Chapter Ninety-eight She woke up shortly after sunset. Lindy stretched, and then snuggled back into her husband's arms. It appeared that Nathaniel was still sound asleep. She let her fingers trace over his biceps lazily, watching his face as he dreamed. She had been doing some thinking. There was something she felt she needed to do, but she wasn't sure that it was a wise idea. It was a risk, but if she calculated it right, and had the correct setup, it would be negligible. Almost nothing. But even if he agreed with her about the risk, Nate would probably refuse to actually do it. [And he'd probably be right,] she thought, pressing a light kiss to his lips. [So why can't I shake the feeling that I should do it?] Stretching lazily, Nate rolled over, eyes still closed, and pulled Lindy closer. He'd been spread out in the oversized hotel bed all day, happily snoozing like a dog who'd taken over his master's bed. Now as he cracked open an eye to look at her, he couldn't help but curl his body around hers and tangle himself in her limbs. "You look like a million bucks, gorgeous. I think hunting works for you." She smiled back, resting her head on his shoulder. "Thanks," she said, nuzzling him and kissing his cheek. She felt warm and content in his arms, and she couldn't think of a place where she'd rather be. "How about you? You need to go feed tonight?" Yawning, he said, "I think...I'll get one of the bags out of the fridge when we get home. I'm not in the mood to go out. I just want to see Liam." He smiled at the mere mention of their son. "I never thought I would like a child that much, let alone think of him as my own. I miss him so much, even after just a few hours apart. That little mischievous grin of his, watching him walk, trying to get him to talk more. He just brightens me up so much." "Yeah," Lindy added with a grin of her own. "It's hard to believe sometimes..." "Believe what, baby?" "Believe that he's he's related to Marrok." Her smile faded as she rolled onto her stomach to look at him more easily. "I've got this idea in my head, and I'm not sure it's a smart thing to do, but I can't shake it." She took a breath. "I want to confront him somehow about what he did. I feel like I need to do something, spit in his face, slap him, tell him to get bent, something minimal at least." He settled on his back. "How about run him over with a steam roller? Shove him in a metal compacter and hit the start button. Put him in a room filled with nothing but sterling silver spikes?" Her smile returned. "I think I like your ideas much better." She leaned down against him, giving a sigh. "I'm not sure why I feel like I need to show him he didn't break me. It's probably a stupid idea," she said. "But I can't let go of it for some reason." "I think you should stay as far away from him as possible, for the rest of eternity. You've got nothing to prove to him, Lindy. If you need to prove something, prove it to yourself. Leave that bastard out of it. The only reason I haven't killed him by now is that I've been too busy spending time with you and Liam. Protecting you. That isn't going to be easy for me to do if you walk right on to his path, Lind." "I know, Nate. I know." She snuggled up to him again. "Just how do I prove it to myself? And when he last saw me, I was just about broken. I'm worried that he'll think that I'm still like that and think it a weakness." She gently ran her nails over his arms. "But I guess you're right. The farther away I stay from him, the better." Lindy didn't sound fully convinced though. "If he thinks it's a weakness, good! That means the next time he tries something, you'll shock the shit out of him. He'll have you underestimated, and that's exactly to your advantage. Let him think you're as helpless as a lamb. We'll know it's not true. We'll know you can kick his ass the next time." He caressed her face, looking deep into her eyes. "He's the weak one this time, Lindy. He has nothing over you. You have all of the cards in your hand. Don't let him see what you're holding." "I know, I know, I know. It makes sense logically." She gave another sigh. "I guess I've still got some werewolf instincts. I think what I'm trying to do is assert my dominance. Make him acknowledge he's not the alpha wolf when it comes to me. Which is silly, because he'd never do that." He narrowed his gaze slightly, a sickening thought making him queasy. "Don't alpha males try to mount the females when they want to assert dominance?" She nodded, wishing she could deny it. "Males too. And it's not sex, more like they're standing over them. I'm-taller-than-you-and-therefore-stronger." She gently stroked his face reassuringly. "And don't worry. He made it clear that he wasn't into 'necrophilia,' as he put it. I was bait to him. Nothing more." He swallowed heavily. "Well I'd rather you forget any idea about proving anything to him. In fact, forget about him altogether. He's not worth your time." He pressed his lips to her forehead, then glanced at the clock. "I think there's still time before the restaurant downstairs closes. Do you want to go grab something to eat? Or maybe go for a swim in the pool?" "Both sound good, although I forgot my swimsuit. Unlike our pool at home, I think the hotel staff will frown on skinny dipping." She stretched out next to him. "Actually, let's grab something to eat and then go see Liam. I'm really missing him." "Okay." He smiled, rubbing her back. "We can even get some dessert to take back for him and your family. I bet they even have a dessert buffet here." He wiggled his eyebrows at her. "Tiramisu, here we come!" Lindy giggled, reminded of what he told her about tiramisu the first time they went out. "Okay, Nate." She watched as he rolled out of bed, and then climbed out as well. [He's right,] she told herself. [I should stay as far away from Marrok as possible.] [So why can't I believe him?] She sat quietly in the backseat of her parents' car, staring absently out the window. It looked like it was raining, but only because of the moisture sliding over her eyes. The window and the street beyond were dry. Jolie was buckled in next to her, exhausted after the emotional funeral and the even longer wake. Now that her mother was officially gone, she slept peacefully with her head on Bryn's shoulder. The radio was turned off, and they were all silent, leaving nothing but the soft hiss of the tires on pavement. Although John had been allowed to attend his wife's funeral, escorted by an ambulance, he had long since been returned to the hospital. The stress was too much for his abused body, the grief too much for his broken heart. Despite all of the tears shed around him, he'd only stared blankly at the coffin Caroline had never wanted. Pulling into the driveway at his home, Bryn saw Anton outside on the front steps and swallowed heavily. She remained seated, except for unbuckling herself, watching as her parents got out of the car, her father carrying Jolie as she slept. Her mother hugged Anton as she got close to the house, nodding as he spoke softly to her and then squeezing him even tighter. He exchanged a few words with her father before walking towards the car, Max in his arms. Bryn quietly opened the door, turning sideways, and rested her bare feet on the driveway. "You both look like a feast to my eyes." He smiled softly, offering his hand to help her out of the car. Restless since Bryn had left for the funeral, he had spent most of the day holding Max. Wishing he could be there with her to comfort her. "How was the funeral, Bryn? You all look exhausted." She reached for her shoes on the back seat before shutting the door. "It was a funeral. I don't think they get much more descriptive than that." She let out a shuddering sigh. Leaning back against the car, she stared down at the lawn. "John...he was there, but it was like he was somewhere else. I thought he might cry or something, but he just stared. He didn't say a word to anyone but Jolie. I'm not sure he even knew we were there. Sometimes--sometimes I think he even forgot to breathe." "He's still in shock," he said, slipping his arm around her waist. "He's not going to realize that she's gone until he comes home and spends the first night alone in their bed. Or at least that's when it hit me." He squeezed her waist, guiding her back to the motorhome. "I wish I could have been there. How are you holding up, Bryn?" She shrugged her shoulders, her eyes feeling abnormally hot. "I want to burn this dress. I won't ever wear it again, after this." She started to untie the wrap skirt before they even got in the RV. Stepping up the stairs, she dumped her shoes on the floor and stripped out of her clothes as she walked down the hall. "I was uncomfortable. Didn't know most of the people there, and those I did know I didn't want to see at that time. The wake was the worst though. Having to talk to her family...wanting to punch her creepy uncle for staring at me..." She sighed heavily. "I was too...I don't know. It was just hard to grieve with all of those people there. It felt like being sad at a clown convention. I spent most of the time trying to blend into the potted ficus." He followed her into the bedroom. "I