Silk and Steel

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Silk and Steel A tale of the Eververse

Stella and Audra Price

TEASE PUBLISHING www.teasepublishingllc.com

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This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. Silk and Steel: A Tale of the Eververse A Tease Publishing Book/E book Copyright© 2007 Stella & Audra Price ISBN: 978-1-934678-15-2 Cover Artist: Stella Price Interior text design: Stacee Sierra

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced electronically or in print without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in reviews. Tease Publishing LLC www.teasepublishingllc.com PO BOX 234 Swansboro, North Carolina 28584-0234 Tease and the T logo is  Tease Publishing LLC. All rights reserved

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Also by Stella and Audra Price Eververse series Sugar and Sin

Dragon Elementals Series Fire in His Eyes Deep Water

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Acknowledgements As always, we need to thank our friends and family, those who stand by us and continue to support us. Without you, this couldn’t become a reality. And so much love and respect goes to our executive committee once again, Luci, Anita, Suzette and Sarah, for their love and encouragement. Without you guys, we would have committed mass murder on several occasions. *giggle* Jenny and Nadia, for the continued support at Shadow Heights. Girls we will return home soon! And last but not least, you the reader. Thank you for taking yet another chance on us. This time, I think you’ll be quite surprised.

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His biggest fan and first appointed Incubus Concubine, Anita, this one is for you.

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Prologue Dimitri and Snow appeared in the bedroom they shared in the old mansion just outside Moscow. “Snow! That’s the third car you drove off the same cliff. You truly are evil. And I said scare the bastard, not kill him in a fiery wreck. You’re always over the top!” She pouted at his words, twirling a lock of hair in her finger like she was a catholic school girl on a hot date. Dimitri was already reacting to her manipulation of him, how she knew exactly what turned him on. With her in a state of feinted distress, she always did, and she knew it. "D, lighten up. It's not my fault…I swear that cliff changes every time…I'm sorry, forgive me?" He looked her up and down, as she leaned back on the dresser and licked her lips. Damn, looks like I lost this argument. That’s occurring more and more these days. He strode the four feet between them, grabbed her, and kissed her hard, her body wrapping around his like a glove. "You do forgive me, then. Why don't you let me make it up to you?” She turned in his arms, grabbed his hand, led him over to the bed, and pushed him down. She walked around the post, and he followed her, all the while watching her stalk him from side to side. "So boss, how do you want it? There must be something we haven't tried…" Dimitri was struck dumb by her brazenness; she was never this aggressive with him. He gulped and tried to smile at her. Snow quirked her eyebrow up, reached behind her, pulled the zipper of her white dress down, shimmed out of it, and slowly climbed on top of Dimitri. "What’s wrong, D? Cat got your tongue. You want me to get it back for you?" She kissed him, and he wrapped his arms around her naked back while her small fingers quickly disrobed him. He was all but naked when she stood up and walked away from him, across the room. “Come and get me, Dimitri.” He leapt off the bed and grabbed her; pushing her up against the wall as she wrapped her legs around his waist, he lifted her. “Fuck Snow, you always do this to me. You’re forgiven.” He chose that minute to drive himself into her, and she cried out as he rode her on the wall, her sobs urging him on. She cried out the harder he worked, and he knew she was close. He blinked them to the bed, pulled out, and flipped her over on her stomach before he drove into her at a high angle, something she loved, as he set to work on her. She sobbed his name over and over, screaming and growling in her throat as she came, panting and shaking. Hmm, showed her didn’t I? "Hmmm…God D, you’re amazing." “That’s what the résumé says.” He pulled out as she panted and flipped her back over. “But I'm so not done with you yet, Snowy.” *** ~7~

Snow wanted to sleep forever; she loved being with Dimitri. He had saved her, and she loved him for it. He couldn't love her back, but that didn't matter to her, just as long as he still wanted her. She stretched, moaning slightly when her inner muscles protested the movement. D really gave it to her, but she did crash his new BMW off a cliff. Just the thought of him and last night and she was ready for him again. She rolled over in his bed looking for him only to find that he'd already gotten up. That's not like him, I wonder if he’s still mad at me. She hated being alone, especially in a bed…the thought of it made her twitchy. She got out of bed and threw on the first thing her hand came to: a red silk dressing gown. Yuck, red. Who the fuck does this belong to? With her mind firmly on the Scanky robe's owner, she padded out the door and down the staircase. The hall was littered with hookers, who had come in out of the cold during the night. That's what D did; he helped the girls because he knew if they were looked after, they would make more money. She narrowly missed stepping on a needle but kept on walking. There were needles everywhere; nobody bothered to pick them up. If you didn't want to stand on anything, wear shoes; that was the rule. Snow was the only one who was brave enough to go barefoot, or maybe she was too crazy to care. With Snow, nobody ever knew. She stopped in the center of the hall and raised her voice so that they could all hear her. "Right! Come on, all of you. Get the hell out and get to work. If anyone is still here by the time I get back, I'll kill you…Understood?" She surveyed the hookers, hands on her hips making sure they had gotten the point. They all started to get up and move, which was all she really wanted. She knew what they were feeling; the mornings killed like a son of a bitch. She'd never slept on the floor here, but she'd slept in worse places…a lot worse. Somebody grabbed her arm; she turned around pushing the intruder back. The whore in question fell back, making a sickening cracking sound as her head hit the wall. Too fucked up to feel it, the whore laughed. "Ally cat, why do you never play with us anymore? I had to find out about this place from Suz…" Snow rolled her eyes at the waste of a life lying on the floor. "I have no idea who you are, but my answer to that is why haven't you overdosed and died yet? Get your head seen to. You're leaking blood all over the marble, and I just know it's going to be me who cleans it up in a few months time when I get sick of looking at it. Tell you what…how about, you leave and don't come back, and I won't kill you. Fair?" Snow said coldly as the temperature dropped a little, bringing goose bumps to the whore’s arms. Snow pulled the robe tighter around her waist and then crossed her arms; she wasn't cold though. She motioned to two passing girls to pick the fallen one off the floor and leaned in to one of them, whispering in her ear. "Kill her quietly. Make sure she goes easy, for her sake…and for yours. Bring me her hand as proof, the left one with the mole on it." The startled girl nodded and ushered the bleeding woman out of the mansion, with the help of her friend. ~8~

She watched them go before returning to her search for D, humming quietly to herself. He has to be somewhere. As she approached his study, she heard him talking to somebody on the phone. Bingo, I found you. Smiling she stuck her hand out to open the door when she heard him mention a name: Drake. Snatching her hand back as if it had been burned, she leaned against the wall and slid down it to sit on the floor. Drake? It can't be. You promised he wouldn't be back. You promised D. Blinking back tears, she listened to his conversation. *** Dimitri sat in his leather oxblood chair and put his feet up as he listened to Drake bitch and moan on the other end of the phone. Christ, I swear he’s like a woman. Someone should just put him out of his misery. “Look, Drake, I don’t need to hear your bullshit, okay? This is the assignment you wanted, the one you asked for, plain and simple. Can I help it if it’s not going the way you planned?” Drake was bitching heavily about the assignment he had begged Dimitri to let him go on. It had originally involved some new girls coming to their “stables,” but it actually turned out that Drake had to get a few of the said new “employees” out of some minor trouble with local law enforcement. Drake was pissed that the job wasn’t just a snatch and fuck, as he liked to call it. Why do I ever listen to him? But Dimitri already knew the answer to his own question; he did it for two reasons. One, because he and Drake had grown up together and had always been friends. Dimitri always suspected it was because he was royalty, and he was brownnosing but could never prove it. Second, to keep Snow safe. He was aware of the things that went on in the dealings with Snow and Drake, and as much as he hated that Drake tended to make Snow backslide from her sobriety and hurt her, he never actually caught him, so he could never really prove Drake was responsible. He really was a slippery shit. He knew Snow had to take charge of her own life, and Drake was never going to respect her unless she fucked him up good. Things were not working out as Dimitri had planned, so he sent Drake away to keep Snow from getting what she called “twitchy.” Now, Drake was bitching about coming home. “Drake, say what you want, you’re not off assignment until you deliver the ten girls I fucking paid for! And, if you show up here at any point, I swear on my mother’s soul that I will cut off the protruding parts of your body. Now, stay in Holland until the fucking job is done! Make sure they have clean records and clean bills of health. They are going to the house in Marrakech, so don’t fuck up.” “Fine, if you’re going to be such a fucking hard ass about it, D. Where did you send Snowdrop?” Drake’s voice echoed out of the phone just enough so that she could hear. “What the fuck does it matter where I sent Snow? It’s not of your concern, is it? So, do your fucking job or deal with me.” “Yeah, yeah I hear you, prince. Will do. So, after Marrakech, what’s next?” ~9~

Keeping you as far from Russia as possible, at least until Snow is able to deal with your attentions and fuck your world up. “Why don’t you call me from the house in Marrakech? Hell, if you want to stay there for a week and make sure things go smoothly with the new recruits, that would be great. Sandor is still there; she always liked you.” Yeah that’s right; give him something to gnaw on that will gnaw back. “Yeah, she’s good for my kind of tussle. That girl loves it hard. Yeah, I think that’s what I will do. Okay, so yeah, once the girls are all settled in, I’ll call you, and we can figure it out from there.” “Sounds good, Drake. Behave, I don’t want the forty-thousand I paid for any of those girls to go down the tubes. Let’s not have a repeat of the Cairo incident, okay?” “Yeah, Yeah. Christ, D, you really are a spoil sport.” Yeah, you’re only saying that because it’s not your reputation on the line. “Whatever, Drake. Look, I got a meeting. I got to jet. Those guys from Budapest are coming to the hotel today, and I have to meet them.” He saw Snow walk into the room. The look on her face looked like the one a deer caught in headlights makes. “And stay the fuck where you are until I tell you to go somewhere else, okay? No side trips or nothing.” If he shows up unannounced like he did a few months ago and Snow backslides, I swear I’ll fucking kill him. All my hard work and he thinks it’s funny to fuck it up. “Yep, loud and clear, boss. Later.” Drake signed off, and Dimitri hung the phone up. He looked at Snow and smiled. “Looks like Drake will be away longer than expected, love. How shall we celebrate?” he asked as he watched her flinch when he mentioned the other demon’s name. Why the fuck is she so damn scared of him? If she just stood up for herself and hurt him bad enough, he’d leave her the fuck alone. I know she can; she’s ruthless enough. It’s why I chose her. For Dimitri to intercede, it would undermine his confidence in her, at least to her way of thinking, and he needed her to want to kill the bastard. So far, she wasn’t cooperating, and he was getting scared he would never really be able to save her. She looked at him, and a smirk touched her lips. “Dimitri, I think I have an idea…” Drake had been a customer of hers in the old days, and now he just would not take no for an answer. He came and took what he wanted from her then left. Over the years he'd learned not to leave bruises. D always questioned the bruises. It was something about the way Drake came to her; it always left her unable to fight back. She was straight back to being that eight-year-old child again. It disgusted her that she could be so weak, but he was a full demon. Fighting back would only make him angrier, or he might like it more. She hated to think about it or him, so she didn't. She banished all the bad thoughts of him from her mind, as she came up with a list of things her and D could do. After some deliberation, she came up with a few sound ideas. She smirked at him, her eyes taking on a mischievous glint…. ~10~

“Dimitri, I think I have an idea…you wanna go to the park and shout at rich people? We could race sticks in the river…and eat ice cream,” she asked with childlike glee, causing Dimitri to laugh. "Umm…we did that last week. Plus, we are rich; the homeless gave us funny looks last time," D reminded her, laughing at the memory of them in their designer clothes in the park shouting obscenities. "Okay, can we eat ice cream anyway?" "Sure, why not." Snow nodded and thought of other things to do. "How about the circus? You can ice up the high wire and the trapeze again." She laughed. "You know, I think they might be on to us. Be it that we're the only ones that laugh when the performers fall." Snow scrunched up her face, cocking her head to the side. "On to us? Yeah…I know what you mean. That dwarf did get pretty friendly with you, but the trapeze guy so deserved it. I had to climb all the way up to the top, just so he could…" "Anyway. No park and no Circus. So, what else, Snowy?" Dimitri cut her off before she could start a rant. "Oh…okay. We could go to the hot springs. You promised to take me…remember?" "Perfect. Go get ready. I'll cancel a few appointments, and we'll go for the day." She ran back up to their room, pausing briefly in the hall to make sure all the whores were out for the day. Once there, she threw off the red robe and pulled on her jeans and a blue strapy top, checking in the mirror to make sure that they were clean. She grabbed her bag and walked back to the office. They were well on their way out of the city when Snow’s cell phone rang. Dimitri looked at her as she bopped to the music and sighed. “Snow, why the hell won’t you change that damn ringtone? Now, I’ll have ‘Funky Town’ stuck in my head all day!” She smiled at him and stuck her tongue out then flipped the phone open. “What?” Dimitri watched her listen out of the corner of his eye and smirked when he saw her frown. Snow frowning was by far one of the sexiest things ever conceived on this earth as far as Dimitri was concerned. It was one of the reasons he took a shine to her so many years ago, when he found her turning tricks in a really sleazy house in Moscow, his only competition in the business in the entire country. She was exactly what he thought he was looking for, but after she cleaned up, her real self came out. Dimitri realized that he got two for the price of one, a companion on the one hand and an enforcer on the other. She was brutal, funny, could drink like a fish and fuck like a demon, but she could never be the demure creature she pretended to be that night in the bordello. Dimitri didn’t feel cheated; rather he thought he actually got that diamond in the rough. Yeah, that’s exactly what she is, a rough-cut diamond. Damn, she is so intense. Her audible sigh brought him out of his reverie, and he glanced over at her. ~11~

“What’s the problem, Snow?” She squealed. “We’ll be right there.” She closed her cell and looked at Dimitri. “Turn around. Seems they found Brownstone’s partner. They are holding him at the east warehouse, and he’s still unconscious!” Her voice rose in timbre as she said the last, showing just how excited she was getting. She’s like a kid in a candy shop, Dimitri thought as he smiled at her. And all because she gets to torture some asshole. I swear, the things that make this girl happy. “So, no hot springs?” “Poo.” She pouted as she sat like a little doll next to him. A vicious little doll. “I was looking forward to that. Another time, Dimitri?” she asked hopefully, childlike in her candor. “Of course, sweetness. Once this entire thing is taken care of, we’ll resume this little venture.” He leaned over and kissed her on her pouting lips, and she groaned into the kiss. Dimitri knew she was not only getting antsy for some blood and killing, but once she was done with that, she’d be hot and ready to fuck. It was that assurance that moved him to indulge her because she was a wildcat in the sack after she killed someone. This was his sole reason for letting her out to play with the big boys. “Wonderful! So, step on it, D. I wanna get there before he wakes up,” she said and sat back, closing her eyes and humming the tune to “Funky Town.” He turned the car, making a very illegal u-turn and blazed down the road, his cell phone ringing. Thinking it was Anderson relaying the same message to him as Snow, he answered, annoyed. His demeanor changed quickly, and the conversation made him smile and laugh. It was quick, but his mood was still high as he turned into the East district. Snow looked at him quizzically. “Looks like the old man is coming to visit.” Dimitri closed his cell phone and looked at Snow. “Said he was leaving tomorrow night. I don’t think he’s bringing Thisbe, but you never know. So, you know the drill.” “Yeah, yeah, take her out shopping, money is no object, don’t kill her with my driving, yada, yada, yada.” Snow made a talking sign with her hand, and Dimitri smiled at her. “On second thought, take the limo. Dad would kill me if anything happened to his favorite concubine.” “Can do boss. So, what are you and daddy gonna do when he’s here?” “No clue. I don’t even know why he’s visiting. Lord knows he’s gotta have his reasons. We’ll see, I’m sure. Now, where the hell is that warehouse? I wanna get this finished as quickly as possible." And get you situated under me soon after that, he thought with a smirk. “D? What the hell are you smiling at?” “Me? Oh, wishful thinking. Let’s go.” *** "I'm like a chef you know," she said to the naked man at her feet. "Supply and ~12~

demand, without food people can’t live. It’s kinda the same with sex. I supply a service. People need to eat, and they need to fuck. I help with that." She frowned, worrying her bottom lip. "The fucking part, although I can cook pretty good. Yet, the chefs get all the glory. That, I'll never understand." She circled her victim thoughtfully, twirling her ice blade around her fingers. She slowly stalked around him, wearing nothing but her underwear and her fiveinch heels. She hated to get blood on good clothes. "So, you see." Walker took a breath to speak, lifting his eyes to hers. She stabbed her heel into his shoulder, ignoring his grunt of pain. "No talking from you. When I want speech, I'll ask for it. For now, your attention shall suffice. You see I…I…" She looked to Dimitri, confusion in her face. "Where was I?" "No clue," D said lifting his shoulders in a graceful shrug. "I must say the chef line was a new one. How about, you provide other services as well?" Her face brightened, and she turned back to the fallen drug dealer under her heel. "Yeah, other services. You see, you and your little partner have been trying to cut into our business. Not trying very hard, but trying nonetheless. You know nothing pisses me off more than when a fat little prick like yourself tries to muscle in on my business." She sat down heavily on the man’s broken form, looking around her, looking anywhere but at Walker himself. They were in the warehouse that Dimitri kept for such purposes. It was one of Snow’s favorite places to be. It was a big empty place, and she liked that. The whole place was peaceful whether she was sitting in the rafters listening to the echoes of the pigeon's voices or sitting on her latest "friend" listening to his screams and watching the way his blood mixed with his sweat as it ran off his body. They were on a huge plastic blood splattered sheet, although they had no need for it. The floor had plenty of drains in it, but she preferred to have her little friends wake up on the sheet. Over the years she found that it got the best out of people. They seemed to be more cooperative when they saw the sheet. She looked over to where D stood, still looking sexy in his suit. Next to him stood her boys, her muscle, Frank and Adrian. Dimitri had hired them to look after her when she had first started working for him. At first, she had hated the idea of needing them, but over the years, they had saved her ass more times than she could count. Her guardian angels, D may pay their wages, but she knew that they would always look to her for direction. They were her friends, something that Snow didn't have; she was there when Frank’s youngest had been born. She was even a bridesmaid at Adrian's wedding, something she swore blind that she would never do again. Puffy dresses were not her thing. They were good friends, even if the older men tried to discourage her from her current profession. She liked that they looked after her, even if it put their own jobs at risk. Her attention was drawn to the beast shifting uncomfortably next to them. The huge black Doberman had been one of Snow's biggest friends since he was a pup. He was bought primarily as a guard dog for the estate, but he had adored Snow ~13~

from day one. He used to toddle after her in the clumsy adorable way that only puppies can manage, his paws and ears too big for the rest of his body. D had let her keep him, unable to say no to her pleading. She had made D stop back at the mansion to pick him up. She was going to try something fun today, and she needed Soot for it. That and he needed walking. Snow was nothing if not efficient, well occasionally. She called the dog to her, and he came, obediently sitting beside her. "This is Soot," she said stroking the dog’s big, black ears with the hand that no longer held the blade. "He's my big puppy. He'd do anything for me. Now." She looked to Soot, who cocked his head to the side. "Other services. Sometimes, more often than not, I get called to do a little…fixing of problems. When I'm asked to do this, I do it in ways that I find pleasurable to myself." She took her knife and made a small cut just under his collarbone, running the blade down and slicing through his nipple. He gritted his teeth, refusing to make more than a grunt of pain. Snow's eyes lit up, and the blood began to flow from the shallow cut. Ooh, he's going to fight the pain. I love that. "So, Walker," she said bouncing her body softly on his naked groin. "Have you ever had your skin peeled from your body? Or your blood frozen? I can't really do the frozen thing yet, but I could try if you want." She waited a heartbeat for a response before continuing. "Anyways, long story short, because I think we both know that I've rambled on long enough. You, Walker, have royally pissed off my employer. He wants to see your pain as compensation. If I were you, I'd be honored and very scared. Oh, and you can scream anytime you like. Please feel free." She cut another line across his body, slicing through the previous one, watching hungrily as the fresh blood cut its own lines through the first set. This time Walker did make a sound, not the blood curdling pleas for mercy that Snowy loved to hear but more of a cursory grunt. Well, at least we're getting somewhere. "So, are you going to talk? Wait, have I cut out your tongue already?" she asked, placing her legs on his shoulders and sitting back, giving him the full view up the length of her body. "You know, I can do good things to you. There's a very fine line between pleasure and pain. We could find that line." She reached behind her, her hands slowly working him as she moistened her lips with her tongue. "Together. You know there’s a reason D keeps me in his bed. I could show you…if you like?" Swallowing a few times, Walker tried to gain control of his body. Failing, he shook his head, knowing what she was offering must surely be worse than what was happening now. "No?" She pouted. "Well, this one back here is telling me something completely different." She squeezed him a little, drawing a groan from him. "Did you know all men cum when they die? It’s pretty weird. So, today I'm going to try something different." "Great, I'm going to be Guinea pigged off to a fucking psychopath." His words ~14~

were a rasping whisper, which lacked the conviction he intended. "Umm, I need a volunteer from the audience," she said ignoring him. "Maybe Adrian. This could get a tad messy." She lowered her voice and whispered to Walker. "Plus, I have a side bet going with Frankie that I can make Aid throw up in half an hour." She winked at Walker, panic clear in his face as Adrian came up to him and pinned his shoulders down. *** The three of them were covered in blood. She looked over to Aid, who looked green around the edges. Hah! That's me a week’s wages up. She grinned triumphantly at Walker. There was no real damage to him yet, but he had become a whole lot more talkative. Well, at least he had become more vocal. She loved to hear them scream, the sound causing her hair to stand on end. "Now, we're getting to the fun part, love. Try to stay conscious. It’s much more fun when you don't pass out. Plus, you never know what you’ve been missing when you wake up." She slapped him in the face, making sure he was paying attention before sliding down and cupping his groin in her hand. "You remember when I said that I was going to try something new?" Panic raced through his pain-hazed eyes as he tried to wiggle free. "No, please…" His screams suddenly silenced anything he was about to say, as her blade sliced through his sack. She reached in through the incision, popping one out and cutting its tie. Warm blood coated her pale hand. She watched the steady flow from his shrived groin, watched as it lessened and eventually turned to a slow drip. His screams were nonsensical music to her, far more prized and relished than any of the classical crap D sometimes listened to. Grinning, she held up the small round piece of flesh to Dimitri like a prize. See, I got it for you. Dimitri smiled back, not a genuine smile like her own, but one carefully crafted to hide his discomfort. She could tell the difference between his real smile and his "Oh god, what has she done now" smile. Disappointed, she sighed. Why do I scare you so much, D? I'd never hurt you, not you. Deep down she knew that scaring a true demon was a bad thing, but Snow wasn't one to dwell on such things. Walker's screams had died down to a sickly mewing sound. She showed him his testicle. "It's still warm. You wanna feel? Frank, come and get his shoulders will you," she asked as Adrian ran to the far corner of the room and began to lurch. Laughing, she threw the piece of flesh at the dog, who happily munched it down. "So, Walker how is it? Does it burn? Or is it one of those aching pains?" Snow raised an eyebrow, looking quizzically at him. "Fuck! Bitch, it hurts, you slut!" Walker sputtered, obviously in too much pain to put a sentence together. "It hurts, really? Does it? Hmmm, does it hurt more than this?" She rapidly called her ice and stabbed a seven-inch blade of ice into his leg just above his knee. ~15~

She continued ignoring his screams. "Well, does it? I've always wanted to know which hurts more. The thing is I'm always looking to better myself, and if I knew what got the better reaction, then…" "Fuck you, bitch! Nothing but a whore!" He cut her off, his voice hoarse with pain. "Oh, well. You see that's not nice. All this time, I thought that we were friends. We've been talking, getting along nice. Now, you go and hurt my feelings. Fine, you want to go the hard way then we will." She put her hand to the blade in his leg and twisted it slightly, drawing a yelp of pain from him. "You have one ball left, and you have a leg I haven't touched yet, choose," she demanded coldly. He whimpered, trying desperately to get away from her. Frank held him in a steely grasp, his face carefully blank. What is it with men? De-man one of them and the rest start looking at you strangely. Fucking boys club, like I would give a shit if D yanked the ovaries out of some whore. "So? What will it be Rusty? If you don't choose one, it will be both, and ‘Oh god, please kill me now’ is not an option." "Please," he rasped. "Please…Don't. I'll tell you anything you want to know. Anything. Just don't, please…" He looked up into her eyes pleading with her to stop. "Ummm…Talk?" She looked around acting confused. "Oh, are you going to tell me that it was really the Celos from Amsterdam that were trying to gain a foothold on our business and were just using you and Brownstone as front men? Oh wait, I already know that. Hmm, what else could you tell us I wonder…?” She turned to Dimitri, who was grinning. "Maybe he could tell us about Jazz and her plans to undercut us and steal half our girls. No, Snowy, it can't be that. That we know already," he stated conversationally, giving a real smile. "Ooh, what about the bad batch of heroin that the Celos have been trying to get across the border to cull our whores?" she asked enthusiastically. "Nope, I don't think he even knew about that. I have to say, I don't really think he knows anything useful at all." Finally seeing his purpose in this little game, Walker whimpered as Snow turned to him, a fresh ice blade in her hand. Her eyes took on the cold, hungry look of a curious lion, one that wondered just how much it could get out of you before becoming bored. "So, Rusty…Choose…" she repeated her grin predatory as she thought about the hours to come. *** Dimitri stood outside the warehouse doors, lit a cigar, and sighed. She really has to calm the fuck down. He had watched Snow unman the perp and torture him for a few more hours. It really did nothing for him, and he was regretfully not in ~16~

the mood for some fun time with that cold, vicious little creature who shared his bed nightly. She came out through the doors, her body covered in blood and gore, smiling at him. She still hadn’t put her clothes on. “So, D? What’re we gonna do now?” She tried to get close to him, but the thought of the other man’s blood on his new Valentino suit rubbed him the wrong way. He moved just out of her reach. “Snow, you happy? Maybe you could clean up before you rub against me? I didn’t pay three grand for this suit for you to get blood stains on it.” He hadn’t meant it to sound as harsh as it came out, but she finally managed to do the one thing she had never managed before, frighten him. "Oh, Umm…Yeah, sure thing D. I'll hose off. We should probably get a shower installed. Funny that it’s never come up before. You okay?" "Yeah, I’m fine. Did you kill him?" "Yup, just like you said. He's dead and all the bits are wrapped up." "Brava. Look, next time, less gory, okay? I know you were enjoying yourself, but there are some things even I can’t stomach." "Yeah." She frowned. "It wasn't that bad, D. You know I've done worse. Maybe you’re just getting soft in your old age,” she teased. "No, trust me, you have never done worse or at least that I have seen." "Well, maybe next time you can do it yourself." "Snow, look, relax a bit okay. I’m sending you to pick the old man up remember?" "Now?" "Yep. You played a bit too long, and we are running late" "By myself?" "Snow, it’s not like I’m sending you to pick up Hannibal Lector. It's Levi." "Well, yeah, but I was thinking that maybe we could…" She looked up at him hopefully. "Afraid not, love. I have to get these parts to their respective locations, and since you were so overzealous, I have to have the warehouse sanitized. So no, I’m not going with you." She swallowed and hung her head. "Yeah, okay. Sorry. You could have stopped me at any time." "Right, like you can stop a shark during a feeding frenzy. Look, just go get cleaned up, get dressed, and take the limo to pick up my father. We are wasting time." "Yeah…okay," she said looking away biting her lip. "I'll go do that. Will you get Soot back to the mansion? I don't want him going to the airport." "Yeah, I'll have Frankie take him. Okay? And Snow, have fun, okay?" She sighed. "Just not too much fun." Dimitri saw it and felt like shit for being such a prick, but well, he wasn’t a hard man to get along with. Snow really rubbed him the wrong way today. She was not ~17~

working out the way he wanted. Such a supple young thing, so delicate and so beautiful, didn’t need to be this bloodthirsty. I don’t think I’m ever going to be able to save her any more than I already have. He watched her walk away from him, sick in his heart that she wouldn’t be the woman he’d have for always.

~18~

Chapter One She shut the door and padded naked up the stairs toward Dimitri's room. She was in a much better mood. In fact, she felt thoroughly sated. Well, that's why they call him the king. She walked through the corridor smiling to herself and humming lightly. He'll be in a more receptive state of mind now, she thought to herself, pleased. He'll be sitting up waiting for me, and he'll see me, and he'll know where I've been, and he'll just have to take me, cover Levi's scent. He hates it when I smell like anybody other than him; it always drives him wild. She felt a small thrill of excitement as she approached the door knowing that she'd see Dimitri sitting there with a book in his hand and a scowl on his face. The scowl he saved just for her. She opened the door and stopped dead. Dimitri was very much not waiting for her, but instead entwined on the bed, her bed, with three of his call girls. She stood there in shock, unable to do anything more than stare. So, he may still be angry. Noticing that he had company, Dimitri lifted his head from one of the girls. "Snow, can't you see I'm busy? Sleep in your own damn room. I'll speak to you in the morning," he all but shouted before dismissing her and turning his attention back to one of the girls. Speak to me? He is still angry with me. My own room? Nodding, she, for the second time in less than twelve hours, found herself leaving a room before tears spilled from her eyes. Her bottom lip trembling, she gently closed the door behind her as the first tears silently flowed down her face. Sobbing, she ran up the stairs to a room she hadn't slept in for three years. She always slept in D's room. He knew that she couldn't sleep by herself; she just couldn't. She opened the door, threw herself on the dusty, unused bed, and curled up into a sobbing naked ball. She felt cold, used. Of course she was used, she was a whore. People used her every day. But never before had she felt so used. Dimitri used her. He didn't care. Levi didn't care. Why should they? As long as she played her part, Dimitri didn't mind. It could be anyone. He humored her, let her feel important. Feeling needed kept her hot and as long as the sex was good…He let her do as she wanted as long as she put out. She was completely alone. He would never love her. Never hold her close at night, watching her sleep. She knew this already, all of it, but until that moment she had thought that she had commanded at least a little of his respect. Dimitri doesn't care, her thoughts screamed, still unable to get over the ease at which he dismissed her. Fresh hot tears burned more tracks down her face as she sobbed uncontrollably into the dusty pillow. She was surrounded by demons; they weren't people. They wouldn't care. They were here long before her and will stay long after her. She was just a passing fancy for them, a plaything. A pet, something to indulge in and pass around and easily cast aside when something more amusing comes along. No, you at least like your pet. Appreciate them. I'm an employee; that's all I'll ~19~

ever be, she thought venomously, hating herself. Soot nudged the door open and wandered into the room. She looked at the gentle beast, startled by his cold nose touching her leg. He jumped onto the bed beside her and sat on his haunches. She forced a smile at him through the pouring tears, stroking his huge black head. Oh, baby! "You don't even care, do you?" She howled, her chin refusing to stay still. "Soot, it doesn't matter to you who scratches your ears or feeds you." He licked the cold salty tears from her face with his big warm tongue. "No really," she argued. "I don't even buy your food. I'm really bad at that type of thing." She cried hysterically. The dog cocked his head to the side, nudging the air between them with his nose. She took gasping gulps in between her howls, relaxing into the bed and her thoughts. I can fix this. I'll be just like he wants me to be. Everything he needs. I'll make it all better, he'll need me, appreciate me, have to keep me. Love me back…Soot licked her face again, and she smiled at the attention. "Oh, baby, why couldn't you be a real person? You'd be a great guy. Not that I have much experience with the good ones." She looked at him for a while before collapsing again in tears. "I fucked up, Sooty. I did a bad thing. He's really mad, and I don't know how to make it better," she said to the dog, but it was a voice in the shadows that answered… "You can't," Drake said stepping into the light, spreading his arms wide grinning from ear to ear. "Surprise Snowstorm!" *** He listened to her from the shadows in disgust. She turned his stomach; all of her kind did but especially this one, Dimitri's pet whore. Lord knows what he sees in her. Skinny, whiny little thing, certainly not worthy of the prince. "I fucked up, Sooty." The weakness in her voice was easy to hear, and he grinned to himself. This will be easy. "He's really mad, and I don't know how to make it better." Taking that as his cue, Drake stepped forward into the light, hatred clear in his eyes. "You can't. Surprise Snowstorm." She gave a little yelp of surprise, before her features clouded over with fear. Smelling her fear mixed with her tears almost brought him. It’s such a turn on when she’s frightened, and she's always frightened with me. He watched her naked breasts bounce slightly with each heavy breath she took. She was caught in his gaze, like a rabbit in headlights. Drake had broken her so many times before that it was no longer a challenge for him, but he still liked to do it. Sweet little lamb. "That's it. Back away, sweetheart. There's nowhere to go." He gestured around him. ~20~

She clawed at the bed cover trying to cover herself with something as he slowly backed her against the wall. Gripping the end of the sheet, he ripped it from her grasp, ignoring the protective growling mutt in front of her. "There's no need for any of that, Snowy. We're all friends, aren't we? Let’s not pretend you’re modest, whore. We've seen each other naked. You want me to get naked to match you, sweetheart?" "No, please." Shakily, she shook her head, tears still flowing freely down her face. "Drake, you shouldn't…you’re not allowed to be here." He watched for a second as she tried to stand to her full tiny height. "No? What, you think Dimitri will stop me? You think he cares, sweetheart?" Drake laughed callously. "Yes," she nodded uncertainly, the tears turning her face red and blotchy. "Wrong." He grinned at her, keeping an eye on the huge dog about to pounce. "Why do you think I'm back? What do you think he's going to say to you tomorrow?" He laughed. "Sweetheart, he doesn't even care if I mark you anymore." He backhanded her sending her small body crashing against the wall. With the other hand, he caught the lunging Doberman and without thought or regret snapped its huge neck. He threw the warm, quivering body at the stunned whore on the floor. Snow tried to stand, but Drake was in her way, pushing her back down. Seeing the body of the dog, who had tried to protect her, twitching on the floor stole any fight from her. She'd been here before, many times, and nobody saved her. Why should they when she was too weak to do it herself? "I fucked up, Sooty. He's really mad, and I don't know how to make it better," he coldly mocked in a high-pitched whiny voice. "You’re mine. As of tonight, your leash changes hands." Drake growled. "He no longer needs you. If you’re a good little whore, I'll even leave your teeth in, but no biting down." "Fuck you," she said weakly through her tears, her shaking body going into shock as she stared numbly at the dog. "No, I think I'll fuck you, and you'll let me, won't you, Snowy?" Grinning, he closed in on her. "You might cry a little; call out when I enter you. But for the most part, you'll just lay back and take it like a good little whore. Why? Because you've been conditioned to do it, and whoever it was did a damn good job of it, too. Who was it, Snowy? Daddy? A big brother? Your grandfather, everyone's favorite uncle? A teacher? You don't have to tell me, sweetheart. It doesn't matter. I can spot your type a mile away, and I love it. You'll take anything from anyone, and you'll love it." He laughed at her. "No, get out, Drake," she screamed hoarsely, it coming out more plea than a command. She pushed and clawed at him as he reached her. He backhanded her into the wall again, leaving a smear of blood when she slid down it. He gathered her crumpled naked form on his lap holding her small frame in his huge one like a ~21~

child. He absently stroked her soft blonde hair, causing her to flinch. "I always wondered, do I look like him? I must, you react so strongly to me. Your fear smells like finely spun sugar." He leaned down and licked her cheek. "Hmm, tastes like it, too." She grimaced and tried to wiggle away from him. He held her strong and slapped her gently on her already bruised and bleeding face, before forcing her head back onto his chest stroking her hair again as his other stroked up and down her back in a way that could be conceived as soothing. "So? Do I look like him? Your brother? Father?" She flinched, and he smiled, pressing his erection firmly into her side. Bingo. "Ah, so, you were daddy’s little girl, then? Well, I must thank the man; you're so compliant. He must have started early. I remember the days when there was nothing wrong with some early mental conditioning on one’s children. I miss those days, so young and fresh." He bent down and kissed her hard, moaning in her mouth when he tasted her sweet blood. She tried to beat him away, but he was just too strong for her. "Maybe that's what Dimitri sees in you; your tears and sobs are so pretty." He waited for her to answer for a second before continuing. "Well, that's enough chat don’t you think, sweetheart? I'll just get what I came here for. It’s okay, kitten. I'll be gentle." Well, maybe not. *** She lay for a few hours after he left her, too hurt to move, too broken to care. Her muscles ached and protested any small movement she made, but she knew she had to get out. She had to leave; she could smell the dog. She had to leave before she ended up like that, a corpse on the floor, left to rot. Squeezing her eyes shut, she stood holding the wall for balance. She braced herself as she opened her eyes, surprised when her head didn't spin or ache like everything else. The room hadn't changed much at all; the sheets were stained with her blood and other fluids. The dog was dead, but apart from that, everything was the same. Nothing ever changed in the mansion. "Typical," she muttered, despair deep in her hoarse voice. "So, what now, Snowy? What now?" Pondering an answer to her question, she walked stiffly to the bathroom, unsurprised when she found a small bag of powder sitting next to the sink. Heroin. Ever since the first time she met Drake, he'd always left it for her. It had been something she was once grateful for, even looked forward to. Now, it was just a cruel joke, a game he played. A game like one of the many others he played with countless women all over the world. Even now, looking at the mixture, she could tell it was good. He never left bad stuff. It was always good. It could be so good. Before she couldn’t think anymore about it, she grabbed the bag, bursting it, and threw it down the toilet. She ran the hot water in the sink, filling it up and adding some lavender smelling soap. She grabbed a washcloth wetting it and scrubbing the tacky blood ~22~

from her skin. I really need a shower, but this will have to do for now. She wondered if it was a good thing that she had become used to washing blood from herself. "Yeah, but it’s not normally yours." Her strangled voice sounded harsh in the large bathroom as it echoed around her. She winced as the rough cloth wiped over the huge bruise, which now covered over a quarter of her face. Her left eye was swollen almost beyond recognition. She looked at her reflection in shock. The memories of the last time she'd been this badly beaten came into her mind. Quickly pushing that out of her mind, she came to a decision. "Snow? Where the hell are you going?" His voice stopped her dead at the foot of the stairs; she had hoped to avoid him completely. She really didn't want to have this conversation right now. Be strong, Snowy, we can't live here anymore. "Somewhere else. I'm leaving. I can't do this anymore." She turned to face him, watching his shock as he saw her face. His favorite whore’s face, his prize horse. "What? Can’t do what? What happened? Did my father…" "Don't be stupid, who do you think happened?" She cut him off venomously, loosing her temper. "Drake? What the fuck is he doing back? Why did you even bother leaving my father’s room last night, Snow?" he shouted back. "I sleep with you, D, not him. Who knew that you'd have moved on so quickly?" Her lip trembled. Don’t you dare cry. "Yes, what the fuck is he doing back, D? My thoughts exactly," she said, her voice dangerously low. "I don't know why he’s here. I didn't send for him," he argued. "Look, you decided that a night with my father was much more important than coming back to me. I had to entertain myself." No…You couldn't stand to see me because I'm not what you want. "Bullshit! And you know it. He's back because you don't care enough about me to actually do something about him, and he'll keep coming back, D. I…I just can't do it anymore." He'll never choose you over Drake, and when he's bored, that's when he'll hand you over. "I thought I could, but I can't." She looked up at the ceiling holding the tears in as best she could. "Snow, you believe what you wanna believe, but I didn't bring him back! Fuck, why would I do that, Snow? You wanna leave? Fine, go. I don't fucking care. I can’t make you stay." Yes, D, you can. Say you want me, that you need me. That's all I need, say you'll look after me, protect me…Please. Her face showed nothing as she answered him. "Doing nothing brings him back, Dimitri." She looked up at him though her tears. "And you don't care. You wouldn't even try to make me stay." Please, just try. "Snow…Fine. Go, your apartment has been freshly painted, just go, okay? And ~23~

take the fucking dog with you, okay?" The hot tears spilled down her cheeks, the salt stinging her swollen face. "The dog’s dead Dimitri. The body’s in my room. I suggest you do something with it before it rots." "Fuck." He sighed. "Goodbye, Snow." Bastard! You fucking piece of shit. "I'm not going to the apartment; it’s not mine," she answered evenly. "You'd be better off selling it. I'll stay at a friend’s. I'll call you with my new cell phone number. Old one’s on the table." She turned her back on him. The tears flowed heavier by the second as she walked away from him, from her life. She felt dead, empty. She'd tried and he'd let her go. He would never give Drake the warning he needed to, he'd never be strong enough, and until he could, she would never be safe. She'd never go to the hot springs or race sticks down the river, or more to the point, what would she do now? She walked out the door still hoping he'd stop her, but she knew he wouldn't. She got into the taxi and said good-bye.

