Love is War

A D. J. Manly Love Is War Valentine

By

D.J. Manly

The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. Please purchase only authorized electronic editions, and do not participate in or encourage the electronic piracy of copyrighted materials. Your support of the author's rights is appreciated. This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events or locales or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. A Love is War Valentine Copyright © 2008 D. J. Manly ISBN: 978-1-55487-015-8 Cover art by Martine Jardin All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or hereafter invented, is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. Published by eXtasy Books Look for us online at: www.extasybooks.com

g i. I’m Cupid. No shit. I really am Cupid. Don’t get up. No applause. None is necessary. I’m just here to inspire D.J…act as a muse. D.J. asked me to help pick out four love stories to tell you about. Now, bear in mind, I’ve had my hand in billions of these kinds of situations, so it wasn’t easy. I had some help choosing which stories of course because, just between you and I, D.J. is very fussy. I know, I know…I’m just here to provide the inspiration. D.J is the story teller. Now when I say love stories, I mean the kind that are genuine and everlasting, the sort only yours truly could inspire. Now, before you go asking me if this type of forever love exists, the answer to your question is, of course it does, silly pus. If it didn’t, I’d be reduced to collecting royalties off my likeness on Valentine’s cards. And that’s only once a year so I wouldn’t be living in this here condo with a hot tub and...oh well, never

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mind that. I’m getting off track. I have to be honest with you though, that kind of love doesn’t come along every day and sometimes people miss the boat. Ironically, that kind of love generally has the most obstacles to overcome. You know that old saying…anything worth fighting for… Okay…okay…no more clichés. Manly here is giving me the evil eye. So, with all that said, I hand this over to D.J. Manly. The first story in the Love is War Valentine is called, Frisk Me.

Story One Frisk Me t was a bitterly cold evening, one of those nights that made you wish you could just crawl into bed, cover yourself up with ten blankets and sleep until spring. But spring was at least six weeks away. I hated March and it wasn’t only the weather. Every time shit happened in my life, it was in March. Sometimes I swore that month was cursed. Yes, I’m Irish. And I had inherited my superstitious nature from my mother, although she was far worse than I was, running off to St. Patrick’s every time the least little thing went wrong. I’d long given up on believing in the church. I’d had enough of that growing up. My mother damn near made me crazy with all the rules and regulations. And when my father, also a cop, was shot dead in a hold up, I stopped going to church altogether, except when my mother dragged me there at Christmas.

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Love is War Valentine I couldn’t seem to shake these damn superstitions, which of course drove my partner, an irreverent Sicilian named Franco Riggi, insane. “You know,” Franco said to me that fateful night in the car, “you Irishmen…you need to chill out, relax. You don’t know how to enjoy your life.” “Chill out?” I raised an eyebrow comically. “Don’t you think it’s chilly enough, Frankie? I don’t know about you, but I’m damn near freezing my ass off out here.” “Funny guy.” Franco Riggi had been my one and only partner and I wouldn’t have wanted to ride with anyone else. Franco was a ten year veteran. He lived with a grade school teacher called May, and a huge Irish Setter. I’d given him the dog for his birthday three years ago. Franco wanted to name it Aidan Mackenzie, but I told him if he named his dog after me, I’d shoot him. He called it Red. My mother actually cried when I graduated from the police academy five years ago to become one of New York’s finest, and believe me, they weren’t tears of joy. My mother didn’t want her only son to become a cop, but I’d been in love with the idea since I was a kid. My father was good cop, and from the day I put on that uniform, I was determined that I too would be a good cop. Franco pulled the squad car over in front of the 2

D. J. Manly coffee shop now. “We’re supposed to be walking the beat,” I told him. “Community policing, remember the big lecture the Captain gave us all last week?” Franco pulled his hat down over his eyes. “Huh? Non capisco,” he said. “I no speak da English.” I laughed. Franco was always saying that whenever he didn’t want to do something. I got out of the car and followed him into the shop. “Franco,” I warned. “Give me a break, Mother Theresa. I’m going to get a coffee then we’ll walk.” I grinned. “Here comes the twins,” the girl behind the counter said. Her name was Nancy and she had nicknamed us, ironically, the twins. Franco Ruggi and I couldn’t have looked less alike if we’d tried. I was twenty five years old, six foot four, one hundred and eighty five pounds of muscle. My hair was the colour of sand and a little longer than regulation, just brushing my collar, and I had dark blue eyes. Franco stood five foot nine and a half and he was just on the border of what one would call pleasantly plump. His jet black hair sported an army cut and his eyes were dark brown. “You want your regular, blue eyes?” Nancy grinned at me. “Stop flirting with him,” Franco teased. “Unless 3

Love is War Valentine you want to date him…poor guy is desperate.” “Thanks,” I muttered to Franco, nodding at Nancy that the regular would do. Franco knew I was gay. I’d told him six months after we started working together, but the poor guy never gave up hope that one day I’d find some nice girl to settle down with. “I think I’m going to have a doughnut with that,” Franco said. I looked at him. “On second thought, my mother thinks I better go on a diet,” he looked at Nancy. “You think I’m fat, Nancy? Granted, I’m not like Mr. Body Beautiful here but…hey…the girlfriend seems to like it. A lot to hold on to.” Nancy was laughing. “Eat what you want,” I said, taking my radio off my shoulder to see why it was crackling. “I’ll come visit you after you’ve had the bypass.” There was a dispute going on in the street two blocks over. I told them we’d take it. “Come on, Franco, we got to go. Public disturbance on Cross Street outside a bar.” He took his coffee and followed me out. I got behind the wheel. “Don’t people fucking know how cold it is outside? Jesus Christ,” he said, sipping his coffee as I steered out of the parking lot. “You’d think they’d have enough common sense to kill each other inside where it’s warm. I 4

D. J. Manly didn’t even get my doughnut.” I couldn’t help but grin as we rolled down the street. Franco’s sense of humour made this job bearable on nights like this. I pulled over as I spotted a small crowd of people outside a bar called Night Out. Although it didn’t carry the official title, it was reputed to be a gay bar…and not one of the classiest joints in town. I got out of the radio car and closed the door. Franco was right behind me. “Okay,” I said in a loud voice as I walked into the crowd of perhaps ten people, “clear out. Move away. Go back inside now. It’s cold. Go warm up.” “Warm up and cool off,” Franco muttered under his breath. As the crowd thinned and people wandered off, I saw a man standing beside an expensive looking Corvette, his hand on the top of the door. He looked to be about fifty and was dressed to the nines. Three other guys stood a few feet away. Two of them were obviously restraining the guy in the middle, who yelled obscenities at the well dressed gentleman. “Okay, okay,” I said, “what’s the problem here?” “I want my money!” The guy being restrained shouted. “This bastard owes me money!” I studied the young man for a few seconds. He was dressed in jeans, wearing only a thin jacket, which looked like leather, but probably wasn’t. 5

Love is War Valentine The jeans were tight, and not only rather impractical for this kind of weather, but a sure sign that he was trying to rent out his assets. Shoulder length black hair fell over a brutally handsome face. His body was in good shape, slim, but well muscled, which meant that he was managing to make a living out here. Franco already had the agitated guy in hand. “You guys back off, but don’t go anywhere until we sort this mess out.” “I’d like to see some identification, please,” I looked at the older man. He hauled out his drivers licence. I’d check his plates in a minute. “And you?” I looked over at the other guy. “I ain’t carrying any,” he said, his gaze spitting fire. “And fuck you.” “Thank you,” I replied. “Very nice. You know this poet, Mr. ah…Phillips?” I asked the older man, glancing at his ID. “Never saw him before in my life.” “You fucking liar,” the younger man shouted, trying to struggle away from Franco who held him prone. “Calm yourself,” Franco told him, “or we’ll haul your ass to the station.” “We’ll have to do that anyway if he doesn’t tell me who he is,” I said. “Now that’s justice,” he said. “You cops…you 6

D. J. Manly take the cake. This old rich fuck rips me off and I’m the one who gets arrested.” “Watch your mouth,” I told him. “Just what does he owe you money for now?” “I…” he hesitated, “ah…I…cleaned his basement.” Franco started to laugh. “Cleaned more than that from where I stand. Take it to Consumer Protection, kid.” He muttered something and glared at Franco who laughed even harder. “Franco,” I said, “take Mr. Phillips inside. I’m going to have a little discussion with this one in the car. It’s too cold out here.” “Suits me, come on,” Franco motioned to Phillips. I took hold of the other one’s arm. “You, poet, come with me.” “Give me break okay?” His voice softened a little as he glanced up at me. “Tell me your name and what you were doing out here,” I said, opening the passenger side of the car and guiding him inside. I closed the door then walked around the car and got behind the wheel. “Okay, so? Name?” I said, looking at him. “I don’t even know your name. Why should I tell you mine?” “Officer Mackenzie…Aidan Mackenzie. Now, what’s yours?” 7

Love is War Valentine “Caleb Burton.” I took off my black gloves and pulled out my notepad and pen. My fingers were frozen. “Where do you live, Mr. Burton?” “Right now, I’m kind of in between places. Staying with friends.” I wrote homeless on my pad. “Were you soliciting Mr. Phillips for money?” He sighed and looked straight ahead. “I told you, I cleaned his basement.” “Okay, how much are you charging nowadays to clean ah…basements?” “Why officer? Is your basement in need of cleaning?” He gave me a little smile. “You’re not helping yourself here. Do you want to spend the night in jail?” “What I want is my fifty bucks.” I had a good mind to haul both of them downtown, this one for prostitution and the other dude for hiring him. Oh God, the paperwork. Franco wouldn’t be happy. I let Caleb Burton stew while I ran the Phillips guy through the computer. Some Wall Street business man…and he couldn’t afford fifty bucks for a blow job. Go figure. He had no record of course, just some outstanding parking tickets. As for Burton, I couldn’t find any priors on him, and I really couldn’t prove that anything illegal had gone on. I should have just let it go, but for some reason I didn’t. I radioed 8

D. J. Manly Franco. “Bring out Mr. Phillips. Frisk him, read him his rights,” he said. “We’re taking ‘em both in so we can sort this out.” “For what?” “Unpaid traffic tickets.” “You got to be kidding.” “Nope.” “Okay. Ten four,” Franco said. I knew he’d chew me out for this later. I glanced over at Caleb Burton now who was glaring at me. “Get out of the car. Assume the position,” I told him. “Shit!” he exclaimed, opening the car door. “What in hell are you arresting me for?” “Prostitution.” “You can’t prove that!” I turned him around and pressed him against the squad car. He was right. “Spread your legs.” He looked back at me over his shoulder. “You got nothing.” “You have a right to remain silent,” I patted him down, “and please feel free to remain silent, Mr. Burton.” “I know all this shit,” he said as I continued to search him. “Maybe you do, but I got to say it anyway.” I slapped the cuffs on him and put him in the back seat. Franco came out with a cuffed Phillips who was 9

Love is War Valentine screaming about his lawyer and how he’d have our badges…and Franco told him to shut up and pressed him into the back seat on the other side. Franco got in behind the wheel and I slipped in beside him. He gave me a look. I ignored it. Phillips and that kid snarled at each other all the way. Twice I had to tell them to knock it off. Frankly, I was happy to get them inside the precinct in one piece. “Since I was the one who insisted on bringing them in, I’ll handle the booking.” “Okay,” Franco said. “I’ll file the reports with you though. I got the name of those witnesses in case we need them, but Aidan, I…” I held up my hand. “I’ll explain later. We probably won’t need any witnesses,” I said. It was a case going no where and both of us knew that. No one was going to admit to what really happened. I just wanted to give them a scare, especially that rich bastard, who tried to con Caleb Burton. Down deep, I’d always thought that it would be a lot easier just to legalize prostitution. Guys like that had no protection out there and it was low for a guy as rich as Phillips to rip him off when all he was trying to do was survive. And yes, I had a bit of a soft spot for Burton. I hated to see anyone out on the streets, especially in this weather. Perhaps I could talk him into going to a shelter for the night. 10

D. J. Manly As you’ve already guessed, Caleb was not in a good mood when I walked into the interrogation room. He sat there with his arms crossed over his chest. In this light, I finally got a good look at him. Yeah, he was handsome, and there was a little part of me that was excited by those good looks. “How old are you?” He looked over at me now and for a few minutes he didn’t say anything. I’d taken off my big blue coat and my hat. I stood there in my uniform finally feeling my feet begin to thaw out. “How old are you?” He asked me suddenly. “Twenty six.” He nodded. He was looking at me in a way which suddenly made me feel like he was stripping me naked. “You’re buff,” he said. “I’m what?” “Buff…built…hung…hot.” I might have blushed. I cleared my throat and looked away for a second. After I’d recovered, I asked him again how old he was. “Nineteen,” he said. “What are you doing on the streets?” “I’m not on the…” “Look Caleb, we both know what you were doing for Phillips.” “You have a dirty mind, officer.” I shook my head. 11

Love is War Valentine “What are you holding me for? What am I being charged with?” “Nothing. It’s just routine questioning. Do you have any place to stay?” “I told you man, I’m staying with…” “No bullshit.” “Okay, no. Not tonight, but I have…prospects.” “Prospects. How long you been on the streets?” “I told you I’m not…” “Okay, fine. How long have you been on the game?” “Huh?” “Hustling?” “I’m a dancer.” That made sense. A lot of them were. “Where?” “I was at the Tight End, but I got fired.” “You seem to have quite a temper.” “I didn’t want to blow cock for five dollars a pop if you must know so I told the manager where to go. He didn’t like it and threw me out. If you want to do some real police work, why don’t you check that place out?” “You should lodge a formal complaint.” “Yeah, right.” “So now you don’t have a job.” “I wasn’t…I mean before…it was only one time and this fucker…” I put up my hand. “Alright. Come on, I’m taking you to a shelter.” 12

D. J. Manly “No thanks.” He stood up. “Look, you have a choice, a shelter or you appear before a judge.” “On what charge?” “Disturbing the peace…being disrespectful to a police officer.” “Oh come off it.” “You choose,” I said, folding my arms across my chest. He sighed. “Whatever.” “Okay, wait here. I’ll finish up and then drop you off when I go home.” “Perfect,” he sneered. Franco told me out in the hallway that Phillips was still yelling about his lawyer. “What are you charging him with exactly?” “Nothing,” I said. “I just want to scare him a little. Go on home.” “Sure?” “Yeah. I know we should have let it go but…” “Don’t explain,” Franco shook his head. “You’re weird sometimes.” I laughed and walked into the other interrogation room. The older man stood up, pointed at me. “I could have your badge.” “You married?” I asked him. “Yes, what business is it of yours? I got a beautiful wife and...” 13

Love is War Valentine “So, what were you doing outside that bar at this time of night then?” “I stopped for a drink. Doesn’t a guy have a right to—” “You stopped for a drink and a fuck,” I told him, leaning over the table and meeting his gaze. “You could have had the decency to pay him.” “I told you, I never saw him before in my life.” “You keep telling yourself that, Phillips. You don’t care what happens to that guy in there. He’s on the streets, in the freezing cold, and you go on your merry way with your cock sucked and can’t be bothered to give him enough money to go in somewhere and buy a cup of coffee. You make me sick.” He looked down at the floor. “I want to see my lawyer.” “No need. You’re free to go, but if I ever see you around that neighbourhood again, Phillips, I’ll make a little trip to your house and have a talk with that wife of yours. I’m sure she’d be interested in what you were doing hanging out there at that time of night.” He looked scared. That was good. I told the desk sergeant to return his belongings and I watched him leave. Caleb Burton had no way of knowing what I’d said to his non-paying client and I didn’t tell him. I drove to one of the downtown shelters and walked up to the front door. 14

D. J. Manly “They won’t let me in now,” Caleb said, “it’s too late. You got to get here at…” I knew all that, but I thought I could use some clout. The doors were sealed up tight and no one was answering. It was almost four in the morning and still hellish cold. “Come on,” I said, “we’ll try the one on…” “I hate to burst your bubble, gorgeous, but all of the shelters are the same. There’s only room for so many and if you don’t get there by—” “Okay,” I said, putting up my hand. I got back in the car while he stood there on the sidewalk. I motioned to him to get in. “Where are we going?” He asked, shivering as he slid into the front seat. “My place,” I said. His eyes widened. “Look, I have a sofa, you can have it for the night and tomorrow we could…” “You’re going to let me sleep on your sofa?” “Well, I can’t very well leave you outside to freeze to death.” “You can just drop me at an all night joint like one of the fast food places. If you give me five bucks, I can—” “What? My sofa not good enough?” “You’re a cop!” “Yeah, and you’re a…let’s say…a homeless person.” I began to drive. 15

Love is War Valentine “I don’t like cops so much,” he muttered. “Deal with it. Would you rather sleep in the street?” “Well,” he peered out the window. “I don’t know.” “I’m off duty.” “You’re still a cop.” “Look, stop busting my chops okay? I’m off tomorrow. I’ll help you find a place to stay temporarily until—” “Why you being so nice to me?” I glanced at him. “Hasn’t anyone ever tried to give you hand before?” “Yeah, but only when they wanted something from me. What is it that you want?” He narrowed his eyes. “Nothing.” “Come on. You must want something. I wouldn’t mind doing you though. You’re pretty cute.” I ignored the comment. “You know what I really want right now?” “A blow job.” I sighed. “I was going to say that I want to be inside where it’s warm. I want to eat. I’m starved. And I would love to get some sleep. That’s about it. So as long as that suits you, that’s what we’ll do.” He actually smiled. 16

D. J. Manly It transformed his handsome face into that of an angel...but I wasn’t naïve enough to think that he was one. A few minutes later I drove into the driveway of my building. “You live here?” “Yeah.” “It’s nice,” he said, glancing up at the apartment block which contained six apartments. “Thanks. Mine’s on the third floor on the left. No elevator.” A few minutes later we were inside my small apartment, one bedroom, bath, kitchen and living room with a pull out love seat thing Caleb could sleep quite comfortably on. I put my weapon away and invited him to sit down. He sat on the sofa, pressing his hands on it to test it. “It’s soft.” “Good. I’m just going to change. Give me a minute. What would you like to eat?” I called from the bedroom, pulling off my uniform. “Anything,” he said. “I’m not fussy.” “You are hungry?” I confirmed, pulling a t-shirt over my jeans as I walked out of the bedroom. I felt his gaze on me as I walked into the small kitchen and opened the refrigerator. “Sure,” he said, “I’m hungry.” I glanced at him. The words he said sounded a little odd. He smiled. “Not always for food. Your name’s Aidan right?” 17

Love is War Valentine “Yeah,” I said. “That’s my name. How about ah…grilled cheese and soup?” He nodded. “Okay. You look different out of uniform.” “I suppose,” I said. I started to prepare the food. A few seconds later he was beside me. “Can I help?” “You can open the soup. Can opener is in the drawer. So, what about your parents? Don’t you have any?” I expected a hard luck story, abusive parents, drug addicts…but I got something completely different. “My mother and father are part of this religious cult.” “Oh,” I said, looking at him while he poured the vegetable soup into a pot on the stove and began to stir it. “They got sucked into it two years ago. These people make me sick, so self righteous. They tried to…” He stopped and looked at me. “They tried to what?” “They tried to convince me that the way I’m looking at you right now is a sin…that I could rot in hell for that…and if that’s the case…” He paused as if he were surprised at his own words. “Well, I’d be willing to rot.” I was speechless. 18