know what you mean, Bryn. You just want the world to go away, and it won't." He sat down on the bed. Max, leaned towards his mommy, arms stretched out to reach her. He smiled down at his son. "Am I going to have to go hunt down this 'creepy uncle' and remind him that you are a most decidedly married woman?" he asked in an attempt to make her smile. She did give him a smile, albeit a small one. "I wouldn't mind if you did." Plucking Max out of his arms, she pulled the baby close to her chest and pressed her lips to his head. Then she sat down next to Anton, her head leaning against his shoulder as he wrapped his arm around her. "I'll put on some jeans in a minute and we can go." They'd already discussed going to the cemetery so Anton could pay his respects. She was fairly certain Caroline had already been moved to the mausoleum. She just hoped the place wasn't as creepy as it sounded. "I'd like to stop by the hospital, too, at least to see Chris. I'm not sure if John is up to visitors now or not." Gently rocking Max, who was holding on to her hair, she said, "Did you manage to get any sleep after I left?" Anton shook his head. "Not much. Max was a bit restless after you left, and I can't say that I was calm either." He gently stroked Bryn's hair. "It would to be good to see Chris, and I would like to say hello to John at least, even if he's not up to anything more than that." He didn't mention to her what he had been thinking - that this could have been her after her car accident. Nor the nightmare he had while still in the hospital, which he still hadn't told her about. Keeping Max held close to her, Bryn settled on her back on the bed. "Did you get to play with your toys, sweet pea? I sure missed you and Daddy when I was gone. I bet if we ask really nicely, we could talk him into taking us to McDonald's for dinner. What do you think about that?" Max let out a little smile, as if he perfectly understood what she was saying. "I think you both know that you have me wrapped around your little finger." He settled on the bed next to her and pressed his lips into her head. "How about we go get dinner then and go see if John and Chris are up to visitors? Or would you like to stay here for a few minutes?" She reached her hand down to grab his belt loops, tugging him closer. She shivered lightly as his warmth surrounded her, and turned her head to nuzzle his neck. "Can we just stay here for a little while? I missed you holding me." He pulled her onto his lap, holding her close, resting his cheek on her head. "I wish I could have been there with you, Bryn. I wish you didn't have to face it alone." He rocked her back and forth lightly. "I can't tell you how proud I am that you went without me, Bryn. As much as I didn't want you too." They sat like that for several minutes, savoring each other's presence. Both started slightly when there was a knock on the door of the trailer. "Were you expecting someone?" She shook her head. "I thought they knew we were leaving soon." "Maybe they wanted to say good night. Why don't you stay here, and I'll go see who it is." She nodded and slid off of his lap, allowing him to get up and go to the door. His mother-in-law was standing there as the door opened. "Bernadette...is something wrong?" "No...I was just wondering how Sabryn is doing. I wanted to make sure everything is okay." "Everything is as well as can be expected," Anton said. "We were going to go in a few minutes so I can pay my respects." He held the door open so she could come inside. Bernadette nodded. "I was wondering if you'd like me to take Max for part of the evening, to make things easier on the two of you." Anton nodded, thinking for a moment. "Let me ask Bryn. I'm not sure if she'd want to let Max out of her sight at the moment. I'll be right back," He headed back down the hallway, pausing at the door for the bedroom. Couldn't help but smile when he saw Bryn cradling Max close. "Bryn? Your mother wants to know if we'd like to leave Max with her while we go out." She looked down at Max, obviously reluctant to let go. "It would probably be best, if we're going to the hospital and the cemetary...but I don't want to leave him." Hugging the baby a bit closer, she rubbed her cheek against his soft black hair. Finally, with a shuddering breath, she nodded. "We won't be gone too long. Besides, he might like to see Jolie for a while. I'm sure she'd love to see him, too." Anton nodded. He took Max in his arms, not before letting Bryn kiss his forehead one more time. "I'll be right back, my dear." He walked back to Bryn's mother, bouncing Max lightly in his arms. "We'll be back in a little while. Thank you Bernadette." She nodded, taking Max. "Let us know when you're home." She turned and walked towards the main house. Anton watched her disappear into John's home, and turned back inside. He walked down to the bedroom and sat down next to Bryn, pulling her back into his lap. He tightened his arms around her, pressing his nose against her neck, as if never planning to let her go. Bryn shuddered lightly, hugging him tightly. His embrace, wrapped so comfortingly around her, felt like the only thing holding her together...like tape covering the cracks in broken glass. The intense grief she'd felt earlier slowly dribbled down her cheeks, and she was so grateful to him for being there. So lucky to be loved the way he loved her, unconditionally, completely, unendingly. "I love you so much. I was *so* blessed the day you walked into my life." "Not nearly as blessed as I was, my dear Bryn. And still am." He wiped at the tears on her cheeks with the pad of his thumb. "And this time, I'm not going to let you go. I am going to do everything in my power to keep you by my side. Now and forever." He gently stroked her hair back from her cheek before placing a soft kiss on her skin. Slowly he worked his way towards her ear. "You're mine, Sabryn Rudenko. Forever." She clutched his shoulders, tilting her head to the side. His kisses were very healing, each one heating her skin and warming her body. After only a few minutes, she turned her head to meet his lips, kissing him firmly, hungrily, giving everything to him. She let out a soft whimper, sucking on his lips, fisting her hands in his shirt. She needed him so much, needed everything he could give her...to lose herself in him until they were one. He opened his mouth, nudging her lips wider apart so he could taste her. His arms gripped her tighter, crushing her against his chest. And he tilted her backwards, following her down until she was flat on her back, and he was hovering over her. His mouth never left her as his hand strayed to the catch of her bra. Pulling her up slightly, he freed her breasts, gently reaching down to caress her nipple, tease it erect. Slowly, lovingly he continued to kiss her, giving soft moans of pleasure. She arched into his touch, moaning against his mouth. Hips rocking, she reached for his t-shirt and tugged it upwards, over his head, before tossing it to the side. Her hands grasped his muscular arms, relishing his smooth skin, pulling him more firmly on top of her. Barely pausing, her hand slid down to his jeans, tugging on the top button, quickly lowering the zipper. She slipped her fingers under the waistband of his boxers, teasingly raking her fingernails through his pubic hair. Breath coming in harsh gasps as he continued to kiss her. He lifted up slightly again, so he could slip his fingers beneath her underwear as well. Forced to break off the kiss, he pushed back onto his knees and slipped off her panties. Giving a slight moan, he lifted one leg into his lap, bending it so he could nip and lap at her ankle. Slowly he began working his way up her leg, laving her calf and nibbling gently. Bryn squirmed on the bed, letting her other leg fall open and allowing him a direct view of her sex. She barely resisted the urge to touch herself. Part of her wanted to watch his face as she brought herself to orgasm, too see how excited he got. But the more insistent part of her wouldn't let him stop what he was doing. "Mmm...Anton...I want you." "Patience," he whispered, kissing her knee. Slowly he swiped his tongue up the inside of her thigh, placing little cat licks as he neared his goal. He could smell her arousal, and he could see her juices glistening on her sex. Carefully he bit down on the inside of her thigh, not breaking the skin but hard enough to mark her. Then he shifted his head to run his tongue the length of her sex. She cried out, her body jerking in surprise. Planting her foot on the bed, she lifted her hips and pressed herself against his mouth. "Mmm!" His hands came to her hips, holding her in mid air so he had more control over where he could touch. Anton continued to lap at her, licking up her juices, but avoiding her clit for the moment. Instead he focused at her entrance, barely flicking the tip of his tongue inside of her. She tossed her head, grasping handfuls of the comforter to squeeze. Watching his face only made her shake harder--eyes closed in concentration, purring deep in his chest, he was a sight to behold. And she tried to reach his thighs, to yank his pants down and grab his cock, but he