wherethedeadneversleep

[wherethedeadneversleep]

Shot Through the Heart

“ Colin, I hate to just show up like this but if you’ve got some time I need to talk with you. ”

Colin, who’d been writing on a chalkboard, placed his writing instrument down, and turned to see his long-time friend and ally at the garage doorway. With a nod, he turned to his pupil, Molly.

“Early lunch... but before you go,” Colin said as he gestured to the newcomer. “I want you to meet another dhampir. This is Logan Blake, and he was raised in the same hunters-slayers guild as I when we were children. Logan, this is my student, Molly Frog. She is the daughter of Alan Frog, and the niece of Edgar Frog."

Molly offered a shy wave, and it was accompanied by the appearance of rosy cheeks.

“Hi, Mr. Blake,” she greeted almost timidly, even though those who knew her best, knew she was anything BUT shy. She managed to snap out of her daze, where she snatched her phone off her desk, and headed inside, where her lunch awaited.

Once the door closed, Colin’s demeanor shifted to a much more serious nature.

“What’s going on? Is it another vampire attack?”

 Logan hated to barge in unannounced and even more so when Colin was in training with the younger members of Santa Carla. A lot was stirring around inside his head and it’s made him extremely restless. There was no one else like him, no one else who had gone through the things that he’d been through other than Colin. At one point he knew Colin went through this same term oil, so who better for him to come to for advice and help?

He nodded his head at the young dhampire who addressed him. “ Listen and learn everything you can from this one. He’ll be able to teach you things you won’t learn anywhere else. “ He caught himself about to go on a long rant about the importance of training and decided to cut it off there. It was just something branded into him that came naturally, but it wasn’t his place. Molly was Colin’s student, not his.

“ No, no nothing like that. “ He remarked after she made her way inside. He wasn’t even thinking when he rushed over without so much as a call. Logan wasn’t a very social person and only really popped up when he had vital information to share.

He knew this was going to sound intrusive and out of the blue but again his social skills weren’t the greatest. Walking over he took a seat on the edge of the desk where the girl had been sitting. “ You and your wife, you’ve been together for a long time now. “ This was more a statement than a question. It was him struggling to get to his point.

“ What all went on inside you when you met her? “ That was the best way he could think to ask a question such as that. “ We’re trained NOT to feel, but clearly you felt something and how did you even know what that something was? “ One thing dhampirs were known for was being blunt and to the point.

Colin took to leaning against his teaching desk, just as Logan settled against Molly’s. While he was relieved to hear the conversation wasn’t about vampires, his query over what this could be about continued stirred. The death of his tormentor opened his humanity after it’d been sealed away for decades. Being able to smile, and feel genuinely “good” all around was a gradual process that became easier every day. Having Zoe at his side, never giving up on him, made all the difference in the world. He couldn’t have made it this far in life without her or the man before him. He also appreciated the statement Logan made about him to AJ and Molly. It was difficult to get dhampirs to stick together, but if these kids could grow up away from a harsh environment like he and Logan had, then it was a promising road ahead.

“Confusion,” Colin admitted as he relaxed his arms over his chest. “Like you said, we weren’t supposed to feel. It was hammered relentlessly into us to keep our emotions in check because it makes ‘reading’ us difficult for our opponents. Humans see us as things to control, to push around, and often, as lowly as vampires. Vampires see us as traitors to our full-blooded race. Zoe saw past that, and remained at my side, no matter how indifferent I acted around her. The longer we worked together, the more my curiosity for her grew.”

Even back then, he’d thought Zoe was stunning and resourceful, someone who’d never quit fighting for what she believed in, but his training prevented him from expressing himself. Without even realizing it, he’d gone out of his way to ensure her safety, even if it wasn’t deemed necessary. He couldn’t let anything happen to her, not while he was around. Again, more confusion in his heart and mind, but fortunately, Zoe granted him patience and space, as their relationship slowly developed beyond fighting companions and friendship.

“It was during one of our bouts against Sonya and DJ X did I just looked at her,” Colin reflected, “and she was bruised and cut up. I didn’t fair any better looking, but I had to spare her a glance, and I found myself thinking about a future with her. I couldn’t fathom wanting to be with anyone else but her and I decided there and then that I would build a future with her.”

Logan valued Colin’s friendship. Over the many long years of growing up together as children and then being put through the same harsh training together, it sort of bonded them like brothers. Over all those years Colin was the only person he trusted, the only person he ever allowed to remain in his life because they were taught that any kind of relationship was a detachment from their mission. It always had to be about the mission and nothing else. He could have taken on Ravenna and her ghouls on his own, but because of that brotherly bond and knowing the circumstances behind it, Colin was the first person he came to with the news.

Confusion, well he certainly had an entire brain full of that. “ So basically you started out working together? Doing jobs together? “ Okay, he had that part down. Though he didn’t want to admit that to Colin. He wasn’t exactly sure how he would take the news that he had been taking his sister-in-law on vampire hunts with him. Not to mention he saw firsthand how protective Zoe was of her family. If it was something Zoey wanted her family to know then she would be the one to inform them of that.

Yeah, he would say he had that part down as well ─ at least a part of it. He wasn’t actually sure what went through him when he turned around and saw Zoey bleeding, but he did know from somewhere deep there was this strong urge inside him to protect her. Then he blamed himself for putting her in such a situation, only to turn around and agree to continue taking her along with him. Talk about confusion ...

He didn’t know what he was feeling but it felt like someone released an inferno inside his head. “ So you’re saying it just happened on its own? Like something just triggered? There wasn’t anything special you had to do, like flip some magical switch? “ Yeah, Logan knew all about the humanity switch for vampires. He just didn’t think he and Colin had that same kind of switch. Or maybe they did? Maybe it had been something about Zoe that made it start malfunctioning and then the end of Ravenna completely short-circuited it?  Despite all this term oil inside his brain his features didn’t betray all those thoughts running back and forth in his brain. He looked as composed as ever.

Colin could sense the apprehension. It came from years of knowing the other dhampir before him and having worked alongside him, through thick and thin. He understood what clicked, and what didn’t. This explanation wasn’t clicking, and he hadn’t expected it to - at least, not instantly. It reminded him of how he tried to connect with Tatum when she was starting to talk and ask questions like any child would. Colin struggled to speak to her at such a level to which she’d understand him, and thankfully, Zoe guided him through the process. Logan was NOT a child by any means, but trying to re-arrange his manner of explanation simply made him reflect on those days gone by.

“Zoe wouldn’t give up,” Colin stated. “She had her strengths and weaknesses, and the more I worked alongside her, the more curious it made me want to learn more about her. She wasn’t like the others we grew up with. She was emotional. Easily so, but it fascinated me, her expressive nature and her strength. We dhampirs, we’ve learned not to allow ourselves to be as such when it comes to feelings, yet she, as a werewolf, did the opposite. Werewolves, their strengths lie in their hearts, and their feelings. So yes, my interest in her came naturally. It wasn’t expected, and that’s not a negative, either.”

Colin found himself smiling gently the more he talked about Zoe. She never quit on him, and she never allowed him to give up, either. She was his rock, his anchor, his everything.

“It sounds like you are fascinated with someone,” Colin stated as he relaxed his arms and rested his hands on the edge of his desk.

 If Logan was sitting at the desk instead of on it he would probably bang his forehead against it. Frustration, that wasn’t even the word for what he was feeling. He even swore he felt that color change within his eyes for a split second. It was in no way because of Colin, it was because Logan was having a hard time trying to jigsaw puzzle Colin’s words together enough so that he could understand them. Colin was so much better with his words than he used to be, but the things Colin said to him were like a foreign language.

On the other shoe, everything he asked and the way he asked most likely sounded just as foreign to Colin. But then when he spoke up for the second time, the things he was saying started making a little more sense to him. Everything he said about Zoe, he could see those same things in her sister. Her being emotional, her strength, her expressive nature. Maybe this was why he felt so drawn to her, she was everything he had been taught not to be. Even now with just a little distance between them, it was infuriating not being around her.

Change, like healing, takes time. Reprogramming his way of thinking so that he could feel things more naturally was going to take time. It wasn’t something he was going to be able to push.

If he didn’t know Colin the way he did he would swear the man in front of him was an imposter. Honestly, as long as he’s known this man this was the first time he had ever seen him smile. That smile had been triggered only by him talking and thinking about his wife. It was that very thing Logan wanted for himself.

Now the awkward boot dropped. He hoped he was asking all of this in a way that wouldn’t have made him stick out like a sore thumb. “ Me? We know I’m not programmed like that, Colin. “ He tried to counterclaim but it was clear Colin already saw straight through that. His eyes dropped a moment then lifted back because one thing he couldn’t do was lie to the man who was like a brother to him. “ There’s something there, I just don’t know what it is. You’re the only one I knew who could help me sort through it and figure it out.”

“They breach through our shields without having to try,” Colin explained as his eyes filled with warmth and softened. “They treat us like anybody else, as equals. I can’t think of anybody more selfless and compassionate.”

There was no hiding the fact that he knew that Logan had more than just a mere passing interest in his wife’s twin sister. It was the reason why he used “they” to refer to the two women in the first place.

“It wasn’t something that happened overnight,” Colin continued. “It was a gradual process, and it was one I found myself learning as it developed. It was an eye-opening experience, and I had nobody else to talk to about any of it. I had Zoe, of course, but it’s different when it’s talking to someone who comes from the same background, someone you grew up with.”

Colin was relieved that Logan had come to him about this. Not that he didn’t think this wouldn’t happen. He would’ve been surprised otherwise. Then again, every single dhampir among them was different: AJ had his abilities suppressed by magic, while Molly was easily the most emotionally expressive of them all. None of them could be typecast as a textbook case half-vampire.

Never one to beat around the bush, Colin went forward by asking, “Have you engaged in intercourse since you and I last traveled together?”

That sort of activity never interested him, before the vampire witch forced that decision upon him as a teenager. Even after that attack, he had no interest in such a thing, until Zoe became a very important person in his life. He only asked, because of what he knew about Zoey’s personal life (not that he personally asked, but that Zoey was very open about her sexual life), she had plenty of partners before moving back to Santa Carla. Whether they were romance or… something else, he wasn’t exactly sure.

How was it possible that anyone could breach such shields when they were designed and trained in such a way that no one was able to do that? And yet it was being done and without any effort being placed behind it? If he was hearing this from anyone other than Colin he would swear they were trying to sell him a false bill of goods.

Logan hated the idea of a gradual process. Surely it was going to be one that made him lose his mind. “ How did you know what you were and weren’t supposed to do? “ He paused and shook his head. “ I feel like a royal pain in the ass here 'cause I’m just throwing you one question right after another. But that’s why I came to you. She opened up to me about a few things a few nights ago. I can’t explain it other than what you mentioned about getting that feeling that you need to protect them. I could barely drag myself here much less talk to her about it when I’m not even sure what it is myself. “

As strange as it sounded he almost felt like something inside him was malfunctioning or even broken. Time after time for years he’s had countless vampires who tried to get inside his head, ones like Ravenna who had failed in their attempts but here he sat knowing that all it took was a soft-spoken werewolf to change that. If she wasn’t a part of Colin’s family he’d be insistent that she was using some form of magic on him.

Logan’s brow shot up at Colin’s question. At first, he thought about giving a not-so-accurate answer but Colin was every bit as good at reading a lie as he was. There was no need to beat around the bush. “ No .. “ The answer straight forward. “ I kept myself busy, never had time to even stop to think about something like that. It was never part of the mission. “

He almost looked confused over the question. “ Is it something I need to do? Is that like the all-knowing spark that triggers everything? “ The very thought made him a little uneasy. The last he can remember engaging in such an act was in his teen years. He wasn’t even sure if his body still functioned like that anymore. It felt like he was going in circles. The more answers Colin gave him the more questions he seemed to have. “ Maybe this whole thing is a bad idea, Colin. You know how we can get, what if I unknowingly hurt her? Or if I say or do something that hurts her? “

“Love isn’t supposed to be easy and straightforward,” Colin told him. “It’s not something we’re supposed to figure out right away. Some people think it is, and they rush into it, only to find out it’s not what they fantasized it to be, and wind up getting their hearts broken. Sometimes it takes one of you, or both of you, getting hurt to realize that neither of you is the for the other. It has been a while since I’ve seen Zoey with anybody serious, so I can’t be certain how she’ll be with you, but give it time. I have no doubt you will know what to do.”

Colin trusted Logan with his life. The last thing he wanted to see was Zoey get hurt, and he did not doubt that Logan had any intentions of purposely doing so with his sister-in-law. If things didn’t work out between them, then there were other people out there for the two of them. It’d be interesting if they eventually wound up a couple.

“Do you know enough about Santa Carla or the cities around here to possibly ask Zoey out on a date?” Colin asked. “Or knowing her, she might ask you out. She’s a straightforward kind of woman, so be prepared.”

Listening to himself, to the words he expressed to Logan still amazed him. It didn't sound like him. He wouldn't have believed it six months ago, yet it was all because of his freedom from the shackles of his imprisonment of his own mental imprisonment. It was thanks to Logan that he, along with his wife and sister-in-law could put that nightmare to rest once and for all. The very least he could do was assist Logan with matters of the heart.

" I'm glad someone has a little faith in me because I sure don't. " Logan couldn't be blamed for feeling the way he did. With his upbringing and training, there was no room in his life for personal matters such as this. It had taken Colin years to come as far as he had in breaking that mindset that had been distilled into them. But he trusted Colin and if Colin said things would eventually fall into place then he believed him. That didn't mean he still didn't wish there was some magical hidden button he could flip so that he could figure it all out now.

He never saw himself or even thought something like this was a possibility for him. The same could be said about Colin but it had happened and Colin was living proof that they could change their programming. It was an intriguing thought but also one that was sort of scary and there were very few if any things he feared.

" Did you really just ask me to ask her out on a date? Someone who has never gone on a date a day in his life? " Now, he wasn't oblivious to what a date was and what it entailed but the fact remained the same ─ it's not something he's ever done before. Then he couldn't help but laugh at Colin's next statement. " I sort of noticed that when I gave her a ride home the other day. She's unlike any other person I've ever talked to. " He believed that how open she was and how straightforward she was, was one of the reasons why he wanted to know more about her.

" Oh while we're on the subject of Zoey. " Logan turned to face him. " I don't want to step out of place or betray her trust but she said something to me the other night that's been picking at my bones ever since. " He admitted. " Maybe you could have a talk with your wife about it. Zoey sort of feels like a third wheel like the sister left out. I know it's not my place to be saying anything and I know a lot has been going on. Just maybe if they were aware of how she was feeling then maybe something could be done before that feeling leaves a scar that won't go away. "

Colin listened carefully to Logan’s explanation about Zoey and her sisters. In a way, he understood the situation. While learning that his wife was a twin was a surprise to them all, it was known for years that she and Marie were much closer because they’d known each other much longer, and endured much more together. Zoey came into the picture much later in their lives. There would certainly be plenty of opportunities for all the girls to bond, but he agreed to speak to Zoe and Marie about their sister’s feelings. It would probably do all three girls to spend as much time with Judas, their little brother as well. Being an only child, Colin had no idea what it was like to have sibling relations, but he could only imagine what it was like to feel left out by a brother or sister, intentionally or not.

But now, to bring the focus back to Logan and his potential future with Zoey. Yet before he could utter a word, his phone vibrated in his back pocket. Taking out his smartphone, he saw it was none other than the woman they were speaking about.

Was this the universe working in their favor? A small smile graced his features. Talk about luck.

Turning so that his profile faced Logan, Colin answered the call. “Yes?”

“Hey, Colin? Mind if I borrow that old publication written by that dhampir warlord from your war room? The Book O’Neer received this funky book about dhampirs that mentioned this guy, and I wanted to do some cross-referencing.”

After a brief side-glance to Logan, Colin replied, “On one condition. I’d like you to tell me what you think about another dhampir so far since he’s arrived: Logan.”

Might as well get the ball rolling between those two, so why not now?

Colin clicked the speaker button and set the phone down on his desk.

“Wait, Logan? Okay… Well, besides being amazing? He’s treated me fantastic! Always looking out for me. Reminds me a lot of you: brave and knows his stuff. A straightforward kinda guy. He’s always honest with me, and I like that a lot. And between you and me? He’s hot, especially his eyes - but I know, I know, you’re not into that stuff. Anyway, it’s not like he’s into me, right? I’m probably too much of a chatterbox. He probably wants someone who dresses more like someone their age–”

Again Logan's intentions were not to step on any toes, cross any lines, and definitely not betray Zoey's trust since she confided in him. His intentions were true because from day one of meeting Colin's family he could sense how close they were. He could also see that no matter how many odds were stacked against them they were willing to fight for that family. He saw the look of hurt in Zoey's eyes even after she tried to convince him that she was fine. Additionally, he did not want Zoey to feel like she was an outcast, especially if the problem was simply a lack of communication. Even though she had denied his offer to help he still possessed a certain obligation to her. Like Colin said earlier, when you see that certain look in their eyes and then something snaps, all you want to do is protect them from that moment on. Logan felt exactly the same way about Zoey.

Logan slouched on the edge of the desk when Colin's phone rang. He couldn't be disappointed. He was damn proud of his brother-in-arms for the work he did in this area. Colin Bryce was no longer the same person he knew years ago. It was through the love of his family that he broke through all those years of training that made them seem soulless.

When Colin turned to him and smiled, his brow arched. There was only one thing he could conclude from Colin's devious look ─ he was up to something.

It caused Logan to stand from where he was sitting ─ his mouth nearly dropping when Colin posed a direct question about him. It was then placed on the speaker so that he could hear Zoey on the other end.

The moment he heard her say that he was amazing he stepped closer to the phone. However, in doing so his feet clipped the leg of the desk chair causing it to screech as it moved briefly against the floor. His hand instantly raised to cover his mouth. By the time the words 'he's hot' came through the phone, he practically hovered over it. Instantly he felt that strange sensation inside his chest again. When she made those last remarks his head turned to Colin and he began making all kinds of motions for Colin to counter what she had just said. However, when Colin just stood there and smiled at him he knew Colin would make him do it.

Picking up Colin's phone, he moved across the room a few steps. He was sure she could hear all the static from his trembling hands through the microphone. A clear of his throat came as he pieced together his thoughts. " Maybe you should let me be the judge of that. What would you think if I invited you to dinner at my place tomorrow? " Okay, so that was still a date. He wasn't familiar with Santa Carla enough to pick out an ideal spot to take her. Dinner at his place would still count as a date, right?

As soon as Logan made his move, Colin did the honorable gesture: he turned away and proceeded to leave the garage, to give his fellow brother-in-arms privacy. The faint smile on his face hadn't slipped away.

His plan worked. Was there a bit of pride over what he did? Certainly. He wanted Logan to enjoy his own happiness with that special someone. Sure, not everyone needed a partner. There were naturally loners out there, but he knew Logan, and he knew that Logan and Zoey could be a fine pair if they spent enough time together.

Colin would spend a few minutes meandering about the kitchen and living room, while Logan figured out his plans with Zoey. Once the door closed behind him, Zoey's voice could be heard from the phone.

"Logan!! You heard all that, huh? Whew! Shoot! Um… dinner?!"

After a string of awkward throat clearing, there was a bit of pause. What now? The secret was out - well, it wasn't exactly a BIG secret, but she wasn't ready to let Logan know it - too late, now. But not wanting to keep him in suspense, she offered an enthusiastic, "You know what? That'd be great! I'd love that! Now, are we talking about formal attire? Or is this gonna be a casual thing? Something in the middle?"

She was nervous, almost like she was dating for the very first time. Butterflies fluttered in her stomach. Oh no, was she going to throw up? If Logan could see her, he'd see her clutching her tummy, and pressing her knees together, willing herself not to puke. Good thing this was not a video call! She was in the backroom of the Book O'Neer, seated on a stool, reading an old Elfquest paperback novel, with the aforementioned dhampir book beside it, along with a can of soda, and a half-eaten sandwich. She was grateful that she had this room all to herself at that moment - her imagination, her goofiness, her knowledge of the supernatural and the unknown, and now her love life was in full center.

"You know something?" she pressed on. A smile bloomed on her face. "I'm glad you were with Colin when I called. I probably should've said something earlier about… well… you. Just wasn't sure how to say it. Didn't wanna scare you off, but I promise to take things slow, okay?"

The absolute last thing she wanted to have happen, was another "Edgar incident."

Baby steps, Zoey. Baby steps.

"So yeah, dinner at your place," she agreed. Okay, Zoey, she advised herself. Don't talk your head off! He's not a talker. Have a nice balance of conversation between the two of you. "I just know this is going to be a fun date…!"

Logan's eyes widened when he saw Colin making his grand escape from the garage. Why did he suddenly feel like he had been set up by the very person he called 'brother'? Although he tried to protest with his hands and face, Colin did not turn back. Logan was left standing in the garage alone with Zoey on speakerphone. There was a long silence and Logan was unsure of what to do about it. Thankfully Zoey spoke him up and snapped him out of his panicked state ─ at least for the most part.

" I wasn't eavesdropping or anything like that.  I just happened in on the conversation. " That wasn't a complete lie. But the last thing he wanted was for her to think he was some weird creeper who liked listening in on other people's conversations.

The way she fumbled over her wording made his brow arch. His eyes were still watching the garage door waiting for Colin to reenter. Now intrigued, he shifted his gaze back to the phone, wondering how she would respond. She hesitated, her voice wavering. He could sense her hesitation, and his curiosity was piqued even further. Suddenly, the silence was broken by her normal upbeat tone. " With it just being at my place I think casual would be just fine. " Maybe he should have asked her to have dinner somewhere else but he still didn't have a full grasp of the town yet. Most of the time here had just been spent locating unusual buildings that were big enough to hide out The Rose Institute getaway creatures.

Saying he was nervous was an understatement. Dating wasn't something Logan did or thought about until now. It would have been helpful had his brother stuck around to try and help coach him through this phone call. He had no idea how to handle a conversation like this. He had no idea what to say or how to act. Then again she hadn't hung up on him yet so maybe he wasn't doing that poorly. He could only hope that he was handling the situation well enough to at least get past the phone call, but he had no way to really know for certain. He took a deep breath, hoping to ease the tension he was feeling.

Her next admission had him turning to stare at the phone. For the smallest of moments Logan almost swore he felt the smallest of smiles touch the corner of his lips. He hadn't smiled in what felt like an eternity, and he was surprised that listening to her had brought it back to him. " Think I'm glad I happened to be here as well. "

Logan nodded his head as if expecting her to see the motion. He quickly shifted with his knees slamming into Colin's desk. The sound the desk made against the concrete flooring was more disturbing than fingernails on a chalkboard.

" Slow is good. " He tried to recover as quickly as possible. " I can't promise I'll know how this all works straight off. All of this is completely new to me. " Logan admitted. Logan realized that it was better to take his time and learn the process thoroughly, rather than rush through it and make mistakes.

The word ' date ' vibrated in his ears a few times and he was still shocked. " I promise I'll do my best to not bore you to death. " Maybe he was just overthinking things. It seemed like all the other times they had been together be it hunting or anything else he did alright ─ especially if she thought all those things about him and still wanted to spend time out with him. " Pick you up at your place around six? " He was nervous but excited, he couldn't believe he had asked her out on a date but she was the most captivating woman he had ever met and he couldn't wait for tomorrow night.

Zoey winced on the other end of the phone when she heard a collision of sorts. What was that all about? But upon hearing Logan's voice almost instantly, she figured it was nothing serious. His admittance to the lacking in the dating department drew a smile from her. He was honest and upfront with her. She appreciated that, as she wasn't the type who wanted to be left in the dark about anything.

Hypocrite much? her inner wolf chided, before fading into the background of her humanity.

"You're NOT going to bore me, I promise," Zoey laughed as she became more relaxed in her seat. Logan's voice was so soothing that she could listen to him read a dictionary, and she'd be memorized. "Six o'clock is perfect!"

She chewed her lower lip to hold back a squeal of delight. Instead, she took to kicking her feet back and forth upon the chair she sat upon, which happened to be a high-rise seat. What to wear on her date? It'd been a good while since she was last in the dating scene. Would she even fit her "good" clothes? She might have to hit up the mall and do some emergency shopping.

Once she forced herself to calm down, she took a couple of easy breaths, before speaking into the phone once more.

"Logan, I look forward to our date. Tell my brother-in-law thank you for the help, and I'll text him later for details about that book. And feel free to text me any time!"

Her palms were sweating, and her cheeks were flushed. Yes, yes, yes!

Just then, a message popped over the screen, with a text from Colin.

"Don't hate me, but it was for your own good. Most importantly, did she say yes?"

As Logan replayed the conversation in his mind, he couldn't help but wonder if his lack of experience might hindered this connection. He had always been more comfortable with actions rather than words, and now he questioned whether his honesty about it might inadvertently push her away. Logan's mind wandered back to the moment when he had confessed his inexperience. It was a vulnerable admission, one that required trust and openness. But now, doubts crept in. Had he unintentionally made himself appear inadequate? Would she see him as inexperienced and therefore not worth pursuing? Logan felt a pang of regret for not taking the time to improve himself in this aspect.

But soon enough he felt himself exhaling a breath of air, feeling more relaxed now that her excitement still seemed as high-spirited as ever. He couldn't help but be captivated by her infectious energy.

" Alright, six o'clock it is. But just remember I warned you. " And right there he had done it again. Talk about a repeated moment of foot in mouth.

As they exchanged words, Logan found himself hanging onto every syllable that escaped her lips. Her voice was melodic, carrying an air of confidence and wisdom that intrigued him beyond measure. But it wasn't just her physical beauty or captivating presence that had Logan spellbound. It was the genuine connection he felt whenever their eyes met or their hands brushed accidentally. He wanted to learn everything there was to know about her. This much he knew for a fact.

" I'll be sure to grab your number before Colin retrieves his phone. I'll let you know when I'm on my way. Speaking of Colin .... " Logan paused as he read the message that just shot across the screen. With a slight narrowing of his eyes, he went on to finish his statement. " I'll have to track him down to return his phone. That's if he's not half across the country by now. " Did he manage to make somewhat of a joke just then? " I'll see you soon. " He finished off before hanging up the phone.

Quickly he sent a message back to Colin.

" If you want to know the answer, come find out. You have to come get your phone sooner or later. "

The garage door creaked open, and Colin emerged from the kitchen with the tablet computer he used to communicate with Logan mere moments ago.

"It worked, didn't it?" he asked, already knowing the answer, but unable to resist, regardless. Logan was his childhood friend, the person he trusted most aside from his wife. He only wanted to see him happy - now, the rest would be up to Logan and his sister-in-law.

Colin didn't press for further answers right away, as he went to his desk and set his tablet down. From inside the kitchen, Molly was heard chatting to Zoe about their upcoming trip to Canada, which was right around the corner. They would only be gone for a few weeks, which would leave Logan and Zoey ample time to get to know one another in private if they choose to do so during their absence.

"Just be yourself," Colin advised his old friend, as he offered Logan a side glance. "It's what Zoey fell for, to begin with."

The garage door was kicked open, and Molly burst into the room. "First date flowers!" she insisted, as she hurried down the stairs and made her way back to her desk, her eyes immediately locked with Logan's. After all, he was still quite attractive to the teenage girl. "Women always appreciate flowers - just nothing that'll make a werewolf weak, y'know."

Colin frowned at his pupil's outbursts. "Miss Frog, you were snooping on our conversation."

"I was not!" Molly insisted. "We dhampirs have sensitive hearing. It's not my fault I heard your conversations over my loud talking! Besides, my honorary Auntie Zoey is one of my daddy's good friends. I have every right to know what happens to her!"

Logan's eyes squinted when he watched Colin finally step back out into the garage. The frustration that had been building within him slowly dissipated, replaced by a sense of understanding. If anyone else had done that to him, they would have a fight on their hands right about now. But Colin was different; he was the one person on this earth Logan could never truly be angry with. There was an unspoken bond between them, forged through years of shared experiences and unwavering loyalty. They had weathered countless storms together, and no matter what happened, they would always have each other's back.

" So far, so good. " Logan admitted. " That's not to say I don't make an ass of myself later on tonight. " Colin's presence alone had a calming effect on Logan. His friend possessed an uncanny ability to diffuse tense situations with a single word or gesture. It was as if he could read Logan's mind, understanding his frustrations even before they were spoken aloud.

Hearing Molly's voice carry through the walls reminded him that Zoey, Colin, and Molly were about to embark on a trip that would leave him without his brother to turn to should he need him. Colin had been there to lend an empathetic ear and offer sage advice. But now he was going to be left to face this trail on his own.

" Wait you think she's already .. " Before he could get out the rest of his thought the garage door came flying open with a bang. Logan shifts uneasily when Molly makes the suggestion about flowers. Flowers were something Logan never would have thought about. They seemed trivial, inconsequential even, in the grand scheme of things. 

His stoic expression remained as Colin questioned her about listening in on their conversation. Here he thought he was keeping his voice low. This whole situation had him acting nothing like himself. So Colin's earlier remark about that very thing flew out the window.

" Strange that you're not the only dhampir here and yet I heard nothing of your conversations until moments ago. " Perhaps Logan was calling her out on that statement. Logan sat himself back on the edge of the desk, shifting to face Molly. Now he was feeling a bit more like himself. " Knowing what happens to her and what goes on in her personal life are two very different things, Miss Frog. Would you not agree? But I do appreciate the flower suggestion and I'll consider it. "

"Well, when you're in love with someone, you tune everyone out except for yourself and that person," Molly simply stated cheerfully. "You don't have to be any one kind of race. It's just chemistry!"

Colin cleared his throat, wanting to save Logan some face. "It's a bit early to declare if the feelings are that strong just yet. We have to let those two, and only for those two, to decide. Let's be clear on that."

Molly sighed dramatically, in a way that caused the ends of her hair to bounce off her shoulders. "Fiiine. Zoe told me the same thing last year about what's his name from chemistry class. You know, the first part stuff, about feelings being strong."

"See? You claimed to have been in love, and yet you call him what's his name."

"Yeah, because my love is for Striker now, and nothing is going to change that."

Colin rubbed the side of his temple. That wasn't the first time he heard that statement from Molly. However, he had to admit that the way she focused on Striker was admittedly a bit different. Though he was a bit (or rather, much, MUCH) older than she was, her approach to the werewolf was more laid back. Perhaps she knew that he wasn't going anywhere; not to some university, or that he'd leave her for some other girl in another class. Whatever the case, the two had this understanding, and Molly was aware. Meanwhile, Logan was aware that Zoey was there for him, and she was more than willing to give someone like him a chance.

"You'll be fine," Colin promised his long-time friend. He reached out a rested a hand on his shoulder. "Trust me."

Logan's brow arched at the word ' love '. He couldn't help but feel a twinge of skepticism whenever he heard that word. Love had always been a complicated concept for Logan, something he struggled to fully comprehend. It seemed elusive, like a mirage in the desert, always just out of reach because it's a fleeting feeling, he's never had before. But deep down, beneath the layers of skepticism and doubt, Logan yearned for something more. He longed for a connection that transcended superficiality and stood the test of time much like Colin and Zoe's relationship.

Praise be to Colin for intervening and assuming control of that remark. Colin was right about that, only he and Zoey could make that choice. Despite Colin's assurance that he gest through all of this, there remains a possibility of things going awry.

Logan's brow furrowed in confusion as he had no idea who this Striker person was. Judging by the expression on Colin's face when his name was mentioned, Logan wasn't sure if he wanted to find out either. It was hard for him to believe that he was as old as he was and still struggling with the concept and yet and teenage girl seemed so sure of it ... apparently not only once but twice.

Logan was feeling overwhelmed by everything, and it seemed like Colin was reaching his limit. It was a rare occasion for them to have a meaningful conversation without any interruptions. Maybe it was time for Colin to resume teaching his student. He knew that if he encountered any difficulties, he could always rely on Colin just being a phone call away.

Speaking of phones. When Colin placed his hand on his shoulder Logan reached out handing his phone back to him. " Thanks for the advice, Brother. I guess I should go and start getting myself ready for this. " Logan nodded his head and then headed for the door. He stopped just short and turned back to Molly. " Miss Frog, Listen to your teacher. He's a wise man. " With that Logan made his departure.

#✦ — • VERSE • Where the Dead Never Sleep • #✦ — • YOU TAKE MY BREATH AND STEAL THE THINGS I KNOW • Logan and Zoey • #✦ — • I’M CERTAIN THAT I’M YOURS • Zoe and Colin • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Molly • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Colin • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Logan • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Zoey •

[wherethedeadneversleep]

Secrets Unleashed

Eris welcomed the familiar, pleasant ache between her legs as she climbed out of bed and proceeded to dress herself.

“I have a surprise for you, Lord Hades,” she revealed, her voice sounding rather… happy. It was a lighthearted tone, similar to whenever she talked about her true love, Lucifer. While the thought of her beloved angel made her heart swell, it was unknown how long it would be until she’d see him again. For now, she would focus on the present matters at hand.

“Care to come with me to the Fields of Mourning when you are ready?” Eris proposed, now glancing over her shoulder at Hades with a roguish smile on her face.

~* ELSEWHERE *~

“You got suckered by Mother, didn’t you?”

Nosoi sneered at her sister’s taunt. She batted at her face, but her fingertips missed her by a hair. Lethe laughed as she bounced away, allowing herself to twirl around like a ballerina. All around them wandered the souls whose love was wasted away. Human spirits whose grief was too great to forget even with death were doomed to amble about these mystical fields for all eternity.

“I can’t believe she was put into another body,” Nosoi said as she sat on a fallen log, with sunken shoulders, and her face twisted as if she’d bitten into a lemon. “I didn’t know it was her until it was too late. Considering what happened, shouldn’t that have been a sign that Lucifer will never like her?”

Lethe hummed as she spun about a few more times before sitting next to her grumpy sister. “Believe me, I wish I could make her forget about that angel, but our powers are immune to our dear mother.”

Both women sensed the impending arrival of their sole parent, along with a much greater entity, and they instantly stood on their feet. Lethe winked at Nosoi and whispered, “Time for me to return to the River of Oblivion. Good luck!”

Nosoi scowled at Lethe’s cheerfulness as she teleported away. What a bitch. If she were in her shoes, she certainly would NOT be so happy.

Squaring her shoulders, Nosoi knelt to one knee and bowed her head - it wasn’t for her mother’s sake, but rather, for the ultimate ruler of the underworld.

Hades wasn't sure what exactly led up to this moment or how it even happened. The only woman he ever welcomed into his bed was his one and only. Needless to say, he spent many long nights alone because of it, at least until now.

" You have a surprise for me and you sound quite happy about it? " A curious brow lifted as he raised his head from the pillow of the bed, elbow against the mattress to prop himself up. His eyes watched her as she dressed. " Now you have me extremely curious. " He admitted.

As much as he would rather stay in bed something in the pit of his gut told him he should give follow. So without saying anything he grabbed the sheet covering his waist and tossed it to the side. Now sitting on the edge of the bed he grabbed his jeans and slipped them on. His button-up shirt was grabbed from the bed table and slipped over his shoulders but he did not attempt to button it up. " Now what exactly am I going to be seeing at the Fields of Mourning that I haven't seen a million times before? " He asked just as he walked up behind her with palms resting against her hips.

Eris welcomed not only the sound of Hades’ voice but his touch as well. She still couldn’t believe what took place between them, but she wasn’t going to complain at all. If what he did to her in bed could be a daily activity for them, then she wouldn’t mind spending more time with him.

But now onto more serious matters at hand. Eris instructed Nosoi to rise. Upon doing so, the younger woman gave a brief but startled pause, only because she saw her mother… with LORD HADES so close to her. Touching her… Oh, she wanted to throw up. Not because of Hades, but rather… her mother was a complete nutcase whose hyper-fixation on Lucifer would undoubtedly kill their entire family.

Eris’ eyes bore upon her, and she swiftly came back to her senses.

“Upon your request, Mother, I dug through some of my old tricks that I thought I lost during my imprisonment in Pandora’s box. While you were ‘busy’ with Master Hades, I did as you instructed.”

With a smarmy expression on her face, Eris asked, “And what would that be, my sweet Nosoi?”

Nosoi rolled her eyes, like a teenager getting a lecture from her parent, but replied, “To take out Gunner Logan.”

As the daimon of diseases, and sickness, Nosoi was nefarious for unleashing sweeps of plagues upon mankind during Ancient Greece, until she and many others of her kind were trapped inside Pandroa’s box. Talk about setbacks in her progress. It was only after the box was opened did Nosoi and everyone else gained their freedom, leaving behind Hope to fend for itself.

Knowing this pertained more to Hades than Eris, Nosoi spoke directly to the god of the underworld.

“I discovered that the Logan family has quite a long line that goes quite far back, eons, to where at one point, they were nearly wiped out due to a virus I unleashed right before my reign of fun ended. It affected shapeshifting beasts, and many of the Logans were killed off because of this masterpiece of mine. Less than ten percent survived the aftermath. It was a horrible, horrible way to die, as your organs shut down, muscles weaken, your bones shatter, you lose your senses - a nasty way to go, but that was the point of my creation.”