D. J. Manly “You’re so beautiful,” he said. “You looked hot in that uniform even if I don’t like cops, but now…” I cleared my throat. “I’m sure ah…they…love you, Caleb.” “No,” he shook his head, thankfully going back to the soup. “They told me I was sick. I didn’t believe any of the crap they tried to brainwash me with. They preached hate to me, Aidan. I had to get out of there.” “I’m sorry.” I had met some of these religious fanatic people. Some of them were way out there. “I fell on hard times,” he told me. “I met the wrong guys…the dancing, well…it was better than nothing. I didn’t mind it. I’m not modest. But I didn’t want to…do stuff in the back room with strange men.” “What about school?” “I managed to finish high school last year. I left home and went back a few times, but I can’t do it anymore. I kept thinking they’d see through that stuff, leave that cult. The last time I went home, my father tried to take me to this camp in the woods. He said they’d make me straight. They think being gay is a sickness…that I need to be cured.” “Do you have any relatives that…” He shook his head. “Not near by.” “I’ll try to help you the best I can. Maybe I can 19

Love is War Valentine find you a job. You can stay here until…” “I couldn’t take advantage of you like that.” “I…” I paused, putting the grilled cheese sandwiches on plates, “you can pay me by cleaning the place up if you like. Can you cook?” “Some.” He grinned. “Okay, you stay here for a little while until we can find you a real job.” He met my gaze. “I…how can I thank you? I…” I put up a hand. “Just help me clean this place up, okay? I don’t have much time to do those things with the shifts I work.” Okay, so now anyone would think I was nuts, taking this stranger in off the streets, but there was just something about him. I was drawn to him, but I told myself that there would be nothing but friendship between us. I wasn’t taking him in to exploit him. I didn’t tell Franco I’d taken Caleb in. He would have freaked out on me. After a few days of having Caleb with me, I began to like it. It was nice to come home to someone and he always had food prepared. He wasn’t a bad cook, and the apartment…well…he cleaned it from top to bottom. I’d never seen it so clean. Everyday he went out looking for work and, within a week, told me that he found something. I was a little disappointed when he said he’d been hired at a convenience store to work behind 20

D. J. Manly the counter. “It’s at night,” he said. “Sometimes we’ll be working the same hours. You do a lot of nights.” “That’s dangerous,” I said. There had been a lot of clerks killed during robberies at night in convenient stores. “I’ll be careful, Dad,” he laughed, sitting a plate of pasta in front of me then coming to join me with a plate for himself. “You got that job because no one wants to work those hours at places like that.” Caleb reached over and touched my hand. He smiled at me. “Don’t worry. And it doesn’t matter. What matters is that I have a legitimate job, and when I get my first pay, I’m taking us out to dinner, okay?” I smiled back. How could I not? “Yeah.” “I’ll stay on for a few more weeks then find a place closer to the…” “You don’t have to,” I said hastily. “What?” “I mean, you could stay here.” I looked down at my plate. “Share the expenses.” “I can’t sleep on your sofa for the rest of my life, Aidan,” he said. I took a bite of the pasta. When I looked up, he was looking at me. “What?” “Sometimes when you’re sleeping, I go into the room and…” 21

Love is War Valentine Our gazes locked. When he stopped speaking, my heart almost ceased to beat. I had no idea what he was about to say because at that moment, my doorbell rang. I rose slowly from the table and went to the door. It was my mother. “Aidan,” she said, marching in. “I haven’t heard a word from you in weeks. We need to talk. Your sister is thinking of becoming a cop. My heart won’t take it… My…” She stopped and looked at Caleb. “Oh,” she said, “didn’t know you had company.” “Not a problem,” I said. “Caleb, this is my mother.” She eyed him curiously. “I don’t remember you mentioning any Caleb.” “That’s because I didn’t,” I said. “Don’t worry about Lucy, Mother, she’ll make a good cop.” “How can you say that? Talk her out of it. She’ll listen to you. You’re her big brother. She worships you. She doesn’t listen to me, Aidan.” I shook my head. “It’s in the blood, Mother.” “It’s a curse I tell you, a damn curse. Just because we’re Irish doesn’t mean all my children have to be cops.” “Mother, are you taking off your coat or…” “No, I’m not staying. Your uncle is in the car. He’s taking me to mass.” “Mother, Carl McNeil is not my uncle,” I said. “Well, he was a good friend to your father 22

D. J. Manly and…” I kissed her cheeks. She could call him anything she wanted. It didn’t bother me. I placed a hand on her shoulder and steered her to the door. I peered back at Caleb. “He doesn’t look old enough to…” “He’s okay, Mother. Not jailbait…now go.” She clicked her tongue. “You be a talking like that. I said nothing about that sort of thing.” My mother knew I was gay. I told her when I was sixteen, but just like Franco, she pretended she didn’t really know. “Does his mother know?” She lowered her voice. “Yes Mother,” I said, “she knows. She’s in church right now praying for him. Now, go to church. Uncle Carl is waiting.” “I’ll pray for you,” she looked me in the eyes. “You do that.” “And talk to your sister. Get this nonsense out of her head.” I finally closed the door. Caleb was laughing when I returned to the table. “You should see your face.” “My cross to bear,” I muttered, rolling my eyes. “So your sister wants to be a cop? Why doesn’t your mother want her to be a cop?” “My father was killed in the line of duty.” “I’m sorry,” he said. “That must have been tough, Aidan.” 23

Love is War Valentine “Lucy has already talked to me about being a cop. She has a mind of her own. I couldn’t change it if I wanted to. I know she’s going to be a good cop, but I understand why Mother is worried.” “It’s a dangerous job. I worry about you when you…” He stopped. “It sounds stupid.” “No,” I shook my head. “Thank you for...” He reached over and touched my hand then withdrew it. I tried to concentrate on eating. We finished supper and turned on some stupid television show. I fell asleep on the sofa. Later, I felt a hand on my shoulder. “Aidan,” a voice said softly, “Aidan, wake up.” I opened my eyes and looked up into the most beautiful eyes. I reached up and touched his cheek. “Aidan,” he smiled, “we have company.” I sat up quickly and blinked. Franco and May stood there. “We should have called first,” May said, looking uncomfortable. Franco was staring at Caleb. “Do you want me to make some coffee?” Caleb asked. “Yeah, thanks,” I said. Franco’s eyes widened as soon as Caleb was out of earshot. He came closer to me. “What to hell?” I put up my hand. “I’m just giving him a place 24

D. J. Manly to stay until…he has already found a job and…” “Aidan,” Franco shook his head. May pushed Franco aside suddenly and kissed me. “How are you, Aidan?” “I’m fine. Sit down.” May sat. Franco stood looking over at Caleb who was making coffee in the kitchen. Suddenly, Franco grabbed my elbow and steered me into the bedroom. “You could lose your job for this.” I shook him off. “Why? I’ve done nothing wrong.” “You can’t just take criminals home with you.” “He’s not a criminal.” “He’s a god damned prostitute!” “No, he’s down on his luck that’s all.” “Are you…ah…sleeping with him?” “No.” Not that I didn’t want to. “Look, he’s leaving soon.” I wanted to tell him it was none of his business. “He could rob you blind, slit your throat in your sleep.” “Come off it. And what in hell is he going to take, my television set?” “Aidan,” Caleb said, poking his head in suddenly, “sorry to interrupt, but the coffee is ready.” I was happy to be interrupted. Franco and May stayed for a half hour then left. When we were alone again, Caleb came over 25

Love is War Valentine and sat beside me on the sofa. He gave me a compassionate look. “I’m sorry, Aidan. I didn’t mean to cause problems for you. I…” “It’s no ones business, but my own who I have staying here,” I snapped. “I’m tired of everyone sticking their noses in my private business. I’m a grown man. And you have nothing to be sorry for. I haven’t done anything illegal. I haven’t even laid a hand on you.” “Yeah,” he said, meeting my gaze, “unfortunately.” That one word was so pregnant with meaning, meaning that I couldn’t just pass off this time. It didn’t matter what to hell anyone thought at that moment. I wanted to kiss him. In fact, I couldn’t stop myself from kissing him. I took his face between my hands, looked deep into his eyes and pressed my mouth to his. To say it was sweet would be to completely misrepresent what that kiss tasted like. It was heaven, and once I started kissing him, I couldn’t bring myself to stop. The thing was, he didn’t seem to mind. In fact, he wrapped his arms around me and kissed me back. It was more than passionate, it was intensely erotic and it whetted my appetite for more. Caleb moved his mouth along my jaw line to my ear and whispered, “Your cock is hard, officer.” I swallowed and tried to move away. 26

D. J. Manly He pulled me closer again and nibbled on my earlobe. “No,” he said. “Don’t you dare!” His fingers moved over my upper thigh and began to flirt with the zipper on my jeans. “I want you. Fuck me, Aidan.” I was completely in his power. When his finger tips came into contact with the head of my cock, I stifled a groan. Caleb pushed me back against the sofa and lowered his head to my shaft. One hand crept up under my t-shirt while the other guided my cock into his mouth. I closed my eyes, lost in the sensations his lips and tongue were producing. His palm was moving back and forth over one of my nipples, increasing the sexual tension that was by this time so taunt in my body, I felt like a tightly wound coil. I placed a hand in his hair. He murmured something. The juices pulsed through my shaft and my fingers tightened, pulling. “Oh God, oh God,” I cried out, my chest heaving as my cock exploded. He backed off, his fingers now kneading my cock. He caressed my shaft with his gaze, leaned down and lovingly licked the head dry. When he looked up at me, there was something there in the look on his face. “I’ve never seen anything so beautiful,” he said softly. “Aidan.” I was trying to catch my breath, my chest still moving. I reached down and pulled him in to me. I held him, kissed his hair, then I urged him to his 27

Love is War Valentine feet. My cock was stiffening again. I wanted to be inside of him more than I’d ever wanted to fuck anyone. I pulled his t-shirt over his head. While I did, he undid his jeans and let them fall down over his hips. I helped him with the underwear. He stood there looking at me, completely naked, his cock standing straight out…desire. I could almost taste how much he wanted me. There’s no greater turn on than that. I moaned when I pulled him into my arms. My intention to take him to bed never materialised. We never got there. I managed to get lube and condoms from the medicine cabinet in the bathroom. He followed me. He looked so god damned hot standing there, waiting for me to come back that I ravished him right there and then, pressing him against the wall. He spread his legs, lifted his arms over his head, threw his head back and offered me heaven. And I took. I took until we were both moaning out our release. I took until the sweat and cum from our bodies coated on our flesh like a fine mist. My cock took over, driving itself into his beautiful round ass, moving in and out, stimulating every nerve ending, pounding to the hilt, deep and real and alive. And there we lay on the carpet, my lips on his shoulder, his hand reaching out to massage my spent dick. When he pushed me over onto my 28

D. J. Manly back and crawled on top, I knew we’d fuck again before the sun came up. There was determination in his smile, sexual need in the way he handled me, lust in his voice when he said my name. I was ready again ten minutes later. Caleb slipped another condom on my cock, leaned down and kissed my mouth. He straddled me, whispering, “Aidan, you’re beautiful. I want your cock. I want to ride it raw.” My head went back into the carpet. I gasped as his ass swallowed my cock almost hole, greedy, uncompromising, bold, without apology. His palms came down on my chest as he bucked out his requirements, bouncing on my erection. He took hold of my nipples and pulled on them, without mercy, sweet painful pleasure. I began to move my hips in sync with his, responding to his demands, pleading when the pleasure became so intense, I slammed my fist into the floor. Then merciful release. The chords in my neck stood out, I shouted something which sounded quite nonsensical then I felt Caleb’s cum hit my skin as I exploded inside of him like a dam suddenly let loose. I was panting, trying to gain control when I felt myself slip outside of him and he covered me with kisses. “Baby,” he whispered. “Christ. That felt good. What a cock. I could ride it all night.” I started to laugh, giving him back his kisses. I 29

Love is War Valentine lifted an eyebrow. “All night? Are you trying to kill me? I know you don’t like cops but…” “I like this cop,” he whispered. “I like this cop a whole lot.” We both quieted. We lay there on the floor together for a long time. I think I might have dozed off a bit. When I opened my eyes, I was lying there alone, a blanket thrown over me. I sat up, rubbed my eyes. The sun was up. I checked the clock. It was after ten in the morning. There was no sign of Caleb. I had to be to work for four that afternoon. I got into bed and tried to sleep, but sleep wouldn’t come. Where in the hell was Caleb? At two o’clock, I was showered and dressed. I waited until the last minute then left for the precinct. I was in no mood for Franco’s lecture but I got one anyway. “You’re asking for trouble,” Franco told me as soon as we left the station. “You drive,” he said, throwing me the keys. “Can we drop it?” I asked, getting behind the wheel. “I’m your partner and—” “Yes, but you’re not my mother.” “Do you think your mother would approve of-” “I’m not ten years old, Franco. I know you have my best interest at heart, but drop it.” “Did he get a job at least?” 30

D. J. Manly “Yes.” We got a call shortly after that which was good because I didn’t want to hear anymore. Caleb was gone without a word. I couldn’t help feeling dejected. After what had happened between us, it didn’t make sense that he would just walk out like that. I didn’t discover that the money was gone until two nights later. I had saved around twenty six hundred dollars for my vacation coming up in the summer. I had put the money in a coffee tin on the shelf in my closet. On my nights off, I often went to play poker with the some of the guys. At first I went to please Franco then I started winning and I began to get into it. The cold weather had broken and we were experiencing a warm spell. That night, I went to get my black leather coat out of the closet. I looked everywhere for it. It had cost me an arm and a leg. I couldn’t find it. The money I’d stashed on the shelf over head was gone, too. I sat down on the bed and closed my eyes. I was hurt more than angry. So what? It was a stupid coat and a few thousand dollars. But I had really believed that Caleb had felt something for me that night. God knows, I did for him. But not only had he violated my trust, he had broken my heart as well. He must have come in here right after I fell asleep, grabbed my coat and my money, and took off. I didn’t dare tell Franco. My instinct was to go looking for him, but knew I wouldn’t. I was too 31

Love is War Valentine embarrassed, too wounded to do that. I went to play poker, tried to make out that nothing was wrong, but Franco wasn’t buying it. “What’s with you?” He asked as I drove him home after the game. “Nothing, except I lost fifty bucks tonight.” “No, it’s not that. It’s something else. Spill it.” “Nothing. Don’t worry about it.” “Where is that kid?” “What kid?” “That hooker? Did he…are you still—” “You know,” I said, pulling up to the curb in front of his building, “I have a right to be happy, Franco. Just because I’m gay doesn’t mean—” “I never said that,” he shook his head. “I just don’t want you to get taken, that’s all. I don’t trust that guy.” I nodded, but didn’t say anything. Franco placed a hand on my forearm. “I love you, Aidan. You know there’s no one I’d want watching my back. You’re a good guy…you like men…so…I’m okay with that now. I worry, you know.” I laughed. “I know. I love you back, buddy. Now, get in there and kiss May for me, okay?” He laughed and got out of the car. “She won’t let me near her until I sober up.” “Don’t blame her.” I waved at him and drove back home. 32

D. J. Manly I turned on the lights and sighed. I’d gotten used to having him here even if it was only for a short time. After a few minutes, I left the apartment and got back into my car. I drove to that all night convenient store he was supposed to be working at and decided to confront him. I didn’t want anything. I just wanted an explanation. When I walked into the convenience store, the man behind the counter glanced at me suspiciously. “Relax,” I said, “I’m a cop.” He smiled. “What can I do you for?” “I’m looking for someone…Caleb Burton? He works here.” “Not anymore,” the man said. “Little bastard took off on me with some man.” “What man?” “Some guy in a leisure suit.” “And Caleb left with this man.” “Yep. Didn’t say a word, just walked right off the job. Thank God Pete was working that night.” “Is this guy here right now?” “Yeah. He’s stacking boxes in the back.” I walked through the store without asking permission. “Hey…you got a warrant or something?” He called after me. I ignored him. “Pete?” I said to the man who was throwing boxes around in the back. 33

Love is War Valentine “Yeah?” He said, a middle aged black man with a discernable limp. “I’m Officer Mackenzie. Can I talk to you a sec?” “Look Officer,” he said, “I’ve been meaning to pay that traffic ticket, but—” “This isn’t about your ticket. Were you here the night Caleb Burton walked off the job?” “Sure was.” “Can you tell me what happened?” “Well, that Caleb guy seemed a little nervous that night…told me he owed some fellow some money and that as soon as he paid it off, it would be square. He seemed to be looking over his shoulder like he’d seen a ghost or something.” “Tell me about the man who came and took him away. What’d he look like? Did Caleb mention a name?” “Called him…ah…Samuel…Samuel…Carter… I’m pretty sure.” “What’d he look like?” “Chubby fellow, about your height, maybe fifty or so. He came in when I was stocking the fridge. I heard Caleb say something about how he had his money and…the guy said Caleb was coming with him and—” “Was there a struggle?” “Nope. I just looked up and they were gone.” “Shit,” I said, closing my eyes for a second. I 34

D. J. Manly began walking out of the back. The other guy eyed me as I did. “You’re not supposed to be back there,” he said. I ignored him. I was almost to the door when the guy called Pete called out, “I heard something about a place called The Tight End…if that helps.” I turned around and nodded at him. “Thanks,” I said and left. I sat in my car thinking about what Caleb had said about that place. He’d said something about not wanting to blow the customers in the back room for five dollars. I looked at my watch. It was a little after one in the morning. I checked my GPS for directions to the Tight End and headed down there. On the way there, I’d had time to think about all that had happened. Even if Caleb was in trouble, he had still ripped me off. He didn’t think enough of me to confide in me, to tell me what was going on. I was a cop for Christ’s sakes, I could have helped him. I paid the cover charge and walked in. It was a sleazy hole populated with old perverts masturbating under the table in the dark. The placed was filled with smoke. I walked up to the bar and glanced at the naked boy on stage writhing and thrusting. He didn’t even look to be of age. No sign of Caleb. A half-naked bartender came over to me and 35

Love is War Valentine winked. “Hey baby. Aren’t you a sight for sore eyes? I get off at three.” “I’m looking for a Samuel Carter.” “That’s the boss. He’s around here somewhere. What can I get you?” “Nothing. I’m not staying. You know Caleb Burton?” He backed away from the bar. “I’ll get Sam,” he said. A few minutes later, a man fitting the description Pete had given me walked out. He looked at me for a moment then offered his hand. I ignored it. “I’m Officer Mackenzie. I’m looking for Caleb Burton.” “What for?” “That’s my business. Get him.” “He’s busy and unless you got a warrant—” “Look,” I said, reaching out and grabbing a fistful of his shirt, “I said, get him.” He looked back at me without fear. I’m sure if I hadn’t been a cop, he would have taken a swing at me, but he knew better. “How old is that boy up there on stage?” “Old enough. Want to try him out?” I released him. “Get Caleb.” “Get him yourself, pretty boy,” he mocked. He threw his head toward the back. “Go ahead, but he’s working and unless you’re paying…” I took a fifty dollar bill out of my wallet and 36

