash of her smile. He laughed in return, tickling her. She hadn't let go of his wrist even once, but he wasn't ready to let her...until he felt the bed shift beneath them. Shocked out of sleep, Nate opened his eyes and stared, bleary-eyed, down at his wife. He unstuck his tongue from the roof of his mouth, blinking, his gaze shifting to the handcuff around his wrist. Memory returned to him, and he yawned. [Gotta find that key.] "Hey, gorgeous...wha's up?" "Not me yet," she said with a yawn. "I don't know about you, but I could sleep for another twelve hours." She tightened her free arm around his waist, her expression serious. "I know you said I don't have to keep apologizing about what happened, but I need to hear you say you forgive me, Nate. Just one more time." "Yes, I forgive you, Lindy." He kissed her gently, stroking her hair back from her face. "We've still got time before your mom takes Liam back. And we *are* in bed..." He wiggled his eyebrows, trying his hardest to be the old flirty, irresistible Nate. "So, are you up to it? I've been practicing. I think I've gotten pretty damned good." She arched an eyebrow. "Practicing, huh?" "How else am I gonna get good at it? The contestants certainly don't help me any." She frowned at him. "Contestants?" "For Jeopardy. What did you think I was talking about?" Lindy giggled and rolled her eyes. "Well, I wasn't thinking game shows.Ó She stretched out beneath him and gave a comfortable sigh. "But I'm up to it if you are." He pretended to think about it for a minute, then briskly shook his head. "Nah. I think I'd just rather do this..." Settling down more firmly upon her, he kissed her again, nudging her lips apart with his, teasing her tongue repeatedly. He let out a soft moan, pressing himself against her curves. The way she responded so readily, kissing him in return, clutching his body with both hands, sent shivers up his spine. [That's right, baby...stay with me. Let me love you. I promise I won't ever disappoint you again.] She kissed him back, lightly nipping at his lower lip. For the first time in a long time, she felt warm and protected. Comfortable under his weight. Sexy under his touch. Her free hand slipped under his shirt to rest on the small of his back. He let out a rolling purr, settling his hips more firmly against hers. He languorously rubbed himself against her, as if scenting her, marking his territory. Deepening the kiss, he sucked at her tongue, lightly nipping at her. Slipping his hand between them, he started to slowly unbutton her shirt, caressing the flesh he exposed. "You feel so good beneath me, baby. So soft and warm. I want to feel your skin against mine...your nipples in my mouth." She whimpered, wondering if it was possible to cum from his words alone. She trembled slightly as he pulled her shirt aside, feeling almost like it was the first time they made love. And in a way it was a new beginning for them. She reached up with her free hand to stroke his hair as he started kissing down her neck. He sucked on her skin just below her jaw, making her squirm, slowly moving his way down her body. As he reached her clavicle, he paused, pushing himself upright, grabbing his shirt behind his back and pulling it over his head. He was able to get one arm free, but his shirt dangled uselessly from their joined wrists. Unbuttoning her shirt even more, he settled down against her once more, groaning loudly as her breasts flattened against his bare chest. He could feel her hard nipples drilling into his skin, and he kissed her mouth wantonly as his arousal grew. She groaned, feeling him press her harder to the mattress. Her free hand began scratching up and down his spine. She tried to bring the cuffed one around as well, but was hampered by his arm and the shirt. Giving up, she opened her legs wider, whimpering as he settled between them. She could feel the bulge in his groin, and she pressed herself more firmly against it. He let out a choked moan, his hips jerking against hers. Still kissing her, he palmed her breast, kneading her with his fingers. After a moment, he pulled back to watch, eyes flickering as lifted and squeezed her, mouth falling open as he circled her nipple with his thumb. He smiled at her moans, leaning down trace his tongue around the same circular path. Lapping at her, tugging with his lips, until her nipple was painfully stiff. And when he sucked her into his mouth, she let out a shriek that sent shivers down his spine. Heaven. That was the only word she could come up with to describe how it felt was heaven. The heat from his lips and the light scrape of his teeth against her was making her melt. She had missed this