Nosoi snapped her fingers, and a swirling funnel of darkness surrounded her from the ground she stood upon, then swiftly shot straight up into the sky, vanishing to the Mortal Realm.

Eris clapped gleefully. “As much as I’d rather have the entire family wiped out, I understand you only have enough power to take out one of them. Who better than the one who stands in the way of our Master Hades’ beloved, hmm?”

The sun had just set as Gunner rounded the bend on the road with his motorcycle. It was the scenic route back home, but he enjoyed it, as it was one of the few times he felt at peace.

An icy chill ran down his spine, followed by darkness.

“What the fuck?!” he snarled as he attempted to veer to the side of the road and pull over. He traveled this way countless times since moving to Santa Carla so that he could find his way blindfolded. Yet he could no longer feel any of his limbs, and an electrifying headache exploded in his skull.

He let out a gut-wrenching howl as he smashed into the guard rail. His body flew off his bike, and he went over and down the hillside, all the while his insides were shutting down. Every kind of pain he experienced in his life was smashing him without mercy. Bright lights flashed in his mind’s eye, while blood trickled out of his nose, ears, and mouth. He couldn’t even suck in the air, as his blood filled his throat.

It all happened too fast, so fast that he could barely string any coherent sentences. Even as his shattered body continued to roll down the forested hillside, and the plants and roots enveloped him, he managed to think about his family: his girls, his son, the grandchildren, and of course his wife.

Goddammit, this… whatever this was… it was not how he wanted to die! What a fucked way to be taken out…

‘Sonya,’ he thought, as his consciousness slipped away. ‘I don’t wanna go like this… not without seeing ya one last time…’

Anyone who would dare to say that his plans and moves weren't carefully thought out and planned this time around would be lying through their teeth. Hades had an array of helpers this time and while they were out and about stirring up trouble, left and right .. no one was any wiser to the fact that he was the man standing behind it all. All those years wasting away inside a coffin box with a dagger bore inside his chest only made him wiser and more strategic.

His hand shifted away from Eris' waist as he moved closer to Nosoi ─ one of Eris' many children. From the moment she made mention of taking out Gunner, she had his full undivided attention. Plagues swept across the earth for eons, be it biblical, manmade, or crafted weapons such as Nosoi's. To hear that her time spent in Pandora's box hadn't completely stripped her of her talents was pleasing to hear.

" The only true shame in that is those small ten percent survived. I would have saved us less trouble here in the now. " Hades remarked, but with every word, she spoke his eye darkened with delight. There was nothing more he would like to do than watch the Mutt suffer in unimaginable ways. The main reason why he kept that dagger worn so close to him. A reminder of what is soon to come for Gunner Logan.

His eyes peered back to Eris as she cheered then they were back on Nosoi. " You will not go unrewarded for your troubles, child. " The god of the underworld reached out to clasp her chin between his fingers. " Should this little treat of yours play out in our favor then I will personally see to it you get your just rewards. " Now pulling himself back away from Nosoi he asked while preparing a visual for them to all witness.  " How long before it finds its target? "

The last few days Sonya had spent working on Heather's wedding dress. While it was almost perfect on its own it still needed a few finishing touches to make it an unforgettable one-of-a-kind dress. Much like herself, Heather deserved the best and she would make sure the girl didn't settle for less than just that.

As she pulled the needle and string through the elegant fabric her hands became rather numb, so much so that the needle and tread slipped from her grasp and dangled from the dress. Only moments later did her vision go astray when it suddenly felt as if someone had clubbed her in the back of her skull.

Her body crashed to the ground as if her legs had been taken out from under her. Pain seared through both of them and that was when the deadest of chills soared straight down her spine. Nails dug at the floor as she fought to steady herself. It had felt as if someone had just reached in and torn her heart her very chest. Something happened, something was wrong with Gunner. She fought with everything she had within her to block out the pain long enough to focus on his whereabouts.

At this point, tears were streaming down her face. Eyeliner streaking her pale complexion. Her husband was not going to die, she wouldn't allow it.  " Peter ... " She called out to the closest to her. " Come find me, Urgent .." She instructed just as she was able to locate Gunner and teleport to his side.

" No no. This can't be happening! " She cried out with her hands on both sides of Gunner's face. Why wasn't he healing from his wounds? Her own body was now being wrecked with not only the pain she was experiencing from Gunner but also grief and horror. " You can't leave me like this. " She wept and sobbed against his chest. She couldn't even link with him, nothing but silence was coming from him. " PETER !!!! " She cried out once again. " PLEASE !!! "

Nosoi rocked back on her heels as the visual of Gunner's broken and bloodied body lay on the bottom of the forest floor, high above the highway, where nobody would have a chance to see him.

"The virus had already opened up in his system and is just about finished," she stated proudly. "I apologize you weren't able to see the initial attack, Master. However, the quicker the wolf is finished off, the better it will be for you to reclaim what is rightful yours."

This virus was swift and merciless. With Gunner's advanced age, his healing factor wouldn't work fast enough to heal the damage. There was no going back. Only those who lived during the height of the virus had a slim chance of surviving.

When Eris saw a weak and defeated Sonya appear before them, she chuckled quietly. Ohhh dear, she'd forgotten the whole "bonded thing" between vampire and wolf. Seeing how awful Gunner looked, Sonya had to be an absolute wreck on the inside. Good! She deserved it for choosing a dog over Hades.

Setting his empty bourbon glass on the counter, Peter frowned as he heard a disturbance in the next room. He knew his daughter was in there, working on Heather's dress, and was warned not to sneak a peak before the wedding. He was compelled to follow tradition, but it was only when he heard Sonya call out to him so urgently did he react. Something was wrong. Typically capable of handling herself against just about anyone, she wouldn't call upon him unless it was absolutely urgent and troublesome.

Upon entering the next room, he saw the unfinished wedding dress on the floor, and Sonya was no longer in sight. Scratch marks were visible, along with tear stains near the dress.

That was when he heard her again, only this time, it resounded in his mind like a ghost haunting the halls of his memories. As her sire, he was connected to her, so he knew where to find her when she cried out for him desperately.

In the blink of an eye, Peter was outside, at the bottom of a road embankment not too far from the estate. It was thick with plants and shrubs, but it was also the sight of a broken, mangled motorcycle, and the lifeless body of Gunner, with Sonya hovering over him, sobbing. The alpha vampire was confused. This was an accident Gunner should have walked away from with some scratches and bruising at the most. His healing factor would eventually bring him back to full strength - yet he was so still, and no matter how much Sonya pleaded with him, he wasn't moving.

Seeing his daughter so heartbroken tugged on Peter's soul. She was a brave and fearless woman who didn't care for men, due to her horrid history with a particular ex. Gunner had been the first man to mend her emotional wounds and showed her how to love once more, no matter how checked her past was. And while Peter would be hellbent on admitting so, he was grateful for Gunner Logan's presence in her life... but now, it looked like something else decided to take her away from him.

No, Peter would not permit this.

'Heather, I apologize, but brace yourself,' he warned his fiancée telepathically as he knelt next to Sonya, bit into the pad of his thumb until he drew blood, then placed a hand upon her shoulder. Using his nails, he punctured her flesh until he drew blood from her, where his blood mingled with hers.

A sheer force of pain instantly swept up his arm and flowed throughout his body like liquid fire. Holding back a scream of pain, he forced himself to concentrate, and that was when he found the answer to his earlier question. Sonya, being bonded to Gunner, reacted to this very situation. But it was clear this wasn't anything ordinary. From what he could sense through Sonya, this attack on Gunner had ties to the past, one that offered a grim outcome. The likes of himself and Sonya would survive, due to their biological makeup as vampires. But for creatures like Gunner, there was no future. This THING inside Gunner was too strong, and his body clearly couldn't win.

Gritting his teeth, he mentally spoke to Sonya while preparing himself for more onslaught of pain.

'I'm taking some of this agony from you, so you can focus and save your husband! You must make him physically young again if he can recover from this attack... He can't remain like this, but if he's young enough, his body can fight this infection and heal!'

Eris watched the manic chaos that surrounded Sonya, as she desperately tried everything she could to coax Gunner to stay conscious and plead with her vampire father, Peter, to aid her. It was simply pathetic, and it made her smile with pure joy. Using her bond to keep her lover alive was killing her, and the goddess of discord enjoyed knowing this. This was fantastic to watch!

Nosoi frowned as two new individuals appeared alongside the dying werewolf in the image they were using to watch everything that transpired.

"Who are they?" the malevolent daemon questioned with a raised brow.

"Unwanted guests!" Eris seethed.

Valeria had to lean against Drake momentarily as soon as they arrived at their new destination, to catch her balance. Unlike the first time, when she arrived in a spacious bedroom lost in lust, she was now outside in the cold and surrounded by thorns, mud, and roots. Not to mention, there was a woman frantically beside herself, a young blond couple, and a bloodied victim on the ground - yes, the one who needed help.

Without hesitation, the ancient witch held out her palm toward Gunner and closed her eyes. Reading his fractured thoughts, she winced as she was roughly lashed with the ferocious pain he was experiencing and it nearly snapped her head back. By the gods, it was a nightmare. He was being assaulted by a fierce monster from within that was beyond comprehension. He needed to be moved away from here as soon as possible, someplace safe. First, she would do her best to ease the pain.

"I'm shutting down your nervous system telepathically," she explained to the gravely wounded werewolf with a grimace. At least, he wouldn't feel any more pain, but already, she was sweating bullets. This virus was relentless. They had to move fast. She was going to be working non-stop mentally until this situation was resolved. "As soon as we can relocate you, the sooner we can figure out a way to help you."

Seeing Gunner Logan in so much pain brought pure pleasure to Hades. There was nothing he wanted more than to see that mutt suffer even half as severely as he had while having that dagger implanted in his chest. Sonya's pain on the other hand wasn't as enjoyable. However, he would rather have her dead than with someone so unworthy of her. If she died, there would be no purgatory for her. He would ensure she traveled directly to him. So be it if that was the only way.

" Nosoi ..." Hades' eyes darkened as he looked at her. " Can they cure him? " Should she give him the wrong answer he would hold her personally accountable for this for allowing him to get his hopes up and for creating a potential situation that Drake could track back to him after he had managed to keep his nose clean for this long.

Heather was in her room attending to her and Peter's affairs ─ only to have Peter rush inside and grab her by the arm before she could even question. Moments later she found herself outside along the sloping hillside that led to the estate. Gunner was badly injured, but it didn't appear as if his healing abilities were working. Sonya was in a state of her own. Heather rushed to the other side of Sonya and knelt beside Gunner. She was welcomed by Sonya and Gunner from the get-go, and Sonya went above and beyond to make her feel at home. It literally shattered her undead heart to see either of them in this state.

She turned with a nod of her head as Peter warned her to brace herself for the impact he was about to unleash on her. There was no doubt in her mind that what was coming next would not be pleasant. She would endure whatever pain she had to endure if it meant helping her family. The pain spread like a chain-link fence from Gunner to Sonya to Peter and finally hit her like a ton of bricks. She stumbled back until she was seated on the grassy hillside. Tears spilled over her eyes and her mouth parted as she tried to fight through the pain. Never once did she cry out because all their attention had to be on Gunner.

Drake nearly stumbled back when Valarie took into her the pain coursing through Gunner's body. It had been a very long time since Drake a felt such a power or connection. It only proved that they had to work quickly. The sooner they could figure out what was wrong with him the quicker they could figure out who was behind this. This meant that he could end someone's life as quickly as possible.

Between Peter, Heater, and the newcomer with her father taking some of the pain from herself and Gunner, it allowed her a moment to focus on what Peter told her just moments ago ─ to make Gunner young again. She had only tempted a feat like that once before and it was on Peter. However, it cost Peter's memories. Perhaps there was something she could change within the spell to prevent that from happening to Gunner. The only thing she could imagine worse than Gunner's death was to have him alive and yet not remember her or their son. That would be a fate worse than death for her.

Pushing herself up from the ground with her palms she studied Gunner's face as she spoke to the others. " I think I know what needs to be done. We need to get him back to the estate. " Her eyes now turned to her father's and the newcomer.

" Say no more. " Drake yelled as she moved into action, ensuring everyone was touching each other. It would take a lot out of him to teleport the entire group but it had to be done. They couldn't risk anyone breaking their connection with Gunner when Sonya was now clear-headed enough to speak and move. Once he was sure everyone was joined together his eyes closed and with everything he had within him, he reformed the group in the sitting hall of the estate. Once everyone was firmly and safely placed he stumbled over to grab the nearest chair. He needed a moment to recover.

Nosoi swallowed hard upon Hades' question. There was no single DOUBT in her mind that she had complete control over her abilities. The only hero who ever came close to standing up to her was King Oedipus. Surely these pitiful, foul creatures wouldn't come even close!

"Not in this lifetime," she snarled, as she boldly stood in front of the mirror. Even as the scenery changed to that of an interior setting, her wicked powers activated once more.

Pride swelled within Eris as she watched her daughter at work. Her sons and daughters were all sinister and cruel like her. No matter what, they represented her to the very core: the embodiment of strife and discord. Unless the poor fool was able to travel back in time and challenge her magic from when it was possible to fairly match her head on, Gunner Logan would be no more!

Nosoi's eyes turned pure black, as the tips of her fingers produced flames of darkness.

"All ye weary in body and burdened with disease," she chanted in a disembodied voice, "whose hearts are faint within you - suffer! Thou quaking terror of disease, waste, pestilence, and despair!"

The flames exploded from Nosoi and fanned into the mirror itself, where it would travel to its final destination…

As much as Valeria wanted to be at Drake's side, she knew it was important to help the dying werewolf. She couldn't break her concentration on him. He was an important part of this family. While continuing to keep Gunner's nervous system shut down, she used her telekinesis to keep him afloat, but stretched out, while close to Sonya. Meanwhile, Peter kept Heather close, and placed a chaste kiss upon her temple, before glancing over at Drake.

"What Sonya will do for Gunner once helped me years ago," he informed his sire. "It won't be without consequence, but it has to be done right now."

As far as his personal history with werewolves, Peter had never seen any of them brutalized like Gunner. Whatever or whoever was behind this attack must have had one wicked grudge against him. While he could think of a few names, none of them had this particular STYLE of torture…

Valeria's eyes widened as she sensed an onslaught of dark magic heading their way. It came out of nowhere, and it sent shivers down her very spine.

"Sonya…!" she whispered fearfully. She didn't want to rush her, but whatever this magic assault was, it wasn't going to slow down. At the speed it was going, it was like a meteor ready to slam into the earth.

While Hades greatly enjoyed watching Gunner Logan suffer he would rather him just die rather than give that family a chance to reverse what had been done. After all the long months he spent buried alive with that dagger in his chest - for all the pain he endured during that time he deserved nothing short of all the misery and pain inflicted upon him.

His eyes narrowed as his fists balled at his sides. For Nosoi's sake, he hoped the words she spoke were true. While he would not directly kill one of Eris' children due to their partnership that did not mean he would not stick Nosoi in a hell that would make Pandora's Box look like a dream. Eris knew this before enlisting her daughter's help.

Hades would not let his cover be blown over someone else's foolish mistakes.

As she began to chant Hades walked up behind her and placed his hand upon her shoulder. His grip was a little tighter than needed. This was his way of letting her know he would not take failure lightly.

Nosoi should have reminded herself that she was no longer standing against those who stood in her own time. Many things changed while she was locked away. It would have been easy for him to see it done years ago if it had been such an easy feat.

" Disappointment is not something I handle well. " He would lightly comment close to her ear as he watched the sheer panic strike from their next hit.

Heather was relieved when Peter's pain was removed and she no longer felt the pain that the others were experiencing. Her grief and sadness remained, however. It seemed like their family couldn't catch a break. There was always someone lurking in the shadows, waiting to strike them down. Now more than ever she was determined to up her training so that she could help when things like that happened to their family. She knew how Sonya must be feeling right now. She felt the same way when DJ X and that damn Rachel shot that bomb into his chest. The idea of losing the very person that gives you life and meaning - there could be no fate worse than that.

" Whatever needs to be done should be done. We'll deal with whatever consequences when they happen. " Drake instructed and nodded at Peter. Even though his strength from the teleportation was slowly returning and he could now stand without something holding him upright he still felt helpless. While he was one of the strongest creatures on earth he did not possess the skills of magic the way his daughter did. A trait she picked up from her mother and dare he say Hades himself.

" Anything you need just name it. "

" Keep him alive at all costs! " Sonya instructed everyone as she vanished from the room they all resided in. She quickly rematerialized in her magic room at the top of the estate. She nearly tore the room apart looking for a vial of water but not just any vial. The contents inside contained two very special waters. One was from the fountain of youth which they all stumbled across when they all traveled to awaken Drake from his slumber. The other water inside was from the Underworld river of Lethe. It was that water that would prove to be their biggest problem since it was the river of forgetfulness.

Soon enough Sonya returned to her husband's side and from the looks of everyone it wasn't a moment too soon. She held the vial high in the air with one hand and kissed Gunner's forehead. The moment she touched him she was wrecked with pain again but this time she fought through it with Valeria's aid. Her free hand was placed upon his chest as she chanted.

" " de manu Dei! de manu hominis. A sanguine cordis mei in aeternum tabescet! Aufer maledictionem tuam ab hoc homine! Remove Letheum ab hac ampulla! " "

Her eyes turned fire red as black magic bore through her body. She found enough strength inside her to place the vial on Gunner's lips and forced him to drink its contents. As the last drop spilled from the vial and into his mouth a flash of dark smoke exploded in the room. This sent Sonya sailing across the room and crashing into the nearest wall.

Gunner couldn't remember the last time he was surrounded by pure silence. It was surreal, to the point where he couldn't take it. Something was wrong. He had to open his eyes.

An enormous wolf with sleek, dark fur and red eyes greeted him in a dark forest. Mist wafted around the creature, but Gunner immediately knew who this beast was, because they were one and the same.

"What's going on?" he asked his inner beast. "What the fuck happened back there?"

He took a step forward, only to tumble to the forest floor. Wet grass cushioned his naked form. The air was so cold it bit his skin.

'You nearly died,' the large wolf stated as he approached his other half in human form. 'Our family was nearly wiped out centuries ago by this disease that once flowed in your body. Just know that when you wake up, your world will not exactly be the same. It's been a while since we've had this moment together, you and I. You've been in control of yourself for so long, I would've thought you'd forgotten what I looked like.'

Gunner blinked slowly. He truly couldn't remember the last time he spoke to his inner wolf, but… now was not the time for such sentiments. He struggled to push himself up to a sitting position using his elbows. Groggy couldn't even begin to describe how he felt. He wanted to go back to sleep and rest, but he knew he couldn't. Something… someone wanted him to wake up.

'Your mate,' the inner beast reminded him. 'She won't let you die, just like you won't let her go.'

Gunner furrowed his brows as he finally managed to sit upright. "She?" he queried.

Blazing red hair, followed by piercing eyes, and full red lips flashed in his mind's eyes.

"Sonya," he whispered. That was all he could remember.

The wolf before him vanished in a haze of darkness, and the forest disappeared with him.

Gunner let out a gasp as he sat up, panting heavily. His chest rose and fell rapidly, and sweat dripped down the sides of his temple. Reaching up, he touched his lower lip to find a drop of liquid lingering - not blood, and not his.

"Looks like you've done it," Peter stated to Sonya, as he helped his daughter to her feet. Her body had made a nasty impact on the wall, leaving a spider web of cracks that reached halfway up the ceiling. Even through the darkness, Peter didn't hesitate to make haste and recover her. Once the darkness and smoke cleared, it was easier to inspect the near the disaster that could have taken place, had Sonya not acted as swiftly as she did.

Valeria, who was closest to Gunner, wore a concerned expression on her face. Taking a step back, she used her telekinesis to help Gunner to his feet.

"Who're you?" Gunner asked briskly before he saw Sonya across the room. "What happened?"

Unaware of any changes to his body, or any memory of what happened to have gotten him in such a position, he hurried over to his wife.

Nosoi was motionless as the plague she'd unleashed upon Gunner disappeared, thanks to the efforts of his wife, Sonya. She was completely dumbfounded. How could anyone, let alone in this century, upstage her magic? Impossible! And worse, Gunner had been changed into a young man, therefore, the plague would not work on him. It was made ready to destroy his aging, older body - not a young one fit to fight off her ailments!

The daimon swallowed hard, as her confidence completely vanished. The reality of her failure in front of Hades hit her like a rock to her skull.

"Mother…" Nosoi whispered, hoping beyond hope, that her own creator would be able to plead with the god of the underworld to go easy on her punishment.

Instead, Eris turned her nose upon her daughter and turned her back to her.

"How could you do this to me!" the goddess exclaimed. Any concern for her own was vacant, only to be replaced by sheer irritation. "You are an absolute disappointment. I don't care what Master Hades does to you, but how dare you humiliate me like this!"

Reflecting on their shared experiences, Drake recalled the countless times Sonya had effortlessly conjured spells that left him in awe. Her control over elemental forces was unparalleled, and her mastery of intricate enchantments surpassed even seasoned practitioners. It was as if she had inherited an innate understanding of magic, flowing through her veins like a powerful current.

Drake realized that his oversight stemmed from his own preconceived notions about magical aptitude. He had assumed that Sonya's progress would be gradual, like any other aspiring mage. But now he understood that her heritage played a significant role in accelerating her growth. He should have seen it the moment Sonya was able to resurrect her mother from the dead. The implications of such a miraculous feat were staggering, yet he had dismissed it as a mere coincidence or an elaborate illusion. Little did he know that this event would unravel a series of extraordinary events that would challenge everything he thought he knew about life and death. What she had just managed to do with Gunner was even beyond his understanding. But as the darkness dissipated from the room and the current threat was over for now he shifted across the room to Valeria's side since Peter was attending to Sonya.

" Her name is Valeria. "

Sonya had always been drawn to the mysterious and enigmatic realm of dark magic. From a young age, she had delved into ancient texts, studying forbidden spells and rituals that most would shy away from. She had witnessed the power it held, the raw energy that surged through her veins whenever she tapped into its depths. But this blast was different. It was as if an abyss had opened up before her, unleashing a torrent of malevolence that threatened to consume everything in its path. The sheer magnitude of darkness pulsating within it sent shivers down her spine, causing her heart to race with both fear and exhilaration. As the dust settled and the echoes of the blast faded away, Sonya found herself standing amidst the aftermath. The air was thick with an eerie silence, broken only by Peter's voice.

" I'll be alright. " As she stood up, she could feel the weight of exhaustion pulling her down. The aftermath of the blast had left her trembling, her muscles weak and unsteady. Every step felt like a monumental effort as if she were wading through thick mud. She closed her eyes, trying to steady her racing heartbeat and calm the swirling chaos within her mind. The residual energy from the spell still crackled around her, leaving an electric buzz in the air. She couldn't bring herself to look in Gunner's direction in fear that his memories had evaded him. It had been enough for her to just hear Peter's confirmation that the spell had worked.

" You were dying and we did what we had to to save your life. "

As the echoes of Hades' roar reverberated through the dark caverns of the underworld, his frustration grew into a seething anger. He had entrusted Nosoi with a crucial task and she had failed him miserably. But time and time again, their plans had crumbled like sand slipping through his fingers, he knew his trust should not spread past Eris and Darius. They were the only two who managed to get the job done without costly mistakes like this one.

It was probably a good thing that Eris had no regard for the punishment he was about to unleash upon her daughter for her failure. His wrath would be fierce and merciless. Hades snapped his fingers and within an instant, Nosoi was locked in the spot she was standing in. Hades, the formidable ruler of the underworld, gazed at Nosoi with a cold, calculating stare. He knew that even though she was trapped in her current position, her cunning and resourcefulness could still pose a threat to his dominion. Hades had learned long ago that underestimating his adversaries could lead to disastrous consequences.

" I warned you what failure would bring. You not only failed in your task but you also opened a window to our discovery. Your punishment for this will be far worse than what any death could bring you. "

With a wave of Hades hand, Pandora's box appeared at Nosoi's feet. Pandora's box - a vessel said to contain unimaginable evils that could bring chaos and destruction upon the world and the souls trapped within it.

" Back to prison you will go, and into the box you hate. You will stay in it until you love it! And die in it. "

Gunner could only stare in bewilderment at his wife. Dying? Him? He couldn’t believe it. He felt like a million bucks! Yet as he searched within himself, and reached within the bond they shared, he discovered the powerful impact that nearly took his life, and threatened to cripple hers in the process. It left him speechless, as he stared at the palms of his hands. They looked just as rough and calloused, tell-tales of the rough life he’d always led. Then something from within advised him to look in the nearest reflection possible.

“Hang on,” Gunner uttered as he slipped away, and hurried over to what remained of Sonya’s altar. Despite the mess, he found a broken piece of glass. On bended knee, he leaned over and saw a face he hadn’t seen in many, many decades. It was one without any hard lines or creases or hints of battle scars. Even the mustache and beard he’d grown and groomed were thinned out considerably.

“Fucking hell,” Gunner whispered in awe. “I’m… young again...!”

Valeria used the tips of her fingers to touch her temples, where she closed her eyes, and focused. She briefly scanned the werewolf’s mind, before smiling with relief.

“You did wonders, Miss Sonya,” she complimented her fellow witch. “I sense no trace of the virus anywhere in his body. By altering him to a younger state, it was incapable of attacking him. As such, he was able to fight it off successfully.”

Peter carefully nodded, as he went back to Heather, to make sure she was all right with everything that happened. As such, Gunner returned to Sonya, where he carefully gripped her by the shoulders, and peered into her eyes. There weren’t enough words to express how much she meant to him, to sacrifice what she had to save his life. He’d obviously do the same for her and then some.

He pulled her against him and hugged her tight.

“Couldn’t live without you, baby,” he muttered into her flaming red hair, as he gripped her in his embrace. After which, he pulled back, to stare in awe at her. “My biggest regret would've never been able to see you again.”

Peter cleared his throat loud enough that it drew the couple's attention.

"What's wrong?" Gunner asked as he continued to hold Sonya. "Are we under attack again?"

Valeria glanced over at her lover, Drake, before revealing a peculiar expression on her face. It drew a shade of pink across her cheeks. She was rendered speechless, and simply couldn't say anything, so she kept quiet.

Peter rolled his eyes and maintained his stuffy attitude, per usual, even as he clasped his hands with Heather's.

"Really, Sonya, he admonished. "I expected better from you." Without missing a beat, he went on to say, "Out of all of them, you picked that ratty haired one as a lover?"

Gunner clenched his teeth. It didn't take Sherlock Holmes to figure out what Peter referred to.

Sonya's secret was no longer theirs to keep between them.

Eris chewed on the tip of her nail as she ignored the frantic, traumatizing screams of her own flesh and blood. Blast it all, another failure. Even her biggest accomplishments in all history would be marred by downfalls that would be held above her head.

“… Explains the survivors of their kin,” she whispered to herself. “The only survivors must have been the children. With the adults dead, the young ones were forced to survive on their own - which they did, against all odds.”

In the distance, away from the two gods, the aimless ghosts meandered about the fields. A few paused to witness the punishment of Eris’ daughter. Not even she was spared from Hades’ wrath.

One individual, in particular, found herself staring longingly at Hades. Why was he in the company of such a shrieking banshee like Eris? He deserved better…

Her stomach growled. Hands placed themselves upon her stomach. She grimaced and glanced about. She hoped nobody heard that. Hunger shouldn’t exist in the underworld, yet here she was, absolutely starving!

Deciding not to linger too long, and not wanting to share the fate that Eris’ daughter did, the female wanderer drifted off in search of food.

'Good luck to Lord Hades with his company,' Persephone thought to herself.

Her husband still remembered who she was. As soon as Gunner tapped into her, Sonya sensed that indescribable connection that seemed more powerful than ever before. It was as if they were two souls intertwined, understanding each other on a level that went beyond words. It almost brought tears to her eyes, realizing that her greatest fear had not materialized. However, she refrained from letting those tears surface as she kept her vulnerable side hidden from almost everyone, including her own family. 

She didn't look at him until he spoke and walked away. As she caught a glimpse of his back, she noticed a significant transformation in his appearance. His once salt and pepper hair was now gleaming and jet black. Although she wanted to move to the side for a better view, she stayed still to allow him to witness the change himself.

When Valeria spoke, her gaze swiftly shifted towards the witch who had accompanied her father. Sonya couldn't take all the credit for this. This had been a team effort. Without everyone that had shown up and played their part, no matter how big or small this would have turned out much differently than it had. 

" Please don't congratulate me. This was a team effort that couldn't have been done without all of you. "

However, all of that was quickly erased from her mind as Gunner reappeared before her again. As his hands firmly held her shoulders, her own hands instinctively reached for his face, gently tracing his unblemished skin with her fingertips. He remained one of the two most attractive beings she had ever laid her eyes upon. Only seconds later did both her arms wrap around him, holding to him as if it were to be the last time. 

She doesn't know what she would have done had she lost him. The intensity of that agony, she wouldn't have been able to endure it again. As she clung to him, her heart pounded in her chest, the fear of losing him still fresh in her mind. She realized at that moment just how much he meant to her, how his presence brought her comfort and stability. The thought of facing the world without him seemed unbearable, and she vowed to cherish every moment they had together, never taking what they shared for granted.

Eyes turn to Peter with a confused look when he clears his throat. 

Drake's eyes blew wide as he stared at his daughter. A part of him couldn't believe what he had just witnessed. Then again a part of him had always had suspicions on the matter. On the other hand, a fragment of him had perpetually harbored thoughts regarding the issue. He never anticipated that HE was the individual she had entangled herself with. As he raised his hand to caress his forehead, his other hand firmly grasped Valeria's waist. Speaking about the situation would have no impact. Evidently, it was not a secret she was concealing from her husband, and as long as he approved of the situation, who was he to condemn her actions? He knew better than anyone that love was love, it came in the most unlikely places and it wasn't something you could just shut off and walk away from. But leave it to Peter to be the first one to break the awkward silence lingering in the room.

Heather's jaw falls open in astonishment, yet she finds herself unable to speak, not even when Peter breaks the silence. It never crossed her mind, not even in her wildest dreams, that those two would have been a thing. Nevertheless, she musters the strength to gently squeeze Peter's hand, hoping to encourage him to be gentle with Sonya.

" Silence, Eris! " Hades paces back and forth, issuing the order while the screams of Nosoi fail to calm the boiling rage within him. He is in a state of disarray and he acknowledges it, such an intense fury he hasn't experienced in many years. Among all the actions Sonya has taken, he cannot fathom the extent of her betrayal towards him. It astonishes him that she had managed to conceal this secret from him for all these years, until this moment.

Now, it all clicked in his mind. Reflecting on it, he finally comprehended the reasons behind those instances when she disappeared from his radar. The unaccounted time she spent on earth. His fists tightened at his sides, driven by the desire to inflict harm and pain onto something, to make it suffer.

His gaze falls upon Eris knowing that it was her idea to involve her daughter in this. Not only was this Nosoi's failure but this was on her as well. Gunner had been a problem in the past, but all they had accomplished now was transforming him into an even more significant obstacle. Gunner was currently at the peak of his abilities. What in the hell were they thinking? His stare at Eris is intense and unwavering.

He just just about to strike like a venomous viper when he suddenly felt the presence of someone familiar. Surprisingly, this person had a calming effect on him and eased the intense anger he felt. He hoped that when Darius returned he would bring something more impressive than the disappointing spectacle that had just occurred.

" Eris, leave my sight and this is not a request. "

#✦ — • VERSE • Where the Dead Never Sleep • #✦ — • I BREATHE YOU IN AGAIN JUST TO FEEL YOU UNDERNEATH MY SKIN • Sonya and Gunner • #✦ — • I HAVE LOVED YOU ALL ALONG • Heather and Peter • #✦ — • I SEEM TO BE STRUCK BY YOU • Hades and Eris • #✦ — • YOU’RE MY END AND MY BEGINNING • Drake and Valerie • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Sonya • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Gunner • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Peter • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Drake • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Heather • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Valeria • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Eris • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Persephone • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Lethe •

[wherethedeadneversleep]

Whatever It Takes

Jasper opened his eyes to see silver moonlight shine upon silken blonde hair before him. Silently, he reached out and ran his fingers through those lush locks, only to lean over and bury his face into the crook of her neck. The warmth of her body beneath the blankets wasn't enough for him, as the memory of their previous outing remained fresh in his mind. The screams of the lives they took rang like music in his ears.

"Not bad for being 'rusty,' huh?" he teased as he slid an arm across Caroline's torso and embraced her from behind. Whether he was referring to his killing streak the night before, or his performance in the bedroom, she could decide. He'd been considered "deceased" for decades until he was reunited with his true love, the vampire whom he held in his arms. She saved him from a life he didn't think he needed saving from until he'd been abandoned by those he thought were his family.

Impatience got the better of him, and he repositioned their bodies, so he was now on his back, and he had Caroline resting upon him. Allowing one of his legs to intertwine with hers, with his fingertips gently upon her temple, he said, "If those dumbasses had let us take over David's position back then, we never would've allowed children to have located the cave, let alone kill off most of the gang."

Even after all the years, they had been apart Caroline hadn't forgotten just how good it felt to be wrapped up in Jasper's arms. Nor had she forgotten how damn amazing he was in bed. Jasper was her soul mate and she had known it from the very moment their paths had crossed. It was also the reason why her break up with Leon back in the day had been such an easy one. No one understood her the way Jasper did. Even after all the years she spent alone thinking he was dead she never allowed herself to get close to anyone else. He was her reason, her meaning, her everything.

" Rusty is the last thing I'd call you. " A deep content sigh drew from her lips as his arm wrapped around her holding her close. Life without him had been nothing short of misery ─ so many of these moments had been lost. Killing wasn't even the same with him gone but now they had a second chance to take everything they wanted and more. The only regret she had was that it wasn't Jasper who had turned her, but now she was a vampire just like him and nothing would part them again. Together they would kill anyone or anything that dared to try.

As comfortable as she was the mention of Jasper's old gang got her stirred up. So much so that she snaked herself out of his grasp and climbed directly on top of him. Her arm rested against his chest while the upper half of her body lingered above him. " The only sad thing is those idiots didn't stay dead. " Her index finger stretched out to glide along his jawline. " ' Let us '? " Caroline couldn't help but giggle a bit over the thought. " There is no letting us do anything. Honey, you and I are going to take that position and if the others have a problem with that then they can have the same fate David's going to suffer. They didn't give a shit about me or anything that happened to me. Clearly, they didn't give a damn about you. I think we're more than past do in spreading some of that not giving a damn right back at them. "

Jasper's eyes drank in the sight of Caroline's gorgeous body as he considered her words. He was one lucky bastard to be reunited with her after everything they'd been through. Take. Yes, they would take over. They were more than deserving. David wasn't fit to be a leader. Jasper saw it. He challenged David back then, and he was the only one brave enough to do so. Max tried to take him out of it as any concerned father figure would for his "son," but Jasper would have none of it. If David wouldn't step down willingly, then Jasper would force him to do so.

A twinge of pain coursed along his backside and he grimaced. The scars on his body sadly remained painful reminders of what he endured at the hands of David. There wasn't enough blood he could consume to heal them. The desiccation he endured for years upon years constantly reminded him of his hatred for David, and the pain he caused him. The longing he had for Caroline during those times was torture in itself. She was the first true love of his life, and not knowing what would happen to her was one of the other reasons he lost his fight with David. David taunted him about falling for Caroline. He didn't approve of her being with Jasper, and didn't want her to be "one of them." That selfish son of a bitch. David knew nothing about Caroline, and what she was capable of.

Jasper's body grew tense, enough that he had to sit up. His arm remained around Caroline, and he kept her against his chest.

"Let's get out of here," he suggested, and it was followed by a feral smile. "Feeling like tearing into a few blood bags at the boardwalk."

Caroline couldn't give a damn if David approved of her or if he approved of her becoming one of them because she knew how she and Jasper felt about one another. Before everything went south for them they had even talked about Jasper turning her when the time was right. Unfortunately, someone beat him to the punch and to this day she is still unsure of who exactly her sire was. When she learned David had been behind what happened to Jasper it gave her more than enough reason to plan his demise. For years she watched and listened to everything that happened in Santa Carla. Her devious little mind was at work coming up with the perfect plan that would ensure David's downfall. Who the hell was he to judge? If it was a matter of something David wanted then there was no questioning it. Who was he to question what Jasper had wanted and to go to the lengths he had to prevent them from being together? That selfish arrogant bastard.

It should be enough that she and Jasper were finally reunited but it wasn't. It would never be enough until David paid for what he had done. Only then could things be right again. The vampires of Santa Carla deserved a leader who would protect them and lead them. What vampire could hold their head high knowing they were bested by a bunch of children ... oh that's right, David could. The thought caused Caroline to dramatically roll her eyes.