D. J. Manly threw it on the floor at his feet. He glanced down at it and I walked past him. I moved the heavy curtain aside and walked down a narrow corridor. I could smell the sex and the sweat. I could hear the grunts and the moans. Several of the rooms were occupied. I found Caleb in the last one. There was an old man sitting on a chair with his zipper undone and Caleb rose, wiping his mouth on the back of his hand. When he saw me, he looked stricken. He backed up into the corner, his gaze never leaving me. “Get out of here,” I told the man, “I’ve paid. It’s my turn.” He nodded without speaking, hastily did up his pants and hurried out of the room. “Aidan,” Caleb said. “Let me explain.” I took my place on the stool. “Nothing to explain,” I said. I looked up at him, feeling rather fragile at the moment. “I paid my money, come on.” I undid my zipper. “Aidan, don’t,” he whispered. “Don’t what? Look, I get it. You ripped me off. You let me fuck you so that you could rob me. You’re back in your element now. I’m no longer the fool. At least I know I can have you if the price is right.” I saw tears in his eyes, but I wasn’t falling for it. “I was going to pay you back as soon as I—” 37

Love is War Valentine “As soon as you sucked enough cock?” There was silence. “You could have told me what was happening.” “I didn’t think he’d…he advanced me some money, but I couldn’t…I didn’t want to work it off this way. I thought it was just to dance. I found the money and…” “What were you doing in my closet? Why did you take my coat?” “I found it when I…I wanted to…I bought you a present,” he said. “I noticed on your ID that your birthday was coming up and I wanted to buy a fancy scarf to go with the coat so I took it and…” “You expect me to believe that?” “Aidan, I didn’t want to involve you. I knew he’d come looking for me. After we…I mean, after what happened between us, I wanted to truly make a fresh start. I figured if I paid him right away, I could work at the store, put the money back and you’d never know. This guy is dangerous. I didn’t want you to get hurt.” “I’m a cop for Christ’s sakes! Don’t you think I can handle myself?” “I know, but you told me about your dad and all I could think about was you getting hurt because of me and…Aidan, Aidan, I love you,” he said. I stood up, did up my pants, my hands shaking. 38

D. J. Manly I couldn’t let him play me again. “Give me back my coat and if this man is harassing you, go to the police.” “I can’t,” he shook his head. “I could be arrested for…” I turned to go. He reached out and grabbed my arm. “Aidan, please?” I shook him off. “I’ll wait at the bar. Get my coat.” I walked out feeling totally miserable. “So, did you find your honey, Officer?” Samuel Carter mocked. “Fuck off,” I said. “And you know what…don’t be surprised if I find a way to close you down. I know that dancer couldn’t have been more than sixteen and last time I checked, blowing customers for small change is still illegal in this town.” He glared at me. “One more thing, if you hurt him, I’ll kill you,” I told him. The colour seemed to drain from his face and he turned and walked off. “Whoa baby,” the bartender said, “you don’t fool around.” I ignored him. Suddenly Caleb appeared carrying my coat. He stood a little distance from me. “Here,” he said passing it to me. I took it. “And here,” he muttered, handing me a flat box 39

Love is War Valentine with a bow on it. “It’s a little early but…and it didn’t come from your money. I had a little myself and…I’ll pay you back every cent I owe you, Aidan, every cent.” “I don’t want anything from you,” I told him. He lowered his head. When I didn’t take the package, he placed it on the bar and ran away. I blinked, looked at it for a moment. “Aren’t you going to open it?” The bartender asked me. I shook my head. The bartender grabbed the box and tore it open. I watched him for a moment as he lifted out an expensive looking white silk scarf. “Got some initials on it,” he said. “A.M. You must be it.” Yes, I was it. Aidan was telling me the truth and although I still wasn’t happy about what he’d done, I realised that he did it because he loved me and because he didn’t want me to think badly of him. I couldn’t leave him here like this. I couldn’t leave him at the mercy of Samuel Carter. I put my coat down on the bar. “Can you take care of my coat and the scarf please?” “Sure. What ‘cha going to do?” “Just watch and see,” I said, walking toward that back room again. Carter was suddenly there, blocking my way. Two body guards watched carefully from the sidelines. “Where you going?” 40

D. J. Manly “To get Caleb.” “Caleb works for me. He has a debt to pay off.” “If he wants to come with me, he’s going to.” I met Carter’s gaze unflinching. “Now, I suggest you remove yourself from my path or I’ll remove you.” He was seething, but stepped aside. I opened the curtain, “Caleb.” He appeared almost instantly. He walked down the corridor towards me, his expression tense. He looked as miserable as I felt. “Aidan?” I held out my hand. “Come with me,” I said. His face broke out into a smile. “You mean it?” I nodded. “On one condition.” “Anything.” “Don’t ever lie to me again.” “I won’t. I promise.” I smiled at him. “Get your things.” “What about Samuel. I still owe him money and…” “You don’t owe him anything.” Caleb ran back to the room to get his meagre belongings. We walked out together. I kept Caleb close to me as Samuel Carter approached. “He owes me,” he said again, pointing at Caleb. I pushed his finger away. “You call it square and I won’t shut you down.” 41

Love is War Valentine “You got nothing.” “I got Caleb,” I said, smiling. “He knows everything and he’s under my protection.” “I guess,” he said, “you’ve paid back most of it.” “Thought you’d see it that way,” I said, steering Caleb toward the exit. I picked up my coat and scarf on the way out. When we were back in my car, Caleb laid his head on the seat and closed his eyes. “I thought you were going to leave me there. I had no choice. He forced me to…” “Shush,” I told him, leaning over and kissing him softly on the mouth. “I was angry that’s all. You did the wrong thing for the right reasons, Caleb. You need to trust me.” “I do,” he said. “I was just…I didn’t want you to think badly of me…to hate me for the things…” “I could never hate you,” I said. I saw him swallow hard. “I’m glad because I…Aidan, I do love you.” “I think I believe you,” I smiled. “I’ll show you later,” he whispered. That brought a bigger smile. After a few minutes, he said, “Do you think Carter might come after me again?” I started the engine. “You won’t have any more trouble from him. He’ll be in court before you know it, probably even in jail.” 42

D. J. Manly Caleb looked at me in surprise as I drove away from the curb. “But you told him you wouldn’t shut him down?” “I told him I wouldn’t shut him down, but I didn’t say anything about what Vice would do.” Caleb started laughing. “I like your style.” “Thanks for the scarf,” I said softly once we got back to my place. “Goes well with the coat.” “I slept with it. I missed you so much and I thought that I was never going to see you again.” I pulled him into my arms. I held him for the longest time. “I love you, Caleb.” He looked up at me and tightened his hold on me. “Never let me go, Aidan. Promise?” “I promise,” I whispered. “Now take me to bed.” “Are we going to make to the bed this time?” Caleb laughed. “I doubt it,” I replied. “I really doubt it.”

43

f A Cupid Interlude es, it’s me again. I have to put in my two cents. I do inspire these stories. Besides, it was in my contract. Caleb and Aidan…ah…what a beautiful story…now, come on, admit it, getting those two together would have been a challenge for anyone, even me. In spite of the fact that Caleb and Aidan were truly meant to be, it might have ended badly. But if you think that was challenging, check out the obstacles I had to overcome in this next story. What do you do with a gorgeous, kind hearted vampire and a determined vampire slayer who thinks that all vampires deserve only one thing…a stake right through the heart? Now…let’s see if I can replace that stake with an arrow before it’s too late. Let’s call this one…Straight to the Heart.

Y

Story 2 Straight to the Heart here had been a rash of vampire killings on the East side of the city lately, particularly sadistic ones. When Horace called him right after his biology lab and told him that they needed to prepare, Matt immediately responded with, “Don’t tell me there’s been another one?” “There has. I got a call from our contact down at the morgue. Found him this morning. It definitely fits the description of the others. Throat torn out, body battered and bruised, violated sexually.” “Well, who ever it is isn’t playing by the rules.” “Devlin hasn’t reined this one in. I don’t understand it.” “I can’t believe he doesn’t know about it. It must be a rogue. Devlin would never allow a vampire to kill so many victims and leave them in such a close proximity to one another. That kind of thing arouses suspicion. He’s smarter than that.”

T

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D. J. Manly “I expected him to send his soldiers on the hunt. When the killings stopped last month, I assumed he’d taken care of it.” “Well obviously he hasn’t and, if he won’t, we will,” Matt said, glancing over at the mess his roommate had left in the sink. “Of course.” “Unless Devlin is the one killing these victims. They’re all savages. Eventually even Devlin may resort to his baser instincts. Have you discovered a potential resting place, Horace?” “Yes. I have a hunch, not sure. We’ll leave around three this morning. There is a small cemetery about fifty miles from here with some evidence of a vampire sanctuary.” “I’ll be by your place at two thirty.” “See you then.” Matt began cleaning up the dishes, more for something to do than anything else. He was in his final year of medicine at the university. Horace had taken him in at the age of four, claiming to be his legal guardian. Matt had hidden in the closet while vampires murdered his parents. He was in a state of shock when Horace, a middle aged man with a huge scar on his face, came to take him home from the hospital. Horace informed him that he was going to train him to kill vampires. He told him that his parents were slayers and that there was an entire universe of vampires out there. Not 45

Love is War Valentine only did they walk among humans, they fed off them, sometimes killed them. And to Matt, after watching what they’d done to his parents, the only good vampire was a dead one. Devlin was a master vampire who dwelt in the city. He had formed a council and many vampires considered him their natural leaders, but not all of them. For the most part, Devlin kept those blood suckers under control, and that’s why the slayers kept their distance from him. To Matt, he was a necessary evil, but he looked forward to the day when he wiped all those vultures off the face of the earth, even Devlin. But now, they had bigger fish to fry. There was someone out there, a vampire who didn’t care who he drained and how. This was more than just a vamp drinking blood from his victims—this was a fiendish killer who seemed to kill for sport more than for survival. Matt hoped it was only one. Horace and Matt drove in silence towards the small village that Horace called Heartland. Matt had brought his stakes and crosses, blessed holy water and a gun filled with silver bullets. They had done this many of times, driven out just before sunrise and waited to stake a vampire and cut off its head. Horace slowed the car as they approached the cemetery. He watched the sky. “Sun is rising,” he 46

D. J. Manly said. “Good luck, boy.” Matt got out of the vehicle with his bag. Horace was on his heels. There was a row of crypts, nine of them. The cemetery looked practically abandoned. It was a perfect place for vampires. “I’ll take the left, you take the right,” Matt instructed. “I want to get this bastard.” “Be careful,” Horace said. “Whoever he or she is, they’re blood thirsty killers. Strike fast and hard.” “Will do,” Matt said. His feet sunk into the overgrown grass as he walked. He shivered a little in the dawn. The sun was peeking over the horizon, but it didn’t provide much warmth. He walked up to the first crypt and pulled open the door then ducked his head and walked in, pushing aside the cobwebs as he went. He flashed his light around. Empty. There was a coffin there, but it had deteriorated to the point he could see inside. There was nothing left but dust. He coughed a little and left, walking over to another. He paused, looked down the line. Horace had disappeared inside of one of crypts. He waited for a second. Some birds squawked overhead, but other than that, it was quiet. He walked into the next one. There didn’t appear to be any vampires here either. “Damn.” He sighed in frustration and hoped this wasn’t one of those wild goose chases. He walked outside again, spotted Horace who 47

Love is War Valentine looked down at him and shrugged. As soon as he entered the third one, he knew he wasn’t alone. He flashed his light around and spotted a body lying on top of the coffin, rather than in it, and it wasn’t a corpse. How convenient. Matt put down his bag and opened it, withdrawing his stake. This stuff didn’t terrify him the way it used to. These things slept like the dead. They couldn’t hear anything or do anything when the sun was up. They were helpless. As long as you didn’t decide to have a picnic lunch nearby, you were fine. Matt walked over to the coffin. He lifted the stake in the air, ready to strike as he drew closer then gasped, stumbling back. The figure rose to a sitting position. A hand reached out and wrapped around his stake. Matt dropped his flashlight and let go of the stake, racing over to his bag to take out his holy water and the huge cross he carried around. He held the cross up in front of him, ready to strike with the holy water. The figure dropped down off the coffin. He stood there, stake still in his hand. When he took a step, Matt held the cross out in front of him. He’d never met a vamp yet who liked these things. A soft deep laugh disturbed the air. Matt backed up. He opened the bottle with the holy water and splashed some forward, certain he got him with at least a drop or two. Why in the hell wasn’t steam coming out of him or 48

D. J. Manly something? “Now, why do you want to go and get me all wet? What is that stuff?” Matt’s mouth dropped open. He clutched the cross. “Stay away from me.” The figure took another step. It was pitch black in there. Matt could see no more than the outline. Tall, very tall, broad shoulders. He seemed to have long hair. “I won’t hurt you,” he said. “What are you doing in here?” “I’m Matt.” He puffed out his chest with a bravado he didn’t feel. “I’m sure you’ve heard of me.” “Why would I have?” “By reputation, I’m a slayer. You’ve been killing indiscriminately. You must be stopped.” “I haven’t killed anyone…yet.” That was a threat. “Your friend needs your help,” he said suddenly. “What?” “The man you came with. He is having a hard time right now.” “Horace,” he called out, holding that cross in plain sight as he made his way to the exit. Matt tore open the door and raced across the lawn. “Horace!” When he heard the shouting, he ran into one of the crypts to find Horace struggling with a vampire, a stake half planted in the sucker’s 49

Love is War Valentine chest. Matt jumped on it and drove the stake home, pulling Horace out of harms way. When he looked around next, Horace was on the floor of the crypt, clutching his chest. “Horace,” he went to my knees, picked his head up in his lap. “Horace, are you all right?” Matt knew he wasn’t going to make it. Horace touched his cheek, called him boy then died there in his arms. The next thing he knew, he looked up and the door of that crypt had closed. He lowered Horace gently to the floor and flew to the door, tears drying on his cheeks. It was barred or jammed or something. Damn it. He was stuck in that dark crypt for the rest of the day. When Matt heard the night owls, his heart fluttered in his chest. It was dark and he knew there was another vampire wandering around somewhere, an unusual one at that. Was he to be his midnight snack? He looked over sadly at Horace. He had been his only family and now he was gone. When the door of the crypt creaked open Matt jumped to his feet, the tools of his trade in his hands and his pockets. He was ready. As he came closer the light from the moon illuminated his face. Matt caught my breath. He was beautiful. Stunningly so. “Who are you?” he demanded. He didn’t look like any vamp he’d ever seen. “If I tell you, will you promise not to throw 50

D. J. Manly water all over me?” “Holy water.” “It’s wet, that’s all I know,” he said dryly. He glanced over at Horace. “I’m sorry about your friend.” “Are you really?” “Yes. You loved him.” “What would you know about love?” He shrugged. “Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Antonio Devlin.” “You’re Devlin?” “You know me?” “You’re the master vampire.” “I assure you I’m no master,” he chuckled. “You speak of Andre Devlin.” “You are…related?” “Cousins.” “You were made at the same time?” “We were born vampires, not made.” I’d never actually met any vampire who hadn’t been turned although I’d heard the rumour about those who were born with the blood. “Well, stand back,” Matt said, pushing the cross at him again. He reached over and wrapped his fingers around it. “You must be evil to fear those.” “Vampires are all evil.” He didn’t reply. “Why did you lock me in here?” “I couldn’t very well let you wander around 51

Love is War Valentine while I slept, given your intentions, could I?” “Is this your…your usual resting place?” “Oh God no,” he laughed. “I hate cemeteries. Creepy. I got caught. Sometimes the sun doesn’t bother me, but lately…” He shrugged. “It comes and goes.” “What comes and goes?” Matt looked around for an escape route. “My intolerance to the sun.” “You can…can walk in the sun?” “Those of us born to it can…sometimes. So you’re a…slayer?” He made it sound superficial. “A good one too.” “Um.” He nodded. “That’s debatable. Anyway, I think I can use you.” “What…what do you mean?” “Well, I can use your help.” Matt was dumbfounded. “Help? I don’t help the likes of you. I destroy you.” “Yes, I understand that, but I believe we presently have the same goal.” “Which is?” “You mentioned one who kills indiscriminately earlier. You thought it was I.” “I kill all vampires, but yes, there is one who is currently…” “He has savagely drained thirty nine victims.” “Thirty nine? We counted eighteen.” “He did bother to get rid of some of the bodies. 52

D. J. Manly At odd times he decides to be conscientious. Depends how close he cuts it to the sunrise.” “Anyway, he’s gone. We killed him.” “You think?” “The chances are good. Why didn’t your master destroy him?” “I have no master. And if you speak of Andre, he has tried. That’s why I’m here. I just arrived actually.” Matt narrowed his eyes. “Andre asked me to help.” “You’re an assassin.” “My cousin seems to think so. You see, Matt,” he came closer, “I, too, am a slayer.” Matt backed up against the wall. “Stay your distance. I have silver bullets and…” He laughed. “Not anymore.” Matt scrambled for his bag. He rummaged through it frantically. His gun was gone. “You’re a thief,” he accused. “What did you do with my gun?” “It’s safe. I’ll give it back when I feel I can trust you. Now, we should do something with your friend. We don’t want to leave him here. Does he have family?” Matt sighed. Tears pricked his eyes. “Just me. I was the only family he had. He knew my parents.” He looked up at the vampire. “My parents were murdered by you.” 53

Love is War Valentine “I assure you that it wasn’t I who murdered your parents, Matt.” “Well, vampires like you.” “Come,” he said, “we’ll bury your friend.” He reached over to pick up Horace’s body. “Don’t you touch him,” Matt told him. “I don’t want him defiled by the likes of you. He spent his life…” He stopped. “Very well,” Antonio Devlin put him down. “You carry him.” Matt attempted to pick Horace up, but he was a big man. He ended up half dragging him. He was forced to lower him to the ground when he got outside. Antonio Devlin stood watching from a few feet away. Matt could see him clearly now. He had black hair to his shoulders, which waved back over his forehead with dark, almost hauntingly beautiful eyes. He wore a long black leather coat and tall black boots. The coat hung open revealing a pair of blue jeans and a white turtle neck. “Aren’t you afraid to get blood all over that?” Matt sneered, his chest heaving with the effort of carrying Horace out of the crypt. “I’m very neat when I dine,” he said, flashing even white teeth. “Are you sure you couldn’t use a hand?” Matt took the car keys out of Horace’s jacket and put his bag over his shoulder. He glanced doubtfully at the distance between the crypt and 54

D. J. Manly the vehicle, and grudgingly conceded. “Okay, but just to the car.” “Why not bury him here?” Antonio Devlin asked, picking up Horace’s feet while Matt grabbed his arms. “I will have it done properly,” Matt said stubbornly, struggling with the body. “He’s not one of you.” Antonio looked at him in the dark. “It would be so much simpler if you’d just let me carry him.” “No.” “Fine,” he shrugged. Eventually they made it to the car. Horace was lowered gently to the ground and Matt opened the back seat. Antonio moved forward quickly, effortlessly lifted him and placed his body in the back. “Take him where you need to,” he said. “I’ll wait for you.” Matt eyed him. “Wait for me?” “Yes. I told you, you can help me to find the rogue.” “I never agreed to help you do anything. If there are any vampires to hunt, I will do it on my own.” Antonio shook his head. “No. He’s mine. Either help me or stay out of my way.” Matt walked around to the driver’s seat and got in. He put the car keys into the ignition and 55

