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The Sound of my leather bag hitting the sleek tile resounded much louder than I had anticipated. Both the noise I created and my own visage seemed out of place in the elegant, almost sterile foyer I'd found myself in. Long staircases curved gracefully into the next floor, gilded gold colored the banisters and fine red carpet without a speck of discoloration or dust draped off each step. The chandelier was covered in dripping crystals that caught the red light of dusk that was pouring in through the large windows, bouncing it onto each other and the ceiling above.I hadn't noticed how lost I was in the grandeur of it all until the sound of someone clearing their throat startled me back to my senses. He was an older gentleman, maybe in his 60's, wearing a crisp black and white suit. Resting on his nose was a small pair of glasses, and on his lip a well groomed mustache. If I was flipping through a dictionary looking for the word Butler I had no doubt his photograph would be next to the entry.His expression remained completely neutral as he regarded me, "Mr. Merryweather I presume."My less trained face cocked up into a slight smile as I moved forward to greet him, leaving my bag of luggage behind. "That's me. You must be the head of staff, Mr. Montgomery? Pleasure to meet you."I held out my hand as I approached, but Montgomery made no move to meet me, keeping his arms folded neatly behind his back as he eyed my outstretched hand. "Quite."I dropped my own hand, trying not to let any of the embarrassment I was feeling at the rejection show, "I'm happy to finally meet you in person. I've been looking forward to working with you."He ignored my pleasantries, "I'll show you to your quarters."I nodded, grabbing my worn bag off the ground and straightening my overcoat slightly. Montgomery had started off without me, and I had to quickly pad forward to avoid losing sight of him. As I caught up I thought to ask, "are the masters of the house still asleep for the day?""Hm. Yes. Though they should be roused in the next short while.""Wonderful. I'd love to meet my employers if you think they'll have the time this evening."Montgomery paused in his tracks, and I almost tripped on my shoes to avoid checking him with my shoulder after his sudden stop. "Perhaps in your former engagements it was appropriate to express your wishes in such a carefree manner, but that will not be the case here. If the masters summon you, you will go to them. If not, you will start your work. Staff is hardly meant to be seen and should never be heard."Any remnants of a smile had dripped of my face, "yes sir. I'm sorry to have offended."And with a slight scoff Montgomery continued down the hall.I was beginning to lose my sense of direction when we finally made it to my door. The room was far from remarkable. Especially when compared to the rest of the house. The wooden floors were well cleaned, but the polish the rest of the hardwoods had glistened with was absent. A small cot with a wrought iron frame, a cramped desk, a tiny set of drawers and a plain wardrobe were the only furniture.As I set my bag down Montgomery spoke from the doorway, "I will send Alverez in shortly. She holds the same position as you and will get you acquainted with the manor and your duties." And with that he turned sharply on his heel and marched off.I set about to unpacking my handful of belongings, I'd gotten about half through the task when a gentle rapping sounded from the open doorway. Turning, I saw a young woman, I'd have guessed younger than me even, with long mousy braids pinned into rings draping down to her chin, and a traditional looking maid uniform, the long skirt hemmed to show a peek of white socks and well polished black shoes. She smiled warmly from her station, "so you're Merryweather?""Please. You can just call me August." I returned her smile."Then I'll have to insist on you calling me Abigail.""Seems like a fair trade."She gently tossed her head, rolling off of her relaxed lean against the doorframe, "C'mon, I'll show you around."The manor was larger than it even appeared from the outside. Full of libraries, parlors, offices, a massive kitchen that housed very little food, an expansive dining hall, and I was surprised to find it even had a ballroom, though Abigail was quick to explain that it was seldom used. We were exploring the grounds as Abigail outlined the schedule that we would keep when she suddenly paused in her train of thought, turning to me."This should be far enough from any listening ears. I'm unsure what all you've heard about the Masters, but they are quite eccentric and often volatile. Injuries among the staff aren't rare. It's a rewarding job if you can keep your head down, but if you're weak of will in the slightest you'll be torn apart."She watched my face closely as she spoke, but none of this was news for me, and I was able to preserve my smile, "I appreciate you looking out for me, but I made up my mind to work here. And work here I shall."She nodded, seemingly satisfied by my answer and resumed walking. "Now speaking of eccentricities I'm sure you've noticed my style of dress.""Yes, it looks cute on you."Even from behind I could see the tips of her ears grow slightly rosey as she chuckled nervously, "even if that were true it isn't my chosen wardrobe. All three of the masters have very different ideas on how the staff should be dressed. They argued for months, so I heard, frequently getting into physical altercations before a rotating wardrobe was decided on. You'll be the first man in this position as far as I'm aware, so I'm not sure what uniforms you'll be provided, but they might get a bit strange."Panting caught my ear, stopping me from asking for any clarification. A man was jogging up, clearly out of breath. He bent over at the waist as he came up on us, trying desperately to catch his breath and deliver his message, "Abi." Pant pant "you were." Pant "sooo hard to find." Pant pant. "The masters." Pant pant pant "want to meet." Pant. "The newbie." After a bit more panting he tossed me a "hey there newbie" seemingly as an after thought.Abigail nodded curtly, "thank you Eugene." And led the way back to the manor.The smile that had been dancing across her lips had vanished, replaced my a hard tight line, though her eyes remained friendly. We walked in silence, and I worked to school my own expression. But as the heavy oak door swing open I couldn't keep myself from smiling slightly. I had made it.This room was an office, one we'd briefly entered during the tour. I'd taken note of it only because despite being an office, with a desk and bookshelf, it also held a small sitting area comprised of a fainting couch, two plush chairs, and an elegant coffee table. My eyes didn't catch on the furniture this time though, but instead the three figures residing within.The first to notice my arrival was the boy on the couch. I couldn't help considering him a boy despite knowing his age far from reflected that. The way he was splayed on the couch, legs over the back gave the impression of a bored young master, and his slight frame, short stature, and blond curls didn't help. His choice of clothing that evening was the only thing that managed to age him. Well fitted slacks fastened in a thin white shirt with gathered sleeves and a tight fitting neckline. A broach adorned the front matching the small gems set into his ears. He smiled as he saw me, sitting up and alerting the man at the desk of my presence in doing so.The man at the desk appeared to be in his mid to late 20s, and was handsome enough to pass as a movie star. Matt gray hair pushed out of his face, just neat enough that it didn't evoke an image of an unkempt man, just messy enough to add a sort of ruggedness to him. His jawline and cheekbones were firm and sharp, protruding without making him appear gaunt. He was quite built, and as he shifted to his feat it was obvious there was a strength to back up his build. He looked so well proportioned that until he'd stepped to stand behind one of the chairs I didn't notice his height. But my guess put him around 6' 5" in relation to the furnishings.The third figure didn't look up even as I began to introduce myself. He was seated in one of the chairs, a small book flat against his palm. He was a bit plain looking compared to the other two, raven wing hair, olive skin made dull by the lack of flowing blood. A sharp brow and seemingly permanent scowl gave me the feeling that this man would be the hardest to get along with of the three. He was dressed more modern than his slightly frilly associates, a plain white button up with the top two undone tucked into slim fit black pants. Plain suspenders were the only accessory that was a bit odd, but he wore them so well I didn't blink twice. He was well muscled, much broader in chest and shoulders than the boy on the couch, though this close to his hulking roommate the effect was unimpressive.I didn't process exactly what introduction I was giving, but I finished it with a slight bow, grateful that instinct had kicked in so I wasn't left standing and gaping at the trio. The little one had kicked his feet and rolled himself off the couch by the time I finished, and he took a few steps forward, hands behind his angled back as he regarded me. A smile was evident on his face, making what would have been a very uncomfortable act far more bearable."Montgomery wasn't lying, you are pretty cute." I flushed, both at the compliment and the confusion of the very stoic butler apparently having communicated such. The boy's smile only grew wider as he watched my fluster, "I'm Jude. It's nice to meet you. I have a feeling we'll be having lots of fun."I managed to stammer out a, "It's a pleasure to meet you sir." Schooling my expression as I dove into a bow. When I looked back up the taller man locked eyes with me.His voice was much more slight than I expected when he spoke, but more than that the southern drawl surprised me, "I'm Elias. I look forward to getting to know you Mr. Merryweather."I let a faint smile lift my face, "I look forward to the same sir."Finally the third man flicked a brief glance up to me. "My name is Eric, though I will not tolerate you addressing as such. You will speak to me formally or not at all. Do you understand?"The eye contact I'd been seeking suddenly felt overwhelming. And I dropped my face back to neutral, "yes sir."He nodded, seemingly appeased and went back to his book.Elias was the first to speak up again after the awkward silence that followed, "I'm sure Abigail has been showing you the ropes. Don't feel too much pressure for the first few days, just learn what you can and get familiar with the manor.""I appreciate that sir. Hopefully I'll pick up on all the tasks quickly as to not be a burden on you or on Abigail."Jude had resumed his position on the couch, feet flung in the air, "I have no doubt you'll do fine. And more importantly, I think we'll get along great." His voice carried a weight I couldn't quite name. As if he were communicating a secret only I was to pick up on. But the meaning was lost on me.I sank into another bow, "thank you for taking the time to meet me. I'll be heading back to work, but don't hesitate to holler if you need anything from me."I bit my tongue as I exited, frustrated that such inelegant language had slipped out. Abigail still had a stoic expression as the door closed, and she led me away without the running commentary I'd grown accustomed to. It wasn't until we were multiple halls away that she began to speak again, slowly warming back up as she walked me through a myriad of tasks. And that was how the rest of the night passed.The sun was close to rising, and I knew we hadn't nearly gotten through her whole lecture from the pace she was going. "Ah well. I'll let you rest for the day, we can always resume in the evening." I couldn't help but yawn at the promise of sleep."Were you nocturnal prior to coming here?"I shook my head, earning a cluck of sympathy from Abigail, "hopefully it's a smooth adjustment for you, it's not easy for everyone.""I'm sure I'll manage. In the meantime I beg you forgive any…" a larger yawn interrupted me, "of that."Abigail chuckled lightly, leading me back to the hall my room was on, "sleep well. If you need me I'm the second door on the left one hall over. I'll pop by at sundown to help walk you through the uniforms."“Sounds good. Good night.”"Or good day?" Abigail flashed me a cheeky smile as I retreated into my room. I resigned myself to sleeping in my clothes. Taking off my shoes and plopping heavily into the bed, unable to fathom doing any more prep before sleeping. Just as my head hit the pillow there was a knock at the door. Had Abigail forgotten something? A second knock came, confident and heavy, I hesitated to believe Abigail would be so direct. I rose, eyes heavy, fighting off sleep as I opened the door. There stood Jude. Messy haired and devilishly grinning. I blinked slowly, my exhausted brain having trouble processing the input."Will you invite me in?"Was that a requirement in his own house? I'd thought that only applied to the threshold of a home, but all my reading had been a bit vague, so maybe since this was my room he still needed an invitation?Jude must have seen the pause and guessed my line of thinking, "it's not required, I just have manors.”"Ah. Well. Please come in."I held the door for him as he passed. But once he was in I found another problem. The one chair was a stiff backed one by the desk, which Jude had already grabbed and straddled. Leaving me to either sit on the bed or stand awkwardly. Additionally I was wholly unsure if it was more appropriate to close the door or leave it open.Luckily Jude sensed my hesitation, "you can close the door and please take a seat, I'm not a stickler for formality like the others."I nodded, following his commands, taking a slight seat on the very edge of the bed, hands folded on my lap.The danger I was in in this situation caught up to me. Adrenaline cleared the sleep from my mind as I perched and waited.After a very long moment Jude spoke, "why did you come to work for us."I couldn't tell him I was planning to become indispensable as I worked my way into their good graces and then convince them to turn me. That kind of answer wouldn't go over well. Luckily I'd long practiced what to say, "working at the manor pays well, I'm hoping to send some money home, and barring any accidents it offers a sense of security difficult to find in the current job market.""Did you know most vampires have a special skill of some kind? Something they specialize in that others of our race can't do."I blinked, trying to catch up to the rapid shift in conversation, "yes, though I'm afraid I'm ignorant of what skills you and the other masters of this house posses."His smile grew even more mischievous, "ah, that would explain it.""Sir? Explain what exactly?""Why you were under the impression that you could come here with ulterior motives."I felt my heart begin to pound against my ribs, I opened my mouth rapidly spinning through retorts and pleas of innocence, but Jude cut me off, "no need to argue. And those were all half baked anyways."I tried desperately to catch up with the turn of events."August, darling, can you guess my power?"I shook my head without even considering guessing."Hmm. How boring. Well I'll tell you anyways. I can read minds."
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Shit. He could read minds.And I certainly hadn't been guarding my thoughts. My heart was pounding hard enough that I thought it might break my ribs with its fervor. Jude stood from the chair, stalking up to me as I reeled. I subconsciously scooted back as he drew near, giving myself distance from the threat. But he didn't back down. He leaned over me as my back dug into the wall, his elbow braced over my shoulder as he placed his face just inches from mine.Eyebrows drawn with false concern he spoke, honey dripping in a lazy coating of the poisonous words, "what am I to do with you?"My eyes were wide as a deer's as I tried to phase through the wall behind me. Any ability to speak, let alone reason were long lost. Then, quite suddenly, he started laughing. A giggly little laugh at that. All the tension on his face disappearing as he did, falling to the side and splaying out on the bed. I sat, still frozen as he cackled. Eventually he calmed, laying his legs on my lap and folding his arms behind his head as he grinned."You looked so scared, I couldn't help teasing you. Sorry." He gave a very obviously false pout of sympathy."You aren't going to kill me?""Over that?” He feigned considering his options for a moment, “nah. I actually think it'll be pretty amusing to watch."I managed a very elegant "huh?" In response.He sat up, shifting his legs to be crossed under him as he leaned forwards, "I want in.”“In?”“In. To be your accomplice. Or console. Or get away car.”I was desperately trying to keep up, “why?He grinned, “well, if you can manage to succeed, it'll be hilarious to watch them figure out they've been used."“You're trying to sabotage them?”“We can say that.”I considered pursuing that thread, but decided it was probably too much to unravel at the current moment, instead I turned to the slightly more tangible tangle, "and if I fail?""Do you plan to?"I shook my head."Well there you have it.”This was going very poorly, I needed to regain control of the situation somehow.“So, what was your plan?”Shit, “I didn't have much of one.”Jude shifted again, turning onto his stomach with his feet in the air, the playful pose hardly matched his words, “liar.”“I'm not r-”“Something you'll learn very quickly is you can tell me with your words, or I'll hear it undiluted. And based off what I heard earlier, that probably isn't preferable.”My voice came out in a mutter, "I was going to seduce one of you?"With the enhanced hearing I knew him to possess I was certain he made out what I'd said, but he still poked, "huh, what was that?"I managed more volume the second time, "I was going to seduce one of you."I expected some sort of reaction, to garner a laugh or shock, maybe he'd lash out at my insolence, but instead Jude's face remained neutral as he considered it, “it's not a terrible plan all things considered, but I think with this crowd it'll be harder than you're expecting.”I turned my head slightly, “news to me, how so?”“Well. You're Elias's type, but he's so pure it'll take you forever to get him to make a move.”I thought back on the hulking figure I'd met, a gentle giant it seemed, if Jude was being honest, “how about Eric?”“Eric is the opposite, extreamly loose, but he doesn't do romance in his relationships. Getting him to care to the point of being willing to turn you? Not impossible, but unlikely."I bit my lip lightly as I thought through the two paths. I hadn't noticed my posture had relaxed until Jude rolled over, placing his head in my lap and looking up at me. My body went rigid once again as I looked down at the boy. His eyes didn't shift, holding intense contact as he spoke softly, "Really, I'd be the ideal target.” He blinked a few times, and I almost believed him to be the perfect cherub he was emulating before he spoke again, “unfortunately, I know your plan.”The words slipped out on their own accord, tired of being bullied, "and you think that makes you immune?"He smiled, moving again, leaving my lap and leaning over me, legs hovering above my lap. The position was quite similar, but all the threat had drained from him, leaving a mischievous boy behind. He seemed amused by my attitude, "I am far from immune to you. But I'm also quite stubborn. I'm set on watching the others crumble.""So you think I have a chance if I go after one of the others?" I was already falling into the pace he'd set, allowing his schemes to sway me.He sat back a bit, considering this, "hmm maybe. But I really want to see you mess with both of them…" he pouted as he considered his options for a moment until a dangerous glint grew in his eye. He met my eyes with a barely contained smile. "I have a proposition.""I'm listening.""If you can get all three masters of this house to confess to you, I'll turn you.""That includes you?"He nodded, "yep. But I won't make it easy.""Deal." A no brainer really. If I could get just one of them to fall hard enough to turn me I won. If I could get all three to express their feelings I won. I liked those odds. And the threat of being snatched away by another member of this love triangle… square? Might help spur the others into more immediate action. I caught Jude's eye and noticed his wide grin remembering a bit too late that my thoughts weren't private with him around."I'll support as needed with more intricate plans as time goes on too.”He stuck out a hand for me to shake, it almost would have felt like a business transaction if I was not pinned to my bed by my new partner. I played along though. Shaking it.Jude smiled, “I think you and I will have lots of fun.""If I can avoid breaking your heart." Teasing this boy was going to become an addiction, I could tell already, "now get out of my room. I need to sleep and you need to be tucked away before the sun comes up.""Yeah yeah." He waved a dismissive hand, but climbed off me regardless, skipping to the door. He blew a kiss as he rounded the corner, and with that he was gone. I shut my door, took one deep breath, laid down, not bothering to shift the blanket over me, and I was out.Surprisingly enough my sleep wasn't all encompassing, and on a few occasions I stirred, glancing at the clock before forcing myself back to sleep. Still I was dozing when the knock at my door finally came. I stood to get the door, realizing how disheveled I appeared a few moments too late my day clothes wrinkled and hair tousled.Abigail's uniform caught me a bit by surprise, and I had little time to worry about my own appearance. Rather than the modest black and white dress from the day before she sported a short skirt, frilly apron, thigh high socks, and a sleeveless blouse with a heart cut out just below the collar. The palate was very light, mostly a pastel green with white accents.She stepped into my room, brushing past me without invitation, already talking through the morning's tasks and how I should prepare. I had started to realize that the behaviors I'd normally find abrasive or irritating I didn't mind in her. Maybe because she seemed to be devoid of the capability to hold any ill will? Or I was grateful enough for her support that I was able to look past her less savory behaviors.As I was considering this she'd made her way to my wardrobe and turned to me, an odd twinkle in her eye, "you wanna play a game?"I cocked my head, feeling that whatever game she wanted to play would not be in my favor, but my fondness for her won over reason, "sure."She pulled open my wardrobe and plucked out one of the uniforms. It matched hers in many ways, the colorway was different, pale pinks replacing her green, and I wondered if Montgomery mentioned my hair during his apparent discussion of my looks. The blouse was identical in shape, though structured to fit my flat chest, the heart shaped cut out sat slightly lower. The apron was the same as well, white with small ruffles lining certain elements. The set included a detached collar and wrist cuffs as well, and I had no doubt the designer had taken influence from a bunny suit. The short skirt on Abigails was thankfully absent in my own, though the very short shorts and thigh high socks would not be much less embarrassing to trot around in.After taking in the full ensemble I looked to Abigail, "so what's this game."She smiled the usual warmth mixed with a bit of teasing, "I'll show you the uniform each day and you guess which of our masters chose it. I want your initial thought, and how it shifts as you see the others."I only had to consider the outfit for a half moment longer, “our lord Jude selected this ensemble."The teasing expression on Abigail's face only deepened, "I think your confidence might falter as you see the others." She didn't give me time to retort before she tugged on my arm, leading me out the door while bunching the uniform in her free arm.The bathroom was very plain. I was surprised to find there was only a tub and no shower, but the manor was quite old, so it made a certain amount of sense. I was informed that I'd share this bathroom with Abigail along with the cook, who she fondly referred to as Cookie.A question that had been tugging at the back of my mind since the day before resurfaced, "the lords don't eat food right? Is it necessary to have a staff member devoted to cooking? Do they manage the master's food as well?"Abigail was setting my clothes on a shelf as she answered, "that's one of Montgomery's responsibilities, or the masters themselves will acquire their meals. Cookie makes food for the staff and events, but you're right that that shouldn't require a whole person. That's why we work so closely with them. They help with the cleaning, mostly in the more front facing rooms, the entry hall, the dining room, the ballroom. Other than me you'll get to know them better than anyone else in the house."Unlikely considering my goals. But I smiled, "that makes sense. It did seem like a big house for just two people."She tossed a towel my way as she started walking to the door, "I'll stop invading your space now. Clean up, you look a mess."Ah. So she had noticed.The sun was about an hour from setting when I emerged from the steam filled washroom. The uniform was just about as humiliating on as it looked on the hanger, and I could feel the blush on my cheeks as Abigail gave me a once over."Let's grab a bite and get to work." The lack of commentary made me feel even worse, but I swallowed my tongue and followed her, head down.Cookie was absent when we picked up our food, I was assured that I'd have a chance to meet them soon, but we did need to start on our chores for the day. Namely laundry, and cleaning the extensive hallways throughout the manor. The list of tasks seemed never ending, and I was unsure how Abigail knew how to rotate through them correctly. When I asked I was just given the vaugity that I'd "pick it up eventually."It was while we were stripping the sheets off Elias' bed that I caught my second glimpse of him. I had my arms piled full of the dirty linens, and had managed to open the door around the load, I should have taken my time, but all the tasks I knew we needed to finish during the day just seemed like too much, and I was hurried. I rounded the corner into the hallway and immediately felt my arms press into a surface with just the slightest bit of give. I jumped back, effectively losing my grip and letting it all tumble to the floor. I stood for a moment realizing who I had crashed into, and trying to generate an appropriate reaction, my eyes must have been shocked saucers from the way he started nervously comforting me."I'm. Im so sorry. I didn't realize… you okay? You're not hurt are you?"My mouth finally caught up to my racing thoughts, "no! I'm perfectly fine. I didn't hurt you did I."The corner of his mouth twitched, the slightest sense of a smile, "it'll take more than that to hurt me."Shit. "Oh, of course, silly question. Shoot. Let me…" And finally my body joined the rest of me, lunging onto the floor to scoop up the sheets. "I promise I'm not usually this clumsy."To my horror he lowered himself to help me gather the bedding, placing a few items in my arms."And now I'm making you clean. I'm really not leaving a good initial impression huh?"He shook his head, and I was sad to notice the small smile had faded, "I wouldn't say that..."Elias tucked the last item into my arms, and I went to stand. Cool skin suddenly landed on my forearms, and it took everything in my power not to startle and drop things again. I met Elias' eyes as he stood, helping me up in the process. Once we were righted he quickly pulled his arms back, fidgeting with a sleeve as he averted his eyes."Well. Um. ‘Scuse me." He still wasn't meeting my eyes, but I realized the nerves were probably a good sign. Like Jude had said, I must be his type, at least enough to cause him a bit of anxiety.He started towards his door, but before he fully crossed the threshold I managed to call out a light, "Elias." He turned. "Thank you for your help." I smiled tilting my head slightly, turning up the charm as much as possible.And the effect I had was far from minimal, "i-it was no worries. Really. Or ah. Truly. I-if you ever need anything you know where to find me."And with that he finished pushing into his room. Sure to find a very confused Abigail present.I was dusting a very intricate sconce, it must have been 3 or 4 in the morning, and the fatigue was starting to hit, but I did my best to push through. At first I felt it as a cold chill running up my spine, causing me to turn stick straight and freeze in place. Then a hand passed over my shoulder, grazing the bare skin before the palm pressed firmly into the wall. A voice sounded, low and gravely, but it was odd. It didn't carry like it should in the hallway, 'what's a pretty little thing like you doing in a hall like this?'I rolled my eyes, the odd sensation fading and spun to face my captor. He was leaned at an odd angle, the act of pinning someone taller than him, even by just a couple inches, was obviously more awkward than he had anticipated. I let my eyes meet his, eyebrows raised in question, "you really think calling me little is a good idea when your arm is at that kind of angle?"He pouted, but didn't pull away, 'no fair.' His voice had the odd way of carrying as earlier, and I realized with a bit of surprise that his lips didn't move as he spoke.As I was processing he spoke again, aloud this time, "hey. Tomorrow's your day off right? Do you have plans?"I cocked my brow, "what plans could I possibly have made? I was just going to sleep, maybe get acquainted with the grounds around the manor."He smiled at this, clearly pleased, "well I'll be kidnapping you then. So be ready." Finally he drew away, immediately walking back down the hall.“Wait.”He turned slowing his pace.“What was that a second ago? When your lips didn't move?”He smiled, speaking silently, ‘just another part of my ability.’I decided to attempt a less direct communication myself.'Am I allowed to know the itinerary?' I thought at him as forcefully as possible.His smile shifted into a smirk, but he responded silently nonetheless, 'nope. And don't shout at me like that, you're too noisy.'I felt myself grow ruddy as I was scolded, much to Jude's delight. He laughed as he continued walking away, a hand raised over his shoulder in farewell as he rounded the corner.Abigail and I had finished for the evening when she turned to me. "Walk to the garden with me?""I'm pretty pooped, I was thinking I might ju-"She cut me off. Looking deeply into my eyes, "walk to the garden with me."I shut my mouth and nodded. As she put away our supplies and led the way into the garden. We were silent as we walked, until we passed a greenhouse with ivy climbing the outside."August, I think you need to be more careful."She barely looked at me as she spoke, still moving forward."Careful?""I know that the lords can seem a bit… bumbling, but they are incredibly dangerous. If you offend one of them… please just promise you'll try to keep your head down."My initial instinct was to agree with her, placate her worries and just be careful not to be as reckless with her around. But something stopped me. I reached out and grabbed her wrist. Stopping in my tracks and turning her to face me."I can't promise that. But I will promise that I know what I'm doing. I know the risks and I've decided they're worth it."The worry dripping from her almost made me take back my words. But she sealed her lips into a tight line and nodded, gently freeing herself from my grasp, "I didn't mean to imply otherwise. I'm just… I've already grown fond of you. Don't mind me."I shook my head, continuing to walk, "I appreciate the notion. Really. You don't need to worry after me though… well accept for keeping all these chores straight."She gave a weak smile, "I'll keep your schedule until you learn it. It's not a bother. I'm just glad they found a replacement so quickly."We chatted idly as we strolled, slowly looping back and saying goodnight.I managed to change clothes and brush my teeth before bed, which I was absolutely counting as a win.A long dreamless slumber was all I really needed though, and I was grateful that's what I got.
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A sharp knock startled me awake, it was the sort of rhythmic knock that mimicked a line of music, but being pulled from deep sleep the cheerful tune fell on aggravated ears. Before I'd managed to push myself out of bed the door was tossed open, Jude already prattling incomprehensibly."Slow down. Slow down. What?"He took a moment to look at me, a false look of contempt smeared on his face, "I was just saying we'd be going into town to start. Why are you in your nighties?"I looked down at my very worn pajamas, but instead of embarrassment I just felt irritated, "because you woke me up."He rolled his eyes, settling onto the bed I had just been evicted from, "well get dressed then."I started grabbing my one set of non uniform day clothes as Jude settled onto his side. After collecting my clothing and toiletries I moved towards the door."Where you going?"I didn't stop my trajectory, "the bathroom?""I don't get a show?"I clicked the door shut firmly as a response. Smiling in spite of myself. The aggravation at having been woken up already shifting to the background as I enjoyed the quick jabbing conversation the two of us had set as a norm.I reemerged in the clothes I'd worn my first day, a slightly threadbare button up, a dark red cardigan, a pair of brown slacks, and a tie loosened slightly around my neck. Jude gave me a once over, "I suppose that'll do. You won't be wearing them long anyways.""That's quite the assumption. I actually do plan on staying clothed today."Jude had already sprung off the bed, making his way to the door, "not quite what I meant. But now I'm determined to make you change your mind."I took in his outfit as he led the way down the halls. He looked even younger today. Navy dress shorts ended just above his knees, a smart vest of the same color accentuated his waist. His shirt was a warm yellow toned cream, with sleeves rolled up to his elbows. Amber jewelry sparkled from his ears and from the broach on his neck. All together he was the very picture of a young master belonging to some affluent family."Do you drive?" I was certain he noticed me staring, but he made no mention of it."I do. Do you need a chauffeur?"“I prefer the front seat, but you'll be chauffer adjacent I suppose.”I clicked my tongue in disappointment, “this many years and you still haven't learned to drive? What have you been doing with your time?”He smiled, “wallowing mostly. And I do know how, I just hate it. I usually have Montgomery take me, but now I have an ever so slightly less grumpy option.”“I don't know you exceptionally well, but I can't say you being a passenger princess is shocking,” I glanced at him, gauging his reaction, a breathy chuckle was all the response I was given, but it seemed I was allowed to push at least that far without consequence.I hadn't seen any cars or garages as I'd arrived, but as we descended the front stairs a sleek black four door was waiting in the driveway.I buckled up, adjusting the seat up slightly, whoever drove last was a bit taller than me. I glanced over and watched Jude buckle his own belt, impervious to damage, but still the sort to take car safety seriously. The large leather seat made his diminutive form appear even smaller than usual.I placed the stick into drive, slowly pulling out as I worked up the courage to ask, "I've been wondering. How old were you when you were turned?"He smiled at me, that familiar cocky grin, "worried you've got a crush on a kid?"I scoffed, keeping an eye on the road, "more like I'm worried I'll snap and try to smack that look off your face only to be carted away for child abuse."'Hmm, nice try, but lying to me doesn't work so well,' he spoke into my mind.'And trying to gaslight me doesn't either.'He snickered, 'you don't have to worry either way. My boyish charm is the product of hard work, I'd just turned 20.'I kept my mind from wandering too much, knowing any thoughts I had wouldn't be private. And moved the conversation on, "where in town are we going? I find it unlikely most places are open this late.""Au contraire. At our urging most businesses open later and are still operating until 10 or 11."I glanced to the clock, that'd be two or three hours in town, they'd planned out the timing well.Jude directed me to a parking lot beside a historic looking cemetery, situated surprisingly centrally within town. I locked the car and stepped out, taking a deep breath of fall air. The streets weren't as empty as I thought they'd be. It seemed most of the town shifted their days backwards to overlap with the lords of the manor up the hill. I started walking towards the square of green surrounded by homey looking shops. Jude skipped up behind me, looping his arm through mine. He was leaned slightly over and he turned to peer up at me, a pout on his lips, "you're leading even though I'm the one who knows where we're going?"I rolled my eyes, but didn't pull my arm from him, 'you know I use those same tricks right? Acting all cute isn't going to work on me.'His pout deepened, and I got the sense that it wasn't all play. I pulled my arm from his, but as he swung around to say something biting I threaded my own through the nook of his elbow, winding our fingers together as I looked nervously from the ground to his eyes."My hand's cold, is it okay if we stay like this?"The pout dropped from Jude's face as he groaned in fake annoyance, "you're seriously going to be the end of me if you keep this up."I cocked my head, "hmm?" I asked aloud. 'Don't appreciate the taste of your own medicine?' I asked mentally.He rolled his eyes, as he led the way forwards, towards a shop. It was a clothing store. From the worker's reaction as we entered it was a clothing store Jude frequented. He didn't drop my hand the whole time they conversed, and I saw the girl's eyes dart from Jude to our hands a few times, she was wise enough not to comment though.I was having trouble following most of their talk, stranger's names kept coming up, and technical jargon I could only assume related to custom clothing. The last two sentences landed on my ears heavily, finally understanding.The shop keep asked, "so are you looking for any specific items today?"Jude smiled, and nodded towards me, "I'm actually here to dress him this time. Careful though, I don't want his good looks to overshadow mine."The girl smiled and chuckled lightly, obviously trying to guess if that was a joke or a threat.I'd never thought to place myself in the shoes of a dolly, but I had no choice but to as I was dragged in and out of dressing rooms, given countless clothes to try on, and cooed over both by my companion and the girl running the shop. I could hardly keep up with what clothes were dismissed as not my style and which needed to be altered and which would mailed. It was well past eleven by the time we finished, and I could clearly see the girl's thinly veiled fatigue. Jude's infectious enthusiasm could only carry her so far it seemed.But she stayed standing and smiling as Jude circled around me, "isn't that just perfect?""It is." She smiled."And what do you think?" I realized the question was directed at me, and looked up to the mirror.I hardly recognized the form looking back at me. I had been dressed in light colored clothing that accentuated my pale skin, making me look almost as bloodless as the boy next to me. A pair of light gray shorts, with a fashionable pleat, landed about halfway down my thigh. My shirt was a very pale pink, a few shades lighter than my hair. An airy thing with delicate star embroidery dotting the cuffs and upright collar. Bits of lace poked out of both as well. Gray boots made of soft leather came up to my knees, they had a small heel to them which I noticed accentuated and tightened the curve of my partially visable thighs. The circular glasses I'd elected over contacts upon getting ready had a chain fastened to them, dripping down and catching the light on a half dozen tiny gems. I felt foreign in it and couldn't help looking away and fidgeting with the sleeve.'I don't think I've got the money for this.' I thought to Jude in answer.'Of course you don't. That's why I'm buying it.'I blinked a few times, 'what a waste, you should get this for yourself instead.'He caught my hands, looking deeply into my eyes, with a slightly frightening smile, 'I think watching you squirm is well worth the price.'I couldn't stave off the light flush that took over my cheeks.The attendant cleared her throat lightly. And I realized how awkward the long silence must have been for her."Sorry. You did a great job picking things out. Thank you."Jude purses his lips, wrapping his arms around my waist from behind, "she gets complimented but not me? I worked really hard, you know?"I reached back and patted his soft curls. "Yes yes. You did good too."He beamed at me, but I could sense the tease under his smile, "I wish you'd let me pierce your ear. A little jewelry would really complete the look.""Hmm. I'll think on it. If you think it'd suit your tastes.""It would," he said the next half quieter, "and it'd suit my oral fixation quite well too." He shifted so a single arm was wrapped around my waist as he led me out.My cheeks warmed up as my eyes darted to gauge if the girl running the shop had heard, thankful that her expression remained neutral. I squinted suspiciously at the man beside me, he could have said it mentally if he didn't want that to be overheard.Jude's voice echoed into my head, 'but then you wouldn't have gotten so adorably flustered.'The door chimed as we exited.It was almost midnight and the streets were empty, the shops all closed tight, 'I hope you hadn't wanted to do anything else in town.'Jude smiled at me, tugging on my waist to try to pull me impossibly closer into his side, 'I think I'd rather we continue our date at home.'I scoffed, 'You're acting all dominant now, but I know you're about to insist on being a passenger princess again, so it loses a bit of it's charm.''You're the one who took my docile act, what else am I to do?'I shot him a look, 'would you rather I play more dominant?'"I wouldn't complai-"At his confirmation I slipped free of his hand on my waist and pressed a hand onto his chest, pushing him into the alley next to us and pinning him against the wall. My face lingered inches from his as my eyes locked his lips, slightly parted from the air being pressed out of him upon impact. I slighted the side of my nose over his as my free hand found his hip, digging lightly into the bone there. My lips hovered a mere inch above his as I spoke in a low gravely whisper which drew the exact shudder I'd been hoping for from the smaller man, "better?"The lack of retort shocked me slightly, and I drew off enough to see his eyes, blown wide, an utterly shocked expression on his face. I quickly pulled back further, holding my hands in front of me to prove I wasn't a threat, 'sorry. Did I take it too far?'Before I could see what was happening I was pressed up against the opposite wall, Jude mimicking the position I'd just had him in to the letter. I tried to shift slightly, but a super human strength kept me pinned down."Jude-"Before I could finish a pair of harsh lips against mine cut me off. His kiss had a crushing intensity, but before I could even really register, and certainly before I could decide whether or not to reciprocate he'd pulled off. Eyes twinkling darkly."You need to be more cautious, pet. Rile me up too much and you'll need to take responsibility." He swiped his thumb over my lip roughly and stepped away, walking ahead of me the rest of the way to the car. And I was left dumbly following behind.He was already in the passenger seat when I got to the car, and I found myself obediently climbing into the driver's. As I turned on the car Jude spoke, "so. Have you made any plans on how to seduce Elias and Eric?"I was caught off guard by his sudden change of tone, his voice held none of the danger from a few moments prior."Not really. Getting them alone is a bit complicated considering my ranking and newness." I tried to keep my voice steady, but I could hear the lag as I tried to catch up.Jude nodded, 'tomorrow Eric will have a visitor, you should try to time things so you accidentally enter his room while this guest is over.'I glanced at him, suspicious, "care to share any other details?"'I could. But it's more entertaining not to.'Of course.I decided fighting would only bring Jude more satisfaction while winning me no answers, "and Elias?"'I'll work on my end a bit. Don't worry with him for now.'More vaugities."A trickster's most valuable tool," Jude said with a wink.The drive felt shorter on the way back, the fifteen minutes gone in the blink of an eye. Jude showed me the small road off the main drive, leading to a tucked away awning to park under.Some part of me was frightened as we walked through the manor. I was uncertain why exactly I didn't want to be spotted, the out of character outfit, the fact I was following one of the lords in the very obvious direction if his chambers, something else?'You'll be fine. I'll cover if anyone happens upon us. We'll be to my room soon though.''And why exactly are you taking me there?''What are you hoping will happen?' The tease was evident in his voice. And I decided remaining silent was the best way to ruin his fun.He took it in stride though, 'you like movies?''Huh.''Mo-vies. It's pictures and words that are-"'I know what they are.''And you like them?''Well enough.'He didn't pause, 'good. You're watching some with me.'He clicked open his door, and with a brief glance to ensure the hall was abandoned I entered. I hadn't entered Jude's room before, and was surprised to find a large projector screen covering a wall, with an antique looking film projector set up a few dozen feet away. The boy walked over to the contraption fiddling with it until it sprang to life, projecting the title screen of some foreign film I'd never heard of.Jude took off his vest and unbuttoned the top two buttons of his shirt before plopping onto his massive bed. Plush blankets and pillows covered the thing and a canopy was stretched overhead. It looked incredibly soft and inviting. Jude patted the space next to him, 'coming?'I sunk onto the edge of the bed, and tucked my feet on, sitting crisscrossed a few feet away from Jude. He smiled, and settled deeper into the pillows, watching the movie with a fond sparkle to his eye. I tried to turn my own attention to it, but despite the subtitles it was a bit hard to follow, and I found my mind wandering. A tug jolted my arm and I looked down at Jude who had rolled onto his back. He looked up at me through his hair. 'Lay down. I'll explain it as we go.'I gave into his tugging and shifted to lay on my stomach. Jude happily flipped over pressing his head against my shoulder as he jibbered about the movie in my mind. I didn't have the heart to tell him that it was only making it harder to follow. But it was comfortable, and seeing the boy's excitement was… fun?I woke up with a start. The movie must have finished as I watched the screen grow dark. We had shifted positions at some point, I laid on my side, curled in on myself slightly while Jude pressed lightly into my back, his own body following my contour. A could feel his breath on my neck lightly and his thumb moved rhythmically on my waist.I blinked the blur from my eyes as I shifted to my back, "sorry. I'm still getting used to the nocturnal lifestyle."He smiled, 'it's fine. You were cute. Though I can't promise I'll allow you the position of little spoon next time. As the shorter one, that's rightfully my spot.'My mind shot back to the alley, and I turned my face to conceal my emotions. I'd have to process that when I wasn't literally enveloped by the other party.'Let me know how that goes.'I pressed my lips shut, aggravated with myself for letting my thoughts stray so far considering my company.Jude sighed, 'I know it's a lot to get used to. And I can't say I won't abuse my powers. Even if I could shut it off I don't see the point in doing so… I guess I'm trying to say…'The pause went on for too long, 'trying to say?''I mean, you and me...' He placed a hand on the side of my face, guiding me to look at him. His face was oddly serious, a slight furrow between his brows.My heart started beating a bit faster. Was he about to confess? I'd been so swept away by the day that I wasn't sure what response I'd come out with. But still. This would be a major step towards my goal based off the parameters I'd been given.'I just want you to know…'My heart pounded a bit harder'That you are much too fun to tease.' A grin spread over his face. I felt the blood rushing to my face, having been thoroughly had. I smacked at his chest and rolled over. Hiding my face until I was sure I wasn't blushing like a school boy.Jude poked my side, "sorry. Sorry. Please forgive me. You know it's just my nature to tease."Sensing the blush fade I stood, "and it's in my nature to call it a night."I smoothed out my clothes, not sparing the boy a glance as I continued, "I'm starving, and obviously quite tired. I'm sure you'll come bother me again tomorrow."Jude smiled, standing, "how can I resist when you ask so nicely."I rolled my eyes and he chuckled, standing himself and opening the door for me, 'coast is clear. Sleep well.' He smiled fondly as he said so. Only adding to my irritation.'Yeah. You too.' And with that I slipped into the hall, leaving his cushy over furnished room for my own small sparse one.
