Sinful Sundaes 02

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings

MIDNIGHT SHOWCASE Erotic-aah Digest ISSN 1555-5496 Vol. 06-22

Spellfire Sinful Sundaes 2 Second Servings

MIDNIGHT SHOWCASE www.midnightshowcase.com

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Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Published by Midnight Showcase PO Box 300491 Houston, TX 77230 USA www.midnightshowcase.com Sprinkles & Hot Hunks Copyright © 2006 Leanne Strange Marriage, Marzipan & Mayhem Copyright © 2006 Leigh Ellwood Tarot & Toasted Almonds Copyright © 2006 Anne Leland Wafers & Wishes Copyright © 2006 Emery LaRue Things & Hot Taffy Copyright © 2006 Leanne Strange Fresh Fruit & Fate Copyright © 2006 Ann Regentin Sexparilla Shakes & Spacemen Copyright © 2006 Mae Powers Names, characters, and incidents depicted in this book are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental and beyond the intent of the author or the publisher. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.

Erotic-aah Digest ISSN 1555-5496 Vol. 06-22 Credits Editors - Anna Fallon, Dianne Parkinson, & Zena Quick Copy Editors – Jane Carver & Jewel Adams Format Editors – Mae Powers & Jewel Adams Cover Layout Artist: Mae Powers Printed in the United States of America 3

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings

Sinful Sundaes – Second Servings Come once again through the doors of Sinful Sundaes and have a second helping or a double scoop of the goodies within. Don’t let that sweet tooth be ignored, for in Spellfire, Texas, you can’t resist going back for another round of sweet tempting tastes of love. Sundae: Leanne Strange – Sprinkles & Hot Hunks When Laurance goes into Sinful Sundaes for a specialty banana split, he didn’t expect to get a double helping of trouble from Dina Diablo. Mondae: Leigh Ellwood - Marriage, Marzipan & Mayhem What happens when a werewolf with an appetite for lust finds an undercover reporter hiding in his pantry? A feast for all senses. Tuesdae: Anne Leland -Tarot & Toasted Almonds Tarot mistress Lady Gael needs a new card deck more than a lover. Will reclusive werewolf Chase MacGregor be able to break down her barriers? Wednesdae: Emery LaRue - Wafers & Wishes Kayne Niam has a plan to draw his true love to him. Will Feather the fairy be all he hopes for? All that and more. Thursdae: Leanne Strange - Things & Hot Taffy Taffy and Manny work hand in hand to help each other solve personal problems, but fingers do the walking in the realm of love. Fridae: Ann Regentin - Fresh Fruit & Fate When an exiled dryad meets a handsome carpenter at the back door of Sinful Sundaes, Fate herself comes to Spellfire—to handle this one personally. Saturdae: Mae Powers - Sexparilla Shakes & Spacemen At Sinful Sundaes, weekend waitress, Shonda Lamont, makes an unusual shake so good even Plutonian Pretzel salesman Teth loves it, and her. 4

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings

Sundae: Leanne Strange – Sprinkles & Hot Hunks When Laurance goes into Sinful Sundaes for a specialty banana split, he didn’t expect to get a double helping of trouble from Dina Diablo. http://www.laniaames.com/leanne/leannestrange.html

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Sprinkles & Hot Hunks By Leanne Strange Chapter One “Working on a Sunday morning just isn’t right,” Dina Diablo grumbled to Penny Royal, her co-worker at Sinful Sundaes Ice Cream Shoppe. “I know,” Penny agreed as she filled the orders of two elderly wizards for Mandrake Root Beer Floats. “It was the only shift available, and you’re lucky you applied before that awful goblin Evilyn Grum. I could never work with her.” “No one else in town had an opening. But it sucks that I have to have an internship with a high-level magical practitioner to pass the course in Non-Toxic Mixology and get my degree in Malefic Magic.” Using more force than necessary, Dina slapped a handful of Naptime Napkins to wake them up so they’d stack properly and fit in the dispenser. She resented having to attend Alchemy Academy to obtain a degree in something she’d spent her life learning from her maleficus demon father, but she didn’t have to take out her frustration on the poor napkins. “I need the degree to qualify for a license to legally practice malefic magic in Spellfire. I tell ya, it’s a shame poor working class demons can’t cause trouble without a license to prove they know how to do proper mischief and mayhem.” “It’s all Mayor Perry Normil’s fault,” Penny said. “He’s thinking about all the money he can skim off all the licenses and permits the town sells. Did you hear—” The sounds of the front door opening and the accompanying chime drowned out Penny’s voice. Business was even slower than usual for a Sunday morning, and Dina looked up from the snoozing napkins to see the new customer. 6

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Her breath caught in her chest as the sexiest hunk she’d ever seen strode through the door. He stopped and blinked, probably waiting for his eyes to adjust from the bright sunlight outside to the dim interior. That gave Dina time to look him over head to toe. His hair, the color of darkened sand along the Texas coast, swept back in thick waves. Dina used her demon ability to telescope in on details to determine the color of his eyes from across the room—a deep gray-green like the water of the Gulf of Mexico. He wiped beads of perspiration from his forehead with the back of his hand as he surveyed the layout of the shop. When his gaze landed on her, his full, sensual lips curved into a smile. “This one’s mine,” Dina told Penny. “Yes.” Penny patted Dina’s shoulder as she walked past. “I believe he is.” A slight tremor passed through Dina’s arm then her entire body at Penny’s touch. Penny was strange, even for Spellfire, and no one knew what kind of magic she practiced. Then Dina forgot the incident as quickly as it had happened. Dina moved down the counter and around Gak, a gremlin perched on a stool with his laptop in front of him. Tiny stars and sparkles circled his head as he tapped the keyboard so fast his fingers blurred. At the next dispenser, Dina shook the package of napkins awake, but kept her eye on the sexy stranger. Originally, Spellfire wasn’t her home, and even though she liked the town and most of its people, it was a little boring compared to the places she’d been. She missed traveling all over the world, enjoying all kinds of men, and causing all kinds of mayhem with her cousin and best friend Shai. Now, Shai had decided to settle down. The mischievous fairy had fallen in love with two men at the same time, and both men loved her. The arrangement seemed to be working for all three. Dina often wondered what it would be like to have two men simultaneously touch her, lick her, suck her, and fuck her. Two sets of cock and balls, one for each hand, to play with. Whoa! A Sunday morning at an ice cream shop was not the time or place to be thinking such thoughts. She glanced at the hunk again. He was crossing the room in slow, long-legged strides, the crotch of his skin-tight jeans molded to his bulging package, and she creamed her panties. Oh, a Sunday morning was the perfect time for thoughts of a handsome lover and a lazy day 7

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings in bed. When he slid into a booth, she took a deep breath and went to him. “Welcome to Sinful Sundaes. How can I help you today?” “Hey, dere...Dina, is it?” he asked after a glance at her nametag. “Yes, Dina Diablo.” Her voice came out more breathy than usual. She was totally turned on by this man and found it difficult to control her reaction to him. “Unusual name, but it suits you. I’m Laurance Boudreaux.” Dina cleared her throat. “Nice to meet you, Laurance. I don’t think I’ve ever seen you in here or around Spellfire before.” He shook his head. “I jus’ got into town. From Louisiana on my way to League City, but I t’ink I took a wrong turn off I-45. Good t’ing because my car stalled as soon as I pulled up outside. Can you recommend a good mechanic in town?” Oh, she nearly climaxed right then. His smooth Cajun accent made her hotter than the depths of Hellfire Lake, a favorite swimming hole for demons, and a nocturnal Plutonian gale couldn’t have cooled her off. If Gak the gremlin hadn’t started cussing at his computer, jarring her to her senses, she might have grabbed Laurance, threw him on the table, and fucked him right there. Dina was half-demon and half-fairy, and while she mostly took after her demon side, self-control wasn’t a common characteristic of either species. At the moment, she couldn’t afford to lose her internship with Electra over a quick lay on a table during work hours—no matter how sinfully sexy the guy. She needed to keep a tight rein on her impetuous urges or risk losing everything she had worked for, forcing her to start all over again. “Sure.” She glanced at Gak the gremlin seated at the counter. Notorious for causing chaos with mechanical mechanisms, gremlins became the most efficient mechanics when they decided to use their talents for good instead of evil. “Gak’s Garage is one of the best in town. I’ll call their towing service for you and let them know it’s an emergency. They should be able to get to you first thing in the morning.” “Oui, today is Sunday, so I guess not everyone is open. I’ll need a place to stay, too.” “Spellfire House or Havoc House have large, comfortable rooms and are reasonably priced.” “T’anks, Dina, I’ll check dem out,” Laurance said. “Great. What would you like?” She almost added, Coffee, tea, or 8

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings me? “We have ice tea with fresh-squeezed lemon that’s refreshing on a hot and humid day like today. And we offer every kind of ice cream dish you can imagine and more.” “Ice tea sounds good.” Laurance’s eyes skimmed the menu above the counter. “And I’ll have a banana split.” “Coming right up.” Dina could barely walk away from him. His accent made her knees weaken, her toes curl, and her womb clench. Hellfire and brimstone, but she still had too many hours on her shift to expect him to wait for her to show him around Spellfire and help him get a room at either House. While pouring Laurance’s ice tea, Dina made the call to Gak’s Garage and explained the situation to Gok, the gremlin who answered the phone. She made it clear that even though Laurance Boudreaux was an outsider and a human that if they didn’t treat him fair, they’d answer to her. Not many gremlins had the balls to intentionally get on the bad side of a maleficus demon. She quickly prepared the banana split, heaping generous dollops of chocolate, pineapple, strawberry toppings, and whipped cream. She set a cherry on each cloud-like peak, which was two more than required, but she wanted to give him a little extra. At the last minute, she mixed a spoonful of Double Delight Sprinkles in with the nuts and dashed them all over the split. The multi-colored candy treats would be a special surprise for Laurance.

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Chapter Two Laurance watched Dina walk toward the counter to fill his order. She was some looker, and the way her hips swayed in that too-short uniform...le bon Dieu! His jeans became uncomfortably tight. His cock tried to escape the denim and wanted him to follow her shapely legs so it could snuggle in between them. He leaned back, easing the pressure of his jeans. He hadn’t responded this fast or this hard to a woman in a long time. For the past year, helping clean up after Hurricane Katrina kept him busy and too tired to do anything but fall into bed and sleep at night. He no longer had a house, and the insurance company refused to pay. His savings now gone, he decided it was time to move on for a while. A friend in League City had offered him a job and a place to stay until he was able to get out on his own. Initially, he planned to save up to return to the bayou and try to rebuild, but the farther he drove, the more he thought he might not want to return anytime soon. Starting over in League City sounded like a good idea. He watched Dina prepare his banana split. Or he might find something right here in Spellfire to keep him from going back. He liked that he had options for the first time in a long time. Dina came toward him, a glass of ice tea in one hand and an enormous banana split in the other. She set them on the table in front of him with a sexy smile. “I hope de tea is as refreshing as it looks. De heat and humidity is almost as bad here in Texas as it is back home.” “The tea will quench your thirst,” Dina reassured him. “I contacted the garage, and they said they’d have someone tow your car within the hour.” She paused, and he looked up at her. She was beautiful in a way he couldn’t describe. Her hair reached shoulder length, curling at the ends, which made the copper strands that streaked through the goldblonde look like flickering flames when she moved. 10

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “If you need anything else,” she said with a hint of seduction to it, “just call me.” Laurance glanced around at the other tables and booths then looked back at Dina. “Seems to be a little slow dis morning. Can you sit with me a while?” “Sure.” She slid into the seat across from him. Her large brown eyes seemed to be shooting red sparks, but surely that was from the way the light reflected off them. He took a long drink of ice tea, trying to cool off the heat of the late summer day and his raw desire for Dina. He gulped too fast, jerking the glass away, but too late. Some spilled out of the side of his mouth, dribbled down his chin, and onto his shirt. Great way to impress a lady! “Here, let me.” Dina had grabbed a handful of napkins and started blotting the odd-shaped drops of tea on his T-shirt. “Well,” Dina drawled as she used the full flat of her hand over the napkins to soak up as much of the liquid as she could, “it’s definitely a tea-shirt now.” Her chuckle was warm and throaty, and it was all he could do not to take her hand in his and pull her across the tabletop. He’d kiss her until her lips were as red and plump as the strawberries in the sauce. He stifled a groan. “I think that’s all of the tea I can get out.” She folded the napkins over and patted the stains one more time. “Do you want me to get you a straw?” “Non, I’m not usually clumsy.” He put the glass to his lips again and, using more care this time, took another long sip. She shrugged. “Spills happen. I’ve seen it all since I started working here at Sins.” “Sins? I like dat,” he murmured, thinking of all the sins he’d like to commit with Dina Diablo. Her eyes sparked again. “That’s our nickname for Sinful Sundaes Ice Cream Shoppe.” He took another drink, but the ice tea wasn’t doing anything to cool off the kind of heat stroke he suffered. He didn’t think a cold shower would do it, either. Maybe he should reconsider leaving Spellfire as soon as the garage repaired his car tomorrow. He still had a little money to tide him over a few weeks. His friend in League City said the job would be waiting for him anytime he was ready. Maybe he could hang around Spellfire a while, find a job here, 11

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings and get to know Dina better. Just to see where a relationship with her might lead. He’d never been attracted to a woman the way he was to Dina. “You said you’re from Louisiana?” Dina asked. “Houma, in de bayou. Katrina wiped me out.” “I’m sorry to hear that,” she said, sympathy making her voice soft. “Rita did some damage around here. I hope the hurricanes remain a little quieter this year.” “Oui,” Laurance agreed and took up his spoon. “I spent de last year helping clean up and living on my savings. Louisiana is slowly recovering, but I was running out of money. And I needed a break. A friend of mine in League City offered me a job. I’m on my way to take him up on it.” “It’s wonderful you have such a good friend and a place to go,” she said, but she didn’t sound as enthusiastic as the words implied. “Yes, it is,” he said having the feeling that he could leave a lot of things in her capable lovely hands to take care of. Namely him. Would she like him to stay in Spellfire for a while? The question echoed in his mind as he scooped out a bite of banana and ice cream smothered in strawberries, whipped cream, and candy sprinkles and put it into his mouth. The burst of flavor surprised him. He’d had many banana splits in his life, but this had to be the most delicious concoction he’d ever eaten. At the risk of making a pig of himself, he spooned a bite of the chocolate-covered ice cream, making sure he got the cherry, too. Dina gave him a mysterious smile, as if she knew something he didn’t. Maybe it was the extra cherries she’d added to the top or the candies because he’d never had sprinkles on a banana split before. He returned the smile and savored the intense flavors of the split. He couldn’t seem to stop himself from getting another bite, pineapple this time. The front door opened, the tinkling chime punctuating the explosion of pineapple on his tongue. “Customers,” Dina said and stood. “I hope you enjoy your banana split.” He nodded, unable to say anything because of the mouthful of ice cream, whipped cream, fruit, and sprinkles. He watched her luscious hips sway until they disappeared behind the counter. She turned toward him, giving him another of her sensuous smiles then the curve of her lips turned down. 12

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings The minute Laurance felt the second bite of the scrumptious, sprinkle covered split gliding down his throat, its melting magic took effect. He felt both warm and cool inside as a sudden tingling sensation slowly reverberated through him. Damn that’s good! He thought. Hell, he could eat two of those at this moment. Hmmm, the more he thought of second servings of this, the more he wanted first and seconds of Dina. What was it about her that struck more than just his physical interest in her? It’s as if he’d waited a long time to find her. He’d always felt besides himself, never having any lasting relationship and never feeling complete within. Until he walked through that door and spotted Dina. Then the minute his lips touched this delicious ice cream delight, it’s as if more good things were about to split his dreary life asunder. He got halfway through it when the tingling sensations became stronger and stronger. Suddenly it felt like someone was tearing him in half like a slice of bread. His vision blurred and for a moment, he thought he saw doubles of everything. He shut his eyelids with a snap and tried to get the dual feelings of disassociation under control. “Oh, shit!” Dina’s startled exclamation came at the same time he put his spoon once more into the scoop of ice cream coated in strawberry sauce. At the same moment, someone else was suddenly sitting uncomfortably close at his side. And, with a hand that looked exactly like his, stuck another spoon into his ice cream.

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Chapter Three After Dina took care of the other customers, she turned to see if he needed anything else. When she’d viewed him seconds before, he’d been gulping down the sprinkle covered split as if it were the best thing he’d ever eaten. Then mid way through it, he stopped and plunged his spoon down as if something were suddenly wrong. She watched now as the guy she found herself instantly attracted to split physically into two of the same person. Both were still athletically muscular and dressed alike from what she could tell. Even the watches on their left wrists were the same type and color. A few slight gasps of surprise made her glance left then right for a brief second. Most stayed quiet in the diner as Laurance sprinkles of sparkles finished emanating around him and the transformation from one man to two completed. “Oh, shit,” Dina said again as she hurried around the counter and toward the booth where two identical Cajuns now sat. She stopped short a few feet from the table. The double vision didn’t have to be connected with the banana split or Double Delight Sprinkles, did it? Laurance could have a twin who had been waiting outside with the broken down car and just failed to mention him, couldn’t he? It seemed odd that he wouldn’t have talked about having an identical twin. And it was downright creepy for twins in their late twenties to wear the exact same clothes down to the trail of Hawaiian Island-shaped tea stains on their shirts. And if they were twins, why were they gaping at one another as if they’d never seen each other before? “Laurance?” she called out softly. Both men swiveled around toward her and spoke at the same time. “Oui, cher?” answered the one on the left. “Oui, beb?” responded the one on the right. Then they turned to glare at one another. 14

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Damn, two men with tanned skin and Cajun accents. Dina wanted to melt into a puddle and trickle all over them. Instead, she rushed to the table and snatched up their spoons and half-eaten banana split. If what she thought happened actually occurred and they ate more of the concoction, she’d wind up with four sexy Cajuns. Her demon side almost made her set the dessert in front of them and urge them to eat more. By the end of the day, she could have a whole harem of Laurances! Then her kinder, more considerate fairy side kicked in. She couldn’t do that to the poor human. She returned to the counter and handed the dish to Penny, telling her to put it away and find the box the sprinkles came in. Penny did so, and Dina read the label: Double Delight Sprinkles, enhances and intensifies the ordinary for twice the taste sensation. No warning indicated the bits of colored sugar could cause the person who consumed them to be split in two, even if used on a banana split. Still, she might have done something wrong. “Put the sprinkles away, too,” she instructed Penny. “Then call Electra. We have a situation that needs her attention. Now.” How could she ever explain this to the Laurances? She’d just have to keep them calm until Electra arrived to deal with it. As Dina approached the booth again, the Laurances said in unison, “Hey, what de hell is going on?” “Y-You’re not twins?” she asked hopefully. “Non, I don’ have a twin,” they said simultaneously. Oh, hellfire and brimstone! Dina slid into the seat across from them and smiled. What could she tell them to explain there suddenly being two of them? She needed to buy a little time. “Are you sure you don’t have a twin?” she asked. “Oui, I’m sure!” they snapped back in unison. Dina looked from one pair of smoky gray-green eyes to the other, both filled with confusion and apprehension. They watched her, but then their gazes drifted to the other as if they couldn’t believe what they were seeing. “Who are you?” they finally asked each other at the same moment. “Non, de question is who are you?” each answered the other. Dina covered her face with her hands and groaned. The situation was as bad as she thought. When the door chime sounded, she peeked through her fingers to see Electra hurrying across the room. Dina sighed in relief. As one of the most powerful sorceresses in the world, 15

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Electra would fix this. “You two just stay put. I’ll be right back.” Dina scooted out of the booth seat and met Electra out of earshot from the Laurances. Electra looked beyond Dina. “Ah, we do have a problem.” “I didn’t do this,” Dina began defensively. “I think the Double Delight Sprinkles are defective.” Electra patted her arm. “I know. I just finished talking to the manager at Supernatural Sweets, the company that makes the sprinkles, and was already on my way here when I got the call from Penny. The sprinkles are defective. A gremlin broke into the plant and played havoc with the ingredients.” “Heh heh heh.” Gak, still seated at the counter, laughed evilly at the antics of his fellow mischief-maker. On the one hand, Dina could appreciate the prank for what it was, but on the other hand, this one affected her personally. Mischief and mayhem weren’t as much fun from the other side. She took her order book out of her pocket and threw it, hitting the gremlin square on the back of the head. He let out an indignant squawk. Electra chuckled. “You shouldn’t do that, but I understand your frustration. Anyway, the sprinkles were meant to duplicate the flavor of whatever they were added to, but because of the gremlin’s tomfoolery, whoever eats them is duplicated by being split in two. The manager isn’t sure yet exactly what they do.” “Oh, good.” Dina let out a long breath. “I mean, I thought I’d somehow done something wrong.” “Not at all,” Electra assured her. “Don’t worry, hon. You’re doing well with your internship here at Sins. I’m sure you’ll pass the class and get your degree. Now, I have to call the manager at Supernatural Sweets again and figure out how to undo the damage.” “I’ll explain to Laurance—er, the Laurances. I’ll have to tell them the truth.” Electra frowned. “Yes, you will. I can hex their memory after we get them back together...if we can get them back together, that is. This may take a while.” “Their car is out of commission, and I’ve already called a garage. Maybe I should take them to my room at Boodoirs, and you can call us there when you find out what to do.” “Sounds like a plan, my dear. You take care of the boys, and I’ll take care of the fix. I hope,” Electra added under her breath as she walked toward the counter to go to her office. 16

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Dina stared after Electra. The sorceress seemed unsure that she could take care of the mess. It was a little unsettling to think there might be messes that couldn’t be fixed. How many had she and Shai left in their wake during their reign of terror on unsuspecting humans and magical folk alike? Shaking her head, she walked back to the two men in the booth. “Laurance.” Both looked at her expectantly. This wouldn’t do. They couldn’t both be called Laurance. Too confusing. Dina went behind the counter, grabbed some labels, and slid into the seat across from the men again. She scribbled on two labels then looked up. “I’ll explain everything to you, but for now, left is Lance.” She slapped a label on the chest of the one on her left. She stuck the second label on the one on her right. “And right is Rance.” They looked down at their new names then at each other then at her. “All right, cher,” Lance said. Rance nodded. “You gon’ have one hell of an explanation, beb.” “It’s a doozy, I promise.” Dina stood. “I’m going to take you two to my room at Boodoirs Bed and Breakfast until you car is repaired and Electra calls with a way to fix this.” Rance and Lance slid from the seat and stood. “By the way,” Dina called over her should as they headed out the door, “your tea and banana split are on the house.”

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Chapter Four In the spacious attic room at Boodoirs, the king-sized bed beckoned Dina to grab both men and have her way with them. Instead, she led them to the sitting area and offered them seats on the comfortable white wicker couch. She sat in a matching chair on the other side of the trunk that served as a coffee table. Dina explained about Spellfire, how it was one of a few communities in the world where magical folk lived. She told them about Electra being a sorceress, and even that Dina, herself was halfdemon and half-fairy. She described how the town usually shielded its magic from outsiders so that ordinary humans didn’t know about its inhabitants. After answering their guarded questions and allowing them time to absorb the information, she told them what the sprinkles on the banana split had done and why. Overall, they seemed to accept her story. After actually being split in to two people, she supposed they had a better grasp of what Spellfire was capable of. Lance crossed his arms. “Like voodoo.” “What I was t’inking.” Rance rubbed his jaw. “Dat gremlin put a gris-gris on de sprinkles.” “Of course, you t’ought it because I was t’inking it,” Lance said. Rance jumped up. “What makes you t’ink you’re de original?” When Lance leapt to his feet, Dina stood and moved in between them, putting a hand on each one’s chest. “Guys, please. We don’t know who’s the original or even if there is an original. However you look at it, one of you is as much Laurance Boudreaux as the other.” It took them a moment for it to sink in. While Dina waited, she found she enjoyed standing between two strong, handsome men, one on each side of her. Maybe she finally understood what Shai found attractive in having two boyfriends. And maybe it was time to put Shai’s theory to the test. Dina let her hands slide over their ribcages, her fingers trailing over the contours of their hard muscles to the flatness of their 18

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings stomachs. Both men inhaled sharply. “Now, you two can argue all you want,” Dina murmured. “But I can think of better ways to spend our time while we wait.” “You mean—” Rance began. “—both of us?” Lance finished. “Why not? I wanted you the moment you walked into the shop. Now, with two of you, you’ll be double the pleasure and double the fun. If neither of you mind sharing, that is.” Lance shrugged. “I don’ t’ink it’s sharing with myself.” “Neither do I,” Rance said. “I wanted you de moment I saw you, beb.” “So did I, cher,” Lance agreed. Dina put her hands on their belt buckles and flipped out the end of their belts. “Then show me what you got.” She stepped back and watched while they pulled their shirts over their heads and unbuckled their belts with identical movements. They unsnapped, unzipped, and pushed their jeans and briefs off their slender hips. At the same time, their long, hard cocks sprang free of their clothing, and Dina gasped. She didn’t know which package to reach for first, so she did as she’d imagined earlier. She grabbed a cock with each hand—Lance in her left and Rance in her right. The double sensation drove her wild with the need to experience either of them touching her intimately. She rubbed the length of their cocks, from time to base and back again, until they pumped into her hands with hard, even strokes. Identical grunts sounded in unison from deep in their throats. They finally fulfilled her need as they converged on her, unfastening and plucking her clothes from her body until she stood stark naked between their hot, hard bodies. She closed her eyes and moaned with the ecstasy of double pairs of lips and hands and cocks touching her anywhere and everywhere. Even more exciting was that she didn’t know who was doing what. Warm lips brushed the nape of her neck at the same time a mouth suckled one nipple then the other. A par of hands kneaded her butt cheeks, while fingers raked through the gold and red curls of her mound. She rocked her pelvis while one cock probed between her thighs in front and another cock prodded from behind. Dina couldn’t stand it any longer. Her clit throbbed like a bass drum reverberating mercilessly throughout her entire body. If she 19

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings didn’t find relief soon, she thought she might go mad. She grabbed the one in front and pushed him back onto the bed, scrambling over his long legs until she squatted above him, one foot planted on either side of his hips, the tip of his cock touching the slit between her pussy lips. She could already tell them apart and saw it was Lance who lay beneath her. His smoldering gray-green eyes locked with hers as Rance positioned himself behind her, supporting her back. His arms slid under hers, his hands cupping her breasts. He pinched her nipples and threads of fire seared her nerves, making her womb clench harder. Lance put his hands on her knees and spread them wider. With a feral growl, she impaled her pussy on Lance’s cock as deeply as he could go and ground her clit against him. The implosion of sensation bowed her spine and nearly sent her backward, but Rance was there to hold her in place, continuing the pressure on her tingling nipples. She howled until the roaring drumbeat became a faint echo, but she was a long way from being done. That orgasm was only the first of many she’d need before she’d find satisfaction. With Rance’s reinforcement under her arms, Dina moved up and down while Lance’s hips undulated, his cock driving into her. Each thrust brought her clit in contact with the base of his cock and sent shivers of excitement through her. Another groan began deep in her throat as the second wave of orgasmic delight began. Dina threw her head back against Rance’s shoulder, as she strained into Lance’s sharp strokes. Rance caught her chin and covered her mouth with his, working his lips with hers, and tasting her with his tongue. Just as Lance’s hands tightened on her hips, he made deep-throated sounds, too. She bounced harder and faster on his cock until his body stiffened and with one last, deep plunge, his hot shot of cum sent her over the edge. A scream ripped loose from her, and her body quaked with the fiery sensations rippling through her. No other man had ever rocked her to her core the way Lance did. She couldn’t wait for Rance to do the same. Gasping for air, she fell forward, releasing Lance’s spent cock and bending over, putting her bottom in the air and rubbing her pussy lips against Rance’s engorged cockhead. She swung her body backwards. “Now, Rance, now!” she ordered or begged. Probably both. Rance grasped her hips and drove into her hard enough to send 20

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings her sprawling, but Lance braced her with his hands around her breasts. His mouth surrounded one pebbled nipple, and he sucked, swirling his tongue over the peak again and again. He squeezed the other between his thumb and forefinger. With Rance’s fresh cock and Lance’s ministrations, she immediately came again, her moan turning into a yowl of pure erotic pleasure. Fire shot to the tips of her fingers and toes. Her spine arched, and her neck tilted back. She pushed into Rance’s cock, wiggling against him, until the fire turned to smoldering embers waiting to be ignited again. Her fingers found Lance’s nipples and played with the fine points. He moaned and she felt his cock stir to life alongside her thigh. She leaned over and kissed him, suckling his tongue. Oh, yes, by the time she finished with Rance, Lance would be ready to go again. Dina rolled her hips back into each of Rance’s strokes, his cock gliding through among her inner muscles. Her limbs quivered, her pussy aching for more relief. She humped faster and faster, Rance easily matching her rhythm. The embers flared into fire within, and she increased their tempo, Rance grunting with each quick thrust. The flames unfurled in the center of her belly, liquid fire surging through her. Her trembling limbs barely held her up, but Lance propped her from below. A moaning cry of release tore from her throat as her pleasure consumed her. Then she felt Rance find his own release. He plunged into her, spurting inside her, and his heat only set fire to her again. Dina reached beneath her, finding Lance’s cock. His stiffening erection sent a thrill of sensation tripping along her nerves. When Rance shriveled out of her pussy, she brought her hips forward and once more mounted Lance. She sank onto his hard length with a sigh. She had finally found two men who could keep up with her insatiable lust. As soon as she depleted Lance again, she back up to Rance and rode him hard again. Afterwards, both men exhausted and satisfied, they took turns licking and stroking her pussy, making her come and come again until she lost count of the number of orgasms she’d experienced. Finally, drained and tired, her creamy pussy sore and throbbing with the sexual frenzy, she drifted off to sleep between the two men with a thoroughly satisfied smile on her face. This was one day that something odd happening in Spellfire, had 21

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings a bright side to it. Penny must have known this would happen to her. Or the woman had an empathic prophecy about Lance and Rance. Whatever the case, Dina felt deliriously happier than she had in months.

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Chapter Five Snuggled in between two naked men, Dina groaned when she heard her cell phone ring. She was too comfortable with Lance and Rance on each side of her, like she was where she belonged, and she didn’t want to move. When the tone sounded again, she slipped from the bed, stifling moans. Her swollen pussy tingled with each movement, but it was a satisfying condition that meant she’d been well-fucked. No other lover had ever left her feeling that way before. Grabbing her phone, she shrugged into her robe while answering the call. “Dina, it’s Electra. Are the boys still with you?” Dina glanced at the bed. Rance had awakened and sat up, watching her. She bit her lip. If Electra had found a way to put them back together, a part of her was going to be disappointed. She’d finally found two randy men who could completely satisfy her and... She shook herself. How could she be so selfish? Lance and Rance were the only ones who mattered in this whole situation. “Yes, they’re here, Electra.” At the sound of the sorceress’s name, Rance leaned over and shook Lance awake, telling him that Electra was on the phone. Lance sat up, and they struck identical poses while waiting. “Good,” Electra said. “After consulting with the alchemist at Supernatural Sweets and searching my collection of grimoires, I figured out a way to make only one Laurance again. But there is a problem.” Dina nodded encouragingly at Lance and Rance and listened to Electra explain. When the sorceress finished, Dina fell into the nearest chair. “Are you sure there’s no other way? I see. I’ll tell them and let you know.” Dina cut the connection and looked at the two men. Electra’s news wasn’t as good as Dina had hoped it would be. Lance and Rance needed to make a decision. Either way, the life of Laurance 23

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Boudreaux would never be the same again. Dina took a deep breath. “The hexed sprinkles didn’t actually split you in two, so the spell Electra devised won’t put you back together.” They both rolled to the side, perching on the edge of the bed. “I don’ like de sound of dis, beb.” “What are you saying, cher?” “You weren’t split in two.” Dina took another deep breath as if she were gasping for air. “You were replicated. Unlike natural twins who are genetically close, you two are genetically identical. The only way to tell which is the original is by using magic. It also means magic won’t combine you into one. Reversing the spell will make the one that’s not the original just...disappear.” Both men blew out air through pursed lips. Then Rance rubbed his face. Lance just shook his head and crossed his arms. While many of their mannerisms remained the same, the longer they stayed as two individuals, each was becoming his own separate person with different actions and reactions. “It’s up to you, of course,” Dina added. “You two have to make the decision. I’m going into the bathroom so you can talk.” She went into the smaller room. She shut the door, but she could still hear them. “Neither of us has de right, even if he’s de original, to say de other shouldn’ exist.” “And de other existing doesn’ take anyt’ing away from de original.” “I don’ want to disappear. But I don’ want you not to live either.” “Same way I feel. We don’ have close family back home to confuse if we both exist.” “And we didn’ know if we ever wanted to return to de bayou anyway.” “We could go our separate ways if we wanted.” “Or stay in Spellfire.” “It looks like a nice place to live.” “We wouldn’ be freaks here.” Dina chewed her lip. She felt like she was listening in on one person’s private thoughts as he went through the process of making a decision. “We have Dina.” “She wants us as we are.” 24

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “And we want her.” “I never t’ought I’d like sharing a woman—” “—but it’s not like sharing with another man. It’s like dere’s still jus’ one of us—” “—but we can give her twice de pleasure.” They were quiet for a few moments. They had reached a critical point, and Dina held her breath. “We’re falling in love with her.” “Oui. She’s a special woman.” “Then we stay as we are.” “And hope Dina feels de same way about us.” “Let’s tell her.” Dina couldn’t wait. She jerked open the door. They had stood and put on their boxer briefs as they talked. She ran across the space and threw herself at them, one arm around each of their necks. They caught her between them and held her tight from each side. “I couldn’t help but overhear. I started falling for you when you first came through the door at Sins. Now, with two of you, there’s twice as much to love.” She kissed one and then the other. “I’m so glad you decided to stay as you are. I’d be heartbroken if either of you went away.” “As weird as de situation is,” Lance said, “I’m not sorry I took a wrong turn to Spellfire.” “Seems like it was a right turn,” Rance added. “There’s no place I’d rather be—” “—dan right here with you,” Lance finished. Dina laughed. “Welcome to Spellfire where weird is the norm. But this town grows on you quick.” Rance bent his head and nuzzled her neck. “Right now, I’d rather grow inside you.” Lance pressed a kiss to her temple. “Sounds like a good idea.” She felt the proof of their desire and affection prod her thighs. “I take de front and go first dis time,” Rance declared. “Turnabout’s fair play,” Lance agreed. “I’m all for taking the backside of t’ings.” They swung her up between them, one of their arms at her back and the other supporting her thighs, and carried her to the big bed. They stripped off their underwear and her robe. Lance stretched out on the bed, and Rance helped to position her atop Lance, her back against his front and her butt nestled between his widespread legs. 25

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Lance’s cock rubbed between her butt cheeks, and he cupped her breasts, holding them while Rance licked and sucked each nipple in turn. Dina squirmed and wriggled, her clit throbbing with the tender assault from both men. She burned with her need for them, anxious to experience another long fucking that satisfied her the way no others had. Rance had just put his cockhead to her entrance when both he and Lance stopped cold. Rance murmured. “Shouldn’ we call Electra—” “—and let her know our decision?” Lance finished. Dina wanted to scream. Her body burned like fire and they wanted to make a phone call? She opened her mouth to scream, but a whimper came out instead. “That can wait. You two need to finish what you started now!” Lance and Rance chuckled mischievously, but did as she suggested, beginning the longest, most passionate ride of their lives.

