Dinner is Served Sahara Kelly All rights reserved.
Copyright ©2004 by Sahara Kelly
No part of this e-book may be reproduced or shared by any electronic or mechanical
means, including but not limited to printing, file sharing, and email, without prior
written permission from Changeling Press LLC.
ISBN 1-59596-026-0
Formats Available:
HTML, Adobe PDF,
MobiPocket, Microsoft Reader
Publisher:
Changeling Press LLC
PO Box 1561
Shepherdstown, WV 25443-1561
www.ChangelingPress.com
Editor: Peggy Roberts Cover Artist: Sahara Kelly
This e-book file contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language which some may find offensive and which is not appropriate for a young audience. Changeling Press E-Books are for sale to adults, only, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.
Chapter 1 “Dinner is served, my Lady.” The elegant woman seated in front of the large oak desk lifted her head and surveyed the man standing quietly in the doorway. “Thank you, Edward.” She placed her quill carefully on the sheet of paper lying in front of her and recapped the inkwell. With a practiced gesture, she squared the other sheets stacked to one side. “A good time to stop, I think.” Lady Mildred Derby was once again immersed in that which gave her the utmost pleasure -- writing a novel. Her books had taken London by storm and driven her to seek sanctuary in her country estate, Derby Hill, nestled in the shadowed depths of the New Forest, at least several hours if not a day’s drive from the bustle of the metropolis. She was far enough away to avoid the worst of the notoriety, yet close enough to enjoy it if she chose. She stood, surveying her butler. “You will serve as my escort to dinner, Edward.” It was not a request. “Of course, my Lady.” He offered his arm correctly. Mildred savored the feel of his solid muscles beneath the sleeve of his dark coat. “Hold a moment, Edward.” She paused in front of a mirror adorning the wall and looked at their reflections. “A handsome pair, would you not agree?” Their images showed the truth of Mildred’s words. A slender woman, jet black hair gleaming in coils at the back of her head and gowned simply in lavender. A tall man, light brown hair darting glints of gold in the candlelight that flickered around them. They made a handsome pair indeed.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
-4-
Mildred smiled. “I shall require your presence tonight, Edward.” His blue eyes remained strangely expressionless. “It shall be as you desire, my Lady.” “Of course. It always is. You please me greatly, Edward.” He said nothing, just bowed slightly, and led her from the room. The dining room was lit with several branches of candles, and Edward led Mildred to the head of the table, seating her respectfully, and filling her goblet with the rich, dark wine she loved. A covered dish was awaiting her pleasure on the sideboard, and Mildred settled down with a little sigh of contentment to enjoy her meal. Edward stood politely behind her in readiness for her commands. It was another delightful evening, mused Mildred as she ate. She’d finished a couple more chapters of her next book, secure in the knowledge that this one would be greeted as enthusiastically as its predecessors. The subject matter was as controversial as she could make it without actually spelling out the nature of her characters’ interaction, and although she was reviled as a scandalous, foul pornographer by many, her readers simply couldn’t get enough. Like her characters, they responded to the romance and the hint of impropriety with pleasure and money, buying up each publication as soon as it appeared. Scandalous, yes, but lucrative and satisfying. Her life was, at this particular moment, quite good. She sighed and delicately wiped her lips with her napkin ignoring the pale red smear that marred the pristine linen. “Edward, please summon Mrs. Banks.” Edward moved away from behind her chair and, within moments, her command had been obeyed. A florid woman in a cook’s uniform appeared at the door, wiping her hands on a towel. “Mrs. Banks.” Mildred nodded at her. “The entrée was a little tough this evening.” “It was the undercook, M’Lady.”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
-5-
“I know it was the undercook, Mrs. Banks. We finished the last of the underhousemaid last week.” “Well, I did say that the undercook looked a bit of a tough old coot, but… with all due respect, M’Lady, you insisted.” Mildred rose, shaking out her skirts. “I suppose she will have to suffice for the time being. But do try a little more seasoning when you get to the ribs, will you? Perhaps a longer cooking time.” Mrs. Banks shook her head. “She was too old, Ma’am. We need some younger flesh. I can do a much better Beef Wellington if you get me some meat that isn’t older than my Wellington boots.” Mildred thought for a moment. “It’s time I think. Time to invite some readers down to Derby Hill. Perhaps one will be plump and juicy enough to fill my needs.” Mrs. Banks’ face split in a mostly toothless grin. “That’s good news, M’Lady. I’ve got me carving knife sharpened up just right. Say the word.” “I will. Tomorrow I shall inform my publisher. Perhaps we can manage on our late, unlamented undercook for a few more days.” Edward pulled the chair out of her way as Mildred strolled to the door. “Thank you, dear Mrs. Banks. Your enthusiasm for your job, as always, astounds me.” She turned. “Edward. I am in the mood for more nourishment. The sort only you can provide. It is time for our tonic, don’t you think?” Edward’s face betrayed a small glimmer of expression for the first time. “Our… our tonic?” Mildred’s eyes narrowed. “Yes, Edward. Our tonic.” She licked her lips. “Mrs. Banks will clear the table this evening. I need you. Now.”
*** “And as darkness fell across the silent boudoir, Lord Grandison enfolded his love in his arms and once again gave her convincing proofs of his affection. Until the sun rose again.” Cassandra Turner closed the book and turned to her friends. “Well, what do you think?”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
-6-
“’Twas lovely, Cassie. And a veritable mine of information about love and lovers.” Ann Starling sighed and smoothed her hand over her skirts. “I could wish for more detail,” said a wry voice. “Bethany. I’m shocked.” Cassie’s grin belied her words. “Well… really. Saying things like ‘he plunged the evidence of his love deep within her welcoming affections…’ doesn’t really tell us much, does it?” Ann shook her head and blushed. “I got the point.” “So did she.” The words tripped off Cassie’s tongue before she could stop them, and they all laughed. It was their regular evening together, the three having met at the circulating library, finding their shared enjoyment of these highly improper novels to be the foundation of a friendship. They gathered at Cassie’s London home, since it was the most convenient. And the least chaperoned, since Cassie had the honor of being a widow and thus was no longer a threat to any of their reputations. A foolish notion, but one held to by Society, nonetheless. All three took shameless advantage of it, however, by reading aloud from the notorious works of “The Lady Inconnu.” She wasn’t “Inconnu” at all, of course, since the world was well aware that the author was actually the quietly mysterious Lady Mildred Derby. “Don’t you wonder about Lady Mildred?” mused Bethany. Cassie looked at her friend. The petite blonde was pursing her lips in the most delightful way, and for the hundredth time Cassie wondered why she hadn’t yet given her hand in marriage. She was certainly eligible. “Wonder what about her?” “Well… you know. How she comes up with these ideas. How she manages to scare us silly and get us all -- um -- feverish.” Bethany blushed. “Feverish, hmm?” Ann giggled. “Is that what they’re calling an attack of lusty thoughts these days?” Cassie smiled. “Feverish is a good word, Ann. Don’t tease.”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
-7-
Ann shrugged. “Well, if Bethy wants to call it feverish, then she may do so with my goodwill. I can’t say it got me feverish though.” “Oooh. Lies. You sinner. I saw you squirming, especially during the parts where Lord Grandison was bathing,” Bethany shot back. Ann had the grace to look a little shamefaced. “So I’m not used to hearing such vivid descriptions of what gentlemen do when they’re alone.” She turned to Cassie. “I suppose they only do that when they’re alone, right?” Cassie was the lone widow, and one who had “experience” in these matters. Ann and Bethany had formed the habit of asking her a variety of questions about matters of a delicate nature. This one was a humdinger. “Uhhh…” Cassie was stumped. “I really can’t answer that one.” “So you’re saying that dear Harold never did anything like that?” Ann refused to give up the matter. “Good lord, no.” Cassie paused. “Well, he may have, of course, but not in front of me. That would have been most improper.” “Do you think so?” Bethany tilted her head to the side. Cassie gaped at her. “I… well… I… I don’t know. I don’t think I’d want to see that! Would you?” “It might be -- interesting.” Ann stared bravely at the two women. “We don’t know enough about men as it is. It would be a good way to learn what’s ahead for us, don’t you think?” “No.” Cassie’s voice was firm. “Such knowledge comes from your mother or your husband. I’ve already stepped beyond the bounds of what I should’ve told you during these evenings together. Let’s not go any further, all right?” Subsiding into mutters, Ann and Bethany helped themselves to tea and biscuits and settled down to enjoy their refreshments, albeit rather sullenly.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
-8-
“You know,” said Cassie. “A note came with this book. I have it here somewhere…” She rummaged in the pile of papers littering a side table. “Ah. Here it is.” She held it to the light. “You were asking about Lady Mildred, Bethany. It seems she welcomes the occasional small group of visitors to Derby Hill. And she’s holding one of her “at homes” next week.” “Oooh.” Ann’s eyes lit up. “Wouldn’t it be lovely if we could all go and meet her? I’ll wager she’d be willing to answer our questions.” Gray eyes looked accusingly at Cassie. “My parents are away next week. It will be only Aunt Hester at home with me. I know she’d approve of my traveling with you, dear Cassie…” Bethany’s blue eyes were pleading. “And I have friends in Hampshire, not far from Derby Hill. Mama said last night I was looking a bit peaked and should rest. What could be more natural than a few days in the country to regain my strength? She’d let me accompany you, Cassie, without a doubt.” She paused. “In fact, she’d be thrilled. Save her the cost of renting a carriage.” There was silence for a moment as all three remembered the less-than-fortunate financial situation Ann’s family was currently experiencing, thanks to a run of bad luck by her father at his gaming club. Cassie sipped her tea, turning over various options in her mind. A trip to Hampshire to visit a writer. Hmmm. It might be just the thing for her unsettled mind. She absently rubbed her fingers over the amethyst pendant that graced her throat. It felt warm to her touch. A good sign. “Very well. We’ll do it.” Smiles and laughter greeted her pronouncement, and plans were made with the rapid efficiency that can only be achieved when three women put their heads together to achieve a desired goal.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
-9-
It was much later when Cassie stripped off her gown and prepared for bed. Her pulse was thumping with the excitement of their projected journey, and she found herself eagerly anticipating an escape from London. The season had palled. She was tired of being solicited to dance by a series of elderly men looking for someone to warm their bed or care for their motherless children, and sick to death of being treated like a -a widow. She was only twenty-seven, relatively attractive, and had a sufficient income to support her, in a modest style. But Cassie wanted more. Exactly what, she didn’t know. Just… just more. That night, she dreamed. Her feet were cold, colder than the harshest snowfall in the depths of winter. But her body was warm. She couldn’t open her eyes. She could only feel. Something was touching her, dripping on her, a light flicker at first, dappling her shoulders and arms. It increased in volume, the drips falling faster now, becoming a trickle, and then a flood. It was weighty and heated, and she could feel her hair thickening as the cascade accelerated into a veritable waterfall. She opened her mouth to scream. It filled rapidly with liquid and the harsh tang of metal savaged her taste buds. She knew what it was. It was blood. Gasping for breath, she choked, coughing fiercely and fighting the urge to vomit. Then she heard it. A sound. A gurgling, ripping sound that froze her struggles and chilled the skin beneath the warm deluge. It was a sound she recognized. It was unmistakable. The sound of a knife drawn through a neck, severing the throat, and loosing the flood of life’s beverage. And she was there… beneath the victim, being showered with that essence. It was exactly the sound she’d heard as she’d severed Harold’s throat so many years ago.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 10 -
Cassie woke with a savage shudder, sweat soaking her nightgown, and a scream trembling in her throat. Her hand went automatically to her amethyst, finding it hot and almost burning against her damp flesh. She knew what it meant. Death was near.