wasn't allowing it. Wouldn't let her do anything but squirm and whine in frustration. She was beautiful. Her hair was tossed to one side, a fine mist of sweat glistening on her skin as she gave soft gasps. Giving into his desires and hers, he swiped his tongue up and over her clit. He wasn't prepared for the wild buck her hips gave, but he held on to her firmly and repeated the motion again. And again. And again. Bryn squealed, a violent shudder rocking her body as she came. Pressing her heels against his back, she rocked her hips until the spasms ceased. Panting as he continued to lap at her, her eyes slipping closed and smiling in relief. "Mmm...that was really good, sugar." "Good," he whispered against her, letting the vibration of his words tease her. After one last loving lick, he climbed up her body and settled between her legs. He kissed her, letting Bryn taste herself on him as he resumed stroking her breast, just like earlier. Wrapping her legs around his, she kissed him slowly, lingering, even as her hands eagerly pushed his jeans down his hips. She slid her feet over his calves, using them to drag his pants off, leaving him in nothing but his boxers. Grabbing his ass, she gently squeezed. It amazed her how she could feel so lost, vulnerable, and fragile...and yet so safe in his embrace. Realizing that she was shaking, she wrapped herself even tighter around him and pressed her face to his neck. "Please don't ever forget how much I love you." "I won't, Sabryn," he whispered into her hair. Anton tilted her head upward so he could look into her eyes. "I will always love you, no matter what, my dear." His hips twitched against hers as she squeezed him again. "Don't you ever forget that." She shuddered, opening her legs further to pull him even closer. "I won't. I can't--I see it every time you look at me. I might have been afraid to see it before, when I thought I might be hurt again...but I'm not scared anymore. I want to roll around in your love like a warm, fuzzy blanket. I want it wrapped around me every second, and if I could help it I wouldn't wear anything else." Anton reached down to pull his boxers off. Now naked, he pressed further against her body. "I wish you would wear nothing else. You are so beautiful, Bryn. But you become absolutely devastating when we make love. It almost hurts to look at you." He started to press his cock into her. Bryn gripped him tightly, squeezing as he filled her, determined to feel every millimeter of his invasion. She shivered beneath him, whimpering at how good he felt. She felt so tightly wrapped around him, and suddenly couldn't wait to feel him pounding her until she screamed. "Mmm...Anton, I want it really hard and deep. Will you fuck me like that?" "Yes..." he groaned. He hooked her leg over his arm, spreading her further open to him. Slowly he started moving, making sure he rubbed against the whole of her sex. He leaned down and kissed her, before picking up his pace a little. "Is this what you want, Bryn?" She nodded rapidly, panting. "Mm-more...I want more..." Gasping as his thrusts became a bit more forceful, she braced her hands on the headboard above her and watched him over her bouncing breasts. The way he was holding her exposed all of her sex to him, left her open and wet, her clit quivering, her juices flowing. She could feel herself getting so wet, could feel and see her nipples tightening with every jolt, and somehow he'd managed to make her forget everything but squeezing and pulling on his cock. "Uh uh yes..." Breathing heavily through his nose. She was shimmering, sparkling, glowing beneath him. He could smell her arousal plainly, hear the sticky slaps of their flesh pressing together. The heat surrounding him was incredible. He wanted to watch her cum, to watch her shatter beneath him. Wanted to watch her forget, even for a moment, the sadness in their lives. The excitement on his face was breathtaking. The squeak of the bed and his rapid breath were music to her ears; when added to the heavy spanking sound of his body against hers, it became a symphony. Reaching up with one hand, she pulled him down to kiss her. Sucking and nipping at his lips, gasping at the new angle his thrusts created. Anton gasped, tightening his grip on her. He pulled her leg up a little higher, going as deep inside of her as he could manage. While kissing her, he rubbed his thumb against her nipple, rolling the impossibly tight nub. "So beautiful," he whispered when he came up for air. "So incredibly beautiful." She squealed, partly in frustration and also in surprise, feeling him so deep, and yet unable to reach the peak she wanted. And yet, she didn't want him to stop, didn't ever want to stop fucking him. "Mmm...uh...sugar, wait, please! I want you in me from behind, so your balls slap my clit, please?" He tried to hiss out 'yes,' but it came out more like 'yeehhhh.' Holding onto her leg, he sat back up, trying his hardest to keep his cock inside of her. Pausing for a moment to nip at her ankle, he slipped his hand under her waist and helped guide her onto her hands and knees. Rearing up behind her, He pulled her hips until they were flush with his groin. And then he began thrusting hard again. "Like this, Bryn?" "Uhh yesss!" Pressing her cheek to the mattress, groaning, she reached beneath her to open her sex, exposing her clit to his rapid thrusts. The lips of her sex were pulled taut by his thick cock pounding her, moving her entire pubic mound. Eyes half-closed with intense arousal, she rocked her hips in opposition to his movements, shoving his cock even deeper inside her, making his balls slam even harder against her excited clit. She squealed, jolting with every slap, the impact hitting her like the water from the shower. And the vibrant tingling of her clit spread out to her entire sex, violent spasms causing her cunt to clench around his cock. "Ahhhhhh!" Anton threw his head back and yelled. He managed to thrust twice more before exploding inside of her. Moaning softly, he leaned forward, pressing her flat against the bed, covering her sweating body with his. He panted softly in her ear, trying to catch his breath. "Love you so much, Bryn." Almost wheezing, she closed her eyes. She grasped his hands from above, lacing her fingers together with his. She felt violated, and a small smile curved her lips because he was the only one she'd ever welcome in that way. He could tie her up, strip her down, force her to her knees, screw her 'til it hurt, and she would still end up with a smile on her face. Every time. "I love you so much. You own me, you know. I am your slave. I would do anything you asked me to...and enjoy it." He shivered at her words. "Too much power, Bryn." He gently nuzzled the side of her face. "I love you so much, my dear. It frightens me sometimes." He knew he should be getting up, getting ready to go see John and pay his last respects to Caroline. But he didn't want to move. He just wanted to stay there, his body nestled against his wife. She squeezed his hands a little tighter, wondering what he meant. Turning her head to the side, she looked at him out of the corner of her eye. "Too much power? What do you mean by that?" She licked her lips. "And why does loving me so much frighten you? I'm not going to hurt you, Anton." "I know, Bryn, that you're not going to hurt me. I'm afraid of hurting you, unintentionally." He gently stroked the hair back from her face so she could see him better. "Do you realize how many times when we've made love that I've almost Transformed you without asking? Without caring at the moment if it was what you wanted?" He glanced down a bit ashamed. "I only want to make love to my equal, Bryn. Not a slave." Reluctantly pulling away from his cock, she crawled out from under him and rolled over to face him. "Anton, I trust you. Despite what you think, I know you won't Transform me without my permission. It's why you've been able to stop yourself." Framing his face with her hands, she gently kissed the bridge of his nose. "You don't have it in you to take that choice away from me. And as for making love to your equal--don't you think I know you're every bit as much my slave as I am yours? If I wanted to dominate you, I'd have you on your knees in two seconds flat. I can choose to play the slave just as easily as I can choose to play the master." Anton stroked her hair gently. "I know, Bryn. I just need to be reminded of that every so often." He kissed her lips lightly and pulled her closer. "I would like to see you play the master, Bryn." She arched an eyebrow, her lips curving into a smirk. "In that case, I want you to stroke yourself. Get your cock nice and hard for me. And make a lot of noise. I want to watch." Anton quirked an eyebrow at her. He made a big show of stretching above her and rolling over onto his back, legs spread wide. With a devilish grin and making sure she had a good view, he began to stroke his hands over his chest, letting out a soft moan. Sitting up, Bryn bit her lip and paid careful attention. Her husband was always devastatingly handsome, and was made even more so by his cocky self-confidence. It wasn't a face he wore often--at least not to others. But