The End

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Mondae: Leigh Ellwood - Marriage, Marzipan & Mayhem What happens when a werewolf with an appetite for lust finds an undercover reporter hiding in his pantry? A feast for all senses. www.leighellwood.com

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Mondae: Marriage, Mayhem, and Marzipan By Leigh Ellwood Chapter One Maejika Malestrom swept through the entrance of Sinful Sundaes ice cream parlor with a confident air that befit such a prominent citizen of Spellfire. Tiny bells attached to the hem of her flowing, batik-patterned cape tinkled a disjointed tune with her every step. She turned heads—disembodied and otherwise—as she breezed past a line of booths to the last one in the far corner. A dismissive wave toward the front counter was her only greeting to her close friend, the shop’s owner. “Electra, my usual, but no heavy cream this time,” she barked. She didn’t bother to turn back and acknowledge the ice cream parlor’s owner. “I need to lay off the dairy for a while. It’s given me so much mucous I’m coughing up seven shades of green these days.” All around the parlor, spoons clattered quietly to plates and bowls, desserts uneaten as a collective unease spoiled appetite after appetite in the otherwise busy parlor. Maejika, her focus still on the back booth, slid into the bench facing the wall and set down her heavy handbag. A tiny gecko attempted escape but the woman eased it back into the bag’s depths. “Good morning, Phyllis,” Maejika said blandly, and maintained her poker face when a quiet “Shit!” cut the air before her. “How did you know I was here?” demanded Phyllis Phantasmas’ detached voice. Nobody knew Phyllis was in the shop this morning; at least, that had been Phyllis’ assumption. She slipped through the door behind a 28

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings visible faerie couple and paced the floor for much of the morning. She avoided bodily contact and listened for any juicy bits that she might incorporate into her next gossip column for the Spellfire Spawn. After a short while, she grew tired and took the far, vacant bench. Though business at Sinful Sundaes was active, nobody else approached the booth, until Maejika came storming in the diner. As one who could render herself invisible at will, the job suited Phyllis perfectly. The publisher should have been happy to see her, or rather not see her, working. Maejika, however, was not smiling. She clicked her tongue. “Child,” she admonished. “Surely you should know that the hallmarks of being a good, investigative reporter are to be observant, and discreet. How could you think that nobody coming to the back of this shop, presumably to use the restrooms or play a song on the jukebox, wouldn’t see the obvious impression on the bench seat that your invisible ass is making?” Phyllis looked down and sighed. When invisible, she couldn’t see her own body, either. She could, however, see the rounded indentation that gave her away. “Phyllis?” Maejika sang, and barely nodded as Electra set down her mug with a smirk in Phyllis’ direction. “Get any good gossip today?” Phyllis stayed silent. She hadn’t, and it appeared Maejika didn’t need to be told. “Have you noticed, too, the bare footprints still on the floor?” Phyllis followed Maejika’s broad gesture toward the spacious dining area, and grimaced. Damn it. She’d forgotten to wipe her feet before entering. Tiny footprints, faded but clearly visible, remained in wavy circular patterns. Maejika batted at a tiny blue envelope until the sweetener inside clumped at one end. “Honestly, child,” she sniffed, “I don’t see the advantage of invisibility if you’re going to be so sloppy. Everybody knows you’re here. The reason you don’t have anything for your column is because nobody here is that stupid to open his mouth.” “Fuck,” Phyllis muttered. “Believe me, I’d rather be doing that than sitting here with you,” Maejika muttered. “I wouldn’t be either, if Electra hadn’t called. Well, you might as well show yourself. Won’t do you any good to sneak away, either. I can smell your perfume.” “I can’t,” Phyllis said, her voice urgent. “Show myself, that is.” 29

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Maejika looked at her with a raised brow, then nodded. “Of course, I forgot,” she said. “Of course,” Phyllis mimicked. She was naked, as it was the only way she could go about unseen. Her ability to render herself invisible didn’t transfer to clothes, always a sore spot with Phyllis. This morning was particularly cool; the shop’s air conditioning seemed to be turned to high, and Phyllis’ nipples stood achingly at attention. Her skin suffered a near-perpetual prickled state. Maejika simply unhooked the silver clasp at her throat and pulled off her cape, the bells chiming in unison. She tossed it across the bench, and Phyllis took shape as the fabric draped over her body. Phyllis could see easily through the gauzy cape and wondered how much it would hide. As it was, nobody in the shop appeared surprised to see her emerge as she righted the cape around her nude form. “Much better.” Maejika smiled, sipped from her mug, then folded her arms on the table. “I like to look a person in the eye before I fire her.” “Maejika...” Phyllis cried, further protests muted by Maejika’s scowl. “Phyllis, you’re not giving me much of a choice here. Your gossip column isn’t as good as it used to be, it’s losing readership, and this slipshod manner of finding new material is clearly hurting you. I won’t even tell you the results of the Spawn’s latest readers’ poll.” “That bad?” Phyllis said, meek. At the next booth, a waitress set down an enormous hot fudge sundae for a pair of shape-shifters to split. The aroma of warm chocolate and fresh fruit should have been pleasing, but Phyllis’ empty stomach roiled. “Let’s put it this way,” Maejika said. “Fifty percent of the readers want you replaced with Beetle Bailey, the other fifty want you permanently tattooed in neon ink so they can see you coming.” Phyllis sank into the bench. To think, not three months ago these same readers praised her column for dishing Spellfire’s dirt. “I’ve opted instead,” Maejika was saying, “to give your column space to Winkle.” “Winkle? That conniving fairy?” “Now, Phyllis. That was just a phase in college, so he says. And I can’t help his tastes in clothing.” Phyllis shook her head wearily; she wasn’t in the mood for jokes. Winkle was, literally, a fairy. His extremely short stature, coupled by a strong pair of wings, had made him an asset at the Spawn as a 30

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings roving reporter—to procure gossip on the sly wouldn’t be a problem for him. Phyllis had known for a while, too, that Winkle wanted his own column, and wondered how he managed to talk Maejika into it. She wouldn’t be surprised to hear later that those wispy wings affixed to Winkle’s back could do more than fly. Fly Maejika to the moon with a few swats to her clit, more than likely. “Maejika, please, give me one more chance,” Phyllis begged, and pulled the cape tighter around her body. The thin cape did little to keep her warm; she could feel her nipples poking through the fabric. “I know I haven’t been at top form of late, but what if...” She stopped as the bell at the front door signaled the entrance of a dark, handsome gentleman in a white turtleneck and charcoal pants. Werner Dryden brushed fallen bangs from his forehead and scanned the breadth of the ice cream parlor before his piercing golden gaze settled on Electra. Smiling, he approached the shop’s owner and greeted her with a friendly smile and handshake. Oh, but he was gorgeous, and one of the most eligible bachelors in Spellfire now that Anton Spellfire was to be married. “What if,” Phyllis repeated, her eye fixed on Werner, “I got you the scoop of the year?” Maejika stirred another packet of sweetener in her mug. “We already have somebody covering the Sundae Spectacular,” she said, “and there’s really not much gossip attached to that event.” “I don’t mean a literal scoop, Maejika. Werner Dryden is hosting Anton’s bachelor party tomorrow night. It’s supposed to be top secret, but everybody knows about it. They just don’t know what’s going to happen. If I could just get inside...” Maejika looked up and turned, matching Phyllis’ gaze to the handsome gentleman now following Electra to the kitchen. “I see,” she said, now smiling at Phyllis. “Though, looking at you now, you’d probably rather have Werner inside of you.” Phyllis rolled her eyes and didn’t give Maejika the satisfaction of flaunting her observational skills. “If I deliver details of the party, can I keep my column?” “Yes,” Maejika said, firm. “And, to be safe, you’d better give me the cape back.” Phyllis grinned and willed her body to fade. Her milk white skin, slender fingers, and long red hair dissolved into nothing. 31

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “Seriously,” Maejika said. “The way you look at Werner, you’re probably already about to come, and I don’t want you getting it on my cape. She snatched back the jingling fabric. “And try not to drip on the floor.”

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Chapter Two “Electra, it’s beautiful.” Hands clasped behind his back, Werner admired the wide tower of frosted cake layers before him, arranged to form a jagged pyramid ringed in ribbons and flowers. Blue and white, to match the bride’s wedding colors. Ceramic bridal figurines perched arm in arm on the topmost layer. Little did they know this cake would be used for an entirely different ceremony. Yes, Werner decided, Electra had outdone herself with this culinary masterpiece. Such a shame, though, that Anton’s intended would never see this majestic confection. Nor, for that matter, would she ever know of the willowy blonde Faerie Werner hired to pop out of the cake and give Anton Spellfire a lap dance guaranteed to send his cock exploding through his jeans. That would teach his best friend to leave behind his friends and partying lifestyle to get married, Werner mused with a wicked smile. His finger barely brushed against the frosting; he didn’t wish to mar Electra’s handiwork. The cake looked so beautiful, he almost felt saddened to know it would be demolished at Anton’s bachelor party. Of course, the hope that much of the confection would be smeared on and eaten off a nude Faerie’s body assuaged the guilt...all for a good cause. “I like the ribbons around each layer.” He indicated the shiny fabric, waving the finger as a conductor might, tracing the ribbon’s path. “How do you get them to stay up like that?” “Marzipan,” Electra said. Werner nodded. He knew nothing of cake decorating, but Electra’s authoritative tone told him not to challenge her expertise. “Fascinating,” he said. “It’s a very versatile confection.” Electra laughed. “You misunderstand me, Werner. The ribbon is marzipan. The flowers, too. Everything on that cake is edible, even the figurines.” 33

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “Really?” Werner liked the sound of that. “And...the other feature we mentioned?” Though a tall woman, Electra tilted her head back a bit to looked up at him. Werner could feel her knowing eyes study him. There wasn’t much one could put pass a Spellfire sorceress. “The cake is completely hollow inside, and the bottom layer has a spell attached. This table is enchanted, too, so your gal can slip through the wood surface into the cake without causing a structural breach. You don’t have to touch a thing.” She handed him a white tube. “If any the flowers get messed up, use this tube of softened marzipan to fix them. I’ll hazard a guess that you’re, ah, friend will know what to do once she’s in the cake?” “Indeed she will.” Werner felt the stirrings of an erection teasing him at the thought of it. Once the lovely Fae Falona was secured inside the cake, then it would be completely edible. He was certainly going to enjoy licking sugar frosting off her taut breasts and belly as she writhed on his lap. The best parts, of course, would be saved for the groom. “And I’ll hazard another guess,” Electra’s tone darkened, “that this party you’re throwing for my cousin won’t result in anything that will threaten his wedding? Cindy’s a nice girl, and I don’t want her getting hurt.” “I can assure you I will do my best to deliver Anton to the alter unharmed...and unspoiled. It’s my sworn duty as best man.” “I hear this bachelor party is supposed to be wildest shindig Spellfire’s seen since the Fairy Belle people built that gigantic hot fudge sundae in the town square, to celebrate getting their name back.” Electra smirked, her gaze fixed on a faraway point. “Then hosted an orgy in it.” “Really?” Warner feigned innocence, but couldn’t resist a smile. He remembered the orgy well, and was certain he still had candy sprinkles stuck in places where sprinkles shouldn’t be. Anton’s party would be wild, yes, but not to that extent. Select guests were coming by invitation only, no exceptions. How often those select guests would come, was anybody’s guess. “We’re just going to eat cake and play Texas Hold ‘Em all night,” he said. “And the naked faerie, Miss Falona? Is she on the menu?” “Somebody has to deal the cards, Electra.” 34

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Electra frowned. “Yes, well, hear this, Mr. Best Man. Cindy believes Anton is the best man around. Let’s keep him that way, eh? And speaking of delivering...” Werner already had out his checkbook. He added an extra zero to the fee in hopes of buying Electra’s silence, as she was the only other person to know about the cake’s secret. “No worries. My SUV is waiting outside. I’ve had a special charm set on the house so there are no unexpected guests, particularly the media. This is a private affair, and I’m afraid your deliverymen won’t make it very far if they try.” “Before I took on this project, I hadn’t realized how anal you werewolves can be.” Electra took the check, but didn’t register any emotion upon seeing her generous tip. “I’ll have to remember that the next time one of your kind comes in here with a special order.” Werner leaned in close, buzzing her ear with a low-throated moan. He knew the lovely shopkeeper to be married now, but she was still as delectable as any dessert served under her roof. “The devil’s in the details, my dear. And I love giving anal.” His gaze panned down her scoop-necked blouse and took in her generous breasts. “What is that lovely perfume you’re wearing?” “Marizpan.” “You know, love, if you’d give me a chance...” Electra playfully pushed Werner away. “There aren’t enough zeroes in your bank account for that, wolfie. Try not to get indigestion tonight, eh?”

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Chapter Three Ugh! Was Werner taking the shortcut through the quarry or purposely hitting every pothole in the street for sport? Phyllis huddled inside the hollow cake, her knees tucked under her chin, her arms wrapped around her crossed legs. It was a very uncomfortable position, and the surrounding aroma of sugar and cake was overwhelming, but Phyllis didn’t dare move. The space was quite narrow; large enough for the petite Fae Falona, perhaps, but not so much for a taller gal like herself. That Werner’s SUV seemed to be rolling and bumping over a miles-long path of gravel did little to ease the trek to his house. Phyllis bounced along with the cake in the back, ducking her head and trying not to dent the cake from the inner chamber. Slow down, she admonished the werewolf silently. One would think a wealthy werewolf like Werner Dryden could afford to buy good shocks. The party wasn’t until tomorrow night, what was the rush? Phyllis sighed. Her back ached, her neck ached, and her butt was asleep. It was dark inside the hollow dessert, and she felt short of breath. She wanted to sneeze, but didn’t dare do anything to attract attention to herself. Werewolves had a keen sense of hearing and smell, and Phyllis wondered if Werner noticed her perfume as she slipped, invisible, through Electra’s kitchen into the cake per the baker’s instructions. She felt grateful to get this far, and would feel much better once the cake issue settled. At the first free moment, she would slip away unnoticed, and hide out somewhere in Werner’s behemoth mansion until the party hit full swing. If only she could move about right now, and ease the aching in her body. Thinking of Werner enhanced the feelings as thoughts of his strong hands massaging away the numbness surfaced. She imagined his hands rubbing away the kinks in her neck and shoulders, then dipping low to play with her labial folds and clit. What she could feel of her thighs grew moist with her quiet excitement. 36

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Ugh. She had to get out of this cake now before the bottom layer soaked up too much of her pussy juice. Phyllis doubted this cake was meant to be actually eaten, but surely Werner would detect that in the first bite if he did. She tapped the cake floor with a toe, and burrowed her foot deeper into the moist, edible sponge until she hit...table. Shit. Everything stood solid now, and she remained trapped. Had she voided the charm after slipping inside? Then it hit Phyllis as her head raised slowly and she peered into the inky black in search for a light that couldn’t be seen...unless she did one thing first. The spell placed on the cake was one-way, meaning that the only way out would be to jump out of the cake. As meant to be the plan for Fae Falona, at Anton’s bachelor party, before a horde of drunken, horny werewolves, vampires, and other assorted menfolk. Every girl’s dream. How could she escape without blowing her cover, and without destroying the cake? Phyllis knew no counter-spells, none that involved bakery goods, anyway. Worst case scenario would have her stuck here for a whole day, then squeezed inside the cake with a halfnaked faerie stripper. Granted, Werner might not object to that, but once he sobered and learned of her true intent... Phyllis exhaled slowly, feeling dizzy. How could she survive in here until tomorrow night without going insane, and not eating her way to freedom? **** Werner couldn’t get home quickly enough. The ache of impending change tingled his every nerve. The full moon wasn’t expected for hours, yet Werner felt the wolf inside him jockeying for premature release. His gums were sore, a precursor to the monthly return of his fangs, and as he turned the steering wheel sharply to plow his SUV into his home garage he noticed the beginning of the telltale extension of his fingernails. He sighed. His time of the month. Well, best to have the wolf come out early, he decided, if it guaranteed a premature exit. He silently cursed his best friend for his hasty engagement, then scheduling the wedding for the day after tomorrow, consequently leaving Werner with such a short window for hosting this party. He had intended for Anton’s last night as a free man to be wild, but the added unpredictability of a werewolf running amok among the inebriated was not in the plans. He didn’t want to be 37

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings let loose, as was his wont in the past. He needed to remain close to home to ensure the success of Anton’s party. To say nothing of discretion. There were methods, of course, of curbing the transformation, even postponing it entirely until the next full moon. A delicious smile split Werner’s face as his sport utility vehicle eased to a stop inside his spacious garage. Two things, in particular, worked best: sex and food, and he was well-prepared for this month’s eventuality. The pantry was overstuffed with party snacks and other favorite treats, in the event a binge became necessary to keep the wolf from emerging. And, if that didn’t work... Werner chuckled as the garage door lowered behind him. He killed the engine and flipped open his cell phone. The lovely Fae Falona picked up on the second ring. “That wasn’t part of the deal,” she told him after hearing his proposal. To her credit, however, Falona didn’t sound put off by Werner’s invitation. “I’m not suggesting you prostitute yourself, my dear. I hired you to jump out of the cake, only,” Werner purred seductively. “Consider everything else that happens a fringe benefit.” How he’d like to see her dripping in fringe, then shedding it for a marathon fuck in his king-sized bed. Falona giggled. “I’ve always wanted to fuck a werewolf in transition, but you never call when it happens.” “Well, now’s your chance. The closer to the full moon, the better the sex,” Werner drawled. He shifted in his seat to better allow his cock to harden and expand in his pants. He stroked the shaft lightly over the fabric seam and pictured Falona’s long, blonde hair draped over his thighs as she perched between them for better oral access. “You fuck a werewolf, you transcend doggie style. I’m talking about hanging from the ceiling, limbs twisted like a master yogi.” He flicked his tongue against his growing fangs. The ladies especially loved how they scraped lightly against skin as he sucked clit. “You’d be doing me a great service by aiding in certain, ah, preventative measures, and you get the experience the six best orgasms of your life in one night.” “Just six?” “Six squared?” Werner proposed.

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Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “Mmmm, sounds delish, but you wouldn’t scratch me with your claws, would you? I can’t have any marks on my body, it’s my livelihood.” “Trust me, my lady. You’d be surprised with what I could do to your body. What’s more, when you fuck a werewolf in transition it gives all-new meaning to the word shag.” “Ew. Not that I haven’t enjoyed being with you in the past, I just don’t think I could handle all the hair.” Werner laughed out loud. Before transformation, he maintained a smooth chest, rippled hard along the planes. Having sex in transaction would keep growth at bay, he assured the faerie. “Better for traction anyway, my love.” “Ah, well. You should have said something earlier.” Werner could clearly picture Falona pouting on the other line. “I lined up another gig tonight.” “Cancel it. I’ll double your fee for Anton’s party.” “Sorry, sweetie. You know what they say. So much cake...” And Falona rang off without a goodbye. “Bah.” So much for having his cake and eating her, too. Calling other women to bide this time was not an option this month. He had promised Anton discretion as far the party was concerned, yet word leaked out around Spellfire anyway. Speculation followed him everywhere, and Werner imagined more than a few of Spellfire’s eligible young gossips would be happy to spread their legs for him...if it meant an opportunity to slip away and look for clues. Werner snickered. Women like Phyllis Phantasma, he mused, the queen mother of Spellfire gossip. He recalled seeing her at the shop today, but thankfully hadn’t detected her while in the kitchen with Electra. Gossip had a specific scent that wasn’t very pleasant. Werner skulked into the house via the gourmet kitchen and left the retrieval of the party cake to the help. Beautiful as it was, he didn’t need to be tempted by the many layers and sugar and flour, not with his transformation imminent. “Lock it in the cooler,” he ordered one short gentleman in a crisp black uniform, crooking his neck toward the kitchen’s walk-in refrigerator. “I’ll be in my rooms the rest of the evening.” The man named Gale nodded, and Werner smiled sadly. His devoted valet knew the measures that needed to be taken. Shortly before the witching—or rather, wolfing—hour, Gale would have the rest of the staff dismissed for their safety, and the contents of the 39

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings pantry moved into Werner’s private parlor for the werewolf’s consumption. Had Gale the resources to arrange the alternative method of postponing transformation at such short notice, well, Werner would reward Gale to such an extent that he wouldn’t need to work for him anymore. “Will there be anything else, sir?” Gale’s staid voice floated behind Werner as he ascended the stairs. Werner turned back and paused, his hand gripping the rail. Tiny dark hairs that hadn’t been there an hour ago grew in tight curls on his knuckles. “Can you grow a pussy in the next hour?” Gale’s expression remained deadpan. “Pussies, I’m sorry to report, are not in season at this time.” “Same with raises for smart-assed employees. Good night, Gale.” Werner trudged up the stairs, shoulders drooped, and dismissed the fleeting notion he entertained of switching teams. He doubted Gale would be that willing to serve, raise or no raise.

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Chapter Four Fifteen minutes before the hour, Werner lay shirtless and itching like mad on his bedroom floor. Candy wrappers and potato chip bags, spent and shining with grease, littered the carpet and his clothing. He had eaten—no, inhaled—everything in sight, to no avail. His jaw ached, his cock ached, and as Werner lay perfectly still he could feel the tingling sensation of a billion follicles about to simultaneously explode. He tested his fangs with his tongue. They had grown in the last hour, and would soon take over his entire mouth, assuming they didn’t succumb to cavities from all the crap he’d eaten. Damn it. The binging hadn’t worked. It usually did; what went wrong? It wasn’t like he needed to eat things in a particular order. Perhaps it was the growing pull of lustful thoughts, the wondering of what sexual passions could have been enjoyed with Fae Falona, that voided everything he did tonight to curb the wolf. As Werner crawled across the carpet, his upper body bathed in sweat, he fought to keep a rational mind. The wolf became stronger, poised to take over his being and urge him over the balcony to roam the outskirts of Spellfire. He clutched the red velvet drapes dusting the floor, allowing himself only a glance through the slivers of fabric that teased him with shots of the rising moon. Full...sated, it was, as his appetite should be now. Instead his feet scraped inside designer shoes, close to transforming to spike-nailed paws. His thighs and cock rapidly expanded and contracted, testing the resilience of his slacks. He fumbled with awkward fingers to cast them off before the threatening changes to his body did just that for him, thereby forcing him to throw away a very expensive pair of pants. He needed to stop the transformation, by any means necessary. Sucking wind through the teeth that hadn’t yet sharpened, he scuttled out the door on all fours, grimacing as he went. This type of behavior normally indicated that he was past the point of no return. He could 41

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings only hope Gale was still around, puttering in the kitchen with a sponge and spray can of oven cleaner. He hoped the valet was indeed bent into the oven, it would save some time. Werner could slam his cock into the Gale’s taut little ass and satisfy some of the wolf’s desire. Never mind waiting for Gale to undress, either; Werner was certain his cock was hard enough to plow through just about anything. Pants, walls, force fields... The kitchen was deserted, like the rest of the house. Werner tried his best to nod and hold onto rational thought. Of course, Werner knew Gale to be no fool. The valet no doubt bolted for the front door after delivering Werner’s emergency rations. To his credit, he had also left the auxiliary pantry unlocked for Werner to raid. So he did raid it. Five minutes to the hour saw Werner slouched against the pantry threshold, tearing through a pillow-sized bag of hard pretzels. Still, it wasn’t enough. A normal human, having eaten this much, would likely be vomiting for hours. Werner’s enhanced system merely processed everything into an energy that only boosted the wolf...and his sexual desires. The food slowed, and helped a little, but only a woman could curb the transformation. With minutes to go until the moon reached peak position, the only woman with whom Werner stood a chance was the fake one perched atop Anton’s cake. The cake. Werner slipped further into the pantry and eyed the stainless steel door of the walk-in refrigerator. The solid green, lighted pinprick indicated that Gale had forgotten to set the lock. And the wolf, hungry and having all but conquered rational thought, stalked toward the door licking his lips. **** Wha—? Phyllis woke, still naked, shivering, and miserable, curled in a fetal position. By some miracle, she could see the outline of her hands in a faint light—in sleep she couldn’t control her invisibility. Her knuckles ached from the cold, and she imagined her skin now bore a bluish tint. Hopelessness had given way hours ago to fatigue, leading Phyllis into a deep slumber. There, freedom—and blood circulation—was just a delicious dream. What she felt now, though, might normally be 42

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings described the same way, but Phyllis felt too out of sorts to be certain. What was that scraping against her ass? She tried to move, but her entire body was numb due to its confined position. She felt close to bodily atrophy, the only sensations breaking through being the chill from the surrounding temperature of the cooler and the twitching ecstasy that accompanied every teasing touch to her sensitive flesh. Ooh. She tried to cry out, but fatigue had also taken her voice. She felt a tongue, though. Most definitely a tongue licking the broad curve of her ass...and prodding the cleft in search of her anus. That was a tongue rimming her right now. “Oh!” came a high-pitched croak as her limbs spasmed in response. One arm shot through the bottom, thickest layer of the cake. She would have expressed some despair at having ruined the cake, but the knowledge that somebody else had torn into it to get to her lifted the guilt. To say nothing of flooding her pussy. Teeth, tongue, lips...nibbling and licking and kissing her through crumbling cake and frosting. Phyllis managed to shift her lower hip and thrust her ass backward to enhance this wonderful dream. It wasn’t a dream, though. Phyllis realized as much when she managed to prop her head on her elbow, scraping away more of the cake’s inner wall, to see who was spoiling his dinner with dessert. So many people lived and worked at the Dryden mansion, and she couldn’t begin to guess which of them would help her escape by eating...and eating. How would anyone know she was here, anyway? Light filtered slowly from the open door of the cooler. Phyllis squinted to make out the grunting form feasting on her cunt, gasping at first sight of Werner’s unmistakable profile, shadowed in the foreground. Werner. Had he detected her scent? Phyllis felt her heart slide to the cake floor. Werner lifted his head momentarily to catch his breath, and Phyllis noticed his brows were thicker, and his mane of dark hair unruly and coarse. Was tonight a full moon? The Spawn reported the lunar calendar. Phyllis sighed. She really needed to read that rag for other things besides her byline. One thing she did know, without having to read the paper, was that sex with a werewolf in transition could be quite exhilarating, 43

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings having dated a werewolf in college. Fortuitous, it would have to be, for the cake to be here. They’d need the extra energy. Slowly, with every broad stroke against her anus, then up her pussy lips to her clit, life sparked throughout her body. She quivered and twisted her body, easing slightly onto her back and parting her knees as wide as possible. Werner had eaten away a large enough hole to allow her to stretch her legs forward, and she brought her heels together behind Werner’s neck. He seemed not to notice, but was lost in his own little world, teasing her pussy lips and clit with rapid oral prodding. That’s it. Phyllis moaned softly. More where that came from. Sweets for the sweet. Above them, the rest of the cake teetered to the point of collapse, but Phyllis didn’t care. Let it avalanche. The fervor with which she welcomed her orgasm was all that was needed to encourage the cake to topple. The remaining, intact layers fell noiselessly to the floor around them. Cracked sugar frosting flakes and marzipan ribbons rained gently down, covering them like new fallen snow. No matter. Werner would lick her body clean, and she would return the favor, she decided as Werner doused her fading fires with broad swipes up her pussy lips. When instead he leaned back with a sticky, satisfied grin, Phyllis gasped. The cock that sprang forward, its tip shining with pre-cum, was the largest she had even seen. Yes, she would return the favor, assuming she survived. “Werner.” Her voice was still small and barely audible in the dim, yet gained profound strength as Werner launched forward, punching holes into the bottom cake layer with his fists for support. Cradled between her parted thighs, Werner shifted his hips upward and rolled his cock over her quivering flesh. He teased her slick core and sensitive inner labia, then thrust upward and scraped her clit with the bulging head of his cock. Phyllis was powerless to move, as Werner’s upper body pressed against hers. She managed to squirm a bit, synchronized to his touch, feeling dizzy from each gust of warm breath tickling her breasts and setting her nipples to peak. “You bastard,” she groaned, and arched her neck upward to meet a pair of dripping fangs that lightly skimmed twin lines down her throat. She meant it, of course, in the nicest possible sense of the word. 44

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “Yummy,” was the werewolf’s response, and he thrust his cock into her waiting pussy unaided. **** Conscious thought returned in full the second Werner entered her. He felt the wolf’s grasp on his mind slide away as Phyllis’ pussy clamped around his cock. Tightened muscles pulled him deeper inside her, and rapid, urgent thrusts smoothed into a steadier rhythm that he could enjoy as well. “So yummy.” Mashed, moist cake oozed between his fingers as he fisted his hands, and he smeared the result over Phyllis’ smooth, flat belly. Mingled with her own unique taste, Electra’s recipe could only be improved. He had an idea of how Phyllis got into his house. She had been hiding in the cake! Somehow, she eluded him at Sinful Sundaes and slipped inside the cake as he paid for it. She knew of the spell and triggered it, and his keen sense of smell hadn’t detected her. The bitch. The sneaky, deliciously tight bitch. She nearly scared Werner to death when he tucked into the bottom layer of the cake and hit skin on the third bite. Briefly, in his wolf-addled mind, there had been the thought to howl his displeasure at the breach of security, but a few seconds of rimming Phyllis’ beautiful rounded ass convinced the wolf that he had no reason to be displeasured. She tasted sweeter than anything on Sinful Sundaes’ menu. A mouth full of pussy, too, trumped a mouth voicing displeasure any day. And Phyllis’ pussy was the perfect tonic to quelling his anger over her presence in his home...and the cake’s destruction. That he couldn’t blame on her, of course, but once the euphoria of this fuck subsided he was going to have to take issue with her being here. First...he closed his eyes and focused on his cock, memorizing every ridge and curve within her tight vaginal walls that kept his cock hard and ready to come. When he did, he thought he could go on forever. He could swear his cry rattled the jars on the surrounding shelves. His cock was still hard when he pulled out; sugar frosting and cake crumbs clung to his shaft as he rubbed away the ache. “Come here,” he ordered a limp Phyllis, and grasped her by the waist. “Take me in your mouth.” Phyllis complied quickly. The dimmed light might have been a hindrance for the lovely reporter, but Werner’s keen wolfish eyesight 45

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings allowed him perfect night vision. It wasn’t difficult, therefore, to detect the sly grin on Phyllis’ face or the glint in her bright eyes as her face lowered toward his cock. Grasping him at the base of his shaft, Phyllis licked him clean. She kissed away crumbs and rolled his aching head in her mouth, working his shaft as one would a Popsicle. Given his good vision, though, even he couldn’t tell where his cum ended and the cake began. “You like that, babe?” he moaned. “Mmm.” Phyllis smacked her lips and pressed them to his throbbing head. “Sorry about the cake.” The cake. Werner sighed. Five thousand dollars, poof. Still, it wasn’t the most expensive fuck he’d enjoyed. “No matter,” he sighed. “Anton had no idea what to expect, so no harm done. I’ll think of an alternative, ah, snack. “You,” he continued, taking Phyllis by the back the neck and lifting her to meet his eyes, “will also have no idea what to expect.”