Chapter 2 Lady Mildred moved around her large bedroom and systematically snuffed most of the candles her maid had lit earlier. She preferred the soft half-darkness of only a few flames near the huge four-poster dominating the room. A tap on the door brought a smile of anticipation to her face. “Come in, Edward.” He entered quietly, closing the door behind him. What a man. Tall, handsome, and all hers. In so many ways. She adored his blue eyes, the tousled hair that topped his muscular frame, and the willingness with which he gave her what she needed. Of course, that was purely her own accomplishment. “Share a drink with me.” She poured two glasses of an oddly colored liquid and held one out to Edward. “Yes, my Lady.” Obediently he came forward and accepted the glass from her hand. He raised it to his mouth then paused. “It smells… odd…” A frown flickered across his features. Oh yes. It was definitely time for his tonic. “’Twill do you good, Edward. Trust me.” Mildred held her breath, waiting to see if he would obey her command. The mixture of herbs and mushrooms she’d perfected so many years ago was faultless. However, its effects only lasted so long. It was necessary to re-administer the drug on a regular basis, preferably before her victim recovered sufficiently to realize what was happening to him.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 12 -
Carefully she took a tiny sip from her own glass, watching him from beneath her eyelashes. The amount she would actually drink would be sufficient to arouse her to a fever pitch. What it would do to Edward would be so much more… fun. Slowly, oh so slowly, he put the glass to his mouth. And drank.
He was hers still.
“How do you feel, Edward?” Mildred put her glass down and gazed at him as he
drained the dregs. “Uh…” His eyes blinked slowly and his throat moved, swallowing down the last of the liquid. Mildred knew the more he imbibed the quicker the effects manifested themselves. Edward had imbibed a lot over the last few months. She smiled.
“Hot… I feel hot…” He brushed a hand across his forehead.
“Then we must cool you off. Disrobe.”
Without hesitation, Edward removed his jacket and cravat, and stripped his shirt
away from his body. His movements grew more frantic, as if he couldn’t wait to rid himself of the annoying clothing. Mildred licked her lips as his body was revealed in the candlelight. Firm muscles rippled across his lightly furred chest and belly, and the long legs showed the splendor of a well-exercised male physique. His cock lay tranquilly against a nest of hair darker than that of his head, and his balls hung softly beneath. Mildred loved his balls. “Very good, Edward. You do please me, you know, but I believe I told you that earlier.” He stared at her, a naked god unconcerned about his nudity. “Thank you, my Lady.” She shrugged her gown from her shoulders, loosening the laces which had secured it as it slithered down. Her breasts were grazed by the fabric, and a delightful sensation fluttered within her pussy. She noted Edward’s gaze fall to her nipples as they were revealed by her movements. “Do you like what you see, Edward?” She shimmied free of her own clothing.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 13 -
He nodded. “And yet you are unaroused by my body. Hmmm.” She walked to him, the candlelight pooling around their naked bodies. “We must do something about that.” She walked around him, running her nails down his spine to his buttocks, and digging them into the globes of flesh, bringing a slight gasp to Edward’s throat. “Take yourself in your hand, Edward. Stroke your cock. I need to see you ready and eager for pleasure. The pleasure you will share with me tonight.” “Yes, my Lady.” Edward’s hand dropped to his crotch and he grasped his cock. “Pull, Edward. Stroke. Feel your own skin and think of the sensation of my cunt while you do it.” She returned to stand in front of him and observe him as he obeyed her command. His strong fingers wrapped around the cock that grew beneath her gaze. Edward had a splendid cock. Thick and as muscular as the rest of him, the head purpled as he stroked it, lengthening, and protruding away from his body. Beads of sweat appeared on his forehead and his lips peeled back from his teeth as his pace accelerated. A drop of moisture glistened at the tiny slit, and Mildred’s pussy wept with delight. “Enough.” She barked out the word and Edward’s hand froze. “The bed.” Without checking to see if he’d followed, Mildred crossed to the wide bed and sprawled across it, spread her thighs wide and let the cool air brush her hot flesh. “I wish your mouth on me. Suck me, Edward. Use your tongue.” Edward’s hand tightened around his cock. “Not yet.” The words were sharp. “I’m not ready. You will wait to take your own pleasure until you’ve given me mine. Do you understand?” He nodded and clambered onto the bed, positioning himself between her thighs. “Oh yes. Much better.” Mildred slid one hand down over her belly and spread her pussy lips apart with her fingers. “Now, Edward. Feast on me.”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 14 -
His head dipped to her clit and he opened his mouth, enveloping so much of her swollen flesh that she gasped at the pleasure of it. His tongue moved against her, tunneling into her crevices, and teasing the hard bud that trembled just beneath its hood. “Good, Edward… ahh… yes. So good.” Mildred’s hand dropped away and she relished the sensation of his silky hair brushing her inner thighs. Her mouth opened on a sigh of delight as she reached for her breasts, finding the nipples hard and swollen and crying out for attention. Roughly, she squeezed them, pulling and tugging until they were almost exquisitely painful. Her hips were moving beneath Edward’s mouth, thrusting against him, and encouraging him to take more of her, to suck her into a vortex of pleasure. “Finger fuck me, Edward… God, do it now…” Edward, as always, obeyed. Two fingers plunged deep into her slick and dripping cunt, as his tongue maintained its wonderful pressure and caresses on her clit. The intrusion into her body tipped her over and with a scream of pure ecstasy Mildred Derby enjoyed her first climax of the night. Waves of light rolled across her brain as she let go and followed where her body would lead. Her thighs trembled and tightened around Edward’s head, holding him exactly where he was until the shudders eased. “Enough.” She breathed the word softly, but Edward heard. He pulled his mouth away from her pussy, lips coated with her juices. He stared at her. Waiting. His cock was hard as granite between his legs. God, she loved this. “On your back.” As always, her command was instantly obeyed, and Edward turned to the quilt beside her, lying splayed and quiescent next to her. His cock rose proudly, thrusting skywards now, balls dark and swollen, with sweat dewing the skin around them. She stretched comfortably and moved to her knees beside him. “You have a lovely cock, Edward. I am going to play with it for a while now.”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 15 -
He blinked, and then nodded stiffly. “As you will, my Lady.” “Oh I will, Edward. Have no doubt about that.” Leaning over him, Mildred rested her hand on his pubic bone, grinding a little as she wrapped her fingers around his cock. His breadth nearly filled her hand and she squeezed, making Edward gasp as his hips thrust upwards. She kept her grip on him, tightening her thumb beneath his cock, trapping the large vein and holding him like a vise. Then she lowered her head. Her mouth touched him, softly at first, then more voraciously as she sucked on his cock. He felt smooth and slick to her tongue. She examined the ridges and dips with each slide, pulling her lips free of him with a little pop, and then returning again, taking him deep into her throat. He tasted delicious as always, and she savored the small drop of his come that escaped despite her grip. She could hold him like this for some time, trembling on the edge of his own orgasm but unable to release it. He moaned and his head tossed against the pillows. “Very good, Edward,” she whispered. “Very good indeed. You taste delightful.” She ran her tongue around him once more. “Such a pity in some ways. I’m guessing your flesh would be just as good.” She sucked loudly and let her lips form a vacuum around the flange at the tip of his cock. He moaned again, louder this time. “With a robust red wine. Asparagus maybe… or no… some of those fresh peas Mrs. Banks picked the other day.” She ran the very edges of her teeth down toward her hand and dragged them up again, delighting in the squirming of his hips beneath her. “But then I’d have to forgo this pleasure. And I’m not ready to give you up quite yet…” She moved his cock out of the way and touched his balls with her tongue. Round and firm, they shifted within their sac as she fondled them, teasing with caresses guaranteed to arouse.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 16 -
Edward cried out. “My Lady…” The words seemed to erupt from his throat as she found a particularly sensitive spot. Mildred smiled. “Ah. Yes, Edward. I am ‘your Lady.’ Remember that.” Once more she tantalized his balls and the small patch of flesh beneath that had made the cock in her hand tremble. She pressed it cruelly. “You are mine to command. Mine to control. You will come when I say so, not before. I will not permit it. Do you understand?” Edward struggled on the bed and his mouth worked. “Yesss…” he gasped. His subservience pleased her, and while her mouth returned to his cock, she slid her free hand between her own legs, feeling the residual moisture of her earlier climax. She was still aroused. And the taste of Edward, combined with the things she was doing to him, was increasing her own excitement. Her body ignited at her own touch. Gradually she released her death grip on his cock and moved away, reaching for a small bottle of oil that sat in the shadows by the bed. “All right, Edward. Time for us both to come.” She dribbled the cool oil over Edward’s cock, not touching him lest he be too close to his orgasm for even her to control. He sighed, turning his head to look at her. “Please, my Lady.” She rose to her hands and knees. “Very well. You will come in my ass, Edward. And touch me as you take me. Is that clear?” “Yes, my Lady.” He moved behind her, grasping her hips in his hands as he slid his oily cock between her buttocks, seeking her dark cleft and the entrance within. Mildred sighed with pleasure as he touched her, his cock hard and slippery, and ready to fill her. She reached behind her and grasped her cheeks, spreading them wide for his penetration. She loved this attention, this method of achieving orgasm. “Your hand, Edward. Where should it be?”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 17 -
Obediently, Edward leaned into her, reaching for her clit, and finding it with unerring accuracy. “Good… oh yes… very goooood…” His cock broached her, sinking past the first ring of muscles in her ass, and penetrating the second with scarcely a check. He was deep inside her now, his size stretching her to a delightful point of discomfort, and his fingers teasing her arousal to fever pitch. The dual assault drove Mildred wild. “Harder, Edward. Fuck me. Fuck me harder…” He obeyed, withdrawing and plunging again, deeper this time, slamming his body against her buttocks so hard her eyes wobbled. She freed a hand and savagely pinched her nipples on breasts that were swinging with the onslaught of Edward’s harsh pounding. It was divine delight and Mildred held her breath as her spine tingled, her muscles tensed, and she felt the onrush of her orgasm creep over her body. “Now Edward…” She screamed out his name. “Come now!” And he did.