She could feel how tense his body had become when he sat up with his arms still around her. The idea of getting out of their nice warm bed was unsettling but they like any other vampire had to feed.

That feral smile of his only made her lean in for another kiss. How she loved how his mind was just as equally as wicked as hers was. Once she drew back from the kiss she relented with a little sigh and inched her way off his lap and out of the bed to gather up her clothing that was scattered all along the room.

" Not a bad idea since you always know how to work up a girl's appetite. Along the way, I should probably tell you about an idea I've had brewing for a while now. It won't come without risk but when have we ever shied away from a challenge? " Caroline would twist around with a devious smile of her own. " If we pulled this off, we'd have a huge advantage in our favor. "

"An idea, huh?" Jasper mused, as he forced himself out of bed, and collected his clothes off the ground. One of the many qualities he loved about Caroline, was how her mind was constantly working. The gears in her head never stopped turning. It was one of his selling points for David and the boys, and why she'd be a great fit for their group. Yet they weren't swayed. Max seemed somewhat keen on the idea of adding her to the family… and perhaps that was why David didn't want her because Max did - or at least pretended he did. They were always wanting to go against Max. The boys loved to get on his nerves. Sure, Max was a dork, who tried too hard to fit in with the humans, but it allowed their family to thrive as long as they had, didn't they?

But considering how it was Max who brought the downfall of their family in the end, it was a good thing he remained dead, Jasper thought, as he stepped into his pants, and then found his sweater. He allowed his greed to overcome everything and everyone else. Knowing Caroline, and the many years she spent watching what happened to the rest of his so-called brothers, she wouldn't be as reckless and cocky. She was smarter than the rest of the boys put together.

After putting on his shoes, he picked up his phone from the charger and switched it to camera mode, where he could see his reflection. A Caucasian male in his mid-20s with spiked blond hair and dark green eyes gazes back at him, with a strong, defined jaw. Not even desiccation could ruin his stunning features, so long as he maintained his ravenous intake of human blood.

“Challenges and risks are often one and the same, so long as the results play in our favor,” Jasper said after he put his phone in his back pocket, and turned to Caroline. Once he raked his fingers through his hair, he grinned with eager delight.

“Ready when you are.”

Caroline smiled at Jasper when he asked about the plan brewing inside her head. She had been thinking about it for some time now. The people they would deal with were dangerous in their own rights but she and Jasper together were a force to be reckoned with. There was no turning back now. It was time to make their move. " I've been doing some research and found out there are Day Light Rings. They allow creatures such as ourselves to walk during the day. " Caroline's smile widened. " It takes a powerful witch to cast the spell needed to get them to work. If we could get someone like Sonya to make us these pretty little rings we'd have the element of surprise. Walk right up into the cave when everyone else is sleeping. We just have to figure out our angle in making her do this. "

This would not be risk-free, as she mentioned earlier. Sonya and her family weren't a group many wanted on their bad side. They had to find a way to pressure those who opposed them. It had to be a solution that could provide the necessary leverage without too much risk of retaliation. She had a few ideas but nothing was completely solid yet. " We would be unstoppable. " As much as she loved their quiet cottage home outside of town along the beach, it would be nice to appreciate it just as intensely during the daylight hours. It would also save them time hunting during the night. They could lure in stupid and helpless tourists throughout the day.

Jasper was still as stunning as the first time she laid eyes upon him. A part of her just wanted to stay where they were and make up for all the time taken from them. On the other hand, how could anyone take either of them seriously if they didn't strike back? Jasper and she were determined to make their mark and prove their worth. They had been through too much to back down now. This was the time they had been waiting for. No more excuses.

" I guarantee it will work in our favor. Family means everything to the redhead. So we pursue something she loves the most and would do anything to protect. Ideally, her son. " Caroline's brow arched as that thought popped into her mind. " And where do most teenagers hang out on the weekends in Santa Carla? " The Boardwalk.

After slipping on her jacket she pushed open the front door and stepped out onto the rocky path that led down to the beach. She could feel the damp chill of the night air on her skin and the crunch of the pebbles beneath her feet. The moon was just rising over the horizon, casting a golden glow over the sea. She could hear the roar of the waves crashing on the shore and the sound of seagulls wheeling overhead. She breathed in the salty air and smiled, feeling the night's peace and calm wash over her. Taking one last look at the star-studded sky she looked back at Jasper and grinned. Just like that Caroline vanished in a blur as her vampire set a path for the Boardwalk.

#✦ — • VERSE • Where the Dead Never Sleep • #✦ — • I PUT A SPELL ON YOU BECAUSE YOU’RE MINE • Caroline and Jasper • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Caroline • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Jasper •

[wherethedeadneversleep]

Cleaning up the Stragglers

As of late Logan has found himself spending more and more time with Colin’s sister-in-law. He doesn’t exactly know why ─ there’s just something very different about her and it had nothing to do with her being a werewolf. Perhaps it was her quirky nature in general. He was never accustomed to being around anyone other than those like himself and Colin. She was able to express herself in ways he’d never dreamed of being able to. It drew him to her without him even realizing it was happening.

Today she had asked to tag along with him on a hunt. He didn’t give it much thought considering she had handled herself pretty damn well when he first came to Santa Carla. This should have been a walk in the park considering it was nothing like The Rose Institute. This was just the aftermath of that mess. Cleaning up the stragglers that managed to escape and tuck themselves away in hopes their savior Stephanie would locate their whereabouts.

After using his razor wire whip to remove the head of the last remaining vampire in the building his head lifted, nose to the air as he took in the scent of blood. Blood was spilled all around them, but this scent was different ─ his nose turning his head to look Zoey straight in the eyes. He gives her a questioning look just as he realizes she shifted her body in a way to shield her side from his line of sight. Eyes narrowed at her for a moment.

“ Are you hurt? “ He quickly questions before slowly making his way over to her. If she got hurt on his watch he would never hear the end of it after giving Zoe and Colin such a hard time about allowing the women to come along when facing such threats. “ I can smell the blood, Zoey. How bad is it? Let me see … “ He almost insists and yet he manages to keep an almost stoic appearance … almost being the keyword. For the first time in his life, there is the smallest hint of worry breaking its way to the surface. It’s not something he knows how to process so it’s equally as frustrating as it is confusing to him.

Zoey's bright and cheerful expression replaced that slight hint of worry Logan might've seen before she offered a casual wave of her hand.

"It's not that bad at all!" she insisted, though she now hid her left arm behind her back. "Trust me, I thought it was one of those 'oh crap!' moments, but it's only superficial."

She kicked herself mentally for allowing this slip-up to happen in the first place. Known for her exceptional control over her wolf nature, she was also a slippy girl whose quick movements didn't allow many people to land a blow on her, let alone touch her. But she, Logan, her twin, and brother-in-law learned firsthand that these creatures from the Institute weren't your ordinary vampires. Those who remained in the aftermath of their raid proved persistently troublesome, but nothing that couldn't be taken out after several sweeps.

There'd been a moment where she and Logan separated from one another, and that was when the surprise attack happened. While one of Zoey's main abilities was to hide her aura (essentially hide the fact that she was a werewolf), this attack was just that - an absolute surprise. Both she and her vampire attacker accidentally bumped into one another, and that was when the grappling began. This vampire had its throat ripped out from some unknown assault earlier, but it was still dangerous and hostile, to where it tried to choke out Zoey, preventing her from screaming out for help. They fell to the ground, and Zoey desperately fought to pry the steel grip this monster had over her. One firmly placed kick to the groin gave her that moment of ease, but that swiftly resulted in the vampire biting down on her forearm. Her bones cracked under the fierce pressure of the bite, and she almost passed out from the pain.

In an instant, her eyes flashed yellow, and she nearly lost control of her humanity to the wolf within. Instead of doing just that, however, she threw all of her weight into her free arm, her fist itself, where she smashed her knuckles through the vampire's skull. Brain matter flew from the other side of its head, and its body went slack due to the loss of its muscles. The pull forced her to topple over the body, and she instantly freed herself from its grip. Even after she wiped her other fist clean, using the vampire's clothes as a towel of sorts, the wound on her forearm was deep. Blood oozed to the surface of her skin, and her muscles pulsated with a fiery ache. As of that moment, the dried blood had crusted over the still-opened wounds.

Now feeling guilty after thinking back to how she got injured, Zoey relented.

"I'll be fine," she insisted, like a teenager getting caught sneaking out, as she reluctantly took her arm out to show Logan the aftermath. "But we're not going back until this heals up. I don't want Zoe freaking out on me, not after she was worried to death about Colin."

 Logan’s head craned to the side when she attempted to play off the extent of her injury. His sense of smell couldn’t be matched when it came to blood and what he sensed was a lot more than just a superficial wound.

“ It’s not that bad? Then why are you hiding your arm behind you? “ Logan looked eyes with hers as if calling her out on her bluff.

Something they learned early on in training was that it didn’t matter how well you were trained or how skillful of a fighter you were, there was always a chance for the unexpected to happen. It was better to go into battle and expect the unexpected to happen. Even with his many years of training, he wasn’t untouchable. That had been made clear the first time they went into battle with these supercharged monsters.

He once believed the only reason he was still alive was because he had a promise to fulfill to Colin, but Ravenna was dead. Logan kept his promise, so what was keeping him in Santa Carla? Maybe it was the idea that he still had all these stragglers to clean up, or maybe something else. Despite the years he and Colin spent training together and hunting together, they weren’t exactly the socializing type. Admittedly Colin was different these days, even more so after Ravenna’s death. Logan on the other hand didn’t have the experiences that Colin had over the last few years. He didn’t know how to properly express himself, or how to show worry or concern for another. There was more of a brashness and coldness to his actions.

The great battle was won, and the wicked witch was defeated. But imagine him having to go back now and explain to Colin that something happened to his sister-in-law. Forget Colin, her sister would undoubtedly end him on the spot.

“ I know when people are lying just because of the way the words feel when they press into me, uncomfortable and wrong. It is more important for you to be safe than right, for the time being. “ With that, he reached out taking her arm in his hands. His grip was perhaps a little tighter than he intended it to be. “ You’re not going back. I’ll take care of the rest of them once I get you out of here and somewhere you can heal up. “ He wasn’t going to have any agreements about this. Thankfully her wolf genes were kicking in and starting to heal the damage that had been done, but not at a quick enough rate. Grabbing the bottom of his jacket he ripped off a long enough piece that he could wrap the wound. “ We’ll get this cleaned up and let your body take care of the rest. “

Zoey's round eyes grew even wider when Logan used his own jacket to dress the wound. She chewed on the inside of her lip as guilt settled in. He didn't have to do all this for her! It was such a nice jacket, too, although she was positive he wasn't concerned about fashion - just like Colin. The two of them were alike in so many ways that they could've been brothers, had she not known that humans trained the dhampirs they kidnapped to turn out the same way: emotionless killing machines for vampires and anyone who stood in their way.

She watched as Logan tended to her wounds, noticing the hard lines on his hands, and feeling the coarseness of his skin compared to hers. A part of her was compelled to take his hand into her own and give it a squeeze of comfort. Instead, she refrained from acting out, in case he took it as some kind of surprise attack.

"I can't remember the last time I was caught off guard like that," Zoey admitted sheepishly as her eyes lifted from Logan's handiwork to his face. He was quite the looker, and while she noticed this when they first met, there hadn't been time to dwell on such superficial matters. There was a witch to stake and Colin's honor to reclaim. But now that everything was calm, and Colin was in a better place, Zoey was able to get a good look at his old companion, and notice he was pretty... well... hot!

Trying hard to hold back her smile, she forced her attention back onto her hand that was getting bandaged up. "As you've probably noticed by now, I'm more of the support person. The friend, the ally, the... last resort muscles of the group, but nobody that's like... I guess, not like Zoe or Colin. Main players of the game. I didn't go through the nightmares they did - together or even before they hooked up. In a way, I was lucky compared to them, and maybe that's why they're so close. Shoot, even Zoe and our little sister are closer than me and Zoe, and we're twins. Twins are supposed to have this connection, but since we grew apart, we kinda don't."

She wasn't sure why she was revealing all of this to Logan. They were allies, yes, but not close, but here they were, alone, and her heart decided this was the place to spill her emotions. Zoe and her were fraternal twins. Marie and she had a lot of similarities when it came to clothing style and even some aspects of their personalities. Yet Zoe and Marie were super close, like mother and daughter, due to the dangers they faced years ago at the hands of Sonya and DJ X. And while she wouldn't admit it, she felt like a third wheel who simply didn't fit in with her sisters.

Now, her wound didn't even register in terms of pain, as opposed to the sobering loneliness that crept into its place. But instead of revealing any of that on the outside, she simply beamed at Logan.

“You’re good at patching up people!”

Her skin was incredibly soft against his hands. Logan was used to patching himself up but not so much when it came to others. From time to time he would notice himself glancing up to look at her, eyes lingering for a moment before returning to her arm. He didn’t have the right words for how she looked ─ but there was something very striking about her, something he’d not seen before. Whatever he was feeling in that moment he couldn’t explain it nor did he fully understand it.

With a clear of his throat, he continued to wrap her hand, bandaging it tight enough to stop the bleeding but not tightly enough to cut off her circulation. Sure he knew she would heal up on her own, but at the same time, he didn’t want the smell of her blood lingering in the air any longer than needed. With a little luck, she would heal up before he had to explain to Colin that he allowed his sister-in-law to get injured on his watch.

“ Rule number one, never let your guard down. Expect the unexpected. When you become comfortable in a situation, that’s when things go astray. “ This time when he glanced up at her he noticed the way she was looking at him and that also made him feel something he couldn’t explain. Clearing his throat once more he finally pulled his hands away from her arm.

He wasn’t sure why she decided to disclose the information about her family to him that she did, but even he could sense a sort of inessential feeling coming from her. Logan was sure that wasn’t the case when it came to her family. His earlier remarks to her about not hunting with him were harsh but that was the way he was trained to be. This is the only way he knows how to be. However, a thought did come to his mind.

“ Being a strong fighter doesn’t mean you’ve lived through something tragic. You’re the one who has to live with your choice. Everyone else will get over it, and move on, no matter what you decide. But you never will. If being a big hitter is what you want then I can train you. “ This wasn’t something Logan would just offer to anyone. “ Life is only dictated by the paths you take. If something is unpleasing to you then do something to change it, but you change it for yourself and not because of anyone else. “ Logan wouldn’t lie, she was a good fighter and a strong one, but with his help, she could be even better.

“ As far as being a main player in their eyes,  intentions are the only thing they care about. Your intentions are in the right place no matter what assistance you give. You shouldn’t want to be like any of them because then you wouldn’t be you. In the end, it’s you they care about. “ Reaching up he scratched the back of his head. He couldn’t remember the last time he actually talked this much to any one person. If she wanted his help then he would give it. Since Ravenna was gone for good he had free time on his hands. There wasn’t anywhere else he needed to be for a while. Hell from the way Colin spoke there was enough shit going on around Santa Carla to keep him busy for some time.

“ I’ve patched up enough wounds over the years that I could do it blindfolded. “

Zoey admired the handiwork done on her wound. Beneath the wrappings, the broken skin was gradually fusing itself back together. The wonders of werewolf healing factors. This drew a smile from her.

“Blindfolded work is really impressive, I say,” she pleasantly remarked to Logan’s statement. A lot of actions he did in front of her reminded her of Colin. Then again, they were not only the same species but also brothers-in-arms. They probably knew each other like the back of their hands. Only now, Zoe knew more about Colin than Logan did.

Tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear, she continued smiling at Logan. “Listen, forget about the stuff I said earlier. I know my self-worth, and I know what I’m capable of doing. Sometimes I just kind of rattle off about things that I should keep to myself. I’m fine, really! But… thank you for offering your advice. I didn’t know I needed to hear it until you said it.”

Her heart raced just now when she stared at him. He didn’t have to go out of his way to make her feel better or even offer her his assistance, but he did. He made her feel like a team player. It made her think about the good ol’ days of being a teenage monster slayer alongside the Frogs, Sam, and Bridget. It even made her think about Edgar, and how much closer they’d gotten… until she messed up by telling the truth. She vowed to never do that again, overshare like that, yet she did it with Logan. Thankfully, he didn’t violently reject her like Edgar had, but she couldn’t risk ever doing that again.

Now looking about their surroundings, Zoey sniffed the air a few times, before announcing, “I can’t smell any more of those things. I think they went back into hiding for now.”

“ You should be good as new in a day or so. “ Logan remarked before finally releasing her arm back to her. Honestly, he didn’t even realize he was still hanging on to it until she spoke up.

“ That’s an example I gave about expecting the unexpected. Never know when you could be bleeding out in the dark somewhere. “ Smooth, yeah that was just smooth on his behalf. Here she was giving him what he thought to be a compliment and he still managed to somehow make it about the job. Reaching up he awkwardly scratched the back of his head. Here he had gone and made a big deal out of her arm knowing it would heal, then gave her this long lecture-like speech about self-worth. What the hell was he thinking?

But then she thanked him for that advice and just maybe it wasn’t such a bad thing for him to have done after all. He honestly was trying to help .. his people skills just weren’t the greatest. He could understand her saying about keeping things to herself because he didn’t openly share much of his own life with anyone either. “ Listen, the offer still stands anytime. “ He gestured with what looked like an attempt to smile. “ I’ve got two ears and time on my hands should you ever feel that need rise again. “

He caught himself almost reaching up to tuck the other side of her hair behind her ear to match the other but resisted that temptation. He didn’t know what it was about the woman in front of him but she made his insides stir, and in ways he’s never really felt before ─ at least in a very long time. Logan was so out of touch with the way things worked nowadays. He never really allowed himself any kind of true pleasure. It was all about the job and achieving the end goal. From a very early age, he was taught to stow away anything that didn’t pertain to killing, training, and fighting. He desperately didn’t want his cold front to put her off in any way.

Logan turned and did the same, using his sense of smell to pick up on anything that might be close to them. “ Think you’re right. This means we’ve got some time for that arm to heal up before I relocate them and WE go back after them. “ Now he knew he said earlier that he wasn’t taking her on another mission with him, but after her confession about not feeling like a team player   ─   despite what she told him about being fine, he wasn’t going to leave her hanging like that. Not while there was work that still needed to be done. “Can I take you back to wherever you’re staying? “

Zoey couldn’t recall the last time she was with a guy like this who wasn’t family: that was, completely relaxed around them. She had plenty of short-term relationships back in college, but none of those guys ever made her feel as needed as Logan did. She could’ve sworn she noted gestures and movements that might have been out of his normal range of emotions, and that alone made her happy. It couldn’t be easy - look at Colin. Zoey’s older twin was beyond a saint, being patient with him as he struggled to break through the rigorous training and torture he’d gone through as a child to allow himself to be close to someone. Was Logan trying to do the same thing? With her?

And when he mentioned returning to where the rest of the nest was with her added to the equation, she was thrilled. She could admit her faults and weaknesses, but she could be of use, and Logan took that seriously. Now, she couldn’t wait to return to the thick of things with him.

“Sure, that’d be great!” Zoey replied, trying not to sound overly enthusiastic about him taking her home. “If you don’t mind, you can take me back home. I know we were supposed to go back to Colin and Zoe’s, but I’ll shoot them a text, and let them know we’re good. I live kinda far out, right before you leave Santa Carla entirely. Actually, I live in the same area as Alan."

On their way out, Zoey explained how years ago, Alan stumbled upon a wealthy estate occupied with million-dollar homes, half of which were left unfinished, that were abandoned after the last economic crash.  Zoey had her own house, and couldn’t be happier, though at times she felt lonely having an enormous place to herself. None of the estate homes were suited for merely one person, so she filled her house with her fandom merchandise, which included cosplay outfits, comic books, and gaming accessories. She even had a room dedicated to her hunting equipment, but for the most part, it was her own sweet home.

 Logan nodded his head after she told him where she lived. The address would be simple enough to find once they made it back to his SVU and placed it into his computer system. It was much more advanced than your normal GPS systems. It was so advanced he could zoom into a location and practically see through the windows of a house or building. Not that he was some creeper, but it helped him to locate a target with one hundred percent certainty. Reaching down not only did he grab his bag but hers as well. One was tossed over his shoulder and the other carried in hand as he led them out of the large warehouse and out into the wooded area where they parked.

Taking a look at the SUV he started to head for the back but caught himself stopping first to unlock the passenger side door and open it for Zoey. From there he headed to the back, stowed away their bags, and rounded to the driver’s side. Once inside he pulled up his computer and punched in the address. Logan didn’t care how far out she lived, his concern was getting her back to her place safe and sound and in one piece.

The drive started out quiet as he was struggling to find something to say. However, now and then he caught himself glancing over to steal a glance at her. Logan couldn’t help but feel like his body was trying to tell him something, he just couldn’t figure out what that was. There was so much confusion inside him and he couldn’t make heads or tails of it. He never felt like this until he started spending more time with Zoey and that confused him even more. He needed to go to someone who could understand all of this and that was Colin. But how to approach the subject was another story all on its own.

That awkward silence finally broke when he pulled into the driveway of their destination. “ Alive and still in one piece. “ He remarked before looking over to her again. How stupid did he feel that the entire drive back to her place had been spent in silence because his head was going a mile a minute? He thought about jumping out to go open her door for her, but the idea made him feel silly. Would she want someone opening doors for her like she couldn’t do it for herself? She already made it clear earlier on that she didn’t like people making a fuss over her. So he settled for the next best thing. “ I’ll grab your bag and get it inside for you. “

While the ride home proved quiet, Zoey found it rather enjoyable. Logan proved to be quite the capable driver, considering how this part of California was often listed as having some of the worst traffic in the state, if not the country. For the first time in a while, she was able to admire the beauty that Santa Carla had to offer. One of these days, she vowed to take a nice bike ride through the redwoods, or even take a ride on the famous coastal train tracks. Being alone with Logan wasn’t bad at all. It was... nice.

Every once in a while, when she dared to take a chance, she threw a glance at Logan, before focusing back at the scenery once more. He really had a handsome profile. Really, everything about him was good-looking, just like Colin. From what she read, dhampirs were supposed to be ugly, but so far, she had yet to meet any that were described as such. Then again, not everything written in the books was true.

‘Don’t get your hopes up,’ she admonished herself as the familiar view of the estates came into view, followed by Logan’s arrival announcement. She couldn’t help but smile when he offered to take her bag for her. Well, that was awfully courteous of him. Even with his strict upbringing, she thought he was very much a gentleman.

“Well, thank you. That’s sweet. I’ll unlock the front door for us, then,” she said, as she climbed out of the car, and skipped ahead to the cobblestone walkway of her home. Her shoulder-length hair bounced off her shoulders with each step she took. She even twirled once, a cheerful expression visible on her face, by the time she reached the front door. No key was produced, as she had a fingerprint reader beside the doorknob. Upon analyzing her fingerprint, a small beep was heard, followed by a loud click, then the door opened.

“C’mon in!” Zoey announced as she stepped into her home. “Just take your shoes off by the mat!”

The home was spacious, but also occupied with numerous fandom merchandise. Star Wars and Star Trek model ships hung in the corners of the ceilings and hallways. Standing by her closet, where her AI virtual assistant hung on the wall, she said, “Computer! Notifications!”

As the AI rattled off the various deliveries that arrived at the post office in town that awaited pick-up, she turned to Logan. “Thanks again. Hey, do you wanna stay for dinner? Something to drink? How about a tour of the house or the estate?”

Once she was out of the SUV he closed the door behind her. Logan couldn’t help but stand there and just watch her for a few moments as she so cheerfully bounced her way up to the front door of the house to unlock the door. When he managed to pull his eyes away from her he scanned the neighborhood they were in. For the most part, it seemed PEACEFUL enough. He could understand why she would pick a location like this to stay at. Honestly, both this place and Colin’s home beat the hell out of the warehouse he was staying at.

Soon enough he was following behind her with her weapons bag over his shoulder. Just because he had a strict upbringing didn’t mean he had no MANNERS. He found himself rather impressed by the fingerprint reader attached to her door. It was the same kind of device he used in the warehouse. But when it came to a house with windows it really only helped to keep the honest ones out. If someone really wanted inside a window would be the EASIEST route.

“ Might want to think about getting some bars installed on the windows. “ Logan remarked as he stepped inside and placed her bag down on the floor beside the door. Then it dawned on him what he actually said. “ Sorry about that. It’s just out of habit for me to examine the security of any place I enter. “ Was that the right thing to say? Hopefully, he hadn’t come off as rude with the suggestion.

Logan looked down at his shoes and then back to her. While EXTREMELY confused by the request his face remained stoic. He wasn’t sure if this was some strange custom or what the meaning behind it was but he respected her wishes and removed both his shoes and placed them down on the mat.

He walked inside following a little distance behind her. His hands were tucked away inside the pockets of his duster. It seemed like such a spacious place for one single person to reside. Then again when it came to storing weapons and things of that nature one could NEVER have enough room. More confusion hit him because he couldn’t understand why someone needed so many trinkets hanging from their ceilings. She really did seem to enjoy her job. Not that he didn’t enjoy his. There was nothing he loved more than wiping evil bastards from the planet.

“ Don’t mention it. “ He spoke with a nod of his head. Giving her a ride home was the least he could do after being CARELESS enough to allow her to get bitten. Even more, confusion bubbled inside his head when she asked him several different questions all at once. “ Is it dinner, drinks, or a tour? “ Maybe she was asking if he would like all three? “ If you don’t mind I could use a drink. “ It was unusual for his throat to become this dry so quickly. It normally only happened when he had to do a feeding but it was still long before that time was due.

Zoey couldn't help but agree with his security suggestion. Since the housing economy tanked, the property was abandoned - still, the occasional wanderers did come about every so often. Regardless, she would keep the window bars in mind.

"Duly noted!" she told him. "Lemme grab that drink for you."

She ventured into the kitchen and the sensor lights turned on instantly. High school photos of herself, along with the Frog Brothers, and Sam Emerson, were plastered on the refrigerator door. Those were certainly the good old days.

She paused briefly to stare at one photo in particular, of just herself and Edgar, once again reflecting on days gone by. Her mind wandered a bit, which then led her to think about what awaited her at the post office, before she snapped back to reality, remembering that Logan was waiting for her. She fetched a glass cup from the cabinet and then got the water.

Perhaps Logan wanted some blood? After all, he was part vampire. Shoot, she should've asked him. Oh, wait! She had some emergency blood in the back of the fridge for the kids in case of emergencies for the likes of Luke, Chanel, and Molly.

"Just a sec!" she hollered, as she set the glass of water on the counter. She reached into the back of the fridge and rummaged past the steaks and pork chops she'd planned on eating later that night until she grabbed a hold of the blood flasks. They were sealed containers, extra blood for whenever the kiddos needed nourishment. With that in hand, she closed the fridge, and with the container in one hand, and the glass of water in the other, she hurried back to Logan. She couldn't help but look him up and down. Even with a stern face, he was such a hunk. She wondered what he looked like when he relaxed, but could he ever let his guard down? Probably not, if he was like Colin. What a shame.

"Here ya go," she announced happily. "You got water and blood! Wasn't sure which one you wanted, sooo, you have both. We look out for each other in this neighborhood. And if you want, feel free to have a seat at the counter or in the living room. Don't worry about making a mess. The kids like to hang out here from time to time, so you might see stains on the floors or on the couches. You know, blood's a tricky stain to remove."

Logan remained where he was standing but couldn't help but take a look around him. Knowing everything about his surroundings was a habit instilled in him. He was constantly assessing the people and objects around him, taking note of any potential threats or opportunities. It had become instinctive for him, and he relied on it to protect himself and others and to make sure he was always one step ahead. Right now he was trying diligently to bury that side of himself, especially after suggesting bars on the windows.

When Zoey disappeared out of sight he moved across the room and took a seat on one of the chairs. He sat forward with his elbows resting on his knees and his hands clasped together in front of him. He waited nervously, his eyes darting around the room as he listened for any sound of Zoey's return. He was unsure of what to expect, and his mind raced with questions and possibilities.

Something had come over him and he was determined to figure it out. Whatever was transpiring inside of him was throwing him off his game. He had felt a shift in his perspective, and he was curious to explore why he had been feeling this way ─ he wanted to find the root cause and investigate his own motivations to gain a better understanding of himself. Eager to find out how his innermost thoughts and emotions were influencing his behavior he knew he would have to seek out Colin for help.

Being a well-trained dhampir made it difficult to ask anyone for help. He knew Colin must have felt the same way. The two of them shared a long history together so he hoped that would make things easier for himself.

He snapped himself out of thought when he heard her voice calling out to him. " You need help with anything? " Was that what he should have asked? A hand scratched the back of his neck. This was her house. The place she was more than comfortable in. Of course, she didn't need his help. Maybe he was still thinking about her arm and the sensation he felt when he first smelled her blood from the injury she received. Was he bewitched ─ was he under some kind of spell, captivated by her presence and warmth? He quickly shook these thoughts away and tried to focus on the present moment.

Logan's eyes rose to hers when she presented him with two glasses instead of one. He stood and took both glasses from her. " Thank you, either would have been fine. " Her remarks about sitting at the counter or in the living room caused him to shift from the spot he currently had been seated. The living room was just around the corner and seemed the most suitable option. Once inside he found himself another spot to sit and placed his glasses on the coffee table in front of him. " Hydrogen Peroxide. " He commented before he could catch himself. " Best to catch it while it's still fresh though. "

Great time for a subject change. " So tell me more about you and your family. Have you been here as long as the others? I know Colin and his family left for a while before returning. "

Zoey wanted to talk about how she enjoyed the many times she ripped out the carpets and shopped online for new flooring and interior decoration, but then Logan shifted to the next subject: family. She didn't want to make things awkward, so she went along with the change of subject.

"No, I actually came back to Santa Carla only a few years ago." She settled next to Logan, but didn't sit too close, not wanting to make him uncomfortable in case boundaries were an issue for him like it once was for Colin. When she was comfortable, she folded her hands on her knees and went on to say, "I was adopted by a nice family who happened to be werewolves, and they knew what I was. We traveled around the country for a while, and as a teenager, we wound up living here. That's when I met the Frog Brothers and Sam Emerson, their best friend. We all hung out for a year or two, then I moved again."

She shrugged casually, glossing over much of her history with the boys, because that wasn't the focus of Logan's question, even though a lot of life-changing events happened.

"A few years after I graduated from college, I got in touch with my biological sisters through the internet, and that's when I came back here, where I discovered I had more family. But even before I came back to Santa Carla, I'd been living nearby in San Cazador, where I'd been also working, helping out Edgar and Alan with stuff - not to mention fighting vampires, selling books, picking up supernatural goodies…"

Zoey grinned sheepishly. "I've been around here and there, yeah, but it's only been within the past few years that I've permanently settled. Alan came upon this abandoned estate that developers dropped, due to a major housing market crash. That's why you see half of the mansions just sitting here looking pretty but empty, and the others  half finished."

She flashed him a curious look. No matter how many times she stared at him, she couldn't believe what a handsome man he was. It should be a crime to look so good as he did. "If you're ever feeling lonely, there's plenty of room for you here to move into the neighborhood. Right now, it's only me, Alan, Jesse, and Molly."

Logan took a few sips from the glass of blood before sitting it on the table in front of them. He had to lower his head a moment because he could feel his eyes shifting in color. It was as if they were reflecting his ever-changing emotions, a kaleidoscope of colors that mirrored his inner turmoil. He had always been aware of his unique ability to perceive the world differently, but this sudden shift in eye color was something entirely new. As he stared into the depths of his glass, he pondered the implications of this transformation. Could it be a sign of some hidden power awakening within him? Or perhaps it was merely a manifestation of his heightened sensitivity to the woman beside him. Whatever the reason, Logan knew he had to embrace this change and explore its potential.

" San Cazador? Isn't there where that whole mess went down with the vampire raves? " Logan questioned. He was well-informed about the matter and would have personally tackled it if he hadn't been fully engrossed in his search for Ravenna. The online world was abuzz at that time with talk of the ultimate rave. If only he had been aware back then that DJ X was responsible for the torment inflicted upon Zoe and Colin, he would have unquestionably been present, no doubt about it.

" Family tends to do that to people. " Perhaps that was the reason why after all these years Logan had never settled or even had the desire to do so. Colin was the closest thing he ever had when it came to family. Somehow the woman sitting beside him made him not want to leave Santa Carla anytime soon. The way she looked at him with understanding eyes and the warmth of her presence made him realize that home wasn't a place, but maybe a feeling.

He pondered deeply over the offer she had just presented. He desired to closely monitor her safety, ensuring that no harm befell her. By taking up residence in one of the unoccupied houses, he could accomplish that without giving himself away. " I might take you up on that. " He replied and eventually glanced back at her. By this time his eyes had returned to their usual color. Logan extended his hand to grab his beverage again, but this time he opted for the water.

" If we going to be doing more clean up together and some sparing training, it might be easier if I was staying a little closer. "

Zoey was content watching Logan think all day. He was one of those mysteries wrapped in an enigma type of guy, someone whose layers she wanted to slowly peel back, so she could learn more about him. There weren't too many guys she wanted to stare at, especially ones who made her heart flutter, and not stare in a creepy possessive way, but simply to find a sense of peace in that person--comfortable, just being in their presence. Being near him made her feel good, period.

So when he decided to take her up on her offer of moving into one of the houses, Zoey beamed with delight that she exploded.

"Ohh, I agree, one hundred percent!"

Joyfully she clapped her hands and exclaimed, "Welcome to the neighborhood, neighbor!"

Almost immediately, she quieted down and offered him a toothy smile. "Sorry," she apologized rather sheepishly. "I'm just so excited to have another friend come live with us! It won't be as lonely around here! And as much as I love Alan, his time in the sunlight is limited, and at night, he buries himself with work and stuff, so… it'll be nice to have another adult to talk to."

Loneliness. There was that ugly word again. Not just within her family, but her friends, too. Edgar practically disappeared after he left Santa Carla with Dean, and Alan isolated himself from his work. As much as she adored having the kids come around, it wasn't the same as, well, what she was doing right here with Logan. No, he wasn't a chatterbox, but at least he acknowledged her presence and made her feel alive.

Now placing a hand on his arm, Zoey scooted closer, and with her round, brown eyes peering at him, she said, "You have no idea how much it means to me to have you closer, Logan. Thank you."

Logan had always been a reserved and introverted individual, preferring the solace of his own thoughts over the complexities of romantic relationships. He was content with his solitary existence, finding comfort in the predictable patterns of his daily routine. But all that seemed to change when he was near Zoey. She possessed an enchanting combination of confidence, intelligence, and a captivating smile that could light up even the darkest corners of Logan's world. Her gaze held a warmth and curiosity that he had never experienced before. It was as if she saw through his guarded exterior, effortlessly unraveling the layers he had spent years carefully constructing.

This newfound attention both thrilled and unnerved Logan. He couldn't help but question why someone like Zoey would be interested in him. Insecurities began to creep into his mind, whispering doubts about his worthiness and ability to reciprocate her affection.

The mention of Alan made him remember the others who lived in the neighborhood as well. His training as a vampire hunter had instilled in him a deep-rooted belief that all vampires were evil, bloodthirsty beings that needed to be eradicated. But some vampires possessed an unusual sense of compassion and empathy, traits that seemed incompatible with the monstrous reputation vampires carried. Not all vampires were equal nor did they all deserve to be eradicated. The same could be said for half-vampires. " Don't mention it. It just seems to make sense. I think it would make things a little easier. "

As her fingertips made contact with his arm, a surge of electricity seemed to pass through him. It was as if an invisible connection had been established, transcending the boundaries of mere physical touch. The moment their eyes met, a remarkable transformation occurred. His once ordinary brown eyes, which had always blended seamlessly into the background, now shimmered with an enchanting shade of blue. It was a hue that held within it a captivating depth, like the vast expanse of an ocean on a cloudless day. Again something that only seemed to happen when he was with her. In that instant, it became clear that there was something extraordinary about their connection. Something inexplicable and otherworldly. It was as if she possessed the power to unlock hidden facets of his being, revealing a side of him he never knew existed.

Taking a deep breath, he willed his eyes to soften and tried to redirect his focus elsewhere. But no matter how hard he tried, Logan couldn't shake off the overwhelming rush of emotions that had consumed him in that moment. His mind replayed their conversation, dissecting every word and gesture, searching for clues as to why he had reacted so strongly. He couldn't deny the undeniable connection he felt with her, but it  - scared - him having all these strange and unusual feelings. As Logan continued to avoid her gaze, a whirlwind of thoughts swirled through his mind.

" You thank me now but once I get moved in you might regret it later. " His attempt at trying to change attention from what had just transpired.

The moment Logan's eyes changed color, Zoey was left breathless. It was a beautiful sight to behold. The color was intense and vivid. No photo or portrait could do it justice. Were all dhampirs capable of such a feat? She couldn't recall seeing Colin, her brother-in-law, ever doing that in front of her before. Her sister never mentioned it before - or if she had, Zoey couldn't remember it off the top of her head.

