The Fantasy Trove

 [tags: Blowjob, Seduction]

 

Bobby sets off on his first official mission as a Paladonic Knight.

 

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Chapter 06

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Intel Gathering

 

I woke to a mouth-watering smell. Looking through the new clothes in the closet, I grabbed something that I hoped would look good, but not like I tried to look good, then took care of my morning ablutions. Despite the luxurious comfort of the bed, I hadn’t slept well. Or perhaps, it was because of how soft and welcoming the bed was? My mattresses at home and the dorm were hard and somewhat lumpy. I’m not accustomed to such comfort.

 

Once outside my room, I followed my nose into the kitchen, and the sounds of soft laughter, sizzling bacon, brewing coffee, and frying eggs.

 

“We were trying to be quiet so you could sleep,” Elly said as soon as she saw me. She wore an oversized and worn-out pink shirt that hung to mid-thigh. The thing wasn’t quite see-through, but I doubted she wore much underneath. She was the one cooking. Despite her thin clothing, her hair was pulled back in a tight braid that hung behind her, and her makeup was immaculate.

 

“Judging by the look on his face, I don’t think he minds waking up to this,” Shayna tittered as she turned to face me. If she weren’t so beautiful, with her dark skin and bright eyes, I’d almost wish she hadn’t turned. She wore a form-fitting top and yoga pants that hugged her delicious curves. “Do you want to work up an appetite before we eat, Bobby?”

 

“Um… huh?” I asked, wondering if they were going to try and jump me first thing this morning.

 

From the smolder in their eyes, they knew exactly what I was thinking, but Elly’s words pretended they didn’t. “We have a bet going. I said you’d want to have your first home-cooked breakfast, and I’m making your favorite.

 

“And I think you’d rather get a good workout in before you eat,” Shayna added as she started stretching. I’d seen cheerleaders stretch before, and yet, there was something in the way Shayna moved that looked even more seductive than usual. “Though, I can’t deny Elly’s cooking is tempting me away from my routine.”

 

“I…” I looked between them, trying to decide, wishing I could eat and work out simultaneously. I didn’t want to hurt either’s feelings, but I knew I should get a good workout in. My last good workout was Wednesday morning, and now it was Sunday. The last half of the week flew by so fast, and I haven’t had the time or mental space to remember! The food smelled so good, though, and the cook…

 

As if on queue, both women burst out laughing. I stood there, trying to figure out the joke, as Shayna slapped the counter in her mirth, and Elly doubled over.

 

It was Elly who managed to get under control first. “Sorry, Bobby, but it was fascinating to watch you try and decide between us.”

 

“Fascinating?” I asked before remembering that she was a psych major.

 

She nodded before pointing to Shayna. “Go get a good sweat on. The food will be ready when you’re done.” She gave Shayna a wink before turning back to the sizzling bacon.

 

“Thanks, love,” Shayna told Elly, walking around the counter to give her a quick peck on the lips. “I promise to make sure he works up a huge appetite.”

 

I watched the exchange, and despite their laughter at my expense a moment ago, I felt happy to see them like that. I know most men would have gotten hard or had thoughts of trying to bed them both. Seeing two women kiss was a turn-on. Instead, I saw it as a wholesome sharing of emotions.

 

“You both seem in a good mood,” I told Shayna as I followed her down the hallway. Despite the wonderful date last night, I’d gotten a sense of worry from both before going to bed.

 

“Oh?” She turned and arched one delicate eyebrow at me as she continued walking. “Elly and I had a long talk before going to bed last night. We’ll talk to you about it later.”

 

I felt my heart sink at those words. It wasn’t just that Shayna delivered them without much inflection, but it was never good when a woman said something along the lines of, ‘We need to talk.’

 

I didn’t have an opportunity to say much before she turned and entered a well-stocked and set-up home gym. A set of weights and dumbells lined one mirrored wall. A stationary bike and treadmill sat in one corner, pullup bars and stretch bands in another. Various devices and machines dotted the large room, some of which I didn’t know their function. Once again, I was rocked back on my heels at the opulence of this house.

 

And it was mine… If these two brilliant and beautiful women I barely knew chose to sign the paperwork, this was my home. Oh, and I signed my future away as a Paladonic Knight. Well, I’d already done that last part and was still unsure about wanting the first.

 

“I’m going to start on the treadmill and get warmed up,” Shayna said, startling me out of my thoughts. “Can I trust you alone in here, or should I warn you about my skills?” That eyebrow lifted again, and I wasn’t sure if she was flirting with me or warning me. The tone and quirk of her lips suggested one thing, but her words said another.

 

I looked around to room to hide my thoughts, thinking of how all women were crazy. I didn’t know what skills she meant and decided against asking. “I’ll behave myself,” I told her as I headed for the weights.

 

Looking at her in the mirror, I thought I saw her frown. Then she caught me looking, smiled, and went for the treadmill.

 

“Good morning, Bobby,” a nondescript voice spoke up, and an androgynous face appeared in the mirror, making me jump back and curse. “How do you wish to begin?”

 

“Oh yeah,” Shayna laughed as she stretched next to the treadmill. “I forgot to tell you about the trainer AI. You can customize it now or do it later. Just tell it what you want, and it’ll assist you.”

 

I’d heard of these before but never used one. Even the college didn’t use them, afraid of security vulnerabilities and information leakage through hacking.

 

“How do you wish to begin?” The thing asked me again. I wondered what customizations I could make but decided to get my workout going.

 

“I want to get a good burn going, but I have a lot of things I need to get done today,” I told the face. “Let’s do a leg day and see how that goes.”

 

I’m not sure what I expected, but it wasn’t what I got.

 

“Good choice, Sir. I have prepared a regimen that should stress your muscles without leaving you sore or weak.”

 

“Good—” I started to say, but the thing went on.

 

“This regimen will also help boost your testosterone levels to produce maximum effect. Based on the analysis of your morning urine, I’d recommend a diet rich in—”

 

“Okay, that’s enough of that,” I cut in, trying to put a stop to the thing, but it ignored me.

 

“And considering that you will be a father in approximately 40 weeks, according to the ladies’ analysis, we should ensure that you get a better night’s sleep than last night. Once the babies arrive, you’ll be—”

 

“A.I.!” Shayna stated in a firm voice, cutting the thing off. “Switch to strictly exercise mode until directed further.”

 

“Yes, Administrator Shayna,” The AI intoned before the face turned back to me. “Based on your physique and performance during your last three games, I’d recommend starting with these weights.” An indicator light lit up behind a set of barbells. “We can begin with forward lunges and progress from there.”

 

I glanced over at Shayna one last time as she stepped onto the treadmill, picking up a good pace. Then, I decided to see what routine the AI had picked out for me with a shrug.

 

I lost track of time as the Artificial Intelligence put me through my paces. I grew a little uncomfortable seeing how much the program already knew about me. It pointed out errors in my form before starting a set. I’d expected it to test out my abilities first, but instead, it jumped right in. I was soon sweating as it moved me from one exercise to the next, with appropriate hydration breaks and stretching between each set.

 

“Damn...” Shayna’s appreciative voice sounded as I set the weighted bar back in its spot. I grabbed my towel and patted at the sweat before it fell into my eyes. Then, glancing at the mocha-skinned woman, I saw her biting her bottom lip as she regarded me. “I know I got to see you in all your glory a couple of nights ago, but watching you work is a thing of art and beauty.”

 

I chuckled, unused to getting such a flowery compliment. “How far did you run?” I asked, trying to divert the conversation. It wasn’t that I’m unused to my physique getting commented on, but I’d rarely ever felt like a piece of meat as I did while Shayna stared hungrily at me.

