Kiale Dream

An eRedSage Publishing Publication This book is a work of complete fiction. Any names, places, incidents, characters are products of the author’s imagination and creativity or used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events or locales or persons, living or dead, is fully coincidental. All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this book or any portion thereof in any form whatsoever in any country whatsoever is forbidden. Information: Red Sage Publishing, Inc. P.O. Box 4844 Seminole, FL 33775 727-391-3847 eRedSage.com

Kiale Dream An eRed Sage Publication All Rights Reserved Copyright © 2012 eRedSage is a registered trademark of Red Sage Publishing, Inc. Visit us on the World Wide Web: http://www.eRedSage.com ISBN: 9781603108218; 1603105794 Kiale Dream eBook version Published by arrangement with the authors and copyright holders of the individual works as follows: Kiale Dream © 2012 by Nacomy Blue Cover © 2012 by Fiona Jayde Printed in the U.S.A. ebook layout and conversion by jimandzetta.com

Kiale Dream ***

One lazy Sunday afternoon, my mind wondered and my fingers moved and Maion was created. Months later, the Kiale Sons were born. They are Ralden, the oldest and father figure of the group, Lee-vai, flirty and playful and Micaiel, the serious-mind one. They all have different supernatural powers, love to tease each other and look for different things in a woman. They have one thing in common though. They’re all smokin’ hot and fall for a special earth woman. Sorry, that’s two things. Dream walker, Zoey was a separate project but as soon as Ralden was born I knew the two were meant for each other. You do not want to mess with Zoey. She will seriously kick your behind, big bad alien or not. Or at least try. A self-proclaimed geek, Zoey could not care less for social conventions and Ralden is the only one who can penetrate her emotional barriers. In Kiale Dream, the two come together in a passionate clash of wills that is funny, heart-warming and filled with a healthy dose of mind-numbing sex. I hope you enjoy reading this mesmerizing tale as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Zoey’s cold bed is lit with flames when an out of this world hero comes straight out of her dreams. Warning! A cold shower may be needed after this read!

Prologue The story of Opyis gods, Feily and Gion, began like a fairy tale. Instant attraction. Head over heels love. With permission from Opyis ruler, Asdan, Feily and Gion created a new world, Maion, in a galaxy famous for its competing suns. Samui was a blue cold-burning star, but Atsui was a glowing, gaseous red ball. To serve the couple, Feily made the Kiale, a resilient species. The most distinguishing Kiale feature was the pair of bird-like wings protruding from their backs, reaching in length from head to heels, their tiny bodies hardly ever surpassing five feet. Feily granted the winged-people only lowly magically powers to serve their purpose. In the vastness of space and time, everything and everyone was linked. Magic was simply the ability to manipulate objects through the use of energy. To gods, that ability came easily, only superior in their natural inclination to use a much larger portion on their brains, unlocking abilities that appeared supernatural to the not-somagically inclined. Ecstatic with their creation, Gion and Feily were the perfect couple for a while, but slowly their love began to unravel. Feily became restless and decided that she wanted children. Gion was opposed to this but Feily drugged, then seduced her husband and was impregnated. Though angry at her deceit, Gion fell in love the instant his first son, Kinon, was born. The duo bore many more sons and daughters but Feily never found lasting happiness. In exasperation, Gion turned away from his wife and into the arms of a Kiale woman. Bacrii gave him a son. Giovaniu was a beautiful mixture of Opyis and Kiale. With Gion’s blood running through his veins, he could tap more power than his full-blooded Kiale relatives. Fearing his wife’s rage, Gion hid Bacrii and Giovaniu on a small island in the Sea. He visited Bacrii often and they produced more progeny. Giovaniu loved his father deeply and felt that his rightful place 6

Kiale Dream was alongside him, ruling over Maion. Resentful of being hidden away, he stormed to the palace, his strong black wings arched in the air. Head high, he demanded to be acknowledged. Infuriated at undeniable proof of her husband’s infidelity, Feily stabbed Giovaniu through the heart with a lightning bolt. At her command every Kiale was consumed by a black fire that could not be doused by the rain. All were burned to ashes, their tortured cries carrying on the mournful breeze. On that tiny island in the middle of the Sea, Feily and her children—enraged on her behalf—personally slew Gion’s illegitimate offspring, adult and child. The Kiale half-breeds proved no match for the goddess and her army. Having had enough of his wife’s temper, Gion grabbed her and threw her to the ground to distract and calm her. But Feily saw this as a sign of love for the Kiale woman and her rage grew tenfold. The battle that ensued was gory and vicious, ending with both parties’ deaths. With her last breath, Feily gasped, “Avenge me, my children.” Violence quickly infected the tiny planet, poisoning its goodness. Even the two suns joined the battle, spitting tongues of solar flares at one another and vying to outdo each other’s gravity. Only one of Feily’s children refused to join in with the senseless killing. He was Jai, third in line for the throne, a gentle soul who loved nature and did not possess the egotism that came naturally to most gods. In desperation, he used his powers to send the last three surviving half-breeds to a planet where their lives could be sustained. But his deceit was found out and he too was killed by his blood-lusting siblings. With all the Kiale annihilated, the gods’ heirs turned on each other, warring to rule the once peaceful planet. Atsui, the red sun, threw a fit and hurled a solar flare that blasted Maion and all else in its path. Only a few of the gods’ offspring escaped to Opyis. With the planet no longer a prize to be fought over, the two suns stopped their tug of war. Maion floated away from the solar system. Deprived of Atsui’s heat, the planet’s surface froze. Huge pillars of ice formed. Darkness presided, with only minute traces of light reflecting off the ice. 7

The once delightful planet was now a cold, resentful drifter.

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Chapter One Zoey McKenna, website designer, was wondering if she had finally lost her mind. She decided she probably had. That was the only explanation for her sitting outside a questionable nightclub in her sporty red car. Almost losing her nerve, she reminded herself why she was here. Simple reason, really. She was horny. She wanted…no, want did not convey the sheer magnitude of her predicament. She needed, repeat needed, a man’s hard cock to alleviate the ache of momentous proportions between her thighs. The ache that neither her fingers nor her trusty hot pink dildo, dubbed Sir Gallagher, no longer eased. She could almost hear the gasps of shock reverberate in her head and feel the stares of condemnation pierce her back. She looked around to make sure no one was indeed watching her, ready to flip them the bird if they were. No one was. She had not been with a man outside her erotic fantasies and “dreams” for more than a year. To be exact, one year, three months, two days and—she glanced down at the dashboard—five hours. Give or take a few minutes. But who was counting? She felt her clit hide in fear at the recollected fiasco. Not that the idiot had known where it was. She had not meant to go so long without a bed partner, but a good fuck was hard to come by—no pun intended—and she had lost the motivation to look for one. After all, Sir Gallagher did more than any human man ever did. Like, give her an orgasm. Add to that, she was a geek. After the men she’d met, no wonder she preferred a hot date with her PlayStation console, she thought idly. Though in a pinch her Xbox would do. Or her Wii. It was a good form of exercise. It was her only form of exercise. Maybe she should get a gym membership. 9

Oh, wait. I did. Well, maybe I should actually go to the gym. But even the thought sounded ludicrous. Her game consoles were far better any day of the week. She and they understood each other perfectly. The only thing they could not do was hit a homerun at the end of the date, or cuddle or have those late night talks she had recently learned she was fond of or… Damn. Socializing was the bane of her existence. Shivers racked her body at the very thought. Not the good kind of shiver. She just did not get the weird customs people adopted in social settings. Most conversations she’d heard before her self-imposed withdrawal consisted mainly of the latest fashion craze, who was running around with who and some celebrity’s new hairstyle. Apparently, discussing the latest anime or manga was a big no-no. That only made people look at her as though she’d sprouted horns, announced a desire for evil world domination and said she hated Justin Beiber. Clearly she was no social butterfly. Her seductive clothing for this expedition consisted of blue skinny jeans, Converse sneakers and a black t-shirt embellished with the word “Bazinga!” and Sheldon Cooper’s smiling face. She banged her head on the steering wheel. Who did she expect to seduce in this getup? It was highly unlikely that there were any nerds at this club. Besides, a geek was not what she had in mind. She needed a hot specimen of a man with working equipment, who knew how to use that equipment and had lots of stamina to last the whole night and possibly the whole weekend. No geek she knew fit those criteria. Going back home to find something sexier was not an option. These were the sexiest things she owned. She groaned, ran her hand over her face and sat up straight. “You can do this,” she chanted to herself. How hard could it be to find a man, really? Women did it all the time. Or so she’d heard. Ignoring the mental voice urging her not to do this, she stepped out of the car and went boldly where no geek had gone before…To Club Toxic. Club Toxic—should she be worried? She shrugged and strode on. A night between the sheets that left her with a smile on her face was 10

Kiale Dream worth the possibility of lethal radiation. Your priorities are so messed up, Zoey. Fifteen minutes later, thoroughly exasperated, Zoey was still fighting her way through a mass of gyrating bodies to the bar. The bar was only fifty feet from the entrance. Reaching it at last, she tried to get the attention of the bartender. She was in dire need of a beer. Normally, she was not much of a drinker but desperate times called for a less than sober mind. Maybe with alcohol in her system, she might resist the temptation to murder the next person who bumped into her. On the other hand, a glass bottle could make a very deadly weapon. She shrugged. Either way, she needed that beer. She gestured at the counterman, “Hey!” The man had the audacity to wave an impatient hand at her. “In a minute,” he shouted distractedly, staring down the front of the dress—could that wisp of material really be called a dress?—of a walking stick with blond hair. She looked down at her own breasts. They certainly were not getting her a drink, mosquito bites compared to those two gargantuan works of science that had the bartender drooling. “Hey, baby. Apart from being a hottie, wadya do for a living?” The squeaky voice came from the bar stool on her right. She already felt sorry for the poor woman who had to endure this joker’s advances. Looking forward to seeing the woman put the pickup artist in his place, she turned to look at the man. He reminded her of the Pillsbury dough boy only with spiked hair. She wondered if he would give the infamous chuckle if she poked his belly. Not that she would risk her finger on that perspiring body. The odor of stale sweat—and jelly donuts?— floated in a wave off him. And he was looking straight at her. She looked behind her. Only a ghost of a man sat there, caressing his drink like it held the secrets to the universe. Was the dough boy gay? She turned back to dough boy. Nope, he was talking to her. The speculative glint in his eyes said as much. “You’ve got to be kidding me!” She cringed. She was not that 11

desperate. “Wadya say, hot stuff?” “Is that the best you can do?” She was outraged. On behalf of herself and every other woman who had to suffer through such lame pickup lines. Apparently he thought it was great since his beady little eyes widened in shock and his jaw dropped in surprise. “Does that line ever work, buddy?” She leaned closer to him despite the repugnant fumes evacuating his mouth. “Uh—“ “Of course it doesn’t. And you want to know why?” “Uh—“ “Because it’s not a compliment. Think about it. Do you really think that I would fall for that ridiculous excuse of a line? Do you?” She was on a roll now. So much so that steam was coming from her ears. Oh no, that was marijuana smoke. “Uh—, I—” His lack of a proper response irked her further. By now, he looked ready to burst. Would pieces of flour paste splatter if he exploded? He was sweating profusely and sucking air like he was drowning. He got up suddenly and layers of flesh bounced and jiggled even underneath his too-tight T-shirt. “I’m outta here. You’re crazy, lady.” With that he wobbled away. If he thought that was crazy, he should see her really angry. This whole manhunt was going horribly and half an hour had not gone by yet. Turning back to the bar, she tried again to get the bartender’s attention. “Hey! There are other customers here, you know.” He ignored her and continued to flirt with the double-Ds. “Hey—” “Lady, can’t you see I’m busy? Hold your horses, I’ll get to you when I get to you.” Dammit, what did she have to do to get a drink around here? Strip down to her undies? That probably would not work either. Her cotton Fruit of the Loom panties were hardly the stuff fantasies were made of. Just then she was jostled and someone spilled their drink on her pants. They were her favorite pants. Okay, they weren’t. But still… 12

Kiale Dream The appeal of the club scene was highly overrated as far as she was concerned. People liked being packed into such a small space like sardines? Weren’t they worried about catching something? Obviously not. On her way to the bar, she’d seen what looked suspiciously like couples engaging in…relations. Right there on the dance floor, no condoms in sight. This was such a bad idea. What kind of guy could she find in this place? An STD-infested dough-boy asshole with lame pickup lines and bad breath, that’s what kind. As much as she wanted to get it on tonight, getting an STD or even the common cold was definitely not on her agenda. “Fuck this,” she whispered to herself. She was going home. Sir Gallagher would have to do until she formulated a better, safer plan to get a man. An STD-free man with some semblance of a working brain. Maybe a working brain should not be a criterion, but she had standards. Twisted ones, but standards nonetheless. Twenty minutes later she sped out of the club parking lot, leaving downtown Orlando behind her. With the sounds of Linkin Park blasting from her speakers, she tried not to think of the real reason she’d gone to that club tonight. And the real reason she had not tried harder to get laid. **** Back at her apartment, she toed her shoes off, dumped her keys on the nearest available surface and walked through the dark living room to her bedroom, not glancing at her comfy furniture. In the bathroom, she turned on the light, dumped her “seductive” wardrobe in the laundry basket and stepped into the shower. She needed to get rid of the ick from tonight’s escapade before touching her clean sheets. With steam filling the space, she scrubbed herself clean. Still wet from her shower, she dropped onto her bed and almost immediately fell into a deep sleep. **** 13

“You’ve been hiding from me, Zoey.” The world was black. Only the smooth voice penetrated the oppressive darkness. “Where are you?” she asked, her head swerving in every direction, trying to pinpoint the voice. “Your pussy aches for me, doesn’t it, sweet Zoey?” Confidence echoed through the statement. “I don’t know what you’re talking about. Carrying that huge ego around is going to break your back one of these days. ” She interjected as much boredom as she could into her voice. “I’ve got a broad back.” The shrug was clear in his voice. “Where were you tonight, love?” Warm breath tickled her cheek but no solid form stood in front of her. “What?” “You heard me. Where were you?” The voice came from her left but she did not bother to turn around, knowing there would be nothing there. “Not that it’s any of your business but I went to a club.” “Why, Zoey?” She felt a faint touch on her pebbled nipple but there was no one there either. “Stop that!” she said after swatting at empty air. “Why did you go to that club?” To her right, the voice came this time. “I refuse to partake in this conversation.” She had the silliest urge to stamp her foot. Suddenly a warm, naked, deliciously aroused body pressed against her back, which made her conscious of the fact that she too was without clothing. No surprise there. Whenever he came to her lately, her clothes were always gone. Poof… His breath raised goose bumps on her neck. Large hands cupped her breasts and pinched her decidedly erect nipples. His touch felt so real that she moaned before she could contain herself. The sensation travelled straight down to her pussy, making cream coat her inflamed mound. Without thought she pressed back against him, seeking more…more. His mouth descended on her shoulder and his tongue tasted her skin. Unusually sharp teeth nipped her 14

Kiale Dream shoulder blade. The prick of pain heightened her pleasure. She grabbed the back of his head and the silky strands of his hair slid through her fingers as his huge cock pressed against her bottom. “Don’t ever think that another man can replace me, Zoey. Your pussy knows who it wants, doesn’t it, my pet?” His warm breath heated her shoulder as the vibrations of his rough proclamation echoed through her skin. “Fuck you,” she replied harshly. He laughed that infuriatingly superior laugh of his. “Well, patience, dear. Good things come to those who wait. Believe me when I say that you will have no doubt who’s fucking that sweet little pussy of yours.” “You’re not nearly as irresistible as you seem to think.” She felt him smirk. “Whatever you say, love. However, your body’s saying something quite different. It’s calling my name. Say it, Zoey,” he commanded her as one hand slipped from her breast. He caressed her belly travelling further south. A tingling heat was left on every inch of skin his fingers stroked as tiny muscles contracted everywhere he touched. “Say it, Zoey.” She shook her head. “No!” Her voice sounded unlike her own, husky and strained. “Yes.” His fingers moved through the trimmed hair guarding her womanhood and through her lower lips. The ease with which they moved was a testament to how wet she was. He dipped a finger into her, then withdrew. Again. “What’s my name, Zoey?” Her hands tightened in his hair as his finger drew circles around her clit, agonizingly slow, not touching the tight bud of nerves. She pushed against his hands, needing relief. “My name, Zoey.” His voice was hard as he pinched her nipple, grabbing her clit between his thumb and pointing finger and tugged lightly but with enough pressure to have her arch sharply. Her pussy clenched in reaction as cream gushed onto her inner thighs. The feeling surprised her to a degree that she yelled his name without thought. “Ralden!” “Again, love.” He tugged again. “Ralden,” she whispered through quaking lips, so close to the edge that only a tiny push would send her over. 15

He laughed and stopped his action. The sound and abrupt way he denied her climax released her from her erotic prison. “Dammit,” she pushed away from him, turning around. Throwing her hands forward, she met…nothing. “Why are you doing this?” “You know why, Zoey. Did you think anyone could ever make you feel the way I do. You belong to me, Zoey. Sooner or later you will have to accept the fact.” “No!” She began running…just running. “You can run but you can’t hide, Zoey.” His taunting laugh followed her.

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Chapter Two A realm or two away The sunlight illuminated the elusive crystals that resided in the pearly white sand. Waterfalls fell off gently sloping hills and splashed clear refreshing water into waiting pools. Small streams mingled with the sea as the sound of lapping waves travelled. Trees danced in a tranquil breeze, the scent of fresh flowers the sweetest perfume. Fruits were abundant, as were tiny insects and birds of paradise. The scene was perfect, a small tropical island in the center of an endless sea of clear blue water. The surf was always peaceful, the breeze always calm, the sky always clear. It truly was a scene from hell… Feily was stuck on the jut of land with the one person she would gladly have killed. A person she had killed several times over. Her husband, Gion. But after killing a person a few hundred times, no matter how inventive she got, the activity became mindlessly boring. Especially when that person refused to either retaliate or remain dead. Feily paced along the sand, the gentle waves foaming at her feet and the wind softly moving her waist length blond hair away from her face. Her long toga-style dress trailed behind her. The light yellow material clung to her figure adoringly, knotted over her right shoulder and tied off at the waist She waved her hands and the waters moved in a snake-like pattern before clearing and allowing her to see the Kiale named Ralden. Lying in a pool of moonlight, the half-breed was splendidly nude. He lay tangled in disarrayed sheets. The lunar incandescence cast subtle lines and intriguing shadows over his distinctly Kiale features and sun-kissed coloring, unable to soften the angles that slashed and molded the arrogant line of his jaw. A neck she weirdly found sexy curved perfectly into broad shoulders and a chest that could compete with a god’s. Even she had to admit that the abs that stacked his abdomen were a little more than impressive. Oh, and 17

the brawny arms and thighs! He was with that earthling again. The woman he called mate. The byplay between the two was worthy of the addictive human soap operas she was shamefully fond of, although this sexual tension could in no way make it onto the restrictive daytime television. She bit her lower lip as, unaware of her voyeurism, the Kiale in question stroked the length of the phallus straining in his hand. She focused on the organ. The burgeoned head wept, the pearly drop glistening in the moonlight. Thick enough to make a basilisk’s dick envious, the shaft was more than nine inches of delectable pleasure. The veined length was protected by a neat bush of dark brown hair streaked subtly with blue. His testicles lay heavily against his skin. It was some of her best work, creating these creatures. Not that she liked to brag. No, wait, bragging was one of her favorite pastimes. Even his full-blooded relatives had been more than gifted in that department. Combined with god blood, of course her masterpiece had only been enhanced. Her breath hitched as she watched the impressive piece of man flesh being caressed by those masculine hands. Her hand waved in anger and arousal, and the image disappeared from the water’s surface. After more than twelve earth centuries without sex even the object of her hatred made her pussy throb. Her thighs clenched, trying to alleviate the ache and somehow making it worse. She would gladly rectify the situation had she not been stuck here with the one male she refused to ever let touch her body again. With renewed vigor, she moved along the water’s edge, fighting to contain her growl. As punishment for their actions, Asdan had sentenced them to this island to reconcile their differences. She would rather roll around naked in a pit filled with venomous reptiles, have her eyes poked out with a dull blade and have each nail and hair on her body pulled out one by one. All at the same time. What was there to reconcile? Her hand clenched over the wound that had killed her. Although healed, the scar long gone, sometimes she still felt the pain of it. The sheer contempt she felt for her husband was immeasurable. There was no distance far enough 18

Kiale Dream away from him. No divorce final enough to be rid of him. After watching human activities for so long she was very unhappy to say that she had picked up some of their less than desirable traits, like using their universal adjective, noun and verb, the “F” word and a few other choice words. What could she say? Humanity was infectious. They were quite entertaining most of the time with their weird customs and practices and were the only things keeping her from pulling her hair out in boredom and frustration. Humans were such a weak species yet oddly resilient. They seemed bent on selfdestruction yet fought for life with a can-not-beat-sense-into-themwith-a-mallet tenacity. This visual portal into the human realm was both a gift and a curse. While she found amusement in human antics, she was unable to keep herself from looking in on the remaining Kiale. Asdan had given Feily and Gion this unique view into the life of the remaining half breeds and in that cryptic way of his, said, “Fascinating, aren’t they? Shame that such a charming species is almost gone.” Before she’d gained this insight into their natures, they had been just servants, hardly worth a glance. He had forced her to watch them as individuals with thoughts, with feelings. To add to the destructive mix of anger and hurt, guilt was now rearing its ghastly head. She did not want to feel guilty over what she had done. Given the chance she would kill every single one of them again. Maybe… She was weakening. She could feel it. This was the only thing that kept her from crumbling, the glue that held her together. Her anger. Her hatred. Without them, her defenses would falter, hard and fast. Without them, she had nothing. Nothing but a well of emotions that threatened to overwhelm her, that threatened to make her feel things better left buried. Love. The being that invented that sick emotion needed to be hung by his balls and left to rot in the blistering hot sun, watching as those weird little birds called vultures circled. And she knew it was a man. A woman could not have possibly invented such a disgusting, decidedly-detrimental-to-peace-of-mind, heart-macerating thing. 19

She knew more than ninety percent of the female population, no matter the species, would agree with her. She was a murderess. While she had justified her actions so long ago, the excuses were no longer keeping the regret and shame away. She had been a good female once, despite her flaws. Such an admission would not have been heard before. But there it was, the curse of thousands of years of isolation and time that seemed to have no end; self-reflection, soul searching and all that crud. None of which she did willingly but when stretches of night sky hovered above in a lonely bed, the mind wondered. Sighing she walked to her sanctuary, with its view of the beach and clear sky. Sheltered by the trees and large flowering shrubs, her bed occupied much of the space with a large vanity table at the foot. Large, with the softest of sheets, the four-poster bed was covered with a canopy that blew in the soft breeze. Sparkling gems were sprinkled generously around the huge furniture and their light threw small rainbow prisms over it all. This was her private domain, expressing the feminine side that was being stifled by the war between pessimism and hopeless romantic. Feily ran her hand gently over the precious belongings she had gathered on her vanity table. Colorful shells and precious stones fanned the surface. Little feminine trinklets, bottled perfumes and jewelry of various shapes and sizes left soft scents and bold colors. A large oval mirror completed the set, reflecting light around the area, creating a light breaking through clouds effect. “Don’t you think we’ve been unhappy for long enough?” Ah, just what she needed to bring her day from mildly entertaining to break-out-the-chocolate smashing.

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Chapter Three Zoey awoke from her restless sleep with a shuddering breath. Sitting up, her hand immediately went to her throbbing shoulder. Kicking off the covers, she ran into the bathroom and true as day, there it was. He’d marked her. Again. The two puncture wounds were starkly visible on her mochacolored skin. She could feel them pulse with an ache that extended to her pussy. Her thighs were coated with cream and she could almost feel his finger plunging into her, long and thick, slightly callused with rounded tips. The empty feeling in her pussy made her angry. He always did this to her. He showed up in her “dreams” and wreaked havoc on her senses, leaving her feeling vulnerable and defenseless. Two feelings she absolutely, positively hated. The bite mark was not the only remnants of her “dream”. Her breasts were covered with the faint imprints of his hands. She cupped their weight and her fingers traced the marks his left behind. A shiver raced down her back. My mark looks good on you. She looked at her face in the mirror. Her black hair, streaming with natural brown strands, was tousled from her sleep, curling softly around her shoulders. Brown eyes were hooded with a mixture of arousal and anger. She hated to think that her anger stemmed more from the fact that he denied her release than his unwelcome presence. “Why don’t you just leave me alone?” Her fingers were plucking her nipples, rolling the hard tips. His laugh, sensual and liquid, echoed in her head. Because you don’t want me to. “Yes, I do.” The claim sounded false even to her ears. He laughed again. Really? “Really.” Their relationship began during her teenage years. He came to 21

her at night and at first his company was more that of a big brother, a confidant. She remembered their first encounter clearly. She had been fourteen years old and had gotten into a fight with snot-nosed Big Billy Ray, one of the popular kids, a bully. It had been over some comment he'd made. She had heard it all over the years, but with her temper, it was hard to ignore all the mean things people said. She was proud to say that she'd bloodied his nose although he pushed her up against a locker hard enough to leave a bruise. He continued his snide comments but from a distance after that episode. At home, she took the lecture on the composure of a decent, respectable young woman from her aunt in angry silence as her uncle sat at the end of the long dinner table, uncaring, reading some notes on his newest big case. After she had been dismissed, she had barely caught the comment about what a disappointment she was. She tried not to take it personally. She knew that, in their own way, they cared for her. It was simply how her aunt and uncle were. Everyone was supposed to fit in a particular mold and she did not. She refused to. After slamming her bedroom door closed, she'd sat on her bed, red-faced and bubbling with rage, and vowed not to care, but the tears still fell despite her resolve. Even after years of similar scenes, their words still hurt. She had never fit in. She knew she never would. Normal was too boring. So square. So robotic. She saw life in vivid color and funny shapes and it did not need to be tamed into a black and white 60s TV sitcom. She had fallen asleep with tears running onto her pillow. In the darkness of her mind, he had radiated warmth and comfort and vibrant bursts of color. At first, he had not been a solid presence and she could only hear his voice as if through a long tunnel but as time passed his body slowly emerged as their connection grew stronger with every meeting. He spoke to her, caring what she said and thought, laughing at what he called her ‘quirkiness’. He did not judge her or her “abnormalities” as her uncle called them. He did not belittle her when it was all too much and she cried. To other people, a physical presence in their dreams would be 22

Kiale Dream scary but not her. Zoey was a dream walker. She could enter other people’s dreams at will and if she chose, alter the reality of the events. Her psychic ability had started around her fifth birthday. Suddenly her guardians’ dreams were very visible to her young mind. Unaware of the consequences of her dream walking, she blurted out their unconscious secrets. They went berserk. After all, saying that her uncle paid a highpriced hooker and her aunt was a closet alcoholic were quite shockers, especially in polite company. Swiftly, she had been whisked off to the very best therapist money could buy. It had been quite entertaining to watch the shock on the face of Dr. Stick-up-his-ass, as she’d called him, when she mentioned his penchant for wearing women’s underwear. Soon that shock had been replaced by a combination of fear and hatred. Ralden was gentle with her, funny, the perfect shoulder to cry on, and the only solid thing in a world where everyone avoided or made fun of the “freak”. His presence was highly unusual. Well, to be fair, her entire life had been highly unusual. She could not have dreams of her own and could only walk through the dreams of people, anyone she had already met. But she had never met Ralden. At least, she didn’t think so. In all the years he came to her, he had never revealed his face to her. The fact that he came shrouded in darkness had not bothered her at first. But as she grew, she became curious. She'd wanted to put a face to her guardian angel. Her one and only request to see his face had been denied. The denial had made her angry, but then she just became thankful that he was there. Someone to laugh with, rage at and talk to. He called himself a Kiale. That’s the only clue he gave her as to his true identity. After tons of research she was no closer to finding out what he was. Letting go of her breasts, she stepped into the shower again. She needed to cool her raging hormones. Hey, what’s wrong, love? You’re not your usually prickly self today. It’s one of the things I love most about you. She snickered. He always tried to get a rise out of her. “What do you mean? Nothing’s wrong.” 23

Zoey. She hated when he took that tone with her. The one that said ‘I’m going to bug you until you tell me.’ He was the only person she knew that rivaled her in sheer stubbornness. “Really. I’m just tired. After all, I was asleep until someone disturbed me.” She tried to interject a reproach in her voice but did not think she pulled it off very well. I can feel your sadness, Zoey. “It’s nothing, Ralden.” Don’t lie to me. You know you can tell me anything. His voice was gentle, encouraging her to tell all her secrets. She sighed heavily as the warm water skated over her skin. “I don’t know. I guess I’m just a little lonely.” Oh, could she sound any more pathetic? You have me. “I know. And you know that I appreciate you but it’s not the same thing, Ralden, you know?” As much as she longed for some good old fashion loving, the need to just have a warm body to snuggle up to was stronger. She wrapped her arms around herself. Even with steam rising out of the stall there was chill beneath her skin she could never get rid of. Yeah, I know. Across their connection, he sighed. I would love to meet you, Zoey. She was quiet for some time. It was not the first time he had suggested them meeting. Her body longed to give in to his suggestion but her head always gave quite an extensive list of reasons not to. I don’t think that’s a good idea, Ralden. You always say that. Why? I don’t understand, love. Sometimes she did not understand either. Sometimes she just longed to throw caution to the wind, the consequences be damned but… There was always a ‘but’. I’m not that woman you see. Of course you are. I see you for exactly who you are. A beautiful, talented woman with a heart of gold. Oh, how she wished that was true. I’m not. I’m really not. I’m a freak. She grimaced at the term she heard so often. How can you say that? Despite what anyone else has said, you’re the truest and the most giving person I’ve ever met. You 24

Kiale Dream know what I want from you. I’ve never denied it. All you have to do is accept it and we’ll both be happy. It was what he wanted from her that made her hesitate. If it was simply a bump n’ grind between the sheets he wanted, yesterday would not be soon enough for him to be in her bed but he wanted more than that. More than she had to give… You’re asking a lot of me, Ralden. I don’t even know what you look like. You can change that right now. Just say the word and I’ll be right there. Her heart jumped. It would be so easy. But there was too much at risk. Ralden, you—, I—I can’t right now. He was silent for some time, absorbing her repeated refusal. When then, love? I don’t know. She could not bring herself to say never. Ralden was offering her what she had dreamed of so long ago. Someone to accept her the way she was. Forever. And that was exactly the problem. She did not believe in forever. Nothing lasted that long. Nothing. He claimed that she was his “mate”, the woman he was meant to spend the rest of his life with. She desperately wanted to believe that but how long would it take for him to change his mind after he met her? One minute after? One year after? Ten years after? Maybe their relationship was so easy now because their reality was what they made it. What if all her little annoying habits became glaringly obvious in ‘real’ life? She was not the easiest person to live with. She knew that more than anyone else. Sometimes, even she got fed up of being with her. She was prone to mood swings and something of a control freak, to name a few among her not-so-adorable traits. Love, I know you. All the little things that make you Zoey. And I adore them all. The way you use anger as a defense mechanism. That tenacious way you go after the things you want. The way you nitpick at everything. The way you’re always full of life not matter how much the odds are stacked against you. You’re smart, honest and sarcastic as hell. I even love the way you snore. Ah, what every girl wanted to hear, you’re a pain in the ass but I still want you. What? I don’t snore. How the hell would you know, 25

anyway? Whatever you say, dear, he replied in an overly placating way. Idiot. She rolled her eyes at the white wall. She could feel his smile. She answered with one of her own. We belong, Zoey and one day you will stop denying the fact. Well, there went her sunny moment with his about-face. She held her face up to the warm water, fighting the sudden need to weep. But for now why don’t I leave you with a little something to get you to sleep since I’ve been accused of ruining your beauty rest. Before her eyes, the water droplets gathered. Like a building being constructed block by block, they lined and assembled and took on a human shape. “Ralden, what are you doing?” She was startled into speaking out loud. Shush, love. Let me take care of you. Trust me. The figure knelt before her and raised its head as if looking up at her. Its hands came up to palm her breasts. The feeling was…interesting, very different from anything she ever experienced. She closed her eyes and let the sensations engulf her mind. The hands tweaked her nipples and massaged her breasts. She moaned. One hand left her breast and she felt it on her thigh. The pressure made her widen her stance. Fingers parted her nether lips and the figure licked with its liquid tongue. Placing her hands against the wall, she braced herself. With the way Ralden dished out orgasms, she would need the extra support. Your pussy’s so pretty. So wet. Is that for me, love? “You know it is.” Her breath puffed out of her chest as she watched the water man pleasuring her, his movements so smooth. Yes. Mine, Zoey. Mine. Don’t ever forget that. “Yours.” For the moment. I wish I could be there with you. Thrust my cock into your warm, tight pussy. I’d fuck against the wall, making you cum so hard, you wouldn’t know if the world ended around you. She could barely think but she found the breath to joke, “Cocky, aren’t you?” He chuckled and said, of course. Her small laugh turned into a breathy sob as its tongue touched 26

Kiale Dream her clitoris, engulfing it in the warm moving water and a hard finger plunged into her. Her knees trembled. I love to hear you moan for me. One day soon I will have you under me and hear you scream my name. It will be you and me. No stand in. “Ralden…” She wanted that too. All of it. But… The suction on her clit increased and her muscles clenched signaling the approach on an orgasm. “Don’t stop, Ralden, please…” Don’t worry, love. I won’t. That statement sounded loaded with extra meaning but who could concentrate on enigmatic sentences when sweet oblivion lay within reach? The finger grew, feeling more like a penis. Her cleft clenched around the water, trying to hold it against that sweet spot. It plunged in her pussy, harder and faster, impossibly deep. “Ralden, I’m coming, I’m coming, baby. Make me come. Oh yes, yes!” Yes, let it happen. Come for me, Zoey. Now. She screamed her pleasure at the ceiling. Her skin tingled with the lingering sensation as her muscles jumped and trembled. She grinded against the liquid cock, making the orgasm last for as long as possible. Numb with pleasure, her knees threatened to buckle. “Ralden!!” You’re so beautiful! He made her feel that way. In his presence, she always felt like more than just the mutant across the street. He made her feel normal and feminine and everything she just did not see when she looked in the mirror. Floating down from her peak, she watched the water figure break apart and she was left standing in a puddle of water that almost reached her knees. She could hear the water going down the drain. Turning off the tap, she stepped out of the shower and toweled herself off this time. A few seconds later, she was underneath her covers once more, hugging her pillow. She closed her eyes. Ralden? Right here, babe. Thank you. For more than she could say. The pleasure is all mine, love. Actually no, she answered, tongue in cheek. 27

His chuckle made her smile. She always smiled when he was around. Tomorrow? Try to keep me away. Good night, Zoey. Good night, Ralden, she said as she sunk into the waiting darkness.