Her fingertips tingled from where she'd last touched him as she slowly took her hand back. Energy hummed between them, and her heart raced in her chest. It'd been a long time since she behaved this way about any one person, and it left her feeling so young again, so… lucky.

Upon hearing Logan's words, Zoey couldn't help but giggle. This broke the tension between them. No longer would the neighborhood feel quite so empty with Logan moving in.

"I doubt that," she said with a smile. She thought about playfully tapping him again, but she didn't want to push another awkward moment so soon. She wanted to take it slow. Having him live among them was a great achievement on its own.

Naturally, she'd have to give Alan a heads-up about the situation. Molly would no doubt be thrilled to have a handsome face so close to them. The girl made no bones about whom she liked in a superficial sense.

"And listen," Zoey added gently. "No matter what, just know that you've got a great support system here. We're all family, and we stick together. You won't have to feel so guarded. We take care of each other in this neighborhood."

#✦ — • VERSE • Where the Dead Never Sleep • #✦ — • YOU TAKE MY BREATH AND STEAL THE THINGS I KNOW • Logan and Zoey • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Logan • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Zoey •

[wherethedeadneversleep]

Reunited

Emma’s phone rings and she thinks nothing of it. She figured it was Luke calling to apologize for the way his friend dragged him away from her a few nights back. Truth be told she should have known better when she received the package from him that had this very phone inside it. It seemed a little too convenient that only three names and numbers were preprogrammed into the phone ─ Luke, Sam, and Dean.

Imagine her surprise when she picked up the phone and saw the name and number of the caller. Someone had ratted on her and told Dean about her. It shouldn’t have come as a shock to her and she is pretty damn sure who did the snitching. She told Luke no one could be trusted, but one by one he still allowed his so called friends in on what should have been their shared secret. The very thing she warned him about, the very thing she told him she was terrified of was now playing out. There would be hell to pay for this for sure, but right now she had to take things one step at a time.

Just maybe all wasn’t lost just yet. Perhaps she could change her angle and still work this to her advantage. Sure, she was bitter and angry at Dean for not even bothering to see if she was still alive after she had been shot. But her real anger was directed at Sam ─ after all, he was the one who pulled the trigger. For this to work she couldn’t just answer the phone with all sunshine and rainbows. She had to play this out perfectly.

So finally she relents and answers the phone. “ I’m not sure how you got my number but you should lose it as quickly as you found it. “

Dean instantly straightened in his chair when he heard her voice, rather than some generic voice mail recording. He wasn't sure what to expect, really, as this was the first time he reached out to her since that infamous day. It left him uneasy, even as the brothers moved on from that incident, but Dean could never completely forget about Emma.

His own flesh and blood daughter had been sent to kill him to complete her initiation as an Amazon. She claimed she didn't want to go through with what she had to do, but it'd been a ploy. She was there to kill him no matter what; he said he'd kill her - at least, that was what he said out loud. It was as if he was trying to convince himself he could do it, but he hesitated when he had the chance to strike. Sam knew it, because he saw it from afar, and that was when he burst in and took out his gun. Before Dean could do anything, Emma was shot by her own uncle. One shot was all it took to kill her--

--or so the Winchesters assumed.

When Dean received the anonymous text message with the number and who it belonged to, he was naturally skeptical. There were a lot of contacts in his address book, and many of them came from his father's connections. But Emma's conception was long after his passing, so it couldn't have been any of them. He briefly considered contacting Sam, but in the end, decided to investigate this matter himself. With the strained relationship the brothers were experiencing, it'd be out of the blue for Sam to not just send him Emma's contact information, but through anonymously. That wasn't his style.

This was a shot in the dark for Dean, one that provided a light, even if it wasn't exactly the most welcoming.

"Don't hang up," Dean urged as he sat forward in his seat, grabbed his phone, and held it to his ear. "Look, I don't know who gave me this number or why, but we need to talk."

Finally hearing his voice after all these years gave her many feelings ─ most of which she did not enjoy. It stirred all those conflicted feelings just like it had the night she confronted Dean for the first time. She had been trained in the most brutal of ways, instructed to kill the very man who made her life possible. Yet, when she stood in front of him she found it not as easy as they had led her to believe it would be. Had she not been so conflicted their conversation would not have lasted as long as it had. Yes, her eyes changed and she got defensive when Sam barged into the room but how else was she to react to a man who had a gun pointed at her chest?

There’s no way anyone could convince her that if either one of them cared anything about her the two of them couldn’t have overpowered her and attempted something other than what Sam deemed the right thing to do. Two fully grown men couldn’t overpower a teenage girl? Such a hypocrite Sam was, now living the life that he was. Why did Sam Winchester get to be happy and have a family of his own when no one else could? What made him so damn special? What made him any more deserving than herself or Dean?

Which made her remember how Luke told her the two weren’t getting along right now. The big nasty blow-up they had over Sam’s new family. This was another angle she could work on when it came to Daddy Dearest. The more she could keep Dean mad at Sam the easier it would be for her to do what needed to be done.

What more could either of them expect from a MONSTER? Oh yeah, she’s heard the stories in regards to Dean’s feelings about anything that wasn’t completely human.

“ I’m pretty sure I know who it was, but does it matter? “ A long almost dramatic breath was exhaled. “ There’s nothing left for us to talk about. I think that was made pretty clear the night you left me for dead. I was an unwanted mistake, I get that now. “ 

Dean reached for the beer nearby and took a swig from it, knowing he was far from done with this conversation. This was no walk in the park. If anything, it was getting dragged through the mud, with unseen thorns and rocks scraping his skin along the way. Worse, he couldn't lay out his usual sarcasm on Emma. This was his only chance to get through to her, and he wasn't going to blow it by being his usual "charming" self.

"He didn't know," Dean said, defending his brother. To Sam, seeing Emma alone with Dean looked like trouble. He was always looking out for Dean, much like how Dean would look out for him. If it walked like a duck and all that... But it was that hesitation on both his and Emma's parts that stuck with him even after her supposed death. "What if?" Could she have been convinced to walk away from her fellow Amazons? Could Dean have done something more? What if Sam had waited to see either Dean or Emma’s next moves? There were so many questions, but none of them were answered, as the brothers had to move on after the deed was done. It wasn't like them to stick around in one place for long.

"I know saying 'sorry' isn't gonna cut it," he said as he set the now empty bottle of beer down next to his empty plate. His green eyes drifted at the crusty, peeling wallpaper of the motel room he was staying in. Last time this place had a makeover was probably when Regan was in office. His mind was trying to find distracting humor in this because this was one of the most difficult conversations he ever endured. Just coming up with the “right” words proved challenging.

"A lot's happened since we last saw each other."

He should inform Buffy about this. They were partners in crime and then some. Meeting Emma by himself was a major NO-NO. If Buffy were wanting to meet some random bozo, he'd demand she either stay put or go with her, because there was no way he was going to take off by herself. And while Emma was rightfully pissed off, who was to say she wasn't still wanting to kill him? Even if they were family?

“ He didn’t know? Sure, whatever helps you sleep at night. “ Of course, Sam knew. Both of them had figured out hours before the encounter. “ If it’s that easy for him to dispatch family, then I’d rather not. Been there, done that, didn’t turn out so well for me the first time. “ She reminded her father and decided to add a little more salt to the already open wound. “ I’ve done pretty good at uncovering things myself, must be that Winchester blood inside me. Did you ever once stop to think that Sam was just paying you back for what you did to Amy Pond? Not really that hard to put two and two together. “

Now the seed of doubt was planted. It was now up to Dean to let those words take hold. “ You’re right, a lot has happened, but nothing that can change what already happened. All I needed was for someone to give me a chance, I needed my father to believe in me because no one else did and I didn’t even get that. “ Now she allowed her voice to break a little as if she were upset. In many ways she was, but this moment she’s dreamed about many times. “ At least I can say I kept my word and so far I’ve not taken a single life. Not that mine's going to be around much longer. I told you they would hunt me down and with each passing day they get closer. I can feel them even now drawing in. “ She made sure to strain her voice saying those few lines.

 “ Sam has the family he always wanted and couldn’t be happier. To hell with anyone else who didn’t fit into those plans, huh Dad? Tell me, when was the last time he even bothered to check on you? Did you even get a call on your birthday day? I didn’t think so. “ She answered before giving him the chance to respond. “ And me, I just have the same as I’ve always had. Everything less than Nothing .. “

Oh yeah, she was laying it all out .. good and thick. “ Tell me something, Dad. Did either of you speak my name after all of that? Or was I just stuffed away like some dirty little secret? I’ve got every reason to be angry and pissed off. I even have a right to hate the world but I still can’t hate you because deep down, I know it, and you know it ... the people who should have loved us the most .. they forgot us both. You should do the same and forget me again before you get dragged into another mess you never asked for. “

Amy Pond. Great, Dean thought miserably. That wasn't a name he'd heard for some time, and for good reason. Sam's "friend" who turned out to be a kitsune had gone on a killing spree to save her son. That wasn't a good reason to murder humans left and right in Dean's mind. Friend or not, Dean did what he had to do, and after killing Amy, had her son threaten to kill him in the future. His actions drove a wedge between him and Sam after that asshole Leviathan took Dean's form and told Sam the truth behind Amy's death.

No, Sam wouldn't be that petty. They had to kill several people over the years, good and bad, if only for the sake of humanity. They lost people they personally loved and cared for. It never stopped hurting, even after the number of losses started to pile up, and no matter how they were forced to soldier on afterward.

And yet, he could vividly recall seeing Emma's lifeless corpse on the ground, with that gruesome bullet hole and the blood that pooled out of his daughter's body. His eyes had watered then, and they watered now. The more Emma talked about Sam, and how everything seemed to work out for him, the more Dean’s head started to hurt. It was difficult to breathe. He wanted to swallow, but his throat dried despite the beer he drank. Even when they were younger, it was all about protecting Sam. Sam was special, he was a target. Dean HAD to look out for him, and he accepted it was his mission in life. Dad drilled it into him from day one, after the loss of his mom, that he needed to protect Sam by any means necessary. Sam this, Sam that...

What about old Dean? No, he didn't get any call from Sam on his birthday. Not even a lousy text message. Ever since he left California with Edgar Frog, he hadn't heard a goddamn peep out of his brother. "Absence makes the heart grow fonder" his goddamn ass. Sam was probably having the time of his life surrounded by remorseless monsters that Lucifer got for him. They only liked Sam because Lucifer was using him the entire time. Those so-called friends and family--they were NOT Sam's. Period.

Grabbing the beer bottle, Dean rose from his chair and spun around, only to throw it as hard as he could across the room. The bottle shattered upon impact, and broken shards spilled to the floor. A hand rubbed his face hard as the other kept the phone pressed to his ear.

"If you wanna be mad at someone, be mad at me, but don't go anywhere near Sam," Dean huffed as he paced the room while squeezing his eyes shut. His own kid stabbed him numerous times in the heart with her words. Painful... and truthful. It was all too easy to forget many of the people in their lives, but that night, when he saw Emma as a teenager, only to have her killed before his very eyes, ripped a piece of him that was never truly recovered. Later on, he'd joke about not sleeping with women to prevent another Emma situation, but it was to mask the fact that he couldn't go through that pain all over again, of losing his own child.

Emma was not making it easy on him, and if she was trying to get to him... Dammit, it was working.

“ Why am I not surprised that out of everything I just said the only response I got back from you was for me to stay away from Sam? Don’t worry DEAN, he doesn’t even know I’m alive and I’d like to keep it that way. I have enough family that wants me dead. “ She stressed that point to him once more.

Sure their lives hadn’t been easy, but it was nothing compared to the life she had. At least for a time being they had each other to turn to. From day one of her birth she had no one and to this day she still had no one. She never asked to be brought into this world and had she been given the choice knowing the things she does now, she sure as hell wouldn’t have opted for it. His willingness to STILL try and defend Sam’s action told her all she needed to know. While she planned to work this to her advantage she could NEVER fully trust her father. He would always place Sam above everyone else.

Including his own daughter ....

“ He’s your brother, I get that. You want to protect him, but would he give you that same courtesy right now? Sadly, I’ll never know what that kind of love is like. I’ll never get the chance to grow old, to have a family of my own. Sometimes I think I would have been better off had that bullet been just a little more to the left because I didn’t deserve any of this and I didn’t ask for it. “ The icing on top of the cake that would make the guilt so much stronger and after hearing the loud crashing noise that came from his end she knew it was time for her grand finale.

Forced tears bubbled in her eyes to make her voice sound wrecked and pained. “ Why even bother to call me, Dean? Just want to make sure the monster daughter isn’t trying to murder you. My track record speaks for itself, I’m not the killer of the family. “ She sniffled and rubbed at her face to make it hurt enough that her words sounded genuine. “ You don’t have any obligation to me. Sam decided that for us years ago. I’ve accepted that I’m alone and I’ll be alone until I truly am dead. I don’t hate you, you’re my father, no matter what happened or happens. I’m just asking that you don’t give your hopes up in thinking Sam would pick you over his own happiness and family. I think he’s already proven that. If you told him about me being alive he’d tell you the same thing all over again because only his happiness seems to matter and for that reason, you need to forget about me. I won’t be the reason the two of you continue on the paths you’re on. I just want to live what time I have left. “

She scuffled her hand over the receiver on the phone to make a few loud crackles and pops.

“ I .. I should .. go now. “

The heaviness that weighed heavily on his heart caused him to lean against the nearest wall, where he gradually slid down to the floor. Emma’s words pierced him like needles all over his body; there was no avoiding the harsh, painful truth behind everything she said. Guilt punched him in the stomach over and over again to where he visibly flinched. Nobody ever saw him like this except those closest to him. Inner battles were forever a fight he’d wrangle with, but this was a different battle that involved his own flesh and blood. Regardless of how she came to be, she was still his child, and one he never admittedly got over losing, even at the hands of his own brother.

“You are not alone, do you understand me?” Dean practically growled through the phone. He stared at the bed that he and Buffy shared in this squat joint they were temporarily holed up in. She would be back soon, and he had to tell her about this. This was a situation he couldn’t exactly skirt around, especially now that Emma was not only alive but within reach.

“I’m gonna work something out,” he promised. He had no idea even how to begin with that plan, but dammit, he was convinced he would not lose his daughter again. “Just… Just promise to stay in touch, alright?”

It was Dean’s role to make sure Sam lived life to the fullest. To have the most “normal” life possible… but that blew up in Dean’s face thanks to Lucifer’s involvement. Well, a lot of factors played into that, but Lucifer was absolutely a major part. From the way Dean saw it, Sam liked the idea of being a part of Lucifer’s fold. He loved sharing family and friends with the Devil. No matter how much Dean reasoned with him, there was no getting through to his brother.

Not anymore.

Why should Sam be the only one happy?

Dean wanted his own life, too. His own girl, his own child… His own slice of happiness.

This conversation was turning out to be harder than she could have ever dreamed it to be. A part of her hated Dean for not trying harder, for not sticking around or even checking to see if she was actually dead, for not saying a word when Sam barged into the room with his gun held high. For these reasons she wanted him to HURT. She wanted him to feel even just the smallest fraction of the pain she’s had to live with. There was also another part of her that didn’t want to hate him ─ there was a small part of her that wanted to believe the words he spoke. Emma wanted to believe that Dean Winchester actually cared about her and wanted to be the father he should have been, but how could she when it was no secret how Dean felt about anything less than human?

“ That has yet to be proven. “ She responded to the remark about her not being alone. The irritation in his voice was crystal clear. Even after only having met him once she could picture him standing there with his phone with a tightened jaw while staring at the wall or whatever object was closest in his eyes view.

“  I’m not sure what exactly needs to be worked out here. You’re my father, and I’m your daughter. If you really want this to work there shouldn’t be any planning involved, you should just do what needs to be done. “ She goes quiet after hearing a large crash in the hallway. The phone makes popping and crackling noises as she pulls it from her ear and holds it at her side so that she can look out the peephole of her door. Then there was nothing but silence on her end as she realized who the two men in the hallway were.

     This wasn’t exactly part of her plan but this might just actually work out, that is if she could hold them off long enough for Dean to reach her.

 “ Someone’s here ..” The phone was brought back to her ear just as loud pounding on her door began. “ We’re out of time, they found me. “  ........ The banging on the door got louder.

“ Open the door, Emma! “ A rough husky voice called out. “ We know you’re in there. “

Quickly she blurted out her address just as her front door busted open and the phone jerked away from her. More loud scuffling noises came through the receiving end of the phone and suddenly were replaced with heavy breathing.

 “ DAD !!! “ Emma screams and suddenly the room is filled full of windows breaking, furniture being overturned, and wood breaking. 

Having a family outside of Sam was a notion Dean didn't think about because he accepted that lifestyle wasn't for him. His duties as a hunter wouldn't allow such a luxury. Some hunters were capable of balancing a family and work life on top of going after monsters, but it wasn't easy. The fewer people involved in Dean's inner circle, the better - safer, too. Sam, on the other hand, took the concept of family and safety and mixed it with the supernatural under Lucifer's influence, and he more or less got his "happily ever after." Granted, it cost his relationship with his brother. Not to say it wasn't beyond repair, but Dean's unyielding opinions on the supernatural in general and Lucifer in particular didn't shine a bright light on that choice, either. The last conversation they had over the phone, where Dean let out his guilt for not being able to give Sam that happy normal life, blew up in his face. Sam claimed that he and Lucifer agreed on the outcome of his current family life didn't sit well with Dean.

But Emma? Yeah, what about the kid? She didn't ask to be born, but there she was, days later after her conception, seeking her father out. Ritually speaking, she needed to kill him, but that brief hesitation not just from her, but from Dean as well, always stuck with him. There could have been a chance for her to go a different path - but Sam made the final decision in the end for both him and Emma. And while Dean never entertained himself with actually being anyone's father (father figure, sure, even mentor), it was then that he instinctively wanted to make a difference with her. Supernatural blood aside, she was his child--

The crash in the background startled Dean out of his thoughts. Eyes narrowed, and his muscles tensed as the urgency of Emma's voice rang in his ears.

Someone - out of time - found her.

"Who? The Amazons?!" he asked impatiently, knowing that any Amazons who went against their own would be hunted down and killed.

Without thinking twice, Dean rushed to his side of the bed, where he kept a small notepad that was filled with all sorts of phrases, numbers, and addresses. Just as Emma started talking, he repeated the address out loud to himself as he snatched a pen, and jotted down her location. Then his heart stopped when he heard the sound of struggling, followed by that haunting scream for him.

"EMMA!" he yelled - so loud he shouted her name that he was sure someone might have overheard him from one of the nearby rooms. He didn't care. His daughter was in trouble. Time to move.

The line went dead, and Dean cursed under his breath. Without hesitation, he called Buffy. As eager as he was to track down his daughter, he made a promise to his girlfriend that they would work as a team. No solo missions, but they had to leave ASAP.

To hell if he’d lose his daughter again.

The largest of the three men grabbed Emma’s arms and tossed her across the room. Her body landed on a table that gave way between the force and weight of her body. For a brief moment, she lay on the floor as pain shot up and down her entire back. She could hear their footsteps getting closer. Even if she were to try and fight back there was no way she could take on three full-grown Amazon men on her own and she wasn’t stupid enough to think that she could. The only thing she could do was make a mad dash for the bathroom, locked the door behind her, somehow barricading it shut, and hope that it would hold up long enough for Dean to reach them.

So that’s exactly what she did. Pushing the pain to the side Emma scrambled to her feet and made a direct B-line for the bathroom. The door slammed shut behind her with shaking hands she locked the knob and tossed the chain on the lock. Frantically looking around she pushed over a large wooden stand that was used for holding towels and bathroom supplies. It landed in front of the door in a slanted position. It wouldn’t keep them out for long but hopefully just long enough.  “ Where are you, Dean? “ The words dropped from her in a whispered tone.

While Dean was relaxing back at the motel Buffy decided to make a quick trip down to the little corner market to pick up a few things to restock their food supply ─ after all, Santa Carla wasn’t going to be one of those in and out kind of jobs. There was far too much going on here for that. She felt that icy cold chill rushes down her spine the moment they crossed into this place. Honestly, the place felt a lot like Sunnydale, other than the smell of salt water that lingered in the air.

She wasn’t far from the store when she heard her phone ringing in her jacket pocket. After pulling it out her lips curved into that of a smile seeing that it was Dean calling her. Really? She hadn’t even been gone for a full ten minutes yet. With a perky teasing tone she answered. “ Well, that was certainly quick. Missing me already, are we? Or did you think of something we forgot to add to the list? “

“Emma’s in trouble!” Dean blurted into the phone before he could stop himself. Buffy knew the story about his kid, how she came to be, and what happened to her. Well, what supposedly happened. “I - we have to find her! Get here as soon as you can!”

He hung up before he could give her a chance to speak. His mind was racing a mile a minute, but the only thing he could focus on was helping his daughter. Dean was a determined man, and whatever he set his mind to, he wouldn’t get derailed easily.

With the phone still in hand, he hurried over to his equipment bag, where he dug through its contents until he pulled out a small, but rugged laptop. Sam was usually the one using HIS laptop for information. Researching online was always more his thing. But some time ago, Dean picked up this derpy piece of technology for the basics - in this case, using the internet, and having the right (illegal) software to track down cell phone signals anywhere.

He couldn’t risk calling Emma again, in fear that it would draw attention to whoever was attempting to get their hands on her. Instead, he opened his phone, cracked open the laptop, and typed in the number he used to call her.

“C’mon, c’mon,” Dean urged under his breath, regarding Buffy getting back soon and the software’s ability to find his daughter in time.

All jokes were instantly set aside as soon as Buffy heard Dean’s voice on the other end stating his daughter was in trouble. They didn’t talk much about Emma because it was a subject that was hard for Dean to talk about. But they’ve talked enough for her to know the basic details of how she came to be, what Sam had done to her ... or thought he had done to her, and Dean learning she was still alive after all this time and the regret he had for having not done more.

As soon as she heard the click of his hanging up on the other end she was in a dashing running back to the motel they were staying in. Humans couldn’t run the speed she was capable of moving in .. there were too many humans out and about and she couldn’t risk drawing attention to herself .. at least more than a frantic woman running to or from something.

All she could think about was the terrified sound of Dean’s voice. He had so many regrets about what happened all those years ago. He had a real chance now to try and make things right with his daughter and someone or something was trying to stand in the way of that AGAIN, and she had a pretty good idea who since Dean laid out the story of what happened to those Amazons who went against their own.

She stopped just short of the motel door. Even at the speed she ran in she knew she got back way sooner than she should have been able to. Right now Dean and his daughter were more important than him learning about her abilities. If it was brought to light, she would deal with that bridge once they got there. Hopefully, it wouldn’t come to that, but she would risk that for them.

Nearly busting through the door winded she looked to Dean. “ Are you ready? Do you have our bags? “ At this point, she was practically heading to the Impala. There was time for questions on the way there.

While the program was tracing the location of Emma’s phone, Dean swiftly gathered everything that belonged to him and Buffy and packed it all up. As a kid, his father instilled in him the importance of leaving NOTHING behind. No matter how big or small, everything had to be accounted for. To which Dean instilled that importance to Sam once he started traveling with him. He had a mental checklist of his inventory, and even when it doubled since he started traveling with Buffy, he never experienced any lapse of memory. The more supplies (weapons in particular), the better. Thinking about the perils Emma was facing alone did bring more urgency for this departure, so he moved as quickly (though thorough) as possible.

As he secured the last of their equipment, the laptop made a sound, indicating that it finished its tracking. Dean hurried over to the table where the laptop sat and examined the map. It was quite a few miles away from his current location, but nothing his lead foot couldn’t handle. Along with his skilled precision when it came to driving, he and Buffy would make it.

Once he wrote down the coordinates, he closed the laptop. At the same time, the motel door busted open. Buffy was back - damn, she was fast! Dean didn’t ask how she made it back so quickly, as he was already on the move. His main focus was his daughter.

With the laptop tucked under his arm, he grabbed the keys to his car and was already following Buffy as she headed for the Impala.

“We’re heading to the county line,” Dean told her as they both climbed into the car. The laptop was tossed to the backseat, and Dean was already turning on the ignition. “I’m gonna burn rubber, so hold on tight.”

The Impala peeled out of the parking lot, and the two hunters made their way to their next destination. They would be up against Amazons, so there was no question that they’d be in for quite a fight. Dean didn’t care what he had to fight through, so long as he could save Emma. This time, he couldn’t lose her, not if he had the chance to actually have a say in the matter.

“ Drive fast but carefully, wrecking won’t get us to her any quicker. “ She was quick to remind him. She was used to Dean driving when they were in a hurry but this was a different kind of hurry. The first chance she got she reached into the back seat and grabbed his laptop. If she was going to be fighting Amazons then she needed to know what she was about to go up against. Normally she would have just asked Dean but she didn’t want to distract him from concentrating on the road. Thankfully he had taught her how to use this thing because electronics had never really been her thing.

The first thing that caught her eye was the mention of them being all female race. Buffy would never claim to be the smartest cookie in the jar but she was pretty sure there was no way to pick and choose what gender your child would be, and that went for any human or creature on the planet. So what happened to the males who were born? Did they just kill all the male babies? Did they keep them as slaves but not classify them as Amazons? Those thoughts alone turned her stomach. For a second her eyes shift to Dean with disbelief. But then she was back to reading.

Her stomach turned even more reading about the initiation by killing their father. More and more Buffy was starting to fully understand the story behind Dean and his daughter. She couldn’t begin to imagine the things Emma must have been put through those first few days of her life and then be expected to kill one of the two people who brought her into this world .. unreal. And to think what Dean must have been feeling when he learned he had a daughter who was already sixteen within just a few short days.

But then she found exactly what she was looking for. Super strength, check .. she had that covered. Rapid aging .. not a problem. Good at handling weapons, check. But once she read that despite their supernatural features they were very much mortal and could die just as easily.. this was going to be a walk in the park, hopefully if they made it in time.

But before she could even close the laptop Dean was throwing on the brakes and pulling them into an apartment complex. Once again she tossed the laptop into the back seat and grabbed their bag of weapons as Dean parked the Impala.

“ You have her room number? “

Dean slapped his magazine into the gun, pulled the slide back, and threw the car door open.

"Not a room number, but third floor!" he huffed as he bolted from the car. Together, the hunters raced up the stairs. Dusty floorboards creaked beneath the weight. The air was stale, and a number of the windows were boarded up. It wasn't the most ideal place, but no matter where someone hid, the Amazons would find you. No sense in keeping themselves quiet either, not when Emma's life was on the line.

Dean had his gun in one hand, and the tracking device in the other. The closer they approached their destination, the brighter the blips became on the small screen. As soon as they reached the third floor, however, footsteps thundered behind them. At the bottom of the stairwell, a group of men rushed upward.

"'Course they were expecting company," Dean growled as he took aim and fired at the closest male Amazon. The muzzle flashed, and the metallic pop cracked in the air. The first man's head snapped back, a wet hole was visible on his forehead, and he fell backward. The ones behind him topped back due to the dead weight upon them. Others climbed and jumped over them as they continued giving chase.

Dean fired more rounds, each one of them headshots, but when one fell, another appeared right behind him to take his place. Were these actually male Amazons? Or are some brainwashed suckers working for the Amazons? Either way, they weren't going to stop.

Between fired shots, he hollered at Buffy, "Take the tracker and find Emma. I promise I'll catch up! I don't want to lead any of these sons of bitches to her!"

Without hesitation, Buffy caught the tracker and continued her ascend to the fourth floor. She wanted to stay and help Dean, but she knew he could take care of himself and what mattered most was reaching his daughter before anything happened to her.

The tracker beeped louder with each step she took down the hallway. So far it looked like all the goons were stationed down on the third floor. That’s until she heard the sound of a door breaking and shouting. Buffy bolted down the hallway until she reached a room where the door had been kicked in. The tracker was beeping at full speed. Tossing it to the side she stepped inside to see three overly large men. Two searching the room and one seemed dead set on busting down a door that looked like it led to a bathroom.

“ Hey, didn’t your mother ever teach you not to pick on girls? “ She announced as she moved into the room and braced her stance ready for a fight. Right now she didn’t have to hold back. Dean was still a flight down and his daughter was undoubtedly the one in the bathroom. She could give them her all and not have to hold back. “ Well come on tough guys, show me what ya got. “

The two Amazons guarding the room instantly charged in. Swing after swing she ducked and dodged, only a few minor hits grazing the side of her face. With a balled fist she planted one perfect punch to one of the Amazon's faces sending him sailing across the room. Her body instantly spins into a roundhouse kick into the other. Her foot connects straight to his stomach. It gave her enough time to drop her bag and pull out the first thing her fingers wrapped around.

A hammer? Why did Dean have a hammer in their weapon bag? Oh well, a hammer it was, she didn’t have time to look for anything else because the two were back on their feet and heading for her again. Her Tae Kwon Do came in handy as she used several high-rising blocks and outer forearm blocks to counter their assault. Side, back and crescent kicks she used to unsteady them on their feet until she got the perfect opportunity to land the hammer straight down on top of one of their heads. His head cracked like a melon and just as he was dropping to his knees she yanked the hammer from the top of his head and swung straight around planting it straight between the eyes of the other.

That’s when she heard the crashing of the door. The third male had finally managed to bust the door to the bathroom open. Giving the hammer a spin in the hand she aimed and fired. The hammer soared through the air and impacted with the back of the Amazon's head with a sickening pop. She watched as he staggered forward and fell flat on his face in the bathroom.

Emma had no idea what was taking place in the other room other than hearing a female's voice and then the sound of fighting and all kinds of shit breaking. It was hard to hear much of anything over the sound of the door being knocked in with each shoulder that plowed into it.

Before she knew it the door busted wide open and when it did it knocked her off her feet. All she could see was a blonde woman standing in the distance and the man with red eyes who meant to deliver her to her true death. Emma’s eyes clasped shut at the popping sound and before she could register what happened the male was tumbling forward and fell across her body on the floor.

“ Get off me! “ But the more she pushed and struggled the more she realized he wasn’t going anywhere. “ Someone get this asshole off me .. “

If Dean saw another male Amazon, it’d be too soon. He couldn’t believe he was almost out of ammo by the time he put the last monster down. The carnage was akin to a slaughterhouse, with blood splattered against the wall, and blood oozing down the stairwell. While catching his breath, Dean stayed only a bit longer to make sure there weren’t any last-minute surprises to slow him down. Once he was satisfied, he was on the move once again. He listened for the beeping of the tracker, and it didn’t take long before he found it on the ground outside a unit. The door was busted open, and Dean made sure his gun was loaded, before pressing himself against the wall.

“Buffy!” he called out. No sound, except for the shattering of wood. He stepped into the room and aimed his gun, only to see Buffy standing in front of an open doorway, in a way that indicated she’d thrown something.

Once he searched the room and saw the dead bodies on the floor, he hurried to Buffy’s side, where he saw yet another dead body, only this time, it was on top of…

“Emma!”

Dean holstered his weapon and stepped into the bathroom, where he grabbed the male Amazon high enough to push him off to the side. Then he knelt before the girl in both relief and shock.

It was really her, his daughter, the one who shouldn’t even be here because of Sam. Yet here she was, in the flesh. He almost stopped breathing as he thought back to the last time they saw one another. It’d been brief and harrowing. Emotions ran high for both of them. Out of all the monsters Dean faced, the one who was his by blood, was the one he believed could have a chance to start a new life.

Holding out his hand to her, Dean said, “C’mere, you’re coming with us. We’re getting you out of here!”

When Dean took her side and realized his daughter had survived Buffy took a few steps back. She would look around the room to make sure no more hidden surprises were waiting for them. Then she headed to the door and placed her back on its frame. From here she was close enough to help if Dean should need it, but also close enough to watch the hallway for any unwanted company.

This was his moment to be reunited with his daughter, she wasn’t going to intrude on that. Every so often she would glance over her shoulder just to see how things were going.

“ Who the hell are you? “ Emma first questioned when the blonde came into her line of sight. Not who or what she was expecting with all the busting and breaking of things she heard only moments ago. Did Dean really send someone in his place?

That answer was soon answered when Dean stood beside the blonde. Despite it not being that long ago that she heard his voice on the phone, she could hardly believe her eyes. She knew he was in Santa Carla, she had spotted him on more than one occasion. Seeing him up close like this, he didn’t look like he’d aged a day.

Now Dean was directly in front of her after getting the dead Amazon and door off of her and while he had no weapon in hand that old familiar feeling crept into the pit of her stomach. Haunting memories of the past flashed before her very eyes. Her eyes moved to his hand when he reached it out to her but she couldn’t seem to reach back to him. Instead, she scurried to her feet and backed up a few inches almost planting her back against the nearest wall. Her emotions were running high having not expected to actually come face to face with him so soon. She wasn’t ready for this by no means.

Her eyes kept looking to the door behind him as if expecting to see Sam walk through it with his gun held high or maybe it was her looking for an escape. “ You want me to go with the two of you when I have no clue who she is, where it is you want to take me, who’s going to be there, or what you plan on doing. All I know is what you said on the phone and I still don’t know if I can trust that or if this is just some trick. Forgive me if I’m paranoid but I think I’ve got good reason to be. “

Dean let out a frustrated sigh but took back his hand, and rose to his feet. The kid had a point. Their last meet-up didn’t exactly close with a fairy tale ending. To say it caught them both off guard would be an understatement.

“I meant what I said,” he pressed. If this were anyone else, he would’ve lost his patience, especially if more monsters could potentially be coming back for round two. But he couldn’t risk losing his daughter - not again. How many times had he said this and thought this? It was as if he doubted this was possible. No, he refused to screw this up.

“Please, Emma,” Dean said, his features now softened, his tone cracking, on the verge of pleading. “I don’t know what magic words you want me to say. I can’t trade Sam’s life for yours for what he did, but I want you to know I’ll do whatever it takes to protect you. You’re my daughter. I’m not perfect, I never claim to be perfect, but I’m gonna do what it takes to make sure you’re taken care of. This world... it's not as black and white as you think it is.”

Pot meet kettle, his inner voice chided, as he briefly reflected on Sam and his family situation.

Dean was never the type to watch those Hallmark movies, or worse, those sappy feel-good family-friendly shows, but he knew how not to treat a kid by his and Sam’s own upbringing. There clearly was no way to nab hold of a time machine to go back and right the wrongs of the past, but he could only hope that he could start repairing the trust issue between the two of them.

“I get that you’re paranoid,” Dean added gently, “but you have to start trusting somebody at some point. Even the Lone Ranger had Tonto. Batman and Robin.”

Emma thought she would have been able to breathe a little easier when Dean pulled his hands away from her. That wasn't the case because now it was harder for her to keep track of his hands along with the blonde that arrived moments before him.

" Just because you say it that doesn't make it true. I have no reason to trust you this time around. " The way he spoke it seemed like this was so easy for him. Could he even begin to imagine how she must feel after all this time? Did he have any idea of the pain she suffered and endured? Did he know what it was like to be alone, to have your entire family turn their backs on you? This was NOT as easy as Dean Winchester seemed to think it should be.

But when his voice softened and he almost sounded as if he was pleading with her, it reminded her of that night. He genuinely sounded like a man and not some Hunter. A huge part of her wanted to believe him, wanted to believe that everything could be different this time. But the Amazon inside her knew better, it knew no man could be trusted. There was a large reminder in the center of her chest of what happens when you're too trusting.

Wow, what bit of softness he managed to bring to her face instantly disappeared when he spoke of Sam. Of course, he couldn't harm his darling brother. The same damn brother who wouldn't even have anything to do with him right now. The same brother that had his own little monster family.

" Strange hearing that from you since you're the very person who taught me it's exactly as black and white as it seems. If you taught me nothing else that lesson sank in deep. "

" Paranoid probably wasn't the best word for me to have used. You want me to trust you and yes you came here to help me but trust isn't something I can just give to you, not after everything that's happened. This is going to take a lot of work and effort and it's not going to come easy. " And with that statement, Emma moved away from the wall. She kept her distance as she drew herself out of the cramped and destroyed bathroom.

Looking over at the blonde she turned back to Dean. " I take it a friend of yours? You always did have a thing for blondes. " Her own mother had been a blonde. Clearly, Dean had a type.

This wasn't going anywhere fast, but they couldn't stay here much longer. Staying would lead to possible retaliation. Dean wasn't sure if he had the strength to go another round with more Amazon rejects.

"Buffy," he introduced without looking over at his partner. He didn't invite her in, fearing that Emma would take this as a sign of her being not only outnumbered, but crowded. Someone "trapped" in a room would lead to wild and unpredictable actions. He had his daughter alone for the first time in years, and he didn't want anything else to happen to her. "Her name's Buffy Summers. She's my partner, and she's helped me find you."