Love is War Valentine started the motor. When the passenger door opened and Antonio Devlin got in beside him, he was taken aback. “What do you think you’re doing?” “I’m coming with you. “No. You’re not.” “I’ve revealed myself to you. I can’t set you free until I’m sure I can trust you.” “Now I’m your prisoner?” “Of sorts. But you will find that I am the most benevolent of wardens.” He was grinning at him. Matt rolled his eyes. “I’m sure. When do I end up being your dinner?” Antonio Devlin glanced out the side window and Matt hit the gas. No one spoke inside the car. Matt was painfully aware that a vampire sat beside him. Worse, Devlin seemed to be immune from any of the regular tools used to keep these creatures at bay. He was his prisoner. Horace was dead and his own life was hanging by a thread. This beast could reach over and tear his throat out at any minute. It was almost midnight when they hit the city. “I need to make a phone call,” Matt announced, pulling over across the street from the city morgue. “Go ahead,” he said. Matt dialled his friend at the morgue. “Cecile,” he said into his cell phone, “it’s Matt. I have some bad news. Horace is dead. He was killed by a…” 56

D. J. Manly Matt glanced at the being at his side, “you know by what. I’m across the street with him now. We can’t report his murder you know and I…” He paused listening to Cecile tell him how she’d take care of it. “Thank you. I’ll bring him in. He wanted to be cremated anyway. He was afraid to come back as one of those…you know.” Matt shot Antonio a look. “I can’t stay. I have a…situation. We’ll have a memorial service for him later. Yes, I want the ashes. Thanks.” His hand was shaking when he put his phone down. He realised that Antonio Devlin was looking at him. “What?” “Nothing. It’s just that you loved him so. I hate to tell you this, but that vampire you killed back there was not the one you were looking for.” “How do you know that?” “Because I’ve been tracking him. I have his scent. I took it off the last victim he butchered. I didn’t smell that scent at the cemetery. What ever vamp was resting there, wasn’t our boy.” Matt started the car again. “You can smell him?” “Yes. Where are we going?” “We have to take him around back. Cecile will meet us there. She’ll take him and…” Matt swallowed, surprised when a hand reached over and settled on his shoulder. Antonio removed his hand right away. A few moments later, Antonio Devlin helped 57

Love is War Valentine him take Horace out of the back seat. Cecile was there with a stretcher. She hugged Matt as Antonio placed him on the stretcher. Cecile covered Horace with a sheet, glancing curiously at Devlin who returned to the car. “Handsome man. Who is he?” “He’s not a man,” Matt replied. “And before the night is over, I’m going to kill him.” At her alarmed look, he smiled. “Thank you, Cecile. I’ll be in touch.” He got back in the car. “Drive along Park Avenue,” Antonio said. “Go North.” He did as asked, wondering where in hell they were going. “So,” he said suddenly, “how are you planning to do it?” “Do what?” Matt asked, his gaze on the road. “Kill me?” He glanced at him. “You heard that, did you?” “I did.” “The answer is, anyway I can.” “Ahh,” Antonio replied. “I look forward to it.” “Oblivion?” “No, your bumbled attempt to destroy me.” “Don’t be so cocky. Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” “I don’t deal in clichés, Matt.” “No. You deal in blood.” He laughed. “So dramatic. You should loosen 58

D. J. Manly up. How old are you anyway?” “Twenty.” “Twenty. You’re going to have high blood pressure.” “I’m a med student. Let me worry about that, will ya?” “A doctor, eh?” “Yeah.” “Well, don’t you people take an oath to protect life?” Matt shot him a look. “Sure, for living beings, not when it comes to walking corpses.” “I assure you, I’m very much alive. Unlike those who are turned, I have a pulse and a heartbeat.” Matt looked at him a little too long. Antonio reached over and turned the wheel for him when he almost hit the curb. “You’re surprised. I guess you don’t know as much about us as you think you do. Those of us born to the blood don’t have to die first. That’s why it’s forbidden to make fledglings.” “And how many of you follow that rule?” “True vampires do and those fledglings who obey the rules. But vampires are no different from mortals, not everyone follows the rules. That’s why there are laws and punishment, in our world and yours.” “You make it all seem so civilized.” 59

Love is War Valentine “It is. It can be.” “And you are the great enforcer?” Matt sneered. “No. I’m simply the one they call in when all else fails. Stop here. Leave your car in this alley.” “It might not be here when I…if I…” “Don’t worry. You won’t be needing it.” That was ominous. Was he to be fodder for this vampire tonight? “Follow me,” Antonio said. As soon as Matt got out of the vehicle, two hands were placed on his shoulders. “I’m sorry. I must render you unconscious until we are at our destination. Mortals are not allowed to know the access route to our world.” “World?” Matt voiced. Antonio smiled and everything faded. Matt would have never imagined that there was a whole other world somewhere filled with vampires. When he opened his eyes he was sitting at a long table in a room which looked like it was furnished by antiques, from the heavy oak furniture to its lace curtains and roaring fireplace. He started a little when the door opened. Someone who looked a little like Antonio Devlin stood there. He was equally as tall, but a little thinner, with the same dark hair. His eyes however weren’t beautiful like Antonio’s, and his face was 60

D. J. Manly a little more severe, handsome, but not beautiful. He gave him a little bow. “We finally meet,” he said. “I’m Andre Devlin.” Matt stood up, his knees shaking. “Where…where am I?” “You’re safe here, in a world, which is under my control. No mortals are ever harmed here.” “There are…mortals here?” “Those who choose to live among us.” “Why…why would they?” “For a variety of reasons,” he said, coming forward. “Love, cultism.” He was dressed in a dark suit. Underneath he wore a white ruffled shirt with billowy cuffs which extended beyond the sleeves of his dark jacket. “Like, ah…Goths?” He shrugged. “Is that what you call them?” “Yes. Vampire wanna be’s. And you embrace them?” “You mean turn them? No,” he shook his head. “It is forbidden. I’m sorry about Horace.” “I’m surprised.” Matt shivered. It felt cold in that room despite the fire. “Why?” He lifted an elegant hand. “Wine?” “No, thank you.” He poured some in a glass. “You drink…wine?” “I have a weakness for it I’m afraid,” he smiled. “Among other things.” He pulled out a chair and 61

Love is War Valentine sat down. “What do you want with me?” “It’s Antonio, not me, who needs you. He claims his bringing you here will speed his capture of our renegade.” “I’m not inclined to help vampires.” “That’s what I told him, but he’s rather stubborn.” “How many…live here? Where are we exactly?” “I can’t tell you where we are. Mortals who know the location are not permitted to leave here.” “They’re prisoners then?” “They commit to be. They are told of the rules before hand. Those who wish to leave are brought here much the same as you have been, unaware of how they got here.” “Why would anyone choose to…” “They fall in love or they enjoy being fed upon.” Matt shivered. Andre laughed. “To each his own. Some mortals find it erotic. Usually it is with their lovers, unless they enjoy variety. We don’t pass judgement. Our main concern right now is this killer out there. He’s not one of us. Horace and the other slayers such as you, have been a great help to me, often destroying those who break our rules. 62

D. J. Manly A few times however you made great errors in judgement. I decided that you were a necessary evil. For every mistake that was made, several wrongs were righted.” “A necessary evil. It’s just what we called you.” He laughed. “I have no doubt of that. So, we have tolerated each other, slayer. And since Antonio has taken upon himself to bring you here to us, it is time we set a few things straight, especially if we are to co-exist.” “I have no desire to co-exist with the likes of you.” “You generalise too much, my young mortal friend. You think us all alike. I believe we can change your mind after this night. Please,” he stood up, “join us in a celebration.” “A celebration of what?” “It is the one hundredth anniversary of the founding of our sanctuary. And also we formally welcome Antonio this evening. Although I can’t convince him to stay permanently I’m afraid, he will be with us until the rebel is exterminated.” Andre Devlin took his arm. Matt had no choice, but to allow himself to be led from that room. He was in their world now, greatly outnumbered and surrounded. There was little he could do but obey. He was suddenly in a large ball room. There was music playing, music he’d never heard before. It was beautiful, romantic and haunting. He felt 63

Love is War Valentine like everyone was looking at him. There were vampires and mortals all around him and suddenly he couldn’t tell them apart. People were dancing, kissing, making love on love seats scattered around the room. Andre Devlin left him suddenly. Matt looked around him nervously, feeling vulnerable, confused. When he looked up, Antonio was standing beside him, smiling down at him. The air was fraught with sexual tension. Matt felt it intensely as Antonio looked into his eyes. “You’re not in any danger,” he said softly. “No one will hurt you here. You are my guest.” Matt swallowed. “There is so much I don’t understand.” “You will before the dawn.” Antonio’s fingers caressed his cheek. He felt warm now, mesmerized by those eyes. “You have me under some kind of a spell. I…” “No,” Antonio smiled. “Mortals are often drawn to us. Don’t worry about it. Is there someone?” “You mean a lover?” His voice sounded odd, like someone else. “Yes. A lover.” “No. I have no time for that.” “You should make time. Will you dance with me?” “Dance?” He looked around to see a variety of people dancing, men together, women, women 64

D. J. Manly and men. “I don’t dance very well, I …” He laughed and pulled him into the crowd. “It’s simple enough.” Antonio Devlin took him into his arms. His body was hard yet surprisingly warm. As they moved together, Matt’s mind raced. He was dancing with a…no, how could this be? It had to be a dream. “It’s no dream,” Antonio said, pulling him closer. He touched his hair, smoothing it back from Matt’s forehead. “I want to kiss you, but I don’t dare.” Matt stiffened. “I thought you said I was safe?” “You are. My kiss won’t kill you, Matt.” “Ah…I…” But he didn’t have time to complete his sentence. Antonio Devlin lowered his head and kissed him. The kiss was brief, but passionate, and it left him breathless and just a little annoyed that he’d found it quite enjoyable. “You’re a fiend,” he accused. Antonio found that funny. He laughed and released him. “You sound like a virginal little girl. You’re a fiend,” he mocked. “Screw you,” Matt said, stalking off the dance floor, trying to ignore the fact that a vampire was sucking on a young woman’s neck nearby. “She’s enjoying every minute of it,” Antonio commented, noticing where Matt was looking. “They’ve been together for five years. Why don’t 65

Love is War Valentine you talk to some of the mortals down here? Maybe they can put your mind at ease. You certainly don’t trust any of us.” He tilted his head. “Stay there.” “Where can I go?” A few minutes later, Antonio came back with a young man. He was blond and very angelic looking. He couldn’t have been more than a few years older than he was. “I’ll leave you to talk,” he said. Matt watched him walk away, his mouth still burning from that kiss. “You like him?” The young man asked. “Absolutely not. I’d kill him if I could.” He smiled. “I’m Jack.” “Matt. Are you a prisoner, Jack?” “No,” he laughed. “They don’t keep prisoners. I’m here voluntarily. I live here now.” “Why? Aren’t you afraid?” “No. I’m in love,” he laughed. “I’m Andre’s lover.” “Andre Devlin?” He nodded. “And he hasn’t…” “Andre won’t let any of them make others. It’s forbidden. The ones born to it are true vampires. It’s been hundreds of years since they fed on humans. They live secretly, in peace. I know who you are.” 66

D. J. Manly “You do?” “Yes. You’re a slayer. I’ve hated you for a long time I’m afraid.” “Me?” “Yes. I’ve been afraid you’d turn on Andre, harm him.” Matt didn’t know what to say. “Andre told me about your parents. I understand the hate. My mother was killed by a rogue.” “Then how can you…” “They’re not all killers, Matt. Andre is good and so is Antonio. He likes you. You’re lucky because there are many mortals here who want him for their lover. He’s very handsome.” “I’m…not…” Matt shook his head. “He needs your help. Mortals and vampires alike are in danger as long as that murderer runs free. Help Antonio to find him, please?” Antonio came over at that moment and handed him a glass of wine. He sniffed it and Antonio laughed. “No arsenic,” he grinned. Jack nodded at Matt and walked away. “Did you learn anything?” Matt sighed. “I still don’t trust you, but I’ll help you find the rogue. Then we go our separate ways, agreed?” Antonio bowed his head. “As you wish.” “Let’s get started.” 67

Love is War Valentine “Not yet. We wait until the sun rises.” “But you can’t…” “Yes, I can. It’s alright today. Enjoy yourself. I won’t impose my company on you anymore this night.” “Don’t leave me,” Matt said suddenly reaching out with his hand and grabbing Antonio’s arm. Antonio raised an eyebrow. “I don’t…know anyone here.” “You’ll cope,” he said. “Aren’t you Matt, the great vampire slayer?” He smiled mockingly and left him standing in the corner. Matt made a face. Damn cheeky bastard. He stood there for the longest time then drank some of the wine. It was good. It gave him just enough courage to walk around the room. No one spoke to him, although some openly glared at him. He spotted Andre with Jack, their arms around each other and then he saw Antonio. He stood talking to three others, all good looking males. Matt wasn’t sure if they were mortal or vampire. Who ever they were, they were fawning all over Antonio. He went back to his corner. A little while later, Antonio sided up to him. “Sulking?” he said. “No. What would give you that idea?” He grinned. “Well, you can stop it now because we’re leaving. You can have me all to yourself.” “You’re an arrogant ass, aren’t you?” 68

D. J. Manly He laughed. “I’ve earned the right to be. Come.” He held out his hand. Matt hesitated then took it. Everything was a blur then suddenly he was walking on the street beside the vampire in the early dawn. Antonio sported sunglasses and he’d changed his clothes. He still wore the long dark coat and boots, but his pants were also leather, dark blue, and he wore a navy t-shirt underneath. Matt noticed that he too had on a long dark coat and he could feel the inside pockets weighted down with something. “Don’t open it here,” Antonio cautioned. “You trust me then?” “No, but you need weapons.” “Thanks.” “Stop telling everyone you are going to kill me and maybe I’ll have a little more faith.” “I didn’t…” He stopped. “Yes, you did. Jack told me.” “Okay,” Matt said, looking at him, “I won’t try and kill you. I told you, a truce, until the monster is found.” “Then, the gloves are off?” He couldn’t help but smile. The look on his face was quite comical. “We’ll see.” “You won’t have to worry about me,” he said. “After we get this idiot, I’ll be gone.” “Why gone…there were plenty of pretty boys 69

Love is War Valentine who wanted you last night.” “You noticed, did you? Is that why you were brooding?” “No, that’s not why I was…” Matt gritted his teeth. “Stop pissing me off, Devlin.” He laughed. “So why not stick around?” “So you and I can play cat and mouse?” “No. I mean, don’t you want to hang out with your cousin?” “Not especially. I live in the mortal world. I have a life. I’m only here to help him out.” “Can’t he fight his own battles?” “Apparently not.” “Where in hell are we going anyway?” “To kill a vampire.” Matt looked at him. “You know where he is?” “I think so. Keep walking.” “So this life of yours, where is it exactly?” “Why should I tell you?” “Curious, that’s all. What makes you a…well…an assassin?” “I told you, I’m a slayer.” “You kill your own?” “I destroy those who break the rules. We have to if we want to survive.” “And you do this somewhere else?” “Yes. I get paid well for it.” “By whom?” 70

D. J. Manly “I can’t tell you that.” “So James Bond.” Antonio looked at him. “That’s it. The government. You work for—” Antonio stopped him and placed a finger over his lips. Matt froze as he looked deep into his eyes. “It’s a very secret organization. Very few people know about it. There is an elite force of slayers. None of them are mortal.” His eyes widened. “Then…” “Yes Matt, you and your friends are rank amateurs. We let you handle the little problems. We eliminate the big ones before they can do any real damage.” Antonio began to walk again. Matt trailed behind. “My parents…did they…” He grabbed the vampire’s muscled arm. Antonio stopped, looked at him. “Your mother was one of us. Your father was a mortal. They were both elite slayers working for the same op that I do. They were murdered by rogues who had infiltrated the organization. Those rogues were executed for their crimes.” “I have…I have vampire blood in my veins.” “Not enough to do more than give you extraordinary health and perhaps twenty years longer to live than most mortals. I bet you’ve never even had so much as a cold.” Matt shook his head. “No. I’ve never had a cold or anything. Does anyone else know?” 71

Love is War Valentine “Andre knows. He’s known for years. Your mother visited the sanctuary often.” “And she was a…” “Born to the blood,” he said. “So you see Matt, what you’ve been hating all this time is a part of yourself.” “Why didn’t Horace tell me?” He shrugged. “I don’t know. Maybe he thought it would dilute your motivation. I can’t speak for the dead.” Suddenly, he put out a hand. He walked out into the street. They were standing over a covered manhole. “Wait,” he said. Antonio looked down at the concrete. “He’s here. He’s under here.” “In the sewer?” “Yes.” He bent down and pulled up the manhole cover. Without hesitation he began to crawl down. Matt sighed. He was still reeling from all the vampire had said. He felt confused and now as he scampered down after Antonio, he felt fear. It was pitch black in there. He couldn’t see a thing. His feet sunk into at least three inches of water. “Antonio,” he hissed. “Where did you…” “Right here,” Antonio said, touching his arm. He handed him a flashlight. “What about you?” “I don’t need one, stay behind me. He’s close.” “Shit. I think a rat just ran…yep…it’s a rat. I 72

D. J. Manly hate rats!” “There’s a band of them. Ignore them. They’re more afraid of you than…” “Yeah, yeah,” Matt muttered. “Slimy bastards.” Antonio chuckled softly. Then suddenly he put his hand on Matt’s chest. “Wait.” He drew out a huge sword from under his jacket. The sword had a curved head on it. “Hell. That’s a beaut,” Matt said. “Does the job.” “I bet.” “There are mortals here.” “What? Mortals?” “Yes. Follow me.” Matt stayed closed to the vampire’s heels, practically having to run to catch up. Suddenly he felt someone shove him. He crashed into Antonio knocking him forward. Both of them fell in the water and, before they could get to their feet, a giant concrete door slammed shut behind them. He searched for his flashlight. “Antonio,” he whispered. “Are you…” “Damn it,” Antonio swore, already pushing against the concrete. Matt got to his feet, soaking wet. “What was that?” “He’s not alone which is what I suspected. He has mortal guards.” “Shit. That’s why he’s been able to elude us.” 73

Love is War Valentine “Yep,” he said, leaning against the concrete barrier. “Is there any way out?” “I don’t know. Come on,” he said, reaching for his hand. “My flashlight must be…” “Forget it. Even if you find it, the water probably destroyed it.” Matt was forced to hold onto the vampire’s hand as they struggled through the slimy water. It smelt bad, very bad. “If it smells bad to you, imagine what it smells like to me,” Antonio muttered. “You…you read my thoughts.” “I do that sometime.” “Stop that.” “Okay.” Matt laughed. “Hey. You have a sense of humour. I’m glad you’ve found yours because mine’s about out of steam. There has to be an exit on the other end, but I’m not sure how many miles before…” “We’re cut off from him, aren’t we?” Antonio looked above him. “Not necessarily,” he said. “Hang on to me.” “That’s all I’ve been doing.” “Not my hand. Me.” Antonio clutched Matt around the waist and they went swirling up in the air. 74