he knew just how to make her squirm, exactly what buttons to push, and that absolute fearlessness was so sexy. Crawling over him to kneel between his legs, she licked her lips and smiled. "That's very nice." "I'm glad you like it," Anton purred. His hands started to move down his abs, tracing each muscle. He was slowly starting to harden as his fingers slowly stroked the tops of his thighs. He shifted slightly, giving another slight moan as he barely brushed against his balls. Her mouth was watering, but she tried her hardest not to let it show. She was the master this time, and she wouldn't let him know how much she wanted him even if it killed her. Feeling decidedly like a tease, she leaned down on her forearms, ass in the air, watching from just inches away as he stroked closer towards his target. She could smell him now, and tried to hide a hard swallow. Pursing her lips, she lightly blew cool air over his sensitive balls. Anton gave out a little yelp and a twitch at the ticklish sensation. Deciding to be as much of a tease as his beautiful wife was being, he continued to stroke his thighs. As soon as his erection had firmed up fully, he moved one hand to lightly roll his balls. Carefully he ran his fingers up the length of his cock. Bryn deliberately licked her lips again, leaning in close until he could feel her breath on his skin. She gave him one delicate lick, barely enough make him lift his hips, before veering off to the side and grasping his thigh. Lowering herself to the soft flesh of his inner thigh, she bit him and began sucking hard enough to leave a bruise...all the while holding his gaze with her own. He moaned, shivering under his touch. His touch on his cock shifted into a grip lightly encircling him. Slowly he started to pump his cock, letting out soft moans not in time to his hand, but to the tug and release of Bryn's teeth worrying his thigh. She let out a soft whimper as she watched him, unable to help reaching down to touch herself. Slipping her hand under her belly and between her spread thighs, she began lightly swiveling her entire sex under her palm. Determined to make this last as long as possible. Rocking her hips with each movement, she kept her gaze on his face. From the angle he was at, he could see nothing but her wrist as it disappeared between her legs. She had to wonder how long it would be before he wanted more. Anton shifted restlessly, keeping his touch light. His eyes remained glued to Bryn's hand between her legs. He licked his lips hungrily as his hips began to lift. His breathing quickened as his free hand reached out to brush against her nipple. She pulled her mouth away from him and stopped stroking herself long enough to swat his hand away. "Get up on your hands and knees, facing the headboard. And resume stroking yourself just as soon as you are, legs spread. I want to watch from behind." "Yes, my d...mistress." Still breathing heavily, he rolled onto his stomach and heaved upwards. He could feel her eyes on his ass, almost as if he was being branded by her gaze. Balancing on one hand, he reached between his legs and started to pump his cock again, shivering from the sensation. She was panting as she watched him, squirming, and wanting more than anything to crawl beneath him and impale herself. But the sight before her was just too delicious, too beautiful to waste. [Someday I'll have to buy some black and white film for my camera. He's so beautiful the pictures could be framed...] She almost laughed at the thought, knowing he'd have a fit if anyone ever saw one of the portraits. Crawling closer, she leaned down to watch, her breath hot as it bounced back to her from his skin. Sticking her tongue out, she gave him one delicate lick on his perineum, much like she had on his cock. Then before he knew what hit him [literally], she reared up on her knees landed a stinging smack on his ass. He let out a loud cry, about to ask her what she was doing when a second hard smack landed on his other asscheek. Shuddering visibly, his hand started to move faster over his cock. His breath was coming in rapid snorts now, almost to the point of hyperventilation. "Bryn..." he moaned. "Please..." Although he wasn't exactly certain what he was asking for. Sliding her other hand up the inside of his thigh, she lightly tickled the sensitive flesh there, making him squirm and shy away from her touch. Instead of letting him getting away, she sank her fingernails into the exact spot where she'd bitten him before. She spanked him again, lower this time, directly above his exposed anus, making him shriek. Grinning to herself, she pulled her hand back and popped two fingers into her mouth. Wetting them, before abruptly pushing them past his sphincter muscle. Just on the verge of being painful. And instead of giving him time to adjust, she began pumping them in and out, finger-fucking his ass. It was too much for him to handle. When she his his prostate, Anton let out a strangled cry, tightening his hand around his cock. His semen shot out with such force that it splattered against the headboard. Ass still in the air, he sank down on his chest, arms crossing in front of him for his head to rest on. Aftershocks still running through him as Bryn continued to finger-fuck him. Whining softly as she squirmed, she continued to slowly bring him down from his high, gently rubbing, until his legs, too, sank to the bed. Easing her fingers out of him, she crawled belly down on top of him, her head on his shoulder blades, breasts flattened on his back, pubic mound on his ass. Unable to keep her hips still, rocking back and forth in a weak attempt to give herself satisfaction. "Let me up, Bryn," he whispered softly. When she lifted far enough up for him to roll over, he settled onto his back and pulled her down on him. Keeping her breasts pressed against his chest, he slipped a hand over her ass and down her perineum lightly to plunge his fingers into her wet and waiting sex, returning the favor. He pressed his lips to her temple, inhaling her scent deeply. Gasping, she gripped his shoulders tightly and continued rocking her hips. Pulling at his fingers with her vaginal muscles. After seeing the way he'd cum, the echo of his orgasm still ringing in her ears, it didn't take much for her to follow. Squealing, she bucked and shuddered, rippling around his fingers, her ass clenching to keep the digits inside her. She wasn't about to let him slip away, not until she'd had her fill. "Mmm! So good, sugar..." He continued to pump his fingers in her, pulling against the suction of her sex. He continued to place light kisses along her hairline. His breathing was returning to normal as he stroked his free hand up and down her spine, giving her all the pleasure he could. She shivered a few more time in minor aftershocks but finally went still, trying to catch her breath as she lay limply on his chest. Eyes closed, she knew she could've fallen asleep but she didn't let herself. Pressing her lips to his chest, she gently stroked his arm. "That wasn't too weird for you, was it?" "No, my dear." He continued to stroke along her spine, smiling tenderly at her. "I rather enjoyed it, if that," his eyes flicked to the semen stain on the headboard, "is any indication." He kissed the top of her head. "We'll have to clean it up, sometime." He let out a contented sigh. "I wish we could stay this way the rest of the night, Bryn." Groaning at the very thought of getting up, she grabbed the edge of the comforter and pulled it over them, covering herself up to her head, and said, "We can. I'm not moving." "Bryn--you're going to end up coming with an excuse tomorrow night as well, so we might as well go now." Ducking her head under the blanket like a turtle hiding in its shell, she made a disagreeable noise, before saying, her voice muffled, "Yeah, but now we both need a shower...and you know that's only going to lead to more sex, especially since the bucket is still in there, so we might as well just stay here. Save ourselves the trouble." Anton shook his head despite the fact she couldn't see it. He lifted up the edge of the blanket and peeked under it. "Normally I'd agree with you, Bryn. But I would like to see your brother tonight." He ignored the disgusted noise coming from under the blanket. "Please, Bryn?" Sounding like a petulant child, she muttered, "You're no fun," before getting out of bed. Walking on the balls of her feet, adding an extra sway to her hips, she glanced over her shoulder as she sauntered towards the shower. "In that case, slave, hurry up. If you're a good boy, I'll let you shave my legs...and maybe more." He got out of the bed and swept into a deep bow. "Yes, my mistress." It was just after 3am when she stepped out the side door of the warehouse and into the glaring lights of the parking lot. Her car was well-lit, showing her that she'd have no worries in getting to it safely. Yet as she started to step down the stairs, movement out of the corner of her eye made her heart jump. Off to the right, just beyond the landscape of light, the low rumble of an engine came up the street, zipping into the parking lot and heading straight towards her. Slightly panicked, she