And as he did, Mildred’s scream echoed deep in what was left of his soul. For a blinding instant of time Edward Longsmith surfaced from the fogs which had surrounded him for months, only to explode in an immense release of come into the ass of the woman he was fucking. He opened his mouth on a yell of horror, only to feel his balls flooding this woman -- this monster -- with his seed. He rode out the rolling shudders of his climax as his body emptied, sated itself, and finally eased from the eruption that had possessed him. He struggled to focus, but it was no use. His mind relaxed along with his cock and he slid limply away from her. Once again, Edward surrendered to the mists that choked his mind.
***
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 18 -
Some days later, a carriage clattered along country paths, making its lumbering way to Derby Hill. Its occupants were elated, excited, and apprehensive, depending on where they were sitting. Facing the horses, Ann and Bethany were elated and excited. The prospect of meeting the notorious author of such torrid prose was exhilarating and they chattered like magpies. On the other seat, Cassandra Turner stared from the window and watched the countryside unfold while immersed in her own thoughts. They were far from pleasant. The daughter of a noted physician, whose marriage to a renowned herbalist had produced a child well-versed in many areas of physical and psychic matters, Cassie knew better than to dismiss her precognitive abilities. Her father had shown no hesitation in encouraging her to work alongside him as soon as she’d expressed an interest in what he did. The human body, and a good portion of what went on inside it, was no stranger to her. She was no shrinking violet who fainted at the sight of blood. Her mother had supplemented those teachings with her own, steeping Cassie in the lore of herbs and their effects from an early age. She was as familiar with wolfsbane and arnica as she was with tea and crumpets. It was from her mother that she’d learned of the “other” world. The one where spiritual and psychological manifestations often appeared as dreams or visions. Her mother had firmly believed that Shakespeare was right when he had Hamlet say, “There are more things in Heaven and Earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in our philosophy.” To Cassie’s mother, omens, signs, feelings, and suspicions were every bit as revealing as a gaping wound was to her father. They had traveled extensively, leaving Cassie in the capable hands of her governess who shared a love of literature. All things considered, Cassie knew herself to be truly blessed. Especially in a time when a woman who could read more than the names on her dance card was considered dangerously intelligent.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 19 -
She kept this to herself, of course, preferring that the world believe her to be the image she presented to it… a decorous widow, mourning a lost husband, and living a quiet life on the fringes of Society. Her hand crept to her necklace. Her parents had brought it back with them from one of their trips to the Americas and presented it to her with great solemnity on her eighteenth birthday. “Never take it off, Cassie. This stone has been blessed by a Shaman whose power and spirituality is far greater than even we can guess at. It will protect you, guide you, and perhaps help others if needed.” Cassie could still see her mother’s intense gaze as she’d looped the chain round Cassie’s neck and latched the fastening. “This stone has power, darling. More than you’ll ever know and hopefully more than you’ll ever need. But if you do, it’ll be there. Trust it. And trust yourself.” So far, it hadn’t let her down. She only had to think of Harold to remember that. Blinking, she closed her mind against those thoughts. It must have been that awful dream that had resurrected them. She focused her attention on her companions. “They do say she’s one for enjoying the company of gentlemen,” giggled Ann. “I should expect she does. She couldn’t write stuff like that if she didn’t know a thing about it, could she?” Bethany raised an eyebrow. The carriage lurched, rocking the women inside. “Ouch,” laughed Cassie. “Perhaps Lady Mildred should spend some of the fabulous amounts of guineas she earns on a new road.” She glanced from the window to see two large crows flying alongside the vehicle, crying their raucous calls. Her skin chilled unexpectedly as she felt a distinct warmth emanate from the amethyst lying against her skin. Cassie closed her eyes and cleared her mind, concentrating on the birds -- listening, opening her thoughts to whatever would come.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 20 -
“Squawk… caaaw… aark…” The sounds rolled around in her head. “Aark… dark… eeek…” She drifted deeper into her meditative state, hand clutching the stone. “Daaark… eeeevil… daaark… eeeeevil…” Cassie swallowed. The words were unmistakable. It was a warning -- she knew it all the way to her bones. Perhaps this trip hadn’t been such a good idea after all.
Chapter 3 There were several carriages in the courtyard of Derby Hill, and Lady Mildred peered out from her window at their occupants with interest. Four or five elderly ladies milled around the footmen and Mildred passed over them immediately. Too old, too well connected, and -- probably -- too riddled with streaky fat for her tastes. The last carriage disgorged its occupants and Mildred’s eyes immediately took stock of them. Two young ladies emerged, glancing around with excited smiles. Now that was more like it. The little blonde turned and said something to the third occupant, an older woman, dressed modestly in gray. Mildred dismissed her. A widow, by the looks of her, and a tad on the skinny side. On the other hand, the two youngsters? Oh yes. Her mouth watered. Succulent young meat, carved delicately into wafer thin slices. Perhaps this time she might even wield the killing blow herself. She preferred that Mrs. Banks take care of the mundane slaughtering, since there was a lot of blood, and Mildred was quite fastidious. But these two… oh, what fun. Her mind wandered a little as her guests were welcomed into her home. Once again, she blessed the day she’d wandered into a clearing deep in the New Forest and met the old woman who had changed her life. The rituals and lessons she’d learned at the crone’s knee had turned her from a nobody, with little expectations, into the successful and wealthy woman she was today. There was nothing she could not achieve, no goal she could not accomplish, and no life she could not have, should she so choose. She’d chosen this one. And it was good.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 22 -
Of course, there were problems. People were starting to talk a little. Mention was occasionally made of visitors who passed through the Derby Hill area, never to be seen again. And heaven knew she hated preying on her own staff, since good help was getting harder to find these days. For several years it had been easy. The unwary traveler, the broken down carriage, an orphan on the road looking for food. But now, with the new toll pike making the roads near Derby Hill less traveled, Mildred was finding it more of a task to procure supplies for her larder. And to procure supplies for her bed. Edward had been a fortuitous find. The ruts had destroyed his axle, he had no relatives to speak of, and his trip to Newmarket had ended with a draft of her tonic and a romp in her bed. He’d been at her side ever since. She sighed and let the curtain fall. It was time to meet her readers face-to-face. She stopped before her mirror and checked her appearance one last time. The black hair was faultlessly coiled into a shining crown, with two delicate strands curling down around her ears. Her skin was creamy white, betraying no clues as to her age, and her eyes glittered darkly from beneath lush lashes. Her gown was a tasteful and charming blue, and the fine pearls around her neck the perfect complement. She looked just like what she was. An elegant lady of means, intelligent and witty, ready to charm her guests with food and bon mots. Her home was understatedly fashionable, her gardens charming at this time of year, and her books lent her an air of hushed decadence belied by her appearance. And her butler? Well, once he made his presence known, even more rumors would circulate, adding fuel to the gossip, and ensuring her next novel instant success. She really hoped she didn’t have to eat him. Mildred pasted an insincere social smile on her lips and left her room to welcome her visitors.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 23 -
*** Cassie stepped over the threshold of Derby Hill and blinked as her vision darkened for an instant. She knew it had to be an illusion, since the rest of the party chattered gaily and commented on their delightful surroundings. But for Cassie, the air had taken on a sudden chill, the light pouring through the beautiful stained glass windows was dim, and the hairs on the back of her neck stood on end. The moment passed quickly as Ann and Bethany moved to her side. “Isn’t this exciting?” whispered Bethany. “Just look at the staircase.” “And the portraits. How lovely…” Ann’s eyes wandered over the hall. “It’s very old, isn’t it?” “Perhaps Lady Mildred is too,” said Cassie wryly. “Ladies. Welcome to Derby Hill. If you would enter the salon, Lady Mildred will be with you shortly.” The voice was firm and deep, and Cassie turned to see the butler standing next to an open door. She took one look at him -- and her heart stopped. Thankfully it started up again, deafening her with its pounding. He was… delectable. The handsomest man she’d ever seen, and every nerve ending in her body tingled at the sight of him. She grasped for her amethyst and felt it thrum in response to the blood thundering in her ears. The others preceded her and she dragged herself out of her stupor, crossing the hall a short way behind them, stopping short next to him. “Thank you.” Her voice was rough, as she looked into his eyes. Bluer than blue, they were as gorgeous as the rest of him. But -- there was something wrong here. Something very wrong. His pupils were dilated more than the shade of the hall should have caused. His face betrayed no expression whatsoever. It was as blank as a blackboard in a schoolroom, wiped clean of lessons.