Dean saw everything imaginable and impossible since he was a child. Stuff that would give others nightmares for years on end. Therapists would have a field day with Dean if they ever got the chance to pin him down and reveal anything about him. He simply coped and forced himself to go about every day that was given to him. Rarely did he ever have true nightmares that would leave him bolting up from bed and drenched in sweat. Emma's death was one of those disturbing dreams that, once in a while, jolted him from a sound sleep. He couldn't tell Sam about it, knowing how awkward and frustrating that conversation would get, so he kept those moments to himself. To have her here now was a chance he could not let slip away.

"You didn't come all the way here just to see me and take off on your own," Dean stated, keeping his composure. His eyes softened a bit as he studied the face that, no doubt, came from him. "I could've been anywhere else in the world, anywhere at all, but here we are, the two of us, in the Golden State. Now, you can act like you're not triggered by seeing me and go on your way, and I won't stop you. Or, you can give me a chance to work things out between me and you. Listen when I say I won't let Sam hurt you ever again. Neither of us can leave this room until we've got this situation settled here and now."

The instability of his life was something he was used to, often painfully so, but if he could have anything in the world right now, it would be some form of family security with his own flesh and blood.

Buffy's eyes narrowed as she caught Emma's smug remark. Suppressing the urge to say anything, Buffy took a deep breath and reminded herself of the bigger picture here. She knew that Dean's daughter had been through a lot as had Dean, but Emma seemed determined to stir the pot more than she should. Dean desperately wanted to reconnect with Emma, but his efforts were met with resistance and resentment time and time again. The pain in his eyes whenever he spoke about his daughter was impossible to ignore and if Emma couldn't see how honest he was being with her and how much he desperately wanted to make this work, then she was blind.

" Buffy? What kind of name is that? " Emma asked almost mockingly, her tone laced with a hint of superiority. She tilted her head slightly, a condescending smile playing on her lips.

Buffy felt a pang of annoyance at Emma's dismissive attitude. Taking a deep breath, she decided to respond calmly, refusing to let Emma's mockery get under her skin. " Well, Emma, " Buffy began, maintaining an air of composure. " My name may not fit into your conventional idea of what a 'normal' name should be, but it holds significance for me. Maybe I'll tell you about it one day. " She spoke but never moved into the room with the two.

Emma's nose turned up, and a hint of annoyance flashed across her face. The question was trivial and unimportant. Did she really think she cared about such petty matters? Her eyes rolled in exasperation. Over the years, he had undoubtedly downgraded in her eyes.

Dean was completely oblivious to the web of manipulation she had spun around him. Every step he took, every word he spoke, only solidified her position in this intricate game. She had orchestrated this meeting with precision, carefully planting herself in his path under the guise of coincidence. It was all part of her grand design, a plan fueled by a burning desire for revenge. Dean had no idea that he was merely a pawn in her game, a means to an end. Her true intentions were far from innocent. She had come to this town seeking retribution for past wrongs, and Dean unknowingly held the key to unlocking it all. The thought sent shivers down her spine, fueling her determination to see it through.

However, she couldn't help but notice Dean's genuine kindness and warmth, the way his words seemed so sincere. He seemed so trusting, so open-hearted. A pang of guilt touched upon her but lasted only a fleeting moment. Almost as quickly as that moment of fear struck her just before the bullet.

" No one will ever hurt me like that again. " Emma was quick to correct Dean. Sam would get everything he had coming to him for what he had done, she would personally see to it. " You're a walking, talking, breathing trigger, Dean, but against my better judgment and current situation, I'm giving you that one single change. That single chance I never got. "

From there she stepped past Dean and out of the bathroom. " Lead the way Blondie. "

Dean expected rejection. He was used to anticipating the worst out of a situation: "realism," Dad called it. Since childhood, his dad toughened him up for the worst-case scenario. Never expect a happy ending, just an ending, good or bad. Just make sure you were the one to walk away with all four limbs, and the enemy dealt with. When Emma actually accepted his offer, a wave of relief washed over him. That heavy weight that dragged him down ever since his daughter's supposed death finally eased off of him, allowing him to stand straight for once. The worries weren't completely faded, however. That'd be foolish to believe.

He exchanged a knowing look with Buffy as they gathered what was left of Emma's belongings. With Dean behind Emma, Buffy took the lead as they made their escape out of the apartment.

Dean had to keep his daughter safe. He had to tell Sam at some point. There was no way he couldn't keep her a secret from him. He still couldn't get over the fact that survived after all these years. His emotions were in a whirlwind. She was half of him - a Winchester by blood, but also a monster. The arguments he had with Sam came flying back to him, and the crap he gave him about Lucifer and his family. Dean never denied having a daughter, even when he thought she'd perished. It felt like a crazy dream, really. Yet here she was, fully - well, nearly fully - grown, and alive. Christ, he needed a stiff drink once they'd settled somewhere safe.

He wasn't sure what exactly to do with her once the dust settled. Well, besides make sure she wasn't carrying anything lethal on her that would be a threat to him or Buffy, and definitely make sure she had no plans to kill him like last time. No, he attempted to work things out with her before. Back then, she considered starting a new path if Sam hadn't…

Dean clenched his jaw and swallowed hard. He didn't want to blame his brother. Who knew what would've happened if his brother hadn't come when he had? Maybe Emma wouldn't have changed her mind. She could've tried to kill him anyhow - or maybe she would've agreed to sneak off with the Winchesters. What was done, was done. Dean has his daughter now. They would work it all out. Nobody was going to kill anybody, not if he had any say in the matter.

#✦ — • VERSE • Where the Dead Never Sleep • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Buffy • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Dean • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Emma • #✦ — • WITH EVERY INCH OF MY HEART • Buffy and Dean •

[wherethedeadneversleep]

A Long Overdue Reunion

“It’s because of you that Shane became a vampire, right?”

The night started like most other nights ─ David and the boys were out cruising, looking to have a little fun while the night was still young. Lately, it seemed like they could go about their business without bumping into someone who tried to put a damper on their activities. The last person he would have expected to bump into was an Emerson, Nicole to be exact. There was just something very different about Nicole that stood out to David, something very different from the rest of her family. However, the name she mentioned was one he hadn’t heard in quite a while. He heard the stories that went along with Nicole, Chris, Shane, and his boys. Thanks to that damn do-gooder Edgar Frog they had a very similar history with Shane.

“ I have to say, Nicole, takes a lot of nerve to come up to one of us asking personal questions after what your family did. I think that’s what I like about you. You’re different from the rest of that family. “ David muses and leans back on his bike. He’s not exactly sure why Nicole would be bringing up Shane after all this time, but he saw no harm in answering her question. Shane’s time on this earth passed some time ago, he had felt the exact moment it happened. He doesn’t know all the details other than Chris and Edgar had a big part in Shane’s demise but he knew enough.

“ It wasn’t planned or intended, but yes, Shane was one of mine. “ David admitted. It didn’t happen often when an intended meal managed to get away from them but it indeed happened that night on the beach when showing Michael what he was becoming. “ He wasn’t exactly like my boys here. We normally killed his kind and often still do. “ David smirked rubbing the corner of his lip with a gloved thumb. “ But from that night forth he became family, that is until your brother and Edgar decided to kill him and his family. “ David wanted her to know that he knew the better part of the story. “ So tell me, why are you so interested, Nicole? There’s no changing the past and what was done. “

Nicole heard the story from her aunt and cousins, about how David and his family tricked them and attempted to lure them into their vicious lifestyle. That same sort of "luck" fell onto her and her brother but with a twist involving a former pro surfer that Chris idolized growing up - who turned out to be one of David's boys - and an ex-boyfriend of hers. Small world didn't even begin to describe it all. What caught her off guard, aside from actually finding David on her own, was how he spoke of Shane in the past tense. Did he not realize that Shane was alive again? Did that bond between vampire and sire not get re-established? She had plenty of questions of her own about Purgatory, but she never found the right time to ask Shane and didn't want him to relive any possible painful memories he might've had while there. If David truly didn't know Shane was “alive,” then she would protect him, and not say anything to put him in harm's way.

"You're right," she agreed, careful to keep her distance from the leader of the Lost Boys, "there's no changing the past. What's done is done."

She did her time as a half-vampire, and while she never went through completing the initiation, the possibility of being turned under HER conditions - well, that might be different. Maybe. For right now, she had to focus on the current situation at hand.

"Have you seen Michael? I know, you probably don't care if he’s dead in a ditch somewhere, but I was just wondering if there was still a connection you have with him, even after all this time? He's been... missing. For a while now."

Nobody had seen Michael since he took off on his bike. Aunt Lucy was sick with worry, and Castiel proved helpful by watching over her. Sam and Chris visited Michael's workplaces and combed the city. Even with the help of Alan and his group, they couldn't find her cousin. It was as if he vanished into thin air.

Slowly David began to circle Nicole as if sizing her up, but what he was doing was trying to get a good read on her. She was mighty quick in agreeing with him about not being able to change the past. Nicole was cautious, trying to keep her distance from him. Little did she know that when Shane turned her into a half-vampire David also linked with her. It wasn’t a link as strong as the one Shane had with her of course but it was strong enough for him to know unlike Michael, Nicole was ready to embrace being a vampire. He had a strong feeling that she wasn’t being straightforward with him.

Finally, he stopped circling her and came to a stop in front of her. While there was still distance between them, she wasn’t out of arm's length of his grasp.

“ Sounds like to me someone’s having second thoughts about immortality. If that’s what you’re thinking then forget it. We went down that path once before and nothing good ever came from it. Turning Emerson’s is strictly off-limits to all my boys. “

And here she was asking him about Michael of all people. “ Dead and in a ditch is putting it mildly. “ David’s response was harsh but truthful. “ So big bad Michael has come up missing and you automatically decide to come and ask me? What, you think we had something to do with it? “ This made him feel offended. Did she just use Shane as an opening to poke around and see if they had gone after Michael again after all this time?

“ Trust me, Nicole, if we had anything to do with Michael being missing you wouldn’t have to come here and ask. You would have found pieces of him scattered all over your grandfather's property. “

“You don’t have the best track record with our family,” Nicole snapped, her body now tense with frustration. So much for keeping her cool. “You got me: I wanted to find out what you know if anything.”

She was this close to daring him to set foot onto their property. The ward Sam and Liam put on the land would keep UNWANTED vampires away - the Lost Boys in particular. Her neck was already on the line coming out here on her own, but with cousin Michael on the lam, she was desperate for answers, even if self-preservation went flying out the window.

David gave her the creeps, especially when he encircled her like a vulture waiting to take a bite out of its freshly deceased carcass. It was like he knew something about her that she didn’t. It made her think about when the Lost Boys circled Lucy on their bikes one night after her shift was over. They verbally taunted her, took swipes at her, almost hitting her at some points. If Max hadn’t come by when he had, who knows what would’ve happened to her poor aunt? Seeing as how Lucy was the one Max wanted all along, there was a chance she would’ve been okay… or maybe, she would’ve gotten hurt, or worse, because it’d be a way to tick off Max. No matter, Nicole didn’t want anything to happen to any of her family, including Michael, even if he was being a hothead.

A gust of wind blew past Nicole, causing her hair to dance across her face. She swatted at her hair, and once the air calmed down, she was startled to see that David was no longer alone. Already her palms were sweaty, but she dared not flinch, even blink.

“Got a problem, boss?” Dwayne asked as he gave her a predatory smile, one that sent chills down her spine.

“ We don’t have the best track record with your family? “ David questioned and could barely contain his laughter. “ I’d say that goes both ways, sweetheart. “ His stance shifted just slightly. “ What you should know is that we don’t know where or what Michael’s got himself into and if someone has ended that sad little life of his I’m just sorry to say that it wasn’t one of us. “

Now perhaps David was being a little harsh with Nicole but he felt the need to get his point across to her. Their conversation had started on a friendly note until he and his boys were round about accused of something they had nothing to do with. David didn’t take likely to such. Each one of them should feel thankful that they allowed the truce between the families only for the kid's sake.

Little did Nicole know but David got a good read on her moments ago as he sized her up. “ Something else I don’t like is the fact that you have something more on your mind than just Michael. I find it extremely hard to believe that out of nowhere you suddenly come to ask if Shane was one of mine after all this time and for what reason would you have to even ask such a question, Nicole? There would be no importance of that information unless you’re hiding something from me. “

“ Did you think you’d catch me alone? “ David asked with a snide smile when Dwayne took his side. His right-hand man was always ready to help put an Emerson in their place when they stepped out of line.

“ Seems like Michael has gone a miss and little Miss Nicole here thought she would come and ask if we knew anything about it. “ David glanced at Dwayne and then back to Nicole. “ How does that make you feel Dwayne? Wait before you answer there is more. “ David lifted a gloved hand and placed it on Dwayne’s shoulder. “ You see we all know Nicole here was Shane’s girl and how that situation turned out for Shane. Suddenly she feels the need out of nowhere to come asking if Shane was one of ours. Can you think of a reason why that would be of any importance now? “

Dwayne’s imposing stance, and the words that David expressed, caused a wave of dread to sweep over her.  Nicole wanted to back away the second Dwayne arrived, but she feared this would cause more trouble. She’d dug a hole for herself the second she approached David, but she was desperate for answers, and ever since she learned about Shane’s vampire origins, she truly wanted to learn more about the Lost Boys - even against the wishes of her family. Now, look where her curiosity got: practically on Death’s door.

“Shane’s not here to save you, girl,” Dwayne warned. He pulled his lips back to flash his wicked fangs. “You made a mistake coming to our turf. Didn’t you learn nothin’ from being a half?”

Nicole’s heart wanted to leap out of her chest. How did he know what she went through?

“Word travels fast,” Dwayne answered, and he laughed. “Didn’t need to read your mind to know what you were thinking. You oughta know we don’t give two shits about Michael and his family, but here you are, waltzin’ over as if we’re somehow obligated to help you. Got balls, but no brains. No wonder Shane’s group didn’t last long.”

Okay, that pissed her off. It was one thing to crap on her own mistakes, but to bring down Shane like that? No way.

“You… asshole!” she hissed, immediately forgetting the danger she was in.

This comment only entertained Dwayne further, but it was dismissed when two figures ran across the sand toward them: one was familiar, and the other, not so much.

“Nicole, you had me worried!” Lucy expressed, her voice breathless, as she threw her arms around the girl and hugged her tight. “I don’t want any more of us to wander off!”

Castiel took out a pistol from his waistband and aimed it at David and Dwayne.

“Oh my god!” Lucy gasped as she jumped at the sight of the weapon. Clinging to Nicole, she asked, “Where did you get that?!”

“It was inside the refrigerator next to the beer and the double-stuffed Oreos,” the former angel admitted. “When you wanted to go looking for Nicole, I grabbed this along with a beer.”

Dwayne snickered. “Great, we’ve got a drunk, trigger-happy hippie.”

Castiel had checked the chamber before leaving the house with Lucy. It had holy water bullets, ideal for vampires - the problem was, he’d never fought vampires in this world. Even in the last world, the vampire population was wiped out due to humans being infected with the Croatoan Virus.

The humor in Dwayne vanished when he stared holes into Lucy. After all, she was the reason why Max screwed up their lives, and half of them were killed off. If it wasn’t for her, none of them would’ve suffered the way they had: it was her fault and Max’s.

 David’s fists balled at his sides, her fear fueling him more and more with every movement she made. While this should have been a friendly encounter, old grudges truly died hard. There was no way David could forget the way he and his brothers had suffered at the hands of the Emersons and those damn Frog brothers.

Now would he normally act upon that hatred? Not necessarily. There was an agreement made only because of the children and David most likely would have kept to that agreement had undirect fingers not been pointed in regards to Michael’s disappearance. Then to make matters even grimmer for her, Aunt, and whoever the heck this gun-welding drunk was.

David’s eyes turned dark as Dwayne continued to taunt Nicole. He couldn’t help but laugh when she shouted out calling Dwayne an asshole. How very easy it was to fill her with such fear and anger all within a matter of moments.

“ I think you should point that gun somewhere else before someone gets hurt. “ David’s head lowered just slightly knowing the drunk would never be about to move his hand quickly enough to keep up with David’s speed. “ Dwayne, I think you should move. “ He remarked so that Dwayne would know what his next move would be.

It wasn’t a moment later that David used his vampire speed to rush forward and remove Nicole from Lucy’s arms. While David took Nicole into his grasp he pushed Lucy in Dwayne’s general direction for safekeeping. “As I said, someone's going to get hurt. Do you really want to take a chance and hit one of the ladies because you’re seeing double? “ David wickedly chuckled. His gloved hand gripped tightly around Nicole’s throat.

“ Let her go, David. “ A voice was heard from the distance. While this wasn’t the way he wanted their first encounter to happen, he wasn’t going to stand by and allow Nicole to be harmed.  The moment fear was sparked in her he picked up on it and it led him straight to her location.

Finally, Shane stepped out into the open placing himself between everyone involved. “ You know you have no claim over her. Turning me might not have been part of your plans but it happened, which makes me blood ─ like it or not. You know the rules of a group. You can’t bring harm upon someone who’s been claimed by a group member without their say and there’s no way you’re getting that from me. “ His eyes then turned to glare at Dwayne. “ Before you talk about my group being killed off, you’d be good to remember what happened to your own before smearing the name of others. “  Now back to David. “ Now do the smart thing and let the ladies go before you have more to worry about this time than just a handful of kids coming after you. I’ve seen what lurks in Santa Carla now, and it’s not pretty. “

Shane extended both his arms, one stretched toward Nicole and one toward Lucy.

Dwayne cackled as he collected Lucy, who was already shaking like a leaf. What a tiny little thing she was. What the hell did Max see in this woman? After literally dying at the hands of this woman’s spawn, he saw no reason to spare any of them, not when they had them in their grasp.

Castiel steeled himself in this troubling predicament. Two vampires, two hostages. He couldn’t aim at either of the vampires, for fear of hurting Lucy or Nicole. He wasn’t completely sober. David was right.

“Castiel, please save Nicole, don’t worry about me!” Lucy pleaded but was cut off when Dwayne used his arm to cover her mouth.

“Aunt Lucy!” Nicole screamed, her features paling considerably when she felt David’s claws on her neck. This was going to hurt.

That fear instantly vanished, however, and her gaze turned in the direction of Shane’s voice.

Her mouth dropped, but she couldn’t utter a word. All of this was like some strange and twisted dream. Just thinking about Shane coming back from the dead sounded impossible over a year ago. But here he was, in the flesh, against his own sire.

Dwayne was anything but amused about this new arrival. It was bad enough Shane had been unknowingly left alive on the night they were trying to get Michael to feed and become a whole vampire but to have the nerve to show up and make demands? What a jackass.

“Blood or not, we don’t take orders from Surf Nazi shit,” Dwayne barked as he pressed his arm harder against Lucy. She struggled in his grip, finding it difficult to breathe.

“He’s right,” Castiel broke in, now lowering his gun and turning to Shane. He didn’t want to show any urgency toward Lucy’s treatment, even though he’d like more than anything to see her free. “There are bigger worries in store for all of us.

“Like what?” Dwayne demanded. He eased his arm off of Lucy’s face, where she heavily gasped for air.

Nicole gazed fearfully at her aunt before turning her attention to Castiel. What was he talking about? Ever since he crashed into their home via a rip in the time-space continuum, he talked about all sorts of weird and dangerous knowledge. He also knew a lot of things, things that no normal human should know. When she learned about him having once been an angel, and having much of his powers stripped, it all made sense - sort of. The world had been turned upside down where he came from, and not even heaven itself could spare anyone. No wonder Castiel was a mess.

“Michael’s under the influence of demons,” Castiel explained, before looking at David. “You have ties with this family, which is why Nicole sought you. You also have a large connection with monsters, therefore, you’d be a reasonable start in the hunt.”

Castiel paused. That was the most coherent he sounded in… forever. In a way, he almost felt like his old self, just minus the wings, powers, and everything that made him not human - except for his supernatural awareness. If it wasn’t for his need to not be sober, he would’ve understood Michael’s situation much sooner. But better late than never…?

“Let Miss Lucy and Nicole go,” Castiel agreed with Shane’s suggestion, then held up his gun, where he removed the bullets from the chamber in front of David and Dwayne. After the bullets and gun fell to the sand, Castiel stood there with his hands open. “Take me instead.”

Dwayne’s eyes narrowed. He was already wanting to call “bullshit” on whatever crap this human spewed out just now, along with Shane’s demands, but it was ultimately David’s call. The last thing he wanted was for either of them to die - in his case, again.

“ Call me what you will Dwayne, but at least it was the woman I cared about that took my head and not some teenage kid with a bow and arrow that you couldn’t even dodge. Shit comes in all shapes and sizes. “ Shane wasn’t at his strongest for lack of feeding but there was no way he was going to back down while Nicole was in danger. Even if that meant he had to go toe to toe with both David and Dwayne.

“ Stop reflecting your mistakes onto them. You want someone to blame for the mess that happened back then, you blame Max and you blame yourselves for catering to his whims. Just because he was your sire David doesn’t mean you were obligated to him. Take you and me for example. Maybe had you welcomed Michael into the fold without dishonesty things would have worked out differently for you. “ Shane had long heard the stories of what happened to his sire and his group long before he met his end.

One thing anyone couldn’t deny, Shane had a way with words.

“ No, they aren’t taking you. “ All Shane knew about Cas was what Nicole had told him. He was a friend of the family who was staying with them for the time being. “ He’s protecting people he cares about. The same shit you would do for the people you care about. David, wouldn’t you protect your boys? How about you Dwayne, wouldn’t you protect Mae if she needed it? “ He’s been back long enough to watch and learn a few things about his pack who believed him to be an outcast.

“ It’s clear how you feel about me, no love lost. If you’re dead set on fighting someone or hurting someone let the ladies go and you can come and try to take this needless aggression out on me. I’m nothing more than a piece of shit, right? The ladies walk and you still get your hands dirty, it’s a win-win... “

If Cas’ words about Michael and demons didn’t sink in with them perhaps at least what he said would. Even if it pissed them off enough to let the ladies go, even if he received a royal beat down it would be worth it. He knew despite their dislike for him they wouldn’t kill him. Killing one of your own was distasteful to any vampire.

“ And how would you know that? The better question is, if you already knew he was under the influence then why bother coming to us? We might know a variety of monsters but you see us playing nice with demons that possess our food? Even after they leave the body they leave a nasty taste that doesn’t go away. Kind of reminds you of eating rotten eggs. “ David shot back despite the gun being unloaded and tossed to the ground. And just for good measure, he let one of his nails cut into the side of Nicole’s neck. “ She didn’t just come here about Michael. “ His eyes then shot to Shane. “ She knew he was back and yet came here playing stupid with me about being his Sire. “

One thing in this situation that he didn’t like was the way Shane was speaking to them. Quite frankly the more sense Shane made the angrier it made him. It wasn’t like he didn’t already know that he should have told Max to fuck off from the start. What he didn’t like was having someone, especially Shane rubbing those mistakes in his face.

“ Like I told Nicole here, we don’t care what happens to Michael or who has him. “ In one swift movement, he pulled his nail back out of Nicole’s neck and pushed her in the direction of the drunk. “ Dwayne. “ He remarked to let him know to follow suit. “ We have bigger fish to fry like reminding this one where his place is. “ David’s eyes fell back on Shane. “ I’d suggest you take them and leave unless you want to witness what happens next. “ David told the drunk.

The more Shane talked, the more Dwayne hated this punk. While the past was past, there were mistakes they vowed never to let repeat. Revenge never strayed far from the minds of the boys, even when they were forced to get along with the other groups, if only for the sake of the children. But when he mentioned Mae, his true vampire self emerged. This bastard knew too much about them and their personal lives, and Dwayne would love nothing more than to tear him limb from limb.

Lucy squeezed her eyes shut, and her body tensed, in anticipation of whatever abuse this vampire had in store for her. She hoped they’d focus on her and let the others go because it was all her fault. Had Max not noticed her and become attached to her, nobody would have gotten hurt in the first place.

"Please, just let them go," she whispered tearfully, desperately trying to put on a brave face.

Nicole winced as David’s sharp nail cut her cheek. It felt like the tip of a steak knife piercing her. Blood trickled down her face and dripped off her jawline, but she fought to keep still - until David pushed her. She stumbled forward and would've collapsed to the sand, had Castiel not reached out and caught her.

Dwayne was still furious when David gave the silent orders through his name alone. This meeting with Shane and the Emersons was far from over, and he'd let them know that in his way. He loosened his grip over Lucy, but she didn't immediately run. She probably thought it was a trap. In his rage, Dwayne pushed her forward, then gave her backside a hard shove, which not only dislocated her shoulder but also sent her colliding into both Castiel and Nicole. Lucy let out a pained cry even as Castiel dragged her and Nicole safely over to Shane. Had Dwayne not held back his strength, his hand would have ripped through her rib cage and to the other side of her chest.

Castiel cradled Lucy in his arms, and would gladly surrender his painkillers when they got back to the house. And as if reading his mind, Nicole said to Shane, "You have to come back with us, please. You're invited into the house."

Then, shooting a glare at David and Dwayne as she tended to her injured aunt, she shouted, "You'll never set foot onto our property or house ever again!"

Lucy writhed in pain. She'd never dislocated her shoulder, but the fiery swelling was already too much for her. Her face turned red and she was hunched over.

"Shane," Castiel said to their vampire ally. "Fly Miss Lucy home. If Sam and Chris are there, tell them Nicole and I sent you. We'll follow you."

 As it would seem Shane’s words struck a nerve when it came to Dwayne. Often the truth was a hard pill to swallow. It was not his intention to get anyone hurt only to get David and Dwayne’s attention on him. If both David and Dwayne so truly needed to release this anger upon someone then he’d gladly take it. He was the only one of the four who could take such punishment and survive it. Nothing these two could hand him could compare to what he went through in Purgatory.

He started to move into action when Nicole went sailing but luckily Cas caught her so that he could remain between everyone to keep them as separated as possible. Then his eyes darkened in almost a challenging way when Lucy let out that god-awful cry. Despite Shane’s warning it was now clear David and his boys had not learned their lesson the first time around. Here they were willing to rage war over something that happened years ago.

“ Revenge is a fool’s game, David. Grudges are for those who insist that they are owed something but Nicole, Lucy, they don’t owe you anything. As much as you don’t want to hear it, YOU are the ones who fucked up. “

It was then that he moved in a way so that he could check on both Lucy and Nicole. “ Keep some pressure on your face. “ He instructed then kissed the top of Nicole’s head. Then turning to Lucy he carefully took her arm in one hand while placing his other hand upon her ribcage. “ Forgive me because I know this is going to hurt but it needs to be done. “ He gave a silent nod of his head then stretched her arm as straight as he could until he felt it lining up and then he quickly jerked which allowed her shoulder to pop back into place. “ The pain will stop soon, make sure to ice it when you get home. “

“ No Cas, you need to be the one to get them home. I can’t risk leaving either of you here while they are in this mood. “ He turned to look at Nicole as she pleaded to him. “ I told you I wouldn’t let anything happen to you and I meant that. Help him get your mother home and when I’m done here I promise I’ll be there. “

 David couldn’t help but chuckle at the pitiful sight before him. It was laughable at best. He and Dwayne could have broken both their necks before either of them could get to them. Dwayne was right, Shane knew a little too much about them which meant he’s been around for some time now. Why he couldn’t sense this almost reminded him of Paul’s return. That connection between Sire and Fledgling wasn’t restored until Paul was back at full strength. That only meant Shane was running his mouth with no juice to back it up.

“ I thought I said leave while I’m still giving you that option. “ He remarked watching Shane as he popped Lucy’s arm back into place. She was damn lucky Dwayne didn’t completely remove it from her body.

“ Out of everything Shane spilled out of his mouth tonight only one thing was accurate. He’s not going anywhere. “ David’s gloved hand moved to nudge Dwayne’s stomach. “ Secure our Nazi friend won’t you Dwayne? “ A devious smile popped across his features. “ I think we’re long overdue for a trip to the beach, figure out where we went wrong the first time. “

Dwayne marched past David and grabbed a fistful of Shane's hair.

"Say goodbye to your princess, Surf Nazi," he sneered.

Nicole watched with tears in her eyes as the darker, taller vampire roughly handled Shane over to David. This was her fault. None of this would've happened if she hadn't asked them about Michael. It'd just been so long, she felt like she had no choice.

"Nicole, we have to go," Castiel said to her, pulling her back to the present, out of her sorrows and woes.

She pressed her lips together, wanting to call out to Shane. She'd figure a way out to help him. Maybe not alone, but she'd do something… somehow. For now, Aunt Lucy needed help, and she wouldn't let Shane's sacrifice go to waste.

Forcing herself to look away, she and Castiel swiftly took Lucy away from the beach.

Dwayne dragged Shane to David's feet, keeping an iron grip over him, before glancing over at his leader.

"Time to round up everyone and have him meet the gang?" he suggested.

Shane would grumble when Dwayne grabbed a hold of him but for now, he would not fight back nor resist until he knew for sure Nicole and the others were long gone and out of reach of these two.

" I'll come and find you soon, I promise. Stay home until I get there. " He took what was probably the last chance he had to say his goodbyes to her and to give her warning not to venture back out for him.

Even after all these years, he couldn't be surprised that David and his boy hadn't changed. They were still the same assholes who ventured onto the beach that night, killed and slaughtered his surfer buds, and left him for dead. Shane fully understood the whole mentality of needing to feed to survive, but he also learned a valuable lesson when he was in Purgatory. It wasn't something David's boys had learned.

From down on his knees he looked up at David and shook his head. " Now why does the whole four-on-one not surprise me with you guys? Vampire or not I still call that a disadvantage. " Not that he would expect them to play by any sort of rules other than their own. " I almost find it amazing how eager you are to follow in Max's footsteps. Crazy to think that the child learns something from the father. "

Just m" He certainly has a mouth on him. " Not a single thing that was coming from Shane was helping his cause. If anything it was only making him madder. " We'' soon shut it for him. "

" To hell with Max and hopefully that's where he's rotting away. " He didn't like being compared to Max in the least and that's what set him off the most. " He claims to be one of us, a part of our family. I think it's only fair he gets to meet us all before we send him back to wherever he came from. We'll take him to the Bluff. No need to dirty the Cave in Nazis blood. " Maybe that was an indirect slap to David in more than one way.

"You've got it," Dwayne agreed. For good measure, Dwayne swung his fist around, and delivered Shane a solid punch to the nose, before he picked him up by his neck, and flew off to the buff, away from the prying eyes of any mortal on-lookers.

Miles beneath the ocean waves, Monica swam beneath the depths, in search of an unfortunate swimmer or surfer to lure, when she became distracted. Due to her connection with her undead lover, David, she knew it had to do with whatever he was up to. Long hair floated about her face, as she pondered whether she would snoop to the surface and see what he was getting himself into, or simply mind herself. No, whatever the Lost Boys were up to, it was always fun, therefore, she needed to find an appropriate outfit to wear. When it came to David, she never wanted to look anything but her best for him.

'Don't get too carried away without me, but if you can't help yourself, I understand,' Monica conveyed to him gleefully, as she swam toward Hudson's Bluff, with her mermaid's tail working as hard as it could to take her.

Heavy fog drifted across the cliffs by the time Dwayne touched down upon the surface of the bluffs. He threw Shane down in front of him and dusted his hands together.

"Wouldn't have believed it 'til you told us about him," Paul said as he emerged from the fog like a shadow taking solid form. His blue eyes widened with curiosity as he stood alongside Dwayne and peered over at the Surf Nazi. "Can't believe a freakin' Surf Nazi is one of us. How many more of them have our blood?"

David couldn't help but release a dark chuckle when Dwayne's fist collided with Shane's face. Blood or not there was such a thing as respect and Shane was lacking it. Santa Carla was their domain it always had been and would continue to be just that. Perhaps Nicole had learned her lesson tonight. If Shane wanted them to spare his darling Nicole there were other ways he could have approached. Demanding, pointing the finger, none of that was going to fly on his watch. Nor would he stand and allow anyone to compare him or his boys to the likes of Max.

He was pleasantly surprised when he heard Monica through their shared connection. " You need to feed. We're going to take our time with him. Trust me, there will be plenty to still be seen when you get there. " David was quick to respond to her. Just like him and his boys, it was important for her to feed when it was needed. Something he had to remind her of often. After sending both Paul and Marko a mental message of where to meet he took to the sky not far behind Dwayne.

It didn't take long before they were landing at the Bluff. " Boys, we have a guest. " David announced as he walked to move in front of Shane. This way he would have them behind him and in front of him. " I knew about him for a while but never cared enough about him to make mention of him. Then when the connection was lost there was no need for it. "

When Dawyne tossed him to the ground Shane moved to sit up on his knees. Blood trickled down his nose, over his lips, and onto his chin from the punch earlier on. If nothing else came of this night he at least managed to do what he set out to do and that was to save Nicole and her family from being harmed in a way that couldn't be fixed or healed. Shane made a promise to Nicole to protect her and his eyes that's exactly what he had done ─ regardless of the price he would pay for it.

His tongue darted from his mouth cleaning the blood that he could from his face then spit it on the ground a few inches from David's feet. " If David didn't bother to tell you about one of your own maybe you should ask yourselves what else he's been holding back from you. " Shane lifted a brow because back in the day, mistake or not there was nothing he kept secret from his pack. " Happened the night you took Michael to make his first kill. David got so wrapped up in the killing and the show he was putting on he thought I was dead but being the surfer I was I made it out to the beach where I eventually transitioned. "

Marko lingered a little longer in the shadows than Paul did. The whole idea that somehow they had Surf Nazi scum in their bloodline wasn't sitting well with him. It was an internal conflict between family and a type of human they all despised. " Hopefully he's the only one. " He remarked to Paul's question. Marko's normal smirking self was anything but that as a serious look fell over his features. " What the hell do you plan on doing with him? " Marko's attention back to David as he took his stance alongside Paul and Dwayne.

"He was a mistake," Dwayne stated simply. "A mistake that needs to be erased once and for all."

Mistakes happen, unfortunately, even in the world of vampires. First kills occurred, and they didn't always have to come from humans. In Star's case, David wanted her to kill Michael, who was a fellow half-vampire. Dwayne recalled the Surf Nazi slaughter night very well, with pathetic Michael in tow. All he had to do was feed, but like the coward he was, he simply stood back and watched, too afraid to do anything. How they missed Shane was anyone's guess. Bloodlust could catch up to a vampire if they had too much fun - which they did. They didn't keep count of how many humans there were, other than there was plenty of fresh blood for all.

Paul's typical cheerfulness shifted to a more ruthless nature, when he suggested, "Let's drain him of his blood and leave him somewhere to shrivel up like you-know-who!"

Dwayne couldn't help but snigger at the blond's words. "Surprised you even brought him up after all this time. First time in how many years?"

Jasper was considered erased from their bloodline after David dealt with him. He was never mentioned to Star, Laddie, or Michael. For challenging David the way he had, he deserved everything he had coming to him. Since his removal, he essentially never existed.

Paul shrugged indifferently. "What can I say? Surviving death kinda spins your thinking a bit. Besides, the thought of having a Surf Nazi as one of us is nasty. Not to mention, his taste in chicks is way off. He had to go for an Emerson!?"

Now directing his question to Shane, he asked, "Didn't she, like, kill you? You some kinda sadist or something?"

David agreed with Dwayne. " Many mistakes were made during that time. " He picked up on Dwayne's thoughts of that night easily.

" This mistake is one we can correct. " A gloved hand rose to glide through the top of his spiked hair. Despite what Shane may think, his rebellion against Max began long before the Emerson's were involved. Max wanted Michael and Sam to become part of the family so he could have Luci. David had no intention of turning Michael, that's why he instructed Star to kill him. Things didn't work out as planned. Some mistakes they couldn't correct, but this one they could. The Emerson's and the Frog brothers would be dealt with in due time. Shane was dead set on becoming a martyr when he interfered tonight, so a martyr he would become.

David chuckled darkly at Paul. " I like the way you think. " He didn't like being challenged or questioned. Jasper made that mistake years ago and paid for it with his life. Now, Shane gave him a similar challenge. " You come back to Santa Carla after all this time and question me and my boys like we owe you something. " David moved closer to Shane, practically hovering over him. " We do what we want when we want and when we finish with you we're going to finish what we started with Nicole and Luci. " David taunted.

" I call it as I see it, David. It's about time someone did. " Then he turned to Paul. " Apparently it didn't spin your thinking enough. "

Shane didn't even hear the next bit of Paul's remark because all he could focus on was David talking about Nicole and Luci. It was clear that nothing he could say to them could get through to them. It was like looking at a mistake knowing it would repeat itself. But the rage he felt knowing Nicole might be in danger caused an uncharacteristic response from Shane. In a flash, Shane was on his feet, and with a swing of his fist, it collided with David's face. " She had no damn part in what happened to you. Stop blaming everyone except who's really to blame. " Shane's vampire side began to distort his features making him look more beastly than man.

" Woooow! " Marko shouted and moved straight for Shane when he so boldly gave David a right hook. He was enraged now and ready to fight. He grabbed Shane by the collar and pushed him back to his knees on the ground. " What do you think you're doing ?! " Marko shouted. Any reservations he might have had about this were now scattered to the wind. " Dwayne, you want the honors of the first round? "As David said, this wasn't going to end quickly.