28

Chapter Four Zoey’s peaceful sleep was interrupted by an incessant knocking on the door. With an impatient hand, she pushed her hair out of her face and grabbing the alarm clock, she peered at the time from underneath the covers. Seven thirty-two a.m. dammit! There were only two people who would think she would be up so early. Her aunt and uncle, of course. No one else would dare. She flopped onto her pillow, grumbling to herself before she got out of bed, grabbed a robe and rushed to the door. She jerked it open and sure enough, there stood her aunt in her power suit. It was Saturday, for God’s sake. “Zoey, really, do you know what time it is?” She could not help her snappy comeback. “Good morning to you too, Auntie.” “Don’t take that tone with me, young lady,” the cultured voice retorted with ire. Zoey sighed. Patience was a virtue, but unfortunately, someone stole her share at birth. She ran her hand through her loose hair, already feeling the need to tear at the strands. “Auntie, why are you here?” “Are you going to invite me in or have me stand on your doorstep all morning?” A perfectly manicured eyebrow rose into perfectly relaxed, short bobbed hair. It was a movement that her aunt reserved for the help and Zoey wondered if she ever realized she used it with her too. Sighing again, she moved aside. Her aunt brushed past, her heeled shoes clicking on the tiled floor, and the scent of expensive perfume slapped Zoey awake like any good cup of coffee would. Phaedra and Frederick Donaldson were both very successful and highly respected lawyers. Their disappointment in her choice of career was always a hot topic. They had a reputation to keep up. It would not do if their ward was so ungrateful as to not follow in their footsteps. 29

“I’ve been trying to reach you for a week, Zoey. An entire week. You can at least have the decency to answer the phone,” Phaedra said as she delicately placed her purse, briefcase and then her jacket over the side of the couch, sighing heavily while shaking her head disappointedly. It amused Zoey no end her aunt’s reaction to her lack of coat rack. She would buy one but this was her only entertainment when her aunt came around. She did not answer the calls deliberately. Her aunt was well aware of the fact. “Well, you’re here now,” whoopee! “So what did you want to say to me?” Phaedra’s eyes, resembling her own, gave her a disgruntled look before heading to the kitchen. Her makeup covered her light brown skin flawlessly, making her appear ten years younger than her fortyfive years. “Where’s your coffee?” Sighing, Zoey sat at a bar stool at the counter, resigning herself to the upcoming conversation. “Where it’s always been, Auntie.” With efficiency in every motion, Phaedra opened and closed cupboards, and then the air was filled with the scent of brewing coffee. “We’re having a little get together tomorrow and we’d like you to attend.” The order in her tone was clear. Zoey was scrutinized with a stare like a hawk’s. “You’ve got to do something with that hair, dear. We’ll get you a new dress also.” Phaedra poured two cups of coffee and sat one in front of Zoey. They both took a sip before Zoey dropped her bomb. “I’m busy.” “I haven’t told you the time yet,” her aunt stated in an irritated tone, forehead wrinkling into a frown. “What time is it?” “Six. Now—“ “I’m busy.” “What could possibly be so important that you can’t find the time?” Phaedra asked as if Zoey could not possibly have anything better to do. Actually she did not, but there was no way she was going to rub elbows with Phaedra’s judgmental friends. “Stuff,” she replied, not caring if she sounded like a child. “Zoey—” Zoey put coffee down with a sharp movement. “Why don’t you 30

Kiale Dream tell me why you really want me there? We both know I’m just going to embarrass you and Uncle Fred in front of your friends.” Then the real reason for her wanted presence occurred to her. “Is Michael going to be there?” Her aunt and uncle having been trying to set her up with Michael Thomson since her eighteenth birthday because he was appropriate. Meaning, he had the right looks, right family, right connections and right job. They figured if she could not properly follow in their footsteps, she could at least marry properly. Puh-lease, she thought, bringing up a mental image of the man. Brown skinned with light brown eyes, he was tall. He always spoke with perfect grammar and vocabulary, gesturing with his perfectly with lotion-soft hands, trimmed fingernails immaculate. His hands did not possess one callus. Manual labor was far too primitive for such a textbook example of civilized, cultured and educated manhood. “Now, Michael is a very nice youn—“ “So that is it,” she said, shaking her head. “As I said, I’m busy.” “You listen to me, young lady. Michael comes from a very good family and is just what you need to bring some…stability to your life.” She made it sound like Zoey was throwing drunken orgy parties every weekend from a cardboard box on the street. “What’s wrong with my life, Auntie? I earn a very good income. I have a great apartment. I’m not a drug addict and I’m not insane.” She had passed all the tests to confirm the fact. “What do you think Michael has that could contribute to my life? You just want to marry me off so you can wipe your hands of me for good,” she said it calmly because it was a simple fact as far as she was concerned. “How can you say that? Your uncle and I love you and we only want the best for you.” “And Michael is the best?” “Yes. He is available, handsome, and financially well-off. He will be making partner at his father’s architectural firm in a few years.” She couldn’t deny that he was handsome. In a polished, stick-uphis-ass kind of way. Dust was afraid to approach that man. “No, thank you. I’ll find a man on my own terms when and if I choose.” “Zoey, Listen—” 31

“No, you listen. I am grateful to you and Uncle Fred for all you’ve done for me but I am an adult, quite capable of taking care of myself and making my own decisions. I know your intentions are good but I will not be making it to your party.” With a helpless gesture her aunt put her coffee down and said, “Why are you so stubborn? This is great opportunity. You’re just like your mother. That’s why she had to marr—” she stopped abruptly. Zoey’s eyebrow lifted into her hair. “Why she married my father? Is that what you were going to say?” “As a matter of fact, yes. He had nothing to offer her.” Her mother, Melinda had been the rogue of the family, refusing to live by their rules. At the age of twenty she met and married Aaron McKenna, a poor and lowly store manager. Then Zoey was born. They had been enjoying a night out and she had been home with a babysitter when a drunk driver ran a stop light and just that quickly she had lost her parents. On their deaths, Phaedra and Frederick took her in. They could not have children of their own, and at the time, thought she would be a good substitute for a biological child. They came to regret the decision. The sad reality of being a dream walker was no one’s emotions were secure, good or bad. “Is that all that matters to you? Money and status? Money is not the only thing that matters in this world and my mother obviously knew that. But you wouldn’t understand that because you’re so wrapped up in this narrow little world you’ve created.” “Don’t you dare speak to me that way.” Phaedra’s cool was breaking. That was clear by the way the pitch of her voice climbed just a little bit higher. Anger flashed through Zoey, hot and consuming. “Or what, Auntie? Going to sic your shrink on me?” Phaedra’s eyes flashed, a rare show of true emotion. Zoey took a deep breath, reigning in her temper. While she refused to let her aunt dictate to her, she did not want to anger or hurt her. With the track this conversation was going, she would lose the restraints on her tongue very soon. “I think you should leave before we both say something we’ll regret.” 32

Kiale Dream “Fine, I’ll see you tomorrow.” With a huff, Phaedra left the kitchen, picked up her belongings and rushed to the door. “No, you won’t, Auntie,” Zoey said with finality. Phaedra looked back at her. Disappointment and frustration were written clearly on her face. She closed the door behind her. Zoey sighed and ran a hand through her hair. She locked the door and returning to the kitchen, she poured herself a second cup of coffee. She knew that she would not be able to get back to sleep. You okay, love? Warmth snaked through her hearing Ralden’s voice and the rest of her anger dissipated. He always knew when something was wrong and always came to her rescue. Yeah. I’m fine. If you need me, I’m here. You know that, right? I know, Ralden. Talk to you later. Later. She breathed in deeply, feeling better, and sipped her coffee, now able to enjoy the liquid that eroded the lining of her digestive tract. Her stomach rumbled reminding her that she had not eaten in almost twenty-four hours. That was not an unusual occurrence for her. Sometimes she simply lost herself in her work and food became the last thing on her mind. She figured that was the only reason she maintained her slender figure since she definitely loved food and did not have a fondness for exercise. Taking another sip, she formulated her game plan for the day. Finishing her coffee, she slowly moved to the refrigerator and settled for milk and cereal, the only thing she had that didn’t require cooking. Actually it was the only thing she had in the kitchen apart from some suspicious-looking items that resided in the refrigerator for who knows how long. She amended her plan to include grocery shopping. She spooned the colorful ‘O’s into her mouth. Finished with her cereal, she rinsed out the bowl automatically. Teeth freshly brushed she felt more like a human. Gathering her hair into a loose bun, she adorned her usual uniform, jeans and a tank top. She was out the door soon after. **** 33

Zoey strolled down the isle of the grocery store, her mind in a completely different place as she automatically loaded her trolley. She went over the mental list of chores that she had been putting on the back burner for days now. She sighed as she picked up a box of cookies and a bag of bite-sized candies and placed them in her cart. Maybe she should get to the laundry today. A bag of chips. Or maybe not. Maybe she could just buy new clothes— Oh, buttered popcorn! Near the top of her favorite snacks list. Maybe she’d watch a movie tonight. In the cart it went. She really should get to the laundry. And maybe clean out the cupboards. And dust? Sweep? Vacuum? She shuddered mentally. She hated housework. Pretzels. Nah, today did not feel like a chore doing day. But she had to do the laundry though. She was running out of clean underwear. Maybe she should hire a maid. A few chocolate bars. She dismissed the idea immediately as she had done so many times before. She disliked other people meddling in her stuff. She did things a certain way in her space and seeing one thing out of place made her go berserk. Especially her computer and gaming supplies. She almost felt sorry for the poor soul that moved her optical mouse from the specific angle she placed it. Almost but not quite. There were rules about touching other people’s technological stuff, right? Number one being Don’t Touch! Mixed nuts. She glanced down at the supplies she gathered so far. Maybe she should get some things that were nutritiously sound. She shrugged as she moved on. She loved vegetables as much as the next girl. Just not as much as sugar. And fat. And salt. With a full cart Zoey walked to the cashier counter and the spiritual energy of the man in front of her caught her attention. It was shifting in an angry pattern of dark colors. His movements were fidgety and he was angrily speaking with the cashier who was steadfastly trying to ignore him. From the back, all she could make 34

Kiale Dream out of his appearance was unruly brown hair over pasty white skin. Disheveled clothes hung on his thin frame, sneakers quite obviously needing the help of a good washing machine. His spiritual energy steadily grew more malevolent until it was mostly red and black and before Zoey could warn anyone, he pulled out a gun, pointing it at the cashier. Customers and employees screamed and started to panic. “Get on the ground. Now, everyone, on the fucking ground.” He waved the gun around as everyone ducked to the floor including Zoey. Her heart was beating a furious tattoo against her chest. “You, get over here.” The cashier, cheeks ashen with fear, huddled on the floor shaking her head as tears ran down her face. Red hair tied up into a loose bun, the short Caucasian woman was dressed in the store’s uniform, blue apron tied over it. “Larry, please don’t do this. Don’t—” “Dammit! Shut up and get your ass over here. Now.” She continued shaking her head. Larry lifted the gun to the ceiling and the loud boom echoed in the room. Screams of terror resounded through the store. Larry walked over to the cashier and grabbed her hair, pulling her up, her back to his chest. She screamed. Larry used the butt of the gun and hit her on the head. The sound of the metal hitting the woman’s flesh made Zoey’s stomach heave, her breakfast threatening to make a reappearance. The assistant’s cry of pain was sharp as blood was quick to emerge from the resulting wound. “What did I say? Didn’t I tell you to shut up? Didn’t I?” At his shout, the cashier whimpered and nodded frantically to appease the crazed gunman. “See what you make me do? You always push me too far, Vanessa. You think you can just leave me? Me! I’ll show you, you whore.” “I’m sorry, Larry. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean—“ “Shut up!” he thundered. The store manager got to his knees and pleaded with the man, “Sir, please put down the gun. You don’t have to d—” Another boom echoed through the store and the manager fell to the floor, withering, clutching his right shoulder and screaming. 35

More screams followed. Zoey flinched from her position and could not help her own scream as a pool of blood gathered around the poor man. Sirens sounded outside the store. Zoey? Like an ocean breeze, his voice instantly calmed her rioting thoughts and pushed the panic she felt back. Nothing could help the urge to throw up though. Oh God! Ralden. I can’t believe this. He has a gun. She was more coherent than she thought she would be. Who does? Where are you? Are you hurt? His tone was urgent. “Bitch, look what you made me do. Goddammit. Nobody move.” At the store, there’s a man with a gun and he shot someone. Are you hurt, Zoey? “No. I’m… No. Apart from shaking like a leaf, she was just peachy. Thank God. “This is the police. Sir put the gun down. Release the hostage and put your hands up.” Larry moved out of Zoey’s view and shouted, “Fuck you.” Can you see him? Not anymore. Try to get a clear view of him. Zoey did not question what Ralden asked of her. She trusted him to take care of her. He had never let her down so far. Remembering her stealth training from a first person shooter game, she slithered on her stomach across the floor, trying to get closer to the man who was engaged in a shouting match with the authorities. They continued their anxious negotiations with him as he screamed obscenities, some of which she had to admire for their originality. Maneuvering her body between two stranded trolleys she had a clear view of Larry. Vanessa was clutching desperately at the hand at her throat, her eyes wild. I can see him now. Unfortunately he saw her also. “Bitch, where the hell do you think you’re going?” She tried to ignore him, hoping he would lose interest in her. He didn’t. “Hey, I’m speaking to you. All you bitches are getting on my last nerve. First this one thinks she can just leave me. Take away my 36

Kiale Dream beer money,” he indicated the sobbing Vanessa. “Now you think you’re too good to answer me.” He pointed the gun at Zoey. Continue looking at him. Don’t look away. Zoey felt a foreign power gather in her as she did as instructed. Strong and all-consuming, it washed over her cells and pushed her heart to its limits. Her muscles tensed as her lungs demanded more air. Wind touched her cheek and it felt distant like her senses were no longer her own, like she was a passenger in her own body. “Want to answer me now? Ahhh…. “ Larry screamed and his face twisting in pain, shock widening his eyes. He let go of Vanessa. She fell to the floored and quickly crawled away, screaming “Oh God,” repeatedly. “Sir, put the gun down and put your hands up.” The police rushed in. Larry’s limbs contorted at weird angles as he screamed. His panic infected the rest of the persons in the store and the volume of screaming increased. The hand containing the gun lifted above his head and his wrist bent awkwardly, the snap audible. A gunshot rang out and a red stain appeared on Larry’s shoulder. He let go of the gun as he screamed louder. It fell to the floor with a thud as he whimpered, dropping to his knees. Larry was handcuffed in record time as an officer grabbed the gun he once held. There was no sympathy for his cries of pain. Zoey sagged as the power let go. She felt drained. Baby, I’m sorry I had to do that. You okay? It’s okay. I’m fine. Thank you. Around the store, people sobbed as they comforted each other. Paramedics rushed in to assist the wounded manager.

37

Chapter Five Around six that evening, Zoey entered her apartment empty handed, head pounding. Her stomach rumbled. She ignored it. She needed a shower to cleanse the last few hours away. Zoey, you need to eat something. I’m not hungry, Ralden. He had not left her since the incident, present through the grueling questions of the police officers and the events following Larry’s arrest who wailed about being possessed by the “demon black girl” and pleaded for an exorcist. Had it not been for the anger and adrenaline rushing through her veins, she would have found the matter laughable. Television cameras arrived soon after. She tried to avoid them like the plague but her picture still showed up on the television. Her aunt had called her cell phone, sounding harassed as if Zoey orchestrated the whole event. It had taken all of her willpower not snap at her aunt so instead she hung up on her. Next, her uncle joined the list of headaches she rapidly acquired. Suit creaseless and beard neatly trimmed, he showed up flashing his position, bold head shining in the flashing lights, brown-gray eyes swiftly and mercilessly accessing the situation. Many of the officers were acquainted with him and by their looks, did not like him very much. He soon stole the spotlight, giving his heartfelt worries for his poor niece trapped in this horrendous incident. He continued to ramble on about how the cops needed to crack down on these criminal elements before crimes such as these were committed. She almost gagged at his sermon. He left soon after reminding her of the party she was obliged to attend tomorrow evening. I ordered a pizza for you. Ralden, didn’t you hear me? Jesus Christ, I said— Even without words, she’d discovered, she could growl. She sounded like a wounded bear with the need for an attitude adjustment. 38

Kiale Dream Zoey, come on, baby. Calm down. And before she could interrupt, he added, No arguments. Please, baby. Do it for me. I just want to take care of you. His tone was beseeching, pleading and she gave in. Fine. I’ll try, but I’m not promising it will stay down. It will be there soon. The warm water beat down on her shoulders as she tried to forget the events of the day. She needed to get the vision of the store manager and the red pool that surrounded him out of her head. As well as the image of the fear in the cashier eyes and the way she seemed used to the abuse she suffered today. As promised, fifteen minutes later her doorbell rang. In a pair of shorts and another tank top, she answered the door and the delicious smell slapped her in the face. The logo of one of the most popular and expensive restaurants ran across the front of the big paper bag. In the kitchen, she unloaded the bag. Her stomach rumbled again, discrediting her claim of not being hungry. She was suddenly ravenous. She loaded a plate with a little of everything, placing the rest in the refrigerator. She poured herself a generous glass of wine and sat in front of her flat screen television. Her first bite of the chicken deluxe pizza made her moan. Good, huh? God, orgasmic. She sighed, taking another bite. Hey, I thought that’s what I was for. She chuckled out loud. It felt good to laugh. What are you doing? Just got home. About to take a shower. She tried to imagine him with water running down his body. She shifted on the couch as heat settled low in her belly. You would think after the day she had, sex would be the last thing on her mind. Apparently not… Where were you? Jealousy reared its head even as she told herself it was totally irrational. He laughed as if sensing the green-eyed monster. Work. Previously, he’d mentioned owning a management consulting business along with his brothers, Lee-vai and Micaiel. 39

They continued to chat long after she finished her meal, downed two glasses of wine and a slice of the included cheesecake. A yawn nearly split her face in half and tiredness beat down on her body. Oh God, I’m so tired. She got off the couch and went into the kitchen, rinsing out the dirty dishes. That does not surprise me. You’ve had a tough day. Don’t remind me. In the bathroom, she brushed her teeth. Striping down to her underwear, she got into bed. Despite her tiredness, sleep was not easy to achieve and she felt tears prick at her eyes. Ralden? Yeah, baby? I— She sighed. God, she should not be doing this but she was feeling needy tonight. What is it, love? She turned onto her side, hugging her pillow. It offered little comfort. She needed his physical presence tonight but she did not know how to ask him. Thankfully, he made it easy for her. Let me hold you tonight. No funny business. Promise. A tear escaped and she had no hope of stemming the torrent it unleashed. She felt his presence behind her. The bed dipped and a hard body molded hers. He was naked from the waist up and slightly damp. Warm breath tickled her nape as the body moved behind her, spooning her perfectly. A soft kiss touched the skin of her shoulder as a warm palm run up her side. Even in her distraught state, her body could not help but respond as her nipples beaded, her heart skipped a beat and a flutter graced her pussy. “Ralden?” Her voice sounded small, uncertain. Another small kiss feathered her skin. “Are you expecting someone else?” The teasing voice of her “dreams” answered her. Tilted with a slight accent, it brought to mind melted chocolate drizzled over naked bodies. She fought the urge to turn around. More tears pricked at her eyes and his arms wrapped around her. Finally her sobs died down to sniffles. Embarrassment filled her. “I don’t know why I’m crying. Jesus. You must think I’m a cry baby.” “It’s okay to cry, baby. You’ve had a stressful day. And I know for 40

Kiale Dream a fact that you not a cry baby. This is only the third time you’ve cried since I’ve known you.” “Why do you remember stuff like that?” “I remember everything about you.” Pleasure assaulted her tired brain at those words. It caressed her and soothed her nerves, and her eyelids became very heavy. Another kiss landed softly on her temple. Sleep, love. Better than any lullaby, the tone lulled her to do just that. Thank you, Ralden. You’re more than welcome. Good night, Zoey. ’Night. Then everything was black.

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Chapter Six A sad sigh almost escaped Feily’s lips but she reined it in just in time. She refused to look at Gion. Maybe he would take her hint and go away. A strange melancholy gripped her and all she wanted was a quiet moment to lick her wounds. He never was good at taking a hint. His touch burned her arm. Anger pulsed. Not because he had the audacity to touch her, although that certainly had something to do with it. It was because of the cursed fissure of arousal that curled low in her belly. She looked down at his restraining hand then up at Gion. “Get your filthy hands off me. Now.” Her voice was dangerously low. His aquamarine eyes were turbulent and his dark mood pliable. Even in his dark disposition, his raw masculinity shone through. A touch of dark stubble framed his pink lips giving him a rakish look. His gorgeous body was hidden by a white tunic and matching pants. The light of day caught his blond, sun-bleached curls at just the right angle, drawing attention to the smooth curve of his nose and prominent cheekbones. Her husband was scrumptious even when he was being the rear end of a very undesirable animal. “Aren’t you tired of playing the victim?” His grip tightened and he glared down at her. That look sent a slither of… something she could not identify down her back. She glared back. “Excuse me?” “You heard me. This has gone on long enough. The way you sulk around here, I’m surprised your face has not permanently become stuck in a scowl. Let the past go already.” “That would be easy for you to say, wouldn’t it, you adulterer? I am the victim here.” “Keep lying to yourself. You think I don’t know about the males you slept with, Feily? I’m not as dumb as you seem to think.” He knew, did he? Too bad she could not care less. “I did not sire an entire island of bastards with any of them, now did I?” 42

Kiale Dream The words seemed almost rehearsed, the argument one they had had many, many times before. He laughed, the bitter sound carrying on the wind. “You think that makes it better?” “Of course it does.” It did, didn’t it? “So you take absolutely no blame for what happened. You’re the one who drove me away. Always complaining, always moping. Nothing was ever good enough for you.” Oh no, he was not going to turn this around on her. “Well, maybe if you had kept me satisfied, I would have been happy. Maybe I should have had one of the Kiale males give you a few lessons,” she ended the spiteful comment with a smirk and a delicately raised eyebrow. She tries to jerk away but his grip on her arm was unshakable, holding her in place. His eyes darkened until they were the darkest blue she had ever seen them. The muscles of his neck tightened and his face became so red he looked ready to explode. His breath puffed angrily out of his nostrils. He jerked her none-too-gently closer, spinning her around in the process, his grip holding her firmly against his chest. Even through his clothing, his muscles bunched with tension, unyielding, hard and defined. His erection brushed the small of her back. Even now, she could remember the feel of that mammoth work of nature, splendidly driving between her folds, pushing and cajoling and forcing her higher and higher. No matter the prowess and stamina of the Kiale males, they never compared to this specimen of male perfection. Despite all his sins, Gion knew the female body, how and when to stroke each cord to make her sing soprano. She felt his breath against her neck and heat bloomed, fierce and nearly out of control, low in her belly. She trembled. “Is that right?” His tone spelt trouble. Why was she looking forward to it? **** Ralden stared down at Zoey, transfixed by her beauty. Her lovely brown skin glittered and her pink lips were parted slightly. Above 43

her lip, a small beauty mark took up residence adding to the mystery that was this woman. He knew her eyes were deep brown, soulful and full of secrets. Long lashes fanned out over her closed eyelids with perfectly sculpted eyebrows, not attained in any beauty salon, above. Her black hair fell in soft curls around her face as the golden highlights shone in the faint light. He could hear her steady heartbeat. Zoey. His mate. He waited for Zoey for more than twelve hundred years. For every creature in the universe, there was someone who complimented them perfectly. Race did not matter, neither space nor distance nor time. When he and his brothers landed on earth following the chaos on Maion adapting to the new environment had been difficult at first. Their biggest challenge had been keeping their identity a secret. Very early on, they learned that humans, despite their great capacity for love, were very callous given the right incentive. They hunted and killed anything that they did not understand or felt mildly threatened by. While Kiale were far more powerful than the average human and any number of some of the things they discovered went bump in the night on this planet, they had no desire to fight or start a war. By accident, Micaiel discovered their wings were retractable. On Maion, there had been no need to do such a thing so it never occurred to try. With one problem solved, soon another reared its head. They found that they could eat most human foods but their bodies did not absorb the nutrients. Starving and half-mad, Ralden had been the first to attack a human and they deduced that blood sustained them. Appalled at his actions, he had tried to fight the urge. That did not work for long but luckily a vampire called Aifric had found them after a particular bloody feeding and had taken them under his wing. He taught them how to feed without killing, how to survive in the shadows and how to hide in plain sight. Due to their longevity, he and his brothers moved every few years, not wanting to attract unwanted attention. Nine years ago, they moved to Florida from Japan. He was scoping out his new 44

Kiale Dream territory when he screeched to a stop. And nearly plummeted to the ground. Internally, he reached out to the grief that called to him and he found her, a scared little girl with a heart of hurt but with a goodness that could not be contained. He knew that she was his destined. He watched her grow and blossom into a woman, her antics and thoughts entertaining. She was very resistant to their joining. In true Zoey fashion, she was against any thing she did not have control over. Trailing his fingers over her skin, he marveled at the softness. She snuggled into his hand, arching subtly, sighing as her tongue snaked out to lick her luscious lips. Over her neck, the hill of her breast and finally against her flat stomach, his fingers explored lightly, barely touching. The sheet prevented him from touching her bare skin. He barely resisted the urge to tear it away. He knew that he should not be taking such liberties but he could not deny himself some sort of contact, affirmation that she was real and not a figment of his imagination. Need rode him hard and demanded that he sate himself within her body. At the apex of her thighs, he paused. Her heat speared him. Her scent made him light-headed. He groaned softly against her neck. His canines tingled and he fought the urge to have them lengthen. Her blood flowed, rich and fragrant, calling to him, muscles straining with the need to taste her. She stirred and her hand found his head, fingers lacing through his hair. “Ralden.” Her sigh was barely discernible. He glanced up at her face. She was still asleep. Her legs shifted and the intensity of her scent increased and a low growl rumbled in his chest. His head dipped and he tasted her lips, his first real taste. They were so soft, so delicate. The only thing better would be to taste those dusty rose nipples or to lick every millimeter of her skin, or sink his cock into her wet heat again and again and again and again… He groaned again, trying to stifle the sound. Even in her sleep, she responded. Her tongue peeked out, and in a touch so light he almost thought it was his imagination, she licked him before retreating, her soft exhale fanning out to heat his lips. 45

He stiffened, feeling his control crack around the edges, and growled, low and long, as his fangs dropped without his permission. Just that little lick and she shot his scale from one to ten. Damn, how would he survive when she finally let him between those gates of paradise? Deliberately, like a hungry lion moving away from gourmet cut meat, he backed away. His breath puffed out of his chest. Knowing his restrain was near its end, he withdrew his hand and resolutely placed it on her waist, burying his face in her hair, forcing his fangs to retreat. He tried to control his breathing but only managed to draw her fragrance deeper. It was going to be a long, long night.

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Chapter Seven “It would seem I have something to prove, huh, dear wife?” Baritone low and dangerous, Gion growled. His hand fisted in her hair, pulling her head back on his shoulder. She squealed as she clutched his arm, which was banded around her waist. Her neck bent at an awkward angle, she looked up into the icy hot glint in his. “Gion, please—“ His lips covered hers, hard and bruising. His tongue pushed past the barrier of her lips and teeth, not asking permission, simply taking. His other hand landed on the cradle of her thighs, pulling the light material of her dress up so that it rode high on her hips. Her lack of under garments offered little protection as he grinded his rigid cock against her. She whimpered beneath his invasion, distressed at the situation yet aroused at his rough handling. His tongue thrust repeatedly into her mouth, demanding, dominating, masterful. His taste filled her mouth, dark and bittersweet, his kiss wet and filled with more tongue that she had ever experienced. Trembling, she pulled her head to the side, increasing the tension on her hair. “Gion, please, it’s—” “Shut up. Just… shut up.” It was as if he were speaking another language. He had never spoken to her this way. Never. So why was cream flowing down her thighs at his treatment? She blinked, trying to make sense of what was happening. This was not how a dignified goddess like herself should react to such treatment. Really? Was there some unspoken rule? Because if there was she was definitely breaking it and caring less and less about her offense. While she was shocked still, he ripped her dress, flinging the material carelessly away. Just ripped it…. She watched the action as if in slow motion. The move was effortless. The sound lingered on the air before floating away. This 47

propelled her into action. “Gion, no.” Squirming, she tried to turn around. He anticipated her movement and pushed her forward and her hands landed on the table, which shook and several items fell to the sandy floor. There was the sound of breaking glass. Immediately the intense smell of her light floral scented perfume surrounded them. She almost sighed when he removed the grip on her hair. The sound of his hand landing on her backside echoed followed closely by her sharp cry as heat bloomed in her behind. He could not have just— Tap! He did. “Don’t move.” “Gion, this is rid— Ahhh” Her butt cheeks throbbed with the shock from each rough caress. This had to stop. Her pussy disagreed, starting a cheering section in anticipation for the next heated strike. “I. Said. Don’t. Move.” He crowded her, trapping her between his body and the furniture. She pushed back against him trying to throw him off, she reasoned but it seemed more like she was a cat stroking herself against an erect surface. All it accomplished was making her more aware of the giant cock drilling into her back. He held her in place easily. Breathing heavily, she caught their reflections in the mirror suspended above the table and she froze once more. Her naturally blond tresses were tousled, the light strands caressing the hard nipple of one breast, playing a game of hide and seek with the rigid pink flesh as the other stood at attention in the day light. Her sapphire colored eyes were darkened, startling over her flushed cheeks. Her lips were bruised, red from his kiss. She licked them nervously, confused by her body's reaction. His eyes glittered with a combination of lust and anger. “I will show you just who this needs.” His hands brushed her feminine flower and to her mortification came away moist with her dew. She laughed mockingly, “Believe me, Gion, I’d bed any man but you. Any man at all! Even the lowliest of peasants before I let you anywhere near me.” Ewww. As if! But he did not need to know that. 48

Kiale Dream His hand landed on her ass again. And honest to Asdan, he set off a shower in her womanly area. His caveman tactics raised her deity hackles. They also made her clit throb in agreement. “No man will ever touch you but me. None. Not ever again. You understand me?” Possession dripped from his words. “If I choose to spread my thighs for any male, there’s nothing you or anyone else can do to stop me.” “Really? You think so, huh? You allow any other man between those thighs again and he dies. And your behind will not fare so well either.” He was dead serious. The polished manner that usually controlled his actions was almost completely dissolved. His hands swept her body, arousing her sexual appetite. He grabbed her breasts, pinching the nipples hard. With no protection, the twin peaks reacted faster than freezing water in an arctic wasteland. Did that moan come from her throat? “This is mine.” His hand appeared so large and dark against her ivory skin. She knew she was a gorgeous female with just the right amount of curvature on her petite frame. She embraced her curves and knew exactly how to work them when it suited her. But never had her breasts look so beautiful, cupped by his masculine hands, their fingers so long and talented. “Mine.” The hand drifted down to her belly, caressing the flat surface. She watched her muscles ripple in reaction. His fingers skirted the trimmed gate before lying over her womanhood. No doubt he could feel the heat and moisture she was helpless to prevent from gathering. “This is mine. Always will be.” His hands left the area and she barely swallowed her cry. Her body unconsciously followed his hand, seeking his touch. He retraced his path and his hand snaked up to wrap around her slender neck, not hurtful but with enough pressure to keep her immobile. “You’re mine. You will always be mine. No matter what happens. No male touches what’s mine again.” Why did his dark possessive words echo deep in her core? Why did this side of his nature, one she rarely saw thrill her? Why did she feel the need to push his buttons further? “I belong to no male, Gion. Ever.” 49

His grip on her neck increased for a brief second before relaxing. “We’ll see.” Before she could reply his mouth covered hers again with the same bruising force. Without her consent, her tongue joined the fray, battling with his for dominance. His lips sucked, his tongue licked, his teeth adding a delightful bite. She loved it! But only because she had denied herself bed play for so long. She nodded internally. That had to be the reason for her uncontrollable response to this treatment. His hand left her neck and the cool air touched her nipple after a viciously sensual tug. His warm palm covered her breast again and she arched, straining against his restraining hand. His head lifted but his tongue continued to lick at her swollen lower lip. She bit at the organ. He laughed, dark and deep, taking another swipe, evading her teeth too easily. “Yes.” Satisfaction hummed in his tone. He loved this just as much as she did. “You have the finest breasts. So warm. Pink berries on white lace.” Breasts had always just been breasts to her, simply another attachment to her body, something to be used for seduction, to flaunt, to get her way. Presented the right way, they could bring any male to his knees. She watched them with an almost clinical view. But the reverence with which he spoke about them made her look at them in a new light. In his palm, they looked like erotic sacrifices. Her nipples were pointed like drawn swords surrounded by her creamy pink areolas. Every flicker of his fingers sent streaks of fire along every nerve ending in her body. A tap landed on the ravished breast before he squeezed once more. Her gasp of delight shocked her. The bite of pain she experienced blossomed into a sharp fissure of pleasure that had her entire breast tightening as goose bumps rose along her skin. Her breathing hitched and her wet nether lips rubbed against each other as she squirmed underneath his sweet torture. He did it again and again. And again. She pushed back against him, grinding her behind against the pole tenting his loose pants. “Like that, do you? Only I can make you feel this way.” 50

Kiale Dream Despite her pleasure, his superior attitude got a rise out of her. “Keep dreaming.” He did it again. Harder this time and her body shuddered against his chest. Her flesh was red from the sweet abuse. He bent over her neck and his teeth grazing the heated skin. “Ohhhh…” “Is this a dream when I do this? If it is, then you seem to be enjoying this dream quite a bit.” Her brain cells were all withering in pleasure, so her snappy come back was placed on hold. By this, he was referring to the magic his fingers were playing on her gushing woman’s land. Her back bowed at the exquisite torture, her breast pressing into his plucking fingers. Hips gyrating, her little bud throbbed with a steady beat. Suddenly, the needed pressure was gone and she was airborne. Her butt landed on the smooth surface of the table. More items landed on the sand with soft thuds. He returned his sweet torture to her breasts and his teeth grazed the tender flesh. His body fit perfectly into the cradle of her thighs and his hard cock pressed firmly against her clit, rubbing through the fabric of his pants, up and down in smooth circles. She wrapped her legs around his waist, holding him close. He groaned against her breast sending tingles of pleasure down her spine and thighs before the tracks raced back up to her chest. His hand left her breast to grab the globe of her behind, pressing her closer to his straining erection. At this new angle, her back was pushed up against the cold mirror and she jumped from the cold only to press deeper into his mouth. “Oh,” she moaned, half delirious. His tongue repeatedly thrashed her rigid nipple before he sucked strongly then released the stiff peak. Sucked and released. Sucked and released. The alternation from hot moist heat from his mouth, then the cool, flowing air stimulated dormant nerves. “Oh, Gion!” His mouth was gone just as suddenly as it landed. Her eyes fluttered open making her realize that she had closed them. When? She had no idea. He looked so big, so…bad leaning over her, no mercy showing on the hard angles of his face. His warmth folded over her. He stepped 51

back slightly and the material was torn from his chest. Cool air teased her wet womanhood causing a rippling effect as her muscles clenched. He knelt between her spread thighs, clad only in the white pants. Hands pressed her thighs close to her chest, leaving her wantonly displayed. His blue obsidian eyes swept her possessively. She had never seen him this way. He never looked sexier. His fingers passed lightly over her lower lips. “Oh Gods! So pretty. Such a pretty pussy.” His praise had her lady land blooming like a pink rose. A long lick caressed the underside of her right thigh then the left before lavishing her puffy lips with the same treatment. The scrape of his teeth in the wake of his tongue had her shivering. He sucked her clit into his mouth then let go with a popping sound. She keened, loud and high. He spat on her pussy before licking over where the foamy liquid had landed. She should have felt disgusted. She should have felt insulted. She should have fought her way out of his grip. She felt the exact opposite. She felt naughty and definitely wanted more. Oh Asdan, did she ever want more! So much more in fact, her fingers spread her lips for his wicked tongue. She was just helpful that way… “Good girl.” His words washed over her inflamed flesh. Tap, tap, tap, tap, tap. “Ahhh.” The successive pats landed over her clit so fast it looked like one action but her body felt each stroke. His tongue went on a rampage, licking furiously as his lips periodically closed over her engorged clit. The hood lifted away from the small structure and his mouth made the millions of nerves attached sing. She could not keep still as her hips demanded more but his strong hands kept her positioned just right. He hummed and groaned against her and the vibrations had her trembling to his beat. Two fingers pressed into her tight crevice and he attacked the right spot right off the bat and a mini fireworks show danced behind her eyelids. Her hands closed over her breasts and she massaged, pinched and tortured just as he had done. She had never known such need, such desperate want. It felt so good. “Gion! Yes, 52

Kiale Dream eat me, just like that, yesss!” He ate at her like it was his last meal. His obvious enjoyment added to hers. No place was left uncharted as he used every weapon in his arsenal; his tongue, lips and teeth. To her dismay he rose, taking that wonderful mouth away. Her juices lined his jaw, glowing and fragrant. In a suggestive movement, his mouth sucked his fingers clean. “I could drink from you all day.” Then why did he stop? She had been so close! His pants were gone, whisked away with a thought, and her displeasure melted away. He palmed his thick length, stroking the heavy inches. The act sent a spurt of cream onto the crack of her backside. She licked her lips. This was exactly what she wanted. Centuries worth of want and need beat at her demanding relief. He nudged her entrance with the crowning head and impaled her in one stroke. Breath temporarily took leave from her body. Her flesh stretched, straining to accommodate him, burning from being out of commission for such a long time. Even the burn pushed at the right buttons. His weight pressed her onto the hard surface, deliciously heavy. He blocked out the light and there was nothing but him. Incredibly male, potently domineering. She felt small and vulnerable yet powerful in her femininity, proud in her sexuality. While their love life had always been great—when they had one that is—it had never been anything like this intoxicating rawness and explosive passion. It had been mellow, gentle with soft touches and whispered loving words. He always took care of her needs, always made sure she achieved orgasm before seeing to his own release. But this love making pulled at every string she had, pushed every hot button she possessed, even those she was only now discovering. Eyes flashing she urged him on, “Give it to me, Gion. Can’t you see how much my pussy wants your cock?” She would deal with her admission later. Now, all that mattered was the fire that burned in her crease. All that mattered was his cock, filling her to the brim. All that mattered was that he take her into sweet oblivion. 53

His pupils dilated and his breathing caught at her words. She shocked herself also. Their bedroom play had never consisted of such dirty talk. While the words were a surprise, they felt and sounded right, sinfully erotic. He pulled back, fisting his cock before pushing it back in. Her cream glittered on the ramrod penis, coating his palm. “So tight! You have no idea what this pussy does to me. No idea! Look how prettily it stretches for my cock.” Apparently, she was not the only one with a dirty mouth. His hips pushed forward and she angled hers to receive him. Even with enough moisture to create a small sea, it was a tight fit. Inch by steel comparable inch, his mushroom head pushed through her honeyed dew. Sweat dotted his brow. His eyes held hers. She refused to look away. She doubted she could even if she wanted to. The savagery his eyes conveyed trapped her, pulled her in and drowned her in their bottomless depths. He pulled back yet again this time, gracing her clitoris with a lash of weeping cock. Fire raced to her toes causing the infamous toecurling effect. “Is this what you want, my little vixen?” He pushed back into her, harder than before. Her breasts jiggled with the impact. He repeated the action, the sound of his cock hitting her wet vulva obscenely loud. He pushed back into her. “Harder, Gion! Please!” He was teasing her and the need for release rode her hard, just like she wanted him to ride her. Slow stroke out. Forceful stroke in. “Gion, stop tormenting me! If you’re not going to give me what I need, then don’t bother, dammit! I need you hard and fast.” His smirk made her itch to slap him. All her words got her was a repeat of the torturous movement. He hit her g-spot with each stroke in, setting her ablaze but it just was not enough. She needed harder. She need deeper. She needed faster. And he was going to give her what she needed! She squeezed her internal muscles around him. He groaned and closed his eyes, his head falling back on his shoulders. Stubborn god that he was though, he pulled out of her with the same agonizing pace. If that was not going to work, she knew exactly what would. “You 54

Kiale Dream obviously don’t know how to give me what I want. Maybe you really did need those lessons.” His eyes snapped open and he froze but tension flowed off him. His fingers wrapped in her hair again, pulling her neck taunt, making her back arch sharply. She hissed from the pain. She moaned from the pleasure that followed the burn. The pull on each strand shot to her pussy and her muscles clenched in reaction. He pushed deeper into her and she squirmed against the impossible fullness. Their eyes clashed, both their bodies vibrating. “You’re playing with fire, Feily. Don’t push me,” he grounded the words out through clenched teeth. His tone warned her that she was proceeding on shaking ground. “On what, Gion? You’ll run off to your side of the island and take pleasure from your hand instead?” Who ever said she liked to play it safe? She wanted him to suffer as much as she did. She wanted him as hot as she was. She wanted him to burn like she burned. She clenched her muscles again, long and hard, releasing him only to clench again. Long and hard. His hand tightened in her hair and his breath whooshed out of his slacken jaw. She licked her lips, drawing his gaze and then with a slow deliberate movement, dared him. “Give me what I want, Gion. Can you deny you need this as much as I do?” She let the words hang in the air before continuing. “If not, my fingers can do a better job than this.” His control snapped. It was almost audible. He drew back to slam into her. “Yes! I can feel your muscles holding me, Feily. Yes, Fei, squeeze me. Just like that.” She hardly recognized his voice. But then again, she hardly recognized the guttural sounds emitted from her throat. Or the words she uttered for that matter. “Oh yes, Gion. Harder. Yessss! Asdan have mercy. Yesss!” The strands of her hair met relief and he lifted her upper body. Her back slid off the cold surface. Instinctively, she hooked her hands around his neck. With a tantalizingly rough movement, he grabbed the back of her sprawled thighs and pulled her over the edge of the table. Only his hands on her behind kept that same behind off the sand. 55

Giving her no time to adjust to the new position, he used her thighs as leverage to pull her repeatedly onto his cock. Her feet hang in the air, her body deliciously spread. Her fingers gripped his shoulders, her nails digging into velvet covered muscle. In this position, her control was nil. His testicles slapped heavily against her exposed buttocks. The sound of hard love stick sinking into gushing vagina echoed as harsh grunts and needy mewls filled the feminine space. “Is this what you want? Tell me, Feily. Is this it?” Was it ever! She loved every depraved second of it but she pushed him even further. “Is that all you’ve got?” The words would have been more dramatic if she was not panting like an animal in heat but the words had the desired effect. His fingers tightened on her thighs sure to leave bruises but she could not bring herself to care. In fact, she wanted those marks on her body. Who would have thought the power to heal would feel like an unwelcomed intrusion. Thousands of red hot needles were repeatedly stabbed into her ultra-sensitive skin. Eyes locked on his, she watched each emotion slash across his angular features. His high cheekbones were flushed red with his exertions, from his desire, his teeth clenched as his eyes devoured her. Just as her orgasm began to unfold, he stopped. How unbelievably cruel! The look on her face must have been comical since an evil laugh vibrated from his chest. Anger mixed with lust. “You bastard!”