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The outfit for the day was what I'd first met Abigail in. Her long skirt swished elegantly around her ankles as she mopped the floor. My own version was a simple pair of well-fitted black slacks, a shirt who's neckline mimicked the dress bodice's, and a plain black cross tie. It felt refreshingly simple compared to the initial outfit I'd been given.Abigail asked me to guess who this belonged to and my response was almost automatic, "Lord Eric."Her face remained neutral, not giving away whether my guess was right. Though, this one I was fairly confident on.And the timing was quite perfect. According to my accomplice, today was the day to enact the first step of my plan.Though the more time went on the less it felt like Jude was helping me accomplish my goals, and more like I was helping him with his. But either way the end game was still in my favor, and my fondness for the boy made feeling a bit of a pawn more tolerable.I tried to stay near enough the entrance with my chores that I would hear the mysterious guest come in, but the hours ticked on and still I had heard no one enter. It should have been a bit of an event considering the way Montgomery treated my arrival, but I was growing more and more anxious that I had missed my mark.I was dusting one of the many rooms that held no apparent purpose when I heard a low rumbling voice from the hall. Not Montgomery's nor the gardener I'd met before, Elias's voice was much too soft and Jude's I'd grown familiar with to the point of immediately ruling him out. That left only Eric. Well. And Cookie. But they'd already started prepping our final meal of the day, and I didn't suspect they'd managed to finish in the fifteen minutes since Abigail announced the event. I pressed my ear to the door and listened, I couldn't quite make out their conversation but I could confirm Eric was the male voice, and after listening closely I picked out a soft one responding to him. The woman was even harder to understand, what I could hear seemed polite, but not overly cautious. I tried to piece together what this meant of their relationship, or who she was, but with so little to go on I couldn't be sure.I hadn't noticed how good the sound proofing on the bedrooms were until I was standing outside Eric's door, trying to gain insight as to what sort of guest this was, and failing miserably. I resolved to just charge in blind. I rapped lightly on the door and pushed it open, trying to keep my expression and posture casual so it seemed like I had no idea the owner of the room was currently in there.The sight that greeted me was…Well, the woman from earlier immediately caught my attention. Her wrists were tied in red rope that connected her to the bed frame overhead suspending her just shy of being able to comfortably sit on her feet which were folded under her. She had a sash tied around her eyes and a ball gag in her mouth, the shine of drool caught the light on her chin. She was also fully erect to a point that looked almost painful, her head sporting a bead of precum. Whatever I had walked in on seemed to be consensual at least, she didn't tug at her restraints or show any sign of distress. Even as I stepped in she seemed calm, either not noticing or not caring that she had a sudden audience.I'd like to say standing dumbfounded was part of my plan, but I was honestly shocked to my core. I'm not sure how long passed before Eric cleared his throat, and my eyes darted to him lounging on a chair in the corner, fully clothed, and just as put together as I'd ever seen him.He looked at me expectantly and I stumbled to take action, dipping into a bow, "m-my apologies sir. I didn't mean to…" my eyes wandered back to the woman."Most people would excuse themselves after walking in on sex."I folded into another bow, "yes sir. My apologies again sir." I turned on my heel, and started for the door."Did I dismiss you?"His voice held the same dangerous edge as when we first met, but also something deeper, oakier. I stopped in my tracks and slowly turned back to him, "is there anything I can do sir.""Sit." He pointed at a small sofa pressed against another wall. The game I thought would be in my court was suddenly very much not, I felt disoriented as he yanked me around by my, for the moment at least, metaphoric collar. My line of sight was directly in line with the bed unless I purposefully swung my head away. I sat trying to keep my gaze unfocused.Eric stood languidly and walked to the suspended woman, pulling her hair back and purring into her ear, "we have company now. Make sure you put on a good show."He swung a heavy gloved hand, catching her ass and pulling out a breathy moan. A rough hand reached up, undoing the tie on her gag, and she took a heaving breath, her first unobstructed one in who knew how long. Her freedom didn't last long however, as Eric pressed fingers into her mouth. Without instruction she began sucking on them, and as he pulled them out she also licked his gloved palm, coating the leather in a slight sheen of saliva.She seemed to know exactly what she was meant to do, but instead of any praise Eric clicked his tongue, "needy."His hand roughly wrapped around her shaft sliding down to the base at a breakneck pace. The woman's back arched as she tossed her head back, moaning again. Eric slammed through two or three more strokes before stopping suddenly. The woman whined at the sudden lack of stimulation, bucking her hips slightly in a desperate attempt to get some sort of traction.His growly voice was directed to her, but I noticed with a start that he was looking at me, his expression unreadable, "good girl. Do it yourself."She moaned as she fucked in and out of his leather clad hand, but Eric clicked his tongue again, brow furrowed, "don't be greedy. Slower."She immediately switched to a snail's pace, slowly dragging herself through his fist. I could see her small twitches and shudders as her head caught on the stitching, but despite her obvious want to she didn't speed up in the least. His other hand traveled to her chest, rolling her nipple between his gloved fingers. He pressed down, clamping it between the back of two of his digits and tugged, the whiny moan that earned was like nothing I'd ever heard. As he released I could see her body rack with pleasure, her pace faltering.He abandoned her nipple to plunge into her mouth, and he roughly pumped his two fingers in and out, causing a light gag before pulling out, scissoring around her tongue.From my angle I couldn't see the back of her, but I could clearly see Eric's arm motion as well as her expression as he plunged into her. Not giving her time to adjust before setting a breakneck pace. Her own thrusting stopped as she arced up, a choked cry of pain piercing the air."Did I tell you to stop?"She shook her head, and did her best to continue. Her mouth opened, but her words were unintelligible, mumbling for a moment before I was able to catch her meaning, "hurts. Too dry. It hurts."He cocked his head, "does my slut want me to lube her up?"She nodded, whining, "please. Please sir.""Since you asked so pretty… come here."His eyes had landed on me, and I was suddenly aware of my presence in this room that I had somehow lost track of.I blinked, "me?"He didn't grant me a response, instead maintaining painfully direct eye contact while not slowing his pace as he finger fucked his play thing.I stood, uncertain and walked a bit closer. Pausing about halfway to them."Spit on it."It didn't take me any time to catch his meaning, but I still hesitated. Taking a jerky step forward before pausing.His voice grew even more icy, "did I stutter? Or are you forgetting your position? Spit on it."That was enough threat to propel me forward. I leaned slightly over where they were connected my face mere inches from Eric's as I willed my suddenly very dry mouth to obey. After a painstaking moment I managed to gather enough moisture and spat. The woman jerked slightly and Eric began pumping her at the same fast pace and with the same force as he had before. Her body twitched uncontrollably as she let out another string of pleas, "hurts, still hurts, please."He flicked his eyes to me and cocked his brow. It took me a few moments to work up more spit to ease her pain. As I leaned over I placed a hand on the bed beside her before repeating the same process as before. This seemed to ease the way enough and she moaned at the renewed sensation.I began to back away, planning to return to my seat on the wall but Eric stopped me, "on your knees. Right there."The command in his voice had me dropping before I could even think, and for a brief moment I wondered if his power was related to mind control. I didn't ponder long though before my thoughts were interrupted by the loud sound of a solid smack. I looked up in time to see the aftermath of Eric's backhand across the woman's face.He moved, grabbing her by the hair and growling into her ear, "can't even get our guest aroused. Useless bitch."She started to fumble over an apology but Eric tossed her head back and landed another smack before she could manage to choke one out.I caught up, rising to my feet and shifting between them. "Stop. That isn't… I…" I realized my position at that moment and a pang of fear rushed through me. Eric stood in front of me, his powerful build making me feel incredibly small as I body blocked the bound woman."Hey. It's okay. It's just play." The voice behind me startled me, suddenly devoid of all whine and moan that it had held. I suddenly felt very embarrassed, but my feet stayed firmly in place. "Shit. Did he not?” She sighed heavily, “Eric, take me down. Now."He obeyed immediately, moving around me to undo her wrist ties and take off her blindfold.She took me in for a moment as she moved to cover her lower half with a sheet, sitting comfortably back. Her eyes were bright and intelligent, they seemed to pierce into me, reading my posture and expression before she turned to Eric, a very unamused look on her face."Did you skip a step, love?"He looked away without a word, it almost seemed like he was pouting.The woman sighed again, "That man is going to be the end of me. I'm so sorry for this dear. I had assumed you'd been looped in and consented but it seems like we put you through quite the ordeal."I shook my head, "no. It's fine. I wasn't but-""No buts about it. That is not how we play here," she focused her gaze on Eric, "right?"He remained silent, apparently still sulking."Give me a moment to get dressed if you don't mind dear."She stood, pulling the sheet with her to cover the majority of her form as she walked to the bathroom door.As she clicked the door shut Eric mumbled, "it seemed like you were into it."I turned to study him, he'd done a complete 180 from the calm confident man I'd seen in him before. "It's really fine. I didn't not…" my face flushed, too embarrassed to finish that thought, "a heads up next time though?"His expression changed as he turned to me, a bit of confusion on his face that slowly melted back into a cocky expression more akin to what I was used to. He raised a brow, "next time?"I was spared a response as the lady reentered. She wore a sleek black dress that ended just above her knees. I won't pretend that I hadn't noticed her breathtaking form before, but even clothed she was gorgeous. I found myself fighting to keep my eyes on her face as she addressed Eric with a nasty look.She was clearly displeased with his refound confidence, "I'll deal with you in a moment.""Giselle, I think-""I said 'in a moment.'"She looped her arm through mine, pulling me out the door.We walked in silence to the garden, seemingly a favorite spot for leaving the earshot of the lords of the estate. She loosed my arm and sat on a wrought iron bench. Motioning that I could take a seat as well. I complied and she turned to me, "are you okay?""Yes. I do appreciate your concern though."I smiled a bit, but her expression remained serious, “you need to keep your distance from him.”My smile faltered as I tried to read her, was this a jealous warning, a threat?I didn't land on an answer before she continued, “Eric and I have a pre-established set of expectations and rules. We're naturally on equal footing," she flashed a glimpse of sharp teeth beneath her lip, "me relinquishing control is a conscious decision." The cold night air whipped into a wind, fanning out her long hair as she watched me.“I didn't realize...”Her expression remained somber as she continued, “Eric has very little regard for human autonomy. If you choose to dance with him you will find yourself caught at his tempo. And if you can't keep up, that waltz will eventually tear you to shreds." She looked deep into my eyes, apparently not seeing the fear she had wanted. “He. Will rip you to shreds.”She had me fixed in that same piercing gaze as before, but something in it had shifted, I felt myself fold in slightly, fear pricking at my neck. She noticed my shift and deflated slightly, "I won't hurt you, you can rest assured in that."I gave her a smile, but the lingering fear kept me alert.“Just consider it a warning from a wise old croon."Croon was not the word I'd pick to describe the woman in front of me, but I moved past that. "I appreciate that. I'll do my best to keep my head down."She chuckled and stood, "I don't know you well, but I can tell that's not true." Her demeanor shifted, a hip sliding out a bit. “If you keep this up someone will slit your throat. Hopefully I get to see it with a pretty little collar before that."She winked and strode off, back towards the manor, leaving me unsure if that was meant to be flirtatious or frightening. I decided it was both. And also that I didn't mind that, before collecting myself and heading back to the manor as well.
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I think my cheeks probably kept their rosey hue the entire work day.Abi was grinning ear to ear when she poked her head into my room in the morning."You seem to be in a good mood.""Do I?" She seemed ready to burst, but somehow kept her cool.“Am I allowed to open my own wardrobe today?"I'd hit the nail of the head, her smile grew impossibly wider, and she nodded, unable to talk around the threat of giggles.I groaned internally, if it had her this excited it was sure to be something ridiculous.The uniform far exceeded my expectations however. It was styled after a french maid, an impossibly short skirt with a massive cupcake silhouette sported all sorts of bows and ruffles. The petticoat that was meant to sit under it must've weighed 3 pounds? An enormous thing densely packed with its own trims and ruffles. The black blouse had puffy sleeves, a high neckline, and an obnoxiously sized bow under the collar. The apron was just as frilly and ridiculous. A pair of black gloves and long white socks were paired with it, along with a set of little heels that I was unsure if I would be able to walk in. I looked to Abigail in disbelief, and she drank in my reaction, laughing loudly. "Get dressed, we can discuss your theories as we work."As I emerged, wobbling on the heels I realized why Abi hadn't fully entered, her uniform matching mine entirely. I feel a bit perverse to say that it suited her, but she moved so naturally and the frills made the already bubbly girl look about ready to float away. I, on the other hand, felt ridiculous. My long legs looked gangly and awkward, the socks doing little to disguise my knobby knees. The blouse was made with a flat chest in mind, but even still it felt awkward on me without breasts to fill it out. The shoes had heels that I guessed were just under two inches, and despite my best efforts I tottered and leaned as I tried to walk.I furrowed my brow, deep in thought as I cleaned. "This definitely feels like something Jude would pick out. He's the only boy ridiculous enough to make someone wear this. But that would mean the pink outfit was from Elias, and he really doesn't seem the type to design something with a boob window."Abigail smiled through, offering no hints."This outfit in theory is slightly more modest, but he really doesn't strike me as a maximalist.""Do you have your final answer yet?"I sighed, thinking a few moments longer, "this one is Jude, the normal outfit was Eric, and the pink one must be Elias."Abigail made a buzzer sound, "nope.""Elias was this one and Jude the pink?""You didn't get a single one right actually. Jude was the designer of the pink one with the 'boob window', Elias picked out the modest one, and Lord Eric was actually the one who came up with this."My face blanched, I should have known. I was now unfortunately well acquainted with his sadistic tendencies. Though this wasn't quite in line with the play I'd witnessed. My face went from bloodless to full of it in a furious blush as I remembered the events of the day prior.Abigail noticed, but must not have thought much of my expression, just giggling, "did I rock your perception of our stoic lord?""I think you rocked my perception of the whole world."She grinned as she went back to her task with new effort. A bit of a scuffing sound drew my attention up and I caught Elias's eye, who had stepped to the doorway. He stood frozen, hands shaking for a moment."Did you need something m'lord?"He opened his mouth, then closed it, reopened it, shut it again, then turned on his heel and strode away. A few moments later followed by an exasperated Jude who barely spared me a glance on his way by. How odd. While this get up may not have been Jude's choice, any opportunity to see me squirm would be one he'd snatch up immediately. I focused back on my own chore, but the nagging worry over what that could mean haunted me.Of course I would be wearing the short skirt the day I met the final member of the household. Cookie was in the ballroom when Abi and I entered. They turned with a wide smile on their face, and immediately moved to greet me. A warm, large, hand enveloped mine in a shake.I smiled as well, “you must be Cookie. It's a pleasure to finally meet you.”They dropped my hand, still beaming, and signed something. My eyes went wide as I tried to keep up, only understanding one or two of the dozen signs quickly flashed at me.Abi cleared her throat before I could panic to much, “they said ‘It's nice to meet you too.’ And asked that you ‘pardon the mess, they haven't cleaned in here for a while.’”I smiled, “well. Its your lucky day then. We're here to help.” I lifted my mop bucket slightly to punctuate my point, and was greeted with yet another smile.I was about done with the room, Abigail and Cookie had moved on about an hour earlier, leaving me to finish detailing the molding between the walls and floor, when I sensed a figure behind me. The most likely perp was Jude, but as the figure grew closer the shadow I was doused in seemed too large, and the energy behind me a too unsettling. I spun as best I could from my sitting position, but the heels did little to help, sliding under me until I was leaning back, tangled up and prone, staring up at the figure above me.Eric regarded me coolly, his eyes raking up and down me, making me very aware of the way the skirt was flipped up on my legs, hardly covering my crotch.My heart was pounding as he looked down at me, "follow me."He turned and started walking calmly, leaving me scrambling to get my footing and follow.I kept my head down as I followed through the halls, I could feel my heart in my head and toes as we walked.'Oooo spicy.' Jude's voice entered my mind. I swiveled my head to see where he was, but couldn't locate him.'He really likes the clumsy shy type. Don't act too clingy, and put up a bit of resistance. I'll stay nearby so if it seems like he's going to kill you let me know. I'll swoop in and save the day.’'Is that likely?''It's not unlikely, but I'll be able to pull you out. My only stipulation is that you'll owe me one.'I kept looking around as I asked mentally 'what does owing you one entail?'I waited for a response, but none came. Leaving me feeling even more vulnerable.I took a deep breath. This was a good opportunity. If I could keep my calm and play my role well I could start winding the man around my finger.We came up on Eric's door, which he opened and held for me, "L-lord Eric I….""You?"I hesitated then shook my head."Then get in."I ducked my head and moved inside. Hearing the door latch and lock behind me.I made sure to keep my eyes bambi wide as I looked to the man, "did you need something?"He slowly stalked up to me, each time he took a step I followed until the backs of my legs found a dresser. He kept crowding in, grabbing my chin between his fingers."I need you to fix your mistakes. You did a piss poor job cleaning last time you mopped these floors," he gestured to a bucket and hand brush on the ground, "fix it."I swallowed hard and nodded, slipping from his grip and moving to the water bucket. Knowing good and well that I wasn't the last person to clean this room, but damned if I were to mention that. I lowered myself as gracefully as I could in my uncoordinated state, getting onto my hands and knees, crossing my heeled ankles over one another and began to scrub. Eric leaned against the dresser, watched me calmly as I got to work. As I scrubbed the first few feet I made sure to position myself so he had a view up my skirt. Cursing myself for wearing such plain boxers rather than something sensual. I heard the floors creak lightly as he moved up on me, but kept my position steady.My heart had quickened to a fluttering rate as he leaned over, fainting a finger over my ass and flicking up my skirt. His palm pressed it into my back as his other hand wrapped around my neck, pulling me to a kneeling position.His breath was hot and voice rough against my ear, "seems like you're enjoying your punishment a bit too much."His fingers flexed, restricting my breathing as I cursed myself for not putting up more of a fight. My head started to swim before he moved his hand, leaving me in a gasp that was cut off as he started roughly unpopping each of the buttons on the top of my uniform. His other hand had shifted down while I was without air slipping under the elastic of my briefs, and he roughly squeezed my ass, the leather digging into me as I tried not to moan."P-please. I don't-"He was pulling my sleeves off at this point, "did I ask for your input?"I allowed a whimper to escape me, delighting in the way his pupils expanded at the sound. He jerked me up, pulling me to my feet, his hands pressing painfully into my throat and ass as he slammed me into the dresser. Bending me over at the waist. My toes barely scraped the ground, which he took full advantage of, pulling the shirt clean off. Leaving me in boxers and an apron. One hand pressed my head into the hard surface of the dresser as the other prodded a horribly gloved finger against my asshole.Genuine anxiety rocked through me, it wasn't something I couldn't handle, but it was going to hurt like hell if he forced his way in like that."Please. Don't. I don't want it. It's going to hurt." He clicked his tongue, "punishment should." As he pressed his finger in hard, sliding almost to the first knuckle as I shouted in pain."You're going to tear it. Please." My voice came out in a whimper that surprised me, certainly not a sound I was incapable of, but never on accident."Tell me you want it. I'll make it hurt less if you do a good enough job," the growl above me was accentuated by more pressure sliding me painstakingly further onto his finger. I felt myself seizing around him, and my pleas came out broken, "I want this, want you to punish me, please."I could hear the smile in his voice, "how?"My mind came up blank. What response was he looking for here? "Want you to touch me."Satisfied enough he pulled out of me opening one of the drawers beside me. A bottle popped open and the obnoxious sound of squelching lube assured me even before I could feel his slicked up finger. I could still feel the stitching of the glove, and the stretch around his thick finger, but it wasn't just pain. A knot of pleasure pooled within me as I moaned around his touch. Before I could fully adjust to the first finger he plunged in another, scissoring them open as he thrust in and out of me at a breakneck pace.I could hardly keep track of the string of pleas and curses that poured from me. I couldn't help but fight back, my legs kicking and hands pushing. I landed a pretty solid blow with the blunt of my heel against his hip, but he didn't even flinch, just kept going, twisting and swirling his fingers as he violated me. His one spare hand holding me firmly in place. I swung my leg again, catching him in the side."Carefull, you're going to get me all riled up.""Please. Slower. Hurts. Hurts so bad.""Good."A third finger pushed into me pulling out another cry of pain.A voice chimed up in my mind 'is all going well? Seems like you're having fun?''Fuck. You.''No, you're fucking Eric right now actually, this is Jude.'Eric pumped especially deep, curling up and scraping against my walls, causing me to shout some more obscenities.'Hmm. Need a rescue baby boy?'I kept silent for a bit, well at least I didn't project anything, I knew he could hear my line of thinking, it took me a few moments to make up my mind. 'no… I need to do this.' "Fuck!"'Okie dokie!’I turned my attention back to Eric, “please, a little slower. Please?”“Keep bitching and I'll make things worse.”I heard Jude sigh mentally, an odd feeling, ‘I just wish I could watch. Though, hearing your thoughts as you get fucked? Not too bad.'The fingers within me suddenly disappeared completely, ripping me away from any response. The hand on the back of my head had shifted down to the small of my back, and I started turning my head just as I felt something bulbose press against my hole.Shit. Was he going to fuck me? It did seem like the natural progression of things, but something about it rocked me so hard that I started fighting with renewed effort, thrashing. I was just about to call out for Jude as it started slipping in, and I realized it wasn't anything organic being put into me, but a large metal plug. The stretch was much wider than even three fingers and at some point it paused, unable to push further."Shit you've got a tight little hole. All that prep and still." He hummed, considering, "now there are two options here. I force this in and maybe you tear. Or. You get on your knees and beg me real pretty and I consider using something smaller."For the first time since being pushed up on the dresser the weight pinning me down lifted. I knew immediately that I would be begging, but put on a show for him anyway. Slowly, shakily pushing myself up. Then sinking heavily to the floor. Keeping my heels under me and spreading out my thighs, hands on the ground between them as if I couldn't quite support my own weight. A slight tremble to my lip as I looked up seemed like a good bonus, and I was rewarded by his gaze darkening as I met his eyes."M-master?"He hummed in acknowledgment."Master, please. I want you to use something a bit smaller."He took a step forward so he was right up on my, sliding his foot between my hands, "who does?”“Me.”“And what are you?"I knew he was looking for a 'your slut sir' or something of the sort but Jude's advice rang in my ears."Wh-what do you mean?"Sure enough a dangerous glint caught in his eye as he crowded down, a knee between my legs as he caught my chin, "who do you belong to?"I hesitated, "y-you sir?""Good boy," he roughly released my face.A hand reached between my legs, pressing into my apron. He scowled a bit, adjusting his hand down as it dawned on me. I called out mentally, anxiety bubbling within me, 'Jude. Does this guy think I'm cis?'A moment of pause, 'why would anyone other than me have any reason to think otherwise.''And you don't think that might cause some problems?'His voice came back almost sing song, 'we'll find out~' as I was knocked harshly onto my back, boxers pulled down and apron flipped up.I watched his face closely, ready to cry out for help if things started going downhill.He stared intently at my groin, and I found myself wiggling under his gaze. I shifted, putting a hand between us, but he roughly grabbed my wrist before it could land on the ground."I didn't realize we had an extra hole to play with. He placed his free hand over the opening, applying a bit of pressure, but not enough for any real penetration."And such a cute little cock." His thumb flicked up, bumping harshly against it and sending a jolt through my body.Eric seemed pleased with my reaction. He peeled me off the floor, easily lifting my body into his arms as he moved across the room. He lowered himself onto a chair, positioning me to straddle his lap. He steadied a hand on the small of my back as he began pressing into me, it didn't hurt like my ass, but the pleasure pulled light moans from me. Eric's thumb once again pressed up further to fiddle with my dick. My back stiffened and tossed myself into it, not going very far as his hand pressed me back in towards him. Another finger came up to join his thumb, and he lightly rolled me between them. The pleasure was intense enough to border on pain, my hands gripped at his shoulders, the fabric of his shirt sliding between my fingers. He kept working me like this, using my own slick as lube, tugging and pinching, I was surprised to find the whines and pants that filled the air came from my own mouth, it sounded like something straight out of a porno. My vision blurred as my body convulsed, I found myself chanting, "too much. It's too much. Please. Too much."But it fell on unsympathetic ears, the only response I got was a "shh shh shh," and an especially rough stroke. I managed to focus my eyes briefly to try to read his expression, and caught his eyes, watching my expression intently, corner of his lip curled up. Embarrassment joined the other complex emotions, and I tried desperately to free myself of his hold, but his fingers dug bruisingly into my hip as he continued at the same vicious pace.An especially hard pinch at the base halted my struggle and my vision went back to unfocused, eyes rolling back and jaw going slack. He followed that up with a rough thumb over the top of the head, clamping that same pressure back down and grinding his fingers slightly.My legs gave out and I sat hard on his lap as he ran a finger up the underside and then one on either side as he went back down, "are you close?" I couldn't see his expression, but the sadistic glee rang clear his voice.I nodded as best I could through the wave of sensations that hit as he worked the same area at the base to exhaustion.He purred, "use your words."I tried to focus enough to form a coherent sentence, but it came out sloppily as he fucked his last two fingers into me, still keeping up his onslaught on my overstimulated dick, "'m close, gonna cu- gonna cum."He leaned forward, mouthing at my nipple through the apron I realized I still had on, he pulled back, "not until I tell you to."My eyes went wide as he bit down hard on my nipple, the feeling of teeth and fabric sending waves of pleasure through me, at the same moment he fucked his fingers into me, hooking them and pressing against my wall, and still he managed to catch my dick between to fingers, pulling roughly. Orgasm ricocheted through my body, my head going fuzzy as my hands gripped and ungripped Eric's shoulders rhythmically. I just started coming down when I felt the man's fingers scoop at my entrance, and before I could fully understand what was happening his fingers were pressing into my ass, fucking my own cum into me."Sir. Please please. I just-"He hummed, "you did just- didn't you. Without my permission. Slutty boys who can't follow their master's rules get punished."The fingers left me and I felt cool metal against my hole, a sleeker shape than before, but still uncomfortably large as he forced it into me, ignoring my whines and moans. As the last of two lumps cleared my entrance he grabbed me once again, his impossible strength easily maneuvering me to have my lower legs straddling him while my hands caught my weight on the floor. I felt an odd tickling sensation on the back of my thigh, but didn't dare turn around to investigate."It suits you well." He grabbed the plug lightly, twisting it within me, I let out a faint, choked moan, and felt his muscles contract slightly with pleasure. "When I call for you from this point forward you'll have this in before you come to my door. Am I understood?""Yes sir.""Good."He picked me up from under the armpits as he stood, placing me on the floor without sparring me a second glance, "get dressed and leave. I'll call for you when I feel like it."I nodded, but doubt he saw as he walked into the bathroom.I was left to put my boxers and dress back onto my now sticky, sweaty body. As I lifted my boxers I felt that same tickle, and looking back realized that from the plug dangled a long feline tail. My face reddened as I tucked it away, hurrying through the rest of my clothes and escaping into the hall.I half expected Jude to greet me, but was glad to find myself left alone on my walk of shame back to my own room.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Jude was leaned casually against the wall as I rounded the first corner, 'I'd ask how it went but I was privy to all your thoughts, so it seems redundant.'I slapped at his arm, turning to walk down the hall, hiding my blush without a word, mental or otherwise.Jude walked leisurely behind me, "your room or mine?"I turned to fix him in a stare, trying to read his intentions, 'and why do we need to meet in a bedroom?'He pulled his hands from behind his head to hold them out in surrender, 'I've got no plans for the day, just thought you'd want privacy to discuss. I want to hear your thoughts on Eric and I have my own news on Elias.'My posture dropped slightly, as I lowered my guard, 'mine. But you have to wait outside for a moment. I want to change.'I couldn't keep my mind from wandering to the very uncomfortable plug currently grinding in my ass, and cursed myself as I heard a snicker behind me.We made it to my room without bumping into a soul, and I sent a silent thanks to whatever higher power had allowed that.Jude leaned against the frame as I opened the door, "sure I can't come watch? Someone might happen upon me if you leave me out here."He didn't have a hint of worry in his voice. And my response didn't have any sympathy in return, "a smooth talker like you? You'll manage some sort of excuse I'm sure."And with that I clicked my door shut. Quickly peeling myself out of the layers of frills and ruined underwear. I took a deep breath and pulled the plug out as well, not very fond of the lewd popping sound it made upon exit. I held it for a few moments, hands out awkwardly in front of me as I looked about for a place to store it. I was glad no one was around to see my stiff movement as I placed the plug in the bedside table, deciding that was the least terrible location. I didn't have the luxury of a shower, but I toweled myself down best I could, before putting on a pair of flannel pants and a plain t-shirt.I was surprised that my wardrobe had about four more outfits than I could account for tucked inside. I pondered for a moment before realizing with a sinking feeling in my stomach that the others were from Jude and I's shopping trip. Best not to mention it. He was trying to ruffle me, and the best defense was ignorance.After a slow breath, I opened the door to let my conspirator back in. He raked his gaze up and down before entering, 'I definitely prefer the maid dress, but we can deal with your lack of cute jammies at a later date.'I shut the door before responding, "these are normal pajamas, what more do you want from me?”He sat on the edge of my bed, crossing his legs in a theatrical motion, 'something lacy, maybe sheer. Definitely something that shows off that waist. I've yet to see it in its full glory, you know.'I rolled my eyes, urging the rosey heat in my cheeks to go back down, 'I'm not a dress up doll.''Aren't you?' I fixed him in a glare but that only got him to chuckle, "so. Your thoughts?"I leaned against the wall, unwilling to move closer, 'it was fine-'"Just fine?""Shut up." 'His tastes are certainly interesting, nothing I think I can't handle as of yet though. Only problem is he didn't really touch himself, or have me touch him… I don't even know if he got hard now that I think about it. Is that normal for him?'Jude shrugged, and stood, having gotten bored of the distance, 'dunno. Contrary to popular belief I'm not omnipotent.''I can ask Giselle if I see her again.'He leaned against the wall a few feet from me, "Or one of his other playthings."I furrowed my brow, I had assumed Giselle wasn't his only partner, but Jude's tone implied a good number.He responded despite me not asking directly, 'I'd say a rotating cast of three or four, and once or twice a month he'll meet with a one night stand or a fling.'I groaned mentally, that was way more competition than I had been hoping for.'I did tell you it wouldn't be easy.'"I don't even know if he liked it."Jude stood from his leaned position and started lazily pacing the room, kicking his feet put in front of him, 'he did. I don't make a habit of listening in on his sessions, so I can't say how you compare, but he was definitely into you.''You can read the minds of your own kind as well?''Yup! Being privy to every private thought a vampire is having though… it doesn't make me very popular. Even among my housemates. Eric avoids me as much as possible.''Elias isn't bothered?''Elias doesn't have any thoughts he needs to hide. Well, today may have been the exception. Did you see how flustered he got?''I did.' But Jude not sparring me a second glance was the part of that interaction that had really stuck in my head.He stopped his pacing, and for once there wasn't any smile in his voice, "did I make you feel lonely?"I just about choked, "what? No. It was just out of character, I thought you might be sick or something."He stepped over and scooped up my hand, placing a faint kiss on my knuckle as he met my eyes, "I'm sorry I made you feel that way. I'll be careful to pay more attention."I pulled my hand back smiling through my nerves, 'I thought you said you weren't going to do anything tonight. Not into sloppy seconds.'"I said I didn't have any plans. But you may have changed my mind. And I am quite fond of sloppy seconds." His hand caught my waist as his eyes dropped to my lips.I rolled out of his grip and took a station half sitting on my bedside table. 