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Chapter Five The heavy door leading back into the pantry opened further on its own, and now Phyllis could see clearly the wicked gleam in Werner’s eyes. She didn’t feel so comfortable with this hungry look, one that implied he would chew her up and spit her out in another sense. She doubted she’d enjoy that as much. She tried to ease away from Werner’s grasp but his hold remained steadfast. “Werner,” she said, the tremor in her voice evident, “let me explain.” “Explain? What, you took a wrong turn leaving the ice cream shop and ended up in my cake by accident, thinking it was your car?” He clucked at her. “Granted, I’ve seen that matchbox you drive, and given your sloppiness in reporting of late I can understand how you might be confused.” “I got by you, didn’t I?” she snapped. Werner said nothing, only snorted his displeasure. Phyllis noticed how quickly his wolf-coarse hair and eyebrows had receded as he shook his head at her. Primitive desire, however he tried to mask it behind his anger, was still there. “Besides,” she said, irritated, “if not for me you’d have wolfed out completely, or whatever it is you call it. I know that can’t be good the night before Anton’s party. So, I did you a favor, whether you want to admit it or not.” “You did, and I thank you, my dear,” Werner conceded with a slight grin. Easing off of her, he brushed away what flakes of frosting and marzipan still clung to his marvelously chiseled body. His cock still stood high. Phyllis closed her thighs together to quell the soreness that resulted after their coupling, and hoped Werner wouldn’t take the gesture as refusal of another round. “Normally I’d have you upstairs so fast you’d wonder how we got there without moving,” he was saying as he helped her stand. Phyllis was conscious of his gaze inspecting her every curve; she was sticky with marzipan and sugar paste. “As it is, my dear, I appear 47

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings sated enough not to have to worry about changing tonight. I can’t have you here in the morning when the caterers and planners arrive, either. So, you’ll have to do me the favor of leaving.” He guided her out of the cooler, through the pantry to the kitchen. Phyllis marveled at its expanse and technological majesty. It put the kitchen of Sinful Sundaes to shame. The rest of Werner’s mansion was certainly no less opulent, she imagined. She had to wonder where the main event would take place. She had to know. She had to stay and see it for herself, and get it on paper for Maejika. Werner reached for a wall phone. “Gale isn’t far. I’ll have him get the car and drive you home,” he said.” “If you insist,” Phyllis said. She toed a circle on the marble tile floor. “But you’ll have to do something for me first.” Werner looked up from dialing Gale’s number. “That is?” Phyllis smiled. “Catch me.” **** Just like that, she faded into the air with a light giggle. The sound of bare feet skidding against the kitchen floor signaled her hasty escape. Werner disconnected before Gale could answer. “I can still see cake sticking to you,” he called after her. “You won’t be that difficult to find.” “Catch me if you can, wolf boy.” Phyllis’ voice was distant now, taunting and mirthful. Werner looked down at the kitchen floor, streaked with frosting prints. No, she wouldn’t be difficult to find at all. Electra Spellfire’s magnetism may have distracted him enough not to detect Phyllis at the ice cream parlor, but here her unique scent would take prominence over more familiar surroundings. How silly to run from a werewolf; Werner would sniff her out in no time. Then, he mused silently, she’d do him the favor of...doing him. **** She managed to get as much of the cake off her body as possible. Her skin still felt sticky and uncomfortable, but a chance turn down a long hallway led her to a guest bathroom. There she wet a rag and swabbed her limbs, breasts, and backside, before slipping quietly back to the main foyer. She had to find a good place to hide; more than likely she wouldn’t make it long, but she wanted to give Werner a good chase. 48

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Though she enjoyed the chase, she wanted to be caught. Werner only seemed angry with her for running, she knew. She relished the punishment to ensue from this chase as much, if not more, than chasing the story for the Spawn. Once in the foyer, she ascended the main staircase slowly, so as not to creak any steps. A cursory search of the main floor yielded no doors leading to a basement, leading Phyllis to guess Werner had no basement rec room. Phyllis could only guess that the party would encompass much of the house rather than be limited to one room, with the main event taking place in one of the bedrooms. The main event, certainly, would involve the lovely Fae Falona, but who else? Werner? The groom? Both? The notion disturbed Phyllis, and as images of Werner bent over Fae Falona surfaced she felt all the more unnerved. Phyllis shook the thoughts away. Come on, the reporter inside her urged. The sex was fun, but she wasn’t Werner’s girl. Whom was she kidding? The sex was more than fun. The sex was better than cake, tastier than even Electra’s majestic tribute to matrimonial pastry. She hurried down the hall. A man, a werewolf, obsessed with appearances like Werner no doubt had living quarters suited to his libido. If Werner were astute enough to track her down, fine, but she wanted to at least see his living quarters once. Despite how much Werner appeared to enjoy their coupling, she doubted she’d ever receive a formal invitation. And, if she had to be caught, she could think of no better place. She checked every door, looking constantly over her shoulder and listening for Werner’s heavy, wolfish panting. It wasn’t long before Phyllis found the correct entrance, and her suspicions of Werner’s tastes were confirmed as she stepped carefully across the lush carpet into a bedroom fit for a film star. On the far end, an open balcony door exposed through the curtains a twinkling Spellfire, her lights alive like distant fireflies and fairies against the inky black. The bureau and dresser were ominous, nearly taking up one wall with an impressive mirror that seemed more like a portal into an alternative universe. Of course, given the nature of Spellfire, it could be one. Befitting of a man with impeccable taste in wardrobe, Phyllis decided. Certainly, Werner wouldn’t wear the same pair of underwear twice; he probably had a year’s supply of briefs folded neatly in these 49

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings drawers. Assuming, Phyllis realized with a smirk, the werewolf wore underwear at all. The bed stood huge, draped in ivory sheets so smooth Phyllis imagined a headfirst dive would feel like falling into a vat of milk. The bed lay positioned in the middle of the large room atop a platform, Phyllis guessed, to emphasize the importance of Werner’s sexual prowess. Mahogany bookshelves lined the wall supporting it; Phyllis silently ticked off titles of numerous classics and spell books. Who knew that Werner was so literate? She noticed bends and wrinkles in the covers and pages...these books weren’t for show. “Interested in borrowing something? Perhaps you see something else in the room that suits your fancy.” She started at the sound of Werner’s bemusement, and on instinct checked her arms. She saw nothing, therefore Werner shouldn’t have either. Had she inadvertently read aloud a book title without realizing it, or maybe he could hear her breathing? “I know you’re here, Phyllis,” Werner said, his voice as smooth as the sheets she now gazed at with longing. The husky tone of each spoken word chilled her, while her nipples stood to attention and her pussy ached for that mouth. Her toes curled into the carpet, and she didn’t doubt she could pull up some of the shag fibers. Shag. Remembering the earlier confrontation with Maejika, she glanced down at the carpet. Two deep indentations in the shag marked where she stood, and though the room was dimly lit she was certain Werner’s wolfish eyesight caught it right off the bat. Damn it. “I followed the wet spots,” Werner continued, drawing closer. Phyllis felt the heat of his desire resonate and envelop her, stoking the fire smoldering in her pussy. “A bit of advice, Phyllis, when you hose yourself down—or whatever it was you did to get the cake crumbs off—it helps to dry yourself before you take off running.” Phyllis remained still. He was practically on top of her now, presumably using her footprints as a guide. She flinched when a hand brushed her backside. From her point of view, Werner appeared to make odd hand gestures, sizing up a woman’s shape. Her shape. “I followed the wet spots, through the foyer, up the stairs and down the hall. Naturally, I assumed water, but I have to wonder what else is wet.” Werner sized up the space she filled and waved his hands until he touched skin. Phyllis let out a pleasured gasp; no point in remaining quiet, and willed herself to be seen. 50

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “Now that’s cheating,” Werner admonished, turning his head. “Have you fucked anyone while invisible?” “No,” Phyllis said. Odd that she hadn’t, she surmised. Then again, there hadn’t been many men in her life, nor many men she wanted to fuck. Now, she thought only of the one standing before her. Moved by Werner’s piercing gaze, she rendered herself invisible again. He palmed her belly. “Much better. I know what this is, so if I move down...” Slowly his fingers danced down her quivering abdomen into the valley that concealed her slick core. “So this is what an invisible pussy feels like,” he chuckled. “Does it feel any different invisible?” Words failed Phyllis. The sensation flooding her pussy and shooting through her veins felt ten times better than any touch, kiss, or caress she’d ever enjoyed. This mere dabbling of her pussy lips as Werner explored her, surpassed nearly everything he had done to her in the cooler. She wobbled in place, certain her legs would give out if he continued. “And this,” he said, delving a finger deeper into her labial folds, “must be...” Phyllis cried aloud. The touch to her clit set off fireworks. Record time for an orgasm...now that was an exclusive the Spawn would never print. “It must.” Werner tested his hands and soon had Phyllis’ unseen body in his arms. Phyllis felt herself lifted high as he carried her toward the bed. The room became a blur. The arousal she experienced now seemed magnified by her invisibility, as if her skin were stripped to leave Werner to sample a more sensitive body. She could only hope, she decided as he lay her gently against the top sheet, that he’d have no trouble finding the right hole with that thickening cock. Werner lay on top of her, rubbing his cock against her thighs, belly, and cunt, in search of that secret cove. It felt good, and given this enhanced state, she could only imagine how his cock would feel inside her. “Little help here, darlin’?” Werner rocked his hips from side to side, parting her legs enough to allow the tip of his cock to tap against her parted pussy lips. Phyllis breathed slowly, feeling her chest expand and thrilled by the fact that she couldn’t be seen. That Werner appeared to be humping the bed might have looked amusing to anybody else, but Phyllis found the primal stretching of his body, his muscular arms braced on either side of her, very erotic. He appeared 51

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings to hover, but she felt his heat as they touched, and as Werner slowly entered her...oh! “Incredible,” he said on a sigh. “I’m fucking you, I’m fucking you while you’re invisible. I can actually see my cock...and you’re so damn tight.” “You’re so thick.” Wonderfully thick. Cake frosting should be so thick. It could stand up on its own. She tilted her head back to accept Werner’s kisses. For the most part he was on target, and she had to giggle every time his head dipped low and missed. Phyllis could only imagine, too, what kissing her while invisible must have looked like from his point of view. As it was, watching his hips pivot as he slammed his cock into her pussy was a sight that would never bore her. When his orgasm neared, he slid out quickly and came on her belly, making patches of skin visible with his seed. That soon disappeared as his body crushed against hers for one last kiss. “Come out, come out, wherever you are,” he sang. “Rather, just come.” In seconds, Phyllis was visible again, and eager to respond as Werner pulled back the sheets to guide her into bed. “I thought I was going home,” she challenged him, her tone light. Werner pulled the sheets over them and drew Phyllis close, easing her to her side and spooning her. “You are, in the morning,” he said. “Right now, I’m going to need your help.” “Really? What good could a soon-to-be out of work reporter be to you?” No way was Maejika keeping her at the Spawn after this. Her job was to report gossip, not personify it. Phyllis had no doubt word of this would spread. In fact...Phyllis tilted her head toward the open window. She could have sworn she saw something tiny fluttering against the curtains, tiny like a nosy fairy reporter’s wings. Let him watch, she thought, if Winkle was indeed out there. “I can think of one thing.” Werner said as he nipped her ear, eliciting a giggle from Phyllis. “Before we get to that, however, I’m going to need some ideas on an alternate party plan for Anton. With the cake destroyed, most of the party’s agenda goes with it.” Phyllis closed her eyes and focused on Werner’s hands exploring her length. She was thinking of a number of things herself, nothing to do with Anton’s bachelor party. “Too bad, for Anton, anyway,” she said. “But won’t he be disappointed if you change plans?” 52

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “Probably not,” Werner said. “In truth, he’s probably the least enthusiastic about the party. He’d be happy with a group outing at Sinful Sundaes, splitting one of those ice cream boats instead of getting a lap dance. He’s in love with his fiancée, you know.” “Good to know, considering he’s about to commit to her for the rest of his life,” Phyllis said. Good to know, too, Werner seemed less and less disappointed himself that the party, and the lovely Fae Falona’s performance, wouldn’t happen. Then, she said, “What are you doing?” She smiled as he leered at her. Werner slid a hand over her hip and between her legs. “Me? Oh, I’m just ready for a midnight snack.” Phyllis eased onto her back as Werner moved over her. “Is the wolf in you ever satisfied?” “For your sake, darling,” Werner said, brushing his lips against hers, “you better hope not.” The End

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Tuesdae: Anne Leland -Tarot & Toasted Almonds Tarot mistress Lady Gael needs a new card deck more than a lover. Will reclusive werewolf Chase MacGregor be able to break down her barriers? www.anneleland.com

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Tarot & Toasted Almonds By Anne Leland Chapter One A knock on her door was the last thing Serena expected to hear after the witching hour. Yet, the steady rhythm of need rang its insistent thrum across the aged wood. She wrapped a shawl around her bare shoulders, slipped off the couch and walked over to the window, overseeing the front porch. Normally, her heart might jump in the familiar pattern of a mother who fears the worst for her child, but she’d just spoken with Marissa an hour ago and knew she was tucked away in the arms of her husband. Serena still didn’t approve of her daughter taking up with one of her college professors, but Marissa was old enough to make decisions on her own—wise or not. Peering through the slit in the curtain, she could barely make out the shape of her visitor in the moonless night. Whoever it was, he was here on a mission. Knock, after booming knock, splintered the surface of the old oak. Any more of this nonsense and there might not be a paint chip left to splatter. She moved away from the window and walked over to the front door. Slipping the chain off the lock and turning the knob, she eased the door open and peered out into the darkness. Before she could identify her midnight caller and offer a “hello,” the door slammed open. Serena stumbled backward as her heel caught the edge of her silk nightgown. Her breath caught in her throat. Chase MacGregor’s bulky frame filled the doorway. It wasn’t the tense strain of muscle rippling beneath his arms that shook her, nor the fact that he could crush half the town without blinking; it was the wild look of hunger and pain in his eyes. 55

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings She stuck out her chin and straightened her back, in an attempt to coax her petite body into a more intimidating pose. “I’m not going to be your supper tonight. Go home.” “I’m not here for that,” he growled. “Go back and find your hermit hole in the woods, MacGregor, lest I be tempted to gift you with a curse.” The threat was full of false bravado, but very few would argue with a gypsy threat. Rumors around town had her turning harpies into toads with a glance, and, as far as Serena was concerned, she was just fine with that. It kept the unenlightened from bothering her and ensured her safety on more than one occasion. It just didn’t seem to be working now. Chase squinted his eyes, as the beginning of a smirk caught the end of his lips. Nice lips at that. For a reclusive werewolf, he had an amazing amount of charm. Not that she cared; she needed a new Tarot deck more than she needed another lover. Her last romp with a selfpretentious vampire left her far more bitten than smitten. “You underestimate me, Lady Gael. I already know your many talents do not include curses.” “Are you so sure about that?” His brow furrowed, as he appeared to contemplate her bluff. “I thought as much. Head my warning then.” “Hold up a minute.” Chase raised a hand in protest. He had big hands. Capable of… never mind. Serena, you don’t need to go there. An awkward silence filled the foyer. Chase cleared his throat. “I came here to… uh…” “Go on.” “Well, uh…” he suddenly took on the appearance of a young man about to ask his first date for a kiss. “I need your help.” “I’m not on the market for that sort of help.” “You don’t read Tarot, anymore?” “Oh, of course, I do.” What was she thinking? For a moment there, she wished she were the young lover, waiting impatiently for his lips to caress hers. “Then, will you help me?” “The cards do help, Mr. MacGregor, but they merely shed light upon that which we already know. If it’s prophecy or fortune-telling you seek, you’ll not find it here.” 56

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “Damn, this was a fool mistake to think you, or anyone, would understand.” Chase drew his upper lip back to bare his fangs while a barely audible growl rolled along the back of his throat. He turned his back to her, stepped away from the doorway and disappeared into the black night. Serena stood at the door a minute before shutting it, half expecting the werewolf to return and lay claim to her flesh. Half wanting him to taste her in a most inappropriate way. She slipped the chain link back in place and stared down at the worn braid rug beneath her feet. Some things were simply better left alone, weren’t they? **** The curve of her breasts, thinly veiled by the crochet shawl, branded a vibrant picture in his head. How could this be possible? She wasn’t of his kind. Chase’s ‘mate’ radar shifted into overdrive—an experience he’d only had once before, with Jason’s mother—a she-wolf. How could a gypsy possibly evoke such a burn? Maybe he’d spent a few too many years in solitude. Which was now coming back to bite him in the ass. Big time. Sending Jason off to be raised by his aunt, Elora, seemed like a reasonably good idea. Until today. When Jason appeared at the door of his cabin, Chase barely recognized him. Thin. Way too thin for his seven-foot frame. And hiding something. He was sure of it. Or maybe just hiding? Damn. He’d been sure Lady Gael could tell him what secrets Jason kept; her fortune-telling abilities were legendary. He was sure, that is, until she opened the door. The force of her mating call kicked him in the chest, and his jeans suddenly morphed into a taut prison. Good thing her eyes never left his face. What in hell was he going to do now? He couldn’t go back there. He couldn’t come within ten feet of her, ever again. If he did, only the Gods would be able to restrain him. In the deep cloak of the woods, he still tasted her scent. Woodsy. Ethereal. Spicy. Maybe she gave readings over the phone? 57

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings He’d have to have one installed first. How far would they run the phone line to accommodate him? Maybe one of Lady Gael’s neighbors would be willing to…? No. No one needed to know about his problems. One gossip and, the next thing you knew, the whole world wanted in your window. He had more than his fill of paparazzi for one lifetime. No one in Spellfire knew anything about that past, and he had no intention of going back there. Back there equaled pain beyond his limitations.

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Chapter Two A stretch of thistle snagged the bottom of her gauze skirt, snaring a hole in the fabric. Serena plucked the offensive plant off the material and considered turning back. But where was the path back? If she weren’t so stubborn, she might admit she was lost. Where were her mystical gypsy powers when she needed them? Her laugh echoed back to her from the foliage above. No one realized that magic skipped a generation. Her only abilities lay in the Tarot, an art, not a conjurer’s power. A twig snapped in the distance. Blood surged through her veins, filling her eardrums with the pulse of her heart. Just an animal. A harmless anim— The shadow of the beast washed over Serena before the scream escaped her throat. Damn, she knew better than to cross into the forbidden territories. She stared up into the eyes of the werewolf. They mirrored the center of the well behind her home—deep, devoid of humanity, waiting to swallow your soul into the swell of blackness. Not unlike Chase’s. His son. Serena knew of the boy only through rumor, but the remarkable resemblance affirmed the truth. Chase’s son stood before her, getting ready to claw her entrails out from the looks of it. “Wait!” The wolf snorted at her and began his attack, raking his hand across her side, tearing away the thin gauze, scraping through her flesh with the ease of batting away a pesky fly. Serena collapsed on the ground. Her lungs sucked in non-existent air as a burst of heat spread across her ribs. A gush of warm liquid oozed through her hand, as she clutched her side. Is this how it all ends? The leaves of the forest faded to green pinpricks. 59

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “Chase...” her lips sputtered the word, garbling into a foreign sound, more shrill than coherent. “I… came to see Chase.” A low growl, echoing through the forest with the strength of a sonic boom, rang in her ears as the ground began to spin. She looked up. Her vision doubled as she saw the silhouette of two werewolves, tumbling into each other. The duo grappled as the trees formed a salient wall around them. A soft tuft of grass caressed her cheek, but she didn’t remember falling. The hum of a thousand crickets muffled the howls, screaming across the valley, from brawl. Why was Chase fighting his son? Her question remained unanswered, as the figures blended into the trees, and the whole of the forest faded into darkness. **** “Serena?” A thin stream of light plucked through her heavy eyelids. “Serena? Can you hear me?” She chased the melodic tenor of the voice towards the light. Was her son-in-law here? Had she over-slept? Was something wrong with Marissa? She struggled to open her eyes and push up to a seated position. A sharp pain screamed up the left side of her body, forcing her back. Falling back onto the bed, she tried to regain her breath through cracked lips. Chase. The woods. Werewolf. The memories flooded back into her consciousness. Serena forced her eyelids open, quickly shutting them again when the light of the room burned her eyes. “Take it easy. It’s okay, Serena. I’m here.” The tenor offered a blanket of soothing comfort to her quaking body. Slowly, the tremors subsided, and she squinted into the bright morning light of the room, taking in the images. Soft sheer midnightblue organza draped across pillars of cherry wood. A tilted skylight, setting the fabric to a shimmery blaze. Her room. She was in her bed. Maybe it had all been a bad dream. If so, then whose hand caressed hers now, infusing a small strand of pleasure to coil around the pain raking through her body? She 60

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings urged her muscles into cooperation, to shift her line of vision to find the source of the touch. “You.” “Good. You’re awake.” Chase’s brow line deepened. “How are you feeling?” How do you think I’m feeling? She wanted to scream, how should I feel after your son tried to kill me? “Water,” was all she could squeak from her parched lips. Chase squeezed her hand. “Of course. I’ll be right back.” Serena quieted her senses, called upon her meditation techniques, drawing upon them to quell the pain in her body. A series of loud bangs came from the general direction of her kitchen, disrupting her momentary serenity. Chase returned to the bedroom, carrying a glass full of what appeared to be crushed ice. He held a sliver to her lips, rubbing it softly against the plump flesh until she parted her lips and sucked the cold shard in, rolling it with her tongue. The ice melted quickly, providing instant relief. “More,” she begged. Chase slipped another piece between her lips. They repeated the frosty exchange well past the point when a desirable level of moisture returned to her mouth. Despite the tug of pain in her side, she was tempted to slip a few ice cubes into Chase’s mouth and drink from his lips. She must be delirious. Maybe it was a dream? “Enough. Thank you.” His eyes darkened with what appeared to be disappointment. Serena shook off the notion. Probably just more of her delirium. Chase placed the half-empty glass onto the nightstand next to her bed, raked a strand of stray hair, flopping over his eyes and paced the length of the room. She watched, in silence, as he swallowed the floor with his strides. An unmistakable bulge, straining the fabric of his jeans, flashed with each step. Curious. In her condition, she could do little to fight off any of his advances, not that any part of her seriously wanted to fight him off. Delirium, remember? “How long have I been asleep?” “About two days.”

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Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Two days? How could that be? Serena cleared her throat. “So, would you like to explain any of this to me? Why did your son attack me? Does this have to do with the other night?” Chase stopped at the edge of the bed. “How did you know he was my son?” She didn’t miss the sharp edge in his tone. “The family resemblance could have something to do with it.” He bit the edge of his lip, as if contemplating the truthfulness of her reply. “You should have known better than to walk into a den without permission.” “I didn’t do anything, didn’t even have a weapon. I was looking for you. You asked for my help, remember?” “Still…” Chase shifted his gaze to the floor. “I’m sorry for my son’s actions. He’s… we’ve all been a little tense lately.” She zeroed in on his erection. “Is that what you call it?” The words escaped her lips before she could call them back. Shit. Shit. Shit. There you go, let the cat out of the bag, and embarrass the man. Well, why not? She was half-torn up by his child while Chase paced her room like a caged animal in full heat. It was hard to tell through his ruddy complexion, but Serena was sure Chase MacGregor blushed. He turned away from her and stomped out of the room. “I’m going to get you some more salve.” And, no doubt, lick your wounds. She might not mind licking his wounds for him. Enough already. She didn’t need a lover. Lovers fail you. What she needed was some answers. **** What in hell was he supposed to do? He couldn’t leave her in this condition, and, with his son’s latest outburst, he needed her help more than ever. That was the problem. He needed her help in far too many ways. How could he possibly crave someone other than a she-wolf? Despite the improbability, there it was, as she so kindly pointed out. He hadn’t really considered taking on a life-mate again. After Jillian’s death, he’d never thought it possible. Wasn’t sure if he wanted to think it possible again. Even after seven years, the ache of 62

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings her absence in the night left him sleepless, with hollow desire shredding his heart. The whole world had loved Jillian. A beautiful movie star, she mesmerized fans on screen and off. Fortune only knew why she’d been joined to him. On the day she died, his soul left with her. If he had just one wish, he’d spend it all, turning back the hands of time, to be with her, just one more time. Could he ever accept another in his life to share what still belonged to Jillian? He grabbed the salve from the kitchen counter where he’d dropped it earlier. As his hand slipped around the cold container, a shiver lifted the hairs on his neck. How long could he fight the urges? Maybe he should just throw the salve at her and run? Maybe he could call…? No! He couldn’t involve anyone else in this situation until he knew what the situation was. His son was afraid—scratch that—terrified of something. What else would have caused him to attack so irrationally without first sensing an assault? Maybe, it was just anger, not fear. Like father, like son. Chase hesitated at the doorway to Serena’s bedroom. A deepseated hunger gnashed his insides, grinding his heart like piecemeal. In her weakened condition, with her eyes closed, Serena looked as fragile as the slip of moon, peeking through ribbons of mist, yet luminescent as the glow from the harvest sky. Possessing more power in her beauty than a woman had a right to. Her eyes opened as he stepped into the room. “I’m sorry. I must have dozed off.” With two strides, he closed the distance between them, leashing his desire as he stopped at the side of her bed. “You’d be better off putting this on yourself.” He held the container of salve out to her. Serena’s fingers brushed his skin as she accepted the salve. The hair on the back of his hand stood on edge as a jolt ricocheted through his body to the bottom of his black leather boots. She arched her eyebrows, knowingly, when he jerked his hand back from the shock of attraction. A grimace washed away her smile as she tried to sit up. He leaned over, gently wrapping his hands around her shoulders to still her movements. The smooth silk of her shirt offered a cool reprieve to the fire of his flesh. 63

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Serena stared up at him. She seemed to be searching for answers he couldn’t provide. Her lips parted to form the beginning of a sentence, but he spared her the words by leaning forward, and, with a probe of his tongue, he plunged mercilessly into the moist curve of her lips. He felt her resistance, but he couldn’t still his need. Primal heat heavily clouded his capacity for rational thought. Her body succumbed to his determination, slowly welcoming his kiss, then matching his eager exploration with her own fervor. Euphoria. Every cell in his body awakened. Hot. Need. Must have— Serena pushed away from the kiss, her palms firmly planted on his chest. A soft moan escaped her lips, one he wanted to equate with passion but knew stemmed more from pain. “We need to do something about this.” So, she needed a little TLC. He could accommodate that. “My thoughts exactly…” he pressed forward to sample the sweet curve of her lips again. She stiffened in his arms and pushed harder against his advance. “You must go see Nitocris, at once.” “What?” The unexpected demand momentarily dispelled any fog of lust. He pulled back and studied Serena’s face, hoping to see a coy smile there. No such luck. She wasn’t toying with him. “I don’t know why I didn’t think of it earlier. She’s well-versed in the ways of werewolves. I shall give you a note to carry to her.” “That’s not exactly what I had in mind.” “She will give you a cure for your condition.” The hairs prickled along the back of his neck. A cure? What if he didn’t want a cure? No, Serena was right. Even if there was some chance in hell they were destined to mate, there’s no way he could be with her in her condition without jeopardizing her life. Still, her lips called to him. What would one more taste hurt? She looked at him, knowingly, as if he’d spoken his desires aloud. “Now, Chase. It’s for the best. You’re not thinking rationally about this.” 64

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings As she rested back against her pillow, he stood up, instantly regretting the loss of her touch. “You should leave soon. Nitocris does entertain visitors after the sun sets. While you are gone,” she continued, “I’ll apply the salve and get some rest. When you return, we will consult the cards. Perhaps then, we’ll both have the answers we seek.” The last mist of lust receded from the forefront of his mind. Answers. Yes. Only, he was no longer certain what questions to ask.

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Chapter Three White alabaster flanked the entry to the long chamber. A cold breeze sucked the air from Chase’s lungs, drawing life from every corner of the corridor. Green orbs lit the way, casting an otherworldly glow, contrasting sharply with his dark shadow, falling over the ancient drawings on the wall. As he entered the main chamber of the dwelling, he caught site of Nitocris. She stretched out across a black S-shaped chair, knees bent, her bony legs curled behind her. He knew very little about her, other than she worked for Electra at Sinful Sundaes, and people alluded to rumors of her royal rank and troublesome past. Not that he indulged the gossips. He knew all about troublesome pasts. She certainly sat like a queen, her stature and cool presence taking complete command of the room. “I have sent for no one. State your business.” Nitocris, obviously, thought she was a queen, too. He couldn’t make the connection of how Serena wound up being friends with this ice bitch. Acutely aware of the stark contrast between them only made him lust for Serena that much more. Okay. Time to do something here, quick. “Excuse the interruption, Madam Nitocris. I’m here to deliver a note from Lady Gael.” “Serena? Is she not doing well? You must bring me to her, at once.” “She’s fine.” Depending on how you look at it. “She’s, uh, resting, and, well, this matter somewhat, kinda, concerns me.” “You? I offer no help to a wolf man.” She waved her hand at him in a sign of dismissal. Layers of golden cuffs chimed as they fell from her wrist to her elbow with the movement. “Go now. Give Serena my best.” What the—? “Aren’t you going to, at least, read the note?” “Ah, yes, come, come. Give it here.” Nitocris snapped her fingers, crackling bone on bone. 66

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings He stepped forward, holding out the paper. She plucked it from his hand, as if she were picking up a scarab from the floor. Unfolding the stationary, the sockets of her eyes blackened as she carefully read through Serena’s words. Chase wished he had read the note before giving it to her. How much did Serena disclose? Not like he needed the whole damn town to know. “Okay.” Nitocris smoothly transitioned from her chair to a standing position. So smoothly, her moments offered no more than a faint whisper, dissipating up to the vaulted ceiling. “You will give me a few minutes to gather what I need.” “Then you can help me?” “Indeed.” “Well, how?” “When one stays around as long as I, one gets to know a bit about a beast or two. You wait here.” Nitocris scuttled off into the adjacent chamber, Chase guessed to be the kitchen from the small visible portion of the room. A dull whirring followed a series of scrapes, the whirring sounding a bit like a blender. Exactly what was she doing in there, and what had he gotten himself into now? No way, he was sucking down any mummy food. What did they eat anyway? **** A milkshake. Nitocris gave him a milkshake. A green, rather minty-smelling, one. How in hell was a milkshake supposed to cure his lust for Serena? Unless, of course, he got to pour it over her and lick it off… No such luck. Nitocris’s instructions were clear. He was to drink the concoction on the way back to Serena’s, and the effects would last for forty-eight hours. What the hell? At this point, there remained little left to lose. If he wanted Serena’s professional help, he had to scrunch down his outof-whack hormones. The first drink iced the back of his throat in a winter-like rush. Delicious. Mint infused with a trace of chocolate and subtle hints of other flavors he couldn’t quite put a name to. 67

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings A touch of a nutty flavor, too. Maybe toasted almonds? Not sure he wanted to know what all was in it anyway. Whatever it was, though, it was damned good. By the time he returned to Serena’s, not only did he chug down every drop of the shake, but his animalistic mating urges were also miraculously gone. Well, what do ya know? The old biddy, Nitocris, knew a trick or two, after all! He swung open the door to Serena’s house, and her scent hit him full blast. And, as he expected, his cock behaved. Miracle worker, that Nitocris. He’d have to remember to thank her sometime. Maybe. Was it a good thing his anatomy laid dormant? Forty-eight hours, he assured his non-responsive muscle. It’s not permanent. If this all didn’t lead to the truth of his son’s condition, he’d take great pleasure in returning home and beating the answers out of the kid. **** His kiss had been so intense, Serena wasn’t even aware at first she kissed him back. Her lips still stung with trace pleasure from the encounter. Seeing him standing in her doorway, once again, gave her a shiver, as she recalled their first encounter. Patting the couch cushion next to her, she invited him in. Strangely enough, she longed for him to kiss her again though she was sure Nitocris’s remedy had already chased any fever from his loins. Too bad, but all for the best. Or was it? How long had it been since she took a chance on love? Was it really so bad that her last lover broke her heart? Not her fault, he couldn’t rein in his gypsy wanderlust. A vampire with a gypsy mother, the man hadn’t stood a chance. Why did she always gravitate toward men with low impulse control? “I see you’re feeling better.” Chase closed the front door, ignored her invitation and took a seat at the far end of the couch. “Quite. That’s some miracle salve you have there.” “It’s a family recipe.” “What’s in it?” 68

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “You’d probably rather not know.” The smell of it had been a little revolting, at first. He was right; she was probably better off not knowing. “So, I trust you found Nitocris well?” “That’s one way of looking at it. “And…?” “Apparently so.” Chase glanced downward, and the tone of his skin darkened in what she imagined to be a touch of a werewolf flush. “So, what was in that concoction she gave me anyway?” “You’d probably rather not know.” A low rumble of laughter rolled across the living room. She liked his laugh. It was rich, full of meaning and reckless abandon. The few times she’d seen him publicly, she couldn’t even remember him ever smiling, and their encounters over the past two days afforded little chance of merriment. Serena decided she’d like to make it her mission to give him cause to laugh and smile a bit more. As if sensing her intentions, Chase’s features hardened back into their typical flat-line expression. “Do you think that, uh, maybe you’re up to doing that reading now?” Could his hints be a little subtler? Obviously, Nitocris’s serum had worked a little too well. Too bad. Maybe they’d both have been better off, exploring the sexual tension between them. A part of Serena felt sad about the loss, but the bigger issues at hand remained. Chase needed some soulsearching and a major dose of reality. And she was just the Tarot reader to offer it to him. “We can begin at any time. The dining table will be best.” She stood up and gestured towards the antique mahogany set near the corner. “The real question is, Chase, do you think you’re up to learning the truth the cards will reveal?”

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Chapter Four Serena handled her Tarot cards as if they were fragile slivers of dust, ready to disintegrate at the slightest touch. Though, from what Chase could tell, they were made of some rather sturdy metal. Her shawl slipped, revealing her shoulder when she placed the first card on the table—a picture of woman, holding onto a pile of stick-like objects. The card held his attention for less than a second before his gaze returned to Serena. How was he supposed to focus on the reading when he’d rather explore the tender bit of flesh along the nape of her neck? Nitocris must have left some ingredient out of her milkshake potion. Unless… Impossible. Well, not impossible, but improbable. It wasn’t possible, was it? Sure enough, it was. He was attracted to her on the level of a man, not a wolf-mate. The only other woman who had ever churned his insides this bad was Jillian. Could he really be attracted to another woman in the same way? Once in a lifetime seemed far too good. He never deserved Jillian. Never treated her as well as he could have. Then, one day, she was gone, and his whole world crashed down. It was little wonder his son didn’t talk to him. He’d shut the whole world out, and now he didn’t know how to let even Serena in. She turned over a second card, one with the impression of a voluptuous woman, carrying some sort of basket on her shoulder. His mind jumped into overdrive. He had to sit on his hands in order to resist the temptation to reach out and stroke the curve of Serena’s neck, pulling her into him—. Serena interrupted his less-than-chivalrous thoughts. “The woman, she is Dischi, a symbol of power.”

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Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings He nodded in automatic response, clueless as to why he should care about Dischi or her powers. The only power he was interested in exploring was the hold Serena had over his senses. “The deck is the Sola Busca Tarot,” she continued, “one that has been with my family for six centuries. Or so, it has been passed down in tradition to be. One never knows these things; many of my ancestors were, shall we say, adept in the art of trade.” “Ah, so kind of a family heirloom thing, then?” “Of sorts. Each deck calls to its owner. Some say the Sola Busca is the choice of purists. I’m not so sure about that,” her eyebrow arched in a telling manner, “but she speaks to me. That’s all I know.” Serena flipped over the third card, a carving of what appeared to be a king. “And who’s that?” Serena smiled. “Sabino, the sun.” She lay the remainder of the deck down, off to the side. “That’s it? Three cards?” How could she help him with three measly cards? He expected, at least, half a deck or one of those cross positions you always saw in the movies when the characters visited the dark gypsy tent. A small chuckle escaped her lips. He liked her laugh. What other sounds could he produce from those lush lips? “Sorry, I didn’t mean—“ “It’s okay. Happens all the time. The spread I’ve chosen for you is the Three Fates. Often, truth lies on the emerging arc of our experience.” She pointed to each card, in turn, as she continued, “The past, the present, and the future.” He nodded, feeling stupider by the minute. Maybe, if he focused on her words, rather than the sumptuous way her eyes sparkled under the glow from the chandelier… “Are you ready to begin?” Ready? Was he ready? How much did he want to know? In truth, he should probably just go and confront his son, drag the answers from him. Along with offering an apology for not being the most approachable of fathers, in the process. What else would the cards reveal? Would Serena be able to read his thoughts about her? Maybe this isn’t such a great idea. 71

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “You know, we don’t have to proceed if you’ve changed your mind. As I told you, the cards don’t offer answers and predictors; they merely shed light on what we already know.” Cool. Then she couldn’t read his mind. “Nah, go ahead.’ “Okay,” she pointed to the first card, the woman clutching what could be either sticks or swords, “This is the card of the past. Mazze. An important element of your past burdens you? A battle raging within. Your soul is deeply troubled by something.” Serena paused, as if waiting for his response. How could this simple deck of cards hit home so fast? If he ever doubted Serena’s abilities, he didn’t now. She stayed true to her word, not offering answers, but one look into her eyes and he knew she comprehended much more than she’d ever let on. Could he confess his fears? Should he tell her he wanted to be with her but didn’t know if he could offer her enough of himself to make it worth her while to give him a chance? The words failed to leave his lips. How could he tell her about Jillian? How could he explain how his heart stood still from the moment she died until now, with Serena, when a world of possibilities overwhelmed his senses. “My wife.” Serena waited patiently, coaxing him with her eyes to continue, reassuring him that she wasn’t there to judge but to listen. Just as Jillian would have. He swallowed, squashing down his fear, along with his pride. To do justice to both women, he had to tell her the truth. “I had a hard time dealing with Jillian’s death. I don’t think I realized until today how much I’ve closed off.” “We often close ourselves to the pain.” She reached for his hand, circling her fingers around his, soothing every wound in his heart with the comforting gesture. “This is a card of strength, though. You have great strength within you. It is your true weapon. Your son, I imagine, carries the same resolve.” Why didn’t he see that before? Jason was probably burying his pain in anger, too. Damn, the woman was an excellent reader. “So, you’re trying to say that we’re both stubborn asses?” “If you’d like to put it that way,” she laughed. “No, don’t worry, it’s true. I think we both dealt with our loss ineffectively. I was just so damn angry.” The emotional flood took him by surprise, as the sting of a tear blurred his vision. 72

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “I understand.” Did she? Everyone always said they understood, but losing your wife… Of course, she did. Why didn’t he see it before? “Marisa’s father?” “Yes.” She squeezed his hand, instantly transferring her own pain. “He passed from this realm when she was only three.” The impression of sorrow still haunted her eyes. Chase couldn’t imagine the trials she went through with such a small child to raise. At least, Jason had been grown. Then again, that had made things easier for them in a far too negative way. “I’m sorry. I’ve been kind of selfish, huh? That must have been hard on you and your daughter.” She squeezed his hand again. He caressed her skin with his thumb, wanting to pull her to him, to wash away all her grief in his embrace. “My daughter was very young; she remembers little. Your son, on the other hand… It must have been very difficult for you both.” “The difficulty is neither of us handled it very well. I pushed him away; he pushed harder.” “And so, maybe it’s time to push in a better direction?” Like hers? The singular thought smacked him senseless. “Serena…” She avoided his gaze and looked down at the cards, slipped her hand away from his and fumbled with the middle card. A glint of light caught the edge of the metal, illuminating the curves of the voluptuous woman imprinted on the card. Serena cleared her throat. “We’ll continue. The second card is the present. In this position, it’s an indicator that you are hindering your own progress.” “Damn right, I am.” He stood up, slid his finger under her chin, forcing her to look at him, “and you are, too.” “I… I’m trying to help.” “I don’t mean that. I mean you’re hindering our progress here, too.” “But—“ “I’m still attracted to you.” Her shouldered slumped as she blew out a short breath. “My lineage must be more powerful than I’ve ever given it credit. I can call Nitocris and have her double the elixir.” “The potion isn’t the problem. What about your lineage?” “My grandfather was half-Lycan.” 73