backed up and grabbed the door knob, ready to make a quick dive into the building. It was like watching the Black Prince ride onto the battlefield. Dressed in black leather and riding a sleek jet black charger--motorcycle--he sped towards her car, turned the wheel and did a hard skid sideways, stopping just inches from her shiny BMW. Revving the engine, he gestured to her with one hand to come closer. Absolutely petrified, Lindy opened the door and started back inside...just as he took off his helmet to reveal equally dark hair. "Lind! It's me." "Nate?" she said, letting the door shut. She started towards her husband, shaking her head in disbelief. "Jesus, Nate, you just about gave me a heart attack." Her eyes glanced over the black Yamaha TRX admiringly, but most of the admiration was for the man sitting on it. Unconsciously she licked her lips. "So did you borrow this from someone?" He grinned at her, smoothing back his glossy hair. "Nope. I bought it." "You bought it? Don't you need a special license to drive these?" "We'll worry about that later." He managed to look chagrinned. "I have one--it's just expired." Tugging on his t-shirt (he wasn't wearing a jacket, just the leather pants and boots), he gestured with his head to the seat behind him. "So...what do you say, little girl? Feel like going for a ride?" "Sure," she said with a grin. "Pick up my car later?" She put the strap of her purse diagonally over her shoulder. She was glad she had worn slacks to work instead of a skirt. Walking saucily over to him, she straddled the bike, putting one hand on his waist. "If I didn't know any better, I'd say you got it so you could feel me up while I was driving it." She pulled the ponytail holder out of her hair, she shook it loose. "Got a helmet for me?" He handed her his. "Actually, I got it so you could feel me 'down' while I'm driving." Nate grinned over his shoulder. "We'll have to get another helmet later. I thought you might like to pick out your own." He waited while she put his on, occasionally revving the engine as if to show off the bike's power. "Hold on tight, gorgeous." She wrapped her arms around his torso, and he couldn't help but laugh as her grip tightened when they started moving. The bike rolled over the pavement like melting butter, so smooth, and if not for the huge vibrating machine between her legs, she might've felt as if they were flying. There was slight jolt as they sped off the curb, and then they were zooming through the sparkling city like a low-flying crow. Lindy gave a sharp squeal, feeling her the wind whip past her. She really hoped they wouldn't run into any cops, since she wasn't wearing a helmet. She was giddy from the speed, even though they still hadn't opened the bike up fully, being on city streets and hampered by stop signs and streetlights. Like the one they were pulling up to right now. She sat up a bit when Nate rolled to a stop at the the red light. She leaned forward to say something when she heard the first of the hoots. Glancing over, she saw an older convertible filled with girls, all of which were staring at her husband. Nate looked calmly in their direction, appearing almost aloof, but Lindy noticed that he sat up a little straighter. That his chin lifted a little higher. Glancing back at her over his shoulder, he said, "Think I should flash them my fangs? Or would you rather show them yours?" "I'll take care of it, Nate." Maybe it was she was feeling naughty because of the bike, maybe it was because her husband looked absolutely delicious in leather. As her eyes began to flicker and she flashed a dangerous pointy fanged smile at the car, her left hand, which could easily be seen by the others slipped between Nate's legs to cup his groin. Nate jumped slightly, but managed not to look like too much of an idiot. Glancing over at the car next to them, he saw the girls had stopped looking at him. In fact, they were all staring straight ahead, white as sheets, looking absolutely petrified. He wasn't quite sure why grabbing his crotch would cause that kind of reaction...until he looked in the mirror and saw Lindy's sharp teeth smiling back at him. Chuckling, he took off at high speed the second the light turned green. "You are a bad girl, Lindy." "Must be the bike's influence," she said loudly, trying to be heard over the roar of the engine. Fangs still sharp, she leaned forward to place an open mouthed kiss his neck just below the helmet . "And you were just saying that you were hoping I'd feel you down sometime." She didn't move her hand from his groin. "It's nice!" He could feel himself stiffening under her hand. Her touch, combined with the heavy vibrations of the bike, was electric. Turning on to the freeway, he increased speed rapidly, glancing in the mirror to see her hair flying behind her, and wishing she was wearing a floaty skirt that would do the same. The sense of exhilaration that swept through him was so sweet it was almost painful. Although he'd been riding the bike for several hours since buying it, having Lindy with him made it perfect. "Where do you want to go, baby?" Lindy snuggled a little closer to him. She hadn't felt this wild and free for a long time. "Don't care, Nate," she said, giving his groin a little squeeze. She wondered how long it would be before Nate suggested they pull onto a dark turnoff so they could play a little more. "As long as it takes a long time to get there." "Mmm...I think I know the perfect place, gorgeous." Passing a few cars, he reached an open space on the freeway and decided to show her what the bike could do. Accelerating rapidly, he heard her scream in excitement behind him and grinned like a fool. If this got her heart pounding, he knew she'd love where they were going. Heading south, in the direction of an old favorite--Half Moon Bay. She shrieked again when they hit the overpass off of the highway that lead down to the two lane road. This time she didn't have to stick her head out of the window to feel the wind whipping her hair. Still clinging tightly to him, she watched as the fields and rows of growing Christmas trees zoomed by. Then it was through the rows of houses in an eye blink, and before she knew it, he was pulling up at the stairway that lead down to the beach. He slowly cruised to a stop, bracing first one and then both legs on pavement. When he shut down the engine, she could still feel her body quivering from the vibrations. Reaching back his hand, he helped get off the bike before rocking back and lowering the kickstand. Shaky on her feet, she drank him in as he dismounted the bike and took off his helmet. He was always hot, but in tight black leather he was wicked and dangerous...sexier than hell. His t-shirt's sleeves were just short enough to expose his tattoo, the beautiful blue moon and golden wolf he'd gotten just for her. All he needed now was an earring. [And he's all mine.] She took his hand and walked with him down to the stairwell. It hadn't quite been a year ago they did this before. But it wouldn't end up the same way, she was sure of that. Glancing down at their joined hands, the diamond on her finger glinting in the moonlight, she gave him a smile that shown even brighter. He grinned back at her, letting go of her hand to wrap his arm around her instead. He'd left his helmet back at the bike, so the wind was able to course through his hair as well. Despite all of the times she'd seen him padding around the house in bare feet, stepping over toys and picking up cereal off the floor, along with playing with Liam, he certainly didn't look like anyone's dad that night. At least, until he started talking. "How was your day, baby? Are you enjoying getting out the house and leaving the boys at home?" "Some, but it gets a little lonely after a while. Why do you think I'm calling so often to check up on Liam?" Pausing at the moment at the base of the stairs, she pulled her shoes off so she could feel the sand between her toes. Now their height difference was more apparent, and the contrast between them more striking - her a professional woman in in her business attire, and him a bad boy biker in his leather and t-shirt. And yet they looked like they were meant to be together, an inseparable pair. "Has Liam said any new words?" "One or two," he said, a slight blush forming on his cheeks. "He's said 'ball' and 'dada'...I just about fainted from that last one. It was so sweet." He squeezed his arm tighter around her, knowing that she understood. "And...I swear I didn't teach him this one. He must've just picked it up at some point--" "What did he say, Nate?" she asked, suspiciously. "Well, I was working on the computer and he dropped one of his toys...next thing I heard was him very clearly saying 'shit.' It actually sounded more like 'sit', but I knew what he meant." He tried to look ashamed, but she could see he was trying not to laugh. "So...I made him go stand in the corner for a few minutes." Lindy tried to look stern, but couldn't suppress the giggle that escaped her. Which grew into a full blown laugh. "I just got this image of a little puppy, head drooping and tail between his legs, sitting in the corner." She grinned at him. "Did you