 

“Those machines are never as accurate as real life,” Shayna said as she patted the sweat on her chest with her towel. “But the AI says I did a little under seven kilometers. So it’s a good warmup for what I want to do next.”

 

I did some quick conversions in my head and realized she’d run for a little over four miles. That was her warmup? A glance at the clock showed me we’d been working out for just under an hour.

 

“That’s impressive,” I told her, smiling. “Last time I had to run that far, it took me a lot longer. So what did you have planned next?”

 

I was tired, but I wasn’t exhausted. If I’d run four thirteen-minute miles, my legs would be jelly. Of course, I’m not built like a runner, but her stamina was still impressive. Especially if she had more planned.

 

She moved like lightning, throwing her towel in my face. By the time I grabbed it and tossed it aside, she’d already tugged my shorts down to my ankles. Caught completely off guard, I tried to step back but tripped over my shorts and landed hard on my ass.

 

Opening my mouth to protest, a moan slipped from deep in my throat as her lips and tongue started suckling on my flaccid prick. I wasn’t going to be soft for long with her skill, though. I could already feel the blood rushing to that portion of my anatomy as she started humming happily, augmenting the pleasant sensations.

 

“That’s…” I grunted with a half-hearted protest as I gazed down at the top of her head. “I’m all sweaty!”

 

She gripped me tightly at my thickening base as she lifted her head and looked hungrily into my eyes. “That just adds to the flavor. You looked so good; I couldn’t resist.”

 

She dove back into her sloppy blowjob, and I gave up resisting. My workout was good, but I still had enough strength to resist if I wanted to. Perhaps it was my stiffening cock, the throaty moans her illicit skills pulled from me, or my fingers curling into her hair, but she knew I was hers.

 

“I knew it was a good idea to set the AI as a watchdog on you two,” Elly’s voice broke through the fog of bliss.

 

With a yelp, I tried to pull away and cover myself, but Shayna held my manhood with a kung-fu grip. I felt immediate guilt, though looking back, I shouldn’t have. I’m still trying to understand the dynamics of being with two women. Up until this event, everything was done with both of them, and by the look in Elly’s eyes, that heat was not one of lust and desire. Was she jealous or something else?

 

“You’re more than welcome to join us, dear,” Shayna cooed, sliding her fist up and down my saliva-coated length. It felt great, but Elly didn’t look amused.

 

“Shayna…” Elly’s voice held a warning tone. “We agreed to discuss other matters before doing anything more.”

 

Shayna pouted, her luscious bottom lip sticking out as she regarded her girlfriend. “I know, El, but look at him! He was all sweaty, his muscles rippling, and he looked so good. I’ve told you about my fantasy of getting ravished by a strong, sweaty man, and this was the perfect opportunity.”

 

Elly’s gaze softened, but not by much. “And you know how important it is to set things straight between the three of us. And knowing about that fantasy is why I told the AI to warn me if you got frisky in here. The three of us need to talk.”

 

“Do I have a say in this?” I asked, trying not to stutter or moan as Shayna kept pumping me. I’ve tried to figure out how to describe her talent with her hand, or mouth, but I can’t understand it. She held me at her mercy with a firm grip, yet it also felt delightful. Somehow she managed to bring me utter pleasure without tipping me close to the edge.

 

“Depends on what your say is,” Elly arched an eyebrow in response.

 

“Yes,” Shayna purred, then swirled her tongue around the tip. “Tell us what you want.”

 

Something deep and primal wanted to tell them that I would do what I damned well pleased, but I put a collar on that. As much as I desired to stand and rip their clothing off, ravishing them until we all lay in sweaty, giggling piles on the floor, I wanted to define our relationship more.

 

Gripping Shayna’s wrist, I met her eyes. “I want to know where we all stand. Then perhaps, afterward, we can continue.”

 

Shayna pouted again, and I felt tempted to suck that thick bottom lip between my teeth but resisted. I knew she would welcome the contact but didn’t think my resolve would last.

 

“Fine!” Shayna pulled away and adjusted her clothes, wiping her mouth. “But know that making me horny and then pulling away is a great way to put me in a foul mood.”

 

“He’ll remember,” Elly answered for me. Then, she turned to leave and added over her shoulder, “Your breakfast is on the table, Shayna and Bobby. I already have the papers out, waiting.”

 

Papers? I wondered, dreading what that could mean. I pulled up my pants and followed after her. My ass was still sore from falling on it when Shayna pantsed me, but I soon forgot that as I saw the fried eggs and bacon waiting for me. I hoped neither one was religious, as I didn’t wait for a blessing or anything before digging in.

 

Elly and Shayna sat on the other side. The shorter woman had a better demeanor as she slowly started eating.

 

“This is delicious,” I praised Elly after inhaling a slice of thick peppered bacon.

 

“If you think this is great, you should see what she can do for dinner,” Shayna said after sipping some orange juice. I watched as Elly gripped Shayna’s hand in thanks before turning her light brown eyes on me.

 

“Shayna and I talked in length last night as we tried to figure out how to proceed.” I watched as she reached over and grabbed a stack of papers. They looked familiar, and I remembered what she wanted to discuss. “All of our training, and everything we were told, would have led to these getting signed by all of us. But the spell only half worked.”

 

“I’m sorry for that. I didn’t know,” I told them, not sure what else to say. They thought that I’d fall for them as much as they fell for me. Instead, whatever this medallion I wore did, it protected me from the spell’s effects. In short, they loved me, but I didn’t love them. The power dynamic was all skewed, as they knew a great deal about me, but I knew very little about them. Sure, I felt attracted like crazy to both of them, but they expected marriage. After everything I’d witnessed with my parents, marriage meant a lot more to me than just mind-blowing sex.

 

“You didn’t know,” Shayna affirmed. “We believe that, but it puts us in an odd situation.”

 

Elly nodded before adding, “You know how we feel, but we don’t know how you feel.”

 

“We care enough about you that we don’t want to be a burden. We only want to make you happy, Bobby.” Shayna added, almost talking on top of Elly.

 

“Shayna…” I heard a warning note in Elly’s voice as she spoke. The taller woman placed the stack of papers between us. “Anyway, here are the marriage papers. We haven’t signed them, as you already know. We decided to get everything out in the open and see where you stood.”

 

I stared at the papers, a pit forming in my stomach. Silence fell as I tried to figure out what to say. I could see that they were waiting on me to make the decision. From the caring look in their eyes, I knew they would sign them if I asked. My conscience couldn’t make that decision, though. A magic spell made them love me unconditionally. While they went into that willingly, I hadn’t known. If not for the medallion around my neck, that spell would have worked on me as well. I’d be in love with two women that I barely knew.

 

“I barely know you,” I started to say, finding the words slowly as I spoke. “I like you both and am very attracted to you… But you know so much about me from whatever is in my file, and I know almost nothing about either of you.”

 

I saw Elly smirk at Shayna before grabbing her phone and typing something into the device. “I told you that would be on his mind.” She turned to me with a hopeful smile. “I just sent you our files. They’ll tell you everything there is to know about us.”

 

“Not…” Shayna hesitated before looking up to meet my eyes. “Not everything. Those files have everything necessary, but the spell changes things.”

 

“What do you mean?” I asked as a new pit formed in my stomach to play tag with the first one.

 

Elly grimaced as she looked between Shayna and me. “The files were compiled before First Knight. The spell that resided in our navel piercings did more than just ensure we conceived your child and bind us in love.”