~24~

Chapter Two Arcady looked once more out the window of the plane as it was on its decent. Even in spring, Russia looked desolate. He sighed and sat back as the pilot asked for seats and tray tables to be placed in their upright positions. Minutes later, they were on the ground and exiting the plane. His phone rang just as he was getting out of customs. "Morrison." The voice on the other end was even, cultured. "I see you made it, unfettered." "Yeah, Casha, I did. Now, who the fuck is supposed to meet me?" "I’m not sure. Just look for a driver with your name. That’s probably your best bet. Dimitri said something about sending a car." "Thanks, Cash. Fal and Ast, okay?" "Fallon is worried a tad, and Astrid, well, she is still sleeping from the night’s…festivities." "Casha, you didn’t ruin her for Fal, did you?" "Heavens no. I merely enjoyed her, same as you with Miss Ashlyn. Am I right?" "Low blow, demon. But I didn’t bind to Ash, nor did I feed on her." "Astrid will be fine, I assure you. Fallon is with her now, as is the dog. She’s just tired. After all, Arcady, she loves Fallon. She doesn’t love me." Arcady thought on the demon’s words. Just how attached to Astrid is the demon? He must care for her to say something like that. And wouldn’t that just beat all, the most powerful demon ever to be cast out of the Afterverse, pining for Asty? The idea made him smile. If it was true, no one was impervious to her charms. Casha spoke again. "Fallon asked me to remind you to please check in with any progress." "Whatever you say, demon. Tell Fallon I’ll do what I can." He hung up the phone, grabbed his bag from the claim deck, and set off to find the carport. The motor pool was toward the exit doors, and Arcady found it quickly enough. Off to the side of the drivers stood a large man wearing a uniform and cap with a sign that said simply, Morrison. He walked up to the driver and nodded his head. The driver smiled and winked at him. "This way, sir." His voice was gruff, unrefined. Arcady followed. The limo he was led to was ice blue. Arcady chuckled to himself. Trust Dimitri to have a fucking ice blue limo. He must be the more gaudy of the two brothers. No way would Casha be caught dead in such a monstrosity. The door was opened, and the interior was blue suede. Arcady got in, shaking his head, and the driver closed the door. The car started, pulled away, and in minutes, they were on the highway heading away from the airport. It was then the partition came down. Arcady looked up, too late, as a dart imbedded itself into his ~25~

exposed neck. "What the fuck?" were his only words before the darkness took him. *** Snow looked sadly back at the empty room. She’d hardly even lived here, but it still felt wrong. How could she leave Dimitri? She owed him so much but not her life. Drake would never stop until she was dead or worse, and Dimitri wouldn’t protect her. She sighed looking at her packed suitcases. Despite what she’d told Dimitri, she had nowhere to go, which was why she was still there. She couldn’t go back, but she just wasn't sure how to make the next move. Russia was her life, her reputation. Without that, then what was she? What could she do? She sure as hell wasn’t going to go back to whoring on street corners. Throwing herself down on the leather sofa, she sighed. Leaving just wasn't an option. She’d rather die at Drake’s hand than be alone, without direction, fending for herself. Fending for herself never worked out so well; it always ended badly. Plus, she’d miss his company. D, among other things, was her best friend. She couldn’t imagine life completely without him. Whether he’d admit it or not, he needed her, and their girls needed her. “Mostly because he’s too squeamish to do any of the really fun things by himself,” she muttered to herself. She’d just have to wait for him to come to his senses. He’d come looking for her and beg her to stay. He couldn’t not; she knew he’d miss her, too. They’d been together for five years. Five years was a long time, even if you were a demon. Dimitri would come back for her. She curled her legs under her and laid her head on the soft armrest. It might take him a few days, but he would. He needed her. It’ll just take him a little while to realize it. The phone rang causing her to jump. She smiled knowing that it was Dimitri. It hadn’t taken him that long at all. Grinning, she picked up. “Took you long enough. I’m not coming back, and you can’t make me.” Adrian’s voice came smoothly over the line. “Snowy, what are you talking about? You’re not answering your cell. Why the hell are you at the apartment?” “Aid, it’s you…well, I’m kinda having a bad twenty-four hours.” “I get that, you really think he’ll come after you?” She sighed. “I hope so, but if he doesn't, it’s no big deal. I’ll just have to get along without him. I’ll still work here though…with you guys.” “Excellent. Well, I have something that’ll cheer you up.” That got her attention. She sat up straighter. “Oh yeah? Something fun?” She felt the first tingles of anticipation creep up her spine. “It’s always fun, babe. How would you like to get your claws into Arcady Morrison?” She suppressed a squeal. “You’re kidding!” “Nope, he’s here in the limo out cold. We’ll swing by and pick you up.” “I always thought he’d have more sense than coming back here. Though don’t ~26~

get me wrong I’m very glad he found his way to us. Have you called D?” “Nope, thought you might do it.” Like I’m going to talk to him, she thought to herself shaking her head. “Yeah…I’ll call him after I’ve spoken to the incubus. Maybe we can scare him enough to go home all on his own.” “You’re the boss lady. We’ll pick you up soon. The warehouse is still in clean up mode.” “No doubt, we’ll take him to Addison’s. It’ll be perfect, and people won’t bother about any noise. Plus, it sets a pretty picture for the rich kid to wake up to.” “Sounds like a plan. Be outside in ten minutes.” The thought of some playtime making her feel much better, she set the phone down. She’d never met the incubus that had caused so much trouble last year, but she was looking forward to stamping her own little warning on his hide. *** Snow looked down at the unconscious body sprawled on the couch in front of her. So, this is the infamous Arcady Morrison. I thought he'd have like a bigger bulge. I suppose he's cute in a rough and ready sort of way. She leaned down to him to get a better look licking her lips as she did. She cut his shirt off with a blade then stood back to admire her work. He really was finely sculpted. They say his body could make a seasoned whore cry. She giggled to herself adjusting her position to get closer. They were alone. She’d told the boys to stay outside; she wouldn't need their help with this. She hadn't spoken with Dimitri since she'd left, but her orders were clear. Morrison could not be killed. Well, anyone could be killed in Snow's eyes, but Arcady dead is more trouble than he is alive. So, he gets a warning, a really big one. She looked thoughtfully down at him. He does strip real pretty. I wonder if he fucks as good as he looks. She licked her fingertip and ran it down his chest blowing on the wet trail. When the finger reached his belt, she undid the huge buckle. She was working on the buttons and sliding her hand inside when he came to and made a grab for her. She danced out of his reach giggling. Hmmm, no underwear, this could be fun… "I thought that might wake you up. How do you feel? I do hope the boys didn't rough you up too much. They are very good as ‘go to’ boys. However, when it comes to vision and…tact, they have very little." She paced thoughtfully in front of him. He had no weapons, so he was no danger to her. That and the boys were just outside. "I suppose that's what makes them good ‘go to’ boys, and you, I suppose, hold their leashes? What else are you in charge of, Darlin?" His voice was strained. The boys really must have gotten him bad or drugged him. Pity, I wouldn't mind him fighting fit… "I hold the leashes of many men, and you'd be surprised at the things I'm put in charge of, Button." ~27~

"Well, I'll have to keep that in mind… Cupcake." She glared at him for the turnaround on names, but he continued anyway as he looked around at the room. "Your place looks like a crack den. You should tidy it for your guests. Don't want them thinking a sexy woman like you lives like this." Snow nodded in agreement trying not to preen at his compliment. She looked around the room; she was always moving, never still for a moment. She didn't like staying still. "It is a crack den…Well, it was the last time I was here. I get the feeling that it hasn't changed much. Thankfully, it’s not mine. Addicts do bring down the property value. Now, here’s the deal, Button. You’re leaving Russia today. Whether you do it with the use of your legs or not is your own call." She came to a halt briefly in front of him. "I'm looking for someone. I have Dimitri's permission. Call and ask him." He looked her up and down and licked his lips. She suppressed a shiver at the heat in his eyes. "We're all looking for someone, Button. I don't need to call him. I was just talking to him," she lied, not wanting to talk to Dimitri. "His policies on you are clear…open season." She mirrored his previous assessment on her, eagerly licking her lips. "Really? That's not what I've heard. I was sent here to do a job, Cupcake, and I'm going to do it, with or without your help. The faster I get it done the faster I leave." She laughed. "Yeah, I’ve heard that about you. That you were…fast." "Then your information is dead wrong, Cupcake." He licked his lips "I could prove you wrong if you want. I think we'd both enjoy it." He raised an eyebrow at her. She felt her body tighten. Never had her body reacted to a man or woman like that. She wanted him. Damn incubus. "Undoubtedly." I'd take you for a test drive, Button; see what all the fuss is about. "Why don’t we get you back to the airport? You can prove me wrong on the way there. I believe you've already had the pleasure of a limo ride…" "Cupcake, like I said. I’m here looking for someone. A specific someone." He lounged in the grubby couch, a cool smile gracing his features. "Like I said, we're all looking for someone…specific or not. Go home, Button…go home to your safe little rich kid life and suck up to your king and queen." Don't make me maim you; you’re too pretty to lose an eye. "Rich kid life?” He laughed. “Cupcake, you have no clue. Look, my life, or lack thereof, has nothing to do with this. I am here for a reason, and trust me I don’t wanna be. So, either you help me find who I'm looking for, and I get to show you exactly why your information is wrong on the way back to the airport, or you don’t." She giggled at him. "No, Button, you don't get free run around my town. You missed me last time by a day…not this time though." If only I had caught you, baby. Hmmm, you'd still be tied to the bed screaming. "You go now of your own free will, or you go in pieces…guess what piece I'll cut off first?" ~28~

He smiled at her. "You'd cut it off before you saw what it could do for you, Darlin?" Oh…shit, that's what I want. "And what free run? Maybe you can help me find her." She swallowed a few times, regaining some control. I think I may have underestimated little, Button. Damn incubus. "Who is it that you’re looking for?" "Just a girl, a friend’s cousin. I don't know if you know the working girls in the area, not a high class thing like yourself, but her name’s Alice." High class? You'd be surprised. "Alice? Is that all you've got?" I hate that name. "We have hundreds of girls down there willing to change their names for a rock of crack or a clean needle…anything else to go by?" "A last name. Ipwhisk." No! "Mean anything to you?" She felt her face drop and quickly hid her expressions. Shit! It can't be…He, I. Curse you, Fal, why do you have to care now? "Yeah, she's dead…looks like you've had a short trip after all, Button." "Dead my ass! We did a locator spell. Could you be wrong?" Damn witches with their spells! "I was there when she died. She took an overdose four years ago. That's what happens to most of the prostitutes around here; they all die. One way or the other. I'm sorry, Button, but you came here for nothing." Her heart threatened to break out of her chest as he took his time to mull over what she had just said. Go away, please. "I hope you’re not offended if I insist on looking anyway?" Shit! Please no. "And I hope you’re not offended if I once again insist you leave." Get the hint. "Go to your friend and tell him that it’s for the best. She died very high and very happy. Not many of us can say that…she got lucky." She paced the room as she addressed him. "Him? Cupcake, I never once said it was a guy." Did you? No, you said…Fuck! "You didn't? I suppose it’s a fifty-fifty guess. Was I right? Typical of a man to search for the whore. So, you up for a little…ride in the limo?" She stood on her tiptoes biting her lip looking down at him. "Are you Welsh?" "Huh?" She frowned. "Well, I'm hardly Russian. I wouldn't call myself Welsh either…Why?" She paused, her eyes narrowing suspiciously. Memories of her childhood came to her, things she hadn't thought of for years. A dark haired young boy and she were watching films. She had a black eye, and his arm was in a sling of sorts. They had made it earlier on in the day. The next one was of the same boy, badly beaten and gasping for breath, but he still held her at night to help her sleep. The next was her father… She gained control and snapped them shut, losing the memories. Locking them ~29~

up tightly in the place, she kept them. Shaking, she turned to Arcady and threw a shard of ice at him; it took him just above his shoulder. He cried out and stared at the rapidly melting piece of ice in disbelief. It was only two inches long, and his body heat had almost melted it away. His blood flowed with the cold water. "Stay out of my head, Button, or we'll make a game out of the memories. I'm not like you, but I'm crazy enough to project pretty loudly. Of course, I'd have to be touching you. Would you like me to touch you? We could do this really easy. You agree to leave Russia, and then we can spend some good time together. The other choice is less fun, for you at least." "The film you were watching; it was Rio Lobo. It's one of Fallon's favorite films, though god knows why. He was the boy I saw, wasn't he, Alice? In that last memory, what had happened to him? What did happen to him? How did he survive?" "Get the fuck out of Russia and never, ever call me Alice, or I'll fucking gut you, incubus or not." Trembling, Snow backed away calling a larger shard of ice to her. Her saucer like eyes filled up with tears. "I'm not going to hurt you, Cupcake, but if you throw that at me, I'll throw it back, and I'm not a very good aim. I'd hate to take out one of those beautiful blue eyes. I don't want to hurt you." "Then leave me alone and stop looking at me like that. Go back to wherever you came from." Her voice was low and threatening. He kept on walking toward her, blood freely flowing down his bare chest. Her back hit against the wall, and she yelped in surprise then glared at him whilst hugging herself. The tears were freely flowing down her face. Arcady stopped and looked at her, really studying her. She looked nothing like Fallon. She was small, maybe just taller than Astrid. That was where the similarities ended. Where Astrid was all curves, Alice was angles and points. He recognized that glare though, even through the tears. It was Fallon's glare, one that promises a painful death and will deliver. "Can we at least talk about it? You don't have to go anywhere with me," he reasoned. "I wouldn't go anywhere with you anyway. No." She shook her head. "I don't want to talk about anything. I'm feeling decidedly uncooperative today. I should be working; a girl's gotta eat. My employer would be most upset…" "What are your rates? I'll cover them for a conversation. That's gotta be better than the alternative." "No…It’s really not. Leave me alone." She pushed past him and headed for the door. "Who is your employer? I think I want a word with him." Oh god no, if D found out… "Anyone ever tell you, you think too much?” She turned and smiled at him. “My employer doesn’t matter anymore…it’s only you and me here, Button." She swayed toward him, licking her lips. She had just about reached him when ~30~

a man appeared in the room with them, smirking at their surprise. Damn you, D! Fuck. "I believe that's my cue. Arcady, you got here before I could take the price off your head. You’re lucky Snow and her boys picked you up. If it had been anyone else…" Dimitri whistled then turned to Snow smiling. "So, that's quite a chat the two of you have been having. You should check in with me, dear. I've been looking for Alice. And here you are, little Alice Ipwhisk." She winced at the name. "Did it never occur to you to mention your older cousin to me? Why did you never tell me?" Because you’d use it as leverage and because that little girl died when you took me in. "You never asked, D. Who says I'm even her?" "True. It doesn't matter anymore. I'm sending you back with Morrison here." “What?” “I want you to go with Morrison to Shadow Heights. You’re to go to Casha. Do whatever he tells you.” “You what?” she asked in disbelief knowing he’d never answer her fully. "On second thought, don't kill anyone for him unless you run it by me first and don't under any circumstance kill Thisbe. Leave sweet Colette alone also, she’s off limits. You know how to get in touch with me, don't you? Good girl, have fun and tell Casha I said hi." "You’re giving me away…You cruel bastard. Fine, I'll do as you say." Her shoulders slumped in defeat, and she nodded weakly. "I'll do anything he asks me to." "Not everything, Snow. Mind what I have said." He blew her a kiss and disappeared. The hot tears spilled over her cheeks as she turned to Arcady. "Well, I hope you’re happy. Got what you wanted after all." "Oh, Goddess, don’t do that." He caught her as she fell to the ground crying and shaking in his arms, her attitude and defiance gone, only slightly aware of Arcady’s strong arms holding her close. *** Arcady wrapped his arms around the fallen Snow, holding her while she cried. For once in his life, he didn’t know what to do. He cuddled her close, fitting her thin, frail body against his own. His body tightened as he touched the bare skin on her shoulders. Whoa, that’s new, he thought of his reaction to just feeling a small part of her skin. Normally his body reacted this way if he was already naked and sweaty with a woman, after he had fed off her essence. He hadn’t even kissed Snow, and he was reacting to her. He moved her closer to his chest, his mouth closer to her ear. “Easy, Snow, easy…”He inhaled her scent for the first time, an intoxicating ~31~

mixture of strawberries and chocolate. He mmmed in her ear, and she laughed through the sobs. “You smell good, Cupcake.” He tried to turn her feelings into something she understood, something she could handle. Sex, sex she could handle, and he knew it. She relaxed into him, and seeing his green light, he changed tactics. He didn’t want her to think that was what he wanted… Well not all he wanted. “Snow, you smell so delicious, but right now isn’t the time, and it’s hardly the place.” He looked around the shabby and dirty room. “Are you okay now? Do you want me to let go of you?” She sighed. "No, but you better. I don't like it here." She rubbed her back against his exposed chest, careful not to aggravate his wound. She sighed. "Yeah, sleep would be good." “Correct, Cupcake. I got my hotel room in Moscow; we should probably get me cleaned up. And no offense, but you look like you could use a good night’s sleep, savvy?” Snow didn’t argue with him once. Two hours later, they had checked into Arcady’s hotel room and tended to his new wound, which was sure to scar. “Shit. If the witch were here, this wouldn’t scar one bit. I don’t suppose you know any heeling spells, do you?” Snow shook her head and got up off the armchair that she was perched on. “Witch?” she asked as she walked to the window to watch the goings on of downtown Moscow. “Yeah, a friend back home.” “Friend? As in what, like a lover?” She sounded oddly upset at the prospect. “Well once, a long time ago. But not now, now she’s your cousin’s fiancée.” The statement stopped her cold. She turned to look at the beautiful man sitting, well, lounging on the couch, still shirtless, and her mouth gaped. “Now, Snow…That look isn’t for me, is it? Like what you see?” Arcady purred and relaxed farther onto the furniture. She closed her mouth then opened it, apparently speechless. She cleared her throat and finally got the words to come out. “Fallon is getting married?” She looked stunned. Arcady feinted hurt. “Shit, that’s why you were gasping? And here I was thinking it’s cuz of me. You truly unman me, Cupcake. Here I am half naked and only cuz I haven’t figured out how to incorporate getting my pants off during the conversation.” He wiggled his eyebrows. “And you don’t like. I really must be losing my touch.” There, some light teasing should lighten her up, he thought as his eyes raked her statuesque frame. Get her laughing; she looks like she needs it. Snow smiled and giggled behind her hand, a real teenage thing to do. He watched her and smiled. “It’s nice to see I amuse you. Don’t cover up your smile, love…it’s very sexy.” "Stick to the subject, Button. He's happy, right?" “Ah, back to business. Sure I can’t interest you in me taking my pants off?” He ~32~

knew he could, but they both knew it was a tease, not an invitation, well not really and not now. Maybe…he thought…Maybe later. "Maybe some other time. So, Fallon is happy then? Like kids and happily ever after happy?" He sighed, clearly faking it. “Yeah, he’s getting married. She’s a witch.” She smiled. "Go Fal…I'm glad somebody made it out. So, tell me about them? How long have they been together?" “Most of the specifics I’m not sure of, Cupcake. You’d have to ask her if you wanted to know, but he’s happy. She’s a witch, owns a spell dealership and a mansion in Shadow Heights. Old money. She’s a feisty one. Oh yeah, they have a kid-of sorts, his name is Linus, and he’s their English bulldog." She whooped her laughter. "So, Fal is daddy to a big smelly dog? I never saw that coming." “Yeah, he seems happy with it. Just wait till you meet the smelly cur. You’ll fall in love with him; everyone has.” “Even you?” “Everyone.” “I like dogs. So, they aren’t pregnant are they?” “What? Oh no! Um lemme clue you in on a touchy subject. Astrid can’t have kids. She’s under a magical and physical curse.” “Astrid? That’s her name? Pretty,” she said offhandedly. “Why is she cursed?” “She was a follower of Lilith for a while, and the goddess didn’t want to give her up, so she cursed her.” “Lilith? Lord, Fal really knows how to pick them, don’t he? Not like I’m one to talk.” “Hey! I resent that!” “I haven’t picked you for anything yet, Button.” The offhanded suggestion set fire to his blood. He shook it off, trying to get back to the conversation, excited she was actually talking to him. Snow however saw his reaction and licked her lips while she looked at him. He smiled, inwardly pleased. “Astrid loves Fallon, I mean loves Fallon. She’d gut anyone who looked at him cross-eyed. And no, before you say anything, neither of them is very sane.” She laughed. “So, is he okay? I mean, ya think he really wants to see me?” She bit her bottom lip in nervousness. Goddamn, she’s hot, he thought as thoughts of what that mouth could be doing entered his head. He was glad she wasn’t telepathic, or he’d be in a few loads of trouble. “Fallon sent me to find you. He’s worried about you.” “I miss him,” she whispered as she turned again to the window. “He misses you, too, Luv. He never stopped looking for you.” He was behind her, and she never even heard him get off the couch, as lost in her own thoughts as she was. She shivered, and he put his arms around her. He was warm, and she relaxed into him instantly. Arcady was astonished at how easily she found comfort with him, and him her. Probably because I’m treating her like a woman. He ~33~

looked at her in the window reflection. She really is beautiful. She turned in his arms, crying once again, and he held her, quiet and comforting. When her sobs began to die away, he picked her up and walked her over to the other room, to the bed there in. He laid her there, knowing their talking time was over for a while. He set her down and drew the covers over her. She snuggled into the sheets, and he started to pull away. “Arcady?” she asked, eyes closed. “Hmm?” “Stay with me? I don’t want to be alone.” His heart leapt. She trusts me? “No problem, Sugar.” “No, Cupcake. You call me Cupcake.” He smiled. “Cupcake then.” He lay beside her, spooning her small body. A sense of peace stole over him, and he marveled at it. It had been a long time since he had held a woman just because she needed it. He liked the feeling. He settled in and drifted off to sleep, realizing that they both could use a good nap. He awoke awhile later to her crying. He held her once again, and the crying stopped. She really needs a knight in shining armor, doesn’t she? She had kicked the blankets down, and he could see a view of her body that took his breath away. Relaxed, she was delicate. She’s not all curves like the witch, but she’s perfect nonetheless. “Like what you see, Button?” She had woken up when he shifted his weight to grab the forgotten covers. The only skin exposed on her was her tiny pale feet, peeking out from her black velvet pants, and it was enough for him. His body went rigid, and he hid it well. He touched her hair as he answered. “Very much.” “Good, cuz I like what I see, too.” He hugged her close, and she melted into him. She turned her face and kissed him, a sweet, lingering kiss that sent shivers down his spine. He kissed back, and she made a little noise in the back of her throat; she was clearly enjoying this. She shimmied herself under his frame, which was half on its side. He laid along the length of her, then, on her insistence, slid over her wiggling body. Wow, she’s aggressive. Probably has to be. Let’s turn the tables. Slowly, he kissed her, then undressed her, and she let him. Unbuttoning her white silk shirt and sliding lower, unbuttoning her pants, and still he went lower, sliding them off her long legs slowly, a slight tease. He followed his hands as they did their slow work of undressing her. He was now at the end of the bed, and all she had on was a pair of white satin panties and a white lace bra, holding her tight, high breasts like a present for him to unwrap. He grabbed her tiny foot with the electric blue nail polish and kissed the top of it. She looked down at him, and he let go of her leg and slowly crawled up her body, making it a complete tease. Very, very slowly. She gasped, and he hadn’t even touched her—yet. She was enjoying this. He could tell, him treating her like a precious jewel. Little did she know that’s exactly ~34~

what she was to him. He made it back up to her lips, and he kissed her again. Then he broke from the kiss and buried his face in her hair. MMM, chocolate and strawberries. “You smell so good, Snow.” She giggled as his breath played along her neck. “Um, are you going to fuck me?” The thought of what the word actually meant made him frown. He didn’t want to fuck her…No not that. She took the frown the wrong way. “Um, look, you don’t have to, it’s just, just, well, I’m sort of naked here….” He then whispered in her ear. “Cupcake, I am not going to fuck you. I’m going to worship you. You’re fucking perfect. One doesn’t fuck a goddess; one kneels at her feet and begs for her attention. Since I already have that…” He kissed her waiting mouth, and her hands quickly went to his belt and pants to rid him of the barrier between them. It was then she realized he didn’t wear underwear. She whispered in his ear as she weighed the hard length of him in her hand. “No underwear…Hmmm. Why? So you’re always ready?” “No, actually it’s just more comfortable. I assure you as an incubus, I’m never ready until a woman is. But for you Snow, I’ll always be ready. You’re perfection.” “Pretty to think so.” “Let me prove it.” And he did. He made slow love to her, working her slowly, gently, giving her everything he had to give. When she came, he followed her over the brink seconds later, something he had never done. He had always waited until he could sap enough energy off the woman. He had always held out. Except with Ashlyn, but that was because she didn’t belong to him. This time, it was different. This time he didn’t need to feed, and he knew he had found home. “Thank you, Button.” “For?” “For that. It was perfect, just what I wanted.” “They don’t call me Mr. Fantasy for nothing.” He chuckled. She cuddled into his arms. “It’s not like that all the time right?” “No, why?” “Cuz if it was, I was going to say you’re wasting that gorgeous body you have there, all that strength.” “You think I have a good body?” “Umm. Perfect.” “The full answer to your question is no, I’m never that tender. I’m usually very wild, very creative. But something told me we could save all that for another time.” “Umm…Sounds good, Button. You won’t leave me now, will you? I mean, to the other bedroom?” “Not if you want me to stay, Cupcake. Is that what you want?” “Ummm. Yeah. Hold me while I sleep. I used to love that.” Once more, he got the memory of Fallon holding his bruised and battered ~35~

cousin as a child, and he knew exactly how she wanted to be held. They drifted off to sleep again, but this time, it was dreamless and sated. Both content in their place, together.

~36~

Chapter Three Snow lay awake with him spooning her perfectly, just the way she liked. She hadn’t been held for so long that the rhythmic sound of his breathing calmed her. She yawned and pressed herself against his hot body, quietly contemplating just what she should do now. Dimitri had sold her on, given her to his twisted brother to be used in god only knows what way. She was trapped no matter what she decided to do. If she ran, they’d hunt her down and force her to go. And if she went…well, then she’d be stuck with Casha. Then there was the case of the unbelievably sexy incubus lying next to her. The idea of just giving him the slip did nothing for her at all. For some inconceivable reason, she was content to just talk to him. He made her feel calm, which was something she’d never really felt before with a male. Then there was the way he’d made her feel last night, special and amazing. She was loath to run away from him without fully exploring what he was capable of, even if the thought of him hunting her down was so tantalizing. Deciding not to decide anything until she’d at least fully showered and brushed her teeth, she reluctantly slipped out of the bed and made her way to the bathroom to shower and clean herself up. She returned sometime later, both her body and her wet hair wrapped in fluffy short towels. Arcady was well and awake, sitting up, the sheet barely covering his waist as he smirked at her. “Showering without me?” She grinned and shrugged. "I didn’t know I wasn’t allowed to shower myself. Besides, you looked so peaceful snoring away." He laughed. “I don’t snore. And my peace was interrupted when you left the bed, Cupcake. I would have loved to wash your back.” "Well, I did leave the door open. You were more than welcome to try your luck." "I don’t go where I’m not invited." He smirked and touched her thigh, trailing his fingers under her towel. Well, you’re more than welcome to go anywhere you want with me, Button. She leaned into his touch and smirked. "Your shoulder still smarting you, Button?" He shrugged. "I'll be fine, and I think I’ll be enjoying this scar for a long, long time." She skeptically raised an eyebrow. "Enjoying it?" "Darlin, how many guys out there can say that they got pegged by an ice shard from a beautiful Glacies? Not many I gather." She frowned mentally counting. "Ummm…and lived?" He smiled at her. She was truly a treat, so innocent and brutal at the same time, a paradox, her countenance and response in complete parallel. “Darlin, you are beyond amazing. So, we have some time. What shall we do?” "I'm not sure. I can't seem to think so well with your hand up my towel." She giggled. "Unless that was your evil plan all along…" He grinned and licked his lips. "It might have been." He removed his hand and sat up, the sheet falling farther down as he was unaffected by his complete nakedness. ~37~

She smirked at him, letting her heated gaze travel up his body well and truly appreciating the view. "I have no clothes." She glanced to the pile she'd worn yesterday. "Well, clean ones, anyway." He smiled. "Then I think we need to do a bit of shopping, don’t you?" Her face lit up, "Yeah, that could work. Or we can swing by my place and pick up my stuff…it’s already packed." "Well, we could do that as well, although I think I shall enjoy shopping with you, if it should please you, Snow." "Okay, but I'll warn you, I'm ridiculously expensive." He leaned in and kissed her, sucking her bottom lip into his mouth. "Good, then you and I have something in common." Her body melted into him, and she groaned into his mouth. "Um, well that’s always good to know, Button." She kissed him again, her towel slipping down to expose the tops of her pert breasts. He groaned and shook his head. "One or the other, Snow, shopping and spending tons of my money, or fucking till dawn, cuz I assure you, Cupcake, we start this now, you’re not leaving this bed." She tore her gaze and body away from him with all the willpower she possessed. "While writhing on top of that hard well muscled body of yours for most of the day and night does hold its attraction…I'll still need clothes come dawn. Plus, I'll need to get my stuff out of the flat before Dimitri gives it to his next pet." She fixed the position of her towel and turned her back to him, blinking back her tears. Arcady looked at her back and sighed. "If it’s any consolation, Casha demanded you. Dimitri didn’t give you up willingly. You know the demon, he has his agendas, and apparently, both you and I fit into them. So, do we make the best of what we got going on here? Or do we not?" She turned back round to him. "Oh we are…But it just hurts after so much time, to be given away like a pack of gum. You wouldn’t understand I suppose." She laughed bitterly. "Unfortunately, I do understand. I've been a possession for a long time, but I never do get used to being passed around." She dropped the towel wrapping her and picked up her dress from the floor, slipping it over her head and shaking her hair out. He sighed and shook his head. She was right. He didn’t know anything about being a possession, but he did know a thing or two about being used. It wasn’t a good feeling. She wouldn’t get that from him. For as long as she was in his keeping, she would be treated like the precious gift she was. The alternative, to be like every other fucker in her life, well, that wasn’t acceptable. He got out of bed and got dressed quickly, a black shirt, black fatigues, his belt and his shoulder holster, black boots, and leather jacket. He looked at her. "So, where do you wanna go? Money is no object, and I have no clue where the fuck chicks shop anywhere but LA." She smiled warmly at him and winked "Oh, don’t worry about that, Button, I know all the good places. We'll swing by the apartment first. Do we have transport?" "Yeah, I rented a hummer that I was supposed to pick up here, so it looks like we ~38~

are good to go." “Great, come on, I'll show you my city." She winked and opened the door, standing waiting for him to follow. He looked at her ass and grinned. "Darlin, you got it. I’ll follow you anywhere."

~39~

Chapter Four Arcady closed the back hatch of the hummer for the last time until they made it back to the hotel, he hoped. She lived up to her boast; her shopping habits were as bad as his. The pleasure she took in it amused him so much, he couldn’t deny her anything. She had indeed given his credit cards a true workout, and he wasn’t concerned in the least. Seeing her happy and excited was well worth it. They had shopped, had a light lunch, shopped some more, and they were now finally done for the day. His stomach was protesting, and he smiled. Seeing her dressed for an intimate dinner was something he did want right now, and as he walked around to the driver’s seat of the Hummer, he saw her checking her makeup in the vanity mirror. She was stunning. He wasn’t sure he could ever get over how perfect she was. She had looked amazing when she picked out the silver and white fox coat, even her teasing when she came out of the dressing room with it on and flashed him with a mischievous grin on her face. She was wild and sexy, and she knew it, and he enjoyed her all the more for her adventurous nature. He got in and smiled at her. “I was thinking, would you let me take you out to dinner tonight?” He was dying to see her dressed up, see her play the part, then take her back to the room and peel the silks and satins off her athletic frame and make her sob his name for the rest of the night. He reached over and touched her face tenderly. “Did you have fun today?” She grinned at him. "Dinner? Yeah, that'd be great. I'm starved. Today’s been great, and I really enjoyed myself, but you really didn't have to pay for everything. I was looking forward to maxing out at least a few of D's cards." He laughed. "Believe me, Snow, the pleasure was all mine. It’s not often I can make a woman this happy." She looked him up and down. "Oh, I doubt that very much, Button. So, what are your thoughts on dinner? I'm guessing a drive through is out." She smiled. He laughed again. "Darling, I’m an incubus. What I meant is that it’s not often I get to indulge a woman’s wants just for the fuck of it. And I was thinking maybe a nice private intimate dinner, somewhere extravagantly expensive. I’d love to see you in that white satin number you bought." "Why is that? Surely there are thousands of women who'd just love to be ‘indulged’ by you." He shrugged. "Oh that’s quite true, but a surprisingly miniscule number on whom I want to lavish affection and indulgence on." She nodded. "Fair enough. So, the white satin dress. I'm glad you chose that one. I'm dying to put it on again." Yeah and I’m dying to get you out of it, he thought as he turned the hummer onto the street and headed back toward the hotel. They left the hotel an hour later; Snow on Arcady’s arm as they walked out to the town car he had whipped up in minutes. She was beautiful in the tight clingy dress, ~40~

statuesque and regal, a true ice princess. He couldn’t stop looking at her; she took his very breath. “Snow, Luv, you are beyond stunning this evening,” he said as he helped her into the back of the town car and then checked his suit. Black pants and a jacket. Blue shirt and black tie, diamond tie tack she talked him into to match the cufflinks she picked out. They indeed were a pair. He got in and smiled at her. “So? Dinner at Marmots? Or Sebastian’s?” He had decided to give her the choice. She thought about it. "Um, Sebastian’s I think. It’s a long story, but they don’t like me at Marmots." He laughed and smiled, then turned to the driver. "Sebastian’s then." He turned to her. "My dear, you clean up real nice." She ducked her head down a little. "Thank you. You’re looking pretty sharp yourself, yet you are still covered in weapons. I like it." "I never go anywhere unarmed, not with the amount of enemies I have made through the years. That’s my first rule. Always be prepared, like the boy scouts. And thank you for the compliment. Would you believe that I am used to dressing this way more often then not?" She smiled. "I'm sure no matter what you wear you seem perfectly at ease. You’re either a very secure person or wonderfully well practiced." "A little from column A and a little from column B, pet." He settled back and placed his hand on her leg. "Are you wearing stockings or thigh highs?" he asked in a lecherous tone and laughed. "Sorry, my imagination running away with me again." She giggled as her tongue darted out to wet her lower lip. "I think I'll keep that information for a surprise. Although, if you guess correctly during the course of the evening, you'll get a bonus prize." She was playing with him, a seductive game of sorts, and God if it wasn’t intriguing. No woman he ever took out on a date was this intriguing…he smirked at her and nodded. "Fair enough, pet." The car came to a rolling stop, and he smiled. "And we are here," he said as he got out and reached for her hand. *** She followed him into the restaurant. "So, just how do you plan on getting a table here with no reservations, Button?" Arcady smiled. "Same way I get one anywhere else, walk up." He winked at her. She giggled and shook her head. "Well, in that case, do go on, I'm always ready to learn a new skill." She said the word, skill, like a dirty word, letting it roll off her tongue. Arcady went to the matre'd and spoke with him in hushed tones, and they shook hands; then he motioned to Snow and winked. "Come on, pet, seems a table just opened up." She smiled and followed him to their table, which she knew from experience was the best table in the house. It was set back from all the others and had a perfect view of the snow covered square bathed in the soft street lighting. She waited until they were alone with their menus before speaking. "I'm impressed. Do you have any idea how many ‘influential’ people that little prick has turned down at this door? You'll have to ~41~

tell me your secret someday." "I’ll tell you right now. I have more money than the Vatican." He smirked. She laughed. "I've known a few of their people to get turned away as well." "I’m sure. But then again I’m sure it has nothing to do with the business card I gave him," he said in an amused tone. "I'm sure…unless it says, ‘Give me a table or I'll blow your whole restaurant up.’" He reached into his jacket, pulled out a card, and handed it to her. It was completely black, in the left lower corner it said his name, in the right corner it said simply “I do things.” She flipped it over, and there was a bunch of "things" he did, including internet securities, stock counselor, interrogation, and knee breaking. She giggled and shook her head. "Well, that has to be the most well laid out card I’ve ever seen." She giggled and licked her lips. "And is that truly your number, 08 470 69 6969?" “When I’m overseas it is. When I’m in the states it’s 818 555 6969. Your cousin hates that I got it before he thought of it.” She laughed. "I can imagine. So, how did you meet my cousin?" "Meet him? Ah well, we worked for the same employer, did a couple jobs together, you know." "Yeah, I kinda do…So, why do you owe him a favor? He's not the type of guy that you want to owe." He smiled at her as the waiter came up, and he ordered a bottle of wine. "Snow? First course?" She smiled sweetly, repressing a growl at the interruption. "Oh, I'll let you order. As long as it’s slightly cooked and used to be alive, I’ve no preference." He ordered the first course and the salad and then looked at her. "Potato leek or black truffle soup?" "Ummm, black truffle, leek’s not my thing." The waiter nodded and was on his way to take care of the order. "I hope you like the appetizer; I have a thing for peaky toe crab and scallops." "I love scallops, and crab’s okay as long as there are no crunchy bits." "Perfect. I hope you like the entree as well. I wasn’t sure if you liked salmon, but the chef here makes it amazingly well, and the basil mashed potatoes are quite good as well." She laughed. "I told you I've got no preference. I've eaten some strange things in my time, but I love the salmon from here. Actually, I love most fish." "Then I think we shall get along well." He smiled at her as the wine came, and the waiter and Arcady went through the trouble of tasting the wine. He nodded and waved the waiter away and then poured her a glass, then himself. "It’s a nineteen eighty-five Shiraz, one of my favorites," he said as he went to hand her the glass. She took the glass and tasted it. "Oh, it's perfect." She purred as the mellow liquid slipped down her throat coating her tongue. "And you have a cultured pallet for wine. Could you be more perfect?" "I'm sure I could. So, Mr. Morrison, you’re subtly avoiding my question…and please ~42~

don’t ask what question. I hate repeating myself." He smiled. "Cant blame me for trying." "Oh, I could, but that would further delay your answer." He sighed. “Hardly dinner conversation, but well, I had a sister, a twin, Electra, perfect, beautiful, and your cousin was fond of her. Well to make a long story short, he helped me hide the body of her husband.” She nodded, picking up on his past tense use on the word sister. "So, you flew all the way over here, risking life and limb, just because he called in that favor?" "He did me a solid, I do him a solid. We are friends." He laughed bitterly. "One of the only real ones I actually have, aside from his partner, Feyd." "I never thought of Fallon as friendship material…he must have mellowed." "Mellowed? Shit, I don’t think so, but his witch does keep him grounded. The three of us have an understanding." She smiled. "Yeah? And what would that be?" "I don’t fuck with you, you don’t fuck with me. Well, that and we have shared some insane bonding situations." He chuckled to himself. "I'm sure," she answered coldly. "Something wrong?" She sighed. "No. It’s nothing. I'm sorry." "No, you look upset. Please, tell me what’s wrong. If I upset you or offended you, Snow, I am sorry." "No, you haven’t, Button. I just…my last few memories of Fallon weren't…" She took a gulp of wine and a deep steadying breath. "He was a very…harsh person, from what I remember." "And he still is, but he’s different now, Cupcake, more…" "More?" she prompted. "More…I don’t know. You’ll see when we get back to the states." She nodded letting the question drop and looking out onto the snow filled square. "It’s so beautiful this time of year, and the snow just sets it all off perfectly." He nodded. "So, tell me about you. Since you were so hot to pick my brain, I figure turn about is fair play." She blinked in surprise, turning back to face him. "You don’t want to know about me…it’s not a fairy tale." "No one’s life is." The first course had come, and they were quiet for a few minutes as they ate. He looked at her after chewing his present mouthful. "How about we skip the first date interview stuff? I would rather see you enjoy dinner and my company, and I would like very much to have you smiling." She smiled at him. "It’s okay…I am enjoying your company. Of course later on I intend to enjoy it more…fully." She giggled and gently worried her bottom lip with her teeth. "Ask away, Button. If I don’t like the question, I just won’t answer…and how could I not smile, sitting across from you all night?" He nodded and took a sip of his wine. "Okay, well, what is it you do for Dimitri anyway?" He took another sip and let his tongue dart out. ~43~

"I…well, I ran his businesses, keeping the girls and various brothel owners in order. I was his enforcer of sorts, did the things he was too squeamish to do. I had my own set of clients, and of course up until a few days ago, I lived with him." She sighed and took another drink of wine. "I see, and I’m sorry," he said quietly. "I know I told you this already, but I didn’t want to come and fuck up your world, Snow. We thought we would be saving you. Once you see Fallon, then I’ll talk to Casha about bringing you back here, to your life." You’re a little too late to save me, Button. She shrugged, playing with a piece of food on her plate with a fork. "I don't really have a life here anymore.” He grinned. "Well then, you have the option to start over then?" The thought seemed to please him immensely. She looked up at him and his infectious grin. "I guess, and that’s not so bad, even if all of my skills are pretty…specialized." He laughed. "Fuck, so are mine. It’s not what you already do that’s important to your future; it’s what you want to become." She smiled at him. "Yeah, I guess you’re right. But, the question is what to become now? I hardly see myself stacking shelves somewhere and on the flip side, brain surgery…" She shook her head. "Not my thing. I’m really only good for two things." He reached over and grabbed her hand. "Why don’t we worry about that after you meet up with Fallon? I wouldn’t want you to make hasty decisions." She smiled and squeezed his hand. "Good idea and I could always try my hand at brain surgery again." She grinned. "So, are we done with the date questions?" "More than done." They ate the rest of their meal with light chitchat and laughter. He smiled at her a lot. "Desert? Or perhaps you’d like to take this elsewhere?" he asked and arched his brow. She grinned at him. "Well, we could always order room service, something with lots of whipped cream." "I do like the way you think, Cupcake." "Me too, Button. Let’s go."