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Chapter Eight Consciousness seeped into Zoey’s mind slowly. An uncontrollably twitch of her hand made her aware of the soft sheets beneath her and a unique, woodsy scent filled her nostrils. She moaned and delved deeper into the soft sheets, not ready to leave her warm cocoon. The events of the day before intruded and her eyes snapped open but the welcoming heat that sheltered her through the night was gone. His scent lingered, fresh and manly. The scent of coffee penetrated the fog in her brain and she spotted the steaming cup of coffee on the bedside table. She smiled and grabbed the cup gratefully. There was a note beside the cup. Wish I could have watched you wake up. I loved watching you sleep. Talk to you soon. Breakfast’s in the microwave. Enjoy! R. Teeth brushed, Zoey entered to the kitchen in a fresh pair of jeans and a tank top. Her feet were bare. Grabbing the breakfast of scrambled eggs, bacon, toast and more coffee, she shook her head, thinking how much he spoiled her. At her first bite, she sighed in reverence of the delicious meal and stuffed her face. The friendship Ralden offered her was the most precious thing in her life. That’s part of the reason why she was so reluctant to pursue the romantic side of their relationship. She never had a friend apart from him. She remembered watching those teen shows and envying the relationship between the ‘besties.’ She had wanted that. With a deep-set desperation, she had needed that, someone to laugh and cry with, someone to pour her heart out to, someone who came to her aid even when it was inconvenient. When it became apparent that the idea was all just a fantasy she had decided that she did not need a ‘bestie.’ With her luck, such a friend would turn out to be a backstabber anyway. Then Ralden unexpectedly took up the role. He was her pillow mate and they talked and joked all the time. Even when they did not verbally communicate, she could feel him, the warmth of his presence available with just a thought. He took all her moods and 57

small quirks in stride, never complaining and gave it to her straight when, on the occasion, she sprouted bullshit. He made her laugh, made her smile, made her think that today was worth living and tomorrow was worth looking forward to. He was her rock and it would break her heart to lose this thing that existed between them. Could she risk losing something so precious? When the romance wilted away and the soft mushy emotions were gone, could they ever come back to this easy camaraderie? Yesterday’s events made her think of how short life was. She could have been killed and she would never have known what it was like to feel him, to be close to him. That was not a regret she wanted following her into the afterlife. He was convinced that they were meant to be and she knew there was no such thing as happily ever after. Her only concern now was keeping as much of their friendship alive after the romance and sexual tension faded away. Sighing, she set out to do the dreaded laundry. **** The ring of the telephone sounded through the bedroom. Zoey ignored it, knowing it either was her aunt or uncle. It was quarter to six that afternoon. She was lying on her bed, arms at her side. Breathing in through her nose and out through her mouth, she allowed her body to relax and emptied her mind. Soon, she fell into a light sleep. She was floating in a sea of cool water allowing herself to sink to its depths until there was nothing visible but tiny lights, thousands and thousands of them. Distancing herself from the outside world and her physical body she sorted through the cluster in her mind and found the thread that led to Ralden’s spiritual energy. Everyone left a trail of energy. It was like shedding skin, just another unconscious natural process. When she met someone, they irrevocably left threads of their spiritual energy with her. Asleep, all she had to do was follow those threads. Spiritual energies varied in color, intensity, density, shape, size, 58

Kiale Dream thousands and thousands of small differences. A person’s spiritual energy spoke volumes about personality and values because it was a representation of the soul. The darker the spiritual energy, the more malevolent the character that carried it. However, spiritual energy could change with shifts in emotion. Ralden’s spiritual energy was different from anyone’s she had ever met. Its rich dark and light colors interwove in a complicated pattern. Usually, spiritually energies had one base color with minute traces on other colors. With Ralden’s, there was no base color. It was flamboyant, yet no color competed with the others. All glowed in complete harmony. Ralden? Instantly the connection was met. Hey, love. What’s up? He sounded sleepy. He sounded sexy. Did I wake you? Just dozing. How was your day? She tried to imagine what he looked like at just that moment. All she could come up with was a hard body tangled up in satin sheets slick with a fine sheen of sweat and lazy, bedroom eyes that spoke of slow, hard, long sex. They would draw her in as she moved up that body licking and nibbling away like a cat with a saucer of milk. She would pull back the sheet inch by torturous inch until he was fully exposed. She would— Talk about way off course! Got some work done. How about you? Slept most of it away. Had a busy week. She felt nervous, something that was foreign to her. Once she made up her mind, normally she just dove right in, consequences be damned. There was a small silence, then she said, Thank you for breakfast. And for last night. She felt his smile, imagining a flash of white, straight teeth. You’re welcome. You seem a little tense. You okay? She sighed. Ralden, I… There was another small silence, question marks practically pushing their way from his side of the connection. Yes, baby? I want to see you. Silence. 59

Are you saying what I hope you’re saying? Yearning came clear through the link. I think so. Even she heard the uncertainty in her voice. You have to be sure, Zoey. She drew in a deep breath. I am, Ralden. I’m sure.

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Chapter Nine Zoey checked her appearance in the mirror. She almost did not recognize herself. Gone was the carelessly thrown together look. In its place, stood a sophisticated young woman. Her hair was done up into a chic bun that looked effortless but that had taken three hours to perfect. Small tendrils hung strategically around her face. Her makeup, kept to the minimum, was artfully done, making her brown eyes look more defined and catlike. A soft shade of pink, which the sales assistant called mauve, colored her lips. Small diamond studs decorated her ears and a simple necklace and a matching bracelet completed the look. After her declaration the night before, Ralden had insisted they do this “right” and asked her out, going so far as to request that she wear a dress. She hated to dress up but he laughed it off when she complained. That morning she woke with a spring in her step, firmly pushing all apprehension away. She would finally meet the man who made her life bearable for so long. She ate breakfast ignoring the ringing phone, then off she went. She browsed several shops and spent a ridiculous amount of money pampering herself. Hair, nails, clothes, the works. At the end of it all she felt good, better than she had in a long time. The doorbell rang. Her heart suddenly beat furiously in her chest as butterflies danced in her stomach. This is it, she thought. She opened the door and the biggest creation of red roses she ever saw greeted her. The smell surrounded her. She had never gotten roses or any type of flower before. Grabbing the bouquet, she looked up. Penetrating gray eyes stared down at her. “Lord have mercy,” she muttered, spellbound. The guy was smoking hot, sexy. He was immaculately dressed in a dark gray suit that complimented his eyes to perfection. The suit did nothing to hide the width of his shoulders and chest. Though 61

she wore heels he towered over her. That was novel experience since she dwarfed most men. His black hair was tied back in a low ponytail and even in the florescent light, she could make out a few strands of blue. His light skin was stretched tight over his high cheek bones and a strong nose hang over pink lips that made her want to reach out and bite the full lower edge, just to see if it was as juicy as it looked. Around him, a halo of color burst softly like the rising sun, warm and entrancing. Her own spiritual energy was a mixture of predominantly purples and blues. The two energies reached for each other and his changed slightly to blend with hers. Strange. She’d never seen that happen before. While she had seen the energies of couples alter to match their partners,’ she had never seen them reach out for each other before. Yet she did not feel intruded on, only a pleasant warmth. She would examine the anomaly later. All she wanted to do was focus on the fine piece of male flesh before her. He was gorgeous with a capital, underlined and italicized G. Further emphasis would not be an exaggeration. At all. She was not a superficial person but if she had known what he looked like she very much doubted that she would have resisted him for so long. He stood still for her appraisal, eyes smiling down at her. Her gaze slowly returned to his face, and that was quite a long ways up. “You’re gorgeous.” His lips tipped on one side and a sexy dimple appeared. Damn, she had a weakness for dimples. “You clean up nice yourself. Very, very nice.” His voice had a rough timbre that vibrated just the right cord in her. His gaze appraised her in similar fashion and her body heated. She was sure her nipples were visible against the soft material of her red dress. The design of the dress made it impossible to wear bra unless she wanted to look like a fashion accident. The back plunged to her waist as the material clung to her in a sensual fashion. “May I come in?” Oh hell! She had the man standing in the doorway while she ogled him. Way to go, Zoey. Why don’t you just stamp a sign 62

Kiale Dream across your forehead that says ‘sex-starved perv.’ “Oh, yes. Sorry. I’ll put these in water then we can go. They’re beautiful, by the way. Thank you.” She turned, heading to the kitchen but the growling sound that came from him had her looking back at him, startled. His eyes were glued to the back of her dress. She smiled even as a blush lit her skin. This dress was definitely worth the outrageous price she paid for it. The door closed and she felt, more than heard, him follow her to the kitchen. She put the flowers in a vase and admired them briefly, taking the time to gather her scattered wits and get rid of the drool that collected at the sight of him, before turning back to him. It’s a wonder the heat from his gaze did not melt her on the spot or at least vaporized the dress. She did not blink but suddenly he was in front of her, his hands on her hips. “I’m going to kiss you, Zoey.” He said it like a warning. Bring it on, baby! “I know.” One hand left her hip and grabbed the back of her head. His lips descended and ravaged her mouth. His tongue did not ask for entrance, he simply swept in, dominant and masterful. Nothing like she expected their first kiss to be. But so much better that she imagined. Tugging her hair slightly, he adjusted her head as he saw fit. She felt a few strands break free of the intricate updo. The roughness of his action made her internal muscles clench in longing. You taste so sweet. So damn sweet. His rough exclamation echoed in her head. He ate at her, taking and giving with an abandon that swept her away until she clung to him like an epiphyte, her leg hooked around his hip, her arms wrapped around his back, her fingers digging into the material of his suit, trying to get closer. The dress flowed and pooled at her hip. He followed the motion, sweeping her thigh with a large hand. Goose bumps peppered her skin. Do you have any idea how much I want you, Zoey? Do you? His mind was a mass of brilliant red desire. For her. All for her. She could not breath but right then but air was inconsequential, just another anomaly in a growing list of unimportant things. All that mattered was him, Ralden, solid, true and the way he made her 63

feel, free, uninhibited, special. My cock will burst if I don’t have you soon, love. Tell me you want that too. He broke their kiss to pepper kisses on her face, jawline and neck. Around him, his spiritual energy flared wildly, darkening. Hers followed suit. His hand found her breast and kneaded the flesh through the silk. He tweaked a nipple as his other hand teased her, retreating before he could touch her where she needed it most. You know I do. I want you, Ralden. More than anything. More than she should. He grinded his hips against hers and the hot length of him scorched her, impressive even under layers of clothing. She pushed against him, wanting, needing, desperate to get closer. Again he captured her lips, totally changing the tempo. Instead of the hot, demanding invasion, his kiss gentled. His lips became coaxing, sucking at hers as if drinking the finest wine. His tongue curled around hers, licked and retreated. Again. And again. Until she was dizzy with the hot sensations coursing through her. Her tongue joined his in the erotic dance, exploring the spicy yet sweet taste of him. He trembled and feminine power surged through her. Her tongue touched his slightly elongated canines but she was too far gone to care. Again, he broke their kiss and buried his nose against her neck, breathing deeply. She sprawled her fingers through his hair. The silky strands cascaded through her digits freely, the ponytail nowhere to be found. His scent rose from him, masculine and enthralling, yet not overpowering. It was all she could not to bury her nose against him and sniff like a deranged hound dog. He placed a soft kiss on her neck before lifting his head and placing another one on her lips. He pulled away, the effort he placed in the action apparent. “We need to stop now while I can still control myself.” Even as he spoke, his fingers rolled her nipple between his fingers as if he could not take his hands off her. His voice was guttural, dark and sexy. “What if I don’t want you to stop?” Which she did not. 64

Kiale Dream His hand left her breast and curled around her neck. His eyes blazed down at her. The gray of his eyes was unusually bright, like shining stars, small bursts of green adding to their brilliance. There was an intensity about him that she never felt before. It was frightening. It was exhilarating. Though he always teased her mercilessly, he always held back. His control was thinning, leaving her feeling vulnerable, less in control. And while she expected this feeling of helplessness to anger her, frighten her, it had the opposite effect. She felt small, womanly. Wanted. Needed even. Her pulsed fluttered nervously beneath his hand. He leaned down over her neck and sniffed subtly like a wild animal would. The action brought to mind vampires and damsels in distress. Could he smell her fear? Her excitement? Could he hear the wild beat of her heart? Probably. She whimpered like a small animal. Distressed. Like a wanton siren. Needy. He grabbed her lips in another bruising kiss as if punishing her for teasing him. His sharp canines nipped her. The metallic taste of her blood stimulated her taste buds. He pulled her tongue into his mouth and sucked. Suddenly he thrust her away. He was tense like a wild animal on the verge of attacking and he definitely looked capable of eating her up in one bite. At the moment, she had no objections to being eaten. She almost giggled at her wayward thoughts. “Go get your coat.” He practically pushed her out of the kitchen. In the bathroom, Zoey stood still, desperately trying to gather her bearings. Her fingers touched her bruised lips as her tongue licked at the remnants of him. Her lips were bare of their previous color, swollen from their desperate kiss. Her cheeks were flushed, her hair disheveled and her pupils were dilated making her eyes appear black. She had the look of a woman who just made out with a gorgeous stud of a man in her kitchen. Oh yeah! She smiled. A naughty smile. 65

Dammit it, Zoey. Hurry up. We need to get out of here. Arousal thickened his voice and his need beat at her. She laughed. She could not help it. There was just something about bringing such a strong man to the edges on his control that she loved. Yes, sir, she replied impishly. He sighed. You’re going to drive me crazy, aren’t you? She laughed harder. Of course.

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Chapter Ten A little over an hour later Ralden pulled into the driveway of one of the most beautiful houses Zoey had ever seen. And, largest. But as large as it seemed, it was not pretentious. In fact, it looked homey. With plenty of open windows, the villa must be brightly lit. The yard was a landscaper’s dream with flowerbeds and blooming bushes in the artificially lit spaces between spreading trees. The scent of fresh flowers was strong and she could hear running water close by. “You live here?” “With my brothers. We each have a section of the house and share the kitchen and living room. Don’t worry; we’ll have plenty of privacy.” She was not worried. About that, anyway. How much money did he have to be able to afford this? Well, the car he drove should have been a clue. An Audi TT RS. Latest model. The luxury car looked so out of place in her driveway. The power she felt from the elegant vehicle on the drive over made her panties slightly damp. What could she say? She had a thing for powerful automobiles. And powerful men. The way Ralden had glanced her way said he knew how much she had been affected. Luckily, he had said nothing. He had just given her that sexy toothy smile that did not help the state on her panties. Neither did the deep dimples that appeared. He got out, walked around the car as she tried to get her jaw off the floor, and opened her door for her. Automatically, she took his extended hand. He walked her to the front door. It had an intricate pattern of glass and wood that hid the inside from view. He whisked her past the beautifully furnished living room, a large library and onto a deck. Her heart stopped and for the first time in her life she was truly speechless. There was a lone table set for two with a white tablecloth, cloth napkins and dinnerware and crystal that looked like they cost more 67

than a month’s salary for her. More roses were placed around the deck with petals sprinkled on the table. The deck was lit by candle light and well-placed lanterns. There were hundreds of sparkling lights in the trees and plants outside and the sound of soft music playing although she had no idea where it came from. She turned to him. “It’s…” She was at a loss for words. “It’s beautiful, Ralden. Thank you. You shouldn’t have gone through all this trouble.” She was sure tears were shining in her eyes and her suspicions were confirmed when he reached up and gently wiped a stray tear that threatened to spill onto her cheek. “Seeing the look on your face made it worth it. Come.” He took her hand and the sight of her brown skin against his paler skin tone mesmerized her. Their hands fit together perfectly. He drew her to the table, pulling out her chair for her. A waiter appeared out of the woodwork as he sat. Champagne was poured and the golden liquid splashed smoothly into the fluted glasses. Bubbles fizzed and the scent of vanilla mixed with that of roses. The waiter disappeared just as quickly as he appeared. She took a sip from her glass, never taking her gaze off him. The effervescence popped on her tongue and excited her taste buds. “This is really good,” she said. “I’m glad you like it.” She felt like a teenage girl out on her first date with the hottest guy at school. She did not have a clue what to say and his sexiest was not helping her currently fumbling brain one bit. She laughed nervously as she said, “I feel really nervous.” “Why?” His fingers were dancing softly over hers, sending tingles down her spine. The callused tips should have abraded her skin but instead left a trail of heat that was at turns soothing and electrifying. “I don’t know. I guess, I didn’t know what to expect meeting you for the first time. All of this. You really did not have to do this, Ralden. It’s very nice but I don’t need all this…romancing.” She did not need these memories to haunt her when it was over. “I’m aware that you don’t need this, Zoey but I want to give you the world and a small dinner is nothing compared to that.” If there 68

Kiale Dream ever was a statement more deserving of an “Awwww” moment she had not found it yet. He lifted her hand and leaned over to kiss the tips of her fingers. “Please indulge me and enjoy yourself.” “The ladies don’t have a chance with you, do they? Now I feel guilt for wanting to pay you back for making me wear this dress.” His dimples appeared and his heated gaze skimmed the hint of cleavage the dress showed. “It’s a very nice dress. But you would wear a paper bag and I’d think you’re sexy. Nothing at all would suit my purposes just fine.” Just with a look and a few words he set her on fire. “Why don’t we start dinner before I do what I’ve been dying to do since I saw you in that dress?” “Which is?” “Tear it off your body and bury my cock so deep in you, I wouldn’t come out for days.” She bit her lip as her pussy contracted, more that welcoming his desires. Her breathing hitched. “Yes, we should start dinner.” She would need the energy for what she had planned for tonight. He raised his hand slightly, his gaze still burning into her, and the waiter appeared once again and the appetizer was served. Eating that dish was one of the most erotic experiences of her life. They took turns feeding each other. His fingers would linger over her lips, spreading the delicious sauce. His eyes darkened every time she licked the creamy goodness away. They hardly spoke and she could hardly remember what they did say. All her energy was focused on the heat burning its way through her body, thundering through her veins and centering between her legs. Next came the main dish. The flavors exploded on her tongue as Ralden’s gaze set off tiny explosions in her body. Dessert was just as delicious. She moaned at her first bite and Ralden’s eyes contracted and the gray in them took on the shiny quality once more. His spiritual energy darkened progressively through the meal, laced deeply with red that dwarfed the other colors and she knew he was reaching his limit. Hers was wavering like a tree dancing in the wind, it too laced with more red than usual, reaching for his. The colors mingled and broke apart in an erotic tango as oranges burst like sparks of desire. 69

She smiled, anticipating the progression of the night. **** Ralden looked at the sexy woman sitting across from him and knew he had to have her soon or he would die of sexual frustration. Their shared meal was a test of his patience and he was sweating from his efforts. The way her mouth closed over her fork, the way her lips moved as she spoke, the way her dress teased him with just the barest hint of cleavage, the way her eyes expressed every thought that ran behind them, everything she did had him panting like a dog begging for a bone. And boy, did he need that bone! He took her hand and said, “Come.” One more minute sitting there with her, smelling her sweet scent, holding her come hither gaze, and he would sweep everything to the floor and have her right there on the table. They descended the stairs leading to the private garden. He could tell she was struggling in her high heels. Letting go of her hand, he knelt at her feet. Her scent immediately engulfed him, holding him willing captive. He inhaled deeply wanting her fragrant to grace every single cell of his body. Like the depraved soul he was, he leaned in closer to catch every molecule that drifted off her. Her hands automatically clutched his shoulders to keep her balance. He slipped each sandal from her feet, caressing them in the process. She shivered. He stood. “Are you cold?” “A little.” He slipped his jacket off. With the heat that was coming off his body, he in no way needed it. “No, I didn’t mean—“ He slipped the garment over her shoulders and said, “Shush.” He grabbed her shoes and they continued down the path, keeping to the trimmed grass. The moon was full and every leaf had a moon-kissed look as light bounced off their green planes. There was a slight sheen of dew that stuck to every available surface. Floral scents were carried by the wind and even in the dark splashes of color could be seen. 70

Kiale Dream “This is beautiful, Ralden. Tonight was beautiful.” Her voice blended perfectly with the night, smooth with a sweet undertone that held sensual mysteries. “The night isn’t over yet.” Far from it. “It isn’t? “Nope. The best part has not started yet.” “Oh?” The coy performance contradicted the brazenly look in her eyes and the throbbing in his cock increased. They stopped at a man-made pond. Lily pads floated on the surface as a small stream of water poured into the pool. The musical sound of frogs croaking and insects chirping filled the air. The occasional flap of wings betrayed the presence of flying wildlife. He set her shoes down near the pond and turned to her. The moonlight complimented her features perfectly. Her hair was gathered into a complicated updo that gave her a sexy, just out of bed look, making his fingers itch to destroy it. He longed to see the tendrils cascading down her back, to feel them caressing his skin, to see them spread across his pillow. Her eyes looked up at him with an interesting mixture of an innocence and trust and brazen. Her full lower lip beckoned him and he could not resist. He leaned in and gently sucked it into his mouth. She moaned and instantly relaxed against him. He kept the kiss gentle even as his body, and hers, urged him to do differently. He pulled away. “There’s something I need to show you.” She looked up at him inquiringly. He started to unbutton his shirt. She licked her lips and he laughed softly. The shirt dropped to the ground in a careless heap. “You wanted to know what I am.” “And?” “And I’m going to show you.” He closed his eyes and envisioned his wings extending from his back. He felt the slight pain as his skin parted to allow his wings passage. He heard Zoey’s quick indrawn breath. “Oh. My. God. Are these real? Oh God. Wow!” Ralden opened his eyes to see an astounded Zoey, her eyes glued to his wings, fascination filling them and thankfully no fear. He stretched his gleaming, dark grey wings before he allowed them to 71

skim the back of his knees. The top feathers ruffled in the gentle breeze. Releasing his wings always brought a feeling of freedom. “Oh my God, Ralden. You’re an angel.” Her voice was filled with wonder. “I’m not an angel.” He understood why she would compare him to one. Kiale half-breeds looked exactly as humans pictured angels. “I am Kiale.” “Ralden.” Her exasperation was clear in her tone. “I was not born on earth. My family was born on a planet called Maion.” He paused to see how she was taking it in so far. She was still staring wonderingly at his wings, her hands clutched over her chest. He told her a condensed version of life on Maion, including the events that led to Feily and his half sibling’s murderous actions against the Kiale people, ending with, “My brothers and I ended up here. I never understood why but I thought maybe one of them took pity on us and sent us here.” She was looking up at his face now. “We need the blood of humans to survive.” He watched her face closely. “Like a vampire?” “Yeah.” “So you’re an alien who looks like an angel but feeds like a vampire?” Listening to her saying it, it sounded farfetched to him, too. He heard the humor lacing with his tone. “I guess you could say that.” “How old are you?” “I’m not quite sure. Days and years were different on Maion and I was pretty young when everything happened but we landed here about twelve hundreds earth years ago.” She sputtered, “God, I hope you don’t have old man balls.” That was last thing he expected to hear and he was surprised into silence. He coughed, choking on a laugh. “I’m pretty sure I don’t have old man balls.” She shuddered delicately. “Thank God. I don’t think I would have been able to handle that.” The mischievous glint in her eyes had him shaking his head. This 72

Kiale Dream was woman was unbelievable. A treasure. “Can I touch them?” He fluttered his wings, the motion reminiscent of a bird shaking off its feathers. She squealed, the sound delightful. “Of course.” She came forward and skimmed her hand gently over his left wing. He shuddered, stifling a groan. She snatched her hand back. “Did I hurt you?” “No…” He cleared his throat. “It felt good, really good.” She had no idea how good. **** Zoey was … she had no idea what she was. Watching Ralden transform was an unparalleled experience. The way those dark gray wings sprouted from his back reminded her of an avenging angel, strong and yummy—looking. Her gaze lowered to his bare chest and she sighed. Exquisite. That was the only word to describe the lean muscle and tanned skin that greeted her appraisal. There was only a sparse patch of hair over his chest that almost blended into his skin. Disappointment was fast on her heels that the rest of him was covered by his pants, but they could not hide the power of the muscle that pressed against the material. He was not overly buff, with a swimmer’s body, wiry and agile. This is no time to be lusting after his body, Zoey, you perv, she thought. On second thought, was there not a time to marvel at all this perfection wrapped into one lusty package? If she thought he was gorgeous before, now he was off the charts. Those wings added an element of inhuman magnificence that had her at a loss for words. Goddamn, he was fine! You know I can hear you, right? She blushed as heat exploded elsewhere in her body. The tiny explosions were making it hard to breathe, to think. She cocked her head to the side still marveling that she was here. With Ralden. He was so sexy… 73

Thank you, darling. All these compliments are going to my head. Both of them. She chuckled. I’m sorry. God knows you can’t afford for either to swell any bigger or there’ll be permanent damage. His arousal was a permeable thing, crackling the air around him. His body language and the visible tensing of his muscles spoke of his restrain even as he joked and laughed with her. She touched the feathers on his wings again. He hissed, leaning into her touch. “I’m guessing this is an erogenous spot.” “You guessed right.” She hummed in satisfaction. That information would be useful later. “What’s it like? “What?” “Flying.” “Why don’t I show you?” The ease with which he lifted her into his arms was thrilling. He had a way of making her feeling so…treasured and feminine. It felt amazing. Her arms automatically circled his neck. His warm chest brushed her aching nipples, making them tighten even further. “What are you doing?” He did not answer. Instead, his wings extended. They were more than twelve feet across and for a brief moment she watched each individual feather work in harmony with every other one. With a burst of air they were airborne. The bottom nearly fell from her stomach and she clutched at him. “Oh God! Ralden! Oh shit, I’m going to die,” she wailed. The ground moved further and further away as his wings worked. She could feel the effort of his muscles as he brought them higher and higher. “Oh God.” His laughter wrapped around her and she looked up into his beautiful eyes. In the pale light their energies shone like beacons, bright and exuberant. His was crouched over hers, like a protective blanket. “I won’t let anything happen to you,” he said. While his sentence sounded harmless enough she could feel the searching quality in it. He wanted her trust. “I know.” And she did. She may not trust in happily ever after or the promise of tomorrow but until he showed her differently she did 74

Kiale Dream trust him. She looked around. The world beneath looked so different. Peaceful. No loud, obnoxious humans ruining the calm stillness. No cars making it hard to breathe. No deadlines, no alarm clocks, no rat race. Nothing but a tranquil quietness. There were thousands of lights over the darkened land. Above them the stars and the moon seemed closer than ever. They shone brighter than ever. The clouds, not too far away, looked like puffy marshmallows. The wind whipped strands of her hair around her face and she felt weightless. Not bound by this world or any other. It was a heady feeling. One she would have never known without him.

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Chapter Eleven A few minutes later they landed in the garden. Her feet touched the ground and it took a little while to get used to being earthbound again. “Oh wow! That was wonderful, Ralden. I’ve never felt—” His lips covered hers, his tongue probing deep, sliding in wondrous friction against hers. They both moaned. Immediately she forgot what she was saying and her arms wrapped around his back. The feel of the fluffy yet slightly rough feathers excited her further. His hands palmed her breasts and heat speared her. Through the fabric of her dress, she could feel the roughness of his palm. Tearing his mouth away, his lips moved over her cheek and down her throat. His breath came in loud puffs and the moist heat aroused a frenzied movement of nerves just below the surface of her skin. She tunneled the fingers of one hand into his silky hair. Each strand slid easily through her fingers. “Ralden,”she moaned, back and neck arched, granting him easy access. He pulled the fabric of her dress down to her waist and his jacket fell to the ground. The breeze caressed her bare breasts, further puckering her erect nipples. Immediately he attacked with a low growl, his tongue circling one nipple as his fingers plucked and tugged the other. “You have no idea how much I’ve yearned to taste those sweet gems.” The words were rough vibrations that sounded forced from his throat and raced along her eager nipples. Her reply was a long moan as he sucked the said gem back into his mouth and lovingly lashing it with his tongue. His other hand was squeezing the globe of her ass like a starving man caressing his last piece of bread. He grinded her into his erection and the length and thickness she felt there made her tremble in fear and anticipation. Her hand tightened in his hair as she traced the contour of the muscles of his chest and a tender feeling settled in her chest even as 76

Kiale Dream arousal beat with an increasingly heavy pulse in her. Her hand travelled further south to pull at his belt buckle. She could not wait any longer. There was plenty of time for foreplay in the future. His fingers dragged the hem of her dress closer to her waist until her ass was exposed to the night. The red thong she wore offered little protection. “Fuck, yes,” he growled the two words as a light smack landed on her ass before he squeezed the globe lovingly. She grinned naughtily. Well, he certainly appreciated the effort she made in undergarments. “Is this for me, baby?” He knew she was most comfortable in her cotton Fruit of the Loom undies. “Do you like it?” “Most definitely. Very hot.” Then having the thing floss her ass for the last few hours was definitely worth it. He let go of her to help with his belt buckle. Within seconds his pants hang open. Her hands immediately dived in. She pushed his pants down and his buckle hit the ground with a thud. All that remained was a pair of navy blue briefs that hugged his manhood to perfection. His fingers touched her wet slit and she nearly shot up to the moon. Her cream coated his hand and he slid easily over and into her folds. His fingers pulled away and her body followed instinctively. He trailed his damp fingers over her lips then brought them to his lips, licking and sucking them dry, groaning as his eyes closed briefly in appreciation. He lowered his head and made a meal out of her lips and mouth, French kissing her into the next century. Damn, that tongue needed to be licensed as a certified orgasm inducing weapon. He lifted his head and said, “That is the best dessert I’ve ever had.” He grabbed at her again. She went into his arms willingly. Against the black night, their spiritual energies danced wildly, bright, lively and screaming desire. His hands grabbed her behind and she was lifted with little effort. She wrapped her legs around his back. Anticipating her move, he lifted his wings. As her legs settled 77

around his hips, they covered her from the knees down, brushing her thighs. His lips covered hers once more and she rubbed her exposed breasts against his smooth chest. The fine hairs stimulated the hard buds of her nipples and she moaned into his mouth as her breath caught. His hands shifted her onto his erection. Her hips caught his rhythm and she did a little shifting of her own. Only the material of their undies prevented her from sinking down onto his impressive length, not that her underwear was preventing much. The lace teased her clit making her shudder. He dropped to his knees in the soft grass. His wings wrapped around them, protecting her from the cold of the night. His eyes smoldered, gray fire. The irises were large and glowing, swirling with tiny bursts of green. Need etched his face, easily conveyed in his heated gaze, in the taut nature of his muscles. By the large piece of male flesh that pushed insistently against her. Need that matched hers. “Ralden, please.” “Please, what? Tell me what you want.” “I need you. Make me come, please.” Years of pent up passion, trapped emotions and buried feelings pushed at her, demanding freedom. “How, baby? Tell me.” She grabbed the waist band of his briefs and pulled them down as far as they could go in their current position. He helped her by lifting his hips. His hard length sprung free and…wow! He certainly had been gifted by the gods. She looked into his turbulent gray eyes and said with a voice thick with need, “With your hard cock. I want you inside of me, Ralden.” “Your wish is my command, love. Anything you want.” His rough tone fueled her desires. He sat back on his heels between her sprawled thighs, his huge cock jutting, pointing at her weeping pussy. It is a wonder gravity did not pull the monster down. He grabbed her thighs and pulled her higher onto his frame. His roughness excited her. Her sensitive nipples brushed against his chest as the mushroom head of his cock rubbed insistently against her dripping pussy. The heat of it burned her. She could feel cream coating the insides of her thighs, creating smooth passage. 78