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “That explains a lot. But, it’s not my… mating instincts.” “Are you sure?” Her eyes brightened with a flash of hope. “I’ve never known Nitocris to make a mistake, but it is possible.” He cupped his hands around her shoulders, lifting her up, pulling her tight into his embrace. Their combined heat scrambled his circuits, making it harder and harder to think of anything but getting closer to her. “You’re not hearing me. I’m still attracted to you. You, as a woman.” Her lips curved into an “O” shape. Chase bent towards her, determined to make his point crystal clear. This time, Serena did not resist his advance but joined him in a perfect fusion of flesh. His desire for her ran deep, on more levels than he could name. Her beauty could charm any man or werewolf, but her spirit and warmth were irresistible. Everything he could imagine for a life-mate, and everything he’d denied himself from believing, could exist again. **** Serena lost herself in the moment, tasting every curve of Chase’s mouth, as a singular need built in her abdomen, spreading warmth outward until her whole body sizzled from his touch. Their kiss deepened, as she ran her hand along the muscular ridges of his back. She wanted to explore every part of him. She wanted to feel his lips cover the rest of her body as they did now. Could she do this? Oh… yes! Chase’s strength drew her to him, but the warmth of the man, beneath the façade, fascinated her. The queen of rejecting lover’s advances had finally ended her reign. She thought of the last card in his reading. The last card! She hadn’t finished the reading. His son, she had to help him with his son. Letting her selfish desires interrupt the Tarot would not please the Gods nor offer any chance for her and Chase to have a pure relationship. A relationship? Were they going to have a relationship? Darn right, if she had anything to say about the matter. Serena gently pushed against Chase’s chest, using every last reserve of her will to break their connection. He spoke in a breathy whisper, “It’s okay. I want this; you want this…” “It’s not that,” she moved away from his embrace, instantly regretting the loss of the connection. “I have to finish your reading.” He laughed and pulled her back towards him. “That can wait.” 74

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings His lips brushed against hers, awaiting her invitation. “No.” He straightened up and stared at her. A flash of anger moved across his face. “No?” Serena sat back down on her chair, suddenly too weak to stand. His features softened. “Are you okay?” “Yes. It’s just that, well, in my religion, we believe it’s a grave offense—an insult, per se—to not complete the reading. It’s an honor to the Gods who grace us.” “So… what you’re saying is, we need to finish up this reading here before we can move onto the good stuff.” The warmth from her center rose up to her cheeks. “Yes.” “Well then, read ‘em fast. We’ve got a lot of good stuff to get to.” How was she supposed to focus, with a proposition like that hanging over her head? Dianna, forgive me. Surely, the Goddess would understand. Serena drew in a deep breath and allowed the forces of the universe to fill her once again. They joined the newfound desire, rushing through her veins, clearing her consciousness in a most unusual and rewarding way. Chase tapped his foot, as if urging her to speed up things. Men. He didn’t have a clue of the pleasures that awaited him. She smiled inwardly, as she stretched out the delay a little further. After all, anticipation did make an excellent aphrodisiac. When he uttered a low growl, Serena knew she’d pushed the parameters long enough. She pointed to the third card, with the image of a king looking upwards, holding some type of shell or pottery. “This card represents the critical elements of your future. You will continue to struggle with the spirit of the past but will find relief when it is released. As in turn, you must let go of your son. He will tend to his own problems and let you in when he is ready.” Chase indicated his understanding, with a flicker of a smile. “Peace cannot be obtained without vigilance. Your memories can be held onto. They are a part of you. Ones you should hold fast to the core of your being.” She knew he would have an uphill battle, reconciling with the ghost of his wife, but Serena wanted nothing more than to help him through it. Perhaps, on the other side would be a lasting future for them both. 75

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “I get that. So, are you done now? Have the Gods been satisfied?” “Chase MacGregor. Do you not appreciate the wisdom of the Tarot?” “That’s not it, at all. I very much appreciate your wisdom and insight. In fact, it’s dead on. Just, right now, I’d really like to show you how much I appreciate all the other parts of you.” How could she refuse an offer like that? Serena’s body tingled with anticipation of his promise. “I believe the Gods are appeased.” She picked up the three cards and rejoined them to her deck, carefully replacing it all in the velvetlined case she used for storage. Chase reached for her hand, and she offered it willingly, allowing him to pull her upward, to begin again where they left off. Under the warm passing glow of dusk, he lifted her and carried her toward the bedroom, delighting her with kisses along the way. Oh yes, the Gods must be very, very pleased. Maybe, there was hope for wounded souls, like her and Chase MacGregor, yet. Regardless, Serena was certainly going to enjoy finding out. The End

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Wednesdae: Emery LaRue - Wafers & Wishes Kayne Niam has a plan to draw his true love to him. Will Feather the fairy be all he hopes for? All that and more. www.authoremerylarue.com

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Wafers & Wishes By Emery Larue Kayne Niam stood at the window of his shop, watching Spellfire in all it’s early morning glory. This truly was a magical place. He could truly, never be this happy anyplace else on earth. He pursed his lips at that thought. He loved Spellfire and he was happy. But he was damn lonely. He was a healer, helped many with wounds on their bodies, hearts and souls. He baked a wafer for everything. But, no wafer would help him, not the way he helped the others. Wishes and Wafers was established right on the main street next to the Candied Kisses sweets shop. Candy Piper was a beautiful woman. He had always thought so. The day she walked down the isle he had smiled and wished her all the luck in the world. Beautiful she was, but for him, she was not. Candy spent most of her days now in the big house her new husband had built for her, but she still popped in from time to time. Checking on her shop and saying a hello to him when she did. He envied her husband. Kayne knew jealousy didn’t cause his envy. The bond the couple shared—like all the other couples of the town—he craved the bond, but he had yet to find his other half. Though he knew she was out there. He could feel her, like a pulse inside of his veins. His dreams were more frequent, dreams of a small house, built in a sparkling meadow, a far cry from his small home above his shop. He thought once again about his idea to draw her to him. Though he was mainly a healer, he wasn’t without other means. Just a small spell so he could catch a glance of the woman meant for him and give him something to look forward to and smile about each day. Without a conscious thought, he ignored the sign on the door, choosing to remain closed today. Today was the day Kayne would catch a glimpse of his future. 78

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings He drew the shades closed, and walked into the back room. His baking area glistened and his ingredients were lined up on the counter for the work today. He knew he couldn’t eat a wafer and make a wish, but, he could make one especially for her so she would seek him out. He knew the chances were slim, but maybe by the end of the day, he would at least know her. He began to mix his batter. All the while in his mind repeating the litany of his deepest desire, to see the woman who held his heart, even though she was not aware of the fact. “Show her to me. Bring her to me.” For years, he helped the true hearted patrons reach for and obtain their greatest desire. It was his turn to try a little of the magic himself. When his batter began to thicken, he poured the small amount onto a sheet, and with knowing hands, molded it into the image of a woman. He could feel his hands grow warm and knew the energy was pouring from him into his creation. Kayne had no idea of her true image, but he allowed his heart to guide him. Once the shape took form, he brought his hands over the little woman made of sugar and spice, and he hovered, focusing his energy. His hearts wish and his deepest desire began to seep from his fingertips into the dough. His chant occupied his mind fully, banishing other thoughts and a light emanated from his hands, slowly chasing away the darker shadows from the dimly lit room. The power of the spell grew stronger, and the light became brighter until—with a flash—all of the energy infused the now golden wafer. Finished and drained, Kayne retreated into the storefront. He discovered morning had passed, and the afternoon sun was peeking through the blinds. He sat in a corner booth, waiting. If he worked each step of the spell properly, she could be here anytime. The door was locked, but she would find a way inside. That is how he knew it would truly be her. He rested his elbows on the table and waited. **** Kayne sat up abruptly, not realizing he had fallen asleep. It was dark out, and glancing to the clock on the wall he noticed it was well after midnight. Again, he heard it, a slight moan indicated he was not alone, and who ever was with him enjoyed herself. Holding his breath, he eased from the booth and walked on silent feet toward the door leading into the kitchen. Peeking through the round window, he stared in awe of the vision before him. A woman sat crossed legged on his counter with a smile on her 79

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings face, while she took her time eating the wafer he hoped would be his salvation. Her golden hair was braided, but it was so long it almost touched the floor. Threads of silver twine roped its way through the braid. Across her brow lay a band of gold. Her eyes remained closed, but her features were clear, and he could make out the almond shape of her eyes. She was stunning, possibly the most exotic creature he had ever lay his eyes on. When they opened and seemed to look right at him, he reminded himself to breathe. Crystal blue eyes reflected her desire, and his body responded instantly. She wore a sheer gown that would be floor length had she been standing. The flickers of light surrounded her and started a surreal feeling inside of him. His destiny, the one woman in the world meant for him, was a fairy. Kayne’s heart began to beat rapidly. The urge to rush inside and take her in his arms was strong. But, her body stiffened and he knew she was aware of his presence. He opened the swinging door slowly, but remained on the outside. She jumped to her knees on the table, in a crouch, ready to flee. “Wait, I wont hurt you.” His voice was low and soothing, and she regarded him with weary eyes. But, in her eyes he also saw the small hint of laughter. “You’ve no reason to be afraid.” “I am not afraid.” Her voice sucked the air from his body, and he momentarily lost his ability to breath. It was so smooth and mellow, yet musical at the same time. “You look ready to run.” Kayne finally forced the words passed his tight chest. “Of course I am. I know I was not invited, but this sweet tempted me, and I could not help myself.” She took a step, and floated to the floor to stand before him. “I’m sorry. I know I should not have been so bold.” “What is your name? Where do you live?” “I am Feather, and I live in the Mystic Meadows. I’m sure you are aware of what I am. You yourself live in Spellfire. So I need not explain a fairy to you.” “No,” he watched her as she began to pace. She seemed very restless. “Are you alright?” “I don’t care for being indoors much.” Her eyes twinkled. “But your treat was a temptation I could hardly ignore. We fairies have a 80

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings hard time resisting such morsels.” That gave him a momentary pause. Could this just be a mistake? Could his desire to find his mate have tempted the wrong woman to him? No, that’s impossible. He made clear that the only woman tempted would be his woman. “I am Kayne Niam.” “Ah, the wish maker! I have heard of you. I never left the meadow before, and I’m not sure why I did so now, other than I felt compelled to come here.” She tilted her head and watched him. “Kayne Niam. Your name has special meaning.” “Does it?” He moved a little closer, and could smell her honeysuckle scent. “Kayne, meaning the bright and the fair, and Niam, meaning champion.” She was before him now, and reached out, touching his cheek. “Yes, you have all that inside of you.” The spark between them drew him closer, just as she jumped away, rubbing her palm with her free hand. Her eyes showed confusion, and she became very anxious. “I must go. I am sorry I intruded. I shouldn’t have.” “No! Please wait.” He caught her around the waist and without thinking twice, placed his lips to hers. Like electricity in the air, bright lights flickered all around them. He could feel a heat begin to flow from her lips to his, and though she didn’t pull away, he could feel her alarm. He deepened the kiss and tasted her unique flavor. Like strong honey wine, it drifted through his senses and intoxicated him. When he pulled away and looked into her startled eyes, he could see her confusion. “We are meant to be, Feather. You are meant to be mine.” “That’s not possible.” “In Spellfire, anything is possible.” Before another word could be said, she was gone. He looked about the empty room, still feeling her presence. He could still feel her lips against his, and the taste of her lingered on his tongue. He smiled, and he knew what he had to do. Kayne closed up his shop in a hurry. He knew where he would find her. **** Feather paced before the small home of the Wise One, wondering at what just happened. He kissed her. All of her life she wondered what that moment would be like. She saw other couples as they embraced and kissed, and they delighted in each another’s bodies. 81

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings But, they had all been fairy people—her people. A man such as Kayne—a human man—should not have brought out such feelings inside her. Still she ached with an empty feeling. The sensation had grown so strong, she had flashed away from him. Why had he affected her so? Even now, she wanted nothing more than to feel his mouth on her again. Should she speak with the wise one? Her mind made up, she stood before the hut and waited. The elder inside knew she was there. She always seemed to know. “Enter Feather, and tell me what troubles you.” Feather stepped inside and smelled the incense that always seemed to burn. The wise one still possessed the beauty of the fairy women. Though her hair held the gray of the years, her green eyes still sparkled with life, and one could feel her power when she glanced their way. Still, if anyone looked hard enough, they would see pain of the years as well. She rested beside the fire, and Feather sat beside her, lay her head in the lap of the one person she trusted most in the world. When the long, elegant fingers began to run through her hair, she sighed at the pleasure. “I met a man tonight, Wise One. A man who made me feel things I never knew existed.” “Why does this trouble you?” “He is not like us.” “Ah, I see.” The smile was in her voice. “You need not say more. I can see what is inside of you, Feather.” “Why did he affect me so?” “Things are not always the way we believe they should be. I happen to know your destiny will lead you on another path. This man, he must hold a magic inside of his spirit, or he could never have touched you.” “How did you know he touched me?” Feather sat up and looked to the older woman. “I can see right through you Feather. What does your heart tell you?” “That I want him to touch me again.” She blushed at the confession. “Follow that feeling, Feather. When you embrace it, you will find something greater than any magic.” Her eyes twinkled. “Your man will be near the meadow very soon.” Confused, yet comforted, Feather stood and left. The older 82

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings woman fought the urge to truly laugh. Feather was unique in so many ways. She hoped the Baker knew what he was doing. Yes, she had known of the trick of the sweet. And she did nothing to interfere. There would be no point. Fate was fate, and Feather was about to be loved for the rest of her life. And with any luck, fate and destiny would be much kinda to Feather, than it had been to her. Feather could feel the energy in the midnight air. She loved the outdoors. Though she slept inside her own little hut, she would rather spend every waking moment surrounded by nature and all of its glory. Tonight, something else moved along its currents. From the moment she had touched Kayne’s face, she knew her life would never be the same. She couldn’t be sure of the forces that drew her into the shop, but she felt as if she belonged there with him from the moment he spoke. Moving quickly, she stood on the edge of the meadow, waiting. Her body hummed with the anticipation of seeing him again. Standing before her in the store, he had been so tall. His brown hair and chocolate eyes had been a wonderful addition to his handsome features. These feelings confused her. Never had she felt them before, but she felt them now, and toward a man that was not of her kind. In the darkness, she could make out his silhouette as he walked quickly in her direction. He had a purpose to his step, the walk of a man determined. Her heart picked up in speed—pure desire flowed through her—and she knew before this night was over she would know this man’s touch. “Feather, I’m so happy I found you.” He said as he stood just on the edge of the clearing. One more step and he would be in her world. “Why?” “Because, in your company I finally feel complete.” He said it like it was the most natural thing in the world. “What do you want from me?” “I want to be with you. To hold you in my arms and love you for the rest of your life.” Feather looked into his eyes and saw the truth. She didn’t understand it, and wasn’t sure she wanted to. Reaching out, she took his hand and pulled him over the thresh hold into the Mystic Meadow. He hesitated for only a moment, and then took in the beauty around them. The Mystic Meadow was every fairy tale come to life. Even under the light of the moon, one could see the vibrant colors and the 83

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings stars so bright they looked like diamonds. His hand still in hers, she walked with him into the trees. A stream appeared only visible to those who walked the meadow when it sparkled in the moonlight filtering through the leaves and branches. A solid white unicorn lifted its head in greeting, and then lowered it back to drink. He stared for a moment, never seeing one before, but in Spellfire it seemed all the myth and legend was alive and thriving. “You have never ventured into the meadows?” She asked, leading him deeper into the trees. “It never seemed right. I had thought often about it.” “Many come here to think and take in its beauty.” “I can understand why. It’s beautiful.” She smiled at him, and stopped before a rock formation. Before them, carved into the stone, were stairs leading to a cave opening. When he followed her into the opening, he stared wide-eyed over the beauty. **** Crystals seemed to line the walls, reflecting the moonlight and lighting the area. In the center of the chamber, a large pool of water rippled and steamed. Smooth rocks formed benches one could sit on comfortably. It was easy to picture the things he would like to do to her in that pool. “What is this place?” “This is the bathing chamber, Kayne.” “Bathing chamber?” “Of course. You do bathe don’t you?” Her voice held a smile and she unclasped the hook at her neck. The sheer gown dropped to her feet, and revealed what little she wore beneath it. Another piece of the sheer gown graced her body, but only to her thighs. But without the cover of the other, he could see all she had to offer. His mouth watered. When that little scrap of nothing followed to the floor, his body tightened to the point of pain. “Come and join me Kayne.” She turned and stepped into the water. He watched her, noting the slight ridge’s on her back. “The water is perfect, and calming to the soul.” “The last thing I feel right now is calm, Feather.” “So, come into the water.” “If I do, a lot more than you may be ready for will happen.” “Why do you think I brought you here, Kayne?” His eyes flared as his hands pulled his shirt over his head. The 84

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings woman he had waited so long for was here, right now, naked and waiting for him. He stepped out of the rest of his clothing and entered the water. Feather’s eyes followed the contours of his body. He was all man, and though she was innocent of the ways of making love, she knew enough to appreciate what was before her. He was solid, strong, and as her eyes lowered, they widened at the impossible size of what made him a man. The moment he stood before her, he took her into his arms and kissed her. Again, the spark between them ignited only this time; she allowed it to flow through her. It felt right, here with him, like she belonged inside the circle of his arms. His fingers lightly traced the ridges on her back, tickling the protective layer covering her wings and she shivered. Her breasts tightened and her body arched. Kayne let his mouth wander to her neck and shoulder. Nipping and kissing the places he touched. When he bent her over his arm and took one breast deep into his mouth, her cry echoed off the crystal walls, and flashes of color fell around the pair in the water. A pleasant heat was building inside of her, and she lifted her legs, wrapping them around his waist. She ached to feel him inside of her, though she didn’t fully understand why. But, she just knew what she needed to ease it. Her body cried out for the unknown, and it wanted Kayne to be the teacher. Still, he feasted on first one breast and then the other. Her hips rocked, and she took a small amount of relief rubbing her heat along his cock. His moan became a growl and he lifted his head from her breasts. “I’m going to make love to you, Feather.” “I know.” The breath of her whisper caressed his lips before she gently kissed him. Then she laid her upper body in the water, allowing it to float. Her legs still wrapped about him. Kayne supported her hips with one hand under her, while is other explored her body at a leisurely pace. Her nipples were swollen and tight from his mouth, and he ran a finger down the valley between them, dipping into her navel before moving lower. She was hairless on her mound, and he promised himself a taste of her before he was through. When his finger found her clit, hard and throbbing, he stroked her gently. Watching her body undulate in the water, he pulled back enough 85

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings to fit the head of his cock to her moist and heated opening. He didn’t know how, but he just felt it in his bones she was innocent of a man’s touch. The thought of being her first and last caused him to swell even more. He stroked her clit and with every cry of pleasure, he entered her a little more. When her body jerked and shivered with the small climax, he plunged into her in one mighty stroke. Her breath caught, her nails bit into his arms. With his shaft buried inside of her, nothing had ever felt so right. Her eyes met his, and he saw himself there. His hips jerked and she gasped. Feather lifted her body and wrapped her arms around his neck, her legs holding her to him, locking him deep inside. When her mouth touched his, he was lost as his body began to move within her. Her hands thread into his hair, pulling his mouth closer. “More.” She whispered into his mouth, her hips catching his slow rhythm and following his lead. “I won’t last much longer, Feather.” But, his hips moved faster and he groaned at the tight, hot feel of the woman in his arms. She was perfect, and he thanked the Fates that had made her for him. He could feel her tighten around him, her little muscles massaging him as he moved. He grit his teeth in an effort to hold back, to wait for her, but her small cries and her body moving with his was killing him slowly. Just when he felt the first pulse of his seed release into her, she threw her head back and cried out. He watched amazed as her wings unfurled and extended. A glistening swirl of colors danced before his eyes and it seemed to rain diamonds around them. His climax seemed never ending and he held her close while she shook and shivered against him. It had been the most magical experience of his life. **** For long moments they remained as they were, in the water holding one another. He stroked her hair, watching as her wings tucked themselves away. When she leaned back and looked into his eyes and smiled, his heart skipped a beat. “Are you alright?” “I feel wonderful, Kayne.” She relaxed her legs and stood on her feet. With a playful splash she dove under the water. “You’ll pay for that one Feather.” He laughed, wiping the water from his eyes. 86

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “I’m counting on it.” She said from behind him, and when he turned she doused him again, her laughter floating around them. The water itself held a magical quality, and he felt better than he had in years. Either that, or it was the woman herself that caused him to feel so alive. He caught her about the waste and pulled her against him. The sparks between them was like a live wire and his body responded instantly to her scent and taste. “I swear that was the best wafer I ever created.” “What?” There was a smile in her voice. “I got tired of waiting, and created a wafer of my very own.” “That’s right. You create the wafer wish. I didn’t think about that when I was there.” Her smile slightly faded. “You enchanted the sweet treat?” “Like I said. I got tired of waiting.” Kayne kissed her, but then pulled away with a puzzled look on his face. Something was wrong. In her eyes he seen something close to pain. “What is it, Feather?” “I need to think.” She pulled away, avoiding his arm to draw her back. “I’m not sure how I feel about this. It’s not right.” He frowned but followed her from the water, watching her as he dressed. What couldn’t be right? He had felt it, and he knew she was right for him. He didn’t understand her reaction. He sighed when her gown once again covered her body. “What’s not right, Feather?” “I need to speak to the wise one.” “Now, wait a minute.” He caught her arm and turned her to face him. “Tell me what’s wrong.” “You enchanted me.” “No, I simply brought you to me sooner.” “Things just don’t work that way.” “Feather, have you forgotten just what Spellfire is?” “That’s not the point. What if I really am not your mate?” “What?” “I am fairy, Kayne. It’s no secret we love sweets. What if your enchantment worked for the wrong reasons?” “I don’t believe that for a minute. You can’t tell me you didn’t feel our connection.” “I need to speak to the wise one.” 87

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Kayne followed her to the mouth of the cave, wondering just what went wrong. Could he have made a mistake? No, that wasn’t possible. He felt it when he touched her. They had a magic all of their own. “Speak to her then, but I don’t know what she could tell you. We are meant for one another, Feather. You just have to believe that.” “It’s not like I want her to tell me differently. But you still don’t get it.” “What? What am I not getting?” “It’s not right, Kayne, because an enchantment such as what you placed on that wafer, should not have affected me.” “What?” “Fairy’s are called upon for many things. And yes, we can be enchanted. But not in matters of the heart.” His eyes narrowed and he marched down the slight incline to level ground. He didn’t like this. Kayne had never felt such a connection to a body before as he did Feather. So what if she was right? The power between them was still there, she couldn’t deny that. He turned to look up to the cave where she had stood, only to see her gone. “You know where to find me, Feather. It’s all up to you now.” He spoke as if she stood before him. Something told him she heard him anyway. “Ponder it, figure it all out, but I will not come here seeking you. No more spells or enchantments.” He left the Mystic Meadows with a heavy heart. If it was meant to be, she would be back. If not, well, as he said. No more spells or enchantments. But damn he hated the thought of never holding her ever again. **** “How is this possible, Wise One?” Feather jumped to her feet and began to pace before the fire. “Enchantments such as this should never have worked.” “Feather, you have always been one to question the simplest of things.” The older woman sighed, rolling her eyes at the pout that crossed Feather’s features. “Now sit down before you cause me to be dizzy.” “Still, it should not have worked on me.” She sat and folded her arms across her chest. “And just what do you mean, before I make you dizzy?” “Girl, you just can’t help yourself. You question anything and 88

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings everything. What makes you think a simple enchantment on a wafer can’t affect you? This is Spellfire, Feather. The unusual is the normal here.” “What if I was just drawn to the sweet? His true love may be walking around town not sure what she is looking for. Wondering why she is lovesick with a sweet tooth.” “What did you feel with him?” The older woman was trying hard not to laugh. “When you became one with him, in a word, what did you feel?” “Well,” Feather’s cheeks turned a delicate pink. “Oh for goodness sake, Feather. I was young once.” “Magic. I felt magic.” “Then I suggest you get out of here and go to your man.” “But,” “What you felt with him is more than most feel in a lifetime. Don’t fight it, Feather. Take a strong hold and let it flow.” Tears misted in her eyes. “Believe me, you will regret it one day if you don’t.” Feather wanted to say more, but stood silently and walked away. The Wise One had turned her thoughts to the fire and the past. What put those painful tears in her eyes? She had always been so strong, and very wise. Standing outside the hut, the sun was making its appearance and as always the meadow light with a wondrous glow. It would always awe her, the beauty of this place. She could not even imagine life outside the meadows. Her body hummed with the memories of Kayne and his lovemaking. He had made her feel so complete. Her fear was mainly that she was not his true mate. Tonight, she would go to him. Tell him of her fears. After all, she owed it to herself and to Kayne. **** It had been a busy day and Kayne was thankful. It kept his mind off Feather. He had been with her in that cave until the sun started to rise, and here it was full dark. Oddly, he felt no fatigue. What he felt was desire. He wanted to shake some sense into her, too. It was up to her now. He had done all he could. It had felt too right with her to ever be wrong. She would see that. She had to. Kayne turned the sign to closed and locked the shop. His feet felt heavy as he walked up the stairs to his lonely apartment. After being with Feather in the meadow, everything seemed bleak, colorless and 89

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings held no interest. Closing the door, he stripped off his clothes and left them were they lay. Standing under the hot spray of water in his shower, he thought again of their time in the cave and his body hardened painfully. He could take care of himself, but it wouldn’t be the same as her soft body moving with his. He groaned, leaned against the back wall and closed his eyes tightly. Why couldn’t she see they were meant for one another. His heart, mind and soul connected to her instantly. Had she not felt it, she never would have given herself to him. Sure, he worked a little magic, but only to hurry her along. Sighing, he washed quickly and turned the water off, toweling himself dry and dropping to the bed. He lay on his back, hoping his body would cool with the evening breeze filtering in through the window. Though his body demanded relief, he allowed his eyes to close. Maybe in his dreams, she would end his torture. He drifted off with her name on his lips. He didn’t notice the slight figure that slipped through the open window. Feather fought the urge to throw herself on his body and ease the ache that didn’t seem to leave her. Since she left him this morning, her body seemed to crave his. It only grew stronger and had been almost impossible to ignore. Now, as she looked upon his naked flesh, she licked her lips. He was hard and full, and she had heard him whisper her name. It gave her pleasure to know that even in his dreams, he wanted her. No matter the outcome, she wanted Kayne. She would take whatever time the Fates allowed. She silently prayed it would be a lifetime. Her clothes drifted silently to the floor as she slowly approached him. She eased onto the bed, lightly touching her lips to his. He responded, but remained asleep. Her tongue snaked out and licked a path from his chin to one brown nipple that tightened against the wet heat. Again, he whispered her name, and she smiled at the power she had over this strong man. Lower she traveled, dipping her tongue into the well of his navel and watching his stomach tighten at the attention. When she reached her ultimate goal, she in inhaled his manly scent and moisture gathered between her thighs. Gently, the tip of her tongue caressed him. The second his taste invaded her senses, she wanted more. 90

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Hearing her name, she glanced to his face and seen the desire in his eyes as he watched her. Feather had been so intent on her goal, she had failed to notice he had left the dream world. “Feather.” His voice held question, but also a plea for more. Later they would talk, later they would work out every detail. But not know. Feather watched his face as she drew his cock slowly into her mouth. He gasped, cursed and clutched the bed sheets. Her desire for him continued to grow, and she hummed against him. Kayne’s hips left the bed, and he treated her to erotic words that not only encouraged her, but also had her panting just as much as he. She felt him swell, knew he was close to eruption, but refused to release him. She was desperate for the ultimate taste of him. He warned her, she heard him, but only doubled her efforts. Then he was gasping, bucking against her and crying out her name as he came. Kayne collapsed against the bed, breathing heavily. The woman had taken all he had to give, and now she kissed and petted him. Praising his cock and nuzzling him. He didn’t think he had it in him, but damn if his body wasn’t responding. Reaching out, he pulled her over him then flipped, pinning her to the bed. He said nothing, just began kissing her eyes and cheeks, her mouth and on to her neck. He licked and nipped his way to one nipple. He smiled at the hard nub, knowing what she had done for him had turned her on. He pulled that nub deep into his mouth and worshiped it until she was crying out. But then he only moved to the other. Her belly quivered as he made his way lower. His hands spreading her thighs wide, he looked into her eyes as he slowly lowered his head and gently flicked her clit with the tip of his tongue. Her eyes flared and the site of her pink tongue licking her own lips caused a growl deep in his chest. He lowered his head and feasted. Her honeysuckle taste exploded across his tongue and he knew he could stay right here for the rest of the evening. Like a fine wine, she flowed into him, and he could not get enough of her. Her cries drove him on, and he refused to stop when her hands buried in his hair. Then he was growling against her as her hands pulled him closer to her. Not until her thighs fell heavily to the bed did her slow his caress, enticing delicate shivers from her sensitive body. Slowly he kissed his way up her body until his moth was on hers, sharing her taste and the pleasure she had given him. 91

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Her legs wrapped around his hips and he didn’t hesitate. Kayne drove himself inside her, her cry lost inside of him as he took it into his mouth. Then he lay against her, allowing her time to adjust to him inside of her once again. The little after shocks from her earlier climax caressed his cock and he had to fight not to move. Feather tested the fullness and moved her hips, gasping at the pleasure of having him once again. They fit together perfectly. He moved slowly, allowing the pleasure to build knowing it would be better for it. He had waited his whole life for her, and he didn’t want this night to end. What if she walked away again? No, he wouldn’t think that way. She was here, and he would show her just how happy that made him. He would show her with his body. When she gently pushed against his shoulder, Kayne rolled them, pulling her over him. Feather found her rhythm and he allowed his hands to roam over her body. When he touched her breasts she bucked hard against him. If he lightly touched her clit with his thumb, she would grind against him. Kayne was looking forward to learning even more of her secrets. He sat up and wrapped his arms around her, keeping her pace and encouraging her. He told her how wonderful she felt, how hot and tight and how much he loved being inside of her. Colors of every shade sparked like tiny firecrackers around them. When he felt her wings begin to unfold he held her hips, pulling her onto him and driving her toward her release. In the cave, her wings had expanded, and he guessed it was all apart of her pleasure. But this time, there was more. She held his face in her hands and kissed him gently. Then he felt as if he was in a cocoon of warmth, and a warm feeling settled inside of him. His hips moved with hers, and he opened his eyes to watch her. That’s when he noticed that her beautiful, silky wings had enfolded them. They were more than joined by the body. They were connected in every way imaginable. When she began to shake in his arms, he allowed his own release to take him. Still joined and wrapped in the warmth of Feather, they fell to the bed together. He stared at her in awe of what had just passed between them. Every time they were together, the magic grew. Her wings tucked back against her body and she smiled up at him. “After what we shared at the cave, and now, how can you doubt you are for me?” 92

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “It’s the enchantment that I fear. What if it was meant for another, and I just got in the way?” “Do you feel nothing for me?” “Of course I have feelings for you. If not, I never would have given myself to you.” Kayne sat against the pillows and Feather draped across his chest. His fingers lightly traced her back. “Do most fairies give themselves to the first man that makes them feel desire?” “Well, no. I mean, just because we are magical, doesn’t mean we can’t explore our sexual urges.” “And do you think what we have is just an urge? Like it will pass with time?” Feather kissed his chest and tucked her hands under her chin, looking up into his eyes. It truly did feel right, being here with him. But still, that fear of not truly being his one true mate wouldn’t leave her. She knew he could see the doubt in her eyes. “What would it take for you to believe, Feather? I don’t know how I could prove it to you.” “I guess only time will tell.” “Feather, we can’t go through life together and have you worrying needlessly.” “What do you suggest then? Not to mention, it would be silly for the Fates to tie you to me. I can’t live in town. I love the meadows.” “First of all, I suggest you just get it in your head that we are meant for one another.” His eyes had grown a little hard, and she was surprised. “Second, I don’t believe I asked you to live in town.” “No, you didn’t.” “But.” he softened his tone and drew her lips to his. “We can always build a little place in the meadow.” “You would do that?” “Of course I would. Wafers and Wishes is a short stroll away from the meadows. I want to be with you, Feather. No matter the place.” “And you really believe the wafer did as you wanted? There is no other out there?” “I do, and I know you feel what we share each time we come together.” “Yes.” “Do you think it’s like that for everyone? I think magic like that 93

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings is found between two people who can love with all of their hearts, and are lucky when they find it. In Spellfire, magic is always in the air. But true love is a magic all of its own.” “Such a romantic.” Feather smiled and crawled up his body. “Let’s make a little more magic.” Kayne smiled and willing did just that. **** The Wise One smiled as the image of Feather and Kayne faded. She didn’t often peek into the future, but Feather was very special to her. She had molded her into an image much like herself and taught her the ways of the wise. But now, the Wise One knew fairy’s could love and still be wise. She hoped the two of them would find the love she had denied herself so long ago. Again, she looked at the image pool. It rested on the floor beside the fire, and for years she had fought the urge to look into the life of another. The life of the man she had turned away from. From the love he had offered her. But, like Feather, she had not believed it could happen to one such as herself, and with a mortal man. A tear fell from her eyes as she remembered the devastation in his eyes. She had been so selfish. Wanting him to touch her and to love her one more time before she shattered his hopes and his dreams. Her hand waved over the pool, and the image of a handsome man looked back at her. She caught her breath. He was still the most incredibly handsome man. His midnight black hair held only a touch of gray at the temples. Though he studied something before him, she knew his eyes would be as blue as the petals of the brightest flower in the meadows. He looked harder now, like he carried a great anger inside of him. Surly he had married and had children. “Daniel.” She whispered his name as she stared into the pool. She watched as his body stiffened, and he raised his head slowly. Then, those magnetic blue eyes seemed to look right at her. No, that was impossible. He couldn’t hear her. Still, those eyes misted before they narrowed in her direction. “Lily?” She sat stunned as he stood and searched the room. It had been years since she had heard her given name. Coming from his lips it sounded bitter yet sweet. “Lily, I know you are near. I feel it.” Daniel rested his hands and head on a large picture window and closed his eyes. “It’s been so long, and still I can feel you.” 94

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “Feel me?” Without thinking, she whispered her response. He spun around and searched the room again. The veil of anger had lifted, and now he seemed desperate. “Please, Lily. It is still you, always has been. Come to me.” He watched as if waiting for her to appear before him. “Tonight then. My window will be open, and you are invited.” Lily broke the connection, tears flowing freely. He still loved her. After all these years, he was still waiting for her. A smile broke through her tears. It was time. **** Feather sat up in the bed and looked out the window. There was change in the air, and she had the urgent need to see the wise one. “Kayne, wake up.” “What is it?” “I must go to the meadows. Will you come with me?” “Is something wrong?” He was awake instantly to the near panic in her voice. “I’m not sure. Please, we need to hurry.” They dressed quickly, and before he knew what she was about, Feather took his hands. The next thing he knew, he was falling on his butt in a neat little hut looking into the amused eyes of an older, but lovely version of Feather. “The sensation will pass, Kayne. Rest.” “Feather, a little warning next time.” He inhaled deeply, soothed by the scents surrounding him. “I feel like my head has turned to jelly.” “Wise One, what has happened?” “Nothing for you to worry over, Feather. But I am glad you have come.” “What is it?” “Are you ready to take your place here?” Feather paled and looked between her mentor and her lover. “You are leaving?” “Yes.” “Why? What has happened? When will you return?” “It matters little. You have found all you need to take my place. My path is changing, and I go to meet my own destiny tonight.” “But..” “It is time, Feather.” She smiled down at Kayne. “And with your man beside you, your life will be even more beautiful. I have seen 95

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings this.” “I will miss you, Wise One.” “I think it is time you call me, Lily.” She touched Feathers cheek before she began to fade. “I will see you again, my granddaughter.” Suddenly, it was only Feather and Kayne. He caught her as she stumbled. “Granddaughter?” “What the hell just happened, Feather?” “Well, for one, I am now the high fairy.” “This is a good thing or a bad thing?” “It’s good, as long as you meant it when you said you would be with me anywhere.” She gave him a teary smile. “This is our home now.” “I have no objections.” “But when she returns, there will be a lot of explaining.” “Then let’s leave that until she returns. She goes to face her destiny, and now we must face ours.” Feather looked about the room that she had all but grown up in. Lily, or whoever she was would explain. But for now, she had a duty. A duty to the meadows and the man she now knew was her one true mate. Lily had said as much. “You are right, Kayne.” She wrapped her arms around his neck. “All good things will come in time. But for now, lets make this house our home.” “I’m all for that, baby.” **** That night, and all nights there after, Feather and Kayne loved and lived in the meadows. The fairy folk came to her now for guidance. Though she had been tempted, she left the pool alone. Lily would let her know when the time was right. Kayne still held to his tradition of making his wafer wishes, and the town of Spellfire had celebrated their marriage with a grand party and an overflowing amount of well wishes. Feather was right were she belonged. Now, she only needed Lily to return. Feather was desperate to learn what had pulled her away. If Kayne was right, it was a matter of the heart. Only that could have drawn the woman away from her beloved meadows. “How are you feeling, Feather?” Kayne asked as he stepped behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist. “Still watching and 96

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings waiting?” “I’m fine, Kayne.” She smiled. Loving that he was so protective. Just yesterday they had learned a new addition to their family was on the way. “I would just really love to share this happy news with her. I know she will be back. But waiting is not my strong point.” “She will be back, love. She said so.” He lifted her into his arms and headed toward the tree’s. “For now, however, I have the need to bathe my lovely wife.” “Kayne, you bathing me is what got me in this condition.” “Well, the way I see it, if I practice, and I mean a lot, I will keep you in this condition.” “Keep me in this condition? Are you nuts?” “Fate is fickle, baby, and I leave it all up to them.” Feather laughed and held her husband close as he carried her to the bathing cave. He had been right all along. The Fates were fickle, but always leaned in the way of the good. Lily had been right to. Kayne had been her destiny. But Feather learned one thing from what Lily taught her, and it was the most valuable lesson of all. In Spellfire, anything is possible, and the unusual was definitely normal.