'I wanted to ask. You knew about my… biology. But you said the others don't?''I only guessed because I've had my head on your lap a few times. Was that information you thought we could smell on you?' Jude's lip turned up into a teasing smile."Montgomery knows, I'd asked if that would be an issue.""Wasn't a detail he shared when we looked over your resume."'So the dress…''Not a microaggression, just Eric's perverted tastes.'"I don't know if that's better or worse."His smirk turned into a toothy smile.I felt my heart flutter in a way it definitely shouldn't have been, and I stumbled to speak before Jude caught on, "so Elias?"He nodded, moving back to the bed and propping himself up next to me, 'mhmm. I thought I'd convinced him to ask you to chat over tea. But he chickened out at the last moment.''What's he into? I don't want to fumble my acceptance if he manages to try again.''He'll like your confidence. Don't be a smart ass like you are with me, you'll break that boy's heart, but you can take the lead a bit with him.'"Good to know. Anything else?"'He's only really been in one relationship. The man who turned him.''Am I similar to him?'Jude's eyes grew serious, "no. And you should keep it that way."I nodded, filing away that obvious can of worms, "any other updates I should know about?""Not that I can think of." He didn't make any move to get out of my bed.'I'm going to go bathe then. Feel free to leave whenever the mood strikes you?'I collected my toiletries and headed a few doors down.I remerged feeling significantly less gross, I wasn't sure if the smell of sex was obvious on me before, but the lingering fear of that possibility was gone. The steam puffed into the colder hallway as I opened the door, and I stopped hard in my tracks, "Mr. Montgomery?"His small glasses had fogged up, but he kept perfectly stoic. "Mr. Merryweather. If you would be so kind as to follow me."The silence was deafening as we walked through the halls. My heart pounded loudly in my chest. Had he discovered my ulterior motives? Or that I had just gotten done with a very raunchy play session with one of our lords? My legs were all but trembling as we entered an office. He positioned himself behind the desk and motioned to a chair in front of it.I sat, schooling my expression."Mr. Merryweather, I have unfortunately come to you asking a favor."My nerves turned to confusion, but he continued, "I will not bore you the details of vampire politics or the logistics of feeding those whose diet consists of human blood. But we… I. Have fallen short of expectations, and cannot deliver our masters the sustenance they require."I nodded, gears turning as I tried to keep track of the conversation."It is beyond your duties, but I am formally requesting you allow our masters to feed on you."I kept nodding before catching what had actually been said, "you want me to… isn't that a bit taboo?""Extremely. And while I trust the masters to have enough restraint to leave you with your life. Being drained will be neither safe nor comfortable."I shifted my gaze to the floor, considering all the possible repercussions, and the handful of benefits that could come from it."As such this is not an order, and I assure you your job and position will remain stable regardless of your answer.”I kept my gaze down, still thinking, “I appreciate that.”He wasn't done though, “I would not ask this if the masters' health were not in jeopardy, however. So. What say you?"My eyes traveled back up, my mind made, "I accept."He nodded, studying my face, "then let us go over the details."The sky outside the window held that predawn hazy gray quality as I left the office. The sun would be upon us shortly. Head spinning with all the information I'd been given as I made my path through the twisting halls. There really were many risks I'd need to be cautious of. If Ieft any of them bloodless for too long they would have a hard time controlling themselves when feeding. But if I allowed feeding too regularly my health would suffer and I would become easily sick. Montgomery assured me I wouldn't be their only source of blood, but it seemed like even with my help they would be just shy of comfortable quantities. I asked if any of the other staff would be helping, but they all had good reasons not to be asked. Abby was immunocompromised and the risks were far greater for her. The garden boy, Arnold, was quite seriously afraid of blood, and had fainted just at the mention when Montgomery had tried to ask. Cookie was reportedly forbidden from donating, Montgomery's tone as he relayed this stopped me from asking any follow up questions. And while Montgomery himself was a frequent donator, his age limited the quantity he was able to give. The mental image of Montgomery exposing his neck for his lords was enough to send shivers down my spine. So I decided to think as little about that as possible.Just as I was considering this I felt arms around my waist, and a forehead press into the bottom of my neck, pulling me with a start from my thoughts.It only took me a moment to guess who the frame and actions belonged to, "Jude, what're you…" that was when I noticed the quivering of his arms, "Jude?"We stood there for a few moments, Jude unresponsive, and me too nervous to make any sudden moves, lost at the boy's out of character actions. Finally he took a deep breath and raised his head, placing a small kiss at the base of my neck."Thought you must've fallen into the toilet." He whispered in my ear, a weak smile quivering in his voice.Normally this jab would make me groan and smack at him, but I could tell his humor was covering something, I couldn't bring myself to retaliate.He doubled down on his efforts to seem normal, unwinding himself from my waist and kicking his feet as he waltzed a few steps away from me, 'I had a really good idea.' He waited for me to respond, but I only watched him, my concern not fading. 'How about we have a slumber party? I'll go get my PJs and we can go to your room.'"Okay. Sounds good."He stopped in his tracks, anxiety coming over his face for a flicker before he straightened it back into a cocky smile, 'what? Not going to kick your feet and argue? You'll make me think you've fallen for me if you're this cooperative.''Would you be more comfortable sleeping in your room? Your bed is much bigger.'His face faltered again, this time he didn't manage to put a smile back on, 'no. Yours is better.'I nodded, and started towards my room, 'it's late. You'll fit in my pajamas well enough, c'mon.'He padded behind me, uncharacteristically quiet.It wasn't much further to my room, I dug through my dresser for my least worn looking set of sleep clothes, tossing it to Jude. "Want me to step out so you can change?"He still hadn't said much, and even now he just shook his head."Mkay, I'll just turn around. Let me know when you're done."‘Don't want to watch the show?’I turned my back, staring at the wall, 'you don't need to perform for me.''You're that head over heels for me?'I signed, 'You don't need to put on that performance either. I won't make you tell me what's wrong, but faking it like this… it's not necessary. Not with me.'I stood in silence for a while, but he still hadn't given me the okay to turn.'Jude, you done?'Still no response, I started feeling nervous that he'd somehow silently slipped out, turning to see if that was the case. But he still stood in place. He'd made it through taking his shirt off, but hadn't put the new one on, standing limply, pile of clothes at his feet, tears pouring silently down his face.I started moving towards him without a second thought. Wrapping him into a hug and pulling his face to rest against my shoulder. He still didn't make any noise, but the tears seemed to run faster, staining my shirt a darker color with their moisture. His shoulders shook violently as I smoothed my hand through his hair. I kept my breath steady, muttering an occasional 'it's okay. You're okay.' Both mentally and aloud.Eventually his shaking calmed. I slowly, inch by inch, pulled back. His face was stained with tears, and his eyes were puffy, but he seemed to have calmed. He looked so incredibly young and vulnerable like this, and I had to remind myself that he was at least 3 times my age and a cocky bastard to boot. Steeling myself from fussing over him.I slowly tugged on him, leading him to the bed, guiding him to lay down before sliding in next to him. He moved, burying his face in my chest and grabbing the fabric covering my shoulder blades. I wrapped him in my arms and patted his head, until I slowly began to drift to sleep.I woke up to the feeling of shifting between my arms, and cracked my eyes open, gazing down, bleary eyed, at the cherub-like face of Jude, who was pouting, "did I wake you up?""Yeah, It's okay though." I peered in the very dim light for my clock, "I need to be up pretty soon anyway."Jude's voice was heavy with honey as he spoke. "Hm, I wonder if you can be a bit late, I think I have the authority to approve your tardiness."He pressed my shoulder down, laying me on my back as he climbed on top, pinning me between his arms and legs. His curly hair was a mess, and I knew my posture during the day was to blame, but combined with the dangerous glint in his eyes, he looked almost feral."I'm not going to have sex with you right now."He pouted, with a whine in his tone to match, "why not?"'Because you're emotionally vulnerable. I might be an asshole manipulator, but I'm not taking advantage of that.''You slept with Eric.' He lowered himself onto one elbow, fainting the other hand down my side, wrapping it around my waist.'I did. That has nothing to do with this though… I don't know who did what to you last night, but sex isn't going to make it better.''You did that to me.' My face changed from confident to concerned. I sat up, bringing Jude with me. The leverage unfortunately meant he was sat in my lap, but it beat being pinned to the bed for this conversation. Jude looked almost surprised, I got the feeling he hadn't meant that thought to be heard by me.I thought back to the day prior, trying to figure out what I'd done, 'are you jealous of Eric?'Jude turned his head away still pouting, "nope."I wracked my brain for other possibilities, but came up blank, "what did I do?"He crossed his arms, "not gonna tell." He slowly turned back to me, pout shifting to that mischievous grin, 'unless you can convince me to.' He put a hand on my shoulder and started leaning in, his eyes flicking to my lips.I tossed my weight forward, toppling us so he was beneath me on the bed.As the surprise wore off he purred, "you know I love it when you take control."His hand wrapped around the back of my neck, guiding me down as his eyes fluttered shut. I leaned in until I was just inches above him, watching him squirm in anticipation.And bit the tip of his nose.His eyes shot open as I pushed myself off, straightening my clothes as he scowled, "that was just mean.""Maybe. But you're not wallowing anymore,” I pulled off my shirt and tossed it at him as I opened the wardrobe. His eyes softened as he shifted to lay on his stomach, feet kicking in the air as he watched me get dressed. Just my luck that it was Jude's uniform I was meant to be wearing. But I quickly put on the top, turning to pull my PJ pants down before putting the ridiculous shorts over my boxers. I looked to Jude as I pulled up the thigh high socks, and saw the desire evident on his face."I would have prefered sex I think, but that wasn't half bad."He folded up and moved off the bed, stepping up to me confidently, wrapping his arm around me. A finger traced the heart cut out, making my skin raise in goosebumps under his touch. His other hand worked it's way under the top, squeezing the bottom of my waist. "I should have made it a crop top."I flicked his forehead as I pulled away, the places he'd touched ringing with heat, "too late now. And I need to get to work."I quickly opened and shut the door. Schooling my breath and expression once I was out of sight while making sure my mind was on breakfast. Once I was confident I didn't look like a school boy who had been scolded for pulling his crush's pigtail, I pushed off, ready to get to work.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
I saw none of Eric nor Elias over the next few days. Jude would occasionally come to bother me, but Abigail and I had tasks that were best with two people, so he would meander back off before too long. Abigail had been kind enough not to mention my two disappearances, but she did comment on Jude's behavior."It seems he's taken a liking to you. Is he causing you a lot of trouble?"I shook my head, "not especially, he's like a yappy puppy, all bark no bite."Her face blanched as I said this, "that's… not my experience."I cocked my head and she continued quietly, "lord Jude is quite cruel. He loves to play tricks, and they frequently go too far, people get hurt, or he gets them to offend one of the others and they lose their job… plus he's always in your head. Nothing's private around him. The staff all avoid him as much as possible.""Sounds lonely."Abi looked at me quizzically, "doesn't he use your thoughts against you?""Sure. But it's not like he can turn off his ability. It's more my fault for thinking them than his for hearing."She seemed like she wanted to say more, but bit her tongue, simply acknowledging with a warning I'd grown quite used to, "just be careful."Another of Eric's guests came into the manor two days after we'd played. A short girl with long elegant braids. I tried to catch her eye as she left, but she looked over me as if I were a piece of furniture, and I gave up on the idea of asking her my inquiry.It was four days after Montgomery had asked me about providing blood that he called for me again. Sending Eugene, the garden boy, to fetch me.As we walked through the halls I realized I'd spoken very little to the man, "how long have you worked here Eugene?""8 years now, I was freshly 18 when my parents sent me out here.""Do you like the work?"He paused and looked at me, wary, "do you?""Well enough. The pay is good and it isn't too hard.""The constant threat of losing my life might keep me from enjoying it as much as you." He had a level of resentment in his voice that shut me up.None of the masters of the house seemed especially violent, but maybe vampiredom as a whole had left a bad taste in his mouth. I shrugged it off for now, deciding I'd poke around again later to see what I could learn.Motgomery had a very long, boring spiel about taking care of my health and holding my ground during feeding. I was to go to Elias, who was reportedly very shy about this style of eating, preferring his food packaged. But he had agreed to trying and was expecting me.I was getting ready to take my leave when Montgomery stopped me, "Mr. Merryweather. Elias is a very kind boy. But you must remember that he is also a monster. Do not let him take more of you than you are ready to give. Blood or otherwise."The ominous warning halted me, but I recieved no clarification or elaboration, instead just a curt, "that will be all."I bowed lightly and took my leave.I hadn't heard Montgomery speak of his masters in such a way before, the idea of vampires being monsters, it was far from unfamiliar, but it really seemed like the butler had nothing but respect, and perhaps a bit of fatherly love for these three. To hear him say otherwise so directly...I entered the parlor I was told to find Elias in, and was surprised to find a second occupant, sitting across from him over a chess board. Elias looked up, and raised a silent had in greeting. Eric's eyes, on the other hand, didn't even shift as I entered. He slid a piece over the board, looking to Elias for a response.Elias didn't hesitate, moving his own, "check."Eric hissed out a curse, considering the board for a few moments before begrudgingly making a move.Elias's expression remained serious as he made his move, "checkmate."Eric stood, "same time tomorrow then." And brushed past me out the door."Sorry." Elias was also standing at this point, "our games are long." He seemed to realize we were both just standing, "sorry! Have a seat. You want anything? Tea? Water?""Tea is probably a good idea. With a bit of sugar if you have it?"He nodded, hurrying around the room to get things together. He poured two cups, adding sugar to one.I took a seat on the sofa, "are you able to drink tea?"He nodded excitedly as he handed me my cup, sitting in a chair across from me, "yes. Tea is just leaf flavored water. No calories. Our bodies don't mind it like with regular food.”“That makes sense. Not something I would have considered.”He smiled, pleased with himself, “I took up brewing it after I was turned, to help me hold onto… it's just a hobby for me, I don't know that I'm any good."“I'm sure you're selling yourself short,” I smiled, taking a sip from the cup. It had a faint flowery flavor, pleasant and light, and perhaps a touch too sweet, but the sugar would help with what we were about to do, so I didn't mind."It's good. It reminds me of springtime."He beamed brightly, "there are spring flowers in it, I-I'm glad you could taste them."I took another sip as he fidgeted with his own cup."Are you liking working here?""I am. This job is a bit of a dream come true for me, something I've worked towards for quite a while, so I'm glad to have made it.""That's -ah- good." I noticed his eyes wandering more and more, to the sliver of exposed neck and my wrists."You're hungry. I won't keep you chatting any longer.""No. No. Talking was -um- nice.""I won't run away after, we can chat then," I smiled lightly as I placed my tea on a table."Would you like the door to remain open, or should I close it?"Elias grew fidgety, raising the cup to his lips before pulling it away, not having had any of the liquid, "whatever's better for you."I nodded and went to close it, sending out a mental question as I did, 'Jude. Are you nearby?'No response, my heart thudded loudly as Montgomery's warning echoed in my ears. I pulled myself together and returned to the sofa sitting as I began undoing the buttons at my collar.Elias started up, "ah here."I smiled and shifted over, making room on the sofa. He went to work, unbuttoning about halfway down, seemingly unaware of the implications that unbuttoning someone's shirt held, not a trace of ulterior motives on his face.He pulled back when he was done, unsure what to do with his now idle hands."Thank you." I pulled on the collar, exposing half my neck and a shoulder. I realized quickly that this posture had my right arm fairly pinned though. And the little bit of chance I had of pulling him off was severely restricted.Elias noticed my discomfort, "do you want to take it all the way off?""That might be for the best." I reached for my own buttons, undoing the last few and shedding my shirt.I looked back up to Elias and noticed him staring as my chest. He sensed my line of sight and looked back up, blushing furiously. "Sorry, your scars.""They're a bit unsightly aren't they?"He turned back to me, his nerves replaced by eager assurance, "not at all. They're pretty. Here." He started undoing his own shirt hurriedly, exposing his shoulder. A long white scar spread across it. I gazed at it, "what's it from?"He blushed a bit, “got caught by a knife. I was a teenager. The bullies in town had cornered this goose. I got in the way, and was left with this. The goose managed to fly off though, so I didn't mind too bad. Got scolded something awful though."I looked at it a bit more, tracking the ragged edges, it wasn't a clean cut, probably a dull knife, and certainly it hurt like hell.He smiled, "want to touch it?"I hesitated a moment, "sure." The scar had faded well over the years, but I could still feel the rough raised texture.He smiled at me as I finished and pulled his shirt back on, not bothering to button it back up. He pulled up a pant leg next, showing me another scar on his calf. "This one’s less interesting, wasn't paying much mind in the tool shed and scraped up against a pitchfork."I bent down to trace this one as well. It was a wider mark, and much shorter. It seemed like it didn't heal for nearly as long as the other."Was this recent?"He shook his head, "both were from before I was turned. Vampires don't age, but I also can't heal the marks I had any more.""I didn't realize that was the case."He pulled his pant leg back down, "most folk don't really know the little things like this.""I'm glad I'm getting to learn."He flushed pink and I watched as the color only deepened before he asked, "could I touch yours too? 'S kay if not.""Seems only fair," I gently grabbed his hand, guiding it to one of my scars. I moved it in a slow swoop down one of them before letting go, but his hand lingered. He traced it again, slower this time, my eyes were glued on his path and I didn't notice he'd leaned in until I could feel his breath heavy on my neck. His eyes met mine, full of question.I nodded placing a hand on the back of his head and pulling him in a bit closer. "Go ahead."It was a quick sharp pain as his teeth sank into me, but it quickly faded to a warm tingling sensation as he drank. His body moved, seemingly on it's own accord as instinct took over, and before I could attempt to move myself he had me pinned to the couch, his tall form hulking over me, his hand pulling gently at my head to grant him better access. His other hand had fallen to my hip, and it gripped me hard enough that I knew I'd be peppered with bruises tomorrow."Elias. That's enough."I felt my head starting to grow light, swimming slightly. But he made no move to stop.I gripped his hair and pulled lightly, "Elias! That's enough."The resistance only urged him to plunge in with more force. "Elias! You're hurting me. Stop!"My vision started to dance, darkness creeping in at the edges.I balled my fist up, and swung as hard as I could, landing heavily on his stomach. I knew it wouldn't be near enough to hurt him but the shock was enough. He pulled off with a snarl. The expression on his face made him look nothing like the sweet man I'd been touching the scars of moments before."I don't have any more to give Elias. Please."His eyes softened slightly and before I could react his lips were on mine, locking me in a dip kiss that tasted strongly of my own blood. I didn't have the energy to decide if I should reciprocate or struggle, but he didn't seem to mind. Catching my lip between his teeth before plunging his tongue into my mouth. Slowly my senses came back to me, and I managed my own teasing, pressing on his body until we had flipped positions. With me straddling him as he looked up at me with still hungry eyes. I caught his lips again, kissing him deeply. My head started swimming again, and I worried I'd faint if I kept it up. I pulled off of him and landed heavily on the couch, catching my breath and willing myself to stay conscious.Elias too seemed to be coming down from his high, his breathing growing more steady until he turned to me panic plastered on his face, "I-I just. Without permission. Sorry."I managed a faint smile as I reached up, cupping his cheek, "'s okay. Felt good."He grew increasingly red, standing up and straightening his clothes, not noticing the drops of blood staining the front of his shirt. "I'll go get Montgomery." He paused, and I thought he was going to offer another apology before he said, "thank you." And hurried out the room.I was given the rest of the day to rest, and promised another if I needed it. Abi and Cookie were the first to check on me, worry plastered across Abi's face, but I assured the both of them I was fine, and after dropping off more snacks than I knew what to do with and some water they left me to sleep. An hour passed before my door swung open again, I looked up, expecting Jude, or perhaps Montgomery, but instead Giselle entered.I tried to sit up as I spoke, "Giselle, I didn't know you were here today."She placed herself on the edge of my bed, putting a hand on my shoulder to push me back down. "Just got here. Wasn't expecting to get news of your heroism the moment I stepped in."I groaned and she chuckled."Are you alright?"I nodded, "just a little dizzy, but I'm fine really. I appreciate you coming to check on me."I suddenly realized how out of place the elegant woman looked in my rundown room, and a bit of embarrassment flushed over me."How could I resist? Part of me was hoping to play with you today too, but I suppose no good deed goes unpunished… or is it: food deed? Either way…” she sighed dramatically, and again I was left questioning whether or not she was sincere."Giselle, I did have a question for you. If you don't mind me asking.""No, I was not miss America, but I have been considering competing." She cracked a smile seeing my expression, "what is it?"I thought for a moment trying to get my wording right, but coming up blank. "There's no polite wording I'm afraid. Does Eric ever have you touch him?"She smiled, "were you a naughty boy while I was away?" I couldn't keep the blush of my cheeks, and averted my eyes with a slight pout, earning me a chuckle and a pinch of my cheek. "He prefers toys or his hands for penetration, and he's never had me suck him off or help him masterbate… I have noticed a hard on occasionally, but if he does anything with that it's behind closed doors. I've never heard otherwise from any of the others either."I nodded slowly, "good to know. Thank you."She smiled warmly and stood, "if you really want to thank me, you'll find a suitable way when you've gotten your land legs back." She threw a wink over her shoulder before pausing in the open doorway. "I'd almost forgot. There's a very angsty looking boy pacing the hall who asked me very clearly not to mention him. Anyways. Tata.""Obstinate bitch." The voice floated in from the hall as Giselle stepped out. Leaving the door open."Prissy little bastard." Giselle's sing-song voice called back from further down the hall.Jude poked his head in, "sorry. I'll let you rest.""It's fine, I'm up. Come in. Though I can't promise our usual dance today."He entered and shut the door behind him, 'that means you're too weak to fend me off if I decide to make a move.''Oh no. I'll still whoop your ass.' I smiled knowing good and well that even on a good day that was impossible.He kept a respectful amount of distance, leaning on the wall. "How'd it go?"'You want me to believe you weren't a voyeur this time?'"Would you have liked me to have been?" He raised his eyebrows."No way. I had a few moments without you chattering away inside my head, being bit was nowhere near as bad."'You know you love it.' He'd already grown bored of the wall and paced to sit at the edge of the bed.I rolled my eyes, 'you really weren't there.'"You didn't tell me it was happening.""I guess I forgot you aren't omnipotent."'This is the second time you've disappeared on me. Nearly gave me another heart attack.'"Huh?"He turned his head, "nothing."My brow scrunched as I thought, "was that why you freaked out the other night? Because I was gone?"'August. Stop. Now.'I scrunched my brow, ‘did I-’My head filled with a painful ringing, and my vision went briefly dark. As my eyes cleared Jude was standing, his back turned from me.I opened my mouth to talk, but the sensation returned, a bit more subdued, but enough to halt me. Jude turned to face me, his expression completely blank as he slowly walked towards me, 'I seem to have made an error, allowing you to think this is our game. It's not. It's my game. And you're my pawn.' He made it to the side of the bed, where I laid frozen. ‘You don't affect me. And you don't make decisions. 'I'll do what I want with you, when I want to do it.' His hand slowly pressed into my throat as he leaned closer, his lips inches from mine as he spoke aloud, "Do you understand me?" The ringing returned, the darkness following quickly behind as the world faded from me, leaving me floating in an inky expanse.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
It was the next evening when I was awoken. Abi had a worried look on her face as she held my shoulder, "hey, you okay?"I nodded, pushing myself up a bit, my throat felt dryer than the Sahara, but otherwise I was fine, "water?""Yeah. Here you go." She watched as I chugged a few gulps, "I think you should sleep some more, at least a few hours."I pulled the glass from my lips, breathless, "don't want to leave you with the extra work.""Better that than having you collapse.""I'm fine.""It took me ten minutes to shake you awake, August. You're staying here."I looked at her a bit dumbfounded. 'Really?'She didn't respond, and it took me a few moments to realize that was because I hadn't actually spoken. Maybe the blood loss had caused some disorientation."Have you seen Jude tonight?"Her face grew even more concerned, "did something happen?"I shrugged, "he got a bit pissy with me last night.""He hurt you?" Her eyes raked up and down my exposed arms trying to catch sight of any injuries. Well beside the very obvious bite wound."No, he didn't." Not really at least, brief mental agony didn't count right?She seemed unconvinced, but started towards the door anyways, "you rest. I'll get to work. If he comes back just shout, I'll try to keep close by.""Sure." She snapped the door behind her, leaving me to wallow in the guilt of lying to her face. I didn't manage to sleep deeply, but I did doze for a couple hours before the pressure of all the events of the day prior became too much to ignore. I stood, realizing I was in fact quite wobbly, and working would likely not go well at the moment. But I was well enough to walk a bit, and felt enough urgency to propel me into the hall.The manor felt more like a maze than usual as I raked through the rooms. I tried to think of where he'd likely be, but other than his bedroom I hadn't the slightest. Whenever we met it was because he was seeking me out. All I could do was continue wandering. I opened the door to a guest bedroom to find it surprisingly occupied. Giselle looked up from a newspaper she was reading, while Eric continued scowling into his book, true to form."Pardon me. I didn't realize this room was in use." I started to back out when Giselle spoke up, "you okay sweety? You look a bit frazzled."I hesitated, "have you seen Jude?"She pondered, "not since I saw you. Eric?""I don't have to answer to servants."Giselle rolled her eyes, "but you do have to answer me."He flicked his eyes up, a dangerous edge to them, but she held strong, finally he muttered, "I haven't"This made Giselle roll her eyes even harder, "do you need help finding him?"I shook my head, probably best not to unleash anyone on him, especially someone I knew he didn't get along with, "I won't bother you with that. Thank you though."I had only tried one more door when a voice in the hallway stopped me, "August?""Elias. Hey." I tried to smile warmly even through my growing dread."You okay?""Yeah, just looking for Jude. Can't find him."Elias considered this, "do you know his power?""I do?""It reaches a certain number of feet. So he can hear when you get close. If he doesn't want you to find him, you won't. Not till he's ready.""Oh.""Can we talk? ‘Less you want to keep trying?"I shook my head, "no. That makes sense. I can talk. Sorry."He led the way and I followed mindlessly. We stepped outside, the night air was cool as he showed the way to a round table in the center of a flowering patch of garden.He pulled out a chair for me and I sat. Watching him follow suit."What was it you needed to talk about?""Wanted to say sorry about yesterday."I smiled, "you already said plenty of sorries."He shook his head, "I hurt you. That's not something… that wasn't right. And it's my fault you're having to do all that in the first place."“You mean giving blood?"Elias nodded.I watched his face, “how could that be your fault?”He hesitated, gulping hard and looking away."You don't have to tell me."He sighed, relieved that I didn't press further.“But I did want you to know I'm real sorry. Specially for…." His face grew pink as he looked away."I told you I didn't mind that.""Still not right. There's s'pposed to be a order to these things. But when I… when I first saw you… getting to know you a bit… seeing you ‘round the house-"I could see him growing increasingly flustered, and decided to show some mercy, "would you like to go on a date with me at some point?"He faltered, eyes going wide with surprise before a small smile creeped onto his mouth. "Yes.""I'm meant to work tomorrow, but the day after is my day off. Do you like going into town?"He grew a bit nervous, fiddling with his sleeve.I thought for a moment, "are there any good trails to walk on nearby?"He visibly perked up, "yes.""Wonderful. 9pm?""Yes.""Can I kiss you?""Yes." His eyes went wide, "ah I mean… I."I stood and circled the table, leaning in gently, not missing his posture go rigid or his eyes squeezing shut. I placed a chaste kiss on the apple of his cheek before pulling away.He seemed surprised, but not disappointed as I walked off, tossing a hand up in farewell.Elias shouted after me, "see you soon." Pulling my mouth into a faint smile despite myself.A plan formed as I walked the halls, it wasn't quite morning, but I was feeling my body growing heavy despite my denial. Jude could read my thoughts as long as I was conscious to think them, and could skirt out of my way. But I was fairly certain he couldn't sense subconscious thoughts, or more importantly, unconscious ones. I unlocked his bedroom door, considering feeling remorseful before I decided I didn't really mind abusing my powers, especially my very limited ones as a maid.I crawled into Jude's bed, assuring the canopy curtain was closed on the side facing the door, and snuggled in under his plush blankets. As I lay, willing myself to drift off, the absurdity of my actions hit me. I'd come here with a goal that I had many ways to go about completing, and I had at least one if not two good leads. There was no need to play Jude's game, either under him or with him.But the image of his tear streaked face came back to me. Followed by his emotionless blank one, hiding what I was almost certain was fear. I'd never seen a vampire look afraid, hadn't realized they were capable of the emotion. Hadn't really thought of them as people before, nevermind ones capable of the same complex emotions as me.Either way I'd committed to my ambush, and backing down now was the cowards way out. I decided to picture Jude's usual shit eating grin instead of the blank one as I drifted off.The sound of a rustling curtain woke me in what I could only assume to be the wee hours of the morning. As I came to consciousness the movement paused, but too late, I had already sprung my trap, sitting up and grabbing hold of his wrist before pulling back hard, hoping to topple him onto the bed.He held fast, keeping himself upright as I remembered the only reason I could ever move him was because he let me. But he hadn't pulled my hand away at least, that was some sort of win.His face was a mix of many emotions, compiling in a shifting swirl, making it hard for me to decide on a next move. And so I just held fast.Finally he spoke, "what are you doing here?""You knocked me out and walked off in the middle of a conversation. I'm here to finish it."He cocked his brow, a truly malicious grin on his face as he pushed into my space, pinning me in a prone position on his bed, "how do you know I walked away?"I blinked up at him, unconcerned as I projected my thoughts, 'you want me to believe you assaulted me?'He clicked his tongue, "I can show you if you want? Everything I did to you." His hand roamed to the hem of my shirt, splaying out on the skin of my waist.'You didn't do anything to me yesterday.'His hand reached up, roughly thumbing over my nipple, "you sure about that?"I grabbed his chin, lifting it so our eyes would meet. 'Yes.'His face dropped as he pulled off me, and I watched him fight to put on a half formed smile, 'ya called my bluff.'There hadn't been a moment of doubt for me. I watched his face shift uncomfortably as I thought such."Jude. I need you to talk to me."He sighed, "why aren't you mad at me?" 'You were supposed to be mad at me.''Were you trying to make me mad?'"I don't know." 'I've been doing all sorts of things I don't understand since you got here. I don't like how it makes me feel. I don't like how you make me feel.''Ditto.'He turned to look at me, "huh?""I hid in your bed to ambush you and get you to tell me what you're feeling. What the hell am I doing?"'For our bet?''Maybe? But there are sure as hell easier ways to get what I want. I don't do things that don't directly benefit me. Except for now. I don't like it.'He scooted a bit closer to me, peering into my eyes, "was that a confession?"I scoffed dismissively, "was yours?"And then his lips were on mine. Despite initiating he let me lead, let me set the pressure, and speed, and depth. Let us part as I stood, lifting him with me. Didn't pause when I pressed him against the bed post, kissing his lips, and his eyelid, and the spot right below his ear. I started fiddling with the strings on his waist line, pulling back to see what I was doing, when I looked up I saw something I didn't expect. Fear.Immediately I put my hands in front of me and backed up, "hey. It's okay. I won't. You know I wouldn't without…"He nodded. 'Yeah. I do. I do.''We won't go further today.’He reached forwards, but the expression of fear and discomfort hadn't faded, ‘wait. I think I can.’I pulled away from him, “not tonight.”A new wave of fear washed over his face.“But I can stay if you want.”I'd guessed right it seemed, as he calmed slightly. His voice came out small and squeaky, "please."I nodded, giving him a wide berth as I crawled into his massive bed. He hesitated for just a moment before crawling in himself.I cursed my own assumptions as I looked at him, still obviously shaken. I'd fallen for all the bravo and flirtations. Thought he wanted it like I did.A hand folded around mine, and I looked down to see Jude had clutched my palm within both of his. I looked back up and his eyes were more steady, "no. It's not your fault. And I do want it. I'm just…"He turned away, 'nervous you'll get what you want and ditch me.'"Jude, you know I'm not here to get in your pants." He looked at me ready to retort, but noticed I was completely sincere, "I'm here to be turned into a vampire. And you're stuck with me at least until I manage that."He smiled despite himself, a genuine one this time. "That's true. If all else fails I can trust you to be a selfish scumbag.""You're one to talk."We sat in comfortable silence for a moment before Jude shifted, looking up at me again, "I think I can… if you still want to?""Not today. We have time. You've been jerking me around at your pace since we met, we'll go your pace with this as well."He snuggled up next to me draping an arm over and putting his head on my chest. "I'll definitely make you regret saying that."I had a feeling I wouldn't.