Kiale Dream She moved against him as she grabbed the back of his head and pulled him forward to kiss his lips. Immediately he dominated the action, pushing his tongue into her mouth. There was none of the awkwardness of first time lovers. None of the fumbling, hesitant touches. No sloppy, gagging kisses. Just desire. Just all—consuming want, frenzied need. They instinctively knew what the other liked, how to touch, how hard to touch, when to touch. He let go of her lips. She followed the action, not ready to let go. She licked at them, teasing him with her tongue. His eyes were hooded and dangerous looking and she knew she teased a predator. His spiritual energy contracted and expanded like a beating heart, edged with thinning black, the color of self-control. Her own sparked and played a push and pull game with his, like her physical body, teasing the control away. His breath heating her lips, breathing labored, he ordered, “Take me, baby. Give me your pussy.” The flimsy material of her thong was shoved side. She slid back and forth until his cock hit her entrance. Slowly she sunk down over the swollen head, torturing them both. His length slid into her, thick and heavy, stretching her elastic flesh, the heat burning her so sweetly from the inside out. She felt every ridge on his cock as the moment drew out and they trembled from the exquisite agony. There was a fine sheen of sweat covering both their bodies as they stole each others labored breaths. Forcing her eyes to stay open, she watched him throw his head back and growl, his teeth clenched, his hands doing the same on her hips. Slowly his head came forward on his shoulders, his eyes dark, zeroing on its target. Her. Breathing like an angered bull, he said, “I need you, Zoey. Now. Don't make me wait any longer.” He trembled. For her. Power was a heady thing and she was drunk on it. She sighed and sucked on his lower lip, rocking up and down until he was seated to the hilt. Or so she thought. “Take all of me, Zoey.” She moaned. She could not possibly take the entire length of 79

him. She was already stretched and pierced more than she thought she could handle. “I can't—” She panted, feeling his length throb against her walls. Hands on her hips, he said, “Yes,” and pulled her down as he pushed up. She threw her head back and screamed his name, her voice thin and hoarse, piercing the still night. His cry, deeper than hers, vibrated through their bodies. Helpless to prevent the action, her nails sunk into his skin, breaking the barrier. “Ralden!” The sensation bordered on pain but the sweet kind. It felt oh—so—good. They trembled against each other, each ripple causing tiny explosions to rock her lower abdomen. Her muscles clenched, struggling to accommodate the unfamiliar presence. He allowed her some time to adjust, peppering hard kisses over her neck and chest as his hand kneaded her breast, his thumb rasping her erect nipple as he praised her, his voice rough with restraint. “So beautiful. That’s my baby. Your pussy’s so tight, so warm. You're burning me alive, love.” Before she knew it, she was rocking against him, slowly at first, then picking up speed. His length tunneled through her folds, smooth and hard. The tempo built until she was slamming herself down, swallowing his length. Her thighs ached with the effort. Damn, she really should go to the gym. The stray thought evaporated as his mouth latched onto her left nipple. She was fevered, pushing her nipple deeper into his mouth. One hand held his head to her, alternating between tugging and lovingly smoothing at the strands of his hair. She felt his hand travel south and soon his thumb stroked her protruding clit. “Ralden, Oh God. Ralden, please. Please.” He let go of her nipple with a pop. “Please what, Zoey?” “Please…please.” She was clutching at him, her nails scorching his back, not quite sure what she was begging for. No, that's not true. She knew exactly what she wanted. She wanted him to drill her pussy with his mammoth cock until she was sore, until she absolutely could not taking any more, until she was so high on sensation gravity could not possibly weigh her down. Then she 80

Kiale Dream wanted to start all over again and again. And again. “Tell me, Zoey.” “Please, Ralden.” Her head was thrashing back and forth. Most of her hair was loose from its bun. Strands were stuck to her cheek, shoulders and some were caught in the feathers surrounding her. Say it, Zoey. Tell me what you want, baby. “Move dammit. Fuck my pussy with your cock, Ralden. Please.” Was that clear enough for you? Quite. And so he did as she requested. His control broke. His head snapped back and his mouth opened on a growl baring a set of deadly looking canines. Moonlight sparkled off the fangs and her eyes widened. Her muscles tightened, the sight revving her engine. There was almost an audible pop with his loss of control. The ring of black melted into thin air and their energies met, caught and held fast. It was like an explosion. Colors surged, intertwining until they were one massive picturesque kaleidoscope, the moving pattern better than any masterpiece hanging in any gallery. Everything she felt increased tenfold, every sensation more intense. Everything was brighter, sounds more acute, every sense sharper. She arched sharply, giving a strangled cry, and beneath her, Ralden jerked, the excitement forced onto a whole new level for them both. He buried his head against her neck, growling, his teeth scraping her slick skin. One arm was a band of steel around her while the other courted her clit with insistent demand. God, baby, you feel that? Ralden's voice was strained, cracking. Yeah. That's as much as she could manage at the moment. Her brain had hanged an out for a break sign and would not be back anytime soon. They were feeling what each other felt. While she amazed at the phenomenon, she became aware of the heavy beat of a heart and sweet honeysuckle scent of warm flowing liquid. Ralden's need to take her blood was a physical pain. She could feel the achy quality in his fangs, the urgent demand that he drink from her. It was almost as strong as his body’s demand for release. Warm, wet and slippery, her pussy milked him, surrounded him, heating him from the inside out. Every ripple of her muscles pushed 81

his pleasure higher and higher, every thrust increasing his need. He could not get deep enough, could not hold her close enough, wanting to bury himself, everything he was, in her. Not to toot her own horn but damn, her pussy was good! Deep, strained laughter echoed in their shared connection. Even with his physical need, warmth surrounded Ralden's heart, tender and unselfish, uncomplicated. She was his light, beautiful beyond anything he had ever seen. She saw the way her every action was a sensual play in his mind, the way her laughter made his heart smiled, the way her tears ripped him to shreds. The way he saw her humbled her, confused her. How could he see her in such a light when she saw herself so differently? She could not possibly be this haven, this complex expression of beauty that he saw. Could she? Can you see how much I need you, Zoey. I would die to have this pussy. To have you. He did not give her the opportunity to respond as he captured her lips in another kiss. Grabbing the globes of her rear, he pulled her down to meet his hard upward thrusts. Her tongue was immediate drawn to the elongated teeth, experimentally licking and stroking. He gasped and shuddered, his blunt tool jumping inside of her. Ah, another erogenous spot. Pleasure streaked through him and by extension her. She moaned, learning the texture and feel of this facet of him. God, Zoey, you're killing me! His cock hit that sweet spot as the slap of skin on skin echoed loudly. Even as hungry sounds were emitted from her throat, her tongue mated with his, imitating the action of their hips. Her breasts were pressed tight against his chest as his fingers sank into the skin of her ass, separating her cheeks, making her feel exposed, wanton. Zoey’s orgasm tore through her, taking her by surprise. She cried out, her back arching high as she pressed down hard onto Ralden’s still thrusting penis. Like fireworks, her spiritual energy fluttered wildly imitating the reaction of her body, setting off a chain reaction in his. Lights fired wildly behind her closed eyelids as her toes curled against his wings. Her lips trembled, the sounds she made, 82

Kiale Dream shaky. So powerful was her high, tears leaked out from beneath her eyelids. She felt his cock swell impossibly larger before the first jet of his cum washed her insides. His grunts and groans were nearly drowned out by her breathy cries and moans. As each jet hit her insides, it set off tiny orgasms that made her spasm against him, half-delirious and overflowing with pleasure. He buried his face in the crook of her neck, his mouth opened. His heavy, labored breathing heated her skin as she felt the sharp graze of his longer that normal canines. She knew he was fighting the urge to bite her and was thankful for his restraint although a weird slither of disappointment shifted in her. He moved his head lower, away from the temptation of her pulse. Absently, she realized that they had not used a condom. The panic expected to feel never came, and that frightened her. This was temporary. She needed to think of the consequences of her actions. But her muddled brain had yet to return from its break. She rode the waves of her climax until there was nothing left, falling onto Ralden’s chest in an exhausted heap. Their spiritual energies gently broke apart like the breaking dawn although they continued their little dance of tug and pull.

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Chapter Twelve Ralden lifted his head, the scent of Zoey’s blood combined with the sweet musk that rose from her skin wreaking havoc on his weakened control. His fangs ached with the need to sink into her. Just a little taste… He shook his head, trying to clear the fog. She was not ready for the intimacy of his blood kiss. The hesitation was clear in her thoughts. Regaining his mental footing came slowly. He allowed his fangs to retract, groaning at the tenderness. Now, for the numbness for his limbs. Legs? Accounted for. Arms, head, wings? Check, check and check! Well, it was a relief to know he had not completely shattered though it certainly felt that way. That was the most powerful orgasm of his life. His heart was still running a marathon and he was grateful for the fact that his head was still attached to the rest of him. Feeling her pleasure pushed him into overdrive. Each push into her silky folds became a thrust into heaven. If he had any doubt that she was meant for him before, it was instantly erased now. Feeling her body against his, her heart beating in sync with his, her pussy hugging his cock like a rubber band… There were just no words to describe it. For that brief moment, he had been complete, whole, and totally at peace. Joined with her he felt their souls connect, felt her need, her fear and reluctance to fully commit to them. He had his work cut out for him but he would convince her to take that finally plunge. There was no other choice because there was no way he could live another day without her. When he found the strength and mental capability to speak, he asked, “Are you okay? Did I hurt you?” Her head moved back and forth on his chest as she snuggled deeper into his skin. She mumbled something that sounded like “Fantastic”. His wings fluttered and he willed them away as he transported them inside. Zoey shrieked, “Whoa! Jeez, Ralden. Warn a girl the 84

Kiale Dream next time you decide to use instant transmission.” “Instant transmission? I think someone has been watching too much Dragon Ball Z.” He let his body slide from hers. She gasped and shivered. Her body slid down his, those candied nipples pushing into him, until her feet touched the tiled floor. He was affected also, his cock already ready for round two. Her eyes looked a little lost for a moment, then brightened as if she regained her trend of thought. “Whatever you call it, warn me next time. That aside, that was so cool.” She looked so damn sexy, standing there with her eyes slightly dazed, her hair completely undone by his fingers, her skin flushed and her voice doing things to him a club full of strippers could not. He reached around her to adjust the temperature of the water after getting rid of the clothing that still clung to them. Stepping into the shower, he pulled her in with him, closing the glass door after them. “Wow, your bathroom’s bigger than my entire apartment.” “Don’t you think that’s a bit of an exaggeration?” He chuckled. “Not by much. Damn, that feel’s good.” Water jets and multiply shower heads lined the wall. Within seconds they were soaked, the warm water massaging their muscles. Ralden grabbed the soap and began to lather her body. They lovemaking in the garden had been rushed, a take the edge off sort of thing but now he wanted to explore the body he lusted after for years. She was facing away from him, eyes closed, casting a shadowed fan of eyelashes over her flushed cheeks. He started at her breasts, cupping the twin orbs with his soapy hands. She sighed softly and leaned into him. He worked the soap with her skin, learning each bump and curve. Her nipples stabbed at his palm, lickably hard. He smiled. He worked his way down her body, dipping into every crack and crevice. She moved with and against his hand. Her brown skin shone as drops of water glistened and ran down her back, clinging desperately to the perfection she represented before helplessly sliding down her luscious skin and disappearing down the drain. Grabbing the detachable shower head, he rinsed the soap away, placing small kisses in the wake of the shower head. 85

Her moan echoed in the shower. “You have very talented hands, Mr. Kiale.” Behind her, he lowered himself to his knees. “Why, thank you, Ms. McKenna!” He rinsed the suds off the glowing flesh of her ass, kissing a tiny beauty spot that was revealed. She wiggled, setting off a reaction he could not help but leer at, pushing the supple globes into his hands, using the wall as leverage. He rewarded the show with a squeeze. Zoey was a lean woman. Although fearing the thought of exercise, she was naturally slim and tall, and was nicely rounded, especially her ass. He previously thought himself a breast man but seeing her ass, he was more than ready to switch teams. Go ass go! He nipped at one cheek then the other. With his hand on her lower back, he urged her to bend over. Her pussy was now exposed to him. The image of chocolate covered cherries came to mind, the sight and flavor of her reminding him of the delicacy. Puffy and swollen, reminiscent of a budded rose, her labia teased him with a peek at her pea-sized bud. He allowed the warm water to drizzle over the enticing spread before him. She moaned again, shifting to reveal herself further. He licked his lips, knowing he could not wait any longer to taste her. Letting go of the shower head, he used his fingers to spread her nether lips. A drop of cream appeared. Before it could slide away he caught it with his tongue with an open-mouthed kissed. It was like champagne bubbles bursting on his tongue, heady and heaven to his taste buds. He sucked softly, drawing her essence into his mouth, greedy for more. He groaned at the sweetness and laid his tongue flat, rubbing it up and down. “Ahhh, Ralden.” She gyrated against his face, shifting this way and that as she took her pleasure, unafraid to show him what she liked. He let his tongue plunge into her, pressing it against her walls before withdrawing his tongue to quickly flick it up to her clitoris. She started with surprise before pushing against him again, vocalizing her enjoyment. He pushed his tongue into her again. Two stabs before licking her clit again. He pushed one finger into her, then two, her flowing dew paving the way. She rocked with the 86

Kiale Dream gentle motion he set. Her lips sucked him in, the sight and slurpy sound, captivating. He pressed his thumb against her puckered rosette and her body froze before erupting in tremors. “Oh God. Oh Ralden. Yesyesyesyesyes. Yesssssss.” Well, that certainly sounded encouraging. He pressed a little harder against her back hole, sucking on her clit gently. “Ohhhhhhhhh.” The long drawn out moan bounced off the transparent walls as her muscles gripped his fingers rhythmically. Tortured breaths shook her frame. The contractions of her walls were visible as her dusky pink flesh quavered. Against his tongue, her clit tightened before expanding, throbbing with an erratic beat. Her cream gushed onto his hand, fragrant and creamy. His fangs tingled, the rush of blood to her crotch calling to him. He’d bet any and everything he had that her blood would be the best he would ever taste. He could hear it now, heavy and thick, the smell of it competing with the scent of her arousal. Don’t bite. Don’t bite. The mantra echoed in his head helping him stay focused. He brought her down gently, softly licking at her, petting her inflamed lips and clit. Removing his fingers, he sucked them clean, savoring her. He moaned softly. He would never, ever get enough of her. Her body slumped as her breathing slowly evened out. Standing, he brought the shower head to drizzle over her heated back after helping her stand to her full height. She leaned against him, sighing appreciatively. She turned in his arms and pulled his head down for a kiss. Her tongue was playful, enticing him. Pulling away she said, “That was great, lover.” “Any time,” he muttered against her lips. “There’s only one problem.” “Really? What is that?” Her fist surrounded his erection and he shook. “You’re still dirty.” His eyes fluttered close on a harsh breath, snapping open just as quickly, not wanting to miss a thing. Her thumb swiped over his swollen tip and gathered the drop that was there. She brought her 87

thumb to her lips and the drop disappeared on her tongue. Satisfaction sparkled in her eyes, her pupils expanded, making her gaze appear almost black. Dark ringlets around her head gave her an angelic look despite the devilish thoughts shining in her eyes. There was nothing angelic about the response her hand drew from him. He clenched his teeth against the urge to groan. His extended canines drew neat drops of blood, not helping the situation. Looking up at him beneath heavy lashes, she continued, “But I can fix that.” Fix away! Hopefully he was still alive by the time she was done. Grabbing the discarded soap, she washed his body with deliberated slowness. His shoulders, the line of his chest, the arch of his back, the muscles of his arms. She murmured appreciatively, lingering here and there, teasing like the siren she was. Occasionally, she rubbed up against him, their sleek bodies creating sweet friction. He clenched his fists, fighting the need to grab her and pay her tenfold for her torment. By the time she reached his cock, he was sure more than half his brain cells died from the heat. The rest were standing in line, eagerly waiting for their turn in the sweet torture. She knelt at his feet. His cock jumped in anticipation, the picture of his shaft pushed into the warm depths of her mouth making his muscles tighten. Both her hands circled his shaft and she began a slow, steady motion. She made a production out of lathering the crown, her lip caught between her teeth. Finally, she moved to the curving length. Keeping her touch light, she worked the soap into his skin. With every movement her hands gently twisted in opposing directions, tugging, clenching and releasing, copying the action of her pussy. Hot damn! His body stiffened as he felt himself moving toward climax. With hardly a touch he was ready to go. And she stopped. She removed her hands and his poor cock followed her, begging for completion. “You’re a cruel, cruel woman, Zoey.” His voice was gritty but how 88

Kiale Dream could he think straight, much less talk normally when all the blood in his body had drain to his disappointed cock? She laughed as she rose to her feet. “Don’t worry. The best is yet to…” She looked him up and down as her teeth tugged at her lower lip, “…come.” She wiggled her eyebrows at him at her pun. Amusement mixed his desire. Only she could make him laugh when his cock was damn near ready to explode. She grabbed the shower head and rinsed him off. As the suds washed away, she caressed his arms, chest, thighs, everywhere but the place that needed her attention the most. She looked so intent on her job, only the twinkle in her eye betrayed the fact that she knew exactly what she was doing to him. “Do you have any idea what you’re doing to me?” His voice was hoarse, nowhere near its normal pitch or tone. Her gazed heated his cock. “I think I have an idea.” “Then why are you making me suffer?” She brought the shower head to his cock and he shot up to his toes, hissing. Her hands gripped him again, caressing, rinsing. “You call this suffering? “ “Torture.” “You seem to be enjoying yourself. But I may be wrong. Let me make it up to you.” Her voice flowed over him, low and sinful. Letting go of the shower head, she dropped to her knees again. She lingered over his cock, looking up at him, simply breathing. Her warm breath tickled him, making him strain for the feel of her mouth over him. You’re quite the tease, aren’t you? His voice no longer worked. She brought her hands to the base of his cock and engulfed his head. He groaned, nearly collapsing. The warmth was the first thing he felt, followed by the wet velvet caress of her mouth. Her tongue swirled, dipping into his slit and his hands gripped her head, his fingers tangling in her wet hair. Are you complaining? I could stop if you’d like. Her head began an up and down movement. Her hands followed the movement, covering the length that her mouth could not. Her eyes teased him from her position at his feet. God damn, she was beautiful. Fuck no. Don’t… Don’t stop. 89

One hand left the foray and he felt her touch cupping his sac. You sure? She increased the suction in her mouth before letting go with a pop. She licked his length from root to tip before moving to lick then suck his testicles as she manually pumped him. He shuddered as his grip in her hair tightened involuntarily. She gently licked his super-sensitive perineum and at the moment she could do anything to him and he would not protest. Not a single peep would come out of him. Pretty sure. Yeah... damn! Where….Ahhhh... Where did you, ahhhh, yeah… Where did you…learn that trick? Google. Where else? If he’d had any breath he would have laughed. So you like it? Was there any doubt? Is that a question? I’m…oh. Oh God, that feels good… He forgot what he was about to say. That’s good because I have another little trick to show you. Was she trying to kill him? She engulfed his cock again, making him jump. She pumped him a few times, pulling him deeper with each downward movement. It’s called a hummer. What were they talking about again? She made an mmm sound and his memory came back with full force as his knees almost buckled. He grabbed at the wall to keep him upright. As she thrust him into her mouth she varied the pitch of her hum. Before long he felt his body react to the vibrations. I’m going to come, baby. I think that’s the point, came her droll response. His control dissolved on his next breath. Without preamble, he grabbed her arms and pulled her up. He turned her around, pushing her front up against the glass wall. “Hey…ohhhhh …” He slammed into her. **** Zoey trembled as she absorbed the shock from Ralden’s rough 90

Kiale Dream entry. His spirit was merged with hers once again. She could feel his conflict, the urgent need to drive himself into her warring with the need to protect her, even from himself. “Oh God, Zoey. I’m sorry. Jesus…” He began to withdraw and she growled. She reached behind and sunk her nails into his ass. He froze. He had the look of a wild man. His wet hair clung to his head. His teeth were elongated and scary-looking, his eyes bright. “I swear to God if you don’t fuck me now, I will murder your ass.” She pushed back against him hoping he realized how much she enjoyed his rough play. How much she enjoyed making him lose control. Deliberately she tightened her muscles around him when he continued to hesitate. And indeed he lost it as he withdrew and slammed into her again. She was pushed up against the glass and her heated body trembled at the sharp contrast of the cold surface. Her nipples stabbed into it and she would not be surprise to see chips in the glass. He reached around her to thumb her clit as he hit her g-spot over and over again until she spiraled into a mind numbing orgasm. She screamed as he grunted behind her, not letting up. Before the shock from her orgasm could wear off, she was flipped around. With one thigh over his hip, he slammed into her again. She wrapped her arms around his neck, leaning into him as she moved with him. His long hair was a tangle mess—well, more like hair from a fancy shampoo commercial—and his eyes were gray splinters that were zeroed on her. The intensity in his gaze, she was sure, had steam rising off of her. He was palming her butt like they were melons. She felt another orgasm gather in her belly, his belly, she had no idea who felt what but together the feelings swamped her, leaving her defenseless. His muscles tensed against her and she knew he was close, knew they were close. Shit, we forgot a condom again. He pulled out from her and she dropped to her knees impulsively. Automatically her hand found her clit even as her tongue licked at the head of his cock. He pumped his length furiously. Her orgasm pumped through her as she felt the first jet of cum hit her tongue. She moaned at his taste, 91

salty with a hint of tang. Above her, his body shuddered as he groaned low in his throat. She could see the gleam of his fangs. She swallowed as much as she could although her own orgasm had her feeling light-headed and hardly in the frame of mind to play catch with his jetting cock. She felt some of his semen dropped onto her breasts. Like a brand, she absorbed the heat from it, feeling it spear all the way to her soul. As their orgasms faded, the clasp of their energies waned. Removing her hand from her pussy, she gathered the drop and brought it to her mouth. She looked up at him and licked it off. Their combined flavors made her moan. She had never felt so wanton, so openly brazen before. He brought out this side to her that she was becoming quite fond of. “You are so fucking hot.” He pulled her up for a kiss, the feel of his fangs immediately captivating her. She was surprised. Most guys she knew seemed quite revolted by their own taste, which she always found kind of weird. She moaned into his mouth, enjoying the surprising change of pace.

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Chapter Thirteen Feily beat at Gion’s chest. He seemed even more gleeful at her frustration. He moved and her back touched the cool sheets of her large bed. The cushion dipped with their combined weight. The whirlpool action caused his cock to slide deeper. She moaned. Then promptly snarled. God’s teeth, she was still angry! His lips covered her nipple and he resumed his strokes, driving his cock into her over and over again. The hooked head of his cock grazed the firmly ridged flesh of her g-spot and her anger quickly dissolved. She vowed to remember later and give it the proper venting it deserved. His gripped her waistline and the sound of slapping wet skin quickened. The bed shook, shuffling along the sand, so great was the force of his strokes. The sheets stuck to her sweaty, sleek skin. He let go of her waist to press her knees to her chest and… Forget about grazing the spot, he hit it dead on. “Ohhhh!” She shuddered uncontrollably. Her body was wide open, bottom raised. He showed her no mercy, using his weight to aid his downward thrusts. Popping her nipple free, he said, “Yes, milk me. Grip my cock hard. Ahhh yesss! I love the way you feel. Creamy and soft. So hot. You’re burning me alive, Fei!” His words were muffled against her collar bone. She could not reply. Her belly clenched and she exploded. Meteor showers burst through her loins, shooting out to the rest of her body, the tips of her fingers and toes, tightening the muscles of her thighs and belly, sending hot and cold shivers up and down her spine, singeing her hair, only to shoot right back to her core stronger than before. Every bodily function she possessed spiraled out of control. Every brain cell she had vacated their assigned post. Her lungs heaved, desperate for air. So strong was the wave, she could not scream, only keen in a tone canines could hear. She was incapable 93

of coherent thought or speech. All she knew was the roaring in her ears, the pleasure of her body and the warm body giving it to her. When she thought she had nothing left to give, he changed the angle of his thrusts and impossibly picked up the pace and she flying even higher “I—I can’t take any more. Gion, please!” Her shriek turned into a whimper as her eyes rolled back in her head. Colors exploded behind her eyelids. “Yes, you can. Take it, Fei. Take it all!” His cock swelled signaling his impending release. He bit her as he groaned. His teeth sank into the skin above her breast and her muscles tightened around him, coming yet again and again and again. Energy exploded within her, setting off a minefield. Jet after jet of his cum washed the walls of her vagina, his body shuddering, intensifying those that racked hers. He sank into her a few more times before pushing himself to the hilt, bumping her cervix. “Feily, my heart… Ahhhhh!” He sounded just as comatose as she, his labored breathing heating her skin. His weight pressed her into the mattress. They were both sweaty. Her thighs were covered with their combined juices. Her lungs burned for air. She was pretty sure her hair was a mess and her skin was flushed in an unsightly color of red. If she ever felt better she could not remember. For someone obsessed with perfection, it was a shock that vanity left her to fend for herself. The afterglow warmed her, leaving her mind empty and her heart blissfully unaware. There was nothing. No pain, no anger. No resentment. Just a harmonious obscurity. Oblivion. She was not Feily and he was not Gion. They were just two bodies finding momentary harbor from stormy weather. Letting her legs return to a more natural position around his hips, he feathered his lips over hers, this kiss a direct contrast from those earlier. She sighed happily. Their gazes locked briefly and she closed hers, blocking out the imploring nature of his. She did not want anything to intrude on this moment. She would have to deal with the consequences of her weakness later but for now her mind 94

Kiale Dream was free and her heart light for the first time in forever. Just a little while longer… His head returned to her chest. Their breathing slowly returned to normal as she stroked his damp hair.

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Chapter Fourteen Zoey and Ralden were lying in bed, cleaned off and dry. The room was dark apart from the moonlight that shined through the windows. They were in the center of his large bed, a dark colored sheet carelessly thrown over their hips. Her head was resting comfortably on his shoulder, bare breasts pressed against his side, one leg riding his, arm across his chest. His arms circled her as his fingers trailed over any bare skin they could reach. Around them, their energies were calm and wavering softly. Many hours had passed and they’d made love once more, rolling around on his carpeted floor, the bed too far away when the fever once again swept through them. Only then did they fall into an exhausted heap on his bed. Cuddling, they talked about little things and big things. Their lapse in judgment concerning protection in the garden came up. Being a Kiale, he did not have to worry about catching human diseases, so he was clean. So was she. It was not that time of the month so she was not worried about conceiving and she told him as much. He did not sounded extremely happy about her admission and she pushed her own unwarranted curl of disappointment away. Shit, Zoey! Don’t lose you head here, she’d thought, trying to get her mental footing back. She absentmindedly stroked his chest enjoying the peace the moment brought despite the disturbing nature of her thoughts. Using her fingertips, she tenderly defined the muscle she found. To change the subject, she asked about his home planet, Maion. Softly, his voice filled the silence of the darkened room, better that any narrator she had ever heard. His fingers stroked her bare shoulder as she snuggled closer. He shared his memories with her, the picture hazy with the passage of time. In awe, she explored his recollections, marveling at the possibility of two suns, the way their presence affected the alien planet casting purple hues in the daytime and colorful shades of twilight at dusk. The differences in 96

Kiale Dream plant and animal life were stark. His voice deepening, he explained that he felt more connected to earth than Maion. Wondering why, she lifted her head to look up at him, waiting for him to finish. “It’s because you’re here,” he said, making it seem all so simple. Looking into his eyes, she could tell that he spoke the truth as he believed it. Her heart broke, knowing that that look would dull with time. “I’m glad you found me, Ralden,” she replied softly, her heart pounding with the rush of tender feeling for him, determined to enjoy that look for however long it remained in his eyes. She would have no regrets when it was over. He smiled and that dimple reappeared. She reached up and traced the indentation. He turned and his hand caught hers. He kissed her palm, his tongue lightly tasting her skin. Her fingers tingled. The topic of mating came up despite her best efforts to stay away from it. While she did not believe in the whole soul mate thing, she was curious. Soul mate. It sounded like a fairy tale and though she did not believe in those, she could allow herself the luxury of imagining differently once in a while, couldn’t she? How would it feel to have someone care so deeply that their feelings only grew with time, never diminishing? To trust that someone would always be there to wake up to in the morning and hold onto through the cold night? “How does it work?” “Actually, I’m not quite sure since I’ve never seen it happen.” That was not what she expected to hear. He seemed so confident about everything that she had not considered the fact that he might not have all the answers. “What do you mean?” He shrugged, muscles rippling with the effortless movement. “This is new to me too. I was thinking that it would be just as vampires turn humans, with a blood exchange. You’d make a beautiful Kiale, Zoey. Can you imagine it?” Problem was, she could. She felt a moment of panic that threatened to clog her throat. Suddenly the humanity that she did not give much thought to was hanging in the balance and was speedily looking like the big daddy of all precious gems. Being a 97

dream walker made life challenging, but it was still one of the only constants in the madness that was her life. She was just a dream walker. Not an alien from out of space, not another species but a human with a few additional abilities. Just like every other human, she bled and cried salty tears. Just like every other human she was just fragile skin and bones, knowing one day it would all come to an end. Just like any other human she did not have wings or drink blood for dinner. She resumed her former position, cursing herself because she knew she was hiding. His stare asked for things she could not give. She gave herself a mental shake, testing their connection to make sure this mental battle was private. Ralden sustained their connection outside the dream world but allowed part of her subconscious to remain her private domain which she was very grateful for. This was not the time for some deep dive into her subconscious. She was here with the most gorgeous male on the planet and she was determined to wring every drop of gratification she could from the moment. All the heavy decision making could wait. She looked at him. And again was struck by his beauty. His almost dry hair spilled around his head, the moonlight catching the blue tones. One side of his face was shrouded in darkness while the other was starkly visible in the soft light. The sharp contrast made her think of the kindness that was such a part of his personality, so different from the violent nature of the predator she knew lurked just beneath the surface. Light and dark. Day and night. They were all parts that completed the mystery that made this complicated creature. She shifted and his erection brushed her thigh. “Well, aren’t you insatiable?” “What can I say? You bring out the sex demon in me.” She rose above him, straddling his thighs. The sheet pooled around their hips and her hard nipples were pushed high into the air as she arched her back. His cock brushed her folds and instantly she felt her womb clench and her sex soften. She wiggled against the pleasure inducing organ, loving the grimace of answering pleasure that tightened his features. “Oh really?” His heated gaze settled on her thighs and slowly travelled higher 98

Kiale Dream until it rested on her crotch. In an effort to cool the heat that simmered there, Zoey involuntarily squeezed her thighs around his hips. The head of his cock nudged her clit and she gasped. “Really. But I think you appreciate that quality.” His cock jumped against her and she marveled that such a hefty piece of flesh fit into her like a piece of a puzzle. Fingers danced lightly on her skin, making her shiver before his hands cupped her ass. She wiggled and her pussy grazed his cock again. He hissed, his elongated canines yet to make an appearance although his eyes already took on that special glow that signaled his arousal. His eyes narrowed on her. “You did that deliberately.” “Did not,” she said, tongue in cheek. “You little tease.” A light tap landed on her ass. She arched into the stinging caressed. Call her naughty but she loved these small bits of pleasure-pain. “You’re going to pay for that.” “What? I didn’t do anything.” The glee in her tone contradicted her words. His palm cupped the reddened globe and squeezed before gracing it with another loving blow. “Sure.” He clearly did not believe her. In a lithe movement, he rolled her beneath him. She squeaked. His muscles rippled and bunched as his hair swung and concealed his unique features for a brief second. Like the avenging angel, he so favored, he blocked out anything not pertaining to him, to them. His gaze held hers, trapping her, making her lose herself in its depths, seeing more than she was comfortable showing. His narrow nose flared like an animal scenting the air, its shadow over his delicious lips. Her legs wrapped around his waist, brushing his ass. She lightly scorched the tight buns with her short nails. He teasingly brushed her lips with his. She licked at him trying to deepen the caress. He moved out of her reach, laughing darkly. Two can play at that game. Lying back, she waited for his next move, licking her lips, catching the lower one between her teeth. Her eyebrow arched, daring him. She pushed the mental picture of all the things she wanted to do to him, with him, for him into their shared connection. She imagined the way his cock would sink into her pussy as they sexed long and hard, made love nice and slow and 99

everything in between. Explicit and carnal, she moaned at her own daring. He growled, the sound vibrating in the stillness of the room, pulsating through the creamed well of her desire. Fuck, you’re beautiful! Absolutely perfect! His graveled words thrilled her, heightening her arousal. He kissed her, sucking her lower lip, nipping it in punishment. His tongue thrust deep as he cupped one breast, tweaking her nipple as he massaged her flesh. Their tongues curled over and around each other, lips sipped and sampled, teeth nibbled as heads twisted this way and that. Letting go of her mouth, he kissed his way down her body. Her chin, the line of her jaw, the curvature of her ear, none was left unscathed as he nibbled his way down her neck and shoulders. His tongue left a moist trail behind. She arched into his gifted tongue, savoring every caress, committing them to memory. His hands ran up her sides, tickling slightly, stopping just beneath her heaving globes. His thumbs rubbed in a circular motion. He kissed the valley between them, the feel of his hair sweeping her skin making her shiver. She could not resist the pull of the cool strands and her fingers tangled in them, holding him close. His licking kisses sampled the undersides, sides and tops of her breasts, licking the areolas, neatly skirting her begging nipples. His fingertips and mouth offered a lethal combination that had her squirming on the soft sheets. “Please, Ralden.” She was not above begging if it got her what she wanted. His head lifted and his swirling silver eyes traced lines of heat over her. “Give them to me,” he commanded. She wasted no time, cupping the flushed flesh and offering them to him. He hovered over them, his breath warming, making them stiffen further. He licked the edge of one nipple then the other, pausing to blow on them. “Don’t tease,” she pleaded, arching into the promise of his mouth. Anticipation had her strung tighter than a readied bow. She never thought her breasts were particularly sensitive but one night with Ralden changed her mind. So says the queen of teasing, he replied laughingly. She was prepared to give him a piece of her mind when heat 100

Kiale Dream engulfed her mound, nipple and dusty rose-colored areola. She hissed at the contact, arching higher, fingers tightening over her flesh. He sucked strongly, then released with a loud pop. He moved to the other breasts and repeated the action, moving back and forth. “Oh wow!” What else could she say? His hardened tongue flickered back and forth over her stiff peak, making her body jerk with every lash. Large hands covered hers and further plumped up her flesh, pushing her breast further into the dark recess of his mouth. Her head thrashed back and forth on the pillow as her hips began to hump his stomach, her protruded clit making agonizingly sweet contact. His body held hers down, not allowing her to move towards the destination she so desired. “Please, Ralden, I need you.” He paid her no mind as he paid the same homage to her other breast. Oh, it felt so good but she wanted more. She wanted that hard cock to beat her pussy into submission. She reached down to grab him but he was faster. His mouth left her breast, his lips moving over her sweat slickened belly, moving out of her reach. His laughter echoed in her head. Oh, he was going to pay. As soon as the sex demon that gobbled up her brain cells spit them out. Oh, and her toes lost the numbness that was now spreading to her fingertips. He palmed her buttocks and lifted her, placing a pillow beneath her hips. Her thighs were separated by the width of his shoulders, her juicy pussy exposed to the night. One wet kiss landed over her belly button, followed by a quick swipe of his tongue dipping into the narrow cavity. Oh, she liked that. A lot. One kiss heated her right hip, then the left hip before another landed right in the center. Then lower and lower they went at a pace a snail could beat. For someone with the patience of a hungry bear in a stream full of huge, leaping fish this slow lovemaking was simultaneously frustrating and arousing. “Dammit, Ralden! I can’t take any more.” Now she was the one growling. “Sure you can.” His words whispered over her sensitive bud and she shivered at the brush of warm air. Her hips lifted, imploring his touch. He knelt between her sprawled thighs and spread her lower 101

lips. She did not feel the slightest bit self—conscious and adjusted her position to further expose her pussy to his gaze. Her cream coated her fingers, slippery and abundant. “You have the prettiest pussy I’ve ever seen. Chocolate and cherries.” Chocolate and cherries? She was about to ask him what he meant by that peculiar statement but he leaned down and swiped his tongue over her slit, from her entrance to her clitoris. She moaned, arching into his touch. He slowly licked and petted until she was a mass of nerves. His tongue drifted around her clit, circling but avoiding direct contact. Leaving the bud pulsing, he moved his tongue freely between her lips, pausing to suck on one then the other. She allowed her eyes to drift shut because keeping them open required too much effort. Effort best spent enjoying the fire that jumped from nerve to nerve. His tongue dipped into her, rimming her opening. He repeated the action and she countered it, trying to deepen the penetration. In and out, in and out his tongue went, pausing here and there to explore her clenching walls which were protesting the empty feeling that assailed her. His tongue flickered away and she moaned her disappointment. She was so close. This teasing was driving her insane. Her disappointment vanished as his mouth closed over the clit and a stiff tongue flexed with perfect accuracy. He gave her a quick little suck then released her momentarily to do it again and again. “Ralden, ohhhh…” He pushed one finger, then two into her and her muscles clutched at the solid substance. His fingers explored her walls gathering her cream and brought it to a very different locale. Relax, baby, he crooned making her realize that she had tensed. She breathed the tension away. He rubbed his wet finger around her anal ring. Slowly he worked his finger into her, rubbing in a circular motion. As he worked more of her cream into her back door, his mouth lashed on firmly over her clit and sucked lightly, the pressure not enough to allow her the release she wanted so badly. She moaned and his other hand comforted her by running 102

Kiale Dream soothingly along her thighs and stomach and occasionally massaging her breasts. She strained into his touch, trembling, her perspiration wetting the sheets. She was unable to keep her legs still, her free hand alternating between knotting in the sheets and tangling in his hair to pull him closer. He continued to softly lick at her clit as his hand began to pump in and out of her ass. It felt deliciously naughty. Although her pussy still ached for his cock to fill her, she felt a delicious fullness as he drilled her. Suddenly, he changed the tempo, his tongue lashing at her clit. He inserted two fingers into her vagina, rubbing at that pleasure spot. His fingers curved in a come hither motion, fingering her pussy, matching the rhythm of his tongue on her clit. In perfect harmony, fingers and tongue stroked her, provoking animalistic sounds from her. “Oh my God, Ralden, don’t stop. Ah, yes. God!” She could no longer contain the orgasm that blasted through her system. Her muscles froze temporarily before she thrashed on the sheets as heat race up and down her legs and back and light exploded behind her eyelids. Her spiritual energy exploded with vivid shades, bright and colorful in the dark room. Her breath caught in her throat before she released a shrill scream. Toes numb from pleasure, fire exploded along the nerve endings of her feet, travelling up to her knees and thighs as icy hot flames arched her back. A static current pulled at each strand of hair on her head and her nipples tightened further. Her heart boomed a frantic tattoo as her lungs fought for breath. Her trembling thighs held his head prisoner, desperate to wring every molecule of pleasure to be had from the experience. Every thought cleared from her brain and for a moment there was serenity and she walked in warm white light, free and at peace. For that brief moment in time, she was everything that he saw, beautiful, perfect in her imperfections, the missing piece that made him whole. Everything she wanted to be. She slowly drifted to earth to see her sexy angel-vampire-alien kneeling over her, his mouth wet with her juices and his eyes glowing with an intoxicating mixture of tenderness, arousal and an 103

emotion she did not want to identify. His spiritual energy was swirling in an impatient pattern of dark and light hues. It curved over hers, dominating and protective. “Come here, big boy,” she encouraged, needing the feel of him stretching her, needing to feel complete for just a while longer. **** Ralden rolled the condom he picked out of the bedside table onto his bursting-at—the seams cock as he watched Zoey watching him. Her eyes conveyed more than she knew, making his heart ache for his little broken butterfly. Despite her tough exterior, her insecurities were never far from the surface, slowly poisoning the goodness that was part of her, preventing her from flying. She thought she was hiding her pain and confusion from him but he saw it all. His determination strengthened. He would not allow that light she tried so hard to hide to be diminished. No matter how long it took, he would show her what he saw, what a choice few had seen, envied and tried to destroy. She opened her arms for him and he lay on top of her. He kissed her, showing her without words just what she meant to him, sharing her chocolate cherry taste with her. She ended the kiss and said, “Seems you have a few tricks of your own.” “A few.” She chuckled, the sound happy and carefree. “Well, as great as that was, I need this here.” She reached down and fisted his cock. Even through the latex, her touch burned its way clear through his toes. He let his head fall back on his shoulders, his eyes closing, savoring her caress. She stroked him between her folds and he opened his eyes to take in the sight of his pale skin being swallowed by her brown one. Her cream already coated the condom and his body cried out its need to sink into her heat, into salvation. She settled him at the entrance to paradise and enticed him. “Fuck me, Ralden. Make me scream your name.” Capturing her lips again, he slowly pushed forward, torturing 104

Kiale Dream them both. They both sighed when he was seated to the hilt. She wrapped her arms and legs around his back. And they moved together, matching each other’s pace perfectly. Slow and easy. Their hearts beat to the same tune, tongues mating, drawing from each other. He relished the rightness of them together, the absolute flawlessness of it, feeling each move, breathing in their combined scents, hearing her body suck hungrily at his, her spicy sweet taste, watching the pleasure that looked so right on her features. He took it all it, savored it, committing every second to memory. Sighs, breathy moans, heavy breathing and low groans filled the silence. But soon, the heat of the moment took over and bodies clashed as he sank into her as far as he could go. She met him stroke for stroke, urging him on. Faster, deeper, harder. She did scream his name. Over and over again. The sound was music to his ears as it shot straight to his groin, making his testicles tighten and rise close to his body. Their connection strengthened and her pleasure washed over him in a tidal wave that swept him away. His fangs erupted from his gums and his teeth closed over her skin just above her breast. With only the tiniest fragment of his control left, he did not break the skin. He growled, the sound carrying a wealth of yearning. Instead, he buried his face him the crux between her neck and shoulder, wrapping himself in her scent and bit his tongue. The tip of his cock became hyper-sensitive and a surge sped along the shaft, increasing his size. Right then he felt powerful, like the baddest mofo around, in control, directing the coming upwelling. Not a second later, that control unraveled and he was just a tiny leaf in a raging tempest. He erupted in her body, her clenching muscles milking. She clawed at his back as her legs tightened with almost inhuman strength. Her obvious pleasure only added to his. There was no way to get a handle on himself. There was no up or down, no left or right. Nothing but him and her. She grounded him, kept him from coming apart at the seams as the storm pounded him into a state of true ecstasy, into a peace that he had never known. His brain went out of commission and there was a moment of clarity, where everything made sense. The secrets of the universe were at his 105

disposal. He could feel his soul flow into her safekeeping and he was helpless to protest. She already had his heart after all. Eventually their screams, cries, growls, hisses and groans died down into satisfied sighs and sleepy whimpers as they snuggled into each other. Ralden smiled at Zoey’s soft snore before he let sleep rule his consciousness.