more than she had realized. When Nate started to back away slightly, she entangled her free hand in his hair and pushed him back against her. Nate chuckled softly, grasping her hand and pushed it back to her side. "Relax, gorgeous...I'm just switching sides." The look of desperation on her face made his breath catch. Eyes still on her face, he slowly dipped down to lap at her breast, his breath speeding up as whimpered and squirmed, his pants becoming unbearably tight. Balancing himself on his forearm, he reached down with his free hand to unbutton his jeans. Sucking on her nipple as he eased down his own zipper. She was wiggling and writing constantly now, wrapping her legs over his thighs. But she immediately released him when he started pulling off his jeans. "Want you, Nate. Want you so badly..." Her hand slipped down his back and under the waistband of his underwear, caressing his ass. He jumped, freezing in place above her. Through clenched teeth, he hissed. Panting, he said, "Lind...careful, baby...I don't want this to end too quickly." As she lightened her touch, he pushed his jeans down the rest of the way. Then he went to work on hers. He could smell her arousal, rich and warm against his senses, and it felt as if his cock would split right through his briefs. [There's no way I'm going to last longer than three seconds...] She moaned as she helped him pull off her jeans. She could feel herself growing slicker by the moment. [God...I'm gonna cum the first time he touches me.] She tangled her fingers in his waistband and pulled them down, whimpering when she saw how hard he was. She wanted to stroke his length, but knew that he probably couldn't handle the stimulation. Even the air felt like too much stimulation. He shuddered heavily, his fingers fumbling to pull her panties down. He didn't seem to be able to move fast enough...or slow enough. Needing so badly to get inside, and also wanting it to last. Dragging her panties and jeans all the way off, he poised himself between her legs. Ready to enter her, and yet suddenly reluctant. "I don't know how long I'll be able to last," he said, sheepishly. "I want you so much. Maybe too much." She arched against him, trying to slip him inside. "I don't care, Nate! I just want you in me, now!" Breathing heavily, she wrapped her legs around his waist. "I don't care if it only lasts five seconds. I just want you in me!" He started laughing--until she grabbed his cock and dragged him forward. Gasping, he did what she asked, pushing into her in one swift movement, freezing in place once he'd filled her completely. "Oh God...babythatfeelssogood!" He was panting like he'd just run a marathon, shaking from head to toe, trying so hard to hold on just a little longer... She shrieked, arching up underneath him. He hadn't placed any pressure on her clit other than the lightest brush of his pubic hair. She let out a loud cry and began clamping down on his cock, shuddering beneath him in the throes of an intense orgasm. "Yessssssss!" He let out a shout, hips bucking violently as his own climax peaked. He fed off the rippling movements of her sex, the tight contractions milking him until he felt weak and lightheaded. Quivering, he settled down heavily on top of her, pleasure ringing through his veins like continuous electric shock. His breath shuddered past her ear as he let out one last moan. She sank back into the mattress, her breath escaping in a light hiss. She closed her eyes, waiting for her breathing to come back to something resembling normal. Lindy turned her head slightly, brushing her lips against his cheek before going entirely limp beneath him. He had thought he'd go entirely limp, too, but he didn't. His arousal barely waned after his orgasm, and he soon had the need to move again. Forearms braced beside her, their cuffed hands laced together, he started slowly rocking his hips back and forth, dragging himself almost completely out of her before pushing in once more. Her sex was soft and wet, so hot around him he could've been in a Jacuzzi. He couldn't seem to stop smiling. She was grinning ear to ear as well. Bending her knees so her feet were flat on the bed, she started to push her hips up to meet him. She let out a contented moan. Grabbing his other hand, she interlaced her fingers on that hand as well. She hadn't realized how much she missed being touched, being filled, until she got his cock back inside of her. "You feel so good, Nate. So, so good." "Ohhh...baby, I can't believe how good you feel. I've missed this so much. I think I could do this all night." He leaned down to kiss her, adding a twist to his thrusts, gasping as she tightened around