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Jude laid on my bed, his signature pose of hands folded under his chin and feet kicking in the air as he instructed me."That one's definitely to my tastes, but I think you should find something with a more modest length for Elias."I rolled my eyes heavily, fixing him in my stare. "Jude, you picked out all these clothes, you don't remember what you got?""Hmm, I remember they all looked super hot on you.""There's also not a single pair of full length pants."He pouted, "not my fault.""How is that not your fault?"He rolled onto his back, looking away from me, "you have nice legs, it'd be criminal to hide them."The urge to pick him up by the scruff of the neck and shake him violently was almost too much to bear.I flopped heavily onto the bed next to him, "I give up. Just pick something out for me."His eyes twinkled as he stood. Tearing through my closet and tossing things at me.I'd given up on kicking him out every time I changed, and just tried to ignore his stares as I stripped. It was a cute outfit to be sure. Pale green high waisted shorts matched a very tight fitting vest, both had delicate floral embroidery on the bottom edges, the shirt was cream, matching the chunky socks I'd been handed. Brown ankle boots sat on my feet and a light purple pendant rested on my neck."Shouldn't I dress warmer? It's pretty chilly at night?"The boy pretended to gasp, "and rob your knight in shining armor from a chance to hand you his coat? How dare you imply."I rolled my eyes as Jude took in the ensemble, "a piercing would really pull it all together, but you still haven't let me stick you.""You free when I get back?"His eyes lit up, "you mean it? No takesy backsies.""Sure. Unless Elias tries to fuck me, that might pull me from our plans."He smiled, "that prude? I'm pretty sure the odds are in my favor."Elias was dressed much more sensibly, a button up was layered under a sweater and thin coat. His pants seemed to be a thick hardy material. And suddenly I felt silly for being dressed like some Victorian princling. But Elias fixed me in a warm gaze and wide smile, "you look great."The walk apparently started just outside the manor grounds, and already it was a steep enough hill to make me wish I'd suggested another activity."Sorry. I feel like I'm slowing you down."He smiled, offering a hand, "not a bother."I gratefully took it, but made a silent promise that I wouldn't lean on him much.We had just about reached the peak before I caught my breath enough to speak, “you seem to know these paths well, are you the outdoorsy type?”He hummed his confirmation, “Mm, since I was a kid.”"Where’d you grow up?" I tried to ignore the burning of my calves and focus on our conversation."Virginia, born and raised.""What year was that?”"1867."It took me a moment to make sure I'd heard right, "1867, so you're what? 150 something?"He hummed in confirmation.I looked at his face in disbelief, he looked maybe 27, 28, "I really didn't think you were…"He smiled, guessing the end of my sentence, "So old?""I was trying not to say it… are the others the same age as you?”He shrugged, "Jude was born in the early 1900's. Don't know the year, but it was the roaring 20's when he was turned.""It sounds mean to say that makes sense but…"He chuckled. "It does though huh? Eric's the youngest, he was born in the 1940's and turned in '74.""Must be tough having him look the oldest even though he's so much younger."Elias shrugged, "doesn't bother me too much. Probably bothers him more.""How'd you all end up meeting? You were born at such different times."His face immediately darkened, and he walked silently for a moment, his voice was very quiet when he finally spoke, "we were all turned by the same vampire."My brain was spinning, obviously this was a dangerous topic, but I wasn't sure how to move away from it, so I just walked in contemplative silence.His eye still had that cloudy look when he continued, "he decided we'd all live together and sent us here." He let out a sigh, "I'm just lucky to get along well with them.""You seem easy to get along with."He blushed a bit, "ya think so?"I leaned up and tugged him down, planting a light kiss on his cheek, "yep."His blush deepened as I strung my arm through his."Flowers over there are real pretty." I tried to follow his line of sight, but the darkness swallowed the landscape before I could catch sight of anything.He must've noticed me peering, "sorry. Forgot you can't see as good in the dark." He led me off the path slightly until I could make out the patch of purple flowers lightly catching the light of the moon.He dropped my arm to pluck one, "kinda looks like you."I smiled as he placed it in my palm, "you don't think I should be a pink flower? You know with the hair."He shook his head as he retook my arm, "mnn. No. You're definitely more purple."We followed the path for another hour or so, it wound through the hills until we came up on the back edge of the estate gardens. He paused as we passed through a thicket of trees, dropping my hand."Everything okay?"He nodded shyly as I walked back to him.I took his hand in mine as I studied his face."'S it okay if I kiss you?"I smiled at his blushing face and leaned up, getting onto my tiptoes to reach, and kissing him softly. As I pulled away I watched something within him bend and he scooped me up. I folded my legs around him on instinct and was about to shout in surprise as a bruising kiss landed on my lips. My back dug painfully into a tree as his mouth worked against mine. It was sloppy, unpracticed, but the hunger made up for it, and I couldn't help but find the combination endearing. He wound a hand into my hair, supporting my weight with just one arm. My own hand landed on his cheek, fiddling with his ear and gently running my fingers over his well defined jaw.My own jaw ached and I knew my lips were a swollen mess when he pulled off me, letting me down gently onto the ground.I saw a fraction of shame on his face, and pulled him down for another peck, "that was nice. Thank you.""I'll uh… see you later."And with that he slipped from my grasp, turning and walking back into the night. Presumably to clear his head. I smiled and walked back to the manor, careful to take a route that would lead me around the areas Abi was most likely to be.I started towards Jude's room before realizing the time. He was very unlikely to be in there. Thinking back on the idea of a radius of hearing I decided to chant the mental mantra of 'Jude. I'm going to your room. I'm going to your room Jude.'About halfway down the hall to his room I received a very loud mental response, 'I get it! Fucking hell!'That shut me up. It was locked, but that was no issue for me as I let myself in, key light in my hand as I slid it back into my pocket. A few moments later Jude opened the door to follow. His eyes landed on my swollen lips and messy hair immediately, "did I lose a bet?"I chuckled, 'impressed?''I would be if you weren't a liar.'"You got me. We just made out." I sat on the edge of his bed, kicking off my boots and pulling up my feet.I watched as Jude hesitated, seemingly unsure of where to go."Did you still want to pierce my ear?""Yes.""Movie first?"He smiled and immediately got to work in setting up his area."This one's not super long, but it really had a lasting effect on cinema, you can see this director's influence in Wes Anderson films especially."He kept chattering as the movie started to play, sitting on the edge of the bed."You aren't going to lay down with me?"He looked offended by the interruption, before deciding to tease, "is this you asking for cuddles?""No. I just know your clingy ass was wanting them."He pouted, seemingly my jab had struck just a bit too deep. But I pulled him over, flipping him onto his back for a brief kiss before resting my eyes back on the tv.‘Yuck. I can taste Elias.’'I thought you said you were into sloppy seconds.'He stood suddenly, walking over to a desk without a word. All I could do was flip over and watch, trying to find his meaning. While the boy was world famous for not being able to sit still, the haste he had, and the fact he was ignoring a movie, they both struck me as very odd."Jude?"'I changed my mind. I want to pierce you now.'I sat up, a bit confused, but didn't argue. He held up a thin needle, and flicked a lighter to life, sitting on the edge of the bed and motioning for me to rest my head in his lap.With one hand he held my ear up and with the other he lined up the needle, 'I've heard in some bdsm circles piercing your partner is a mark of ownership.'"Was that a confession?"Instead of responding he swiftly stabbed the needle in.It stung far worse than I had expected, and it continued to hurt as he traded the needle for a piece of jewelry. I tried to smile through the pain, but Jude's grin at my discomfort quickly wiped that off my face, "nuh uh. We already have one fucked up sadist in the house. There is negative need for another.""But it's getting harder and harder to get you to squirm with just my words." He climbed back into the bed, placing the needle and lighter on his bedside table. I stayed in place, pretending to be very interested in the movie. I felt the bed dip before his legs wrapped around me, his knees on either side of my hips. He pulled at my head without much care for my comfort as he admired his handiwork."Does it look as good as you hoped?"He didn't respond, except to stick the jewelry and my ear in his mouth.An involuntary groan escaped me as he ran his tongue over it, shifting the piercing uncomfortably. He popped the ear out of his mouth with his own light groan, "fuck you taste good."It was then that I realized my ear may have dribbled a bit of blood, my head snapped to the side, but his demeanor hadn't shifted, at least not like Elias's had.'Relax. That much isn't going to make me freak out… though if you're offering more…'I smiled sweetly, 'I'll trade you.'He matched my smile, but I could sense a bit of hunger in his eyes, 'and what does my sweet prince want in return?'I batted my eyes, 'a confession?'"Dick."I turned my head and kissed him before he could add any other insults, "whatever do you mean?"'And a tease.'I cocked my head, 'you're the tease mister.'That shut him up a bit too well, and I watched him shrink in on himself. I leaned my head against his chest, nuzzling him as I continued, "I like that about you though."I felt him relax against my back and turned my focus back to the movie. I expected Jude to continue his usual babbling explanation, but he remained quiet behind me. And surprisingly motionless, the boy usually couldn't keep in place for more than five minutes. And as the mark came and went I started to get nervous. Just as I was getting ready to ask him if he was feeling okay he started moving behind me. I readied myself to be manhandled to a new position, but instead he placed his lips on my neck and slid his arms around me. His fingers were on the buttons of my vest and shirt as he shrugged both off of me."Jude?"'August.''What're we doing?'"Watching a movie. Now stop talking through it."His hands worked my waist and hips first, before a hand moved to my chest, 'tell me if I do something you don't like.'I nodded in agreement as he pressed down on my nipple. He pinched and prodded at a slow methodic pace, taking note of which motion at which force got the biggest reaction, and react I did, pressing back into him as the sharp jolts of pleasure passed through me.'You're so sensitive, I've only touched your chest and you're already moaning like a whore.’I bit my lip, steeling myself to prevent any other embarrassing reactions. Jude noticed, smiling as his hand snaked down my front, fainting over top my shorts and underwear, gently cupping and prodding. I reached my own hand back, tracing up his thigh until I reached fabric, my goal was just out of reach when I paused, remembering the reaction he'd had last time. I started pulling my hand away, but before I got far a cold hand wrapped around my wrist.His prodding hand paused briefly, guiding me onto my back as he swung over me. He dipped down for a kiss, guiding my hand down as he did so. I slid my hand over, surprised by the size compared to his slight frame.'Was that pleasant surprise or anxiety I just sensed?'I gave a rough tug instead of a response, earning a small moan.'Cute.' I smiled sweetly, and sure enough my egging made his expression shift to something more determined. He moved, laying on his side pressed up against me as he tugged at the fasteners on my pants. The feeling of his cool hand sliding down my stomach sent a shiver up my spine which quickly turned to an embarrassing groan as he slid his fingers over my dick and into my entrance.My voice came out in a raspy whine, "fuck. Jude."He flicked his head towards the screen, still playing the movie I'd caught hardly any of, "shh. This is a good scene. Pay attention."He seemed determined to make it impossible to do such though, pressing firm fingers over my dick and into me at a languid pace. His eyes glued to the screen he slipped my freshly pierced ear into his mouth, grinning around it as my breath grew ragged. Jude seemed queued into my every want as he worked me, and it took me a few minutes to realize that was almost certainly because he could hear my thoughts, the briefest desire for 'harder', ‘there', or 'too much' were heard and immediately taken into account.Jude's face grew incredibly smug as I pieced this together.I rolled my eyes and shifted my weight, turning us so I was on top of him. His hand in my pants paused, but he left it firmly in place even as we rolled. He looked at me inquisitively as I settled on top of him.I started tugging at the buttons on his shirt, "shh, pay attention to the movie, it's a good scene." 'Tell me to stop if I go to far. Okay?'His eyes shimmered with a steely light, 'you won't.'I paused my progress on his buttons, 'promise you'll tell me to stop. I told you we go at your pace.'His eyes softened, and he turned back to the screen, 'Fine, if you insist.'I popped the rest of his buttons, opening his shirt to reveal his chest. His skin was slightly clammy, from nerves or excitement I wasn't sure, but as I placed a kiss on his collar bone I could faintly taste the salt. Jude's hand had become lazy, stroking idly while focusing on the film. I slid down a bit, forcing him to lose his grip, he whined a bit, but that whine quickly shifted into a moan as I bit down about an inch from his nipple, sucking his skin into my mouth. One hand was clamped to the side of his chest while the other danced across his skin, scratching faintly at his back before moving to his free nipple, poking and prodding while I felt his back raise into an arc beneath me.His hand tangled into my hair, pulling me gently off. I tossed my eyes up, pleased to see his scattered appearance above me.Jude tried to collect himself, but his attempt at a cutting remark felt half formed at best, 'rather you suck on something else.'The look of shock as I slid further down his body was delightful. I settled between his legs, pressing them up as I loosed his pants, sliding them and his underclothes off his legs in a fluid motion. The size I'd estimated had fallen short, he was probably about 7 inches, a sleek shaft ended in a round head, the whole thing an adorable blushing shade of pink. As I set his legs back down he caught me by the chin, looking into my eyes, a frazzled mania covering his face. 'You don't have to.''You don't want me to?'He bit his lip, thinking, 'I didn't say that.'I pressed down, resting the head of his member on my cheek and looking at him through my lashes, "what do you want me to do."His fist raised to his mouth, he couldn't decide where to place his eyes it seemed, shifting them from me to the canopy and back, 'I want you to suck me off.'I smiled as I dragged my tongue up the underside, popping the head into my mouth. The broken sounds he made as I pressed my mouth over him had me struggling to keep my cool. But I managed to barely hold onto a slow steady pace, pressing down as his shaft ran over my tongue, and pressing further still until I could feel his head bump into my throat. I paused there, looking up before sinking quickly the rest of the way down, my nose pressed against his stomach as I held him in my throat.I stayed perfectly still there as Jude whined, desperate for friction, "August. August please~"He tried to buck his hips, but I placed a hand on them, pushing him to stay still.As I ran out of breath I finally, slowly pulled off, hallowing my cheeks as I did and pulling a string of curses and moans from the man beneath me. I quickly caught my breath as the blockage left my throat. My tongue pressed against him on my way back down, still moving at a pace I knew was frustratingly slow.Jude's hand tangled into my hair as he tried to guide me to go quicker, but I resisted, making him cry out from the pleasure and frustration.He panted as he spoke, "I thought you said- fuck -that one sadist was too many."I pressed even slower on my way down, 'what're you talking about? Watch your movie.'His hand stayed in my hair, but he complied, trying his best to pay attention around his moans.I hummed, satisfied and picked up the pace, causing a new stream of colorful language to erupt from the man under me.His moans became more erratic and his hand tugged painfully on my hair as he stammered, "gonna cum. I'm gonna cum." I looked up at him, the fucked out look in his eyes and sweaty curls sticking to his forehead spurring me on.'Go ahead.'His eyes shot wide as he yanked my head back, pulling me off of him. A stream of cum landing on my cheek and over my eye. His hips jutted and faltered landing heavily back on the bed.As he came down from his orgasm he seemed to notice the sticky mess he'd made of my face.He bolted up, bringing up the corner of a blanket.I stopped him with a hand, using the other to drag a thumb through the slick, before popping it into my mouth.'Didn't peg you for a facials guy.'He blushed furiously, "I'm not! I just didn't think you'd want…"I kissed him, and after a moment of hesitation he reciprocated."See. Tastes pretty good huh?"He knocked back my shoulder with a groan, 'gross.'I smiled as I watched him blush impossibly redder, ‘careful, that's your own cum your insulting.’“I wasn't talking about…” I watched him catch up, noticing I'd spun his words on purpose, ‘you're a bully.’"Yep.” I gently flicked his forhead, “Now should we actually watch the movie you put on?"Jude's brow furrowed, 'you didn't come.''It's fine. All your cute sounds will be masterbation material for later,' I winked as he squirmed, turning his face away.'If you don't let me do it now I'll just have to jump you in your sleep.'I cocked my head, "yeah. Sure."He blinked, obviously that had been meant to bother me, but I wasn't about to give him the reaction he wanted. I did feel a bit of regret as his mouth pulled into a mischievous grin, 'alright. If you insist.'I felt my face flush, I'd probably just walked into a trap, but I didn't argue, settling in to try and figure out what this film was actually about.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
It was like a butterfly kiss, the shy sliding of skin against skin. By all accounts it shouldn't have woken me up. But still my eyes cracked open, deep crimson curtains and a messy haired Jude greeted me. A faint smile danced across his lips as he watched me in the darkness.I snapped to reality, remembering the agreement we made before sleeping, but after taking quick stock of my body and surroundings, it seemed that chaste kiss was as far as he went.His breathy scoff confirmed my suspicions, he projected his thoughts to me, 'glad to see I can still make you this nervous.'I rolled my eyes and turned onto my back. Pleading my lingering drowsiness to fade.He shuffled in closer, 'you pouting? Are you sad I didn't jump you?'"As if." 'What time is it?'"We have plenty of time before you work." His hand slid to my waist, cool hand sliding across my bare skin. Finding a shirt must have been very low on my list of priorities before I slept. Jude leaned in even closer, hand lightly gripping my side.'You're insatiable.'He tugged me in, pulling me back onto my side so we were pressed tightly together, 'just want to return your favor.'He pressed a kiss onto the nape of my neck, and I gave him a moment before responding, 'it's seriously fine. I probably enjoyed it more than you.'Tapping the tip of Jude's button nose on my way, I pushed myself upright, and began peering around for my clothing.'Where are you going?'I stood, plucking my shirt off the ground, "back to my room, I would very much like a long bath."His arms snaked around me, and I turned to find him half hanging off the bed, 'you want to use your abysmal little bathroom when mine's right here?'I bit my lip, looking at the door that separated me from Jude's much larger, much more comfortable tub. I slowly nodded, "if you don't mind me borrowing it."'Not at all.' He let me go and stood, skipping his way to the bathroom and flicking on the lights. I took a second to locate my vest as I heard the water start to run, then joined him.His bathroom was just as elegant as I remembered, and now that I knew I was using it, it seemed even more so.Jude was leaned over the edge of the tub, having just plugged the drain. The pooling water smelled sweet and had a bit of a fizz to it, making what was not quite a bubble bath, but something akin to it. The porcelain tub was massive, three or four Judes would be able to fit comfortably. For a moment I started fretting about the water bill, before remembering the seemingly bottomless funds this house ran on."I'll turn around while you get in."I furrowed my brow, suspicious of his willingness to cooperate, my eyes scanned the room for well placed mirrors, but I came up blank. Shrugging it off I tugged down my shorts and boxers before sliding into the hot water.Hearing me settle Jude turned back around and immediately launched into a slow circle of the basin, 'so… you don't mind if I join you right?'"Jude. I told you." 'You don't have to pay me back or whatever. It's fine.'He frowned but didn't make any move to disobey.I grabbed his hand, pulling it to my lips and giving him a faint kiss on the knuckles, 'wait for me in the room?'He shifted, hand moving from my lips to gently cup my cheek, and looked at me for a few moments with a serious expression, before giving up on whatever task he'd been trying to complete and sitting heavily on the tiles beside the tub, 'did you like the movie last night?'"What I actually saw of it was good."He cocked his head, feigning an angelic expression, "huh? Were you distracted?"I reached a hand out of the tub and flicked a bit of water at him.He recoiled like he'd been shot, 'why do you bully me?’"Would you rather I be sugary sweet?"'I think trying would kill you.'I smoothed my hand through his hair, playing with his curls as I soaked, "whatever do you mean pookie?"His lip curled up in disgust.I continued, "can I have a kissy from my little boo boo bear?"He glared at me, 'stop it.'"I thought you wanted me to be more sweet? Is my squishy wushy baby boy regretting saying that already?""I think I might puke.""Why? Do you not like this? Oh but I just love-" I caught myself mid sentence.Jude looked at me with a glint in his eyes, 'was that about to be a confession?'I looked away, moving my hand back to pet him idly, with a mind reader I knew my only chance for recovery was a complete 180 in conversation. 'I talked to Giselle the other day. I don't think I'd mentioned that.'"Changing topics only works if I'm willing to let you."I started to retort, but came up with nothing. Watching his grin grow more and more maniacal, I shifted and lowered myself into the water.This was the first day post blood donation that I really felt I was working at my normal pace. Abi seemed grateful, I doubt it had been an easy couple days for her as she suddenly had double the responsibilities. She insisted it wasn't a bother. Which I didn't believe. And that she knew it was necessary and it wasn't my fault, which I did believe.I was wrapping up my final chore for the day when Abigail poked her head into the room I was working in. Braids dangling beside her face as she avoided eye contact."Hey? What's up? Did you need help reaching something?"She shook her head and wrung her hands together, still not making eye contact."Abi?"She snapped out of her slightly dissociated state, "Lord Eric asked I send you to his chambers."Immediately I stepped over, grabbing her shoulders as I peered into her face, "did he do something to you?"She shook off a bit more of her odd expression, "no, no, nothing like that. It's just. Are you going to be okay?” She didn't pause long enough for me to come up with an answer, “I can't imagine any scenario where him calling for you isn't… Has he hurt you?"My face flushed slightly. The honest answer was 'yes, but in a sexy way' but that didn't seem quite appropriate.I tried my best to give her a reassuring smile through my embarrassment, "he probably just wants to lecture me on my dusting technique." Her face was still frozen in worry, "I'll be fine Abi. Trust me."She slowly nodded. "August… will you find me when he dismisses you? I wanted to ask you something tonight, but I was waiting for us to finish work.""Yeah. Sure. Can I swing by your room?""Sure. I'll wait up."I gave her shoulders one last reassuring squeeze before heading out. Careful to pick a path that made it seem like I was headed straight there before swinging back to my room.My mouth felt like the desert, that thin irony taste lingering in the back of my throat. But I celebrated as the plug finally sunk past my opening and lodged inside me. I mourned my lost ten minutes, and cursed myself for not having had the foresight to seek out a bottle of lube in the days prior. But at least I'd managed to get it in. I pulled my shorts back up realizing very quickly that the tight little things wouldn't be able to hide the tail now dangling from my ass. Time was ticking by though, any problem solving would have to wait. I decided to position the furry thing to fall out the top of my waistline. A hesitant turn in the mirror showed me that the outline of the plug could still clearly be seen. But no quick fix came to mind. So red faced I hurried out, tail tickling my thighs as I hurried through the halls.I tapped gently on Eric's door. Bright red face cast down as it creaked open.Eric stood in the doorway with a lean, his arms crossed. I didn't dare look up at his face, but I could hear his displeasure. I felt fairly certain an eyebrow was raised as he spoke, "did it seem like my summons were to be completed at your convenience?"I kept my face down, "no sir. Sorry sir."He considered me for a long moment before sliding out of the way, allowing me to enter. He closed the door behind me, and once again I heard the heavy lock click into place. I stood in place, still averting my gaze while he strode through the room, settling into one of the armchairs, "come here."I complied, making a show of fiddling with the little cuffs on my wrists as I shuffled up to him."On your knees."I looked up, catching his eyes, and he raised a brow, watching apathetically as I sunk down to my knees. His movements were slow, almost bored as he pulled a collar out of his back pocket, a little pink thing with a bell dangling from the front. My heart beat as he placed it against my throat, arms stretching around me as he buckled it shut. The cool metal rested heavy on the back of my neck. He roughly grabbed my face, twisting me about to admire his handiwork.Standing, he left me frozen in place as he pulled some things from the dresser. He moved back, looming over me, and I couldn't help but flinch when I felt something touch my head, just behind the ears. A headband set into place, and he grabbed me by the chin again, tilting me up so I was looking up at him."Not bad."My face flushed, and I chided myself for getting flustered over such half hearted praise.His growl startled me, "but my kitty needs to be punished for leaving his master waiting for so long."He sat back on his chair as he gave me my next commands, "turn around. Face on the floor and ass in the air."I complied, shaking a bit from anticipation that I desperately hoped read as nerves. I couldn't see what he was doing behind me, and my mind spun with the possibilities."Spread your legs."I sunk slightly lower as I separated them, making sure my back was seductively dipped as I tried to catch a glimpse behind me. I didn't manage to catch anything before a sharp pain blossomed on my inner thigh. I yelped despite myself as the pain turned into an uncomfortable radiating heat.I felt something thin press on my other thigh, "keep them spread."I gulped and slid my legs back open, unsure of when I'd even closed them. I had just finished moving when I felt that same sharp pain across the lower part of my ass, just where the shorts ended. This time I recognised it as the sting of a riding crop. Swung with much more ferocity than I'd ever experienced however. I cried out again, but managed to keep my legs still."Good." I felt the leather trace my skin, teasing up and down my thigh, before pop pop, two hits landed on the soft part of my inner thigh in quick succession.I tried to still myself, but the sharp pain wasn't fading, and I felt myself writhe.The next pop landed about a quarter of the way down my upper leg, and had a force that had me pulling my legs in without my say so, my posture collapsing down as I shielded myself.My eyes were watering as Eric paced around me, his foot slid under my chin, lifting my face to look at him, "do you want me to stop?"I nodded weakly.He set my head down, moving back beside me, "ask nicely."I sounded like a blubbering mess as I begged, "please. No more. Hurts."The whip came down hard on my back, the shirt softened the blow, but still my body pushed up without permission, trying to pull me away from the pain. I didn't make it far though when a foot pressed roughly into the small of my back, driving the air from me as he moved back to my raw thighs three quick strikes on the same spot had stars in my eyes. And his gravelly voice did little to dispel them, "I don't think you're sorry yet."Small sobs racked through my body, "m. 'M sorry. Sorry."He landed one more, good whap, directly on an area I could feel was already welting. Before releasing me from under his foot, and stepping away. I curled into a ball on my side, squeezing my eyes shut and breathing heavily when I heard a clicking sound and felt my collar being tugged. I moved with it, fearing the consequences of resisting."Sit."I sluggishly obeyed, trying to keep the worst of my wounds from touching the hard floor. My actions didn't go unnoticed though, a hand pressed into my shoulder, forcing me the rest of the way down. I yelped as my injuries ground roughly against the grain of the wood."Take off your shirt."The tremor in my hands made it near impossible to loosen the buttons on the back of my neck. But eventually I managed, lifting it over my head. And feeding it over the leash. The crop pressed under my chin, forcing me to straighten up. I watched as his eyes roamed my body, rather than the hunger I had hoped for, his gaze was cool, almost scientific as he looked over me. This was an inspection, an examination. The crop dipped down, rubbing harshly over a nipple. I whimpered at the odd sensation, but a light flick of the crop against my chest shut me up.He sat again, tugging me forward across the ground until I rested at his feet. One hand still gripping my leash, his other set aside the crop and dropped to my nipple. Harsh leather clad fingers poked and prodded as they grew more and more sensitive. I moaned as he grabbed one and pulled. In a flash he'd dropped my leash and wrapped a hand around my throat, squeezing down as he started in on my other nipple. His one handed grip clasped around the sides of my neck, I was astonished by how little I was able to breath. My experimental breath turned into a moan around the blockage as he rolled my nipple between two fingers. I moaned again as his grip tightened on my throat. My vision began to swim. I lightly tapped his arm, but he didn't let up. I tapped again, slightly harder as I watched my vision close in. The panic set, hands flying to my throat and tearing at him, but still he held firm. My vision went completely black, and I felt my arms slide down.Finally he let go and I desperately sucked down air. My breath caught as a pain blossomed out from one of my nipples. I looked down to see a clamp pinched down on it, a small bow and bell on the end. He pulled on it, turning the pain into an overstimulating agony. I still hadn't gotten close to catching my breath."Hurts." I managed to choke out.The only response I received was him tugging a second time, watching me with that same cool gaze as I convulsed in pain."Take off your pants."I shifted to be able to pull them off, wincing as they caught the now very raised welts scattered on my legs.He used his foot to nudge my legs apart, looking over my erect dick and slick entrance."Is this kitty in heat?"He ran the toe of his shoe over my entrance, pressing lightly into my cock."Or are you that much of a slut that being abused turns you on?"I whimpered lightly in response, knowing any words would be a stammered mess.He tugged roughly on my collar, "hands and knees." He walked forward, keeping my leash tight so I had no option but to pad after him on all fours."Want to go on a walk through the halls? Let everyone see what a mess you are?"He led me towards the door, and I felt my pulse quicken. "Think they'd be disappointed to find out?"I tried to stop moving, eyes wide in fear. but Eric kept walking, dragging me along with him."S-sir? Please." My hands dug desperately into the wood.And to my relief he listened, pausing and crouching in front of me. His uncaring eyes locked with my own, “Or do you think they'd be overwhelmed by your pheromones? Take turns fucking all your little holes?"My face turned bright red as he stood, stepping towards the door, "do you want that?""N-no."He paused, looking back, "oh? What do you want then?"I hesitated, unsure what answer he was looking for, and knowing that a wrong answer could well mean being dragged out as punishment.He generously supplied one, "want me to be the only one to fill your holes?""Yes sir.""Want me to ruin you until you're too fucked out to remember your name?""Y-yes sir.""Want me to violate you?""Yes sir.""Say it."I took a deep breath, looking up at him, my arms shaking under me as I said breathily, "I want you to violate my little holes sir."For the first time that night the cold look in his eyes shifted, replaced by a dangerous fire, an all consuming hunger. He picked me up and hurled me across the room. I didn't quite register that I was soaring through the air before I landed on the bed, wind knocked out of me. And then he was above me pressing a hand against my chest as he rocked two fingers into me. I cried out, the shock, pain, and pleasure all combining into an intense sensation ripping through me. His fingers pressed roughly against my walls, making me acutely aware of the plug still in my ass. He seemed to be purposely avoiding my dick, and I felt myself buck, seeking some sort of friction.After a few more thrusts with three fingers he stood, grabbing something from the dresser before returning to the bed.He sat on the edge as I took in the… I'd call it a toy, but it was more like a torture device. It wasn't horrifically long, sitting at about eight inches, but the girth was no laughing matter, it was wide enough that just one of my hands wouldn't wrap all the way around. Protruding from it were dozens of rounded lumps. I'd never seen anything like this before, and had definitely not taken something like it inside me, the look of shock that washed over my face was completely genuine.Eric placed the head on my stomach, slowly pushing up until the bottom was flush with my groin, a finger slid across my abdomen as he spoke, "this is how deep it'll be. And this is how wide you'll have to stretch to take it.""It's too big, it won't fit.""It will. Unless you'd rather I pawn you off to the rest of the house?"I shook my head and bit my lip as he slowly dragged the thing back down my stomach, lining the bulbous head up with my hole.The pressure was immense as he began to force it in, my hands twisted in the sheets and my voice came out it pained groans. I could feel it pressing against my walls, bearing into me with an intense force. Each time I thought I was getting used to it it'd feel one of those damned bumps against my entrance, and feel myself spread in a slightly different way.My hand slid to Eric's wrist, "please. It hurts, give me a second. A second please.”His other hand grabbed my wrist, pulling me off of him. But despite his harsh treatment and lack of response the pressure paused as I caught my breath.I tried to glance down, but with the angle, "is it almost in?"He looked down in consideration, "about three quarters?"My face blanched, there was that much left? It hadn't looked that long, but even just the first three quarters felt like more than I'd ever experienced.Eric reached up, brushing a tear from the corner of my eye, the sweet gesture caught me off guard. "You ready?"My hands clenched and toes curled in anticipation of the pain, but I nodded, "just. Slowly. Please."His hand fell to my shoulder, at first it felt reassuring, but as he added more pressure I realized he was bracing me. And sure enough, with an inhuman strength he pushed the rest of the monstrous dildo into me. I knew the room was well sound proofed, but even so I hoped no one had been in this half of the house to hear the guttural cry that ripped out of me. Before I knew it I was bolt upright, gripping onto Eric's shirt like my life depended on it.He gave me a few seconds to breathe before he ordered me, "down. Now."My body spasmed as I forced myself back to a prone position.But even so I didn't miss the feeling of my leg brushing over something hard in Eric's trousers. I tried to keep my expression neutral, and luckily I didn't have to for long. Well I say luckily. But having that thing dragged half out of me and forcefully pushed back in, perhaps lucky's not the word."Does it feel good kitty?"I gasped desperately for air as a bump caught a very tender spot on my wall."Does it?”He pressed down so I could feel how thin the wall was between the plug in my ass and the enormous plastic cock.I whined, still unable to form words.Even with all the overstimulation I could feel my dick aching for friction, I tried to angle myself so the toy would brush against me."Is your little dick so desperate for attention you can't respond?"He pulled the dildo about half out, angling it up so the head pushed painfully into my upper wall. Pain exploded through me as he landed a solid smack, the sensation traveling up my groin, and through my spine. His hand had skipped off the toy and landed heavily against the bottom of my cock. By this point I didn't even recognize the groans and moans to be coming from my own mouth.He pushed the toy back in, barely pausing before pulling it almost all the way out, using his free hand to smack my aching dick a second time."Cum-cumming, gonna cum," I managed to choke out.Eric clocked his tongue, pushing the toy back in slowly, "not without permission."My voice was half sobs, half words, "please. Please."He must've made it about half in before pulling out again, the act that was so overwhelming at first wasn't quite enough to force me over the edge, "tell me you like it."I blubbered, "like it. Feels good. Please."His hand stroked over my clamped nipple, sending fresh pain shooting through me, "what do you like?"My mind reeled, trying to think of some sort of phrase that would convince him, "like you fucking my little holes with -ugh- your toys."He pulled up on the clamp and my back arched, trying to escape the pain, only to find that position rocked the dildo painfully into me, "I'm not just fucking you though. Am I? What am I doing?"The pieces clicked together, "violating me. Ruining me.""And what does this slut think of being ruined?""I like it. I like being violated by you. Feels so good."He leaned down, his voice a growl as he pulled the dick back out of me, "thank me.""Th-thank you for. For ruining me sir." His eyes still held the same ice, I knew I had to go further if I wanted the release I was teetering on the edge of, "thank you for fucking all my holes. For molding me. It feels so good when you do it. Please. Please sir."His expression shifted, and in an instant he tugged harder on the clamp, popping it painfully off as he fucked the toy in and out of me at a speed that had my head spinning. Each time it bottomed out his thumb brushed over my dick, the stitching of his gloves rolling up and down.It only took two or three pumps to push me over the edge, Eric obviously saw it on my face, "good boy. Cum for me."Ecstasy doesn't quite describe the release I felt after being held back for so long. The orgasm ripped through me, numbing my whole body, as I felt my slick coat the toy still moving slowly in and out of me. The world seemed to slow as I twitched and moaned through it, surely it didn't last a full ten minutes, but as I finally began to slowly come down, it felt like at least that long had passed.Eric's incessant thrusting had finally stopped, and he looked at me with a complicated expression I couldn't quite read.He stood, looking conflicted, before bending back down and scooping me up.My body filled with terror, sure he'd cooked up some other sexual torture for my already incredibly fucked out body. But instead he walked to the bathroom, sat me on the counter and ran the tub."Clean up."As he turned I couldn't help but notice his still tented pants, but decided against pushing my luck by mentioning it. Just getting him noticeably hard was a win according to Giselle.As the water got deeper I peeled myself from the counter, sinking heavily into the slightly too warm water, and starting my second bath of the day. I felt quite pleased with myself as I relaxed into the warmth.