~44~

Chapter Five Something was waking her up. It was loud and irritating, and it was waking her up. She snuggled closer to the strong warm body next to her, hoping that the phone would stop ringing. This is why we don't have a phone in the bedroom, she thought to herself still half-asleep. So, why is it waking you up then? Startled she sat up, the covers falling from her as she gathered her bearings. Her previous night’s activities came flashing back to her, leaving her smiling and a little breathless as she looked down at the sleeping god next to her. Well, he's certainly not fast…even if he is a little deaf. Grumbling, she picked up the phone. "Do you have any idea what time it is? Please tell me this isn't a wake up call." She growled into the receiver as she tried to find a clock or a watch or a phone or something that could give her the time. "Snow, Darlin. I know exactly what time it is." Dimitri's cultured voice oozed over the phone "Oh," she said puzzled. "Well, what time is it?" Hmmm, maybe he wants me to go back. She looked back at Arcady who was still sleeping. She wondered if she wanted to go back briefly before her former lover’s words brought her back to reality. "Early. We have a situation," he said, his voice sounded tired. "Situation?" She sat up, more alert. "What's happened?" She knew that tone of voice; it never boded well for somebody. "Samantha. She’s not doing so well." "Sam? Why…what did you do?" "Nothing. Faulkner. Meet me for breakfast, and I'll explain." Breakfast? Ah shit. She looked around again for a clock. "What time?" "Brunch. I'll let the two of you at least wake up." "Yeah, thanks," she said sarcastically. "It’s appreciated." "No worries, meet me later," he said choosing to ignore her sarcasm and hung up, leaving the line dead. Groaning, she hung up the phone and gathered up the covers around her. She turned back to Arcady who was now half-awake and looking at her questionably. He's really adorable when he's groggy. She smiled warmly at him. "D wants us to meet him for brunch," she explained. "You got the time?" "Five a.m. Go back to sleep for a while okay?" "Don't have to tell me twice, Button." He lifted his arm for her, and she snuggled back against his warm chest. She closed her eyes and soon drifted off to sleep. Snow woke up next to a warm and very possessive body. She knew it was a male, the dusting of hair on his arms was a dead give away. She tried to move, but Arcady was hip to her and wrapped his arms tighter around her, pulling her closer to his naked chest. She snuggled in further and turned her head slightly to nip at the chin just above her shoulder positioned close to her mouth. He chuckled as she did and inhaled. “Christ, Snow, do you always smell so damn good?” She wiggled her bottom against his groin, and he groaned into her hair. He looked ~45~

over at the side mirror and could just catch a glimpse of the two of them snuggled into bed. It just looked right. She sighed and giggled as he watched her in the mirror and licked her lips, clearly trying to entice him into some sort of action. Snow, trust me, love, if we engage in what you’re implying, we’ll never leave this room. I just can’t get enough of your sweet body. He quirked his eyebrow at her, and she wiggled against his groin once more. “Oh come on, Button, don’t tell me you don’t want to.” Once again he spoke to her with thought. Cupcake, it’s painfully apparent I want to, but Dimitri wants us to meet him by noon. He turned his head slightly, letting the cool air of the room between their bodies slightly. Snow reached back and grabbed his side, tickling him slightly, and he bucked against her again wiggling body, apparently her plan all along. He tried hard to ignore it and keep to the task at hand, which was seeing what time it actually was. Hmm only nine, eh? It’s what fifteen minutes to the hotel the meeting is being held in? Fuck it. Well, Cupcake, looks like you get your wish, he thought to her as he swiftly flipped over on his back and positioned her above him. She sat up and looked down at him, the silver negligee she wore clinging in all the right places. Damn she’s hot. Her white blond hair was in a minor state of dishevelment, and her face was clean of the dark eye make up she tended to favor. So fucking perfect, where have you been my entire life? Arcady wasn’t used to the feelings he was feeling but knew that they were there for a reason. He wasn’t one to just dismiss something new and exciting that was happening to him, so he went with it, realizing none too slowly that she could be the answer to everything he’d ever wanted. He smiled up at her as she grinned down at him with heat blazing in her eyes. “So, Button? What now?” “You tell me, love.” She worried her bottom lip, looking hopefully into his eyes. Tell me what you want, Snow. Your wish is my command. She looked a bit timid and smiled through the worrying of her bottom lips, which Arcady thought was extremely sexy. “Make love to me again, Arcady. I loved that.” The look in her eyes was enough to let him know she really did enjoy him when he was slow and tender. He captured her mouth in a kiss and thought three words to her. Anything my Luv. *** Arcady looked over at Dimitri across the table, trying to concentrate on what the man was saying, but Snow’s wandering hand was making even blinking a chore. Baby, I’m just going to say this once more, if you don’t stop, I’m going to pop and be no use to anyone, not to mention ruin a perfectly good pair of pants. She giggled and raised her eyebrow at him. He heard her projecting to him, Okay, Button, you get a reprieve, but remember what you said as we left the hotel. Once we are done, you’re mine. He smiled at her and looked at Dimitri. “So, who the hell is this guy we are going to ~46~

see?” “His name is Rocco Faulkner. He’s a dealer from the area, and he roughed up Samantha.” “Okay, forgive me for my ignorance, Dimitri, but you don’t seem to care who’s doing what to most of your girls, so why care now?” Dimitri looked over at Snow who was silently strangling a napkin. “Snow, Luv, patience.” He turned his attention back to Arcady. “Samantha is one of my high class girls. Five thou a pop, they don’t fuck. They are part of my legit escort service. Sandor Clemens runs the operation for me out of the Middle East, and Snow here runs my European operations.” Arcady could hear Dimitri’s thoughts of, well, she did, and wondered if Dimitri was sending her away from Russia, to Cash and Fallon, against his will. Dimitri continued on, “Well, Sam is a favorite, and Rocco decided that he had to have her a few nights ago for some function. That function was an orgy at his yacht, and Sam refused to participate. I’m hoping that the plastic surgeon I flew in from Japan can save her face. She really was a beautiful creature.” He sighed and looked at Snow. “So, take him out, Snow. No questions, just fucking kill him. No one disrespects me and my girls.” Arcady looked at Dimitri. “This personal, D?” “No, incubus, just business. If I let this go by, the rest of my girls are in danger, and I don’t want that. They are great assets and investments. It’s a shame about Sam; she was a good girl. So, Arcady I want you to go with Snow as backup, that easy enough for you?” “Um, excuse me, did I just hear you say backup? For Snow? Look, I know you’re lethal, baby, but a drug dealer is serious business. Maybe I should just go.” Snow looked at him, something indiscernible in her eyes. “Oh, fuck no, Arcady. Sam was a nice girl, and that doesn’t happen to my girls. Old Rocco is going to pay and dearly.” She turned to Dimitri. “I'll turn his ass into an example. It will be fun. Can I bring you back anything, D?” “Yes, you can. I want his eyes.” "His eyes?" she asked taking a bite out of her burger. Some sauce leaked out and fell to her plate, and she scooped it up with her finger sucking it off. "Yep. I'll be sending them to his partner, Dallas," Dimitri said coldly. "Sure you wouldn't rather his head? It would be less…gruesome." And we all know how much you freak out when things get gory. "I believe gruesome is what we are going for." "Fine, I'll do something real fun with him and leave him for his boys to pick up." I've always wanted to skin somebody; the cats just are good enough practice. "I'm leaving the country anyway. I may as well leave with a bang." She slid her hands up Arcady's thigh and squeezed him as she said the word, bang. Snow, Luv, can’t it wait till we are in the car off to meet the mark? I'm sure you can wait a few more minutes. His pleading voice sounded in her head. Sorry, forgot, she thought back to him. Noticing the lull in conversation, she turned to D. "So, you know where Rocco is now?" ~47~

"Still on his yacht last I heard. Amber is still there, as a plant. She is the one who told me about Sam. So, the quicker you take care of this the quicker you can leave." He sighed. In that much of a hurry to get rid of me? "Yeah, okay, is the warehouse ready? Or will we do him on the boat?" "Do him on the boat, love. That way his boys find him right quick. Now run along and play, Snowy." He smiled and got up from the table, shaking Arcady's hand and kissing Snow on the cheek. "And enjoy the States." He turned to Arcady. "I have just sent Fallon my best; make sure she doesn't come to any harm." Snow puffed up with pride at his words. Your best, baby? I won't let you down. I'll be real good, and I'll get you Rocco's eyes. Arcady nodded and looked at Snow. "She’ll be fine, Dimitri. Good luck." Snow smiled and looked up at him. "I'll send the eyes with Amber. Good bye, Dimitri," she said with a sad smile. Dimitri took her hand and helped her stand. He hugged her and pulled her into a fierce and deep kiss, Snow's body automatically melting into him. "Good bye, Snowy," he whispered into her ear before letting her go. "Take care of yourself." "I always try." She panted as her eyes threatened to fill up. "Thanks for everything, D." "Anytime, my dove. Anything you ever need, I'm always here." He smiled, turned and walked out of the restaurant. "Bye, D," she whispered to his retreating form before turning and beaming at Arcady, all traces of tears gone. "It’s playtime, Button. I do hope you’re not squeamish." It would be a pity. "Squeamish? Cupcake, I blew up a building of people just to spite a former employer." Well that sounds like my kinda fun, Button. She giggled and rising up on her tiptoes, pressed her lips against his. "Well then I'm sure you'll be just fine." He grinned at her and grabbed her around the waist. Now, what exactly were you thinking about doing before? Well, I was thinking about testing out that body of yours. She sent him a picture of him taking her hard against a wall, her bare legs wrapped around his naked waist. He grinned again. "Naughty little Glacies." He mumbled into her mouth. "I was thinking of something more along the lines of…" He sent her an image of her on her knees in the limo, her mouth wrapped firmly around his cock. She groaned into his mouth. Anything you want, Button…and I mean that. Then let’s go, shall we? How long of a ride is it to the harbor? Fifteen minutes but we can circle round the block a few times. He pulled away from her mouth. "I'll make it enough time. So, after we deliver the goods, do you want to leave?" He pulled his cell phone out. "I'll have to get some documents to get you out of the country." "Documents?" Why? "Shit, like on a plane? Yeah, sure, Button…Let’s get Rocco first, okay?" ~48~

"Sure, baby. Now, about that limo?" "This way, Button." Grinning, she took his hand and led him out of the hotel. The second they got into the limo, Arcady seated Snow right on his lap and proceeded to kiss her blind. They made out like high school kids, his hands quickly roaming to the back of her powder blue dress and unzipping then unhooking her lace bra and moving his hands around to feel her up, his mouth devouring hers. "Hmmm, Oh baby…I could just kiss you all day." She clawed him. He nuzzled her neck. "I have never ever wanted to just sit and kiss a woman. You are just too much of a treat to be rushed, Cupcake. I want to know your entire body, baby." She giggled and kissed his neck, unbuttoning his shirt to run her hands over the smooth expanse of hard flesh underneath. "Then that’s what we'll do, baby. There'll be plenty of time for fucking soon enough." She groaned and arched into him. "When we're both slick with Rocco's thick warm blood." He chuckled. "You like that, eh? I think it can work. I am Mr. Fantasy after all." "Not my fantasy, Button, but it is a turn on." "You’re a turn on, Cupcake." "You mean my body turns you on, Button. I'm a whore. That’s kinda the point." "No, you, your personality. And don’t you ever call yourself a whore, Cupcake. You’re an opportunist." "You don't even know me, Button." She laughed. “Yes, I do. You’re exactly what I thought you’d be, Cupcake. You’re exactly what I need.” Nobody needs me, especially not you. He kissed her hard, twining his hand in her fingers. You’re exactly what I need. Well, that is a fantasy…maybe. I'll just play along until you change your mind. You’ll be playing along till the end of time, Luv. I’m not letting you go. I think, I think I'd like that. But you'll leave, or send me away soon enough. We’ll see, won’t we? Yeah, we will. He kissed her and ran a hand up under her skirt to the inside of her thigh. He flipped her, so she was on her back and him over her, kissing her and grinding his hard cock into her, teasing. She groaned leaning up to kiss him, all of him, anything she could reach. Her breath was coming in heavy pants. "Oh fuck! Arcady you are a god. Anyone ever tell you that?" He chuckled. "Cupcake, you haven’t seen anything yet." The car stopped with a jolt, and he looked out the window and sighed. "Looks like we are here…you ready?" "I was born ready, Button. You’re just going to have to hold all of those delightful thoughts for later." “Don’t worry, Darlin. They will be more than thoughts soon enough. Let’s get this done quickly, shall we? I really can’t wait to get you under me.” "Yeah, let’s cut this short. You go in the front and get the no goods; I'll go up over the side and through the bedroom window. I've been waiting a long time to get Rocco." ~49~

He chuckled. "Cupcake, how about you walk in behind me, and I shoot the fuckers I see? I do have a silencer, you know." She sighed and rolled her eyes. "Fine, but Rocco's mine. You touch him; you replace him, simple as that, Button." "Cupcake, I wouldn’t dream of it. I want to see you work. I’m looking forward to it." "You are?" He pulled her closer and kissed her fiercely. "I am. Shall we?" "Yeah, okay. After you, Button."

~50~

Chapter Six She watched as the former drug dealer’s blood seeped into the wooden deck. True to her word she hadn’t taken long, but she had put on one hell of a show. Opting not to go with skinning her victim, she instead opted for the tried and tested method of cutting small pieces off him, starting with his pinkie finger and ending with his shriveled cock. She had taken his eyes just after his index finger so that he had to guess the piece that she was going to cut off next. There was now a large selection of small body parts on the bloody deck next to her. She looked to Arcady as she had several times throughout the last few hours, each time searching his face for the repulsion that Dimitri had always shown. Each time she had found none; he actually looked quite pleased. “So, you gonna throw up on me, Button?” she asked nervously, not wanting to admit to herself that his opinion mattered. "Nope, Cupcake, you’re doing a fine job. I couldn’t have taught you better myself. Enjoying yourself?" He lit a cigar from his seated position on the bed. "Well, I was, but he went and died on me." She pouted. "Why? Can you think of something I didn’t do?" "Nope.” The sweet scented smoke engulfed him as he exhaled. “It’s a work of art. Where is Amber?" "Umm, if she was clever, she'll be outside in the limo." If not, you shot her with all the others. He looked out the side window and smiled. "Apparently, she is. So, shall we darling? I’d rather not be here while the blood congeals." She screwed up her face and nodded. "Yeah, we better leave before the flies get here." She shivered. "Cold darling?" he asked genuinely. He really seems to care. "Nope, just don't like flies." "Let us go then, shall we?" He handed her a towel that he had acquired from the bathroom. “Ready?" She wiped the blood off her face and arms. "As ready as I can be." She raked in one of the drawers and eventually pulled out an oversized, red shirt and a pair of hot pants that must have belonged to one of Rocco's girls. "I'll need to shower soon, but until then this will have to do." She changed her clothes dumping her stained dress and underwear in a bag. "Shame. That dress was quite fetching on you, Cupcake. Remind me to get you a closet full of them." Need to get me a closet, too, Button. "Umm, okay…if you want." "You looked great in it…but truth be told, you’d look good in a potato sack." She beamed at him. "Like the one I'm in now?” She spread her arms wide, letting the shirt hang wide. “Red really isn’t my color." "No, it’s not. Come on, let’s get Amber to Dimitri, and we’ll get you cleaned up." He ~51~

smiled and kissed her. "I’m proud of you." They walked back out the way they came, stepping over the carnage left by Arcady. Snow walked beside him in silence wondering why he was proud. Nobody had ever been proud. Sure, they had said things like that before, but none had really meant it. She walked beside the man that she had watched coldly kill over twenty people without a blinking an eye and wondered if he would ever give her away like Dimitri had. Once they arrived at the limo, Snow handed Amber the eyes and gave her a hug goodbye. Soon they were back in the limo heading back toward their hotel. "So, you think I looked good in my dress?” "You looked amazing in that dress. Dolce and Gabbana?" "Yup, it was pretty…I've really got to stop killing in my good clothes. It used to drive Dimitri crazy." "Well, I think it’s sexy." "Really? Why?" she asked confused. Dimitri hated the stains. "Cuz it shows that you’re uncomplicated, and you’re not tied to the material. I find that very sexy. Do you know how many women I have met in your line of work who wear all black when they torture? No imagination, none at all." Soon I think you’ll find out that I’m not tied to too much…especially reality, well so D says. "I like the colors mixing, and I don’t like black on me," she said absentmindedly. "Yeah, black wouldn’t suit you." "Skirts maybe, so when are we leaving?" "As soon as we can. I’m thinking before the evening." That soon? "Okay." She gave him a nervous smile. He kissed her, pulling her close. “Don’t worry, Cupcake. Everything will be fine." "Okay, I believe you. I trust you, Arcady." Though I don’t know why. "And I trust you, Snowy." "You do?" You shouldn’t. I’m bad for you. "Yes, I do." He pulled her closer to him, and she rested her head on his chest. She drifted off to sleep, warm and safe in his arms, listening to the sound of his heartbeat.

~52~

Chapter Seven “So, what flight are we on?” Snow asked as they stood looking at the big info board at the airport. “That one.” Arcady pointed to the big board. “Flight two-forty-one to NYC. It’s on time.” He put his arm around her playing up to the newlyweds they were claiming to be on their passports. “So, Mrs. Morrison, you ready to check in?” She nodded, and he grabbed her hand, his body tightening as their skin touched. He looked down at her and smiled. At the check-in counter, Arcady and Snow acted their parts, cuddling and kissing, but to Arcady, it wasn’t just an act. This woman had wormed her way into his heart, and he was smitten. Never in his life had he just wanted to be there for someone. Now, all he wanted was to be there for Snow, to take away the hurt and pain in her eyes. Now, I know how the witch feels, he thought as they were waved through and boarded. “Have you ever been on a plane, Cupcake?” “Nope.” She was quiet and downcast. “You want the window seat?” She smiled at him and nodded. He kissed her sweetly on the lips and whispered, “As my lady wishes,” in her ear. She giggled, and her scent surrounded him. He kissed her again, and then he took them to their seats. They held hands during take off, Arcady laughing minutes later when Snow made the comment of her stomach rolling while they were ascending. “Feyd calls that the man feeling,” he told her quietly. “Man feeling?” “Yeah, you know, your stomach drops out and every muscle in your lower body tightens?” She smiled at him. “That wasn’t the feeling I got, but I get that low, clenchy feeling when I think about you, Button.” Arcady’s eyes blazed with lustful promise. “What are you thinking, Cupcake?” She rolled her eyes up at him and licked her lips. Her hand, which had been resting on his arm, was creeping to the now prominent bulge in his pants. He growled low in his throat as she squeezed him, bringing her face closer to his ear. “I’m thinking,” she whispered as she slowly rubbed his imprisoned cock. “That I want you to show me just how wild you can be.” She kissed his neck and then sucked hard on his earlobe, biting mildly. He turned a bit in the seat, so she could get a better grip, and his hand went to the back of her head. Their lips met fiercely as he slid his tongue into her waiting mouth. She broke the kiss and went to lick his ear again. “I want you to take me hard, Button… Please?” Arcady slipped his hand slowly down her spine. She shivered. “Bathroom, you’re in so much trouble, Snow.” “We’ll see about that, Button.” She pulled her hand away from his swollen cock and got up from her seat. “Meet me in the first one.” She was gone. Arcady was shaking he ~53~

wanted her so badly. First plane ride and she wants to join the mile high club? Damn, she’s fearless. He adjusted himself and took off to the bathroom, not caring who saw where he was going. Yeah, they are gonna hear her soon enough. He opened the first class bathroom door to find Snow sitting on the sink ledge, swinging her panties around her index finger. He closed the door to the room; it was just big enough, and he looked at her, a question in his eyes. “I like these, and I didn’t want them to get ruined. Ready for me, Button?” Arcady didn’t answer, at least not with words. He grabbed her hips and pulled her to him and kissed her hard, her own hands working his belt and pants off. He was naked from waist to knees in a matter of seconds. She sat in front of him, legs spread, in a short white and blue Japanese dress, her feet covered in silk Mary Jane’s. He had stepped back to admire the beauty in front of him, completely oblivious to how she was visually affecting him. She looked at him, slid forward, and bent to blow on his turgid cock. He hissed, and she darted her tongue out to lick his tip. She rolled her eyes up and smiled. “Umm, Button, you are something, aren’t you? You gonna watch me watch you all day, or are you gonna take some action?” She never got an answer as Arcady went down on his knees and pulled her forward of the counter, so she was barely sitting on it. He grabbed her thighs as he spread them wider. He saw his goal, neatly shaved and already wet, waiting for him. She was trembling. He rolled his eyes up to look at her, and in that same instance, he tasted her for the first time. She gasped and writhed in his mouth; his arms hooked around her thighs and his hands on her waist, keeping her in position. He teased her clit, licking and nibbling, her hands in his hair, urging him on. That’s it, you like that, don’t you, Cupcake? Like that I’m worshiping you? Damn, girl, you’re so yummy. I could eat you for days. Would you like that? Me just nibbling and licking your delicious pussy for days on end? The thoughts he had projected to her made her moan and smash his face closer to her core. She came seconds later, and he licked and nibbled still, not giving her a moment to catch her breath. Two choices, Cupcake, he thought to her. I could stay here, licking you into oblivion, or you could have me fuck you with that thick cock you were admiring a while ago. Your choice, Snow, I get to be inside you either way. She moaned his name and pulled his face away from her wet slit. He looked up at her. “Fuck me, Arcady. I want that thick cock inside me.” The look on her face was priceless. Her eyes were heavy, her lips parted, and she was panting. “As my lady wishes.” He quickly came up to the counter level and grabbed her hips; he slid inside her slick heat with one quick thrust. She moaned as he did. He groaned and kissed her. She tasted herself on him for the first time and knew that it wouldn’t be the last. “I like the way I taste on you, Button.” He groaned again at her bluntness and picked her up to put her against the wall to get better leverage and to thrust deeper into ~54~

her. He pulled out as he situated her against the wall, just hovering at the edge of her. “Arcady…Please.” She sobbed, and the plea was all he needed. He drove into her to the hilt, and she took it, all of it, squirming on his cock, moaning as he filled her again and again. His rhythm was hard and fast as he pounded her against the wall. “Yes,” she said. “Yes, baby, harder, fuck me harder.” He groaned at her insistence of him. “Shit, Snow, you’re so fucking good, so wet, just for me. You’re a fucking goddess. Come for me, baby, come again for me.” Minutes later she did, with him following right after her. She was limp in his arms for a while, and he held her close and kissed her neck. She hummed on his shoulder, and he chuckled. “So, Cupcake, believe my claim?” “Umm.” She purred. “Button, I have never, ever, felt that good in my entire life. You fill me up so good.” She kissed his cheek. “Shit, people are gonna stare when we leave here.” “Let them. We are supposed to be newlyweds, aren’t we?” He wiggled his eyebrows, and she giggled and kissed him. He pulled her away from the wall and sat her back on the counter. He reluctantly pulled out of her and handed her the forgotten undies. “Might wanna put these back on, Luv.” He kissed her once more before pulling his own pants up. “You are fucking amazing. I just love you.” He left her with that thought as he left the bathroom and strode down the aisle to their seats. The looks he was getting were mixed, from other men giving him the thumbs up, to women checking him out, to old people looking thoroughly upset. He just walked through, completely pleased with himself. *** She clasped his hand tightly as the plane landed. Not because she was scared of the plane but because of what would happen once they landed. She hadn't seen Fallon in years, and she was out of her head drugged up for most of those years. Her last real memory of him was of him holding her bruised body thinking she was asleep as he went into shock from severe blood loss. There was so much blood. She had saved his life that night by calling for the witch. Of course, she had been punished for it. She felt Arcady tense next to her, and she let go of his hand. Stupid telepath, my memories will be the death of him if he keeps on picking them up. At the very least, Fal will kill him. Looking out the window, she ignored the questioning look she knew he was giving her. She couldn't do this. Dimitri would understand. They had their differences, but he would understand. She'd go back to him and make things better between them. He knew Casha disliked her; hell, she had tried to kill him once or twice. Dimitri had never made her do something she didn't want to do; he'd understand. So, I'll stay at the airport and go back. Okay, I can do that. She looked round to Arcady who smiled at her and took her hand again. She shielded her thoughts from him; she was going to have to get better at shielding. She suddenly found herself not wanting to leave him; she frowned at such a foreign thought. Why would she not want to leave him? He's just another man. Sure, he's fun and the best fuck she's ever had, but ~55~

still a man. An incubus at that, it could never really work between them. Work what? Huh? Oh god, have I fallen for him? I've known him, like what…a few days. How did that happen? She was so deep in thought that she jumped when he whispered into her ear. "You’re looking serious, Cupcake. We need to get our bags and leave the plane now. You'll see Fallon soon." He was smiling in amusement at her reaction as he stood up to get the hand luggage. Fallon? Shit, problem one first then I'll concentrate on problem two. He is a fun problem though. She smiled at him. After a short while, they had collected their luggage from the belts, and Arcady was telling her about Astrid, when she stopped walking. He carried on for a few paces before noticing that she was gone. He left the bags and went back to meet her. She put on her best professional smile and grabbed him by the belt, playing with the clasp. She went up onto her tiptoes and purred into his ear. "Button, I'm sure everyone can wait. Why don't we go somewhere nice and hot with palm trees and frozen cocktails? Just me and you, we'll get to know each other a lot better." She rubbed the length of his body with hers, and he leaned into her slightly as her small hand found the bulge of his trousers. She kissed along his neck and moved back up to his ear and spoke, "We'll have fun, just the two of us. You, me, and the sun with cocktails, ever had a long, slow, comfortable screw up against the wall Mexican style? We’ll find a nice mountain pool and make love under a waterfall." Arcady reluctantly pulled back from her and took a few seconds to regain his composure. If she had gone any further, he would have agreed with anything. "I'll go anywhere you want me to, Cupcake. First, we have to go and see Fal and Astrid; then I'm all yours. Sound good?" "Not really. I'm not going, and you can't make me. You can come with me or…you can stay here." Her heart twisted as she forced the last words out, praying that he came with her. He smiled sympathetically at her, and she frowned. "You're being childish, Cupcake. I'm not letting you go anywhere without me. That and you’re wrong. I can make you, but I don't want to." She snorted. "What, you gonna pick me up and carry me? Threaten me with a gun?" "I'll carry you if you want me to though I was thinking more of phoning Dimitri." She grinned in triumph. "Hah! See, that's where you’re wrong. D would never make me do something I didn't want to," she said stubbornly, with the air of someone who knew she was right. Arcady coolly raised an eyebrow. "And you don't want to see Fallon? You don't think that maybe you owe it to him to let him see you’re all right. I'm sure then that you don't want to go to his wedding or help him defend his family…our family from the big bad guy that's trying to kill us. You don't want any of that? Casha's helping us. Are you going to tell me that he can help your big cousin, but you won’t?" He asked gently, wanting to shock her out of her stubbornness but not scare her away. Damn. Tears filled her eyes as she fought her fear. "Low blow, Arcady." She hung her head and started walking to the bags; he grabbed ~56~

her arm and pulled her to him. "You'll be fine. I'll stay with you if you want me to. We'll go, and if you’re having any problems, say the word, and we’ll go find that nice mountain pool. You just have cold feet, Cupcake. I hope you don't get like that on your wedding day." "Wedding? Button, who the hell would have me?" He smiled warmly, looking her up and down; then he met her eyes as he leaned in for a long slow kiss. I would. His voice sounded in her head as he pulled back and winked at her. He took her hand, and they walked to the limo he knew would be waiting for them.

~57~

Chapter Eight Dimitri blinked back into his bedroom and sighed. Home was still fucked, the Ice plains being run into the ground by the half blood retard both he and Casha had to call brother. Oscar hadn’t been much help with anything, except that he supported Casha and would when the time came to do so. The only thing he had heard back at the courts was a rumor about Faris, which if true, would place Casha in a very actionable and precarious position. I think it’s about time I called him. It had been at least three days since he had set him down at the mansion, and three days since he had seen his father, and two days since Arcady Morrison had been found by Snow. It was about time he talked to Casha about a replacement for Snow, in his house, in his bed, in his life. It’s like they say, fair trade is no robbery. He grabbed his cell phone, jumped and lounged on the bed, and hit his speed dial for Casha. The phone connected, and he heard nothing. "Casha?" "What? This better be good." Casha felt like shit; his head was throbbing, and he was too warm. Everything irritated him. The light was too light, and the dark was too dark. He sat in his room at the mansion reading, or sulking, as Astrid called it. He'd picked up a Grimoire from her study and was reading about the French revolution through the eyes of a twenty-twoyear-old Spanish witch. So far, her mother had been stolen by the French, her younger sister had starved to death, and a British soldier had gotten her pregnant and killed himself. He chuckled to himself as she started to whore herself out to feed the baby and her youngest brother. I love these old things, and I miss the French revolution. They were good days. He heard the annoyance in his brother’s voice, tinged with a heavy feeling of exhaustion. "Oh, it is brother. Why are you so testy?" Casha growled at him. "I'm fine. Did you find her?" "Yeah, I sent her with Arcady. You’ll never guess who it is." "No? Well, now I am curious brother…who?" "Snow." He sighed as he said it, regret heavy in his voice. Casha, on the other hand, sounded positively giddy. "Shit! You’re kidding me…Snow? Your Snow?" "Yep, my Snow, which is why I’m calling. You lost me my enforcer and my companion, Casha." "And you sent her here? With Arcady?" he asked horrified. "You told me to send Alice Ipwhisk to you. I did what you asked. Don’t worry, seems they have taken a shine to each other, just like you thought." He sighed. "Snow and Arcady, well, they are well…matched, and Snow’s always fun to have around for amusement value. I know how you felt about her…you don't have to give her to me." Right. Like I can say no to the future king. I believe that’s heresy; at the very least ~58~

treason. "Casha, she made her decision, and I’m not it." Bullshit, brother, you sent her away. That's her choosing to follow orders, but even that's strange for Snow. A year ago she would never have followed that order. Maybe she wants to see the Escensio. Maybe not, maybe you have something else in mind, brother. Casha decided to let Dimitri run the conversation, hoping that he had taught him well enough to ask for what he wanted. "You sure? I do appreciate it." "And that’s why I called, Casha…I think we need to make a trade, brother." He sighed and chuckled, again sounding tired. "What do you want?" "Simple, Colette." Yeah, that will get his stones in a twist. Dimitri heard Casha choke on whatever he was drinking. "No, no way…absolutely not. She's mine; I'll kill the little bitch.” Time to play a little hardball. He won’t call my bluff; he needs the incubus happy too much. "Then send Snow back. I want Colette." "Brother, let’s not be too hasty…there are other, less traitorous witches out there for you." Yeah maybe, but they aren’t Sweet Colette. "I want Colette. No one else." "Why? What is she to you?" Dimitri was losing patience quickly. Always has to be the hard ass, doesn’t he? Well, I’m not letting this one go. "Does it fucking matter? I want Colette. You made me give up my Snow, Casha! Give me Cole!" The room suddenly got warmer, and Casha thanked whoever was listening that he was already sitting down. He felt like shit, and it was nothing to do with the binding. My Snow? Oh god, damn that witch’s emotions. But truthfully the strange emotion had nothing to do with Astrid. Cash had always tried to give Dimitri everything he wanted, not spoil him, but he liked to keep his only brother happy. Hearing the pain in his brother’s voice over something that he had done was almost more than he could bear. "What do you plan on doing to her?" Same as you were thinking, fuck her, teach her, turn her into my sorceress, and keep her forever. "Nothing you didn’t plan in the beginning with her, Casha, maybe a bit more. We got a deal?" "Sure, okay…consider her yours, but I want Snow's soul." Gee, I wonder why. "Done, I get Cole; you can have Snow’s soul. Bargain with the incubus for her." Cuz I know that’s exactly what you’re thinking. Sneaky ice demon. "Of course; I'll go tell Cole the happy news." "Let’s hope she feels the same way. Send her to the apartment at Cisco." Thoughts of him showing up to find her sweet, supple, and perfect body waiting for him in his bedroom, soon to be their bedroom, instantly set him on edge. "I will. Just enjoy her, brother, and be good to her." "Better than you can imagine, brother. But you wanted her dead, why do you care?" Casha surprised him. "Well, it’s one thing to kill her; I wouldn’t want the little flower living in…your conditions. That’s just a fate worse than death." ~59~

Casha frowned realizing that he cared about the child's fate, actually quite pleased that killing her wasn't an option anymore. He lay back on the bed, pushing the Grimoire onto the floor. Just don't turn the girl into Snow, D. "Casha? You think I’d subject her to Russia? My little witch is too precious." My Colette is too perfect to see that part of my life. "Then take her, she should be treasured. I'm still gonna scare her a little before I pass her over, but I promise I won’t touch her." Dimitri saw red. "Don’t you dare put a finger on her, Casha. And don’t you dare scare her too bad. She’s mine now." Casha laughed. "I know. She’ll be fine. I wouldn’t dream of hurting one of yours." It was about time to start in on the other reasons he called. "The same with me for yours. You did bind the witch, didn’t you?" It’s got to be the only reason why he’s so damn fatigued. "Yes, yes I did. How was your day with Levi?" Dimitri ignored the second question. "Congratulations, Casha. I’m glad she went for it. She is quite a treat. Did you enjoy it?" "Yeah, I did. She is…a good addition to the family." "I do congratulate you. She is stunning. But yes, Dad had a good visit. I believe he’s home now, with his concubine." "Most likely, it’s not like he would have gone home to check on things. So, how are things at home?" Dimitri heard the desperation in his brother’s voice, and his heart went out to him. Being denied home for as long as Casha had was not something that should ever happen. He decided truth was best. "Same old, same old. Gabbe is fucking with the throne, fucking girls. I’m disgusted to be his brother, but it is pretty still. Oscar asked after you." "Yeah? How is he? Still betrothed to that Celo…what was her name?" "Daphne? No, he broke that off forever ago. Something about backing you, I didn’t ask." "Oh! Well, I'll see him soon enough." Casha seemed happy at the prospect. "I told you, D, I'm going home." "Yeah, Dad and I talked about that. When you figure it out, call him, I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised. But I do need to ask you something. Have you been seeing Faris again?” If Casha confirmed what he heard, then he knew everything was going to come to a head and quickly. "Faris? Yeah, I did see her a few weeks ago, why? And you know how I feel about you discussing me with Levi." "Never mind pop. You’re serious? She wasn’t just fucking around? It’s been you she’s been seeing?" "What are you talking about?" "Have you seen her since? She comes and visits you at Asty’s?" "No, but I haven’t been here all that long…why? What have I missed?" He thought back to the last time he'd seen her, just after her wedding. How she'd managed to sneak ~60~

out on her wedding night he'd no clue, but they'd had a whole lot of fun. But she'd looked great. "Look, brother, I’m not saying for sure, but if you’re the one she’s been seeing, then…Fiona told me she’s pregnant, again." "What?" His mind went blank, his brain refusing to digest the words. "That's what I heard when I was home after Dad left. Has she been seeing you?" "Huh…you’re sure? Sure, it’s not Jacob’s?" "Jacob? Right, ask her about her wedding night. It's not his. Are you telling me she's telling the truth, that it’s yours?" I have no idea. "Well, if it’s not Jacob's…Her wedding night?" "Yeah, she poisoned him, nightshade, not a deadly dose, but she didn't fuck him. Said she wouldn't sully herself for her prince." He laughed. "That's my girl…I saw her that night. So, you’re gonna be an uncle… Fuck, I'm running out of time." And she's still with Fuerety. "I'd say so, Casha. Get your princess topside. If old fire pants catches wind of this, she’s not safe. But talk to her first, okay?" Yeah, please. "Could you get word to her for me?" I'm not losing another child to that bastard. "I will do what I can. What do you want me to tell her?” "Just ask her to come see me. Let her know where I am." "I will, Casha. Look, I better go. I have a few business men coming in from Cairo to the Bonaventure house. You know how it is. Tell Cole I'll be at the Cisco after midnight, okay? I expect her to be there, and I will get a hold of Faris." "Thanks, D. I'll call you sometime tomorrow. Enjoy yourself, brother." "You, too. Expect Faris." I always do, brother. He hung up the phone and threw it on the bed next to him. He had a lot of things to think about now and a few burned bridges to cross. He was going to be a father, again. He lay back on the bed, closing his eyes and keeping his breathing as even as he could. He couldn't afford to get his hopes up as he had the last time. He needed to talk to Faris, and until then he vowed not to think about it. He needed to concentrate on Snow, controlling her would be hard. Plus, she had a way of guessing exactly what Cash was thinking, which unnerved him somewhat. Then if he considered her parentage and if she was Fallon's cousin, then the Escensio suddenly had far more uses than the ones that he had originally planned for him. No wonder Ammit liked him so. Casha smiled deciding to pay Cole a little visit. He was pleased. The day suddenly sounded more promising. He had things to do and games to play. He walked down the stairs feeling better than he had in days, the prospect of giving Cole away still leaving a bad taste in his mouth, but he knew that she would make his brother very happy. He walked into the kitchen where he knew at least one of the house’s two male inhabitants would be. He was right. Both Fallon and Feyd were sitting at the table. He threw himself into the seat opposite him and smiled. He had come to the conclusion that he needed a little warm up before he met Cole. He was going to tell Fallon a few things about his sweet little cousin. ~61~