 

“What else?” I asked, dreading the answer but also needing to know.

 

The women exchanged glances I couldn’t read. “He deserves the whole truth from us,” Shayna said. “He’s been open and honest with us.”

 

I watched Elly’s jaw clench as she thought. “I know, but there’s no telling how that knowledge will affect him… or us.” They locked gazes for a moment longer before Elly dropped her head in defeat. Both women remained silent for a few more seconds before Shayna spoke.

 

“The spell does so much more than make us and the man we choose to fall in love.” Shayna took a deep breath, then went on in a rush before stalling out. “It also makes us the perfect wife for you. We become wholly devoted to you, and… And…”

 

Elly came to her rescue, finishing what Shayna struggled to say. “Basically, we’re molded into the perfect spouse. Before you even ask, yes, we chose this for ourselves. It’s why we are so selective in who we choose. Yes, we knew everything about you, but the fact that you don’t know much about us is negated by becoming your perfect partners. We know you enjoy anime, treat women with respect, and before Thursday, we shared a lot in common already. Our personalities have changed very little. The only problem is that we didn’t foresee that you wouldn’t be ready for the marriage.”

 

I sat there, trying to absorb what they’d just revealed. Why on Earth would anyone want that? Did they feel they owed the Knights their very identity?

 

“I can see the question you’re not asking,” Elly cut into my thoughts. “Who wouldn’t choose to have the perfect marriage? We would love each other; be devoted to each other. Divorces are unheard of within the Knights. Why wouldn’t we want that kind of stability in a relationship?”

 

I understood what she was saying but didn’t think I could make that same choice. As I thought about it, that would have happened to me, and I wouldn’t have had a choice. But then, their actions since I came back started to make sense. They were trying to give me the space I needed to think things through while also being the perfect wives. I wondered if their libido was adjusted and thought that also made sense.

 

Then I thought about the mission I had to perform, and another question popped into my head. “Please be honest,” I said and waited for them to nod. “If you had to think about it last week, and your husband told you he needed to go to a brothel for work, how would you have felt?”

 

Shayna shrugged but remained silent. Finally, it was Elly that gave me an answer. “Fidelity from our husbands isn’t something we expect. We knew there would be times when our future husband would be away for long periods, and we don’t expect you… I mean, him, to remain celibate.”

 

I blinked, not expecting that answer. Before I could formulate a response, Shayna cut in.

 

“We knew that your personality was one where you would strive to be faithful.” Shayna met my gaze with sincerity as she spoke. “You’re an honest man, and we know your history. Hell, you were upfront with us yesterday on what the Knights required of you, despite what you may feel for us. How many men would admit to going to a brothel—a potential succubus one!—to the women they were sleeping with?”

 

I looked between them, thinking they were crazy, yet it was a type of crazy I could understand if I twisted my viewpoint. Who wouldn’t want a guaranteed stable relationship? One where both sides were what the other desired?

 

All you had to do was allow magic to permanently alter your personality and emotions.

 

I found myself fingering the little medallion at my neck, thankful the spell hadn’t worked on me. Sure, I would have been happy with my lot, especially with these two women, but would I still be me?

 

And who is to say they didn’t change more than what Elly and Shayna knew?

 

Suddenly, I understood their somewhat erratic behavior towards me. One moment they’d be a little aloof, as Elly was now, then they’d be ready to jump my bones as Shayna was after the workout. Instead, they tried to make me happy by giving me the space to figure things out, while also striving to please me sexually. Even this conversation was an attempt to make me happy.

 

At once, I felt a great deal of pressure. These intelligent women were trying so hard to make things work, even if it meant they ended up alone. Well, not alone, as they have each other.

 

On impulse, and to give me some time to think, I reached across the table and took the marriage papers from them. I scanned the legalese on the paper, but it looked like a standard marriage license to me, with Elly’s and my names written in the appropriate spaces. At the bottom, there was only my signature. I didn’t remember signing it, but then again, I signed quite a few documents before swearing in, and I barely paid any attention to them. I checked the second one, and it looked the same, but with Shayna’s name. Upon closer inspection, I noticed that my signature was a copy. I guess they didn’t expect me to sleep with two women that night.

 

I knew I was stalling and took a deep breath. Then, looking up, I met their eyes as I slid the papers back across to them. Two such beautiful women, so very different from one another in appearance, gazed back at me. I could see the stress and worry behind their eyes, though they both offered a smile. If not for their eyes, I might have believed those smiles.

 

“I want to make sure I understand everything,” I said, then waited for them to nod. “If I told you I want you to sign these, sealing our marriage, then that I wanted to live like I grew up, dirt poor, and always scrounging and worried about my next meal, you’d do it?”

 

I saw Shayna flinch as Elly shuddered. “Is that what you want?” Elly’s voice was soft as she asked. Her eyes lingered on the paper, and I wondered if that was hope or fear in her brown eyes.

 

“Answer my question, please,” I said, keeping my voice level and calm.

 

This time it was Shayna who answered. “I think she meant to say, if that’s what you wanted, we’d do it for you. But…” Shayna trailed off with a calm glance at calm Elly. Taking a deep breath, she turned back to me and continued. “Yes, we would do it for you, but is that what you want?”

 

“No!” My voice cracked across the room, making both women jump. “Hell, no! I hated living that way growing up, and I just found out it was all because…” I trailed off, not sure I should reveal that my parents didn’t want me to join the Paladonic Knights. “Because my parents were idiots. Is it because the spell made you love me that much, or that you want to please me that badly?”

 

This time the women mirrored each other as they cringed and grimaced. I felt my anger growing, hating myself for putting them through this and hating the Knights. I knew some men—Adam Roper amongst them—would jump into this with open arms, but it rubbed me the wrong way.

 

“Both,” Shayna almost whimpered. “Consul Willmont told us that if we choose not to sign, then we can have the spell shifted to someone else.”

 

“Shifted? Not removed?” I asked, trying not to grind my teeth.

 

“The spell can be adjusted but not canceled,” Elly informed me. “It’s why we were so selective in choosing you. And each other.” I noticed how Elly’s right arm tilted towards Shayna, and I suspected they were holding hands.

 

“We would still give birth to your children but raise them with their new step-father,” Shayna said.

 

That felt like a punch to my guts. Somehow I’d forgotten about the unborn children. It took me a moment before I could speak.

 

“Here is what I want. I want you to consider for yourselves if you wish to sign those papers or not. Do not take into consideration for me or my desires. If you sign them, I promise to do my best for you and our children. If you don’t—” I had to stop and swallow the pit forming in my throat. Could I ignore a child I’d conceived, no matter the circumstances? I didn’t know, but I forced the words past my lips as the women stared at me. “If you don’t want to sign them, I will understand, and there will be no hard feelings.”

 

Shayna and Elly looked at each other, then stood and walked away. I felt my heart plummet as they walked away without even looking back at me. I tried to convince myself that this was for the best. Sure, they were both incredible brilliant, beautiful, talented, sexy, charming, intuitive… Anyway, I didn’t like how we’d come together. A few days ago, what little I knew about them would have put me off. But after discovering that was all a front to keep themselves prepared for First Knight and whoever they chose, then spending time with both of them, I’d come to appreciate them.

 

They returned a moment later, and I forced myself to look up at them. That pit in my chest leaped up into my throat. They each held a pen and were furiously applying their signatures to the forms.

 

My hands started to shake as they pushed the papers back across to me. This was really happening. I was now married to two of the most beautiful and intelligent women that went to the university. At that moment, I didn’t know how to act or what to say. Instead, I felt grateful that they wanted to be with me. Sure, that was partly the spell, but they’d chosen me before the magic took effect. I also felt worried about the future. They each carried my child. And while they’d given me their information, I hadn’t had an opportunity to go over it yet.