D. J. Manly “Holy!” Matt cried out. “What in the…” Sunlight. Antonio pushed upwards and sunlight streamed in. The manhole went flying. There was traffic whizzing by. “Careful,” Antonio cautioned, climbing out and dragging Matt with him. They narrowly avoided an oncoming car. He replaced his sunglasses. “That bastard.” Matt ran after the vampire as he moved quickly down the street. “What? Where are we going? We’re not going back down there.” “No, we’re not. I am.” “I’m going with you,” Matt said. “Suit yourself. We need to enter by another location. I know where he sleeps.” A few minutes later, Antonio was wrestling off another manhole cover. He slipped down inside and disappeared before Matt had even gotten his legs in. Water sloshed around his shoes and he felt a hand on his shoulder, urging him not to move. There was movement. The vampire pushed him away from him, lifted his heavy sword and swung. Matt heard a thud. A body had hit the ground. Water splashed up around him. “Hurry,” Antonio hissed. He grabbed Matt and started running. They were chasing someone then Matt heard a noise behind him. “Antonio,” he cried out. Someone or something grabbed him. 75

Love is War Valentine Antonio moved like a flash of light and then blackness. When Matt opened his eyes, he was lying on a slab of concrete. There were several kerosene lamps around him, lighting up the small space. He sat up and peered around. “Antonio,” he said, jumping down off the slab. The vampire was lying prone on the floor beside him. There was blood. It had formed a small pool around his head. He checked for the wound. There was a sizable gash on the back of his head. “Antonio,” he urged, shaking him a little. “Please, open your eyes.” Matt knew the vampire had tried to save him. He took his hand. “Antonio,” he whispered. His eyes opened suddenly. Antonio took a ragged breath. “Where are we?” “I’m not sure. Thank God you’re okay.” “I’m weak,” he said. “I’ve lost a lot of blood. Help me up.” Matt pulled him to his feet. “I’ll try to…” He walked over to the door and pushed. After a little while, he gave up. “I have to try and…it must be afternoon. I’m weakest at this time of day and with the blood loss…” “Did you see anything? Were they vampires?” “On their way to being vampires,” he said. “You mean in the process of turning?” “Yes. They are still more mortal than vamp at this point, but they’re fiercely loyal to their sire, 76

D. J. Manly desperately wanting the prize of eternal life.” “Are they planning to leave us here to…” “Perhaps.” Antonio sat down on the slab. “You should take off your clothes.” “Take off my…clothes?” Matt gawked at him. “You’re soaked through. Even if you do have a stronger immune system than most mortals, you could catch your death. It’s damp down here. I’ll give you mine.” “I…” “Come on Matt, no time for modesty. Get them off.” Antonio had already begun to remove his. Matt stood there silently watching as he took off his coat then pulled the t-shirt over his head. He was shaking, but it had to do with more than just the dampness. When the pants came off and the vampire stood there completely naked, holding out his clothes to him, he turned a crimson shade of red. Antonio smiled at him. “Come on, give me yours.” “I…they won’t fit,” Matt said softly. “You’re a lot taller than I am and…the shirt…my shirt will be too small and…” He stopped, couldn’t talk anymore. He knew his cock was hard and that’s why he didn’t want to take off his pants. He’d die if Antonio knew that he had a hard on. “You better die then,” Antonio grinned. “What?” 77

Love is War Valentine “The hard-on. Not only are you obsessing about it, I can see it.” Matt folded his coat around him. “Don’t talk like that.” He laughed. “Okay.” “And stop saying okay whenever I…” “All right?” “Shut up,” Matt sputtered, taking down his pants. He turned his back, reaching behind him for his clothes. He came into contact with the vampire’s hand then felt Antonio’s hand grab his and lower it down to his cock. “You see, you do the same to me. I’m hard myself, so don’t be embarrassed,” Antonio told him. He didn’t pull his hand away. Instead he turned around and met those beautiful eyes. “We could die here.” “Yes,” he said. “We could, but we’re not going to.” Matt put his hands on both sides of Antonio’s face. “Kiss me.” Antonio looked down into his eyes. “Now he wants my kisses.” “I can’t believe that I want to…but I do, oh heaven help me, I want to kiss you more than…” The vampire’s mouth came down on his, hard and demanding. Matt wrapped his arms around his waist and pressed his body closer. What in the 78

D. J. Manly world was he doing? Well, whatever it was, he couldn’t stop doing it. One hand moved down to the vampire’s taunt ass, the other snaked up into his long hair. Antonio placed his hands under his butt and lifted him off the floor. He turned around and sat him on that slab. He took his face between his hands. “I want you,” he said. “So if you don’t want me, tell me now.” The vampire was looking at him intently, waiting, and Matt could hardly stand the few inches that were suddenly between them. “Make love to me,” he urged. “Make love to me now.” There in the dank dark stench of their prison, Antonio lowered him onto the slab and trailed his lips over his chest while one hand gently fondled his erection. Within minutes, Matt was moaning, his head turned to the side, his hips reaching upwards. Soft lips moved over his shaft, fingers moved underneath him and found their way inside of him. He reached out to touch the vampire. He scraped his nails over his chest and his hand sought out Antonio’s hard cock. Antonio raised his head, his eyes unnaturally bright in the murky air. Matt sucked in some breath and looked at him. “Are you afraid?” he whispered. “No,” he said, running his fingers over his jaw, 79

Love is War Valentine “no.” Antonio opened his jaw and Matt caught a glimpse of his razor sharp fangs. Suddenly they were the sexiest thing he’d ever seen. He pressed his thumb to the tip of one of them and the vampire responded by sucking his thumb into his mouth. Matt moved his lips to Antonio’s throat and licked him. This earned him an appreciative grunt as Antonio crawled up onto the slab and pulled Matt’s legs up around him. As Antonio entered him, Matt watched his eyes. Antonio’s jaw opened further and his brilliant eyes suddenly flashed red. There was no fear. Matt let his head go back as he held onto those broad shoulders. Antonio’s thick cock sliced through him, plunging itself to the core of him and Matt moaned out his surrender. Matt heard him growl low in his throat then suddenly pull away from him, his cock vacating his body, leaving him feeling empty and frustrated. He blinked in the darkness. “Antonio? What happened? What’s…” “I need blood,” he said softly in the dark, his deep voice sounded garbled. “I thought the weakness would pass, but just now when I was inside of you, I felt it…my sexual arousal is strong and so is the bloodlust…especially since I’ve lost so much. I’m sorry.” “It’s alright. What can I do?” 80

D. J. Manly “You can keep your distance,” he told him, his voice sounding far away. Matt could make out his form hunched in the corner. “How long does it take you to…” “After I drink, not long, but without blood, I will continue to weaken, and I’m not accustomed to losing so much at a time. Sometimes sleep helps.” “The sun will be down soon. They’ll come for us. I need you, Antonio. I need you to help me…” he slid down off the slab. “How much do you need?” “What?” “Blood? How much do you need?” “Not a lot. Just enough to…no, Matt,” he said, “I’m not going to drink from you.” Matt drew closer. “No,” he croaked, “stay away from me. I can smell the blood and it’s making me crazy.” “I want to feed you. Drink from me.” “Matt, do you know what…” Matt went down on his haunches beside him. “I want to live. I want to get to hell out of this place. I want you to finish what you started.” Matt smirked at him. Antonio’s eyes were blood red as he looked at him. “Take me,” Matt urged. “I trust you.” Antonio reached out to him. Matt went into his arms. He closed his eyes, 81

Love is War Valentine waiting then felt warm lips kiss his neck. “Um,” Matt murmured, snuggled closer then two sharp needle-like teeth sunk down into his juggler. He swooned as the vampire drew the life blood out of him, falling, falling, falling into his embrace. Suddenly he felt Antonio propel him away him. He rose, lifted his gaze and watched him stalk across the room. Antonio was beside him suddenly. “Are you all right?” “Yes,” he said. “I feel a little…it would help if I had some candy or…wait, I have some gum in my pocket,” Matt said, feeling around for his pants. Antonio pulled him to his feet. “How do you feel?” “Wonderful,” he said. “Strong.” Matt wrapped his arms around him. “Good. Want to finish what you…” “Not now. There’s not time,” he said. “Sun is setting.” Matt shivered. “I’ve never been afraid before but…” “You have good reason. This is no ordinary vampire we’re dealing with.” He began to dress as Matt followed suit. “They’re coming,” Antonio said suddenly. “Is he with them?” “No.” “We have no weapons.” 82

D. J. Manly “Then we’ll have to be resourceful,” he said. The door opened. Two mortals stood there, half naked. Matt could see deep puncture wounds on their throats and chests. “I can give you what you seek,” Antonio said suddenly, his voice seductive. He moved toward them. Matt wasn’t sure he liked the sound of that. “The master will embrace us,” one of them said, slinking around Antonio. “What is your name, vampire?” “Antonio Devlin.” “Is he your slut?” He asked, glancing at Matt. “Of course. Can’t you see the bite marks on his neck?” The mortal moved over to Matt. “Is he good?” “Yes,” Matt nodded, feeling rather odd. It suddenly dawned on him. He had been marked by a vampire. He’d been marked by Antonio. The other mortal stood back away. From a distance, he announced, “We are to take you to the master. He is most anxious to meet you.” The other mortal went back to moving around Antonio. Matt didn’t much care for the way he was looking at him. Antonio suddenly reached out and grabbed him by the throat. “I’d like to taste you,” he said. “Matt, get the other one!” Matt sprung forward as the vampire sunk his 83

Love is War Valentine teeth into the mortal. He struggled with the other one. He was damn strong and it took him a few minutes to put him on the ground and render him unconscious. When he got to his feet, a little breathless, the vampire stood there watching him, a faint smile on his face. “You weren’t intending on giving me a hand any time were you?” Antonio laughed. “Looked as if you were having a good time.” Matt glanced at the other one at Antonio’s feet. “Is he…” “Afraid so. I was thirstier than I thought. Now, let’s go introduce ourselves to Colin.” “How do you know his name?” “I know quite a bit about him now that I’ve drained his designated fledging. I got all that from his mind as I drained him. Unfortunately, he’s really pissed right now. He knows what I did, so let’s go. I don’t want to confront him in here.” Antonio made from the room, Matt on his heels. “Close that door,” he called back over his shoulder. “We don’t need the other one giving us any trouble. When we destroy Colin, he should be alright. We’ll come back for him.” Matt turned around and suddenly a hand pushed him back into that room. “I’m sorry, Matt,” Antonio said, “I have to do this on my own.” The door slammed shut behind him and Matt 84

D. J. Manly smashed his fists against the concrete. “Antonio! Antonio! I want to go with you.” There was no answer. Matt sighed. He glanced at the two bodies lying on the ground, one dead and one unconscious. What if Antonio didn’t come back? What if this other vampire…no, he had to believe it. He had to believe that Antonio would survive and he’d better because when he came back to get him, Matt was going to kill him himself. He paced, kept his eye on that unconscious body, and paced some more. Suddenly, he stiffened. He heard a noise. That body on the floor was moving. “Where in hell am I?” Matt moved a little closer. “You’re in a sewer.” “How in the fuck…ow…” he said, feeling his head. “What hit me, a truck?” “No. It was me.” Matt reached down and helped him up. He smiled. Antonio must be alright. The spell on this mortal was broken. “I’m Matt. You’ve were marked by a vampire. Do you remember any of it?” His gaze went to the door. Where was he? “Not really. A vampire, you say?” “Yep.” “I don’t believe in…” The door flew open and Antonio stood there, his fangs exposed, eyes wild. The guy beside Matt yelled. 85

Love is War Valentine Antonio’s face went back to normal. “It’s okay,” he said. “You’re safe,” but his were on Matt. He opened his arms. “Oh no,” Matt said. “You’re not going to get off that easy. You locked me in here. You…” Antonio widened his arms. Matt sputtered something, but walked over and embraced him anyway. “I’m so glad you’re safe,” he whispered in his ear, kissing his cheek. “I’m sorry,” Antonio said. “It was far too dangerous. I couldn’t risk you getting hurt.” He clicked his tongue. “I am a…” “Yes, I know,” he nodded. He looked at the other mortal. “Are we ready to get out of here?” “Ah, yeah,” he said. “Let’s go.” Matt told hold of the other guy’s arm, and followed Antonio out of the tunnel and back up to the street. Matt let out a cry of pleasure as Antonio pulled his naked body back up against his chest and pumped into him, his rhythm speeding up then slowing down again in a sensuous dance. Antonio’s hand moved down over Matt’s chest, his mouth finding his throat where he kissed and suckled Matt’s flesh. Matt moved his head to the side for his kiss and Antonio withdrew from him, turning him around 86

D. J. Manly in his arms. They held each other for the longest time, kissing deeply, then fell together on the bed, Matt lying on top of Antonio. He would have never believed he’d fall madly in love with someone like Antonio, but whenever he looked at him, all he saw was this gorgeous hunk who made love like an angel. “I never want to leave you,” Matt whispered against his skin. “Take me with you back to Washington?” “Are you sure?” Antonio asked him, raising his head. “Positive. I love you. I know that—” He kissed his mouth quickly. “That’s good because I fell for you the moment I saw you holding that stake over my heart.” Matt made a face. “I was going to—” “Yes, and you did,” he said. “You drove it right to the hilt. My heart’s been yours ever since.” He grinned. “Yeah, and it better stay that way, or next time…” Antonio pulled him down into his arms. “I promise, baby,” he said. “I’ll love you forever.” Matt closed his. He could live with that.

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h A Cupid Interlude o, how about that? Wasn’t that something? Now, if I can inspire those two to fall in love, I can do just about anything, right? Well, what about a bitter guy who’s sworn off love altogether, taken a temporary job he hates as a favour to his uncle and is ready to murder the very sexy tenant above him. This next one is called, Lust Is Never Silent.

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Story 3 Lust Is Never Silent tan had set everything up the way he always did when he was preparing to write a book. The time had finally arrived, his time and he was anticipating it with great pleasure. It had been weeks since he’d written anything. He was completely uninspired. So this wasn’t his place but that was a good thing. There was nothing familiar around to remind him. That’s why he’d agreed to do this in the first place. He scrolled back on the computer screen now and glanced at what he’d written over the last few weeks. Crap. Absolute crap. And he was feeling the pressure big time. After all, the first book in the series had hit the best seller’s list. The publisher and the readers were expecting that this book would be at least as good, if not better, than the first one. Stan sighed deeply. He got up to get a cup of coffee from the kitchen, always a good excuse to

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D. J. Manly waste a few minutes. He went to glance out the window at the park across the street. It was windy Chicago day in early October, sunny and cold. He was supposed to be in Europe with Kevin now. He’d be writing and Kevin would be shooting a new documentary on the royal family. But he was here on the north side of Chicago, taking over for his uncle as the building manager of a six apartment complex in Lakeview. His uncle, who’d long known he was gay, made a big deal of telling him that he was close to Boystown, the nation’s first officially recognized gay village. Stan guessed Uncle Mack felt that would make the job more attractive to him. Personally he couldn’t have cared less if he was in the middle of the God damned village. He’d had it with men. He’d had it with love, period. He let the curtain fall back into place. Uncle Mack had left on his two month holiday cruise yesterday. Before he’d left, he’d gone over each of the five leases with Stan. Stan knew what the rents were. He knew the names of the tenants. He had all the emergency numbers. Mack had taken him around to meet everyone, except for the guy who lived above his uncle’s apartment. He’d been out. “He just sub-letted the place from the lady who lived there before,” Uncle Mack explained. “I’ve seen him once maybe. Miss Harrison paid the rent up for the remaining six months before she left. I 89

Love is War Valentine don’t know what the deal is between her and that guy. I don’t ask, you know? She was very bohemian, if you get my drift. He’s not around often. I don’t know what in hell he does for a living. Works weird hours and drives a fast car. Names, ah…” Uncle Mack checked the paper attached to the Harrison woman’s lease, “Cortez, Cristo Cortez. Now, if anything comes up…” “Uncle Mack,” Stan had told him, “everything will be fine. I’ll take care of the lawn and the minor repairs. I’ll take out the garbage.” This situation was ideal of course. It was quiet here. He could write. If only he could take his mind off of Kevin. He pushed away from the window and went back to the table where he’d set up his laptop. He topped off his coffee and sat back down. The book was a murder mystery with a gay private detective named Harry Steins. The first one had been well received, praised by the New York Times. His publisher issued him a contract and a sizable chunk of change in the form of an advance to write the sequel. He’d already wasted two months wallowing in self pity. He had to produce something soon. He reread the first few pages and decided to scrap them. Now he found himself looking at the black computer screen. Oh God. He sat there for a good twenty minutes, forbidding himself to get up out of that chair until he’d written at least a 90

D. J. Manly paragraph. The sun had already gone down. It was supper time. His stomach started to complain. “No, God damn it, Stanley Jonathan Dobson, either write something or starve, you bastard. You’re going to starve anyway if you don’t write something.” An image flashed in his mind. He was going to bring back the character’s love interest in this book. He placed his fingers on the keyboard and typed out his description. His fingers kept moving and that easy flow that he so loved began to pulse out of him. Then he heard footsteps above and a blast of music, hard rock with the pumping bass, heavy drum beat and whining guitars. It just about knocked him out of his chair. “What in hell?” He grumbled, glancing up at the ceiling. He looked at the clock on the wall. It was a little after seven o’clock. He stood up, glaring at the ceiling. He waited. The music continued, the walls pulsed with the beat. “Okay, that’s it,” he muttered as he stalked through the kitchen and out the door onto his porch. He made his way up the winding staircase to the veranda above. He banged on the door. When no one answered, he banged again. “Just a minute,” a voice called out. “I’m coming.” Stan stood back when the door opened. A young man stood there, half naked, nothing on 91

Love is War Valentine but a towel tucked around a slim waist. Water dripped off his chest and biceps and his hair was wet. “Yes?” Stan was speechless for a second. This guy was drop dead gorgeous, very tall and dark, well muscled, his skin a creamy bronze. He had a wicked shadow on his jaw line. Stan had always wanted to have one like that, but his skin was too fair. It didn’t work well on him. “You wanted something?” He prompted suddenly. “I’m a little indisposed here.” If it hadn’t been for the music blaring away in the background, he would have almost forgotten what in hell he was doing there. Stan cleared his throat. “Yes, I’m the building manager…I’m filling in for my uncle and…” “Great. While you’re at it,” he said, “you can fix the facet in my bathroom. It drips all the time and…the lock on the front door sticks.” “No. I mean, I’m not really handy with plumbing. When I get around to it, I could take a look at your lock, probably a simple thing. As for the facet, you’ll have to wait until…is it an emergency?” “Well, it is if you care about the environment. It’s a huge waste of water, hot water, too, which I pay for.” “Yes okay, but what I came up here for was to ask you to turn down your music.” 92

D. J. Manly “What? You don’t like music?” He lifted an eyebrow. “Yes I like music, not necessarily that music, but…that’s not the point. I’m trying to write.” “Write what?” He was smiling. It was beginning to piss him off. “I’m a writer,” he said stiffly, “and I agreed to do this favour for my uncle so that I could write in peace.” “I know you,” he pointed a finger at him. “You do?” “You’re Stan Dobson. You wrote, Out in the Light.” “Yes,” he said, feeling as if this guy had completely disarmed him. “I did but…” “It wasn’t bad.” “Wasn’t bad? Gee, thanks,” he muttered. “I wasn’t sure about the motivation of the main character, but then you don’t have a background in law enforcement, do you?” “No,” he said, feeling a little miffed. “Look, I won’t hold you up. Can you please…” “Don’t worry, I’m going out,” he said. “I turn it up so I can hear it in the shower. There is a city bylaw you know and I’m not violating it.” Stan’s mouth opened. “I didn’t say you were violating anything…I just asked if you could turn it down, that’s all.” “Sure,” he said. “Anything else?” “No,” Stan tried not to look at him too much. 93