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 24 -
She slowly released her grasp on the necklace and lowered her hand. The man’s eyes fell to the gem revealed by her gesture, and almost immediately a frown creased his brow. “I… uh… what…” “Edward.” The voice came sharply across the hall, and Cassie turned to see a woman descending the stairs. “Yes, my Lady.” Cassie sighed. His frown had disappeared and he was back to whatever he’d been a few moments before. “I’m Mildred Derby. Welcome to my home.” She drifted past Cassie with a pleasant smile, leaving a waft of some scent in her wake. Cassie’s nose wrinkled. It was not a pleasant fragrance and made her want to sneeze. She followed her hostess into the salon and listened to the polite phrases of greeting. It was all too fake, too unreal for Cassie’s comfort. Beneath the honeyed tones was an edge of something… something dark. Her amethyst was rumbling against her breastbone, as if in warning. None of the others seemed aware, however, as the party settled itself comfortably into the sunlit room and prepared to be entertained by the notorious author who had made them so graciously at home. “Thank you all for visiting. It’s always a pleasure to meet like-minded readers.” “Oh Lady Mildred, how kind,” an older woman gushed with enthusiasm. “To finally meet you, to see the hand that held the pen from which such extraordinary tales have flowed…” Cassie wondered if she’d throw up. Lady Mildred acknowledged the encomium with a slight nod. “You are too kind,” she murmured on a blush. “Lady Mildred?” Ann ventured a question. “If I may ask, where do you get your ideas?”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 25 -
The woman’s expression altered slightly as she turned to Ann, and Cassie’s heightened senses leapt to full alert. There was a rapaciousness in her eyes that Cassie didn’t like at all. “Why from life, my dear. Life. The biggest mystery and the biggest romance of all.” She leaned over and touched Ann’s hand. “But you are young yet. There will be time for you to experience life to its fullest.” “How about your characters, Lady Mildred?” Bethany chimed in. “Do you draw on life for those too?” Mildred smiled. “Of course.” Ann and Bethany shared a glance. “Um… so the scenes of affection you write…” “Ann, Bethany… let’s not monopolize Lady Mildred. There are others with questions too.” Cassie had to stop this conversation. Her friends were staring at Lady Mildred as if transfixed by her gaze. Suddenly, an image flashed into her mind of a story once told her by her mother. A story of how a certain snake in far off lands would practically mesmerize its prey. There were undeniable parallels, and they made Cassie squirm in her chair. With a pout, the two girls subsided and others immediately chimed in. The conversation roamed around a variety of subjects, but every now and again Lady Mildred’s eyes would return to Ann and Bethany, sitting so politely and correctly beside each other on the small sofa. Cassie shivered. And wondered if the butler, Edward, would make a return appearance. Finally Lady Mildred rose. “I shall see to some refreshment for you ladies. We don’t stand on much ceremony here in the country, as you can see, so I’ll ask your forbearance for a few moments. Please feel free to step outside if you’d like… the gardens are lovely and the sun is shining. Such a pity to waste it, don’t you agree?”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 26 -
She walked smoothly to the door. “And should you wish to refresh yourselves, a room has been prepared for your convenience at the top of the stairs. To your right. You can’t miss it.” “How kind…” “So magnanimous…” The praise was wasted. Lady Mildred had left the room.
*** The gardens were, indeed, as advertised -- quite lovely. Cassie couldn’t appreciate any of the flowers or expound knowledgeably about what fertilizer was best for early blooming azaleas. She left that to the expert gardeners amongst their little crew, and watched Ann and Bethany stroll the grassy lawns with a distracted expression on her face. Finally, it got to be too much. The contrast between the bright sunlit foliage before her and the darkness she sensed around her gave her a mildly nagging headache and she excused herself to reenter the now silent house. Finding her way easily to the withdrawing room, she availed herself of the chamber pot, splashed cool water on her face from the ewer, and tried to calm the apprehension that shivered down her spine like icy fingers. Glancing in the mirror, she was caught by the strange notion that her amethyst seemed brighter, glowing somehow, as if trying to tell her something -- do something. It looked… impatient. She blinked. How silly. As if an inanimate object could be impatient. She left the room and with her unerringly awful sense of direction turned right instead of left. Within moments she realized her mistake and turned, but a murmur of voices held her feet in place. Eavesdropping was wrong. Very, very wrong. And she was going to eavesdrop for all she was worth. Stealthily, she tiptoed to a half-open door and paused. “Touch me, Edward. I want your hands on me. Now.”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 27 -
Good God. Was Lady Mildred rehearsing dialogue for her next novel? If she hadn’t used that name, Cassie might well have thought so. But Edward? The coincidence was too great. “Yes, my Lady.” It was him. The handsome butler with the expressionless face was answering her outrageous command with as much emotion as if she were ordering tea and biscuits. Unable to resist, Cassie eased her head around the doorway and peeped surreptitiously inside. Edward and Lady Mildred were silhouetted against a window, the light shining on them, revealing them quite clearly. And Edward’s hands were cupping Mildred’s breasts, kneading them, and fondling them. Cassie suppressed a gasp, and, coincidentally, a bolt of jealousy. Edward had very nice hands. But once again, she found herself struck by his lack of expression, his almost mechanical actions. As if -- as if he was performing on command. She watched, spellbound, as Mildred threw her head back and thrust herself forward into his grasp. “Damn. There’s not enough time. I must return to those nodcocks before they destroy my gardener’s achievements with their greedy fingers. Enough.” Immediately, Edward withdrew his hands, standing formally before her. Cassie couldn’t resist a glance down to his tight trousers. No sign that his actions had aroused him at all. It got stranger and stranger. “I have prepared everything for this evening, Edward. Please make sure the guest rooms are prepared. Dinner is in the capable hands of Mrs. Banks. Tonight will be fish, of course, but after that…” A small smile crossed Lady Mildred’s beautiful face. “After that, we shall -- if all goes well -- dine more heartily.” Cassie’s blood chilled. There was definitely more to Lady Mildred than the world supposed, and whatever it was, Cassie didn’t like it one bit.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 28 -
“I must prepare extra tonic, too. After our guests depart, please make sure my supplies are ready.” Cassie backed silently away, retracing her steps to find the main staircase and rejoin the party with much on her mind. Her thoughts went blank, however, as Ann and Bethany rushed to her side. “Oh Cassie, guess what?” “You’ll never believe it, Cassie…” The voices blended into a shrill drone, and Cassie held up her hands. “One at a time. I can’t guess anything if you’re both shrieking at me.” Ann blinked. “We weren’t shrieking, Cassie…” “Sorry. It’s just me. There’s something about Derby Hill and Lady Mildred --” “Yes, but that’s what’s so exciting,” interrupted Bethany. “It’s Lady Mildred. She’s asked the three of us to be her guests overnight.” “She has?” Cassie’s eyes widened. “Yes indeed,” laughed Ann. “She asked Bethy and me, but of course we told her that was out of the question unless you were invited too.” “When was this?” Cassie frowned. She’d just seen Lady Mildred. And Edward. And they’d been too busy to invite anybody to stay for the night. “A servant approached us as we walked in the rose garden -- I say, Cassie, you should see it. Roses beyond belief, all colors, the fragrance so rich it makes your head spin --” “And her herb garden… Cassie, you’d love it. You know all about herbs. There’s ones in there I couldn’t even guess at.” Ann grinned at her. “Did you know she also has a special place for growing mushrooms?” Herbs? Mushrooms? Various parts of a puzzle clicked into place in Cassie’s mind. This was indeed a bad place to be. “Uh… girls… I don’t want to disappoint you, but I don’t think staying is a good idea.”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 29 -
“Oh Cassie…” “Please, Cassie…” About to reiterate her statement, Cassie opened her mouth to refuse once more. “Yes, Cassie. Please say yes.” The voice was cool and smooth, and Cassie knew Lady Mildred was right behind her. What could she say? No, because I don’t like you? No, because your perfume makes me want to sneeze? No, because I saw your butler with his hands down your dress and I wished it were me instead? Cassie had nothing concrete to offer in the way of objections. Suspicions, yes, conjectures, yes, but no solid argument against the projected visit. “I… uh…” She thought rapidly. “I would not wish to inconvenience you, Lady Mildred…” Lame, Cassie, far too lame. Lame indeed, and Mildred knew it. The smile on her face did nothing to allay Cassie’s nerves. “Naturally my invitation extends to you, Cassie. I may call you Cassie, may I not? I feel as if we are friends already. As I do with Ann and Bethany here.” Her smile embraced them both. They grinned identical grins, and Cassie knew the battle was lost. Her amethyst pulsed comfortingly, and she allowed it to dictate her next words, right or wrong though they might be. “Very well. We shall accept your kind invitation, Lady Mildred. As long as you are completely sure we won’t be intruding on your privacy.” “Not at all, my dear. Not at all. It will be a delight to spend an evening discussing literature and sharing opinions with like-minded friends. I look forward to it.” A cry of pleasure interrupted her and she glanced over to see one large lady pluck an enormous bloom from a startlingly blue hydrangea. “In the meantime, I see I must rescue my prize flowers before my gardener hands in his resignation in disgust.” With a slight nod, she swept away. Cassie sneezed.