"Snow." Fal looked out of the window into the heat and then looked at him. "What?" "Snow," Casha repeated himself. Fallon and Feyd just kept staring at him. "Yeah, you said that the first time. Repeating yourself doesn't change that I didn't get you." "You don't get a lot of things, do you? I said Snow." He sighed. "Let’s play a little game of word association, shall we, boys? Now, when I say Snow, you automatically think of winter…Ice. Am I right?" Fallon sighed and went to get a cup of coffee. "But when I say Snow and relate the word to Dimitri and Russia, it suddenly takes on a whole new connotation. One that unlike the other is most…unpleasant." Feyd laughed. "What? Dimitri got his dick frozen off while shagging in the snow? Is that even possible? Why the fuck would you tell us that, Cash? I don't wanna hear that!" Casha sighed and leaned back in the chair counting to ten and giving up around four. "Do you two know so little about my brother and his operations?" Fallon shot Feyd a look that clearly said that he had no clue what the demon was talking about. Casha smiled internally enjoying himself. "Fallwell kept all of his people out of there, as you should know. We don't hear specifics. What are you getting at?" "Snow is a person, Dimitri's enforcer of sorts." "Okay, now don't hit me or zap me with your icy powers, oh demon heir, but is she a real person? Or is she like made outta snow? Bloody interesting." Feyd deadpanned. "Why don't you ask her when she gets here?" Now that, I would pay to see. "What? Why the hell is she coming here? I mean if she’s his enforcer, she should stay in Russia, don't you think? Fal? You understanding this at all?" "Might be, mate. Fine, Cash, I'll play," Fallon snarled coming back with his coffee. "Who is she, and why is she coming here?" "A much better question than is she made of Snow though you should ask her that. She is a…" He paused, considering his words. "Raving psychotic, I think is the best words to describe her. Anything you hear at all about Dimitri's activities in Russia, I can absolutely, one hundred percent guarantee that it was Snow's delicate little hands that carried it out…have you ever wondered what happens when you throw a werewolf in a furnace?" Fallon looked sick. "That really happened?" "Yes, it did. And I still can’t get that smell out of my suit." "Bloody Hell." Feyd's eyes widened. "Oh god, why is she coming here? Raving Psychotic? Crap!" My sentiments exactly. Cash chuckled. "As for why she's coming here, you'll have to ask Arcady. Haven't spoken to him lately, have you?" Feyd frowned. "Morrison? Oh shit. Wait, she’s not…" He looked over at Fallon, his face white. Casha sat back swinging on his chair smiling. "What do you think? Do I have to say the words raving psychotic again?" ~62~

"Fuck. Fallon, if she’s as bad as Cash says she is, maybe we should have left her where she was. Shit, she might kill Morrison." Fallon frowned not hearing his friend; he stood still just staring out at the table, obviously lost in thought. Casha was having so much fun; the prospect of having to put up with Snow indefinitely was suddenly more appealing. The boys were so easy to manipulate. "Oh, she might kill him alright, but I must say Snow always finds a way to complicate even the simplest of tasks and to say that she is…upset at being ordered away from her home just to placate big cousin who, for some reason or another, has suddenly decided to care would be an understatement." "Shit. Well, you seem to be enjoying this immensely, Cash." "Truthfully, I'm enjoying this now while I still can." He sighed. "Once she gets here, life will become so much more unpleasant. She's a fucking nutcase, and I'm the one that ordered her here. She's going to be most unhappy with me." His voice turned reflective. "As long as I can avoid another knife in the back, I'll be fine. No, our only hope is that the incubus can keep her…placated." "Hold it, Cash, you’re telling me that we are going to leave it up to Morrison to keep her somewhat sane? News flash, he blew up a building to spite Fallwell." He looked at his watch. "And speaking of Fallwell, we need to get to Rosco; we have a meeting with Georgie. Cash, was there a point for you coming down here besides hashing both Fal and mines mellow?" "No, actually, that was exactly my point, thank you. I didn't say sane I said placated, and from what I gather he's been doing a very good job of it so far." "Well, I'll take your word for it 'Highness,’" Feyd said refusing to take the bait. "You do that." He stood and turned to Fallon, feeling something other than joy as he took in his confused face. He rolled his eyes. "It’s not as bad as it sounds. She's healthy, clean, and alive. It’s the best you could have hoped for. Dimitri took good care of her." Fallon nodded to himself then frowned, looking at him as if just noticing who it was making him feel better. Cash shook his head clearing his thoughts and damming Astrid for the guilt. He took a deep breath. "Now, if you’ll excuse me, I'm going to Pinky’s for a lap dance and to phone Morrison." He walked toward the door. "Hah! Three in the afternoon and he’s going to Pinky’s! Good on ya, mate!" Feyd grinned. "He's off to see, Cole, Feyd. If you hurt her…" "Spare me," Cash cut him off. "She'll live; I swapped her for your little cousin. I'm just off to tell her the good news." "I wasn't aware you owned Cole," Feyd said, his face poker straight. Cash chuckled. "You’re not aware of most things, are you, Nightly?" He grinned. "It keeps me outta trouble." "Or sucks you in deeper." Casha looked out the window. "And on that note, I really must go, Gentlemen." He nodded to both of them and turned his back on them before adding, "And, Feyd, please do give my regards to Lorna the next time you talk to her." ~63~

Smiling he walked out the door to hear Feyd's confused, "Huh?" Ignoring him, Casha left the house positively giddy and headed for round two at Pinky’s.

~64~

Chapter Nine "Thanks," she said as the limo pulled out of the airport. Arcady lifted his head up from the newspaper that had been ready waiting for him. He smiled at her, and her heart skipped a beat. God, he's so sexy, even with his clothes on. "For what, Cupcake?" He sat the paper aside, giving her his full attention. She loved that about him; she always got his attention. "Not letting me go away again, for keeping me here. Did you mean it when you said you would stay with me? I don't want to be alone with strangers and Cash." "I'll stay with you as long as you want me to, Cupcake, I promise. Nobody wants to be alone with Cash, but the demon has been behaving himself." "Why?" She frowned. "That's not like him at all. He's normally…" She was cut off by a phone ringing. Arcady reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone. He pressed a button and held it to his ear. "Morrison." Snow started to giggle at his phone answering skills; her laughter however was short lived as his next words came out. "Snow? Yeah, she's here." He looked at her and winked. "Oh, right…you want me to put her on. Let me just ask her." "Snow, it’s Cash; do you want to talk to him?" She sighed and nodded. He passed her the phone. She blew a kiss at him and held the phone up to her ear. "Snow," she said into it mocking Arcady’s phone persona. "Snowdrop, it’s good to hear your voice again." Yeah, right. "I would appreciate it if you refrained from mentioning anything about me and anything I might be doing in front of your cousin and his friends. That includes Arcady. We'll discuss things later, got it, Snowdrop?" She shook her head and rolled her eyes. "Shit, Cash, what are you, like watching me on a fucking camera?" "No, Snowdrop. I've got better things to do than that. Are you really Alice Ipwhisk, or is Dimitri just trying to piss me off?" "Casha…Go fuck yourself." "Would If I could, Snowdrop, or is it Alice now?" Snow flinched at her old name. It sounded so different. She hated that name. It made her feel dirty and used. "Don't call me that…ever, or I will kill you." Arcady looked at her questioningly, but she ignored him as she tried to stop the tears from rolling down her cheeks. "So, you are Alice. Well that certainly is interesting. How are you finding your… companion?" "Arcady?" She looked over to him and smiled the tears drying up. "He's been fun. We’re getting along just fine." "I'm glad to hear that, Snowdrop. How do you feel about meeting your cousin?" Snow had to think about it for a while. How did she feel about seeing Fal? She frowned and chewed her finger in thought, suckling the end. ~65~

"I don't really know. Maybe…It'll be good to see him; it’s been a long time. What do you think?" "What do I think?" Casha sounded surprised to be asked. "I think that you'll surprise each other. Both of you have escaped your pasts and become stronger people. I think that the two of you will get along just fine; you both think the same way." "Kill first, ask questions later?" she asked from around her finger. "Exactly, you’re both practical. I like practical people." "You like him?" "Yeah, I guess I do. So, what's you're ETA?" "Arcady said we'd be there in just over two hours." "Well, I'll see you then, Snowdrop…and try to remember what I said." "Sure I got it, no tattling. Bye." Still chewing her finger, she hung up and looked to Arcady on the seat opposite her. He watched her with an intensity that made her lower muscles clench; his gaze wasn't at her specifically but at her mouth. His eyes darted up to hers, and she smiled seductively around her finger as she slowly drew it out of her mouth and pushed it back in as far as it went. A small whimper escaped from the back of his throat, his eyes transfixed to her finger. She pulled out the glistening finger and blew on it; a thin layer of frost appeared on it. "Like what you see, Button?" "Always." "Do you want to see what my mouth can really do for you? Do you want me to take you into my mouth? Roll you around with my tongue, to lick you from base to tip?" "Well, it is a fantasy of mine." He smirked and licked his lips. "Hmmm, one of mine, too." She purred. She knelt down on the floor in front of him and looked to the obvious bulge in his jeans straining to get out and placed her mouth over it kissing the rough fabric. Making eye contact, she pulled back and worked his belt and zipper, pulling him free to stand to attention inches from her mouth. "Well, you are glad to see me, aren't you…?" She watched his eyes glaze over as she took him in her hands and firmly squeezed him. Once, twice, three times the charm. She brought him up to her mouth and licked his tip, causing a hiss of pleasure to escape him. She kissed and licked the silk like skin over and over, gently teasing him. Watching his reactions, his eyes were glowing with an intense heat, and his hands were gently clawing at the leather seating. "Don't tease, Cupcake. It's not nice…" Suddenly, she took all of him in her hot mouth, plunging herself down on him, pushing his thickness deep into her throat. He cried out as her mouth fucked him, leaving him to do nothing but sit there and enjoy her ministrations. She picked up the pace, drawing him almost out then driving deep down as far as he could go into her wet, warm mouth. His hips began to thrust into her matching the speed. She looked up into his eyes and moaned down into him, showing him just how much she was enjoying herself. "Oh…Fuck I'm almost there…just a little more, shit! Baby, that's so good." She ~66~

pulled him out and blew gently on his tip frosting it up ever so slightly before sucking him back into her warm mouth, instantly melting the ice. The contrast between the cold and hot sent him over the edge. He came and he came hard, his hands balling in her hair as he called out her name. His salty hot fluid spurted in her mouth as she drank him down, moaning in pleasure as he lost himself in her. He sat there panting as he emptied herself into her. She kept him in her mouth sucking him clean until she was satisfied that everything was as it should be. Once he was clean, she zipped him back up, crawled up onto the seat, and put her head in his lap His hand started to stroke her hair. "You are the most amazing women I have ever met." She smiled at the awe in his voice. "You know I think I've heard that before." "I'm sure you have, Cupcake. I'm sure you have. Now, do I get to return the favor?" She rubbed her cheek on his thigh and shook her head. "Let’s just say that you owe me one, Button. Not all of us got to sleep on the plane. I'm sleepy." "Then sleep you shall, my love" She felt him reaching over her, and then she felt a soft blanket cover her. She snuggled deeper into the warmth of the blanket and drifted off to sleep. As Arcady watched his little angel fall asleep on his lap, he heard her final thought, I love you, too. He smiled and tucked the blanket around her so that no sides of it were letting in cold air. He settled down and watched her sleep before drifting off himself.

~67~

Chapter Ten Casha walked into Pinky’s. The place was more or less empty. He saw a few familiar faces. Alcyone had stopped her conversation and stared at him, slack jawed. He smiled and nodded, tipping an imaginary hat to her. A few of the lower demons were staring at him, and he glared back. His father’s whore gaped at him fearfully, but it was the brunette next to her that was his main target for the day. Sweet Colette. The day was set, everything was perfect. He checked over the arrangements one more time before going to bed. Tomorrow was her birthday; he'd get his sorceress and the book. Then he could go see his princess. With the book, Fuerety couldn't say no to him. Not that he would ever force his hand, but it should be deterrent enough. He walked down in the morning to see her already opening presents. Amaro and Dimitri were sitting with her, and Amaro was talking over all the reasons that she couldn't get the horse that they already had in the stables waiting for her. Life was good; he stood in the hall watching Cole, and she was stunning. She'd truly be a magnificent creature. He’d always known that, but she was turning out better than expected. Her magical skills were of the highest standard. He looked forward to her lessons. They were going to be quite the team, he hoped. He picked a table in the far corner and sat with his back to the wall. He carefully took his time sitting down, kicking the seat opposite him out and gesturing to her to come and sit. She did. "You’re looking well." He smiled at her. A nod was her only response as she sat stalk still in her chair looking him in the eye. "You know why I'm here?" She nodded again, knowing that her compliancy would start to annoy him. "Well, you’re half right, ferret." Her old childhood name slipped out easily. "Other half left," she said before she could stop herself. The girl giggled. "You’re right, Casha," Amaro said picking the young girl up and tucking her safely under his arm. "You’re completely right." "Not true, friend, I'm half left as well," he quipped back smugly. Casha sighed and smiled. "Well, in that case, you’re only quarter right." She rolled her eyes. "What do you want, Casha? "I want you to…" He trailed off, deciding that it wasn't the right time to discuss his reason for being there. "How's your god?" "Not mine any more, I stopped worshiping. She tricked me Cash," Cole answered placing her elbows on the table. "Really?" Typical. "You don't say. What did she do? Give you a book missing the vital pages?" He spat out at her, suddenly unable to hold his anger in check. "No, she…thought you were going to kill me," she stuttered indignantly. "And what gave you that idea? The foal in the stable?" he said trying to calm down. "I wanted to be free." ~68~

"I gave you freedom! I let you go, and it pained me to watch you walk out that door. To never be able to actively seek you out. To lose two children…" He trailed off, seething. "You treacherous little bitch." "Well then, I guess I really was your child." She held his eyes unafraid of him. He stared blankly at her, his eye twitching, and never had he been more proud of anyone. You truly are, ferret. "I should have let your father beat you to death. Or maybe I should have just abused you, instead of spoiling you…taught you some humility," he said with a flippant smile. "I thought we weren't going to talk about this, Casha?" "We're not. But why stop worshiping? I mean, okay, so she conned you into making a huge mistake, but why stop?" He paused searching her face. "Why cut yourself off from your power source? From anything that makes you stand out? Why make yourself vulnerable and defenseless when you needed the power the most?" He sighed; he knew her answer, just not her take on events. "Did you learn nothing from me at all, Cole? All those lessons just wasted. Completely. It’s a wonder you even survived." Obviously, you and Dimitri are better suited than I first assumed, self sacrificing fools. "Like you care, Cash. She fucked you over. I fucked you over. She did it to get me to herself, so I made sure that she couldn't get me. Call it spite. Call it anything you want, but I will not sit and listen to you prattle on about something that happened ten years ago. You got exiled. I'm sorry about that, I really am. So, if that's what you intend, then please just kill me now and spare me the sermon." He chuckled, smiling at her in amazement. He watched her as she laughed and joked with the boys, trying to picture her as his sorceress. Well, she'll be more controllable than Nat that's for sure. He smiled searching for that spark that was always present in a relationship. Something to let him know that it was the right thing. He'd been looking for that thing since he'd first bought her and knew that he'd never find it. After ten minutes of soul searching, he could find nothing for her but pride. He could never love Cole as he loved Natalia. She'd never be happy with that; she deserved better. His little girl. He had noticed something though. Dimitri had taken more than a shine to her over the years. What had first started as casual glances when neither of the other was looking had turned to longing stares ending in a trustful smile and a wink if the other caught them. He smiled as he watched them, knowing that they would be perfect for each other. They complimented each other in every way. The more he thought about it the more it made sense; he didn't even need a sorceress. If she stayed with Casha, she would just end up competing for Faris' affections, but with Dimitri she could be so much more. With that he made his decision. He would give Cole the choice of going to Dimitri. A choice that he knew they would both willingly accept. He sat for a few seconds looking at her, God I missed this; I forgot that there are still people out there who aren't afraid to tell me exactly where to ram it. "I'm not here to kill you yet. I'm here to propose an offer that my brother laid on the table." "Dimitri?" Her face lit up. "No the other one, the half breed who would not know you if he walked by you in ~69~

the street. Of course Dimitri, I don't remember you being this dense." "Pity, I remember you being this condescending. What does Dimitri want?" He grinned, thinking of the fun to come. "Well, that comes with a little story; one that I think my father's whore can help you with." "He'd kill you if he heard you call her that." She warned fearfully, and he had to wonder if she was scared for him or herself. She shouldn't care about him, and she better have had no reason to fear Levi. He grinned and sent her a wink. "It’s a good thing I'm not planning on saying it to her face then, isn't it? Not that I fear Levi. I did however promise Dimitri that I would be polite. Besides she knows what she is." "He will kill you, heir or not, Cash. He loves her as much as he…" Casha cut her off not willing to hear the next few words from her mouth. "Don't bother. You don't have to warn me on my father’s behalf, Cole. In fact, I find it insulting. Don't like him, ferret. He wouldn't give you the time of day. He doesn't give time to people whom he considers beneath him. That's why he is who he is. A great king taught me once that you have to consider everyone because even the most disgusting lowest of the low human, living out of bins and begging for money has a use, a point…a purpose. It’s all about finding that purpose. On that note why don't we ask the whore to join us?" He kicked the chair beside Cole and gestured for the frightened Thisbe to join them. She timidly walked over and refused to meet his eyes, but looked at Cole and sat down in the chair Casha had motioned her to. He could almost smell her fear. She reminded him of a little bunny rabbit, pulled out of her hole and thrown to some decidedly unsavory characters with a cricket bat. He sat still watching her, letting his eyes travel over her tight body. Well, the old man does have good taste. She practically shook; he automatically wanted to reassure her, which was a very uncommon reaction. Even for the witch. "It’s nice to meet you; I assume I need no introduction?" Cole rolled her eyes wisely saying nothing, and Cash grinned at the bad quote. She still didn't meet his eyes. "No, you don't, prince. Your father speaks highly of you." My father can go fuck himself. "Call me Cash. I'm not really your prince anymore. I'm an exile," he said proudly, winking at Cole, before turning back to Thissy. "And you don't have to avoid my eyes for the same reason; I like to look somebody in the eye when I talk to them." She looked up, grateful. "Dimitri treats me as such. Gabbe, well…I wasn't sure as to how to go about speaking to you. Thank you, Cash. But if I may say, you are still a prince and the rightful one." "Right has no meaning, I'm afraid. I'm still on the wrong side of the verses, pet. The less said about Gabbe the better I think. My…brother will get what's coming to him. But Dimitri I'm always willing to talk about. He’s done well, hasn’t he?" She smiled warmly. "That he has. Your father is as proud of him as you are." Like he has any right. "So, what do I owe the honor of you speaking to me? And are you here to ~70~

hurt Cole?" Casha matched her smile. "Well, that depends on her truthfully, but I want you to help me with a story. You, I trust have been to Russia to visit D." She swallowed and nodded her body language relaxing. "Once, Cash. Your father took me with him to meet Dimitri." "And how was your stay there? Pleasant?" Did he clean the whores up? "Um, yes, actually. He took us on a tour of his houses. I got to meet Sandor." Ah, Sandor. Pretty and deadly. "Perfect, then you can help me Thissy…may I call you Thissy?" He continued without waiting for an answer. "You see this is about Cole's friend Arcady…the incubus. I take it that you've met him." She blushed, as Arcady's name made many women blush. "Yes, I have. He was staying here with Cole for a while. He took us out to lunch. He’s very nice." Perfect. Now for some fun. "I bet. Yes, he's quite the character. Seems he and Dimitri don't quite see eye to eye. Why he thought he could go to Russia I have no idea." "You said…" Cole said, quickly frowning. "Did I?" He smiled evilly. "Is Arcady okay, Cash?" Cole asked him angrily. "I'm getting to that. Well, it seems he's gotten himself into a spot of bother by going." He turned to face Thisbe. "Thissy, tell me, have you ever met Snow?" She smiled. "Oh yes. She’s very sweet when she wants to be, a little off though. She and Levi hangout." He rolled his eyes. "Sweet? Off? How sheltered are you?" He groaned turning back to Cole. "I can see you'll be very little help from now on, but it’s okay. I'll bring you up to speed, love. Snow is Dimitri's enforcer, his go kill gal…you following me, Cole? She’s worse than Drake…" "Worse? And what about her? Is Arcady okay?" Her voice trembled as she spoke; all the defiance and fight had melted out of her. Typical Cole, all I ever had to do was threaten those close to you. "Well, you could say that she's had him in her tender…care for a few days now." See that's true. "Doing all sorts of nasty things to him." True again. "Of course, Dimitri wants something for his release, a trade." Really only bending the truth a little. "What does he want? Why would he do that?" She frowned trying to grasp D's logic. "Who knows, maybe he's snapped." Casha laughed "…And everyone thought it would be me that went first." Well, there's still time. "Casha what does Dimitri want?" Thisbe paled and clutched at Cole's arm. "He wants you, Cole. But Casha, she doesn't belong to you anymore." "Me? Why me?" she said, her tone high enough to shatter glass. "Well, obviously it’s because he's insane and deluded or maybe it’s because you’re a good lay. Maybe he chose Arcady because he knew you were so close…and I don't own her. I'm just letting her know." But very astute, Thissy, you’re not just a pretty face. ~71~

"What do you mean were close?" Cole once again screeched. Casha grinned. "What would you do to keep him safe? What would you give, Cole?" Tears started to leak from her eyes as she sat shaking in her seat, her big brown eyes pleading for her friend to be well. "Anything, he's my best friend." Her watched her despair and took a change of heart, much like with Fallon earlier. He swallowed dryly, wishing for some water. The room temperature skyrocketed, and he found himself scanning the room for threats. I've been away from the mansion for far too long. "You know what? This just isn't fun anymore. I think it’s the crying thing; it annoys me. Morrison’s fine, I'm just fucking with you, ferret." Thisbe blanched. "You are as sick as Gabbe says." Pot calling the kettle, pet. "Eh." He shrugged and laughed, trying hard to keep his breathing even. "You bastard!" Cole seethed. "Arcady does need your help though. If you choose to help him, then I won’t kill you. How does that sound?" Thisbe grabbed Cole's arm franticly. "Take the deal…since you'll have his word." "What do I have to do?" she asked quietly as she kept her eyes to the floor. Casha sighed heavily. What I wanted you to do ten years ago. "Go to Dimitri's apartment tonight at twelve, agree to be his, and Arcady and his love can come home." Thisbe stared at him from across the table. "His love?" "Like I said…you've met Snow." He smiled. Snow was going to be thrilled at all this good publicity that he'd been giving her. "Well, I never saw that coming. I bet your father didn't either. Looks like he was her last fling." Hardly, that was like a week ago. "This isn't another wind up, is it Cash?" Cole asked him tiredly. "Ask him when they get here," he answered plainly. "Yeah, he might have been, Thissy. He might have been." "Hmm. Yeah. Well, it will be nice to have him to myself again." "I'm sure it will." He took a deep breath centering himself, once more forced to keep his breathing steady. She smiled at him. "Well, Cash, if you don't need me anymore, I'll go. I have to get cleaned up and meet your father for lunch. Can I relay any message for you?" None that I'd make you send. "No, thank you. It’s been most informative speaking with you." He stood and offered her a hand up kissing her lightly on the cheek. "You know it’s nothing personal, right? I don't hate you," he told her speaking the truth; he held nothing against her, even liked her a little. "I know Cash. It’s the reason why, no matter what, I stand by Dimitri and stick up for you when Gabbe is a putz." She kissed him on the mouth and smiled. "You take care okay?" "I will kill him, you know. Gabbe's not the problem." He chuckled. "And when you tell Levi about this, try and make me taller." She grinned and hugged him. "I will, prince…and I think we’ll be seeing each other ~72~

soon." "Undoubtedly." Casha watched her leave and turned to make his good byes with Cole. After a good frowning and some assurances on his behalf that he would never try anything like that again, or else some embarrassing childhood and reputation damaging stories would become public knowledge, he left Pinky’s. The cool air cleared his head, and he headed back to the mansion to await a phone call from his princess.

~73~

Chapter Eleven Upon entering the mansion, the only person Feyd saw was Linus, if you could call the smelly mutt a person, which the dog definitely thought he was. Lying on his back on the big couch on the middle cushion, he didn’t even bother getting up when he saw Feyd walk in, just snuffled and turned on his side. Feyd laughed. “You stink, you’re lazy, and mommy is going to kill you when she sees you on the couch. And I’m telling.” The dog issued a low menacing growl to Feyd as he walked by, and Feyd just laughed. “Like your lazy ass would get off the couch to chase me. No, that would require you getting up and defeat the purpose.” He sat next to the dog and scratched his side then got up and looked at him “No hard feelings, eh? Where are your mommy and Ashy?” At the sound of Ash’s name, Linus perked up. Feyd grinned. “Like her do you? Yeah, me, too. She’s a goddess.” He walked around the coffee table and saluted the fat dog and then went through the formal living room and dining room toward the front hall and the staircase that would take him up to the suite they shared on the east side of the house on the third floor. He found his girlfriend rummaging through her closet. He watched her bend over and dig through one of the drawers, instantly becoming hard. Ash could be covered in cream corn, and he’d still want to nail her right then, despite his abhorrence to creamed corn in general. She was wearing a pair of cut-off shorts and an army camo tank top and black stiletto heels that made him drool. She can even make dressing up all American white trash look stunning. And you wonder why you’d do anything for her. Even though he was enjoying the view of her shorts riding high as she bent over, both his conscience and his groin were protesting, so he leaned against the inner doorjamb and smiled. “Ash, baby, I got good news.” She yelped and sat up suddenly banging her head on the cupboard. "Shit! Ow, Feyd, what have I said about sneaking. I'm getting you a bell." She giggled through the pain and turned, still holding her head. He pulled the scroll out from his inside pocket and shook it at her. "Lookie what I got." She frowned and shrugged. "Well, it’s not the usual toys, yet you seem pretty excited over a musty old piece of paper. Are you mistaking me for Ast? Cuz she's the one that gets all hot over really old paper. Me? I like shiny things." She grinned. He smiled and laughed. "Well, this old piece of paper has neutralized the threat to your sweet luscious body, so I would think that you'd be very excited about it." Her eyes widened as she took in the scroll. "The scroll? Really? What’s it say…Wait, I was nearly killed over that?" "Yep, this little thing, so we’ll keep it in the vault till we need it for leverage. You excited?" "Excited? Well, I suppose, more relieved really. I kinda didn't want to die, especially over something so small and funky smelling." “Yeah, it does smell bad. God knows where Dante found it." ~74~

"Ooh, Dante? How was he this morning?" She grinned happily. "Horrible. Seems he’s got it bad for a little witch who he left high and dry seconds before he sealed the deal. She’s drunk and he’s surly, so I guess things are normal in Dante land." "He what?" She all but screeched in his ear. "Is she okay? Drunk? I'll kill him. No, you'll kill him." She paused, her eyes glowing red a little. "No, I'll kill him." "Ash, baby, what the hell are you talking about? Why do you want to kill the guy that just saved your life?" She sighed. "I don't really want to kill him. Just shake him, really hard." Feyd laughed. "Okay, why love? I didn’t know you had such contempt for the surly bastard. Wait, Ash, have you even met Dante?" "No." She pouted. "But I have met Xxieda; she's really sweet. We met at Belts and Baubles, the reason I disappeared the other day." Feyd did remember Ash after she got back from her little excursion. She wasn’t supposed to be out alone, yet when she came home with the presents and toys, clearly bought with him in mind, he forgave her and then gave it to her for the next several hours. He recalled her telling him she met someone that had helped her pick some things out, and at the time his mind wandered to some naughty girl-girl scene enacted in the dressing room of the boutique. Now somewhat detached from his perverse brain, he put two and two together. "That’s his witch! Oh my god! Why didn’t you tell me she was Dante's witch? Well, this explains a lot. So, she fit? I didn’t get to meet her, but some anemic looking rocker guy showed at Dante's to tell him about her liver doing laps in a gallon of tequila. He’s her brother?" "Well, she didn't want to scare Dante off, by getting to know his friends before he introduced her to us. She's very fit; I think I have her picture in a magazine." She looked around the messy room. "Somewhere. Anemic guy?" She shook her head. "No clue, she didn’t mention her brother though." "Well, he was skinny, looks like he drinks way too much. Brown hair." She giggled excitedly. "Ooh, you met Rhys? What did he say…oh he was sticking up for X? That’s so nice of him; he's such a sweetie." "You know the whelp?" "Know him? I wish. No, he's the lead for one of the bands on her label. Remember what you said, bunch of prepubescent guys screaming like they got something to scream about. Well, that’s him. He's the one that screams, and he does it so well." "Spare me. What the hell has he got to be pissed about? They run outta gin?" "No, but we're not having that conversation. You'll just make me angry. So, her liver was doing laps in tequila? That’s just not good; tequila is horrible, evil, nasty stuff. He just walked out on her? Why?" "Something about him thinking she was giving it up because of her goddess." "That is so not true." She shook her head. "Why are men so stubborn?" Feyd shrugged. "I have no idea." He moved closer to her and nibbled on her neck. "So, are you up for a celebration? Morrison and Snow won’t be here for at least another two hours." ~75~

She sighed leaning into him a little. "What kind of celebration?" she asked smiling as her gaze wandered over the blood red bedsheets. "Umm, I was thinking you would be a bit more grateful that your life had been spared and you’d want to show me just how grateful, but I can see that not only has Dante fucked himself, but he’s fucked me as well." He sighed. "You’re worried about the witch, aren’t you?" "Yeah, a little. She didn't seem like a hardened drinker. I think a bottle of beer would have gotten her drunk. She was so sweet and smitten with him. I swear you said the word sex and she blushed, for her to get that close and him just to walk out…She must be so upset. You can't do that kinda thing to a virgin and not expect some kinda mental scarring …" She frowned, leaning her head on his shoulder. "I am grateful that you saved my life though" "Hold it…virgin! Oh god, Dante didn’t mention that. Well then I understand, Ash. Maybe call her? See if she’s okay?" "Yeah, I'll give her a call; make sure she's not blaming herself. Then we can get back to the thanking you." She slid her hand between their bodies and cupped him gently, squeezing him lightly. "And I will thank you properly." He grinned and hissed at the pressure she was putting on his already straining manhood. "You do that, Minx. I'll be waiting in the tub." He kissed her and detached her hand from his groin and winked then sauntered off to the bathroom. *** Fallon was pacing the room, his mind a flurry with thoughts, doubts, and any other random memory that came to him. He finally had gotten a hold of Arcady. Cash had been right when he'd told him about Alice, or Snow as she went by now. It still amazed him that she was alive, let alone anything else. Arcady had said she was scared and sweet, which more or less was the way he remembered her. However, Morrison had also mentioned that she was a hell of a lot like him, which coincided with Cash's raving psychotic description. He looked out the window and tried to stop worrying. He knew it would be okay, even if Morrison did seem a little overly fond of her. He shook his head, knowing that sending Morrison after a girl of any kind was always a bad idea. The boys used to call it the James bond theory. If Morrison was stranded on an island in the middle of nowhere, you could almost guarantee that it was populated solely by gorgeous women who hadn't seen a man in years. I'm sure if she can survive this long in Russia, then she'll be able to handle one incubus. He shimmered down to the garden to see how Astrid was coming along with the barbecue; he smiled as he found her struggling to light the thing. I wonder if binding to the ice demon has fucked up her fire spells or if she just hadn't thought to use a spell. All thoughts and doubts he had, left him as he watched as the dog knocked her over, and they had their little roll around. God, I love that woman. Finally she spotted him on his perch. She melted him with her smile, and he grinned back. ~76~

She walked barefoot over to him. "Like what you see, Cookie? That smile is giving you away." "I always like what I see when I'm looking at you, Vixen." She giggled and looked down. "I got the yard all over me. I think I should change before they get here, yeah?" He laughed at her disheveled state. It was clear that the dog had won their wrestle. “Yeah probably, although you look great to me. So, Feyd got the scroll. Did you see it yet, or is he still fucking Ash?" "I haven't seen him all day so odds are him and Ash are upstairs. How was your day, Cookie?" She kissed him, and he put his arms around her deepening the kiss. "Getting better." Feyd got the scroll. Now, I get to kill George, slowly. That prospect thrills me to no end. Guy’s been pissing me off since I met him. My little cousin’s alive, and she's getting here soon with one of my best friends. My other best friend is upstairs with the woman that we all know he loves, and you, darling, are in my arms. I don't think things could get much better. Well, they could, but there's not really much time for that. "You nervous?" she asked up at him. He nodded slowly. "Yeah, kind of. It’s been years, and Cash really didn't help matters. Although Morrison insists…" He shook his head. "I don't know." "No worries, Cookie…it will be fine. I missed you today." She turned and stuck her thumb at the barbecue. "Think you can get that started? I have been trying, and I still have to get the meat prepared. So, will you, Cookie? I'll make it worth your while." "Worth my while how?" He teased. "Anything you want Cookie…What's your pleasure, sir?" He growled low and pulled her to him and snuffled at her neck, making her giggle. "You are my pleasure, Vixen. I only want you." "Ummm, that's nice, Cookie…Well, what would make it worth your while, Cookie?" He pulled back grinning. "I'll tell you later on." And then I'll show you. "Deal, Cookie…you know I always make good." "Oh, I know, Vixen." "So, fix the grill for me and then help me pick out some wine? It will help you relax." "I'm sure it will, Vixen." He grinned, thinking just how good it would make him feel watching her bend over picking the ones from the bottom shelf that he chose and then watching her put them back as he decided that, that wasn't the one that he was looking for. She slyly bumped against him as she left. He watched the way her shorts rode up on her ass as she deliberately swayed her hips like the little vixen she was. He adjusted his pants, deciding that there was more than enough time for play after all. All I have to do is light the barbecue quickly; then, I'll bend her over the damn wine rack or maybe the kitchen table. He checked on the coals and shimmered to the garage looking for some white spirit, finding it on the shelf dangerously close to his Porsche. He shimmered ~77~

back to the barbecue, and within seconds, he had a flaming barbecue. He ran into the house and through to the kitchen just in time to find Astrid finishing the meat preparation. He grinned and looked skyward thanking whoever was watching out for him that she was done. She turned to him. "That was quick, Cookie. What, do you breathe fire now?" She giggled, turned, and put the steaks, chicken, hamburgers, and kabobs in the fridge. "I do have a few tricks up my sleeves." He moved close to her, trailing his hands down her arms. "I think we should choose the wine now…don't you think?" "Excellent idea, Cookie-pus. I was thinking of making sangria. What do you think?" She walked down the stairs into the wine cellar room and turned on the light bending over the bottom rack. “I think I need blush for the sangria I wanna make. I think it’s back here." She giggled and shook her ass at him while bent over the oak stationary wine rack. "Yeah? It's been a while since I had sangria." He walked up behind her and grasped her hips as she talked pulling her against his now throbbing groin. He slid his hands around her and unbuttoned her clean shorts sliding them over her thighs and letting them drop to her ankles. "What about that bottle at the very back of the shelf? Would that be any good?" He heard her bite back a groan as she reached in, straining to check the inside of the shaft. "Umm, I think it would be perfect, if I could just reach it." She giggled. "I'll give you a little push, Vixen." He undid his jeans releasing himself before sliding himself along her and groaning. She backed into him, and he pulled back to thrust into her heat, when he heard the last thing he could ever want to hear at that moment in time, well the second last. The first being the demon commenting on his technique. The back door opened, and he heard Morrison's voice shout in the house, "You guys know Linus is just standing by that monstrosity you call a grill whining?" Fuck! He sighed. He jumped and gathered his jeans back up, fixing his protesting dick. He pulled Asty up to a standing position and kissed her on the cheek. "God, I need to get looser jeans." He muttered, ignoring Astrid's giggles as he walked awkwardly up the stairs to meet his cousin and no doubt a highly amused incubus.