Love is War Valentine He was hot. “Okay,” he said abruptly and shut the door. Stan made his way down the stairs. What in hell was that? What a weird encounter. He was still trying to figure it out when he sat down again in front of his computer screen. His stomach was screaming at him. He swore and got up again. No choice. It was time to eat something. He’d been on a roll before, but the interruption had gotten him off track again. He made himself a sandwich and ate it quietly. He could still hear that damn music, although the guy had turned the volume down some. He looked up at the ceiling. How dare he say his main character wasn’t believable? Who in hell did he think he was anyway? The music stopped suddenly. He heard footsteps coming down the steps. He glanced out the kitchen window, but couldn’t really see anything. He didn’t want him to see him peering out at him. He waited until he heard a car engine start up then walked out onto the porch. A red sports car roared away from the curb and disappeared down the street. He stood there shivering for a moment then he heard his cell phone ringing. It was his publisher. “Marcel,” he said into the phone, “how are you?” “Great. How’s it going?” Marcel knew about his recent break up. “Well, I’ve moved into my uncle’s apartment.” 94

D. J. Manly “Did it help?” “It’s only the first day.” “Does it inspire you or not?” “So far, not.” Marcel sighed. “I’m worried.” “Don’t be. It will come. I’m working as we speak.” “Okay. Meet me for breakfast at the Hotel. It’s on me.” “It’s on your expense account, you mean.” “Yeah, yeah,” he laughed. “Eight okay?” “Make it nine.” “I’ll starve.” “I plan on writing late tonight.” “Okay, in that case, nine is fine.” “See you then.” Stan managed to write a few more paragraphs then gave up around midnight. He thought about watching some television, but changed his mind. He set his alarm for seven o’clock, crawled into his uncle’s bed and closed his eyes. He didn’t like sleeping alone. He’d been with Kevin for almost two years and he was used to a warm body beside him. At least this bed was a single one. He had a king sized one at home. He concentrated on his private eye, Harry Steins, composing the next few lines of dialogue in his mind, and drifted off to sleep. This annoying sound coaxed him awake. It sounded like someone was dragging a wire brush 95

Love is War Valentine along an iron gate. Stan sat up and peered at the clock on the night stand, three in the morning. He glanced up at the ceiling. That figured. He flopped back down to his pillow. Oh yeah. It didn’t take long to figure out by the intervals between the squeaking that lover boy up there was seriously screwing someone. He heard some sounds now, mumblings, moans and groans…someone cried out. “Jesus,” Stan muttered, throwing the pillow over his head, that’s all he needed! He couldn’t help but have an image of that stud in his head giving it to someone. He had no idea of knowing if it was male or female although the voices certainly sounded male. The squeaking stopped. Footsteps. Blessed silence. This probably never bothered his uncle. The guy was stone deaf without his hearing aid. Stan fell back to sleep only to be roused again by another round. He screamed in frustration. If they heard him, it didn’t fizz on them any. It continued off and on well into the dawn. The alarm was blaring shortly after he finally fell into a restful sleep. He felt like calling Marcel and cancelling breakfast. He was exhausted. “Yeah right,” he cursed the ceiling, “now you’re sleeping, you fuck.” He spent twenty minutes in the shower and had to make some coffee to wake up. What could he do? He was too embarrassed to go up there and 96

D. J. Manly tell him that his fucking had kept him awake half the night. Obviously the guy didn’t realise that he could hear him. What with Uncle Mack’s hearing problem, he’d probably never complained about it. Shit. Was he destined to get no sleep as well as do no work? Marcel picked him up around nine. He’d been after Stan to go out with him ever since Kevin left. He was a nice enough man, about ten years older in his late thirties. Good looking, intelligent. But Stan wasn’t interested. “I’ll use my hand from now on,” he’d told him, “it’s uncomplicated.” Marcel leaned over and kissed his cheek this morning as he got in. Stan glared at the little red sports car parked across the street. “Morning. You look like shit.” “Thanks. I feel like shit. I was awake half the night thanks to Mr. Valdez.” “Who’s Mr. Valdez? Isn’t he the coffee guy?” Stan sighed. “He’s the tenant upstairs. A Spanish…Romeo.” “I don’t think that Romeo was…” “Never mind,” Stan muttered. “He’s driving me nuts.” “You’ve only been in the place a little over a day.” “Um.” Stan closed his eyes. “And he said he didn’t understand Stein’s motivation…some of his moves.” 97

Love is War Valentine “Stein?” “My character.” “Oh, yeah. Well, at least the guys literate. What’s he done?” “He plays rock music full blast and last night…well he was fucking someone right over my head.” “Imagine that. He has a life.” “Maybe so, but he’s ruining mine.” “You don’t have one.” “Shut up,” Stan said. “I plan on talking to him when I get back.” “What are you going to say…stop fucking and playing music?” “No, but… he’s worn out his bedsprings.” Marcel laughed. “We should have his problems.” “I can’t talk to you.” “Did you get any more writing done last night?” “A bit.” “Well use that frustration, express that anger.” Stan gave him a look. “Let’s eat.” They had a leisurely breakfast then Stan dropped him off and told him to get to work. The red car was gone. Well, at least it would be quiet. He did manage to write that afternoon. The doorbell rang. He looked at his watch. It was after five. Now what? He walked to the door 98

D. J. Manly and opened it. That tenant from upstairs stood there. He was wearing jeans and a short black leather jacket, his dark hair curling over his collar. “Hey,” he said. “Can I help you?” “Did you call the plumber?” “Not yet.” “Well, could you do that soon? The facet is really running now. If you don’t believe me, you can come up and take a look.” “Okay,” he said. “Let me get my jacket.” Stan followed him up the stairs and watched as he put the key in the lock and pushed. “See what I mean about the lock?” “Have you tried lubricating it?” He glanced at him and grinned. “You mean like putting lube in there?” He flushed. “Something like that.” “Yeah, I tried that. It’s the mechanism. I need a new lock.” “You need new bedsprings, too,” he mumbled. He stopped and looked at him. “Why do you say that?” “My uncle is deaf. I’m not.” He actually grinned. “Sorry.” Stan followed him to the bathroom. The facet was really running. He tried to turn the handle. “Careful, you’ll strip it.” “I know what I’m doing, Mr…” 99

Love is War Valentine “Chris, Chris Cortez,” he said. “Mr. Cortez.” Stan let go of the facet. “I’ll call the plumber, have him fix it tomorrow.” He nodded, following him back out to the front door. “I’ll take a look at your door tomorrow at the same time.” “I’ll be working. Just let yourself in.” “It needs a new piece probably.” “Are you sure you know anything about…” “Don’t worry,” Stan said. “I’ll handle it.” “I’m sleeping alone tonight,” he said suddenly. Stan turned to look at him. “Ah…okay. That’s none of my business.” “It seems to be. You mentioned it.” “I couldn’t help but hear you,” Stan snapped. “Or eavesdrop?” “When the entire bedroom is vibrating, I don’t think that qualifies as eavesdropping. You woke me out of a dead sleep.” He just smiled. “Please try and keep it down.” “I could gag my lovers, might be kind of kinky.” Stan was speechless. He walked out onto the porch. Chris Cortez leaned out the door. “You’re so damn cute, uptight, but cute, Stanley Dobson. It’s a wonder someone hasn’t snapped you up 100

D. J. Manly already.” Stan turned around to look at him. He held up his finger, intending to say something scathing, but he’d be damned if he could think of a thing. Cortez was smiling at him. He raised a hand. “Have a nice evening and if you get lonely, you could come up for a drink.” “I…I don’t drink,” he said, making his way down the stairs. “Or something,” he called after him, laughing. Stan went into the apartment and closed the door behind him. Or something? Did he want to do or something with the tenant upstairs? Of course not. That was insane. He tried to write, but as hard as he tried he kept thinking about Chris Cortez upstairs, alone. Maybe he could take a look at his lock now. He wasn’t going to get any writing done by the looks of it. He picked up his uncle’s tool box and left the apartment. When Chris opened the door, he looked surprised. “What did I do this time?” He asked. “I don’t have any music on.” “No, I…” Stan held up the tool box, “I thought I’d take a look at your door. Maybe I could even look at your sink. It might only need a new washer.” “I’ve changed the washer several times. It lasts for a while then begins to drip again.” “It would be a good temporary fix until my 101

Love is War Valentine uncle gets back.” “Yeah,” he muttered, “the temporary fix.” Stan glanced at him. He was wearing sweat pants and a faded white t-shirt. The television was on the sports channel. He felt nervous. His palms were sweaty. He walked into the bathroom, put down the tool box and rummaged through it for this and that. The bathroom smelt good. There was a musky scent in the air, like some nice aftershave. He must have taken a shower recently because there were beads of water on the shower curtain. Stan reached over, picked up the bottle on the side of the vanity and pressed it to his nose. He opened the cap and inhaled it. Um. That was it. A nice smell. Kevin used to wear that kind of aftershave. “It’s called Nightwaves,” a voice said suddenly. Stan just about dropped the bottle in the sink. “Oh yeah, sorry,” he twirled on the cap and set it aside, “I, ah…my ex used to wear that I think. I can’t find it anywhere.” “It was a gift from my sister.” “Oh.” Stan concentrated hard on the facet. He unscrewed it. When he looked up, Chris was still standing there. “It’s pretty worn…the washer,” he said. “Yeah,” he nodded, “but that’s not the problem.” “I’ll still change it and call the plumber 102

D. J. Manly tomorrow.” “I thought you said you’d call him tonight?” “Right, but he’ll come tomorrow. It costs too much at night and it’s not an emergency.” He searched the tool box for a washer. “Want a drink?” “No. I mean…maybe,” Stan looked at him. “Let me know. And if you don’t have a washer, I’ve got half a dozen in the drawer.” “I found one, thanks. So ah…what did you mean about Stein?” “Stein?” “The character in my book.” “Oh, the P.I. I liked him, although I felt he was a bit overly self-restrained for a guy who is out of closet. He lives like a monk.” “I couldn’t make it too…you know…it wouldn’t sell.” “Yeah, gay characters are popular now as long as they’re celibate.” “If you want to sell books…I mean…” “Don’t feel guilty. I still liked him.” “But you didn’t think he was authentic.” “I think he’s a bit of a pussy.” Stan met his gaze. “Pussy?” “Yeah, he’s a by the book kind of guy and in real life, that never happens.” “What in hell would you know about it?” “Look, don’t go all crazy on me. You asked my 103

Love is War Valentine opinion and I gave it to you. Are you writing a sequel?” “Yeah.” “Make him do something a little off the wall once in awhile. The readers will love it.” “He’s going to fall in love.” “Is he?” Stan blushed. “Yeah.” “With who? The guy he kind of liked in the first book?” “Yeah, what do you think?” “I think it should be with someone completely unexpected, someone a little wild, someone who can take him out of his shell.” “You know, that’s not a bad idea.” “Stan?” “What?” “The sink…the washer?” Stan gasped as he noticed the tap gushing water all over the place. “Shit. I’ll fix it.” Chris dashed up to the sink and helped him until he got the washer on. They were both pretty wet. “Hey,” he said, “you’re real good at this.” Stan started laughing. “Okay. I guess I deserved that one.” “Yep.” Chris tossed him a towel. “Here you go. How about that drink now?” “What about the door?” “I shudder to think about what you could do to 104

D. J. Manly my door. Why don’t you leave it for now?” Stan made a face. “Fine.” “What do you drink?” “Coke will do, a little bit of ice.” “How ‘bout I mix a little bit of whiskey with that little bit of ice?” “I don’t handle liquor very well.” “Will I be in danger?” He was definitely flirting. Stan couldn’t help but smile. He was so cute. “I don’t know,” he grinned. “Why don’t I risk it?” “Okay.” “Come and sit down on the sofa. I’ll fix the drinks.” Stan sat there fidgeting on the sofa while Chris mixed drinks over at the small bar in the corner. It was a nice living room, a living room that was really lived in and enjoyed. The sofa was roomy and soft, the kind you could fall asleep on. A few feet away was a large screen television. There was a plush lazy boy off to the other side and a round coffee table in the center with a variety of magazines and there was his book. He leaned over and picked it up. He hated that picture of him on back. Chris came over and handed him a glass with ice in it. He sat down beside him on the sofa. “Would you sign it?” 105

Love is War Valentine “Sure,” Stan was flattered. “I’ll get you a pen later.” “Are you a big reader?” “When I have the time,” he smiled, taking a sip of his drink. Stan took a sip as well. “This is great. I don’t taste the liquor.” “Oh, do you want me to make it stronger? I…” “No. I don’t like the taste. Like I said, I’m not used to drinking.” “So, you mentioned an ex. Were you together long?” “A few years.” “Your break up was recent?” He nodded. “I’m sorry.” ”Shit happens.” “Any chance you’ll patch things up?” He glanced at him over his glass. Stan realised that his eyes were deep brown. “Ah…patch things up…no. It’s over.” “That’s good.” “It is?” Stan swallowed some more of the drink. He felt himself smiling. “Why?” “It’s good for me.” “Good for?” He almost chocked on his drink. “Now listen, Mr…Cortez, I’m not interested in…” “Relax, Stan,” he smiled. “Your virtue is safe with me.” 106

D. J. Manly “Don’t think I have that to worry about anymore.” “Oh yeah…tell me,” he said softly, a hand moving over his knee Shit. Oh shit. Stan drained the glass. “Let me get you another drink,” Chris offered. Stan didn’t protest. He started on another. Chris started asking him about his book and, before he knew it, he had a third drink in his hand. He was laughing and talking a blue streak. He suddenly realised that Chris was sitting back, listening to him, a grin on his handsome face. “I think I need to…” He started to get up. The room began to spin. “Are you alright, Stan?” Chris jumped up and supported him. “I think you may need to lie down. I’ll help you…” That was it. When he opened his eyes again, the first thing he felt was pain. He had a big headache. He sat up. Nothing around him was familiar. When he moved, the bedsprings squeaked. Oh my God. He was in Chris Cortez’s bed. He stood up with a deep groan and moved out of the bedroom. “Mr. Cortez,” he called out. No answer. There was a note taped to the front door. He ripped it off and tried to focus his eyes enough to read the words. You had a bit much, so I put you to bed. Sorry I couldn’t stick around. I had to go to work. Feel free to call the plumber. Lock the door on the way out. Chris. 107

Love is War Valentine Call the plumber. He didn’t even know what time it was. He glanced at the kitchen clock, three in the afternoon. “Holy,” he muttered, grabbing his coat. The sun was shining outside and Stan shielded his eyes from it as he walked down the stairs. When he got inside the apartment, he practically crawled to the sofa. He closed his eyes and fell asleep. It was after six when he woke up. He searched for the paper his uncle had given him with the emergency numbers and called the plumber. He’d come day after tomorrow. Stan thought about food then changed his mind. He looked at his laptop and forced himself to sit in front of it. “Write…write…” he told himself, and in spite of the splitting headache he had, his fingers began moving over the keyboard. For the first time since Kevin left, he felt inspired to write. He lost total track of time, absorbed in the world of his characters. Then suddenly, Stan heard some commotion outside on the porch. There were footsteps going up the stairs. A parade of people trampled overhead. Loud male voices guffawed, roaring. “What in hell? Cortez, you’re impossible,” he growled. “Now, he was really trying his patience. It was after ten at night. He paced, waiting for it to stop. He’d just had a drink with the guy for Christ’s sakes and he was really nice to him. He hated to go up there again, but this was 108

D. J. Manly outrageous. Finally when he could stand it no more, he grabbed his coat. He paused again, listening. The dishes in his uncle’s kitchen cabinet were shaking. How many bloody people did he have up there anyway? When Stan walked out onto the porch, he stopped dead. There were at least four police cars parked out front. Shit. Someone had called the police on him. Mrs. Carter who lived next door was also out on her porch. “What’s going on, Mr. Dobson?” she asked curiously looking up to Cortez’s balcony. “I have no idea. Looks like the cops are here.” Shit. Was he being arrested? The door upstairs opened suddenly, a uniformed officer came out on the porch. “See you later,” he called out and came bounding down the stairs. He paused when he saw Stan and the grey haired lady standing on the porch. “Sorry about the noise,” he said, “Cortez just got promoted. We all came over to congratulate him.” Stan was speechless. He watched the cop get into the squad car and start the engine. A few minutes later, two more came down, talking together, laughing about something. One of them said, “What a mess.” They laughed some more. Mrs Carter shook her head and went back inside. Stan did likewise. Chris Cortez was a cop? He 109

Love is War Valentine couldn’t help smile at that. All was quiet twenty minutes later. Stan went back to work. He understood a lot of things now, his irregular hours, his comments about him not having a background in police work. When his doorbell rang, he knew who it was. He opened the door. “I did manage to call the plumber,” he said, opening the door so that Chris could come in. “Great,” he grinned. “I’m sorry about the noise.” “Seems you had something to celebrate.” “Yes, I made detective.” “Why didn’t you tell me you were a cop?” “Well, it was much more fun making you believe I was a bad boy. And I can be.” “You can be what?” “A bad boy.” “I have no doubts about that. Looks like you just got out of the shower.” He noticed that his hair was a little damp. “Yeah. They threw champagne all over my head. Do I smell like booze?” He dipped his head closer for inspection. Stan moved his nose closer. “You smell…ah wonderful.” He grinned. “Oh yeah?” Stan cleared his throat. “So, you going to help me with my novel?” “Help you? I can’t write.” 110

D. J. Manly “That’s okay, just some technical stuff, be my reader…give me some suggestions?” “I’m flattered,” he said, following Stan into the living room. “On one condition.” “What’s that?” Stan turned to look at him. God, he was so cute. He felt his heart speed up a little, his cock stiffen. Um. He hadn’t thought about his cock in awhile, but it seemed that was all he could think about at the moment. “You let me take you to dinner.” “Dinner? Now?” “Have you eaten?” “Chris,” Stan laughed, “it’s eleven o’clock at night.” “I know, but I worked a weird shift today and I didn’t have time for supper. I’m assuming you haven’t felt much like eating.” He laughed. “You’re right. Okay. You paying?” “Sure. I’m the one who did the inviting.” “Where are we going?” “Upstairs.” Stan narrowed his eyes. “Upstairs?” “Yeah. Some of my buddies at the cop shop brought food…pizza…Chinese…cake…since they were dousing me in champagne, I didn’t get a chance to eat. I can’t eat that all by myself.” He looked like a little boy suddenly. “Sounds good.” Stan followed Chris up the stairs, flattered that he’d want to spend this very 111

Love is War Valentine important time with him. “Isn’t there someone who…” They sat on the floor together, eating off of paper plates. “Someone who what?” He smiled at him, reaching over and wiping his chin with a napkin. “Pizza sauce.” Stan smiled. “Someone you’d want to spend this special…” “Yeah, there is. He’s sitting right here.” “Chris, I…” “Chris, you what?” He said softly, reaching over and taking the pizza out of his hands. “Chris, I want you? Chris, you’re an annoying neighbour, Chris, I’m falling for you? What? What did you want to say, Stan?” His hand was crawling up his pant leg, fingers suddenly pulled on his zipper, pulling it down. Stan couldn’t speak. He gasped as warm lips wrapped around the head of his cock. He placed his hands in Chris’s hair, leaning back on his palms, his eyes closed. He felt his hips lift, his cock moving deeper into that hot mouth. “Oh God, you’re good,” he blurted, his chest heaving as he felt his cock thump out its release. Chris crawled up over him. He took his face between his hands and kissed his mouth deeply. “Take me to that creaky bed of mine,” he groaned, “and let’s make it sing.” Stan started to laugh. How could he not. He 112