 

“Does this mean we can celebrate?” Shayna asked, a hopeful glint in her blue eyes. Those eyes shown in contrast to her mocha skin. The way she licked her lips as she looked at me left no doubt what was on her mind.

 

Despite the drama of only moments before, I felt myself growing hard. That blowjob earlier was interrupted and left me wanting more.

 

“I know that look, Shay,” Elly’s cool voice threw cold water on my rising libido. “He has a mission to complete tonight, and he’ll need all of his stamina walking into a suspected succubus den.”

 

“You’re right,” Shayna pouted, then turned her heated gaze onto Elly. “That just means you’ll have to take care of me as soon as he leaves.”

 

“Wait!” I cut in, not wanting to miss that but also seeing a flaw in their logic. “Shouldn’t I take the edge off, so I’m thinking with a clearer mind?”

 

Both women chuckled before Elly answered. “Sometimes I forget that you weren’t trained by the Knights growing up. Your pendant will protect you from their lust charms and keep them from reading your mind. But if the demonic succubae run that place and they sense that you were drained before arriving, they’ll suspect you. Also, they may not reveal themselves if they don’t sense a decent meal.”

 

It occurred to me at that point that I didn’t know what I was getting myself into. How was I supposed to walk into a den full of potential demons and flush them out without getting myself killed? At that moment, all thoughts of getting laid fled from my mind, screaming.

 

“I’d best be going to see Consul Willmont, then,” I said, standing from the table. The dining room felt hot and stuffy as my heart pounded behind my ribs. What am I doing?

 

“Wait!” Elly said, standing and moving around the table. Did she see how scared I suddenly was? She was so wise, often interpreting my thoughts before I understood them. “Aren’t you going to kiss us goodbye?”

 

My panic stuttered to a halt at her words. Perhaps it was the incongruity between my emotions and her desire, but I managed to pull myself together. If nothing else, I had to make it through this mission. I had two incredible women waiting for me. And I didn’t have to fight or kill anyone. I only had to identify, and the Knights would do the rest.

 

“Sorry, I didn’t want to tempt Shayna any more than I had to,” I lied, thinking fast.

 

Something in Elly’s brown eyes told me she knew I was lying, but she didn’t call me out. Instead, she stepped up to me and brushed her lips across mine.

 

“Is that how you plan on kissing our husband before he leaves on a mission?” Shayna mocked as she came up to me. “This is how you kiss him!” She grabbed the back of my head and pulled me down for a passionate kiss. I was pulled off balance but soon recovered as her tongue darted between my lips. Despite my flagging lusts a moment ago, I felt them enflamed once more as I gripped Shayna’s ass and lifted her into my arms so I wasn’t bent over so far. She squealed in delight at the action, and I felt her legs tighten around my hips. Her hips ground against my abs as we made out.

 

“No,” Elly sounded exasperated as she started to tug Shayna from my grasp. “But that’s how I intend to kiss him, so I don’t lose myself and my panties in the process.”

 

“Too late for that!” Shayna laughed as she allowed herself to be pulled away. “I’m not wearing any.”

 

Elly stepped up to me, and I leaned in for the powerful kiss I expected. But, instead, her palm pressed against my chest as she met my eyes. I could see desire and longing within her brown orbs, as well as the conflict behind them. “You’d better go before we jeopardize your mission, my lo—” She cut herself short as her cheeks burned with embarrassment.

 

“You can say it if you feel it,” I told her softly, gripping her hand in mine. “I know how you feel, but also understand if you’re uncomfortable saying it until I can say it back.”

 

Elly bit her bottom lip as her eyes dropped to our clasped hands. I watched as she shuddered, then, with a force of will, pushed me back. “Go, husband, or I won’t be held accountable for what happens next.”

 

It took every ounce of my willpower to turn and head for the garage. I understood that they wanted me, and I’ll be damned; I wanted them also. But Elly was right, and I needed to get out before they drained me.

 

“Oh!” Shayna called out before I reached the door. “Take my truck. Yours was cleaned out and sold last night. Your new vehicle won’t be delivered until tomorrow. Mine is the red pickup out there.”

 

I stumbled a step, knocked off balance by her statement. They sold my car? My car?! Sure, the thing was a heap of junk, but it was my heap of junk. I had plenty of memories in that vehicle, both good and bad. I felt my face flush with anger as I opened the garage door and stepped out. I couldn’t be sure if I was angry at losing the car or that it was done without consulting me.

 

All at once, I felt lost and without control again. My life was no longer my own. The Knights owned me completely. They moved me out of the dorm, sold my car, married me off, and who knew what else.

 

Okay, so having two gorgeous and intelligent women as my wives wasn’t a bad thing, and that car was on its last legs… And this house is impressive. But dammit! I wanted to have a say in how I lived my life. I know this is a first-world problem. Who in their right mind would complain about having so much?

 

I decided to swallow my anger for now and get about my business. Unfortunately, the women had left me a little more than worked up, and I had to adjust myself as I looked around the expansive garage. It could easily fit four vehicles, though I only saw one in it at the moment. A large, red, heavy-duty pickup that I didn’t recognize the make and model of—whoever heard of a Kindred Ravager?—stood tall closest to me.

 

I realized I didn’t have the keys but didn’t want to go back in and ask. Hopefully, Shayna left them inside? A dangerous proposition in today’s world, especially here in California, but after seeing the security to get into this neighborhood, I guess I could understand.

 

Opening the door, I looked around but didn’t see any keys. Then, climbing up into the cab, I nearly shit myself when a soft male voice with a British accent greeted me.

 

“Greetings, Mr. Brody. Shayna has granted you full permissions to operate me. Shall we get started?”

 

“Fucking AI’s,” I muttered as I swallowed my heart back down into my chest. I’d heard the latest model luxury vehicles would be implementing them. However, I thought it was still a couple of years away.

 

“You can customize me on a per-user basis to your liking if my current settings offend you, Sir,” The British voice informed me.

 

Was the thing insulted at my words? That’d just be my luck to offend the AI that was supposed to keep me safe while driving.

 

“Sorry if I offended you, um….” I trailed off before adding, “What do I call you?”

 

“My official designation is KR-A75, but Shayna calls me Kratos,” the soft voice replied. “I did not take offense at your words, as the spike in your heart rate indicated that I had startled you.”

 

This thing is monitoring my vitals too? And does that mean it can be offended, but wasn’t? “Wait, Kratos? As in the God of War game series?” That series started before I was born but was still going strong on the latest consoles.

 

“Yes, Sir,” the thing informed me, giving no indication if he liked the name or not. “Where shall we be going today, Sir?”

 

I sat in the driver’s seat and tapped the remote to open the garage. The seat automatically moved back to accommodate my longer legs, and the mirrors also adjusted on their own. I heard the engine fire up, though I didn’t feel it. It only took me a second to figure out that the engine sounds were coming from the speakers. Electric engines were almost silent.

 

“Let’s see what you can do, and then I’ll head to my destination,” I told the truck. With that accent, I couldn’t call it Kratos.

 

“Very good, Sir. I have already taken the liberty of connecting to your phone and do not see anything in your calendar yet that is pressing.”

 

The feeling of creepiness that washed over me at the AI’s words almost made me jump out of the pickup. I hadn’t given it permission to connect to my phone, much less read my information. Luckily I didn’t use my phone for much besides texting and calls, so it couldn’t get much from me. I had no doubt that everything went straight to the Knights. They already had enough information on me.