~78~

Chapter Twelve Arcady smiled out the window as they entered Shadow Heights, an actual feeling of home stealing over him. Strange since I have only been here a week, he thought as they rolled through the streets. Any time before that when he had visited to see Alcyone or the Conglacio King, it was just a place, but now that his friends had put down roots, he felt he now had roots of his own, and he was not eager to leave the sleepy town anytime too soon. The little blonde goddess in his lap stirred, and he kissed her head, feeling overwhelmed with need to protect her, make her happy, and just be there for her. She looked up at him through sleepy eyes and smiled. It melted him, and he bent down and kissed her full on the lips. So damn beautiful, and you’re here with me. He smiled at her after he ended the kiss and shifted her to a sitting up position. “So, Cupcake? Sleep well?” "Yeah, really well. You’re pretty comfy you know." He chuckled and smiled down at her. "Never heard that before. So, you hungry? The witch is doing a crazy barbeque tonight, sort of a welcome home present for the two of us." "Crazy barbecue? Sounds interesting, but anything has to be better than the food on the plane." "Ast is quite the cook." He let her sit up completely and smiled at her. "You okay? You going to be okay meeting Fallon again?" "Honestly?" "I always want honesty between us, Cupcake." She took a deep, shaky breath and smiled weakly at him. "The thought of it makes me feel sick. I've spent a long time running away from that part of my life. Now, I've got to stare it in the face, him in the face. The only person who ever really loved me for me, not for what I could do for them or how tight…” She trailed off taking another breath. "I just don't think I can bear to see disappointment in his eyes. We didn't really leave on good terms." Her eyes started to fill with tears. Arcady grabbed her and hugged her. Not the only person, at least not anymore. "Cupcake, everything will be fine, and my offer still stands. I’ll stay if you want, or we’ll move you to the Rosco. Either way, I’m not leaving you." I don’t think I could if I tried. She cuddled into him gratefully, her body molding to his. "Thanks, Button. How’s your shoulder feeling?" "Better, but I’ll have the witch do a healing spell to cover the soreness. I’ll be fine in a day or two." He turned and looked out the window. "Looks like we are here. This is the house." He pointed up to the modern mansion at the edge of the block. She whistled. "Wow, Fal did land on his feet, didn’t he? It's impressive." Arcady nodded. "Asty is very wealthy, but you’d never know it to look at her. You’ll love her." He waited as the driver opened the door and got out, offering her his hand. ~79~

"Come on, we’ll go through the backyard." She took his hand and slipped out of the limo behind him. She followed him through the gate and round the back before stopping just short of the door and fidgeting. "Do I look okay?" "Like a winter sprite, just perfect. Trust me, Luv, what I’d like to be doing to you right now, well, let’s just say that little outfit is inciting fantasies beyond my wildest dreams. Relax, Cupcake." He looked over near the grill, laughed, and pointed. "And that little monster is Linus. Seems he’s ready for dinner." He called to him, and Linus looked over and wagged his stub of a tail but didn’t move. "Spoiled dog. Come on if he’s out here they can’t be far." "Yeah, okay." She grinned at the dog. Arcady walked up and opened the door, yelling. "You guys know Linus is just standing by that monstrosity you call a grill whining?" Then he looked around. Fallon came up the stairs from the wine cellar and stopped dead, looking at Snow. Snow gave Fallon a weak smile then concentrated heavily on the wallpaper pattern behind him. "Long time, no see, cowboy." *** She turned as the sound of footsteps brought her attention to Fallon as he came up the stairs from the wine cellar and stopped dead, staring at her. Oh god! He had changed so much; he was no longer the skinny little boy he had once been. He had a presence about him, one that commanded authority. She watched his face, carefully, looking for any hint of disapproval. She really hadn't been kidding when she'd told Arcady that they had left on bad terms. "Long time, no see, cowboy." Fallon kept staring at her, his face unmoving. She remembered the last time she'd spoke to him, covered in blood and severely in shock. The room was stale and the thick metallic scent of blood was heavy in the air. The light never reached the room in the basement; the windows had been cemented in long ago, back when she had been a child and tried to escape. A child, she had to laugh. She had never been a child, never laughed carelessly or played with dolls. She lay in the dark, cold and covered in blood, his blood. At first she didn't even know how she'd gotten the knife into the basement, but she later remembered smuggling it in, whether its purpose was for killing Ray or to use on herself she didn't think she'd ever remember. She didn't know how long she'd been there; it could have been hours, maybe days. Her high had lessened, and her body had started to crave the drug that kept her going, the only reason she'd ever had to exist. Well, the second reason, but Fallon had left; he'd made everything worse. He'd only been gone a few months, and in that time things had gotten so much worse; she sobbed dryly for the baby she'd never know but had been forced to watch die. She had no more tears left to cry, never did. She didn't cry in front of Ray. She couldn't. He didn't like it, and she was a good girl, and good ~80~

little girls didn't cry. She didn't know what she'd done; he was normally never this still, and he was warm, always warm. She was sure that he should be hot, not clammy and cold. Panicking, she sat up, pushing the body off of her, out of her. She dropped the knife that was somehow still clasped in her hand and moved as far away from him as she could. She pressed herself against the cold wall not caring about the heat or the cold, only about getting far away from her father before he woke up. She'd done wrong, and she didn't want to be punished; she was a good girl. She hadn't meant to hurt him. She helplessly looked to the door, the only exit. It would be locked; it was always locked. She sat at the foot of the cold, damp wall and waited. Fallon walked down to the basement. Ray always did love his basement. Maybe I'll burn the place down with him in it. He considered all of the cold methodic ways to pay back his uncle as he kicked open the basement door and sauntered down the steps although what he saw at the foot of the stairs sent him into a rage. Somebody had beaten him to it, stolen the bastard's life. He quickly scanned the room, following a trail of blood from Ray to Alice, who sat naked against the wall, staring into nothingness. His already boiling temper flared as he shimmered next to her. "What the fuck have you done?" He pulled her roughly to her feet and grabbed her chin, forcing her to look at him. She looked into his eyes, hers glazed over. It took her a few seconds to recognize him. "Fallon? Oh god…" She reached out to him, trying to hug into him, but he sharply pushed her back against the wall. He barely even registered the sound of her head cracking against the stone wall through his rage. "Don't you, oh god Fallon, me. What the fuck did you do?" She whimpered looking up at him; the tears spilled over her watery blue eyes. Her naked body was shaking, the sharp black and red bruises more obvious against her creamy pale skin. He watched her try to explain what had happened with only rage; he couldn't bring himself to feel anything for the child who had stolen his only chance for revenge, his closure. "I…He…” She searched her brain, trying to remember, to explain. "He…stopped moving. I think…" Her gaze dropped to the fallen knife, and she held her hands up to him, flakes of dried blood came off falling to the floor. Fallon followed her gaze. "You stabbed him," he said keeping his voice even and level. She nodded. "I think…he stopped moving," she repeated weakly Fallon hit her, sending her careering into the wall. "You fucking, bitch. Why? Why do that…he was mine! Mine to kill. You ruined everything. Fuck! You stabbed him; he… you fucked it all up," he screamed at her, his throat going hoarse with the force. She looked up at him from her new position on the floor, her hand caressing her now violently red cheek. Fresh blood trickled from her nose. "You've never hit me before. I didn't mean to do bad. He was…" She took in a deep shaky breath. "You hit ~81~

me," she said in a small voice. "I'll fucking hit you again if you don't just shut up," he said in a voice that sounded all too much like his uncle's. Alice hugged herself, whimpering silently in the corner as Fallon walked over to the body of his uncle and tormentor. Fucking prick. He kicked the cold body over. I see she did a bang up job of killing him. The body had been stabbed repeatedly; there ware stab wounds all over his back. Ray's face was almost unrecognizable; one of his eyes lay on his cheek, hanging on by a small string of meat. There wasn't an inch of his body that didn't have some kind of slash or gash. No wonder he just stopped moving. He smiled humorlessly. He watched the dead body; most of the wounds happened post mortem. "He's gone now? Not coming back?" He turned to the cold little junkie, who had walked up behind him. "No, he'll never be back," Fallon answered bitterly. She smiled hopefully at him and held the cuff of his jacket, like she had many times before. "Good…we can go, be safe? Like we said, like we always said," she pleaded, tugging slightly on his sleeve. "He can’t hurt us anymore. We can go and have lives. Just like in the films…" The tears streamed from her eyes. He pulled his arm out of her grasp and stepped away. "No, Alice, we'll never have lives. You’re an addict; how long before you start to crave?" "No." She shook her head. "I can be clean. I didn't start willingly. If you’re with me, I can. And he won't make me anymore." Fallon shook his head. "You know where he keeps it?" She nodded, still shaking. "If you’re so set on being clean, he keeps the money in the vault under it. The combination is your birthday. You know when that is, don't you?" She nodded again. "Yes." "My advice to you is to take the heroin, take all of it. Pump yourself full of the shit; you’re better off dead." He turned his back on her and started to walk up the stairs. "Please don't leave me alone, Fallon. I can't be alone, please…I'm sorry…" she begged his retreating form. "Too late for that. If you’re so stuck for company, then maybe you should become a whore…you're already doing it; you may as well keep the money you make for your habit. Either way, make sure I never see you again. I'll kill you if I do." He walked up the stairs leaving her sobbing in the cold dark room with the body of her father. Ammit was waiting for him next to Carla's unconscious body. He kissed her deeply in welcome. "You should have just killed her you know. What a waste. Oh well, darling, we still have this one." She laughed and kicked Carla. "Let’s go and have us some real fun, lover." She kissed him again and shimmered the three of them to her palace in the Afterverse. Arcady moved up beside her and squeezed her side, causing her to jump out of her memories and skin. I'm here, Cupcake. He missed you. It’s okay. She looked at Fallon who still stared, lost in his own thoughts. "Gee, Fal…you’re gonna make a girl nervous here." ~82~

Eventually Fallon blinked and came forward a tad. "Shit, sorry. You look great, beautiful…perfect, I mean. How are you? It’s Snow now, right?" She nodded. "Yep, that's me. All Snowed up." "So…you met Morrison," Fallon said less than smoothly. Snow giggled at her cousin. "Yeah, I did. I kinda met the dog, too, but he's pretty interested in the grill. He did wag his tail though." She frowned. "Could you call that a tail?" Fallon laughed, the tension clearing. "I don't know. Astrid said he was like that when she got him; you'd have to ask Morrison though. His parents bred him." She looked at Arcady who was now standing against the wall; he laughed and shook his head. She couldn't help but feel that she'd walked into some sort of old joke between the two. Fallon smiled at her. "You have to meet Astrid." He turned and called on Astrid to come up the stairs then turned back to her. "Do you want something to drink?" Snow nodded. "Sure, I'll just have whatever's the easiest." Astrid came up the stairs as he opened a bottle of wine from the kitchen rack and poured it into the glasses. He watched as Astrid smiled at his little cousin as she walked to Fallon's side. He passed her a glass, and she brushed reassuringly against him. "Arcady? You bring us a treasure." Snow kept her gaze on the ground and smiled shyly. "Thanks, but not really." She frowned and looked up. "Oh, are we talking about me? Or did he bring something else." She looked around. Astrid smiled at her. "You must be Snow, and I'm so glad to meet you." She moved closer and grabbed her into a hug. "Fallon, darling, get the food out of the fridge. I don't know about you, but I could eat a horse." She moved back and looked Snow over and then whispered to her. "You’re perfect, Snow. You’re staying with us, right?" Fallon watched his cousin laugh. "Yeah, I think, if you guys don't mind. I could maybe be doing a talk with Casha." She screwed up her face. "I'm sure he'll find me eventually; he has a nasty habit of avoiding me." "I insist you stay with us; it’s your house now, too. Cash? He's out on an errand, said he had a surprise, so lord knows what that can be. I don't worry too much; he’s a teddy bear. So, you hungry?" Snow giggled. "Have you ever called him that to his face? Famished, though maybe not horse hungry." Arcady looked at both the girls. "Ladies, you keep yapping, and we'll never eat. I think we need a few drinks and some good eats. And where are Feyd and Ashlyn?" Fallon shook his head. "Where do you think they are? Celebrating the scroll retrieval although she should be thanking you as you paid for it, nice tip by the way." "Eh, a kiss will do from the lovely Ashlyn." He looked at Snow and winked. "And money is just money; Dante will enjoy it no doubt." Fallon laughed and handed him his glass. "No doubt. Go help Asty with the table. Me and Snow will bring out the food." "Can do, Linus likes me better than you anyways." He moved over to Snow and ~83~

kissed her on the cheek then looked at Fallon. Don't scare her, Fal. She’s nervous as fuck. It amazed him to see the incubus so tender with any woman, let alone his baby cousin. Fallon nodded to his friend, and Morrison left with Astrid out to the garden. He was left alone with Snow. She was fidgeting and staring at the ground again. She looked up at him like a startled deer, ready to bolt at any moment. It broke his heart to see her like that, so afraid of him, so unsure of herself. "Look, Snow I…" he trailed off unsure of what to say next. She shrugged. "Don't mention it, please. It’s in the past. It happened, and I don't ever want to think about it again." She laughed bitterly. "That's not an option, so I'll opt for never speaking about it. Clean slate, deal?" He slowly nodded. "Yeah, deal." He moved up to hug her like she had with Astrid, but she backed away. "No offence, Fal, but I'm not really comfortable with you touching me right now." She smiled. "If you hold me, I'll cry or lash out. I don't want to do either of those things right now." She took a gulp from her glass. "I'm sorry for leaving you," he blurted out. She smiled and raised her free hand up to gently touch his face. "I know, Fal. I don't blame you. I never will." He sighed, a little relieved. "I do. I always will." "Maybe one of us should." She smiled sadly tapping the side of his cheek lightly. "But don't be so hard on yourself. All things considered, I think we turned out pretty well." "Yeah, we did. So, what's with you and the incubus?" he asked unable to hold his protectiveness and curiosity in check. She rolled her eyes and laughed. "God, it’s been years, and you just jump straight back into the big brother role again. It's Billy Bowman all over again." Fallon grinned at her playfully. "Hey, he was your teacher. So, it’s like that, is it?" Snow winked at him and giggled. She grabbed a tray of meat from the counter and started to walk outside. "It’s none of your business, cowboy." She walked out of the door. He laughed at the empty doorway and listened to her greeting Astrid and Morrison. He happily grabbed the last tray of meat and the open bottle and walked out to the garden.

~84~

Chapter Thirteen Faris was scared. This was all happening so fast. She wasn’t sure if it was real. Dimitri had blinked into her sitting room hours ago and told her that he had spoken to Casha. “Faris, he wants you with him. He said to tell you to get your ass topside, to him. He’s at Astrid’s in Shadow Heights.” Astrid, Dimitri had told her, was his new sorceress, and she preened when Dimitri said it, knowing it was her suggestion that led him to finally picking a new one. Well, at least he’s trying to get things back to normal. I really hope he’s not too pissed about the pregnancy. She grabbed her cell phone, blinked to NYC, and dialed his number. He answered with a gruff and confused, “Hello.” “Casha? It’s me. Um, Dimitri said to call you.” "Faris, where the fuck are you?" "Right now? In a café in New York, I’m having a latte." She tried to sound aloof and carefree but knew she was failing miserably. "Okay. So, you’re pretty far away from Fuerety then? Good. So…" "Yeah, I’m topside. So?" She got nervous and fiddled with her cup of coffee. "You sent Dimitri to get a hold of me?" "Yeah. Is it true? Are you?" "Um…Yes. You’re not mad, are you?" "Is it…mine?" "Well, you’re the only Demon I have been with in the last month so yes…are you mad, Cash?" "Well, that all depends on what you plan on doing about it…will you keep it?" Tears stung her eyes. "Casha…I never wanted to get rid of the other one. Of course I’m keeping it. It’s us." "Then I'm not mad, princess. Come and see me. I don't want you being by yourself; it’s not safe." "Where are you?" she asked. "Shadow Heights…you know it?" “I do. Where? Can I blink to where you are?" "I'll get you in the coffee shop; I'll replace the one in your hand that you didn’t get to finish." She thought of the coffee shop in Shadow Heights and smiled. "The Brewery? Okay, baby, I’ll be there in minutes." She hung up, not saying I love you, cuz she knew damn well Casha wouldn’t say it back. Casha was waiting for her at a table just inside the café. She saw him and smiled, and he got up, walked toward her, and kissed her on the lips. She felt better being around him. You’re back with your prince; everything will be okay. She let him angle her toward the table, and she sat, not looking at him but watching the women that ~85~

came in and out of the shop, checking Casha out boldly and even winking at him. "It never changes does it, Cassiel?" Casha sat in the café trying to hold himself together. It was becoming more and more difficult as the days went on. After his exile, Fuerety had retained his souls, and that had been almost unbearable. Compared to this it was nothing. He could feel his power, slowly filtering through Astrid; he wanted nothing more than to get it back. He needed it back, now more than ever. The thought of the child excited him more than he would ever admit. Unfortunately, the timing could have been better, not that he'd ever take it back. This was what he wanted, what he'd always wanted. It was just about a year too early, which was no real problem; he just had to adjust certain plans. He shrugged. "Different place, different time…But no, everything stays the same. You’re looking well. How do you feel?" She shrugged and gave a bitter chuckle. "Okay, all things considered." "Good, who knows?" She fidgeted. "Cam, Amos, Sookie, Fiona, Oscar, and Dimitri. Drake might know, too. He was home." "Would my offer of…support be accepted? Would you, consider me still?" The look in his eyes made her melt. Dear god, he’s afraid I won’t want him. Oh my poor prince. She looked at him, scared he was joking, and her eyes glittered. "You still want me?" she asked quietly. "I never stopped; I was…deprived of the ability to seek you out. You never came topside." She stammered. "I…I couldn’t…I told you." She held her hand up and smiled through tears, showing him the ring he gave her. "I haven’t taken it off since that night." He smiled at her. "I know, ten years apart doesn’t matter to me, Far. You’re here now; that’s all that matters, baby. You’re not going back there; you'll come home with me. I'll do what I can to get back. I'm not working to my time schedule anymore. I'll…I'll do what I can, princess." "Is it true? You took a sorceress? Dimitri told me you did." "Yeah, but that was a long winded plan, Far. We don't have time anymore. When are you due?" "I’m glad you took a sorceress. Dimitri says she’s powerful. Due? Two months? Three? I don’t know. I’ll have to see Rudolph." Casha shivered. "Yeah, okay. We'll call him up here. Two months…" He sighed. "Okay, that gives me time." I'll just swallow my damn pride. Maybe Dimitri will come with me. No, it will have to be me, and I can do it. I'm going to be a good father, unlike most. I'll do it for my child, can't have him born into an exile. This is all just bad timing, not enough power, not enough souls. God, I'm falling apart. He took a deep breath, hoping that Faris wouldn't notice. He was on edge. Time? Time for what? Christ maybe I should change the subject. "So, how are you feeling, Cassiel? You look a little peaked, and you’re never this nice, not even to me." She looked away and then back at him. "I missed you, Cassiel." ~86~

He sighed. "Truthfully? I feel like somebody set me alight and threw me out of a plane with a stereo playing country and western songs that’s just out of reach. I gave Cole to Dimitri, I got Snow in return, and I feel like barbecued dog shit. I got the witch’s emotions, and I missed you so much that…I'm not even sure that I’m truly talking to you." He looked her in the eye, defeated. "Am I?" Oh my poor prince. She smiled and got out of her chair and moved closer. "It’s me, Cashy," she whispered before she kissed him. He kissed her back gratefully, sliding his hands to the small of her back deepening the kiss. "I missed you so much; don’t ever go…please." She giggled. "Yeah, you got a tad more than just a little of the witch’s emotions. I'm not going anywhere, Casha, not when I found you again." "You better not, princess. You better not. So, you'll stay with me then?" She smiled and kissed him again. "If you’ll keep me, Casha." "I can't think of anyone I'd rather keep." She giggled and smiled at him. "You must really have the witch’s emotions. I have never seen you this honest." "Honest? Yeah, I have been…off today." "Well, I’ll relish it while it lasts. She craving you yet?" "I don't know. I haven’t seen her much." "And if she does?" She let the words he had just said to her register. "Wait, Casha, you haven’t seen your sorceress much? You haven’t taught her anything yet?" He shrugged. "I taught her some control exercises." "Well, that’s good. And if she does start to crave you?" "Let’s hope she doesn’t; she has Fallon. He'll keep her mind off of me, I'm sure." He sounds bitter about that. She smiled. "Yeah, Fallon has that effect on women. But, Casha, if it comes down to it, I won’t get pissed. I swear." He raised an eyebrow, sitting back in the chair. "I think it may." "Well, that’s what happens when you try to bind a powerful witch in one night. If Fallon doesn’t have a problem with it, I don’t either. I know it’s only temporary." It better be only temporary. “Yeah, but that’s a big if, princess" "He wouldn’t put her through discomfort, Casha, and she’s in more trouble than you. You know that." "Oh, I don't know. I'm feeling it pretty bad." He laughed bitterly. "You should see me call ice." "You’re craving her? Casha, you have to get this sorted out. I can’t have you weak… not with the baby coming." "I'll be fine. I'll talk with Fallon and Astrid tonight." "Okay, prince. What are you going to do with me in the meantime? Do I get to meet your sorceress?" "If you want, you'll be living with us, I assume." She got nervous. "If you don’t want me to…" "No, I do," he answered a little too quickly. ~87~

"Look, Casha, it’s okay. I can stay at Sookie’s apartment or your father’s place, or at Pinky’s. It’s not a big deal." Casha got very red. "Pinky’s? My Father’s? What are you, trying to kill me?" He all but shouted. "You will not. You’ll stay with me, and that’s final." She smiled, happy her reverse psychology worked. "Very well, prince. I shall stay with you." "Now, let me get you home, and we'll call Rudolph." She hugged him close and kissed him, watching again the jealous looks the women were giving her and smiled. "Okay, prince, anything you say." "Let’s go, princess." *** It was turning out to be a very relaxed evening. Arcady was completely enamored of Snow; that was very apparent. Astrid sat on Fallon’s lap wiggling every once in a while, getting quiet grunts from him and squeezes on her hips as she spoke to everyone. She lifted her head from her glass of wine when she saw Casha walk out the backdoor. Linus barreled at him and jumped up, and she laughed, watching Cash pick up the very excited bulldog. She wiggled again and got up off Fallon’s lap and smiled at Cash and walked over, hugging him and kissing him on the cheek. "Hey, Darlin, everything okay? Be nice to Snow okay? And you and I have to talk soon." Heat filled her eyes. The feelings and thoughts that were bubbling below the surface were once again invading her mind and making her body feel heavy, clenching in low and very erotic places. "Very soon." She licked her lips and looked at Linus. "Cash, why did you pick him up? He’s going to ruin your suit." He hugged her back lingering a little too long. "He killed my suit anyway when he jumped on me, besides." He looked at the dog, holding him higher. "He likes it up here; we can get better burgers up here than he gets down there. I'm always nice to little Snowstorm though the same can hardly be said about her. She stabbed me you know… twice, on separate occasions," he said lightheartedly. She looked at him with a small light in her eyes. "And you don’t seem too upset about that. So, what’s your big surprise? You gonna tell me? Or do I have to beg?" She moved closer and whispered this in his ear, squeezing his butt slightly. He groaned and leaned into her. "I do love to watch you beg." He grinned and whispered low into her ear. "Let’s have this conversation indoors shall we? Away from the crowd." He nodded toward the table where everyone was watching. "And of course I'm upset about it. She stabbed me. It hurt. That and it healed slowly, damn ice. I have a scar." He grinned down at her again. "I'll show it to you if you want…" The implications that came with the statement he made turned her insides to jelly. Oh good lord he knows exactly what he’s doing to me. She smiled and licked her lips. "Show me." He nodded and took her arm, no longer able to stop himself. "Inside. Now." He led her into the kitchen and back through the way that he had come until they reached the ~88~

study. He reluctantly let his grip on her soft skin go and sat himself behind the desk. She sat on the desk in front of him and worried her bottom lip. Okay, he never said anything about wanting him this badly. If I had my way, he’d be growling in my ear pushing me toward my third orgasm right now. "Is this normal? I mean, I'm constantly thinking about you, and well…” She blushed and looked at him again. "Even now I’m thinking what you could do with me on this desk. What’s going on?" He licked his lips. "Yes and no, it’s normal but…" He shrugged. "I don't know. I really don’t. I think that it’s not going to get better until we do something about it. Also I think it could get a whole lot worse if we continue to fight it. We'll have to talk to Fallon, soon." She nodded and then licked her lips looking him over. "I know, and we are alone right now and…I can’t cheat on him, Cash. I can’t. I know he can sense that there’s something going on, but I really need you right now, really need you." He swallowed hard. "I know. But not until we've talked to him." "So, maybe we should talk to him, like now." She hopped off the desk and stood on the wall, away from him. "So, what’s your big surprise? I mean you have been gone all afternoon after getting a phone call…Things okay?" He grinned happily. "Better than that, what are your policies on more house guests?" His grin was infectious. "You know me, the more the merrier, why what’s up?" "Faris is in the room waiting for me." Astrid blinked the shocked look off her face. "The Faris? Your Faris? Oh my god, Cash! That’s great!" She ran over to him and hugged him. "How did she get away? What do we need to do to keep her safe?" She took a deep breath and then looked at him. "Oh god, now we don’t only have Fallon to worry about, we have the princess also. Shit, Cash." "It’s fine, Ast, don't worry. I talked with her; she was rather upset that I waited this long to do something about the whole thing. We shouldn’t get too much hassle from her about it. Well, just as long as we don’t enjoy ourselves too much." At the comment she smirked. "Cash, how can I not enjoy you? Honestly?" She fidgeted and looked at him. "When will I get to meet the princess? I mean I’d hate for our first conversation to be 'hi, I’m Astrid, Cash's new sorceress and the chick he’s boning on the side.' It just won’t do, you know?" She moved closer to him and rubbed up against his groin. "Shit, Cash, I think this needs to be addressed and quickly. Sex with Fal is great, but I still crave you." He stepped back, distancing himself. "I know, Pumpkin, but it won’t be for long. I think Faris wanted to sleep. She's pretty stressed and worn out, can't really blame her…" He glanced slyly at her. "What, with the baby and all." He smirked, waiting for her reaction. "Baby? Did you just say baby?" She squealed and jumped into his arms. "Congratulations! This is wonderful news! So, does this mean you’re getting married? That’s so great!" "Whoa!" he called as he tried to untangle them. "Compromising position, well it ~89~

could have been. Yup, we're having a baby. Well, Faris is, and it’s mine. But why would I be getting married?" She shrugged and giggled. "Sorry about that, urges and all. Well, I just thought you would. I mean she is your princess, isn’t she? It just seems what you would do." He winced. "Yeah, you’re right. But let me get home first before you start pushing me down the isle." "Deal. So? What? Fallon? I don’t think I can take being in here with you much longer if I can’t rip your clothes off." He grinned at her. "Well, that is a tempting offer, but we better go back outside. We’ll talk to Fallon later on tonight; then we can maybe arrange something for tomorrow. Faris would cut it off if, on our first night together, I spent half the evening with you." He lifted her hand and brushed his lips against her knuckles, in the barest of kisses. She pouted but nodded. "Okay, sweets. I think we should tell everyone the good news, that we have a new addition to the family. You going to eat or are you going to run up to her? Tell her anything she wants, sheets, towels, just let me know. I’d like for her to be as comfortable as possible." She hugged him again, with nothing but happiness behind it. "I’m glad things are falling into place." "Me, too, it's all turning out far better than I'd hoped." He sighed. "I just hope that I'll have the balls to beg Levi for the throne. Not that I would beg him for…" He trailed off shaking his head. "I have to keep this child safe; I'll do whatever it takes. I'm going to be a great father, unlike most. I probably won’t have to do much begging," he said almost to himself. "Cash, love, you’re going to be a great dad." She smiled." Let’s get back to the party; Lord knows your princess is waiting for you. You get up to seeing her, and we’ll talk to Fallon later. Regardless, we are going to have to deal with this." He chuckled, shaking his head. "Of course." He stood then groaned and swore loudly. "I suppose I better talk to Snow as well, let her know why she's here. Not a fun conversation." "Well, I don’t think she’s too upset about being here. I’m getting the impression from Arcady that they are very cozy." "Good, at least that’s going to plan. Maybe I can avoid getting stabbed this time. I think I'll let Dimitri tell her that she was swapped for Cole." "Sensible. Cashy, Darlin. What are you talking about? Going to plan? No secrets, you promised." "And you said that you couldn’t stand to be in this room with me for a minute longer?" he said evasively. "Cash…Tell me, or I will get on my knees and beg." She winked. "Oh, we can't have that. How much do you know about the incubus court? Amos and his family in particular." "Um, not much actually. Arcady told me once Amos didn’t have an heir, having all daughters. And that Camions and Amos really don’t like each other too much." "They hate each other…well, I think resent is more the term I would use. So, Amos ~90~

has no heir, but it's a well-known fact that he has his eye on one. Let’s just say that it would be beneficial to me in the long run to keep Morrison with one of mine. Not that I would force her to do anything for an alliance of any sort, but I don't think that would be a problem, at all. As you said, they are very…cozy." She smiled. "Always working behind the scenes, aren’t you, Darlin? Well, I agree with you; she seems like the kinda girl he needs, someone he can save." "She needs saving alright, not that I really care about that. I like to keep people happy. When people are happy, you can get so much more from them." He smiled at her. "Anymore questions?" "Nope, but I know where you sleep if I need any answered." She giggled. "Where I sleep with my pregnant demon lover." He joked. "Exactly. You know what? Go to her. Snow can wait, and this.” She motioned between the two of them. “This can wait, too. Go to your, Princess." "Yeah, I will. God knows what she's been up to." He shuddered. "My room better not be pink or red. I hate red." He sneered "Well, it’s both of yours room now. Glad I gave you a suite, Cash." She walked up to him and kissed him on the cheek. "Have fun. If we don’t see you tonight, we’ll see you in the morning." "Definitely."

~91~

Chapter Fourteen It was late before Snow finally got to her room. She’d never gotten the chance to speak with Cash, but she considered that more a blessing than anything else. He would have plenty of time to discuss with her in the morning anything to his heart’s desire. Knowing Cash, it would be a most repetitive process. He normally went over everything in such minute detail, planner to the last. Arcady had been right; she’d gotten on well with everyone. Astrid had been a delight, and she complimented Fallon perfectly. Fallon himself had been wonderful, so much like his younger self. She’d known that he had it in him to be a good person, and Astrid seemed to help him be just that, a good man. Feyd and Ashlyn had joined them halfway through dinner, joking and laughing. She liked them both, a rare occurrence for her to get on with anyone. Feyd who, due to what she could only put down to Cash’s love of scaring people, was a little wary of her at first, but after a few beers, gladly regaled her of tales from Fallon, Arcady, and his past. She sighed contentedly, a small smile on her face, and set out investigating the most beautiful room that Astrid had allocated to them both. Nobody had even questioned the fact that they would be sharing a room together; it was relaxing to see that they had been accepted so readily. Although Fallon seemed to be a little unsure of them as some sort of couple, he’d not once questioned it that she knew of. He had been very well behaved though she was sure that there would be an interesting conversation between the boys soon enough. Her luggage was already in the room. Arcady must have sneaked up with it while Astrid had been giving her the tour. She grinned at the huge sleigh bed made up in white and cream silks; if anything, Astrid had amazing taste. The whole room was perfect. Asty had called it the white room; all the rooms in the house were named after colors. The white room suited her perfectly. She loved white and pastel colors and not even Dimitri had ever guessed her tastes so exactly. It made Snow wonder if she’d decorated the room before or after she heard about her visiting. It took her two tries to find the bathroom; the first door she had opened had been a huge walk in closet, complete with a vanity mirror and sink. If Snow hadn’t lived with Dimitri for so long, she would have had serious concerns as to the location of the toilet and shower. In the second door, she found the bathroom, which was also oversized. It was all white marble with pink and blue veins running through it. The bath was big enough to comfortably fit five people; it was made from the same marble as the floor. Idly she turned the silver tap and placed the stop into the hole. It was too large not to try out. She turned to the different scents of bath bubbles before deciding on the lavender one, splashing some of it in then leaving the tub to fill. Leaving her case packed until tomorrow, she wandered out onto the balcony. The cool air felt good against her skin. She looked up at the stars, bright in the sky, and wondered just what Dimitri was doing. Five years was a long time to be with someone. She missed him; she always would, but despite how angry she’d been with him, she ~92~

understood his point. He’d always known what was better for her, and he’d always had her best interests at heart. Dimitri would never have sent her to Cash and Fallon if he knew she would be hurt. She hoped he would never have stood for it. Neither would Arcady; the two were similar but different. Arcady was everything Dimitri wasn't; in all the places that she needed him. With Dimitri she would always be a whore, always live that life, but with Arcady, she could be something else. He made her feel like she could be anything she wanted to be, maybe, if she tried real hard. There was still a long way for her to go, but for the first time ever she felt like maybe she could make that journey. She licked her lips and looked uncertainly out into the night. She could forgive D for his shortcomings, as she knew he already had with hers. She only wished that wherever he was he wasn't alone, or worse, with Drake. She shivered unconsciously, wrapping her arms around herself. It was strange, or maybe the wine talking, but he didn’t seem so scary now that she was here, surrounded by people that she hoped to call friends. He’d terrified her for so long and now she felt, well, she was still scared at the thought of him, but not as much as she had. Now, she only mourned Soot. Had it really only been three days ago? It felt like forever since she had left him for Dimitri to bury; she would have to find out where D had laid him and put some flowers down for him, poor pup. Sighing, she was amazed at just how little the dog’s memory affected her. She thought of him, and all that came to mind were the good things that they’d done together. He’d been a good dog and friend. That life, her life in Russia was gone, a million miles away; it had been replaced with something new, exciting. She didn’t know what was going to happen next, and she liked it that way. She doubted very much that Arcady would ever blow her off for a meeting or sit in his study all day going over papers that were far more important than she was. This new thing would be good for her; it would suit her, and she’d make sure of it. She heard Arcady enter the room and felt him come up behind her, wrapping his arms around her and pulling her close to his chest. "Like the room, Cupcake?" "It's beautiful. I couldn’t have asked for anything more perfect." "Asty has a knack of knowing what a person likes best. You should see Cash's room. It looks like the ice palace." "Yeah, I think I'll pass on that particular offer." She laughed turning in his arms and kissing him. "That’s good cuz I don’t think Faris would like to see some woman completely unknown to her walking into her prince’s bedroom. So, you feeling okay? I don’t know about you, but I haven’t ever had a better and more relaxing dinner." She smiled thinking about his question. "I feel really good. Everyone was beyond fantastic…wait, did you say Faris?" He nodded. "It’s why Cash and Astrid ran in. He needed to tell her about it. She’s here and hiding, and he’s with her. But that doesn’t really matter, does it?" He nibbled her neck and cocked his head. "You’re filling up the tub? I hope you can swim…" He chuckled and held her tighter. ~93~

"No, it doesn’t matter much, just that things might start to heat up around here. Daddy’s going to come looking for his little girl." His soft lips were sending shivers up and down her body. She moaned and leaned into him. "I'm a very strong swimmer although how long it'll take to fill up I'm not sure." He laughed and shook his head. "Well then, she’s in the safest place. Astrid won’t let anything happen to her, just like she won’t let anything happen to Cash. So? Can I join you in your bath? Scrub your back?" "Of course you can." She grinned wickedly. "And with the extra weight, then we won’t have to wait as long to fill it up." "You’re always thinking, Cupcake." He wrangled her toward the bathroom and kissed her neck as he undressed her. Finally moving away from her and turning off the tap, he took her hand and helped her into the tub, letting her settle in, then began undressing himself. "Mmmm…you do put on quite a show, Button." She relaxed back, letting the lavender smelling water envelop her. The heat seared through her, releasing the tension in her muscles. He smirked, grabbed a large sponge off the countertop, and stepped in with her sitting across from her. "You look so at home right now." Home? Her smile faltered slightly. "I've never been at home to know what that’s like," she admitted. "But I do like it here…" He pulled her into his arms and nuzzled her nose. "This, meaning with these people, has always been home to me, but now it’s more so that you’re here, too. It feels complete, Snow, like everything is where it should be." She smiled. "I get it, we belong here." "I think so. I think we belong here together." She beamed at him. "We do…I don't think I'd have it any other way." "Good, Cupcake. Cuz you’re stuck with me. Now about that scrubbing…" He let her go and turned, grabbing the lavender soap. "I like this scent on you, but it’s nothing like the chocolate and strawberries. Remind me to get you some of that bath stuff. It makes me salivate." "Oh, I will. You salivating can never be a bad thing." He growled and set to washing her with the lavender smelling soap, the suds slipping down her body into the warm water. She moaned, her muscles turning to jelly under his gentle ministration. "Mmm, oh Arcady," she purred. "That feels so amazing." "Well, you are tense, Cupcake. You need to relax and get a good night’s sleep." "Any suggestions on how I could relax? Other than this, of course." She ran her small hands up and down his thighs massaging them. "A few, but jet lag is setting in. I’m afraid any kind of rigorous activity, and trust me it will be rigorous, will have to wait until the morning." She chuckled and yawned. "I know what you mean. I'm kitten weak, and I don't think I have much energy to get me out of the tub." He rinsed her off and kissed her shoulder. "Finish up. I’ll get the bedroom ready ~94~

and come back to get you." "Perfect." She turned and kissed him then picked up the shampoo that thankfully Astrid had had the presence of mind to leave for her. He got out and grabbed a thick black robe, drying off and then putting it on, padding into bedroom. "Snow, I’m putting the luggage in the closet, okay?" he called into the bathroom, his voice carrying over the light ruckus he was making. Lathering up her, hair she grinned. "Okay, Button, good idea, it's less to do tomorrow," she shouted and dunked her head under the water. She came up, and he was there with a large and thirsty looking towel open and waiting for her. “Come on, Cupcake, there’s a bed covered with silk sheets calling your name." She shook the water out of her ears. Standing, she tried to ignore the fatigue that had set into her muscles. "Sounds good." She stood and climbed out of the tub and into his arms. He dried her quickly and picked her up, carrying her to the bedroom. "Baby, you just seem ready to pass out. If I leave you for a bit to see Fallon, will you mind terribly?" She cuddled into him, curling into a small ball against his wide, warm chest. "Okay, no bother, Button." "Good cuz the only thing I’ll be thinking about is getting back here to you." He settled her down on the bed and smiled. "And you’re sleeping naked, Luv." "I normally do…It’s comfier." She yawned again. He kissed her, a long and sweet kiss, and then tucked her tiny form in. "Rest, baby." He turned and got dressed, a pair of pajama pants and a wife beater gracing his large form. "I’ll be back in a little while." She smiled sleepily, her eye lids starting to droop. "You look sexy, Button." He grinned and kissed her. "And I will when you wake up. Sleep, baby." She chuckled. "Okay. Night, Button." Her eyelids finally won the battle and closed as she drifted off to sleep. *** Arcady closed the door silently as he left the room and the sleeping winter sprite in the bed he would return to. She was beyond perfect, and he was right. Everyone had adored her as much as he had. He was happy to see Astrid embracing Snow as a sister; it was because of her acceptance that Snow had dealt so well with everything and everyone. Dinner was fantastic, and he wasn’t lying when he told her he thought it was the best of his life so far. He was looking forward to having many more, and he knew all his good times from here on in would be with and because of her. No other woman mattered to him; they were all preparation for Snow, a tool to make him the prefect man for the woman sleeping so soundly between the cream-colored sheets. His nature would be the only thing that ruined this for them, and it was something he would have to talk with her about, along with some things in his past she needed to ~95~

know. But they had time for all of that, though he figured he would have to get to it sooner rather than later. It didn’t matter; she would know everything, and he wasn’t keeping secrets from the woman he loved. Loved. That was another thing he couldn’t believe. Three days and there was nobody he could ever be with and still feel the way he felt with her. It was possible. Fallon and Asty knew early; at least he thought they did. It was something he was going to have to ask his friend, once he found him. He had made it to the ground floor after going to the first and then checking the Crypt. At this time of night, Fallon was one of two places, his bedroom with Astrid, or the billiard room. Astrid was in the kitchen with Linus, so he wasn’t upstairs, so he headed to the billiard room, only to be sidetracked into the theater room when he saw Fallon sitting on the large suede couch with a beer in his hand. He walked in, sat next to his friend, and smiled. “Long day. Tell me there’s another one of those around here.” He motioned to the beer. Fal pointed silently to the table. "Plenty to share." He grabbed one and opened it, swigging back a long gulp. "She’s sleeping. Jet Lag hit her hard." "Yeah, jet lag tends to do that." He took another deep swig. "Thanks for bringing her back; I hope she wasn’t too much trouble." "Snow will never be trouble for me, Fallon." He took a deep breath. "I love her." Fallon blinked then fixed him with his intense stare. "Are you sure?" "More sure than I have been of anything in my life. She feels right, mate. This might sound really hokey, but I think I need your blessing." "She's my baby cousin, the only family I have left…" Fal trailed off taking another deep pull. "You're a good man, a good friend. You're like a brother to me." He smiled. "I can’t think of anybody I'd rather have with her, and both of you have my blessing." A load lifted off Arcady’s shoulders at his best friend’s words, and he nodded. "Thanks, mate. Now to just convince her that I’m the prefect guy for her." He chuckled. "Asty took to her well." "Yeah, I'm pleased, everyone did." "So, then what’s eating at you, mate?" "Nothing, it’s just been a long day, I guess. It was good to see her again; she looks good. How was she in Russia?" "She’s a force of nature. You would have been proud of her." "Good, I'm glad she was looking after herself. If she truly had been dead, I never would have forgiven myself." He sighed. "Alice is dead, Fal. Snow is alive and well." They talked a bit about him showing up, and he laughed. "I swear she’s got such control for a Glacies." He moved the side of his shirt and showed Fallon the scar. "I swear this is the hottest thing a woman has ever done to me." Fal laughed out loud. "Man, you got plugged by her." He shook his head. "Damn, she is my blood. Well, there’s not much I can say to that. Astrid threw me through a wall because I was running my mouth, but that was our second date.” ~96~

"Yeah, Asty is brutal; that’s for damn sure." Fal grinned. "Yeah, she is." "You’re a very sick man, Fallon." He laughed and finished his beer. "So, what else?" "Shall I forgo the standard warning?" “I think that’s a good idea. Let me ask you, mate, when did you know with Astrid?" He sighed and went back to Fallon’s offer of failed warning. "You don’t have to worry about it. I have a feeling if I screw her over, I’ll have to deal with a lot more then you. Though, she and I are going to have to talk about stuff, mainly my nature. I don’t wanna hurt her." He shook his head. "Yeah, that could become an issue. I never envied you that." He finished his bottle. "I'm not sure. After our first conversation, I think, but it took me a long time to realize it. But you've always been more clever than me, genius." He smirked. "Yeah, you were quite elated after that little meeting in the park. You’re welcome, by the way, for never showing." He winked and then sighed. "I just hope she understands that I won’t be taking pleasure in this, not her, screwing around." "I'm sure she knows all about pleasureless sex." Arcady supposed that was true, too. Regardless, he didn’t want her to be upset about it. "It shouldn’t be too hard to deal with feeding from a distance and feeding off her. It’s not like I need to daily. Hell, I don’t even have to do it monthly." "Well, I don’t see the problem…just as long as you talk to her about it." "Yeah, I think we have a lot to talk about. I think I’m going to talk to Cash about her soul. I want her, and I need her, too, you know?" "Yeah, you'll keep it safe; Cash’ll only use it to barter with." "Yeah, of that I have no clue. Not to mention I have to talk to him about keeping her. I won’t have her whoring. I don’t know what he has planned for her, but it’s not going to happen." "No," Fal agreed. "It’s not." "So, what’s next with Georgie? He knows you’re here, doesn’t he? I mean that you’re staying here right? What did you tell him?" "I told him nothing; only that we're still waiting for Dante. He's getting restless though, and he knows Astrid is here. It’s only a matter of time before we have to take him out." He grinned savagely. "My kinda talk. Where does he think you are then at night? Feyd?" "We take turns on going back and making a little noise. Astrid is a good help with that." He grinned. Arcady laughed. No doubt Astrid was indeed enjoying the little sex sessions; she was a true exhibitionist. "Feyd and Ash there tonight?" Yeah, she'll stay with him for a while, but it’s too dangerous to keep her there. Asty can look after herself, but Ash can't…and neither can Feyd. He laughed. "True." He yawned, the jet lag finally hitting him. The clock on the wall said it was past midnight, but his body was starting to feel the effects of the time shift, and it was telling him it was past six in the morning. He stretched his muscles, somewhat sore. The need to get back to her was getting stronger, like an itch in his ~97~

hands, a fuzzy nerve feeling. "Shit, I gotta sleep, mate. I’ll see you in the morning. Feyd promised Belgian waffles, so I’m not passing that up." "Yeah, that’s cool. I'll see you tomorrow, sleep well." He smirked as Astrid walked in and curled up on Fallon's lap. "Have fun you two," he said as he walked out of the room, hearing Astrid giggle and whisper to Fallon who groaned. Looks like I’m leaving just in time, he thought as he rounded the corner and climbed the stairs back to their suite and the perfect treasure sleeping soundly therein.