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I don't imagine anyone looks forward to a walk of shame. Or looks back on one fondly. Even if the sex was an accomplishment, furthering goals, even if it was some great sex. There's a sense of guilt, discomfort, that comes with walking through the lawn or in my case, through the halls of my workplace, after.Despite feeling rushed to get to Abi's room, unsure how long had passed, I did take a moment to swing by my own quarters. I felt our relationship was fairly good, I'd even call her a friend, but arriving with a plug and cat ears? Perhaps we hadn't reached that stage. It also gave me a chance to switch from my uniform to pajamas. I tossed a coat over top before heading back into the hall.And so I gently rapped on Abi's door. There was a moment of silence before I heard movement, and Abigail cracked the door open. Her eyes held an odd mixture of worry and frustration, "I thought maybe you'd forgotten."I bit my lip, shifting back and forth in discomfort, "sorry. Mr. Eric kept me longer than I'd thought he would."The frustration left her face as she looked over me, "are you hurt?""No, no. I'm fine." A spike of pain blossoming from my lower back called me a liar, but I kept my expression neutral as she searched my face."We should go outside."This was a different kind of walk of shame, being led silently through the halls and out into the garden. The sun had begun to rise above the horizon, spilling pink and orange inks into the wispy clouds. It seemed as though Abi was measuring our distance as she walked, before abruptly turning back to me."This should be far enough."My hips creaked in protest as I settled into my heels, "think we could sit?"She nodded, gesturing to a table and chairs a few dozen feet away. I started over to them, desperate to be off my feet, even if the idea of hard metal under me didn't sound much better.My welts stung as they pressed into the iron, the thin flannel pajamas doing very little to protect me. It took all my willpower not to groan as I looked up at Abi.Her expression was serious as she folded her arms in front of her, "August, would you say we're friends?""Yes." My answer came quickly and easily, "I'm glad I met you Abigail, glad we've gotten to know each other."She nodded, but didn't smile, "I am too. But I've gotten to the point where…" she breathed deeply, trying to summon her courage, "your secrets are worrying me. I'm scared for you, and scared that being near you is putting me in danger."I was at a loss for words, my mind spun for a response as I looked ahead.Abigail spoke again before I could begin babbling, “I'm going to ask you some questions. And I want you to answer them outright and honestly. It's my right to know what I'm getting myself into if I stick with you."My mind reeled, going through all the possible situations in which she divulge my secrets, in which she decided to pit herself against me, in which she snap and chase me off today. I looked up at her kind face, even hardened with determination I could see no hint of malice.I took a deep breath, opened my mouth to speak, and hoped my wording was right, "you have to promise that anything I say stays between us."She looked at me quizzically, not agreeing or denying my request."Abi. I do like you, I'm fond of you to the point that it causes problems. But if you get in the way of… I'll have to act against you. I don't want you to get hurt, but I have to look out for myself first. If you want to stand out of my way, that's fine, I encourage that. If you want to distance yourself… I can't say I won't be a bit sad, but I'll understand. But I'm here to do something.”She nodded, slowly, "fine. But if you're dishonest here…""I won't be."She nodded again, taking a moment before launching into her interrogation, "who hurt you?”I blinked, “what do you mean?”“You can't sit without grimacing. Who did that?”My face flushed, of course she'd noticed, I was silly to think she wouldn't, "Lord Eric."Her face grew dark, "was it punishment for something you did?"I just about choked, "ah. In a sense. I promise it's nothing too serious though.""You said you'd be open and honest." Her eyes pleaded with me, begging me not to give her reason to end the conversation so soon."I don't know that this is something you want to hear.""I do."My face grew even hotter as I averted my eyes, "our lord has a bit of a… sexually sadistic streak. This was the result of those… tendencies."I looked briefly at her face to see it had also grown darker, full of embarrassment.She took a moment to compose herself, "are you in a relationship with him?""No. He has a few toys, I'm just one of them.”She met my eyes, "are you romantically involved with Lord Jude?"A 'no' was on the tip of my tongue, but then I hesitated, I wasn't sure exactly what gave me pause, but decided to press on, storing that away to process later, "I think Jude views me similarly to Eric."Her eyes went a bit wide, "you're having se-" she seemed to notice that she was perhaps a bit too loud, lowering her voice to just above a whisper, "you're sleeping with them both?""Yes?""Do they know?"Oh. "Jude knows, and Eric is non monogamous, he hasn't expressed any expectations for me to act otherwise."She sighed, "next thing you tell me is that you're sleeping with Elias too…" She must've noticed some shift in my face at this, "you aren't are you?"I spoke slowly, carefully, "we haven't slept together, but we've maybe kissed a couple times."She looked truly shocked at this, and knowing Elias's character I could understand why, "does he know you're also seeing…"I shook my head, "no, he doesn't seem as open to the idea of sharing, at least not from my first impressions."Abi pressed a hand to her brow, "so you're. A. Sexually and romantically involved with three very powerful vampires who could rip you to shreds at a moments notice. And B. Are currently cheating on one of the said stupid powerful vampire with both his housemates.""Well when you put it that way…""It doesn't matter what way I put it, this is pure idiocy. You could die. Easily."I smiled casually meeting her eye, "not my prefered outcome, but if I can't do what I came here to do then dying is preferable to the alternatives."She furrowed her brow, "what did you come here to do?"I swallowed the lump in my throat, "I need them to make me a vampire."Her eyes blew as wide as I'd ever seen them, "why the hell would you want that?"I opened my mouth, then closed it, my head started swimming a bit, and before I knew it I felt I was on the brink of tears, "do you mind if I keep that to myself? It's not really important."She considered my request for a moment, "sure. For now at least." She paused for a long moment, "you know you're really fucked up right?"I smiled a bit, "yeah, sorry for making you believe otherwise."I entered my room, eyes bleary, ready to collapse. But of course my vampire lords wouldn't make it so easy. Jude sat on my bed, pink and white pinstripe pajama shorts showing of his pearl colored legs as he kicked them, he looked up as I entered, mouth spreading into a smile. He'd placed on his head the pale pink cat ears I'd been gifted, and I couldn't help but feel they fit his mischievous nature better than mine."Nya. Welcome home."I sighed heavily as I closed the door, "shouldn't you be asleep?""Shouldn't you?" I didn't respond, and he took that as a sign to press harder, "oh, were you too busy banging your sadist boss to sleep?"I pulled off my jacket, tossing it towards Jude, hitting him square in the face as I ducked down to untie my boots, "Is it that pleasing to ask questions you know the answer to?"His voice sounded right by my ear as his arms boxed around me, pressing his weight against my arched back, "it is when it makes you so flustered.""I'm not flustered though." I began to stand, but Jude bore his weight down harder, keeping me trapped.I felt a warmth as he slipped my earlobe into his mouth, rolling the still sore piercing over his tongue."Jude. I'm tired. Please."He hummed around my ear, sifting his hands to encircle my waist before finally releasing my lobe, resting his chin instead on my shoulder, "you're no fun." I could hear the whine in his voice, and suddenly Abi's question came back to me. I pushed it from my mind as quickly as it had entered, before stealing a glance down at Jude.Too late, his face was complicated as he pushed away from me. Returning to my bed and sitting heavily.I could see him try to regain his swagger, but he seemed to be having little luck, 'you should put your shoes up.'I nodded and turned to the wardrobe, trying to school my blush back down. I opened the door, and was a bit surprised to see it was even better stocked than how I'd left it.Jude piped up behind me, "I grabbed you a few things while I was out."My eyes wandered over the clothes, unable to pick up on what each was before another caught my eye.'You'll have to do a fashion show for me tomorrow. Just grab that blue satin looking one for now.'‘I'm already in my pajamas for the night.’“These will suit you better.”From his tone I could tell that he was very pleased with himself. I definitely couldn't let that stand. I quickly located what he was talking about and pulled the hanger down. It was a pajama set, a very pale blue material sported flowers just a shade darker than the base, and unless you looked closely you might miss the graceful touch. It was an incredibly sleek feeling satin as well, and even at an initial breeze of my fingers over it I could tell it would feel like heaven as I slept. The cut certainly wasn't one I'd have picked, the pant legs were wide, and thankfully long, but they were a bit low cut, and I sensed they'd hang at the bottom of my hips. The shirt was a cropped white t shirt, the length seemed like it would end just below my scarring, and I was unsure if it'd cover anything if I raised my arms. As I held the shirt I noticed it too was incredibly soft, I wasn't sure if it was made of something other than cotton, or just well made, but my fingers melted over it without me thinking.'Like it?' Jude was watching my face intently, head cocked, his cat ears added to the look as he did his best to keep a cherubic innocent expression.'I think it'd look better on you.'He smiled, 'was that a compliment?'I shook my head, 'just an observation. I don't feel like the things you pick out really suit me.' I motioned for Jude to look away before slipping out of my thread bear pajamas and into my new exquisitely made ones. I had just started the painful process of pulling the new pants over my injuries when I felt a pressure on my head and glanced up to see Jude switching the ears from his head to mine, "do you think Eric's choices suit you better?"I scoffed, "no way." 'his are way worse.'I slid my new pants on before looking up again, I expected Jude's face to have that flirty look he usually got when dressing me up, but there was something dark there, withdrawn, distant.I debated for a moment between ignoring him, comforting him, and teasing him, before I clasped his face gently in my hand, closing the distance and pulling him in for a kiss.It look him a moment to return it, and I felt a hand press against my bare waist before faltering and jerking back into the air.I pulled away ever so slightly, bumping our foreheads together as I whispered, "can we sleep now? I'd rather lay down before I doze off upright."I felt his chest rise and fall, "yeah. Let's do that."I smiled and kissed the tip of his nose before turning around him and climbing into bed.Jude turned to look at me, seemingly conflicted, I cocked my head as I scooted to the far side, 'coming?''It might be best if I go back to my room.'"Is it safe for you to go through the halls? The sun is probably fully up by now."He shrugged and I rolled my eyes, standing back up and pushed him into the bed, stealing the pillow as I guided him to lay.'It's really not fair. You always know what I'm thinking, but when you get like this I have no idea what you've got going on.'I placed the pillow on the ground, laying down on top of it, the feel of wood against my sore body wasn't exactly pleasant, but I'd had worse.The room and my mind were silent for a long moment. I felt myself slowly drifting into sleep, my body melting into the floor.'I don't know the words for what I'm feeling.'I jerked back awake, "huh?"There was a pause, 'sorry, I thought you were asleep enough not to hear…'My body groaned in protest as I propped myself up, putting a folded arm and my chin over the side of the bed.'S okay. Do you want to talk about it?'He stayed still, his face pointed away from me at the ceiling, I could just make out the shape of his nose and chin in the low light, his lips parted, but another moment passed before he spoke, 'will it make me feel better.'I smiled, 'dunno. Might be worth a try though.'He rolled to face me, his hand sliding across the bed until it bumped up next to my fist, 'do you think I'm clingy?''Yeah.'I could hear him pouting even though I couldn't make out the details of his expression, 'aren't you supposed to be comforting me...''Sure. I'm not going to lie though. You are clingy. It just doesn't really bother me.'He considered this for a bit, 'I usually don't mind solitude. The quiet is comforting.'I shifted my hand slightly, rhythmically brushing my finger over the side of his palm.His posture remained tense, 'but since I met you… if I'm alone for more than a few hours… I thought it was to relieve the boredom. Maybe it was at first. But I don't feel bored, it's a physical pain.''It's okay. You can come find me whenever you want. You can read my mind, you know I'm not bothered by your presence.''It's just hard to believe… can I stay by you?I smiled, 'hmm. Depends. Was that a confession?'He groaned and grabbed my arms, pulling me up into the bed beside him. I didn't resist except to snatch up the pillow before I was lifted beyond it. He faced into me, soft curls tickling my chin as he burrowed into my chest. A firm arm wrapped around my bare middle. I slid my own hand under his shirt, letting it rest on the small of his back. The smell of his shampoo followed me as I drifted into sleep.Montgomery asked me to his office the next night. I tossed Abigail a glance as the message was delivered, but she looked just as clueless as I, and as she noticed my gaze, perhaps a bit offended. I put my hands up in a peace offering before leaving, winding my way up to the mans office.Montgomery was knee deep in paperwork from the looks up it, his glaces were between his fingers as he splayed them over the bridge of his nose."You asked for me sir."He placed his glasses on the desk, looking at me with very tired eyes, "Mr. Merryweather, yes. I trust you're doing well? Fully recovered from the last unfortunate task I had to assign.""Yessir. Thank you. Did you need me to do it again?"He nodded solemnly, "we are unfortunately still quite lacking. We have enough for two of them to be mostly satisfied, but not nearly enough for all three of the lords.""I'm still very willing to help. Not a worry."He met my eye, regarding me with an odd mixture of gratefulness and exhaustion, "you… fed. Elias last time, and immediately both Lord Eric and Lord Jude had much to say on the matter. My recommendation would be to spread your assistance around, not garner any discontent if possible.""Sounds quite alright to me. Do you have preference for who my assistance goes to this time?""Would you be opposed to Eric, I'm sure you've noticed his tendencies, and I cannot promise those won't come into play, but Jude is much more malleable when it comes to keeping them docile. Being last will quite likely lead to some property destruction or worse if left to Eric.""Fair enough. Should I go now?""Tomorrow early in the night is fine."The walk back to my quarters was full of a sort of nervous energy. I'd put myself at Eric's mercy twice now, and come out of it in poor shape both times. Allowing him to do something that could easily go too far and cost me my life… hopefully the risk would be worth the pay out.I half expected Jude to be in my room again, or to snatch me up on my way there, but he was absent.I found myself feeling a bit…Was that worry?
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Her brow slightly creased, eyes searching mine for answers, I could see the worry in Abi's face as I passed her in the hallway. I did my best to flash her a reassuring smile, but truth be told my heart was pounding in my chest. I was fairly certain this summons didn't count as one I needed to be in gear for, but as I stood outside that door, the hollow sound of my tapping ringing through the room behind it, I suddenly felt I was doing things wrong. His door finally opened after a few moments, but as I glanced up I was surprised not to see Eric, but instead the cocjed hip and crossed arms of Giselle. She was draped in a sultry red robe, and while it wasn't sheer, the weight of the fabric made every small detail under it extremely apparent. I did my best to keep my gaze steady on her face, but by her smile I could tell she knew exactly what was going through my head. Her eyes traveled up and down me, and suddenly I was hyper aware of my very embarrassing uniform. The frills and ribbons felt a bit too tight as her eyes landed on my exposed strip of very upper thigh."I see room service has arrived?" She stepped out of my way, gaze still sealed on my legs as she motioned for me to enter. As I skittered in I was certain her line of sight remained, and I prayed I'd tied the apron to at least cover the bottom of my butt."I was asked to fetch him, we're supposed to do it in a more… accessible space.""And fetch him you will. He's in the bath at the moment, but should be done soon." She sat on a chair and indicated that I should follow suit, sitting across from her. "So, sweet little August. How have things been?""Everything's been fine here, well minus the blood shortage, which I'm sure you've heard some about… it's good to see you Giselle.""Good to see me? I guess the robe is to your liking?" She rolled a flirty shoulder up towards her ear."I've never seen you looking less than immaculate.""That can't be true." She leaned back with an easy smile, "I can only imagine my disheveled appearance when we first met."I waved a hand, "nonsense, you were stunning there as well. Or at least I was stunned. But maybe that was the shock."She smiled, eyes twinkling. "Seems Eric took a liking to you after that huh?""I didn't realize he was the sort to kiss and tell.""From what he's said I get the notion you went far past kissing.”I couldn't help but blush at that, turning my head and the conversation, "have you had a similar issue to us with the blood supply?"Her face grew complicated, "do you know the reason behind your shortage?"I bit my lip slightly, "I actually don't."Giselle frowned, "It's really not my place to explain… and the politics are complex. My manor hasn't had the same issue though, no."I nodded slowly, "maybe I can convince one of my lords to walk me through it. I'm relieved to hear you haven't faced similar issues.."The sound of the tub draining pulled us from our conversation. Giselle glanced at me, reading my nerves, "I'll stay close by during the act. If you face trouble just shout. I'll swoop in and gallantly save my little damsel in distress." She stood, and with that last phrase gave my cheek a little pinch. "Though I can't promise it'll be without expecting my own favor in return."Eric emerged, hair slightly damp and face ever so slightly flush, but otherwise just as put together as ever, sporting a crisp all black suit that had been immaculately tailored.I found myself rising from the chair as he entered the room. He eyed me for a moment, and the uniform, I'd somehow forgotten, was once again on the forefront of my mind.He moved towards me, and I flinched down as he got within striking distance, but instead of any sort of pain I felt palms on the back of my hand and a paper parcel pressed into my grasp.Eric turned, "you look ridiculous in those clunky things, wear these underneath this uniform from this point forwards."I ducked into a bit of a bow, "yes sir."As I raised my head I found Eric was already at the door, throwing me an annoyed look. I scrambled to follow, clutching the package to my chest as I did so.The room he chose was one of the ones with books lining the walls. A few different seating arrangements were scattered across the fairly large room, but Eric didn't sit, just turned to look at me, and so I remained standing as well. The door behind us had been shut, and I could only hope Giselle had taken her promised post outside."Strip down."My hands flew to the buttons on my collar, but I gave Eric a questioning look, unsure if we were here just to feed or if he had other plans."You don't want to get blood on it, do you?" He adjusted his gloves, pulling them taunt over his hands, and I decided to take that as an answer, at least for now.I undid each of my buttons before pulling off the straps of my apron followed by my blouse.His eyes slid over my exposed body, cooly, no sign yet of the hunger I was expecting, "sit down."I complied, taking a few steps back and sitting on a high backed chair. As I settled in Eric started moving towards me, pressing into my space. A knee folded into the chair beside me while the other foot bore into the ground. One hand gripped the top of the chair back and one tangled into my hair, pulling my head and exposing the stretch of my neck.My hands fluttered up to his chest, sudden terror overtaking me, "w-wait!"I felt the sharp pierce of teeth and couldn't help but cry out in pain. My hands clenched Eric's suit jacket as the stabbing pain slowly faded into a dull achy heat.I did my best to keep my breathing steady, focusing on my body, waiting for my vision to start to swim so I could try to pull him off, or call out for help. But before I reached that point I felt the slide of his teeth leaving my throat. My breath hitched at the sensation, and I felt it falter further as he looked down at me, blood smeared on his lips. A hand trailed down my body, and the rough leather of his glove pressed roughly into my thigh for a moment before he stood."Get dressed. Then rest."I heard the door open behind me before slamming shut. I was left in a stunned silence for a few moments. That had gone far more smoothly than I had expected, and somehow that left a sour taste in my mouth. It was still early, I had plenty of time to feel Eric out, find out exactly what made him tick and learn how to make him crack. But he kept defying my expectations, it was frustrating.I sighed deeply, but paused when I heard the door reopen. I threw my head around the side of the chair to see Giselle stride in, a roll of gauze in hand, "figured you hadn't thought to bring your own."I tugged my apron up, covering at least some of my chest as she rounded the chair, "thank you. I hadn't."She looked at my wound, "mind if I dress it?""As long as you promise not to go wild from the smell and jump me, I don't think I've got much to spare."She pulled a footrest to my side, taking a seat as she started working, "oh. If I jump you, it won't be for blood."I let out a breathy laugh, tilting my head to let her do her work. Her hands were incredibly sure, the precision and speed shocked me, "you're good at this."She nodded, eyes not leaving my neck, "had to get good. That or risk infection each time my mistress fed on me."Giselle had said it hadn't been long since she was turned, before that she must've been in the service of a vampire, much like me. A dozen follow up questions entered my head, but I managed to push them down. Prying wouldn't earn me any favors."Well, thank you for your help.""Not a problem," she said as she finished up, patting my shoulder as she rose from her perch, "and all you owe me is one kiss."She closed her eyes and pursed her lips, and once again I was filled with the sense that this could as easily be a genuine invitation as it was a game. I hesitated for a few moments and stood, taking her hand in mine and raising it to my lips, placing a small kiss on her knuckles.Her eyes fluttered open, and she pouted a bit, "what a rude boy, don't you know to give a lady some face?"I smiled lightly, "just holding your hand has my heart fluttering, a real kiss and I might just faint."She broke into her own smile, "I'd say flattery doesn't work on me, but that's just not true." She grabbed the remainder of her gauze and tape and drifted off towards the door, turning briefly to throw back a, "let me know if you need anything."And with that she was gone.I took a deep breath and recentered myself, however entertaining Giselle might be, falling into her pace would do nothing for my goals.I had been thinking to return to my room, remembering how weak I'd been the last time, but as I strolled the halls I realized I felt surprisingly normal, and set out instead to find Jude.I felt silly calling out his name mentally every dozen or so feet, but I didn't want to pass him and have him not realize I was seeking him out, especially since it seemed he might be avoiding me.His room was empty and dark when I let myself in, as was my own. I grew more and more worried as I searched, remembering the last time I'd played this game and he'd simply skirted by me. Would the same plan of lying in wait work a second time? It seemed a bit unlikely, but I was unsure what else could be done.I had to stop short as I rounded a corner, almost bumping into the solid chest of Elias. His eyes were wide as he looked down at me. His gaze dipped, taking in my full ensemble before snapping back to my eyes, a deep color set in his cheeks, causing me to once again curse the silly thing I'd been made to wear.I steadied myself before speaking, "oops, sorry, almost had a repeat accident huh? That's my bad."He shook his head, "'s fine. You alright?"I did my best to smile, "yes, I had a question for Jude, but it seems he's run off again."Elias's face fell, and I noticed his hands begin to tremble. I searched his face for the cause of his sudden change, "what's wrong? Is Jude okay?"I felt my heart pound, and my own palms were full of a nervous energy.Elias shrugged, avoiding my gaze.I moved to catch his eye again, "is he okay?" I pressed firmly.Elias slowly nodded, "probably."My mind filled with a string of profanity, and I was very glad Elias didn't share Jude's aptitude for hearing thoughts, "will you tell me what's going on?"He paused again, biting his lip before slowly nodding."Do you want to sit to tell me?"He nodded again and I quickly located the nearest office, leading the way in and motioning for him to sit on a chair. I took my own seat before changing my mind and standing again, walking behind the chair and gripping the back.Elias looked up at me sheepishly, "are you mad?"Shit. "No. No. I'm not mad, you just have me worried about Jude." I did my best to force a small smile and relax my white knuckled grip, "what's going on?""He- ah- he went to see our…" he looked up at me, "do you know what I'm saying if I use the word Sire?"I nodded."Jude went to see our Sire. At his request…"I kept nodding, showing Elias I was following, "is that a bad thing to be requested?"Elias grew even more fidgety, "yeah. And I… um… made a mistake last time. I'm worried… I've made trouble."I hesitated before steeling myself to ask, "can I ask what mistake you made?"Elias mumbled a bit, clearly shaken, and I was about ready to back off when he looked me in the eyes, "I said no. That I wouldn't go see him."I blinked a few times, "because of how he treats you?"Elias nodded, looking down, and it was clear to see the guilt streaked over his face. I stepped out from behind my hide, crouching in front of him and pulling his hands into mine.He glanced up, making a brief moment of eye contact, "hey. There's no shame in that. I won't pretend to know the specifics, or to understand the situation at all really, but I'm glad you stood up for yourself."His eyes landed on the gauze at my neck, "I'm the reason you're having to do that though."The pieces started slotting together in my head, but I did my best to stay present, "I really don't mind much. I'm here to serve you guys after all… but Elias. I need you to tell me one more thing."He looked up, his eyes shimmering, it seemed he might cry at the slightest provocation."Is there anything we can do to help Jude?"He paused again before shaking his head, "I've been trying to think something up for days…"I squeezed the man's hands, smiling through my own worry, "that's okay. Jude's pretty tough. I'm sure he'll be okay."Elias didn't look convinced, but nodded anyways.I leaned up slightly, but paused. This was taking advantage of his weakened emotional state. And I knew my own mind would be on Jude, unable to be fully present here, but I shrugged it off, "can I kiss you?"He looked a bit shocked, searching my eyes to see if it was genuine, and finding what he was looking for, nodding.I leaned up and caught his lips with mine. Moving onto my knees for better leverage, and winding a hand to the back of his head.He was hesitant at first, jerky in his return. I pressed a hand onto his leg pushing up and pulling his bottom lip into my mouth, grazing my teeth gently over it.How long did these visits to the Sire usually take?Gravity went weird for a moment, and I felt my back press into something hard. My eyes fluttered open to catch a brief glimpse of Elias's hulking form bearing down on me, legs pinning me firmly in place, before his mouth was back on mine, kissing hungrily. Hands grappled sloppily at buttons as he opened my shirt, his lips never leaving mine as he managed to pop them open. A thumb traveled over one of my twin scars as the other hand raked well trimmed fingernails over my back.God, what if jude wasn't back before it was time to sleep, would I even be able to?I moved my own hands to undo his shirt buttons, pushing him off me for a moment to shrug it off. I tried to pull him back to my lips, but instead his head dipped to my chest, sucking a hard hickey beside my nipple, pressing kisses into the scar there, before his mouth met my nipple, teasing it with his tongue. My hands tangled roughly in his hair and my back arched, I heard myself groan his name as he worked me.What did their sire do to them that had Elias so shaken?He looked up at me, and not for the first time I likened the man to a Labrador, "feel okay?"I nodded, feeling myself quiver as I shifted my eyes away, the contact too intense when paired with all the sensation. He went back to work, sucking roughly, rolling it under his tongue, occasionally a brief bit of teeth would catch me, and I'd feel myself jolt.How long had Jude been gone?I pushed myself up, guiding Elias to trade positions with me.When was the last time I saw him?Leaning down over him and kissing while adjusting my hips to line up with his.Was it right after that?My hand went to his scar streaked across his shoulder, and he moaned into my lips as I ran a gentle finger down it. I'd managed to adjust my position enough, and could feel the imprint of him through his pants. I pulled my head back, briefly rocking my hips ever so lightly, "is this okay?"He nodded, eyelids fluttering as he pulled me back down into another kiss.Should I go ask Montgomery about it?I rocked my hips again, grinding against him. Even through the jeans I could tell his frame wasn't the only thing massive about this man.Or maybe Eric would be willing to give me details?Elias moaned again, tipping his head back, and I pulled up, resting one hand on his stomach and the other on his leg as I moved against him. I could feel my own arousal, and there was no lack of pleasure as I rubbed against him, the friction of the fabric and the look of the man twitching beneath me enough to send pleasure coursing through me.Abigail was in my same position and wouldn't be privy to any additional details, but maybe she'd noticed patterns that could help me?I slid my hand from his stomach down to his crotch, rubbing the bit of his length I missed while grinding. He was chanting my name at this point, around whimpers and moans.God. What if Jude came back all beaten and bloodied?Elias's hips bucked under me, I could tell from his panting that he was close.Or what if he came back in that almost catatonic state?His hands gripped my bare thighs with enormous strength as he guided me, his pace growing even faster before it staggered.Would I be able to pull him from it?I slid myself up and down him, once, twice, thrice more, working him through his orgasm, but his head was still tossed back and hips tense. He caught my thighs again, rubbing me against him. My eyes got slowly wider as it went on, realizing he was still orgasming. Until finally he stopped, and pulled me down on top of him.My head bumped into his dewy chest, and slowly our breathing became more steady together.After a few minutes he shifted, reaching down and touching my thigh, my eyes shot up to meet his questioning ones, "I'm good to keep going if you want?"My eyes went wide again, shooting down to see a familiar imprint under his pants. I took a shaky breath, the temptation doubled, needing this for my goals, and needing this dick buried inside me. I began to reach down, ready to undo his pants.This is wrong. This is wrong. You're taking advantage of him. You're not even into it beside yourself with worry like this. Stop it.I furrowed my brow. Who the hell was I to care? I'd never bothered with morals once I had a mark. That's what Elias was. Maybe I'd begun to come to terms with Jude being more than that to me, but the man beneath me now?I pulled my hand back to my chest, "I think we should stop here for today."He nodded, shifting out from under me and collecting his shirt. He pulled his on, before returning to me on the floor, helping me button up my own top.He pressed a kiss to my forehead, "thank you… for uh- that. And for comforting me."I smiled up at him, "thank you. For the same."He smiled a bit and stood, looking back at me one last time before slipping into the hallway, leaving me alone with my worry.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The feeling of my bed dipping slightly startled me awake. Not just a suddenly I'm awake sort of startle either, but rather, I'm suddenly awake and that is very very wrong. I shot up and my palm collided hard with something. Or rather someone. Jude looked at me, eyes wide, reflecting the little bit of light in the room like a cat's.'Alright, maybe climbing into your bed without warning wasn't cool, but I don't think I deserve to be hit for it.'I buffered for a moment before catching up with reality. My initial instinct was to lunge at him and wrap him in a massive hug.'That does sound nice.' Jude chimed in my head.But I figured I'd get that sort of reaction and abstained, instead flicking his forehead.'Ouch. What was that for?''Running off without letting me know first, I was worried sick.''Aww, that's so sweet of you. I was just out and about though, no big deal.'I watched his face, seeing if I could catch the dishonesty, learn his tell a bit, but no such luck.His brow furrowed, 'how'd you know?''Elias told me.'Jude groaned and tossed himself into the pillow beside me, 'I didn't tell you so you wouldn't worry, why'd he have to go and muck it up?''Are you okay?'Jude considered my question for a moment, before looking up, his face a mask of angst, 'no. It was awful. So awful I think I might just die… the only thing that can save me? The kiss from someone who truly loves me.' He pressed the back of his hand to his head and swooned backwards. An eye cracked open peeking from his faux faint.I laid back down, ignoring his dramatics, 'glad you aren't catatonic, I was actually going to have to do a lot of work to snap you out of it if that were the case.'His eye caught something in the dark, and he poked the gauze on my neck, abruptly changing topics, 'what's this?''Eric needed a snack. Three days ago now.''Is it still open?'I shook my head, 'gnarly looking scabs though, and a bandaid doesn't reach wide enough.''We'll get you some of those big ones for knees and stuff, though hopefully you won't have to act as anyone's juice pouch much longer.' He flipped over tucking his knees up to press against my legs, a hand laid between our heads, fiddling with a piece of my hair.A yawn racked through me, 'I want to keep talking, but I've barely slept these past few days.'"Mmn." 