Chapter 4 It was late when Cassie finally found herself alone in her room. Dinner had passed uneventfully, and the salmon had been quite delicious. Lady Mildred’s cook was obviously skilled in her art, since the simple meal had been accompanied by an assortment of the freshest vegetables and had concluded with a strawberry confection that had brought smiles to the faces of the diners. Nothing in any of the food had given Cassie cause for concern. Her thoughts had immediately run to some kind of substance they’d be ingesting. Perhaps Lady Mildred needed money, and would use an herbal concoction to render them senseless. She could then rifle their belongings and steal their valuables. Well, no. That wouldn’t work. Cassie didn’t have much of anything valuable with her, Ann was darn near broke, and Bethany too young to have the family jewels. And there weren’t many of those anyway. So if it wasn’t money Lady Mildred was after, what the hell was it? After dinner, they’d enjoyed tea in a snug parlor as the twilight deepened into the darkness of night. The delectable Edward had served them, correctly, properly, and with absolutely no indication of any emotions. He was, in fact, the perfect butler. Still Cassie had watched him closely. Every now and again, his gaze had darted to her amethyst. A flash of movement quickly gone. But she was completely convinced that something about the gem was… was what? Calling to him? Or did he just like sparkly things? Was he planning on stealing it for his mistress? He’d have to cut her head off to get it, she chuckled to herself. The chain had been welded closed after Cassie’s mother had gifted her with it, and it had adorned her body ever since.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 31 -
No, there was no way it could be stolen. Not without a hefty pair of wire cutters or a hacksaw. So what was left? Cassie didn’t know, but her concerns grew as she discovered her room to be situated some distance away from Ann and Bethany for their shared night’s rest. “I knew, seeing as you’re a widow, you’d prefer your privacy, Cassie dear,” had said Lady Mildred. “I hope it’s to your liking?” And it had been. A delightful suite which faced the forest, furnished in a pleasingly elegant style. Cassie could not find anything to complain about. So here she was, further away from Ann and Bethany than she should be, and trying to ignore the image of Edward, tall and handsome, that persisted in intruding into her thoughts in the most lascivious way. It had been a long time since she’d felt these… these urges. The urge to experience a man’s touch. A man’s tongue perhaps. All the things she’d read about in Lady Mildred’s books. She now had a pretty good idea where Lady Mildred did her research. Right in her own four-poster -- with Edward. The bitch. She couldn’t rid herself of the notion that Edward was a willing participant. Or was willing the right word? He certainly obeyed Mildred’s commands, no matter how outrageous they were. But then again, wouldn’t any man love to get his hands on that woman’s breasts? Cassie’s head pounded as she prepared for bed and turned the matter over in her mind every which way. Wild possibilities, absurd scenarios, she considered them all in her rational way, trying to be as scientific as possible about her conclusions. Finally, she gave up. She pulled down the quilt and sat on the firm mattress, kicking off her slippers. The amethyst heated against her skin.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 32 -
“Oh now what?” She sighed and cleared her mind, reaching up to find the stone, and hold it in the spot that her hand had long ago reserved just for this purpose. It was comforting and familiar, but tonight, it was clearly trying to tell her something. She closed her eyes. Immediately, an image of Ann and Bethany flashed before her eyes. Very well. Time to check on her charges. Again. Even though she’d seen them comfortably settled prior to seeking her own room. She slid from the bed, grabbed the matching wrapper that Lady Mildred had conveniently provided along with the rather modest nightgown, and headed off to find the girls. It wasn’t hard. Just follow the sounds of giggles. And the giggles were coming fast and furious from a large suite into which Cassie erupted, her nerves tightened by the prospect of what she might find. A scene of total and utter horror met her gaze. The girls were drinking. A decanter sat on the low table fronting the empty fireplace, and both girls were clearly enjoying the effects of its contents. “Hello, Cassie…” grinned Ann. She leaned drunkenly along the back of the chaise lounge. Bethany was sprawled across it, hair dangling to the floor. “Wanna drinkie poo?” “Absolutely not.” Cassie stormed across the room and snatched the decanter away, pouring the contents into the nearest chamber pot, which happened to have been used. That should deter them from further adventures with brandy. “Oh, Cassie. You spoilsport,” Ann hiccupped. Bethany pouted and burped.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 33 -
“I’m ashamed of you. Both of you. What got into you? You know you never drink… and certainly not brandy.” Cassie stared at them, hands planted firmly on her hips. Good lord. She was turning into her mother. “Ladeeee M’ldred said…” Bethany frowned. “Uh… wha’ did she say, Annie?” “She said…” Ann stumbled slightly and caught herself up. “She said it would help us sleep. I think. Uh… well, somethin’ like that…” “No, stooopid.” Bethany giggled and hiccupped in her turn. “That wasn’t the brandy. That was the other stuff.” “Oh, right y’are.” Ann grinned happily. “Other stuff? What other stuff?” Cassie almost slurred her own words in her hurry to ask the question. “You know…” Bethany waved her hand in a vague gesture toward their bureau. The surface was bare. “The other stuff. Tasted funny. I like brandy better.” She sighed. “An’ now it’s all gone.” Her eyes drooped. “All gone,” mournfully echoed Ann. “Lord, I’m tired.” She yawned widely. Cassie’s skin was crawling but she had no idea what to do. She wanted to gather the girls and run as fast as she could, as far as she could from this horrid place. But how? To demand a carriage at this hour on the strength of nothing more than two drunken chits who should’ve known better would be awkward to say the least. To make matters even more confusing, her amethyst remained obstinately quiet, thrumming against her body, as if also agreeing there was no solution to the current problem. She sighed. “Into bed with you both.” She stared at them. “Now.” Groaning and complaining, they dragged themselves to the large bed and tumbled in, allowing Cassie to tuck the covers around them. “Listen. I’m going to lock your door when I leave and take the key with me, all right?” “But Cassie,” muttered Ann sleepily. “What ‘f the house burns down or something?”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 34 -
“Then you’ll have nothing to worry about, since you’ve got enough brandy in you and on your breath that you’ll go up in flames first.” Cassie was in no mood to placate them. “Good. I won’ worry ‘bout it, then.” Ann turned on her pillow and started to snore. Bethany was already asleep. Carefully, Cassie extinguished all but one candle, leaving that securely across the room on a large brass plate. She removed the key from the inside of the lock and glanced around her. She could do no more. With any luck they would be safe until morning, at which time she sincerely hoped the awful hangovers they’d undoubtedly suffer would teach them both a sound lesson. Then they could get the hell away from Derby Hill.
*** The house was as quiet as only very old houses can be as Cassie crept along the darkened passageway and back to her own room. Closing the door behind her, she breathed a sigh of relief, only to have it catch on a scream in her throat as someone moved in the shadows. Edward. She swallowed and clutched the front of her robe, then let go, realizing the futility of the gesture. If only a few romance novel heroines would do the same. The thought flashed through her mind to be immediately dismissed in favor of more immediate concerns. “Edward. What are you doing here?” He surveyed her calmly. “Lady Mildred suggested a tonic. To help you sleep.” “Ah.” She looked at the glasses on the tray he’d obviously just put down on a side table. “Two glasses?” “I take a glass myself at this time. Lady Mildred suggested we drink together.” “Rather unusual, isn’t it?” Oh yes, Cassie. Good point. As if having a conversation with a butler in one’s nightwear wasn’t unusual enough. Of course, he was a very handsome butler…
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 35 -
“Here.” He held out a glass of some pale liquid.
Not much for conversation, though.
The amethyst burned hot against her breast. Danger.
Cassie blinked and started forward, then did something she’d never done before
-- she faked a stumble, falling into Edward. Automatically, he moved to catch her, spilling the glass and its contents, knocking over the side table at the same time. “Oh… oh… I’m so sorry. How clumsy of me…” Her protestations fell upon deaf ears. Edward was holding her, his hands hot against her skin through the thin wrapper. And his eyes? They were fixed on her amethyst. “I… I…” He frowned, blinked, and shook his head as if to clear it. “Edward?” Cassie looked closely at him, loath to move from her present position. His arms were rather nice. Very strong, it seemed, since he held her weight with no trouble at all. Oh my. “What… who… I can’t…” He seemed uncertain, and for the first time Cassie saw his face wince as he struggled with his words. “Edward,” she said softly. “Take your time. Tell me. Can you speak clearly?” “Noooo…” he hissed, a vein pulsing in his forehead. “It’s the tonic, isn’t it? It’s drugged…” “I… I…” He fought for words, and still none came. “Can you not think, Edward? Try for me, please. Is there anything I can do to help you? Any way to reach you?” Edward breathed rapidly, his chest rising and falling as he drew her close. “Yess…” “What, Edward? Tell me… you haven’t drunk the tonic this evening. Are the effects wearing off? How can you rid yourself of them?” Cassie kept up her interrogation, while Edward stared at the amethyst.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 36 -
He touched it hesitantly and withdrew his hand immediately as if burned. He turned helpless eyes to her. “Make me… make… me…” “Make you what, Edward?” She reached up and grasped his face, her hands on either side. “Make you what?” “Make me… come.” Oh hell. Without a second thought, Cassie stripped off her wrapper and tore Edward’s jacket from his body. The things I do for people. She led him to the bed. “All right. Let’s make you come, Edward.” And let’s make me come while we’re at it.