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Chapter Fifteen Zoey watched Ralden sleep. He really did look like an angel. Not like a lily-white, messenger of the good word kind but the very naughty, dark angel of sexual depravation kind. His arms were holding her close, and she felt cherished. Being with him made her want things she had no business wanting. It made her see a future that did not just consist of her and her computer games. She did not want to feel the feelings that coursed through her, she did not want to hope because feelings and hope just made the disappointment all that greater when it came to an end. She closed her eyes, sighing. She was making a mess of this. Her friend was now her lover and it was more beautiful than she ever imagined it would be. She realized she had hoped for a lackluster evening followed by lackluster sex that affirmed her misgivings, something that would not be on par with what her mind conjured up, what her “dreams” portrayed, something that would be easy to walk away from. Last night had been perfect and there was nothing she would change about it. He was perfect, funny, generous in and out of the bedroom, gorgeous and loaded. Every human female’s idea of a dream man. But she did not want a dream man. She did not want any man, especially one that made her imperfections so apparent when compared to him. She was in danger of losing every defense she fought to build and that was the one thing she could not afford to lose. She was determined to enjoy the moment, enjoy his company and fantabulous sex. When it was all time to end she would have these memories to comfort her. There was no way he would put up with her forever. Her relatives could barely stand her presence, why should he? The pain the thought brought surprised her, stronger that she 107

thought it would be. Morning sunlight filtered through the drapes and her tummy rumbled. She needed sustenance after such a night of exercise. Dark thoughts pushed aside, she carefully slid from under his arm. It was not easy going. He had a death grip on her. She ended up falling from beneath his arm onto the floor and her sore muscles protested. She froze as he shifted in the sheets. A soft snore signaled that he was still asleep. In the bathroom, she found his discarded shirt. Putting it on, she inhaled deeply, savoring his unique woodsy scent. It reminded her of the scent of the forest just after a light drizzle. Tiptoeing, she left the room. Minutes later, after thoroughly sneaking a peek into the many rooms along the way, she found the kitchen, clean and state of the art. She rummaged around until she found items for breakfast. She was beating eggs when she became aware of a presence behind her. The air crackled with the unfamiliar energy. Her heart skipped a beat. Automatically she reached for the pan she’d placed on the stovetop. Clutching her makeshift weapon she turned to the intruder. Without thought she swung. She heard, “Whoa,” before she was skillfully disarmed and pulled against a muscular chest. Just as suddenly the chest was pulled away from her. The whirlpool action caused her to lose her balance and she fell to her knees on the tiled kitchen floor. Turning she saw a really angry, really naked, Ralden leaning over the intruder, his hand at the man’s neck, spiritual energy lit with ire. “Lee. What the fuck?” “Hey man, calm down. She nearly killed me. Jeez…” Another man appeared in the kitchen. He looked at the two on the floor, then her and burst out laughing. “Aw man. Is this an invitation only brawl or is anyone allowed to join?” He sounded completely carefree as if the scene before him was simple everyday breakfast entertainment. Despite Ralden’s frightening posture and look, the man on the ground showed no fear or signs of fighting back and his spiritual energy did not waver. Lee? As in Lee-vai? Ralden’s brother? Their spiritual energies did resemble each other’s with that bold, 108

Kiale Dream stable pattern. As a matter of fact, the standing man’s spiritual energy was similar to Ralden’s also. Damn. Well, this was certainly one way to meet the rest of the family. “Um, Ralden? I think I may have overreacted. I did swing the pan at him.” “See? She attacked me.” Amusement colored Lee’s tone. Ralden was off the floor in the blink of an eye and stalked over to her. Her cheeks heated at his utter disregard for his nudity even as she admired the smooth movement of muscle and…uh… other things that were certainly at half-mast. He lifted her and hugged her as if she had been shot and not just assaulted his brother. “You okay, babe?” His concern caressed her and was blowing holes in her plan to remain at an emotional distance. “Yeah, sorry. I’m the one that attacked him. Sorry,” she finished lamely. She felt like crying and the urge was so bad she could not even muster up the effort to be angry about it. “It’s okay. As long as you’re okay.” “I’m okay too if anyone’s asking.” The comment came from her assaultee and she blushed hotter. He effortlessly lifted himself off the floor. She pulled away from Ralden although she kept a firm grip on his arm. Both brothers were tall, athletic-looking and drop-dead gorgeous. Lee, with a twinkle in his eyes, had a shaggy mop of dark brown hair and laughing blue eyes that gave him a mischievous air. His spiritual energy was made of slightly lighter tones than Ralden’s and his laid back air was obvious. Micaiel, she assumed, had military short blond hair and despite the small smile on his face, she had a feeling that he was the most serious-minded character of the trio. His spiritual energy was the darkest and a deep set sadness was planted in the hues. They were both dressed casually in jeans and t-shirts. “I’m so sorry.” She hated the plaintive tone of her voice. “Don’t apologize to this idiot. He knew better than to sneak up on you.” At Ralden’s statement, Lee-vai cracked a smile. “I saw a pair of gorgeous legs and just had to get a closer look.” She blushed again remembering her state of undress. Ralden growled, then she was no longer in the kitchen but in his 109

bedroom. With a groan, she sunk to the bed covering her face. She felt him kneel before her but continued to hide behind her fingers. He gently pried them open. “Hey.” He gave her a gentle smile that only made her feel worse. “I tried to kill your brother, Ralden.” That may be an exaggeration but still… “Don’t worry. You’re not the first woman who has wanted to.” The look on his face was so earnest like he spoke the God-honest truth that it almost made her crack a smile. Almost but not quite. “Ralden,” she whined. God, now she was whining. “I’m serious. I wanted to make a good impression. They’re your family and I… they’re important to you so I… God, Ralden. I nearly killed your bother.” She fell back on the bed praying for a hole to open up and swallow her whole. Ralden followed her movement and laid over her, his weight and warmth comforting. “Baby, come on. It’s not that bad and I think it takes more than a frying pan to kill Lee.” He kissed the side on her lips, punctuating his words. “He’s not going to hold it against you.” “How do you know? He probably hates me now.” “Baby, it’s impossible for Lee to hate anything that wears a skirt.” He kissed her lips. “He’s going to love you because I love you.” Her heart jumped. This was the first time he said the “L” word and the pleasure that ran through her made her light-headed. Made her worry. She did not believe in that kind of stuff, she was quick to remind herself. “Ralden, I—“ This was her chance. Her chance to tell him that all the feelings he thought he felt could not possibly exist, especially not for someone like her. This was her chance to laugh in his face, to show him how much of a bitch she could be. To show him there was nothing in her to love if the phenomenon by some off chance did exist. Logic dictated that she tell him and make him understand that this time together would end and he would get over this, get over her. But instead her lips and her soul and her heart wanted to say something quite different. She wanted to return the words, the urge to do so almost painful. Why? Maybe she wanted him to believe he 110

Kiale Dream loved her for a little while longer. To believe she was deserving of such an elusive emotion. To make her feel worthy, just this once, of something other than scorn or at best, mere tolerance. She swallowed painfully as her breathing escalated to the point where she felt air starved. It was reflex she told herself. It was the sex. How many studies had she seen where people thought love and lust were the same thing only to see that the two were not intertwined, were not mutually exclusive? Her heart throbbed painfully in her chest. She saw hurt flash in his eyes even as his spiritual energy changed slightly before he quickly covered it. Guilt exploded in her chest, taking away her breath, making her feel like the lowest thing on earth. The last thing she wanted to do was hurt him. She’d rather die, the pits of hell preferable. “Ralden, I’m—“ He kissed her, his tongue thrusting deep, twisting her thoughts. He settled between her thighs and his shirt parted, settling high on her belly. He palmed her breasts through the material. He rose above her, his emotions closed off from her, and eyes, gray laser beams of nothingness, gave her little clue as to what he was thinking or feeling. The Ralden she knew, the warm, sweet, caring Ralden that she knew, did not reside there. Grabbing the edges of the shirt, he tore it open. There was a controlled violence in his action as his lips left hers to travel south leaving hard kissed on her skin. This control was reflected in the rigid nature of his usually flamboyant energy, the colors darker than usual, gloomy. Like a demon lurking, a thin layer of black invaded his energy and at that moment she knew that she may have just ruined the best thing that ever happened to her. Everything she touched withered away and died, she thought hysterically. He found a condom and slid it onto his length. Above her, he looked like an avenging warrior. One with many scars and wounds, inside and out. One who fought for the cause he felt worthy, he believed in, not letting up until his mission was done. He came down over her and captured her mouth in another bruising kiss as he slid home without any preliminaries. Only her moisture allowed 111

him such smooth entry. She arched into him as she moaned into his mouth. He gripped her hips hard as he thrust deeply into her, his face buried in her neck. While his body was loving hers, it seemed to want to punish her also. Her wet pussy clenched at him trying to hold him closer, to beg for his forgiveness. She accepted his sweet punishment and she rose to meet each plunge. As her climax shot electricity through her, a tear slide into her hair as she shouted her fulfillment, eyes squeezed shut, blocking everything out. Their energies did not merge, but stayed just out of reach of each other, and her disappointment was pliable even though her mind raced toward the oblivion, the temporary escape orgasm offered. A strange, bitter emptiness assaulted her soul, leaving her feeling drained and washed up. He buried his face in her hair as he groaned low and trembled against her, his heavy breathing whispering over her heated skin. His whispered words, full of hurt, broke her heart. “Damn you, Zoey.” **** Ralden teleported from Zoey’s apartment to his place. He laid the clothes he retrieved for her on the wrinkled sheets. He declared his love unintentionally. She had looked so broken over the silly incident that morning that he wanted to comfort her and his feelings spilled out. He knew she was not ready to hear the words or to say the words. He had gotten careless and it looked like he hurt them both. Sadness tugged at his heart. For himself and for her. The way she viewed herself as a woman and as a person was disheartening. She was unable to see how beautiful she was, inside and out, that she deserved love just like everyone else. He felt sorry for the little girl that had been beaten down so much that she thought love was a figment of some fanciful persons’ imaginations. More specifically that she did not deserve it. He felt sorry for the woman that tried so desperately to hide behind the words and actions of fools, who was trying too hard to close her heart down, who was afraid to trust her 112

Kiale Dream instincts. He had told himself he would be patient, that they would take their relationship at a speed that she would be comfortable with, but clearly his supply was running out. Getting a little taste of her, he was desperate for the whole package. Although he was trying to understand her feelings, he had his own to deal with. And he could not stand the thought of not being with her in every way possible. In all honesty, he was slightly resentful. Why would she come to him not ready to fully commit or at least try? She was trying so hard to hold herself away from him, to give only a little, it was a wonder she did not shatter from the strain. Was this an experiment to her? He sighed tiredly. He knew it was not. She did love him. He had no doubt that she did. It was in her eyes when she looked at him, in her touch when she stroked him, the almost desperate way she reached out for him but she was fighting to hold the feelings back and that love was not worth much if she did not fully embrace it, want it as much as he did. Knowing that she was keeping him at arm’s length, it hurt. Bad. Your clothes are on the bed. The sound of the running shower came through the closed bathroom door. The weight of her confused emotions reached out for him and as desperately as he wanted to comfort her, to make it all better, she had to work these things out for herself. Until she was ready, there was nothing he could do but wait and hope. She was tentative, like a puppy wanting affection after it had been kicked. Thank you, Ralden. About earlier, I’m so— Please don’t say you’re sorry, Zoey. He sighed, rubbing the back of his neck, feeling the tension there. I’ll be in the kitchen. There was a pause as if she was searching for something to say. Okay. The word was mouse-like, far from Zoey-like. In the kitchen, he found his brothers ribbing each other as Lee prepared breakfast and Micaiel watched. The Kiale was absolutely hopeless in the kitchen. After all these centuries, he could barely boil water. They did eat normal human food just to put some “normalcy” in their route. Plus, it did taste good even thought their bodies had no use for it. Without looking up from his task, Lee asked, “You okay, 113

bro?” With their connection, it was impossible to hide his emotions. He rubbed a hand over his face. “I could be better.” “Trouble in paradise already? Damn, man. Maybe you need some lessons on how to please a lady, eh? I’m more than qualified to show you.” Lee wagged his eyebrows at him. Ralden saw right through his ploy and was grateful for the chance to lighten the mood. Ralden laughed, placing his problems in the back of his head. “You wish, puppy. You seemed to be forgetting that you learned from the master.” “And there comes a time when student surpasses his master.” Lee’s evil laughter filled the room. “You two are full of shit.” Micaiel muttered from his perch on a bar stool, looking as though he did not know if to be amused or disgusted. “Oh, don’t hate because you haven’t seen any ass in the last century. That might explain your moodiness. Or is it PMS?” was Lee’s snarled reply. “Oh, fuck you.” “At least one of us is doing some fucking.” Micaiel rose from his seat, advancing on Lee. Ralden shook his head at his brothers’ antics. These two always got into some silly arguments. There was no real venom in their words though. He walked up to the two, giving each a tap behind the head. “Behave, children. You have company.” Zoey had walked up during the argument and looked at him nervously. She was now dressed in a pair of jeans shorts and a plain blouse with her hair gathered into a messy bun. “Zoey, these are my brothers, Lee-vai and Micaiel. Please excuse their bad manners. The house training has not stuck yet.” Forgetting the breakfast preparation, Lee walked up to Zoey, armed with his most charming smile. He engaged her in a hug. Pulling back, he gave her a kiss on each cheek. “Oh, my sweet. Don’t mind Ralden. He’s just jealous of my boyish good looks and charm.” He winked conspiringly at Zoey. “Please call me Lee. And if you ever get bored of this old man, you’re more than welcome to give me a 114

Kiale Dream call.” Zoey’s eyebrow roes at the flirtation that came naturally to Lee and Ralden almost felt sorry for Lee. She patted his cheek in a placating manner. “Aw, that’s cute. But you’re not my type.” Lee obviously did not see the danger signs flashing ahead. “And what type is that?” “Men who are full of shit.” Lee’s eyes widened as Micaiel burst out laughing. It was rare that a woman did not fall all over Lee’s charm and almost boyish quality and Ralden figured the experience hardly placed a dent in Lee’s ego. Luckily for Lee, Ralden knew his flirting was all in fun or else he would have to collect his teeth off the floor. He looked forward to the day a woman brought Lee to his knees. Keeping an eye on the unfolding scene, he smiled as he turned to finish breakfast. “Ouch,” Lee clutched his chest as if mortally wounded before a grin broke free. He gave her another hug before saying, “Welcome to the family, little sis. It seems Ralden’s found himself quite a handful.” Ralden did not have to look to notice she was uncomfortable with the mention of family. Micaiel pushed Lee aside before stealing a hug of his own. “Finally, a woman who doesn’t fall for this idiot’s crap! We’re definitely going to get along.” He kissed each cheek then turned to Ralden and said, “She’s definitely a keeper.” Ralden glanced at Zoey. Her eyes were a little bit misty. Her eyes were pleading with him. Holding her gaze, he said. “I know.” She walked up to him and rested her head on his chest, her arms going around his waist. “Please don’t be angry with me,” she whispered. He knew how hard it must be for her to show this vulnerable side to her personality. In front of his brothers no less. A hand around her waist, he tipped her chin up. Looking into her deep brown eyes, he drowned in the love he did indeed see shining there and decided that it was enough. For now. He smiled then said, “I’m not.” He let his lips cover hers and instantly she responded, opening for his invasion. Her tongue tentatively stroked his as if still unsure if she was forgiven. He hauled her against him and poured all his 115

love into the action. A throat cleared and despite the urge to throw her on the counter, spread her legs and sink into her heat, he let her go. For now. “Let’s have some breakfast, shall we?” **** Breakfast in the Kiale kitchen was an animated affair and the closeness of their family was obvious. Ralden was clearly the father figure in the family although not even he was safe from teasing. Lee was still flirting with her and she deduced that it was simply part of his personality. There was a quiet intensity about Micaiel that she found comforting yet disconcerting. They were all seated on comfortable bar stools with Zoey perched on Ralden’s lap while he fed her bites of scrabbled egg and pieces of bacon. She should have felt ridiculous, like a trophy but she felt cared for, like he just had to touch her, like he had to have her near. His hand absent-mindedly brushed her back, her cheek, her arms and hands. “So,” she asked, “What are your powers exactly?” Micaiel answered, “No two Kiale have exactly the same power. It’s like a physical characteristic. Everyone is different.” She looked at Ralden. He nodded confirmation. For now, he seemed to have placed the incident in the bedroom behind them. For that she was grateful. She had been so sure that he would have turned away from her. Way too soon. In the shower, she berated herself. She had handled the situation so badly but when she tried to think of how she could have improved it, she came up blank and panic threatened to overrun her mind. Seeing him standing in the kitchen, teasing his brothers, something inside of her screamed, “Mine.” Over and over again, the word reverberated. Something in her urged her to do something that marked him as hers. But then, her head regained control and scolded her for her foolish musings. He only belonged to her for a short time. “I can manipulate anything that exists in any of the four states of 116

Kiale Dream matter. But there are some things that are just common characteristics for our people,” he supplied. “Like?” “Um, well, telepathy and ‘instant transmission’ as you put it. Although, not everyone is good at those things. Like Lee here. He sucks at them. I think it’s because he was dropped on his head as a baby. There’s no other explanation.” Ralden’s voice was completely serious even though she felt the laughter in him. Lee just rolled his eyes. “Don’t listen to him, sis. He’s just threatened by me.” He wiggled his eyebrows at her and she could not help but laugh. “You wish,” Ralden muttered. Lee simply gave him a mocking look that had Ralden tossing a piece of toast at him. Lee leaned back and caught the bread in his mouth, chewing smugly. She shook her head at their antics, the energy that filled their family dynamic, infectious. “What about you two?” she indicated Lee and Micaiel. “I can control the weather,” Lee supplied. As if to provide evidence of his talent, a gust of wind came in through the open window. He lifted his hand, palm up. She watched in astonishment as a tiny funnel of wind swirled in his palm before dissipating with a slight poof of sound. She laughed, delighted. “Wow! That’s so cool.” She looked at Micaiel and was once again struck by his quiet intense air. “What’s your power?” “I communicate with animals and can control them if need be.” He rolled his sleeve up, showing her the beginnings of a blue dragon tattoo that disappeared beneath the material of his shirt. “This is Aisu.” Eyes widening, she watched as the tattoo took on a life of its own. Its head lifted off his skin and became three-dimensional. Intense violet eyes stared at her before it shook its head and merging with his skin once more. He rolled his sleeve back down. She pinched herself to make sure she was awake in case by some weird chance she was having a dream of her own. Ouch, that hurt! Yup, she was awake. When she found her voice all that came out was a stunned, “You have a fucking dragon on your arm!” 117

She cringed at her crude stating of the obvious. Micaiel cracked a smile as Lee fell into a coughing fit she suspected began as a laugh. “It’s not a dragon. It’s called a blackus.” Ralden pushed the mental image of the animal into her mind. The blacki had been the largest flying animal on Maion, reminiscent of earth’s western ice dragons with a scaly blue body as long as sixty feet and large, webbed wings. “I found her injured and nursed her back to health. And she decided that my body would be her home from then on.” He made it sound so simple but she felt there was more to the story. “You guys are creepy. But so cool.” She thought that had to be said. Just to get it out there. The group laughed. Lee said, “You’re one to talk. I hear you have some ‘creepy’ skills of your own.” When he said it, it did not sound like condemnation, but still old defenses were quick to rush to her aid. Ralden let warmth flow through their connection, comforting her. Grateful, she let it bathe her and forcibly relaxed the muscles that had tensed up. “That’s nothing compared to you guys.” Thankfully, her voice did not reflect her discomfort. Much. “I beg to differ, little sister. Where we come from, this is the norm. You, my dear, are far from the normal human.” She conceded that point. But that hardly stopped the onslaught of panic and hurt that loomed so close by. Fuck, it does not matter what they think. It does not— “But you fit in just fine with us,” Micaiel added. She stilled, suspicious, waiting for the “but” that completed the statement. Seconds ticked by and there was none. Lies changed the color intensity of spiritual energy, staining it. His remained unchanged. Either the Kiale were extraordinarily talented at lying or he was telling the truth. I don’t lie, little sister. Shock at hearing the voice of someone other than Ralden’s immobilized her. Micaiel’s laughter fell like a soothing balm. You’re connected to Ralden so by extension to us. You’re family now. Get used to it. She looked from one to the other. Honesty was reflected there. A smiled blossomed uncensored on her lips as a blush of mortification 118

Kiale Dream coated her cheeks. Not only was Ralden wearing her down but now his brothers were adding their strength to his cause. They made her wonder what it would be like to really be part of the family. To have these brawny Kiale as her brothers. She had always wanted a big brother, one to protect her from the bullies and make sure no guy messed with her. Ralden gave her a small squeeze and she leaned into his warmth. How was she supposed to protect herself against this? As long as no one spies on me in the shower. She pushed the thought into the connection, needing to distract herself. Ralden growled and the rest of the table erupted in laughter.

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Chapter Sixteen Almost two months had passed and Zoey’s nights were spent making glorious love and her days, dreaming of the night to come. She and Ralden talked often although he did not bring up the “L” word again. He insisted on dating, and so they went to dinner, movies, all the stuff young couples did. She spent some more time with his brothers, enjoying their ribbing and razzing, which even she was not excluded from. Ralden announced that he would be gone for a few days. He ran a hand through his loose hair, a habit she noticed in the last few weeks. It was really endearing and made her want to do the same. “I can’t avoid it. I’m sorry, babe. I really don’t want to be away from you right now.” “Come on, Ralden. Why are you apologizing? I know you have to work.” She walked up to him and wrapped her arms around him. He cradled her head against his chest. In a washboard abs hugging tank top and jeans, he looked good enough to eat. He sighed. She yawned. Her eyes stung with the tears the action encouraged. “Hey, what’s that about?” he asked laughingly, pulling back slightly but still keeping her wrapped in his warmth. “Just tired,” she replied, a little embarrassed. She had been tired for the past few days and a little nauseous but she figured she must be coming down with a bug. “If someone did not keep me up all night, I might be more rested.” She gave him a pointed look underneath her lashes. A smile tipped his lips and he cleared his throat and said, “Well, maybe that person should refrain from taking such liberties with you and let you have some rest. You really should have a talk with this guy, the inconsiderate ass.” “Oh, I don’t know. They do say sex is good for your health and we both know I need the exercise.” “Well, that is true.” His eyes sparkled though his tone was very 120

Kiale Dream serious. She smacked his arm. Her hand lingered after to caress the muscles that drew her fingers and said, “You are such a goof!” Exasperation and laughter colored her voice. “Me? What did I do?” He did the innocent look very well. He was deliciously cute, yet no adorable puppy. Sex oozed from his pours even when he was not trying. She reached up and both hands on his cheeks, she kissed his lips softly. It was a sweet kiss that said I care. “I will miss you.” He gave her a kiss of his own before replying, “I’m going to miss you too. I’m already missing you.” She laid her head back on his chest, absorbing the warmth. It was going to be a cold few nights while he was gone. “I’d like you to stay at the house while I’m gone. Maybe even after I get home.” His quiet request broke the comfortable silence. Her heart almost skipped a beat with his words. “Your place? No.” There was no way she could move in with him, no matter how temporary the length of time. It was too…final, too intimate. She knew she would not be able to keep an emotional distance without the sanctuary of her apartment to get back to. “What do you mean? You did not even consider it.” At his tone, she pulled out of his embrace. She walked to the kitchen, intending to get a cup of coffee. She needed to occupy her hands. To distance herself. “What’s there to consider? Why would I stay at your place when I have a perfectly fine apartment?” He followed her into the kitchen, his bare feet hardly making a sound. “Because it’s safer. Because I want us to be closer. Because we are over there most of the time anyway. Why draw this out?” His voice made the move seem perfectly reasonable. “Why wouldn’t I be safe? I have lived on my own for a while now, Ralden. I think I can take care of myself. So the answer is no, thank you.” She refused to address the rest of his statement. “Zoey. Be reasonable.” “No, you be reasonable. There is no good reason to move over there. Everything is working fine the way it is.” 121

God, please don’t let anything change, she prayed. Things had been going so well. No pressure. Mind—blowing sex and great conversation. Call her selfish but she wanted it to remain just as it was. “Don’t you think it’s about time you stop hiding?” She turned to him and her eyes narrowed, the about—face catching her off guard. He was not going to let it go today. He hinted at the move before, hinted at deepening their relationship before but he always backed off when she chided away from the topic. It looked like he would not do her the courtesy today. “Wait, hold up. What the hell is that supposed to mean?” He looked her straight in the eye and repeated himself. “Stop hiding, Zoey. Stop fighting this so damn hard when there is no reason to. Stop being so damn stubborn!” “What the hell are you talking about?” She knew very well what he was referring to but when in doubt play the confusion card. If for nothing else, it gave her time to think. “What does this have to do with moving to your place?” “You know exactly what I’m talking about. I love you, Zoey. Nothing is going to change that. Nothing. I want you. I want us. Forever. You’re my mate, dammit. When are you going to stop denying what’s between us. I’m trying to be patient, Zoey, but you’re making it really hard when you won’t give an inch. Not one fucking inch!” She made an angry movement, not expecting him to confront the issue like this. She’d thought she had more time. She felt backed into a wall and that was never a good thing for anyone involved. “Sex, Ralden. That’s what there is. All there is.” It hurt to say but, heck, she was on a roll, why not make it worse? “A good fuck does not equate love. Someone your age should know that by now or did you fancy yourself in love with every woman you fucked?” “You think I would go through all this, wait this long, just for a lay? I have news for you, sweetheart. Meaningless fucks are easy to come by and very plentiful.” Oh, she was sure they were when he looked like a sex god on earth. Imagining other women fawning on him did not helping her rising temper. “And one cock is as good as another and I’m sure the 122

Kiale Dream same goes for pussy.” So not true. “I’m not going to blow this into something it is not. As much as I enjoy sex with you, this will wear off and I’m not going to make it harder than it supposed to be.” “Why will it wear off, Zoey? When I said forever I meant it. You are my mate, Zoey. Do you understand what that means? This will never stop. I will love you now, tomorrow and every day after that because you’re the only one for me. Stubborn and pig-headed woman that you are, I would not change that for the world. Why won’t you accept that?” Weariness seeped into his tone. “Because I don’t want it,” she exploded, her heart beating against her ribs. “My life was just fine the way it was and you come along and want to change it. I don’t want to be your mate. I am not going to get stuck in this because your fucked up genes say so. The only thing that is of any use to me in this relationship is the cock hanging between those legs. Nothing more.” A shutter came over his face and twin shards of gray held her immobile. She wanted to take the words back but it was too late. Hurt exploded along their connection and was reflected in his energy but he reigned it in so quickly, it may as well have never been. But it had been and it was and she was the one hurting her best friend. The only one who gave a damn. His spiritual energy was very still, controlled and wary, compared to hers which was fluttering wildly, protesting her words. “You think hurting me will make it go away? Is that what you think love is? Do you place so little worth on my feelings? On your own? Well, it doesn’t work that way, Zoey. I have loved you for years, years, and no matter how much you lie to yourself, the fact remains. So do us both a favor and be woman enough to admit the truth.” The quiet anger that vibrated on his words suddenly blazed in his eyes. Fire on ice. There was no other way to describe the effect. “So now I’m not woman enough for you? That’s not what you said last night, now was it? But if that’s the case, you know where the damned door is. Don’t let it hit you in the ass.” She was grasping at straws and she knew it. Her breath was huffing out of her chest, the combination of panic and anger making it hard to breathe. What was she doing? Shit, would he call her bluff? Would he 123

walk out? So what if he did, she mocked herself. Didn’t she see that coming? She would survive. It was not anything she had not done before. His harsh laugh was mocking, disbelieving. “Is that all you heard, Zoey? I am pouring my heart out to you and that’s all you have to say?” His spiritual energy was suddenly swirling around him laced with deep reds, his control slipping. He seemed larger than life, standing so still even as controlled violence pulsing in the air around him. It whispered to her and her soul ached with guilt and grief. “Don’t push me, Zoey. I promise you, you won’t like the consequences.” The menacing growl echoed in the room. “So, Zoey, you’re going to be a good girl and pack some shit up and find your ass at the house.” “Like hell!” His highhanded dictatorship made it apparent that Ralden was just as much a hunter, an alpha, as the gentle, laughing lover she knew. Too bad she had never been good at follow-theleader. “I can have you out of here in an instant, Zoey. Do you really think you can challenge me?” He snarled the words. “Are you going to force me, Ralden? Because I’m telling you now, try it and I’m going to make your life a living hell. Every. Single. Second of it.” She did not know how she would accomplish that yet, but she would find away. She was nothing if not resourceful. “Are you threatening me?” His eyes continuously changed shades and now swirled with a deep gray. Her fury matched his. She made sure it did because any other emotion was unacceptable at the moment. Any other emotion would open the flood gates. “No, angel boy. I’m promising you.” He stalked up to her, silent, predatorial, sexy. Even with anger ignited in her blood, she could not help the need to jump his bones. She realized that despite her anger or maybe because of it, arousal thrummed through her, hot and heavy. Her pussy was dripping with excitement. Her nipples were already beaded and his scent heated her blood. 124

Kiale Dream “Is that right?” She could feel the fury bouncing off the walls in his head, could see it radiating off his body, watched it spark in his spiritual energy. He stood in front of her and the fact that she had to look up at him sent a fresh surge of anger through her. “That’s right.” **** Ralden looked down at the beautiful, willful woman in front of him. Her eyes threw sparks at him even as they beckoned him. Her unconscious sensuality was only enhanced when she was in fighter mode. Frustration ate him, hurt mocked him and determination spurred him on. She was not the only stubborn one in this relationship and she would discover just how persistent he could be. What he wanted, he did any and everything in his power to get. And he wanted Zoey. And by God he would have her. One way or the other, she would be his. In every possible sense of the word. “You’re playing with fire, little girl.” “I can stand the heat if you can, old man.” Her rapid pulse drew his gaze. His canines lengthened slightly. The urge to taste her blood was strong. Being so close to the red aphrodisiac and not being able to get just a little taste… Love for her dug its claws into his heart and the organ was bleeding from her denial of his feelings, of her own. The last two months had been great but living a lie was not his style, curbing the urge to shout to the world his love was wearing on his nerves. He wanted to brand his name onto her heart, onto her body, onto her soul until there was no doubt who she belonged to. He wanted her to fight for what clearly existed between them. He needed her to want him as much as he wanted her. Her instant refusal to move into his house showed how far he still was from winning her over, how much work there was still to be done in showing her that her insecurities were unfounded, that his love was true and lasting. Everything he wanted dangled just out of reach. He wanted to give her the time she needed, wanted to be the understanding, fortitudinous lover she deserved but he was still a male with male 125

urges and her keeping him at arm’s length was bringing out his need to dominate, to see her submit not only to him but to them. To show her that her submission was not a weakness but would make her stronger. But one could only walk the horse to the water… His hands shot out before he could think and grabbed her, pulling her close. She gasped and before she could voice the tirade he heard coming a mile away, he covered her mouth with his. She stiffened and her nails dug into the bare skin of his shoulder. The pain made him jerk and shot straight to his groin. Before he could react, her teeth grabbed his bottom lip. The look in her eyes challenged him and promised retribution and she increased the pressure on his bruised flesh. His tongue darted out to catch the drop of red liquid that appeared. Her eyes darkened and the smell of her cream mixed with his blood wafted up to his nose, rich and decadent. His nostrils flared, craving her scent. Her lids lowered an instant before she sucked his abused lips into her mouth removing all traces of blood, moaning in that sweet way of hers. Her tongue delved into the dark recesses of his mouth and warred with his. The temperature in the room soared several degrees and he allowed her to dominate the kiss, content to be passive for the moment. That moment did not last long. One arm wrapped around her waist and the other supporting her bottom, he lifted her. She eagerly wrapped those long legs around his hips. He angled her head the way he needed and plundered. She moaned and tightened her grip on him, grinding into him as much as her position would allow. He pulled away harshly. Her breathing was just as heavy as his as her hooded eyes watched him with a glint that almost brought him to his knees. Her lips were swollen and red, his fingers leaving her hair in a tangled riot of curls. “You like to live dangerously, don’t you?” In response, her nails scorched a path down his chest and her hand settled over his cock, massaging him through his jeans. Holding his gaze prisoner, she replied, “Safe is boring, Ralden. Live a little.” 126