 

The truck pulled out of the garage with no guidance needed from me. Despite my misgivings about the AI, I had to admit the ride was smooth. I kept my hands on the wheel, not used to a vehicle driving for me.

 

“I am fully licensed to drive in all fifty-four states and territories,” Kratos informed me after a few minutes on the road. “Feel free to sit back and enjoy the ride, Sir. I have queued up a playlist based on your song preferences and already informed Consul Willmont of our ETA.”

 

“Why did you do that?” I blurted out, growing even more uncomfortable with the vehicle and its artificial brain.

 

“While it wasn’t on your calendar, I was led to understand that was your destination from the house AI when you left, Sir,” it informed me with what sounded like pride. Perhaps that was just the British accent, though.

 

I took a few moments of steady breathing to calm my nerves. Ever since Thursday, my life seemed less and less within my control. Or maybe it started the day before at the pub when I saw my ex-girlfriend die on national television. Since then, I’d had very little to say in what I did or how I was going to live my life.

 

“Listen, Kratos—” I cringed at saying that name, “from now on, don’t do anything unless I ask you to do so, okay?”

 

“Sir, I must inform you that by law, when I am operating the vehicle, I cannot wait for your permission before obeying traffic laws and regulations.” Okay, that time, I’m pretty sure those words were delivered with every ounce of pomp that the British accent could carry.

 

“Easily solved,” I smirked as I took a tighter hold of the steering wheel. “Give me complete control of the vehicle, and you can act as my navigator.”

 

“Granted, Sir,” the voice stated in what I liked to imagine was a surly tone. “Though I should point out that you are ninety-nine percent less likely to get into an accident with me in control. I’m quite certain Shayna would be most displeased if harm were to come to either of us. She has—”

 

“Kratos?” I cut in. “Shut up. Unless I make a wrong turn, or flagrantly make a mistake, or am about to get into an accident, stay in the background.”

 

“Such as how you’re currently going three miles over—”

 

“Kratos…” I kept my voice firm.

 

“Very well, Sir.” This time I knew it sounded upset.

 

“And one last thing,” I added as I flipped on my blinker to change lanes. “Stop calling me ‘Sir.’ Call me ‘Bobby’ or drop the need to address me that way, anyway. Most people don’t use names in everyday conversation.”

 

“As you wish,” came the final reply. Despite my misgivings about the AI, I had to admit that the music selection it played was spot on. Kratos didn’t make another comment the rest of the way to the hotel where Consul Willmont had his office.

 

The doorman either recognized me or knew to let me in, holding the door open as I walked through. I hit the elevator and rode up to his floor to find him waiting outside his office with a grin splitting his lined brown face.

 

“Carpenter Brody!” He greeted me with a firm handshake. Despite his age, the Latino man was well built. “Your wives already sent me digital copies of your marriage licenses. So good to have all of that settled.”

 

I stared for a moment before nodding, wondering if this was the same man that berated Al and me two days ago. Gone was the anger and the judgmental looks, replaced with a man who seemed proud to have me here.

 

“You’re quite the lucky man,” he continued, as though revealing a poorly kept secret. He started walking towards his massive office, and my feet carried me along in his wake. “Not only did you snag two gorgeous wives, but their potential—should you allow them to continue in their respective studies—is quite high. And I’m sure they were more than happy to share their joy at their luck with a man who scored so well in the test of First Knight.”

 

“I did?” I asked. That wasn’t how he’d sounded Friday morning. Then, he’d made it sound like I’d almost failed. Now, as he sat behind his desk and indicated a lush leather chair for me, his attitude was new. “They do? I mean, they are. Quite happy, that is. I just… I mean… I’m confused, Sir. I thought Al and I screwed up.”

 

Willmont chuckled, his deep voice reverberating with his mirth. “Yes, you did, Carpenter,” he said with a twinkle in his brown eyes. “But sometimes, you have to screw up to move up. And you wouldn’t have been promoted to the rank of Carpenter if you’d messed up that bad. So after a panel reviewed your actions and how you comported yourselves during our last meeting, it was decided to give you both high marks. Now, tell me, how do you like the new home?”

 

It took my mind a moment to switch gears and understand his question, simple though it was. I was off-balance in this conversation and struggling to keep up. “Good, Sir… I mean, it’s a bit overwhelming, to be honest.”

 

Willmont chuckled again. “I’ll bet you are. I never understood why your father preferred to live in squalor. Not that his standing was enough to qualify for what you have, but he deserved a better life than what he chose for you and your mother.”

 

His words sunk deep into my psyche like a hatchet biting into a soft-wooded tree. After learning about my father, knowing that he chose that life for my mother and me, just to steer me away from the Knights… And then to have it all but drive me into their arms instead made me grind my teeth, though I tried to keep an outwardly calm demeanor.

 

“Why is the house so large?” I asked, trying to latch onto something I dared speak about. If Willmont didn’t know why my father did what he did, I wouldn’t inform him. Not that I felt I owed my father any loyalty, but I didn’t want the Knights to question my commitment. It appeared that their knowledge-gathering had at least some gaps.

 

“Because that’s the potential we see in you,” he said, as though it should be obvious. “Between how you navigated First Knight, earning 2 wives, and your performance in college, the board sees a lot of potential in you. The greater the potential, the better the benefits.”

 

“Out of curiosity, what would have happened if Elleanor and Shayna hadn’t signed the papers?” I asked, unsure if I wanted the answer.

 

Willmont’s gray eyebrows drew down in either consternation or annoyance as he sat forward, steepling his hands before him, and gave me a grave reply. “Divorce is almost unheard of in the brotherhood. Of course, your case is unique with that pendant of yours, but all you had to do was ask them to sign, and they’d have done it.” His mood lightened as he leaned back in his chair. “But why are we discussing things that didn’t happen? You’re here to discuss the mission I gave you Friday. Ready for your first official task as a Paladonic Knight?”

 

I got the distinct feeling I was missing something, or he wasn’t telling me everything, but I can’t say why I felt that way. Instead of pressing him, I let it go and focused on what I needed to do next.

 

“I’m not sure how good I’ll be,” I confessed. “I’m not a very good liar. In fact, I try to avoid it as much as possible.”

 

“That’s what all the best spies claim,” Willmont nodded as though I’d said what he wanted to hear. “Now, there’s no need to worry. This won’t be a dangerous mission. We just need to verify if the brothel is being run by monsters in disguise. Particularly sirens or succubae. I’ve heard they might even have a three-breasted elf. So go in there, get your dick sucked or maybe a little more, and report back. Your little trinket will protect you from having your mind read, or any spells affecting your mental faculties. That’s all you need to do. We don’t expect you to fight them or anything. We’ll send in a troop of trained Knights for that if you confirm.”

 

I felt a weight lift off my shoulders at his words. I might be built like I could fight, but I learned not to use my size to my advantage at a young age. In third grade, I… Well, I preferred not to think of that incident. I wasn’t bullied after that, but I still heard the snickers and rumors. I avoided fights by using my mind and staying level-headed.

 

“I can tell you’re feeling better about not having to fight,” Consul Willmont said, sounding almost disapproving. “You need to remember that these are monsters, praying on humans as their food. They don’t deserve your sympathy or concern. If they had their way, we’d all be lined up in feeding troughs for them. They’re not human, Carpenter. They’re the enemy.”

 

“I know, Sir,” I was quick to answer. I might not have much control over my life, but was that life really so bad? Hot wives—plural!—big house, free money, and education… All I had to do was fall in line. I did not want to screw up. “I’ve heard stories about what some of them can do and worry that I’m not trained to fight them.”