The End

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Thursdae: Leanne Strange - Things & Hot Taffy Taffy and Manny work hand in hand to help each other solve personal problems, but fingers do the walking in the realm of love.

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Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings

Things and Hot Taffy By Leanne Strange Chapter One Taffeta Trueheart slammed the empty glass on the counter. “Hit me again.” The waitress standing next to the cash register blurred into identical twins then reformed back into one body and picked up the glass. “Are you sure you want another, Taffy? This’ll make your third.” “I’m shhhure.” Taffy nodded and belched. “Hit me again, Harpy. I can handle it.” Harpy Spellfire, night manager of Sinful Sundaes Ice Cream Shoppe, propped her hands on her hips. “You know how sugar affects you Tooth Fairies.” Taffy frowned. “I’m not a Tooth Fairy anymore.” “You may not be a practicing Tooth Fairy, but it’s still in your blood.” “There’s-sh no money in it, except for the kids who lose their teeth. Why, if I had a dime for every tooth I collected, I’d be rich-as rich as the rich witch my boyfriend left me for.” “Sorry to hear about that,” Harpy called over the sound of the blender as she mixed the toffee shake. “You lost your new job at Otto’s Oddities, sprained your wrist, and now this.” “Thanks for reminding me.” Taffy stuck out her tongue at Harpy, but she wasn’t really mad at her. “Hey, that’s what friends are for.” Harpy set a full glass in front of her. Taffy stabbed a Spooktacular Straw into the frothy frappe and sucked until she made noises with the straw at the bottom of the 99

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings empty glass. “And as your friend,” Harpy continued, “I’m cutting you off after this one. You’re three shakes to the wind, and you’ll never be able to fly home.” “I can’t fly anymore. The Tooth Fairy Queen resshin...resshinded...uh, took away my wings and wand when I quit the biz.” “Gee, that’s too bad.” “That’s okay. I never much liked flying anyway.” Taffy shrugged then quickly laid her head on the counter to stop the room from spinning around her. “Besides, I could only fly at night and only to houses with children who lost their teeth. What a drag.” Harpy laughed. “I love flying.” “I saw you at the Valentine’s Day Picnic,” Taffy murmured. “It’s wonderful your wings are working. And it’s great about you and Derek getting married. I wissh I could have been at the wedding, but the Tooth Fairy Queen called a special meeting that day. On Valentine’s Day of all dayssh!” Taffy felt and heard a thump on the counter, and found herself staring at eight fingers and two thumbs. She blinked and a hand with only four fingers and one thumb came into focus. “Hey, Manny,” Harpy greeted him. Mano A. Mano, whom everyone called Manny, wore a dashing black leather bandana, pirate style, over and around his detached wrist. The knotted end trailed down along his pinky, where he wore a simple gold ring. Without a day job to keep her on schedule, she had returned to her natural Tooth Fairy hours-awake all night, sleeping all day. Since she started drowning her sorrows in sugar two weeks ago, she had seen Manny in Sins every night. But she’d never seen him dressed up like this before. She raised her hand and waggled her fingers at him. “Hi, Manny.” Manny tip-fingered closer to her then jumped as if startled when Harpy opened the cash register. “Ready when you are, Manny. I’ll be in the back.” Harpy disappeared through the kitchen door. Manny gave the thumbs up to Harpy’s retreating back then hopped into the cash drawer. Taffy closed her eyes, and let the sound of ruffling bills and clinking coins soothe her frazzled nerves. So, she didn’t have a job, 100

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings and she didn’t have a boyfriend. Who cared? She would find another of each and get back on her feet soon-as soon as her wrist healed. As a last resort, she could return to the Tooth Fairy biz. It paid a pittance, but she would have free room and board at the Tooth Castle. The Tooth Fairy Queen might not like her, but Her Royal Pain-InThe-Ass would have to take Taffy back. Taffy was a Trueheart, after all. She could trace her fairy lineage farther back than any other Tooth Fairy at the castle, including the Queen herself! A sliding sound on the counter made Taffy open her eyes. Manny had finished counting the day’s receipts, the bills and coins stacked neatly beside the register. He tapped a piece of paper near her head with one finger. She raised her head. The words on the flyer ran together then separated and became legible... Taffy Pulling Contest at Sinful Sundaes! Join in the fun of an oldfashioned taffy pull. Winner receives a year’s supply of ice cream. “You going to enter, Manny?” she asked. Manny’s thumb and pinky stuck out and he twisted his wrist in a shrug. =Can’t,= he tapped in Morse code. =One hand =. Manny was one of the few who knew she understood Morse code. Taffy’s maternal grandmother had been the telegraph operator at the Tooth Castle in the late 1800s. Grammamá insisted Taffy learn the series of dots and dashes. With a sparkle in her eye, she said one never knew when it might come in handy. Taffy now wondered if Grammamá possessed a bit of the Fae sight and foresaw Taffy’s friendship with Manny. “Oh, sorry. I’m in the same boat with my sprained wrist.” She held up her left hand and showed him the bandage. “I saw the witch doctor today, and I can’t use it for two weeks. The taffy pull is in two days.” Manny made a fist and scratched his thumb with his forefinger, as if thinking. Suddenly, he snapped his fingers. =You can use your right hand and I’m left,= he tapped. She smiled at him. “You’re a genius! If we work together, we can win that taffy pull.” She held out her right hand for a low five, and Manny’s fingers slid onto hers instead of slapping her hand. Her eyesight blurred and she blinked. Something shot into her palm, reminding her of heat lightning. She’d been struck a few times—another downside to the tooth fairy biz—while flying on stormy nights to some ungrateful 101

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings brat’s house to make the exchange. This sensation felt the same, yet different. The electric buzz that started at her hand turned into a warm thread spiraling up her arm and weaving its way into her abdomen...and even lower. This was the most unusual low five she’d ever experienced in her life. Taffy jerked her hand free. She shouldn’t have lusty thoughts about Manny. His body consisted of nothing other than a hand-a sentient, sensitive hand but only a hand nonetheless. Maybe another milkshake would make her forget what his touch stirred in her. Surely, she could talk her friend Harpy into just one more. She reached for the empty shake glass, but Manny pushed it aside. He shook a “no-no” finger at her She rolled her eyes, knowing very well what Manny was talking—er, fingering about. She really didn’t need any more. A couple made her tipsy, but more than that, like she’d had tonight, and she was on a sugar drunk. Manny pushed the glass farther away and tapped out a message. She shook her head to clear it, and then listened more closely as he repeated it, to make sure she heard correctly. “You want to walk me home?” =Yes.= “That’s sweet, but you don’t have to, Manny. I’ll stumble home safely by myself. It’s not far.” He rapped the counter top loudly. “Hey, no need to get upset with me, buddy. Stop being so insistent. All right, already, you can walk me home.” Manny dipped his wrist in a nod. She smiled at him, but found it odd that a bodiless hand wanted to walk her home. So how did a hand walk a woman home? With quick little fingertip steps, she imagined. He hopped on her left shoulder as she grabbed her purse and stood up on wobbly legs. “Okay, little guy, let’s get outta here before Harpy throws me out. I’m cut off, you know.” He took an indignant stance with thumb akimbo. She chuckled. “Sorry, Manny, didn’t mean to imply you’re short, so don’t go getting all huffy on me. Y’know, you have very long, strong fingers.” He slid down until his palm rested on her shoulder then squeezed affectionately. Nope, he wasn’t mad at her. Manny was something else. No wonder everybody in Spellfire liked him. Well, almost everybody. Otto the Ogre and Frightful Frieda didn’t like anyone. 102

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings She smiled at him and started out the door. Manny was light on her physically, but somehow, she felt safer with him accompanying her. She liked having him for a friend. It beat that deadpan boyfriend...er, ex-boyfriend. “Hey, Manny, where do you live?” =Boodoirs,= he tapped on her shoulder. She couldn’t hear the taps, but feeling them worked just as well. =By the fishpond.= “I didn’t know they had a guest cottage in the back.” =They don’t.= “Oh, hmmm—” Before she could ask about it, her foot slipped on the edge of the curb and she grabbed the lamppost to keep from falling. “Whoops!” When she straightened, she held a poster that she’d inadvertently torn down. These particular missing person posters had been a permanent fixture around Spellfire ever since Abigail Normil went missing after the election where she’d campaigned against her brother, the present mayor Perry Normil. Taffy felt bad about the poster, but she had no way to fasten it to the lamppost again. She propped it against the base, knowing Abby’s fiancé Daniel J. Nightshade would fix it tomorrow. DJ had never given up on finding Abby even after all these years. Taffy wished for someone to love her that much. If she disappeared tomorrow, would anyone in Spellfire keep hoping for her return years later? Manny had gripped her shoulder to keep from tumbling off. Now, he shook a finger at her. “I’ll be careful. Not to worry,” she assured him. He rubbed her cheek, his knuckles a soft caress against her skin. She closed her eyes and enjoyed the gentle stroking of a man’s hand. How long had it been? Even her ex hadn’t touched her in such a way. He’d been too rough and brutish. She really didn’t miss him at all and was glad to be rid of him. Taffy turned down a side street that led to a residential area. A waist-high wooden fence enclosed the first yard they came to. Manny jumped off her shoulder and onto the ledge created by the top cross board holding the pickets together. He finger-walked along now at her side. “I’m staying at my friend Shai’s townhouse. Shai is off on a wild two-week vacation in France with her boyfriends.” Taffy sighed. “She has two nice guys at her beck and call, and I can’t even find one!” 103

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Manny stopped, and Taffy did, too, to listen to what he had to say. =You’re beautiful, smart, and sweet. Any man would be lucky to have you.= “Aw, thanks, Manny.” She started walking again. “You’re a sweetheart yourself.” Manny hopped on her shoulder just as they reached the end of the block. When Taffy stepped off the curb, a figure dressed in black came out of nowhere and snatched her purse out of her hand before she could react. “Hey, stop that!” she shouted. Before all the words left her mouth, Manny took a flying leap and landed on the mugger’s back. Wide-eyed, Taffy watched as the force of Manny’s attack knocked the man to the ground. Manny jumped to his neck, flipped him over, and wrapped his fingers around his throat. The mugger made horrible gurgling sounds, kicking and pulling at Manny. He finally managed to free himself from Manny’s powerful grip, scrambled to his feet, and raced away. Taffy gaped at Manny hurrying back to her, purse trailing behind him by the handle hooked around his thumb. He leapt up on the narrow ledge of the concrete base of the lamppost and presented her purse to her. “Oh, wow, that was incredible, Manny. Thank you.” She took her purse. “You are amazing. My hero.” She reached out to touch him, running her fingertips across his knuckles and down the side of his pinky. She took him in hand, her fingers pressing into his warm palm. Then she did something she never thought she’d ever do...she leaned over and placed a kiss just above his row of knuckles. The kiss sobered her and left her breathless. She picked him up and sat him on her shoulder then crossed the street to the next block. His palm rested near the curve of her neck, and his fingers dangled casually on the skin exposed by her off-the-shoulder blouse. His thumb gently rubbed the back of her neck. His touch now sent her senses reeling. How could she be attracted to a hand? There was much more to Manny than just a hand, of course. Somehow, he saw without eyes, heard without ears, and comprehended without a brain. All that suggested magic was involved, bad magic. More than likely, someone had cursed the man Manny used to be. 104

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “Here we are.” Taffy turned onto the walk leading up to the three-story townhouse. “Shai said I could stay as long as I want, but I’d like to find a job and get a place of my own before she returns.” Inside, the delicious cool air hit her and everything fled her mind except how tired she was. She didn’t think she could make it to the guest bedroom. She kicked off her shoes on the way to the sofa and flopped down on it. “No point in going all the way across town this late, Manny. You can crash here tonight,” she offered with a yawn. “Pull up a pillow or just bunk with me on the sofa. I have to get up early to go job hunting tomorrow.” She snuggled in, closed her eyes, and drifted off to sleep.

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Chapter Two Manny leapt up on the coffee table and watched Taffy sleep. Watch wasn’t the correct word, but he didn’t know how else to describe it. He sensed everything around him—sights, sounds, smells. If asked, he could only say that what he sensed created pictures, sounds, and smells in his consciousness. Still, he functioned like other beings with full bodies, and that was all that mattered. He hopped to the sofa and landed lightly beside Taffy. He decided to take her up on her offer of crashing with her for what was left of the night. With the central air going full blast, she became chilled in her sleep and tried to shift deeper into the sofa. Manny tugged the end of a blanket from the back of the sofa until it fell at Taffy’s feet. He caught the corner of the blanket and slid it over her as he fingerwalked alongside her shapely leg, her bent knee, her curvaceous thigh and hip... Feelings stirred inside him that he didn’t know what to do with. He was only a hand, after all, with no other appendage to release his physical longings. In other words, Taffy made him horny as hell and he didn’t have a cock to do anything about it. He pulled the cover up over her back and shoulders. Then he rested beside her, watching and waiting. For what, he didn’t know. Sometimes he lost consciousness, which was similar to sleep, but most times he didn’t. He forced himself to rest periodically although he rarely experienced fatigue. During quiet times such as this, he reflected on his life. He had many friends in Spellfire, but he had no one to go home to. He’d never found another hand such as himself, a female hand, for companionship. He thought he must have been attached to a body at some point, but he had no recollection of it. He had no memories, no dreams, nothing that gave him a clue to who he might have been. He’d lived in Spellfire for a very long time, as long as he could remember. He’d seen Spellfire gradually change from mud streets and wooden 106

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings sidewalks to asphalt and concrete, from false-fronted stores to skyscrapers, from horses and buggies to automobiles. Mano in Spanish meant hand and he chose the name Mano A. Mano for himself. The nickname Manny that everyone used felt comfortable to him. He learned Morse code from the telegrapher in Spellfire at the time. Now, in this age of cell phones and instant e-mail, few knew how to use the code. Mostly, he communicated by hand signals and handwritten notes. He’d been pleasantly surprised to discover Taffy knew Morse code, and that made conversing with her so much easier. He moved closer to her. Her short blond curls tumbled in all directions as she turned over in her sleep. He ran his fingers through them, and they felt like silken tassels against his skin. He went around to her face, heart-shaped with a pale complexion like most fairies. He wished her eyes would open so he could see into the depths of lovely purple. He reached out with his pinky and ran the tip over her soft-asrose-petal lips. Her mouth twitched, and he pulled back quickly. He should leave her alone and let her rest. And he should rest himself. Slipping under her right hand, he wrapped himself around her fingers. Her hand closed reflexively and squeezed him briefly. He held her close while she slept. **** Something poking her woke Taffy. When she opened her eyes, she blinked against the harsh glare of sunlight streaming through the window. Oh, she’d had way too many toffee shakes at Sins last night. This sugar hangover was going to be a doozy! She closed her eyes. Something she was supposed to do today... Oh, yeah, look for a job. Well, that could wait for another day while she recuperated. Besides, what did she know how to do except be a tooth fairy and get chased around by a creepy boss? She had just started to drift off when more poking jerked her awake again. She tried to shake her good arm to stop the poking, but something weighted it down. She peeped through the slits of her eyelids and saw Manny resting on her elbow, finger poised to jab at her again. When he noticed her looking at him, he tip-fingered closer to her face. =Good morning,= he tapped on her arm. “Morning,” she mumbled, sitting up. He leapt from the sofa to the coffee table and landed beside a tray with a plate warmer, a bowl of fresh berries, and a steamy cup of pale 107

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings yellow liquid. =Breakfast is ready,= he tapped on the edge of the tray. “Ugh.” The thought of food made her queasy. Taffy pointed to the cup of yellow liquid. “Is that what I think it is?” =Unsweetened spiced lemonade, the Tooth Fairy remedy for a sugar hangover.= He gave her a thumbs-up then hopped onto the arm of the sofa, his fingers dangling in front where he’d be able to tap on the decorative wood. She reached for the cup, but paused when she noticed the newspaper next to the covered plate. She grabbed it instead. The paper had been folded to the want ads, and some of them were circled in red. “Aw, Manny, that’s so sweet of you. You went through the ads and marked them for me.” =Just trying to help.= “But I don’t think I’m going job-hunting today.” She tossed the paper back on the table. “I don’t feel good.” =Drink the lemonade,= he rapped sternly. =Don’t you want a job and place of your own before your friend returns?= “Well, yeah, but-” =No buts. Look over the ads while you drink the lemonade.” “Oh, all right. I’ll look.” Her lips puckered when she took a sip then she ran her finger over the circled ads. “Hey, I can do these jobs.” =Of course, you can, Taffy,= Manny encouraged. “Some of the stores at the mini-mall are hiring for soft pretzel makers, cashiers, or clothing associates. Oh! The new Spellfire Wax Museum is hiring, too. I have experience from working at Otto’s Oddities, which is kind of like a museum.” She drank her lemonade and started to feel better already. “I’ll go to the mini mall first then hit the museum. I need to run a couple of errands, too. Wanna ride the ghost trolley across town with me?” Manny tapped, =Sure.= “Cool.” The last traces of the hangover had vanished and now she was ravenous. “Let me finish breakfast and then I’ll get cleaned up and dressed. We can head out afterwards.” =You look pretty this morning.= Taffy laughed and ran her fingers through her short curls. “Thanks, but you’re being nice. Maybe after a warm, soaking bath and twenty minutes with a comb and makeup.” 108

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Taffy chuckled as Manny flew up the stairs in quick hops. She didn’t know what she’d done to deserve a wonderful guy like him. Friend, she meant friend. She sure wished her ex-boyfriend could have been half as sweet and attentive as Manny. And Manny just being a hand-thing had more gentleness and sweetness in his pinky than her ex had in his entire body. She finished breakfast-piping hot eggs, bacon, and toast and mixed berries with cream. Luckily, Tooth Fairies could eat whatever they wanted and never gain an ounce. She deposited the tray in the kitchen then headed upstairs. When she reached the guest bedroom, she found a pair of dress slacks, a dressy pullover, lacey underwear, and dress sandals all laid out for her. Manny had chosen well. It would be a comfortable outfit for the warm weather, as well as nice enough for job-hunting. She grabbed a towel and washcloth from the linen closet and entered the bathroom. Manny waited on the edge of the tub for her. Taffy walked across the room and trailed her fingers through the thick layer of bubbles on the surface of the water, breathing in the scent of lavender, her favorite. She smiled at Manny. “Thanks. I can take it from here.” Manny hesitated then bowed. He jumped from the edge of the tub, landing lightly on the tips of his fingers, and hurried from the room. Taffy looked after him and wished for something that might never be-a body for Manny. After undressing, Taffy slid into the water. She rolled up her towel, placed it under her head, and leaned back. Closing her eyes, she tried to relax and let the hot water soothe away her tension. Job-hunting wasn’t the problem. She dreaded having to pick up her final check at Otto’s Oddities. She knew the crooked Ogre would stiff her a few bucks, but she decided to let it go. She’d cash the check and that would sever her last tie to Otto Ogring. She’d never have to see the jerk again. Taffy often wondered about the receptionist Myrtha, a Munchkin from somewhere over the rainbow. Otto never cheated her. Did Myrtha have something on the Ogre as Myrtha sometimes hinted? Taffy was lucky she caught the Munchkin in a good mood or she’d have to wait weeks to get her check. Well, she needed to hurry and start her day. She wanted to have a 109

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings job and a place of her own by the time Shai returned. Taffy reached for her washcloth, but it wasn’t on the tray attached to the edge of the tub where she usually put it. Sitting up, she scanned the floor. Oh, great. She’d dropped the cloth by the door. Taffy sank back against the rolled-up towel. She didn’t want to get out of the tub and drip water all over the floor. She wondered if Manny remained close enough to hear her if she called out. Couldn’t hurt to try. “Oh, Manny, I can’t reach the washcloth. Can you help me?” Within seconds, he appeared around the edge of the door. “Good! I was afraid you’d gone downstairs. Could you hand me the washcloth? I dropped it by the sink.” Manny went to the cloth, grabbed it up between pinky and thumb then came toward her. Taffy closed her eyes again. “You’re a sweetheart. Thanks so much.” She heard the washcloth hit the bubbly water then another soft splash. What else had Manny dropped into the water? She opened one eye, surprised to find only Manny’s bandana carelessly draped over the bath tray. “Manny...” Her mouth formed his name but no sound emerged. Then she felt movement in the water, near her thigh, and fingertips glided over her skin from knee to hip. Oh, she should stop him right now before they started something that held no future. How could she become involved with a hand? His caresses became bolder...he rubbed from hip to knee with full palm and fingers. A tingle thrummed through her body while a long sigh escaped her lips. Maybe even hand-things needed physical intimacy...although she couldn’t imagine how he’d achieve satisfaction for himself. Manny traveled up to her hip again, but didn’t stop this time. He moved over her belly, and Taffy’s legs instinctively opened wider. Would he see it as an invitation? And accept? Should she let him? Then she felt him slide through the curls on her mound and all questions and rational thought fled her mind. Her clit throbbed in anticipation of his touch, and her nipples tightened in response. Manny didn’t possess another hand or mouth to stimulate her elsewhere, so she cupped her breasts with her own hands. She pinched her nipples and rubbed them until the ache intensified and she squirmed. 110

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings **** When Manny sensed Taffy’s legs part, relief rushed through him. He was afraid he’d overstepped the boundaries of their friendship. For the longest time, even before they became friends, he imagined how it would be to touch her entire body with his fingertips and bring her pleasure. He slid through her patch of silken curls until his fingers touched the tender folds of her pussy. He slid each fingertip through every crease, rubbing up one side and down the other. Even submerged, he could differentiate between the water and her slick juice. He dipped a finger inside her and continued his exploration. Bits of memories flashed through his consciousness, of women he had touched, kissed, and fucked. He didn’t recall names or faces, but he knew the physical actions and reactions. He didn’t have a cock now, so he wouldn’t be able to attain a release. That didn’t matter. The longings languished in his memory, not what was left of his physical being. He knew he’d be able to pleasure Taffy. He remembered how to stroke a woman and how to manipulate the little nub hidden at the top of her folds. When he touched Taffy there, her hips surged up creating a tidal wave in the tub. She seemed ready to find her release. He pushed three fingers into her hot, silken chamber. Her pussy rose and fell to meet him as he finger fucked her. Then he found her clit and swirled his thumb around it. Her pussy muscles tightened almost immediately then pulsed around his fingers. When the throbbing stopped, he felt her relax. Her legs stretched out, and he withdrew, resting in her nest of pale golden curls. He caressed her there, the silken curls tangling with his fingers. How he wished he had a body so that he could hold her in his arms and kiss her sweet lips. He wished he knew how to remove the curse or hex or whatever had left him in this state. He hadn’t minded much until now...until falling in love with Taffy. What should he do? If he emerged from the water near her head, would she be embarrassed. Making as quick and unnoticeable a getaway as possible, while she recovered her senses offered the best solution. He swam, a modified finger crawl through the water, to the foot of the tub then jumped into the air as hard as he could. He bounded off the rim and landed in the floor. His emotions too high for him to 111

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings sense Taffy’s actions, if any, he raced out the door. He thought he heard her call his name once, but didn’t return to the bathroom. He’d let her decide how to handle it. If she didn’t mention it, neither would he.

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Chapter Three Taffy’s heart thumped a quick beat when she saw Manny waiting patiently for her, the want ads section of the paper held in between his thumb and forefinger. She felt the warmth of a blush creep into her cheeks. She didn’t know what to do or say after what had happened in the tub. After he hurried from the tub, she called after him, but he didn’t respond. Maybe ignoring it would be best. She plastered on a big smile. “I’m ready if you are, Manny. Hop on my shoulder and we’ll walk back to Sins. The ghost trolley should be there pretty soon.” He jumped on her shoulder and settled down. The heat of his palm seeped into her skin and his thumb gently caressed the back of her neck just as he’d done the night before. Had Manny been flirting with her then? A shiver raced down her spine, and she laid her hand briefly over him. Outside, she took the same route, passing by the lamppost where she’d accidentally torn off the missing person poster. Sure enough, DJ had already been by and reattached it at eye level again. In front of Sinful Sundaes Ice Cream Shoppe, Manny playfully swished a “nono” finger. “Don’t worry. I’ve had my fill of frappes.” His forefinger rubbed against her cheek then he tapped, =Good girl.= Taffy felt all warm and fuzzy inside, and butterflies soared through her stomach. Damn, just how much hand cuddling could a gal take? They didn’t have long to wait for the ghost trolley to come by on the Main Street side of Sins. As paranormal beings, they could easily access the ethereal vehicle. Not many other passengers rode the trolley this time of day. A gremlin scurried across the ceiling, and a peck of pixies flitted about a vampire dozing in the back. She and Manny disembarked at the mini-mall. 113

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings =I have things to take care of,= Manny tapped on her shoulder. =Where do you want to meet up later?= She was touched he wanted to spend more time with her, but it wasn’t a good idea, was it? She didn’t regret what happened in the tub that morning, but she couldn’t allow it to go any further, could she? She wanted to tell him so...but his thumb rubbed up and down along the curve of her neck as he patiently waited for her answer. She couldn’t bring herself to tell him. To be perfectly honest with herself, she didn’t want to. She enjoyed being with Manny more than any man she’d ever spent any time with. “How about Otto’s Oddities? I need to pick up my final paycheck, and I’d feel better not going in alone.” =Why? What happened?= “I’d only been working there a couple of weeks when Otto cornered me in the storage area in the basement. He said I’d have to put out or he’d fire me. So I quit on the spot. That made him mad, and he wouldn’t let me leave.” =Did he hurt you? Did you report him?= Manny tapped hard on her shoulder. “Oh, no. I got away. There was a long wooden box on a stand and I kept it between me and Otto. I pretended like I was going around one end, but when he moved in that direction to block me, I crawled under the stand and left.” =You shouldn’t have to see the Ogre again.= “I’m hoping I won’t. The receptionist Myrtha said he wouldn’t let her mail it. He also told her to hold it a few extra weeks, but she said I could have it if I came in today, while he’s out to lunch. He goes exactly at noon every day.” =Then I’ll get it for you,= Manny offered. “Thanks, but Myrtha won’t let you have it. Store policy. She can only give it to the person whose name is on it. Myrtha’s a stickler for rules. She’s already going against Otto by giving it to me today. I can’t expect another favor from her.” =Then I’ll go in with you,= Manny tapped more gently. =You won’t have to do it alone.= Taffy smiled. “After the way you handled that purse snatcher last night, an Ogre would be a piece of cake.” =Otto’s at noon,= he tapped then leapt to the ground, disappearing among the feet of hurrying shoppers. Well, that had been easy enough. Maybe they could pretend that 114

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings morning in the bathtub never happened. Maybe they could just go back to being friends. She couldn’t see any future with a hand. While it was fun hanging out with Manny, she couldn’t see having a relationship with him. She wanted conversation, not Morse code. She wanted a full body to snuggle up with, not just a hand. Manny’s magical fingers worked exceptionally well to relieve her sexual tension, but would it be enough? With a heavy sigh, Taffy entered the mall. Two hours later, she emerged having applied at more than a dozen shops and businesses inside. She glanced at her watch. She had just enough time to go to the Spellfire Wax Museum and fill out an application before meeting Manny. She caught the ghost trolley again and stepped off in front of the new museum. Inside, she filled out the form and talked to the receptionist who said they were actively hiring and gave her hope that her experience at Otto’s Oddities would put her ahead of most of the other applicants. Across town, she found Manny in the branches of a tall potted tree just outside the entrance to Otto’s Oddities. He hopped onto her shoulder as she stood in front of the door. =I’m right here with you, sweet Taffy,= he tapped with a gentle touch. She reached up and ran her fingertips over his knuckles. “Thanks.” Inside, Manny hopped off, but Taffy turned her attention to the short, squat receptionist seated behind an oversized desk covered in papers, folders, and a huge open bag of Plutonian Pretzels. “Hi, Myrtha.” “Otto’s in the back,” Myrtha announced in her squeaky Munchkin voice then bit down on a pretzel. She wasn’t one to waste time on niceties anyway. Taffy stopped in her tracks and glanced at her watch. “But it’s after noon. He always goes to lunch at twelve sharp.” Myrtha shrugged and tossed an envelope on her desk. “What do you expect? He’s an Ogre and they’re an unreliable lot.” “Thanks, Myrtha. I owe you one.” Taffy started to pick up the envelope, but noticed Manny wasn’t with her. She looked around the store. “Lose something?” Myrtha put another pretzel into her mouth and chewed noisily. 115

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “Manny came in with me, but I don’t see him.” Taffy’s gaze swept the room again. “He wouldn’t have left without me.” “He didn’t.” Myrtha tossed her head toward the basement door which stood ajar a few inches. “Otto said nobody is to go in the basement. He didn’t say anything about a hand.” Just as Taffy reached the door and pushed it open wider, a crash from the direction of Otto’s office sounded and propelled her down the first few steps. “Oh. I’m supposed to say you can’t go down there. Better hurry,” Myrtha advised. Taffy flipped the light switch, but no light flared below. The cheapskate Ogre still hadn’t put a new bulb in the basement socket. Myrtha once told her the bulb had been blown when she first came to work there over fifty years ago. “Manny? Can you hear me, Manny?” Taffy whispered to prevent Otto from hearing her, but Manny couldn’t hear her either because she didn’t receive an answering tap. She went down a few more steps, holding her hand against the wall to keep her balance as her eyes adjusted to the gloom. The light through the open door didn’t reach far on the stairs and only a small amount of faint light came through the small, grimy windows near the ceiling. By the time she reached the bottom, she could see most of the basement, though shadows shrouded everything in the crowded room. Untidy mounds of broken furniture and stacks of boxes, books, and magazines threatened to topple over. Near the far wall, the long box still lay horizontally on its stand, and Manny stood on the tips of two fingers in front of it. Taffy wound her way through the piles of junk, careful not to knock anything over, and stopped beside Manny. “Otto’s here. We need to leave now,” she said in a hushed tone of voice. Manny didn’t move or tap a sound. She would have sworn he was staring at the long box...if he had eyes to see with. As her sight became more accustomed to the dimness, she shuddered. The long wooden box resembled a coffin, something she hadn’t had time to notice the day Otto cornered her. “Manny, please, let’s get out of here,” she whimpered. Taffy stepped forward, intending to scoop Manny up and make a run for it. When she moved, a dull reflection of light from the side of the wooden box caught her eye. She bent closer and squinted. Screws held a small brass plate in place, but she couldn’t tell what, if 116

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings anything, was engraved on it. Manny’s fascination with the box had piqued her curiosity, too, so she rummaged in her purse until she found the small penlight attached to a key chain. With the tiny shaft of light aimed at the plate, she still couldn’t make anything out because of what looked like decades of tarnish and dirt. She pulled a tissue from her pocket and scrubbed at the brass, revealing letters in a fancy script- I…m…m…a… Before she could uncover the rest, the basement door slammed back against the wall with a thundering crash. “Omikum, omakum, odinga odart,” Otto roared in Ogrish as he stomped down the stairs. Then he switched to English. “I smell the blood of a Taffy Trueheart!” Taffy whirled around, terror making her heart pound inside her chest. She jumped when Manny landed on her shoulder. He pointed for her to go around the mounds of junk. =Close to the wall. Stay down,= he ordered in quick taps. Fear nearly paralyzed her because she didn’t know what Otto might do if he found her apparently alone in the basement once again. He’d never consider Manny a threat and probably squash him like a bug under his gigantic foot. She’d do what Manny said since he seemed to have a plan. When she nodded, Manny leapt into the air and landed out of her sight. She hunkered down as low as possible behind the heaps of stuff and followed a narrow, winding pathway that ran more or less parallel to the wall as Otto clomped deeper inside the basement. When she made the turn at the corner closest to the stairs, she knocked over a shoulder-high stack of magazines. They fell into a rickety étagère which collapsed beneath their weight. Then the shelves smashed into a bunch of chairs which slid off the table, where they had been piled, and clattered to the floor. In the sudden silence that followed, Otto growled deep in his throat, a rumbling so intense it made the air vibrate and the hairs on Taffy’s arms stand on end. She clamped a hand over her mouth to keep from making a sound and ducked behind a highboy missing all its drawers. Only a few more feet until she reached the foot of the stairs. When was Manny going to make his move? She heard Otto turn around and start back in her direction with booming steps. Maybe she should go now before he reached the stairs and blocked her way. Was Manny already at the top waiting for her? As she started to take a step, Otto snarled, “What th-” just before 117

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings he fell with an explosive boom. His outstretched arms caught the piles of furniture and boxes, breaking and scattering them. Splinters of wood and bits of paper rained down like confetti. Without a backward glance at Otto and the devastation he’d caused, she ran for the stairs. Manny joined her from the direction where Otto lay and, taking a flying leap, landed on her shoulder when she’d reached halfway up the steps. Taffy barreled through the basement door at a dead run with Manny holding onto her shoulder in a tight grip. Myrtha sat at her desk. She popped a Plutonian Pretzel into her mouth with one hand and held out the other, an envelope stuck between her fingers. “Thanks!” Taffy called out and snatched her paycheck on her way out the front door. She didn’t stop running until she was several blocks away from the store and safely seated on the ghost trolley. Manny patted her shoulder, and she hugged him to her. What would she do without her left-hand man!