Kiale Dream Using one hand, he captured her roaming fingers. “This isn’t over, Zoey. Not by a long shot.” Gently coaxing and cajoling would not get through to her. He saw that now. It was time to reevaluate the situation and plan his next method of attack in the fight for Zoey’s unconditional love. His mind made up, he would let it go for now. He was leaving soon and this was hardly the time to confront her. She would not know what hit her when he returned though. He wariness crossed her features before she said, “Leave it alone, Ralden. Just for now. Please.” Her voice was soft as she lowered her gaze, hiding again. Sadness for him, for her, weighed him down. What would it take to make her stop this senseless denial? No answers came rushing through his brain so he settled for kissing the daylights out of her. Moving forward he settled her butt on the counter. Tearing at the edge of her shirt, he pulled it over her head and threw carelessly to the floor. Her bra followed…and those beautiful breasts bounced free, dancing to a beat that mesmerized him until he felt drool collecting beneath his tongue. His hands reached for her supple globes without any command from his brain. Her breasts were not the biggest that he had ever seen but they were the most beautiful, nicely rounded with large brown-pink nipples standing at attention. He bunched them up, admiring the way she arched into his hands. Leaning down, he licked one nipple, then the other, loving the candied taste of them. She moaned, clutching his shoulder. Feelings of urgency and the need to savor her dueled of dominancy, the need to show what she meant to him verses the need to claim what was his in the most primitive manner. Just fuck me, Ralden. I don’t want to wait. Curling his tongue around one nipple, he sucked and his hand rolled the other nipple between his fingers. She trembled against him, kissing his shoulder, her teeth and tongue leaving moist trail behind. Her fingers fisted in his hair and pulled slightly. Make love, Zoey. I’m going to love you. One day soon, you’ll know the difference. A dull pain rolled through her as her hands roamed his back and 127

her lips caressed his shoulder and neck with kisses and the occasional small bite. Please, Ralden. He lifted his head and their eyes connected. Her plea was reflected there too, not just her need for his body but for his understanding, his patience and, even if she did not know it, his love. To think that such a beautiful creature would think herself undeserving of love. He cursed her aunt and uncle for not taking the time to love her the way she deserved to be love, for not taking the time to understand her or her abilities, for making her feel less than human, less deserving of their love and devotion. For not protecting her from the bullies that tried to crush her spirit. He had her jeans off in a second. They flew through the air to land on the table. Her panties followed. He firmly but gently pushed her down until she was sprawled on the counter. He pulled her thighs apart, pushing them high. Her knees grazed her breasts. Her cream already coated her thighs, thick and dewy, covering the folds of her ripe sex. She looked otherworldly, with her glossy hair framing her face and delicate features, like a fallen angel. Her scent teased him, urging him to lose the little control he had left, to stamp every one of her cells with his seal. He grabbed one hand then the next, hooking her elbows beneath her knees. “Stay put.” He saw her eyes flash at his commanding tone. They flashed a different fire as he dipped one finger into her pussy. The folds swallowed the digit the way he envisioned it swallowing his cock. Her muscles clenched around his finger and they both moaned. He removed his finger slowly, massaging her walls. Her back arched on the counter. He brought his finger to his mouth, sucking it clean. “Delicious.” **** Zoey stared up at the commanding presence, hating herself for loving his control over her. Hating herself for needing the authority he exert over her body, for wanting the pull he had on that elusive something in her, for hurting this Kiale who had given her so much. Sometimes she imagined them together, years from now, still happy, still wanting each other more and more. 128

Kiale Dream Maybe there was something to this forever stuff. Maybe he did love her. Maybe he truly was her soul mate. Maybe…. But maybe was not good enough. She remembered thinking maybe her parents would come back after their deaths, thinking maybe her aunt and uncle would watch her with affection in their eyes instead of cold displeasure, thinking maybe the kids at school would not be mean that day. Maybe never got her anything but a heart full of hurt. Maybe meant being left in the dust as someone who claimed to care walked away. Maybe was too risky. Forcing the rest back, she allowed herself to drown in desire. Something that was real. “Are you going to just stand there all day?” He smirked down at her. “I could stare at you, spread out like this, all day.” She pointedly looked down at his cock, which was pressed insistently against his jeans. “I don’t think he would approve of that plan. Why would you just stare when we could do so many more…interesting things?” Letting go of one of her knees, she touched herself, running her fingers between her folds before dipping two fingers into her canal. The heat in his eyes scorched her as his breath came a little faster and his muscles tensed. His spiritual energy looked more like its natural consistency, unlike a few minutes ago. “But if you prefer to look, I could give you a good show.” He grabbed himself through the material, caressing his length as he watched her. “Show me,” was his command. Slowly she removed her fingers. They glistened with her sweetscented dew. She brought her them to her lips and repeated his action. “Hmmm. You’re right. Delicious.” Color rose on his cheeks and his eyes blazed. Her little exhibition was turning her on as much as him. She could feel her cream running down onto the countertop. Returning her fingers to her pussy, she let go of her other knee, placing her heels flat on the hard surface as wide as she could, unashamed and lustful. Using one hand she opened herself for him. Her scent drifted up to her nose, exciting her. She felt so decadent, wanton. It was a high she could get addicted to, was afraid she was already addicted to. Spreading her cream over her clit, she circled the aching bud, 129

getting tighter and tighter with every rotation. Looking up at him, she continued to play with herself, her back arched over the counter, licking her lips and moaning like a skilled temptress. She was sure her muscles would protest having to endure digging into the tile surface but it was worth it seeing the look on Ralden’s face. Hips rotated, lifting off the granite with the movements of her fingers. She allowed her palm to smack her clit with every downward thrust. The sound of her fingering mingled with their heavy breathing, her mewling cries and his vibrating growls. She could feel her climax gather low in her belly. Apparently, so could Ralden. “Fuck! Damn you!” His pants and underwear were off before she could blink, heavy erection falling free. Big hands gripped her hips and pulled her forward. His hips fit into the cradle of hers and his cock hit her entrance. Grabbing her hands, he restrained them above her head. “Tired of looking?” she said, her eyebrows arching delicately, letting every drop of the self-satisfaction she felt show in these words. In answer, he slammed into her. The movement was so sudden, she gasped as pleasure and pain slammed into her with equal force. Her pleasure intensified as their energies joined and a shuddering sigh left her. He gasped against her shoulder, teeth sliding over her skin. “Are you trying to kill me, Zoey?” He withdrew and slammed into her again. Barely able to keep up with their conversation, she said, “I was…oh… merely entertaining you.” As he repeated his sharp hip movement, the sound of his skin hitting hers echoed in the small kitchen. Only his body over hers prevented her from flying off the counter. Sweat dotted his brow and fell into the valley of her breasts, mingling with the fine sheen that glistened off her body. He slammed into her a third time and she flew off as her orgasm gripped her with the force of a category five hurricane. She screamed, her head flung back against her restrained hands as her hips jerked uncontrollably. Above her, Ralden’s face contorted as her muscles squeezed and massaged his pistoning cock, each drive 130

Kiale Dream home sending her higher. “Fuck,” he cried as he pulled out of her. Cock in hand he pulled on his length once, twice, three times before his cum shot out. The jets fell on her sweat slick belly, warm and gooey, its warmth lancing through her rippling skin. His low groan shook as his hips moved with each pull of his fist. The primal satisfaction she felt seeing him mark her with his cum was a direct contrast to the disappointment that rolled through her belly as his seed did not wash her walls. He collapsed over her, his semi-erect cock between them, his semen coating her flesh. Their energies retreated and she missed the warmth of the joining instantly. He groaned like his body was beaten, moving off her. Grabbing tissue he cleaned the mess before he collected her clothing off the floor and handed it to her. He pulled his jeans back on. She moved off the counter, pulling her jeans on also. Her bra hanging off her shoulder, she walked up to him, hugging his frame, needing the closeness they shared for just a little longer. And then he ruined the moment. “I love you, Zoey. And I’m going to keep on saying it until you believe me. And then I’ll say it some more.”

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Chapter Seventeen Zoey missed Ralden. He had only been gone for a few hours, yet it felt like years since she last saw him. She sighed, wishing the rock in her chest would go away. Pacing her apartment, she had never been so listless before. Over the years, she had created an extensive list of things to do to prevent such feelings. Playing video games. Reading tech news. Watching anime. Reading manga. If push came to shove, she would even do chores. The list practically went on forever. None of them appealed to her at the moment. Well, more like she could not concentrate long enough to do any of them. Their argument still echoed through her head, refusing to give her refuge. His eyes had been so earnest, honesty shining through them, imploring her to believe. Love was an illusion humans created to have a home base, somewhere to belong. When that base was no longer useful, no longer comfortable, they left, moving onto greener pastures or stayed and suffered in the prison they had created for themselves. People changed their minds all the time. She had no desire to be left in the dust. She had read until death do us part love stories. Had seen a few on television. She had never seen one in real life though. Never. All the long standing couples she knew were in marriages of convenience, for money, appearances, whatever the reason, but the individuals were never happy. Not with each other. To compensate for their unhappiness, they drank, cheated, partied like animals, anything to get away from the source of their unhappiness or they simply wither away like dried rose petals in the wind, accepting a dismal fate. She never wanted to see mere tolerance for her in Ralden’s eyes, or contempt twist his lips. “He loves you like crazy. You know that, right?” Micaiel had said that to her, looking her straight in the eye with that quiet, unwavering manner of his then cleverly felt her to her own worst 132

Kiale Dream enemy, her own thoughts. Guilt ran over her. It was so acute she nearly doubled over. A craving stronger than she had ever known had followed. She sighed again, resuming her pacing. A knock sounded at the door and she glanced at the clock that hung on the wall. Ten twenty-eight p.m. Ralden! The thought zinged in a happy pattern through her. She would not put it past him to do something as simple as knock on a door. The normalcy in the Kiale brothers’ actions always confused her given the power they possessed. He must have forgotten something. Anticipation ringing in her steps, she flung the door open without thinking. “Did you forget—,” her words stuck in her throat as she stared down the barrel of the gun that almost kissed her nose. Using the peephole suddenly seemed like a very good idea. Her gaze travelled the length of the gun up the owner’s arm to his face. It was Larry, from the grocery store. His greasy brown hair was stuck to his scalp, wet from the light drizzle. Crazy, surprisingly beautiful eyes the color of fresh sea moss wildly stared at her over the unsteady weapon. “You… you demon!” he screamed. He was shuddering with the violence he longed to unleash. “You bitches need to learn!” His spiritual energy was flickering madly like a twitching crack addict and was littered with blobs of black that tried to overpower the confusing array of colors like tar destroying the beauty of an ocean. As his spit nearly knocked her eye out all she could think was huh? The blast was deafening as she watched the bullet come toward her. Time slowed to a crawl as her heart hammered in her chest like an out of control train. The flash of light nearly blinded her. A small amount of smoke was produced and the smell of sulfur hit her nose. The impact felt like dynamite went off in her chest. She felt herself fly through the air before the decidedly less agonizing impact of her head hitting the floor. Distantly she heard the madman utter something that sounded ridiculously like, “I exorcise 133

you in the name of… of… whoever he fucking is.” Dimly she remembered he said some about needed an exorcist when he was arrested too. She would have laughed but every breath was agony as an intense fire seized her lungs. She had been called a lot of things in her life but never a demon. That was definitely a first. She’d sometimes wondered what it felt like. Being shot, that is. Not the wonderings of a sane person but she had never been accused of being entirely sane. She thought she would have been scared out of her mind. Instead a weird calm resided. Her thoughts were not scattered, nor was she delirious. She expected the pain. But the source of her pain was surprising. The pain from the wound was indescribable but that was not what made it hard to draw each breath, it was not what made her tremble or caused fear to grow with every second. It hurt because she had never felt so alive, never before felt the course of blood through her veins, never felt each pump of her heart. She had never felt her brain scrambled to restore order, never felt her lungs demand each molecule of oxygen with such urgency. Her body trembled because vitality was rushing through her. It burned to draw each breath because each one was so precious. The icy fingers of fear taunted her with a prize hanging in the balance. Life. That crazy roller-coaster of ups and downs where hopes and dreams grew roots that sprouted into branches that made her laugh, cry and all the little things in between. She was not ready to give up the beautiful savagery of her existence. She wanted to wither in pain, to curl up into a tiny ball and sob at the injustice of it all but shock held fast. That and it hurt to move even a nanometer. Through vision hazed out by black dots, she watched dirty sneakers move quickly out of view. Her spiritual energy was losing its luster, moving very slowly, sticking very close to her body. Liquid warmth spread on her chest as numbness began to take over. Hopelessness pushed at her because she knew to feel nothing meant death. All she could think of was Ralden, her best friend, her lover, the Kiale who swore on his life that he loved her. Her already aching heart clenched. She’d thought she had more time, dammit. More time to bask in his warmth. More time to luxuriate in the caring and 134

Kiale Dream acceptance he offered. More time to see his smile. More time to feel his heart beat in sync with hers as they made love. More time to say… she cared! She conjured up his face. If she was going to die, she wanted his beautiful features to be the last thing she saw. His beautiful black hair toned with blue. The way his eyes changed color with his emotions; glowing ash gray when he was aroused, battleship gray when he was angry, charcoal when he teased her, blue-gray when he was deep in thought. His nose, straight and beautifully formed as if crafted by a master clay molder. The way his skin appeared kissed by the sun itself. The firm yet soft texture of his pink lips. Those sexy fangs that always escaped his control when she teased him. He was perfection personified. Such a rare mixture of playful romantic, considerate yet passionate lover and blatant maleness. He looked so worried and she wanted so badly just to smooth the frown lines from his forehead and clear the panicked looked from his eyes. To make him happy. Maybe in another life they would meet again and she would be different, a normal human woman deserving of his affection and loyalty. Maybe then love would be more than a fantasy and they could live happily ever after. **** Ralden was on his way to the airport when he felt the tug of pain in his chest. Trying to contact Zoey, he met a wall of pain. He pushed and prodded but the wall of pain was absolute. Quickly parking on the side of the road, he willed himself to her apartment uncaring if anyone saw. The sight before him came right out of his worst nightmare, crippling his mind for a brief second, crushing his heart with a spiked two-by-four. Hey bro. What the hell was that? Is Zoey okay? Micaiel’s voice echoed in his head, faint, as if over a great distance. He could feel Lee-vai’s presence also. “No!” The rage he felt exploded in a roar that sounded far from humanlike. The surge of power shook the apartment and the walls 135

expanded and contracted, fighting to contain the unexpected shock. So strong was the urge to destroy something, his spiritual energy became visible to the naked eye, radiating off him and swirling in an angry mixture of red and black. He trembled with the need for violence and grief. He was at her side in an instant. Dropping to his knees, his hands hovered over her, needing to touch her, afraid to touch her. Blood soaked her front and ran from the corner of her mouth in a messy stream. He pressed his hand to the wound and she jerked, moaning. He could hear the erratic beat of her failing her and the whistling quality of her breathing. She was dying. He felt a surge that alerted him to the presence of others and hissing, crouched protectively over Zoey, he turned, ready for battle, ready for blood, expecting the person crazy enough to harm his mate. Micaiel raised his hands in a no harm gesture and he barely recognized his brothers through the red haze that was consuming his brain. “Oh shit! What the fuck happened?” He turned back to Zoey. He lifted her upper body as gently as he could to rest against him, swiping her hair off her forehead. His formal shirt and slacks were instantly soaked with blood. Her brown eyes were opaque with pain and she jerked were every breath she took, clearly struggling for each. “Zoey, baby, no!” This could not be happening, he raged internally. He waited so long her only to have her taken away from him after a few measly weeks. No. No! He could not, would not accept that. He felt towels being pressed into his hand and he applied pressure to the wound. His hands contracted against her, rebelling against the knowledge that she was being taken away from him. The whimpers of pain that racked her frame made him grimace in guilt. He forced his hands to relax. This was his fault. He should never have left her alone. He should have carried her kicking and screaming if he had to and locked her stubborn ass in his bedroom. 136

Kiale Dream He should have… “I’m sorry, babe. So sorry.” She might hate him for what he was about to do but he could not let her die. Her bloody hand came up to his face, trembling so badly, he had to aid the journey. She tried to speak only to spit up more blood. He almost cried at the sight. “Don’t—don’t speak, love. Let me take care of you.” He closed his eyes, ‘feeling’ for the bullet. It was curved around her heart. Another millimeter to the right and her core would have been punctured. Carefully, he willed the bullet out. A strangled scream came from her and her heart jumped. Her eyes closed but he could tell that consciousness refused to leave her. The metal hit his palm and he threw the offensive object away from him. More sticky liquid hit his hand. He bent over her neck and sank in his fangs in her skin, drawing from her. The warm liquid had his taste buds clambering. Hot, spicy and sweet, her blood was addictive, just as he knew it would be. He groaned at the sweet taste of her and his cock beat to life despite the severity of the situation, and he wished could have had his first real taste of her under different circumstances, in a bed lined with soft, fragrant petals after she was weak with pleasure and love shining in her eyes. Her heart slowed to an almost nonexistence beat and he pulled back and licked the wound close. Removing his hand from the wound, he sliced into his wrist using his still elongated teeth and placed it over her mouth. “Come on, baby. Drink!” Nothing happened. His blood mixed with that in her mouth but he could tell that she was not swallowing. “Fuck, Zoey, please,” he begged hoarsely and he watched a clear drop fall onto her face and realized that he was crying. Her mind was mucky mess and he could feel her retreating from the pain, shutting him out. She was giving up. He was prepared to sell his soul to keep that from happening. Zoey, love, come on, fight for me. For us, baby. Please! She did not respond. Dammit, Zoey. I know you can hear me. Her chocolate colored eyes opened and they mesmerized him. “I 137

love you, baby. Please, don’t leave me.” He rubbed his wrist over her mouth and felt a tentative, weak swipe of her tongue. “Yes, that’s it, baby. Drink!” She struggle to swallow and he aided the action as much as he could. How much did she need? He had no clue. But she could have it all if that was what it took. He had no idea how much time passed but it felt like an eternity. Her efforts stopped. Automatically he brought his wrist to his mouth, licking the cut close, watching her closely. He could felt his brothers hovering in the background, knew they were communicating but could not bring himself to care. All that mattered at the moment was his mate. He lifted the towel and while the blood flow slowed significantly, the wound was not closing. Did he do something wrong? He looked back at his brothers as they stood helplessly by and begged, “What do I do? What the fuck do I do?” There was no answer, only panicked, powerless expressions. He glanced back down at the woman dying in his arms. Her heart stopped. His did the same before slamming against his rib cage, panic consuming him. He shook her. “Zoey?” he whispered, fear a living entity, festering and growing into a grotesque monstrosity. Nothing. Her wan face was completely still as her eyes glossed over, her vacant stare killing him inside. He met complete darkness in her mind. He shook her again as hot tears rolled down his cheek. “Zoey, don’t do this. Please, you can’t do this to me! Dammit, Zoey, wake up. No, God, no!” he roared. Weak with grief, he let his head rest against her chest and clutched her to him, sobbing like he never had before, begging, pleading over and over again, “Please, Zoey.”

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Chapter Eighteen Zoey swam in a sea of cool darkness. Letting her arms lightly tread, the cool liquid caressed her naked body. Facing upwards, her eyes were closed, her hair pooled around her head like a halo. If she listened really hard she could hear waves crashing. There was no pain here. No expectations. No confusion. Just blissful quietness. A sob interrupted her sanctuary. Her eyes snapped open. The sound was rough and jagged, like it was being forced from an animal that was being mangled. Hopeless agony resonated off of it, filled with so much pain that instinctively she wanted to comfort its owner. The water fell away and she was left standing in a tiny puddle. She drew closer to the sound. Ralden? No, it could not be. But it was. He was begging. Her proud, strong Kiale. She wanted so much to go to him, to take the pain away. But it was so… comfortable here. There was no pressure, no one to look at her with pity or scorn or fright in their eyes. There was nothing… just nothing. You are one selfish bitch. The words made her flinch. Like a huge church organ, they refused to die down completely, but lingered around her. It took her a little time to realize it was her voice that echoed. You would leave him like this? You don’t deserve him. You never did. While that may be true, she did not have to take this abuse. Especially from herself. Not when she finally found some peace. She would just ignore it and it would go away. Determined to do just that, she began to hum, a tuneless sound. You’re a coward too. Always hiding, aren’t you, Zoey? Her humming stopped. “Get out of my head,” she rage at the unseen voice and suddenly her sanctuary turned into a hell hole. First Phaedra’s face appeared, so perfectly cold. Then 139

Frederick’s, unapologetically uninterested. The numerous therapists, condescending and disapproving. All the mean kids at school, looking for a weakness to prey on like circling vultures. Like a surrounding movie screen, they all appeared, all taunting, saying hurtful things, things she had sworn to herself would never matter enough to hurt. But they do, don’t they? She placed her hands over her ears and closed her eyes. She hunkered down and wrapped her hands around her knees, hoping to make herself smaller, trying to drown the voices out but they only got louder. “Freak…” “You don’t belong here…” “…fix her…” “… should never have taken her in.” “…abomination…” “…an absolute disgrace.” “…should not live…” “…hate her.” “…don’t want her…” “What’s wrong with her?” “No one can love a disgusting creature like you.” “Shut up. Shut the fuck up.” The last statement clawed away her defenses, leaving her heart bleeding and raw. Her cry reverberated, barely hidden hysteria rising. She was shaking, teething chattering, the temperature plummeting until every exhale was visible. And just like that it was all gone only to be replaced but something far more horrible. It was her mom. Smiling. She was beautiful. She looked like Phaedra yet softer, more feminine, not hardened by the cynicism of society. Curls like Zoey’s bounced around her head and her brown eyes shone, large in her oval, darkly tanned face. She was clad in a floral summer dress that flowed to the ground, her feet bare. Her spiritual energy was beautiful as well, with soft hues of many red-based colors that ran in a slow, happy pattern. A light shone over her as if she were an 140

Kiale Dream angel descending from heaven. “Mom?” Zoey let go her knees to crawl forward. She stood and ran towards the image, needing to touch the woman who’d created her. She stopped not one foot away. Her hand trembled as she reached out to touch a healthy, glowing cheek. Her hand passed through the warm hologram and another cut tore across her heart. A bitter laugh escaped her. What else was she expecting? “You’re so beautiful. I knew you would be.” The voice was like rays from the sun, warm and inviting. Melinda’s eyes shone with a mixture of tears and happiness. “You left. You and Daddy, you left me.” The sentence came out of nowhere, leaving her mouth before she could think. She slapped her hand over her mouth, trying to keep the bitter anger, the confused disappointment, the lonely despair and the aching loss from spewing out. “I needed you.” The incriminating sentence still escaped the barrier she created. “We never left you, sweetheart. All you have to do is look in your heart to find us.” Oh, what bull! A soft laugh came from her mother. Mortification filled her. She had not said that out loud, had she? She wanted to apologize, to glower, to pout, to be told it was okay. She was like a little girl again and all the insecurities she’d thought she had taken care of were back, stronger than ever. Her mother glanced back, a graceful twist of her neck. In the distance, her father stood, a tall, lanky silhouette. His energy was slightly darker than her mother’s but ran in the same happy pattern. Its dominant color resembled Zoey’s, blue and bold. His hand stretched out and her mother smiled, her eyes shining. Her mother looked back at her one last time, mouthing “I love you.” She turned away and walked toward her husband. They embraced and their energies merged, just like hers and Ralden’s did, becoming one and burning clearer and bigger. Their images faded and she cried out, “No! Not again. Don’t leave me!” But before the sound of her sorrow dispersed, another face appeared. It was Ralden. His body was fuzzy as if he hid in the 141

shadows but his face was perfectly illuminated. His hair hang over his face and his lips held that teasing smile that she was fond of. He looked down, right into her soul and said “I love you.” The look she saw on her father’s face as he embraced her mother was reflected on his, though it looked so much brighter, more intense. That look was for her. Before happiness could bloom at his words, pain contorted his face. His laughing eyes held bitter loathing instead and he turned away. His steps echoed like the shutting of a door. One that held everything she wanted, everything she needed. Each one caused her heart to thunder louder and louder in her chest. “Ralden? No! Where are you going? Come back!” She reached for him but he was already too far out of her grasp. Her fingers clutched at nothing as darkness engulfed him and he was gone, only his woodsy smell remaining to taunt her. Why was he walking away? He said he loved her. He said this was forever. It was supposed to be her happily ever after, her prince coming to rescue her. “You bastard! I knew it. I knew you’d do this to me!” She’d known it would never last. She had always known he would leave just like everyone else. There was no happily ever after, there were no prince on a white stead. Nothing lasted forever, especially some intangible emotion. Dammit! How could she allow herself to forget? You’re the one pushing him away, Zoey. Zoey’s voice echoed. You’re the one who is forcing this outcome. No, she wasn’t. She’d given him more of herself than she had given anyone. Ever. But you’re holding back. It’s clear that he knows it. “He knows I… I… I care for him.” Her voice broke, trying to get the words out. Care for him? The man loves you. Why should he settle for caring? Because that’s all she had to give. It should be enough. Why wasn’t she ever enough? “Love is an illusion. It’s not real.” Maybe if she said it enough, she could continue believing it. 142

Kiale Dream A laugh taunted her. Do you really believe that, Zoey? “Yes.” The confirmation sounded so weak, so feeble. Had she ever really believed that? Yes. She saw the words used so carelessly all the time. She saw people kill, steal, lie and worse using love as an excuse when their own greed and pettiness were the true motivators. She saw mothers hurt their own flesh and blood then cry love. Women have been hurt only to forgive abusive men in the name of love. Love made the world go around but it was all just one vicious circle that preyed on the weak. But her mother and father had been in love. Had they been? Truly? Yes! They had been. Even with a child’s memory, she could remember them laughing and arguing together. There had been all the little touches, as if they just could not get enough of each other. Just as Ralden touched her. There had been sly and secret looks that a child had not understood. Just like she shared with Ralden. There had been silences that had been natural and conversations that had not been forced. There had been flowers and romance and special dinners. All the things that she shared with Ralden, all the things he showed her. Did it really exist? Could she believe? Give in? An entirely new image popped up. It was Ralden, crying, over her body. His back shook with every brutal sob. He looked so different, broken, near destruction. The sorrow, the anguish, the utter misery, she saw on his face as he lay over her had tears spilling from her eyes. His spiritual energy was lax, lacking its normal vibrancy. The creature of control she knew him to be was gone. It was shocking. His hair was wild, his skin pale, his clothes covered with her blood. His body was taut with tension, like any rapid movement meant he would fall apart. “I love you, Zoey, please. Please,” A sob was wrenched from her as more tears spilled over onto her cheeks. Her hand covered her mouth but the sound still echoed around her blending with his pain and suffering. Can you watch that and say it’s all in his head? She watched as his brothers tried to comfort him. He pulled away from them, growling and hissing like an angered wildcat, his fangs deadly, his eyes spelling death. His pupils were expanded over his 143

irises and his eyes were now black, his appearance demon-like. His features were tightened in a mask of rage, veins appearing from beneath his skin. They backed away and buried his face in her bloody chest, his shoulders heaving. She wanted to close her eyes. It was too much. But her eyes refused to obey her command. He deserves better. Someone who would not hurt him this way. Someone who would not leave him in all this pain. He did. He did deserve someone better. Someone who loved him with the intensity that he loved, freely and without demands. Someone who was not afraid to show him just how much she appreciated him. Someone who understood what the word meant. Someone who was normal and whole. That person was not her. She did not know how to love, how to give. She was not good enough. Why didn’t he see that? You really are a piece of work. Oh, poor Zoey! First it’s, no one loves me. Now it’s, I don’t know how to love. You will use any excuse, won’t you? If you hide your heart in a little shell, no one can hurt you. Is that it? You are so pathetic. Grow up already! The Zoey-like voice added. This self-deprecation was really starting to piss her off. “What the hell do you know?” The sudden silence was deafening. Only the image of a griefstricken Ralden remained. Everything, Zoey. I am you. I know what you feel. Watch! He loves you. And you would leave him this way. Then you’re right. You’re not good enough for him. He does deserve better. Much better. And in time he will forget you. And find that someone better. Pain gripped her chest as she imagined it. Some other woman kissing him, touching him, loving him. Some other woman, waking up at his side every morning, making him breakfast in bed, sharing his days, weeks, months, years. Some other woman making him smile, tempting a laugh out of him, having his gray-eyed babies. Everything in her rebelled at the thought. No, dammit. He was hers. No one else’s. Hers! Those were her little gray-eyed babies. Everything went black again and the cool darkness and flowing 144

Kiale Dream water once again enclosed her, imprisoned her. He would not forget. Her heart knew he would not. Her soul did too. He would not because he loved her. Like no one else has. He loved her. She remembered the way he looked at her, touched her, made her laugh, made her cry in passion. The way his eyes always promised her more. “I love him. I love Ralden.” The words rang over the endless darkness and they sounded right. So she shouted it again. “I love Ralden.” **** Sweat poured from Zoey’s skin as her eyelids twitched. She jerked upright clutching her chest and moaned harshly. Tears rushed from her eyes. “Oh God,” she moaned again as breath became increasingly difficult to draw into her lungs. Her heart beat with a heavy tattoo, the harsh rhythm adding to her pain. She slumped to the floor, withering before arching sharply. Another wave of pain hit and her moans of pain became cries that transformed into screams. She felt as though her heart was being pulled apart thread by thread. Distantly she felt hands, warm and gentle. A small blue-purple ball appeared a few inches above her, the heat from it scorching, growing in size until it resembled a pulsing gem. It settled a few feet above Zoey and glowed brighter as it vibrated like a beating heart. It spun in an ever-growing circle, creating a whirlpool that threw papers and books to the floor. She heard the bang of something hitting the wall. Zoey’s eyes rolled back in her head as her body arched higher. She no longer had the breath to scream but her mouth hung open as if to complete the action. She was lifted her off the floor and felt another presence ascended with her. Soon they were sucked into the violet light as the gem moved so fast it was no longer visible, only the bluish-purple tracks left in its wake. Her screams came back with full force as her back contorted and bunched. Beneath her skin, something moved, alive and crawling. 145

More pain ripped through her back and there was a rustling sound. Lost in pain, Zoey no longer reacted. Her hands were limp at her side as the unnatural wind tore at her clothes and hair. There was a burst of energy as the violet glow intensified and the wind stopped. She heard the crash as everything fell to the floor. The ball hovered over Zoey for split second more before dropping and disappearing into her chest. Her body shook with the surprising impact. An eerie silence prevailed as gravity pushed her back to the floor. The pain gone as unexpectedly as it had arrived and Zoey slumped in relief, her limbs limp and her eyes closed. Only an extreme feeling of hunger remained. Someone uttered “Fuck” in a reverent tone and Zoey wondered what was so amazing. “Zoey?” She knew that voice. She smiled. Or at least tried to. “Ralden.” It was a battle to open her eyes. She looked up at the man who was her world whole. Penetrating gray eyes stared down at her. “Are you okay, baby?” She wanted to answer but something caught her attention. A rhythmic boom enticed her. Her gaze shifted and immediately she focused on the pulse beating at Ralden’s neck. A weird ache assaulted her canines. Without thought, she moved. “What the—“ Ralden’s exclamation, sounding far off, was cut off as he groaned low and deep in his throat. Warm liquid touched her taste buds and they exploded in joy. She groaned. Or it could have been Ralden. She knew nothing but the feeling of warmth and lightness that filled her as she sucked the delicious liquid into her mouth. It was so good! Like melted chocolate. Thick and delicious. She swallowed and her stomach welcomed the delightful treat. She felt Raden’s hands at her back, clenching at her, and his thick erection beneath her. She pulled back and stared mesmerized at the two puncture wounds that decorated Ralden’s neck. A drop of blood escaped and she hurried to catch it with her tongue. Her tongue swiped over her mark and it closed. She looked up at Ralden. His intense stare held hers with the glimmering characteristic that she attributed to him, conveying his 146

Kiale Dream hunger for her. “I love you.” There, she’d finally said it and damn, it felt good! Then everything was black.