Late at night, Layla enjoyed taking in the night air. She was a creature of nature and the Fae within her longed to be in its elements and surrounded by them. The Bluff was a place where she could find solace, away from the hustle and bustle of the city and the danger of encountering people who might want to cause her harm. It was a place where she could be close to nature and do something she loved - dancing - without fear. Her long lace gown flowed behind her as the breeze danced around her ─ hair adorned with the vibrant flowers she picked during the day. The beach was also nearby, allowing her to find and collect seashells, adding to her ever-growing collection.

Up ahead she spotted a group and curiosity got the better of her. Her angelic voice could be heard in the distance singing as she approached and realized it was Dwayne and the others. She would stop short of reaching the group and sadness crept across her features. Layla knew exactly what Dwayne was and never questioned his choices. It left her confused as to why this situation required a four-on-one massacre. Despite the grim situation, Layla still had faith in Dwayne, believing that whatever he was doing was for a good reason.

Even in the middle of a scuffle, the unmistakable and heavenly sound of Dwayne's fae lover could be heard. Though he kept his focus square on Shane, and his iron grip tight over the group's Luna Bay rival, his will had weakened a bit. While Layla completely accepted him for who and what he was, she also helped him see the world through the blood red haze of anger and madness. In the past, his ego and need for revenge once clouded him, and it cost him his life. Since his return from Purgatory, and his meeting with Layla, he vowed never to make that mistake again. He would still be that ferocious monster that'd fight for his pack and slaughter anyone who stood in his way, but he thought twice before blindly throwing himself against the enemy, especially one who seemed like easy prey. Shane seemed weak, especially when he was all alone, but who knew what he could be capable of, as one as defiant as he was.

Damn it, the things he did for her, and only her, were remarkable beyond belief.

"Death would be such an easy way out for you, punk," Dwayne growled at Shane. "Even if it came for you: slow and painful."

In the blink of an eye, he vanished, only to appear at the side of Shane, where he drove his knee against the side of his skull, knocking him to one side.

Tossing a knowing look at Paul, the blond rocker let out a playful howl. He followed up Dwayne's attack with a boot to the back of Shane's head, but before the assaulted vampire could go completely down, both he and Dwayne grabbed one of his arms and held him up by his knees before David.

"Let's bleed him out and wall him up in the cave," Dwayne suggested. "This asshole's s'posed to be one of us by blood association? He can be a permanent fixture, where nobody can hear him scream."

Within a few moments, Layla's appearance changed. This happened naturally with Fae depending on their mood. It was also a defense mechanism to keep them hidden from those who saw her as prey. From her crouching down position, her body would visibly jerk each time the blonde male was struck. Fae were normally peaceful creatures until provoked. Layla's wings slowly began to appear, growing out of her back. Her eyes took on a silvery hue and her skin glowed a faint blue. Her nails grew longer and sharper and her hair shimmered in the light. A thin layer of dust covered her body, making her almost invisible. Her singing has been silenced and her once gentle demeanor replaced by something very different. Regardless of the situation she would stay back and watch for any foe who might pose any trouble for her loved one.

Dwayne was the only creature on this planet that managed to keep her leveled and bonded to this dimension. She would stand against any foe to ensure his protection.

As soon as Shane decked David he felt a sharp blow to the side of his head. This caused him to stumble and was immediately followed by another blow to the back of his head. His beastly features vanished once more, revealing his human nature. He fell to the ground, dazed and confused. He was barely conscious when Dwayne and Paul had him by the arms holding him out on display for David.

" You can do whatever you want with me. " Shane coughed and spit out a mouth full of blood. " Ain't about to change anything I said. None of you are stupid but you need to start asking yourselves why he won't share certain things with his brothers. "

As soon as the last word came from Shane's mouth Marko had moved in front of them and drove his fist into the side of Shane's head. " Looks like you're about to share the same kind of fate our last so-called brother received. Dude, you should have just stayed in the hell you crawled out of. " Marko chuckled before turning to check on David.

A gloved hand was raised to brush against his jaw. The only response from David was a dark twisted smile that would send chills up any mortal's spine. His eyes flashed to Marko to confirm he was okay. Dwayne's mention of bleeding Shane out didn't pass unnoticed. He just let it sit on the back burner for a moment. After walking over to where the boys had Shane halfway standing he remarked. " My turn .. " Before driving his knee into Shane's stomach. Shane doubled over in pain, gasping for breath. David grabbed Shane by the hair and forced him to look up at him, a sinister smirk on his face. " Let's see if you can handle more. " The assault on Shane's ribcage began. Each time he landed a blow another bone could be heard cracking.

After several long minutes of this brutality, he finally grabbed Shane by the back of his hair and pulled his face forward. His eyes were filled with sinister glee as he whispered in his ear. " Let's play a game. " David took a few steps back before turning back to his boys. " A night at the club for whomever bleeds him out first. My treat. Let the games begin! "

There was no holding back on the brutal beatings delivered onto the Luna Bay vampire. Flesh tore, blood spilled, and bones snapped. The vicious sounds didn't go unnoticed, carried by the fierce ocean winds. Even with Layla silently observing, another visitor approached but chose to keep their distance. Water dripped on the hard surface of the cliffs, as Monica took on her human guise, and observed the beating from her vantage point.

"Looks like the boys are having fun," she reflected gleefully, as she found herself standing near Layla. "I knew I'd be too late. Ah, well! I won't be spoiling their entertainment."

"How much blood do you have, man?!" Paul exclaimed after pulling his bloodied fist back from Shane's battered face. It seemed like no matter how much of a heartless beating he and the others gave their rival, he somehow managed to stay conscious, refusing to bleed out entirely. The ground they all stood upon was practically stained crimson at this point.

"Stubborn and defiant," Dwayne noted darkly. He almost wanted to admire the other vampire's will to stand up against the odds… ALMOST. But in a situation like this, where he was clearly outnumbered, and fighting to protect a human girl whose family was involved in nearly wiping out a coven of vampires, he was not in good graces here. Shane should've given up. He should've just stayed in Luna Bay altogether and minded his own damned business.

A feral smile quickly took over as he stared down Shane. "Give it up, surfer boy. Nicole's not coming around. If she's got any brains in that head of hers, she's not ever coming back for you."

Layla watched as Monica approached, her brow furrowed with concern about her remark. Layla had witnessed Dwayne's version of "fun" before, but what she was witnessing was far from fun. The scene unfolding before them was a brutal display of violence. Four vampires ganged up on another, who appeared weaker and outnumbered. The attack seemed relentless; each blow delivered ferocity that sent chills down Layla's spine. This wasn't just feeding; it was a personal vendetta.

" Do you know what this is about? " Layla would assume she did since this of all places is where she decided to make landfall.

Marko couldn't help but ponder the immense strength and resilience Shane seemed to have. It was as if he possessed an otherworldly endurance, allowing him to endure unimaginable amounts of pain and damage. As he reflected on the situation, Marko recalled the countless encounters they had faced with various supernatural beings. They had crossed paths with werewolves, witches, and even powerful demons, yet none of them had endured the same level of inflicted damage as Shane. The boys had unleashed their full fury upon him, striking blow after blow, hoping to weaken him enough to finally drain him. But despite their relentless assault, Shane remained standing, his eyes filled with an eerie determination.

" David man, this is getting us nowhere. " Frustration thick in his voice.

Shane's determination burned like a fierce flame within him, fueling his resilience even in the face of relentless torment. The boys who sought to break him only fueled his resolve, for they knew not the depth of his love and the unwavering loyalty he held for Nicole. With each blow that landed upon his half-broken body, Shane's mind drifted to her - the one who had captured his heart and ignited a fire within him that could not be extinguished. She was his reason for existence, the beacon of light in his darkest moments. Her smile, her touch, and her unwavering belief in him were the driving forces behind his unyielding spirit. As he rose from the ground once again, bloodied but unbowed, Shane's thoughts turned to their promises made in whispered moments under moonlit skies. He had vowed to protect her at all costs, to shield her from harm's way, and if this is what he had to endure to see that then so be it.

" Of course, she's not coming after me. " Shane finally managed to speak before spitting a mouth full of blood onto the ground by his feet. " I'm not giving up because I'm not the enemy here despite your blindness to the fact. "

As David's anger surged through his veins, he could feel his blood boiling. The weight of frustration and anger bore down on him, fueling his determination to put an end to Shane's incessant meddling once and for all. Quickly David closed in on him. The intensity of the moment was palpable, the air thick with tension. With each step forward, David's grip tightened on Shane's shirt, his knuckles turning white from the pressure.

" You think you can just waltz in here and question my loyalty to my boy and get away with it? " David seethed, his voice laced with venom. " You shouldn't have come back here, Shane. I'm going to fix what I should have done the moment I realized you turned. Let's see how long you last as a permanent fixture in the cave. "

David took to the air with Shane in tow. He knew the boys would follow behind him knowing that Shane's final destination was the cave.

Wicked, menacing laughter filled the night air, as the four dark figures forcefully took their captive away from Hudson's Bluff, and disappeared into the howling ocean mist.

Monica watched the Lost Boys with a cruel, unsympathetic smile of her own before she turned to the fae to answer her question.

"That one was a mistake - the one they were beating up. Not all are accepted into the group, even if they are blood."

Monica's expression darkened. She was not a vampire, nor could she ever be one. If David could ever turn her into a vampire like him, she would be eternally grateful. He'd told her about some of the other "Lost Boys" and "Lost Girls" who'd come and gone in the past, and Shane had been indirectly turned. Whoever would have thought a Surf Nazi would've not only become a vampire but survived as long as he had? Well, knowing David, Shane wouldn't make it for very long.

"Try not to feel much pity for the likes of Shane Powers," Monica suggested as she soothed Layla's hair. She couldn't remember the last time she dyed her own hair in such a fun color like pink. Lately, she was obsessed with dying hers pitch black. Her clothing style was all black as well - not to match with David, but black in general seemed to go with everything in terms of fashion.

"Shane is rather… insignificant. Not meant to be. Once David is done with him, he'll be forgotten! Besides, you saw how upset your Dwayne was with him."

The humanoid sea creature hummed thoughtfully. "You'll have much more fun cheering him up after all this ugly business."

Monica looked ahead to where the old hotel was located. Under her breath, she whispered, "Besides, there's nobody that will ever help him now."

#✦ — • VERSE • Where the Dead Never Sleep • #✦ — • CHARACTER • David • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Dwayne • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Marko • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Paul • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Lucy • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Shane • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Nicole • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Castiel • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Monica • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Layla • #✦ — • IT’S THE THING IN YOU THAT FEEDS THE ANIMAL IN ME• David and Monica • #✦ — • YOU PUT AN ARROW THROUGH MY HEART • Dwayne and Layla • #✦ — • YOU TAKE THE BREATH RIGHT OUT OF ME • Shane and Nicole •

[wherethedeadneversleep]

Luke's Song

"Sam, Luke gave me these words to recite to Lucy. I want to run it by you first to see if she'd approve. I was dubious at first, but your son insisted this would be fine. It starts off like this: 'To the window, to the wall, till the sweat drop down my balls, till all these bitches crawl--"

Cas always talked a lot. That much hadn't changed about him over the years. Unless they were doing research or something similar, Sam often let Cas ramble on while he continued with his business. Right now, it wouldn't have been any different but the mention of Luke's name was unexpected. His eyes grew wide listening to the lyrics that sprang from Cas. He was thankful he hadn't been drinking at that moment or he might have choked on whatever he was drinking. Sam knew he had to interject at some point but he was unsure how to do it. He was even more surprised when Cas finished talking and looked at him expectantly. He cleared his throat, unsure of how to respond.

A small part of him wanted to laugh just thinking about Lucy's face if Cas repeated those song lyrics to her. However, this wasn't a laughing matter and Luke would be in for a surprise when he got home.

Awkwardly he reached up scratching the back of his head. " Cas, I don't think reciting Lil Jon lyrics to Lucy would be the greatest move. Think about it, man. Do you really want to talk about sweaty balls and bitches crawling on the floor to the woman who opened her house to you? And I'll give you another piece of advice. When it comes to taking advice from someone, stay clear of what Luke tells you. I love the boy to death but he's a teenager and teenagers find comedy in things we know shouldn't be said or done. He may think it's funny, but it's not worth the trouble. Respect the woman and her home, and watch your words. Otherwise, you could end up on her bad side. "

Castiel tilted the side of his head as he considered Sam's words. And here he used to be the one mumbling words of philosophy back where he came from, if only aided by drugs and warm bodies to help him cope in a dying world ruled under Lucifer's command.

"Though he's not human," he mused, "he acts very much like one. He's not as serious as Claire."

He paused. The name of his vessel's daughter's name hadn't left his lips in years. He knew she hadn't survived the apocalypse, nor did her mother. So many people died because of the virus, and many more became infected, blood crazed, and far worse.

"The flow of those words are rather… poetic," Castiel couldn't help but admire, shifting back to the present era. "I do want to know the rest of the lyrics one of these days. Maybe the less 'bitch-crawling' version. This Lil' Jon person is inspiring. He could've helped me motivate more people at Camp Chitaqua."

Though looking back, he admittedly was a mess. Coping with drugs, booze, and sex, was his way of survival. He didn't have to rely on such methods now, but he couldn't completely cut himself off from much of it. Much of his so-called sobriety was due to helping Lucy function, by being there as a partner. She'd lost one son by murder, and another to demons. He was her other half who understood what she'd gone through without thinking she was crazy.

"She is worth fighting for, Sam," Castiel admitted in a much more somber, gentler tone. "Much like I care about you and Dean… I care about Lucy. I want to do everything I can for her, even if I am no longer an Angel."

Sam had never been the one to advise because he often made the wrong choices according to Dean. Sam wouldn't lie and say that all the choices he made in the past were the right ones nor would he say that he consistently gave the best advice. The one thing was always true - Sam always did what he thought was right at the time and gave the best advice he could.

" Don't get me wrong, Cas. Luke is an awesome kid. " Sam pointed out. " Claire and Luke had many unexpected things occur in their lives. Luke knows he's different, but at a very young age, he learned how to blend in and just be a kid. Claire on the other hand, she's always felt differently about everything that happened within her family. " His face is slightly distorted because of everything that happened with Cas and his vessel Jimmy.

" I mean it can't be easy for any kid to know their father is gone, but at the same time you see his body walking and talking but it's not him, you know? " Just saying that out loud made him realize how hard it must have been for Luke and Marie when Lucifer was blown out of him. Admittedly, the issues with him and Marie were a bit more complex. Nothing ever seemed easy for them.

" Poetic? " Sam asked, raising his hand to rub the bridge of his nose. " Listen, I'll make a deal with you. You don't resist those words ever again to anyone and I'll get you a copy of the song to listen to. " Maybe this was going to be another one of those choices because after Cas heard the entire song maybe it would get stuck inside his head like a lot of songs did to people. But this was the most sensible thing he could think of off the top of his head.

He couldn't help but arch his brow after hearing the way Cas' tone dropped and the way he spoke about Luci. Now while he said the way he cared about her was much like the way he cared about him and Dean, it sounded like a little more than that to him. Was Cas falling for a mortal after all these years? Wait did Cas even know what all embodied into a relationship, besides what he had learned from the pizza man on TV? Then again this was a whole different version of Cas than he was used to. He shook his head, thinking it was best not to think too much about it.

" Sounds like to me you've found your place in this world. Isn't that what families do for each other? They are willing to protect those they care about? They want only good things for them? You're happy when they are happy even if you don't agree with everything going on in their life? " Again saying that out loud made him think about Dean. More than anything he just wished his brother could accept that he was finally happy and had the life he always wanted. Well, he almost had everything he could have ever wanted. A big part of him was still missing and that was his brother. Why did he have to give up one thing to have the other? Why was it so damn hard for him to be able to have both in his life?

" Cas .. " Sam started to shake his head because talking about Dean wasn't going to make things any better. If anything it would only make things worse than they already were. But leave it to Cas to open that bucket of worms. " Sure, he always looked out for me but sometimes you have to learn when it's time to step back and allow the people you care about to make their own choices. To not constantly be riding their back and demanding they are making the wrong choices. " One hand rested against his side while the other raised to rub his brow.

He knew Dean would never accept this life so it was a waste of time to even talk about it. But regardless of how hopeless and drug-addled Cas was, he knew he only had good intentions. " I'm not going to tell you that's a bad choice because it's yours to make and I'm not going to stand here and tell you to pick sides. Just know that if it comes down to it, what happened back in your world won't happen here. I won't let it. "

Regardless of what version of Cas this was, he was family ─ always has been and would always be so. Reaching out he placed his hand on Cas' shoulder. " The whole situation sucks, to be honest. I don't know if speaking terms are even in the cards for Dean and myself. Not after the way he disrespected my wife and son and in general my entire family. I get it he's not happy about me and Lucifer, but the choice I made was the right one. Even if he refuses to see it. "

If it wasn't for that choice there wouldn't be a single person left on the playing field called earth. A selfless act on his part saved everything and within that choice, he gained more than he could have ever imagined. He wished even for the briefest moment that Dean could see that he was truly happy and that there were actual grey areas in his black-and-white world.

"Well, when you're ready to see your brother, you know where to find me," Castiel said. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have an appointment to keep."

Even in the gentle haze of painkillers, he couldn't forget the group of ladies who were eagerly waiting for him at their local meeting spot. It didn't take much to convince a gaggle of lonely, desperate women to listen to his words of wisdom and spirituality, life, and whatever else he could conjure.

Castiel patted Sam on the arm and chuckled. "Keep the faith, Sam. You and Dean will work things out. I look forward to seeing Dean again, but let me know when you're coming by ahead of time. I, uh, might be preoccupied if you stop by unannounced."

#✦ — • VERSE • Where the Dead Never Sleep • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Sam • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Castiel •

[wherethedeadneversleep]

Sex on the Battlefield

Featured couple: Dean and Buffy

The battle was over, humanity prevailed once again, and Dean was relieved… but he couldn’t have done it without Buffy. Having her stand victorious beside him in the aftermath, knowing how tough and vigilant she was, stirred an ache in his chest, a reminder of how lucky he was to have her in his life.

Closing the distance between them, not caring how filthy he looked and smelled, he collected Buffy into his arms. He dropped a kiss on her neck, then ran his tongue up to her jawline, before he rested his forehead against hers. God, she was so sexy, and she was all his.

In a low, husky voice, he asked her, “How ‘bout we celebrate right here, right now?”

 Buffy couldn’t help but admire their handy work, looking around to see the nest they took down together. She thought they did pretty damn good considering the shape they were in. Dean seemed fine other maybe a few sore muscles and she just ended up with a slight bruise along her cheekbone, where one of the vamps took her off guard with a backhand. The few minor cuts, bumps, and bruises she got these days she just convinced Dean she was a fast healer. Which wasn’t exactly her lying.

It was then she saw that certain look in Dean’s eyes and it caused the air in her lungs to rapidly escape from her. She was pulled in close to him, which was never a bad thing. Her eyes fluttered from the feel of his lips against her neck, then her knees trembled from the seductive way he trailed his tongue up her neck. A rough swallow soon follows.

“ Here? Now? “ For a second her eyes looked around them. The idea of being out in the open like this stirred something alive inside her. Leave it to Dean to get all her gears turning. Dropping everything she had in her hands and arms she quickly threw them around his neck, drawing him into a fiery kiss. Seconds later she jumped, lifting her legs to wrap around his waist. Her hands were all too eager as they pushed and tugged to remove his jacket. Yeah, she had zero problems with the here and now. 

Dean deepened their kiss as his hands supported her supple ass. She fitted perfectly against his frame, even with their clothes on... but, in this case, their clothes were an obstacle that needed to be removed. Between the kisses, he helped her shed not only his jacket, which quickly landed on the ground beside them but the rest of their clothes. Shirts here, belts there - between the fever-pitched kisses and the heated moans, everything was tossed in various areas of the floor, until they were left in their underwear. Even in their heated lust, Dean didn't want to risk Buffy touching anything that contained vampire gunk or blood, so he placed her down upon his jacket, where he was quick to join her.

Now hovering on top of her, he resumed kissing her, his hand stroking her face, his fingers mindful of the cuts she received during the fight. His hips ground against hers, while his knees nudged her thighs. He'd fought alongside several women over the years, but none of them turned him on so much like Buffy had. Was it her determination? Her wit? Fighting skills? Her ability to fire off those topical one-liners? All of the above?

Another hand slid beneath her panties and pushed a couple of fingers inside her, only to feel how moist she was.

Pulling his mouth away from hers, he groaned. Fuck, this was good. Bending his head down just a bit, he licked her chin and decided to tease her a bit. "Ready for a good pounding?"

Quickly sitting up, he helped shed whatever undergarments were left on both of them, before he grabbed a hold of his hardened dick and inched forward, where he rubbed his tip between her delicious feminine lips. This was sheer torture for him, and as eager as he was to fuck her, he wanted to make this good for her too. Just looking at the sheen of her wetness was hot.

"How's that?" he asked in a low tone.

His passion was seemingly burning hot in him, matching her own lust stride for stride. Their lips crashed and soon their tongues were dancing their little dance in the space created between their mouths. The kissing was frantic and only became more escalated when their clothing began flying all around them. They were moving so quickly that she almost didn't notice the shift when Dean lowered her down upon his jacket. It was the familiar feel of her body being pinned beneath his that made her gasp against his lips. She would whimper each time his hips ground against her. Her center was already like a honey pot brimming with nectar from her sudden need to have him buried inside her.

This whole situation made the encounter even hotter for Buffy. There was just something about being out in the open like this — the both of them exploring each other with such reckless abandon that she felt turned on in ways she hadn't felt before. Her need for this carnal pleasure couldn't be denied. " Oh god, Dean. " The slayer cried out when his fingers dipped inside her. She bit down hard on her bottom lip with a moan rattling inside her chest.

Her hands moved to his hips where they took hold of him, a little rougher than normal. Her head was spinning in ways that made her forget about her need to be a little more gentle with him.

“ Oh…my…God... ” Buffy swore as his flat tongue licked along her jawline. He was teasing her now. Oh, but what heavenly torture it was. Her hips rocked trying to find more friction against the fingers inside her. " Stop teasing... " She groaned out to him with a heavy breath.

Another whimper was released when he suddenly pulled away from her. Already she missed the feel of his body against her. He was so damn hard and she was more than ready for him but this torture, she couldn't take much more of it. Her eyes nearly rolled into the back of her head when the head of cock brushed against her sensitive clit. She could not take it any longer. Her need for him was far too great.

" Not good enough... " Suddenly both her legs wrapped around him and without giving thought she used the strength in her legs to draw him closer. She felt his tip at her entrance and she drew him in more until he was completely inside her. “ God! Yes... ” Buffy gasped. Her being filled with his hard cock was exactly what she had been needing. " I need you, now. " She all but demanded.

Every sound she made turned him on. Simply putting his head against her clit made him shudder with absolute pleasure. It was the stuff dreams were made of, but it was quick to become reality, because before he knew it, she took control, and he wasn't going to fight it. He'd done more than enough teasing, and so caught up in the moment, he didn't even comprehend how she managed to utilize such strength to manhandle him the way she had. Both were simply horny, and ready to get down to business.

"No arguments from me," he groaned in a breathy tone as their bodies became one. His eyes fluttered close, and her tight heat wrapped around him like a glove. Lowering his body upon hers, his mouth instantly sought hers for a desperate, needy kiss. As fingers threaded through her long, blonde locks, he proceeded to thrust his hips against hers, welcoming the pleasure that came from it.

This was definitely a first for him: having sex on the site of the battlefield where they'd just killed dozens of vampires. Both of them were leaving themselves vulnerable for anyone or anything to stumble upon them. Their minds were focused on only each other, their bodies filled with lust and hormones. Sure, they could be ready for battle if need be, but what a buzzkill to have to stop in mid-sex to take out another monster before either could reach the big O.

Nope. Dean's mind wasn't going to go there. Happy thoughts, he told himself, because he had Buffy with him.

A smile spread across his face as if realizing that last thought matter-of-factly. His tongue playfully danced with hers inside their mouths, while his hips arched themselves at just the right angle, so he could jut into her over and over again, slamming his dick harder into her pussy. Wave after wave of rapture continued to build inside him, as he allowed himself a go at fondling her perky breasts between their chests. He tweaked and thumbed her nipples without having to stop gyrating his hips. It never would've occurred to anyone that it wasn't even half an hour ago that the two of them had tackled an army of the undead.

" Dean, so good... " She gave a strangled cry as she arched her back, clutching his shoulders as dizzying sensations struck her in waves. Between the feel of his powerful masculine body over her, between her legs, and the things he was doing with his mouth, he was igniting her, setting her on fire like she'd never been before. Buffy couldn’t mistake the heat in his eyes. The need. The promise that Dean Winchester was a heck of a lot more than ‘ just talk. ’ But she knew that already. She knew the things he could and would do to her and holy hell... she wanted it all.

Moving her hands down his back over his ass, she pulled him closer. She arched, crying out as she sheathed him completely and felt him pulsing inside her. Suddenly, they were both out of control. Kissing so hard, she knew her mouth would be swollen, but didn't care. She wanted to lock her ankles around his waist and have more control, but the pleasure he brought forth made it impossible.

Buffy had long forgotten that they were lying in the center of their earlier massacre. Her mind couldn't be troubled with thought not when she had Dean inside of her, thrusting into her so roughly over and over again. Her mind, body, and soul were floating on cloud nine and nothing else mattered. " Don't stop... please don't stop... " She found herself crying out with each powerful thrust of his hips.

Whimpering, she lifted herself, trying to grind against him as he tugged her close and thrust. All night she could do this as bolts of heat went through her, she wondered if she could survive it. " So good... " She pulled her knees in, trying to drag him closer each time they moved together. On her elbows, she started to push against him, their foreheads damp with the effort... " Please... please... " She pleaded, her eyes locking with his.

The sheen of their sweat eased the friction of their bodies. Even their kisses now tasted slightly like salt and the scent of their lovemaking was heavy in the air. Her fingers tangled in soft short hair, clenching as she grew more desperate. He thrust into her so hard, so fast, it had her head spinning. His heart thumped loudly in her ears and hers was so loud she bet he could hear it beating in time with hers.

He couldn't get enough of exploring her sweet, warm mouth. It always felt like kissing her for the first time, a moment he'd never forget. Her soft sides were slick with both his and her sweat. His hold over her tightened, as flesh slapped against flesh. Upon hearing her breathy protests, Dean couldn't resist chuckling between kisses.

"Ain't stopping just yet, baby," he said huskily.

Peering deep into Buffy's eyes, the sheer look of utter desire shot straight into his soul, and he knew there couldn't be anything to pull him away at this very moment.

The need to fill her was mounting. He was a ticking time bomb preparing to explode. The grip over her hips tightened, and the pressure built even moreso. He couldn't recall how many times he said her name, or raked his fingers through her hair. Making love had never been so high on Dean Winchester's to-do list as it was right now and between the heavenly thighs of a vampire slayer.

One hand stroked the side of her body as they moved against one another as if learning her curves and mounds of her breasts for the first time. He couldn't stop touching her. Being addicted to Buffy was an understatement. Just hearing her voice was beguiling enough.

His own fingers now pushed back strands of her hair aside from her face as he felt his own orgasm ascend to its peak. It seemed all too soon in his mind. Instead of rushing to reach his own climax, he continued his hard rocking pace, allowing Buffy to enjoy wave after wave of blinding pleasure that rode throughout her body. He wanted to hear how perfect it felt for her before he'd allow himself to spill his need into her. There'd be no humming in contentment until he witnessed for himself the glow of after sex from his partner in crime.

With closed eyes, Buffy savored his words, knowing all too well their intoxicating effects on her. It felt like a searing blaze surged inside her from the way he called her baby. He never stopped making her feel like she was the center of his world. All she wanted was more of him, of this. She could feel the adrenaline coursing through her veins as they engaged in their passionate struggle. The intensity of their connection was undeniable, each movement fueling the fire that burned between them. Their bodies collided with a raw and primal energy, leaving no room for doubt or hesitation.

As she tried to wrap her ankles around his waist, seeking a sense of dominance and control, he skillfully evaded her attempts. With every twist and turn, their bodies danced in perfect rhythm. It was a battle of wills, a dance of passion and desire. Bruises would surely mark their skin as a testament to the fervor they shared in that moment.

His presence alone ignited a fire within her, an insatiable hunger that consumed her every thought. It was as if he held the key to a world she had never known existed. But it wasn’t just his physicality that captivated her - it was the way he moved with grace and confidence, effortlessly commanding any space he entered.

Her fingers tangled in soft short hair, clenching as she grew more desperate. He thrust into her so hard, so fast, it knocked the breath out of her. “ HARDER… HARDER… ” She mouthed, reaching… climbing each time they came together, her eyes locked with his and then he took her over the edge. She called his name, squeezing him tight, her heels digging into his back as waves of pleasure rocked her world. Her nails dug into the skin of his shoulders as her body withered below him, her heavy pants filling the air around them. “ OH GOD, DEAN…! ”

Her walls tightened around his girth. Hearing her sweet pants, and the demands for more, were welcoming to his ears. The pressure from her nails onto his skin only made him deliver more punishing thrusts into her body. Bliss overwhelmed him, and he only wanted more.

He continued to deliver that fast, punishing pace, his eyes never leaving hers. At some point, one of his hands fumbled about until he found hers, where they laced their fingers together. He couldn't - no, wouldn't let her go. It was a silent vow, that no matter what, they'd be in this ride together until the end. Buffy was like no other woman he'd ever been with, and he couldn't imagine moving on with anyone else, either. They were in this for the long haul.

Dean shuttered, and he closed his eyes. Giving her hand an extra squeeze, he dipped his head into the crook of her neck, as he slammed into her hips before coming undone in her depths like a savage animal in heat. Even so, he licked and kissed her neck, while continuing to grind between her thighs, wanting to make sure she reached her climax as well.

As Buffy lay there with her arms still wrapped around Dean, she started basking in the aftermath of her newfound revelation, the Slayer couldn't help but reflect on how unexpected and exhilarating this experience had been. It was as if a hidden part of her had been awakened, a secret desire that she had never even known existed. The intensity of the moment lingered in her mind, leaving her hungry for more exploration and discovery. She never would have thought Agoraphilia was her kink.

Her delicate fingers gently glide over the intricate contours of his face, savoring the exquisite connection they share. In this flawless instant, she realizes that the unparalleled bliss she experiences with Dean Winchester is beyond compare. As she gazes into Dean's eyes, she is captivated by the depth of emotion reflected in them. Every touch, every glance, reaffirms the unbreakable bond they have formed. In his presence, she feels a sense of security and warmth that she has never known before. With Dean, she has found a love that transcends time and space, a love that fills her heart with indescribable joy.  Never could she find this with anyone else.

After a few moments she looks around them and she can't help but shake her head. " We really should get out of here before one of us catches something we can't wash off. " Her lips trying to hold back a laugh that was trying to escape her. " Maybe we'll take Baby down on the beach later. Explore this side of us a little more. " She teased with a wiggle of her brow then gave him a little pat on the butt so they both could get up, get dressed, and get out of this place.

#✦ — • NSFW • This is your warning right here • #✦ — • VERSE • Where the Dead Never Sleep Smut • #✦ — • WITH EVERY INCH OF MY HEART • Buffy and Dean Smut •

[wherethedeadneversleep]

Closing In

" Sammy... "

Sam's body was instantly filled with a chilling sensation upon hearing that voice. He immediately recognized the source of the voice - Lucifer. He nodded in disbelief, attempting to reassure himself that it was a mere coincidence, that it occurred solely due to Dean's comment about hearing Michael. After dismissing it, he returned to his workout as if it had never occurred.

" SAM... "

Without hesitation, Sam released the weights he was holding and swiftly approached the nearest wall, pressing his hands against it. His gaze fixated on the ground, fully aware that this was not a mere coincidence. Lucifer and Michael were making their way back, and there was hardly anything they could do to halt or even delay their progress. Suddenly, beads of perspiration formed on Sam's forehead.

" Now isn't a good time, Lucifer. "

" Sam, I thought I taught you better. In my absence, you've been killing my children AGAIN. Drinking the blood of MY children like some out of control degenerate."

" That's on you Lucifer! You left me and gave me no other choice. I did what I had to in order to keep my family safe!"

" Bullshit! You're fucking Sam Winchester, my true vessel. You're diluting yourself if you think you couldn't handle whatever situation arose. Besides, do you think I would allow anything to happen to either of them even in my absence? Remember that's OUR family. I'm starting to feel like this newfound freedom of yours is starting to go to your head. Or maybe it's Dean rotting that brain of yours? "

" Leave Dean out of this! " Sam shouted. 

" No, no I don't think I will Sammy. Dean's always been the problem. He makes you WEAK. Do you think you're going to stand a chance against Michael when he finds Dean and takes over? When Michael comes to erase you from the face of this earth? You think Dean is strong enough to refuse? He already showed you once before that he'll give himself over. He would have rather seen you dead than with me. "

" STOP IT! That's not true, that's not why Dean did it. He won't say yes again. I know my brother. And stop trying to twist my head up. This isn't about Dean and you know it. "

" You're right Sam, this isn't about Dean. You're resisting and I know WHY. I ain't mad about it Sam, why would I be? What does anger me is your resistance when I thought we had an understanding. "

" You know I won't resist but now isn't a good time. I just need some time. "

" Time isn't on your side Sam. " Michael's voice could heard, faint but vivid. " We both know I don't need Dean to take care of you. If there is no you, my brother will be easier to deal with. "

Sam's heart sank in his chest when suddenly everything went silent as the grave. Sam's cry of " LUCIFER! " echoed through the air, yet it was met with nothing but an eerie stillness. The youngest Winchester was consumed by anger, causing him to grab the weight he had been using for his workout and hurl it forcefully through the nearest window of his gym.

#wickedanddeadly #✦ — • VERSE • Where the Dead Never Sleep • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Sam • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Lucifer • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Archangel Michael •

[wherethedeadneversleep]

Caroline Fox & Jasper Rathbone Playlist

1.  HALSEY - YOUNG GOD 2.  HALSEY - GASOLINE 3.  LANA DEL REY - BORN TO DIE 4.  HOZIER - TAKE ME TO CHURCH 5.  NICKELBACK - S.E.X. 6.   MAROON 5 - ANIMALS 7.  IMAGINE DRAGONS - DEMONS 8.  BREAKING BENJAMIN - SO COLD 9.  POETS OF THE FALL - CARNIVAL OF RUST 10. THREE DAYS GRACE - ANIMAL I HAVE BECOME

#wickedanddeadly #✦ — • Sonya’s Edits #✦ — • MIXTAPE PLAYLIST • #✦ — • I PUT A SPELL ON YOU BECAUSE YOU’RE MINE • Caroline and Jasper • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Caroline • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Jasper •

[wherethedeadneversleep]

The Lost Boys - 1987 - Paul

#wickedanddeadly #✦ — • Sonya’s Edits #✦ — • CHARACTER • Paul •

[wherethedeadneversleep]

The Lost Boys - 1987

#wickedanddeadly #✦ — • Sonya’s Edits #✦ — • CHARACTER • David • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Paul • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Dwayne • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Marko •

[wherethedeadneversleep]

#wickedanddeadly #✦ — • Sonya’s Edits #✦ — • CHARACTER • Dwayne •

[wherethedeadneversleep]

The Lost Boys - 1987 - Michael

#wickedanddeadly #✦ — • Sonya’s Edits #✦ — • CHARACTER • Michael •

[wherethedeadneversleep]

The lost Boys - 1987 - Star

#wickedanddeadly #✦ — • Sonya’s Edits #✦ — • CHARACTER • Star •

[wherethedeadneversleep]

Baby, you and I got history And we can't deny our chemistry So why the fuck are we a mystery?

#wickedanddeadly #✦ — • Sonya’s Edits #✦ — • THINKING WE SHOULD CROSS THE LINE • Sonya and Paul • #✦ — • VERSE • Early Years • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Paul • #✦ — • CHARACTER • Sonya •

[wherethedeadneversleep]

Cradle of Love

Featured couple: Tatum and Leon

The way he looked at her alone made her skin burn as if it were on fire. The more he looks at her the more she can’t resist biting at her bottom lip. It’s a reminder to herself to keep herself together. Her whole plan would be ruined if she gave into her desires right here and now. Damn if it wasn’t hard and tempting as hell. She would have never thought she could physically be more attracted to him than she was at this moment. It just served to remind her how damn much she had missed him while he was away.

A smile touched her lips at his words. A hand lifting with a palm pressed against his face. The entire time he had been gone all she could think about was him and him coming home. She thought about all their conversations - Their first date and how amazing it had been. It was something she was never going to forget and this right here was going to be her way of giving him another memory he wouldn’t soon forget. At least that’s how she hoped it would all pan out in the end.