*** The small spark of humanity that was Edward Longsmith fought to burst into flames and return to its rightful place. His vision was filled with darting purple flares that seemed to be emanating from a single source -- the jewel on the breast of the woman disrobing hurriedly before him. Automatically he stripped his own clothes. This was something he’d done before, he knew. But those lights, dazzling and clear, were piercing the fog that had clouded his thoughts, suppressed his nature, and turned him into… what? He didn’t know. And at this point he didn’t care. He only knew he desperately wanted this woman with a passion that surprised him. She was pulling the pins from her hair and letting it cascade in dark curls down her back. An image of black locks superimposed itself and he frowned. But he looked again. These weren’t black, they were russet, amber where the candlelight found them, and touched by the magic glitter of the jewel she wore. Against her breasts. And what lovely breasts they were. Firm and full, tipped with dusky nipples, they were calling him as she dropped her nightgown to the floor.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 37 -
With a moan he bent to her and sucked one deeply into his mouth. Oh yes. She tasted of… of sunshine, flowers, and things he’d forgotten. His cock hadn’t, however, and he felt a slight start of surprise as it hardened immediately. Shouldn’t he have… oh well. The thought disappeared as he tongued the nipple and played with it until it was a rigid nubbin in his mouth. Lost in the pleasure of her breast, he was almost surprised to find they were both naked and touching, moving perhaps, now tumbling onto something soft. He could feel her warmth penetrating his skin -- unfurling inside him. It lightened his heart in some way, and he let his mind seek for thoughts… ideas… anything. For the first time in so long, his mind was returning. Of course, it was returning to his cock first. Rigid and ready, Edward wanted. Wanted with an overwhelming desire that flooded him. He slid between her thighs like he was made for just that position, and his heart rate accelerated as she tightened them around his body. His mouth watered, hungry for a taste of more than just her breath. “What are you doing?” The question surprised him. He was doing what he was always told to do. Didn’t she know? He buried his face in her pussy without answering. She’d find out. Sweet, hot, and wet, her flesh tempted his mouth, and he flicked out his tongue tasting her juices. So gooood… She moaned in pleasure, gasping a little as he found that for which he sought -the small spot that made her writhe. There… just there. “Oh yes, Edward, oh yessss…” The words were familiar somehow, but her taste was not. It was as if life was returning to his tongue, his taste buds, allowing him the shared pleasure of this intimate act. Like a shot of brandy, she went to his head, but this time he could enjoy the sensation. “Oh please…” Her whispers teased at the fringes of his returning awareness.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 38 -
“What?” He muttered the word as his tongue sought and found her entrance, delving into her cunt and bringing little whimpers of delight from her. “I want you… inside me…” He found, to his amazement, he wanted that too. He really wanted it. Her fingers were tugging at his hair, pulling him upwards away from her delectable pussy, but as soon as his cock brushed her wet skin he was lost. Hard and ready, he sought her entrance, watching himself as he sank into her tight heat. Watching himself. Awareness returned with a flood, blinding him for a moment. He was fucking a woman -- and enjoying every minute of it. Who the hell was she? And why did it feel so right? Snug and slick, she welcomed his penetration, sighing with delight as he buried himself to the balls inside her. She lifted her hips, urging him deeper, and he obeyed. Willingly, excitedly, he thrust into her, withdrawing and thrusting again, timing his movements to her sighs and loving every single second. “Edward…” His name. Edward. Edward… his name! He couldn’t hold back. Her cunt was moving around him as she began to orgasm, massaging him, clamping hard on him, and urging him to follow her. And now he could. Freely, and excitedly, he let the harsh muscle spasms rush from his toes to his ears, leaning into her. His cock jerked and pulsed. He roared a cry of pleasure as his balls released their precious cargo, slamming into her, filling her to overflowing, draining himself. And draining the last of the fog from his brain. Oh my God. What have I done?
Chapter 5 Cassie lay, sated and exhausted, beneath the man sprawled on top of her. She’d been lost the minute he’d told her that he could remember if he came, and she knew she’d been sent to this place, at this time, for this reason. Or at least hoped she had, since it was the best sex she’d had since… forever. She could rationalize it all she wanted, but damn it, she’d wanted Edward since she first set eyes on him, and he’d fulfilled her every expectation -- and then some. So it was rather unnerving when he rolled off her body, propped his head up on his arm, and said, “Hello. Who are you?” Not exactly the sort of comment she’d anticipated. “I’m Cassie. Cassandra Turner.” She found herself blushing, which was amazingly idiotic given their current positions. “Nice to meet you, Cassie. I’m Edward.” “I know.” Cassie’s embarrassment gave way to a sense of urgency. “But who are you? Really? Can you remember now?” Edward’s blue eyes narrowed. “Oh yes. I remember. I’m Edward Longsmith. I was… on my way to Newmarket last week… no, it can’t be last week, can it? What day is it? What month?” “It’s June.” Cassie watched the emotions chase themselves across Edward’s face as the memories flooded back. “June? Good God. I’ve been here five months…” Cassie gasped. “Five months? How? Why? Edward, tell me everything, please. It’s important…” He gulped. “I don’t know if I can.” He ran his fingers through his hair in a gesture of confusion. “It’s all so muddled.”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 40 -
She gently rested a hand on his shoulder. “Tell me, Edward. From the beginning.” He tugged her into his arms, nestling her head into his shoulder. “It started with my trip to Newmarket. I wanted to buy a breeding stallion for my farm. Oh…” He moved slightly. “My God. My farm. I wonder what they must think?” “Go on, Edward, we’ll worry about that later. I need to know about Lady Mildred. What she did to you. How she held you in thrall.” He shuddered, and she felt it all the way to her soul. “Thrall is right. She drugged me. It must have been the first night, I suppose. My axle broke, I wandered a bit, got lost, and ended up here. She was all smiles and welcome and… well… we… uh…” Cassie ground her teeth. “I can guess. Go on.” “I can’t. That’s pretty much the last I can remember clearly. I suppose it was something in that special tonic. Since then, it’s like I’ve been living in some dream, some nightmare, and I only grasped a few moments when I c… well…” “Yes, I know. When you come. Good lord, Edward, this is no time to be a shrinking violet. I need to know as much as possible. Honestly.” She spoke in a very matter-of-fact voice, steadfastly ignoring the large hand resting just beneath her breast and the scent of desire and their bodies, which was doing as much to cloud her thoughts as any tonic Lady Mildred could have devised. “I just can’t remember too much. But I do remember the cold. The cold that the things she did sent shivering down my bones. I don’t know what they were, just that they made me horrified, even in my drugged state. I was afraid, unable to think clearly, but still afraid. Does that make sense?” He turned to look at Cassie, all blue eyes and worried frown. “Yes, Edward, darling. It does make sense.” She stroked a hand down his cheek. “And then you came. Wearing this…” His fingers grazed her nipple as he reached for the stone around her neck. “It blinded me for a moment and the mists
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 41 -
parted. For the first time I could see clearly but then I slipped back again before I could…” Cassie covered his hand with hers. “It’s a special amulet. Blessed and powerful, and I see now why it led me here -- to you.” “When I found myself again… I was inside you. Loving you. It wasn’t just about the coming, Cassie. It was that I was coming with you.” His hand fell to her breast and cradled it gently. “Loving you, Cassie. Like a bolt of lightning out of a foggy night, you gave me back my soul, and I gave you my heart in return.” Cassie sighed. “Very nice, Edward. You’ve been reading Lady Mildred’s books, haven’t you?” “She writes books?” “Look, we probably shouldn’t get involved in this discussion right at the moment.” “Why not? We’re naked, we’ve loved once. It’s been a while since I’ve been conscious enough to really know what I’m doing, and I don’t mind telling you that I enjoyed every second of taking you and making you mine.” Edward dipped his head and flicked his tongue across her nipple. “The bits I remember, anyway.” Cassie shivered with pleasure. “And I enjoyed it too. It’s been a long time for me, also.” “You are… married?” Edward pulled back. “A widow, Edward. I’m a widow. It’s all right.” She returned his head to its previous position. There was no sense in wasting a perfectly nice tongue. They could talk just as well like this as dressed and sitting in front of the fireplace. Edward nibbled on her. Better in fact. “But…” Edward hummed as she heaved a breath, coincidentally pushing more of her breast into his mouth. “But what?” His words were muffled and vibrated against her skin.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 42 -
“But I have two friends, young charges, and I’m worried about Lady Mildred’s plans for them. She was so insistent that we stay. She gave them some of that tonic, and brandy too. I have them under lock and key, but even so…” Edward finally, regretfully, left her breast, giving it a parting lick of farewell. “Two friends? Male or female?” “Girls. We’re friends, we met in London, and decided to travel down to Derby Hill together. I’m responsible for them, Edward. And frankly, I’m worried.” Edward bit his lip. “I don’t like the sound of it, either. Of course, being girls, they probably wouldn’t serve her appetites the way I did…” He turned, a look of distress on his face. “Or would they?” “Oh dear God.” Cassie struggled from his arms. “Edward, come on. Dress. I have to check on them. Now.”
*** Edward followed Cassie as she crept from her room and marveled at how clearly his head was working. There was still that horrid gap in his memories, weeks -- no -months that had blurred into darkness. But now, thanks to this amazing woman and a miraculous pendant, he was himself again. And he had a score to settle with a certain Lady. Nobody fucked Edward Longsmith like that and got away with it. Damned if he’d let that witch get her claws into the delightful Cassie Turner either. Or her friends. Cassie held a finger to her mouth, motioning him to complete silence as she paused before a large door, and produced a key from her pocket. The fact that she had to roll her dress practically up to her thigh to locate it was a distraction he could ill afford at this particular moment, but he enjoyed it anyway. She frowned at him. Good lord, she was sensitive to his every thought. He grinned back and licked his lips, enjoying the way her nipples hardened beneath her light gown, even though she was engaged in dark and dangerous deeds. Oh yes. Cassie Turner was his kind of woman.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 43 -
Cautiously she eased the door open and peered inside, tugging Edward in after her. “Hell and damnation.” The curse hissed from between her teeth, and she turned her burning amber eyes to meet his. “They’ve bloody gone.” Edward grew cold. “Gone? What do you mean, gone?” He glanced over at the rumpled four-poster. “How could they be gone?” “How the bloody hell do I know? I just know they’ve bloody gone.” “Well, let’s go bloody find them. They can’t get far in the dark, now, can they?” He pulled her from the room into the passageway. “Let’s check Mildred’s room first. By the way…” They crept silently through the darkness. “Anyone ever tell you that you swear a lot?” “Fuck, yes.” Edward stifled a snort of laughter and found Mildred’s door ajar. He risked a quick glance inside. “Empty as the grave.” “Poor choice of words, given the circumstances. Come on. Let’s check the rest of the rooms.” Close to an hour later, they were both forced to admit defeat. Cassie’s face was white and pinched now, and Edward’s heart ached for her. He pulled her into a quick embrace. “We’ll find them, darling, I promise.” She rested her head against his chest for a moment, thinking. “The kitchens. We haven’t checked belowstairs yet.” “Then let’s go.” The lower depths of Derby Hill were as silent as the rest of the house. Several candles burned low, and not a sound emanated from behind any of the closed doors. “It’s so deserted,” whispered Cassie “It always is,” muttered Edward. “The staff live in their own cottages on the estate.” “That’s odd… oh, the kitchens…”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 44 -
They moved into a cavernous room, where pots hung threateningly from the ceiling racks, casting menacing shadows on the walls. Vague aromas of yesterday’s cooking lingered in the air, and Cassie’s nose wrinkled. “Not the best of kitchen scents.” “No, it isn’t, is it?” Edward led her onward. “Through here is the larder, and the smokehouse is on the other side of it. Let’s check there.” Carefully avoiding the greasy spots on the floor, Cassie followed Edward. “I don’t like this. I don’t like this at all.” Edward had to agree. “I don’t like it either.”