swat his butt with a rolled up paper?" He snorted. "No. I don't think I could do that even if he were puppy. He's just too damned cute." He rubbed his thumb continuously against her side, gently stroking her through her clothes. "But, you'll be happy to know he hasn't said the word since then. At least I don't think so. It's been a while since I left him with your family. They had no idea where I was going, by the way, so I guess I'll probably be in for it if your mom doesn't like motorcycles." "Mom I don't know about. I think you'll have to fight Alex and Walter for it though." She kissed his cheek. "I wish you would have told me before that you were going to go motorcycle shopping. It would have been fun to check them all out." "I'm sorry, it was supposed to be a surprise. We still need to buy your helmet, so you can check them out then. Maybe you could get one of your own." He grinned at her. "They have a nice blue and white BMW. It would match your car." Lindy grinned back. "Sure. But I can see one problem." Nate arched an eyebrow at her. "Problem?" Lindy nodded. "Problem. You see, if we're on separate bikes, it will be hard for me to do this." She reached over and gently squeezed his crotch like she had earlier on the bike. She could see the muscles beneath his temples rippling as he clenched and unclenched his teeth. Clearing his throat, he managed to mutter, "No, we wouldn't want that to be a problem for you." She grinned, watching him shift restlessly from foot to foot. "You like that?" He nodded briskly. "Aren't you worried someone will see us?" "Not really. It's dark enough." "All right...how much do you like those slacks?" Lindy frowned, temporarily thrown by the question. Finally, she said, "You're not going to rip them off me, are you?" Grabbing her around the waist, he shook his head. "Not taking them off, just ripping the crotch. I don't feel like getting all sandy tonight." She looked down at her slacks, frowning thoughtfully. "Try to tear it along a seam. Should be able to fix them then." She then stepped closer and put her arms around his neck. She rubbed her nose against his in an Eskimo kiss before pressing her lips to his. She nibbled on his upper lip before slipping her tongue into his mouth. Already breathing heavily, Nate lifted her up so she could wrap her legs around his waist. Gripping her tightly, he met her kiss hungrily, trying to stroke her and hold her at the same time. He didn't want to be the only one that was this excited. Shifting her weight to one arm, he lifted his opposite hand to cup and squeeze her breast, her suit jacket pushed to the side, thumb sliding lazily over her nipple through the fabric of her blouse. He let out a strong moan, rocking her against his groin. He didn't have to work as hard as he thought he did. She was still shaking slightly, sensitive from the vibrations of the motorcycle. Softly she continued to explore his mouth as her hands slid over his back. Her breathing deepened as she tried to moved her hips in time with his. "Is this...what you wanted...the first...time we were...here?" she asked a bit breathlessly. He shook his head, panting. "Wanted...you to scream..." Sliding his hand down her side, he curved his fingers over her ass before dipping down between her legs and rubbing hard over the seam of her slacks. He couldn't help but smile as she jolted in his arms. "Want to fuck you so hard it hurt...until we were both bleeding...until we couldn't move." He swallowed heavily. "Didn't want to stop, even then. Wanted to keep fucking you until you screamed at me to stop." She let out a soft whimper, moaning as her pressed over her clit. "Do that now?" she whispered in a hurried breath. She leaned over to nip and suck on his ear, letting out a gasp when his hips jolted beneath her. She flicked her tongue against his earlobe, arms and legs tightening around him. Unable to answer her, he nodded stupidly and grabbed a fist full of fabric. She barely had a second to brace herself before he yanked hard and a terrible ripping sound filled the air. She gasped, feeling cold air hit her butt, and glanced up at his blushing face. "Oops. Might've ripped a little too far." "Nate!" Before she could say much else, he hooked a finger under the leg band of her panties and began lazily circling her clit. "Ooooh...you're forgiven," she moaned. She swallowed as his fingers spread her moisture around. She continued to lick at his ear, gently nipping. She worked the hem of his t-shirt out of his pants so she could stroke his bare flesh. In her position she couldn't do much more than that, but she intended to inflame him all she could. Growling deep in his throat, Nate closed his eyes to better concentrate on what she was doing to him. Lifting her up a bit higher, he began fumbling to unbutton his leather pants. His cock was straining against the zipper, making it hard to open, but he eventually managed and pulled himself free from his constraints. Eyes finally open, he began lowering her and speared his cock into her wet sex. "Oh...fuck!" She let out a vibrating moan. "I thought...that was the....general idea...." Too impatient for him to start moving,she lifted her hips up and down, riding his cock for all she was worth. "Mmmmm..." Her nails bit into his flesh, seeking an additional anchor. "You feel so good, Nate." Legs spread for balance, he began adding his own thrusts, his hands pulling her down as he forcefully pushed up inside her. Her thighs slapped rhythmically against his leather pants, her wet sex making soft sucking sounds on his cock, audible even over the crash of the waves beyond. "Ohhhh..." He lifted one of her legs a bit higher to angle his thrusts, shoving in deep. "God, I love your soft little cunt!" Lindy moaned again. Moving her head to his mouth, she began kissing him frantically. Getting a devilish look in her eyes, she started squeezing his cock, making it harder for him to withdraw. "This what you wanted that night?" He let out a loud grunt, grabbing her almost painfully tightly, and began thrusting even harder into her sex. Then he abruptly stopped, causing her to whimper as she tried to move. "What are you doing?" she asked, frantically. "Shhh. Hold on." Gritting her teeth in frustration, she kept grinding her sex upon him even as he turned and walked toward the stairs. His fingers dug in tightly on her ass, panting hard at the things she was doing to his cock. He stumbled, trotted, nearly ran to the stairs, and finally settled down on the fourth step from the bottom. Grabbing her hips firmly, he began pumping her up and down on his cock, using his thumb to pull aside the loosened fabric, and watching his cock disappear into her slippery sex. Now that she was able to support her weight, she let go of his shoulders and yanked his shirt up further. She ran her nails over his chest, paying particular attention to his stiff nipples. Watching his face as he twisted beneath her. Groaning, she moved her hips faster. "Oh God...Nate." Still thrusting up into her sex, he rotated one hand slightly and resumed rubbing her clit. He could feel how stiff the little organ was and saw her shudder every time he passed his finger over it. He wished he was flexible enough to fuck her and lick her at the same time. "Does that feel good, baby, having me rub your clit? You better hurry up and cum so I can suck it, too...and fuck you with my fingers. Ooooh...you *do* like that. That's it, baby, pull on my cock. Suck on it..." "Ooooooh..." Pushed over the edge by his words and his touch, she arched backwards. If he hadn't had a hand between her shoulder blades she would have tumbled to the ground. She felt another burst of wetness, making her even slicker. "Yes! Nate, God, yes!" She trembled, quivering as she spasmed around him. He let out a shout as she gushed around him, and began thrusting rapidly in and out of her sex, before cumming powerfully, feeling their juices coating his hairs. They'd both gotten so excited from the bike's vibrations that he feared they might have to ride home sticky...or at least he would. Without giving himself a chance to soften within her, he lifted her off his cock, leaning back on the stairs, and pulled her towards his face. He let out a loud moan at her scent. But instead of cleaning her up like she thought he would, he went straight for clit and began quickly flicking his tongue back and forth until she was practically humping his face. She let out another shriek, feeling overstimulated already. She fell forward and grabbed the stairs above her, trying to support her weight. She was trembling before from her first orgasm. Eyes shut, she concentrated on the feelings he was creating. "Can't take this, Nate...too much..." He looked up at her, resisting the urge to laugh. And instead of relenting, he kept up the same exhausting pace...and pushed two fingers inside her quivering sex. Slowly pumping them in and out, in contrast to his tongue. She tightened around the digits, shuddering, but still felt too overwhelmed to cum again so soon. Still kept rocking her hips, partly in attempt to ease away from his mouth. Unfortunately her efforts were thwarted when he wrapped his lips around her clit and