D. J. Manly allowed him to pull him to his feet and lead him into the bedroom. Chris stripped then pulled off his clothes. “You’re beautiful, Stan,” he whispered. “I wanted you the minute you came up here to chew me out.” Stan smiled, his body coming alive with every caress. “You’re so damn hot,” he told him, pushing him on the bed. “Cop or no cop, tonight, you’re my prisoner.” “Oh baby,” he said softly, “do what you want to me.” He reached over to the night stand and grabbed lube and condoms. He threw them on the bed. “What about that guy…the one…the other night?” “Now Stan,” he teased, pulling him down on top of him, “are you jealous?” “Damn right,” he said. “Good,” Chris muttered, grabbing him and rolling him onto his back. He looked down into Stan’s eyes. “I guess if you don’t want to be jealous, you’ll have to make sure you keep me busy.” “Oh, I’ll keep you busy,” Stan laughed, rolling him back over and jumping on top. He began to kiss him, every inch of him. They wrestled around a bit, touching each other all over. Then Chris pulled him up on all fours and 113

Love is War Valentine rimmed the hell out of his ass. His ex could have never shone a light to this guy. A hand on his throat, Chris pulled him up into his arms, biting down gently into his shoulder as Stan felt Chris impale him with his cock. It filled him like he’d never been filled before. It left him completely satisfied and almost tearful. He fell asleep holding him. He woke up next to him, and gazed into the face of majestic beauty. And suddenly he was afraid. He was falling in love again. It was too soon. He got up, dressed and went back downstairs. A little while later, the doorbell rang and Chris stood there. “Why did you leave me?” “I got scared,” Stan said. “I’m scared too,” he replied. Stan was surprised. “Why?” “I don’t want to be your rebound lover.” Stan went to protest. Chris put up a hand. “You just got out of a long term relationship with someone.” “The other night you were fucking another man!” The words sounded angry. “Some stranger I met in a bar. It didn’t mean anything. I’m not going to see him again.” “I just feel like we’re moving a little fast and…” “Okay,” Chris said, backing away. “I got to go to work. We’ll talk about it later.” 114

D. J. Manly Stan watched him going, feeling down. Why did he have to do stuff like that? Why couldn’t he just go with it? It felt so good. Why did he have to be so afraid? But someone like Chris, he could really break his heart…even more than Kevin did. He was so beautiful and kind and the way he made love. Damn it. Stan waited for him to come home, but he still wasn’t back by two in the morning. He gave up and fell asleep. Music. He was woken by music. Not rock this time, but classical. He looked at the clock. Six in the morning. He sat up in bed and shook his head. Now what was he up to? Stan pulled on his clothes and went upstairs. The door was open when he got up there. “Chris?” Beethoven’s Fifth was playing. “What’s wrong with you, playing music this loud at this time of…” He closed the door and walked into the bedroom to find Chris laying there naked on the bed. Chris grinned. “Why is it that the only way I can get your attention is by being a naughty boy?” Stan laughed softly, pulling off his coat. “Oh, you’re going to have to be a naughtier boy than that,” he growled. “I think I can manage it,” he said softly, motioning to him with his finger. Stan came closer and Chris pulled him down into his arms. “Now,” he said, “before I tell you 115

Love is War Valentine that I’ve fallen madly in love with you Mr. Building Manager, where in hell is that plumber?” Stan grinned. He opened his mouth to explain, but never really did get the chance to answer the question.

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n A Cupid Interlude h, tres Romantique…don’t you think? What began as a terrible annoyance, turned out to be Stan’s greatest inspiration! Go figure. And such a sexy cop that Christo. Yum. Well, we wish them a long and ah…noisy union? It looks like they’ll have to invest in some new bed springs. I don’t have a lot of hope for the life expectancy of those ones. The days of those springs are numbered! Although I did have a hand in that one, I have to admit that there’s nothing like a good stiff…ah…good stiff drink, to put one on the right track! Unfortunately, it would take far more than a drink to mend the fences between these two guys in the story coming up. When people are taught to hate over generations, those feelings run deep. Sometimes, the only way is to lock them in a room and let them fight out it out…and in this next story called Sins of the Fathers, that’s exactly what happens.

A

Story 4 Sins of the Fathers hen the explosion hit, it rocked the space station so hard that Rory thought they’d be propelled out into space. When the debris finally settled, the station had stabilised, but he found himself cut off. He was trapped, both major exits blocked by concrete barriers. The fighting had been intense this time. The dead were greater than ever before. Rory carefully searched the corridor, weapon poised, his senses on high alert. Several small rooms, which had served as several sleeping quarters to the Dangolier elite command station, stood vacant, personal items of the soldiers were strewed everywhere. It was doubtful at this stage that anyone was left alive. He stepped over body after body…Dangoliers and Amsteaders alike. He wasn’t sure what this attack had given them. Sure, they’d killed off a lot of those bastards, but for every Dangolier he found, an Amsteader lay near by. Everyone was dead.

W

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Love is War Valentine Why he had survived, he’d never know. And anyway, it was all over. He was never getting out of here. Rory sighed, just about to lower his weapon when he heard a noise. He whirled around, gaze scanning everywhere, prepared to shoot. “Kill me if you want,” a voice said. “We’re going to die here anyway.” He blinked as a young man appeared at the end of the hallway, his arms outstretched. “My weapon doesn’t work anymore. It was damaged in the explosion.” “How come you speak English?” The Dangoliers had reverted back to their mother tongue when the rebellion began. It was actually forbidden to speak the language of their former colonizers. “I’m an interpreter.” He didn’t move. Rory kept his weapon on the Dangolier. They were sneaky bastards. “Are you going to shoot me, or not?” “Keep your hands up.” He moved closer. “Turn around and put your hands on the wall.” He watched him comply. He hastily patted him down. “All right. Turn around. Get funny and I’ll blow your head off.” “Might as well drop the act, Amsteader. It’s all over now. We’ve just about wiped out all the young men on both sides so…I predict both of our 118

D. J. Manly people will probably die out in a hundred years or so.” “What are you, some sort of science guru or something?” Rory stood back, watching him. He nodded. “Something like that. I’m a pacifist actually. I only carried a gun for self defence. I never actually fired it.” “You some kind of weirdo?” He laughed. “Some would call me that. I was conscripted. Had no choice, but I’m not a solider. I’m a professor at the university, science and languages. I was also working on the peace process…we were progressing until your government decided to invade our command center.” He walked past. He lowered his gun. This guy was just nutty enough to be for real. “A coward’s way out.” He turned around and glared at him. “I’m no coward.” “Hide behind a peace banner.” “You are the typical Amsteader…arrogant to the end…even when you finally have to admit defeat.” “Defeat?” “You call this victory? Look around you?” “I’m still standing.” “Yeah, well so am I.” He folded his arms across his chest and glared at him. “Well, I’m getting out of here. And it’s every 119

Love is War Valentine man for himself.” “Good luck.” “What does that mean?” “It means I know this ship and there is no way to move those barriers, unless as you people claim, you’re descended from Gods. Didn’t you guys build the pyramids?” “Very funny.” “Our only chance is for a stray ship to come along, either one of yours or one of mine…and given the damage that explosion probably caused in the surrounding atmosphere, that won’t happen for a long time. Radio transmission is all down. I’ve tried.” “Maybe we can…you can fix it. What did you say your name was?” “I didn’t.” He paused. “Maybe we could call a truce…you know…temporarily, see if we can find a way out of here.” “A truce with the likes of you…I don’t think so. You killed a lot of my friends.” “Yeah, well you killed a lot of mine. Guess we’re even.” “Yeah, well good riddance.” “I’m going to pretend you didn’t say that. Look, I don’t like you anymore than you like me, but in spite of that I worked my ass off trying to negotiate peace with your leaders. Anyway, that’s all over now. We’re both losers and I guess we’re 120

D. J. Manly stuck here together. You want to try to get out of here or you want to go on being stubborn until you die?” Rory nodded. “Okay. You know this station better than me. Maybe you can-” “I can’t guarantee anything, but two heads are better than one.” “Even if one of them is—” “Levon.” “What?” “My name is Levon.” “Oh, okay.” “Let’s take a look at the atmosphere controls. I think we can get to them. We should check and make sure they’re stable.” “Good idea.” Rory followed him down the corridor. “And would you mind putting that weapon away,” he said, turning to look at him, “makes me nervous.” “Sure. Fine.” He felt uneasy about putting down his gun, but he did. He took out the ammunition, stuck the bullets in his pocket and laid the gun aside. “All right now?” “Sure. Thanks.” They turned the corner. “Okay, the controls are over there. Help me move some of this stuff. We should be able to get to it.” Rory helped him move some heavy furniture and shelves which had fallen in front of the 121

Love is War Valentine control room. Finally it was cleared enough so that they could step over the rest. Levon checked the controls. He pressed a few buttons. “What are you doing?” “I’m readjusting the atmosphere pressure. It’s a little high. The measurements indicate that everything is normal so far in the chambers, however outside, for about seventy two miles, we’re surrounded by toxins…even if we could get out of here, we couldn’t go out there.” “If we had a ship, then…” “There is no guarantee that these gases wouldn’t seep through. The ship would have to be treated with a highly reflective anti-nuclear coating, the kind you find in the S-38’s.” “Any ship coming within seventy miles of us will be—” “Yes, it’s likely to kill off all the crew within hours.” Rory closed his eyes. “If we can communicate with any ship that’s out there, we can warn them, make sure they are flying an S-38.” He nodded. “There’s one problem. How do we know which side will answer?” “We don’t,” he said, stepping over the debris and walking off down the corridor. Rory found him fiddling with the 122

D. J. Manly communication equipment a few minutes later. “Pretty battered,” Levon sighed. “I need parts, replacement parts. I’ll try to find some around here but…” He looked up at Rory. Rory suddenly noticed that Levon had the bluest eyes. They looked like the sky on his planet. He missed his planet. He missed his family. Blue eyes and dark hair. It was a rare combination. He’d never denied that this race was an attractive one. He’d yet to see a truly ugly Dandolier. They weren’t tall people, but the men were slender and compact, quite muscular. They were good hand to hand combat fighters. “Did you hear me?” He nodded. “Yeah, you said you needed replacement parts.” “I could compensate…you know…make temporary pieces, which might last just long enough to establish contact and—” “How do I know you won’t contact your ships?” “Will you fucking get over it,” he snapped. “I have no idea who we’ll contact. The communication waves are all screwy. We could contact Mars for all I know. The most important thing is letting someone know we’re out here.” “I don’t—” “I know…I know…cowboy. You don’t trust me. Well looks like you have no choice. Do you know 123

Love is War Valentine how to fix this thing?” He threw up his hands in front of the multitude of components, half of which looked badly damaged. “No,” Rory said. “There you go. Now stop breathing down my neck and make yourself useful. How about you find some food and water for us…check the supplies.” “Can I get to them?” “Go down the corridor, turn to your left. There’s a makeshift kitchen there, a supply room in the back. I have no idea what’s in there.” “Okay,” Rory said, reluctantly leaving him and wandering down the corridor. Maybe there was a chance they’d get out of here, but one of them was going to end up a P.O.W. if they did. It took him at least a half hour to clear his way to the supply cupboard. He almost called out to Levon for help, but changed his mind. He didn’t want to get too chummy with the guy. After all, they were enemies. They had been enemies for generations, from the start of space colonization. It had to do with natural resources more than anything and territory. The earth was deemed uninhabitable by 2080, and space was the only frontier left to conquer and colonize. Humans were not known historically for their ability to share. By the year 3016, all non-humanoid races had been wiped out, and the human colonies 124

D. J. Manly which remained, fought it out among themselves. Rory had been born trained for war as soon as he hit the age of fourteen. He’d never known peace. Levon’s people would use him as a slave if he was captured or put him to death. The same fate would await the other if the situation were reversed. Levon appeared suddenly. “Need help?” “No. I got to it alright. It looks like we have enough to last us a month if we eat sparingly.” “Okay. That’s good news I guess. I’m trying to track down thin pieces of metal. If you spot any hanging around, start collecting it. And speaking of food, I’m starved.” “Okay, I’ll start organizing and dividing the supplies so there are no arguments.” “Fine. Can we do it later? If I don’t eat soon, I might be tempted to eat you.” Rory glanced at him. “Cannibalism now?” “Desperate times,” he smirked. He cleared the debris off the table and sat down. “Bring it on, Amsteader. You know there are a couple of things that are necessities in this life…eating, drinking, breathing, going to the bathroom, and fucking. Those are basics. Eliminate any one of those and you have misery.” Rory glanced at him as he brought out the food. “Fucking?” “Yeah, who in hell can live without that?” 125

Love is War Valentine “Well, guess you’ll have to live without it here.” Levon met his gaze. “Not necessarily.” Rory narrowed his eyebrows. “Dream on,” he said. “You’re a good looking guy for an Amsteader…and you know what they say, put any two humans together long enough without any other choice and…” “A desperation fuck.” “Yeah, well what else could it be?” He lifted an eyebrow. “Masturbation.” Levon found that funny. He started to laugh. “Don’t you?” “Of course,” he said with a smile, starting to eat the dried meat. “More fun when there’s two.” He winked. “You’re insane.” “Of course I am. We’re all insane. War made us that way.” Rory sat down and started to eat as well. They ate in silence, each deep in thought. He couldn’t help but consider what Levon had said. He’d never had a Dangolier, even in battle, he’d never taken one like that. He remembered a gang of soldiers once capturing a Dangolier and sexually violating him all night long. He’d been invited to participate, but he refused. To him, that was just plain wrong, no matter who the guy was. 126

D. J. Manly “What are you thinking about?” Levon asked. “The things I’ve seen.” Levon nodded. “War makes men into animals.” “Yes,” he said. “I know.” Rory met his gaze. Yes. He had the bluest damned eyes. “Will it ever be over, you think?” “Who knows? One can only hope.” He nodded. “I’m tired.” “Me, too. Choose your room.” Rory shook his head. “I’ll take whichever one you want.” “You want to sleep with me?” “Well…not…really…with you, but I’m not letting you out of my sight. We’ll sleep in the same room.” “Whatever you want,” Levon said with a shrug. “I hope you don’t snore.” “Not that I know of.” He looked at him. “Haven’t you even shared a bed with anyone?” “That’s, ah…private,” Rory muttered. He’d had sex a few times with some of his comrades, usually it lasted five minutes, mutual jerk offs or a quick thrusting in and out. That was it. He certainly had never slept with anyone! Levon actually laughed. “Okay.” “What’s so funny?” “You are. You’re so typically uptight.” 127

Love is War Valentine “Why typically?” “You people are all like that.” “Us people?” “Yeah. It’s that elitist mentality of yours…like you don’t need to shit.” “We’re not…I’m not elitist!” “Yes, you are. You have that stiff upper lip thing going, hiding your emotions, keeping them all inside bottled up. No wonder you guys have such a high rate of stress related conditions.” Rory blinked. “You seem to know a hell of a lot about us. Are we your favourite bed time reading or what?” “Know thy enemy.” Levon met his gaze. He sighed. “Well I know a thing or two about your people too.” “Yeah. Enlighten me.” “Well…you have a high rate of bisexuality.” “So?” “So. It shows indecisiveness, self-indulgence.” “Is that what they told you in those little military classrooms?” “It means you have trouble making decisions. You are extravagant when it comes to pleasure. It gave us a great advantage in the Mercury Invasion three years ago.” “Did it now? And how so?” “Your soldiers were so busy shagging one another, they never saw us coming.” 128

D. J. Manly Levon started to laugh. “It’s true,” Rory pointed out. “Your men didn’t succeed during that invasion. We held the territory.” “By the skin of your…teeth.” He smiled. “Well, I personally haven’t any problem making up my mind about things. I’ve loved cock since I was old enough to know what to do with one, and I’ve never wavered.” Rory cleared his throat. “T M I.” “What?” “T M I. Too much information.” “See, there you go again,” he pointed out, “denying what’s real.” “I’m not denying it. I just don’t want to talk about it.” Levon grinned. “No talk and all action, eh?” “N-no. I didn’t say that. I said…” Rory felt a bit flustered. What in hell was he doing discussing sex with this guy? “Change the subject.” “Okay. What do you want to talk about now? Since you claim to know everything about me, I guess that’s out.” “No. Go ahead. Tell me.” “Tell you what?” “Tell me about you…not the sex part…just about you.” “Are you really interested?” “No, but I’m bored.” 129

Love is War Valentine Levon laughed. “You know sometimes you get this cute little dimple right in the middle of your chin when you frown.” Rory narrowed his eyes at him. “Never mind that.” “Big tough soldier. Let’s talk about you. How long you been in the war?” “Forever.” “How old are you?” “Twenty three going on fifty. How old are you?” “Twenty three.” Rory laughed. “Same age. When’s your birthday?” “September second.” “Mine’s September tenth. That’s wild.” He laughed. “Looks like we’re going to turn twenty three here. It’s August fifteenth today.” Rory sighed. “Yeah. Great.” “When did you join the army?” “I was a volunteer at sixteen.” “Why?” “I come from military men. No choice.” “What would you have done if there had been peace?” Rory smiled to himself. He would have been a teacher. That’s what he would have liked to do, teach literature. He used to like to read. 130

D. J. Manly “Rory?” Levon said. “What? Oh…teach. It’s silly.” “Why silly?” He shrugged. “I like to read and talk about books and stuff…” “Really? I write a bit.” “Oh, like stories?” “Um,” he nodded. “What kind of stories?” “Adventure stories with some romance in them. I like history. I thought about writing a story about two guys during a war…falling in…” He stopped. “Falling in what?” Rory enquired. “Never mind.” He grinned. “I just realised how that sounded.” “I’m lost.” “You would be,” he accused. “But that’s okay, it’s kind of charming.” “Charming? Me?” Rory felt the heat rise in his face. “Get out of here. Enough touchy feely shit. I’m tired. Let’s sleep, get a fresh start tomorrow, see if you can’t fix that radio.” “Okay.” He stood up. A few minutes later they were fixing up two of the singles bed in one of the little rooms. “I need an extra pillow,” he announced, brushing the debris off the blankets. “Here,” Levon said, throwing him one, “I only 131

Love is War Valentine need one.” “How can you sleep with your head flat like that?” “Better for your posture.” “So,” Rory said, sitting on the edge of the bed and removing his boots, “tell me one of those stories you were writing.” “I didn’t say I was writing it. I said I was thinking about writing it. I never had any time.” Levon undid his shirt and took it off. He couldn’t help notice the muscular definition in his biceps and upper chest. Very nice. Then he saw the huge black and blue bruise which lined his rib cage. “Whoa…what happened?” “Oh this?” He said, touching his side, “happened in the explosion. A big steel girder fell on me.” And yet, the man had never uttered a word of complaint. “You never complained.” “You admire that, don’t you?” He laughed. “It’s that stiff upper lip thing you guys got going.” Levon leaned down, took off his boots then lay down on the bed. Rory shook his head. “I probably could take care of that for you, I mean, I have some excellent salve in my bag.” He removed his shirt then felt a little self conscious as he saw Levon look over at him. “Were you a medic?” 132