~98~

Chapter Fifteen He walked up behind her smiling. Last night’s events had put him firmly in a good mood. He had his princess back, and soon they would have the child that they should have had thirteen years ago. He knew for sure that his good mood had nothing to do with the tiny, deadly creature in front of him. Well, he could attribute some of them to her; he had her soul. He’d not seen her and the incubus for very long, but he had noticed the way Arcady had watched her; he was completely entranced by her. To Cash this was very good news; he had the incubus all but in his pocket. He would have Amos’s support and with that the support of both the pleasure courts. He could almost see his home. He was so close and all thanks to Snow. Cash had never been so happy to have not killed someone in his life. "Hey there, Snowflake," he said loudly and suddenly in her ear hoping to surprise her. Never one to disappoint, she yelped and jumped back a little, spilling coffee onto her hand. "Snowflake? That's a new one." She scowled, shaking the liquid off her hand. "It is?" She shrugged her features returning to normal. "This morning it is, anyway. How many kitchens does this place have? I'm sure I was in a different one yesterday. I've been lost like three times already this morning,” she complained pouting. “The cat showed me to the kitchen." We have a cat? He raised an eyebrow. "Cat?" "Yeah, you know, black and white, funny eye…" She shook her head. "Doesn't matter. So, I'm going to need my own expense account. Ooh and card…I need new clothes. I'm sure I didn't bring enough." She smirked. His felt panic spread through him. She wanted his cards, what the hell had happened to the ones that Dimitri had given her, let alone the incubus was beyond loaded. "You'll be getting no such thing.” He laughed nervously. “I've got a baby to save up for. I can't go giving the likes of you my credit card." She rolled her eyes. "The likes of me? Cash, you’re like a bazillionaire…plus, it was you that demanded the likes of me as company…" Her voice faltered slightly, and she hung her head. He remembered his conversation with Dimitri; you took my Snowy, and he sighed. There was no way even he could justify the reasoning behind her coming here. He’d asked for Alice, not Snow. It was true that he needed Alice to trap the incubus, but he hadn’t wanted Snow. Snow and Dimitri had been happy together; she’d doted on him. Even Drake couldn’t drive her away, and now he’d ordered it so. "I’m sorry for your old life, Snowdrop.” The words spilled out, and he once again cursed the witch’s emotions. “And as for being a bazillionaire, so is your boyfriend." He watched her intently for a reaction. She blushed a little and ducked her head further down, scuffing her bare foot on the floor. "He's not my boyfriend. I barely know him." "Like that's ever stopped you." He muttered under his breath, silently pleased that ~99~

the mention of Arcady could make her blush. She sighed and poured more steaming coffee into her mug. "You should stop being so tight with your damn money. So, care to tell me why I'm here?" "Your cousin wanted to see you," he answered simply. "Bullshit. Why would you do anything Fal wanted you to do? You only ever do what you want, for your own nefarious plans and schemes. So, I must be here for some other reason, not for Fal." She frowned, pausing for a few seconds before continuing on her tangent. "Something that I wouldn't mind, or that Alice wouldn’t mind, because it’s her you were wanting, not me…lord I guess that I’m your last choice of people to have at your party…" "Enough!" He cut her off lightly, worried at where her logic was taking her. The girl was scarily perceptive. "Are you even allowed to drink coffee?" "What D did or didn't allow me to do doesn't matter anymore, as I'm clearly yours now." Her voice broke, and she looked up into his eyes, tears filling hers. "What did you give him? Was I worth it? Did he want rid of me? Is that why I'm here?" He placed his hands on her bare shoulders, giving her as much comfort as he could offer. "Snowy, no. I gave D…" He trailed off with a deep sigh; he wasn't going to tell her about Cole. The last thing he needed was an angry Glacies that could call ice blades. "You know, I don't think I've ever seen you so weepy." She shrugged, wiping her eyes. "It's been a rough couple of days, sorry." She took a shaky breath. "How rough?" he asked, knowing she would never tell him, but she didn’t have to. Her world had been turned upside down; she’d been forced to leave everything behind all because of him, and yet he didn’t hear her complaining…much. She shrugged. "I don't really want to talk about it.” “No? Well, maybe I could talk to Dimitri about sending the dog over. What was its name again? If it would help you settle in, I don’t see there being a problem with it.” As soon as the words were out of his mouth, he knew he’d said the wrong thing. Her features closed down immediately, turning into a hard mask. “The dog’s dead; his name was Soot. Drake killed the dog, let’s leave it at that. I've had better weeks." "Yeah, I hear that,” he said as lightly as he could. Damn Drake, he couldn’t have just left her alone. “I don't think today's going to get much better." She nodded, brightening up. "Yeah, I heard Faris was here, and you mentioned a baby. Lord you must be scared shitless." He sighed. “Yeah, a little,” he admitted. “I have to step up all my plans.” I’m going to have to see Levi and beg for my kingship. He shuddered at the thought. Snow smiled at him. "I wouldn't fuss about it. Besides, there's no real reason to worry. I liked your father." He laughed loudly, hiding his unease. Uncannily perceptive. "Yeah, well, you were under him at the time, so your opinion doesn't count," he said in a tone that clearly told her to drop it. She shrugged. "So look, what's the deal here? What is my purpose? Faris is here, so it's not that kind of gig. To be honest, I'm pretty confused in my whole part in this. You ~100~

have me and, I trust, my soul." He shrugged. "You won't just believe that I want you here because it’s safer for you than at Dimitri's?" She rolled her eyes and took another drink of coffee. "Nope, I'm not that kind of gullible." Well, maybe I can shock you into believing Snowy. "Fine, in that case I have someone in town that I want you to keep well serviced." He watched her lower lip tremble, and then he looked out the window. "The sun’s up, so he'll still be out for the count, but he'll wake up soon, and I'll send you right over. He should be hungry." "A vampire?" Her voice and body betrayed the shock she felt. She shivered and hugged herself looking to the doorway. "Sure, you want to be my whore; then you can go be dinner," he said cruelly. "You met Malcolm right?" "Mal?” She squeaked. “I suppose, if that’s what you want…" She nodded weakly, looking crushed. "No.” He sighed, shaking his head. “Snow, the word you are looking for is no. Say it, it's not hard. I'm not Dimitri. I don't deal with whores. I don't own any to date, and I don't intend to start. Understood?" he said as plainly as he could. "Not really. If you don’t deal with whores, then why did you send for me? I am a whore." “No, you’re not, not anymore, and I get the feeling that you’re beginning to finally realize that.” With a bit of luck. He checked his watch. “Now, I don't really have time to sit down and discuss life choices with you, but you have a few options" "I'm doing what I'm here for already, aren't I?" she asked. Seeing no point in denying it, he shrugged. "Through choice, love, and choice alone. I'd never force you to do anything." She frowned. "Yes, you would." "True, but not in the way you mean it. What you’re doing with Morrison is your own choice. I didn’t order that." She smiled up at him. "Okay, I kind of get it now." Why do I doubt that…? "Great. Now, I've got a few more things to do today, but I think tomorrow we'll sit down, and I'll go through things a little clearer with you. Just to 'Snow-proof' a few things that I don't want you talking about, okay?" "Yeah, okay. Is Mal really in town?" Casha laughed loudly. "Yes, I'm afraid he is." She giggled. "And what's worse is that, he's been very quiet. Not like him at all." She shook her head amazed. "No, it’s really not. Why was it that you keep him around again?" Casha shrugged thinking of the vampire. Because I killed him, and he returned the favor by keeping me alive. Plus, he does a damn fine job of running the heavy end of my businesses. "I like him. He's very amusing to me." She laughed again. "So, tomorrow? You gonna stop lying to me then?" "Never Snowflake. There would be no fun in a world of truths." ~101~

She giggled brightly and bit her bottom lip. "Sure there would. We would just have to lie more truthfully. "Well, there you are then. Now stop drinking coffee, and go and try not to cause too much trouble." He winked at her then left the kitchen, looking for Arcady. *** Talking to Cash was not the way he wanted to start his morning. He had gotten up early and gone for a run with Fallon and Feyd, something the gruesome twosome had taken to doing since they were in Shadow Heights. When Arcady had asked Feyd about it, he had grinned and replied, “To piss off, Georgie. Old codger never knows if Fallon’s with Astrid or up early at the hotel gym. Keeps the fucker on his toes.” Therefore, they ran and worked out, and Snow had met him in the shower pouting that he left her so early. He’d cleared that up quickly though, taking her hard and fast in the gorgeous shower stall, the hot water and sex relaxing him and putting him in a very good mood. After, he had left Snow in the shower, enjoying the multiple showerheads, all but purring, and went in search of the demon that no doubt had his lover’s soul. He wasn’t sure what was going to happen with Cash, but this had to be dealt with quickly. Things between him and Snow couldn’t progress if the demon could hang that over them. He wasn’t taking any chances with her, not when he knew she was the one to make him whole. Cash was walking out of his suite door when Arcady happened upon him. Well shit. Now or never really. He walked over to Cash and smiled. “Hey, Cash. A word?” The demon returned his smile. "Of course, something on your mind?" "A few things. How’s the princess? Fallon told me this morning about your good news. Congratulations." He smiled. "Yeah, I know, it's a shock…a real shock. But if anything, it gives me something solid to focus on. How's Snow settling in? I saw her this morning drinking coffee." He grinned. "I think she’s doing fine. She had a chat with Fal last night, and Astrid is doting like she’s a little sister. It’s hard to believe Snow is three years older then Asty." "Well, she does look like a child, despite the abuse." He cleared his throat. "How was Dimitri when you saw him?" "As good as can be expected. He wasn’t too happy about letting her go, Cash, despite appearances." "Oh I know…I’ve paid through my teeth for her. Speaking of which, Colette says hi." Arcady shook his head and sighed. "Well, I suppose she’s better with him than in your clutches, no offense. As long as she’s happy." The thought of Cole with Dimitri, hopefully not against her will, did fill him with an uncanny sense of completion. He knew she was always waiting for something from her past, something that she never had regretted. He hoped to god it was Dimitri, and he would have to talk to her soon, if only to say good luck. She was such a perfect girl. Dimitri better respect the gift he was given. ~102~

"None taken," he said cheerfully. "Women tend to be better out of my clutches, and Dimitri takes good care of his things." He did take good care of Snow, so he’s right. I’ll have to thank him. "Yeah, I’m sure. So, how are we going to do this? I want her, Cash. The woman transcends anything I could ever hope for." Being so honest with the demon probably wasn’t the best thing, but he was past playing court games. "So, what’s it going to take so I can court her?" Cash shrugged. "That depends on what you mean by courting…you can court her now. I believe that you have been. I take it that you would like more." "I want her, Cash." "Okay, well, I don’t see much of problem with that. There are a few things that I need from you in order for that to happen." "So, let’s get down to it, Cash. Name your price." "I want the support of both the pleasure courts. I won’t be going home without it." "I'll see what I can do. I’m not in line for the throne, Cash, so I don’t know how much influence I’m going to have." "If you want the girl, then you'll get what I need, or else I'll always own her and her soul." Arcady decided he wasn’t going to rise to the bait. "Fair enough." "Perfect, it seems you have a busy day ahead of you, then." "Yeah, but not as busy as yours, demon." He smirked and turned toward the stairs. He’d have to see Amos and Camions, and that meant a trip to the courts, a trip he wasn’t looking forward to.

~103~

Chapter Sixteen Using the Ley-Lines under the mansion, Arcady willed himself to the Pleasure halls, to Asmodeus’ throne room. He materialized before the giant white marble doors and collected himself before entering. Using the Ley-Lines was always a chore, as he was one of the only hybrids with the granted power to do so. That’s what I get for being in favor, he thought to himself. Magical modes of transportation and complete disorientation. This better improve after I die. He shook off the creepy crawly feeling he always got after using the lines and took a deep breath. The doors opened slowly to reveal a green and white marble room. Large areas were cut out of the marble serving as windows, overlooking the midnight garden that surrounded the palace. Arcady began walking, his steps soundless as he entered the holy throne room and took in the grandeur of it all. Everything was lavish, down to the rich green silk curtains and emerald carpets that led to the dais that the thrones were on. So much white marble, gold and green accents, Arcady always felt a bit overwhelmed here. Today it was surprisingly bare; usually full of old Amos’ attendants and the lower houses of the court, trying to incur the king’s favor. Arcady saw the king, lounging in the royal seat, an imp on his lap, sleeping. As the king acknowledged his entrance, Arcady bowed and waited. “Arcady! Good to see you, my boy! Get up! There's no need for you to grovel like one of my many underlings.” He grinned wryly. He got off his throne as Arcady righted himself and stood, relaxed, waiting for the old king to approach him. The old demon reached him and hugged him. An old greeting in the pleasure court done between Royals. For old Amos to do it to Arcady said that he was, indeed, in favor. “How goes the empire, your majesty?” It was a joking question Arcady had asked the old king ever since his first time to the palace, when he was no more than six years old. He grinned at the old demon and hugged him back. "The empire's just fine, slowly simmering over as always. So, it's good to see you here boy…to what do I owe the pleasure of such an early visit?" “Eh,” Arcady said as they began to walk to the only door out of the throne room toward the gardens. “Lots of things happening, Amos, a few you’ll be interested in even.” "Me? You know I'm always interested in anything that you bring to me." Arcady took a deep breath and sat at the gazebo they had walked to. “Let’s see, first off, I’m in love. Can you fucking believe it? Me?” Amos blinked in surprise. "Love? Well, congratulations, boy…and who's the lucky girl?" This was where it was going to get complicated. He took another deep breath, hoping not to upset the old king with what he was going to say to him next. “Dimitri’s Glacies Snow, who also happens to be Fallon’s cousin.” He slumped in his ~104~

seat on the bench. “I know a mess and a half.” "So, I've heard. I've never met her myself though, so I'll wait to pass judgment.” He sighed. "I had hoped that you and Fiona would maybe take a liking to each other; she'll be disappointed when she finds out." The old king laughed. "That’s my boy, breaking hearts till that last." “Tell me about it, Sire. I had thought Fiona and I would get together as well, but I do love her, Snow, I mean. I want her out of Dimitri’s service, but well, Cash can’t do it unless I get him something. You know how he is, a favor for a favor.” "Well, the heart wants what it wants…Love strikes unmercifully. So, what does little Cassiel want from you, son?" “I think he just wants your support, for when he comes home.” "So, he plans on storming to the fire plains to conquer Fuerety and win Lady Faris' heart?" “I don’t know what he’s planning, but he took a new sorceress, Astrid Buchamps and Fallon’s fiancée. I’m not even sure how he feels about her. When I spoke to him after the binding, he seemed a bit sad, but he’s more determined now to go home than ever.” Amos nodded. "And he cannot do this without the support of the incubus and a few others. What do you think he will do if I refuse you this alliance?" Arcady sighed. "Honestly, I don’t know, Sire. He’s lucid, which is the best he’s been in years. Last time I saw him, he was killing people; at least now he has a plan and allies that are vested to stand with him." Amos nodded again thoughtfully. "Now, tell me, son, what would you do? If you were in my place and your best asked this of you, to stand against Fuerety for his love, Would you?" He looked at the king, stunned. It wasn’t often Asmodeus asked opinions of his people, lest often was it that he asked a non ascended incubus something this important to the court itself. He cleared his throat. "Sire, given the history and the state of the Afterverse at this point in time, I would stand with the exiled prince. If not for the request of one of your princes, and that should be your last deciding factor, but for the overall good of your court. Casha has always been good to your people and you and would make a much loved, just overlord, because he possesses not only the drive, but the intellect to acquire it. That," he continued, "and the fact that the prince won’t make the same mistakes twice. This time he will win. Personally, if I had been old enough during the first situation, I would have stood with him." Amos smiled happily. "Then he shall have my support and the support of the incubus, and you shall have your lady love." “Thank you, Sire. This means so much to me.” "Don’t thank me yet, boy, in return I also wish something from you." He smiled warmly. "But I think we shall address that another day perhaps. So, when will I get to meet this little Glacies? Have you had her meet Pete and Mandy yet?" The tone the old king took troubled him a bit, but he shrugged it off quickly. In his entire life, Amos had doted on him like a father and less like a king. “No, sir. She’s very ~105~

strange about parents. You do remember what happened to Fallon?” Amos frowned. "Yes, vaguely." He shook his head. "Sometimes it is surprising the cruelty that the humans are capable of, and to their own children." “Yes, sir, I’m glad I was blessed with Mandy and Pete, as such, I don’t want to upset her with family really just yet. I want her happy and safe, from herself most of all. I’d rather not make her meet Mandy and Pete just yet, but you and Camions, anytime. I was thinking at next month’s ball.” “Wonderful. We will announce the engagement then as well.” Arcady shook his head. "Engagement, Sire? I might well be a prince of the realm upon death, but who I chose to marry in my human life shouldn’t be announced to the Court. She’s not royalty, neither am I." Amos frowned. "But when she dies, she will ascend, a full Conglacio princess. So, your betrothal to her shall be announced." This news was not expected. “Princess? I told you Snow is Glacies, Amos.” "Yes." He nodded. "She was made by Dimitri, yes? She was his companion for years…was she not?" "Yes, Sire, though I don’t see what that has to do with anything." "Then she will be a Conglacio upon death, I guarantee it. Dimitri will see to it that she's well petitioned, and little Cassiel has never denied his brother anything. Have faith young one, you will not lose her, not even death will part the two of you.” He grinned. "Does that information change anything?" Arcady grinned. "Not one bit. I had planned to petition for her soul before her death, but that is just as well; bring the royal houses closer together. I thank you, Sire." He bowed at his sovereign. The old demon smiled and clapped Arcady on the back. “Good. Now go and claim your woman. You have my blessing. I'm sure Cassiel is itching to hear the verdict. Be sure to take your Snow to see Alcyone soon; she’s going to want to meet her.” Arcady smiled and laughed. "Can do, Sire. Shall we see you at the ball then?" “If not before.” He smiled "If not before." "Then I shall take my leave." He bowed at the old king and looked into the throne room and laughed, seeing Amos' imp making quick work of something he was sure it shouldn’t be eating. "Sire, I think you will want to go see what your imp is doing; last time I saw him with that glint in his eye, he ate your Italian loafers." Amos cursed loudly. "Thanks for the warning. I must remember to stop leaving such things within eating distance. I shall see you soon, son." He left Arcady and headed back into his throne room. Arcady watched as the chaos ensued as the Imp evaded capture with what looked like Amos' leather Gucci tie in it’s mouth and shook his head before walking out of the palace proper. The midnight garden was in full bloom, as it was always perpetual night in the incubus kingdom. Camions’ gardens at both courts were famed. The succubus gardens in sunlight, the incubus gardens in darkness. She had the best of both worlds. Shame ~106~

she was never here to enjoy them. As of late, Arcady knew the Queen of the succubus and the consort to the old king had other things that interested her, young things that had nothing to do with the man she claimed to love above all else. She took her nature too far and used it as a crutch. Still Arcady respected her, loved her even. She was the woman who took up his tutoring when he was finally of age. Because of such he owed a lot to her; he never interfered in anything with the old king he loved just as much. It was hard to pick sides. Amos had his harem succubae that were surviving for his pleasure alone; one, the enigmatic Alabaster, his wife’s own sister. He knew Camions had her lovers as well, even one that lived at the succubus courts. The same man Amos hated above all else was the one man Arcady respected to the end. Moni was revered, a legend in the incubus ranks, and as Arcady had only met the old dodger once, he respected Moni more then anyone. The incubus saw something he wanted and didn’t let anything get in the way of it, even though that something was the woman his best friend was marrying. That story was truly legend. Still, word had it Cam had even quit seeing her concubine and was occupied with things topside. So, his next course of action was getting the succubus’ support, and to do that, he’d have to see Fiona, the woman that would be queen once Camions got tired of it. It was true the succubus was only a princess, but she commanded her people better than her mother did. He walked out of the midnight garden to the causeway that separated the two courts, a grey area that always felt wet with cloud and rain, a place perpetually on the verge of a storm. It hadn’t always been like this in the boundary. Once, long ago, his father had told him, when the king and queen were indeed in love, it was a meadow at twilight. Well, it was still a meadow; it was just barren, and, as odd as it sounded, sad. Arcady could feel it; the place where the king and queen would spend so much time together in happiness missed the royals and slept till they rekindled their love affair. Arcady had a feeling it would sleep till the end of time. He found Fiona a few feet in from the causeway in Camions’ statue garden on the edge of her hedge maze. She was sitting on a large divan, her chestnut hair with its red highlights gleaming in the sunshine. Her eyes closed, enjoying the gentle warmth she was exposed to, she luxuriated her near perfect body in the temperate air. She was a beauty, full lips like her mother, lush eyelashes, curves galore, eyes as blue green as the sea; she was a prize indeed. He bowed. “Princess Fiona,” he said quietly, hoping he wasn’t disturbing her. "Arcady." She smiled, her eyes still closed. "You look well, princess. I hope things have been good?" She grinned and opened her eyes to look at him. "Things are always good here, lover. You of all people should know that." She stood pulling him into a hug, pressing her body against his. "And how are you? You’re looking well." He smiled down to her and hugged her back. "Pretty well. What have you been up to?" "Oh nothing much, this and that…Mother's been off seeing to her topside interests. I've been pretty much running the court in her absence." ~107~

Arcady nodded. "I have heard. You’ll make a fine queen one day, Fi, and that’s kinda the reason why I’m here…" She laughed. "Have you finally come to propose to me? Profess your undying love on bended knee?" she asked half jokingly. Arcady turned from her and sighed. "If it was that simple, Fi, I would have done that already. You know you have always captivated me. I have just been to see your father, but, no, not about asking for your hand. I’m in love." She smiled sadly. "That’s wonderful, Arcady. Congratulations, I wish you all the happiness." He turned to Fiona, a look of regret on his face. "Thanks, Fi, really. Unfortunately, my happiness is a condition of other issues." "Isn't it always the case with our kind?" He laughed bitterly. "Very true. This time though it’s reliant on Casha returning to the Afterverse." "Cassiel? I didn't know he was still alive? Who is this woman?" "Casha is alive and well. He just bound a new sorceress, Astrid, a good friend of mine. And the woman in question is his brother’s companion, a Glacies named Snow." He sighed and sat on a soft rattan chair to her left and poured her a glass of sangria from the pitcher on the table next to her. Fuck if I don’t need a shot myself. Here he was, telling the one woman he had considered marrying about the only woman he wanted to marry. It was deep, and he wasn’t enjoying himself one bit. She nodded and took the glass off him. "Yeah? I don’t think I've met her. I take it that Dimitri knows about this." "Well, he gave her to Casha. I don’t know what’s going on there with her and Dimitri, but Casha wanted her. I don’t know what he gave up for her." He sounded miserable; he knew he should be happy. He was getting the woman he loved and helping right the wrongs of the past, so why did he feel like shit? "Knowing Cassiel I’m sure he didn’t give up much. So, where do I come into this?" Ah. Post time. He sat forward, his forearms resting on his thighs. "Glad you asked. Casha needs support when he comes back. His first choice was the courts." Okay that was a lie, a white lie but a lie. He didn’t want her to say no… "He'll always have the support of the succubae; my mother was always very clear on that point." Arcady relaxed and smiled. "She does adore him." "And she always will. So, will you be bringing your love to the ball?" He nodded. "Your father has requested it." He stopped and looked at her. "Fi, for what it’s worth I didn’t plan this." "I know, Arcady, I know. You don’t love me…you never would have. I'm glad you found someone." He sighed. "Fi, if it’s any consolation, you’re the only one I would have considered marrying, and no it’s not cuz you’re a princess. You know that means nothing to me." He got up and sat next to her and held her a moment. This woman, his ally at court and his friend, he didn’t want to break her heart. ~108~

She sat there for a moment in his arms before standing, breaking his embrace with a deep sigh. "I know that, Hon, don’t think anything of it. I'm far too busy of late to worry about it." He nodded, knowing the moment was past, and with Fiona, already water under the bridge. "So, I can tell Cash he’s got the support of both courts then?" "Yes, you can." He kissed her on the cheek and smiled. "You’re a peach, Fi, total peach. I gotta run though, let the brat prince know before he has a stroke." He hugged her again. "Save me a dance at the ball?" "Count on it, little brother. I shall look forward to meeting her. Tell Cassiel I said hello." "I shall sister." He smiled at the familiarity of the word; it had been a long time since he’d said it and meant it. "If you need me, I’ll be at Crypt, or have Al find me. She seems to always know where I am." "I know she's good at keeping track of you." She hugged him again then pulled away, walking toward the court. "Goodbye, Arcady." He smiled and turned himself walking toward the causeway once again, blinking back topside.

~109~

Chapter Seventeen Time had moved slowly since he blinked to the Afterverse. It was a known fact that time was different between the realms, and the almost two hours he spent in the demon realm was mere twenty minutes topside. He had blinked back into the Crypt, Astrid’s shop, where the largest vein of Ley-line resided beneath them. It was the easiest place to travel from in the house, especially for a half mortal like himself. The fatigue set in quickly, both emotional and physical. The latter was something that would leave almost as soon as he felt it, proof that he was getting stronger with his powers. The emotional? Well, that was an entirely different animal. Emotional situations, especially ones that involved someone that he could have married, were not what he wanted today. Still, seeing Fiona as forlorn as she was, he couldn’t be upset or feel guilty. She didn’t really want him; she just wanted to be in love. And she was right, he couldn’t love her, not the way a succubus princess should be loved. It would have been a marriage of convenience, and that’s not what either of them truly wanted. Fiona deserved that perfect love, the man that was going to worship her. Even though there was the possibility of them getting married to this point, he always saw her as a sister, and more so since Electra, his real sister, had passed on. Bearing that, he did want her happy. Fiona was a project for another day. Now that he had the courts’ assurances that they would stand by Cash and his plans of coming home and the blessing of his own king, it was time to speak to Cash and then hopefully Snow. They had a lot to talk about, and he wasn’t going to go into it half cocked. She had to know everything, and that was going to be a chore and a half to get it all out. He wasn’t one to enjoy opening up old wounds, but for her, he’d gladly relive it all. First on the agenda was Cash. He found him in the sitting room with Linus and smirked. “She might enjoy being your sorceress and what you do to her body, but all that butter you’re feeding the dog is going to give him a heart condition.” "Truthfully, I didn’t feed him any butter…however, he does like cakes. It's funny how she cares more about the dog’s diet than Fallon’s." "Fallon's a big boy. And Linus is the son of a champion. You think Mandy and Pete would let Angus get this fat? No way." "True, but he likes it, and if he likes it, I’m not going to say no." "You’re the reason animal’s getting fat buying his affection, a new low for even you, demon." "I'm no more of a demon than you are, incubus…so, how did you get on?" "Well yeah, Cash, I was born human-ish. And you have nothing to worry about; both courts have and still do stand by you." "Excellent, thank you for that. I'll have to keep her soul for a little longer just to make sure, but apart from that, thanks for taking her off my hands." ~110~

"It’s not a problem, demon, and I understand your situation. Have you seen her? I figured we have a lot to talk about." Like the fact that I want to marry the chit. It wasn’t something he was banking on telling her so quickly, but he wasn’t one to not act on something he felt this strongly about. Marriage, hell engagement, wasn’t something he was looking to jump into, especially when there was the possibility of her bolting once he mentioned it. Things had to be done right, and not in his usual style, barging in guns blazing and asking questions after to anyone still left with a pulse. Snow was worth going the long and thorough route. “She’s not with Fallon is she? I'd hate to interrupt that,” he said absently. Linus finally noticed him, the dog on his hind legs scratching at Arcady’s leg. He bent to pet the fat dog and smiled at him, thoughts of his parents’ bulldog, Linus’ sire, floating to the forefront of his brain. The demon’s gaze fixed on the dog. "I don’t think so. I haven’t seen her since this morning, but Fallon is with Astrid in the shop." He must have missed them both, having come from the shop directly. Though it was possible, there were three different ways to get into the shop from the house alone. He nodded at Cash, and Linus went back to Cash. "Faris, okay?" Cash bent down, scratching the dog’s ears. "She's good, ice cream keeps her happy for now, which is odd as she and the baby are Centos, but I’m hardly in the position to argue with a pregnant lady." "Especially a Cento." He laughed and shook his head. Sitting talking to the demon was delaying the inevitable. He turned to go. "Anyway, if you see Snow, tell her I’m looking for her. This fucking house is so damn huge if I don’t leave breadcrumbs, I’ll never find her." He smirked. "Where was the last place you saw her?" "I'll let her know…I think she might be with Ashlyn in the TV room." He bent down and took the dog into his arms, lifting him up. A small frown flitted across his face as if contemplating something, eventually he sighed. "I don’t know if it'll help you any, but you should get her a dog, something to look after. From what I gather, her Doberman died a day or so before you found her. She loved that pup." Something to ground her in the here and now was fine by him, and if it was a dog, well, he wasn’t going to naysay it. Cash always had the right idea. "Thanks for the heads up. I think I have just the thing in mind." He smiled and left the room, quickly making it to the TV room, a spring in his step. The thought of seeing her again set his body on edge, something no woman was ever able to do. It was yet another reason why what was happening between them felt right. As he reached the second floor room, he heard her laugh and his heart beat painfully in his chest. Just the sound of her voice, and I'm reacting like this? Lord, I’m in for it.

~111~

Chapter Eighteen She laughed, watching Ashlyn hunt through the DVD collection looking for something, which Snow guessed was guaranteed to torture her. Not that she minded though; she’d enjoyed spending the day with her. However, there were only so many feel good, girly films that her senses could take. Thankfully, Arcady showed up at the door, and she squealed, jumping up and bouncing into his arms. “Mmmm, you came back.” She cuddled him, whispering in his ear. “And just in time.” She raised her voice, “So, did you have a productive day? “ He grinned and kissed her soundly. "I did. How about you, Cupcake? You and Ashlyn playing nice?" She nodded breathing in his clean scent. "Yep, we've been having fun." "Good. So, I was thinking, maybe a drive? Show you around Shadow Heights?" She grinned, knowing that she was being rescued from Ash's next film choice. "Oh that could be fun." "Beauty." He turned to Ash and smiled. "And where is your good for nothing boyfriend? Making Georgie tear his hair out?" Ashlyn laughed. "Oh most likely, you know him. You two have fun on your drive. I'm going to give him a call and pester him for dinner." She winked and hugged them both then left the room humming. "Nightly has his hands full with that one." "Yeah, I guess. She's great, but I'm not really into girly movies." She suppressed a shudder. "Well, I'm not into overdosing on them." "Well, Ash is a strange one. Though she is the reason Feyd has been cooking more often then not, so in a way, we all win." He smirked and then kissed her long and slow. "Did I mention that I missed you today?" "Mmmm…no you didn’t." She smiled "But I'll forgive you; you did after all come back. I missed you as well. Where have you been all day?" she questioned; he'd promised to fill her in when he got back. "Here and there. I had to see the king and queen on a few matters. Did you have your talk with Fallon yet?" She blinked avoiding his gaze. She didn’t want to speak with Fallon; it just wasn’t the time yet. She would speak to him eventually, but she'd been working up to it. "Not yet, he looked busy. I’ll see him tomorrow." "No pressure, Cupcake. I only asked. So, about that drive…" He nibbled on her neck and then sighed. "Look I think we need to talk okay? And don’t take this bad…it’s really a good thing." She felt her expression change uncertainly. "Okay…" He smiled. "We should sit. I’m really kinda nervous." "Sitting is good." Nodding a little too quickly, she swallowed and sat on the couch. He sat next to her and started to say something, then stopped, rubbed his hand on ~112~

the back of his neck, and then tried to talk again and failed. He looked up at her and shook his head. "You are so beautiful, you know that?" "You know, I think someone has mentioned it before," she answered sarcastically before sighing, mentally fighting off her rising panic. "We don’t have to do this now, Button…we really don’t." Her hand went to his knee squeezing it reassuringly though who she was reassuring she didn’t know. "Why don’t we take that drive, or a walk even…we could take Linus." He shook his head. "Linus is with Cash getting fatter by the second. And I need to say this. And I know it’s going to seem sudden, or insane, even a little pathetic, but, I…I want you, Snow. And I want you to want me. And I know you kinda do, at least sexually, and that’s a start, but, I, shit…I feel like I’m back in high school." He sighed. "I want your heart and soul." She smiled speechless; he wanted her. At least he thought he did. She smiled at him. Unable to find the right words to convey her feelings, she did the only thing she could. She kissed him, long and thoroughly, climbing onto his lap to gain more contact with him. When the kiss ended, she pulled back, resting her forehead on his. "You don't even know me, Arcady." "Yeah, well, we can work on that. Snow, you have to understand. I’m an incubus. I don’t react to a woman till after I have fed off her essence. With you, god, I react in seconds. It was the same way with my parents. My dad knew my mom was the right woman for him for the very same reason. I know it’s right, not to mention I haven’t ever felt like this in my life, for anyone. Snow, you’re perfect for me. And on the flip side of that coin, you don’t know me very well either." "True, but you can't be worse than me…I have a lot of not so fond memories, some things I was forced to do, but most I've done willingly." And most of those things still haunted her; she wetted her bottom lip gaining a few seconds. "I do like you, Arcady, most likely a lot more than like but…" He kissed her then and grinned. "No room for but, Luv. I want you, and I want to take care of you." She smiled at him; his enthusiasm was becoming infectious. "Well, I do need a lot of taking care of." He smirked. "That you do. Look, I’m not trying to push you into anything. I rarely get this strong a feeling about anything, and I have learned to go with my gut. You send me, Snow, and I won’t give that up." "I hope you don't." She kissed him again. "I really do." "Snow, listen, about Russia, and Dimitri…I didn’t know you guys were…and I’m sorry that…" He blushed. Sighing, she shrugged. "We weren’t good together…well no, that’s not true. It would never have ended well. We were bad for each other, and he couldn’t be what I need." She smiled tentatively at him. "Like I said, I take a lot of looking after." "That’s fine by me. I need something to occupy my time" "Then with a little luck, we'll be fine." "And understanding. I didn’t wanna talk about it now, but…Well, how do you feel ~113~

about my incubus status?" "Well, what will it mean? You can’t help being what you are." "True, I just don’t want to upset you. I mean sex is a part of what gives me power and keeps me young. I can feed off you, but not without cravings from your end, and I don’t want you bound to me because of that." He sighed, clearly stressed. "With my parents, it doesn’t matter, not with their lives and their careers, but I don’t ever want you to feel cheap or unloved because of my tendency to have to feed from other women. I can do it partially from a distance…" he offered, his eyes pleading as he looked at her. "I…" She sighed. "I don’t think it'll be a problem, Arcady. Sex is…well, you don’t always do it because you want to." She smiled weakly. "I know what it’s like to need sex for your fix. How often are we talking?" "Monthly? Maybe more? I don’t know honestly, seeing as I haven’t gone a week without feeding since I was seventeen. There are a lot of factors involved, too." "What kind of factors? I'm sorry, but I don’t know much about the incubus or succubae." He smiled, genuinely happy. "Well, that’s good. Occasionally, if there’s more than one person involved, the feedings last longer, and if they are a member of the Eververse instead of human, the energy is more pure, not as pure as yours though. God, I haven’t fed from you yet but feeling it…" He shuddered. "And I don’t feed without permission. There’s the off chance that the person can get addicted…" He rattled off a few minor nuances, such as feeding deeper in the mornings and twilight and then sighed. “It’s a lot. We might have the easiest power, but it comes with many rules.” "Okay, so what do your parents do that makes the rules different? And you know you can feed off me all you need; I don’t think you'd be too bad a thing to get hooked on." He grinned and kissed her. "Well, that’s good to know. It’s just a courtesy really. And my parents, Mandy and Pete, are in the porn industry." She laughed. "Well, that must have made for an interesting upbringing." "Not really, I mean any place other then Los Angeles, yeah, but things are so surreal there, it’s common place for someone or another’s parents to be in the adult industry. It just so happened me and Electra were that someone or another. Kept us popular though. Well, kept Electra popular." "Only her? I can see you being very popular in school, Button." She played with the collar of his shirt. He smiled. "I wasn’t. To look at me now, you wouldn’t know it, but I wasn’t popular at all. I was probably one of the biggest geeks you’d ever met." "I've been a whore for a long time…so I doubt that a lot. You'd be surprised at the geeks I've…met." "Maybe. But being the son of one of the major producers in the industry and a geek to boot did nothing for me. I was scrawny, had acne, braces…it wasn’t till I went away the summer of my sixteenth year for training at the courts that I filled out. Once there, my incubus side took over, and well, I kinda turned into what you see now in a matter of two months. Shocked the kids I went to school with, I’ll tell you, though my senior ~114~

year was fun." "I bet." She laughed. "I wasn’t one for school," she said quietly. Getting to her knees, she searched around his head, picking through his hair and ears like a monkey. "Well, I see no residual geek effects, so I think we'll be okay." She winked at him. "Well, it’s the things you don’t see. Like I graduated top in my class, and I’m a wiz with numbers. I just do the hit man thing cuz it’s amusing, and I get to kill people. Not to mention I get to meet beautiful and exotic women like yourself though I think that time has well and truly passed, Cupcake." She grinned and nuzzled him. "I think it has." He growled and pulled her more fully onto his lap, settling her over his erection. "God, you see what you do to me, Cupcake? No woman has ever done that to me." "Good…I love that I can affect you like this." She moaned as her lips moved to his neck. He groaned and sighed. "We can’t right here. Heaven forbid Fallon finds us; he might be okay with what he doesn’t see, but he’ll murder me slowly if he sees this…" "Mmm…I guess you’re right." She pouted. "So, are we still taking that ride? I've been cooped up all day." "Yeah, I think that’s a fine idea…" he said a mischievous glint in his eye. She grinned getting off him, taking his hand. "Well, let’s go then…"