*** The larder was huge, shelves laden with covered platters, baskets of vegetables, cheeses, and Cassie’s heart nearly stopped dead as a sound rolled around the stone walls. “Mrrrooowwllll…” She tittered nervously. “Ah. The kitchen cat.” A hiss and a yowl followed. “Sorry. I trod on it.” Edward didn’t sound too sorry. “Black cat. It was too dark to see the damned thing clearly.” A rather unpleasant smell rose from several dishes on one shelf, and Cassie risked a look beneath the cloth covering them. “Urgh. Must be offal for the animals or something.” She gazed at the red mass of entrails just visible in the dish. “Glad I’m not an animal.” “Meeeeoooowwwlll…” She glanced behind her to the skulking shadow that was the cat. “They’re all yours, my friend. And good luck to you.” The cat tilted its head and then rubbed around her ankles. Cassie was well aware of exactly what her fair-weather friend was requesting. “No. I’m not feeding you. Go away.” Edward glanced at her. “Cassie, for heaven’s sake stop playing with the pussy.” His face was completely innocent. “That’s my job.”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 45 -
In spite of her dire concern for her friends, Cassie couldn’t hold back her snicker. “Very funny. What’s through here? The smokehouse?” They passed from the larder into a blackness that smelled of death and raw meat. Yes, most definitely the smokehouse. This would be where the winter supplies were hung after being smoked and seasoned, thus guaranteeing the household plenty of food during the long winter months. “Let me get a candle…” Edward vanished back into the larder for a moment, leaving Cassie alone. She took a hesitant step forward and bumped into something that swung away from her, then back again, forcing her to move to one side. She gasped, then chided herself. Meat, of course. A haunch of venison perhaps, or a side of beef. Edward’s return reassured her as did the candle he held. “Oh thank God. This isn’t a good place to be alone in.” He was staring at her gem. “You know, that amethyst… it really is quite remarkable.” “I know. Come on, let’s look around.” This wasn’t the time to be discussing the intricacies of her jewelry. Edward held the candle aloft, and Cassie’s lungs emptied of breath. “Edward.” She gazed around her, nearly speechless at the sight revealed by the flickering flame. “What?” “This… look… do you know what this is?” She gestured toward a large hunk of meat, dangling from a hook near the ceiling. It was skinned and seasoned, and had clearly been smoked. But Cassie knew -- she knew -- what it was. “Tomorrow’s dinner?” “Edward.” “Yes?” “Oh my God. It’s… it’s…” Her voice froze in her throat. “It’s what?”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 46 -
“It’s a human thigh!” “Oh. Well in that case, it’s probably the undercook. Or perhaps the under parlor maid. I forget.” He stood the candle in a small saucer. Cassie turned slowly to gaze at him. “What did you say?” Edward stared blindly at her for a moment, and then his blue eyes filled with horror. “Jesus Christ, Cassie. Jesus fucking Christ. I remember.” His voice was hoarse now, and he grabbed her arm roughly. “Come on… I know where they are… let’s just pray to God we’re in time…”
Chapter 6 They plunged through the gardens, finding their way blindly when the trees blotted out the moonlight. Cassie’s heart pounded in rhythm with their footsteps as she tried to comprehend the things she’d seen and the conclusions she was rapidly fearing. Edward seemed sure of the direction, and led her unerringly to a small forest path. “Ssshh…” He held her against him and breathed into her ear. “We must be quiet from now on. If they’re where I think they are, it’s not far, and voices carry at night.” Cassie nodded, not trusting her voice to respond. She’d seen much in her life, and done more, but even she had not been immune to the horror in the smokehouse. They continued their progress more slowly, Edward in front, stepping cautiously around dead branches, and making sure their footfalls would give no sign of their presence. Finally, the burbling of a stream hushed through the quiet night and Edward stopped. “We must stand in the stream here. The willow will hide us, but we can see upstream without detection.” His voice was muffled by the soft liquid murmur of the little brook. Cassie nodded again. What did a little water matter when her friends’ very lives were at stake? Slowly, they made their way into a shallow pool, overhung by rustling fronds of willow. The water was cold, icy cold, and a shiver ran up Cassie’s spine as her feet froze along with it. Gently, Edward eased back a couple of branches as he stared upstream into a patch of light.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 48 -
His gasp told her all she needed to know, and she gritted her teeth, moving to stand beside him. It was worse than she could ever have imagined. A small lantern rested on the bank next to… oh God. What was left of Bethany. Mrs. Banks, the cook, was busily and efficiently severing an arm from a torso, and Cassie could clearly see a head, blonde hair tousled and damply dark, resting near, its sightless eyes admiring the night sky. She swallowed down vomit and looked further. It got worse. Lady Mildred, skirts neatly tucked up to avoid the running water, was crouched low on a rock. She had Ann by the hair. Ann’s limp body was naked, floating in the stream. And as Cassie watched, helpless, Lady Mildred severed Ann’s throat, releasing a flood of gushing blood into the running water. They were too late. “Nice job, M’Lady,” chortled Mrs. Banks as she stacked Bethany’s limbs in a tidy pile. “Very clean indeed. I’m thinking these two will keep us well stocked for a month or two at least.” The blood swirled down steam to pool around Cassie’s feet. Ann’s blood. Her dream returned to her in full force. Here was the message she’d been sent. But it had been for naught. Tears flooded her eyes and she caught her breath on a choke of pain. “Oh more than that, Mrs. Banks. I really must cut down a little on my meals. I think my dresses are getting snug, and that will never do.” Lady Mildred kept her hands on Ann’s hair, tugging the lifeless corpse through the water behind her like a dog on a leash. “Here. This second one has plenty of meat on her. I especially fancy the ribs. But only two at a time from now on, I think. More vegetables, less fats, and I probably should try and squeeze in a walk or two now and again, don’t you think?”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 49 -
“What ever you say, M’Lady. These are a pretty pair, for sure. I have a new recipe for sweetbreads, too. Might give it a go soon.” The matter-of-fact words only added to Cassie’s horror. She couldn’t help it -she was quite definitely going to vomit. And then scream for at least an hour. Edward’s strong grasp shocked her, so lost was she in the ghastly images. “Cassie…” he hissed in her ear. “They must not find us. They must not… do you understand?” His words sounded foreign and he shook her, hard. “We’ll end up like your friends if they find us. Cassie…” She swallowed. “Lady Mildred… she must be stopped…” “I know. But not by us. Not now. I have no weapon, Mrs. Banks is stronger than a bloody ox, and I can’t think straight. We have to get out of here. Now.”
*** Edward dragged an unresisting Cassie behind him, his own bile not far from his mouth. The bitter taste spurred him on, and somehow they retraced their steps back into the forest without detection. He swerved from their original path, however, down a new one, leading them away from Derby Hill and deeper into the forest. He was relentless, knowing that the more distance they put between themselves and those two butchers, the safer they were. For close to an hour he tugged Cassie behind him, until her labored breaths told him she was approaching her limit. And so, in all honesty, was he. Her hand started to tremble in his. Now, he guessed, the reaction would set in. He turned and took her in his arms, waiting for the tears and cries of horror. “That fucking bitch.” Hmm. No tears. “I’ll fucking kill her. I’ll rip her head right off her body. I’ll… I’ll slice her throat from ear to ear. Let’s see how her jugular likes being slashed in two. Let’s see her watch as her blood pumps up past her nose and she dies slowly.”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 50 -
“Uh… Cassie?” She tore free of his arms and stomped around the small clearing. “I know just how to do it, too. I’ve done it before.” “You have?” Edward took a tentative step backwards. “Oh yes, I have.” Cassie marched back in front of him. Edward took another step to the rear. “I sliced my late unlamented husband’s throat from ear to ear. I know just where to cut.” “Um. You… er… killed your husband?” Well, now. It seemed that perhaps life had flung him from the fire into somebody else’s frying pan. It just wasn’t Edward’s day. “Yes, I did. And my parents helped me, too.” She stood tall and proud. “If ever there was a man who needed killing, it was him. Filthy pervert.” Edward swallowed. “Dare I ask what he did?” “Brutalized children. That’s what he did. The bastard. I’d kill him again if I could.” “Oh.” Edward thought for a moment. “So why did you marry him?” She snorted. “My parents asked the same question when they returned from abroad to find I’d gone and done it. And I’ll tell you what I told them. Because I was an idiot, all right?” “All right.” This would not be a good time to disagree with her. “I didn’t know when we wed, of course. Oh no. He kept his nasty little habits to himself. But I found him. Found the little girl… it was… well, it was pretty bad.” “It must have been.” “And you know what the bastard said as he was dying?” “Um… no?” “He said he was sorry, he’d never do it again, and he hadn’t meant to hurt them… them, Edward, them. Heaven knows how many he’d killed.” “Ah.”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 51 -
“So of course, my parents and I decided on the only course of action. And Harold disappeared. And may the wolves that ate his moldering corpse not suffer too much.” “Good lord.” Edward sank down against a tree on a soft patch of turf. He wasn’t sure if his brain could take much more tonight. “And now… now Ann… and pretty Bethany…” Cassie’s voice shook. “Oh God, it never ends. The evil never ends. I should never have brought them here… oh God…” Edward jumped to his feet and rushed to her, folding her tight in his arms. “But now we know. And we shall stop her, Cassie. I promise. She will be prevented from ever doing this again.” Cassie buried her face in his shirt and sobbed. Edward held her, marveling at the combination of strength and wisdom that could be tempered by such pain at another’s death. Most women would have been insensible by now, but not Cassie. Oh yes, she’d let go at last and was crying her heart out, but inside was a core of steel. He knew if given half the chance, she’d take Lady Mildred’s life, and feel justified doing it. He shared those feelings. Edward lowered them both to the ground, cuddling her close. “Rest for a while. We’ll move on with the dawn, and find some help. With what we’ve seen, what we know… we have more than enough information to lay before the authorities. It’s the end of the line for that monster, Cassie. I swear.” Her sobs eased and she turned in his arms, seeking comfort. “I know, Edward. I suppose it’s why I was sent here.” She touched her amethyst. “By this. It helped bring you out of her clutches. It saved you, at least.” “And brought us together.” His lips lowered to hers, and as they touched, the horrors of the night faded away. They were alive. Survivors. It was up to them to stop the evil perpetrated by a witch of unspeakable proportions. He tasted her tears and kept his kisses light. Now was not the time for passion but for comfort. The passion would come later. His cock stirred anyway, but he told it to shut up.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 52 -
He had a feeling his cock would always stir when Cassie was in his arms. Or his bed. Or in the same general vicinity, give or take five square miles. She was just… his.