D. J. Manly “I was kind of the second in command medic. If Samson wasn’t around, I…” He cleared his throat. He felt truly naked all of a sudden although he still had his pants on. He got up and busied himself searching his bag. He found the little jar and held it up. “There,” he said, “turn on your back and I’ll…” Levon moved onto his back. Rory approached slowly, undoing the cover on the jar. “You don’t have to,” he said. “I know and it’s not because I…well…it’s in my interest to keep you healthy. I need you to…” Levon laughed. “That’s what I expected from you.” “Oh fuck off,” Rory muttered, dipping his fingers into the pot. “I’m not a script. You can’t fit me into that little mould of yours.” “You sure?” he asked, looking up at him with those blue, blue eyes. He began to rub the cream on his ribcage. “That tickles.” “Be quiet,” Rory said. “It must hurt like hell.” Levon winced a little. “I’m reminded of the story I heard about one of you fellows who got captured by a Zeazel.” “Must have been long ago. Zeazel’s were extinct long before I was born.” “It was. It’s an old story, but one that was so 133

Love is War Valentine typical, it’s become part of the local folklore. We say, oh make like an Amstead with a Zeazel and suck it up. Rory stopped applying the salve. He was becoming quite mesmerized, looking into those eyes and feeling his skin beneath his cream coated finger tips. “You got to be kidding. What’s the story?” “You mean you don’t know it?” “No.” He went to put the salve away in his bag. He sat back down on the other bed. “Tell it to me.” He laid his head down on the pillow. “Well, the story goes that an Amsteader was taken hostage by a depraved Zeazel who strung him up and tortured him for days. Eventually the Amsteader was rescued. Never once did he cry out or lose consciousness. When he was rescued, Amstead soldiers asked him if he were all right, and the only thing he said was, Ouch. Rory started to laugh. “You would find that funny.” “A little unbelievable…” “But admit it…probable for you people.” “What have you got against courage?” “Nothing. It’s not courage I despise, it’s the denial of emotions…of pain, love, compassion.” “I think both sides are guilty of not having compassion. The longer the war has gone on, the more immune we become to the pain of others.” 134

D. J. Manly For a minute, Levon didn’t answer then he said, “Rory?” “What?” Rory stared up to the ceiling. “I don’t want to fight anymore.” “No one wants to fight.” “I won’t do it anymore. If we were rescued right now by one of your ships, would you shoot me?” “Shoot you? No.” “Would you hold me prisoner and torture me?” “No.” “But you wouldn’t protect me from your own men?” “I…Levon, Christ. I could ask you the same thing.” “I wouldn’t let anyone hurt you, Rory, even if I don’t like you.” He laughed. “Okay, go to sleep.” “Goodnight,” Levon said. He felt himself fading. It was to be the first time he’d slept soundly in years. Hours later, Rory was awakened by the sounds of shouting. He sat straight up in his bed. It was coming from the bunk across the room. He got up and moved over to his bunk. Levon was thrashing around, calling out, “No, no…don’t.” He reached down and pressed his shoulders 135

Love is War Valentine gently to the mattress. “Levon,” he urged, “wake up.” He perched himself on the edge of the bed and repeated his name a few times. Levon quieted, opened his eyes. He sat up immediately and wrapped his arms around Rory’s neck, his entire body trembled. Rory wasn’t quite sure what to do. He patted his back, trying to calm him. “Levon,” he said gently, “what is it? What’s wrong?” He slowly backed away, looking embarrassed. He wiped at his eyes. “I had a bad dream. I was being shot at and a lot of men fell around me. I…I’m sorry.” He nodded. “It’s okay. I’ve had bad dreams before.” Levon touched his cheek suddenly. Rory’s eyes widened. “You’re beautiful. I feel so close to you for some reason and yet…you’re supposed to be my enemy. I feel like we’ve met before. It doesn’t make much sense.” Rory swallowed. “Of course you…you feel close to me,” he said, “who else you going to feel close to? I’m the only one here.” He laughed a little. “You’re a bit of a clown. I didn’t know you people had such a sense of humour.” “I hate clowns,” he muttered. “And stop referring to me as you people, okay?” “I will if you will.” 136

D. J. Manly “From now on, we’re just Rory and Levon. Let’s start from fresh.” He held out his hand. “Hello, I’m Rory Emerson. How do you do? And you are?” He grinned, taking his hand in his. “Levon, Levon Duchaine.” “Well, I’m very pleased to meet you, Mr. Duchaine.” “And you, Mr. Emerson. May I call you Rory?” “You may,” he inclined his head. “And may I call you Levon?” “Certainly. Do you dance?” “What?” “Dance?” Levon smirked. “Ha, ha,” Rory said, releasing his hand and standing up. “Very funny. And see, I didn’t make that stupid joke.” “Want coffee?” He got up. He followed him through the corridor. “Yeah. That would be great. I haven’t had a cup of coffee…a good cup for…I don’t know how long.” “Ah, the simple pleasures,” he said, turning into the kitchen and beginning to prepare it. “There are dehydrated eggs and…” “I hate those.” “Toast then?” “Sounds great.” “There is peanut butter.” “Good old peanut butter.” 137

Love is War Valentine Levon laughed. The rest of the day went quickly. Rory did some extra exploration and collected thin pieces of metal where he found it and Levon struggled with the communication panel. They sat down to eat the evening meal late. Levon was frustrated. “It will go better tomorrow,” Rory suggested. Levon sighed. “Let’s hope so. The band wave mechanism is shot to hell.” “English please.” He grinned. “Don’t trouble your pretty head, beautiful.” “I’m not…not beautiful, okay?” “If you say so.” They went to sleep shortly after and got up to face another day. The days passed with Rory cleaning up the rubble and Levon diligently trying to restore the communication system. They were going onto their second week when late one night Rory announced, “I cleaned a path to the shower room.” They’d been sponge bathing every day due to the fact that the shower room was blocked off. “Do the showers work?” Levon enquired, glancing up from the control panel. “The water turns on.” “Hooray,” he threw down the wire he was fiddling with and stood up, “my hero.” 138

D. J. Manly Rory picked up a piece of scrap paper nearby and threw it at him. “Let’s try it out,” he suggested. “God, it’s going to feel good to take a shower.” “Now?” “What? You got a hot date, stud?” Rory went to say something, but Levon grabbed him by the arm and dragged him down the corridor to the shower room. Levon immediately began stripping off all of his clothes. Rory stood there, staring at him. How could he not? He had a beautiful body, his ass so round and…well…enticing. Levon switched on the water and got under the spray. The shower room was quite large with a series of shower heads lined up in a row. If Rory was going to shower, he’d have to do it here right out in the open. “Water is hot…um…feels so good,” Levon said, letting his head go back. Rory watched the water run down his back and over his hard round ass. He licked his lips. His cock was suddenly hard. He could picture himself cupping those globes of flesh in his hands, squeezing them, tonguing his nipples, kissing his neck. He turned around. His nipples were hard and 139

Love is War Valentine so was his cock. He held out his hand. “Come on,” he said softly. “We’re totally alone. We can make all the noise we want.” He stifled a groan. They were two men, alone here, could possibly be stuck here forever or until they ran out of supplies. They had needs, sexual needs and… He found himself taking off his clothes. Levon watched silently, the water still running down his chest, dripping off the edge of his cock. Rory approached rather hesitantly. After all, he was a Dangolier, his natural enemy, a man he’d been taught to hate and kill, but suddenly, all he wanted to do was touch him. “I want to…” he began, looking into those blue eyes. “You want to what, baby?” he whispered, taking his hand, drawing him closer. He could feel Levon’s gaze burning into his flesh. “I want to fuck you.” Levon smiled. He pulled Rory into his embrace. “That’s good,” he said softly, kissing his neck, his hands moving over the length of him, “because I want you to fuck me. I dreamt about you fucking me.” Rory moaned as he allowed himself the luxury of taking Levon’s ass cheeks into his hands. He squeezed them and let his head fall back as Levon began tonguing his nipples, the warm water mixing with Levon’s saliva. A hand wrapped 140

D. J. Manly around his cock, fondling it roughly. Rory could hear Levon’s breathing accelerate as his erection brushed against his thigh. He opened his ass cheeks with his fingers and began to delve them into his entrance. Levon went back against the wall, his hips bucking forward. “Rory,” he grunted. “Oh, yeah.” Rory turned him around and forced him against the wall. Levon planted his palms on the ceramic tile, pushed his ass out to give him greater access. Rory let his hands wander over Levon’s balls, his cock, up to his nipples. He pinched and tormented them until Levon pleaded then returned his attention to that gorgeous ass of his. One hand on his cock, the other playing in his hole, Rory wasn’t sure how much longer he could spend readying him. He was almost ready to blow. “Fuck me,” Levon cried out. Rory removed his fingers and replaced them with his cock. He pushed Levon’s legs even further apart, pulled him forward by the waist and plunged into him. He let out a cry, his head went back. He said his name and Rory pumped into him, hard and fast, slowing down a bit to catch his breath, moving his cock from side to side, which earned him a whimper of pleasure. He began to pump again, milking his cock as he stampeded his release inside of him, his lips coming down on his 141

Love is War Valentine shoulder. Rory closed his eyes. “Sweet Jesus,” he managed. Levon turned around in his arms. “Now that you’ve fucked me like that, don’t ever stop.” He kissed Rory deeply. Rory gathered him closer in his arms. They stayed like that under the warm water for the longest time, kissing. Rory couldn’t get enough of him and it appeared that the feeling was mutual. They ended up scrubbing each others back then racing back to the bunks where Rory fucked Levon again. They woke up together in the same bunk. Levon ran a hand over Rory’s chest and then moved it down to capture his cock. He began to stroke it. Rory arched his back, uttering a groan as Levon’s mouth came down on it. Rory’s hand settled in Levon’s hair. Was this love? If it was, he’d never experienced anything like it. Levon brought him to orgasm with his mouth and Rory pulled him back up into his arms, kissed his sweet mouth, touched his hair, and leaned down to lap at his delectable nipples. Levon suddenly pushed him away. He scrambled to his feet and held out his hand. “Come on, you need a shower.” Rory laughed. “Not only me from the looks of it.” They both ran naked down to the shower. “Clearing that shower out was the best thing I 142

D. J. Manly ever did,” He muttered as Levon pulled him under the spray. He looked at him and laughed. “You look so sexy when you’re wet. Um. I’m so horny, Rory.” He met his gaze. “Let’s play a game.” “What kind of a game?” He grinned. “Do you trust me?” “Sure.” “Okay. Put your hands together over your head.” “What?” Rory laughed. “Just do it.” Levon disappeared for a moment. He returned with a short piece of rope. “You’re going to tie me to the shower?” “Yep,” his gaze swept over him. “It’s temporary. Come on.” Rory shrugged. He lifted his arms and Levon loosely tied his wrists together and attached the loose end of the rope to the shower. “Do you look hot, oh shit,” he said, licking his lips. He squirted some liquid soap in hands and began to soap his body. He moved his palms slowly over his chest, his nipples, down his abs to his stomach, around his cock, to his thighs and his calves. Rory’s head was back against the tile. He was moaning, his cock standing straight up. Levon brought his hands between Rory’s legs and then inserted his fingers up into his ass 143

Love is War Valentine allowing the soapy liquid to lubricate his anus. “I want to fuck you, stud. You’re so beautiful, Rory. Let me fuck you.” He felt Levon twist him around. He was so hot, so needy, Levon could have done just about anything to him as this point. Levon took hold of his cock, tweaked his nipples and then stabbed his cock up inside of him a few times, just enough to whet his appetite for more. “You want it?” Levon breathed. “You want it, baby?” “Yes,” he grunted. “Yes!” Levon fucked him until his teeth rattled, hard and fast. It was over in minutes but it left them both breathless. Levon turned him back around. He licked his chest, bit his nipples, tormented his cock, then released him. Rory took Levon down on all fours. He fucked him right there on the wet floor, their sweat and cum mingling with the warm water. Later they ate together and then Levon went back to work. Levon’s birthday came. They celebrated in the shower. Rory hit twenty three a few days later. They celebrated again. In fact, Rory realised that they had made love in that shower every day since he’d cleaned it out. He was falling in love but that took a back seat to the fact that they were running out of food. 144

D. J. Manly They’d decreased the rations to stretch it out but it wouldn’t last much longer. One night, Levon said, “Do you think we’re going to die here?” “No,” Rory shook his head. “If we are going to…I’m glad it’s with you,” he said. He pulled him close as they lay in that little bunk. “I think I…” “You think you what?” “I think…no,” he said, turning his mouth to his and kissing it softly, “I know. I love you. It doesn’t make sense, but…” “I love you too,” he said. “I think I did from the moment I saw you.” “Really?” “Yeah. Sometimes my brain and my heart…well…it gets all jumbled up.” “I’m glad.” Rory hugged him tighter. “I’m glad it’s jumbled. Thank you.” “For what?” “For showing me love before…well…at this time.” He felt his voice break. “Baby,” Levon whispered. “Oh, my love.” Two days later, Levon had a breakthrough. He came thundering down the corridor on a run, careening into the supply cupboard where Rory was trying to whittle down the rations even more. 145

Love is War Valentine “I’ve done it,” he cried, grabbing his arm and pulling him down the corridor. “You’ve done what?” Rory urged, almost as excited as he was. “I’ve made contact. Look,” he said, pointing to the panel which was now semi lit up. “Levon,” He breathed. “That’s excellent. Tell me exactly what happened.” “I sent out a few messages of distress…nothing then suddenly I heard a garbled reply.” “Any idea from whom?” Levon looked at him. “Does it matter?” “Well yes, it…” He sighed. No matter how he said this, it was going to sound bad. “Do you think I’d let them hurt you?” “So, its one of your ships then?” “You’re a fucking piece of work. I should have never trusted you. You can’t change. You’re all the same.” Levon shook his head. “That was uncalled for. This isn’t a game, Levon. This is war. We are still at war. We’re enemies.” He looked at him. “You don’t feel like my enemy when you’re inside me.” Those words lingered in the air around them. Rory sighed, turned on his heel and left him alone. Eventually Levon came looking for him. Rory was lying down on one of the bunks in another room at the far end of the corridor. 146

D. J. Manly “Oh there you are,” he said. “Did you tell them about the toxicity and…” “Yes.” “They’ll come well prepared then I expect. Did you tell them who we were?” “No. I figured that they wouldn’t come if…” He looked up at him. He was standing over him. “How long do you figure?” “Depends on how far away they were. My guess, given the state of the transmitter and the quality of the transmission, they’re not far. Maybe by tomorrow evening.” Levon sighed. “We really had no choice.” “At least one of us has a chance now.” “I won’t let anything happen to you, Rory. I’d rather die first.” Rory glanced up at him and tentatively reached out his hand. Levon took it and Rory pulled him down beside him. They kissed deeply. Eventually, they both fell asleep. Rory awoke alone. He sat up with a gasp. He couldn’t remember the dream, but he knew it was bad. Suddenly he began aware of the noises around him. There was ship nearby. He put on his boots and raced down the corridor. He got his gun and loaded it. Cautiously he moved towards the control room. He could hear voices. They’d been rescued. “Emerson,” someone said suddenly, “so good 147

Love is War Valentine to see you. We thought you dead.” It was one of his ships. He was supposed to feel relief, but when he saw two of the soldiers barricading Levon behind the panel, he experienced a surge of fear. Two soldiers came over and patted him on the back, but his gaze was on Levon. “Should we take the prisoner with us, Lieutenant,” one of the soldiers asked, poking at Levon with his gun, “or should I kill him right here?” “He’s kind of cute,” the other one said, “let’s play with him awhile.” Rory’s hand tightened on his gun. “Come on Sweetie,” one of them said, “let’s you and I get to know each other better. Strip him and…” “No,” Rory said, stepping forward. “He ah…he helped me. I wouldn’t have survived without him. He rescued me and…” It was a lie. Yes, he knew that, but he’d be damned if he was going to stand by and let them hurt him. “Never the less,” the lieutenant said, “the men deserve a little R and R. I say we have a little party and then we leave him here.” The other two were enthusiastically in agreement. “How about we have no party and I leave you here?” Rory growled, pointing his gun at all three. 148

D. J. Manly “Get away from him,” he said. The three soldiers looked surprised. Levon scrambled out from behind the counter, relief on his face. “Get their weapons,” Rory told Levon. “We’re getting out of here.” “We’re just going to leave them here?” Levon took the weapons from the three men and laid them a safe distance away. “They were going to rape you…they were going to leave…” “We leave them,” He said, “but you notify a ship to come and get them.” Rory smiled. “Okay. You’re lucky,” he looked at them, “if it was up to me…but Levon has compassion, something you bastards don’t know about. Hold the gun on them, Rory told Levon, I’m going to tie them up.” Levon waited patiently until Rory had them secured then followed him to the ship. “Do you know how to drive one of these things?” “Not sure but I’ll…” “I’ll drive,” He said. “How hard can it be? Where to?” “Anywhere there’s no fighting. You’ve converted me from a fighter to a lover.” “How about Cardiffa in the Northern Galaxy? They’ve taken in all the pacifists from both sides of the Amstead-Dangloier conflict. I have friends 149

Love is War Valentine there.” Levon began to chart the course on the panel. “Sounds wonderful.” “We’re on our way. Strap yourself in.” Rory fell asleep eventually as they drifted in the toxic atmosphere. When he awoke, he noticed a marked difference in the dark pin pricked scene outside the ship. He placed his arms around Levon’s neck. “Want me to take over? You need to sleep.” “It’s on automatic pilot,” he said. “You can’t muck it up too bad.” He made a face. “We’re out of the shit.” “Yes. And you need to leave an anonymous message to your command.” He nodded. He picked up the radio. “Attention, seven eight niner five, we have sad news to report.” “Go ahead seven eight niner five. We hear you.” Rory Emerson was taken hostage by a Dangolier. In all probability, he’s dead. Three men are trapped at Sentinel Six destination and in need of rescue. Atmosphere is poison.” “Reading. We need additional…” He bashed the radio receiver against the panel a few time. “Prob…problems…can’t…read…ah …ah …ah…” He shut the radio off. Levon looked at him, a smile on his face. “What 150

D. J. Manly an actor.” “Yes. Maybe that will be my new career.” He placed his arms around Rory’s neck as he took his place behind the controls. “On one condition.” “And what’s that?” He smiled up at him. “It doesn’t take any time away from loving me.” Rory pulled Levon down and kissed him hotly. “Oh no, baby,” he moaned, “We could never have that.”

151

A Cupid Interlude

f Happy Valentines Day from D. J. Manly!

About the Author I write not only for my own pleasure, but for the pleasure of my readers. I can’t remember a time in my life when I haven’t written and told stories. When I’m not writing, I’m dreaming about writing, doing something wild and adventurous, or trying to make the world a better and more open minded place to live in. I adore beautiful men, and I know I’m not alone in this! Eroticism between consenting adults, in all its many forms is the icing on the cake of life! D. J. Manly’s can be found on her website at: http://www.djmanly.com/