'Sleep well. We can talk more tomorrow before you work.'"No work tomorrow."'Then can I steal your time?'I think I probably gave some sort of affirmation as I drifted back into sleep. The nightmares that had been plaguing me absent for the first time in nights.When my eyes opened back up I was surprised to see Jude still sleeping next to me. That fragile face made even more so without endless taunts pouring from his lips. I tried to think back, remember if I'd ever seen him sleeping before. If I had, I'd forgotten. Determined not to forget a second time I studied his face a long while. About 20 minutes in I was thinking through what I wanted to do as part of our day off together when his brow furrowed suddenly. And a strained squeak came from his throat. His fist rolled into a ball and his shoulders tensed. Whatever he was dreaming about must have gone dark, and I hesitated for a moment before resting a hand on his shoulder, gently shaking him awake. Jude's eyes shot open and before I knew what was happening I was laying on the ground, wind knocked out of me, a gasping Jude pressed against the wall. Feet making two little canyons in the bed.His eyes cleared and I saw him stumble forward, climbing off my cot "shit. August, you okay? I didn't… I didn't mean to."He knelt, looking over me, but seemingly nervous to touch, "I'm fine. I'm fine. Just surprised me." I took stock, making sure my words were true, 'might have an ugly bruise on my ass, but I'm okay otherwise. Are you alright?'He nodded, hands fluttering, unsure if he should help me up or step back. I reached out and grabbed his hand, pulling myself up to fully sitting and allowing him to bring me with him as he stood.I patted my hands on my sides, glancing at the time, the sun should have set, might as well get ready to start the day… or night.Jude's eyes were still wide, seemingly shaken, by my guess a combination of the dream and having accidentally tossed me. Addressing it seemed fruitless. Instead I grabbed my toiletries, 'you can come with if you want. And after… were you still wanting that fashion show?'I could see the anxiety evaporate, "yeah totally."He really had picked out all sorts of clothes. I'd gone through them a bit during his absence, but until they were on I didn't really know the full breadth of them. We started with pajamas, a few plain yet obviously expensive sets. The final one was a sheer tank top with matching sheer micro shorts, a bit of embroidery lined the bottom hem of each piece. I looked down at the item still on the hanger and up and Jude's eager face."I don't think I'll be wearing this one."He pouted, 'why not?''I'm not answering that, you know good and well.'"As a special treat for braving my big scary trip?"I placed them back away.'No fair. You wear what Eric tells you to. And he gets to drink your blood. Do you like him better than me?'"I will if you keep up this whining."'Want me to act more dominant? Hmm kitty?'I groaned and marched away, 'what I want is to go out, enjoy the garden maybe. Pick me out something to wear?'He cocked an eyebrow at me.'And not the lingerie.' I cut him off before he could even get his jab out.He faked upset as he dug through my clothes. The outfit he landed on was… not one I would have chosen. A cream colored chunky knit sweater cropped just below the ribs, a cut out in the shape of a pumpkin near the collar. The shorts were a burnt orange, much shorter and tighter than the style he usually gravitated towards for me. He debated between a pair of knee length socks and ankle socks with frills as I got dressed."I think I've said it before, but aren't these clothes kind of girly?"He looked up from the socks, "do they trigger your dysphoria?"I blinked, a bit surprised the kid from the 1920's knew that word.He waved a hand in the air, "I may have died 100 years ago, but that doesn't mean I stopped living."'Yeah. Sorry. Just… where did you hear it?'He looked at me, 'August. I'm a queer 20 year old: Clubs, bars, house parties back when you could just show up at those. I haven't lived under a rock.'I nodded, "that makes sense, I'd just assumed…"He moved into my space, catching my chin between his fingers and looking into my eyes, "is it triggering your dysphoria?"I thought for a moment, eyes cast down before meeting his gaze again, 'I don't think so. I just don't feel like I look good.'He pulled back, handing me the knee high socks, 'there's no problem then. Because right now you look so good that it's taking everything in my power not to take those clothes right back off.'I turned, suddenly very intent on making my bed, and not looking at Jude."I should go get myself dressed too.""Yeah, good idea," I said, still not looking his way.'Don't wander off.' The door clicked open, and I held my breath as he walked away. Probably waiting longer than I needed to before letting my mind drift to how insanely flustered he'd made me with so little effort. The possibility of him overhearing my embarrassing thoughts made me even more nervous, I really needed to figure out how to casually ask how far away he could hear.The garden was… well it was probably lovely, the paths were lined with little solar power lights, and that did help, but still most of it was cast in deep shadows. The little orbs of bright white color illuminating a few square inches of hedge or flower, while lovely, was nowhere near as interesting as an actually well lit one. I'd been in the garden a fair number of times, but usually with some purpose. Actually usually it was for someone to yell at me for being reckless away from Jude's ears. This was the first time I was trying to pay attention to my surroundings. Eugene, the garden boy, seemed to do quite a good job on them, especially considering he had no real help. There were all sorts of fall flowers and greenery. The beds were neat, and trees well pruned. It had the sort of manicured look you'd expect from such an upscale property, perhaps not quite to my tastes, but pretty nonetheless.Jude hadn't quit speaking since we got out, switching easily from mental messages to out loud quips. He was quite eye catching, he'd traded his usual jewel tone pastels for festive colors, a pair of brown shorts cut off just above his knees, and a cream shirt that matched my sweater immaculately bloused up from it. Rather than a cut out detail his shirt sported leaf embroidery on the cuffs and down the line of button holes. A gem twinkled in his ear, but oddly enough it wasn't the same pallet as the rest of his getup, but rather a bright green color, the same shade as the little flecks of green in his hazel eyes.The weight if his arm looped through mine was comfortable, I found myself leaning into his touch. I must have missed it more than I realized while Jude was away. Despite the comfort I felt my heart skip a beat at each rustle of leaves. My head felt like it was on a constant swivel as I tried to keep watch, make sure no one bumped into us in such a vulnerable position.Jude of course noticed, 'I'll let you know before anyone is in eyeshot, they won't be able to sneak up on me.'I nodded, trying to assure myself more than him that I understood, and he switched positions, threading my arm through his. And true to his nature we ended up switching positions again every two or three minutes after that.We had our fingers laced together when I felt a tug on my arm, looking over to see Jude peering through his bangs, puppy dog eyes turned to maximum cuteness, "I have two spots I really want to show you, which do you want to see first.""Hmm..." 'What're my options?'"There's a seasonal spot, and then there's my favorite super secret private spot."I bumped his hip with mine and moved my arm to be draped over his shoulder, watching him eat up the attention, 'let's do your favorite first.''Mkay!'It was an adorable spot, tucked into a thicket of deep red japanese maples, a little fountain burbled, pumping fresh water into the small pond at our feet. A single magnolia sat at one corner and Jude quickly scampered over, leaving me trailing behind as he climbed up. I pressed through the leaves and looked up, seeing kicking feet and a wide grin looking back.'This branch is the best, you can see the pond really well, and it's surprisingly comfortable.''Want me to come up?'He nodded enthusiastically, and I began my slow ascent, much more cautious than Jude had been.It took me a few tries, and a bit of verbal instruction to make it up. As I settled onto the branch, Jude snuggled under my arm. The pond and tops of the red maples below us, suddenly the strenuous task was quite worth it.I realized my date's chattering had stopped, and I glanced down, his wide eyes peered back up at me, 'I have something for you.'"Oh?""Close your eyes."I hesitantly complied, my body tensed as my fingers dug into the branch below me, very aware of how far the ground was and how many painful branches I'd collide with if I were to lose balance. After a moment I felt his hand at my ear, and realized he was taking out the stud I had in. It was still a foreign feeling to have a new post slid in, but I held as still as I could as he popped in a new earring.'There you go, open your eyes.'I did so, taking in his expression, he looked entirely too pleased with himself, 'I'd say I like it, but I have no idea what it looks like.'His smile shifted, more teasing, 'yes you do.'"How?"He raised a finger, gently touching his own earring, "because we match! It's your birthstone, and look, doesn't it kind of match my eyes?"I felt a sudden, sourceless discomfort, my mind started reeling, but I knew that was dangerous in present company, "you need to cut it out with the presents."Jude's face dropped, 'you don't like it?'I took a shaky breath, 'It's not that I don't like it, it's just… it feels like you're trying to buy me.'His brow furrowed a bit "I'm not. I just-""I know. It's fine. Just, let up a little bit?"He nodded slowly, his gaze drifting down to the pond beneath us.The pressure in my chest began to fade as we sat in an uncomfortable silence for a bit.I stole another glance over and realized Jude's face had begun to take that blank quality it sometimes got.I reached a hand out and folded it around his, "hey? You okay?"He slowly looked up at me, his eyes distant, 'are you going to leave now?'That took me by surprise a bit, 'do you want me to?'Jude shook his head.'Then I won't.'His eyes stayed bleary as I tried to think of what else I could do to comfort him.I slowly leaned forward, watching his expression for any sign of discomfort, and placed a butterfly weight kiss on the very tip of his nose, 'hey, come back.'He blinked, his eyes getting a bit clearer, but still stayed silent.I leaned in again watching his eyes flutter closed before placing a small kiss on his right eyelid, 'I'm not leaving, so you stay too.'His breath got a bit less shallow as his eyes struggled to focus on my face.I leaned in a third time, fainting a kiss on his lips, not pulling fully back but instead resting my forehead against his, 'Jude?'This time it was he who moved, shifting and pressing our lips together in a shockingly chaste kiss. He pulled back, pressing his forehead against mine once again, he took a deep breath as he spoke in my mind, 'I'm here. Sorry.'"You don't need to apologize."I felt his shoulders stiffen at that, the weight obviously becoming too much to bear on his playful shoulders. He began to pull back, but before he could move out of reach I nipped at the tip of his nose.His hand went up to guard as he leaned defensively away, "ouch." 'Why?'I shrugged, kicking my feet, 'you have a cute nose.''I'm going to start biting you. See how you like it.'I did my best to approximate innocence as I delivered my rebuttal, 'did I do something to make you think that you shouldn't?'His eyes glinted, "careful." 'You're going to rile me up.'I tossed my eyes to the side, fidgeting with the new earring in my ear, 'I don't want to miss the other place you were going to show me though…'His hand wrapped around my waist, and a second too late I realized he was tossing us forward off our branch perch. A squeak escaped me as I turned in the air wrapping my arms around his neck and legs around his waist, eyes wide in fear.We landed easily, Jude breaking the fall with a slight bend of his knees before straightening back up.He smiled at me, a bit too pleased in my abject terror, 'should I carry you all the way there?'Never one to back down from a bit or call chiclen I knew it wasn't an empty threat, 'n-no.' I unraveled myself from him, still feeling thoroughly shaken, “why did you do that?”He shrugged, ‘something, something, cute nose.’“Jerk.”“Yep!” ‘You okay?’“I think so,” my heart did still feel like it would beat right out of my chest, but I couldn't let that show. Instead I widened my eyes, 'but… will you hold my hand?'Jude smiled wider, snatching up my hand, 'you don't have to ask, if it were up to me I'd always have my hands on you.'I blushed, and started walking, hoping Jude thought my red cheeks were part of the act.'I might've if you hadn't just thought that.' He spun around me, catching my chin in his fingers. The effect probably would have been better if Jude was taller than me, but still I will admit my heart skipped a beat as he muttered against my lips, "do I make you that flustered?"I fluttered my eyes closed, awaiting a kiss, but instead I sensed a quick pull away from me as Jude dropped my hand, 'someone's coming.'Sure enough the chatter of two voices quickly reached my ears. I picked one out as Abigail, but it took me until they were rounding the corner to realize her conversational partner was Eugene, the garden boy.Only a few phrases came to me, Eugene said something about, "I think it's worth trying. If we do and you don't have a good time, that's the last you'll hear of it."To which Abigail retorted, "that's what you said last time, Eugene, and yet here you are, talking about-"She stopped both mid sentence and in her tracks as she saw me. Her eyes drifted to Jude, back to me, and after another millisecond pause she smiled, "August! I was looking all over for you. I thought we were going to meet by the greenhouse?"I picked up her meaning immediately, jumping in as I strode over, "did you say the greenhouse? We were waiting by the pond for you. And here I thought you stood us up, I'd just about given up on you."I wrapped Abigail in a casual side hug, looking over Eugene before turning back to Abi, "was Eugene going to join us? I only packed enough lunch for the two of us, but I can go back and-"Abi pulled out of our hug, "oh no no. We'd just bumped into one another. He's got lots of work to do."I smiled politely to him, "oh. Of course, I was just admiring what a good job you've done."The poor boy managed to stutter a, "oh, thank you."Before I launched back in, "well don't let us keep you.""Right." Eugene turned and marched off, seeming a bit overwhelmed and very confused.Once he was out of earshot Abi muttered a, "thanks.""You owe me all the dirty details later."She smiled, "do you mind if I tag along with you guys for a bit, if I bump back into him on my way to the house…"Jude piped up in my mind, 'do we have to?'I turned to look at him, 'just for a bit.'Jude pouted, but didn't argue further.I turned back to Abigail to see her looking quite confused, but brushed past it with a smile, "yeah. That's totally fine."She gave her own weak smile, "I owe you one… were you headed somewhere specific or just wandering?""Somewhere specific. Though where I don't know, Jude was leading me." I glanced back at him, 'is it okay to keep heading that way?'He shrugged, still maintaining his distance and avoiding eye contact.Abigail gave Jude a weak smile, "sorry, I really don't mean to burst in on your plans, I promise to be out of your hair soon."I sighed, determining nothing I could do would break Jude from his mood, and started walking the way we had been, scooping up Abi's arm on my way past, folding my own through it, "we'll just wander then." 'Keep up.'Abi smiled, letting herself be led, "so, how's your day off been?""Fine so far. Been putzing around mostly. Just got done being thrown out of a tree."Abi's face lost some color and I quickly corrected myself, "nothing dangerous, Jude was just being a bully.""Right..." she did her best not to look over to him."You have today off too right?"She nodded, "rare that they line up.""Have you done anything fun?"She groaned, "dodging Eugene has taken most of my free time. I ate some good food this morning though."Jude spoke aloud behind us, "was your first date with him really that bad?"I watched Abigail's face twist in discomfort, barely managing to keep her eyes forward.Jude paused, "wow really? Boring and he was a bad kisser? Or do you blame yourself for your teeth bumping together?"I dropped Abi's arm, turning to face the boy, "Jude. Cut it out."He ignored me, eyes boring into Abigail as she kept walking forward, "it's a good thing you didn't go further… oh wait-"I quickly closed the distance between us shoulders squared, 'stop. Now.'His eyes finally shifted back to me, 'or what?'I hesitated, giving him the chance to press further, 'you aren't my boss August, actually I'm yours. Did you forget that again?'I yielded, 'please Jude, just play nice for a few minutes.'His hand wrapped around my waist, and I felt my body go rigid, 'and what do I get in return?'I averted my gaze, 'what do you want in return?''You. On my bed. In that sheer lingerie.'I paused again, this was a slippery slope, positive reinforcement now might set a pattern.'Fine.'I twisted from his grip looking back to a very confused Abi, "sorry. He'll play nice now."She hesitantly nodded.Jude grabbed my hand, swinging it at our side, his attitude having flipped completely, "we were going to go to the pumpkin patch. Do you want to come?"Her eyes flicked down to our hands and back up before she forced a smile, "yeah. Sure."It wasn't much further to the patch, Jude was babbling about the different seasonal things the garden had grown over the years, his attitude remaining chipper. The only hint that he remembered what had just transpired was when I would attempt to adjust my grip on his hand at all, the bruising strength he used to keep me firmly in place.Eventually we made it to the pumpkin patch. Abi sat on the grass, doing her best to keep up with Jude's rapid fire pace of conversation.Jude finally released my hand, plopping onto the grass."The ground is pretty dry right here," I looked over to see Abigail patting a patch of grass near her side."Sweet. Thanks." I took a single step before I felt a tug on my wrist and found myself folding backwards. I landed hard and Jude tugged me in before I could get my bearings, situating me between his legs, back pressed into his chest.I flashed him a look, 'Jude…' and shifted my weight to sit back up.Before I made it far his hand pressed into my cheek turning my head at a painful angle as he kissed me. I didn't reciprocate, pressing against his chest to try and force my way out of it. 'Quit it. I thought you said you'd behave.'He finally pulled back, his eyes lidded, still looking at my lips, 'what? I'm not allowed to kiss you?'I turned my head, looking at Abigail's horrified expression, and feeling very grateful that I'd mentioned my dynamic with Jude prior.'You told her?' Jude's nose poked at the back of my ear, 'should I be pleased or worried?'I kept my eyes forward, 'you didn't know that and kissed me anyways?'Abigail cleared her throat, "should I head out?""Yes~" came Jude's sing-song response."No. You're fine. He's just being a menace." I reached behind my head and flicked him, earning me a grumbled complaint."Can I ask…" Abigail seemed to be considering things as she paused, "what are you doing when you go quiet like that?""Flirting." Jude chimed."Talking. Does he not…" I turned to Jude, 'do you not talk to other people in their heads?'He shrugged, "I don't really talk to other people period."I looked back to Abi, "he can kind of… talk. Into my mind."Abigail looked genuinely intrigued, "will you show me?""Sure." Jude went quiet for a moment and I watched Abigail balk and look away."What did you just say?"Jude had a smile on his lips, 'I'll tell you later.'I rolled my eyes and did my best to pick up a conversation about books. Or literally anything other than this. The tight feeling in my chest made it impossible to really focus though, and I knew I'd be asking the same questions again next time we worked together.
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I felt the cool linens under me as I slid onto my back. The canopy above me shifted, swaying slightly, an elegant movement that reminded me of a dance. The mattress sunk as Jude slid onto it.Should I have upheld my end of the bargain after his reckless, twitchy, hissy fit? Most certainly not. But he had tugged me so insistently to his room, and given me so much time and privacy to change. It wasn't nearly as uncomfortable as I'd imagined. The sheer fabric was soft and flexible, and I wouldn't pretend the soft golden color didn't look stunning beside the raspberry colored flowers expertly placed over my nipples and streaking down my ribs. The shorts were somehow miraculously even smaller than they appeared on the hanger, dipping below my hips and ending in a sharp v that had most of my ass exposed. The matching raspberry banding on them was quite flattering though, drawing the eyes to my defined hip bones and slightly pudgy thighs.I didn't look over as Jude settled, but suspected his eyes were raking up and down my body. The bed dipped slightly as he shifted, and despite myself my body tensed, expecting some sort of touch. But instead I felt the boy settle next to me. I glanced over to see splayed out curls and bright eyes.My lips parted, intent on asking what we were doing, but a sudden rack of foreign nerves overcame me and sealed my mouth.Jude smirked slightly, and I cursed at myself for always forgetting in moments like this that he could clearly hear me even if I didn't manage to speak my thoughts aloud. His hand drifted to my cheek, cupping it slightly, 'what do you want to do?'My face flushed, and I shifted my gaze away from his intense stare.Jude spoke again, a bit of worry in his mental tone, 'are you still mad at me from earlier?'The events of the day cycled through my mind, his rudeness with the only other member of this house I considered a friend, his disrespect for my emotions as he toyed with me in front of her, his total lack of apology, 'yes. I think I am.'His hand drifted down, catching my ear and playing with the gem pierced into it, 'but you're here in my bed anyways?'I looked back to him, finding his eyes still intently on me, 'you asked me to be.'He sighed heavily, shifting into a sitting position, "August, do YOU want to do this?"I paused, trying to understand what he meant. Was he hoping I'd say no to get out of it? Were we moving too fast for him again? Had his interest in me waned?A sudden flick to my forehead pulled me from my thoughts, my eyes focused on Jude, who looked… was that sadness? He smoothed his hand down the side of my face, 'you and I are going to have to work on that.'He moved again, sliding his legs out of bed and moving to stand, my hand jutted out and grabbed his wrist. We watched each other in silence for a few moments, his eyes, presumably, watching for meaning behind my actions as I searched for his. Hesitantly I spoke, 'do you not want to…'His gaze remained steady, "I do. But it seems like you don't really."I kept my grip on his wrist as I shifted around him, sliding off the bed and onto the floor between his legs, "I do."I could see a flicker of hesitation in his eyes as I looked up at him, I was ready for him to say no, or push me away, but after a moment lust overtook his anxieties.My hand traveled up to the waist of his pants, 'is this okay?'He looked away, biting his lip lightly, 'yes.'With permission granted I got to work quickly, unbuckling and sliding down his shorts and underwear, shifting back slightly to shuck them off before returning to Jude's erection. He was modestly sized, but it still bumped painfully into the back of my throat as he bottomed out. The little sounds the boy was making above me made it very much worth it though, and I quickly set a fast pace, sliding him in and out of my mouth and reveling in all the different sounds I could pull from him.A hand tangled in my hair, and I glanced up at his face, twisted with pleasure, a sheen of sweat hanging from him, 'August. August. Fuck.'I slowed slightly, 'do you want to set the pace?'His eyes shot open as he looked down at me. He considered for a second, 'j-just promise you'll tell me if it's too much?'I loosened my control over my neck muscles, 'it won't be… but I will.'His hand in my hair tensed a bit more as he experimentally glided me down his length, letting out a bit of a whimper as I pressed my tongue onto the underside. I felt a satisfying burn at the back of my head as he used a chunk of my hair to pull me off. I barely managed to flick my tongue over the head before he pushed me back onto him, and despite my boasting I gagged slightly as he bottomed out.Jude paused, still pressed a bit too deep in my throat, and I looked up at him, 'I'm fine. Keep going.'Something within him seemed to snap, he pumped hard and fast in and out of my mouth. My hands caught the edge of the bed as I braced myself, desperate not to fall over under his incessant tugging. It didn't take long for my body to revolt, gagging again as he bottomed out, Jude seemed to revel in it, pausing there, pumping an inch or so in and out as I made horrible choking sounds around him.My hand flew to his leg, fingers pressing into his soft flesh as I called out mentally, 'Jude. Too much. Please.''Good boy,' he chimed and I felt my heart do a flip, swayed by his display of soft dominance. Jude slid out, so just the head sat heavy on my tongue as I caught my breath. I took a few racking ones then focused on steadying myself. Jude's hand stroked the back of my head, and I looked up at his sympathetic face. I felt my heart skip a beat again, but if it was from some fluttering feeling or anger from being babied I was unsure. Before my thoughts could spiral I plunged myself back onto Jude, hollowing my cheeks as his hips tensed beneath me. I slowed myself, pulling back off at a painfully languid speed before slowly pushing myself back down. I felt his hand grab desperately at my hair as he tried lightly to quicken my pace. I didn't give in, but my eyes did flick up to his upturned head and almost pained expression. I moved my mouth back down and up even slower than before watching his mouth open as he gasped. Just the head of his dick was in my mouth when I paused. Looking up at him sweetly as I held perfectly still. His hand tried to push my back down, then he tugged, trying to pull me off, but I stayed steady.Jude's voice came out as a whimper, "August. August please?"I met his eyes, keeping mine as innocent and wide as possible, 'if you want something, you'll have to take it.'And just as I'd hoped I watched something switch on within him as he pushed roughly off the bed, holding my head forcefully as the momentum pressed him harshly into my throat. Before I could fully adjust my posture to our new position his hips were snapping wildly in and out, I tried to catch small breaths between thrusts, but soon my head was swimming, and I could feel a few tears pooling at the corners of my eyes.I tapped his thigh gently, 'I need air, one sec'He immediately complied, pulling out, but keeping himself pressed against my lips.I could hear the concern in his voice as I gulped down air, “you good?”"Yeah. Keep going."Jude was a bit slower, making sure to pull out most of the way so I could suck in air between thrusts.'You don't need to baby me Jude, I can take it.'He hesitated, his thrusting pausing momentarily before his fingers tangled roughly into my hair, 'you asked for it.'The pace he set was mind boggling. I could feel my knees grating against the carpet, but I was held in place by the impossibly strong hand on the back of my head. At some point a leg had shifted between mine, and his shin grinded against me, the feeling of the sheer fabric pressed harshly against my dick, slowly becoming more slick, was as embarrassing as it was heavenly.Jude's pace became more erratic, and I could sense he was close to spilling into orgasm. His words quickly confirmed, 'so close. Feels so good. Where do you want me to…'I tried to quickly search for where Jude was most likely to want to. In my mouth, my face, my chest.Jude's hand shifted, moving my head so I was looking up at him even as he kept going, 'not where I want it, I know that. Where you want it.'I paused for a moment, and I could see nerves building on Jude's face, feel his grip tightened in concentration on the back of my head, 'in my mouth… I want to feel it in my throat.'"Good boy."A shiver ran down my spine, pulling me upright as he pounded in and out of my mouth. I could feel his orgasm in his movement before I sensed the thick liquid spill into my mouth, coating my tongue and throat. I dutifully swallowed, reveling in the slightly sticky feeling in the back of my throat.I was still blissed out when I felt myself being lifted, and placed, not so gently back on the bed. Jude's soft curls brushed against one of my thighs as he lowered himself between my legs.I felt my breath grow shallow, and before I could fully process what was happening I'd grabbed a fistful of his hair, ripping him off of me.Jude's brow furrowed, "you don't want me to?"I tried to catch my breath, but as I spoke it still sounded rushed and panicked, "it's fine. There's just really no need."Jude raised himself a bit more, watching my eyes,'Do you dislike the feeling?''No, it feels fine.'His eyes narrowed slightly, "does it make you dysphoric?"I hesitated for a moment, and Jude clamored to fix his perceived mistake, 'if I ever do anything that makes you feel that way you really only need to tell me. I think you look cute in these clothes, but it's not worth hurting you over. I really do see you as a man though, I wouldn't date you if I didn't.' His face flushed bright pink, 'or not date but…'I couldn't fight back my chuckle, which only managed to turn the boy a brighter shade of pink."It's fine, it doesn't make me dysphoric. Not the clothes, or being under you."In a smooth motion he pushed himself up and onto me, catching my lips with his for a deep kiss. A hand dipped down, rubbing over my thighs, a thumb briefed over the underwear as he pulled a inch away from my mouth. His voice came out in a sultry whisper, 'you're so perfect.'I gave him a little peck, 'was that a confession?'He rolled his eyes, before looking a bit more serious, 'I want to suck your dick. Can I?'I paused, and nodded, the glimmer in Jude's eye too much to deny.He didn't let a moment go to waste, lowering himself and licking through the embroidered fabric. Electricity sparked through me, and I couldn't help but tangle a hand into his fluffy curls.His lips parted slightly as he pressed over me, lips and a bit of teeth sending more shocks of pleasure. I could feel every embroidered stitch and woven thread as they brushed against me.'Feel good?' I looked down to see Jude's bright eyes peering up at me, his hair disheveled from my pulling and the light sweat he'd worked up.My breathy tone surprised me as I panted out, "y-yeah. Feels good."The corners of his lips curled up as he switched his angle slightly, running a tongue over my opening before pressing it hard onto my dick.'You're so wet.'I felt a blush rise to my cheeks in embarrassment.'It's hot. Tasting you through your clothes.'I felt a tug at the waist band, 'mind if I?'My body ached at the idea of more direct contact and I nodded my head, granting him permission to slide them off. Jude got up on his knees, sliding the panties off of me, but keeping a firm hand on one of my legs.He sat back on his haunches, adjusting his grip on my leg until he had the leverage to pull my lower half up to meet his face. I let out a bit of a yelp as he hooked one of my legs over his shoulder. The other hand pressed firmly into my ass, with a strength I worried would leave me with finger tip shaped bruises. His chin dipped down as he put me in his mouth, skillfully sucking as his tongue pressed around the edges where it met soft folds of skin. With a deft lick his tongue lapped over one of the small glands on either side of my base, and I felt my whole body stiffen as a moan leaked from my lips.'Oh?'He began his assault, tongue darting in and out of his mouth and spinning around my base as I convulsed and whimpered, 'too much Jude. Please. Too much.'He backed off slightly, tongue instead finding my opening and lapping at the fluids leaking from it. With a bit more pressure he pressed through my folds, licking heavily against the upper wall.My body slowly deflated, relieved by the less intense pleasure, but still my breath was ragged, and I moaned lightly as he found especially pleasurable spots. I closed my eyes, focusing on the warm pleasure. Jude's hand had moved to my hip at some point and he gently massaged the bit of fat there.I felt Jude shift slightly, and the tongue that had been inside me pressed out and roughly over my dick.I couldn't help but curse as my fist tightened in his hair, gripping hard enough that it would be painful to any normal person. Jude just smirked around me as he worked. His tongue finding those same glands without issue.My body seized up once more, spine twisting in his hands, but despite my movement he managed to follow and continue abusing them. A pit had formed in my stomach, burning, hot, and ready to bubble over. I did my best to warn Jude between my moans, but it came out as an incoherent mess as I spilled into orgasm.Jude shifted off my dick, lapping playfully at the liquids leaking from me as I slowly came down.He looked up at me through lowered lashes, smiling, 'was it good?'I halfheartedly batted at the top of his head as I let my own fall backwards, still trying to catch my breath. I felt some shifting and then Jude's head pressed gently onto my chest. After a few moments of quiet breathing I forced myself to look at him, 'what're you pouting over?''You didn't praise me.'I rolled my eyes, 'you did very good, that felt… unreal.''Mind bogglingly good?'I couldn't keep the tang of sarcasm from dripping into my tone, 'oh, for sure.'Jude smiled, 'asshole.'I cocked an eyebrow and shot my hand down, gripping his butt, 'if you insist.'He took it in stride, throwing his weight to pull me off the bed and slowly sliding his own fingers towards the center of my butt, 'two can play at that game.'I snorted and raised my hands in surrender, best I could given my odd posture, his own hand moved to the small of my back, pulling me closer as he sat up a bit, placing his lips gently against mine.'Will you sleep here this morning?'I shifted, climbing off him a bit and finding a comfortable spot on his shoulder for my head, "sure. I have to work tomorrow though."There was a lull in our conversation, and I could feel sleep tugging at me, dipping into dreams."Hey August?"I startled from my near sleep, "huh?" I had to fight to open my eyes. Jude had a complicated expression, as he seemed to mull over something. I watched him bite his lip before he let out a heavy sigh. 'Nevermind. Sleep well.'I thought to stay awake and deal with the odd response, but sleep tugged at me once again and before I could decide what to say I'd drifted back off.Abi had been eyeing me the whole first part of the night as we worked.Around midnight I finally broke, “did you want to say something?”She looked genuinely a bit hurt as she collected her thoughts, “... I did, but if you aren't…”I took a deep breath, “sorry. Didn't mean to snap. What's up?”Her eyes darted towards the door, “... I don't know that I should say it here.”I tried to keep any hostility from my voice, “you've been thinking about it all evening right?”She nodded.“If who I'm assuming is the subject was going to overhear, he probably already did.”She blushed a bit, stumbling over her words, “I suppose you're ah- you're right.”I smiled lightly, “so?”Her voice was low as she spoke, “are you sure you're okay? I know you said you had a… are you… is he taking advantage of you?”I took a long breath, the repetitive conversations with Abi and Giselle slowly grating on me, “I'm fine. I'm sorry you were caught in the middle.”“That wasn't exactly fun…”“His games rarely are.”She hesitated for a long while before asking her next question, “... was I a bargaining chip.”The ‘yes’ was on the tip of my tongue, but I thought better of it, “not to me.”She gave a bit of a sad smile, “I guess that'll have to be good enough.”A voice chimed in my head, ‘she's just full of complaints huh?’I furrowed my brow, ‘get lost Jude.’‘I was thinking to check on you after our day of passion.’‘Very kind. I am still quite cross about all that came before that though.’I could hear the pout in his voice, ‘fine, fine. Come find me when you're done being pissy.’I didn't respond, tuning in the silent room for a bit as both Abi and I focused on our respective chores.Abi was the first to extend an offering, “you have any fun halloween plans?”“That's coming up isn't it? I didn't have anything in mind.”“Sometimes we throw a party, but I think one of the other nobel houses is hosting this year.”“Vampire parties? Sounds fun. What all happens at one?”Abi detailed what all she'd helped set up and witnessed in past years, the awkward air slowly dissipating between us.And I needed to keep it that way, she knew too much to allow her to become an enemy.