“ I’ll stay as long as you want me to. “ She finally responded to his offer. The more time she got to spend with him the better - not to mention they had to make up for the lost time. “ I’d love you no matter what you looked like. If I didn’t know better I’d swear you have me bewitched. Means it was simply meant to be.“ Another smile touched her lips.

The moment he pulled her into the elevator and up against his firm body, she felt her restraint and willpower breaking into tiny little pieces. Her heart kicked up a few notches as the door behind them closed. Before another thought could be made she felt his lips back on hers. Her purse dropped to her feet as her hands raised to tangle into the lapel of his jacket. The kiss was returned with every bit as much passion and desire. She was losing it and she knew that the moment she caught herself almost trying to tear off his jacket.

A deep breath is gasped against his lips as she draws back and presses her forehead against his. “ If we keep this up, you’re going to ruin your surprise. “ She breathed heavily. “ I promise you it’s going to be well worth the wait. “

Leon couldn't help but laugh. There was no mistake in how much they craved one another, but to have to resist just a little bit longer--THAT was going to be a struggle. But if Tatum went through the trouble of setting up this juicy surprise for him, he could stretch his patience out a bit more for both of their sakes.

"Drive a hard bargain," he breathed as his forehead remained against hers, their gazes laser-focused only on each other. Her warm breath mixed with his as he couldn't bear the thought of pulling away. A slow smile appeared as he finished with, "But you've got yourself a deal."

The elevator cabin rattled as it always did as it slowly hoisted itself up from the first floor. More than ever it felt like an agonizing crawl to the upper level, as Leon continued holding Tatum in his arms, losing himself in her sheer beauty and presence. Thinking about her during his trip away, of all the things he wanted to say to do, to do with her, couldn't compare to actually having her in the flesh. The urge to tell her the truth about him arose on more than one occasion during this trip, but being as stubborn as he was, he pushed it aside. If there were any eccentricities about Tatum, he added them to her overall charm, just as she probably did with his. The possibility of all of this being ruined, or worse, taken away, because of his not being human was a reality he couldn't fathom. Not that he'd be the type to go to extremes to make sure nobody else could have her attention if she chose to step away from him for whatever reason. To lose her was a path he would not walk along. She already approved of what he chose to reveal to her, why ruin it with the whole truth?

'You're such a douchebag hypocrite,' his inner voice growled.

The elevator came to a stop before Leon could even think about mentally snapping back at his critical thoughts. He lifted his head off of Tatum but kept his arms around her as the doors slid open, revealing his home to her.

"C'mon in," he said, urging her to take the first step forth.

“ That I do, and this time I’m not going to let you break me so easily. “ She teased reaching up to let her fingertips trace along the side of his jawline.  Damn if he wasn’t making this hard on her. She was surprised she even had the willpower to withdraw from the kiss. “ But I promise it’s going to be well worth your wait not that we’re not almost inside as is. “

As he held her there in his arms she placed her head on his shoulder as if they were sharing a silent - nonmoving dance. She felt like she was floating, just being there in his arms after so much time apart. Truth be told - they could remain like this the rest of the night and she would be perfectly content. Leon was far from any other man she’s ever known and tonight she had more than one surprise to drop on him. The thought of letting him in on her secret at some point before she returned home had her glowing. Never had she wanted to share details like that with anyone else .. nor had she trusted anyone enough to want to be one hundred percent honest with them. He had a right to know and it was only fair to the both of them that no secrets be kept between them if this thing between them was going to become serious and permanent - which neither of them seemed to have an issue with.

When the elevator finally dinged it snapped her out of her little daze. The door slid open just as she pulled away from Leon just enough to reach down and collect the purse she had dropped just moments ago. Her fingers curled with his as she stepped inside and took a look around. Why was she not surprised that he was such a neat and organized person - not that it was going to be super neat once she was done? “ I love it. “ She remarked letting go of his hand, inching up onto her toes as she stepped back and away from him.

Reaching into her purse she pulled out a CD and then tossed the purse over onto the sofa. “ Hope being loud won’t be an issue? “ She asked as she walked back over taking his hand only to lead him over into the living room area. After her eyes spotted what she was looking for she turned around and gave him a little shove, just enough to take him off his feet and sit him down on the couch. From there she proceeded over to the stereo and inserted the CD. Her fingers were anything but shy when she rolled up the volume when the beginning tunes to Cradle Of Love began playing. Chocolate brown eyes caught with his as she slowly walked back across the room bridging the gap between the two of them.

Both of Leon's brows rose with enthused interest by the time his butt landed on the couch. Just watching her saunter to his entertainment system was hot. Whatever his imagination played out during his trip out of town was nothing to the real deal he had before him. The excitement grew heavy in his chest, and his palms were on the verge of sweating. If any of the girls from work saw how he was with Tatum, as in really alone with her like this, he'd never hear the end of it. Before she came into his life, he joked and teased, didn't hold back on the sarcasm, and was straightforward with non-conformist ways when it came to the ladies. In a way, there wasn't much that changed about him when he was with Tatum, only he wanted to make her proud to have someone like him in her life. He never had anyone he wanted to better himself for until now.

Bettering himself would mean being honest with her. About everything. There wasn't any sense to avoid it much longer. With her staying here, he vowed at that moment to let her in on his secret. It was simply a matter of how to bring it up. If anyone ever asked about his past, he never hesitated to come up with a lie or skirt around the issue. He couldn't do that with Tatum, not with her meaning so damn much to him. His heritage wasn't a lie he could push aside or even ignore. It was every bit part of him, the good, the bad, and the downright ugly.

When Billy Idol's voice floated in the air in his living room, and she made her approach back to him, he knew he was in for some fun. But the more he stared at her, the more the music faded. It was difficult to focus on anything but her. The vision of her, and everything about her, damn near paralyzed him, a willing victim to whatever she wanted of him.

"Is this where I find out that you're an adult entertainer on the side?" he teased, the eagerness to have her, to simply touch her, grew with every passing second. “I mean...”

It was getting harder to breathe the more he sat there, his hands itching to grab at her. “All the more power to you to get any red hot blooded male you want.”

She must have watched this video at least a hundred times getting all the moves down pat - not that she planned on following it to the T. Shoulders and hips swaying to the beat as she spun around in front of him - kicking off her heels in the process. She made sure to stay just out of his reach as each taunting curve of her body flowed with the rhythm. One hand behind her head, the other hand trailing the curves of her breasts then planting itself at the center of her stomach - knees slightly bending as a few hip thrusts were given. Her eyes fell on his only to smile seeing very clearly how much he was enjoying his little show.

Her hand lifting, index finger shaking in front of her as if telling him touching was not permitted. Shedding herself out of the jacket she was wearing her hand flung out to send it landing in Leon’s lap. With a turn of her head, her eyes snapped to the fridge - lips now pursuing together as she sauntered over and whipped open the door. Inside she grabbed two bottles of beer and slowly made her way back to him. After handing one bottle over to him she popped the top of hers and took a good long drink while her hips continued to gyrate.

“ There’s only one red hot-blooded male I desire. “ She remarked kicking her head back and then sitting her beer on the counter.

Whipping back around she untied the bottom of her shirt - slid it off and tossed it at him as well. The music slowed to a mellow beat as she stood in front of the window blind running her fingertips up and down them. Her slim body now in just her black shorts and vermilion red bra - lipping the words “   These are the wages of love, Rock the cradle of love, These are the wages of love, Ooh yeah, Rock the cradle, Yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah, oww !! “ The last little bit she lifted a leg doing the air guitar.

Her body quickly whipped around, her index finger giving the little come here gesture as she wandered through the halls looking for his bedroom and when she found it she pushed open the door and seductively crawled her way up and across the bed collecting his pillow in her arms. All the while her eyes stayed planted on his.

Leon sucked in a breath and held it as soon as Tatum started moving. His eyes widened when her heels went flying, leaving her feet bare, and her shapely hips swiveling to the beat of the song. Restraint was the name of the game as he goddamned forced himself to behave and not touch. His eyes followed every move she made. There was so much to see. Time seemed to slow down AROUND him, even as she moved about seductively IN FRONT of him in normal time. Even when her jacket landed on him, oh, he dared NOT lift a finger, though it did wonders to help hide the growing arousal in his pants. God, was it agony in every sense of the word to not just say "screw it" and leap off the couch--but his will was strong enough to remind him, "What would she do next?"

Then came the beer out of the fridge! He'd forgotten all about those bad boys stored away before he left for his trip. Now he was extremely pleased to have done so because Tatum was using her seductive powers to make him freaking JEALOUS of the attention she was given a damn bottle.

"You're an angel," he whispered as he was "allowed" to lift his hand from underneath the jacket and accept the offer, his eyes never leaving the movement of her hips.

Then after she made her lustful remark, she was out of reach once again, only this time she moved to the counter. His lips were dry because he was unable to focus on his beverage. It'd be criminal as hell to think about anything but what was happening before him.

The true inner workings of this delicious torture began, as he watched her untie her shirt from the bottom up. Laser-focused as ever, he leaned forward as she now stood before him in a sexy little number that was practically second skin to her. His jaw dropped, and he almost forgot to breathe. The grip over his beer loosened, and it fell to the floor. Even as its contents soaked into the carpet, he didn't give it a second thought, as he was entranced with the dancing number Tatum did in front of one of the huge windows. To think, if anybody was outside in the parking lot, and it was daytime? Someone would get a free adult-rated show--but screw that! This was HIS private show! One that he was NOT sharing!

No stripper he'd ever seen could even compare to what Tatum was doing for him, and it wasn't because he was already enamored with her. It went beyond just looks... but right now, it was another part of his body that was doing the thinking for him, and it was raging hard behind his pants.

As soon as she made that infamous "come here" gesture, he was off the couch and tracking her like a hungry animal. No need to close the door, as it was his home, and he had her all to himself. The way she was laying and writhing in his bed, hugging his pillow, was too much. His clothes were painfully too tight, and he practically tore at the fabric until it was left in disarray on the floor.

"Lady," he whispered as he crawled onto his bed and, on his hands and knees, made his way over to her, full of lust and desire. "You are out of this world."

The second he was able to touch her, he fell beside her, only to lower the pillow from her arms, and bring his lips crashing down upon her. Instantly he laid his hands all over her warm flesh, eager to let them roam wherever they pleased as if it was the first time mapping out her body.

"I missed you so much," he breathed between frantic, desperate kisses.

Watching the way he so eagerly stripped mixed with the way he crawled onto the bed and hovered over top of her and claimed her lips made wanting to push him away so damn hard. With each passing second became harder and harder for her to resist giving in to temptation. There was a burn within her that she couldn’t place her finger on — it wasn't like anything she’d felt before.

Deeply she breathed and groaned in between each heated kiss. She craved every bit of contact that he provided. Suddenly each move she made was being guided by that animalistic need to be one with the man she loved - the man she craved. Desire burning at the very center of her core.

Who was being tortured more in this situation … Him or herself?

Before she could even catch herself her hands and legs began to move, her body shifting until she flipped them in the bed .. his back was now firmly planted on the bed as she hovered above him. “ Penalty, for touching too soon! You broke the rules … ” She breathed out heavily against his lips before kissing them once more.

As painfully hard as it was to pull herself away from him  — she did just that. She was on her knees and then on her feet. Each foot was on either side of his body as she slung her head around now picking up the beat of the song once more. Her hips rocked as her fingers worked the clasp of her bra .. a little tease was given as she slowly allowed it to fall from her curves to be discarded over his face.

Unknowing to her normal chocolate eyes began to glow with an animalist amber tone to them.

A heavy groan of disappointment escaped him. Too good to be true, yet there was so much more to come. He knew it, but he was an impatient S.O.B. He was greedy to a fault, and he knew he could use more restraint in general... but damn, if that wasn't a fun way to get "punished!"

As soon as she pulled away, he sat up on his elbows and watched her work more of her magic. The music in the background was noticeable once more as she danced and moved her body, rocking it like she was a natural dancer. With heavy-lidded desire, he watched as her bra was stripped off, only for it to cover his sights momentarily. He couldn't resist inhaling her scent, her sweet smell which lingered on the delicate fabric. It was only when he peeled the bra off one eye did he notice... well... HER eyes.

Whoa, wait a minute. Didn't she have brown eyes? Yeah, like the Van Morrison song that reminded him of her: "Brown Eyed Girl."

But the throbbing ache between his legs forced him to focus on the rest of that hot little number. He'd drive himself crazy thinking about anything that should've otherwise been considered amiss. He already had to spend time away from Tatum, so the last thing he wanted was something "minor" like freaky eye colors. If anything was to be freaky, it'd be the two of them getting it on!

"C'mere, baby!" he pleaded as he struggled with the idea of giving himself a bit of release. No, he wanted to leave THAT to her. "You're killin' me here! Talk about the best way possible, though!"

The more she danced the more impatient she became. Her body felt as if it were burning from the inside out.  Thankfully the place was kept cool otherwise she would be drenched in sweat. The more she looked down at his body the more she craved him — wanted him. Her tongue swept across her lips practically being able to taste his flesh. 

She could remember their first time together — how badly she had wanted him but it was nothing compared to the way she wanted him this very moment. One would have thought that first time would have been enough to tame that craving but what did she know considering Leon was the first man she’s ever slept with?

She opened her mouth to respond to his plea only to notice a sensitivity in her gums. It was an uncomfortable feeling  — almost like something was stuck in them. It couldn’t be her canines, there wasn’t a full moon out and nothing had triggered her anger to spark her wolf genes forth.

Perhaps she should just give in to his pleas, finally satisfy and put to rest the torment they both were clearly in.

Her knees finally buckled as she lowered down on top of him. Her tongue trailed a long line up the center of his chest, lips bestowing feather-light kisses. Over his collarbone, her tongue traveled until lips settled over the soft flesh just at the cove of his neck. A deep groan rumbled inside her chest.

She had a hunger like never before  — amber eyes shining brighter than ever as long extended fangs began to penetrate her gum line.

Certain parts of his body throbbed, almost to the point of pain, because having to wait so long to touch her again was bringing on the agony. The absolute LAST thing he wanted to do was bust a nut before he could get anywhere inside her! He might as well die in this very bedroom if that ever happened.

But then he noticed the subtle changes in her movements. Call it hunter's intuition, but he sensed something "off." Not in a way that would completely derail the overall sensations that continued to make him long for the hot chick he had in his bedroom.

"Tatum--" he called out to her, but before he knew it, she was on top of him and practically at her mercy. Whatever willpower he had was gone when she graced him with kisses on his body. In response, he arched to her touch, and his eyes fluttered shut. Was she still "off limits" for touching? The last thing he wanted to do was prolong the real fun. He wasn't sure he could stand any more teasing. What was left for her to do to him?

"Baby, you've gotta be hungry," he groaned as he shoved his hands underneath his pillow and grabbed it with his fingers until he formed tight fists. Maybe she was going to ride him? Put an end to both of their sufferings? Hell, he was up for her taking the lead if she wanted. After all, he was the dumbass who denied her meeting, to begin with.

With his eyes remaining closed, he took a breath and rumbled, "Go ahead... take control, Captain."

“ Hungry for you. “ That was all the response she could come up with. Her hand moved up around his head where fingers took up a claim in his hair  — perhaps a little tighter than she intended. But she could hear the sound of his heart pounding in her ears  — could feel the blood pumping through his veins against her lips.

When he told her to take control something happened to her that she couldn’t explain. Her head drew back and before she knew what she was doing fangs sunk into the flesh of his neck. Her legs tightened around him the moment his blood touched her lips — utter ambrosia greeting her tongue causing her to growl deeply.  The blood sealed the connection between them, all lingering thoughts and feelings suddenly heightened by a blood connection. 

Those bright amber eyes now look very animalistic.  All she could think about was the taste of his blood, and how blissful it felt. It took several long moments before she recognized his body struggling underneath her and everything came crashing back to her. Oh god, what was she doing?

Quickly she drew back from Leon’s neck   — forcing herself to push away from him. Her hand covered her mouth as she quickly moved to the end of the bed. She knew she was a hybrid, werewolf, and vampire mixed but never had her vampire side displayed itself. Whatever just happened, it terrified her.

“ Oh god! I’m so sorry .. “ Her eyes swelled up with tears as she glanced at him seeing the blood on his neck. “ I never meant to hurt you, you’re the last person in the world I’d ever want to hurt.  I need to go …..“ She pushed away from the bed frantically looking for her top.

Like a viper, she struck, and he fell for the easiest, oldest trick in the book when it came to being lured in by a... vampire!?

Tatum was a vampire?! No! The daywalker variety? Since she was out and about during the day? How could he have not seen it coming? Never once did he consider that she was anything of the undead variety kind. All these frantic thoughts swam through his mind as the pressure in his neck grew tighter. His heart beat faster and faster, and blood thundered in his ears.

Then suddenly... he heard other thoughts, ones not by him. These were fueled by fierce HUNGER, lust, absolute need... desire, pleasure--FEAR!

It didn’t register to him that he was struggling to get her off of him. That was when his need to survive kicked into overdrive, and that was when thoughts of regret smashed into him.

Just as he was prepared to use his strength against her, she was off of him in a flash, and now at the end of the bed covering her mouth with a look of horror. Teary eyes stared at his neck, and without daring to shift his gaze away from her, his hands were brought to his throat.

Blood. Fingertips then danced along the deep puncture marks she'd made.

He wanted to say "vampire," but the tears flowed freely from Tatum's eyes, and she expressed regret. Not only could he see how horrible she felt, but he could also somehow feel it, feel how sincere she was. How scared shitless she was for having done what she did. This wasn't planned... but then again, when was she going to tell him she was a vampire?!

Carefully, Leon slid to the side of the bed to where his clothes were on the floor, now in full hunter alert mode.

"Don't move," he told her in a low voice as he grabbed his boxers and used one hand to slip into them. As soon as he was able to stand once more, only with his waist covered, he removed his hand from his neck to reveal the holes were already gone, and his skin healed. He had no idea that what was done went far, FAR deep into his very soul, where a mental and emotional bridge was formed, thanks to Tatum.

The time to tell each other the truth came a lot quicker than either of them anticipated.

"Safe to say... we need to talk," he said, now taking deep and steady breaths.

Even after he told her not to move she couldn’t stand still. Her tie-up shirt was quickly located and slipped on. For the first time, her vampire side had come out and she wasn’t able to stop it. His blood was different — it didn’t taste like any human blood she’d ever tasted, even as she stood there, she wanted more.

Her dhampir father had been able to resist such temptations his entire life and she broke the very first time. She wasn’t prepared for this … What would her parents say? Was the going to call the police because she attacked him? A million questions blew through her mind  — only adding to the fear that was already tearing through her.

Everything was ruined all because she couldn’t control her impulses.

After what she had just done to him she couldn’t even bear to look at him. The idea of him looking at her like she was a monster  — she would never recover from that. Almost instantly she patted her shorts looking for her phone, only to realize she had no pockets. Her cell phone was in her purse. Where had she tossed it? She needed to call her father, he would know what to do.

Finally, she located her purse and dug inside looking for both her phone and keys. She knew Leon was still hot on her trail when she heard him say they needed to talk.

“ You don’t understand, I have to leave. I can’t control it. I don’t want to hurt you. “ She finally turned around to face him. Her eyes zoned straight to his neck where she had bit him. Even more, confusion hit her like a ton of bricks when she saw nothing but blood. There were no bite marks on his neck.

Now on top of everything else she was losing her mind.

Holding out her hand she begged him. “ Please stop, stay there because I have no idea what’s happening. “ Flipping open her phone she started to dial her father's number only to remember both her parents were out of town. Her grandfather was the only option she had left …

Not good. This was not good. Tatum was freaked out. Hell, he was freaked out, but he was trying to get some leverage over the situation. But her reaction was extreme--

'Why wouldn't it be, genius?' he thought to himself. 'She wasn't expecting this! Wait, how did I know that? I didn't! Did I?'

Second guessing sometimes meant life or death. In this case, it could lead to a complete breakdown of a relationship before it goes anywhere. Completely grounded to a halt, all due to a pair of fangs--not on his watch.

"Tatum, it's going to be okay," Leon insisted as she frantically clothed herself. Meanwhile, he threw on his clothes haphazardly. "C’mon! Don't go!"

He hated seeing her so upset and so confused. He initially freaked out, sure, only because this completely blindsided him. He was a hunter, and while still young in the grand scheme of things, he'd seen some wild shit with his own eyes. Tatum sprouting fangs--she hadn’t given him any indication whatsoever--

‘No, hold up.’

Her eyes! They changed color not too long ago... but before that? Absolutely nothing. Did her little cousin know she was a vampire? Maybe he was one too?

"Don’t leave!" he urged, but stopped when she turned to face him. He didn't want to scare her off any more than he had with his reaction, but then he held his breath when she stared at his neck.

Crap! He didn't even think about his self-healing. It wasn't every day his kind were bitten by vampires, but regardless, it was an attack on his body, and his body did what it naturally did, and the wound was quickly healed.

His heart then broke when she pleaded with him to stop. Even when she took out her phone, he restrained himself. Who was she calling? The police?

+++

Peter poured himself some brandy by the warm, crackling fire in the fireplace when his cell phone rang. With a heavy sigh, he set the bottle down on the side table and picked up his phone. He quirked an eyebrow when he read the caller ID.

Interesting. Tatum never really called him. To be fair, he wasn't anyone many reached out to unless it was absolutely dire.

He pressed the answer button, and before he could even utter a word, Tatum was talking a mile a minute. Despite the sheer panic in her tone, he listened to what happened, and was rather shocked, simply because the poor girl didn't comprehend what she’d done until it was too late.

 Why in the hell didn't her parents teach her the basics of vampire bonding when she was younger? It didn't matter if she was only part vampire; Tatum still had vampire blood in her, therefore, a bonding was certainly capable of happening.

As soon as Peter sensed a break in Tatum's explanation, he spoke up.

"I may not be the one you intended to call, but I might as well be the one to properly educate you. Who better than the alpha himself?" He couldn't help but grin. "Text me your location, and I'll meet you. Let's not waste any time."

He hung up before she could agree, and when he rose from his seat, he saw Gunner standing beside him. It would've startled him, had the werewolf not given off his scent mere moments before his appearance.

"I'm going with you," Gunner insisted, then added, “I was just passing by outside when I overheard the conversation.”

Peter scoffed. "Why? You're not a vampire."

"Peter, she meant to call me! Besides, I was in her position. The girl's a werewolf through my blood. She needs to know how it affected someone like me. Don’t forget that it was your daughter who bonded with me."

"Oh yes, how could I forget that you were the 'chosen one' for her?" Peter sighed, but though it sounded like he was mocking his son-in-law, he was being quite serious. Sonya went through literal hell and back, and survived the abusive torment of ex-lovers to get where she was today: for once, happy. A part of that was due to this werewolf, Gunner, at her side. Peter didn't like many people, let alone werewolves, but Gunner earned his way as someone he'd admit to respecting.

"Very well," Peter decided as he proceeded to walk off, knowing Gunner would follow. "If Tatum's going to have a proper 'talk' about vampire sexual education, who better than with her two fossilized grandfathers?"

+++

“ I just attacked you. There’s nothing okay about that. “

She shook her head. The tone of his voice told her that he was trying to calm the situation but what he didn’t know was how much she was fighting not to do it again. She could still taste his blood on her lips and in her mouth   —  making it so much harder to resist.

She positioned herself on the other side of the sofa to keep some distance between them. “ I have to go. I could hurt you again .. or worse. “ She bit back on the thought because she just couldn’t imagine.

Also, she was struggling with herself trying to figure out why his blood tasted so differently. There was something to it   — and it wasn’t just because of her attraction to him .. she just couldn’t figure it out. But now seeing his healed neck? She knew she wasn’t the only one who had been hiding something about themselves.

 She’s always been the picture-perfect reflection of self-control, but right now, that was the last thing she had.

Her phone shook in her hand as she listened to Peter on the other side. While she may have dialed the unintended grandfather   — he was just as good if not better. As he said, he was a vampire and he would know what was happening to her.

All the while she kept her eyes trained on Leon to make sure he didn’t come any closer. It wasn’t that she DIDN’T want him near .. it was because she was terrified of what she might due if she smelled his blood again. What blood had been on his neck and chest was now staining the shirt he placed on.

There was silence on the other end of the phone when Peter finally hung up. Her fingers quickly texted her location but suddenly she stopped seconds before hitting the send button. She couldn’t explain the sudden calm that radiated through her. Thoughts that weren’t her own playing inside her head. How was that even a thing? Now she was going crazy —   she could swear she heard Leon talking inside her head.

“ No, I’m not calling the police! “ She insisted … answering a question that wasn’t even asked to her. Her mouth opens to speak but only a breath of air is taken in. Without even realizing it her fingers gripped her phone and hit the send button on her message.

“ I don’t know what’s happening. “ Her head shook as the phone just dropped from her hand and landed on the sofa in front of her. “ I wanted to tell you about me but I was scared. “ She admitted honestly. “ I’m a Hybrid. Werewolf and Vampire. Until tonight I’ve always had perfect control because my vampire side has never shown. “ A tear pooled out of her eyes. “ I bit you. I have your blood all over my mouth, it’s all over your shirt but your neck isn’t even injured .. “ Fingers coil the back of the sofa with nails almost clawing into the fabric. “ Your voice is inside my head and it won’t stop. I can feel you inside me, Leon. How is any of this going to be okay? But my grandfather might be able to help .. “

Leon could only stand there dumbfounded by the reveal. A vampire-werewolf hybrid? Those existed?! He'd heard of dhampirs, half-human, and half-vampire creatures, but a vampire and werewolf combo was a first for him. He was young in the grand scheme of things, and he still had plenty of time to explore the world and discover other creatures and cryptids that "shouldn't exist," but what were the odds of the girl he was dating just so happened to belong in one of those categories?

Seeing her frightened beyond belief, pained him like a sucker punch to the gut, more so when she didn't want him any closer, in fear of hurting him. She was afraid of what she might do to him. That ever-rising anxiety from her made his own throat tighten uncomfortably.

"We'll... get through this... together," he insisted, slowly, struggling to even make the words come out. Tatum was truly terrified. He was doing his best to remain calm, even if he was internally freaking out and confused as well--he just hid it better.

And grandfather... How the heck would an old man be of help to either of them? Was it her relative Grandma Munster or something? Or the Wolfman?

There was a shift in the atmosphere, almost like a chill breeze that somehow snuck into the room, and now standing before Tatum were not one, but two strangers. One was a tall, thin, pale blond guy who looked to be around Tatum and Leon's age, wearing a simple shirt, windbreaker, and slacks. The other looked like a gray-haired road warrior biker dude who'd seen some crazy stuff during his travels. Leon's jaw dropped. How did these guys get into his loft?! The only possible way was either through the elevator, which clearly would've been heard being operated, or the emergency fire escape ladder to the side of the building.

The blond immediately took off the jacket he wore and draped it over Tatum's shoulders, where he quietly spoke to her for a few moments. The biker dude stood close to Tatum but was staring holes at Leon as if silently daring him to make one wrong move. Yeah, if looks could kill for sure, Leon though. The blond gave Tatum one last glance before turning his focus to Leon.

"You're not human," he said in one of those typical posh, British accents Leon would hear from the BBC network.

Again, Leon was taken aback. How the hell--?!

"Our granddaughter has informed us of the little incident that took place. Now, let's not hold back on any secrets, shall we? If Tatum wasn't so deeply affected by her first blood link, I'm sure she would've already discovered your true identity, so the floor is yours."

This kid... was Tatum’s grandfather?! And wait, “our” granddaughter? Leon's gaze danced back and forth between Blondie and Biker Dude. Huh, he didn't Tatum's grandfathers were like THAT. Hey, whatever floated their boats, but Blondie had a point. Time to spill the beans.

Rubbing the area of his neck where Tatum bit him, Leon sighed before making his declaration. "I'm a skin-walker. I know I don't look it, but I've got Navajo blood through my mom, who was also part Navajo. We're like a combo of witches, medicine men, and shape-shifters. Harry Potter kinda got it wrong about us being 'wizards.'" Even he couldn't resist snickering at that, knowing that the author received a huge backlash from his people back when that story first came out. He went on to say, "Tatum bit me, but the magic through my mom's side of the family got me to heal up real quick."

Pointing to his face, he added, "What you see here? It's not the real me. My true form ain't pretty, and I don't usually change unless it's... bad."

Like Sacramento's job is bad. He didn't want that to happen again any time soon.

Despite how calm he tried to appear on the outside she could feel how uncomfortable he was and it was all because of HER. Everything they had together she ruined because her stupid vampire side decided to appear NOW of all times. Why now? Why not the first time they had been together?

Her head could only shake cause of how deeply she felt his struggle to say they would get through this. But then his voice was inside her head again.

“ Did you just call my grandfather, Grandma Munster? “ She asked with narrowing eyes. Wait … how did she know that? How did she hear that? It was official, she was losing her mind. Desperately she tried to scramble for her phone that had dropped out of her hand but she didn’t know where it had landed.

About the time she bent over the sofa to look for it, she felt the shift in the air. Quickly she was standing back up not only seeing one of her grandfathers but both of them.

She listened as Peter spoke to her and covered her in his jacket. It only took her a few quick moments to pop her arms through the shelves to wear it properly and to cover her a little better. As Peter walked away from her she went to her other grandfather and wrapped an arm around him. Her other hand plucked his handkerchief from his pocket. She used it to clean as much of Leon’s blood from her mouth as she could. But her grip on Gunner’s side was almost a death grip at this point.

When Peter started talking to Leon her eyes diverted to them. His not being human was something she picked up on the moment his neck had healed from her bite .. but what he was? She didn’t know.

“ Jesus, Leon. It’s not like that with them. “ She snapped again .. god there it was again. This time she let go of Gunner’s side so she could clasp her hands over her mouth.

But she forced herself to look at Leon as he began to explain who and what he was to them. Skin-Walker … a deep breath exhaled from her lips. Magic, Medicine Men, Shape-Shifter … what did all of that even mean? But honestly, it didn’t sound all that bad. It could be a lot worse.

He could have been some soul-sucking demon who just wanted to suck the life out of her. Not that what she had done to him only moments ago was much better.

Whatever he was wasn’t important to her, she could accept him for whatever he was. It was him that she loved .. the man she spent so much time with and thought of almost every waking moment. The thought of him hating her forever  … almost caused her to break down again. But something caught her, something that Peter said moments ago.

“ What do you mean by blood link? I’m freaking out here guys because I can hear his thoughts in my head. I can FEEL what he’s feeling. How is that possible? I only bit him and I didn’t even mean to  .. “

"Oh, but you meant to do something," Peter countered amicably. "You simply allowed your feelings for this boy to steer your instincts."

Leon gave the blond an incredulous look. Who was this KID calling HIM a "boy?" It wasn't enough to have Tatum know what he was thinking, and then broadcast it out loud in front of her two grandpas. He wasn’t mad, just confused, and still reeling from everything that happened. As luck would have it, the two newcomers were either forgiving or didn't see him as much (yet) to react to his judgments. The biker guy was still holding Tatum, letting her lean on him, and comforting her. Like family should in their time of need. Leon wasn't too sure what such sentiments were like, as it was a rather alien concept to him. Growing up in a house divided, with parents constantly arguing, and a twin brother who hated his existence to the point where he--

Ah, crap! No, nope. Full stop. Tatum didn't need to see that mess. Not yet, anyway. She was already freaked out enough, so she didn't need to deal with his screwed-up issues from the past.

"Better work on respecting each other's privacy then," Peter suggested as he took note of the wounded looks both Tatum and Leon wore respectively, suspecting what was already playing out in their minds. "You see, what Tatum has done is trigger her vampire genes through blood linking. Bonding, linking, whatever you wish to call it, it's a connection established between a vampire and its chosen one. I'd say 'soulmate,' but that's rather clichéd and predictable. It could be between two vampires, a vampire, and a human, and apparently, a vampire and her skin-walker. Perhaps it was luck that you were not human when this happened, because there have been cases where a vampire has good intentions with wanting to bond with their human, but winds up accidentally killing them instead."

The biker spoke up for the first time since he appeared. "You're Leon?"

A slight nod was given. "Yes, sir."

"I'm Gunner. That there's my father-in-law, Peter."

Leon blinked slowly. Wait, the kid was the older one? At this point, he wouldn’t be surprised if Peter was much older.

"So... I'm guessing..." Leon pointed to Gunner. "You're married to Peter's daughter, and she's a... vampire?"

As Gunner gently coaxed Tatum to sit on the sofa, where he joined her, not wanting to leave her side, he replied, "Yeah, and that daughter marked me, a werewolf. Takes a while to get used to, but now that you're bonded, you guys are gonna experience times when you might feel a certain way, or even experience some kind of pain, and it won't be because of you, but because of your partner."

Leon swallowed. Now, more than ever, he HAD to be careful if he ever took on other jobs. He could get hurt, and it'd wind up hurting Tatum. The absolute last thing he wanted to do was see her harmed because of his actions.

"You guys must be pretty serious," Gunner noted, his eyes twinkling as he gazed upon his granddaughter with fondness.

“ Of course, I meant to do something. It’s not like this was the fir …. But I didn’t mean to do that! “ She cut herself off before finishing that second thought but they were all adults, no need to lie about it. Not like it wasn’t easy to figure out seeing her standing there half-dressed when they arrived.

It wasn’t often she had THIS kind of conversation with her grandparents. Granted Peter was a little rougher around the edges but she knew there wasn’t anything she couldn’t go to them about. And like anyone, there were just some things you didn’t feel comfortable talking about directly to parents. But that was the kind of relationship within her family  — there was always someone to turn to in a time of need and right now she needed them to help her understand what was going on. Her head turned back to Leon when once more she began hearing his thoughts, but there was a sudden shut-off and everything went silent again. But right now, she wasn’t about to question it when there were other things they needed to know first and foremost.

“ His blood didn’t taste like anything I’ve ever tasted and I wanted more. I almost couldn’t stop myself until I heard the fear in his thoughts. “ She admitted honestly. But what did that mean? Her making a bonded connection with him? Did that mean they would always hear what each other was thinking? She has to give Peter create for trying but honestly, he wasn’t helping her understand all this. The only thing she really could even relate to was the whole soulmate remark because, to her, Leon was just that.

Still leaning against her grandfather she rubbed her hands while he spoke directly to Leon. Just listening to their exchange until Gunner had her sit on the sofa. At least they got the whole they weren’t TOGETHER, TOGETHER part figured out and cleared up.

Looking at Gunner she squeezed his hand a bit. “ What do you mean to feel a certain way or feel pain? “ There was a questioning look in her eyes just before she added. “ So if we’re bonded as Peter said, that means we can feel what each other is feeling? Hear what each other is thinking. But Peter said something about working on the privacy thing. So there’s a way to make it stop or at least quieten it down? “

It’s not like there was anything else she had to find from him   — he pretty well knew it all now. But at the same time, she was smart enough to know most people weren’t too keen on having their privacy evaded. The last thing she wanted to do was make this any more of a bigger mess than she already had.

At least for now the lusting for his blood had settled which made her less of a train wreck.

Hearing Gunner’s question she nodded her head and then shifted her head to look at Leon. “ There’s no one else I’d want to share my life with. “ Even after learning he was a Skin-Walker, even knowing there was still more to his story she couldn’t change the way she felt about him.  “ I love him. “ And she wanted to be looking at him when she said those things so he knew that she meant them.

As soon as Tatum admitted this wasn't her first rodeo with Leon, Gunner knew she had yet to tell her parents about how serious this relationship was. Zoe would have a heart attack, and Colin - as good as he was wearing that stone-faced mask - would be equally freaked out on the inside. Their little girl was grown up and capable of making her own grown-up decisions, whether her parents approved or not. If anything, Gunner thought, they should be pleased she didn't just run off with Leon to Vegas and get eloped.

"Can't say I ever imagined drinking anything but human blood," Peter admitted. The mere thought of it made him wrinkle his nose in disgust. "However, what's done is done. Once you better understand one another, you'll figure out ways to grant one another privacy."

By now, Leon was sitting on a couch across from Tatum and Gunner. He was still trying to process this major big deal, and the words of wisdom imposed on him by this kid who was Tatum's grandpa. A vampire right here in his home, and he didn't even need an invitation - just appeared out of thin air. He must be some ancient type, or one who knew magic to bend to his will. Then there was her OTHER grandpa, a werewolf. It was almost unbelievable, but it also, somehow, made sense to him. With everything that happened since the moment they met, Leon couldn't think about wanting to be involved in anything of this magnitude unless it was with Tatum. Never once was she weirded out by his looks or his mannerisms. She was the best thing to ever happen to him. From the moment she walked into the sandwich shop, his life changed all for the better. And while she had yet to see what was REALLY behind the punk rock wrapping paper, she'd seen inside his head, much like he had in hers. He wanted to believe she wouldn't be freaked out if and when he revealed his true appearance to her... someday.