~115~

Chapter Nineteen Dimitri stepped out of his baby blue BMW and onto the curb outside the Crypt shop, putting his sunglasses on and smoothing his dove grey suit jacket onto his lithe frame. She had been here about a few days now with the incubus, and he hadn’t heard from her yet. It probably was a good sign, that or she had killed everyone and was taking a detour into crazy. Either way, he owed her an explanation. Cole had been wonderful so far, their rekindled relationship fairing well. She was even better than he remembered, and exactly what he always wanted. Beauty, a wild streak, but able to be the sweet, demure creature she truly was on a regular basis. With her, there was no pretense; it was just Cole, and he loved her for it. Snow was so much of what he thought he needed, but really, once he saw her with the incubus, he knew what they had had was over. It was just as well. Morrison would treat her well, and care for her, if she let him, and Dimitri was sure she would. This time, her leash didn’t exchange hands. The incubus had taken the choke collar off, and Dimitri hoped he’d be able to handle it in the end. He couldn’t be here in the same town with her and not see her though, no matter how painful it had the potential to be. He needed to see she was happy and okay, that she was adapting to everything. But most of all, he needed to tell her he missed her. The doors to the Crypt were large and art deco, something that matched with nothing on the buildings façade, and he guessed the witch had installed them, to give the storefront a bit of flair. He checked his watch and saw it was well past ten and sighed, walking to the door and opening it, a merry jingle coming from the fairy bells attached to the door. The interior was wooden and screamed of an English gentleman’s library, with subtle hints of feminine flair here and there. Vases of irises and gladiolas were strategically positioned, and the spiral staircase was hung with a muted blue silk valance covering the railing slats. The witch had taste; he had to grant her that. No doubt, it was one of the reasons Cash had chosen her. He was always a sucker for a woman that accessorized well. He took his sunglasses off and surveyed the room, the books upon books that lined the walls and got a tranquil sense of peace. It was so quiet here, and centering, he hardly saw the tall leggy brunette come through the door up on the second floor. Must be Ashlyn, he thought and smiled up at her. “Hello, I’m Dimitri, Cash’s brother,” he said and walked toward the stairs. “Is he in? Or Snow perhaps?” She looked down at him thoughtfully for a few moments before smiling. "No Cash is out with…" She frowned, not wanting to say any more.” As for Snow…I don't think she's expecting you." "Yeah, I’m sure she isn’t. I don’t even think she knows I’m in the country. I do need to speak with her though." Ashlyn looked back over her shoulder clearly considering her answer. "Do you think that’s wise? She's happy here…" ~116~

"That’s why I want to see her. I just need to close our book so to speak." He sighed, not sure why he was even justifying himself to this woman. She clearly cared for Snow’s feelings, and he admired that. She fixed him with a hard stare. "Okay…she's in the house; it’s this way." She motioned for him to come up the stairs. "But if you hurt her, in any way, I may be the closest to human here, but hell save you if you get me angry…" She threatened. He smiled. "I wouldn’t dream of upsetting her or you." "Good." She smiled, seemingly satisfied with his answer. "So, growing up with Cash…lord that must have been hell. He's such a spoiled prick sometimes." "He’s the heir to the Conglacio throne…and I have heard that people think so, but he never was like that with me. If anything, I’m the spoiled one." She laughed. "Well, you obviously haven’t seen him when it comes to the last piece of pie. He thinks he can pull age and rank on me." She snorted. "In this house, it’s whoever gets there first." She laughed then turned suddenly, offering him her hand. "Sorry, I'm Ashlyn. I tend to rant a little too much and forget my manners." He took it and kissed it. "I know who you are, and family doesn't stand on propriety. And about the pie? He was like that at home, too. Then I would just stick my fingers in it, and he would freak…he doesn’t like people touching his pie." He winked. "And that’s free advice." She laughed, still holding onto his hand. "I just tell him that I licked all the pieces before they went out. It stops him long enough for a grab." She smirked and let his hand go, turning and leading him into the main house. He chuckled and shook his head. "I would mention you shoving the pie down your pants, but something tells me he would go for it anyway." "Different kind of pie I think." She stopped at the corridor and pointed to the end. "I think she’s in the kitchen eating my ice cream. I don’t think I need to tell you to be gentle." She hugged him. "Good luck, and tell Cole I said hi." He smiled. "How?" She smiled and shrugged. "We're family; nobody keeps secrets here although she doesn’t know." He sighed in relief. "Thank you. Something like that, I’d get castrated if I didn’t tell her myself." "Yeah, and she'd do it, too. Be nice to her; she's like a little sister. She even sat through my whole collection of sappy, feel good movies without complaint. I can't even get Feyd to do that." He smiled. "You got it." Dimitri watched her leave down the corridor, her ass shaking seductively and shook his head, a small smile on his face. He walked the rest of the corridor and into the kitchen, seeing Snow sitting on the counter with a bowl of ice cream, swinging her legs. She was still so beautiful, so perfect, but she glowed now, with a different light, and he acknowledged it for what it was, knowing he was feeling the same way about him and Cole. He smirked and leaned against the wall with the phone on it, the walnut cupboards around the kitchen the darkness to her light. "Well, it looks like you’re having fun. ~117~

"Fuck!" She jumped, spoon clattering to the counter. He laughed and smiled." That’s a reaction I haven’t gotten from you in years." "I wasn’t expecting you this time. I remember when you used to stamp your feet a little to help me out. That's not good for my heart, D." She smiled at him although her eyes held an uncertainty, one that was announced in her next words. "What do you want?" "Just to talk, see how you’re getting on, and to apologize.” She visibly relaxed. "Okay, we can do that. You damn well should apologize, sending me halfway across the world on a flying piece of metal." She grinned, picking the spoon back up and wiping it. "And how come you never made me ice cream? Cash makes ice cream." He relaxed a bit. "I honestly don’t know how. It was one of those things he used to hold over me as a kid, twisted fuck that he is. How’s the incubus treating you?" "Yeah, he said he'd show me when he had some time. Maybe I'll let you in on the secret." She grinned wickedly. "Arcady's perfect; he treats me like a princess…not that I am, but it’s nice." "You’re more than a princess, Snow. I’m glad it’s okay for you. I want to apologize, Snow. I never meant for any of this to happen, but I’m glad it’s working out for the better." He sighed. "I don’t want you to have any regrets." "Well, I never did get to go to those hot springs." She stuffed another spoonful of ice cream into her mouth. "But I'm okay…I like it here; it’s safe. Arcady is always there for me. Of course I haven’t had any bad spells yet, but I don’t think I will, and if I do, he'll be there. I know he will." He smiled sadly. "He will." She returned his smile. "So, has Drake done his happy dance yet? You finally listened to reason and got rid of me." She dug for more ice cream from the tub. "I didn’t get rid of you, and I haven’t seen Drake. I couldn’t be what you needed, Snow. The incubus is what you need." "I know…I was talking from Drake’s perspective, not my own. I like it here. There are people; I like the company. Which is weird, I never had myself pegged as a social creature." "Stranger things have happened, Snow. Well, I’ll let you go then." He turned to go back the way he came. "So, what did you get?" she asked his retreating form. "For my soul I mean…we both know you wouldn’t have volunteered me, so he must have dangled a pretty big carrot in front of you. Was it worth it?" He stopped and shook his head. "It wasn’t about that, and it still isn’t. Fuck, Snow, I miss you so much. And I hate that I couldn’t be what you needed." "I know what I need, D…but what did you need?" The question was one he didn’t want to answer, not when he cared so much for her. Either way it was going to hurt her, and there was no way around it. He turned to face her as he spoke; it was the least he could do. "I saved two lives with giving you up. You have a man that adores you, will keep you safe and loved, and he does love, you know. " ~118~

"I know." "I couldn’t love you for all that you are, Snow, no matter how hard I tried to. Certain things will always upset me, and you’re at home with them. So is the incubus." She laughed despite the tears in her eyes. "You'll always be a pussy, D. So, the other life?" "Cole," he said simply, knowing he didn’t need to explain. She sighed and wiped the tears, nodding slowly. "It’s almost funny." "Please don’t cry. Snow, no matter what, I love you. You saved me, too." "I'm okay…" She looked up at him, her eyes free from tears. “You remember when you found me in the bathroom in the apartment, soon after we met?" It was something he wouldn’t forget, something that haunted him daily. "I do." "Well, that was what he told me, Drake I mean, that you loved her, and that no matter what I did, I would never fill her place by your side. Of course, he said it in a very colorful and cruel way." She sighed, her hand moving protectively over her belly. He shook his head. "I do love Cole, and that never had anything to do with the fact that I loved you. Snow, you are everything my family always wanted me to be, charming, ruthless, and brutal. I can order stuff done, but I can’t do it myself. It was your nature that drew me, and it still does. You’re my best friend, Snow. Cole? Honestly, Cole is the woman I thought I would marry. She’s a lady, regardless of what she does. She will never replace you for me because part of me will always want you, like part of me will always want her. I don’t know if that makes sense, but it’s the truth." "For what it’s worth, I'm glad you have her. I'm glad that you can be happy with her, the happiness that you couldn’t find with me. It doesn’t matter to me, D. You have her, and the two of you can be as happy as Arcady and I will be…" She sighed. "Once we talk things through…" "I just didn’t want things with us to stop you from following your heart. You know, at brunch that day, I saw how much you cared for him already. He can be yours completely, and you deserve that." "Yeah, I think I do, too. I mean I've got to have something coming, right?" She winked. "As for you and Cole, I wish you all the best. I really do although I don’t think I'll push to meet her just yet." He went to her and smiled. "When you’re ready, we’ll all do dinner. You know, she and your incubus were close, and it’s the same thing with them that it is for us. So, we are okay. I mean I can’t lose my best friend." "No, I won’t lose you over this, D…you’re my best friend, too. You were my only friend, but like said, I've made new ones." She hugged him. He held her, allowing himself to let go of his doubts about leaving her and about keeping Cole. "That’s true. Things okay with Fallon?" "I…well…" She took a deep breath. "I haven’t really spoken to him…not properly. Some things you just don’t know what to say." She was right, and he nodded. "Well, maybe that’s a conversation best left to lie as it is. If you’re both happy, it shouldn’t matter. I'm staying in town, Snow, at Cisco Towers, ~119~

if you need me I mean." He smiled. She pulled back from him smiling. "And I'm here if you need me, and you know my cell number." "I do. I should go though. I promised Cole I would meet her after her shift at Pinky’s for lunch. You take care of yourself and the incubus." "I'll try. You look after yourself and try to stay out of trouble." "You know me," he said with a smile and walked to the door then back out the way he came. There was nothing more they needed to say, not now anyway. She would have questions later on, once the incubus proposed, and he knew he would. You don’t see an incubus that was that entranced with a woman every day, let alone a prince of the courts. Snow would have court status with his race, especially once Cash gained the throne. The thought of having Snow as a sister made him smile as he walked out of the house to his car. Things were working out for everyone, and he was thanking whoever looked after his kind with every fiber of his being.

~120~

Chapter Twenty He hung up the phone on Sandor, stupid bitch. How could Dimitri not have told him that he’d finally pushed that no good whore aside? Finally seen sense, listened to him. He should have done it years ago. In Drake’s own opinion, she was only good for one thing, the filthy little bitch. So now, it seems she’d hooked up with an incubus. He shook his head, the stupid whore, not only was he an incubus but a Morrison to boot. The Morrisons were notorious, let alone the most recent one, this Arcady. She’d finally found someone who’ll treat her as she deserves, use her up, and spit her out. Even if that wasn’t the incubus’s intentions, Drake would make sure that that would be the case. He did after all have a promise to keep to the whore. The incubus would cut her loose eventually, and then, then he would be waiting for her. He could wait forever to have that whore at his mercy; he already had. A few more months would be nothing, and all he had to do was plant the seed. That little sprig of doubt with the incubus that would grow as he watched her. In fact it would almost be easy; the whore did all the work herself. He grinned grabbing his cell and calling the number Sandy had provided him. He waited for the incubus to pick up. "Morrison, who the fuck is this?" Drake blinked back his first retort. He wanted to befriend the youngster not drive him away, although it took him a few seconds to remember why. At least the voice had been helpful enough to point out who he was; Sandy had provided him with the correct number. His hatred of the whore kept his voice pleasant or at least not hostile. "My name is Drake. I'm a friend of Dimitri's. I work for him. I know your Alice." He paused on the name. He'd always called her whore, or Alice, never Snow, to him there was nothing as perverted as calling something so vile after something beautiful and light. He'd never looked at snow in the same way, another reason to hate the whore. Arcady's voice was tired. "Okay, you’re Drake, and you’re the prince’s enforcer, so naturally you would know Snow. So, what exactly can I do for you?” "Excellent, so you've heard of me, all good things I hope." He grinned knowing just what kind of reputation he had amongst the other demons. "You don't sound too hot there, cowboy. Have you got your balls stuck in your saddle?" "Funny. Try Jetlag. So? You didn’t answer my question." "Why am I calling? Well, I'm in a charitable mood, you see. D might be happy to pass her off without an instruction manual, and we can't blame him for that. However there are a few things I think you should know about your little fuck buddy; it should ease the re-homing process." "I think I know what I need to know about her, Drake, and anything else she can tell me herself." "Ahhh…so she hasn’t had an episode yet? Has she killed anyone? Attacked you perhaps?" He sighed. "I'm not trying to cause trouble, only warn you of possibilities, ~121~

things she might never tell you until it’s too late. You're tired. Let’s grab a coffee, and I'll say my piece; then I'll go. You don’t even have to listen, but it could save lives, most of all hers. I hear Cash isn't as lenient as his brother when it comes to random bodies lying around the house." "Well, I don’t think it’s Cash, so much as Astrid. The dog gets into a lot of things. I don’t wanna hear poison, Drake." "Poison?" He rolled his eyes, stupid boy. "You've obviously never caught her trying to hide a child’s body in the back garden. Like I said, I'm not causing trouble; I just want you aware of the things she's capable of. She's not like you or I." He sighed. "Then you'll listen to me. Dimitri is blinded by her; he always was. She's broken, beyond repair," he said truthfully. "That means she can't be fixed, not by you, not by him, and sure as hell not by a miracle. If you don't want to know her past from me, that’s fine, but I’ll tell you this. She's like a wild animal broken by zookeepers. You might think taking it home and trying to set it free is the best option, but it’s crueler. A wild animal might be pretty to look at, but it will eventually destroy your furniture and attack your friends. You know how many times she's attacked Dimitri?" He sighed. "Look, Drake, Ill meet you for coffee. Shit, I have to hit the butcher for Astrid as it is. Fifteen minutes at the brewery, I'll meet you there." "Excellent," he answered half surprised. "I'll meet you there." "Yeah." He hung up. *** The ride downtown was quick in Fallon's Porsche, borrowed because driving Astrid’s GTI made him doubt his masculinity. Astrid might be magnificently wealthy, but her taste in cars was atrocious. You would think that with all the money she had she would be driving something a little less urban suburban, and some might just blame it on her wish to blend in, but Arcady knew that she drove the same damn car when she lived in France. This Drake might pose a problem for his plans with Snow in the long run. He wasn’t sure what the bastard was to her, an enemy, a friend, or an old lover, but he was willing to bet that this was going to be a threat session. Not that it mattered. Arcady, against his previous better judgment, was well and falling for the woman, and nothing would change that. Still, he figured hearing what the party line was on the subject from a pretty much unknown source was a good idea. He had seen her torture the fuck outta the guy, cut his eyes out, and then kill the bastard, so he knew what she was more than capable of. He showed up on time at the coffee shop and walked in, noticing a tall man in the back checking out the waitress that was taking his order. Gotta be Drake, no one else looks as cocky as he sounds. He waked over and nodded, taking a seat. He flashed Arcady a smile. "Glad you could make it." "Yeah, no problem. So?" He turned and ordered a coffee from the girl practically salivating over the two of them. "Make it black and a double shot, okay?" The girl winked and walked off, and he just shook his head. "Can’t be more than eighteen, and ~122~

that’s being generous." He nodded. "But she'd still take it like a champ." "At that age they usually do. So, what can I do for you?" "Eight times, she's attacked Dimitri eight times…that he's told me of, stuck him real good, too. She got Cash twice." He smiled. "Yeah, she’s volatile, but I kinda like that. I’d show you the scar she gave me, but if I take off the shirt, well, our waitress might get on her knees and start begging." "She might be, but that feistiness that you love will become real old soon. D used to have a very nice polite housekeeper. Hell, I even liked the woman. I use past tense because she…fell victim to Alice. Of course we didn't bury her in the back garden. Her family still hasn’t been notified." "Considering what she’s been through in her life, granted I don’t know all of it." He raised up his hands. "And I don’t wanna know unless she tells me, but from what Fal went through that I know about, well, I’m surprised she’s even functioning as a sentient being. She needs a couple things in her life that I plan on giving her." There, he said it. If the fucker was the jealous lover, then he’d just have to deal with it now. He wasn’t backing down, and he wasn’t losing the woman that intrigued him so. "That’s very admirable of you. How does she feel? Being dragged away from her home, being brought halfway across the world?" "If there’s one thing Snow is, it’s a survivor. She’s more than fine, Drake." He smiled at him, then the girl that brought their coffee. He looked at the large concoction she brought Drake and gave him a quizzical look. "If you don’t mind my asking, what the hell are you drinking?" Drake looked at the drink. "It’s cold, and it has rum in it. That’s more or less the gist of it; the name’s long and unpronounceable. Really they should call it cold rum with a shot or two of espresso." He took a sip then offered it to him. "Wanna try?" He shook his head. "No thanks, me and rum are not friends in any way. I commend you for drinking this early on in the day though." He shrugged. "I hate coffee on its own, and where I've just been it’s close enough to night time." He took another sip. "So, as I was saying, she may be a survivor, but she's many other things as well. She’s lying and manipulative, and she has no qualms whatso-ever about using her body to get what she, or the person holding her leash, wants. Of course, that is, as well as being a ticking time bomb that is going to leave you with a whole lot of trouble once she starts killing the neighbors." Arcady chuckled. The guy did seem like he was speaking with Arcady’s best interest, but he knew better than to trust the bastard; something about him wasn’t right. The thought of stealing into his head was not one he was entertaining, so he put on his best concerned face and played the listener. "Well, I’m glad I’m hearing this now. I assure you if she becomes a handful, she will be dealt with." Drake smiled at him. "Why do you think she's here?" Arcady knew exactly why she was here because the demon wanted to keep his sorceress happy, and to keep her happy he had to keep Fallon happy. But Drake didn’t need to know the particulars. He nodded and sipped his red eye. "Indeed. Well, look, ~123~

Astrid has been stopping at the butcher to pick up what I think is half a fucking cow, so I should dash. Thanks for the heads up, mate." Drake sighed and shook his head. "You really think Casha gives a damn about her cousin? You think he's all for good will in that department? He's a demon, a damn good one, and he can and does use every situation to his advantage. She's only here because he needs Amos, and to get to Amos he needs you in his pocket." He downed the rest of his drink crunching on the ice. "Now, don't look at me like that. Personally, I don't like her. If I were you, I'd kill her. Fortunately for her, I'm me, and I don’t have the…political influence you do. She got her claws into my best friend, and he's never been the same. Don’t let her get to you, mate." Arcady winked and got up from the table, dropping a fifty. "For the coffee and your time, Drake." He turned and smiled to himself knowing the demon would see the disrespect for what it was and walked out into the dying sunshine. He was right. Cash did twist things to his own uses, but he couldn’t blame the demon. The man only wanted to get back to the Afterverse and was using all the means available to him to do it. If nothing else, Drake had made one point. Amos. Cash would do well with Amos as an ally. So what, it didn’t matter. Snow was all those things that Drake said, including impetuous and childlike, but that didn’t make him love her any less. The woman, had she grown up right, would still be the woman for him and no amount of her being broken was going to change that for him. He’d deal with it, and he’d help her through it; it was what you did when you loved someone. *** Drake grinned watching the incubus leave before gleefully picking the fifty bucks up. Hell, I even made fifty bucks, he thought to himself. Life was good. It had gone well; he hadn’t pushed too hard, and the incubus now knew the truth in the matter. He stood and left the shop without paying. He’d never seen the point in bartering with humans. He briefly considered waiting for the young waitress and taking the slut for a test drive but dismissed it quickly. He didn’t want it to be too obvious that he’d been here. Yawning, he headed out the door and began walking to Cherry Street, the place in Shadow Heights where you could buy anything for fifty bucks. He was in the mood to destroy something pretty. “I didn’t know you had friends here, Drake,” an angry voice sounded from behind him. He whipped around finding himself face to face with Cassiel. “Casha, you of all people should know that I have friends everywhere and…” “Shut up, Drake,” Cash silenced. “I’m not in the mood to hear you breathe, let alone speak.” Drake smirked looking the prince up and down. He certainly looked healthy and in full control of his powers. “Maybe I should go then.” ~124~

“Maybe. What are you doing here?” the demon asked smoothly. “Visiting a friend,” Drake retorted with an equally cool smile. The prince nodded and sighed. “I don’t want you here, or near here. In fact I liked it when you were in Marrakech and the only trouble you could cause was to yourself or Sandor.” “Can do, boss, I’ll get myself back there.” Casha nodded. “Yes, stay far away from myself or Snow. I need her. I don’t need you.” “Oh, I know all about your plans for her,” he bit out nastily. “I bet you don’t.” Cash leaned his back against the wall. Drake growled; she was a filthy whore for fuck sake. She was worthless, completely worthless. “You know she’ll never be sane; she’ll always be a fucking liability, always.” Cash nodded. “Yeah, as long as you stay within reaching distance. I know you, Drake. I know you and your sick mind. I know what you do, and I’m not my brother. I have absolutely no problem with gutting and staking you out on the fire plains. I’d personally love to watch you burn.” Yeah, but you’d have to get home first, you fuck. Drake held his tongue and nodded waiting for the prince to continue, which of course he did. Cassiel always loved to hear the sound of his own voice. “I’m Snow’s keeper now, and you’re never getting to her again, and if you try, I’ll feed you your own intestines.” The demon considered. “Maybe I’ll get her to do it. I’m sure she’ll get brave enough if you’re all tied up. Do you know why you’re still alive, Drake?” He nodded sullenly; he knew only too well how his brother and Dimitri had pleaded with Casha to keep his life. “Because of Oscar and Dimitri.” “You’re half right. I need my general, and I need your brother Oscar. I don’t really think Dimitri is in the position to deny me your death, and you know that you’re on thin ice with Oscar.” Cassiel smiled. “You’re running out of friends, and I’ll be waiting for that day and so will Snow. She’s going to be a princess, your princess, a Conglacio princess. Arcady is not stupid enough to fall for your lies, and then you know what that will make her?” Drake crunched his jaw, painfully. He had to be kidding; nobody would be that stupid, not Cassiel. He sighed growling softly. Dimitri would though he was always too soft hearted. “I do.” “Perfect,” Cash said joyfully. “Now stay the hell out of Shadow Heights. And if you go home, do send my regards to your brother, tell him to come and find me. I need a chat with him.” “I will, prince.” He bowed his head, seething in the inside. “Oh and Drake?” “Yes?” “Even think about betraying me to anyone, and your death will be an immediate certainty, and I’ll make Oscar do it, by law it’s his right. Now get the fuck out of my sight.” ~125~

He nodded, suppressing a growl at the insult. He would never betray his own kind. He may have disliked the prince, but even a fool could see he was the best thing for their people and indeed all the demons. Cash would never kill him. Oscar would never let him, but if he turned on the prince, then Oscar would have no choice. He blinked out of the street, leaving the town, the demon, and the whore well behind him. *** Snow stepped out of the shop with a smile on her face. She was convinced that she'd got at least a few things that would drive Arcady wild. She smiled thinking about him. He had to be the sexiest man she'd ever met. He'd kept her up most of the night. She loved the way her body reacted to him, and he was always treating her like a woman. Not something that she was used to, so it made a change; he was her shiny knight. She decided to take a shortcut through the alley. It would take about ten minutes off her journey, and she was really looking forward to getting back. She’d started walking down the street when she heard a scraping noise behind her. She took a quick glance around but saw nothing. She shook it off. The alley was filthy, and it was most likely a rat or a bum, sleeping out the daytime. Her thoughts went back to the day before when they’d taken a ride. He’d even let her drive. Well, for the whole of twenty minuets, which was a first. She kept on walking the theme tune to Fraggle Rock stuck in her head. She hadn't seen that show since she was seven, but for some reason this morning, she had woken up with it stuck in her head. When she got back, she was going to ask Arcady if he’d been humming it. One of the downside to his telepathy, bad songs became some sort of infectious disease. It wasn't much of a deterrent, but it was irritating. This time she felt more than heard anything, but there was something behind her. She twisted round just in time to miss the blade, which slashed through her coat and into her side. Somebody threw her across the alley and into the wall. She had enough time to gather herself before a tall grimy man pinned her against the wall. He brought the knife up to her throat before she could react. The blade was so close that if she swallowed, she'd slit her throat. "Listen, girly, I want it, and I want it now. I don't care if I have to cut every piece of flesh from your bones. You decide, lovey." Snow blinked, not sure what to do. She went limp in the man’s arms, nice and compliant. A smaller man came out from behind the tall one and started searching her. He opened her bags and whistled pulling out random bells and baubles, which had been such a good idea at the time. He eventually pulled back shaking his little head. “Nothing…Well not what we’re looking for although maybe she could try these on for us later.” He held up a bright blue thong. The big guy’s attention wavered, and that was all she needed. She flipped her arm over his, driving an ice shard deep into his upper arm. His knife fell harmlessly to the ground as she kicked the little guy on the head, pushing him back. Slashing at the big guy’s throat, she knew she’d only get one shot at it. Thankfully, her second ice blade ~126~

hit home, she felt it cut through to his spine. The stringy flesh snapped like elastic bands as his warm blood rushed over her. He gurgled and dropped to his knees, his hands moving to cover the gaping wound. Glaring, she faced the smaller man who took a step back. “Give us the spell, bitch.” Her side stung as her blood-drenched clothes stuck to it. She forced herself to ignore the pain needing to have both her hands free. She didn’t even have any spells. “I just can’t catch a break at all,” she muttered mostly to herself. “Gimmie the spell, and I’ll give you a break…” he answered greedily, darting toward her a step. A fresh blade glittered in his hand. She stepped back keeping her distance from him. “Look…I’d say I was pretty distinctive. You got the wrong bitch. I don’t have your fucking spell, but you have ruined my nice fucking day.” Her tone raised in pitch as she was talking ending in almost a scream. He eyed her over dubiously. “Sure, that’s what they all say. You’re bleeding out, pretty. I can out wait you.” He was right. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't gonna stop bleeding for a while. If she had any chance, it had to be now while she still had the advantage. God how she missed her boys. “So sure?” she asked cockily raising an eyebrow. “You ever been to Russia, little man?” She had to keep him talking, off guard. He’d make a mistake at some point. She iced her hand preparing it to call another blade. It was always an advantage to look unarmed. “No.” Fuck, well there went all chances of that line of conversation. “Why not? Scared? You must be…you aren’t much more than human, at least you have no power to speak of.” She grinned maniacally through the pain. “I’m all demon, baby. You know I have you beat any day of the week…It’s just a little nick, all this blood is your big friend’s,” she lied. “This’ll heal,” she lied again. “But by that point you’ll be dead. I always wondered what it was like…knowing that you’re taking the last few breaths of your life…” She grinned confidently. “Must be fucked up to know you got the wrong gal. You crapped it.” He growled. “You came from that house, the one with the French witch…you’re the one.” The house? Oh Arcady, what have you and Fallon gotten me into. Making a mental note to beat the crap outta one of them for info, she smiled. “Not the right one I’m afraid…I’m from Russia, and I haven’t been here all that long,” she said laying her adopted accent on thick. He cursed running his hand through his hair, and that was all time she needed. She turned and ran as fast as her wound would allow. He caught up with her quicker than she’d expected. She threw herself into him tipping them both off balance. They both stumbled and fell. She turned into him stabbing him repeatedly anywhere that she could. With a final shudder, he stopped moving. She lay with his body on top of her, his blood leaking over her. Her dress was ruined, but worst of all she still had a ten-minute walk to get back to Astrid’s. “Fuck, I better not have caught anything from you two dead fucks…just my luck, ~127~

survived this fucking long to get fucking aids from Shorty the world’s freakiest hit man…” She sighed and winced. She managed to cover up the bodies as best she could, throwing empty boxes over them. With any luck not many people will pass by anytime soon. It took some effort and the help of the big fuckers coat but eventually she managed to stagger back into Astrid’s. She was exhausted. Leaning heavily on the railing, she made it up the stairs. She paused outside Fallon’s room smiling and shaking her head, at the grunts and moans coming through. At least someone’s having fun, she thought to herself. She hobbled the rest of the way to her room, opening the door and collapsing onto the white sheets. She gently closed her eyes allowing herself to relax. She’d have to get Astrid to heal her side as soon as she and Fallon were finished. Sighing, she drifted off into a deep sleep.

~128~

Chapter Twenty-one Arcady walked into their bedroom, his mind already set. Regardless of what the demon had said, he didn’t believe Snow could ever lash out and harm him too bad. Not that a little rough and tumble with her was a bad thing, but he knew she needed to be treated like the lady she was, and he was prepared to do that, no matter what the cost. He hadn’t seen her since, well, before he got the call from Drake, and when he asked Feyd when he spotted him in the kitchen, he mentioned seeing her upstairs. So, here he was and no Snow. He turned to leave when he noticed the bedclothes, the dark red stain on the sheets, and the small spots of it on the blueberry colored carpet. They led to the bathroom, and he was at the door to the other room in seconds. She sat in the tub and looked none too good. She shivered slightly, and when he saw the blood…"Snow? Snow, baby, are you okay?" He approached the tub with caution, fearing the worst, or that Drake might have been right. It didn’t matter. She was hurt, and he was going to fix it. She lifted her head in his direction. "Dimitri, I…" She broke off as she saw him. Blinking slowly she cleared her throat. "Oh I…" She looked down to her side then fearfully back up to him; she shook her head then shrugged. He moved closer and kneeled down on the side of the tub and looked in. The dress above where the wound was had dried and had fresh blood clinging to it. He wasn’t sure what happened to her, where the hell she got hurt or worse, if she did it to herself. She was bleeding out, her lips a sickly pink. "Oh god, baby, what fucking happened? Shit. Snow please let me get you out of there. We need to see Asty; she’s gotta fix this." "No…I'm okay." She shook her head trying to move to the other side of the tub away from him. "I'm supposed to be here. I'm just catching my breath." Fuck what’s wrong. She is not doing well, and I don’t know how long I have before… his thought cut off as he turned to her and spoke. "Snow? You do know who I am right?" She took a deep sobbing breath holding it for a few seconds before letting it out. She shook her head. "I'm in America…I shouldn't be here." She looked over to the window. "After…can you take me back?" Seeing her in such distress shook him to the core. "If that’s what you really want, I will. Just let me help you. Please." She turned to him, shaking her head. "No…No, you do what you want, but I'm not going to help you." He sighed and moved closer, standing and lifting her from the tub, laying her down on the tile. She didn’t look good and had lost a hell of a lot of blood already. The wound, as he inspected it, was torn, and he knew it had hit something major, if only just nicked it. As much as he hated using the telepathy thing, this time it wasn’t an option. He couldn’t leave her alone, not when she was being so compliant. He closed his eyes for a moment to center himself and then reached out and brushed across Fallon’s Mind. ~129~

Mate, I don’t know what you’re doing, but get your ass with your witch to my bathroom now. Snow is fading. The strength of the call to Fallon was amplified, and his head ached with the sheer voracity of it. Shit, we'll be right there. Fal’s answer came back almost immediately. She whimpered wiggling in his arms trying to get away. "Shhh…Snowy, baby…please…don’t loose any more blood…please, darlin…we gotta fix you up, just don’t move. Baby, please." Her color was not improving, and the thought of her dying in his arms did not strike the right chord with him. Fallon…now. Getting there. He burst into the room the door smashing against the wall. "Shit!" He moved to them both, Astrid running in behind her. "Oh pilgrim, what have you done?" He moved to her tenderly wiping the hair from her face. "Snow? Can you hear me? See me? Christ, what happened?" he asked Arcady as Snow stirred. "Fallon?" she whispered hoarsely trying, weakly, to move toward him. "Yeah, baby girl, I'm here. Stop moving like a landed fish. You don’t want him to drop you, do you?" He took her hand squeezing it. Astrid moved closer but stayed out of their way, so they could get her settled. If she was fidgeting, the magic might not work, and she needed a clear head. The blood was everywhere. Arcady looked at her and then at Snow. "Snowy? Baby, please relax so Asty can look at your wound. She’s going to fix you right up…" She screamed kicking and wiggling harder. "No! Please…I'm ok, Fal tell them." She pulled him down to her. "Please, Fal…I can't. It'll only hurt more; you know what it’s like. Please…let me die. They can't hurt us if we're dead. The witches they heal, and then it starts again, please, don't let it. I'm not…" Fallon placed his hand over her mouth silencing her. She whimpered, her eyes rolling up to meet his. "That’s not where we are. Snow, you've had an accident. Astrid is my fiancée. She's going to help you, pilgrim, but you have to let her. If you don't, you'll die, and you don’t want that. You never wanted that. If you die, then they win. Do you want them to win?" She shook her head. "Good, they don’t deserve to. You're going to be okay; we're not letting anyone hurt you. It's just us here. You need to relax, pilgrim. Got it?" He looked at her, and she nodded. He sighed, removed his hand, and stepped away. Arcady’s heart was breaking. He wasn’t sure what she was talking about, but he knew Fallon knew. Whoever hurt her like this would pay dearly. The blood was still flowing, though slower, and the thought of losing yet another woman he cared so much about was killing him. He couldn’t, he wouldn’t allow her to go, not when he had just found her. "Asty?" Astrid moved closer and turned to Fallon. "I’ll need you as a ground again. I’m sorry, but Linus wouldn’t be much use here." She turned and placed her hands on Snow. "Arcady, love, please keep her still. This is a deep wound, and I’m going to need all my energy for this one." She called back to Fallon, "Ready?" Fallon nodded coming up behind her. "Hell yeah, I'm here," he said, his voice sounding a little strained. "It won’t be as bad this time. I’ll just need some of your strength." She closed her eyes, and when they opened, Arcady saw them change from the perfect blue they ~130~

always were to a dark and sinister grey. No matter how many times he’d seen her call her goddess, Ishtar possessing Astrid’s body always freaked him out. Astrid sighed and spoke, her voice resonating on the walls and vibrating the glass. The goddess was in control now, as she always was when Astrid did deep magic. The words were from another time, a language he’d never heard and was sure Astrid herself didn’t know. Like clicks, pops, and seductive whispers, the power in the room grew heavy. Where her hands were placed filled with light, almost to the point of blinding, and the room got warm, then cold, as Astrid’s eyes changed back and her demon powers kicked in. Cash would no doubt be feeling the pull on him as the goddess had tapped both powers to save Snow’s life. As she removed her hands, the wound was gone, a slight pinkish scar over where it had been. Astrid herself woke from her pseudo trance and gasped, slumping forward. She coughed and looked up. "Is she okay?" Snow curled peacefully against Arcady's chest. Fal smiled shaking his head as he helped Astrid stand. "I think so. You’re not going to try and kill any of us, are you?" "Nope, but I think I'm okay to stand, Button." She smiled at Arcady. "Thanks." "Stand my ass. You’re going to bed, once the sheets are changed.” He looked at Astrid who was still panting and was now curled in Fallon’s arms. "Take the rose room. I'll call tomorrow and have this all cleaned up." She looked at her fiancé and smiled. "I need our bed and you. Please, Cookie." Arcady looked at Fallon and nodded. Snow will be fine. Tend to your witch, she needs it. That time was very scary. Ishtar doesn’t usually intervene with demons. She must like Snow. Ill let you know if shit changes. He hefted Snow and turned to Astrid kissing her on the lips. "I thank you little sister. And I owe you." She shook her head and closed her eyes snuggling into Fallon. "Take care of her." Fallon smiled winking at Arcady. "Okay, Vixen, we're headed to bed." He picked up Astrid easily, shimmering her out of the room. Arcady shook his head and looked down at Snow. "Cupcake, baby, we need to get you out of these clothes and into bed." He got them to the rose room minutes later and set her on her feet unzipping her dress and letting it slide to the floor. She was perfectly beautiful standing there naked and a little self-conscious, and he smiled. "I’ll get you a robe." She nodded fidgeting with her hands. "Thanks." He moved around her and got the robe that was hanging in the closet, the one he knew Astrid kept in all the rooms, big and fluffy and comfortable. He walked up behind her and wrapped it around her, and Snow slid her arms through the sleeves. "Snow, baby, what happened? It’s okay if you don’t wanna tell me, but, god…I almost lost you. You didn’t do that to yourself, did you? Cuz you wanted to go back to Dimitri I mean?" He looked at her for reassurance, his manner almost like a child. She frowned meeting his eyes. "No…I don’t do that, and I can't go back to Dimitri. I don’t want to although I understand if you want me gone after that. I…sometimes get like that, well never like that, I'm not very well." She shrugged, pulling the robe around her. "Sometimes I get upset and…My head doesn’t work so well. I forget. Of course, I'm not normally leaking blood at the time. I knew D wasn’t going to come, but I didn't know why." She sighed. "I'm sorry, but sorry doesn’t get it done, I didn't mean…I'm ~131~

glad you found me, thank you." "Oh, Cupcake. Don’t apologize. I don’t want you to go either. Are you okay though? Someone did that to you. Tell. Me. Who." He gritted his teeth and shook his head, his fingers itching to go for his gun. She shook her head. "I don't know…They didn't know me. There were two of them, men. One was tall and bald; the other was short and bald. He was really short, shorter than me. He was quicker than me, too. I wasn't paying attention; it was my own fault, and they wanted something." Yeah, he had a pretty good idea what the fuckers wanted. "What happened? And where are they now?" "I was shopping, in Cherry Street. They must have been following me for a while. I didn't even know." Her frown deepened. "I don't remember seeing them once. I wasn’t paying attention, but I should have seen them. I have a pretty good danger radar. I took a shortcut. They got me then…" She paused swallowing hard. "Tried to question me." "Question you? About what?" She shook her head. "No clue, they really thought I was someone else. Weren’t expecting my ice either. They’re dead by the way. I covered the bodies as best as I could. I got back here and Fal and Ast were busy, and I didn’t want to bother them. I really didn't think the wound was so bad. I went to bed and fell asleep. That’s when I freaked out. I think they wanted a spell…" Arcady went pale. "The fucking spell? Shit." He’d have to talk to Fallon right away. "Fuck, Cupcake, I’m sorry. I didn’t know people were here." He moved to her cautiously. "Arcady, I could have hurt you…" "But you won’t, and I wear your scar with pride. I won’t let the witch heal it." She sighed, sitting on the bed. "Don't be so sure. I'm capable of a lot of things, Arcady." "Oh I know that, but hurting me is not one of those things. It’s scripture." He grinned at her, went to his knees, and wrapped his arms around her waist, laying his head in her lap. "But I didn't even know you…" Her hand moved to his head, stroking his hair. "Tell you what though, you did smell good." "You knew me, at least part of you did." He grinned at the comment she made about his scent, his hands rubbing her calves. "I’m just glad you’re okay." He would have to go with Fallon and fix the damage she left in the Cherry Street district, but first, well, he had to take care of her. She was the only thing that mattered really, her happiness and well-being. "Me, too. It’s scary not knowing. I should have expected it though it’s been a strange week. So, what spell were they looking for?" He sighed. "Fallon and Feyd's employer, that Nazi porn king looking mother fucker, is after a scroll spell. Apparently, it was tracked to Ash, and when she didn’t have it, the boys started looking elsewhere. Seems their lack of results has made the asshole send in other talent. Useless talent." ~132~

"For which I am grateful. If they were good, I'd be dead." She sighed. "You know, I'm used to people wanting me dead for who I am…I'm kinda insulted to be mistaken for someone else, Ash of all people. I'm pretty distinctive ya know." "Well, I'm sure they didn’t have any intel on things other than she was at the mansion, which is bad, and I’ll have to tell Fal and Feyd and Cash for that matter. You and Asty I’m not worried about; you just proved you can take care of yourself, even if you didn’t come out unscathed. Asty, well, she’s just plain scary when the goddess calls. But Ash is going to have to be careful." He thought back to the evening with Fallon when they met up with Georgie at the hotel, the night Fallon had his breakdown, and he cursed. "And if they are looking for a girl here, that means that Georgie is giving away secrets. I think the fucker just signed his own death warrant." "We get to kill someone?" she asked gleefully. "And unscathed my ass, if someone had mentioned that it was dangerous to go outside, I would have been careful." “Honestly I didn’t know. Feyd and Fallon have the damn scroll in the safe. Dante found it right before I left, I should know I paid for the fucker." "Okay back up, who's Dante? And Georgie, for that matter." He looked up at her and laughed. "Dante is an associate, lives here. If it’s for sale, Dante can find it. And Georgie? He’s a fucking dead man walking. He’s the intel guy for Fallon and Feyd, and he’s a high handed sick, son of a bitch." "I already don't like him. So, when does he die?" He laughed. "Oh I think Fal and Feyd are going to wanna play with him a bit. So, we’ll have to see, but I don’t think he’s long for this world, especially after your cousin finds out." He kissed her slightly exposed thigh and let his tongue dart out. She moaned softly. "Mmmm…Good, fucker deserves it." She gently touched her side. "So, you going to be okay? I mean Asty fixed you up good, but I don’t think you should be alone." "I feel fine, a little shook up, but I'll live." He kissed her leg again. "Good. We need to talk, Cupcake, but it can wait." "Yeah…I know." She bent down kissing the top of his head. "I'll be okay, Button." "I’m going to make sure of that." "You know I'll hold you to that." "I was kinda hoping for that." He shifted and looked up at her. She smiled down at him. "I…need a shower." His smile, turned to a lascivious grin as his hand, now on her thigh, moved slightly, and his index finger played swirls on her thigh. "Umm, well yeah, I would think you do, dried blood and all. You want some help? Or maybe just some company?" The thought of a shower with her got him hard. The woman was such a goddess and something he truly didn’t deserve. She laughed parting her legs slightly for him. "Well, there are some really hard to reach places." He growled. She still was interested in him so that was a very good sign. He kissed the inside of her thigh and then looked up. "I’m going to pass, love. You’ll be okay, and ~133~

I need to mention to Fallon and Feyd about your little encounter. So, you shower and relax. I’ll be here in a little while and maybe we can have that talk?" She pushed at him, her smile not quite reaching her eyes. "You're a tease; it’s bad form to offer then turn me down." "I didn’t turn down, love, nor could I. I just don’t want a quickie, and you’re too precious for that. I told you, a woman like you should be worshipped and enjoyed till she’s thoroughly spent." He got to his knees and kissed her fiercely. "And I intend to enjoy you and to let you enjoy me as well." "You’re such a smooth talker." "Maybe but its true." He kissed her again. "So deal? You shower, I take care of your little body problem and then…" He let his words trail off, not committing her to anything. She bobbed her head up and down. "Then we'll talk."