started sucking. Lindy screeched, trying to pull away from him. She was stopped by Nate's hand grabbing her waist and pulling her firmly down. She was letting out little whimpers in time to the tilt of her hips. Breath shuddering through her frame as his fingers found that spot inside her. She let out a sharp squeak as her eyes shot open. "Nate!" He felt her start to cum and moved his fingers faster, hoping to intensify the contractions of her sex. She continued to shudder and roll her hips, coming down from her high, and he lapped at her gently, soothing her swollen clit. Pulling his fingers out of her, he sucked them clean, then opened her lips with his thumbs, licking up the length of her sex. Despite her exhaustion, he could feel her opening and closing against his tongue as if seeking his entrance. Extending his tongue, he gave her what she wanted. Lindy let out a shuddering moan, her head dropping limply forward. Just when she thought he was done, he'd start again. And again. Eyes half shut, she stared back over her shoulder. His cock was peeking out from his unzipped fly, and she had a sudden desire to taste it. To lave it with her tongue, make Nate squirm and whimper like he was doing to her now. The problem was that she was facing the wrong direction and on the stairs, she couldn't keep her balance if she tried. Opening his eyes, Nate noticed her stare and felt a twitch from his cock. She was clearly too exhausted to cum again so soon...and he definitely wasn't. Sliding his hands over her thighs, he murmured, "What do you want, baby? You want my cock?" She let out a shuddering 'yessss...' as he pulled his mouth away from her sex. Slowly she crawled backwards down the stairs, rubbing her body against his. When her head was even with his crotch, she grabbed the waist of his leather pants and pulled them further down. Giving him a devious smile, she licked a broad swipe up the length of his cock. "Uhhhh!" He arched his body, pushing his cock more firmly against her mouth, trying to get inside her. Panting, he let his body sink back against the stairs, ignoring the slight pain from the concrete poking into his back, and stared up at the sky. He could see some of the very same constellations he'd pointed out to her a little less than a year ago. And they were swimming before his eyes. Lindy smiled as she flicked her head against the crown. Seeing the need on his face, she swallowed his cock, slowly descending until her nose brushed his pubic hair. Gently squeezing his balls, she let him slip from her mouth just as slowly, until only the head was in her mouth. Teasingly she shook her head lightly and then began a rapid up and down motion, sucking gently. His hand shot up to grip the pipe railing above, his knuckles turning white with the force he exerted. He wanted to grab her head and direct her movements, but she was doing so well on her own. Spreading his legs a little wider, as far as his pants would allow, he gave her as much room to maneuver as he could. All the while lightly thrusting into her mouth. She let out a soft moan, smiling around his erection as he jumped beneath her. The smell of leather and sex was turning her on even more. She pulled her mouth off of him, keeping the pace with a light grip instead. Before he could make a sound of protest, she dropped her head and began mouthing his balls. He let out a high-pitched cry, lifting his hips in the air. He could feel his balls pulling up towards his body, slowly, bringing him that much closer to cumming. Biting his lip, he let his right hand drift down to settle on top of her head. Not pushing, only stroking her hair. Caressing her the only way he could. She let out a soft moan at his touch. His balls were tight against the base of his cock now, and she knew he was close. She switched her hand and mouth again, swallowing him whole as her fingers lightly caressing his balls. She softly started humming, lashing her tongue against the vein on the underside, wanting to feel him explode in her mouth. His entire body tensed, a cry trapped in his throat, and all at once everything released, and he shouted as he came hard in her mouth. Hips thrusting, he continued moving until she drained him completely. His body going limp beneath her, he gave a long groan. "God...Lind. I don't think I'll be able to walk now." After one last loving lick, she lifted her head and smiled at him. She crawled back up his body and lightly kissed his lips, sharing his taste with him. She lightly sucked on his lips, stroking her fingers over his cheek. "You liked that?" "Mmm...what do you think?" He stretched leisurely below her, then wrapped his arms around her and squeezed. Kissing her again, he kept his touch soft--he wasn't sure he was ready for things to get passionate again so quickly. "You've never done that before, swallowing me completely. I liked it, but I don't want you to feel like you have to do it. You stimulate me just fine without it." "I know," Lindy said, rubbing her cheek against his. "It just seemed like a good thing to do at the time. I did it because I wanted to, Nate. Besides, you take such good care of me, spoil me so much, I want to do the same for you." She gave him a small smile and then kissed him. He smiled back. "You do take care of me, Lind. Very well." Pulling her closer, he coaxed her to lay her head on his shoulder as he rubbed her back. "I hope we created a better memory of this place for you. I know the last one wasn't very good. Or at least the end of it wasn't." Lindy grinned. "Yeah, these memories are much better. Although I can't say that it's so good on your end," she joked, lightly smacking his ass. "Or at least the stairs aren't." He nodded, running his fingers through her hair. "No kidding. What do you say we get up and get going? We can pick up your car and then pick this back up at home?" "As much as I don't want to move, it'd probably be a good thing." Reluctantly she climbed to her feet and helped him up. She looked down at her ruined slacks and shrugged. "Hopefully it won't be too cold on that bike." Pulling his own pants back into place, he watched her. "You should be okay if you stick close to me. I'll tell you what, tomorrow after work, why don't you stop by the mall or whatever store you want, and buy a bunch of slacks. Some other clothes too. Get whatever you want, and I won't worry about where you are. How does that sound?" Lindy shook her head. "Won't work since I'm getting off of work at 3:00 AM. How about this instead. Before I go to work, you, me and Liam go out shopping. Make it a family affair." She took his hand and started guiding him upstairs. "Besides, I want both of your opinions on a helmet." "All right. But only if we can get an ice cream cone...with sprinkles. And if Liam's lucky, I might even share mine with him." It was quiet in the hospital when Anton entered the room where John was. He had talked his way past the duty nurse easily, especially when explained his 'medical reason' for being there after regular visiting hours. He opened the door quietly, worried about disturbing John or any fellow patients he was sharing the room with. The other beds were empty, and John appeared to be resting, so Anton took a seat on the chair near the bed. It had been a long night for him. He had just come from the graveyard where he had paid his last respects to Caroline. It had dredged up a lot of old memories of standing besides other graves, mourning each of his past wives, although he reminded himself that they were standing beside him in Bryn. But that didn't invalidate the emotions. And he knew that they were emotions that John would now be experiencing. Staring blankly out the window at the night sky, John did little to acknowledge Anton's entrance. He faced away from the door, his breathing shallow. He was lying partially on his side, his back propped up by a few pillows. Except for a couple more expensive tests, his doctor told him he might very well be able to go home the next day. That was about the worst news he'd heard since Carly died. His heart squeezed violently, painfully, at that thought. He never should've attended her funeral. Had he stayed away, he could've gone on pretending that she was still alive. Perhaps he would've told himself she ran away and found a new life somewhere else. That would be much easier to take. But this-- Seeing Anton's reflection in the glass, he had a momentary wish that his brother-in-law was here to kill him. Anton had seen the slight movement as John resettled. He knew that the injured man was awake. And he cast about in his mind for a way talk to him, to acknowledge John's pain without seeming patronizing. To offer comfort without seeming falsely reassuring. He let his sister's husband stand there for a minute longer, to see if he'd speak, but he never did. With a sigh, John reached for the electric switch and began lifting the head of the bed. The whine of the motor seemed abnormally loud in the quiet room. Turning his head slightly, he muttered, "Are you just going to sit there all night?" "The thought had crossed my mind," Anton said. He pulled the chair a little closer to the bed so he could more easily be seen. "John, I