As soon as the words "I love you," were heard, there was no hesitation in him to respond.

Meeting her gaze, he said, "I’ll keep on lovin’ you right back."

Peter glanced about the loft, seemingly wanting to sit down, but finding nothing that he wanted to physically touch. The skin-walker boy’s taste was hideous. Gunner couldn't resist laughing at the alpha vampire's obvious discomfort. After kissing Tatum on the temple, he carefully stood from his seat but didn't leave her side just yet.

"You think you guys’ll be okay if we leave you?" he asked her, then glanced over at Leon. If Tatum was happy, then he was happy. While he wanted to get to know the skin-walker better, there would be other days for such an opportunity; preferably when everyone wore more clothing.

Her parents weren’t a topic she wanted to think a lot about right now. She knew it was something that couldn’t be avoided forever and undoubtedly they would both freak out when they learned about everything that’s happened   —   mostly the events of this night. It was hard enough for her to involve her grandfathers, but strangely it was easier going to them for help than it would be her parents. There were just some topics and conversations you didn’t want to have with your parents and this was certainly one of those. Thankfully for now they were still out of town.

“ So in other words you’re saying it’s a good idea we spend more time together so we can figure out how this hearing the other person works? “ Not that she had any problem with that since the urge to drink more of his blood had subsided. But the question was … did he want her to stay after she had attacked him?

There was still so much she wanted to talk to Leon about — she wanted to explain her reasoning in not telling him sooner about what she was, explain that it wasn’t because she didn’t trust him but more that she was waiting for the right time. And while tonight was supposed to have been that right time, this wasn’t exactly how she had wanted it to happen. Despite both of them having their secrets, they were still the same two people who had fallen head over heels for one another. Something like this shouldn’t change that   — when you loved someone it was for everything they were, the good and the bad. Every part of her life had changed from the moment their eyes met and she couldn’t imagine not having him around any longer. Honestly, that would be a fate worse than death.

Hearing him say that he still loved her and would keep on loving her, despite everything that happened — she couldn’t help but smile just a little. Her aching heart not feeling as broken as it did just moments ago.

She pats Gunner’s knee when he kisses her temple and stands. She followed suit and stood from where she was sitting to stand alongside him. As she glanced over at Peter, he looked like a wreck and almost appeared as if he was more than ready to make his exit. He never liked to stick around in one place for too long.

Hearing Gunner’s question she glanced over to Leon and then back up to Gunner. “ Yeah, I think we’re going to be okay now. If something happens, it’s not like I don’t have your number. “ She admitted knowing that he was only a phone call away should they need him to come back. And now that he knew exactly where Leon lived it wouldn’t take half the time for him to make it back to them. “ And thank you for coming. When Mom and Dad get back from their trip I might wanna borrow you again. “ She gave him a little nudge with her elbow.

It was no secret that Gunner did more for his grandchildren than he ever did for his daughters, but he tried to make up for lost time without coming off as forceful. Safe to say, his grandkids adored him, and he'd readily lay his life on the line for both Tatum and Luke. Tatum's next step in this relationship involving the parents wasn't going to be as smooth as what took place today. But for now, Gunner wanted Tatum to take it easy with her new... friend.

"You got it, soldier," he said affectionately before giving her a parting kiss on the temple. With a nod of acknowledgment to Leon, he motioned to Peter. "C'mon, let's take the elevator. We can get some air and see what's lurking around these parts."

Peter narrowed his eyes as he followed the werewolf to the exit. "I can smell the city dump not too far from here, so I can already tell you the quality of the blood won't exactly be a 5-star Michelin rating."

Gunner barked with laughter as the two males saw their way out in the more traditional manner, as opposed to how they unconventionally appeared earlier. Once the sound of their voices faded, it was only Tatum and Leon once more.

"WHEW!" Leon blurted out as his eyebrows rose to his hairline. It was like someone punched him in the gut, and there was little air left in his lungs, but there was no pain, only an expression of shock. He couldn’t believe what just happened. In his loft. With her. With her grandparents. With him.

'With us,' he thought fondly. Bringing his hands up, he ran his fingers along his scalp, and already his hair was starting to grow back. By morning, it would be long enough to dye and style to his liking. The noticeable holes about his face where his piercings normally would go were visible once more. Being non-human meant a quicker recovery bout. The two of them had more to reveal about one another, but for now, he wanted to make sure Tatum was alright.

"Wanna talk?" he offered. "I could make you something to eat."

If she wanted breakfast, lunch, and dinner in bed, he'd do all of that in a heartbeat. The word "love" echoed in his mind, and knowing that she said it without remorse and that HE was able to say it with as much honesty, was astonishing. Here he was, a food prep employee at a sandwich shop who worked as an "exterminator" on the side, was given a chance at real, unconditional love with someone who was like him: different. He didn't have to pretend to be anything but himself.

What in the hell did he ever do to deserve Tatum Bryce?

It was always said that children have special bonds with their grandparents and there was no exception to this case. She ADORED her grandfathers and her grandmother ─ despite the rocky past, they shared with her mother. That was A LONG TIME AGO and the here and now proved that people COULD CHANGE when they wanted to. Some people had the strength and will to overcome their pasts when others didn’t. She was thankful her family was among the few who had that strength and determination despite the odds. The day would come, now probably sooner than later when she’d be able to introduce Leon to her entire family and since the cat was out of the bag about both of them now ─ she honestly couldn’t wait.

After the affectionate kiss to her temple, she playfully gave Gunner a nudge to the ribs. “ Thanks for coming and having my back like always. “ A genuine smile gave before it turned into a playful one ─ followed by another nudge. “ Stay cool ole man. “

She could only shake her head hearing Peter’s response to Gunner. “ And some people never change. One of the things I love most about you Peter. Also, thank you as well for coming along. It means a lot to me. “ She flashed him a smile but didn’t move to offer the affectionate hug she gave Gunner. Simply because she knew how UNCOMFORTABLE it would make him since he wasn’t the affectionate kind. But that didn’t mean they didn’t share their moments. Just like now, this single action of his coming here proved how much he cared, despite what he’d like people to think.

And then it was the two of them alone in the loft once more. She fully understood his reaction because likewise, she had also felt the IMPACT of this night. Certainly, not the way she had planned it all out inside her head. But one thing she held on to was the fact that after everything that happened, after everything they had revealed to each other ─ neither of them went running for the door.

That single thing made her realize they were just meant to be. Not even their DARKEST DEEPEST SECRETS were enough to run the other off.

“ You don’t have to cook anything unless you’re hungry. I sorta think I already had my fill for the night. “ She teased a little humor despite the gravity of the fact that she was within inches of draining the man she loved just a while ago. “ But yeah, we should probably talk. I’m sure you’ve got a lot of questions, as do I. Now that the cat is out of the bag, I didn’t see any more reason for secrets. "

She meant every word she spoke earlier when she told Leon and her grandfathers that she loved him. After spending so much time with him and getting to know him the way she had, and now learning he was different like her … she couldn’t imagine life without him. While she knew her parents would both have heart attacks, in the end, she knew they would accept him just as she had ─ simply because of how happy he made her.

For the first time since she freaked out she was composed enough to move over to where he was standing. A hand lifted so that her fingers could glide through the top of his hair that had already started growing back. “ Can’t decide which way I like better. This or the carefree punk rocker I first met. Maybe I’m just lucky that I can have both. “

“ And just for the record, I think I’m the lucky one here. “

A warm smile stretched across Leon’s lips. Despite the number of times he spent with Tatum, he still wasn’t used to the mushy stuff. Not that it bothered him; after all, he used to tease Terra about why she never gave him a chance, until he caught on to how MANIPULATIVE she could be. He was already used to that kind of behavior from the folks back home. Not too eager to get into that atmosphere again. Finding his first sense of “home” with Tatum, and adding this new bond she opened up between them, was another learning curve for him, along with being more open with his feelings - sarcasm aside. His often brash thoughts would be open to her now more than ever, leaving almost nothing untouched.

“Guess now you can see I’m not Charles Manson in disguise,” he joked about their newly formed relationship. A part of him wanted to sink back into bed with Tatum, but there were too many things to talk about between them to simply sleep it off, or even attempt more sex. Well, maybe LATER they could try again… but not right now. “Hoping I leave SOME surprises for ya in the future. But hang tight here. I’m gonna grab something.”

He gave her a peck on the lips that left his lips tingling for more of her taste and urged her to sit down before he ventured back into the bedroom. After rummaging through his closet, he emerged once more wearing a graphic T-shirt that read, “My Other Shirt is at your Mom’s House.” On one hand, he carried another shirt, which he brought over for Tatum to wear. Her shirt had the phrase “May I Suggest The Sausage?” with a giant hand pointing down to the crotch area.

“Get ready for some hot homemade sandwiches,” Leon announced proudly after offering the shirt.

He scanned the living room until he went over to the sofa couch, where after digging underneath the cushion, he pulled out the remote. He blew across its dusty surface before handing it to her. “Should still work. I don’t watch a whole lotta TV.” Then he gestured to the stereo system. “Got your tunes. I still collect cassette tapes, so go nuts with music if you want.”

From practically clawing at each other the first half of the night, to now trying to impress Tatum with an old fashion home-cooked meal, was not the turnabout Leon expected. Given everything that happened since they stepped into the loft, such circumstances would now be considered part of “the norm.”

The kitchen wasn’t even that far from the living room, as his loft was one giant space with makeshift walls to offer any real separation between the bedroom and bathroom. Even as Leon headed to the kitchen area, his voice in general was loud enough for Tatum to easily hear him, even if she decided to turn on any electronic devices.

“What was it like growing up for you? Being a vampire and werewolf?” Might as well start easy; almost like a first date with the general questions. “Probably heard all the lame-ass Wolf-Man and Dracula jokes, huh?”

Deep down she was still a bit nervous to be alone with him again ─ not because of fear or worry but more the feeling of this being almost like the first time they were alone together all over again. That was far from the case, but the feeling was still there. “ To be fair, I’ve never thought you were anything close to a Charles Mason. If anything I was the one who drew blood first but also to be fair, I did talk my grandfathers into not killing you. So maybe we’re both safe in that department. “ She joked right back to him. Things would be fine and great if she could just grasp a hold of her nerves and STOP the fluttering in her stomach.

She bit the corner of her lips after the little peck was given and he turned to venture off into the bedroom. When he was out of sight, she drew in an EXTREMELY large breath, held it a moment, and then exhaled. Arms folded in front of her so hands could rub at her upper arms and shoulders. Maybe she was just looking at this from the wrong perspective. How many people got the chance to fall in love with their soul mate .. TWICE .. in a single lifetime? Not that they ever stopped loving each other ─ their thoughts had been pretty clear about that. It was more about learning all these new and strange, unbelievable things about each other ─ things that had been hidden but done nothing to change how they felt about one another.

When he returned she couldn’t help but laugh at his choice of shirts. He did have a shirt back at her parents' house. Carefully she slipped out of her grandfather's leather jacket and slipped into the shirt he offered to her. She made sure to place the jacket by the door so she wouldn’t forget to return it to her grandfather later.

Chewing on her bottom lip again when she was presented with the TV’s remote and told about the stereo. “ Alright. “ A nod of her head was given but honestly she wasn’t in the mood to watch TV or listen to music and she wasn’t all that hungry, not when they had so much to talk about. Not when her mind was still wandering back to earlier that night … and those thoughts weren’t exactly the ones of her attacking him ─ we’ll not in the brutal sense. But there would be time for everything … all in due time.

 After hearing the questions he asked she tossed the remote over onto the couch and slowly made her way to the opening of the kitchen where her shoulder rested against the wall. Eyes looking over to him. “ Lonely. “ She admitted. “ It was hard knowing you were different and that no one else around was like you. It was hard knowing people looked at you differently, knowing that most of them didn’t think you deserved to live. It was hard not having anyone who could relate to how you were feeling. I never let myself get close to anyone, never opened myself up to anyone until you came along. “ It wasn’t until Luke was born that there was finally someone similar to her to relate with. It most likely explained why they were so close growing up and even now. “The only person to dare and toss jokes like that at me was Luke. “ Her lips slightly curled until a smile was displayed. “ I never gave much thought to the vampire side of me because it had never been triggered, until now. “

“ How about you? How were things for you growing up? “ She got a small enough glimpse of his thoughts earlier in the night to know he hadn’t been an easy child either.

“Got lonely for me, too,” Leon admitted as he effortlessly prepared their food while also paying close attention to Tatum’s confession. It was one thing to be able to shift through her mind and see the evidence for himself, but it was another to hear the experience through her words. There was that audible pain that was expressed through her tone, even if she were to downplay it.

“I had a twin brother, a few minutes younger than me, but ‘til the age of five, we were each other’s worlds.”

RORY. It’d been a long time since he last thought of him. There were those twins that could think and feel exactly what the other did. Like they were the same, but with two separate bodies. It was like that with Rory and Leon. Their worlds revolved around only each other, until the day of “the accident,” which severed their ties forever. Before that, they didn’t care about being different from everyone. They knew it, and they proudly faced any opposition together. Even after the accident, Leon boldly continued to be different, even when people harshly judged him. He didn’t care what anybody thought about him, even if those were from his mom’s community.

“It’s one thing to be different from humans,” he went on to say as he grabbed a spatula that hung on the wall nearby. “But when you’ve got Navajo blood in your veins, but look white as all hell? You got all sorts of political BS thrown at ya. People on my mom’s side claiming that I’M claiming indigenous blood when I’m ‘too white’ through my dad, or white people claiming I’m talking shit when I tell 'em I’m part Navajo. On top of THAT, the Navajo say I’m major bad news because not only am I white in their eyes, but a skin-walker to boot, I’m damned forever. So, if I’m gonna be different no matter what? I don’t give two shits what anybody thinks of me. I’m comfortable with who I am.”

The more he instilled that confidence in himself, the less he was able to push Rory’s loss back into the memory banks. No doubt Tatum sensed that, and the horrific trauma it brought back. He didn’t blame her. She had to find out at some point because she had to know he understood when it came to feeling lonely. He understood it all too well. It only made sense for the two of them to be together even more. More than anything, he wanted to make sure she’d never feel lonely ever again.

Once the stove-top grill was turned off, he grabbed a couple of plates and napkins and served the food.

“I can see why you and Luke are so close,” Leon ventured as he set the plates on the counter closest to Tatum. He hadn’t realized he pulled that fact from her memory until he expressed his thoughts aloud. Luke acted like an ordinary kid despite his heritage. Back then, Leon didn’t pick up on either him OR Tatum being anything but human. They hid that well. Tatum made damn sure Luke wouldn’t have to go through what she did.

Leon still had a lot to learn about being a supernatural hunter on the side.

The more she listened to Leon the more she saw how much they were alike. They could understand what they’ve been through and the kind of feelings it left inside them.

Tatum didn’t grow up around other children her age ─ school wasn’t something she could take part in. With her rapid aging, it would have been IMPOSSIBLE to explain her accelerated growth. Then when special schools were brought into mention she wanted no part of them. Despite being told she would be with others like herself, she knew that wasn’t exactly the case. There had been no one like her back then. She could only IMAGINE through Leon’s eyes and thoughts how painful and awful it must have been to lose a sibling ─ especially one that was identical to you in every shape and fashion.

She tries to block out his thoughts, to not allow her mind to venture inside his. From earlier, she got that thought of an ‘ ACCIDENT ‘ and knew enough at that moment that she didn’t want to pry. When the time was right and he was ready he would open up and tell her in his own words what happened that day. It was his story to tell to whom he wished to know it.

It wasn’t until later on that Tatum learned to open herself up a little to the people around her. Of course, she had to still be CAREFUL because she couldn’t openly tell just anyone who and what she was, but she learned that she could fit in just any other human being and those around her didn’t have to be any wiser about it. She could allow herself to be in the company of other people and do things that normal people her age did. There was no need to lock herself away from the world and the things in it. If she had allowed herself to keep that mentality then her path would have never crossed with Leon’s and that would have been TRAGIC all in itself.

“ It took me a long time to get to the point of being comfortable with what I am. “ She admitted as she moved a little more into the kitchen area. Her watching him as he busied himself with fixing them a bite to eat. “ I taught myself that we’re not abominations just because we’re different. Who has the right to tell another being who they can or can’t love? When a child is created in the act of love, how can that be anything other than a blessing? “ She confessed. Not everyone agreed with her thinking and that was fine. Not every soul was created to be as GENTLE and COMPASSIONATE as her own.

As he turned the stove off she ventured into the kitchen and took a seat at the table. “ I refused to let him hide away like a secret as I did. I lost out on a lot of my younger years and I don’t want that for him. I remind him every time I see him to try and be open. Not to judge others the way we’ve been judged. “ It was no secret that Luke wasn’t exactly fond of most humans. He did have a mind of his own and those choices he would have to make for himself, just like she had, but that didn’t mean she couldn’t give him advice along the way.

“ My mother, she’s a blood-born werewolf, and my father, he’s a Dhampir. We always knew I carried that vampire gene but none of us thought it would ever trigger since he never succumbed to his bloodlust. I’ve never thought about wanting to drink anyone’s blood before, not even yours but something happened back there that I just can’t explain. What my grandfather said earlier .. maybe subconsciously my vampire said was telling me you’re the one I’m meant to spend my life with. Call me crazy .. I’ll accept it. “

Leon made sure that Tatum was settled before he allowed himself to get comfortable beside her. He would’ve thought it strange to have company like this, when the few girls he did sleep with never stuck around long enough to eat anything. As much as he’d boast about wanting girls to accept him for who he was and how he dressed, he sure didn’t want them hanging around to learn anything more about him. With Tatum, it was an eye-opening experience that he never wanted to part with.

“I’ve only hunted a few vampires,” he stated as he watched the steam rise from the meat he grilled. “I know the basic lore and all that, but you and your family are the first vampires I’ve ever gotten to know on a personal level. The ones I was hired to hunt were not as uh… they weren’t like you or Peter.”

Or even Colin. It made sense, seeing as how Tatum mentioned her father never succumbing to his bloodlust. Then again, he never encountered any type of hybrid vampire before. And before meeting Tatum, he never had any sexual relations with anything other than humans.

He couldn’t help but smirk inward. No wonder the sex with Tatum was orgasmic. He couldn’t even dream about going back to bland, boring, two-dimensional humans.

“But since Peter’s been around the block,” he went on to say as he shifted in his seat so that he was facing Tatum, staring at her affectionately, “I’m gonna take his word and yours about us being together for our entire lives.”

He couldn’t wait to tell the Beach City Grill crew - not the fact that neither of them was human, but that they were officially an item. Terra might not be too thrilled about him being off her list of conquered lays, but her reaction was the least of his worries. Everyone else would be thrilled, as they were quite fond of Tatum. They were the closest people he considered family. Mom left after Rory’s accident, and he left Dad after graduation. Everyone he cared for, and now loved, were here in Santa Carla.

“Now, the only reason I’m gonna call you crazy,” Leon added with a whimsical tone, “is if you say Elvis is dead. The King lives on!”

“ Vampires aren’t as clear cut as most people would think them to be. There is always a risk with everyone that turns. Some lose their souls, some are never able to get in touch with their humanity after turning, and some don’t even make it through the transition. Then you have my family, those who were born or created through the direct bloodline of the first original vampire. “ That was a secret that no longer needed to remain hidden since Leon could read her thoughts ANYTIME he wanted. It wasn’t like they had mastered how to control that yet.

His words caused her cheeks to flush ─ head lowering where she revealed a soft smile. ��� Well, I certainly hope you feel the same way and not just because my vampire side got a little overzealous. “ When she stopped to think about it, it made a lot of sense now. This blood bonding was something her mother and father shared. It explained how they would oftentimes finish each other's thoughts out loud, or how it seemed like they were sometimes communicating with more than just their eyes. 

While she had never been in a SERIOUS or even NON-SERIOUS relationship in the past, she couldn’t imagine ever feeling like this for anyone other than Leon. As strange as it might sound, it just felt like the universe somehow pulled them together, and the moment her eyes met his she just knew he was the one she had been waiting for all this time.

Her parents were going to be a little HARDER to convince. Like all parents, she knew they would initially freak out over the idea of their little girl not only triggering her vampire genes but also having marked her soulmate. In their minds, they had to have known things were getting serious between the two of them since she came home with a tattoo of his name on her wrist. A part of her looks forward to the conversation and another part of her doesn’t. If she gets too worked up over it, she knows she can have her grandfather around when she decides the time is right, but she just hates the thought of pulling him away from other things he might need to be doing. 

Either way, she knew he would put everything to the side for her if she needed him.

“ Of course he does! Last I heard he was enjoying the nightlife of Los Angeles. “ Just because she didn’t have a lot of close friends didn’t mean she didn’t know how to use a computer to do some undercover work. “ You would be surprised how many famous names that are not dead but just enjoying a different life. " A sigh of relief came out of Leon, followed by the loud rumblings of his stomach. He took a bite out of his food, and after chewing it up and swallowing, he pointed his fork at her and said, “You would’ve aced the job interview had you come to work with us.”

She already figured out one of his quirks: conspiracy theories about famous musicians who’ve SUPPOSEDLY passed away. Nah, they weren’t dead, especially the ones like Elvis, Tupac, Kurt Cobain, etc. Too many sightings over the years from too many people made it hard to believe that they died young by whatever means. His co-workers teased him about this every once in a while, but Tatum knew how much he enjoyed researching such subjects. It was one of the few uplifting hobbies that he got a kick out of.

This fact alone brought a smile to his face. She’d understand him without him having to explain himself, as he of her. This would take some time to get used to, but nothing off-putting. Not since his twin did he have someone else in his head and not have it be invasive. It was welcoming and made him forget about being lonely.

Her folks… Yeah… that was gonna be interesting. He wasn’t scared - hell no! Just not sure how they were going to accept someone like him in their daughter’s life. Then again, it was all about what Tatum wanted, regardless of how either of her parents felt. He’d never met anybody’s parents before under such circumstances.

After eating more of his food, he suggested, “Thinkin’ we could meet at a neutral place and break the news to them, y'know?”

No matter what the reaction they’d receive, he was NOT going anywhere. No way, no how. He’d never felt like this with anyone in his life. Bond or no bond, he wasn’t going to let Tatum out of his life. As cringe-worthy as it was, if her folks demanded he dressed nicer in their presence, well, he’d do it, dammit. He’d march over to the Capitola Mall, hit up the preppy store, and get whatever accessories he needed to look presentable. But if it’d been anyone else asking him to change, he’d tell them to screw off and give them the double-finger salute. But if it meant keeping Tatum around, then he’d do it.

“ Great minds think alike, right? “ She NEVER went through the interview process, but she did overhear a few people that had taken it and failed MISERABLY at it. At one point she had planned on trying to get a job at the sandwich shop but something came up and distracted her from doing just that. “ I’ll have to keep all that in mind should I decide to swing by one day, just to make Tara’s life that much more enjoyable. “ She teased of course.

For her, she wouldn’t call it so much a hobby as she would do something to pass the time when she had nothing else to do. Plus she had to put all those computer skills to use that Luke passed on to her somewhere. She couldn’t let her little cousin get a head up on her. Maybe at the time it didn’t make much sense to her but now it was all coming together, piece by piece, and making PERFECT sense. She and Leon were just too much alike for nature to not let their paths cross with one another.

Tatum had still yet to touch her plate. It wasn’t that she didn’t enjoy his cooking because everyone knew otherwise. The man could cook like no one else she had ever known. After drinking Leon’s blood, she just had a SATISFIED fullness to her that left her craving nothing else ─ well almost nothing else … but she’d digress on that matter for the time being.

His thoughts were becoming pretty loud when it came to the subject of her parents.  She tried to block it, not wanting to be more intrusive than what’s already happened but these thoughts were too loud not to hear.

“ Well, my grandfather did say he’d be available if needed. Maybe we could do it at his place? Would give you the chance to meet my jaw-dropping grandmother. “ Her lips pursed together because she could already imagine the look on Leon’s face. Sonya had a way of making most men drop their jaws. He’d be expecting an older woman and be completely surprised at what he got instead.

Then his thoughts kicked up to a whole new level of loudness. “ No, hell no! “ She blurted out and pushed her plate to the side, reached across the table, and did the same with his plate before taking his hands into hers. “ I accept you for the way you are. Just like this, or with your wild piercings and colorful spiked hair. If I accept you for who you are then the people in life are going to have to do the same thing. I never want you to change who or what you are for anyone, especially not my family. I want them to see the real you, not an image you think they would want you to be. Promise me that. “

Leon could only stare dumbfounded at her, even as his hand remained firmly in hers. She truly meant every word she said. Not that he could’ve ever doubted her, but even when it came to her family, people who were important to her, she wanted him to stay just the way he was. It wasn’t even that long ago that he had his outburst at work due to a co-worker wondering aloud if she had to change how she looked to get the attention of the guy she’d been talking to over the internet. Leon hated the idea of conforming to anyone. To even consider going against his own beliefs was all for the sake of Tatum - but she wasn’t going to have any of it, and for that, he loved her even more.

A loud, almost comical sigh of relief escaped him, and he hung his head. “You have no idea how happy you’ve made me saying that,” he said. His own hands twisted in hers, just enough so that he could give hers a firm squeeze. He blamed his fear of losing her for his moment of insanity. Hypothetically, he and Tara hooked up - she’d be the type to want HIM to change. That was a relationship that’d be too one-sided, and he wouldn’t be happy with himself. Losing his self-worth was ultimately not worth it for anyone.

Lifting his head once more, Leon’s green eyes gazed affectionately at Tatum. “Promise, no more scaring ya,” he told her, and it was followed with a sly grin. “If Elvis can stay alive, then I can keep my fashion style in check.”

Thinking back to when she first bit him, he couldn’t help but wonder if what he heard about allowing a vampire to bite someone was, indeed, arousing. He’d come across some superficially attractive vampires, but the thought of them biting him for pleasure never crossed his mind. With his girlfriend, however, once she felt better about the entire situation with herself and them…

“Maybe down the road?” he offered with a raised brow. “I think you might’ve awoken a kink that I didn’t think was even there. You’re a secret ninja when it comes to being naughty.”

He didn’t want to push it, as traumatizing it had been for both of them when Tatum’s bloodlust first kicked into action. But now that they were bonded, it might not be a frightening experience. Not that he’d admit to being scared, but since they were linked, they’d simultaneously get a heads-up of how one felt, and vice versa.

Freeing one hand, he scooped some food off his plate and held it out for Tatum to take a bite from.

 Tatum wasn’t the kind of girl that was all about looks and fitting in. She knew when she was old enough to walk that she didn’t fit in and she NEVER wanted to. That’s why she had pale skin and most of the time kept a short pixie haircut, just so that she would stand out in a crowd. That was one of the things that she loved so much about Leon, much like herself he was different and he didn’t care what others thought about his style. There was so much more to a person than their looks and that was why no matter if she saw the clean-shaved, sharp-dressed man in front of her or the wild spiked hair, tattooed, and pierced version of Leon, SHE WOULD LOVE HIM either way.

“ Put it this way, I’m mysterious, strange, and unusual. My family accepts that so why should someone I decided to be with need to be any different? After the shock wears off that their little girl isn’t so little anymore, they are going to love you. Do you know how I know that? Because my grandfathers wouldn’t have left you alive if they didn’t see in you what I do. “ Even as he squeezed her hand her fingers brushed against his hand.

“ And I promise to do my best to not scare or freak you out again. Can’t honestly think of anything you don’t already know now. Then again we are both open books now. “ A grin of her own stretched across her lips. “ Baby, Elvis ain’t got nothing on you. “ She teased.

Without warning his thoughts were coming through loud and clear again. She instantly stopped talking and a brow arched curiously. She couldn’t deny that when she bit him it was an INSTANT high for her. As far as she knew she had always thought when it came to that, that only the ones who did the biting experienced that sort of arousal, but with what was going on inside Leon’s head right now that wasn’t the case.

Then hearing him say it out loud? Her bottom lip was drawn into her mouth with teeth biting down upon it. “ You really shouldn’t say things like that, you know? “ Now she didn’t say that to DETOUR him from saying it, no, it was said to ENCOURAGE him to say things like more often.

When his hand moved across the table and offered her a bite of his food she reached up and grabbed his wrist. Without even giving it a second thought she began pulling him across the table, her body lifting and leaning forward to meet him in the middle. Once they were face to face she caught his lips with her own in a heated kiss.

Leon was never shy about standing up to the authorities or speaking his mind. Case in point, his desire to open up to more of his kinks. Biting never came into play for him and his past partners, but Tatum awoke a ferocious desire. He couldn’t believe the need to experiment with this new side of himself was possible until he became connected with Tatum. It was a connection he never wanted to be severed, despite it still being so brand new to the both of them.

From trying to feed her, to now kissing her, Leon was already losing his mind to lust. Even with the sudden arrival of her grandfather, his yearning to be with her skyrocketed. Her lips drew a shudder of need from him.

“Can’t wait,” Leon groaned against her mouth as he broke away only long enough to use one arm to sweep everything off the tabletop. Food, plates, and utensils crashed to the floor. Leon hauled them both onto the table, and he grabbed Tatum by the ass where he slid her up his thighs so that she was straddling his hips. He didn’t care about the mess he’d have to clean up later, because all he wanted was to taste her, and maybe, she could taste him and not worry about hurting him.

He slid his hands up her shirt, his fingers sensually blazing trails up her spine, as he showered her neck with heated, hungry kisses. Any self-control he had was up in smoke, as his need to have her sink onto his hardening, aching cock clouded any possible doubt or judgment.

Her need for him at that moment was savage. Then to feel his own need for her mixing into that? It was like a blazing inferno that was going to BLOW at any given moment. Her fears of hurting him were scattered to the wind. He could handle whatever she dished out to him without fear of accidentally hurting him, and now he was welcoming it with open arms.

Their lips never parted, even as Leon brushed everything upon the table to the floor. All around she could hear glass breaking from the plates and glasses. All too quickly she was wrapping her arm around his neck forcing their bodies as close as humanly possible. She wanted nothing more than to feel, touch, and taste every part of him.

Tatum’s body shivered as his fingers left burning trails up and down her spine. Heavy pants parted her lips as he sought out her neck. Her head only dipped back enough to give him full access. Her own hands were busy, tugging and pulling to rid him of the shirt that hid his flesh from her.  She bucked her hips for friction, anything to ease the painful yearning between her thighs.

Sex wasn’t something Tatum ever craved, but now with Leon and the way she felt about him, it was craved like the air she breathed. He woke up the wolf inside her first and foremost. Those carnal cravings and needs couldn’t be ignored.

Their tongues collide together in a passionate but needful dance. Thankfully his boxers and her panties were discarded along with their assent to the tabletop. Suddenly she breaks away from the kiss allowing her forehead to rest against his, eyes locking upon his as her hips rock forward, ever so slowly she brings them back down sheathing him inside her. Her lips parted with a heavy breath. “ God you feel so good. “ She whimpered against his lips.

He was drunk off her sweet kisses, the way she reacted to his touch, and the sounds she made because of him. The moment she sat on his cock, he let out a heavy groan, and closed his eyes, wanting the image of her forever imprinted into his memory. He grabbed her hips and helped her rock up and down his length, as his eyes gazed steadfastly with hers, while their lips danced hungrily. This new connection they shared intensified their sex drive. Everything about their bond was like nothing he'd ever experienced before with anyone. Every thrust and stroke sent him reeling, panting ragged, to the point like he was going to explode.

"This is fucking great," he gasped, before he pulled her against him for a deep kiss, now grabbing her hips, and helping her bounce harder on his dick. “You… YOU are fucking great…”

The wet slaps could be heard all around the kitchen. The surge of heated, primal lust consumed him. Any sense of self-control faded away. The curves of her body melted against his lean muscular body. Breaking their kiss, he blinked once, and his eyes flashed a silver-gold color, before melting back to their typical green hues.

His fingers slipped between her thighs, and he teased the tip of her entrance which was already slick and wet with her juices. Her nipples were ripe for the sucking, and he did just that, lapping and tending to them, all the while continuing to bring her closer to heaven with every single hard thrust.

Tatum was right there with him, wanting more, crying out for more. It was like they were one, their bodies were in sync, and it felt like they could continue on this way forever. Every movement, every touch, every glance felt electric and passionate. It was as if their souls were intertwined, their connection palpable. They were lost in the moment, and the love they felt seemed boundless. They were in a place of pure bliss, surrounded by euphoria. Nothing else mattered; all that existed was the two of them, together at that moment. Nothing could tear them apart. Her head was swimming and her body was reeling from not only experiencing her own pleasure but also his. Every fiber of her being was alive and felt more alive than ever before.

She let out a loud moan in response, her body trembling with pleasure. His touch was electrifying, sending shivers down her spine. His hands moved with a gentle but firm pressure, pushing her closer and closer to the edge of pleasure. " Oh god, how are we ever going to stop? " She cried out in response. It almost felt sinful for something to feel so damn amazing.

His breathing was shallow and labored, and she could feel the sweat on his body. The pleasure building up in her. She moved her hands up and down his body, feeling his muscles tense and relax with each touch. It was almost overwhelming to feel his tongue against her nipple. Chills cascaded down her spine causing her body to shiver. She felt a flood of pleasure wash over her as they moved in tandem, her breath coming in short, ragged gasps. " Leon .... Fuck ... " Her entire body began to tremble as she did everything within her power to not give in to that burning need for release that was peeking all too soon.

Before she could come undone she quickly straightened her body so her chest was flush with his own. One hand wrapped around his neck just as her fangs emerged. Her tongue trailed along his neck until she found his pulse point. It was then that she bit deeply into his neck, feeling his blood rush into her mouth. His scent filled her as her grip around his neck tightened, her breathing escalating as her pleasure increased with every passing second. The warmth of his body combined with the taste of his blood sent waves of pleasure coursing through her. She clung to him, savoring the intense sensations until finally, she couldn't take it any longer and her body was overcome with bliss.

"Not stopping," Leon promised through ragged breaths, knowing full well that neither of them would stop until both were satisfied and exhausted. Never had sex been so electrifying as it was with her.

He moaned heavily every time she said his name, knowing how good he made her feel. Every hard thrust was one step closer to paradise. He couldn't resist stroking the curves and valleys of her body as she pressed against him, all the while their hips gyrating fast and with urgency. The intense fire in his loins burned brighter and brighter, and it was ready to ignite his entire body. He'd forgotten they were on the kitchen counter because he was completely lost in the heated, burning ecstasy with someone he never dreamed of encountering. Tatum was the missing piece of him he never knew was missing, and he'd be damned if anybody would take her away from him.

A shudder escaped him when her hands slid along his toned muscles. He was putty in her hands, ready to be shaped to whatever she desired. She was his weakness, his ultimate desire, and knowing what he could do to her made him never want to leave her side.

"Ah, shit," he gasped as he tilted his head back when her tongue traced his neck. God, that was kinky, and he nearly lost all self-control right there, had he not wanted to keep the fierce tempo of his thrusting. But the moment those fangs pierced his skin, his eyes flashed those silver hues once more, revealing his inhuman nature.

Gripping her equally tight, a mix of pain, but immediately followed by overflowing rapture, consumed him. Deeper, hard, he surged inside her, even as he spilled himself into her. White-hot pleasure blinded him momentarily, and he held the back of her head as she continued to feed on his blood.

Once he had reached his high she withdrew her fangs dragging her tongue over the two puncture holes she made. Tatum’s eyes fell as she tilted her chin up, meeting his lips in a slow, exploratory kiss. She allowed herself to enjoy the simple sensation of his lips sliding against hers, slightly heightened by the remaining traces of their lovemaking.

When she finally pulled back to glance at the man above her she was met with an easy, content expression - flushed cheeks and sweaty brows framing eyes that were regarding her with a soft admiration she wasn’t quite expecting, especially given that they’d just been having rough, passionate sex not five minutes ago. He was looking at her like she wasn’t just some ordinary girl - it was a look as if she was the only woman in existence. Maybe she would have chalked it up to post-orgasmic bliss had it not been for their newly found bond that told her otherwise.

A small smile began to play at her lips as bone-deep satisfaction continued to radiate through her. He looked so impossibly beautiful in his simplicity, hovering above her, his tan skin aglow in the warm light and with eyes only for her. She couldn’t help but feel like the luckiest woman alive to know after everything that transpired on this night, nothing could tear them apart.

As she stood up, her eyes scanned the chaotic scene before her.  Broken glass and plates were scattered across the floor like confetti, remnants of their heated moment of passion. She glanced at her partner-in-crime, who was still standing in front of her, wearing an equally mischievous grin. With a playful twinkle in her eye, she reached for his hand. " We'll clean this in the morning. Right now that overly sized bed of yours is calling my name. " Carefully walking past the broken glass she led them door the hallway and back into his bedroom. Would they manage to sleep? Well, that was a good question.

#✦ — • NSFW • This is your warning right here • #✦ — • VERSE • Serendipity Smut • #✦ — • I JUST DIED IN YOUR ARMS TONIGHT • Tatum and Leon Smut •