 

“Ah, I see I misunderstood. Forgive me, but some of you Carpenters are weak-hearted and just want to be pampered.” He regarded me across his desk for a few uncomfortable seconds, wrapping his knuckles lightly on his desk. “Of course, if you want to give up your pendant, I could have someone else do this mission in your stead.”

 

I can’t explain the feeling of dread that flooded me at his words. Give up my pendant? I’d worn it non-stop since I was a kid. I couldn’t take it off without breaking the chain. My mother gave it to me, claiming it was an heirloom passed down through her family. It was as much a part of me as my left hand.

 

“I can do this, Sir,” I said, making sure my voice remained firm, even as I grasped the pendant at my neck. “How will I identify if they’re one of those freaks or just talented humans?”

 

“Ah, glad to hear that resolve, Carpenter!” Willmont slapped the desk with his palm and grinned at me. Then he pulled something from a drawer and tossed it to me.

 

I took the small package, then looked back at him, confused. “I don’t have a headache, Sir.”

 

Willmont chuckled before he answered, a sly look in his eyes. “That may look like headache medicine, but it’s actually a specially made talisman. Swallow it before you go in, and if your stomach gets really upset, you’ll know that monsters are nearby.”

 

I looked at the package, wondering how that worked but marveling at the ingenuity. “That way, I don’t end up getting sucked dry if it is run by freaks,” I said, liking the simplicity of the plan.

 

“Right!” Willmont agreed. “Wouldn’t want our newest rising star to become food.”

 

I swallowed hard at that ominous statement but trusted that they wouldn’t send me into harm’s way without some sort of protection.

 

I pocketed the little package with the pills, then looked back up to meet Willmont’s fierce eyes. “Anything else I need to know or should bring with me?”

 

“Use that debit card your wives gave you to pay for their services. If they’re all human, have yourself a blast. But trust your gut, literally, and get out of there if the pill acts up. I’ll send the address to your phone.” He stopped and stood, looking down at me from across the desk. “Oh, and I hope you’re not planning on going in that? Nevermind. I’ll have one of the rooms here prepared for you to shower and a fresh set of clothes delivered. You look like you just came from the gym.”

 

“I…” I stood and looked down at myself, realizing that I hadn’t showered or changed after my workout with Shayna. “Right. Sorry, Sir.”

 

“Good,” Consul Willmont nodded and held his hand out. I gripped it in a solid handshake. “If there is nothing else?”

 

Shaking my head, I headed for the door before remembering something. “I thought it might not be a bad idea to take someone else with me. Someone who wouldn’t know what my mission is, as extra cover. Would that be a problem?”

 

“Interesting thinking, Carpenter.” Willmont regarded me with one raised eyebrow. “What will you do if there are monsters there, though?”

 

“I doubt the guy I’m thinking of taking would care,” I said, hoping it was true. “He’s more interested in getting his rocks off than anything else. If they’re freaks, I’ll have my tummy troubles and wait for him while I report back to you. If not, he’ll have a night to remember.”

 

“I don’t like putting regular humans in harm’s way,” Willmont frowned, “but if he’s a monster lover, then he’ll deserve what he gets.”

 

The finality of that statement sent a shiver down my spine. “I’ll see how he thinks as we go,” I said, meeting Willmont’s fierce gaze. “If he hates the freaks as much as we do, I’ll be sure to keep him safe.”

 

“See that you do,” Willmont said, then took his seat. I took that as a clear dismissal and walked from his office.

 

Once back at the lobby desk, I picked up a room key and walked to the room set aside for me. Compared to the suite from the other night, this room was small. Compared to the house I grew up in, it was the Ritz-Carlton.

 

I made a quick call to Adam to expect me in a couple hours and be ready for the night of his life. I spent way too long taking a hot shower and enjoying the free soap. The shampoo and conditioner actually made my scalp tingle. I’m not ashamed to write here that I considered masturbating with it. I was still a little worked up from Shayna’s aborted blowjob.

 

But I kept in mind why that fun was cut short, and I have better self-control than that.

 

When I finally got out, my hands were deeply pruned, but I never felt cleaner. I found a new set of clothes on the bed waiting for me. I’d like to say they weren’t my style, but that would only be because they cost more than anything I’d ever worn. The brown shirt carried the name brand logo over the left chest, and the black slacks were made of a silky smooth polyester blend. The brand new shoes were a perfect fit. After doing my hair, I had to admit I made that outfit look good.

 

Checking my phone, I saw a couple messages from Adam, wondering when I’d be there. I chuckled, recognizing that he was anxious but not knowing what I was getting him into. I wasn’t worried about him getting hurt. This wasn’t supposed to be a dangerous mission, just information gathering.

 

As I pulled up to the dorm, I shot a quick message to Elly and Shayna. I still felt a little weird that I was going to a brothel with my wives’ permission. Actually, from the way they treated it, it wasn’t permission, but with their blessing. I’m pretty sure that most women wouldn’t be okay with it, regardless of why I was doing it.

 

I realized that I hadn’t considered how I felt about it. I never understood people who cheat on their loved ones, and after Megan left me as she did, I was doubly against it. Sure, I couldn’t claim that I loved my wives—that still feels weird to say—but I cared for and liked them. I honestly didn’t want to hurt them. But they knew what I was doing, and were okay with it. Life is weird. I could understand if I lived in a porno, but I couldn’t say that I was unhappy with the situation.

 

“There you are!” Adam panted as he ran up to me. I’d made it halfway to my old dorm building, and sweat beaded on his head as he regarded me. “I was beginning to think you’d forgotten me.”

 

“I couldn’t do that,” I replied with a forced smile. “I always pay my debts.”

 

“Heh, like a Lannister,” he chuckled.

 

You have no idea, I thought. “You ready to go?” I asked.

 

“I’ve been waiting for over an hour,” he complained as we walked back to the truck. I shook my head but didn’t argue with him. I’d told him when I’d be here. Not my problem if he didn’t listen or was too anxious. “Wait, I don’t see your car?”

 

“I’m borrowing a ride,” I hedged as I pointed to the large red truck. “Trust me when I say you don’t want us pulling up in my old car to this place.”

 

“Holy shit, dude!” Adam exclaimed as he took in the Kindred Ravager. “Who’d you have to suck off to steal this ride?”

 

I chose not to answer his question. Or deck him. I’m a gentleman like that.

 

“You never said where we’re going,” Adam seemed to hesitate before getting in. “Is it a bar, or a club? I’m always down to hit a strip club, but you made it sound like I’d be guaranteed to get some sweet pussy tonight. Titty bars are just big teases with too many rules.”

 

“Bobby Brody’s calendar shows that he is taking us to Charly’s for a night of fun and debauchery,” Kratos said before I could answer.

 

“Holy, holy, double-fucking shit! This thing even as an integrated assistant?” Adam jumped into the passenger seat and started fiddling with the stereo. “I thought they were still in the testing phases.”

 

“I am fully licensed in all fifty-four states and territories,” Kratos’s British accent held pride as he spoke. “Will you be assuming manual control again, Bobby?”

 

I swear I heard condescension as it used my name but chose to ignore it. “No, you may take us, Jeeves,” I tried to use my most haughty tone as I replied.

 

“Very good, Bobby.” This time, I’m certain the damned Artificial Intelligence was twisting my name with disdain.

 

Adam regarded me for a moment as the truck pulled away from the dorm. “Does anyone ever call you Bob or the dreaded Bobbert?”