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Chapter Four “Oh, Manny...just a little lower...yes, that’s it...yes, oh, yes!” Taffy cried out. She shivered and looked over her shoulder. “Manny, you are the best backscratcher in the world. If your counting business ever falls through, you’d make a mint scratching backs.” =I’ll keep that in mind,= Manny tapped on her skin then walked up her spine to her shoulder. =Shouldn’t you eat your ice cream? It’s melting.= Taffy sat up in the bed, Manny lightly gripping her shoulder so he wouldn’t slip off. “There’s something I should tell you about the ice cream,” she began. She didn’t quite know how to explain. =I know ice cream makes you drunk. If you want to eat it, go ahead. I know how to make your hangover remedy.= “No, it’s not that.” =I’m sorry we didn’t win first place so you’d have a year’s supply. But third place is great considering we were handicapped. You should be able to get a nice buzz off a pint.= Taffy smiled. “It’s not that, either. I’m surprised we won anything, too, and I’m happy with third place.” =Then what is it, Taffy?= She reached for the bowl of ice cream on the night stand. “I asked Electra to make our prize something special for us-for you. She calls it Manifestival Mocha. It won’t last long. Less than an hour, she said.” =What won’t last?= Taffy sighed. “The effects of the spell she put on the ice cream.” =What spell?= She lifted Manny from her shoulder and set him in front of her, in the center of the big bed. “To give you a body.” Manny lay still for a moment, and Taffy was afraid she must have somehow insulted him. Perhaps he thought that she thought being a hand-thing wasn’t enough. Yes, she’d believed it in the 119

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings beginning, but the past few days had completely changed her mind. Manny was the sweetest, gentlest, most considerate man she’d ever spent time with. How could she consider him anything less? Then Manny tapped on the comforter and she had to watch his forefinger closely to see what he had to say. =A body for me? Will it be my real body?= She nodded. “Electra said the spell works with your DNA. It will recreate your body exactly as it was, so we’ll know what you looked like. Maybe when you see yourself in a mirror, you’ll remember.” =Maybe...= “Hey, even if you don’t, it still might help us find out who you really are and what happened to you. I’m going to take a picture of you, and we can show it to everyone we know. Surely, someone will recognize you.” =I don’t know. I’ve been here a very long time.= “Don’t worry about that. There are some very old people in Spellfire who might remember something.” Taffy tried to be encouraging, but she didn’t know if they’d ever find out anything about Manny’s past and what happened to him. One thing was sure, though, if they didn’t try, they’d never know. “Electra said some of the ingredients are rare and hard to find, so she won’t be able to make any more for a long time. But we have a whole pint of the stuff and it only takes a spoonful to manifest your body.” Manny remained still, as if thinking. Taffy didn’t say anything. She stirred the spoonful of ice cream in the bowl until it turned creamy and smooth. =A body...my body...= Manny suddenly tapped. =I didn’t think it would ever be possible.= “Electra said she didn’t either, but the last Hextasy convention she attended, she picked up an ancient scroll that contained a spell for manifesting whole things from parts. She tweaked it a bit to work on living things, too. She didn’t have time to test it...so it might not happen. She couldn’t guarantee it’ll work.” Again, Manny remained still and silent. She didn’t say anything else. The decision was his to make, not hers. Finally, his forefinger moved. =What do we do?= Taffy took a deep breath. “Electra said to smear it on the top of your wrist. I’ll have to remove your bandana.” =All right.= 120

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings She pulled off the knotted denim and dropped it on the bed. The top of Manny’s wrist was smooth and flat. =Go ahead, Taffy. Do it.= She dipped her fingers into the melted ice cream and spread the gooey brown stuff all over Manny’s wrist. When she had the entire surface covered, she set the bowl on the night stand. They waited what seemed like an eternity, but could only have been no more than a minute. =I guess Electra didn’t get it quite right,= Manny tapped. =Maybe it wasn’t meant to be for me to have a body.= “Maybe,” Taffy agreed, but her heart had dropped to the pit of her stomach and the backs of her eyes burned. She blinked to keep the tears at bay. She didn’t care whether Manny had a body or not, but she felt bad for him. She never should have taken the enchanted ice cream unless Electra was sure the spell would work! “I’m sorry, Manny. I’ll ask Electra to keep working on it. She’s the most powerful sorceress in Spellfire. She just needs more time, that’s all.” =Don’t be sorry, Taffy. I know you and Electra were only trying to help.= Suddenly, Manny jerked then all four fingers and thumb stuck straight out and stiffened. Taffy’s heart skipped a beat. “Manny! Are you all right?” He didn’t move, but a golden spark ignited in the center of his wrist. Then the spark flared into two rows of glowing gold ribbons that twisted and wound around each other. Taffy watched in fascination as the double helix moved up, rapidly creating his forearm, elbow, and upper arm. At his shoulder, it split in three directions. Twin rows of winding ribbons went out and up to form his shoulder, neck, and head. A second sped across to build his chest, right shoulder, and right arm. A third raced downward shaping the rest of his torso, genitals, and legs. A soft, golden glow emitted from his entire body, except for his left hand. Taffy scooted toward him to have a closer look. Slightly curly dark brown hair touched the tops of his shoulders while shorter locks covered his forehead. A long nose with flaring nostrils softened the harsher lines of his angular cheekbones, square jaw, and thin lips. Sculpted muscles defined his long, lean arms, legs, and chest. His sac lay heavy at the juncture of his thighs, and his cock produced his first movement. It stirred and grew, lengthening and hardening, with a smooth arch. Taffy reached out her hand, but 121

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings quickly withdrew it when his chest rose sharply as he took his first breath. His thick lashes blinked open, revealing deep blue eyes that stared at the ceiling. He raised his left hand to his face and spoke. “I-I feel strange.” The tears she’d held back now welled in her eyes. “You have a body, Manny.” **** Manny stretched out his right arm and looked at it through his new eyes. Suddenly, he grinned. “Yeah, I do. And I can speak. Taffy...” He turned his head toward her and stared. He moved his right hand to touch her cheek and wipe the tears that had accumulated in her eyes. “Taffy, you’re even more beautiful than I sensed.” “Oh, Manny, you’re so sweet. And handsome, too. You need to look in a mirror. Seeing yourself might jolt your memory.” She grabbed his arm and pulled, but he resisted. “Later.” He sat up and his hand slid around her neck and into her hair. “I want to touch you and kiss you and make love to you while I can.” She nodded and her words came out in a breathless rush. “I want that, too. I want you, Manny.” He drew her closer and their lips met. Hers slid softly over his, causing his heart to beat faster and his balls to tighten. He wanted Taffy more than he ever wanted a body...but to make love to Taffy, he had to be in possession of a body. Her tongue darted against his again and again. His chased after hers while their lips worked to build up their sexual tension. Both hands roamed her back, tracing the curves of her shoulder blades and along her spine until blocked by her bra. His fingers fumbled with the closure, finally unfastening the hooks, and he withdrew his mouth from hers. He caught the hem of her shirt and pulled it up revealing the smooth, round tops of her breasts nestled in the lacey cups of her bra. She lifted her arms, and he drew it over them and her head then dropped the shirt off the edge of the bed. He couldn’t control himself anymore. He ran the fingertips of both hands along the scalloped edge of the cups before pulling them free. Although he couldn’t recall the details of who, where, or when, he remembered how to love a woman. He bent his head, taking a 122

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings nipple in his mouth. Her sensitive skin shriveled and hardened as he swirled his tongue around the bud. The sensations careening through his new body nearly overwhelmed him. The sights, smells, and sounds he’d sensed as a hand paled in comparison to the real deal. He was familiar with the tactile sense, but even that became different with the use of another hand, lips, tongue, and an entire body covered with skin. He’d forgotten how vibrant and strong the reactions caused by real sensations. He unfastened her jeans, undoing the zipper, a device that hadn’t yet been invented when he first became a hand. He pushed the jeans down while Taffy rose to her knees. When he cupped the generous swells of her bottom and moved to lick and suck her other nipple, she moaned and thrust her hips toward his cock. He laid her on the bed then sat back on his heels to finish pulling her jeans and panties free. Propping one of her ankles on his shoulder, he dropped the articles of clothing on the floor with the rest. He ran his hands along her satin smooth calf while he moved forward into position and angled her knee outward to spread her wet pussy. The plump pink lips and pale golden curls glistened with the juice of her arousal, inviting him inside. Placing a kiss on the inside of her knee, he leaned over and put his hand on the mattress at her side to catch his weight. He eased the tip of his cock into her hot, wet entrance then stopped. He’d dreamed about this for months, and even though his cock ached to plunge ahead and fuck her with a frenzy, he wanted to savor every moment of making love to Taffy. Her other leg cocked around his thigh, and her hips started to move as if trying to take him inside. She moaned and made another soft sound, like that of a kitten. Her shuttered eyes blinked open to reveal her normally light blue irises had darkened with her desire. “Manny, please,” she whispered and squirmed against him. “Now, Manny. I want you now.” The shameless plea broke his resolve to take his time. Almost without conscious effort on his part, he drove his cock deep into her center. Her hips rose to meet him as she cried out then gasped for air. He slid his arm around her as he lay with her, her soft breasts cushioning his chest, and laced the fingers of his other hand with hers, pressing them into the pillow beside her head. That destiny meant for him to be right here was confirmed with each hard stroke into his sweet, hot Taffy. 123

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Chapter Five Taffy carefully placed her injured arm around Manny’s shoulder and enjoyed the ride. Their fast, rhythmic undulations made the box springs squeak and the headboard rap against the wall. Manny’s sleek warm skin slid back and forth across hers with each thrust. Her legs wrapped around his waist and his cock went deep inside. She heard his short, harsh breaths and felt the thundering of his heart where her left hand rested on his back. Tears welled in her eyes when she thought how all of this would disappear in a short while. She didn’t weep for herself because she adored Manny either way, but she knew it would be difficult for him to lose his body so soon after obtaining it. She held him closer to her. The tingle that had concentrated in her clit started to blossom, expanding to the rest of her nerve endings. Her hips moved in intense surges that she had no control over, and then her inner muscles clenched hard, bowing her back. She cried out wildly when the blossom came into full bloom and spread all over her body, reaching to the very tips of her fingers and toes. She heard Manny murmuring, but couldn’t understand what he said. The gentled tones of his husky voice, interweaving with her pleasure, made them one and the same. With the waning of her sensations, she could breathe again. Her eyes fluttered open to find Manny watching her. He sprinkled kisses across her lips and cheeks as he continued to pump into her. She ground her hips into his, hoping to make the experience as pleasurable for him as he’d made it for her. When his fingers tightened around hers and his kisses ended, she knew his time had come. He drove hard into her then his whole body stiffened against her. His eyes squeezed shut and his back arched away from her. A guttural groan rumbled deep in his throat and ended on a roar as he came inside her. When he fell against her, taking most of his weight on his arms planted in the mattress, his head nestled in the crook of her neck. 124

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings She rubbed his back as she listened to his heavy breathing. Only a few minutes passed until he rolled to her side and gathered her into his arms. “I love you, Taffy,” he murmured as soon as he’d caught his breath then placed a kiss at her temple. The declaration of love startled her. “Oh, Manny-” He interrupted her by placing a finger across her lips. “Let me finish. I wanted to wait to tell you until I could offer you more than just a hand. This body is temporary. I might never have a permanent one, so this might be the only chance I get. You have my heart, Taffy. I’ve loved you for a long time, and spending the past few days with you has only strengthened what I feel for you.” Taffy raised up, resting on her elbow, and looked deeply into his blue eyes. “The past few days have taught me something, too. You don’t need a body to be a good person with a good heart. Look at my ex, the Tooth Fairy Queen, Otto, and even Myrtha. My ex, the queen, and Otto are mean-spirited jerks, and even Myrtha can be spiteful. She only helped me yesterday because she wanted to stick it to Otto for whatever reason. They all have bodies, but none of them are as sweet and kind and wonderful as you are as a hand. Having a body doesn’t mean anything if your soul is corrupt.” She kissed him and his lips responded to hers eagerly. When they parted, she was breathless. “Do you think you can love me, Taffy?” he whispered. She brushed back his hair, raking her fingers through the long, dark strands. What did she know about love? She’d spent too much time in Sinful Sundaes on sugar drunks using toffee shakes to try to drown the poor choices she’d made and the memories of lousy jobs where she wasn’t appreciated. “I don’t know,” she answered honestly, but hastened to add, “and it has nothing to do with if you ever get a permanent body or not. I escaped two jobs in a row that I didn’t like and a boyfriend who didn’t deserve my attention. I’m on my way to a new job and a new place to live. I’m going to discover who I am and what I want. The only thing I know for certain is that I care for you a great deal and I want you in my life. Is that enough for you right now?” He smiled and gathered her into the crook of his arm again. “As long as we’re together, it’s enough, sweet Taffy.” Taffy sighed and snuggled into his embrace, enjoying the feel of his hard body next to hers. Too soon, it would disappear and Manny 125

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings would revert to being just a hand again. She would miss his body until the next time they used the Manifestival Mocha ice cream, but she would always have the essence of the man that was Manny with her. And that was enough, too. **** When Manny heard Taffy’s even breathing and knew she slept, he slipped out of bed and stood on two legs. Surprisingly steady, he walked across the room until he reached the dresser with a large mirror. He stared at his reflection—brown hair, blue eyes, slightly oval face, and lean torso-and every part of him except his left hand giving off a pale golden glow. He’d hoped a name would spring instantly to mind and the details of his life quickly follow, but nothing happened. The sight of his face didn’t even trigger the flashes of memories he sometimes experienced. He frowned and the stranger in the mirror frowned back at him. Turning away because the quicksilver held nothing for him, he looked at Taffy in bed. He loved her and knew she deserved more than he could give her as a hand. Perhaps Electra’s magic would one day furnish him a body, but it might take years. Did he have the right to ask Taffy to accept his love and fall in love with him, too? He felt himself start to disintegrate even before he saw the two golden ribbons unraveling the body he’d all too quickly become accustomed to. He returned to the bed and slipped beneath the covers next to Taffy, enfolding her in his arms again. He wanted her to be the last thing he felt before his body disappeared. “Manny,” Taffy murmured sleepily. “Shhh, go back to sleep.” He didn’t want her to see it happen. She entwined the fingers of her right hand with his left and snuggled closer to him. “You didn’t look in a mirror…” “I did, but I didn’t recognize my face. It seems familiar-things always seem familiar-but I still don’t know who I am.” “I’m sorry.” He thought she slept, but most of him was gone before she spoke again. “We forgot to take your picture.” =Next time,= he tapped his thumb against hers. =Go back to sleep, sweet Taffy.= In a few more moments, he was nothing more than a hand again. He missed his body. He missed holding Taffy in his arms. Would she regret her decision to continue their relationship after she woke up 126

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings and had time to think about it? Would she come to resent that he couldn’t make love to her like a normal man unless they used the enchanted ice cream? In the end, he decided it didn’t matter. Taffy said she wanted him in her life, and that really was enough for him for now. He caressed her thumb with his and allowed himself to relax, secure in the warm embrace of her hand. The End

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Fridae: Ann Regentin - Fresh Fruit & Fate When an exiled dryad meets a handsome carpenter at the back door of Sinful Sundaes, Fate herself comes to Spellfire—to handle this one personally. www.annregentin.com

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Fresh Fruit and Fate By Ann Regentin Chapter One Demetrius smiled as he drove a finish nail into the back of a new cabinet with a single stroke. He was a lucky man and he knew it. Although machines had replaced men in some ways, there was always a demand for custom carpentry, especially good custom carpentry, and Demetrius loved his job. He loved working with wood, and with centuries of experience under his belt, he was outstanding. Anything done by putting tools to wood, he could do better anyone else. That was why Electra at Sinful Sundaes had called him. She needed new cabinets and display cases, and she wanted something better than what she could get from the industrial catalogues. She wanted doors that were easy to clean and wouldn’t stick, shelving that was designed for her current needs and could be adapted to future changes without replacing the entire unit, and she wanted it all to be as beautiful as it was functional. She wanted, in other words, the sort of work Demetrius thrived on, and he gave her a quote square in the middle of the usual bidding range. She accepted without hesitation, and now he was staying in a hotel in Spellfire while he rebuilt a good deal of the store. This was his first week on the job, and so far he was enjoying it. Spellfire was an interesting town, and Electra kept giving him free ice cream, which was not something Demetrius ever turned down. She was also understanding about the mess and chaos involved in renovations. No matter how hard he tried, he left a wake of exposed structure, sawdust and noise as he worked, but he was a carpenter, not a genie. He did things the old-fashioned way. 129

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings It was mid-morning on a Friday when he heard the back door of Sinful Sundaes bang open. He looked up to see a woman with silverybrown skin and deep green hair hoisting a crate of something through the door. She wore a tank top and a pair of boot-cut jeans, and if her hair hadn’t given her away as a dryad, her eyes would have. They were ancient and startlingly inhuman, the eyes of a tree. Then again, a dryad was the soul of a tree. He wondered what one was doing unloading what appeared to be blueberries from the back of a van. “Let me get that,” he said, grabbing for the heavy door. “Thanks,” she said with a strong, Greek accent as she went in to settle her crates. “Do you have more to bring in?” he said in Greek. She smiled broadly. “Yes,” she said, also in Greek. “Can you get the door for me?” “No problem.” He held the door for her she unloaded, watching her rear end at every opportunity. It was well worth watching. By the time she finished, he’d made up his mind that he’d like to do more than just watch, if there was any way he could arrange it. “I’m Demetrius,” he said as he held out his hand. “Achlys,” she said, taking it. “How long have you been here?” “In Spellfire?” he asked. “Less than a week. In North America? About ten years. How about you?” “About fifteen years, all of them in Spellfire. Where else have you lived?” “I don’t live here or anywhere else,” he said, grinning. “I’m an itinerant carpenter. I go wherever I can find work. Do you like it here?” “I live about ten miles out of town,” she said, “but it’s a good town.” “Listen, I have to get back to work or Electra will fire me. How often do you make deliveries here?” “Every other day,” she said. “I’ll see you Monday, then,” he said. She flashed him a wide, bright smile. “Yeah. I’ll see you next week.” Even in a town like Spellfire, he was surprised to see a dryad. They rarely left their trees, and they definitely weren’t prone to transatlantic travel. There also weren’t many left. Greece had suffered the same deforestation that every other country had, driving woodland spirits nearly into extinction. 130

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Achlys was an olive tree. He knew wood, knew trees, and the deep shade of her hair and eyes were a dead giveaway. It made him ache for home. He hadn’t been back to Greece in so long it hurt, and home was full of olive groves. Some had been cut down to make way for modern life, but agriculture was still an important part of the peninsula’s economy. There were olive trees there that had stood for over a hundred years, trees that still had dryads in them. He missed the trees, and he missed the dryads, too. “Hey Demetrius!” Electra carefully poked her head into the corner of the storeroom Demetrius had commandeered for his workshop. “It’s almost time to pack up. Want some ice cream? We just had a blueberry delivery and they’re great.” “I know,” he said. “I helped her unload. Give me fifteen minutes and I’ll take you up on that.” “No problem.” Demetrius finished up and cleaned up, then loaded his equipment into the back of his truck and locked the toolboxes. Electra, true to her word, was garnishing a large bowl of vanilla ice cream with a generous handful of berries. “How’s the work going?” she asked. “On time and on budget,” Demetrius answered around a spoonful of cold bliss. He was used to worried clients. Louis the XIV had worried, too. “I’ve been doing this for a long time. I know how long things take and how much they cost.” “I know,” she said quickly. “It’s just that—“ “You’re spending a lot of money on this and now you have buyer’s remorse,” he said, grinning. “Don’t worry. The new cases will last for years. Do you know anything about Achlys?” “Achlys? The dryad? Oh, jeeze! It’s an awful story. The short version is that she’s the Guardian.” “Demeter’s Guardian?” Demetrius asked, surprised. “The Garden is here?” “Yes to both.” Demeter was the goddess of earth and nature, and her Garden was essentially a memorial to the world’s extinct plants. Although Demetrius had heard of it, he’d never known where it was, mostly because Demeter preferred to keep it that way. It was hidden in plain sight, much as Spellfire itself, so perhaps it was no surprise to find it in the vicinity. The Garden always had a Guardian, someone whose life energy was bound to sustaining it. It wasn’t enough to have the 131

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings plants exist someone had to remember them and care for them, and that was the Guardian. Without a Guardian, the Garden would wither and die. “How did a dryad end up as Guardian? Where’s her tree?” Electra sighed. “That’s the awful part. About fifteen years ago, they were clearing an olive grove, and one of the trees had a dryad. That was Achlys. Demeter got wind of it and went to her because the Garden had just lost its Guardian, and she wanted to offer Achlys a chance to live. Achlys took it, but unfortunately not before a bulldozer took off the lower part of her left leg. They couldn’t save it. She almost bled to death.” “Damn!” Demetrius’s ice cream suddenly lost its flavor. “What happened to the tree?” “They couldn’t save that, either,” Electra said. “Achlys still has it, but it died when it was transplanted. Bulldozers aren’t gentle and it was old even for an olive.” Demetrius knew which blow had struck hardest. A dryad could eventually learn to live without both legs and arms, but he had never heard of one outliving her tree. “Why didn’t Demeter let her die?” “Achlys was already bound and anyway, who else would take on the Garden? It can’t be left, not for long anyway. Dryads are used to having a limited range. The rest of us like a bit more mobility.” “How well do you know her?” “Nobody knows her.” Electra sighed ruefully. “I’d like to wimp out and say that she’s shy and doesn’t even try to make friends because both are true, but it’s also true that most of us can’t relate. Nobody knows what to say. She’s essentially a soul without a body, and none of us can understand that, and the body she has is missing a leg, which makes it even worse. None of us know how to talk to her or what to say. I know there are support groups, but they’re for humans. The poor thing is a fish out of water no matter where she goes.” “Does she live out there entirely alone?” “No,” Electra said. “There’s a colony of little fairies here, and right now they’re staying in the Garden. They earn their keep by helping Achlys with the plants, but I’m not sure I’d call them good companions. Those damned things are like winged toddlers. They’re into everything and have no idea of how their actions affect other people, not to mention having nothing resembling common sense. If it 132

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings amuses them, they do it, and you wouldn’t believe what amuses them.” Demetrius was pretty sure that Achlys could handle the fairies. He’d seen olive trees get chopped down, only to have branches grow out from the severed stump. Achlys’ smile reminded him of those branches.

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Chapter Two Achlys’ sang to herself as she drove home, not even bothering to turn on the radio. It wasn’t that Spellfire lacked handsome men, it was that it lacked handsome Greek men. She hadn’t spoken much Greek in the last decade or so, so even that brief conversation was like water in the desert. He really was handsome, about medium height with black, curly hair and deeply tanned skin. Solid and barrel-chested, he had a sprinkling of dark hair on his arms and the backs of his hands, as well as a few stray tufts peeking out from under the neckline of his T-shirt. A battered leather tool belt hung low on his hips and had the same effect on his groin that a push-up bra did on a woman’s bust line, accenting the bulge at his zipper. His mouth was almost too full and although his teeth weren’t quite straight, they made his grin a bit boyish. Had he been taller, he would have made a good bouncer, with heavy muscles that flexed even when he was just opening a door. Even better that he was Greek. His accent placed him from somewhere in the Peloponnesus, and it made her simultaneously comfortable with him and deliriously homesick. She spoke fluent English now, but there was something about conversation in her native tongue that made her feel more like herself. Language was a way of thinking, even more than a way of communicating, and Achlys realized that she was smiling as well as singing and laughed a bit at herself. A handsome, generous, Greek-speaking man could apparently still knock her off her feet. She wouldn’t do anything about it, of course. She had the Garden to think of, and the fairies, and what would he want with a one-legged dryad? Still, he seemed like a good guy and the flirting had been fun. Too bad nothing would come of it. “Do you see this thread?” asked a voice directly to her right. Panic, hard and heavy as a cannonball, hit her square in the chest. Achlys risked one, terrified glance into the face of her passenger 134

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings before she pulled the van over onto the shoulder and slammed on the brakes. Her hands shaking, she put the van into park and turned to face a tall, forbidding old woman whose eyes and mouth held no trace of anything resembling compassion or patience. Her gray hair was pulled back into a severe bun and she wore a long, simple dress of funereal black. In her hand was a thin shimmer of gold. “Do you see this thread?” she asked again in a voice like tempered steel. Achlys nodded, speechless with fear. In the passenger’s seat of the van was Lachesis, the most powerful and terrible of the Moirai, the Incarnations of Fate. Fate had three forms. Klotho spun the threads that were each, individual human life, Atropos wove them into a tapestry of action and interaction, and Lachesis cut them. For all intents and purposes, death was sitting in Achlys’ van, and Achlys had no idea why. “Do you see this thread!” Lachesis demanded for the third time. Achlys swallowed hard and nodded, still incapable of speech. “It’s in your hands now,” Lachesis said. “You are responsible for this life. Screw up, and….” A pair of very sharp-looking scissors materialized in her other hand. Achlys finally found her voice. “Wait a minute—“ she protested. “This may not be your fault, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t your responsibility,” Lachesis said as the thread and scissors dematerialized. The forbidding look on her face did not fade with them. “Wait a minute!” Achlys said again. “I don’t know what you’re talking about. I haven’t done anything to anyone.” The Fate gave her a long, cold look. “Sometimes it’s not what you do, it’s who you are.” Achlys swallowed hard. She knew that she was a lot of things, and not all of them were good. “I still don’t know what you’re talking about.” For about half a second, Achlys thought she saw something human in the Incarnation’s eyes, a desire that frightened her more than the Incarnation herself. Then the moment passed, and the thin lips tightened even more. “A life is in your hands,” Lachesis said. “Don’t forget that.” And then she vanished, leaving Achlys alone in the van. She sat, shaking, her head down on the steering wheel, tears of sheer terror streaming down her cheeks. This was the second time in her life she’d had a visitation like this, and the first time had been a 135

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings decidedly mixed blessing. This time, it seemed, she was being given another task, but she wasn’t even going to be told what it was and the penalty for failure was death. She didn’t even know whose death. For all she knew, it might have been her own. Achlys shut the engine off and just let herself cry. It was a while before she was able to start the van again, but in that time she had come to the conclusion that there was really nothing she could do. The Incarnation hadn’t been very specific about what she wanted and Fate, as Achlys had reason to know, generally ran its course one way or the other. At this point, the best thing to do was go home and take care of business. That, she had learned, could get her through almost anything. When she pulled into her driveway, she found a cluster of fairies waiting for the van. They knew what would be in the rear compartment, and as soon as Achlys cut the engine, they were pulling on the handle of the door. “Jeeze, you guys! Can’t you wait three seconds?” Achlys grabbed her keys to unlock the heavy doors, and a multi-colored mass swarmed in, oblivious to the cold in their greed for ice cream. Thanks to the refrigeration and insulation, it hadn’t totally melted, but it was definitely a bit soft and the fairies had zero table manners. They squabbled over and reveled in it while Achlys watched, smiling both tolerantly and affectionately. As much of a pain in the neck as they could be, they were utterly delightful when their mischief wasn’t a problem, and ice cream orgies were a big favorite. Unselfconscious sensualists, the little fairies loved any kind of physical experience, and ice cream not only tasted good, it felt good, too. They rolled in it, threw it at each other, and generally trashed the back of the van to the point where the only real option was taking the hose to it. As this had to be done anyway, it was no hardship to let the fairies play first. They were about three inches tall and came in bright, glowing hues of every primary and secondary color, as if they were living baby toys. Their wings were similar to those of dragonflies, and they wore absolutely nothing. They looked like tiny men and women, but Achlys had reason to know that their lifecycle was quite different and so were their minds. They had no notion of conscience or morality, in a large part because they had little memory. They could count to five but no farther, and had no attention span whatsoever, living entirely in the moment. They were infantile, self-centered, egotistical and a complete riot to watch. They lived in one of her barns and generally 136

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings had the run of the Garden, where they spent their days in search of flowers and their evenings hanging out in the backyard fruit trees like so many animated Christmas lights. When as much damage as possible had been done with the ice cream and they were left licking themselves and each other, Achlys went for the hose. Although they couldn’t hold up to the highpressure settings, the fairies liked the water very much, and when Achlys turned it to a gentler spray, they washed with the same enthusiasm they had used in getting dirty, splashing, chasing each other, and shaking off the water like tiny puppies before diving right back in. When they got bored and flew away, she turned the pressure up and cleaned the van properly, then coiled the hose again and put it back in its bin before she pulled the van into the barn that had more normal tenants: bats, birds, spiders, mice and a family of feral cats. Afterward, Achlys sat down on her porch and pulled up the left leg of her jeans, exposing a metal bar that disappeared into her shoe, and then a socket that attached the bar to her leg. Carefully, she eased her leg out of the socket and sighed with relief as she set the prosthesis down next to her and took the sock off her stump. It was scarred and swollen, and she massaged it, letting the air dry the sweat and ease the irritated skin. It was always a balancing act between freedom of movement and discomfort, and while time had refined her ability to manage it, it would never change the fact that she had to. It had taken time and considerable physical therapy before she learned to walk again, and every movement had to be re-learned: how to go forward, how to go backward, how to climb stairs, how to manage uneven ground. Most of the people in the same boat with her were diabetics, many of them elderly, with a handful of wounded soldiers sprinkled in. With her green hair dyed black, she was able to pass for human, but she did not feel like she fit in in any other way. She had no family to visit her, no parents or husband to help her, no children or grandchildren to cheer her on and encourage her faltering steps. She had to cope with her grief and anger alone. On top of losing her leg, she had taken a second hit, one that none of her kind had survived. No dryad, ever, had lived longer than her tree. Until Achlys, nobody even thought it could be done. The tree had been just as badly injured as the dryad, but when the dryad pulled through, it was assumed that the tree would, too. Instead, it had died, even in the Garden. It was simply too old and too damaged to recover. 137

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings It was the Garden and the fairies that had saved her. The Garden was in appalling condition when Achlys took it on, decrepit and going to seed. It needed someone desperately. Achlys went from being the soul of her tree to being the soul of every plant in her charge. Learning to live again was no different from learning to walk again. As long as she kept putting one foot in front of the other, she’d eventually be fine. It was lunchtime. Achlys picked up her leg, pulled herself up on the porch railing, and grabbed a pair of crutches she’d left leaning there in anticipation of exactly this moment before she went into the house.

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Chapter Three An informal poll of the townsfolk left Demetrius with a mixed impression of Achlys. Some people thought she was snobby. “It’s just part of her leg,” one pretty little elf sniffed. “She could live a perfectly normal life if she wanted to.” Others, although more sympathetic, tended to dismiss Achlys as a non-issue. She was fine. The Garden had its caregiver and perhaps it was Fate that had taken her leg specifically for that reason. Where was the problem? It was an attitude that didn’t surprise Demetrius so much as it frustrated him. As life itself became safer, with more babies living to adulthood and fewer people getting sick, injured or killed, there was less sense in the world in general of how to handle physical infirmity. Some people concealed their uncertainty under a mask of tolerance, but most tried to ignore it, hoping that if the problem itself didn’t go away, the person who had it would. It usually worked. Disabled people needed accommodation of some sort, and when they didn’t get it, they had no choice but to leave. The other approach was to blame the victim. The chronically ill got the shortest end of that particular stick, but even people like Achlys, irreparably maimed in an accident, fell prey to it. The idea seemed to be that she had subconsciously but deliberately put herself in harm’s way, and that the missing leg and tree were nothing more than the bed she’d made and must now lie in. This, too, cut the disabled off from full participation in society. These people would cut her no slack and some of them would even raise the bar, demanding that she “overcome” her impairment by achieving even more than most able-bodied people ever would. These attitudes were hardly new, and some of the older ones had been even worse. Impairment as a punishment from God, for example, had resulted in ostracism and even death, but the general fear and disgust bothered Demetrius so much that he had asked his mother about it. 139

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “It reminds them of how little control they really have over their lives,” she said, “and they don’t want to face that. Instead, they find a way to think about the other person’s fate as somehow being something the other person could have avoided if they’d only been smarter, better, faster or more blessed. It’s a way of pretending that they’re not going to die.” “But they’re all going to die,” Demetrius protested. “I know,” his mother said, “but they don’t want to know that. The safer they get, the more afraid of death they become. They start to look at it as the ultimate evil instead of part of the life cycle, and they won’t accept anything that reminds them of it.” “But it doesn’t matter what they think about it,” Demetrius said. “It will still happen to them.” “Yes,” his mother said, trimming a stray thread from the loom, “but that doesn’t mean they’re going to face it, even when it does.” With a handful of exceptions, Spellfire was proving his mother right. The opinion on the fairies was more solid: they were a blazing nuisance, like poltergeists or imps. Whatever complaints anyone might have about Achlys, they were all grateful to her for getting the fairies out of their hair. So the following Friday, he lay in wait and sure enough, around 10:00 am, Achlys backed the van toward the rear door of Sinful Sundaes. Demetrius went out once again to help her unload and to speak Greek for a little while. It was very easy to coax the conversation where he wanted it to go, because all it meant was asking her the usual questions, among which was where she lived. It got her talking about the Garden, bragging about it actually, and he realized that she loved it. She even loved the fairies, whom she seemed to have adopted as children. So it was a piece of cake, as they were bringing in the last crates, to ask if he could come out after work and see it. “Of course,” Achlys said with a wide smile. “That would be great.” So when he’d cleaned up his mess, he headed for the outskirts of town. The Garden was a few miles past the suburbs, in a wilderness that, while it had its share of plants, didn’t look like it could support anything as large as the Garden. From the street, it was marked only a mailbox that was no different from every other mailbox along the pitted, dirt road. From the driveway, it looked like a run-down farm, 140

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings the sheds and barns all but falling in on themselves. The original house had been torn down and replaced by a single-wide trailer. There was no garage, but Demetrius saw a truck surprisingly similar to his own parked in front of the house. All very normal. He went up the porch steps and knocked on the screen door. Achlys answered in a snug tank top and a pair of loose linen pants. Even at home and in this heat, she kept her legs covered. “Come in,” she said. “Can I offer you a glass of iced tea?” “I would love it!” he said. The Texas heat was oppressive in a way different from the Mediterranean heat, but he’d been in North America for a long time, and Russia before that. He wasn’t used to any of it anymore. She offered him a tall, sweating glass and he drank from it gladly, tasting mint and lemon over a subtle, delicate white tea, far better than anything he’d ever had even in expensive coffee shops, and then he realized that she probably grew it all herself. When he looked up, she was grinning at him, her eyes full of pride. “Come on out back,” she said. “If you’ve never seen the Garden before, you’re in for something really special.” Her back yard was a small orchard of things that might have grown anywhere: lemons, oranges, apples, peaches, figs and cherries. Then he realized that most of these species required different climates, that apples needed the deep freezes of states like Michigan and Oregon while oranges needed Florida heat. “How does it work?” he asked, looking in astonishment from tree to tree. “Every plant gets exactly what it needs,” she said, “regardless of what the conditions actually look or feel like. This place is one, gigantic, magic bubble, an entire continent squeezed into about eighty acres. I grow normal stuff near the house, some for bread and butter and some for myself. It’s both the Garden and a working farm now.” “Why the farm?” he asked. “I wanted to integrate the Garden into the local economy,” she said. “That’s never been done before. Most of the Guardians have grown no more than they needed for subsistence, but that meant that the structures were a mess. The house had been neglected for so long that it was starting to fall in on itself. Had it been maintained, it would have been a wonderful, historic building, but as it was, I had no choice but to demolish it.” “Will you rebuild it?” he asked. 141