*** He touched her like she was a fragile thing, lips soft and cherishing. It was so nice and so completely not what she wanted. Cassie was surrounded both mentally and physically by death, horror, and terrible images of both. She needed life. She needed to know that there was something in this world that was good. That was filled with sunshine and joy. “Edward…” She murmured the word against his lips. “Yes?” “Fuck me.” “What?” “You heard me. Take me. Here. Now. In the darkness. Drive these terrors from my mind and fill it with you. Fill other things with you. I want you. I need your touch now more than you can imagine…” He held her still for a moment, as if pondering her words. “Cassie… I…” Oh good lord. Did she have to paint him a picture? “Look, it’s an unspeakably awful night. Let’s not even speak of it.” She frowned. “That didn’t come out right.” She struggled free of his arms and stood. “I want you.” She unlaced her gown and let it fall to the grass. “Now. I want to fuck. Like a woman, like an animal, I don’t care. I just want to lose my mind for a while, and I can’t think of a better way to do it, can you?” Since a bulge was already tenting the front of his trousers, she assumed he was close to agreeing. She moved to stand against a tree, parting her thighs in invitation. “Here. Up against this trunk. I want your hardness inside me and the wood’s hardness behind me. I need to feel, Edward, or I may never feel again.” Edward shed his shirt and unbuttoned his trousers, kicking his boots aside as he tossed his garments after them. “All right.”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 53 -
Cassie sighed in relief. His cock was hard, jutting toward her, and the sight of him accomplished what she had set out to do. It drove all other thoughts from her mind. And when he bent to her breasts, squeezing them together with his hands and teasing her nipples, she blanked out completely, surrendering to the sensations his talented fingers sent charging through her body. His cock lay burning against her belly and she squirmed. He suckled the nipples he’d pushed close, flicking first one and then the other, teasing and tugging until she wanted to cry out. Her juices filled her and overflowed, moistening her thighs. The scent of her arousal mingled with the fragrance of the forest and the harsh bark digging into her spine heightened every single movement she made. It was glorious -- it was what being alive was all about. She gasped in air, filling lungs that Edward’s caresses had emptied on a sigh. Of course, when he dropped to his knees and put his mouth on her, she lost all the air once again. His mouth -- oh my, his mouth. He didn’t seem to be able to get enough of her. He was everywhere at once, delving into her swollen folds, tantalizing her clit then leaving it bereft while he sought other, just as delightful places. He even slipped one hand behind her and explored her cleft with his fingers, easing gently into places she’d never thought of as erotic. But when Edward did it, bloody hell. “Oh fuck, Edward…” “Like that?” He hummed against her clit and she bit back a shout. “I like it all…” She felt his lips curve into a smile against her pussy and damn near came right then and there. But he was pulling back, leaving her hot and wet and oh-so-ready. He rose up against her, abrading her nipples with his chest. “Lift your leg…”
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 54 -
She obeyed readily, sliding it up along his thigh. His cock was exactly where they both wanted it. “Ready?” Edward’s question took her by surprise. Of course she was bloody ready. She was stark naked in a forest, back firmly pressed to a tree, front firmly pressed to an exquisitely aroused cock, juices practically flooding the glade, and the stupid man wanted to know if she was ready? “Yes.” Men. His hands slipped to her buttocks and he lifted her slightly, his cock finding her cunt and impaling her as he lowered her back down. She sighed with delight. Oh yes. This was what she had wanted. Needed. To be filled with a lover’s cock, surrounded by a lover’s body. To remember once again that life held such pleasure, such joy. She knew, in the recesses of her mind, that there would be trouble and difficulty ahead for them both. Evil must be stopped -- forever. But right now, right at this very moment when Edward’s cock was finally deep inside her, touching her very core, there was nothing but joy. And life. The amethyst glowed softly between them as the forest covered them with its soft darkness and the owls hooted in concert with their sighs of pleasure. Two creatures finding comfort in the act of love. Finding forgetfulness, and hope. Putting horror behind them for a little while. And doing the most natural thing of all in the most natural of surroundings. Yes, life would go on. Cassie orgasmed around Edward’s cock in an explosion of such brilliance that she wondered if she’d survive. Edward followed her into the vortex, groaning out his joy as he pumped her full of his seed. The first fingers of light glimmered on the horizon as they lay together, sleeping, finding solace in each other’s arms at last.
Chapter 7 Several months later… “Dinner is served, ma Lady.” “Thank you, Lachlan.” The elegant woman placed her quill on the desk and surveyed the kilted man standing quietly at the door. “You will escort me, of course?” “Aye, ma Lady.” “Lachlan. Have you obeyed my instructions about your uniform?” “Aye, ma Lady.” “Let me see.” Lady Mildred Derby watched as the man bent to the hem of his kilt and raised it high above his waist. She licked her lips at the sight of his cock, massive even in repose, nestled against a curling thatch of red hair. “Very good, Lachlan. I shall require your presence tonight.” Face expressionless, the man lowered his kilt. “As you wish, ma Lady.” “Oh yes, Lachlan. It shall be as I wish.” The dining room was brightly lit as Mildred allowed Lachlan to seat her and present her with her meal. She smiled. “Oh good. My favorite.” She glanced around. “‘Tis a chilly night, Lachlan. I think we may see snow before the morrow. Put another log on the fire, please.” The Scot followed her orders and Mildred felt the heat emanating from the large fireplace. She turned back to her plate and delicately sliced the roast meat with a sharp knife.
Sahara Kelly
Dinner is Served
- 56 -
She put it to her mouth and chewed slowly, savoring each mouthful. “Mmmm. Dear Edward. I always knew he’d be delicious.” She cut another piece and ate it with relish. “And the red wine… just perfect.” Lachlan remained behind her, silent as always. “How fortunate the silly pair fell asleep. And how fortunate Mrs. Banks found them before they woke.” She sipped from her glass. “Of course, that woman was a bit tough, but cooking her up first was a good idea. Edward’s flesh is so much more mellow, nicely aged and smoked.” She cut another slice and frowned slightly as she noticed the distinctively shaped scar on her hand. Damned necklace. Such a pretty gem. Nevertheless, it had burned like the blazes when Mildred had touched it. She’d had to cut the wench’s head off to free it, too. Pity it had turned out to be useless. She’d thrown it into the nearest privy. Let it burn someone else’s hand. She finished her meal and permitted a small burp to escape behind her napkin. “Excellent. And to think we have enough meat to see us through the winter. I’m very pleased, Lachlan.” She looked him up and down. “And I’m very pleased with you. Pleased you got lost in our English forest. Pleased that you shared an evening with me. As you will tonight.” The red-haired man stared at her, a slight frown crossing his face. “M’Lady…” “Oh yes, Lachlan. I think it’s time for your tonic…”
Epilogue And so, dear reader, evil lingers on. Not always does the power of righteousness triumph over the darkness that lurks within our souls. This particular evil may yet linger, even today in our world so filled with technological miracles and wondrous science. Perhaps it lingers in the soul of a mild man from a state in the Northeastern region of America. A man who writes tales that chill, thrill, and terrify. Truly a “King” of his craft. Or perhaps it’s found its way into the hand of another delicate woman, coincidentally also named Anne. She’s from warmer climes, and her Vampiric stories horrify us, holding us spellbound within her words. Her characters prowl the Deep South, feasting on the fears of her readers. Or perhaps -- consider this -- it lurks inside an ordinary housewife, very much like the one who wrote the story you have just finished. Who knows? One thing is certain. If you are ever invited to visit a favorite author of yours, take your cell phone. Tell a friend where you’re going. Wear your best amethyst. Just be sure not to go alone…
Sahara Kelly Sahara Kelly lives in New England with her husband. The children are grown now… Sahara enjoys entertaining, though she often claims she loves her privacy and would prefer to be thought of as just an ordinary housewife, though we know her as writer and artist extraordinaire. The guys down at the local computer shop are still marveling over the files they extracted when her hard drive crashed last year -nakedhunk1.jpg, nakedhunk2.jpg… If you’d like to meet Sahara for dinner some dark, lonely night, just contact her publisher. Maybe she’ll call… Or you can email her and ask for a personal invitation. Just write to
[email protected] or visit her website -- www.SaharaKelly.com You won’t need an overnight bag…