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Chapter Nineteen Ralden stared down in awe. White wings spread out around Zoey. From her parted lips, soft breaths puffed out, her new fangs not yet retreated, smaller than his but just as deadly. Her cheeks were regaining their natural healthy glow. He gently ran his stained hand across one, feeling the warmth. The shadow of her voluminous lashes fanned across the other. An almost hysterical laugh burst from his lips. “It worked.” He had to say it out loud. That made it more real. With his happiness and relief, his feral appearance retreated. “It worked,” Lee affirmed somewhere behind him. He looked down at her chest. He had watched the wound close as a barrage of new cells formed and older cells regenerated and healed themselves at an amazing speed. The only evidence left was the dried blood that stuck to her flawless skin. A smudge of his blood remained on her lips. He leaned down to gently lick the evidence of her bite away before placing a soft kiss on her lips. His cock was still pulsing from the experience. He rose from the floor, his eyes only for her, holding her close to his heart. He touched her mind and blissful unconsciousness inhabited its confines. If he could have died from a heart attack, today was certainly the day to test the strength of the pumping organ. The pain of their joining was unexpected and if he could have, he would have shouldered it all. A prick of guilt weaved itself into his conscience that she had to go through the trauma, but it could not outweigh the joy he felt. He could feel her presence in him as never before, could feel the unbreakable connection of their two souls. He could feel the bliss that filled her subconscious, the weariness of her body, the pump of her heart and the speedy processes of her brain, the rebuilding of her muscles and bones as they raced to keep up with the changes to her body. He felt her. 148

Kiale Dream Not glancing at the chaos in the room, careful not to jostle her, he carried her into her bedroom, her wings caressing him with each step. He swept aside the top sheet and laid her down gently on her bed. Her hair was carelessly gathered around her face and her wings hugged her frame, fluttering softly as she snuggled into their warmth. Her tank top was torn and he removed the remnants of it. Quickly he cleaned up the dried blood and tried to contain his growl, reminded of the events that led to this transformation. He moved the covers up to over her naked breasts and caressed her cheek yet again. Larry Coldrin! The man’s image popped as he touched Zoey. His fangs ached and he snarled into the quiet room. He quietly left, and in the living room he allowed his anger to wrap his mind, conveying the man’s image to his brothers. “Find him,” he told them, “But leave him for me.” He felt the malice dripping from his words but didn’t care. “Already on it. You’ll know as soon as I find him,”Micaiel replied, then continued, “And I’ll take care of the meeting and your car.” He completely forgotten both and was grateful someone remembered. “We truly are happy for you, man.” This came from Micaiel as he came forward and shook Ralden’s hand, pulling him into a bro hug, back slapping included. Lee-vai seconded his statement and repeated the action as Micaiel stepped away. He could feel both their amazement over the transformation and their pleasure. This was hope. It was possible to find their mates on this foreign planet. Just when he’d thought his life was shot to hell, it’d taken a sharp turn for the better. He thanked whatever god or fate was responsible. Now all he had to do was convince Zoey that this was for the best and hope she was not angry about her transformation. “I know. Thanks. I’ll see you guys later.” He wanted to be alone with his mate. Micaiel shook his head, laughing as Lee chuckled waggishly, “I hear you. Later, man.” They left the room as quickly as they came in. 149

His gaze swept the destroyed living room. The awry objects in the room rose and began to file themselves as they had been. The books returned to the shelves, papers back in files, the lamps righted themselves on the side tables and the chairs rolled back to their original positions. The pool of blood disappeared. Closing his eyes, he savored this new feeling of wholeness. He breathed in deeply, letting the air go on a gentle sigh. She said that she loved him. He was prepared to jump to the moon and back. Only one thing was holding him back. Was she aware that she voiced her feelings? Would she say them again so freely when awake? Only one way to find out. Opening his eyes, he gave the room one last glance before returning to the bedroom. Zoey lay in the same position breathing softly. He got rid of his torn clothes and cleaned up before he got into the bed and lying beside her, he buried his face in her hair, holding her close. She snuggled into him, sighing softly. **** Zoey opened her eyes and instantly she felt the change in her. She did not seep into consciousness but fell head first into it, feeling energetic and ready to take on the world with one hand tied behind her back. Ralden’s scent entered her system along with something else. Something sweet smelling. She felt the familiar sheets beneath her and knew she was in her bed. She felt every wrinkle that marred the material. The room was dark but she saw every detail clearly. The smell of vanilla teased her nostrils and she knew it was from the scented candles in the living room. A cricket sang outside, more than twenty feet outside the closed window and she wondered how she knew the distance. Why did she hear the cricket at all? The apartment was soundproof. The events of earlier filtered into her brain and she remembered Larry and being shot and the pain that followed. Mentally, she checked every body part, making sure everything was still attached and in working order. Yup, everything seemed to work. She licked her lips as she remembered the sweet metallic taste of…blood? Something soft tickled her fingers. She glanced down. Feathers? 150

Kiale Dream She tugged at the fuzz and hissed softly at the surprising pain. The lamp came on. “You’re awake.” Ralden’s sweet voice washed over her. Before she could control the urge, she turned and was clutching him in a hug, her body settled over his, legs wrapped around his waist. She forgot everything else as tears pricked at her eyes. His warmth sheltered her, his body hard as rock. The beat of his heart steadied her, every breath he took feeling like her own. “How do you feel?” Every decibel of his voice sounded so crisp and clear and if possible, sexier than ever. She pulled back slightly and looked into his eyes. Worry resided there, and tenderness. And love. “Oh God, Ralden. I feel great, light, superhuman, like I can jump over the highest mountain and take on a pride of lions and beat their sissy asses. Oh my god, I —“ Large hands cupped the back of her neck and he kissed her to stop her tirade. She moaned and hugged him closer to her. His taste exploded on her tongue, like a ripe orange, citrusy and bright. His kiss was masterful, dominant but with a gentleness that touched her soul. He pulled back eventually, leaving them both breathless. “I’m so sorry you had to go through that. Are you truly fine? Does anything hurt?” His eyes implored her and probed to make sure indeed everything was fine. His forehead was wrinkled with concern. He smoothed her hair back, his touch pushing her higher up on cloud nine. She could not help the smile that burst free as she snuggled into his hand. “Great. She took stock of her body and remembered the feathers. Her wings danced at her back and shock settled in. Staying still, she shook them, pulling at muscles that definitely had not existed before. A ripple passed through her body, making certain parts of her anatomy to bob and sway in reaction. “Uh, Ralden? Why do I have wings?” Ralden stiffened beneath her. Watching the new appendages, her fingers cautiously probed where they were attached to her back, feeling the wrap of muscle around bone under the cover of her skin. “Because we’re mated, sweetheart.” His voice was soft, wary. 151

“You changed me.” That line sounded like it came right out of a bad vampire movie. “I had to.” “I have wings.” They were fascinating. Shimmery and glistening with the movement of light, they were stark white. When they moved, they made a ruffling sound like the beat of a hummingbird’s wings, tickling her skin. A faint smell of red roses rose from them. “Zoey?” “Ralden, I have wings.” “Baby, I—“ Her joyous cry rang out. “I have wings. Hell yeah!” She barely heard his confused, “Huh?” Instinctively, she knew which muscles controlled what and her wings spread out, flapping. They felt so natural. Like an arm or a leg. She almost could not remember what it felt like not having these new attachments. She hovered above the bed, uncaring that she knocked a few items to the floor. From the corner of her eyes, she saw them float back to their rightful locations. She looked down at Ralden, laughing. He smiled up at her, the embodiment of male confusion. He scratched his forehead with the fleshy tips of his fingers, then ran his hand through his loose hair. The light caught the blue highlights as the strands moved. She floated back down to the bed, her face lit with joy. Her feet touched the bed and she knelt near Ralden, her wings settling around her. “You’re not mad?” His eyes probed as if searching for a hidden trap, his question hesitant. His hand lay on her thigh, rubbing up and down like he was trying to sooth her. She looked at him, a small smile tugging at her lips, kind of liking the picture of uncertain awkwardness he represented. “Why would I be mad?” “Well, this was not exactly what you wanted.” She could understand his skepticism given their past discussions. “I would have done the same thing, Ralden. Besides, a girl’s allowed to change her mind,” she ended impishly. His eyebrow rose as a surprised half—laugh came from his lips. Incredulity rang through the sound. “Is that so?” 152

Kiale Dream “Yup. Now tell me how to retract them.” His answer did not come right away as he watched her with a mixture of hope and disbelief, eyes narrowing. His head cocked to one side, his mind clearly hard at work. Slowly he said, “Just picture it in your head.” She closed her eyes and did as he said. Muscles bunched and reformed and she could feel the muscles move and withdraw. She opened her eyes and indeed they were gone. Another picture formed in her head and they came out of her back again and she extended them. She hissed at the slight pain. “You get used to that,” Ralden said. She allowed the wings to retreat once again. She looked back at Ralden and smiled. She was sure her pleasure was clearly written on her face. She threw herself into his waiting arms, wrapping her arms around his neck and sitting on his lap once again. “I have to admit, you’re taking this better than I thought you would.” His hands caressed her sides, her back and tops of her thighs, stopping at the line of her shorts before repeating the action. “What did you think I’d do?” She kissed the side of his mouth before nuzzling the area where his dimple always popped up when he smiled. “Rip my head off, at the least,” He tried to make it sound like a joke but a very real fear resided there. His lips nuzzled her shoulder, his hair caressing her skin. Hands on either side of his head, she lifted his head and looked into his uncertain gaze. “Well, I’m definitely not going to rip your head off. I did after all get a spanking new set of wings. What girl would not want that? I am completely cool with it, Ralden,” she ended to make sure she eased his mind. Relief was slow to replace the doubt in his eyes, like he could not believe it would be that easy. Damn, was she that difficult? Oh, who was she kidding? She knew she was. Wrapping his hands around her back, he hugged her tight, burying his face in her cleavage. She settled her head atop his, running her hands across his back, wanting to comfort him. Mock growling against her skin, he said, “Dammit, you had me so worried. Don’t you ever do that to me again. Promise me.” 153

She squeezed her eyes shut, his pain reaching her. “I promise.” “He will pay for this.” She knew he was referring to Larry. His voice hardened and she felt the whiplash of murderous anger that rolled through him almost like it was her own. This made her realize that his feeling were so much easier to connect with than before. Distracted earlier she had not paid attention to their spiritual energies. Now she did. The border between them was almost undistinguishable. They moved together in perfect symmetry, complimenting each other in a picture-perfect balance. While her base colors of blues and purple remained the same, her energy now resembled his, more stable, the colors bolder and clearer. Whereas Ralden’s anger was hot and flowing, her anger was cold and merciless, at odds with her normally volatile temper. She felt the violence he had every intention of unleashing. The intensity of his rage against the man who almost took her life did very little to hide the true driving force behind his intentions. Absolute terror. Her lips tipped in a smile that held no warmth as she said, “Oh, I know he will.” She had every intention of making sure he did. Something in her tone must have alerted him or maybe he felt her icy fury. She had no plans of soiling either of their hands with blood. She knew if she let Ralden anywhere near the man, it spelt his death. “Oh?” “Yes, Larry is going to have a very rude awaking soon. Trust me when I say, death will seem merciful compared to the lesson he’s going to learn.” His expression was slow to soften, but her words gradually cut through his rage. Eventually a smile graced his mouth. His anger was far from gone but for the time being was retreating slowly. There was a flash of dimples and the sight distracted her. “Remind me never to get you angry.” “You should know that by now,” she replied cheekily only to be rewarded with a squeeze of the globes of her behind. She placed a kiss on each dimple before covering his lips with her own, kissing him deep and long, tasting him and appreciating how good he felt with her heighten senses. They drew apart slowly, nipping and nibbling before his forehead rested against hers and he 154

Kiale Dream said, agonized, “When I saw… there was so much blood, Zoey. I can’t lose you, Zoey. I can’t.” “I’m not going anywhere. You’re stuck with me,” she consoled. Their eyes met and he said, “I can live with that.” “So can I.” The thickness of his erection pressed against her through the trousers he wore and nothing else mattered but the bubbling awareness between them. Arousal speared through her and the intensity of it made her gasp. Everything was suddenly so much…more. She felt a sting as her canines lengthened. She was ravenous and hungers dueled as she fought the urge to bite him or jumping his bones. It was a little frightening. “Ralden? What’s happening?” Her gaze slowly returned to his. She licked her lips. Was this what he felt? If it was this strong, she did not know how he resisted sinking his teeth into her for so long. She certainly did not have that kind of willpower. “It’s okay, baby. Just relax.” “You look so delicious right now.” She meant that both figuratively and literally. His lips tipped to one side. “So do you. You look even more gorgeous sporting your new teeth.” “What do I do?” Her voice changed slightly, becoming deeper as she tried not to nick her tongue with the sharp incisors. He exposed his neck to her and said, “Bite.” His pulse beat with a steady rhythm and she could hear the blood rush through his veins. She swallowed, trying to curb the urge but a deep breath only made the scent richer, making her cells scream with the urgency. Her fangs ached, throbbing. “But what if I hurt you? What if I can’t stop?” The way she felt just then, it was a real possibility. “That won’t happen. Trust me. Drink, Zoey.” She could not resist and when her fangs pierced his skin they both groaned, loud and long. Viscous and delectable, his blood was a forbidden ambrosia, sweet ecstasy. It slid over her tongue, smooth and decadent and with every gulp, she wanted more of the unique mixture of sweet and salty. Her pussy was on fire, her bud stinging with the rush of blood 155

that pooled there, and she grinded herself against Ralden’s cock. She felt him swell even more. His fingers tangled in her hair and the slightly sting of pain fanned the flames that heated her loins. His arms tightened around her and her breasts pressed against his chest as he pushed his swollen love stick against her clit. Even through the pair of boy shorts she wore, the pressure was excruciating. In an effort to cool the heat that simmered there, Zoey involuntarily squeezed her thighs around his hips making the head of his cock press hard against her clit. Her orgasm caught her off guard and she retracted her fangs from his skin, screaming her pleasure at the ceiling. “Ralden!” The explosion ripped through her belly, reaching every cell in her body, setting off endorphins, releasing blasts everywhere. Her spiritual energy expanded and contracted wildly and his followed its erratic movements as if unable to stay more than a few inches away from hers. Her body spasmed, out of control over his. Only his grip kept her from melting into a puddle of nothing but orgasmic nerves. His growled echoed in her head, his hips moving in short stabs beneath her still grinding motions. She opened her eyes slowly and two drops of blood from the wound she inflicted on Ralden immediately captured her attention. She leaned forward and licked the path the two drops took before her tongue swiped over the wound. It closed before her eyes and she was almost disappointed. She liked seeing her mark on him. She wondered how she would retract her brand new shiny teeth and Ralden’s voice answered her. Picture it in your head. Just like you did with your wings. She did and just like that, they pulled in. His erection was still pressed against her, still bumping her clit and her body was more than ready for more. “I want you, Ralden.” His lips tipped in that sexy way of his again. “You have me.” Her lips tipped to answer his. “I love you, Ralden.”

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Chapter Twenty His body shuddered beneath hers so suddenly it frightened her. “Ralden, you okay?” He grabbed the back of her head in answer and kissed her, the full force of his passion unleashed. She basked in it. He rolled and her back touched the cool sheets, his weight pressing her into the mattress. She felt both weak and strong at once. He got rid of her remaining clothing and cool air passed over her heated skin making her conscious of her nudity. His clothes were gone too and his heated rod pressed between her folds. By the time he pulled away they were both breathing hard. He rested his forehead against hers, his gaze a mixture of happy and in love. “You have no idea how long I’ve been waiting for you to say that. You did say it earlier, but I wasn’t sure that you remembered or meant to say it.” His gaze searched hers, lust and love, a perfect combination. “I meant it. I love you, Ralden. I have all along. I’m sorry it took me so long to admit it.” She regretted the time they lost but vowed to show this Kiale the depth of her feelings every day for the rest of their lives. His lips tipped again. “Better late than never. I love you, Zoey, now and for the rest of our lives.” “I love you, Ralden, now and for the rest of our lives.” She chuckled because…well, just because. She was in love and was loved and being immortal was definitely a plus. Her fingers passed through his hair and she pulled him down to tease his bottom lip. “So lover man, are you going to just lie there or ravish me?” “Maybe but you look pretty satisfied. I wouldn’t want to ruin your afterglow.” He nodded as if he had just stated a scientifically proven fact. Her eyes narrowed even though she knew he was only goading her. Her hand slid between then and she lightly tickled his length. “Are you sure about that? He seems to want to ravish me. How can 157

you deny the poor fellow? Look, he’s crying.” Her thumb swiped over the weeping tip. He shuddered at the movement, closing his eyes briefly before they sparkled with gray fire across her skin. “Where’s your dildo?” Did she hear correctly? “Uh, Ralden, I think that’s what this is for.” She gave his cock a little tug. He went to his knees between her spread legs, his cocked jutting out like a mighty sword. She barely concealed her smirk at the thought that only she would wield the mighty sword ever again. Damn, she was corny! “Where is it?” “I don’t want the dildo. I want you.” Her fingers traced the swollen plum head. The contrast between her brown palm over his pulsing pink flesh was fascinating. Circling him with her fingers was impossible so she used both hands to get a good rhythm going. His hands closed over hers. “And you’ll have me as soon as you give me what I want.” Her eyes narrowed once more. She tightened her grip on him. “Do you really think you’re in a position to provoke me, Ralden?” He laughed, clearly not frightened in the least. Damn, she used to be so scary. “Where’s Sir Gallagher, Zoey?” Relinquishing her grip on him, she pointed to its location. The drawer opened and the plastic phallus floated through the air to land neatly in his hand, looking obscenely ridiculous. “Ahh, so this is my competition.” She laughed at the ludicrous statement. He removed her remaining hand from his cock, kissing her finger tips then laid her hand over her mound and pressed it gently against her clit in light tapping motion. “Show me how you please yourself, Zoey.” His tone did a complete one eighty, from teasing to commanding, exciting her. She felt her cream gathering at her center. She did not hesitate and her fingers lightly touched her folds. Using both hands she spread them, exposing her wetness to his gaze. His nostrils flared and his pupils dilated, irises swirling. Using one finger she gathered cream, slipping past her center, and eased it over her almost painfully full clit. She circled the bud slowly. “Like the show, Ralden?” 158

Kiale Dream Whoa, was that sultry voice hers? Beneath her lashes, she looked up at him. Red slashed across his cheeks and his jaw clenched. “Yeah,” was his grunted response. The circles became smaller until her finger rubbed her clit directly. She moaned and her eyes drifted close, enjoying herself immensely. The touch of Sir Gallagher on her wet folds had her eyes flying open. She watched as the toy dipped the merest inch into her before he pulled it back, her cream glistening off the toy. Again he pushed the toy into her, a little further this time before retreating again. They developed a steady rhythm until there was no more toy to push and her fingers were furiously attacking her clit. He removed the toy and stopped her hand by placing his over hers. Her eyes flashed at him. She was so damn close. He chuckled. “Greedy, aren’t you?” He trailed the moist plastic over the skin of her stomach, breasts, and lips. He bumped the smooth dildo against her lips, pressing gently. Her scent was rich and pleasing. Her tongue peeked out to lightly flicker over the head of the toy, tasting herself. She kept her eyes locked on his as she swirled and twirled her tongue. “Mmm.” She sucked the toy into her mouth, her head bobbing up and down, exaggerating her actions. Internally, she laughed at his tortured expression. He leaned over her and sucked on her nipple. She arched into his skillful tongue. His finger pressed against her anal ring, rubbing in a slow circular motion. Her hips moved with his hand and she continued to suck the wet dildo, imagining it was Ralden’s cock instead. Removing his finger and the dildo, he said, “Turn over.” She did. He directed her and she let her upper body lie on the bed so that her ass was pushed high in the air. She could not see him but the heat from his body warmed hers, his presence dominating yet gentle. He kissed a path along her back and she giggled, tickled. He nipped her butt before smacking the flesh lovingly. “You have the finest ass.” She wiggled it at him. He was obsessed with her ass, always grabbing and squeezing possessively. She had no complains. She had snagged her few ass grabs of her own. His fingers found her 159

rosette again, pressing more insistently this time. In and out. She followed his smooth rhythm. He placed her fingers at her clit again and she rubbed, jerking at the pleasure. The dildo pressed at her back door, slick with a cool substance. She tensed, jerking. He said, “Relax.” She released the breath she was holding. He placed his hand over hers, making her resumed her clitoral play. “That’s right. Breathe, baby. We’ll take it slow. Nice and easy. Trust me.” He breathed along the line of her back, the warmth soothing her. His fingers danced in its wake, his touch little more than an impression. He gently soothed her until she relaxed completely, her hand playing with her clit to the gentle tempo he set. The toy pressed gently against her snug entrance once more and he worked a small piece into her. Her body quaked like a mounted mare’s as her muscles strained to accommodate the foreign presence. She jerked at the tight fit. Her muscles parted and stretched and the pleasure pain made her keen low and long. “That’s a good girl. Relax for me, baby.” The vibrations of his voice added to her torture. He pulled back only to return with a deeper penetration. Despite her body’s reluctance, the plastic stretched her. One inch at a time, the toy filled her in the steady rocking motion he created. She whimpered and moaned, her teeth closing over the bed covers to hold back a scream. “Oh my god, Ralden. I can’t… it’s too much.” It was not enough! Her words and body contradicted each other, but thankfully, he listened to her body. Her fingers strummed her clit with a slow, soft rhythm. Any harder pressure and she would shoot off like a rocket and she wanted to draw out the moment, wanted to milk every ounce of sensation out of it. His hands were everywhere. Her back, her hips, breasts, shoulders, buttocks, everywhere as he whispered sweet nothings in that rough tone that arousal forced on him. His touch soothed and enticed simultaneously. Although she was slightly apprehensive about this new facet in their sex life, her body seemed to have no 160

Kiale Dream qualms about it, pushing back onto the dildo, moving with him. “More,” she cried desperately, “Give me more. Please, Ralden” Her eyes widened, then shut tight with that final push that seated the entire length into her. Her teeth clenched on a hiss as her skin burned and her muscles tightened over the plastic. Her cream was dripping down her thighs and arm and onto the sheets. “You okay?” He continued to shower light kisses on her back and butt. “Give me a minute.” She felt stretched beyond belief yet she burned for something just a little outside her reach. There was a little pain but it was buried far beneath the pleasure that came from the exquisite contact. Nerve endings she did not know existed were singing their praises at this new sensation. The presence of the dildo inflamed her need for more despite the fullness. Her chest was heaving and the scent of her arousal was thick. The friction was delightful as her nipples rubbed against the sheets, her skin perspiring. Her hips squirmed, trying to relieve the tension. Her pussy burned and tingled, longing to receive the same treatment. She felt his hot breath only a second before his lips settled over her labia. Her hand fell numbly to the bed, her moan muffled by the sheet. “Oh Goddddd!” His fingers parted her flesh and he made a meal out of her. Flat and stiff, his tongue licked up her cream. His mouth closed over clit and the heat of it, the sheer exquisiteness of it had her throwing her head back and screaming. Her head fell back to the bed as she trembled uncontrollably. She pushed back against his mouth and the dildo slid in further. She gasped as pleasure ran hot through her blood. She bit the sheet to contain her moan as her nipples tightened almost painfully. Her hands gripped the fabric and distantly she heard the sound of it being torn. He withdrew the toy just a little and she whimpered. The friction sparked every nerve in the near vicinity to life and her belly clenched. He pushed it back and another whimper escaped, louder this time. A steady rhythm developed as he sucked, licked and nibbled at her while the dildo pushed into her ass with increasing speed. Slushing sounds bounced off the walls, mixing in with her 161

husky cries. “I can’t wait any longer. I have to have you.” The rough confession blew warm air onto her sensitive folds and she bucked wildly, so close to the edge. Not a second later his cock filled her pussy, hot, long and hard. She screamed as her orgasm slammed into her with the force of a bitch slap from the world’s strongest man. From her pussy, lightning bolts of sensation fired wildly connecting to nerves that surrounded the dildo and she damn near caught afire. Her eyes squeezed tight and colors burst behind her lids, far more colorful than any fireworks show. Her muscles froze, then broke into a trembling mass of movement that she was helpless to stop. He retreated and slammed into her again and her doubly penetrated body shook as her cries for more echoed. She felt her fangs elongate, adding to her arousal. Her skin felt hot and alive with sensations. Through the thin membrane, she could feel the two erect lengths moving against each other. Ralden’s cock felt twice as thick and longer than ever. “You feel so good. So warm. So tight. Yes, baby, squeeze me. Just like that. Oh God, your pussy is so good. ” He slapped her ass in rapid succession, his movements becoming faster, harder, more intense. The heat of his rough caress and the additional movement had her gasping in tortured breaths. He continued to grunt and growl above her, praising her, telling her how good she felt, how tight her pussy was, how fine her ass looked. She was unable to say anything, unable to think anything, every bodily function she had directed at her pussy and ass, his strokes and the large release of pressure that loomed. He reached around her to pinch her straining nipple even as his thrusts moved her up the bed. She grabbed the bedrails to slow down the movement. The bed shook and slammed against the wall. The iron felt feeble in her hand and ready to crumble. His sweat dropped onto her, adding to what already covered her. His sharp teeth nipped her back and she exposed her neck, waiting for his bite. She was not disappointed as his fangs pierced her skin. Another orgasm slammed into her and all she could was whimper at the sweetness, the sheer effort it would take to scream 162

Kiale Dream too much, her throat already hoarse. There was no pain from his bite. Only a toe-numbing pleasure. Each pull on her blood pulled another orgasm from her pussy, each swipe of his tongue feeling like a swipe over her clit. His growl filled the air as she felt his cock grow, pushing at her walls. His climax shook them both, the sensations from both their bodies too much to handle. His movements continued, short hard stabs that prolonged their orgasms until he gave one finally shove, pushing against her womb and everything went black for a few precious seconds. Ah, so this is the little death she thought languidly as he retracted his fangs, licking the wound close. Her muscles clenched around him, clearing not knowing when enough was enough. They slumped against the damp sheets trying to catch their breaths.

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Chapter Twenty-One His weight lifted off her and his body slid from hers. The cool air swept over her, raising goose bumps despite the heat that poured off her. She missed his comforting weight right away. She shuddered delicately as he removed the dildo and watched through heavy lids as he moved into the bathroom to discard the condom, admiring the bunch of his tight buns as he walked. Her fangs nicked her tongue and she savored the taste of the rich liquid before she visualized the incisors returning to their normal size. She closed her eyes. In the quake such climatic bliss, tiredness beat at her and sleep welcomed her into its supple bosom. She heard him moving around then the sound of running water and absently wondered where he got the energy for all that movement. The bed dipped and a kiss landed on her shoulder. She snuggled deeper into the sheets as sleep tugged at her. “Baby, I prepared a bath for us.” She did not want to bathe. She wanted to sleep. She batted her hand at him as though he was a pesky fly. He chuckled. “Is that any way to treat the man who has given you the best orgasms of your life?” She cracked one eyes open to glared at him. He laughed again and there was a flash of dimples. Her pussy fluttered, ever responsive to his every movement. She was lifted from the bed in an effortless flow of muscle. He walked them to the bathroom. “You’re really full of yourself, aren’t you?” “Well, of course.” He let her bottom touch his semi-erect cock. Jeez… The man was insatiable. Not that she was complaining especially since her pussy gave an answering clench. He lowered her into the tub on warm water and she sighed as the warmth seeped into muscles she did not realize were sore. Ah, maybe a bath was not such a bad idea! He got in behind her and she nestled onto his chest, closing her eyes once more. She smelled her soap then felt his massaging hands lathering her 164

Kiale Dream skin. His large, warm hands cleaned with a slow, calming movement, his fingers working magic. Her nipples beaded and her pussy still creamed despite the non-sexual nature of his touch. He was affected as well, the heavy weight of his erection prodding her back. She would never get enough of him, she sighed, but she was way too tired to deal with the demands of her body. “The day I found you was the happiest day of my life,” he said suddenly, his voice quiet and heavy, contemplative. His fingers stroked her hair and caressed her skin as he continued. “Before, I actually contemplated ending it all. All these years stretched out before me and I had nothing to do with them.” Her heart ached with the sadness that weighed his words as she stared sightlessly at the white tile that lined the walls, ears straining to catch every note in his voice. She sensed that he was about to reveal something important and her sleepiness evaporated. “Then you entered my life and everything became…so bright. There was suddenly meaning to my empty existence. I felt reborn. Now that we’re here, I just want to let you know how much I adore you. I want to spend the rest of my life making you happy, making beautiful love with you. I love you, Zoey. There’s nothing I wouldn’t do for you, just to see you smile.” His arm was wrapped around her waist and she stroked it lovingly, touched by his words, the novelty of someone needing her that much making her heart trip over its self in elation. She smiled up at him as tears misted her eyes. Her hand curved around his neck to bring his head down for a meeting of their lips. It was the barest hint of a touch but the words it expressed was infinite. When they broke apart he said, “There’s something I need to ask you, Zoey.” His arm moved out of the water and her eyes followed the movement. In a dazzling display, blue sparkles danced in the air above his hand. They moved in a slow, soft pattern and reminded her of fairy dust, catching the light like twinkling stars before forming a little blue box. The box floated briefly before landing gently in his palm. She gasped before her breath stuck in her throat, her hand going over her heart. “Open it, Zoey.” 165

With a shaking hand, she reached for it. A drop of water echoed in the bathroom. It sounded unnaturally loud although it could not compete with the beating of her heart. It seemed like an eternity before she lifted the lid. The ring was beautiful, contemporary styled with three bands. The middle band contained a sparkling sapphire at its center, flanked by two smaller diamonds caught on either side between the center and outer bands. Light from the power-saving bulb bounced off the precious minerals and cast white and blue shadows on the wall. “Zoey, will you do me the honor of becoming my wife? Will you marry me?” **** Ralden looked down on Zoey, watching the emotions flash across her face, too fast to catch each one. The beat of her heart was wild, making the blood rush through her veins. Her wide, shocked gaze bounced from him to the ring. A simple diamond was too…simple for his complicated mate. So he’d opted for sapphire over an inner rose gold band shadowed by outer white gold bands and small diamonds. He’d had it custom made more than a year ago. Zoey was quiet, too quiet, and he began to worry. She wouldn’t say no, would she? He still could not believe that she had finally broken down that wall that she had kept between them and told him the words he had been dying to hear. “Zoey?” “Oh, Ralden, it’s beautiful.” Water spilled over the edge of the tub as she turned around and straddled his hips. She engulfed him in a hug, her hands clutching at him in a desperate grip. She laughed and cried at the same. Her lips covered his in a clumsy, closedmouth kiss. Just as quickly, she moved away to admire the ring. “Oh my god, Ralden.” “So that’s a yes?” She gave him another clumsy kiss. “Yeah… yeah, yes. Yes, I’ll marry you. I love you so much.” Removing the ring from the box, he slid it onto her finger. It was a perfect fit. “I love you, Zoey,” “I love you, Ralden.” 166

Kiale Dream They sealed the deal with a kiss. **** In a sea of darkness, a light burst through, bright and vibrant, warm like the morning sun. Zoey moved toward it, compelled. Hopefully it was not death, she thought humorously. But this light could not be death. It was too innocent, too benevolent. Closer and closer she went until she was basking in its warmth. It felt familiar yet she knew instinctively she had never encountered this energy before. It spoke to her and her heart jumped. Then melted. **** Zoey sat up, gasping, staring into the darkness. Immediately her hand went to her stomach, shielding, protecting. Her ring glittered in the darkness, casting bright circles of light on the dark walls. Beside her, Ralden was instantly awake. The lamp came on. “Zoey? What’s the matter?” His voice was urgent as he searched their surroundings for hidden threats. There were none. “Oh my God. Oh my God! Ralden.” Tears ran down her face even as she smiled then laughed. Ralden clutched her shoulders, searching her face for some clue for her hysteria, worry written all over him. “Zoey, you’re scaring me. Talk to me, sweetheart.” He shook her. She laughed again, the sound joyous. Grabbing his hand, she rested it over her own. In a choked whisper, she said, “Ralden, we’re pregnant. We’re pregnant.” More tears fell. He froze. His shocked gaze dropped to their joined hands before coming back to hers. “We’re pregnant?” His voice was toneless. Her head bobbed enthusiastically, her sleep tousled hair flowing around her face. “Yes.” “We’re pregnant.” His voice was soft and his face expressionless, looking at her stomach. Suddenly she was worried. Wasn’t he happy? He wanted this, didn’t he? “Ralden?” 167

In a blast of movement he gathered her in his arms, squeezing her tight. “Oh, God. We’re pregnant, Zoey,” he whispered against her hair. His back shook and she realized that he was crying. She held him tighter, pulling him close, his heat chasing away the chill of the night. Pulling back, he took her lips in a kiss and their tears of joy mingled.

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Chapter Twenty-Two Larry Coldrin turned the key to his apartment glancing over his shoulder, the threat of looming cops and angry debt collectors making his neck itchy. He stepped over the notice of eviction letter, his dirty sneakers leaving tracks. He dropped his keys on the plastic side table beside the only couch that occupied the dingy one room apartment. Dirty dishes filled the sink and littered the small counter top. A trail of ants moved amongst the filth having taken up permanent residence in the crack behind the fridge. Cockroaches were frequent visitors. Old pizza and take-out boxes lay carelessly thrown around and clothes hung off the sparse furniture, falling out of the cheap wardrobe set. Stains decorated the wall leaving the original color indiscernible. A torn curtain hung over the only window, now brown with gathered dust. Larry walked over to the fridge which was riddled with rust patches, jerking open the door. Empty. “Damn it.” He slammed the door close. The impact made the appliance come to life, humming for all it was worth, which was not much. He paced briefly in front of the fridge, finding it hard to keep still, his fingers touching his nose in a frequent habit that betrayed his…habit. With an angry movement he moved toward the couch, knowing he would need a fix soon. This was all Vanessa’s fault. She did not understand her place. Flat on her back or in the kitchen. That was all women were good for. Nothing more. Nothing less. No matter how much he punished her, her willful ways refused to bow to his commands, a fact that would gravely disappoint his father. He remembered watching his dad casually walking over to his favorite chair, stomach hanging over his buckle, leaving his mother wrapped in the fetal position on the floor, lip bloodied, black eye forming, clothes torn. “Make me a sandwich, bitch,” he’d say and Larry’s mother 169

hurried to obey his direction despite her injuries. He’d look at Larry and say, “That is how you keep the bitches in line, boy. Don’t you forget it!” “Don’t worry dad, she’ll learn. Just like mom did,” Larry muttered to the empty room. He had plans for Vanessa. Big plans. When he was done she would never think of leaving him again. He just needed the stunt with the supermarket to blow over first. Then he would make his move. Then he would show her who was the boss once and for all. He looked forward to seeing the pain and fear color her eyes. It was the only time she looked halfway pretty. His dick twitched at the thought. Dropping his weight onto the mucky green leather, Larry grabbed the remote and immediately turned to the local news station. He had yet to see a report concerning the demon bitch from the store. Zoey McKenna. It had been so easy to find her. The hard part had been getting an opening to take her out. That boyfriend of hers had been stuck to her ass every day. He’d briefly considered holding her for a ransom, but remembering the stunt from the store, he had changed his mind. It had been a pleasure to watch the knowledge that she was going to die spread over her face. Fear and pain made women beautiful. It was when they understood the order of things, when they made him feel powerful. His shoulder throbbed as he remembered that day in the store. When he had pointed the gun at her, she’d responded just as he liked, eyes widening in fear, skin going pale, shoulder hunching expecting the pain. Then the air had changed when the demon took over. Her eyes flickered with a mixture of brown and gray. An unnatural wind gathered and like a heavy hand, it heated his skin although a chill swept through him. Invisible hands grabbed him, twisting his muscles, crushing his bones and messing with his head. The voices still echoed sometimes, especially when he closed his eyes, making it hard to sleep. His boys laughed at him, calling him nuts when he told them but he knew the truth. She’d made him look like a fool and let Vanessa 170

Kiale Dream escape. He needed to take her out. As soon as he made bail, he’d robbed a few stores, needing the cash and a fix. Then he watched and bided his time. He drove past her apartment today but her boyfriend’s car was parked in the driveway, no movement visible inside. What was going on? Where were the police cars? The news reporters? He knew with a snotty family like hers, her death would get some air time. He rubbed a hand over his face, worry settling in his gut, a cold sweat breaking out. What if she was not dead? No, she was dead. He’d shot her in the chest. There was no way he could have missed. No way could she have lived through that. But to make sure he would pass by the apartment again tomorrow. Making that mental note, he let his eyes drift shut. **** Everything was dark, but Larry felt thousands of eyes scrutinizing his naked body. They were pointing and jeering, throwing snide taunts. Sweat dotted his brow, dripping from his hair and running in rivers down his body. The fire started at his feet. With a crack and a sizzle, one flame burst to life. More joined it and the inferno grew. He screamed, the sound not covering the popping static sound of the spreading flames. His body was compelled to move, to do something to douse the flames but he was frozen. He screamed, feeling the burn lick at him like the tongue of a scorned woman. “Stop! Oh my God, stop! Please, God. No!” Up his legs it travelled like a slow—moving train before centering over his groin. Female laughter taunted him, echoing. He screamed louder. “Who’s there? Help me. Oh God, please!” Soon his torso was covered and his arms, his shoulders and his neck. Terrified and helpless he watched as it covered his gaping mouth, snapping his eyes shut as it engulfed his face. Then it was all gone. The sudden coolness was just as frightening. He continued to scream. “Hello, Larry.” 171

His eyes snapped open, his cry sticking in his throat. There she was in front of him, hair falling around her face, wearing a tank top and shorts. The large red spot on her chest was blaringly obvious against the black nothingness that surrounded them. “I assume I need no introduction, Larry. After all you did shoot me not too long ago.” She said it like they were acquaintances just meeting up for a drink, a smile painting her lips. He whimpered, shaking his head to deny the picture in front of him, fear visibly radiating off his body, its stench obnoxious. “Wonderful.” She moved. He did not see it, but she was suddenly so close he could see her scary elongated fangs. They were stained red, a line of blood running down her chin. She licked at it and moaning as if tasting a delicious treat. She smiled again. The Queen of the Damned would have been proud of such a wanton display of teeth. “I—I’m sorry. I’ll do anything. Just don’t hurt me. Please.” Panic had him trembling. She disappeared. A breath whooshed out of him as he searched the darkness frantically, control over his limbs given back to him. The glow of eyes gave presence to the stares he felt. Red flashed and growls sounded. “Please, please, I’m sorry,” he screamed. “You really should be more careful who you mess with, Larry. We demons can be a wee bit on the vengeful side, especially when we are shot by insecure little men with small dicks.” The sensation of sharp nails scraping his dick made him jump back, crying out and covering his crotch. A screech, like that of a crow, came from behind him. He turned, tripping over himself, his head swerving from left to right, but nothing was there. “Look, I have money. I—I can be your slave. I’ll do whatever you want.” Isn’t that what all demons want? “Please, don’t kill me.” He was trembling so badly his teeth chattered against each other and his voice shook. “Who said anything about killing you, Larry?” The words echoed but before relief could set in, her words continued, “That would be way too easy, Larry, no fun at all. And there’s nothing I love more 172

Kiale Dream than a good time. No, I think I will play with you a little.” She appeared in front of him once more. She lifted her hand and her arm extended like a crazed snake reaching for him. Her fingers closed around his neck, his air supply effectively cut off. Like a fish caught in on a hook, he dangled helplessly. She reeled him in. “I really did not deserve that cheap shot, Larry. Really tacky, in my opinion.” Her eyes glowed with that same mixture of brown and gray. There was no forgiveness, no mercy in those eyes. Only a mild boredom as her lips smirked at him. The smell of blood rose off her and made him gag. “So, Larry, what should I do with you?” She leaned closer. Her teeth raked his neck and then he was falling, falling in a sea of darkness with no end in sight. His throat was hoarse from his screams. His arms flayed aimlessly, looking for a purchase, anything to hold onto. Cold wind burned his body, the friction painful. It felt like a millennia before he landed, the breath knocked out of him. He moaned then froze, afraid to move. Maybe if he stayed really still, she would leave him alone. A cry of pain made him turned his head. Like a defective hologram, an image of him stood over a cowering Vanessa. On the floor, she was clutching her arm and before she could react, he delivered a swift kick to her unprotected midsection. Her face contorted with the resulting pain but this time he felt none of the pleasure it usually brought. He felt strangely hollow inside as he looked at the glee that glazed his image’s eyes. The image faded to be replaced by a more real looking Vanessa. She stood before him in a shapeless dress, eye blackened, feet bare. “Larry?” At her voice he bounced to his feet. “Oh God, Vanessa help me!” He moved towards her. Grabbing her arm, he pulled her forward. She stumbled and he uttered a disgusted, “Fuck, move your lazy ass already.” “I loved you Larry. I thought you loved me too.” A tear fell from her eye and onto the black ground. It caused a ripple effect like a rock landing in a lake. This was no time for love confessions. “Look, we’ve got to get out of here. There’s this crazy chick an—” 173

He paused as a plan formulated in his head. She would make the perfect distraction as he got away. He pushed her away from him. She fell with no change of expression. Her image was suddenly no more than an inch away and pain filled him. He gasped, the feelings so excruciating that he had no breath to scream. With a stiff neck, he looked down. Along his body, bruises appeared and everything ached, his eyes, arms, legs, head, stomach, back, everything. “How does it feel, Larry?” Vanessa voice questioned above him and he realized he sank to his knees. “M—Make it stop! Please!” “Why should I, Larry? This is every hit you’ve given me over the years. I thought you’d like it. You seemed to think I did.” “I’m sorry. I won’t do it again. J—Just please make it stop,” he begged weakly, his back hunched over. “You are an embarrassment, boy, sniveling like a little girl. Get your ass up and take it like a man,” his father’s voice boomed and without thought he obeyed, trembling. The man that stood before him resembled his father but he could not remember the wrinkles that marred his face or the bare, flabby arms. His belly was bigger, eyes bloodshot, the smell of alcohol like his own private cologne. The small muff of salt-n-pepper hair that cowered behind his ears was untidy and dirty looking. Was that what he’d really looked like? Was he seeing his father with adult eyes? The little boy he’d been did not remember his father looking so… broken. “Didn’t I teach you better? Eh? Answer me, you little worm.” The voice was a drunken slur filled with malicious intent. A beefy fist swung and instinctively, Larry bought his arms up to protect his face, just like before. The pain he expected never came. One eye cracked open and he peered through his fingers. The other eye opened and his arms lowered. The fist was frozen in the air just like the man behind it. Like a Lego structure, the image of his father fell into nothingness, but the image behind the man held Larry’s attention. It was his mother, broken and bruised, her brown hair messy and dull, eyes dead, blood drying on her torn dress, pooled beneath her. 174