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “Eventually,” she said, grinning. “Believe it or not, the outbuildings are a higher priority now that this place is trying to earn a living. I’ll worry about the house when I have the time.” They were walking as they spoke, through fields of berries and herbs, and every once in a while, he’d see a flash of color, small and brief as a hummingbird. These, he knew, were the fairies, much too shy to pester a stranger in broad daylight. One swat of his hand would flatten them and they knew it. He wondered how long it would take them to figure out that he was harmless. “Do you just sell to Electra?” “No,” she said. “In fact, Electra is my newest customer. She doesn’t really need me at all, but someone told me I should talk to her, so I did. She buys from me because she understands and supports what I’m trying to do. “It sounds like a lot of work,” he said. She shrugged. “There’s a reason why this place was such a mess. Being the Guardian is a lot more boring than being a dryad. I’d rather be a farmer.” They had moved beyond the berries and herbs and were heading into the heart of the Garden. Here, the plants were more varied and Demetrius saw things he hadn’t seen in literally ages. Apicius and Pliny the Elder had written about the virtues of Silphium, but the plant itself had been extinct since Roman times. Now it grew in Achlys’ Garden along with other things he could no longer name. Outside of trees, botany had never been his strong suit, but it astonished him to realize how many old, familiar plants were here. The world was changing in sad, unexpected ways. As they got deeper, though, he saw complete ecosystems and realized that these plants had died out millions, not thousands, of years ago. They were in a jungle older even than he was, far older than Achlys. Dinosaurs might have lived there. Demetrius stopped and stared, listening to the rustle of wind in thick-leaved, primeval trees, and wondering what the animals might have sounded like. “Isn’t it amazing?” she asked softly. “Yes.” “The Earth was warmer then,” she said, and it would have sounded like a non-sequitor if he hadn’t been standing under those ancient trees. Dementrius said nothing. Whether it was the setting or Achlys’ company, he wasn’t sure, but he was having a hard time keeping his hands to himself. The walk had made her sweat, which made her skin 142

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings shine and made damp tendrils of the hair at her face and neck. The urge to touch her was becoming overwhelming. He had thought to hold back, spend some time with her, but he really, really didn’t want to. His mind was made up, and while he wasn’t certain of hers yet, he was sure that she at least liked him, and that was enough for a start. His hands, largely of their own accord, rested themselves on her shoulders, and he felt her stiffen slightly. She didn’t pull away, though, and he let his thumbs caress her soft, damp skin. She still didn’t move, but she didn’t relax, either. He ran though various options in his head and went for the obvious one. “I already know,” he said. “Know what?” she asked. “About your leg.” He had guessed right. She laughed and leaned back into him, practically inviting him to wrap his arms around her completely. “Oh good! It’s awkward,” she added. “It’s a horrible shock to see it, but it’s hard to bring up in conversation.” “It doesn’t bother me,” Demetrius assured her. “Why not?” He knew enough about “devotees”, men who were sexually aroused by amputations, to understand where the question was coming from. “I’ve seen worse.” He felt her silent chuckle. “Don’t worry,” he said. “I don’t want to see it now.” The chuckle deepened. “I think that can be managed,” she said. Actually, it was very easy. All he had to do was keep her just as he had her, kiss her neck and shoulder as his hand began to roam. She reached back and ran her own hands over his hips and thighs, and that was all the invitation he needed. She liked to be touched, was probably starved for it, he thought, and getting his hands under her shirt prompted a very grateful moan. Her nipples were very sensitive, and she seemed to prefer having them played with through her bra, a light rake of fingertips over hardened nubs. Her breath caught and quickened, and she leaned her head back onto his shoulder, turning her face toward his for a kiss. Her mouth tasted like mossy wine. The angle was awkward, but the kiss itself was a promise of things to come, a penetration, a coiling dance of tongue and tongue that made his cock ache in his jeans. She pressed back against it as it pushed toward her, and he lost track of his 143

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings hands completely, aware only of the tremendous hunger that spread outward from his groin, threatening to take over completely. He, too, was voracious for touch, unable to be still, running his hands over every part of her body he could reach. The angle of the kiss was awkward, so he forgave her when she broke it and he went after her neck instead, tasting sweat and skin, and sinking his teeth in as hard as he dared. When he could put it off no longer he untied the waistband of her pants and reached inside, past a thicket of soft hair into a wonderland of soft wet. She greeted his touch with a cry of delight and shifted her body so he could reach better. This part gave him minor stage fright every time because it was different every time. How to make her come? Each woman was unique, as was every encounter, so there was an element of luck here as well as skill. Was she aroused enough? Relaxed enough? Only one way to find out. He ran his finger straight up until he found her clit. She rewarded him with a happy gasp. Now to figure out what kind of touch she liked best. Circles? Straight across? Up and down? Up and down elicited the best noises, so now it was just a matter of endurance. Thankfully, she decided to help him. She put her hand over his, showing him exactly what to do, and she guided his other hand to her breast. He got the hint and tweaked her nipple through the fabric of her bra. It didn’t take long at all before Achlys swore under her breath and slumped forward, and he had to grab her to keep her from falling. If she hadn’t had her hand over his, he would have lost his rhythm and spoiled it, but she was pretty far gone, lost to wave after wave of sensation, so overwhelmed by it she was barely able to stand. When it was over, she kissed both of his hands and then leaned forward, bracing herself against a tree. Demetrius pulled her pants down over her hips and let them fall as they would. They didn’t matter anymore. Under them, she worse plain, cotton bikinis, and these, too, he pulled down and she arched her back, exposing a tantalizing glimpse of swollen labia. He pressed two fingers between them, rediscovering how wet her orgasm had left her, and her back arched even further as she moaned, her cunt all but trying to swallow his fingers. No more fingers, though, not when his cock was so hard it hurt and there was only one relief for it. He pulled his jeans and shorts down, lined up his erection, and sank in deep. 144

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Achlys gasped with pleasure, pushing back into his thrusts as he grabbed her hips to steady her and watched, entranced, as his shaft vanished over and over again into her willing body. He shifted his hands down, opened her wider with his thumbs, and heard her sigh at the change in pressure. He felt his balls tighten and for a moment he worried that he’d come too soon, but then he remembered that she’d already come and he could do what he liked. He rode her hard, driving himself into her body and soaking up the sight of it because he knew that in a few minutes, there would be nothing to see, or that he wouldn’t be able to see, but it wouldn’t matter which. When it hit, he buried himself, cock pulsing, digging his fingers into her hips, holding her still, making her take it even while she gave him gladly everything he demanded. And yes, he closed his eyes in those agonized seconds of blissful nothingness, but a deeply buried eye burst open in him as he groaned, and he caught a fleeting glimpse of heaven. It was a minute before he came back to himself and looked down at her smooth ass, at his cock as he thrust a little, savoring the dregs of his erection. She had semen on her now, and in her, and he marveled that such a simple, normal, biological thing could make him so crazy. He’d watched animals fuck; it didn’t have to be such a big deal. She could stand here merely wet enough to accept him, and he could simply pump until he expelled what was necessary and then they could go their own ways, but that wasn’t how it worked. He wanted to stay there all night under the primeval trees, fuck her until she was so sore she was begging him to stop, and the only reason he wasn’t going to do it was the same brutal biology. His body wouldn’t let him. He let his cock slide out of her with a sigh of regret. Achlys put herself together and turned just as he was buttoning his jeans. She was smiling softly, very pleased, and she wrapped her arms around his neck as if she’d done it a thousand times before she kissed him, this one more affectionate than passionate. “That was lovely,” she said when she could. “Yes it was.” She wasn’t much shorter than he was, so he could rest his head on her shoulder as he held her. It felt almost as good as the sex itself, a soft, quiet peace that flooded his body, replacing the urgency for a while. “Can you stay?” she asked. 145

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Music to his ears. “Yes. Thanks.” He let her go, then, but only enough so that he could take her hand and let her lead him out of the ancient wood.

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Chapter Four It was too hot to cook, so when they got back to the house, Achlys filled plates with olives, cheese, tomato slices, bread and cold lamb, and set the rest of the pitcher of iced tea out as well. Her plates had been someone’s grandmother’s everyday dishes, painted with pink roses that were starting to fade, and her glasses were a hodgepodge gleaned from garage sales. Her silverware wasn’t much better and even the table wasn’t nice or new. It was a leftover from the 50s, with a cheap tablecloth thrown over it to hide the faded Formica. If it bothered him, he didn’t say anything. Instead, he drank half the contents of his glass in one gulp and dug into the food, eating as if he hadn’t all day. “How did you get into carpentry?” Achlys asked. It was an oldfashioned occupation in a world driven by computers and technology. “It was my father’s trade, and I pretty much grew up in his workshop.” “Do you have brothers in the trade, too?” she asked. “No,” he said. “I’m an only child.” “What about your mother?” He sighed, but he smiled, too. “She wasn’t around as much as we both might have liked. It wasn’t what she wanted, but it was the only way.” “Career woman?” Achlys asked. “In a way,” he said. “I guess my parents switched roles before it got fashionable, because my father was more nurturing and playful than she was. I spent more time with him than with her.” “How do you feel about it?” “I’m glad my father was nurturing and playful,” he said. “Kids need that.” It struck Achlys as a strange answer, and she wanted to get to the bottom of it. “Did they love each other?” “Yes. My mother was devastated when he died. It was years before she got over it.” 147

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “She’s still alive?” “Yes.” “Do you see her often?” “No, but we keep in touch.” On the surface, it sounded just fine. Still, there was something in how he talked about his mother that made Achlys wonder, but she also knew better than to push too hard. She could find out more over time. Anyway, what difference did it make? The Incarnation of Fate was about to blast her into smithereens, or maybe someone else, she wasn’t sure, and it might not last much longer anyway. Devotees scared her, but her leg scared men who weren’t devotees, and that leg was getting uncomfortable. The time was coming for Demetrius to face it, and for her to face the fallout. When they were through eating, she put the dishes in the dishwasher and took a deep breath. “I have to take care of my leg,” she said. “All right,” he said, his face deliberately neutral. Achlys brought her crutches into the kitchen, and sat down at the table to unfasten the prosthesis. The stump ached, as it always did at the end of the day, and easing that ache erased much of her selfconsciousness. The low-grade pain could make her tired and shorttempered, and relief lightened her all over. The pressure was off, the skin finally exposed to air, and her entire body breathed a happy sigh. “Can I see it?” Demetrius asked, reaching out his hand. “What?” Achlys had almost forgotten he was there. “The prosthesis. Can I have a look?” “Oh. Sure.” And she gave it to him. He examined it carefully, flexed the foot to see how it worked, and his curiosity made her smile. “It absorbs some of the shock,” he said. “Yes. Not enough, though. At least it feels that way sometimes.” “Can I have a look at the leg, too?” “Sure.” He moved his chair closer and held out his hands, and Achlys set the remains of her leg in them. He looked it over with the same clinical curiosity he’d shown toward the prosthesis, running his fingers over the scars, and Achlys was amazed at how many scars of his own he had. Underneath the dark hair on the backs of his hands and arms was a network of fine, pale lines, as if he’d shoved his arms into a briar bush and pulled them 148

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings back out. The palms, she already knew, were rough from constant wear and callused from handles of his tools. They were gentle, though, and he touched her as if he had eyes in his fingertips and was memorizing the contours of her stump. “They modified it,” she said, “to fit the prosthesis.” “How often do you wear it?” he asked. “As little as I can get away with,” she said. “It’s easier to move around, but the stump gets swollen and the skin gets damp. It’s a trade-off and always will be.” “Any phantom pain?” Achlys shuddered. Especially in the beginning, she was haunted by a sensation of stabbing pain in parts of her leg that no longer existed. “Not as much now.” He set the leg down. “What would you say to vegetating in front of the TV? It’s been a long day.” Achlys grinned. “I think it sounds fine. I don’t have satellite out here, but I do have Netflix. How do you feel about The Pink Panther? I just rented everything.” “Sounds great,” he said. “How are you with wine corks?” “I’m an expert.” The idea was to share a bottle and relax, but it devolved about halfway through the second glass. Achlys was astonished at how comfortable she was with him, how easy it came to touch him, and how readily he gave in to it, setting his glass down on the coffee table and stretching out with her on the couch. It was barely wide enough and definitely not long enough, but Achlys didn’t notice. What she noticed were the traces of wine on his tongue, the light sheen of sweat on his skin, the hair on his shoulders just under the sleeves of his T-shirt. She noticed the strength in his back and shoulders, the faint scrape of five o’clock shadow, the ridge of his erection pressing into the hollow between her thigh and groin. This was a far more normal lust than what struck under the primordial trees, and this time Achlys had the luxury of savoring it. She could actually touch him, run her hands over the power she’d felt behind her earlier that day, learn him inch by inch, learn the pace of his breath and the anxious rhythm of his hips. A bead of sweat trickled from his hair down over the back of his neck, and Achlys knew it. 149

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Eventually, inevitably, their shirts began to come off, pulls and tugs here and there, momentary disconnections as they struggled free, and Achlys bent her head slightly to see him, kissing his shoulder, tasting salt. His back and shoulders, as his hands, also seemed covered with scars, and against her belly she could feel the trail that led into the waistband of his jeans. He had the faintest beginnings of middle aged spread, a bit more flesh than was strictly needed, but only just enough to soften his work-hardened frame. His rough hands felt marvelous on her bare skin and she watched one of them cover her breast, watched his thumb coax her nipple awake, and she had never seen anything more perfect than that. Unless it was the curve of his hip, which she felt rather than saw, then he was coaxing her mouth back up for a kiss and she couldn’t see anything anymore. She was back to the world of touch and smell and sound. The tension in his ass and thigh mixed with a faint hint of cologne and the quick harshness of his breath to create a world all their own, a tight cocoon of sensation and affection. And yes, the affection was real, because the visit from the Incarnation of Fate had made her reckless. She was no longer sure of her future, and it made her more sensitive to what she had now, this man on her couch, this man whose jeans she was unbuttoning and tugging down over his hips, this man who was, once again, uncovering her, cupping her pussy in a scarred, gentle hand as she moaned into his mouth. She didn’t care that she was essentially immortal now and he had only forty years to live, or that he had no fixed address and she was stuck in Texas indefinitely. She didn’t even care about her leg. What she cared about was his heat, the slide of sweat between their bodies, the fragility and power of the cock she held. She hadn’t touched him there before, hadn’t had a chance to explore him, and she took it now. He felt wonderfully thick in her hand and he wasn’t circumcised, and when she pulled his foreskin all the way down, his cock reared back, touching her bare thigh and leaving a faint, sticky kiss. His balls responded to her, too, pulling up a bit as she cradled them in her palm. He slid a finger into her, and she moaned, let go of him long enough to get her pants and underwear entirely off so she could spread her legs for him. Having anything of him inside her made her mad for more, and he obliged her, adding a second finger to the first as she reached for his cock again, needing to touch him in return, to reconnect the circuit between them. 150

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings His fingers moved out and upward, to her clit, and she waited a bit. What now? Was he playing, or was he serious? Serious, it seemed; he settled into a rhythm that was pretty close to what she’d shown him. Not exactly right, not perfect, but if he was patient, she could come that way, and he was. It took a few minutes, but orgasm became certain, then inevitable, and she held on tight as she lost her mind to a storm of sensation, her entire world balanced on his fingertips. Then it was his turn, and he wriggled out of his jeans entirely before rolling her beneath him. The weight of his body felt just as good as its heat, but there was one thing missing and she reached down between them, and guided his cock into place. He pushed, and she gasped with delight as he filled her again. There was nothing better than this, and she tangled her fingers in his curly, sweaty hair as he kissed her again. This was better, so much better, than anything he could have said, no matter what he might have said. Flattery and promises meant absolutely nothing compared to this intense, affectionate sex. Oh there were words, but it was too early to say them and it wasn’t necessary in any case. They would have sounded hollow compared to the scrape of his cheek under the heels of her hands, his lips locked onto hers and the easy, intimate movement of his body. That said far more, and even more still as his pace quickened and he groaned once before he froze, buried and pulsing inside her. He rested his head on her shoulder and she held him, felt his pounding heart slow and his breathing ease. Her eyes were still closed, but she ran her hands over his back, tracing his scars the way he had traced hers. They puzzled her. His hands she could understand because even in the most capable ones, tools and materials slipped. Some men’s hands would never be smooth, but his back? They weren’t terrible welts, but something had definitely happened to him. Finally, he lifted his head. “What do you do on Saturdays?” “Clean up after the fairies,” she said. “What about you?” “Nothing much,” he said. “Would you like some help?” Achlys snorted. “It’s a dirty job.” “I’m not afraid of dirt.” “Are you afraid of fairies?” “I don’t have much experience with them,” he said. “They’re little brats,” she warned. 151

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “I’ll cope.” He eased off of her, let her sit up, which might not have been wise because it was staining her couch cushions. In the lamplight, she saw a similar network of scars over his torso, including a serious one than ran diagonally over his belly. For that matter, his legs were marked, too. What on earth had he been doing with himself? He didn’t strike her as the aggressive type. She ran her fingertip over the diagonal scar, the most severe of all of them. “What happened?” He made a face. “It’s a long story, a long time ago. Can I use your shower? I think I need to wash before I go to bed.” Hmm. Well, he could keep his secrets for a while. “Mind if I join you? I have air conditioning in the bedroom, but I’d like a shower myself and my hot water tank is small.” “Who needs hot water?” he groaned. Achlys laughed and reached for her crutches. “Let me get you a towel. You’ll feel better in a minute.”

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Chapter Five Demetrius woke late the next morning, but Achlys had a window air conditioner in her bedroom, so there was no hint of the heat outside. They actually needed the light quilt on the bed. Achlys was still sleeping, and he leaned up on his elbow to look at her. Dryads, regardless of their age, looked eternally twenty with their eyes closed, so it was like lying next to a punk rocker or a raver. That would change as soon as she woke. Didn’t matter. He wasn’t young himself, and he had no use for youth, which thought itself invulnerable. What he liked better was what he saw in Achlys, the quiet determination it had taken to walk again with only one leg, and to bring the Garden out of obvious decline when she had every right to give up, even on herself. Demetrius was liked strong women. His mother could bring kings and emperors to their knees, so he was used to it and did not separate it in his mind from caring. She might not have been around as much as everyone would have liked, but when she was, she was a good wife and a good mother. He’d learned early on that the best thing to do around such women was his best, to let them challenge him because it pushed him to do his best, and being at loose ends had gotten him into trouble more than once. The problem was that women like his mother did things on their own terms, and he wasn’t sure what Achlys’ terms were. That was the problem with getting intimate too early in the game. It could mean anything from love at first sight to a momentary loneliness, and he had no idea what it meant now. He was going to have to wing it, and he hated that. He liked the sex, though, and he liked waking up with her. The drive wasn’t just physical, it was mental, too, there was something in having a lover that eased him, relaxed him. It felt so good even just to sleep late and not want to get out of bed when he woke. Her eyes opened, and she was a hundred years old again. “Hi,” she said as she rolled into his arms. 153

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings He kissed her mouth. “Hi.” “This is nice,” she said, running a lazy hand over his shoulder. “Yeah.” Nice was an understatement. The erection he had been mostly trying to ignore was getting insistent. “When are you supposed to clean up after those fairies?” Achlys yawned. “Doesn’t matter. They don’t really care.” She pressed her body against his, lifted her damaged leg tentatively over his thigh. He grabbed it, held it there, to reassure her, and he felt her relax. He was not used to it yet, but he knew he could learn to be. He really had seen worse, and it wasn’t something that mattered all that much, not compared to other things. He kissed her again, a bit more seriously, and she met it with a soft, contented murmur. He liked her sex noises, and reached for her breast, toyed with her nipple to coax another one out of her. She obliged him, pressed harder against him, and her willingness went straight to his head like wine. Demetrius was in dire need of a razor and a toothbrush, but Achlys didn’t seem to mind. She kissed him back without hesitation, her hand roaming freely over his body. If her age showed in her eyes, her non-human nature showed in her skin, which was smooth but more like the smoothness of sanded, polished wood than like the silk of human skin, and her limbs had the fluid bend of young branches. He rolled her to her back and kissed his way down her neck. He had not explored her very thoroughly yet and he wanted to now, wanted to learn her body as if it were his own. He rolled her nipple on his tongue before sucking it into his mouth, and her back arched as she sighed. He tried teeth, and she tensed, cried out, gasping. Her belly was soft under his hand and he let his beard scratch it as he kissed it, just to see what she would do. She squeaked with surprise, but didn’t stop him, so he let his whiskers bite a little, bit some more himself. He wanted to devour her, or maybe absorb her, he wasn’t sure which. Now for the fun part. This would take some time, so he settled his body at the foot of the bed and hooked his arms under her legs. Here, he would have to be very careful of his face, but mostly what was needed was his tongue. He ran it slowly, tentatively, just inside her labia and was gratified to taste her arousal. He explored a bit, and she could not keep silent nor still. She arched herself into his face, and he wished he could have shaved first so he could do this properly. 154

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Still, the critical piece of equipment really was his tongue and when he let it dance lightly on her clit, she cried out and he had to grab hold of her to keep her where he wanted her. He was starting to get a pretty good idea of what made her come, so he settled into a comfortable rhythm and hoped his tongue would hold out long enough, but it didn’t take nearly as long as he thought it would. She came with a low, drawn-out moan, her whole body shuddering and her fingers digging into his wrists. When it was over, he crawled up the length of her body, thinking only of sex, but she surprised him by shoving him off and onto his back. “Only one way to return a favor like that,” she said. Oh, yeah! Demetrius lay back and let her work, let her kiss her way down his chest and belly until she was digging an insistent tongue into his navel. It made him ragingly impatient. Then she eased her way down into his groin, kissing and licking everywhere but where he wanted her to, letting only her hair and breath touch his rigid cock. It was driving him insane with ache and lust. Her tongue traced the hollow between his balls and his thigh before it drew a fine, wet line all the way up the underside of his shaft. He hissed, ran his fingers through her hair as gave him more, piece by miserable piece, never quite enough until at least she pulled his foreskin all the way back with one hand and let the swollen head of his cock part her lips. She kept her teeth clear and her tongue on him, covering his entire length with her hand and mouth. Life was down to the sheer relief of having his cock somewhere warm and wet, then to an agonizing decision she was forcing him to make. Should he come like this? Because he could, with what she was doing. Her rhythm was steady as a sweet, slow fuck, but he wanted that, too, wanted to see her face when he sank into her. Sex could mean nothing, but it could mean everything, too, and her face would tell him which it was. Still, he held off until he was right on the edge before he stopped her, and her eyes met his, they were brimming over with mischief. She knew exactly what she’d done to him, and she slithered up onto his chest and kissed him before she sat up and guided him home. Everything. That was what looked out at him from those ancient eyes as she sank down onto his body. She was as content as he’d ever seen a woman, and he caught her breasts in his hands as she leaned forward, supporting her weight on her arms as she rocked back against him. He was wired so tightly that a few minutes of it was all 155

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings he could take. He felt his body brace itself, a tingling that was right on the edge of panic, and had just enough time to see the mischief in Achlys’ eyes turn triumph before it hit, and then he couldn’t see anything at all. Afterward, she dropped down onto his chest and he ran his hands over her body, encountering the stump of her left leg. It bothered him, but not because of the implication of imperfection. For all she had done in putting her life together, it seemed to him that there was something still missing, and the prosthesis hadn’t filled the gap. It had given her a functional substitute for her leg, but that wasn’t really enough. “Where’s your tree?” he asked softly. She was silent for so long that he thought he’d blown it. Then she heaved a gigantic sigh. “It’s here. Demeter thought that transplanting it into the Garden would heal it, but it didn’t. We were old even for an olive tree, and the shock was too great.” “I’m sorry,” he said, stroking her hair. She said nothing as the numbers on her alarm clock changed a few times. Then she lifted herself off his body. “If we’re going to get that barn cleaned out, we need to get to work.” We. He liked to hear her say, “we.” They showered and ate, making companionable small talk, before Achlys put her leg on and they headed outdoors. Achlys made for the further of the Garden’s two big barns, and when they got to it, she unlatched the heavy sliding door and pulled it open. Inside was a riot of flying, chattering color, hundreds of fairies sitting on the high rafters or swooping from place to place, chattering, arguing, cooing, even making love. They had no concept of modesty and thus no need for privacy. “Holy shit!” Demetrius said. It was the most bizarre thing he’d ever seen, and that was saying something. “This is unbelievable. How many of them are there?” “I have no idea,” Achlys said, “and neither do they. They can’t count that high.” The fairies, in the meantime, had stopped whatever they were doing for a look at the visitor. It was still a distant look, but a few of the bolder ones were moving closer. “Come here!” Achlys called. “This is my friend Demetrius. He won’t hurt you.” A tiny, yellow man flew to her outstretched hand and gave the visitor a closer look. Then he took off again and lighted on 156

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Demetrius’ shoulder, tugging at his hair. Demetrius laughed and did his best to disentangle the tiny creature without hurting it. “They’re a riot,” he said. “Do you want to see the strangest part?” she asked. “Sure.” He was now sporting three fairies, as the yellow one on his shoulder was joined by a green one and an orange one. “Can we see your babies?” Achlys asked the orange one. The tiny woman took off for what appeared to be a bank of small, open doors in one wall. Inside was a room about the size of a largish birdhouse and furnished about the same way, with wads of soft cotton on the floor, but inside were two fuzzy caterpillars. They were plain brown, without any hint of light or color, and they were surprisingly large, almost as big as their mother. And she was definitely their mother. They responded immediately when she flew in, nuzzling at her hands as she murmured to them. “What in Hades?” This was the last thing he would ever have imagined. “They metamorphose, like butterflies,” Achlys told him. “Look up at the rafters.” He did, and saw what appeared to be small bumps on the undersides. Then he realized that they were chrysalises. “This is the weirdest thing I’ve ever seen. What do they eat?” “The babies eat leaves,” Achlys said, “although they like some fruits and vegetables, too. The adults are nectar eaters. These guys are my biggest pollinators.” “Can I touch them?” “Can he?” Achlys asked the mother. The mother fairy stepped aside, and Demetrius reached a hand into the nest box, and one of the caterpillars crawled onto it. He took it out, petting it gently, and it reared up to get a closer look at him. It was very soft and very curious. “Why are they brown?” he asked. “Camouflage,” Achlys said. “Fairies normally nest in hollow trees, and those nests are vulnerable to predators. These babies blend right in. The chrysalises are deep green, to blend in with the leaves.” Demetrius put the baby back in its nest and looked up at the wall. “Are all of these full?” “No,” Achlys said. “Maybe one third to one half are full at any given time, but no more than that. I keep expecting a population 157

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings explosion, but they seem to be able to keep themselves under control. I don’t know everything about their biology yet.” “They’re the weirdest damned things,” Demetrius said as a red one landed on his open palm. “Yes, you!” he added to it. It giggled and tweaked his nose. “Be nice,” he warned it. “Or I’m not cleaning up your mess.” “He wouldn’t care,” Achlys said. “They’re perfectly content to live in filth.” “What do we have to do?” he asked. “Clean out the empty nest boxes and rake out the floor, and replace the cotton and straw. It’s not difficult, just dirty and tedious.” “Let’s get started then,” he said. They did, and Demetrius puzzled over Achlys as he worked. He understood her better in some ways, but there were still unfinished ends dangling here and there, and extended exposure to his mother and aunts made him wary of dangling ends. They tended to lead to trouble of one kind or another. Then a solution came to him, one he was almost sure she would never understand or accept. Still, it was the only answer he could come up with, and the more he considered it, the more sense it made. In the end, there was only one thing to do, and when they were washing up, he asked to see her tree. Once again, she was a bit too quiet for a bit too long, but he saw her steel herself before she finally answered, “Why not? We can go out there right now.” Achlys’ tree was just barely out of sight of the house, but once he thought about it, he realized that she’d want to be near it, just not too near. It was almost anticlimactic: a very ordinary olive that had been torn nearly in two by a bulldozer. The trunk was almost severed and the roots were badly damaged as well. Only in The Garden would it have remained upright because even a small breeze would have blown it over anywhere else. His woodworker’s eye took over immediately, and he ran his hands over the twisted trunk and lower branches. He knew better than to think that she’d let him have the whole thing, but he had a good idea of how much wood he needed and it wasn’t trivial. Now for the hardest part of all. “Can I have a piece of it?” he asked.

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Chapter Six Achlys froze, chocking back an indignant, outraged no. The question was absurd and unexpected, not to mention frightening. Achlys had defended that tree ever since it was a sapling, and her immediate instinct was to protect it even now. She was sure, in that second, that she had misjudged him completely, that her recklessness was going to endanger the thing that mattered most to her. She took a deep breath. Her tree was dead. He wasn’t really asking for anything. “You can have it back when I’m done,” he said. “What?” Now she was no longer outraged, but confused. “You can have it back when I’m done. I just need to borrow it.” “What are you going to do with it?” she asked, flabbergasted. He took a deep breath and let it out, so obviously nervous that it disarmed her. “I can’t really explain without sounding stupid.” “What if I say no?” “It will be your loss, not mine. Let me do this for you.” Achlys laughed, out of sheer confusion. “For me?” “I told you you’ll get it back.” “Can’t you use different wood?” “Not really. Think about it,” he said quickly. “Don’t say yes or no now.” Achlys looked at her tree, tears welling in her eyes. She never came here because she couldn’t stand it, but she couldn’t stand to let it go, either. It had been part of her for over a hundred years, and now it was a pile of dead wood. Dead or not, though, the idea of an axe or saw biting into it was unbearable. “I’ll think about it.” He put his arm around her as they walked back, and she leaned into him a bit. After dealing with the barn, she was tired and starting to limp, and when they got to the house, she automatically sat down on the porch to take off the prosthesis. She felt drained, and she knew 159

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings it wasn’t just the work. Seeing her tree always tore her to shreds inside. Demetrius took the prosthesis from her and played with it again before he set it down and reached for her other leg, taking her shoe off so he could rub her foot and calf. “You have strong muscles,” he said. “That leg does most of the work.” “Can I take you to dinner?” “Can you give me an hour?” She really felt awful. “How about I go get something.” Achlys laughed. “You’re going to drive all the way to Spellfire to bring me dinner?” Demetrius shrugged. “Why not? It should take about an hour, and if I’m going to take you out, we’d have to do the driving anyway. What do you like?” “Pretty much anything. Do you have a preference?” “Chinese?” “Sure, as long as it’s not too spicy.” “Great.” He pulled out his cell phone and kissed her. “I’ll be back in an hour.” Achlys dragged herself into the house, curled up on the couch, and sobbed inconsolably. By the time she heard Demetrius’ tires in the driveway, she had calmed down enough to shower and change. She had also made up her mind. The Incarnation of Fate had told her that a life was at stake, and it made her reluctant to refuse anyone anything for fear of unexpected consequences. She had no idea what Demetrius could possibly want with a piece of her tree, or why not having it might kill him, but when taken at face value, the request was completely harmless. Her tree was dead. It would be more useful as firewood than it was now. Demetrius could do better than that, much better, regardless of what he did. So by the time Demetrius started pulling cartons out of paper bags, she had her prosthesis back on and was in a good, even slightly giddy mood. She set out plates and made tea in spite of the heat, simply because it seemed appropriate. He, too, had showered and changed, and it felt like they’d been doing these things together for years. After dinner, Achlys eyed the living room couch, then eyed Demetrius. It was no contest which looked better. “So do we pretend 160

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings to watch another movie,” she asked as she wrapped her arms around his neck, “or do we just go to bed?” He laughed. “We go to bed!” He walked her backwards through her living room, down the narrow hall, and into her bedroom, kissing her the whole time. They stopped at the foot of the bed, just long enough to strip each other of their shirts, before he pushed her back onto the quilt and covered her body with his. It felt so good. It felt so good to touch and be touched, to feel the weight of a male body on hers. It felt so good to just lie there like that, not really doing much but kissing, because it was no single, physical act that mattered. It was the day spent together working side by side, the meals shared, the conversations and bursts of laughter, and now this intimacy of bodies that was simply one more joy. She was getting to know him better now. He liked hard pressure on his back but a feather-light touch on his neck, and he liked to kiss her ear, probably because he knew it gave her chills. Of course more clothes had to come off, starting with her bra, then his jeans and shorts, and then he sat up, pulled up the leg of her pants, and carefully removed the prosthesis before he stripped her from the waist down. “Thanks,” she said. “I don’t feel like snuggling with metal and plastic,” he said as he settled back down on top of her, his erection nestling comfortably and tantalizingly in her groin. “This is nice.” She didn’t have time to answer because she couldn’t talk through his mouth and anyway, this almost-sex was too good to interrupt. It was like a long, slow wind building up in the treetops, ruffling leaves and knocking loose whatever fruit was ready to fall, foreshadowing coming thunder. She ran her hands up and down as much of his body as she could reach, soaking in the feel of his skin under her palms, needing movement as much as she needed touch. The shaft of his cock was sliding up and down her pussy, adding an electrical charge to the kiss. Eventually, the inevitable happened, mostly because they wanted it to happen. The head of his cock caught at her entrance, and she was so wet by then that he simply slipped inside. They both responded with moans, with a tight, loving hug, and he thrust a few times before stopping. “Can you come like this?” he asked. 161

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “Depends on how long you can last,” she said, reluctant to stop but also reluctant to lie. She wanted to come very much. “Depends on what we’re doing,” he said, grinning. “If you need hard and fast, I’m doomed.” “How about really slow?” she asked. “I might hold up. Show me what you need.” It took them a minute to get it right, a deep, steady grind that pressed her clit to his pubic bone and buried his cock as deep as it would go. He bit his lip, but he wasn’t seventeen. This wouldn’t do him in, not for quite a while at least, and she might, just might, have enough time. This wasn’t the easiest way, but it was possible, possible, and then she came on him as he picked up his pace, pushing harder, giving her more when she was overflowing already, and if she’d had long nails, she would have added to the scars on his back. When she was sated and gasping, he gave her one last, hard kiss before leaning up, pushing her knees toward her chest, and simply reaming her, giving himself the hard and fast that he’d said would doom him, and it did. It took less than a minute before he plunged in as deep as he could, and she smiled as she watched his face twist with something just short of pain. He was coming so hard that she thought he must be hardly aware of her at all. Certainly, he wouldn’t make such a face if he was, and she reached for him, kissed him, he settled back down on her to rest. She woke up before she realized that she’d dozed off. Demetrius hadn’t moved, but his cock had softened and slid out. The sun was setting and there were fairies playing in the trees outside her window. It was late, but not so late that the best solution was to go to sleep for good, so she just rested and watched the living kaleidoscope outside. Demetrius stirred, kissed her cheek, then her mouth. “You see what you do to me?” Achlys laughed. “You did it to me first.” “Your television sounds really good about now,” he said, easing off her and sighing. She felt suddenly married, then kicked herself hard. The weekend had gone to her head. “Pick a video then. I need to clean up. Oh, and Demetrius?” “Yes?” “You can use my tree.” She felt tears welling up in her eyes and blinked them back. “Just make something good out of it, okay? Something that will last.” 162

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings He kissed her again, long and gentle. “Don’t worry,” he said.You won’t regret this.”