 

“Sure,” I said with a wave of my hand, “when they want to walk to their destination.”

 

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw the other man fidget, probably trying to determine if coming along was a good idea. He eyed me for a minute, then looked around the truck.

 

“Hey, man…” Adam tilted his body to face me better as he hesitated. “So, uh, new truck, nice clothes, and you promised to pay for everything tonight… You’re not taking me out to sacrifice me, or sell me into slavery, or something, right?”

 

I debated on messing with him but decided against it. I needed him to be happy about this. I didn’t know a lot about succubusses—succubae?—but I knew they could read minds. That’s why I was on this mission with my talisman that protected my mind.

 

“Relax,” I said in my best soothing tone. “Can I tell you a secret?”

 

“Please don’t tell me you’re a werewolf, wanting a taste of my spleen.” His eyes grew large, and he gripped the door’s armrest. “Hey, man, I don’t have a problem with homosexuals, and I’m flattered and all, but I don’t swing that way. Charly’s isn’t a gay bar, is it?”

 

I found it hilarious that he was more afraid I would take him out to molest him than if I were a werewolf.

 

“I can assure you that Bobby Brody is very much a heterosexual,” Kratos interjected before I could answer. “Charly’s is a place that caters to all tastes and inclinations.”

 

“Besides,” I couldn’t stop myself from adding, “I don’t like spleens. Something about the texture after digging it out of the abdominal cavity.”

 

Adam stared at me, his eyes growing wider before he blinked and started laughing. “Abdominal cavity? What kind of a werewolf would say that? You almost had me.”

 

“A well-educated one,” I pretended to be insulted until I couldn’t help it and laughed. “So, what do you think about fucking a werewolf or one of those magical creatures?”

 

I hoped my question didn’t come across too brusk.

 

He looked at me for a moment, mirth still dancing in his eyes, before answering. “I’m still not fucking you, dude. And a werewolf? Naw, too much hair. I might go for a cat-girl, but she’d have to shave all the essential parts. I’m not interested in hairballs. They also have to be human enough, you know?”

 

“So, it wouldn’t bother you that they’re not human?” I pressed, wanting to be sure.

 

“I’m not racist, man,” he was quick to assure me. “But I’m not attracted to animals or monsters. I’m not some furry lover. So if she’s cute, has a pussy and breasts—absolutely no dick!—then sure, I’m game!”

 

I chuckled, though inside, I cringed. Adam’s standards were pretty low. I wondered if Kratos was funneling this conversation back to the Knights? Willmont can’t complain about me using him now.

 

We talked a little more on the trip, which made me realize how much I didn’t like Adam. The worst part wasn’t that he was okay with those freaks, but his view on women made them seem like animals that only existed for men’s pleasure.

 

“I mean, that’s why all women are bisexual, even if they won’t admit it,” he told me at one point. “Every man wants to hook up with two women, and so women became bisexual to accommodate us.”

 

After he said that, I tuned him out. It was that, or violently push him out of the moving truck. Would Kratos have let me do that?

 

It took way too long to arrive at the brothel, and I hid my smirk when Adam looked relieved that we were going to a place like Charly’s.

 

“You never told me the secret of where all your money suddenly came from,” Adam said before getting out of the pickup. His eyes were locked on the holographic dancing women that made up Charly’s business sign. The women morphed from one standard of beauty to another, and a few of them weren’t human.

 

“Oh, that,” I said, recalling our earlier conversation. “My dad died the night we were at the tavern. He left me quite the legacy, but don’t tell anyone. I don’t want a bunch of people asking me for loans.”

 

“Oh, I totally understand,” Adam was quick to reassure me. “But, um, you’re still planning on covering tonight, right?”

 

I used every ounce of willpower not to sigh or face-palm.

 

“I already promised I would,” I told him, getting out of the truck. I grabbed the pill from my pocket and swallowed it. “Let’s go. We’re not getting any younger.”

 

“Yep!” Adam grinned at me. “Those pussies aren’t going to fill themselves. You got any more of those drugs?”

 

“Drugs?” I stared at him, confused. “Oh, that pill I just took. No, that was a vitamin I’m taking. I have to keep this body in shape, and they do drug tests before each competition.” Of course, it was only a partial lie, but it made me hope that whatever I just took wouldn’t pop on a urinalysis.

 

“Uh-huh, sure,” he said, making me think he didn’t believe me. Unfortunately, I’m not the best liar.

 

“You can search me if you like,” I told him as I started walking, “but I’d rather head inside and see what they’ve got.”

 

He might have said something, and I might have ignored it. Who knows? He was soon beside me, anyway, and we walked into a plush lobby. The entryway managed to skirt the line between ritzy and tacky. Large, colorful love seats lined the tan walls. The floor was solid marble, and I couldn’t find the seems. The room was large enough that I had a hard time believing the marble was all one piece. Tall white Grecco-roman pillars dotted the spacious room, supporting a ceiling three stories overhead. Soft music played from hidden speakers

 

“Um, dude, I thought you were taking me to a bar,” Adam said in a hushed whisper.

 

“Trust me,” I told him as I headed for a counter.

 

“Are you two together, or want separate experiences?” a beautiful Asian woman wearing a slim summer dress asked us.

 

“Separate,” I immediately told her. I felt nervous, now that I was actually here, but my stomach wasn’t upset. Hopefully, the pill was working already.

 

The woman looked over both of us before facing me with a dazzling smile. She had to have the whitest teeth I’d ever seen! “I assume you’ll be paying?” I nodded, and her grin grew wider as she spoke faster. “Excellent. Our services are a blanket fee. If you’ll please fill out this questionnaire, we’ll match you with the perfect partner. Let your imaginations run wild. Whatever you fill out will be completely confidential. Your privacy and our discretion are legendary. But I’m sure you already know that, or you wouldn’t be here. Please use one of the rooms each behind me for your privacy. When you’re done, slip the form through the designated slot in the room, and your host will be with you shortly.”

 

I took the clipboard, pencil, and form from her, glancing over it as I handed over the debit card.

 

“No, Sir,” she refused the card. “You’ll pay after the service. We want to make sure you’re satisfied and won’t accept payment until then. There is no time limit to fill out the form, though once your host arrives, you’ll have up to eight hours with them.”

 

I tucked my card away and started walking to one of the rooms. I was stopped when Adam grabbed my arm and turned me around.

 

“Dude, what the fuck!” Adam hissed at me. I thought I heard the Asian woman snicker, but I ignored her. “You brought me to a whore house? I can get pussy without paying for it, you know.”

 

“You’re not paying for it,” I told him with a shrug. “You don’t have to follow through. You can wait out here while I do this. Though, from what I’ve heard, you’ll never have another experience like this. But if you don’t want to, that’s less for me to pay. Hey, at least I tried to make up for your birthday, right?”

 

I watched with inner glee as he ground his teeth.

 

“Ugh, fine,” he groused, shaking his head. “Might as well, since I already came all this way and shaved my… Anyway, this better blow my mind!”

 

“Oh, it will!” the Asian woman called to us, and I saw Adam’s cheeks burn.

 

I let my grin show as Adam turned and rushed into the closest room. I struggled to understand how his mind worked. He wasn’t paying for anything and being treated with what should be a lot of fun for him. But he dared to get all stuffy, just because it was a brothel? Sure, I’d rather not pay for sex either, but I was here for more than just getting laid.

 

“How is business tonight?” a familiar voice asked behind me, and I froze. I didn’t want to believe my ears.

 

What is she doing here? My mind raced as I tried to imagine why I’d be running into this woman.