~134~

Chapter Twenty-two Fallon sighed, the day’s events playing heavily on his mind. It was to close to home, too close to reliving the past somewhere that he’d sworn never to go back to. Snow had shaken him, dredged up memories better left forgotten. On the good days, he could forget about the witches, and he’d never made the connection to Astrid and those women in his uncle’s pocket. But to Snow, Astrid was just a witch, and witches were all the same. He’d believed that once, long before meeting the witch of his dreams. He needed a drink, a long drink, but he needed to make sure Astrid was as okay as she claimed to be. She lay on the bed her breathing still heavy and labored. He sat gently next to her, laying a comforting hand on her shoulder. It was as much as he could give in his current state. He’d be fine in an hour or so, but at this very moment in time he was a little jumpy. Forcing himself closer to her so that the line of their bodies touched, he put his arm awkwardly around her. He prayed that she didn’t notice; she needed him to at least appear strong. She needed him, not the train wreck that he was currently feeling inside. “Are you sure you won’t let me get you anything?” he asked her for the third time. "No, Cookie. I’m okay. Channeling the goddess was just a lot more intense this time. I think it’s my connection with Cash." "Yeah, I'm half expecting the demon to break down the door, demanding to know what went on." "Well, if I’m this wiped, he’s worse. He won’t be here I don’t think." She looked at him and gave him her best smile, touching him. "The question is are you okay?" "I'll live," he answered quickly, smiling. "Yeah, you will, but are you okay? That was very wild, and I have never seen you that scared." "It has been a while." He smiled weakly. "I'm going to be just fine. Hell, I barely did anything; you did all the hard work." "You did more then you know, Cookie. And thank you for grounding me. It wasn’t too unpleasant, was it?" "Not as bad as the first time, and it was for a good cause." "A very good cause. She will be fine, and I can do a light healing on her to remove the scar if she wants." She looked over as they heard a knock at the door. "It’s either Feyd or Arcady, baby. You better answer it." "It could be someone else." He stood, guiltily feeling better as he distanced himself from her. Sometimes close contact was just a little too much. This was one of those times. He strode to the door and opened it revealing Arcady. He frowned, hoping to god Snow hadn’t had another accident; he couldn’t handle that twice in one day. "Is everything ok?" "She’s fine, in the shower and all. But, she was attacked in Cherry. Two guys looking for a spell." His face was serious and graven, and he looked past Fallon to Astrid. "Asty, ~135~

love, I owe you one." Fallon swore. "Fuck, I'm gonna kill that prick…slowly. He doesn’t even think we have the damn spell just wants to cause trouble. What about the guys? They still around?" he asked pretty sure he already knew the answer. Snow was many things, but she was still his little cousin. "Nope and we are on clean up. She hid the bodies. I’m sure I know where. She’s tough. I gotta give her that." Astrid laughed and shook her head. "Yeah, always was," he said quietly. "So, we better get out there before the cops find them." He grinned grateful of the excuse to leave. He'd be back in an hour or so, and he'd be in a cuddling, comforting mood although he now had to spend time with Morrison, who no doubt had his questions. Fal could do with that he decided, as long as he kept his distance. Morrison wasn’t the touchy feely type. Feyd, on the other hand, might have earned himself a stab wound or two, but Morrison knew not to cross the line when Fal was obviously on edge. "That’s exactly what I was thinking, and maybe picking up Chinese." He grinned and winked at Astrid who nodded and asked for moo shoo pork. Arcady nodded. "So, you ready?" He nodded. "Let’s do this. I always seem to be hiding bodies when you're around. I'll be back as soon as I can, Vixen," he told Astrid then left quickly. Arcady and Fallon left the house, and Arcady looked at Fallon. "Ast creeped you out, didn’t she?" "Ast?" He stopped walking. "No, she could never creep me out." "You left that room like a bat outta hell, only too eager." "Yeah? And?" "Never mind. Look, thanks for helping me with this." He shrugged and started walking. "Don't mention it. It was Snow's mess. I'm helping her as much as I am you. Plus, I needed some fresh air anyway." They walked through the district in relative silence when Arcady looked at Fallon. "I’m going to ask her, Fal." "Ask her what?" "To stay. I mean I’m not the best choice for the girl, my nature and all, but…" "I don’t think she's going anywhere, and I don’t think she really can be picky about natures." "Maybe. Being an incubus isn’t going to be easy on our relationship." "Well, it's not going to be easy; it never is. Even if you were both perfectly normal humans, it’s not easy. It’s the fighting that makes it worthwhile…did you tell her that you loved her?" Arcady looked at him and blinked. "And risk her freaking and running off?" They had reached the alley Snow had mentioned, and they walked down it, both searching for some sort of sign. "True, I guess. But she has to know that it’s real…maybe that word will help her. It might not…I really don’t know her all that well." He sighed and cocked his head, pointing to the wayward foot a few yards up. "True. ~136~

I told her when I got back we could talk. I’m not losing her, Fal." Fallon grinned nodding. "Yeah, the two of you should talk…there’s a lot that’s happened, to both of you. I suppose that knowing leads to understanding, and understanding her is gonna be a crappy job. Personally, I don't want to know. I know the start of the story, and I don't think the middle of it gets much better." He walked over to the foot. "But it worked for you and Asty though. The whole spilling of intimate secrets?" "Yeah, I guess." He moved the cardboard box covering to reveal a large body covered in blood. "It must have. I haven’t seen her this happy ever." "It did work, and we are happy…but I dunno. She was pretty far gone today. I don’t know if she'll ever recover…" "Astrid? Or Snow?" "Snow and stop asking me if Astrid freaked me out. I’ve seen her worse…she could never scare me." Arcady chuckled and shook his head. "I don’t know about Snow, but I’ll tell you, the woman is stronger than she knows. I think in the right environment she will recover. Maybe not forget, but…" "Well, let’s hope that you can give her that…didn’t you say there were two bodies?" He pointed to the dead man. "That’s one." "Yeah, I’m glad you can count, negative Nancy. So, where the fuck is the other?" He laughed. "Nancy? Fuck, you have been around Feyd too long. I have no clue." Arcady shook his head and sighed. "She said they were both dead. Otherwise how the fuck would she have gotten away?" “Well, I don’t know. Maybe we just need to look around." He started lifting other trash from the side. "God, where’s an Aspectus demon when you need him." "Last I heard, and I do mean heard, he was with Ash in the suite." Fallon chuckled and shook his head. "Yeah, they're still celebrating. Which is why we have to have Chinese tonight…And I don't see you doing much lifting or looking." He grumbled, trying not to grimace as his hand touched something wet and soggy. He chuckled and rummaged through where the first body was, moving it aside. "Nope not here, though this fucker is heavy." "Well, he is pretty tall." He lifted a few more things in the dark alleyway. "This is disgusting; there could be anything here, rats. Spiders…" He felt something run over his hand, and shimmered away, suppressing an unmanly shriek. "I'm not looking anymore, not without gloves…and Feyd." He crossed his arms. Arcady laughed and shook his head, peeking around the garbage can and smirking in triumph. "Eureka, how the hell she got him back here is beyond me." "Well, he does look kinda small. Maybe he was the first one, or the last one coulda been dragging her behind there." He shrugged. "Where should we put them?" "There’s a swamp just north of here or the landfill east." "One in each I think…shouldn’t take too long. I'm so taking this out on Georgie’s hide." ~137~

"Well, I agree. I think we should take care of him. He’s become a liability. Obviously Asty and Snow can take care of themselves, but Ash…If it was her…" He let the words trail off and shook his head. "This situation needs to be dealt with quickly." "Yeah, it does. Feyd's gonna freak when he hears this…but, as much as I want to, we can't kill George now. We're not ready to declare war with Fallwell. We need a few more days." "Agreed, and a little bit more preparation. We’ll just have to watch the girls." "Yeah…let’s leave the scroll part out of the story when we tell him. I'd really hate to knock him on his ass in front of Ashlyn." He grinned picking up the smaller body and throwing it over his shoulder. "You know you’re better built for body hauling." "True, but my ass can’t teleport." "No…but a birdie told me that you could blink into those Ley-Lines." "Well, then we both have secrets no one knows, don’t we?" He smirked and picked up the other body. "Secrets don’t stay for long in this place ya know. I think shorty here and I are bound for the dump, that guy’s too tall. Do you recognize either of these guys?" He nodded to the guy Fallon was hauling. "Slade came in around the same time I left. I’m surprised you never met him. This meat sack though he’s got to be hired out." "Fuck no…his name’s Slade? Shit, that’s most likely the reason they kept us away from him right there. He kept us away from potentially volatile situations. Besides, you know how Feyd is around little people." Arcady rolled his eyes and shook his head. "Yeah, yet he’s still okay around Bateman." "Define okay, and that’s only cuz I've been telling him not to kill him for the past eight years." He swore. "It’s been that long? God, it's kinda scary. We're finally getting to kill the prick." The grin on Arcady’s face was priceless. "And I want in on that, too. Look let’s get this over with. I have a date." "We'll all be in on it…Sure, I'll see you back home." He grinned. Arcady blinked out with the man over his shoulder, leaving Fallon in the alley alone. Fallon shook his head. "Sneaky son of a bitch…and here all this time he's had me shimmering around after his ass." He grinned and used his own powers to take him out of the alley feeling much better.

~138~

Chapter Twenty-three Snow finished her shower and wrapped her blue silk dressing gown around her. She still felt off. Partly it was because of her incident earlier on, but mostly it was because of this talk. She didn’t want to talk about it. Most of the memories were so far hidden that she couldn’t bring them up if she tried. How could she tell him about things that she didn’t even admit to herself? She settled down on the bed, pulling the covers up over her. He had to know, and she knew that. If they were going to have anything together, then he had to know. Dimitri knew, well he knew most of it, but even at that he’d guessed, and never once asked her directly. It wasn’t even as if she knew where to start explaining or if she could. She sighed closing her eyes. Maybe she could be asleep, and then they could talk tomorrow. She willed herself still, trying to relax. The clock ticked loudly, and the light from the bathroom filtered brightly onto the floor. She turned around starting again. The clock was really starting to annoy her. A few turns later and she’d given up. She’d never been able to fall asleep by herself, not until she was exhausted and sleep deprived. She sat up pushing the covers back. She couldn’t do this. It was too much way too soon. What if he didn’t want her, if he heard it all and decided that she wasn't what he wanted? Sure he said now that he wanted her, but once he heard, made his own decisions. She shook her head; it would never happen, and if it did, it was his loss. She had a few quirks and occasionally became twitchy and killed people. Apart from that and her glaring insecurity coupled with her neediness and…She shook her head cutting off her thoughts. That was the wrong line of thought to go down. She had a lot of faults, and most of them couldn’t be fixed with a magic wand. She sighed settling herself back down. She wasn’t that girl anymore. Alice Ipwhisk had died the day Dimitri gave her a new life. He’d given her a choice, and she became something of her own making, something she could live with. She laid back curling up into a ball and looping her hands under her knees. She’d just have to wait for him, hope he understands, and hope he still wanted her at the end of it all. She yawned closing her eyes and listening to the ticking of the damn clock. Arcady walked in minutes later to see her cuddled on the bed and smiled. "You awake, Cupcake?" She considered lying and faking sleep but gave up. Turning to him she smiled. "Yep, I don't sleep too well on my own. Plus, that clock's gonna get Frisbee’d outta the window in a moment if it doesn’t shut up." He laughed and walked to the bed, shrugging his jacket and rig off, then sitting down and taking his boots off and his belt. Looking more relaxed, he settled next to her, stretching out. "Well, everything is taken care of. And I think Fallon is pissed that I can use the lines." "Yeah?" ~139~

He shook his head and chuckled. "I think so, in a 'you dirty rat' kinda way. So? Was your shower good?" "Uh huh…I got clean. No more nasty blood. Did you get the guys?" "Yep, everything has been taken care of.” He sighed. "Listen, Snow, I have been thinking. What would it take for you to stay with me?" "Stay? Well, not much, I mean I haven’t got any plans on leaving anytime soon. I don't really have free reign on where to go, and there’s not really anywhere else I can go…" He sighed. "That’s not what I mean. Snow, I want you, any way I can have you, dating you, living with you, I don’t care. I want you to be with me." She nodded. "Well yeah…I think we can do that. But I don't want anything from you for it. I'm not entirely sure about proper dating protocol, but I'm pretty sure that there’s no payment involved." "No there isn’t." He chuckled and then smiled. "But Snow, I’m an incubus. We aren’t supposed to date. This is going to be hard." "Well, it'll be something different, for both of us…I don’t expect it to be easy, nothing ever is." "Don’t I know it. But I want this to be real and real means just me and you, just us. Word has it that’s a relationship though you wouldn’t know it to look at Astrid and Fallon, though they do try. I don’t know how that’s going to work, considering the fact that I have to feed. I’m willing to try though. You’re too important for this not to work." She nodded. "Can we actually do that though?" "I’m going to try. I mean it can be done, my parents do it. And truthfully? I don’t want anyone else." "Are you sure? I'm not telling you otherwise, but I'm…flawed." "Flawed? Darling, you’re talking to an incubus prince. Flawed is what I do best. But you’re not flawed, Cupcake. The woman I love isn’t flawed, and I do love you." She blinked. "Really? Love? Like really? Me?" He grinned and moved to her pulling her into his arms. "You. I love you. Have since you threw that ice shard at me." She giggled cuddling into him. "Well, that’s just crazy. But I like it…I like it a lot." She stroked his arm absentmindedly. "Good, because I wasn’t going to let you go. You’re fantastic." "I am a few things." She kissed him. "And so are you." He laughed. "Yeah, I am a few things alright. Look, I talked to Cash, asked for you. You won’t have to do anything you don’t want to do, Snow. I went to Amos as well. You’re too important for me to possibly lose to court politics…" "So, I'm yours now?" "You are yours now, Snow. I am not forcing you to do anything. I’m asking you to be with me, and I’m prepared to beg if need be." She giggled. "Well, the begging comes later." She kissed him. "But for now that'll do. I like being yours. I know you won’t hurt me." "God never. you’re too precious a woman to be anything but adored." He held her ~140~

close, hugging her to him. "We will stay here for a while if it suit’s you though I think Fallon will insist on it, at least until the danger to all of you is passed." "Okay, I'd like that anyway…It's safer for us all if we're all together." He nodded. "Good. And I know there’s a lot we don’t know about each other, but I think we have a long time to learn. But Baby, your past isn’t important to me. It is who you are now, so don’t feel like you have to spill your secrets to me. We all have things we would rather forget." She grinned gratefully. "I don’t want to go back there again…you're right. I'm not that girl anymore. I'm not her, and I don't live in her past." She sighed, gathering her thoughts. "But there are some things that you have to know…if we're going to do this right." "And I agree on that from my end as well, but we don’t have to do this now. You just went through something traumatic. I don’t wanna pour salt into wounds." "You're too good to me, Button." "Maybe, or maybe I’m just a coward." She grinned. "Me, too." He sighed. "Honestly though, we should talk, but when you’re ready." He smiled at her and kissed her on the forehead. "I am ready. I wouldn't have offered otherwise. I mean I'll never be ready to go over it all, but…I don't want to keep anything from you. I want to stay with you; I don't want to lose you." She cuddled her face into him, closing her eyes. "Well, I’m here to listen though maybe I should go first?" She nodded, holding tightly to him. "Yeah, okay." "Well, what do you want to know? Why don’t you tell me?" "I don't know…What do you think I need to know?" "Well, let’s cover what you do know and what you have gathered from everyone here. That might help, cuz honestly, I don’t know what to say." "Well, you're an incubus…I know that much. You said something about being a prince, and you have yourself one hell of a reputation." He sighed. "You’d have to start there, right? Well, it’s as good a place as any. I’m one of five princes in the incubus court. I’m not directly related to the king, none are. But my family, the Morrison Family, is one of the most prominent full family lines they have. I, well I'm not the most powerful of the princes, and that’s caused me to have to feed more often, or it did when I was younger. When Fallon jokes about half the world’s women knowing me in the biblical sense, he’s really not joking." His face was well guarded from the emotion she could see in his eyes. She laughed looking up at him. "Well, you know what practice makes." She grinned. "And I guess I've known my fair share of men…" She looked down cuddling to him once more. "So, maybe we aren’t so different. What else?" "I don't know…What about girlfriends? Any angry ex's I should know about?" "Nope. Lots of multiple fucks but no one that cared to get to know me. Once I turned seventeen and went back to high school from my summer at the courts, well, I ~141~

was quite popular, but not someone the girls would date." "Okay, how about work related…anything bad I should know from that side?" "Well, aside from blowing up a building, nope. I’m a hit man. You of all people can respect that." "I can. I was just checking to make sure you don’t have any sworn blood enemies or anything…any bad habits?" "Aside from anonymous sex with numerous women, nope. I don’t drink in excess, I don’t smoke, no drugs, unless you count caffeine." "I don't." "Then no, I’m pretty boring." She laughed. "That’s not really boring, Button." He smiled. "Maybe. Anything else you wanna know? For you, baby, I’m an open book." She sighed wondering how to ask the next question. "Well, you have family? I kinda, well, you know Fallon better than I do, I guess. But what are they like? Do you have any other brothers and sisters, or is it just you now?" She paused unsure if she'd said the right thing or not. The death of his sister would naturally be a very touchy subject, but it was one that held some curiosity for her. Not so much that she'd prod at the wound. If he didn’t want to talk about it, then she'd never pry. She was interested in his family life in general though. Growing up in the porn industry would have certainly been an experience, but then growing up as an incubus would have been different, too. "My family? Well, Mandy and Pete are still alive, living in LA. They are odd, but love each other very much, and given their professions, well, I find that mind boggling. As to the other question, it was just me and Electra." He chuckled. "Mandy thought she got lucky, a two for one deal. She freaked when she found out I had her powers." "The telepathy?" "Yep. Do you know how hard it is to hide shit from a child that can read minds? It wasn’t till I was eight that they figured out I was not only telepathic, but clairaudient as well." "It is a cool power, if slightly unfair. Well, at least you would have known all the answers in school. No wonder you did so well." She teased laughing. "Oddly, I didn’t use it in school. The thought never occurred to me. I was a complete bookworm." He grinned and shook his head. "My powers were put to good use though in seduction. That’s where Mr. Fantasy came from. At seventeen and a very new incubus, well, I gained quite a reputation in my senior year of high school." "So, you'd get what they wanted then…" She slid her hand under his shirt. "Mmmm…Mr. Fantasy indeed." "It was a good set up. I got a full feed out of them, and they got their fantasy fulfilled." "And they were lining up I bet. So, what else? Aunts, uncles, grandparents?" "Mandy's an orphan, and most of the Morrison clan has already ascended." "Ascended? Like they’re now demons?" He nodded. "My family line was bargained, Snow. Mandy and Pete are the only two ~142~

living, as in still human-ish people on earth from my family. Grandpa Avery is still alive. He’s the head of the house in the Afterverse." "Okay, I guess that makes sense." She frowned. "So, your sister…is she…?" She trailed off leaving the question open. "Dead. She was still only half demon when she was murdered. I’m not sure where her essence is. Finding a medium you trust to contact the ghost realm is very hard, you know?" "Yeah…ghosts can be tricky. Do you mind if I ask what happened? I mean you don’t have to…" He shrugged. "She married a senator she was in love with. She told him what she was. Seems the fucker had a sadistic streak, and he beat her to death, cut her up, and told the world it was a crash." He shuddered. "And now he's very dead?" "Dead and worse." "Good." She held tighter to him. "I'm sorry you lost her. The ghost realm's a funny thing; it constantly shifts about. I'm sure she's safe." He nodded and sighed. "It’s hard. As a twin, sometimes I still feel like she’s here." "Maybe she is. I'm sure Astrid would know a good medium." "Probably, though I don’t think I really wanna know. I can’t bring her back." "Well yeah…I suppose it would be hard." "You know, I'm happy, the happiest I have been since she passed, and I have you to thank for that. I can’t promise anything, except the fact that I will always want you. You’re perfection, Snow." "So are you, Button…you’re my fantasy." She looked up at him kissing his soft lips. "So, do you think this'll work? Us? I want it to…" "It’s going to work. I won’t have anything less." He smiled and kissed her thoroughly, moving her flush against him. She arched against him, enjoying the way his hard, warm body felt against her. "Good. You make me happy, Arcady…very happy." He smirked. "I do aim to please." "Well, you succeed," she answered kissing him again, feeling relaxed and secure against him. "Should we switch the Q and A now?" "I don’t want to pry, Cupcake. With me, let’s just say I don’t have that much of a problem talking about the past. I’m never going to ask you questions you might not want to answer. So, if you want to tell me stuff, it’s on you. I’ll never push." She shrugged. "Like I said, there are things you have to know, and if there’s anything that you do want to know…then I don't mind telling you. It's only the past; it can't hurt me, not now that I have you." "I won’t let anyone hurt you. And your past is your past, Luv. Though I would like to know how the hell you became Dimitri’s enforcer. You know you have a reputation? Granted it’s richly deserved; seeing you work is pure art, but organizations around the world stay out of Russia because of you. Now, I’m famous, but you’re notoriously infamous. And no one knows you’re a woman." ~143~

She chuckled, that wasn’t a story she minded telling at all. "Well, that’s not all me. Drake had laid the groundwork already. Dimitri found me. He’d been watching me for a few years, ever since my feet entered his territory. Actually, I think I landed ass first, but that's not the point. He said, my purity drew him to me, but that’s a load of crap. I suppose I was her then…Alice. Things were crappy, and the language was odd. Things were better than they had been, but it was cold. I drifted, living in different brothels and crack houses. I was a mess. I didn't even need to learn Russian; it was that bad." She shook her head. "Anyway…some of the times something would go wrong; a trick wouldn’t pay, or try to rob me…or worse. They would have to be taken care of, and I think that's what got his attention. It didn't matter how messed up I was…I was ruthless." She looked up at him. "I still am I guess. Eventually D approached me, offered me a chance at a new life, a better one. I took it, and I've never looked back. Getting the reputation was easy, getting a green light to do anything you want, to be as nasty and aggressive as you can be? Torture's good therapy, sure is cheaper, too. By the end of my first year with him, just the mention of the words Russia and Dimitri sent shivers down the spines of a lot of big names. Hell, Trent Duval won’t come anywhere near us…then again, he did throw me out of a window." She shrugged. "The bloodier and more creative I got, the safer we and our girls were. What can I say…I'm naturally talented, and well practiced." "Indeed you are. Watching you work is a complete turn on. So, it’s all Drake’s fault? I saw him today; he warned me of you. Not that it matters, you’re mine, and I want you, for all you are." "Drake? He was here?" She squeezed him tighter. "I suppose that shouldn’t surprise me. I thought he'd be happy to get rid of me…I had hoped that he'd leave me alone once I'd left." She sighed dropping her head onto his shoulder. "He won’t be back. I can guarantee it." He nuzzled her neck and breathed her in. "You always smell so damn good, Cupcake." "You promise? Dimitri always said that, but Drake always came back, and it would always get worse. He killed my dog, and I couldn’t stop him. I can't stop him." She swallowed hard. "He reminds me of my father." Arcady held her close. "No, he won’t touch you. I’ll geld the fucker before he gets anywhere near you. You’re mine, and I don’t share without consent." He smiled at her. "You mean Ray? Fallon told me about him once in a drunken stupor, and I’m sorry for what I have heard so far. You don’t have to talk about it, Snow." "I'm not going to; I don’t remember much anyway…he liked to keep me as drugged up as possible most of the time. The parts I do remember I wish I didn't. Although I do remember watching almost every John Wayne film ever made, thanks to Fal." She laughed, trying to lighten her words. "A testament to how bad our childhoods really were." "I’m sorry, Cupcake." He sighed and kissed her on the lips. "Nothing is going to change how I feel for you, how much I want to spend my life with you." She pulled back looking into his eyes. "I miscarried a baby with Dimitri." She looked away, her own eyes filling with tears. "I took heroin, and it died. I've taken it since, ~144~

mostly at Drake’s prompting, but that’s not the point. I was an addict for a very long time. I would have done anything for it, and I did do anything for it. I've been clean for a while now, and I have no intention of going back, but you have to understand that there’s always that chance. I will always have that craving. I can never be trusted around the stuff." "And you won’t be around it," he assured her. "I don’t know about Dimitri, but none of us deal in the shit, not even Cash, and hell he’s got some shady business dealings. A miscarriage?” He sighed and shook his head. “Snow, I’m sorry, but in a way I’m not. If you had the baby, you’d be his concubine, not his companion, and I would have no chance." She nodded, relieved. "You'd always have a chance with me…and yeah, we weren't ready for a baby. It would have been one messed up child. Dimitri and I don't have the discipline to have raised one. I'm not the sanest and D…well he has his vices, too." "Who doesn’t? It’s just that some vices are more destructive than others. So is that all? I mean that’s your big bad secret? Cupcake, that’s nothing, and it means shit to me. What matters to me is that I want you, to be with you, and wake up with you for the rest of my life." She smiled up at him. "I want that, too, Button." She kissed him long and hard then pulled back resting her head on his shoulder. "I love you," she whispered into his ear. "I love you, too, Snow. I think it’s impossible not to." He nuzzled her again his hands roaming her body. "Things keep going like this I’m going to be ring shopping soon." He chuckled. "I have lots of rings, Arcady." She nuzzled him back kissing his neck. "Not an engagement ring." She yelped in surprise, pulling back to look at him. "You’re kidding? For us?" His grin reached his eyes. "Well, for you yeah, if you want to." His grin turned sheepish, and he blushed. "I love you; it’s only right that I marry you." "I…well, of course I'd want to. I've just…I never thought that I’d…" She blinked. "Truly? You don’t have to just for propriety’s sake." "I want you to be my wife, Snow. I wouldn’t ask if I didn’t think we would be great together. With you, it’s like I found my other half." "I know just what you mean. I'd love to be your wife…though I'm not selling myself cheap, those days are long gone, and I want a ring. A big one." She winked. "And a big one you shall have, Cupcake, something perfect for that dainty hand of yours." He kissed her and groaned. "You’re addictive you know that?" "I do now." She smiled trailing her hands under her shirt. He groaned and shifted putting himself on his back, her soft and supple body now leaning on his torso. "It’s settled then. You’re staying, and I’m buying you a massive ring." He grinned and kissed her ring finger. "Mrs. Snow Morrison…I like it." She giggled. "Well, yeah, it does and it's what my passport says." He laughed. "It does indeed." "It’s perfect for me. For us…" He sighed and gave her a contented smile. "You know it, Cupcake." ~145~

She happily returned his smile. "So, what now?" "Anything you wish, Luv." "Okay, I can deal with that." She swung her leg around him straddling him. She took his face in her small hands kissing him deeply. She was safe and loved. In the arms of Arcady, she felt like she could face anything.

~146~

Epilogue Cash sighed as he shuffled through some old papers trying to look busy. Faris lay sleeping on the bed, her soft breaths constant and calming. He was running out of time, her and the baby’s presence only proved that. He was going to have to rethink everything; Faris always had a way of complicating things. Or more truthfully her presence always caused him to complicate things. He could never deny her anything; she was perfection. The perfect demon, she had her mother’s stunning looks yet none of her stupidity. The woman had her father’s brains, and yet she’d be a better queen than he is king. She just had to realize it, which shouldn’t be hard for her. He cleared his throat quietly, standing and locking the papers away. They were nothing important, just a few deeds and bank details. All documents that should be looked at, but his mind just wasn’t in it tonight. He smiled walking over to the sleeping Faris; she always stole his breath away. Still smiling he poured himself a drink, his mind firmly ensconced in rehashing his plans. Not much would have to change; he’d still have to own the support of the courts before he could do anything vaguely resembling treason. He no longer could afford to wait for the souls he needed to ascend on his own. He’d need to speak with his father. Thanks to Snow and Arcady he had Amos’ support and that of Shabiri’s. It shouldn’t take him too long to acquire the others, considering that those wheels had already been set into motion. Amos and Camions had been the only ones with no obvious link. Well, that was until he’d met Arcady. He was very lucky indeed that his sorceress was so well connected and trusting. Arcady and Snow certainly seemed to be getting along well as planned, despite his earlier protests. They would do well together. Astrid had told him that Arcady needed somebody to save, and Snow needed constant saving. Their match would work well, or at least as long as it took to discover if she could truly be saved. Cash had the distinct feeling that she could be, which would make Dimitri very happy. He had gained very powerful allies with Snow and Arcady. Fallon, too, would be happy, which is good because he was going to loathe their next conversation. His need for Astrid was growing stronger by the day; something indeed would have to be done about it soon. It would get out of hand, and eventually the power would take over and slake its own lust. Fighting it was only weakening them both; a fact that showed every time Astrid called her goddess. It drew on far too much of his power saving Snow, not that he wasn't grateful that she had. It had taken a hell of a lot of power though, and a warning would have been nice. He sighed, shaking his head. Fallon himself was something to consider now. He was no longer a mere annoyance to be dealt with at a later date; he was truly a mystery to look into. Whether that was better or worse for Fallon, Cash was yet to discover. It looked like he would be having a nice long conversation with Queen Ammit sometime in the near future. Something drew her to Fallon, as Dimitri was drawn to Snow, and Cash would find out exactly what it was. ~147~

Dimitri himself would keep his sweet Colette, which was the way Cash had intended things to go in the first place. Sometimes the stupidity of people really could be a burden; well, she was perfect for Dimitri. They’ll both do well together although Colette would never stand for half of the things Snow put up with. It looks like his little brother was going to have to do a lot of remodeling and at the very least clean up his trade and empire. Now, that was something Cash was looking forward to. He set his untouched drink on the table next to the bed; he wasn't in the mood for drinking. Sitting on the bed, he stretched out next to the sleeping demon; she was so peaceful when she slept. He wrapped his arm around her, laying his head next to hers. Pulling her warm body against his cool one, he closed his eyes, letting her snuggle deeper to him. He would be a father soon and with that came all the joys and responsibilities of parenthood, something that he was looking forward to. His father was never there for him or Dimitri, despite what his brother believed. He would be better than his father. There was no chance that he could be any worse, so there really only was one way to go. He couldn’t allow his son, his heir, to be born in exile. One day the child would rule everything; he wouldn’t have the child tainted by his grandfather’s stupidity. He would talk to his father, grovel where necessary. The thought left a bad taste in his mouth, like stale bile. Swallowing his pride wasn't something that he was good at, but if he had to for his child, then he would. This had gone beyond his personal vengeance and bitterness. He now had a family to fight for. *** The mists swirled about the vast openness of Jolie’s own personal hell languorously. This in truth was the closet her kind would ever come to heaven, as peaceful as a demon would ever be allowed, but it bored her to no end. Her time was taken up by watching, watching her husband self destruct, watching her second born corrupt innocent women, and watching her beloved first born slowly go crazy. That’s what was killing her most of all. Levi had been getting better as of late. The girl he had taken keeping him occupied and above water. She owed the young girl so much, even if she was sleeping with the only man she ever loved, but that was neither here nor there, as Levi never disrespected her memory, because he never loved the Winters’ girl, and what’s more, the girl knew it, but never held it against him. Theirs was an easy relationship, both gaining from each other a semblance of what they needed. For the girl, it was protection and adoration, and for her beloved husband and king, it was companionship. Darling, if I could only get back to you. She sighed, thinking on Dimitri. He had indeed done right in letting Snow go, no matter how much he cared for her. Her second born was more like herself in actually having real emotions and not hiding them. Snow was a fantastic girl, but Colette was always the one she saw with her son. She’s exactly what he needs; it’s wonderful Cassiel has given her up to the most worthy of demons. She will be well cared for with ~148~

my beautiful Dimitri. Ah Cassiel, she thought to herself as she smiled. He was given a second chance, and she hoped that this time he would do it right and what was left of his mind would be healed. Her first born and reason for still existing. She watched over him as he went and saw Faris, when she told him that the little boy in her tummy was his. His sorceress was top rate, and she approved of her greatly, knowing that what he felt for her was as close to what he felt for Faris as it was ever going to be. And she’s much better than that flake Natalia; at least she’s got a man of her own and a life that doesn’t involve Cassiel. She had been watching all of the events play out with all those she held dear, including Oscar and Drake, and she smiled at Oscar, approving greatly of the choices he was making involving the Lady Uriel, and even smiled upon Drake, and the little situation he got himself into with the Fey. She will be good for him, keep him grounded, at least until he finds out about his very special surprise. Drake had it in him to be great, and he just needed the right incentive, and Jolie knew he was going to get it sooner, rather than later. She moved effortlessly through her prison, knowing that the time was coming for her to make a major choice, either move on, or do the forbidden to her kind, return. It was no contest; she would have to return to them. They needed her more than ever, and her purgatory sentence was just about over. I believe Sookie would love to hear what I have decided, she thought as she left the cloudy dimension that surrounded her ethereal home and mounted the steps into the house she had called home for the last two hundred years. The stairs led to a tower, and at the top of the tower, a place she had never been, stood a room that would help her return. She wouldn’t enter the room unless her resolve was clear, so she veered to the lower room of the tower, the room of communication. She sat on a pristine rug and relaxed, mentally calling out to her friend and confidant. Sookie? Sookie, I believe the time has come…

~149~

Other Books By Stella and Audra Price Sugar and Sin: A tale of the Eververse Book One ISBN:978-1-934678-11-4 What would you give for a second chance? Astrid, a witch, has often wondered what would happen if her lover, Fallon, a teleport demon, came back to her. After a year apart it seems fate will bring them together once more, and their relationship is going to be tested with a new threat to their lives and the lives of their friends. A reckoning is coming, and its time to choose sides. When the exiled demon prince Cassiel gives Astrid an offer she can’t refuse, will her relationship with Fallon pay the price? Fire in His Eyes Dragon Elementals book one ISBN:978-1-934678-13-8 Alcyone Sterling, succubus and owner of Pinkys XXX has a secret admirer, who is leaving her exotic and rare flowers and jewelry beyond beautiful. She doesn’t know who it is, and gets even more curious after a clandestine liaison in her bedroom involving a few silk ties and a blindfold. Char, Fire elemental and strongest of the last dragons left in the Eververse, is obsessed and in love with the young succubus, and recognizes her as his mate, regardless of her demon status. He has to have her, and will do anything to attain her. When the rest of what’s left of his dying race decided to interfere, Char is forced to make some very rash decisions, all in the name of love. Deep Water Dragon Elementals book two ISBN:978-1-934678-17-6 Bryn Case is a Dive instructor in on of the most beautiful places on earth at a very exclusive resort. On the evening she meets Kael, a sexy guest at the resort, she thinks she’s found her soul mate. Kael on the other hand, a Water elemental dragon, knows Bryn, a Glacies demon, is exactly what he’s been looking for his entire life, and curses it. After all that had happened so far, to lose his heart to a demon is not something he’s prepared to do. Between treasure hunting and her love of the sea, Kael knows this woman is everything he’s ever wanted, its just finding and dealing with the demon that has her soul that’s ~150~

going to be a bitch.

Hot Rio Nights Part of the Festivals series (e book, print anthology) ISBN: 978-1-934678-18-3 Starla Gibson, Caligo (shadow demon) princess is bored with her life and the men she takes to her bed. When she decides to go on a shadow walk one evening, she ends up in Rio during carnival and in the company of a local named Derrek Ramirez. When her companion makes a bet with her, one that entices her as much as she is sure she will win, she realizes that there’s a possibility that her sexy and mysterious suitor might have the answers she has been looking for. Come morning, they both have things they have to own up to.

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About the Authors Stella and Audra Price are multi-published, award winning authors of the Eververse books, including many not yet in print. They have opened the minds and hearts of readers and reviewers alike with their tales of Were-snakes, Satyrs, Djinn, Unicorns, Fallen Angels, and Demons and live daily in the Eververse. Sisters, they are bi-continental and spend the bulk of their time bringing their books to life. They are currently working on the next few books in the Eververse series simultaneously. They love to hear from fans and readers alike, and you can reach them at their website, www.stellaandaudra.com, their message board: wildeververse.iforumer.com, or at their respective email accounts: [email protected] or [email protected].

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