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Chapter Seven Demetrius woke before Achlys did and spent some time gazing down at a puzzle. Why was this self-sufficient, self-contained woman being so generous with herself? The better he got to know her, the more this weekend seemed out of character. He hated to look a gift horse in the mouth, but he had enough experience to know that “free” usually wasn’t. There were several possible explanations, but very few of them were good and he didn’t like that. There was a fairy curled up asleep in her hair, a green one, its glow doused enough at rest so that it almost blended in. He wasn’t sure how it had gotten into the house, but he knew it wasn’t supposed to be there, so he picked it up and went, still naked, to the front door. It leaped off his hand, yawning, and flew toward the barn. He made a quick stop in the bathroom before going back to bed, where he found Achlys awake and looking puzzled. “I had to let a fairy out,” he explained. “Oh,” she said. “Thanks. They’re like mice. They can squeeze in through all kinds of cracks.” He settled beside her as she rolled into his arms, and found that the questions he wanted to ask wouldn’t come. They got buried somewhere in soft kisses and polished skin, in the touch of a hand on his chest and the feel of her knee on his thigh, a position that let his growing erection brush her pubic hair. She snuggled even closer in search of better contact and he sighed into her mouth as he gave in to it. It was hopeless. She had too much that he needed, and he was loathe to give it up on a technicality. Not yet anyway. Maybe someday it would get too painful, but not this day. Not this. He coaxed her into moving so that her back was against his chest and her head cradled on his arm. He loved that position. It let him press his hard cock into soft flesh of her ass while giving him free reign over the parts of her body he liked best. Breasts, belly and groin were now entirely at his disposal, as was the back of her neck when he pushed waves of soft, green hair aside. She was utterly at his 164

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings mercy. Not that she was exactly still. She sucked on his fingers, ran her hand over his hip, ground that lovely rear into his grateful erection, but really it was more proof that she was all his. He hefted her breast in his hand, pinched her nipple just enough to make her moan, then tilted her back so he could suck on it, bite it, make her squirm. When that game palled, he ran his hand over her belly as he kissed her neck, felt the muscles flex in response to his touch. He stroked her hip, her thigh, and then ran his hand over the stump of her leg. Finally, he slipped his fingers between her legs, savoring her delighted moan. She was thoroughly aroused, and she shifted her hips to get more. It put her clit within easier reach and he obliged her, giving her that up-and-down rhythm she liked so much and smiling to himself as she struggled to keep her squirming from wrecking it. Luckily, she was pretty far gone already, because she started whimpering, then sobbing as she curled in on herself, trembling in his arms like a leaf. When it passed, he pushed her onto her stomach and braced her legs apart with his knees. She arched her back, offering herself to him, her sweet, sly smile hidden by her hair. She whispered something to herself as he sank into her, but he didn’t catch it. It didn’t matter anyway. He lay over her back, sliding in and out with a steady, even pace as he laced his fingers with hers. The smile was gone, replaced with a frown of intense, intimate concentration. He kissed her cheek, then kissed her mouth as she turned her head. That was exactly what he wanted, and he held onto it as long as he could before he felt the tension in his balls burst through him and go rushing into her, taking every shred of sense and reason with it. Afterward, he rolled them back to where they’d begun and cuddled her against his chest, his face buried in her hair. He had to know. This was too sweet to let go of or relegate to a casual thing. If all he wanted was sex, that would be one thing, but it wasn’t. He wanted more, and wasn’t at all sure he was going to get it. He sighed. There was only one way to deal with this: the hard way. “Can I ask you something?” “What?” “I didn’t expect you to let me have a piece of your tree that soon.” She snorted. “That’s a question?” “Well, why?” 165

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “Oh. Um.” She rolled over and leaned up on his chest to look at him. “You’ll never believe me.” He ran his hand up and down her bare back. “Tell me anyway.” She giggled a little hysterically. “I don’t think you know me that well yet.” He gave her a look. “And how am I going to get to know you that well if you don’t tell me.” “Can we call it a near-death experience and leave it at that?” Now he was alarmed. “What happened?” “Something that reminded me that nothing lasts forever, not even peace and quiet.” She shifted onto her back and traced the line of his cheekbone. “It reminded me that it’s impossible to isolate oneself from the rest of life completely. I don’t know what we’re going to become or what you’ll do with a piece of my tree, but right now I’m happy and my tree isn’t doing anyone any good where it is. And I’ve already lost part of my leg. What’s the worst thing that can happen here?” He was wildly curious about what on earth could have knocked her into that frame of mind. “You can’t leave it at that. Tell me!” She gave him a what-the-hell grin. “All right,” she began. “You asked for it. It was the day I met you, come to think of it. I was driving home from Sinful Sundaes and Lachesis appeared on the seat next to me.” Demetrius listened, flabbergasted outrage turning into simple rage. It was unbelievable, not so much because it was something that was impossible, but because of the unmitigated gall behind it. By the time she wound down, he was quietly steaming. “You don’t believe me,” Achlys said, clearly upset when she got no response. “Oh no,” Demetrius reassured her. “I believe you all right.” He glared up at the ceiling. “Mother, get down here right now!” “Mother?” Achlys gasped, then she gave a little scream and grabbed for the sheet as Lachesis materialized in her bedroom. Demetrius sat up, heedless of his dignity. “Mother, what in Hades did you think you were doing?” “She’s your mother?” Achlys whispered, given over once again to slightly hysterical giggling. “It was for your own good,” the Fate said defiantly, her mouth set in an expression Demetrius knew all too well. 166

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “What did you think I was going to do if she wouldn’t have me, commit suicide? Mother, you ought to know better than that.” Lachesis actually blushed. “It wasn’t you I was worried about.” “Then who?” Demetrius asked. “Her? She’s the last person you need to worry about. She stands on one foot better than most people stand on two.” “Thanks,” Achlys whispered. “I know,” said Lachesis. “That’s why she was chosen as Guardian.” “Then whose life is at stake here, exactly, so that you thought you had to threaten Achlys that way?” The Incarnation’s cheeks turned scarlet. “My grandson’s.” Demetrius stared at her. “What on earth are you talking about?” The old woman lifted her chin. “My grandson.” Demetrius felt his heart sink into his stomach. “I didn’t even know I could have kids,” he said a little wildly. “I never have before.” “That’s because your lovers were human,” his mother said. “What happened between your father and I wouldn’t have been possible if he hadn’t had a particular mutation on his Xchromosome.” “Wait a minute,” Achlys interjected. She had collected herself and sat up beside him, the sheet clutched to her breast. “Dryads and humans can’t crossbreed, at least not usually. We’re talking about something extremely rare.” “Demetrius is extremely rare,” Lachesis said. “At the very least, he’s only half human anyway, but I looked into it as soon as I was able. Had he been a girl, things might be different, but he’s a male with that specific mutation.” Demetrius felt like someone had hit him on the head with a twoby-four. “What mutation? Dad thought his first wife was barren.” Lachesis shook her head. “Your father’s first wife was fine. She had five children with her second husband. It was your father who was at fault there, if it can be said to be a fault. When that mutation expresses itself, the person who has it is infertile as far as humans are concerned, but can mate successfully with beings like Achlys or me. A woman has to have two copies of the gene, but a man need only have one. It’s a sex-linked condition.” “Like hemophilia,” Demetrius said, still stunned. “Well, I wouldn’t put it that way,” the Incarnation said. “It’s not a disease.” 167

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “Did my father have an immortal mother, too?” “It went back several generations in your father’s case.” “Why didn’t you tell me?” Demetrius asked. “I was going to,” the Incarnation said, “but I wasn’t sure how and I haven’t known for very long. It wasn’t until you moved to Spellfire that I saw the possibility of a child in the tapestry. I couldn’t believe it, but Atropos assured me that I wasn’t imagining things. I started wondering how this could be, so I dug around in the human genetic code.” “And you found it,” Demetrius said. “Well, I have some advantages the scientists don’t have, but yes. It’s actually a little more complicated than that, but at the core is an X-chromosome mutation, and you have it. Most men with immortal mothers do.” “I have it,” Demetrius said. He had given up on fatherhood so long ago that it still seemed impossible. “Am I already…?” Achlys asked. “No,” the Incarnation assured her. “That’s still no excuse for scaring the life out of Achlys,” Demetrius said, beginning to recover himself. “Mother, that was completely unnecessary.” “Actually, it might not have been,” Achlys said. “What?” Demetrius looked at her. “I’m pretty set in my ways,” she said. “I think I needed a push.” “Okay,” Demetrius said to Achlys, finally finding something he could get a handle on. “If we’re to spend any kind of time together, you have to learn not to encourage her. You have no idea how much trouble she can cause if you encourage her.” “Well, in this case, it’s true. I was in a rut and might have stayed there, and to be perfectly honest, my leg bothers me. A one-legged dryad sounds like the beginning of a really bad bar joke, not a good relationship.” “Don’t be silly!” he said. “Your leg has nothing to do with anything important.” “Well, don’t blame your mother. She did the right thing here.” “Whether or not it’s the right thing has nothing to do with whether or not it’s a good idea to say so to my mother.” “Oh. Sorry!” Achlys said, then she looked up. “She’s gone.” “Damn!” Demetrius lay back down on the bed. “Damn her.” “Why?” Achlys cuddled up with her head on his shoulder. 168

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “Because even if she doesn’t know everything, she might as well. You have no idea what it was like growing up with that.” “No, I don’t,” Achlys said. “Speaking of growing up, though, if she’s your mother, how old are you anyway?” Demetrius laughed. “About 2500 years old.” Achlys laughed, too. “I’m embarrassed.” “Why?” She looked fondly at him. “Here I was thinking I was dallying with a younger man.” He squeezed her. “Nope. You’re practically a child compared to me.” “Yes, I am. It does explain a few things.” “Like what?” “Your scars. You look like you’ve been in a war or two, and I guess you probably have.” “A few, yeah.” “Can you die?” “I don’t know,” he said, a bit pensively. “Nothing has killed me yet, not even the Nazis, and they certainly tried.” “Which army?” “Russia. I was wounded at Stalingrad.” “Yeah.” Achlys lay her head back on his shoulder, serious now. “If that didn’t kill you, I don’t know what will. What do we do now?” “About Stalingrad?” She snorted. “No, about this baby thing.” “I guess I run into town and buy condoms.” Achlys giggled. “I just figured out the perfect revenge on your mother.” “What?” “How long do you think she can wait for that grandchild?” “What?” She leaned up and looked at him, grinning wickedly. “Well, if we’re going to have kids, we need a nice, long courtship, just to be sure that we’re really compatible. You don’t want to rush this kind of thing, right? What do you think, maybe a thousand years?” Demetrius laughed. “You are truly evil, do you know that?” “I do my best. Can I ask you something?” “Sure.” “What are you planning on doing with part of my tree?” 169

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings How to answer? On one hand, it would be a delight to surprise her with it, but on the other, he could do a better job if he had her cooperation. He decided on the second option. “I thought I’d make you a new leg with it, one that actually looks like a leg and is a real part of you. I know you couldn’t wear it all of the time because it won’t have the same shock absorption as the one you have, but I thought maybe, for special occasions, like if you wanted to wear a skirt—“ He couldn’t finish because Achlys had stopped him with a hard, enthusiastic kiss. “You can have all the wood you want,” she said, her eyes soft with tears. At this point, more sex would have been entirely appropriate, but mindful of his mother’s warning, Demetrius reined himself in. It would do the interfering old bat some good to have to wait a bit for a grandchild, even if she was right. It scared him a little to think that Achlys might have ignored him, out of insecurity or even simply out of habit, and that would have been a tragedy. Still, he didn’t think she would wait a thousand years. What he told Achlys was true. Her leg wasn’t a critical issue. Her care of the Garden and the fairies was much more important, and although he hated it when his mother was right, he wasn’t fool enough to turn his back on a good thing just to spite her. No, it wouldn’t be a thousand years. Not even close. The End

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Saturdae: Mae Powers - Sexparilla Shakes & Spacemen At Sinful Sundaes, weekend waitress, Shonda Lamont, makes an unusual shake so good even Plutonian Pretzel salesman Teth loves it, and her. www.maepowers.com

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Saturdae: Sexparilla Shakes & Spacemen By Mae Powers Chapter One Teth zoomed around Mars with light speed. Next stop, Earth. His biggest account was on Earth. Well, particularly in Spellfire Texas, USA, Planet Earth. Still, he sometimes hated coming to the Big Blue Planet. Every year, for the last decade, it seemed he got more lethargic with each visit. The Plutonian doctor back home said it could be a difference in the atmospheric conditions. He hoped that’s all it was then and that was all that was making his libido a limpido. He checked his landing gear, making sure the ship’s controls were on silent mode. This way, the regular humans couldn’t contact him, when he put his space ship on stealth mode and automatic pilot entry. His reliable vessel knew how to get him home and where to land safely upon this strange world. He’d be the landing specifically just outside a town called Spellfire. The inhabitants of Spellfire were some of his best customers. They bought huge amounts of Plutonian Pretzels and Puffs. He’d been coming there for years; well especially since most of the paranormal folk didn’t find it odd that he came from another planet. His first stop, usually in Spellfire was at Sinful Sundaes Ice cream Shop. He’d been going there almost since its current owner took over the shop from her elderly kin. He liked the camaraderie though of Electra Spellfire, and most of the inhabitants of Spellfire and Sins, as it was nicknamed. The place, and all of Spellfire, fascinated him more than any Plutonian or Earth soap opera. Its variety of townsfolk almost always amazed, and amused him somehow. 172

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings The last few years, he’d been coming, he made friends with several people; like Adam Spellfire, who devoutly devoured Plutonian Pretzels. He also became fond of meeting and chatting with Shonda Lamont, a weekend waitress and counter person, also a witch who worked on her masters degree in bio magic. The thought of Shonda always made his groins grow with need. Yet, he hadn’t been able to bring himself to ask her out on what humans called a date. That and Plutonian law forbade him to get involved with aliens, no matter how pretty they were. Still, lately, the trips back and forth from Pluto to Earth were wearing out his libido. Earth’s atmosphere, and the Texas humidity, were starting to put a limp in his g-factor. And Plutonian males usually never wearied out! Most Plutonians were adaptable to any atmospheric condition, especially with their shiny, silver all-in-one space flight suits, they were most of the time. Of late, his blueskinned girlfriend dumped him last year because she smelled too much Earth scent on him and he couldn’t perform to her icy, high classed expectations. Normally he went to Earth during the Earth winter, but with Plutonian trade regulations getting all convoluted, his shorter trips had to be made during Earth summers and early fall, due to the regulating of off world commercialism coming in and out of Pluto. Most Earthers didn’t know he came from another planet, but those in Spellfire, mostly the paranormal ones, did know about his otherworldly activities. They didn’t find him any odder than he did them. The Plutonian Ice House Committee took more from his pocket than he cared for, but there was naught he could do about that. A guy had to make a living in this galaxy somehow or another. After getting his supplies out and locking up his vessel, he wheeled his large boxy product case and made his way into town.

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Chapter Two Though the daughter of an African American witch and an English human scientist, Shonda sometimes still couldn’t believe she knew a being from another planet. Especially one as far out as Pluto, or there abouts, she’d been told. All kinds of unusual people lived in Spellfire and visited here, but people from outer space were quite different. Although his big height and plush cinnamon brown skin tone were not abhorrent to her, his muscular physique felt quite disturbing to her feminine senses; especially him all deliciously dressed up in that silvery shiny space suit she always saw him wearing. Now here he sat at Sinful Sundaes at nearly four in the morning, telling her his problems. Yeah, she kinda considered him a friendly acquaintance; ok so it was more than that. But even though she had the hots for him, they came from two different worlds, literally. She’d actually known him for a few years, since she started working at Sins on Saturdays. It gave her a little extra money and took care of her internship requirements at the Alchemy Academy, where she studied to get her degree in bio-magic. She already worked as a biologist at the Nymph nurseries, which lay just on the outside of Spellfire, and had been working there since she graduated with a degree in biosciences from the University of Houston. The intense studying of bio-magic had quite a few requirements, both of magic and biology. One of the best professor wizards around taught at the Alchemy Academy and only a few people came close to his genius; one of those being Electra Spellfire. It was one of the reasons she took the job on Saturdays at Sins. The woman worked with other intern witches, sorcerers, wizards and even some non paranormal folk. Once Electra taught a person, they didn’t forget. Not many people in Spellfire didn’t like Electra or her husband Alex. They helped all kinds of people, human or otherwise. She sighed, wishing she could find that deep kind of lasting love. But she’d have to live on 174

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings another planet, she figured, because she hadn’t found her heart’s sensual calling. “…and on Pluto some women get upset if you can’t go twelve hours straight. I mean a guy needs a break once in awhile and has to make a living. Don’t you agree, Adam?” Shonda shot out of her reverie and glanced up to see Teth talking to Adam Spellfire, Electra’s cousin. While filling dispensers with colorful Nightmare Napkins and Spooktacular Straws, Teth had been droning on about his problems of jet lag from Pluto to Earth. For once, it felt blissfully quiet early on Saturday morning. Teth usually got here long before dawn to deliver his goods. No one else milled around, which was unusual for Sins. That is until Adam Spellfire in his unmistakable, full-horned demvir state stomped in here just after Teth’s arrival. The man evidently wanted some Plutonian Pretzels to calm him down, but Sins, for the first time, was out of the crunchy morsels. Occasionally Adam came in to Sins this early when he and his Havoc-tempered wife, Tris, had a spat. She’d once overheard Tris mentioned to Electra that though they fought infrequently, the heated make up was glorious. And she’d been around another time Saturday afternoon when Adam came in with Tris for their usual Saturday afternoon treats. The two grumbled a bit and Adam wolfed down a whole bag of Plutonian Pretzels. The man had an appetite to match his shifter state. She listened to him roar and told him to sit, which surprisingly he did. She made Adam a calming shake as Electra had taught her to on the last occasion, and gave it to him. Thankfully, it wasn’t long until Teth showed up and gave Adam a few samples of Plutonian Pretzels and their latest concept, Plutonian Puffs, a zingy cheesy confection that beat out other types similar to it. The product made Adam quite happy too. Teth was tall as Adam, but more hulky like an overgrown, athletic teddy bear in a silvery shiny spacesuit that snuggled his body and gave her all kinds of delicious ideas. Of course right now wasn’t the time to think of erotic thoughts of the spaceman. She hoped he couldn’t read minds and couldn’t be sure if he’d ever mentioned the fact before. With the demvir happy, Teth sat down and the two males started talking amiably. She toned their laments out and busied herself, 175

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings hoping someone else might come in, but no one did. Then Teth’s loud comment caught her attention, knocking her out of her reverie. “…I mean a guy can only go so many times in one night,” Teth easily spoke American English and picked up on Americanisms over the year. “Well it’s not that way on Earth. Women like it good and hard, but still want all that sweet mushy cooing that goes with having a good…” Adam seemed to realize her presence and he actually blushed. “Uh, sorry, Shonda.” She gave a half-wave of her hand to dismiss his words. “Nothing to be sorry for, Adam. However, mushy you think it though, that stuff gets some of us aroused, and it’s good courtship manners.” “Courtship, huh?” Teth asked. “Plutonians, male or female are just blunt about what they want. How did you court your wife, Adam?” “Well, I guess I was pretty blunt myself before we got married.” Adam looked contemplative. “Yet, Tris is the one my heart’s always wanted. We’re just both stubborn cusses. Sure is fun to make up with her though.” Teth chuckled at the same time as Adam. “What’s being married like, Adam?” “Not bad at all, Teth. Kinda like a part of you that you’d been missing all your life and then suddenly it’s there, making you whole. That’s how I feel with Tris. No matter that we don’t always agree on everything, I know I’d never want another woman but her in my life. Besides who else could fulfill my every need but my true body mate?” Teth sighed. “I wish I could have felt that with my prior fiancée.” “Well what happened, if you don’t mind me knowing?” Adam turned to look at the alien and Shonda pretended to wipe the counter while she listened further to their exchange. Teth seemed lost in thought for a few moments, because he suddenly got quiet. Even Adam waited patiently for the man to speak. “She kept complaining that I couldn’t go more than four hours straight in the beginning a few years ago. I went to a Plutonian doctor and he said it was just the changes in one atmospheric pressure to another and maybe stress. Some Plutonian women are just never satisfied.” He sighed again. “I just can’t seem to do as good as I once thought I could. She left me for a few Martian space jockeys.” 176

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “Well you’re better off with out her, my friend.” Adam turned and suddenly winked at Shonda. “Don’t you think so, Shonda?” She felt her cheeks warm. “Uhm, yeah. I suppose so.” Teth studied her intently and her cheeks definitely felt warmer. “Do you think so indeed? Do Earth women want it all the time?” She wasn’t sure how the whole conversation came around to casual sex talk. “Well we like multiple, um, orgasms, sure. But breaks are nice in between and cuddling.” “Hey maybe you could make one of Electra’s special shakes for him. She made me a calming one this morning, Teth. Maybe something for that libido prob of yours. Hmm, Shonda?” Teth’s sexy, icy-blue eyes lit up as he smiled. “Can you do that, Shonda? I never thought that maybe an Earth remedy might work. The Plutonian Regulation Committee doesn’t usually like it when we take off-world medications, but maybe it’s the space lag that’s affecting things. Usually I can adapt quite well from different planetary conditions, but Earth affects me quite differently than anywhere else I’ve been. I can’t stay away though. I’d miss all the special friends I’ve made here.” “Well then as a biologist and witch with a knack for healing remedies, as Electra’s told me, you should be able to fix something for our special friend, Shonda.” Shonda wanted to reach over and wipe that sudden knowing smirk off Adam’s face. Damn demvir’s empathy picked up on too much. “I suppose I can. I wouldn’t want it to have any side effects on you though.” “Listen, I’ve tried things for months now and nothing. I’d be grateful in anyway you’d like if you could whip up something for me, Shonda.” She stifled a groan. Oh he could be grateful, could he? Damn, Adam. “Sure, be right back.” “Now that’s one incredible lady there, Adam.” “I believe you find her so, Teth.” “Um, yeah, think I do,” he said, where she could barely hear. The groan slowly escaped her lips as she went to make the shake for him. Adam’s deep rumble made her cheeks redden completely and she was glad she had her back to both of them. Shonda thought of Teth with a new light of appreciation. Perhaps she could help him with his problems in more than one way. She left the counter front to go in the back and make him the special shake as 177

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Electra had taught her. Maybe it would give him the umph he needed. For some reason she hoped so. He was so nice and sweet and sexy; she wanted him to be able to get it up again, and not be in the dumps any more. She ground the sexparilla seeds to a fine powder, and then threw in a pinch of miracle malt. Not too much of each. She put it in the mixer and blended with half and half and some vanilla ice cream. She made it nice and thick, like she hoped he would be later on. Perhaps, after he finished his rounds, he’d come back here and talk to her some more. She liked his deep resonant voice, quite alluring to all her senses. She wondered if he ever thought about dating or more with an Earth female, no matter her being a witch or plain human. She couldn’t put her finger on it, but knew something about him just made her feel devilishly sinful. And she wanted to get very sinful with him, soon. She hoped he felt the same towards her. Especially after tasting the shake. No telling how it would effect his alien physiology, but she would find out soon enough. Damn Adam.

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Chapter Three Teth watched her move behind the counter as she made the shake for him. For some reason he trusted Shonda. For an Earth woman she was pretty. Ok, he second guessed himself, she looked downright devastating. He’d admired her spunk for years, and felt an instant camaraderie with her, unlike his former fiancée Oova. But the two women were as different as Earth people and Plutonians. Some Plutonians had light blue skin because of the icy changes in atmospheric conditions. Yet some were a cinnamon brown with light soft brown hair on them. There was of course a mix of Plutonians too, like him, which is why he had cinnamon brown skin coloring, but smoother skin and almost hairless except his blue black hair that he kept braided behind his back. Unlike the slender women of his world who came in one or two shapes, of slim and slender, Earth women were of many sizes and hues and he appreciated that exoticness. Like Shonda. She had a very curvy backside and though not as tall as him, she did have a plush and inviting body that would make men of his world stand frozen in their tracks. He loved the toasty almond coloring of her body, even in those loose jeans and t-shirt she wore that emblazoned Sinful Sundaes across her perky breasts in bold neon colors. She was a smart one too, not just smart mouthed. He liked that in a woman. Oova cared more for her own pleasures and was a mouthy bitch too. Oova may have come from a high class background, but Shonda had more class in her one lovely hand than the Plutonian female ever would. Funny, how after knowing her for several years now, he’d never really noticed how her beauty stirred him so much. With her gray eyes and full lips she took his breath away. He loved how her dark brown curls bounced around her shoulders when she moved back and forth around the shop. Even with all the time he’d been coming to Earth, 179

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings she was one of the most personable people he’d ever met here in Spellfire or any of the other magical spot on Earth. He stayed away from the bigger cities and made a deal with Electra to distribute the Plutonian Puffs and Pretzels through the world. So they both made income from it. That was one smart lady too, using her magic to help him keep governmental officials from discovering his identity. Most Earthers just weren’t ready for meeting aliens from another world. Although to him, they were the aliens. Except Shonda, she didn’t look alien at all to him. He sighed and looked around Sins for a moment as she kept her back to him, while making the shake he hoped would fix his lethargic problems. A few more people came in since Adam left a few minutes ago to go back home and make up with his wife. There were ghosts and goblins in the farthest booth, playing a weird game with little pieces of ivory and some Fairies folk chatting softly to each other. He had to admit, since crash landing here some years ago and being found by Electra, his life changed. And not for the worse. He liked Spellfire, even if he wasn’t a magical being. Though humanoid, as an Earth person might term it, he didn’t have any special powers as the paranormals did. But that didn’t bother them, nor himself, nor more importantly, did Shonda seem to care if he were Para or not. He turned back to look her way. As if on cue, she turned at the same time. When his eyes met hers, his stomach seemed to do summersaults—make that turbo-saults. She did something to him that no other woman did before; give him an instant itch of need. Too bad he was having problems with the lethargic libido thing. Plutonians could usually withstand anything, but the atmospheric conditions were so different from Pluto and Earth, it started to take a toll on his body, and especially his cock. Let’s face it, lately his shaft couldn’t stand at attention. But oh how he wanted it to for Shonda. That thought startled him. What man in his right mind wouldn’t want such a luscious babe as her? Yet, it seemed much more than that to him. He didn’t know if that was good or bad, but perhaps it was time to find out. He smiled at her when she set the thick and creamy, deliciously tempting concoction down on the counter before him. “So what’s in this again?” “It’s one of Electra’s secret recipes. I just added a touch of the nutmeg that you like. Drink it slowly, it’s got a few zaps of things in it 180

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings that might jolt even a space guy as strong looking as you. Be right back, got to get the fairies orders to them.” He watched her sashay around the booths for a few minutes and speak to the other beings in the establishment. They seemed to take to her, for they were friendly. Shonda’s presence seemed to light up the whole place. It certainly did his heart. This last thought startled him. Damn Plutonian laws. He quietly stirred the shake with a Spooktacular straw, not drinking it right away. He’d like to be stirring his cock inside her pussy right now. He even thought in English, human terms now. Spellfire had rubbed off on him as much as he’d like to, well rub those luscious breasts of Shonda’s with his tongue and hands. So beautiful and so lovely, it made his heart turn…well soft. Adam had said mushy. That’s not quite what he felt for Shonda. The thought startled him. Perhaps over the years he’d gotten comfortable with her, but slowly it crept up on him. He wanted to be more than a friend to her. To hell with what Plutonian law decreed. He wanted to court and do other things with Shonda. He lowered his head and slowly sipped on the cool beverage. He jerked his head back as the sexparilla slid coolly down his long, thick throat. What a zingy, delicious taste! He took another sip and then another. Damn this tasted good, he thought. By the stars, what did she put in this. He suddenly felt vibrant, yeah, that’s how his body tingled, vibrantly. The sensation suddenly crept down his body. He thought he could walk, no make love for hours now. With Shonda, he hoped. He watched her come back towards the counter as he sipped the last of the shake down eagerly. He didn’t know for sure if it was the shake or some sudden urge of courage, but he wanted to ask her out, to spend time with her, getting to know her better. There could be only one way to find out. He needed to ask her bluntly.

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Chapter Four “So how did you like the sexparilla shake, Teth?” “It’s quite delicious, Shonda. Don’t want to know what you put in it, but I certainly don’t feel lethargic any more. I think that after I finish my rounds, I’d like to come back here for some more of your treats. Your company I mean. Umm, would you be getting off later, er off duty that is?” Shonda grinned. Either he’d finally gotten the courage to ask her out or the shake had done its job. Perhaps both. It didn’t matter to her though. “So, you’re asking me out on a date then?” “Umm, yeah. Your bosses don’t mind if you socialize with the patrons?” “In your case, I don’t think they’d mind. What did you have in mind?” “How about taking me to one of those places you call a movie theater? Would that be considered a date? She nodded. “I think I’d like to go out on a date with you, Teth. Meet me back here after your rounds. There should be a great flick over at Magic Theatres. Or we can program in one we want to see. I think you’ll like the Magic Theaters. They have some of the best popcorn and hotdogs around.” He grinned from ear to pointed ear. “Sounds great. See you then.” A few hours later, she arranged to get early evening off. Harpy came in and was more tan happy to let Shonda take time away, so she could go on a real date for a change. She stayed in the clothes she wore to work and Teth was eager to go when he got back to Sins. They took the ghost bus to Magic Theaters, which was at the end of town. She explained to him that of the twenty screens only a few of them showed movies of current hits. Otherwise you could go into one of the others and pick a movie, or a magically filmed movie you’d like to view and see it on a screen, whether someone else was in the same theater or not. 182

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings It pleased her that he enjoyed holding hands and watching a comedy with her, called Which Witch Went Wild. Shonda found a lot of pleasure in laughing with him through all the scenes, plus snuggling close to feel his body heat vibrating next to her own body. They never ate anything there, but she had an appetite growing for other things besides food. Later, after the movie, they took the ghost tram back into town, but not back to Sins. Instead, the bus dropped them a few blocks from her apartment building. He seemed more relaxed, but he hadn’t said anything about how the shake affected him. “I’ve been thinking about you all during the movie and most of the day, Shonda.” His sudden words in the quiet night startled her. “I really enjoyed that movie and your company. Still am. And that shake was fantastic. It made me tingle all day and want. Want you that is.” She glanced up at him, liking his honest boldness. “It didn’t take me a shake to know I’ve wanted to be in your arms for a long time now, Teth. My apartment is just a block away. Shall we have some more fun and exploring tonight?” He grinned impishly. “I’d like that very much. Lead on.”

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Chapter Five She turned on some soft music once they got to her apartment. Teth seemed more relaxed and vibrant at the same time. He stayed standing though she invited him to sit. Instead, he pulled her into his arms. “I’ve seen some of your old classics that had that slow dancing stuff in them. I’d like to dance with you, Shonda, in more than one way tonight.” She smiled, happy at that invitation she saw in his eyes. He held open his arms and she went into the fold of his heated embrace. “I’d like that very much too,” she agreed as they swayed to the soft music. When it stopped, so did they, standing in the middle of the living room floor. But the music in her heart and body didn’t end as the song had moments ago. She didn’t need any invitation verbally to let their instincts and needs go further; it was all there in his expressive, sexy eyes. Her arms came around his thick neck as she tiptoed up to plant her lips on his. Shonda liked his cool warmth. His big arms wrapped around her backside, his hands cupping her bottom and bringing her close to him. The shake had worked. She felt his growing hard-on pressing against her. He lowered his head to capture her lips and she felt an icy heat of pure passion soar through every vein on her body. She reached up to his chest and found the silver zipper to his suit. She pulled the offending zipper down in a flash. Her hands snuck inside of his suit, splaying over his hairless chest and strong muscles. Smooth and delicious, that’s how he felt to her touch. She shivered, though not from the coolness of his body, but from the depths this unusual man brought to every fiber of her being. He did something strange and wonderful to her that know one else had ever been able to do, making her want so badly she ached with pent up need. 184

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings Only he could give her what her body craved. And whether it was from the shake’s effects or not, she wanted him badly. Evidently he wanted her just as fiercely, for he shimmied out of the suit quickly and helped her do the same with her T-shirt and jeans. His boots and her sandals came off quickly too in between kisses and caresses. She stood back from him at arms length, admiring him. She preened as he studied her as intently. Then she crooked her index finger and he came towards her. She started to kiss his breast, suckling softly at first on first one thick brown nipple then the other. She stroked every inch of him, then slowly moved down his scrumptious body. She loved the feel of his thighs beneath her sweating palms. Soon she found his alien treasure. His hands entwined in her loose curls as she caressed his heavy sacs. Then holding his long thickness in both her hands, she opened her mouth and took him slowly into it. He groaned loudly as she bobbed up and down on his length. “Oh that’s so wickedly good, Shonda. Now my turn.” Before she knew what he intended, he put his hands on her shoulders and pulled her away from his cock, and brought her up quickly to her feet. He put a hand on either side of her face and kissed her so deeply and tenderly she thought she’d fall down in a lump of melted flesh. Instead, he pulled her down on the living room sofa, and pressed her backwards. Then he slowly licked and teased her with his long snapping tongue, running that in swirling motions around her breasts and then even lower. His hands explored her wet heat, and had her squirming within seconds. But what he did next blew her mind away. His tongue must have been at least four inches long and with his fingers he gently pulled her nether lips wide then thrust that long tongue into her in one swift thrust. His head bobbed up and down over her and he grunted out his pleasure at licking and tonguing her pussy. She squirmed beneath him and the heated passion boiled up with her near to exploding. He moved quickly then, raising up on his elbows and moving over her. She opened wider for him as he slid his thick long shaft deep into her wetness. He pumped hard and fast into her. She cried out his name as he brought her to a startling orgasm. Yet he didn’t stop pumping in and out of her. She squirmed with agonizing ecstasy and he thrust into her 185

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings as deep as he could. She didn’t want the world to quit spinning as he fucked her hard and fast. Soon though, his rhythm increased and she bucked under him, feeling another mind blowing orgasm working it’s way through her entire body. She kissed him heatedly as he groaned out his desires against her mouth. “Oh by the stars you are so hot around me! Come with me, Shonda, make us whole together.” “Yes, Teth, oh hell yes!” she screamed out. Her body shook in harmony with his and she wrapped her legs around his backside, bucking up against him, meeting his thrusts as firmly and swiftly as she could. His body quaked against her own, complimenting the heat she felt. He rode her faster until a nova zenith hit them both, making her feel a completion that was totally out of this world. He half lay over her panting and trying hard to speak. “I’ve never known such wonder before, Shonda. But next time, it won’t be from the effects of your sexparilla shake. This spaceman can get it up just fine after I’ve caught my breath.” She pulled him down to her and chuckled. “Maybe what you needed was something cool and sweet and tasty to give you a starting boost.’ His eyes glittered to a bright blue. “I think I did, you.” Her mouth dropped open as he hardened instantly. “I didn’t put but a pinch of sex spice in that shake.” “I am glad. Cause hon, I’m going to show you how a spaceman really can get his hyper thrust going good. And most of the night.” “Oh…no arguments here,” she smiled, and then his previous words fully hit her. She took several deep breaths, before continuing. “Did you mean that? It was me?” “The shake may have given me a start and perked me up, Shonda, but it was you that made me stir even before I drank it. Maybe it just was the fuel I needed to get my thrusters up, hmm?” She laughed hard and brought him down to her. “And maybe mine too. I’m not a Plutonian woman who likes it all night long, but hell if I won’t give it a try!” “Good, cause I’m not due back there for a long time. And I have a lot of loving to make up for. I missed you, Shonda, every time I left.” “Stay with me here then, until you have to leave.” 186

Sinful Sundaes 2, Second Servings “My heart never wants to leave you, my precious star.” She wrapped her arms around his chest. “I care about you too, Teth. Perhaps you won’t mind staying Earthbound for a bit then?” “Or maybe later you wouldn’t mind a spin around the universe, hmm?” “The only spin I want right now is what that delightful tongue and body of yours can do. But visiting the cosmos might be fun. Care to show me what temptations you can bring to my part of the universe, Mr. Space Salesman?” He laughed with her and took her on a fantastic journey to stars and worlds that made up a galaxy of love all their own. The End

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