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Elias’s eyes were cast down, a small scar on his thumb apparently having caught his attention. Or he was just unwilling to meet my eyes. Either way his angle and fidgeting made it very difficult to decipher his mumbling.“One more time?”He took a deep breath, shifting his eyes to the corner of the room where the wall met the ceiling, “would you want to go with me to a party?”My frustration immediately melted, my tight lipped smile shifting into a genuine one of fondness and warmth, “of course. Here. Sit, let me hear all the details.”He nodded, shifting awkwardly and sitting at the edge of the love seat.I sat beside him, wrapping my hand around his as I tried to gently catch his eyes, “so. When is it? Where is it? What is it?”He nodded along with my questions, “‘s on halloween night. It's at…” his brow furrowed, “have you met Giselle? She comes by sometimes…”“We've met, yeah.” I decided not to mention that our first meeting was seeing her completely naked and tied to a bed. Luckily Elias had no reason to press further.“‘S at her house. Well her and her sire.”I felt my shoulders tense as I watched for any sign of fear in Elias, “is her sire…”“Huh?” He looked at me, noticing my posture and putting two and two together, “oh. She isn't like ours. She's fine really. A bit loud sometimes, but not bad.”I relaxed, “that's good… are humans okay to come? From what I've heard it's usually pretty exclusive.”I watched him get a little fidgety again, “usually mostly staff, but…” his eyes cast down, “I wanted you there, and they said it was okay to bring you.”I caught his cheek in my palm without thinking, smiling as our eyes met, “I'm really glad, it sounds like tons of fun.”He smiled back, before remembering something, “oh. Usually we wear fancy clothes, but this year it's a costume party. If it's okay with you I'd like to match?”My smile only grew wider. “I'd love that. Did you have anything in mind?”“Ah well… I really like… cowboys? If that's okay?”“Definitely. Do we need to go into town to pick something out?”Elias shook his head, “I'll have Montgomery take care of it.”“Perfect,” I stood before turning back, “Elias?”His eyes shot to me, “yessir?”“Can I kiss you?”He gulped and nodded. I watched his shoulders tense slightly as I came up on him. Cocking one knee up on the love seat while I leaned down into a kiss. He seemed to be fighting to remain chaste as I kissed him. There was no way I could let that be. I slid my own tongue past his lightly parted lips, lapping hungrily across the bottom of his teeth. Reveling in how stiff his shoulder muscles grew, I hoped he was at least equal parts aroused and embarrassed.My question was answered as his hand steadied on my hip, shifting us. My head lightly bumping the armrest of the love seat as he laid me down. I didn't have time to shift before his greedy mouth was back on mine. I did my best to match his ferocity, but found I was falling short, losing my breath and bending under his weight as he kissed me.Our lips parted as he found a new place on my neck, roughly sucking the soft flesh where my neck met my shoulder. A light moan escaped me as my hands grabbed desperately at the back of his shirt.His deep, rough, voice was a whisper at my ear, “August?”“Elias?”“I want you.”My breath hitched, surprised by how forward he was being, “Take me.” My voice came out much whinier than I had anticipated, and I felt the effect it had on Elias immediately.He was shaking, almost, as he drew away from me, “I can't. Not now.”I nodded, trying to feign understanding while my mind fixated on how much I wanted this masive man inside of me.He hesitated another moment, a hand moving to my chest before he sat up hurriedly, “I should go. Sorry.”He rushed towards the door.“Hey Elias!”He paused, obviously nervous as he looked back at me.“Thanks for the invite.”He blushed a bit and smiled, “thanks for sayin’ yes.”It took me a bit to collect myself. Eventually making my unsteady way to the door.Jude stood outside, foot pressed into the wall behind him, ‘that was impressive.’I flicked his forehead on my way past, ‘peeping tom isn't a good look hun.’He rubbed his forehead, padding along behind me, ‘How could I resist when I heard those thoughts coming from that man.’I massaged my brow, still walking, ‘we got way further last time.’I heard his footsteps falter, ‘you did?’‘Yeah. While you were…’ I suddenly remembered why I hadn't immediately updated Jude and fell silent.“August?”I kept my face forward, trying to push my thoughts further from it, “what?”‘you still mad at me?’I considered the hell he'd put me and Abi through, ‘probably.’‘I'm sorry.’I turned looking to see a genuinely remorseful expression, something very foreign on my trickster's face. ‘... I forgive you.’The expression melted off as I said so, and he bounded happily up to my side, ‘so. Where we going?’I eyed him, considering, ‘I was just ditched high and dry. Want to rectify that?’We'd come up on my door at that point, and I opened it, stepping in as I waited for my response.The door slid from my hand as Jude closed it behind us, already finding a handhold on my waist to pull me into a kiss.I kissed him back, shedding his shirt as I did so.‘How would you feel about going a bit further today? You can say no.’Jude rocked slightly, ‘I do, but I have a favor to ask first.’I pulled back, coming down to earth as I tried to guess his meaning.Jude leaned in, rubbing the bridge of his nose on my neck, ‘I'm hungry August. Real hungry.’It was very possible Montgomery would fuss, doing this without consulting him. But the whine in Jude's mental message, I could almost hear his mouth watering.“Take what you need.”I immediately felt the sharp pressure of long teeth on my neck. It hurt. He sank deep and fast, the pinching firey sensation was almost too much to bear.As he pulled out he raised elegant fingers to his buttons, undoing them as he locked me in a coppery flavored kiss. His eagerness startled me, and I found myself fretting that the boy may be acting performatively once more.Jude of course heard my worry, ‘I want to do this with you.’“You sure?”“Yes.”My heart stuttered, and words left me as I put our lips together once more.My brow furrowed a bit as I pulled away, “I don't think I ever asked, are you a top or bottom?”His expression shifted for a brief second before he caught himself, “I usually bottom. Is that-”“That's perfect.”Our lips reconnected, my hands raking up and down his spine as I pressed him back, collapsing him onto the very small cot. He moved his legs up onto the bed on his own, allowing me to straddle him without having to ask. I found myself musing on how useful his skill was at times like this.I glanced up to see a heavily blushing Jude, my mental praise seemed to be getting to him. The blush on his cheeks was cute to be sure, but the blush spread across his chest was even cuter.I slid down slightly, my mouth hovering over his nipple, ‘this okay?’He nodded, seemingly unable to decide if he wanted to watch me, or prevent embarrassment by looking away, resulting in a half lidded gaze.I left him to decide on his own as I placed his nipple onto my tongue. His back tightened slightly as I sealed my lips against him and sucked. And his moan sounded almost broken as I added my tongue back to the equation, running it heavily over him. I didn't let up even as Jude's hand, tangled in my hair, started tugging, trying to free himself from the sensation.I thought some version of, ‘tell me to stop if you want it to,’ before pressing my teeth down, gently biting him.My hands found his waistline as I worked, feeling out the buckles and buttons. It took me a moment to pull them all the way down, but the heat and hardness when I brushed my hand down and over the front of his boxers made me forget my bumbling.‘Keep going.’ Jude's voice sounded in my mind, and I glanced up to see him looking down at me, hair wetly sticking to the sides of his head.I eagerly obliged, shedding his boxers, and pausing my assault on his now very red nipple to wet the first of my fingers.I watched his face as I started, pressing gently and ringing my finger around his hole. His brow furrowed and breath hitched, but he seemed to be handling it fine. His muscles slowly relaxed until I felt it safe to press in, sliding slowly up to my first knuckle, pausing to give Jude time to adjust before pulling back out slightly, working not even an inch in and out of him.“August,” his voice was a full whine, “you don't have to baby me. Please.”I smiled, pressing a little deeper and reveling in how sensitive he was beneath me, “patience.”He opened his mouth, probably intent on whining more, but instead groaned as I pressed further in, almost up to my second knuckle. I smiled and leaned down, sucking on and teasing his less swollen nipple as I continued to fuck my finger in and out of him.‘You're so warm around my finger, feels like I might melt inside you.’He moaned lightly as a curled my finger, slighly pressing into his upper wall.‘Can't wait to be inside you, watch your little hole spread to take me in. Want to see your expression as I fuck you.’“August, please,” his voice sounded a bit pained.And I paused my movement, looking up at him, “you okay?”He hesitated, then nodded, eyes still closed tight, “just hurts a little, been too long. Keep going.” something seemed a bit off. Nothing I could really put a finger on, just off. But he said I could keep going, so I put a finger somewhere else.I slid my finger slowly in and out, watching his face intently as I did so. He writhed slightly as I bottomed out, pumping a few times for good measure. He felt loose enough to take another without issue and I slotted my middle finger against his hole.‘Ready?’He took a deep breath, ‘ready.’I slowly plunged it in to meet my other finger. Giving Jude a steady string of praise as I did so, ‘good job. You're doing so well. You look so pretty like this.’Jude kept focusing on his breath as I managed to bottom out my second finger. I pressed a kiss to his lips as I paused there, giving him time to adjust before I started pumping again. His face tightened as I worked him, scissoring my fingers slightly. Watching his expression intently.‘Tell me if it's too much’He gave a faint nod and continued steadily pressing his breaths in and out.I pressed in again, and his breath became a little more rapid.Slid out again, and it became a little more shallow.Pressed in and watching his chest start fluttering as he hyperventilated.I pulled my fingers completely out and shifted off him, but already he was breathing hard and fast, curling into a ball on his side.“Jude?”His body shook and I came to the decision that space was probably a good idea. It was my insistence on going this far that had caused this after all. My touch that had made him panic. I kept my eyes on him and stood from the bed.A hand shot out and caught my wrist, ‘don't leave me. Please don't leave me. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm-’“Shh, Jude, it's okay.” I sat back down beside him. Tugging a blanket over his exposed body and sliding a hand down his cheek. His hand stayed on my wrist, crushing it with bruising strength, but I didn't dare try to free myself.He stayed silent, not broadcasting whatever torrent of thought was rushing through him.“Can you breathe for me Jude?” I took an audible deep, slow breath, setting a pattern for him to follow.He tried to mimic me, a bit too shallow at first. Five or six sets in I could see some of the tension leaving his curled form under the blanket. And within ten he had reopened his bleary eyes.His voice was rough as he croaked, and left me wondering why he hadn't said it mentally, “please don't go.”I smoothed my hand over his face, pressing some strands of hair back to where they belonged, “I'm not going anywhere.”Montgomery seemed confused by my request. But I stood tall and didn't back down, “you are requesting an… indeterminate… amount of time off to… take care of one of the lords of the house?”“Yes sir.”He sighed and took off his glasses, seemingly fighting off a headache as he looked back up at me, “I find myself quite hesitant to ask, Mr. Merryweather, but what exactly is your relationship with Lord Jude?”I shifted foot to foot, “I think it would be best if you ask the lord that question. I feel it's a breach of his privacy for me to say.” I sent a mental apology to Jude, realizing half way through that he actually might hear it.He waved a hand through the air, “fine. Fine. I will approve your request. You have two days, if the situation doesn't right itself by then we can discuss further.”I bowed deeply, before looking back up with a grateful smile, “thanks.”It wasn't until I was walking to the door that I realized I'd dropped formality, cursing myself a bit for the bad habit.Jude was still catatonic when I returned to my room. And I wracked my brain for ways to pull him from it.‘Hey, how about we draw you a nice warm bath?’He didn't respond.‘Or we could go for a walk?’Silence.I sighed and decided a bath was the gentlest option.Grabbing his legs I swung him around to let him stand easily, but as I sat him in his new position he remained still. “Come on Jude. Can you stand up for me?”I tugged on his hand, urging him to rise, but to no avail. Once again I was left considering my options before deciding I may as well make use of his small frame, scooping him up into my arms. I was surprised at how light he felt in my arms. This was a super powered killing machine, but without issue I could cradle him in my arms, I wondered for a moment if he'd break if I squeezed him, but quickly put it from my mind. Now was hardly the time to give into cute aggression. He remained stiff and still as I carried him to the door. Praying not to happen into anyone.Luck seemed to have decided not to favor me though, and I watched Eugene's eyes turn into saucers as he took in the sight of the new maid bridal carrying our boss through the halls.He gave me a look, “what…”I did my best to appear professional, “the lord is feeling poorly. I'm just helping him back to his bed.”Eugene's eyes fell on our master, “uh huh?”I opened my mouth to say more, before deciding any further denial would only make us look more suspicious, “if you'll excuse me?” And without waiting for a response I continued down the hall.The bathroom was hot with steam as I cranked off the faucet, ‘can you undress yourself?’Jude looked at me blankly before slowly shifting his gaze down to his clothes, raising his hands in a way that made it seem he was moving through molasses. I turned around as he started on his first button, and ended up waiting what felt like a full five minutes before the russling stopped and I heard the sound of him lowering into the water.I hesitantly turned, making sure he was fully submerged before I made my way over.“Let's wash your hair.”The suds smelled sweet, like flowers and honey as I massaged his curls. Cupping water up to rinse as I ruffled.I considered trying to wash his body, but wasn't confident the touch wouldn't send him further. I landed on just his face and neck, scrubbing gently with a cloth and yet another sweet smelling soap.The tiles beneath me were hard as I sat, and left me wondering why Jude had decided to take this position when our roles had been reversed. But I stayed sat, head against the tub, feeling the muggy air and smelling the fragrant soaps until the water went lukewarm.Deciding to fight with Jude's projector was perhaps not my wisest decision, but watching the boy sit, slack jawed and blank eyed urged me to do something. There was a satisfying click after I shifted a switch, and I thought perhaps I'd figured it out. The bulbs warmed casting a glow on the screen, but the rolls of film remained still. I was fighting the urge to punch the damn thing when a tapping sound came from the door. I forced a calming breath before walking to the door, drawing the bed curtain closed around Jude as I passed, shielding him from view. Abigail was fidgeting nervously as she waited, and as I opened the door she nearly jumped before realizing I wasn't the owner of the room.“August. Hey.”“Hey,” I tried to read her, but her nerves covered any other signs of intent as we stood in awkward quiet. “...did you need Jude?”She shook her head vehemently, “I'm here for you. Lord Eric asked you to join him in his room immediately.”“Ah gotcha.” I glanced back at where Jude lay, considering my options, “can you work his projector?”She recoiled a bit, “you want me to…”I gave my best apologetic smile, “if you're able to.”She peered past me into the room, eyes sliding, searching for…“Jude is… predisposed.”She let out a deep breath before sliding past me into the room, hurriedly walking to the projector, and fiddling with the complex controls. She worked in silence for a bit, “is the movie for you? Eric is… I don't know your relationship, but patience isn't really one of his virtues.”I sighed, “it really isn't.”Just then the movie started playing. Abi smiled, a bit pleased with herself.“Hey. Thanks for your help.”She started towards the door, uncomfortable spending any more time in this room than was strictly necessary, “no worries. Best of luck.”I drew back the curtain as the door clicked shut, allowing Jude to see the screen.‘Hey Jude, Eric's asked for me. Are you okay on your own for a bit?’Jude's face remained still.It was possible he wasn't even conscious enough to notice my absence. But the fear in his eyes when he asked me to stay with him. And not just this time, he seemed to be terrified of being left alone.I looked to the door, biting my lip hard, knowing that I did need to honor the lord's request. Knowing the consequences if I ignored him. Knowing what that man was capable of on a good day, on a bad one… I was sure it wouldn't stop at rough play.The many warnings I'd received spiraled through my mind. Abigail's, Montgomery's, Giselle's, Judes’. I needed to go. And how long would it really take? A couple hours? I could work it to keep the session as brief as possible. I needed to go.Jude's sheets were cool and soft as I slid up next to him. Curling up at his side with my hand pressed on top of his.His eyes remained forward as Jude spoke to me mentally, ‘August?’I squeezed his hand gently, ‘I'm here.’
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The renegotiation went fine, and my leave was extended. I said a silent apology to Abigail and Cookie for all the extra work I was ditching them with. Four days went by… well not in the blink of an eye, they were slow. Long hours of bathing and feeding Jude. Horrible stretching hours of movies I didn't care about. It wasn't until day three that he began talking again, and not until almost morning that he was seemingly back to himself.“What should I wear to the party?” He was on his stomach, a pouch of blood in hand that he'd lazily been sipping at.“Are you planning to go? Isn't that tomorrow?”He gave me a look and spoke mentally, ‘of course I'm going.’‘You should probably take it easy. You did just have a breakdown.’‘breakdown smeakdown.’My head began to whirl with guilt and anxiety. I tried my best to push them down, praying Jude would be good enough to overlook them. I hadn't had a chance to process, and I was far from ready to talk.He obliged, continuing the thread about the party, “so, what should I wear?’I rolled my eyes, ‘you and I both know that's your strong suit, not mine.’He stood, laying his mostly empty bag of blood to the side as he waltzed into his bathroom, presumably to his closet.He continued to speak mentally, rather than shouting across rooms, yet another useful application, ‘something classy? Cute? Sexy?’‘You're already all of those, it won't be a costume.’ My flirtation slipped out before I could fully process.‘An excellent point. What do you suggest instead?’‘A devil maybe? Oh nevermind, you're already that too.’‘Whatever do you mean? I'm nothing if not a perfect little angel.’ Even without seeing him I was sure his eyes were wide, and lip pouted.‘Angel would be too much of a stretch I think. Totally unbelievable.’He reemerged, “you're no help at all.” With that he plopped heavily into the bed, next to me.“Elias and I are going as cowboys. You could be the cow.”He flipped over to look at me, head propped on his hand, ‘tempting, but I wouldn't dare get in the middle of your brokeback date.’I sighed, ‘that's too bad. I was just thinking a bell on your neck might be a good idea. Keep you out of trouble.’His face got serious, ‘have you talked to Eric?’I looked away, rolling my lip over my teeth, “not yet.”‘I'll come with you. I don't think I can stop all retribution, but I can make sure you…’‘We can talk about it later. He won't make a move at the party, not with Giselle as the host.’Jude nodded, ‘she's maybe the only one out there with any real sway over him. If you can get her alone you might be able to convince her to do you a favor.’‘She'll ask for something in return. But it'll probably be worth it anyways.’I looked to Jude, who had cracked a smile, “I love to watch you scheme.”“Was that a confession?” I froze. Shit. I hadn't meant to say that. Usually it was fine and funny. But so close to… and it had been my fault. I was lucky he didn't hate me.‘August?’‘Hm?’ I looked up, greeted by a look of worry.“Hey. I want you to know… it wasn't… I'm just-”“Let's…” I could see it was still too raw for him, and it was certainly too raw for me, “can we talk about it later?”‘...Yeah.’The party was somehow nothing like what I was expecting while being exactly like I was expecting. It felt like a 2000's movie, like the costume party from Mean Girls, while also being full of killers, blood, and the occasional formal cape. It was dark as Elias and I pushed inside, and without thinking I reached for his arm, trying not to lose him as I got my bearings. The music too was quite loud, and an interesting mix of 2000's dance bops, what I could only describe as jigs, and edm.Elias was dressed adorably, a pair of cow print chaps and rodeo shirt topped with a big hat and some bigger boots. His was mostly blues, a color I might not have picked out for him, but he looked very handsome. A picture of rough, western, charm. And to his delight the blue looked good next to my purple, presumably selected at Elias' request. I was grateful for his practical sense in clothing, a wonderfully simple white shirt tucked into leather chaps, blue jeans beneath them. I had a purple bandana, purple boots, and a purple band around my bright white hat.I was a bit worried I looked too plain in it, but the moment I emerged Elias had turned bright red, and tonight his blush was all that really mattered.Well, his and the hostess's, though I had other methods to fall back on if flirtation wasn't enough.Elias shifted so I could loop my arm through his, an offer I took with no hesitation, while surveying the crowd in search of familiar faces. My initial sweep came up empty, but I shrugged it off, letting Elias gently guide me further in. It wasn't long before he was stopped by some acquaintance. I had a hard time following their conversation, full of locations and people I wasn't familiar with.The conversation lagged slightly, and when I looked up I was surprised to see the stranger focused on me, “and who's this? It's not like you to bring a snack along.”Elias clamored to clear up the misunderstanding, “no, he's, ah… well he's not meant for eating.”The vampire eyed me with a mix of hunger and curiosity, “to satisfy other cravings then?”Elias was bright red by this point, “no, wait. I uh-”I met the vampire's eyes as he raked his gaze back up to my face, taking a half step forward, “I work at the estate. My presence here is less for company and more to serve. Though I will admit it's hard not to get excited by the atmosphere. Is this your first time visiting Lady Lu's estate?”He seemed caught by surprise, “ah, no. I've been received here on occasion in the past.”“How delightful, are you close with the Lady?”“It was by invitation of one of her protégé's actually.”“I will admit I've only had the pleasure of meeting Lady Giselle. Is she your acquaintance as well?”“No, though we have of course met, I'm quite close to one Lady Annette.”“Would you mind terribly pointing her out? We're hoping to greet all our hosts while the night is young.”He did so, seemingly unbothered that he'd been spoken to by a human in that way, though I was sure the reality of our conversation would hit him later, possibly to his amusement, or more likely aggravation.I kept my voice low as I mumbled an apology, “sorry if you weren't done talking.”“No need to apologize. I should be sayin’ sorry that you had to step up like that.”I shook my head, “not at all. If it's easier to say some sort of lie next time, feel free to. You won't bother me.”He turned red again.I smiled, turning in a bit as we continued weaving through the crowd, “what's that look for? Do you not like lying?”He shook his head, “‘s not that.”I studied him a moment, “an embarrassing lie came to mind then?”He flushed darker, confirming my suspicion.I bumped my shoulder against his arm, “you've made me curious, now you've gotta tell me.”His mumble was incomprehensible.I couldn't help the tease in my voice, “a little louder?”He was barely audible as he tried again, “can I say we're datin'?”It was my turn to grow red, but I managed to keep my tone steady, “yeah, of course, no big deal.”Annette was a shorter woman, with long black hair plaited into twin braids that met at her nape before conjoining into one, much thicker, braid. She seemed to be dressed as some sort of mermaid or siren, her long blue skirt caught what little light there was with a mythic allure. Her eyes fell on Elias before sliding lazily to me, then back to Elias.My partner dipped into a small bow in greeting, “Miss Annette.”She was already back to looking at the crowd as she spoke, “just making your rounds or did you want something from me?”Elias stiffened and stayed silent.I spoke up, “we just wanted to greet you, and thank you for hosting. It's a lovely party.”“I didn't ask to hear that mouse squeak Elias.”Elias took a sharp breath, but a reassuring squeeze on his arm relaxed his posture, “we came to thank you for hosting.”“I see.”Elias paused, waiting for more before realizing she'd lost any curiosity towards us, “‘scuse us then.”We stepped away in unison, sharing a look, apology from Elias, reassurance from me.We walked silently for a moment before I decided we were far enough away, “so what all do you usually do at these events?”He thought for a moment, “when we host there's formal dancing, but there doesn't seem to be much of that. Usually I just find some corner to sit in. If I'm bein’ honest this is more socializing than I usually do.”I watched a few vampires scoot nervously out of our way, reminding me, “is there a hierarchy? Different classes of vampire like in human society?”“Yeah, this event is for ‘em all though.”“Where does your estate land on that hierarchy?”He thought for a few moments, probably trying to find the right wording, “our sire is… at the top? Not like the king or nothing, there's others at his level, but nobody above him. Even removed from the main estate the three of us are treated real good.”“Where are the Lu's in comparison?”“Miss Lu is bout the same as us, just a little lower, but overall her estate has less… is sway the right word?”“Sway makes sense.”“There are a couple others around a bit below her, but most everyone is…”“Gotcha. Good to know.” I thought for a second, “do you have to be more careful in your position, not to offend people and stuff?”He shrugged, “what're they gonna do if we do?”“Fair point.”The music switched from ear bleeding edm to a Gaga song, and I immediately picked out a familiar voice singing the opening lyrics.Jude was surrounded by other people, and all eyes were on him as he excitedly gushed over someone's costume, switching back to singing as the chorus came on, and then flirting with a man who was clearly much more interested in Jude than Jude was him. His costume may have been assisting in that, a tiny little pleated skirt and sports bra with a proudly printed ‘BITCH’ perfectly matched his bright pink pom poms.I smiled lightly, calling out, ‘Jude!’I waited but his face didn't change, and he didn't respond.Elias must have noticed my eye line, “should we go over?”I bit down my disappointment, “no need. He looks busy.”“How about Eric and Miss Gisselle?”My heart stopped for just a moment, before I caught my nerves, “do you see them?”He nodded in a direction, but even shifting around I couldn't make them out. Elias's height granted him an unfair advantage it seemed.“Yeah, let's go say hey.”Eric refused to look at me as we drew close, but Gisselle immediately latched onto us, dragging her man behind as she met us in the crowd. She pulled Elias down to her so she could kiss his cheeks in greeting, before leaning down to greet me the same way. She was dressed gorgeously, white silky fabric draping from her long limbs, feathered wings trailing behind, and a gold halo above her head. It was obvious at first glance that Eric was no more less a prop than the halo, a stuffily dressed priest with a lipstick stain on his collar that perfectly matched the angel's lips. I took note of the lack of crucifix, his rosary instead ending in a plain gold ring.She regarded us warmly as she spoke, looking between the both of us, “lovely as ever to see you. Are you enjoying yourselves so far?”Elias spoke up first, “yes ma'am.”I met her eyes, “it's been wonderful. And what an estate you have. I wonder if you'd be kind enough to give me a bit of a tour?”Her eyes shifted to serious as she nodded, then flipped back to her playful look as she turned to the others, “you two can keep eachother company for a minute right?”Elias seemed confused, but agreed regardless, “yes ma'am. Not a problem.”Eric continued to look disinterested at the ground.Gisselle scooped up my arm and started talking about the history of the estate, leading me quickly from room to room. She was stopped a few times, but managed to quickly excuse herself. It wasn't long before we were standing in an empty hallway, the door to an office open and an expectant look on Gissell's face.I smiled and stepped in, hearing the door click shut behind me. It was then that I realized walking to a secluded room with a vampire was perhaps not my wisest decision, but it was far too late for that. I turned, focusing on keeping my expression steady.Gisselle glided through the room, landing at the desk and leaning elegantly against the edge, “so.”My expression already cracked, and I smiled nervously, “so.”Her eyes bore into me as I tried to get up the courage to start the conversation. Luckily she seemed already partially informed, “Eric's not happy.”“Sorry.”She waved a hand, “you don't have to apologize to me.”I kept my eyes cast down.“In fact, if I were Eric you wouldn't have to apologize at all.”I managed to look up, “but he's not like you…”“You can say that again.” She folded her arms, “so, did you come here to cry? Or was there another reason you sought me out?”“I think I need a favor.”Her eyes glinted as she smiled, “oh?”“He listens to you. And I desperately need someone he listens to. If you're willing to put in a good word for me, I'd really appreciate it.”She cocked her head, smile still on her lips, “that's a hard ask. And while your appreciation is worth a lot, baby boy, I don't know that it's enough.”“I'm willing to return the favor.”She stood upright, swaying a few steps closer to me. “And what favors are you offering?”“Whatever you want.”I felt a finger on my chin, lifting my face to look at her, the small chandelier behind her was slotted directly behind her head, illuminating her like mother Mary as she leaned in, “those are dangerous words.”I met her eyes, “I'm able to back them up.”Her smile grew a bit wicked at that, and one of her hands landed on my hip, leaving me feeling akin to a pinned butterfly, “one favor won't be enough. You'll have to provide three. I'll call on them when I need them.”I hesitated, the endless possibilities of asks whirling through my head, was it better to take my chances against Eric on my own?She seemed to notice my pause, “you seem to be confused about the nature of these favors.”I managed to focus back on her, “what's the nature?”Her hand traced from my hip down to my thigh, then back up, making its way dangerously towards my crotch, “this kind.”I felt the sensation as little sparks of electricity, but I didn't dare move, or maybe I didn't care to move.Her eyes were locked on my lips as I shifted my gaze from my legs back to her. And there they stayed as she spoke, her own lips mere inches from mine, “do we have a deal?”My breath hitched and mind tumbled, damn she was good, but I managed to spit out a, “we do.”Regaining some semblance of control, I shook her hand as she drew out of my space. She had a very satisfied smile dancing on her lips, it reminded me of someone who'd just had a good meal, that would make me the food I supposed.She raised an eyebrow and I realized I'd been frozen in place a bit too long, “should we return to the party dear?”It took a surprising amount of willpower to push myself from my space, but I managed a few steps towards the door, “yes. Let's.”Elias was incredibly fidgety when I returned, eyes darting, hands fluttering.I turned back to Giselle, “would it be alright for Elias and I to take a stroll around the property?”She nodded, her eyes also on my date, “feel free.”“We'll take our leave then.”I guided Elias out and into the gardens. The man took a deep breath the moment we crossed the threshold, and I watched his hands slowly still.“Feeling better?”He just nodded. Carefully I took his hand, lacing our fingers together and taking a few steps deeper into the garden.He tensed again, looking around nervously, “you sure it's alright to…”I looked up at him, laying on the honey, “does it bother you?”“If someone sees…”I pulled him closer, bumping my shoulder gently against his arm, “I don't mind if anyone sees. Do you?”He turned pink at this, not giving a verbal answer, but instead squeezing my hand a bit tighter.The sound of rushing water caught my attention, and we stepped that way, there was a gorgeous fountain in the center of a perimeter of tall flower covered hedges. The base of the fountain wasn't very large, maybe ten feet in diameter, a little less? But the intricate stone work left me in awe. Kois spouted water and turtles bathed in the moonlight, filigree lined any space on the surface not taken up by creatures.I turned to Elias, ready to make some comment, but noticed his eyes weren't on the fountain, but instead were locked on my face. Whatever comment I had planned to make burbled out in my mind as I locked eyes with the much taller man.The urge to kiss him was overwhelming in that moment, and without thinking, or asking, I raised onto tiptoes, both hands in his, and pressed my lips to his. He reciprocated without hesitation, but pulled away before too long. I should have been disappointed at the length, but as I raised my lids Elias's expression of adoration erased any complaint from me.“Can we sit for a spell?”I nodded, finding a seat on the edge of the fountain, followed soon after by Elias. I shifted and leaned my back against his shoulder, glancing up to gauge his expression. He seemed a bit nervous, he took a short breath in, as if he were about to speak before changing his mind and exhaling.I reached a hand up to cup his face, “something wrong?”He deliberated another moment before speaking, “wanted to apologize for the other day. I ran off on you…”I shifted my posture to face him slightly, “no need to apologize. I don't want to rush you into things you don't want to do.” Well, more that I recognized rushing him would only set back my goals, but same basic idea.“Its not that I don't wanna…”I felt a tinge of… not aggravation… inferiority? “Elias, you don't have to treat me so preciously. I'm not a doll that's easy to break.”He looked me dead in the eye as he spoke, “I know you're strong… I just… you are precious. To me. I want to treasure you.”That sense of inferiority deepened, and I knew my usual decision making skills would be soon out the window. “I'm really not all that. I'm a good lay I guess but-”“S not about that. That's what I'm trying to get at. I like all of you, not just your… I don't wanna make you think I'm just lusting for you.”My breath stopped, and my heart started beating fast and hard, was this what it felt like?“Elias?”He opened his mouth to continue, but seemed to think better of it, pressing his lips into a hard line and turning away.I didn't let him get far though, turning his head back towards me and pulling him down into a kiss. Chaste, slow, sweet. I took a deep breath as we pulled apart, lingering close.A voice startled me from the peace, some party goer having made their own way into the garden.I stood, looking down at Elias, “back into the fray?”He fidgeted, “can we go home instead?”I pretended to consider this, “only if you make me a cup of tea when we get there.”“Always.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Eric sat in front of me in his high backed chair, red brocade upholstery gleaming in the low warm light of the room. His gloved hands folded were folded, tucked casually under his jaw. Despite his air of casualty, I was acutely away of the danger I was in. Rather than looking up at him as I usually would, I stood in front of him, trying to keep my gaze casual and confident as Giselle spoke, “you did break your agreement with Eric, so he is within his rights to punish you accordingly. However. This fool of a man did begin this relationship with no consent. And don't you tell me you didn't mind, boy, that's not the point. The point is that if you want to continue this relationship, you've got to communicate.”Eric raised an eyebrow, “and who are you to tell me what to do?”She crossed her arms, not backing down, “you can keep pushing, mister, if you're okay losing two subs today.”He huffed and looked away, but didn't argue further.“I'll moderate, but I'm not here to decide how this goes. I've got nothing to do with whatever you decide. Am I understood?”“Yes ma'am.” My response was immediate and I received a small smirk in return.“Eric?”“Yeah. Sure.”Giselle wasted no time at all, “Let's start simple. Here take a seat dear. How frequently do you want to meet? Who dictates meeting times? And are there any times that are unacceptable?”Eric gave me no time to respond, “however frequently I want. I do. There shouldn't be.”Giselle shot him an ice filled look before turning to me. It took me a second to find my voice, “I’m fine with whatever frequency my lord wants, and I think it makes sense for him to initiate. I will ask that I be excused during emergencies like the other day however.”Giselle smiled, a tight line as she stared down Eric, “that seems very reasonable.”The brooding lord turned slightly away, “fine. I'll bend.”“Good boy,” It was Eric's turn to shoot Giselle a look of warning.She ignored it, “for my sake I'm hoping neither of you are expecting monogamy?”I shook my head, and noticed a more subtle shake from Eric.She looked at me, “what are your limits?”This was an answer I was well rehearsed in, “knife play, age play, scat. I haven't found any others.”“Eric.”“I don't like shit, and I'm not interested in age play, so that's fine.”Giselle raised her brow, “and your other limit?”He looked to the ground, “I don't like skin on skin contact.”I nodded slowly, processing the new information, “I won't initiate any direct touch then.”Giselle looked almost relieved, but she wasn't done, “do you know the color system, green, yellow, red?” I nodded, and she continued, “it works well and Eric ready knows it, that way any non con scenes don't get confusing. August, you're agreeing to call red if you need something to stop. And Eric you're agreeing to respect those words. Capeesh?”We nodded in unison, locking eyes while we both searched for each other's response. I was a bit surprised to see Eric's expression, it almost gave the illusion of care, but he quickly shifted back to a disinterested snarl.“Last one. I know I said I was just moderating, but I'll put my nose in here. Eric, August should be able to call you by your first name day to day. ‘Lord’ ‘sir’ whatever other bs should be reserved for the bedroom. Got it?”He looked like he was about to refuse, but something in Gisselle's eyes made him pause, “I'll think on it.”She smiled, “alright. I'll call that done enough.”I gave my own smile, standing from the stiff backed chair I'd picked, “I appreciate you both taking the time.”I'd just turned towards the door when I heard Eric shift forward, “wait.”I turned back, sure my panic was not well hidden on my face, “did you need something?”He didn't answer, “come here.”I complied, moving to a few feet in front of him, throwing Gisselle a brief glance.“Sit.” He had leaned even further forward, his elbows on his knees and his fingers interlocked. I dropped down, tucking my feet under me and putting my hands in my lap. His leg slowly extended, until the toe of his dress shoe was pressed painfully into my throat, raising my head to look at him. There was something graceful about the movement, the bend of his knee, the angle of his ankle, and for a moment I wondered if he had been trained in dance. There wasn't much time to think on the topic though as his hands slowly unfurled. He lifted one of them, there was a moment of fear, causing me to flinch, certain I would be hit. Instead there was a crisp snapping sound, and Gisselle slumped onto the ground, sitting at alert in a similar manner to me.He looked between the two of us, “did you really think you could team up on me like that with no consequence?”I bit my lip, “No sir.”His shoe pressed into me harder, “so you did that hoping to be punished?”Oldest trick in the book, but I'd somehow stepped into it regardless. I just cast my eyes down, knowing there was no backing out of that one.He looked to Giselle, “and you?”The look on her face was like nothing I'd ever seen from her before, wide eyed, almost doe like, or maybe a puppy was a more apt comparison, “I love whatever you choose to do to me sir.”