him even more. Letting go of her hand for a moment, he reached down to grab her thigh, pulling it up higher, trying to get even deeper inside her. She spread her other leg wider, whimpering as she felt him hit her cervix. Her hand reached around to caress his ass, enjoying the flex of his muscles. The power, strength, and intensity all being directed at making her cum blew her away. She squeezed him lightly before letting her fingers dip into his crease and brush his perineum. He groaned, pushing himself deeper inside her, then pulling back farther to more firmly feel her touch. His strokes became more rapid, his breath panting from his lungs. A few weeks ago, he never would've believed that anything could possibly feel this good...he should've known better. Lindy always made him feel spectacular, like he could take on the world. And he smiled down at her, letting her know just how much he was enjoying this, how much he'd missed being held so tightly, by her arms and her body. Waves of pleasure suffused his body, and he pressed himself fully against her, moving faster, kissing her deeply, loving her more than anything. "Lindy!" They were both so close to cumming. Lindy griped him tighter with both her hands and muscles. She could feel the heat of his cock radiating throughout her, warming her. She squealed and arched beneath him, squeezing his ass as her orgasm began. "Nathaniel!" He shouted, body clenching as he shot his semen deep inside her. He held perfectly still, the only movement coming from deep tremors as he came. Finally, panting, he settled down on top of her, groaning as his muscles melted inside him. Burying his face against her neck, he closed his eyes, so warm and comfortable, sated and exhausted. He knew he could easily fall asleep just like this...but he wasn't sure she'd welcome it, or his heavy weight crushing her. As the sweat on his back started to cool, he shivered lightly and lifted his head to look at her. "Shall we climb under the covers...or get up and get dressed?" "Mmmm..." She wanted badly to snuggle back under the covers. But her family would be back soon with Liam. And Mulder would probably want to talk to her about what happened as well. "I guess we should get dressed," she said with a sigh. She looked at their arms, still locked together. "But first we should uncuff ourselves. I promise not to run away." Frowning, he pressed his cheek to her shoulder once more. "I despise getting dressed. I say we stay here. Although, if you really want the key," he said, yawning, "you're going to have to call your mom. Because I don't have it." Lindy gave a half smile, laughing lightly. "You borrowed Walter's handcuffs, but didn't think to get the key at the same time?" She kissed his forehead. "Then you'll need to give me the phone, beloved. Cause I can't reach across you to get it. And I'll see if I can talk Mom into keeping Liam a bit longer." A wide smile spread across his face. Reaching for the edge of the blankets, pulling Lindy's hand along with his, he tugged them closer. "Hang on to me...this is going to be tricky." He heard her soft laugh as she wrapped one arm around his neck and grabbed his hip with the other. Trying to lift her, and himself, with just his knees and one hand, he scooted to the side...then dragged the blankets out from beneath her. Awkwardly, he then rolled on to his back, settling in the middle of the bed, and settled the covers over them. With his cuffed hand, pulling hers along once again, he reached for the phone. "I'd love to know how you plan to get the key in here without embarrassing the hell out of me." She nuzzled his neck. "I hadn't even thought that far ahead yet." Waiting for a moment to call her parents, she kissed Nate on the cheek. "I just want to tell you something first, Nate. I'm not going to run away any more. Not physically, not mentally. I'm going to stand my ground and face everything." He tilted his head to the side slightly, watching her. "Good. I hope you'll feel much better. Much stronger." Swallowing heavily, he paused for a moment. "Does this mean we're going to stop acting like strangers? That you'll let me comfort you when you need it...and you'll let me hold you, when I need it?" She nodded, her gaze solemn. "Yes, absolutely." His eyes grew misty as he stroked the hair away from her face. "Thank you. All I want to do is love you, Lindy. I've missed you so very much. And I need you terribly." He pressed his lips to her forehead, lingering there with his eyes closed, shuddering lightly. "I love you, Alinda. I'll always love you, more than you'll ever know." End Chapter Eighty-nine <- Previous Chapter | Home | Next Chapter ->