Kiale Dream She was dead like the last time he had seen her, the stab wounds his father had inflicted taking her life. It was the same day the cops shot his father for his crimes, leaving Larry a fifteen-year-old stray without a home or parents. She had been beautiful once, his mother, young and full of life. He remembered her pushing him on his swing, playing with him in their small back yard, reading to him at bedtime. Then one day it all changed. His father, his hero, changed. It was right after a car accident that left his father in a coma for almost a week. He came home with a smile but had never been the same. Sometimes he still played with Larry like he used to, he would be happy and be the man he had been before but then something, anything would set him off. And with stars in his eyes for the hero he had known, Larry could do no more than watch and learn the suddenly different lessons his father taught. He had been five at the time. Like mist, the image disappeared and he was left in the dark again. And that was far worse than the pain he was forced to endure. In the dark, there was nothing to do but face your fears and wallow in guilt, nothing to do but acknowledge your wrongs, nothing to do but feel. And that was the one thing he absolutely did not want to do. Being burned alive was preferable. “Please,” he begged and the word echoed back at him. “Get me out of here,” he raged when do one answered. “This is a dream,” he shouted when still there was no answer. To prove his words he pinched himself. Hard. Again, when the resulting pain did not throw him into consciousness. He started to cry again. “I’m sorry. I swear, I’m sorry.” He sobbed into his hands, shame and dread bringing him to his knees once more as the faces of his mother and Vanessa floated through his head, their eyes begging him. “I think you’ve made progress today, Larry.” He looked up sharply and there she was again. Zoey. Now she was dressed in black jeans, a black tank top and matching boots. The blood was gone and so were the pointed teeth. Her hair was slicked back into a ponytail. She looked like a normal woman again and just that easily he slipped back into his old mold. He roared and attacked, shouting, “You bitch!” 175

He watched the whole episode like it was a slow motion movie and knew before his first step it was a mistake. Yet he could not stop himself no matter how much his brain called him a moron and flashed warning signs. “Or maybe not.” She smiled, a disappointed, pitying smile, and her teeth grew once more. He tackled her and they fell to the ground. Straddling her hips, he hit her in the face again and again until his fists were raw and bloodied, her face unrecognizable. Chest heaving he stopped, covered in blood. Disgust and relief warred as he looked down at her. He stood and slowly backed away from the bloody mass, dismayed at his actions. Hitting something solid, he turned and shouted in alarm. She stood behind him, disfigured head cocked to the side. He looked back at the figure on the floor to find it gone. Turning back, he watched with increasing panic as Zoey pushed her broken jaw back into place and her face righted itself, healing with supernatural speed. He swallowed as her eyes opened and zeroed in on him, slowly straightening her head. “That. Hurt. Larry.” She walked toward him slowly and he took a step back. “Look, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean—” In a move that was too quick for his eyes, she flipped him and was standing over him, military boots firmly over his dick, grinding it into his balls. “Ahh,” he cried out. His hands shot out, trying to flip her, to remove her foot but she did not bulge. Oh God, please, not his dick! That was the most he’d prayed in more than a decade. “You’re a pathetic excuse for a man. And I am this close to beating the crap out of you.” She gestured with her fingers and he whimpered. “But I pity you too much, Larry. Speaking from experience, I advise you to stop living in the past. Be better than the sorry excuse your father became, Larry because a repeat performance of that little stunt you just pulled is not going to go over as well.” The mention of his father raised a hideous fear, a sickening anger and remorseful sadness. The child in him cringed as he was transported to the past. Lying in bed, he heard his mother’s screams and cries for help knowing he was unable to be her protector. The 176

Kiale Dream feelings of defenselessness and inadequacy made him curl up into a tight ball and cover his ears. “Remember what it feels like, Larry?” Zoey’s voice brought him back to the present and for a second, he thought he saw understanding and compassion in her gaze. He closed his eyes against it. He did not deserve those emotions. “Being helpless? Being humiliated? Women are not objects to be used for your amusement or to hide from your demons. They’re human beings with thoughts, with feelings and deserved to be treated as such. I feel sorry for you, for what you went through but you’re no longer a child. You’re grown. Act like it.” In sudden realization, he saw that he’d turned into his father, an abuser who preyed on those weaker than he. When had his dream of becoming a police officer, a defender of the helpless, been torched? When had he turned into the monster from his past? When did he start superimposing his pain on others? She knelt but the pressure on his penis did not let up. His eyes flew open as nausea and a wave of dizziness threatened to embarrass him further. “Now, listen to me, Larry because I will say this only once. I will be watching you, Larry. Very closely. Every time you blink, I will know about it. Every time you take a crap, I will know. You’d better think about that any time you get the urge to hit another woman or feel the need to pick up a gun. And you want to know why, Larry?” The pressure on his dick increased and he figured the proper response was to nod, so nod he did, very enthusiastically. “Because, Larry, I will be really pissed if I have to repeat myself and if I have to tell you again, we won’t have any fun like we did today. Understand?” He nodded again. Her teeth were extended even more, her eyes going deep red. What the hell was she? A demon? A vampire? Both? “You’d better be a good boy from now on, Larry. You don’t want me to come looking for you, do you?” He shook his head no in quick response, hiccupping on a choked cry. “I did not hear you Larry,” came a singsong reply, scary for its childlike quality. 177

“I—I promise. I’ll be good.” He would say and do anything to get out of this but was shocked to realize he meant his words. It was time to reconcile the demons of his past. “Just in case you forget, here’s little reminder of our meeting.” The burning sensation on his arm made him jerk his arms off her boot. Looking down, he watched the circular seal being burned into his inner forearm, red and angry looking. Two dots like puncture wounds formed in the center followed by three crooked lines that wove their way to the line of the circle and wrapped around it like barbed wires. Smoke rose off the forming symbols. His scream was ear-splitting. **** Larry was still screaming as the door to his apartment was kicked open with enough force to throw it off its hinges. It banged against the wall then fell in a broken heap. A team of police officers rushed in through the narrow entrance yelling orders, guns pointed. Emerging from his nightmare, all Larry could do was whimpered pathetically, sweat pouring off him in waves. He could still feel the heat and the burn of eyes watching him. His hand came up and he watched the seal that stamped his hand. It looked like a normal tattoo, black and small. It was real! He was hauled off the chair and thrown none too gently onto the dirty carpeted floor, hands cuffed behind his back. The officer recited his right in a loud, clear voice. “Mr. Larry Coldrin, you are under arrest for the robbery of—“ He was hauled to his feet, marched to the squad car and pushed into the back seat. Looking out the window of the car, his gaze caught and held one in particular. It was his mother, bloody and beaten but she smiled, sunny and forgiving before she turned and disappeared in the crowd that gathered. He sunk against the sit, trembling and sweating. Like a cornered dog, the sounds that were emitted from his throat barely sounded human. He did not deserve forgiveness. He should have helped her, should have— 178

Kiale Dream It’s never too late to right your wrongs, Larry, came Zoey’s voice. He shrunk further against the seat as a search of the crowd did not show her. An odd feeling of thankfulness engulfed him. For the first time in his adult life, Larry Coldrin was praying and asking whoever that was in charge upstairs for forgiveness and another chance.

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Chapter Twenty-Three Withdrawing from Larry’s psyche, Zoey opened her eyes and the ceiling came into focus. A smile tugged at her lips. Her legs hung off Ralden’s shoulders, his head and tongue moving in a coordinated dance. The swipe of Ralden’s tongue on her slit made her forget all about Larry. His tongue curled around her clit and a soft orgasm washed over her like the rays of the rising sun. “Mmm,” she hummed as he kissed his way up her body, settling between her naked thighs and capturing her lips. Letting up, he asked, “You okay?” “Wonderful.” She had never felt better. He transformed her life, transformed her. She was looking forward to tomorrow because she knew each day would be brighter because he would be there. She was no longer just enduring, she was living. She was no longer just existing, she was loving and giving herself freely, no longer denying what she was. She was embracing it because one very special Kiale had shown her just how beautiful she was. “Larry?” he questioned, his eyes holding concern. “Taken care of. He won’t be bothering us anymore.” She felt sorry for the man. Being in his head was eye-opening. No child should have to go through what he went through and she hoped that he came to terms with his past. He growled and his eyes darkened. “You let the bastard off easy. You know that, right? I would—” Wrapping her legs around his waist, she used her new strength to roll him beneath her. He barked a surprised laugh, letting her have her way, the subject dropped for the time being. Grabbing his hands, she pinned them to the bed, and in a lithe movement, sunk her fangs just above his left breast sinking onto his thick cock in the same movement. His laugh transformed into a hissing/moaning sound as he stiffened in shocked pleasure before his body bowed sharply, forcing more of his length into her quaking vagina. His fists 180

Kiale Dream clenched beneath her palms and she knew she only remained in control because he allowed her. “Fuck, baby. Damn!” His voice was gravelly and she did not need to look up to see that his fangs were descended and his gray eyes were glowing with his arousal. His spiritual energy whirled around him and even though he was below her, it dominated hers. She would never get enough of his taste, of his body, of him. Her body rose off his cock in a slow torturous ascend that had them both groaning as she sucked strongly from him. His body quavered and she marvel that such a marvelous specimen of male flesh trembled for her. She rose until only the tip of his shaft remained poised in her. She rotated her hips, teasing the engorged head. Sucking more of his blood onto her tongue, she slammed her body down onto his erect member. For a moment, all she saw was flashes of color and she threw her head back and howled at the pleasure that assaulted her at the rough descent. She froze then trembled from the rush it brought. Her muscles quavered around his pulsing cock. His rough growl had her opening her eyes and looking into those beautiful, expressive eyes. Her mouth went dry at the sheer need that was reflected there. His fangs were indeed elongated, shining in the pale light of morning. She leaned down to lick the wound on his chest, closing the evidence of her bite. “I love the way you taste, baby.” Her voice was husky with need and arousal. Her tongue whirled over her lips, just to make sure not one drop of his addictive essence was lost. Lacing her fingers through his, leaning over his chest, she began to ride, repeating her earlier action. Long, drawn out stroke upward. The ridges of his cock abraded her walls, every inch stretching her to capacity. Hard, rough descend. They both gasped, eyes locked, sharing each other’s pleasure. She did it again. And again. And again until Ralden growled a plea, “More, baby. Don’t tease me.” Sure in her feminine power over him, she did it again, watching the way his control crumbled block by block until nothing but his needs and desires prevailed. But her seduction was double-edged sword and soon her pussy was aching for more, her nipples were 181

dying to be sucked and licked and her lips were salivating for his kiss. Up she went, slow. Too slow. Then down again, using her weight to aid her downward drive. His control snapped and his energy merged with hers. His hands, still laced with hers, wrapped around her back, making her breasts thrust upward. The beaded nipples jutted out, begging for his mouth. He sat up and engulfed one as his hips, without preamble, jack-hammered into hers. His fangs sank into the rounded flesh and she would have collapsed had he not been holding her up. He sucked long and hard, blood and nipple obeying the command of his tongue. His tongue lashed at the distended tip, locking it at the roof of his mouth and pulled strongly. His hips matched the rhythm of his tongue and her pussy welcomed the sharp, hard jabs upward. Imprisoned in his grip all she could do was accept his rough loving, her head thrown back, hissing and moaning her delight. She tugged at her hands wanting to touch him, to anchor herself. He was having none of it, keeping her locked in the embrace. With a swipe of his tongue, he closed the twin holes on her breast only to move to the other, giving it the same treatment. His teeth sunk into her flesh and she lost it. Her thighs trembled with the force of the orgasm his cock and mouth demand from her. On and on his thrusts went, not letting up and her body was on overload, her clit rasping against his stomach with every thrust. The clap of wet skin against wet skin sounded deliciously sinful. Her ass danced and jiggled from the impact, her breasts dancing in his face. Her hair was stuck to her damp skin and catching her breath was next to impossible. “I can’t take anymore. Ralden, oh yes, that’s so good.” She gasped the words, unable to catch her breath, half-delirious. Yes you can, love. Take that big cock, baby. I know you love it. He let her breast go with a plop and watched blood well out of his bite, his gaze as sharp as any hunter’s. He let go of her hands and commanded, “Give it to me.” His forceful tone had her pussy bathing his cock with a rush of fragrant juices. She cupped her abused breast and offered it to him. 182

Kiale Dream Holding her gaze in a sexy intense stare, he slowly licked the extended tip, closing the wound. She moaned low in her throat, the sight as stimulating as the feel of his tongue. He teased the tip with light licks and curls of his tongue, the exaggerated movements lewd and raw. With another plop, he let go of her breast to travel up her collar bone, over her neck and jawline to lay his lips over hers. Kissing with fangs took a little more maneuvering but the reward was worth the effort. The longer than normal canines were as sensitive as her nipples and throbbed in sync with her pussy. Every swipe of his tongue felt like that first bite into her favorite dessert. She moaned and tangled her fingers in his hair to keep him close. Tongues warred in a sensual battle, flickering and swirling over fangs to meet each other only to move away. “Let me see those wings, baby.” His voice sensual and rough like fine cognac, she obeyed his order. The extensions ripped from her back. The slight pain at their emergence making her shivering. Her feathers ruffled like a bird’s and a feeling of freedom coursed through her. Ralden’s dark gray wings extended from his back, stretching high in the air to then settle around his back. His cheeks flushed with desire, need sparked off him in waves. **** The urge to slam into Zoey’s warm pussy had Ralden’s cock aching and raging at him to hurry up and just do something, anything. In a fucking minute, he raged back at the impatient appendage. He wanted to look at his butterfly in all her splendor, whole and true to all she was. Beautiful. Her eyes were glowing, their deep brown mixed with flecks of blue that looked like small jewels. Wings framing her shoulders, their stark white brought out the rich color of her skin, making her eyes more prominent. Their feathers tickled his thighs and it was all he could do not to shoot off like a fountain. Her fangs were exposed and her hair was wild, damp from her exertions, breasts red and 183

swollen from his mouth. The smell of her desire permeated the air. She was the definition of sexy, uninhibited and giving. Resting his forehead against hers, he said, “Dear God, Zoey, do you know what you do to me?” Her tongue slithered out and licked his bottom lip, nibbling a little before replying, “No more than you do to me.” He lay back down, letting his wings spread around his sides and placed his hands on her hips and said, “Ride me.” He wanted to watch her face as she came, wanted to see the pleasure wash over her features. She braced her hands on his chest and started a slow, gyrating motion, rocking her hips back and forth, around and around, her back arched. With each forward movement, her breasts bounced provocatively. She closed her eyes and her brow wrinkled in concentration and enjoyment. A soft sigh escaped her parted lips. Her muscles massaged him gently, wringing a groan from him and his fingers contracted on her hips, the desire to take over and pound into her nearly overwhelming. The depth of her penetration increased slightly, and the sight of his lighter cock being encircled by her plump darker pussy had him swallowing, his throat dry. Her cream coated him, her— She changed the motion of her hips, her ass pumping up and down, extended out, the shallow movement driving him out of his mind. He hissed and his fangs nipped his lower lip. Her eyes opened and she looked down at him. “Like that, baby?” Was there any doubt? “You know I do. Yeah, baby. Just like that. Fuck yourself with that cock. Oh yeah!” Her speed increased just a little more, her muscles squeezing him. His balls tightened almost painfully and he knew he was close and would not be able to hold out for much longer. “I’m so close, Zoey. Your pussy feels amazing on my cock, baby.” Her muscles tightened in light of his compliment and he threw his head back on his pillow, growling. Just when he thought he could not take anymore, she arched her back, her fingers braced on his thighs and picked up the tempo. The angle of each stroke changed and her clasp on him tightened. “I’m going to cum, Zoey. 184

Kiale Dream Shit, that feels good!” he muttered, lights exploding behind his closed lids. The need to cum was fierce but he needed to see her face as she exploded first. He opened his eyes to see the seductress looking down at him, the look on her face saying she knew exactly what she was doing to him and glorying in it. Her breasts bounced, their distended nipples flushed and tight with excitement. He found the tight bud of nerves at the junction of her thighs. The other hand grabbed the cheek of her ass, anchoring him to earth. He squeezed the bouncing globe of flesh as he stroked her clit. He watched the change come over her. The first sign was her short nails digging into the muscles of his thighs. Her entire body flushed and she froze briefly before exploding into motion again. Widening, her eyes glossed over, pupils dilating to make them appear almost black, and her lips parted on a silent scream, those beautiful breasts heaving and slick with her sweat. Internal muscles trapped him in a death grip then quivered wildly as her clit throbbed beneath his thumb. She took his breath away. “Oh, Ralden, ohhhh!” He could no longer keep still and hand clamped on her hips, he lost himself in the rhythm. “Zoey, Zoey, Zoey,” he chanted as the storm swept him away. He was drowning, swept under by waves of pure bliss and had no desire to reach the surface. The rest of his muscles seized, a paralysis taking over but his hips refused to stop moving as jet after jet of his cum washed her walls with his seed. Satisfaction filled him. He was in love, was loved, his mate accepted him and their union and his baby was being nurtured by the comfort and shelter of her body. In a fluster of wings, loose feathers and tangled limbs they fell back onto the sheets, Ralden still buried in her pussy, where he intended to stay for as long as possible.

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Chapter Twenty-Four Two Months Later Phaedra and Frederick were livid at the announcement of her engagement. She imagined they thought she’d become pregnant by a vagrant. They settled down quickly enough when they realized the size of Ralden’s bank account and his business reputation. Poor Michael was quickly discarded as a contestant for her hand. Her aunt nearly swallowed her tongue when she first saw Ralden. Zoey had nearly gagged when she smelled Phaedra’s arousal. With a voice filled with syrupy falseness, her aunt greeted Ralden, her hands lingering a little too long. Her uncle had not noticed anything amiss or simply did not care. He was too busy marveling at his association with such a “powerful figure,” the hamster-powered machine of manipulation housed in his brain clearly working overtime. Ralden took the meeting in stride and made the whole episode bearable. She moved into his house one week after his proposal. His brothers welcomed her with open arms, teasing Ralden at the amount of time it took get her there. Although the was fetus growing at almost twice the speed that was expected for a normal gestation, her pregnancy was progressing well according to a friend of the Kiale family, a shape shifting red wolf named Dr. Tate Canon. In human form, he was tall and very handsome with a shag of red hair and unusually light green eyes. He rarely smiled and the color and pattern of his spiritual energy shifted regularly like a chameleon changing color, something she had never seen before. In the garden where they first made love, Zoey and Ralden said their vows, pledging their love and lives to each other. It was a small ceremony consisting of his brothers and her aunt and uncle. Ralden looked gorgeous as usual in his black tux. He’d cut his hair a few days before into a medium bed head haircut. She absolutely loved its carelessly thrown together look and it was still just long enough 186

Kiale Dream to run her fingers through. His brothers were dressed similarly beside him. She was dressed in a simple but elegant cream-colored new empire sheath chiffon dress that barely hid her bulging belly. The beaded halter design accentuated the graceful line of her neck and shoulders. The slim chapel train flowed behind her, covering her low-heeled beaded strappy shoes. She felt like a princess, a feeling she’d never imagined would please her. To match her engagement ring, she wore simple pieces of colored beaded jewelry and a one-of-a-kind hair comb that held her straightened hair back. In her hand was a bouquet of large fuchsia rubrum lilies and red and white silk roses wrapped in sheer blue ballerina lace. It was a sunny day and the sun was setting, filling the sky with twilight colors. The birds chirped. Water flowed gently in the nearby pond and the flowers bloomed. Underneath the beautifully crafted gazebo, they recited their vows and exchanged rings made of intertwined white and rose gold, engraved with their names. The preacher asked, “Do you, Ralden, take this woman to be you lawfully wedded wife?” There was no hesitation. “I do,” rang out over the garden. “Do you, Zoey, take this man to be you lawfully wedded husband?” Zoey memorized each line and curve that made his beautiful face and the love shining in his eyes. This was officially the happiest day of her life although every day she felt happier than the day before. You sure know how to make a man sweat, don’t you? “I do.” She giggled and from the corner of her eye she could see her aunt and uncle exchange puzzled looks. That made her giggle harder. Lee and Micaiel were used to their silent conversations and simply smiled. Were you worried? “I now pronounce you Mr. and Mrs. Kiale.” Never. “You may now kiss the bride.” Lay it on me, Mr. Kiale. He grabbed her and dipped her over his arm, careful of her condition. She looked up into his smiling eyes. Distantly, she heard 187

the sound of applause. With pleasure, Mrs. Kiale. **** Two months later, the entire Kiale family was piled into the bedroom, including Dr. Canon. Zoey was reclined on the bed, pillows supporting her back, her body sweaty and trembling as vile words spewed from her lips after every contraction. In her pain, her control on her body was tenuous and her fangs descended. She screamed, making all three brothers cringed in fear and panic. From their positions at the head of the bed, Lee and Micaiel looked desperately at the door as if it was an escape route. Their faces were pale and strained, eyes wild, watching Zoey with worry. They looked horrible. Ralden figured he looked worse. Lee for once in his life seemed speechless and the camcorder he held wobbled in his unsteady hand. Damn man, I’m never going through this again. This came from Lee. Later, Ralden promised himself, he would be amused by the statement. Micaiel tried to calm Zoey down. “You’re doing great, Z—” “Oh shut up!” He did. He looked at Ralden and shrugged his shoulders as if saying I tried. Ralden looked down at the woman he loved. Her dark hair was stuck to her head, wet and her brown eyes were wild with pain. Her forehead was marred with lines as she screwed up her face to push. The light colored nightgown she wore was pushed up to her hips with Tate professionally coaching between her spread legs. She looked as beautiful as ever. Zoey had looked gorgeous during her pregnancy, glowing and radiant. His cock had rejoiced every time he saw her, thought of her, dreamed of her. Just knowing that it was his baby that she carried had made his blood sing. The entire process had fascinated him, from the late night snack cravings, to the insane mood swings and higher sex drive. They had decided to be surprised by the baby’s sex. Either way, Ralden was thankful for this miracle. All that 188

Kiale Dream matter was that he or she be healthy. “Come on, Zoey. Don’t give up now. Push!” Tate encouraged from his position. Zoey was slumped on the bed, waves of fatigue flowing off her. She had been in labor for more than twelve hours, pushing for at least thirty minutes. He gripped her hand tighter although she had already crushed every single bone in his hand and stroked her thigh soothingly. “You can do this, baby. Come on, push!” She lay heavily in the pillows, eyes closed as she trembled from exertion and pain. She shook her head weakly and the tears that glittered in her lashes made him want to cry himself. “I can’t, Ralden. I can’t.” He stroked his fingers over her face until she opened her eyes and looked up at him. Concentrating, he pushed every bit of love, every bit of adoration he felt for her across their connection. He kissed her softly on her lips. “You can, love. Our baby’s counting on you. Push, Zoey, push for him.” Fire flashed in her eyes. It always got a rise out of her when he said it would be a boy as she had already declared their baby female. “Her,” she said through gritted teeth. “Prove it,” he dared. Her eyes narrowed on him, the effect somewhat dulled by the residue of pain. He would have smiled then but he figured he would get punched in the face. A new wave of energy pumped through her. He moved to support her back as Tate counted her through the next contraction. “I see the head, that’s it, Zoey,” Tate announced minutes later. Come on, baby. Almost there. It’s almost over, he encouraged, hoping that he spoke the truth. The anticipation built in the room as more and more of the baby’s body became visible, then crested over when Zoey fell against his chest with a huge sigh. There was a quick snip of medical scissors and with the baby in his arms, Tate crossed the room to the makeshift nursery, his movements hurried and weirdly desperate for an animal known for his cool. No cry came from the infant as he pumped her chest and gave her his breath. Tate? What’s going on? Fear slithered down Ralden’s back 189

Hold on came the tense reply and it was all Ralden could do not to reach across the room and rip the baby from his arms. “Ralden? What’s going on? What’s happening to my baby?” Zoey’s nails dug into his arm as she clutched at him frantically, trying to pull her weak frame up from her inclined position. Her panic was crawling into his head, heightening his own sense of the crippling emotion. “Hold on, baby,” he repeated Tate’s reply, gently pushing her back down onto the sheets. “Everything’s fine.” Tate’s posture stiffened even more. He looked down at the baby as he slowly straightened. The intensity of his gaze had Ralden assuming the worse. A cry pierced the air, loud, distressed and more beautiful than any angel’s song. A collective sigh of relief went through the room. “My heart can’t take much more of this,” came Lee’s disgruntled words, a sentiment Ralden shared. His own was running at warp speed. “Oh, thank God,” Zoey sighed shakily. “Is she okay? Tell me she’s fine, Ralden,” she begged, fear still lining her eyes. Before he could answer, Tate pronounced, “Just beautiful.” His tone was reverent, his eyes never leaving the bundle he cradled. Tiny arms wiggled and protesting leaving its comfy home, the baby bawled. The sound was a balm to Ralden’s ears. “Congratulations, mom and dad. You have a beautiful baby girl,” Tate declared, his voice normally so neutral, shaking. Wrapped in a soft blanket, Tate placed the baby on Zoey’s chest. The doctor’s hand lingered before he pulled it away abruptly. Ralden caught and held Tate’s gaze, searching and finding an answer he was not comfortable with. The word Mate echoed between the two and in his eyes, Ralden saw a side of the wolf he had never known. Tate turned away quickly, suspecting his secrets were not quite as secret anymore and with a harsh inhale, Ralden turned back to his family. The truth he just uncovered would have to wait. Above them, Lee-vai and Micaiel said words of congratulations that Ralden barely heard. His gaze was focused on the mewling mass on Zoey’s chest. Her little grey eyes were open as she wiggled. 190

Kiale Dream “She’s beautiful, Ralden. Oh my gosh, look at her.” Happy tears ran down Zoey’s cheeks and when she reached out to wipe his cheek, he realized he too was crying. He laid a gentle hand over the baby’s body. The fragility he felt was humbling, the protective instinct that arose in him was fierce, the love that gripped his heart almost brought him to his knees. A dark mop of hair mapped her head. Her tiny wings were tucked in close to her body and despite all the goo covering her, she was indeed beautiful. Just like her mother. He buried his face in Zoey’s hair and inhaled deeply trying in vain to control the emotions that threatened to consume him. He placed a kiss on her neck and uttered the words that would be forever true. I love you. Her free hand caressed the back of his. I love you too. Glancing back down at his daughter, he said, “Hi, baby,” caressing her cheek. She gripped his finger with a surprisingly strength. The act seemed to solidify the reality of everything. He was a father! He laughed out loud, unable to contain his exhilaration. Zoey’s shining eyes caught his. I was right. You owe me. Her words made him laugh again. Whatever you want. “You guys have a name picked out?” “Maya-Ray Ariel Kiale.” “Welcome to the world, Maya.”

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Epilogue Once again, Feily paced the sandy beach side. She wore another toga style dress, this time of light green. Her hair was loose and the curls danced to the tune of the light breeze. Night consumed the sky. Splashes of color decorated the huge ceiling with bright greens, bold yellows, flashy blues and soulful purples. Like puffs of smoke, nebulae floated merrily by. Stars twinkled merrily as a large celestial body glowed bright pink on the horizon. The sea breeze stirred sweet smells and the entire mood of the place broadcasted calm and serenity. A far cry from the wonderings of Feily’s head and heart. Confusion swirled. Fear threatened to consume. Panic was already underway. Arousal had her pussy dripping. The interlude between she and her husband refused to leave her mind and she almost swooned at the remembered sensations. It had been so perfect. Too perfect. Her body trembled every time she recalled the perfection of them locked together. Her pussy had never known such satisfaction, her blood had never boiled so quickly and so hotly, her mind had never abandoned her so swiftly. His scent still clung to her skin. She could still feel the touch of his hands, the lick of his tongue, the heat of his breath on her sensitive skin, the drive of his body into hers, the wonderful weight of his body blanketing hers. It was not supposed to have been that way. She should have been repulsed by him. She was supposed have ripped his head off in a fiery show of feminine indignation. She snorted delicately. As it was all she could think of was his face as he dominated her, his eyes as he pumped his hips wildly into hers, the intoxicating sounds he made as his seed washed her vaginal walls, his look of satisfaction as she reached completion. 192

Kiale Dream She wanted more. She switched direction with an annoyed movement, her air, one of a very irritated, aroused female. She wanted to hate him, she wanted to remain angry, she wanted to remain aloof to his appeal. She stopped and faced the gently lapping waves, glaring angrily. The direction of the wind changed suddenly, whipping her unbound hair around her face. She felt the new presence immediately and sighed. Warm breath tickled her nape and she shivered in awareness. She closed her eyes and the warmth of his body permeated the layer of her dress to heat her skin and her heart started a one-organ race. His scent wrapped around her, clouding her already mucky brain. Gion. “What do you want?” she asked without turning around, trying to keep her voice from betraying her confused state condition of her mind and the state of readiness her treacherous body adopted. “My wife back.” He said it like it was the simplest request in the world, the deep timbre of his voice making her pussy pant with the need to turn around and wrap her legs around his hips. She shivered and the tremor had nothing to do with the cool breeze that touched her skin. “It’s not that easy, Gion. Not with our past.” She was tired and it reflected in her voice, the cool that was faked before, disappearing. The weight of so many years of anger was suddenly gargantuan. Her heart hurt as it slowed down to a heavy, foreboding beat. She tried to breathe calmly as she fought to control her body and her heart. “It’s only as hard as we make it. I know you are as tired of this as I am, Feily.” “You know nothing.” A slither of anger crept into her voice, the emotion still coming to her rescue when all else failed. “I know more than you think. I know that we are meant for each other. I know that this rift between us is utterly meaningless. I know that we still love each other, Feily. What we feel for each other will never go away. No matter how much you want it to.” Oh, how she hated that all-knowing tone. “That’s your ego talking, Gion.” “No, Fei. It’s my heart.” His voice lowered and was rich was 193

emotion. Emotion that called to hers. She actually felt the prick of tears. “This is not going to work, Gion.” “Why not?” Because, loving him was the worst pain she had ever felt. Because being angry was way easier. Because she never wanted to be vulnerable to that type of heartache again. But she could not say that. It revealed way too much, so instead she said, “Because we can’t just pushed everything aside and act like it never happened.” “I’m not asking you to push it aside or to forget. I’m asking you to forgive me. I’m asking for you to face what happened and leave it in the past where it belongs. We both made mistakes, Feily, but I am tired of living this way. I’m asking you to give us another chance. What we had deserves at least one more chance.” His hands settled on her shoulders and she relished the warmth they provided. They were suddenly the only thing keeping her from falling apart. “You’re asking the impossible. We can’t—” “Yes, we can.” She did not say anything in reply. The soothing waves lapped at her feet and she dug her toes into the wet sand. The sweet-smelling wind teased her hair, making it fly around her face, sticking to her chin and neck. Gion gathered the wayward strands, his fingers brushing her skin, and pushed them gently over her left shoulder before placing his hands back at their previous location. His gentle action was her undoing and words poured from her heart. “Once I thought nothing could go wrong. We were happy and in love. We created a beautiful home together. We did things other gods never thought of doing. We were a team and nothing could bring us down. I thought I had it all. I felt invincible. Now I’m just a monster ready to burst with all these feelings that are eating me from the inside out. I’ve turned into someone that I barely recognize, someone who kills without a second thought, who…who is only kept alive by hate and the need to hurt someone else. I—I don’t know who I am anymore.” She trailed off and the island was unnaturally quiet as if everything waited with a held breath for what she would say next. He did not say anything and she continued before she lost her 194

Kiale Dream nerve. “I knew you went to her. I told myself it did not matter. All the other gods kept mistresses, so why did I expect you to be different,” she shrugged the hurt away. “I still had your heart and that was all that mattered. That’s what I told myself. But then you had babies with her. I had to drug you to…to… And you just had them with her. I didn’t have your heart after all. She had everything I thought was mine. A servant took away everything from me. And I lost it,” she laughed bitterly, remembering her actions and their consequences, remembering the red haze that filled her mind. “How did we get here, Gion? Why did you go to her?” He did not answer right away. Then he sighed. It was a sad sound. “At first, it was because she looked at me with stars in her eyes. I really was a god to her. You never needed me, Feily. Never. That was very clear to me from the beginning. At first, it was what attracted me to you. You were so strong. You knew your own mind. You weren’t just an empty beautiful body but the whole package, body, brains and heart,” he paused as if searching for then right words before continuing. “Yes, we were a team, but you never gave me all of you. You kept something back and every time I was with you I felt it. Every time I touched you, I felt it. Every time we talked, it was there. Every time you were unhappy, there was nothing I could do because you would never let me in. And suddenly that independent, fierce nature I was attracted to was my enemy. So to soothe my pride, I went to her. I cared for her but I never loved her. Not the way I loved you then or the way I love you now.”’ He paused and for a little while all that could be heard was the calming sounds of the night. “When you turned to the Kiale males, I felt a rage I never felt before. That just confirmed it for me. You did not need me, not as your mate, not as your lover. Until that moment, I never realized just how much I needed you to need me. I felt like an insecure young buck around you. I did not when I was with her.” A tear escaped her control and fell into the waiting water. It heated her cheek before its impact with the surf echoed. Still the weird silence surrounded them. “I did need you, Gion.” If only he knew how much but she had never known how to lean on someone else, how to let someone else 195

take the wheel for a while. In hindsight, she had held back, careful to keep part of herself locked away, afraid of being hurt, afraid of giving up control. Turning around, she met his gaze. She swallowed, a knot forming in her throat. His hand came up to wipe the tears that she could no longer contain. He kissed her softly, marking the line of her lips. There was nothing sexual about it, just a touching of lips but it pulled at her soul. She breathed and he inhaled her grief and shame, cleaning away the stains that marred her heat. He breathed and she inhaled his sorrow and need for forgiveness, tasting the truth of his desire for a new start. He kissed her cheeks, lapping at the salty streaks, the line of her jaw, her forehead, the lids of her closed eyes. Her hand came up to clutch at his shoulders, her fingers digging into the light material of his clothing. His warmth slowly pushed the cold away. Her heart thawed and her soul shook off the frost. All the emotions she denied rushed to the surface. She cried. A wounded sob welled out and floated away on the wind and she lost it. She buried her face in his tunic and bawled. She cried for the young couple they had been, for the home they had built and then destroyed, for the children they had left behind, for the mistakes that could never be erased. She cried for the goddess that she had allowed herself to become, for the pain they both endured, for all the time they lost. So harsh were the gut-wrenching sobs that her throat felt raw and abused. Her chest and back heaved with the effort. Time stood still as he wrapped her in the warmth of his arms. His hands roamed her back, her shoulders and arms, lightly massaged her scalp and smoothed her hair. Words she could not discern were crooned and cocooned her, the low vibrations keeping her from drowning in the mess of emotions. Eventually her sobs died down into small snivels and sniffs, then those vanished as well but she stayed locked in his arms, weak and replete. Her head felt light, her shoulders not as heavy. Her mind felt clearer, not muddled like before. Her heart was still bruised but the great gaping holes were now closed, not bleeding her dry. She lifted her head off his chest and looked up. His eyes were 196

Kiale Dream slightly damp and were bright with emotion. She smiled a little and said, “I’m willing to give it a try on one condition.” His eyes grew cautious, “And what would that be?” Her hands circled his neck and touched the golden strands with light fingers. “That you make love to me like you did at least once a day. It’s non-negotiable, so take it or leave it.” He threw his head back and laughed. Looking down at her with a sexy smile on his face, his hands cupped her behind and lifted her, showing no effort at all. She wrapped her legs around his hips and his swollen penis would have slid neatly into her canal had it not been for their clothing. She was one thought away from making them disappear but Gion was faster and the fabric melted away. Wasting no time, he thrust up, his hands pulling her down on his hard length, holding her gaze in a sensual prison. Penetrated and filled, she had no desire to get free. They both groaned as their bodies rejoiced as they became one once more. His mouth no more than an inch from hers, he replied, “I’ll take it.”

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About The Author Nacomy Blue is the epitome of beauty and grace. Angels sing in reverence at her presence. Ah ha ha haaaa. If you’re rolling your eyes, I don’t blame you. But seriously, I am a woman just like any other with a guilty pleasure for sweets, a fear of bugs and a love for steamy romance novels. I’m in love with a geek and have the most beautiful son. Writing gives me an outlet for all my thoughts, the good, the bad and the ridiculous.

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