“Good girl,” he didn't smile, his words cold despite their content. “Undress him.” It took me a moment to comprehend exactly what he meant. ‘Him’ must have meant me, right? Then the reality of exactly what was about to happen crashed down on me. I stiffened, eyes wide as Gisselle's met mine.A rolling finger ushered me towards her. It was always more humiliating to crawl on all fours than I remembered, but adding a third person, a person I respected, to the mix made it unbearable. My cheeks were hot and tingling by the end of my short trek.Giselle's hand found the collar of my shirt, pulling me in so that my head was pressed to the side of hers while she worked on the top half of my uniform, her breath was hot and heavy in my ear, and the dichotomy between her completely submissive treatment towards Eric and her forward domineering way of addressing me sent shivers down my spine, “I'd been so desperate to peel this wrapper for so long. The suspense has been killing me. I bet you're even sweeter than I've been imagining. And I have been imagining.”I felt my shirt being slid off as she bit gently onto the lobe of my ear. She smiled around the obstruction in her mouth at the sound of my slight whimper.Eric's voice was a low growl as he gave his next command, “show him how good my puppy is at licking.”Giselle pulled off my ear, “yes sir.”Her soft hands pressed into my chest until my bare back was on the floor. Immediately she dipped down, licking across my nipple and looking up at Eric for approval.“Did I say to stop?”Giselle seemed to have no complaints, licking it again, with enough force to press the bud of flesh up slightly.Eric's voice pulled me from the sensation, “look at me.”I couldn't discern who he was talking to, so I glanced up, finding his eyes locked on mine. I didn't have much time to react as Giselle switched to a very light slow movement. My soft groan of pleasure turned into a choked sound as she bit into the sensitive skin.I felt my eyes drift down, catching it right as I was corrected, “I said look at me.”I looked back up to his intense gaze as Giselle continued to lick and suckle. I tried to hold back my moans, the act too vulnerable with the eye contact, but the occasional whimper would sound despite that.Eric stood, walking to the dresser at a bored and sluggish pace. He removed a few items before moving towards us. His pants creased as he bent down just over my head, extending his first three fingers towards my mouth. Without hesitation I placed the gloved digits on my tongue, soaking them as thoroughly as I could. His other hand settled a familiar pair of cat ears on my head.His black hair fell into his face as he pulled his fingers back out past my lips, “you look like such a slut like this, you know that?”I parted my lips to respond, but Giselle chose that moment to bite down on my now very swollen and sensitive nipple. The noise I made was half shout of surprise and half moan.“Proving my point,” his hand roughly tangled in my hair, pulling my head off the ground as he slid a collar around my neck. The small bell on it chimed delicately as he laid my head back down, the metal leash pooling icey cold on my upper chest and neck. Eric stood, continuing his slow trek around us.He took a moment to affix a similar pair of ears to Gisselle's head, they matched her black hair perfectly, and the german shepard like shape suited her oddly well.I didn't have a great view of what happened next, the shifting of her black dress up and Giselle suddenly tossing her head back was the only real indication that anything at all had happened. Her head fell back down, but she didn't go back to her task, instead her eyes closed tight as she breathed hot and heavy above me.I should have felt abandoned perhaps. Bored maybe. But watching her face twist with pain and pleasure had me completely mesmerized.“You should thank her for helping you so much today.” I looked up at Eric, finding his eyes on me.I didn't have to say the question aloud, a small cock of my head and wide eyes got the point across and earned me a pleased smirk.Immediately he pulled Giselle off of me, hand not leaving her hole as the two of them stood. His spare hand snaked around her body, lifting her dress until her panties and erection were visible.“Get on your knees.”I pushed myself up, eyes drifting between Giselle and Eric.“Open your mouth.”Giselle's eyes shot open and met mine. The haziness from before suddenly absent. I could see the silent question she was asking, and nodded enthusiastically, maybe a little too enthusiastically, before parting my lips and sticking out my tongue.Eric applied pressure to Giselle's hips, sliding her forward until her shaft was sandwiched between my face and her stomach. The feeling of lace against my tongue was heavenly, and I was suddenly very aware of my oral fixation. More than that though was the heat radiating of the woman's erection, she was simply exuding desire. Desire for me. My own groin warmed at the thought.“Turns out my kitty isn't bad at licking either,” his hand snaked around Giselle once more, freeing her erection which landed heavily on my cheek.He twisted slightly further around her, his hand finding the top of my leash. My eyes went wide as I realized what he had in mind.“Put her in your mouth.”I gulped, wetting my lips as best I could before taking her head in my mouth, looking up to Eric for further instructions.His assault on her ass had seemingly paused as he adjusted his grip on my leash, tugging my in with the slightest tug. I didn't resist, letting my lips slide around Giselle's shaft as she shuddered above me. I made it about three quarters of the way down before the tensioned lessened, I took that as a sign to pull of, and Eric's pleased expression proved me correct in that instinct. I took a deep breath through my nose before I was tugged back down. I could feel her bumping against the back of my throat, but he continued to guide me lower until my nose was pressed against her stomach. I waited for the tension to loosen, but it didn't. My leash holding me in place. The sensation of choking suddenly overtook me, my throat convulsing around the foreign object that had been in there decidedly too long. Giselle moaned loudly above me, seemingly enjoying the feeling. My eyes filled with tears as I gagged once more, my hands flying up to find purchase against Giselle's thighs in an attempt to push myself off.“Bad boy. Stay still.”My head swam, but I did my best to fight the urge to flee. Until suddenly the tension was gone and I could fling my mouth back off of her. I took a few gasping breaths, but my recovery was cut short as my leash snapped up, jerking me forward.Eric's eyes were alight with anger, “did I tell you to drop?”I blinked heavily, trying to process, “n-no sir.”My collar went tight again as I was tugged back to my task, lips stretching around Giselle once more.Eric's slid his face over Giselle's shoulder, purring instructions into her ear. I didn't catch all of it, but one sentence I did hear was, “you set the pace.”Giselle's hips moved forwards without delay, pressing back down into my throat. My leash remained tight, keeping me locked in place.She didn't linger however, pulling out with a moan. It took me a moment to realize, but Eric must have returned to her hole, having her fuck herself on his hand while she used my mouth as a sleeve. That was my last coherent thought before Giselle set her pace, thrusting wildly in and out of my mouth, moaning loudly. Her hand found the back of my head, tangling roughly in my hair and holding me even more still.I could hardly breath between strokes, and I was quick to become a tearful mess, my throat constricting and my nose running as I was pounded.Giselle was just as much a blubbering mess above me. Some combination of, “feels good. Hurts. Love it.” And profanity was constantly streaming from her lips as she moved.Eric's voice managed to pierced through the racket though, “cum for me.”The hot liquid poured into my throat as she moaned above me, the hand in my hair relaxing and soothingly stroking down the back of my very messy hair.I glaced further up to find Eric watching me, “make sure to swallow all your milk kitty.”My stomach twisted at the uncomfortable phrasing and I felt my cheeks grow warm, but still I swallowed hard as Giselle pulled out of me, choking down all that she'd left me.I fell backwards, sitting heavily as I caught my breath, eyes trained on the floor.I didn't have long though, before gloved hands and strong arms wrapped around me. There was a moment of fear before I was placed gently onto the bed, a hand smoothing over the top of my head.“Good job.”I looked up in surprise to see Eric looking distinctly away, a very embarrassed expression on his face and a heavy blush on his cheeks.Another pair of arms wrapped around me as Giselle tugged me down to a lying position, the side of my head on her chest as she took deep breaths.Her lips pressed gently onto the top of my forehead before she spoke, “you okay?”I nodded a bit, still wanting to focus on breathing.Her hand rubbed up and down my arm, “you did really well. That was fun.”I managed a weak smile and a strained sentence, “for me too.”Her smile was much more confident, “good.”Her eyes found Eric, and some sort of wordless communication passed between them before he sat awkwardly on the side of the bed, a gloved hand stiffly patted my back, “me too.”He looked so bashful, a complete turn around from his behavior moments earlier. When I looked up to Giselle, her eyes were pleased crescents trained on the man.And that's how we stayed for a long while.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The snow crunched under my feet, but my own steps were barely audible under the sound of the much larger figure walking next to me.“Almost there, nother mile or so,” I looked up with a forced smile, despite my frozen nose and aching legs. I was grateful Elias didn't share Jude's ability in mind reading. For, while I was very happy to be spending time with the man, I was fairly miserable all things considered. He'd hardly be able to take that news without having his feelings hurt. And so, I grinned and bared with it.Our smaller companion seemed far less willing to do so however, “why are we doing this again? It's gross out.”I opened my mouth to tell him off, but Elias beat me to the punch, “the first snow is a event. You should enjoy it.”Jude sighed heavily, “I've seen the first snow literally a hundred times, it can't keep being special.”I hadn't seen nearly as many but found myself agreeing, maybe poking our head into the yard would have been appropriate, but a hike in the dark and the cold didn't seem like a celebration as much as cruel punishment.‘You should tell him so. Maybe he'll let us go home if you give him puppy dog eyes,’ Jude's words echoed silently in my mind.‘Oh give it up already.’ I chided Jude mentally. “Hey Elias. I've wanted to ask. What's your… well, Jude can read minds, but not all vampires can. You have something like that too right?”Elias looked down at me, expression a bit embarrassed, but it didn't lose its warmth.“I can change into different things. Critters and… other stuff.”I beamed, closing the few steps of distance between us and looping my arm through his, “that's really cool. Are there limitations? Or can you turn into any animal?”He shook his head, the embarrassment more acute, “I can make myself a hound, a bat, a rat, or a puff of smoke, but that's it.”“That's still super cool! If you're comfortable doing so I'd love you to show me.”‘Gag.’ Jude was still ahead of us, and didn't even bother to turn, “make sure you don't ask any random vampires that question. It's considered bad manners.”I bit my lip, looking to Elias and hoping I hadn't made too big of a mistake, “did it bother you for me to ask?”He shook his head, tightening his grip on my arm.I addressed Jude once more, “you told me yours so fast, how come?”He kicked a foot, sending snow flying out in front of him, “thought it'd be rude to read your thoughts without you even knowing.”‘That's certainly not in character for you to care about,’ I regarded his back with suspicious eyes.‘It was either that or because I thought it'd earn me enough brownie points to get in your pants.’‘You're shit at lying.’ I rolled my eyes as Jude casually stretched, flipping me off as he did so.“I always thought it was dumb to be secretive about,” Elias piped up.I looked back up at him, “Is it a safety precaution? Not letting your enemies know what you're capable of?”He pondered, “maybe for some people.”Jude added his thoughts, “it's because of the competition surrounding it. Lotta vamps have kick ass powers, but some are super lame.”“So basically if you've got it, flaunt it. And if you don't, act offended when people ask?”Jude turned, cracking a smile, “basically.”We crested the hill at that point, and even with just the faint light of the moon I could see the stretching surface of iced over water before us.I was unsure if it should be categorized as a pond or a lake, but either way it was gorgeous. Dark needle bearing trees dotted the edges of the water, stone shores sloped harshly down dipping beneath the water line, and best of all perhaps there were no signs of any people, no boats, litter, signage, nothing.“Whaddya think?”I looked up to see Elias watching my reaction, eyes soft, “it's gorgeous. Well worth the walk.”Jude was already heading down the hill, “it'll be even prettier up close.”He wasn't wrong. It was like a winter wonderland as we passed through the tree line, icicles dripped off branches and powdery snow sat daintily on evergreen needles. The snow felt deeper here as we walked to the edge of the lake, and I found myself grateful for Elias's firm arm still looped through my elbow.It was still cold, very cold, but I minded it a little less as I took in the sights.A projectile crashing into my back and exploded, drawing me from my trance, and I turned to see Jude, still postured from where we had released the snowy ball.“Oh you're on,” I dropped Elias's arm, bending down, and scooping up my own snow. I hurled it towards Jude, missing as he writhed out of the way, giggling. I scooped up another handful, padding it into a ball as I dashed forwards. Jude tried the same trick as I threw it, ducking left, but I was ready this time, throwing it just to the side of my target so it would crash into his chest as he attempted to dodge.Jude looked utterly shocked and I was absolutely living for it when I felt something crash into my shoulder from behind.I turned slowly, finding a very apologetic Elias standing behind me, “sorry, I thought it looked fun.”My eyes narrowed, “you thought wrong.”I dashed towards him, grabbing a fistfull of snow on my way and tossing it at him. To his credit he took it like a champ. Though the second ball that hit him square in the chest he seemed a bit less fond of, or maybe it was Jude's laugh that set him on edge.Chaos broke out, snowballs behind hurled, cover being found and lost, childlike laughter filled the forest, and I doubted anyone within earshot could have guessed the source were these two ancient beings.Jude was about to throw another snowball at me, this one looked icey, and he'd been using a bit more strength than was probably necessary, so I had a bit of genuine fear for the pain about to come. I darted, hoping to dodge it or find cover behind a tree when large arms circled around me, spinning me around. Elias's shoulder took the brunt of the snowball force, powdery fragments littered his hair, making the already silvery color look even more frozen.The crunching of snow sounded as Jude walked closer, Elias adjusted his grip on me, seemingly trying to decide whether to let go or not, but before he could make a decision we were falling. I saw the mischievous form of Jude skipping away before we crashed onto the ground. Elias twisted in the air, assuring I wasn't squashed beneath him, but still we both ended up falling hard on our sides into the snow.Elias started fretting immediately, and I found myself assuring him, “I'm okay Elias.”He breathed a sigh of relief, rosey cheek pressing down into the snow. This close I could see the flakes dotting his eyelashes, the smear of red on his nose, his lips looked a bit dry, and before I could think twice I leaned forward, pressing his chapped lips against mine. He startled for a moment before easing into it, kissing me back slowly, an arm winding around my waist to shift me ever so slightly closer. It felt warm, fuzzy, to kiss this man, and for a moment the snow beneath me didn't even register. I pulled away gently, watching Elias's face as he slowly opened his eyes, looking at me with a warmth that melted the rest of the ice around me.“Alright, love birds. Can we start heading back now?” Jude stood a few dozen feet away, looking off and kicking the snow. He had an odd expression, but I summed it up to discomfort from the cold.I pushed up, and Elias followed suit, “we can head back. Just let me look at the water, see how thick the ice is.”He walked towards the edge of the lake, I threw Jude a questioning glance before making to follow behind. The ice was thin, I could tell even from a bit of distance standing at the top of the rocky slope leading down, but Elias carefully bent down, cracking through and removing a shard.“Hopefully it gets thick enough to skate on this year.” Elias held the shard up showing it to the two of us as he stood and made his way back up.“That'd be fun, we can come back out if it does,” I smiled as I turned, stepping up onto a larger rock and back towards the line of trees.The friction on the rock wasn't right, I noticed, did it have a puddle on it that froze over maybe? The wind whipped past my head as I fell backwards, the trees became a blur of branches, and I crashed, hard, through the icy surface below me.The water covered me so suddenly, the stark cold forcing the air from my lungs. My legs found the bottom of the pond and I scrambled for purchase, feet sliding against angled rocks covered in slick algae. I felt my head strike something hard, and then it was dark.I felt much less cold, which I was grateful for.The light and chill slammed into me like a ton of bricks, I was being lifted, water expunged from me, and then it was dark and warm.The jostling woke me the second time, and I opened my eyes to see the surroundings passing by at impossibly fast speeds, I must have made some noise because Elias shushed me, easing my head back down to rest on his chest, “almost home. Hold on.”And then it was dark and warm.I awoke again to shouting, Jude's voice, “get off of him!”Elias sounded apologetic, “we need to get him outta the wet clothes.”“I'll do it then. Leave.”Elias's voice grew dark, “I won't.”I heard Jude suck in air for another retort, but before he could speak I reached out, aiming for his arm, but my hand instead found the hem of his shirt. He turned, and through my hazy vision I could see his worried expression, “cold.”He recoiled slightly, hand faltering in front of him with indecision.Elias moved into my field of vision, “can I take your clothes off? We need to get ya out of these.”I nodded as Elias crowded in, shifting Jude out of his way as he shed me of the last few layers the two had been arguing over. My eyes slid shut, but I didn't dip into unconsciousness as I had before. A blanket slid over my now nude body, not nearly enough to warm me, but comfortably dry compared to my frozen clothing.Jude's voice sounded, the anxiety and worry in it very obvious, “I-I'll go get Cookie, have them make some soup.”The door opened and shut and I was left alone with Elias, who crouched next to the divan. His hand smoothed over my forehead, “can you stay awake for me?”I nodded, head too heavy and brain too muddy to do anything else.“M sorry.”I managed to crack my eyes open, finding Elias's face full of grief. I had to muster my strength to force the word out, “why?”“I let you fall.”I shook my head, hand finding the side of his face, my voice was raspy as I croaked “not your fault.”His expression grew even sadder, “I dragged you out there.”The corner of my lip raised, “you're acting like I'm dead.”His eyes met mine, and I could see they were full of tears, “you got hurt.”“Yeah,” I let my arm fall, “pretty dumb of me. Now stop arguing. I want to rest.”He sealed his mouth, though I could tell he was still beating himself up. About ten minutes passed before the door opened, Jude and Cookie making their way in, a bowl of something steaming in hand. I was still quite cold, but when I wiggled my toes I realized I could feel them shifting across one another. I pushed myself up slightly, sloppily signing my thanks to Cookie before taking the soup.It was a familiar soup, thick white cream with floating chunks of potato and bacon, hearty, but not anything special, I'd had it as dinner two days prior, and guessed that someone had skipped, leaving this portion as leftovers. I took the spoon in my hand. I heard the clattering of metal against glass before I fully realized that my hand had a violent tremor. I furrowed my brow, trying to concentrate as all the soup spilled off my spoon. I dropped the thing with a sigh. Both Elias and Jude were upon me before the spoon came to rest, and there was an awkward moment of silent communication. Being on the other end of the scenario made me feel a bit of sympathy for all those we'd been around.Jude backed of, circling the divan and sitting on the floor beside me. Elias pulled up a chair before reaching out for the soup.Sudden dread filled me, “I can feed myself. I'll stop shaking in just a second.”Elias didn't relent, reaching back out and placing a hand on the side of the bowl. I recoiled, trying to pull it from his grasp, but he held fast, the bowl stationary between us.Needy and useless would not be a good look. I needed to do this myself, I needed to take care of myself.‘No one thinks you're useless. Let him help,’ Jude reached out as he spoke mentally, gently running his hand over my blanket covered shoulder.I looked to the bowl, my nerves had only made my shaking worse, and if not for Elias’ steady hand I was sure I'd be covered in sploshed soup. I took a deep breath and released my grip.Elias lifted the spoon to his own mouth, touching the spoon to his bottom lip before lowering it to me.My voice surprised me with how weak it was, “Oh? A second hand kiss?”Elias blushed, turning slightly away as I hesitantly opened my mouth, letting myself be fed.“Should we move him to a bed?”I sat up, realizing I'd drifted off at some point. Already I felt steadier, warmer. Elias sensed my movement, turning to look at me. I could still see the anxiety heavy in his brow as he looked over me, turning to express something silently to Jude.‘You guys talking about me?’ Jude turned, lips parting, quip at the ready I was sure, but then he sealed his mouth and looked back to Elias.‘No good comeback? Not that the quiet submissive look is a bad one.’Jude didn't rear up like I'd been hoping though, “August, you really scared us, and we aren't out of the woods. Give us a second?”I tried again to poke for a reaction, ‘you could always turn me, that'd fix the problem easy.’Jude gave me a complicated look, worry and… what was that? But before I could decipher he looked back to Elias.They conferred for a few more moments before Elias nodded, “if it's alright with you, we can tuck you into my bed.”Jude followed up, “obviously we won't be able to offer any body heat, but we can keep an eye on you while you sleep.”That same grip of fear seized me, “I don't want to be a bother, and I'm feeling way better. I think I can go back to my room.”Elias looked at Jude, worry evident, and Jude graciously rose to his call for help, ‘I don't want to be alone tonight. Stay with me.’I groaned, looking away, obviously that wasn't the case, but I was far from immune to his begging even if the pretense was false.Elias piped up, “please?” I looked over, and despite his large build was displeased to find he was also beyond adequate with his own puppy dog eyes.“Sure. Fine. If you insist.”Elias wasted no time, striding over and lifting me into a bridal carry, wrapping my blanket around me like a cacoon. My arms shot around his neck as I tried to steady myself, “I think I'd rather walk myself.”“I want to carry you.” Was all the response I received before we started towards the door.Jude's hand brushed over the top of my head, and I leaned back to look at him, ‘you two are going to be the death of me.’He smiled ever so lightly, ‘I really want to kiss you.’My body stiffened in Elias's arms, ‘not now.’ And oh how I regretted saying those words. The moment they left my lips I felt a sudden wave of loneliness. I wanted to kiss him too. It would be counter productive, it wouldn't help me towards my goal, likely it would hurt my relationship with Elias. But me too. I wanted to kiss him.Jude looked at me, his expression exceptionally warm as he drank in my thoughts, ‘I know. I just wanted to tell you.’I'd been in Elias's room a handful of times to clean and do my various chores, but never socially, and it did strike me as a different space to see it like this. Compared to his housemate's his room was quite plain, a big bed with an oak headboard, a chair and side table, and a short bookcase made up all the furnishings. His sheets were high quality I knew, but they were also simple, a plain cream color.Jude walked ahead to pull down the covers, and Elias placed me gently down on the bed, standing back up awkwardly as I pulled the comforter back up.“Aren't you going to lay down?”Elias fidgetted a bit, “I'll stay up.”Jude sighed, arms crossed, “didn't we decide to take turns waiting up? Or are you just trying to play hero.”Elias looked flustered, “no! That wasn't my-”“-then lay down, it's almost sunrise,” I pulled down a corner of the comforter.He awkwardly sat, taking off his shoes and climbing into bed, staying as far to the edge as he was able to.“Scoot over a bit,” Jude had taken off his own shoes, and I slid over, making room for him on my other side.He climbed in, wiggling about under the sheets, “move over some more, do you want me to fall off?” I glanced over to see him fully on the bed, a foot of room between him and the edge. A mental message cleared up my confusion, ‘you're usually sharper than that. How many opportunities to cuddle do you get with this idiot?’I didn't offer a response, instead sliding further over until I was pressed up against Elias. I looked up at him through lashes, “is this okay?”He nodded, and after a moment of hesitation rolled onto his side, facing me.I smiled, and drifted into sleep.My body woke me up some time later, and a grip of panic seized me as I tried to make sense of my surroundings. A hand gently touched my shoulder, Elias looking at me with concern through the darkness. I felt myself calm, heart rate dropping back to normal.I spoke in a whisper, “sorry, didn't know where I was for a second.”Elias responded in his own whisper, “you're safe.”I glanced over to try to find my other companion, but instead just saw a massive pile of blanket I assumed he was cocooned under. I could see his general form, but couldn't tell if he was awake or asleep.Elias guessed my thoughts, “he's sleeping. We should let him for a bit.”I nodded, looking back to Elias, “thanks for taking care of me.”“My fault you fell.”I furrowed my brow, “I keep telling you that's not true. You think I'm a liar?”His eyes shot wide, “n-no I just…”“It isn't your fault. And I'm glad we went out, it was fun.”He didn't respond for a long while. When he did speak his voice was even quieter, barely a squeak, “all my decisions go bad like this.”I flipped onto my side, propping my head up and watching his expression, “what do you mean?”It seemed he was holding his breath, “not seeing our sire. Taking you out to the lake.”My hand touched his cheek, turning him to face me, “it isn't your fault. Not that your sire punished you, or that I fell in. Those were his shit actions and my stupid ones.”He looked into my eyes, and the way the low light danced off them, it seemed like he might cry, but he remained silent.I rubbed his cheek with my thumb, “one of these days I'll get it through your head. You can do the things you want to do, Elias.”A rustling and light groan sounded from beside me before a messy haired head popped out from under the blankets. His voice was hoarse with sleep, “time is it?”I glanced at the clock, “just after seven.”Jude rubbed his eyes and peeled himself out of the bed, clicking on the lamp beside him, “I'm starving. I'm gonna eat. And update everyone on their baby boy's condition. I'm sure Abigail and Montgomery are worried sick.”I scoffed, “Abi maybe, but I have a hard time imagining Montgomery caring.”Jude cocked his head as he finished tying his shoes, “is that your opinion of him? Interesting.”I wasn't sure how to respond, and Jude gave me little time to decide, “I'll be back at some point.” He stood and walked to the door, not pausing his exit as he delivered a mental message, ‘he is incredibly turned on right now. If your plan is to get in his pants then heart, this is your chance.’‘He's emotionally vulnerable. I don't know that now's the time.’Jude shut the door before responding, ‘I thought you were seducing him for a goal, or did you forget that?’That stopped me in my tracks. I looked to Elias, who had a light blush and was fidgeting. The blush is what solidly pulled me back to the reality Jude reminded me of. That was someone else's blood in his cheeks. He wasn't a person, he was a vampire, and I needed what he had.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Elias of course couldn't sense my internal struggle. Had no idea that I was deciding whether he was a person or a means to my ends. And for that I was grateful. He just gazed at me, his own complicated emotions flowing over his face.“You're looking at me funny, you okay?”He nodded, then shook his head, then nodded, then started to stand. Even without Jude having told me Elias's internal monologue I could have guessed by this point.I grabbed his wrist before he moved too far, “Elias I told you didn't I? You can do the things you want.”His eyes went wide, I could still see his nerves as I sat up, wrapping my hand around to his nape and pulling him into a kiss.He returned it with vigor, nearly folding as I bit gently on his bottom lip.I parted, feeling him chase for a return of the connection, but I drew slightly further away, staying just out of reach, my voice was a whisper, “tell me what you want.”“You.”The look in his eyes was that same almost animalistic hunger I'd seen a few times prior. But I barely had time to register before his lips were back on mine, kissing me hard, biting and sucking. I flinched as I felt his sharp canine drag over my lip, splitting it slightly. Elias didn't pause before putting it in his mouth, tongue running roughly over the small cut drinking what he could before the wound closed.I let my own hands wander to his chest, unbuttoning his shirt as he moved to my ear, sucking a hickey where it met my jaw. His other hand moved to my chest, and suddenly I was very aware of being completely nude under the blanket. It seemed Elias also just remembered as he sat up, pulling the blanket off and taking in my naked form. His eyes landed on my crotch, and my breath hitched for a moment as he moved down, shucking off his now unbuttoned shirt. His lips found my inner thigh, sucking another hickey on the soft flesh. My skin tingled and I was acutely aware of my own arousal, “Elias. Please.”He pulled off, worry evident on his face, but that quickly faded as I reached down, spreading my legs slightly, opening myself for him, “I want you. Please.”His breath was heavy as he ducked down, the feel of it tickled a bit as placed a row of kisses and bites into my thigh. When his mouth found my dick I just about jumped. He was hungry with it, licking and sucking as if I was offering him my blood. And with the ferocity he was working at I worried he might end up drawing some. His tongue was heavy and damp as it parted me open, spreading me out and granting him access. Access he quickly took, darting his tongue into me. My legs tensed, and knee drew up, pressing against Elias's very tented pants.My mouth watered at the thought, “Elias, please. Need more. Need you in me.”Elias didn't take any time before moving his hands to his trousers, unbuttoning and zipping before sliding free his enormous member. I'd felt the silhouette through his pants a few times prior, but that impression paled when compared to the real, bare, thing. My guess would put him about eleven inches long, and the girth was no joke either, I could already feel my jaw aching from the thought of trying to suck him off.It seemed that wasn't on the docket for today though as he lined his head up with my hole. A firm hand pressing my hips in towards him as he began to apply pressure. His other bracing himself in a diagonal position.The stretch was far more than I was used to, and it didn't take long before I was a gasping, moaning mess, clutching wildly at the sheets beneath me.“Fuck. Fuck. Elias. Fuck. Hold on, give me a second to…”He complied, pausing his slow intrusion to let me adjust. I figured he must be close to bottoming out and glanced down. My heart lurched as I realized we hadn't even made it halfway. I looked back up to Elias's face and saw a sheen on his forehead and a pained desperation in his brow.I was still incredibly overwhelmed, but I felt shitty making him wait in such an uncomfortable place.“I'm okay now. Keep going.”The words were barely out of my mouth before he started pushing in again, much faster this time, an uncontrollable stream of moans and curses dripped from me as he slid in. Course hair scratched pleasurably against my own dick and I sighed a breath of relief, we'd managed to bottom out.He gave me very little time to adjust before he started thrusting, not too fast, but the force behind it was no laughing matter. My hands dug at his back and shoulders, the pain and pleasure too much to bear. I could feel him grinding against my bones, feel his shaft sliding over my walls, feel his stomach pressing against my dick, his pale happy trail providing a delightfully overwhelming friction. His hot breath and glazed over eyes made it evident he was feeling just as blissed out as I was. He rocked against me, as my pleasure grew,“Elias. I'm close. So close. Please.”This whipped him into a bit of a frenzy, whatever self control had been left snapping, and he rocked into me hard and fast, his hand pressing bruisingly into me to keep me in place despite his onslaught.His pace faltered and I watched his eyes roll back a bit as he spilled inside of me. My own orgasm was still right on the edge as he slid out, and I groaned at the loss.I didn't have long to mourn though before that wet, heavy feeling enveloped my dick, and I looked down to see Elias sucking me off. Eyes closed as he concentrated. It was messy. Unpracticed, but the warmth, suction, and the feel of his heavy tongue was enough to make a mess of me. My hips bucked wildly as I moaned, chasing the orgasm I'd just given up on.I came with a shout, Elias's mouth not leaving me until I was a twitching mess, the overwhelming feeling of the release the only thing my brain could focus on. So much so that I didn't realize I'd been flipped onto my hands and knees until I felt a hand on my lower back, pressing me into an arch.“Elias?”“More.” Was the only response I received before the bulbous head of his dick pressed back into my hole. I was left very little time to wonder about his superhuman refractory period as he slammed into me, bottoming out with one powerful thrust.I began to fall forward, but a hand in my hair tugged me back upright.Elias's breath sounded hot and heavy next to my ear as he folded over me, his arms enveloping me as he fucked into me hard and fast. His mouth found the back of my neck, biting down hard enough that he might have drawn blood and earning him some horribly broken moans and shouts. My walls spasmed around him, reminding me of his girth as he fucked me incredibly deep. The angle was heavenly as he dragged along my wall, and already I could feel my own second orgasm building.My arms gave out as I came, and I fell hard onto my elbows, my orgasm this time was accompanied by a bit of a whimper, which only grew louder as I felt more of Elias spill into me.He pulled out, and climbed off, letting me fully collapse and roll onto my side. I glanced over to see his penis slightly flaccid, and breathed a sigh of relief, “that was really good.”I didn't get an immediate response and looked up to Elias, he was staring at my crotch with an uncomfortable focus. I glanced down as well as saw what he was looking at, dribbling from me was some mixture of my orgasms and his, I quickly moved to cover my hole, but his hand caught my wrist before I could. He moved my own hand away before taking my lower back and pivoting me up to be level with him as he stood beside the bed. I glanced down, and to my great surprise found he was once again hard.“Elias. Elias. Wait please.”To his credit he did stop, “I want more. Please.”I groaned mentally, the overstimulation crashing over my body, “okay. Go ahead.”I shouldn't have been surprised, but as he rammed into me, the angle was intense to say the least. He slid heavily over my top wall, the head bearing into it with a lot of weight.“Look.”I did as he said, looking down, and was surprised to see a slight shifting beneath my skin. A faint bulge moving up and down.His hands bore painfully into my waist as he worked me, his hips jerking slightly, but most of our friction was from him pulling me back and forth, head scraping against the mattress as he used me. I knew my hair was a mess, and I could feel the heat of my heavy blush. But as his eyes drifted up from where we met to my face, rather than a smile of fondness, or some other kind gesture from the usually gentle giant, he just gripped me tighter, and gave me an exceptionally rough thrust. Not that I minded. Absolute overwhelming ecstasy coursed through me, and I let slip an embarrassingly loud moan.I startled as I was suddenly lifted, a hand on my back scooping me up. I was still speared as Elias turned and sat, the motion bouncing me on his dick slightly.Elias's hands were back on my waist, lifting me up on the length of his shaft. I pressed a hand to his cool chest, “let me. Please.”I pulled myself off, slowly, until just the head was in me before lowering back down.It was no bigger than before of course, but something about being able to control the speed and knowing I could make the pain stop made it that much more overwhelming. Determined not to go any slower than he was, I set my pace, watching Elias's face shift as he fell into the pleasure, eyes closed and lips slightly parted. I couldn't help but stoop down for a kiss, slightly awkward as I continued fucking myself on his lap, but neither of us seemed to care as our lips moved against eachother.His cool hand traced the scar on my chest gently, and a shudder of unexpected pleasure shot through me.I crashed into my orgasm, unable to keep a steady pace as the pleasure tore through me.Elias was unrelenting though, my breath caught as he grabbed my hips again, my orgasm prolonged as he continued the brutal pace.And then everything was dark.I woke up to the unexpected sound of arguing, or maybe it's more apt to call it a lecture. The feel of pajamas was oddly comforting as I tuned into the conversation, though I only caught a brief snippet, “hours ago. Not days. Hours. You asked if we would turn him if he wasn't going to pull through… what were you thinking?”Elias’ head was hung low, “wasn't”“Yeah. No shit,” Jude stormed off a few steps, kicking a small table and sending it crashing into the wall. It tumbled loudly onto the ground, leaving a massive dent in the drywall behind it.“August?” Elias's voice was tiny, but I still heard him clearly. I turned to look at him, the regret smeared on his face was stark. He started walking to my side, the regret becoming mixed with relief.I barely saw Jude as he dashed between us, hand on Elias's shoulder, “back off.”Elias took a step back before seeming to remember the smaller man wasn't in charge here, “no.”Jude bore into him heavier, “you don't get to touch him. Back the hell off.”Elias's regret turned to anger, “who're you to boss me around?”He made a move to approach me again. Jude didn't stop with a firm hand this time though, a fist flew, connecting with the much larger man's ribs.I was on my feet before any other punches could be thrown, grabbing Jude's forearms and glancing behind me to see how Elias was handling the sudden assault.“Who am I?” Jude's voice contained an edge that made me nervous, before I could decide what to do about it though, Jude ripped his arms from my grasp. Then there was a thumb on my chin and a finger beneath it, turning my head. His other hand found the small of my back, tipping me slightly back as he pressed his lips to mine.I immediately pushed back, loosing myself from his grasp and falling ass first onto the floor.I didn't spare the instigator a second thought as I turned my head to face Elias. His face was full of just as much confusion, anger, and sadness as I had expected. I frantically searched for words to make this better, to make it up to him, but I couldn't find them.I was ready for him to yell, or cry, or ask me why I didn't tell him, to have some sort of reaction, some sort of confrontation. What I wasn't ready for was him turning around and walking out the door.I sat, starring, arms propping me up as I reeled, I don't think I was breathing, I sure as hell wasn't able to push myself up. Snickering pulled me from my trance, a light chuckle behind me that turned into a full laugh.I turned as Jude doubled over, hands on his knees as he cackled, “oh man, did you see the look on his face? Fucking priceless.”I was dumbfounded, “what?”Jude waltzed around the room, absolutely ecstatic, ‘he always acts so perfect.’“Elias?”Jude smiled, pulling me to my feet, ‘he never argued, never disappointed, never fell into despair. Hell, he doesn't avoid me because his thoughts are so pure.’I backed up a few wary steps, “Jude…”He paid my reaction no mind, going back to his giddy meandering, ‘he fell for you. Hard. Gave into desires, nasty desires, impure desires. And he didn't regret it, because he thought the two of you had something special. Then. BAM! We pulled the rug out from under him. He wanted to hurt me, wanted to hurt you, wanted to scream, to cry, to steal you away. Fuck, that was good. Wasn't it?’He fixed me in his gaze, a hazy look had come over his eyes, distant, almost drugged out. I measured my words carefully as I spoke, “I don't think that was funny. No.”His smile didn't fade, ‘why? We won?’I took a breath, ‘you won. My game has different rules, remember?’He rolled his eyes, that same grin still present, ‘can't you just be happy with me?’“I don't know any marionette who would be happy to suddenly notice his strings.” And with that I turned and made my own way to the door, letting myself into the hallway. As I clicked the door shut I didn't miss the sound of more maniacal laughing from behind me.