can't begin to tell you how sorry I am about your loss. I won't be so crass as to say I know how you feel, because each person experiences this kind of grief differently. But I understand how you feel." John was quiet for a moment. "Oh? I lost the love of my life because I made a mistake. I killed my children's mother and put my son in the hospital. And I'll never get back those moments I lost. Jolie and Chris won't have that special someone to bake them cookies after school, to be the sponsor mom on Flag Day at school, to be so proud of them at graduation. She won't be the mother of the bride when my daughter gets married, and my son won't be able to dance with her at his wedding. I won't have someone to put me in my place, to love me the way she did." His eyes were beginning to tear up, his voice growing thick with emotion. "I've lost my best friend, the woman I loved making love with, and the sweetest girl in the whole world. All because I made a wrong turn one day. Is that what you understand?" "I understand that you're hurting. That there's a hole in you heart and soul that seems endless. That you've been robbed of a priceless treasure. That all you want to do is to lay down and die. That it seems absolutely hopeless." Anton took a deep breath. "I'm just here to say that I understand. That I've been there. That I'm here to listen if you need to talk, or sit in silence if you don't." John cleared his throat and sniffed noisily. "My sister is your seventh wife, isn't that right?" "Correct. But I still remember the first as if it were yesterday. How much joy she brought me...and how I died inside the day she passed. Back then expensive funerals were only for the rich. I gave up all of my riches the day I ran away with her. When she died, I was forced to bury her myself. It was the hardest thing I've ever done." John stared at him. Anton's face was pasty gray, almost blanched, and John couldn't be certain but he thought the man was holding back tears of his own. The grief on his face was somewhat unexpected, and he realized that maybe some of his father's prejudice lurked in him as well. He hadn't expected his vampire brother-in-law to have such intense feelings. He felt shamed by the revelation, and at the same time he respected Anton more than he had before. "I'm sorry." "It's okay, John," Anton said softly. He was here to help his brother-in-law, not relive his past losses. "I know this sounds somewhat arrogant, John. But if I can survive losing six of my wives, you can survive losing Caroline. You'll find a reason to, not only because of your children, because she would want you to." John grimaced, but the look wasn't directed at Anton. "She's the first person I've ever lost that I was close to. I barely knew my relatives...my grandparents disowned my mother. Dad's parents were dead before I was born." He let out a shuddering sigh. "She never wanted to be in that mausoleum. She hated it. God, she hasn't even updated her will--it was made before Chris was born. I just don't know what I'm going to do. Her parents hate me, always have. I wouldn't be at all surprised if they tried to get custody of the kids." He wasn't sure how his next words would be accepted. "John, if it comes down to that, go hire the best family lawyer you know and direct the bills to me. Those kids need you now more than anything, and being given over to their grandparents would be the worst thing." He put up his hand, silencing John's protest. "If you can't accept it as a gift, consider it as a loan with a very liberal repayment schedule. Same with the hospital bills. You don't need to be worrying about money now." John shook his head, clearly confused. "I don't understand. We've barely spent an entire week in each other's company. You barely know me. Did Bryn put you up to this?" "No, Bryn doesn't know." Anton took a deep breath. "You are my wife's brother. That makes you family. I've had to learn the hard way the value of family, and to treasure those around you." He looked down. "When my mother died, I felt so lost, and then my relationship with my father wasn't that great. I wish that he could have been there for me than he was able to be. Chris and Jolie are going to need you, and I want to do whatever I can to make sure that you're there for them." John swallowed heavily. He had to clear his throat several times before he spoke. "Thank you. I really appreciate it. It's a very generous offer, and I'm very grateful." "It's the least I can do. And if there's anything else I can do, let me know. Even if it's that you just need someone to talk to, I want you to remember I'm here." He glanced over at the door. "Bryn should be up here soon. She's down with Chris at the moment." Bryn walked into the hospital room a few seconds later. "Actually, I was sitting on a bench in the hall. I didn't want to interrupt." She walked over to John's bedside and carefully hugged him. "Chris looks wonderful. He gets better every time I see him. Still a little colorful from the bruises, but pretty good nonetheless. How about you?" "The doctor seems to think I could be leaving as soon as tomorrow," he said, uneasily. "Well, it'll be nice to get away from the hospital food." He gave her a weak smile. "I'm really glad that you decided to take Anton's gift, John. I did know about it, sort of. We'd talked about it before, but I didn't know he was going to do it today." She glanced over at Anton, fondly, disappointed to see the sadness on his face. "It was all his plan, all along. I'm married to a very incredible man." John nodded. "That you are." "Actually, I thought I was married to an incredible woman." Anton stood up and pulled the chair closer to the bed for Bryn to sit on. "Let me give you two some time alone together. I'll go see Chris if he's still awake." He kissed Bryn's forehead and then offered John his hand to shake. "I'll see you tomorrow, John." John accepted Anton's handshake with both hands, gratitude in his eyes. "Thank you, again. And I'll look forward to seeing you." Bryn watched as Anton smiled and nodded, then turned to head out of the room. She continued to stare after him, fingers tightening around the arms of the chair. Noticing her squirming, John shook his head in amusement. "Go, Bryn." Squeezing his hand as she stood up, she ran out the door after her husband and caught up with him near the elevators. "Anton?" she asked uncertainly, her voice catching. "Are you all right?" He smiled at her, even if it was a bit tired. "I'm fine, Bryn. It's just been an emotional night. I told him about when Brinley passed on, and it brought back a lot of feelings that I thought I had dealt with." He pulled her against him, needing to feel her arms around him at the moment. He pressed his lips to the top of her head. "I love you so much, Bryn." She squeezed him as tightly as she could, feeling her eyes overflow with tears. She hated seeing him hurting and knowing there was nothing she could do about it. "I love you so much, too," she said, voice slightly choked. "And I'm so sorry you had to go through that pain. You never should've had to lose any of them. And I promise, no matter what I have to do, you won't ever lose me. Never ever." "I know, Bryn. I won't let you go this time." He rocked her slightly. "Why don't you go talk to your brother and I go check on Chris? I won't need to feed until tomorrow, so we can go get Max and spend the rest of the evening together?" She didn't answer right away, reluctant to let him go. Finally she stepped back and nodded, swallowing heavily. "Okay." Sighing, she pushed her hair away from her face. "Should I meet you downstairs or at the car?" "I'll meet you downstairs, my dear." He kissed her lips lightly. He knew that he was off because of his discussion with John. But Bryn seemed also shaken. "Are you okay, Bryn? Is everything all right?" He tilted his head a little. "Do you want me to stay here with you and John? I just thought that you might appreciate a little time alone with him." She shook her head, then nodded. "I don't know what I'm going to say to him. I'm not sure there's anything I can say that he hasn't already had drilled into him by Mom and Dad." She sighed again. "I'll figure out something. And I'll meet you downstairs. I just wanted to make sure you were okay." "I don't think you need to say anything to him, Bryn. I think you just need to be there with him. He's hurting, and he just needs to be reassured that there are still people out there that love him." He squeezed her tight before releasing her. "Thank you for checking on my, my dear." She nodded, turning away before he could see the tears forming in her eyes again. Walking briskly, she headed back to John's hospital room. Her steps slowed just outside the door, hesitating, and then she walked directly over to the bed, lowering the railing. She ignored her brother's confused look as she sat down and then laid next to him. Turning her head, she rested it on his shoulder, chin quivering, and cried. Eventually his arm wrapped around her, tucking her close. "I'm so sorry, Johnny." After hearing those words, he finally began crying too. End Chapter Ninety-eight <- Previous Chapter | Home | Next Chapter ->