 

“It’s a slow Sunday night, but we have a couple of really good-looking men that just arrived,” the receptionist said. “Just waiting on that one to enter his room and fill out the paperwork.”

 

Heart hammering in my chest, I turned to look at the newcomer. I prayed that my ears were wrong. Was my stomach upset because of her or the pill?

 

Turning fully around, my fears were confirmed. I watched as shock was replaced with a massive grin on her pale face. She wasn’t in full goth getup this time, though her lipstick and eyeshadow were still dark. Instead of the leather from the tavern, she wore a slinky black dress that hugged her curves just right and ended just above the knees.

 

“Hey, Charlotte. Fancy meeting you here.”

 

 

 

*    *    *    *

 

1072 A.D.

 

“Your wife is here again,” Karcher chided Ardin after throwing his net into the waves.

 

Ardin glanced over his shoulder as he slowly pulled on his net. Her bright hair stood out on the shore. She was the only pregnant woman standing in the sand, which helped him pick her out. He sent another prayer of thanks to heaven for her pregnancy, even as he mentally berated her for coming out. She was supposed to be at home, preparing for their child.

 

He reached the end of his rope and noted a decent amount of wriggling within his net. Not a great haul, but enough to ensure they would have food for the night.

 

He stepped through the waves, bringing his haul in, aiming right for his wife. She stood at one of the tables, ready to clean fish.

 

He fixed his face into a scowl, even as his heart swelled with pride. Other women couldn’t stand to be around the smell of the fish when pregnant, but his wife insisted she could handle it. Pride at how strong his wife was, warred with annoyance because she wasn’t supposed to be out here this far into the pregnancy. The wise women said Venita still had a couple months, but she looked ready to pop already. Indeed, many of the other pregnant women in the village—the most women at once within memory—didn’t show as much as Venita. Ardin took that as a good sign that he would have a healthy son.

 

His scowl faded when he saw the worried look on her face.

 

“What’s wrong?” Ardin asked when within earshot, his heart dropping into his stomach. “Is the baby…” He couldn’t bring himself to finish that sentence.

 

Her hand dropped to her distended stomach as she offered a weak smile. “Our… children… are fine according to Old Maerta.”

 

“Children?” Ardin asked, wondering at the plural word. He didn’t notice the sound of his net hitting the sand, nor could he think beyond that single word. Children?!? It means more than one child. As in, not a single baby, but more than one. His mind ran in circles as he tried to comprehend what she meant. Venita was the only woman he’d ever been with, so he knew that she had to mean she carried more than one child within her. Children!

 

Venita nodded, though her smile faltered a little. “Maerta says that the last time a woman was so large this early, she carried twins.”

 

“That… That’s great!” Ardin ran to her and engulfed her in his arms. Inside he prayed thanks to the Almighty for this blessing. Only when he pulled back, he saw that she didn’t share in his joy. “What’s wrong, my heart? This news couldn’t be better!”

 

“I’m scared,” Venita confided, resting her head on his chest. “I’m not afraid of giving birth or caring for two children instead of one, but I’ve seen things. Things that scare me.”

 

“The Lord is giving you visions?” Ardin asked, stepping away from her. According to the priests, only men were worthy of being visited by God or his savior.

 

She didn’t release him, even as she shook her head. “No, I don’t think they are from Him. I think… I think something is hunting for me.”

 

He pulled her back into his embrace and noted how she shook. He wanted to discredit her fears, knowing that some women became hysterical nearing the end of their term. Venita wasn’t like that, though. If anything, her clarity grew as her stomach expanded.

 

“Why would they hunt you?” Ardin asked. “Do you think they’re from your old village?” He still didn’t know where that was or why they would be after her so many years later.

 

She didn’t hesitate. “Yes. And they’re not happy I’m pregnant.”

 

“What?” That didn’t make any sense. How would they even know she was with child? “Why?”

 

Vernita looked around before her eyes landed on the forgotten fish. “Hand those off, and we should talk. There is something I haven’t told you about my past.”

 

Ardin glanced to where fish were being gutted, then back to his wife. He could see the fear in the tightening of her eyes, in the way she gripped his arm, but more tellingly, in how she kept looking around for threats. Whoever had destroyed her previous village had her spooked.

 

He handed his net off to whoever was closest—he didn’t pay attention to who—and followed his wife to a secluded spot where others wouldn’t be able to hear them. Ardin marveled that even after the years since she joined their village and all the time she’d spent out in the sun, Venita’s skin was just as pale as he remembered it. Her light hair trailed down her back, shimmering in the hot sun as she led the way.

 

“You know I wasn’t raised as a Christian,” Venita started as she turned and searched his eyes. Once again, he saw the barely controlled terror behind them and wanted to pull her into a hug. Even with her distended belly, she was still the most alluring woman Ardin knew. When she continued to stare at him, worry lines increasing on her forehead, he realized she was waiting for a response. He nodded, trying to focus beyond her beauty as she continued. “The priests teach as though demons and other creatures are stories in the good book. They talk as though they were all defeated or there to teach us lessons.”

 

“They can’t hurt us as long as we have faith,” he told her with complete confidence.

 

Venita’s worry became tinged with pity at his words instead of relaxing. “I wish that were true. Unfortunately, they can and will hurt me if they find me. They will kill our children before they can be born. They’ll try to kill me. But, Ardin, I need you to listen to me. I… They lived in my village before it was destroyed. Not just demons, but there were other beings like dryads, fauns, maenads, succubae, and other magical creatures all lived peacefully with humans.”

 

“They can’t live peacefully with us,” Ardin argued and pressed on when Venita tried to speak. “They were put on Earth by the devil to tempt and test us. To lure us into temptation and corrupt our souls so that Satan wins.”

 

For some reason, she flinched at his tone, but she had to know she was wrong. Didn’t she? He wasn’t angry with her. She couldn’t help how she was raised, but she knew the truth of the gospel now. How could she still believe that any of those creatures could ever live peacefully with humans?

 

Venita’s jaw tightened before she spoke again. “The past doesn’t matter. What matters is that if they find me here and see that I’m pregnant, they will try to kill our babies and me.”

 

“The village will protect you,” Ardin reassured her. “And as long as we hold our faith strong in the Lord, our Savior, they can’t harm us.”

 

“Ardin, listen to me!” Her green eyes sparkled and drew him in. Suddenly, all he wanted to do was hang on to her every word. “Faith alone won’t stop them. They are too strong—too many. I’ve seen what they’re capable of, and if our friends try to stop them, they will die also. I don’t want that. I thought I would be hidden… safe here. I never wanted to cause any of this pain, but I have a plan.”

 

“A plan?” Ardin asked through the fog clouding his thoughts. All that mattered was that he listen to her.

 

“I’m… I’m sorry, my love. I didn’t mean to force you… But perhaps this is for the best.” Venita spoke in a rush while reaching up to cup his face in her hands. “There is something that will keep us safe from them. Something that will ensure that they won’t harm our children.”

 

“Safe…” Ardin struggled to form the word. But, of course, they were safe. They just had to have faith.

 

“Yes, faith,” Venita said as though reading his thoughts. “The Lord must have made this option available. He must have been the one to give us this opportunity for protection.”

 

Why did she have that tone? If he could string more than two thoughts together, he’d think she was sarcastic, but that couldn’t be right. She was baptized.

 

She touched the pendant he wore around his neck with a sad smile. “I never wanted to hurt you, Ardin. I didn’t think they could find me here. But, if you find the last of the Ambrosia in my old home of Hellas, and you can return before our children are born, they will be safe.”

 

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From the Author

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