This is a sequel to my story "The Storm." If you don't have a copy or would like to read it again, you can find it on the JADFE adult fan fiction site (http://lantabooks.com/JADFE/) or please let me know (Branwwolf@aol.com), and I will forward a copy your way. It is best if you read it first, but you don't have to! I apologize in advance for the following poem:Though this story is a Nick and Nat tale
there is a little bit of something for everyone in this e-mail:
For Perkulators and Vaqueros, Tracey is perky as is the norm
because Vachon is hot for her form
Friends of Don need not despair - I wear rose-colored glasses in my hair.
And all you Dark Knighties out there - well, just be prepared!
And did I mention the Cousins? Uncle's mischief abounds.
My apologies to the Light Cousins, you must wait until next time around.
And last but certainly not least, Nick and Nat Packers prepare,
for one heck of a water bill, cold shower lovers beware!I have to thank the two best cheerleaders a writer could have: LeAnn and Heather-Anne. Lea, you are one of my dearest friends, and I feel blessed to know you and work with you. Heather-Anne, what a wonderful addition you are to our little group. Under your guiding eye, I might one day figure out where to put all my commas! Thanks, ladies, for betaing my stuff and lending your support and ideas when mine ran dry.
All mistakes are mine, of course.Disclaimers:
I do not own them, blah, blah, blah you know the rest.ADULT MATERIAL:
I would like to take this moment to warn those of you with a more
sensitive nature that you may not wish to read this. This is an adult story about Nick and Natalie. Nick and Nat as portrayed in "Living Fantasy" are sexually healthy people who are not afraid of expressing their desires to each other. So, shoo if you don't like them taking their clothes off and having fun.- Permission to archive at Mel's FK fan fiction, JADFE and Mortal Love
sites.
All others must bribe first!
- Dedicated to: Lea and Heather-Anne for their love and support!!!
- Major spoilers for Human Factor.
- If you don't see "to be continued," you don't have it all!Living Fantasy (01/18)
Tyra
1998Nick awoke with Natalie asleep on his chest. He smiled as he cuddled Natalie closer to him. She stirred in his arms, opening her eyes to look at him. Natalie smiled and wrapped her arms around Nick's neck, pulling his lips to hers.
"I think I could get used to waking up like this," Nick whispered into Natalie's ear as he nuzzled her neck. Natalie slipped off Nick's chest and laid beside him.
"We certainly waited long enough." Natalie moaned as Nick's kisses trailed down her neck. "Mmmm, Nick, I think I need to get something to eat before we " Natalie stopped talking as Nick captured one of her nipples in his mouth. He sucked gently until it hardened under his tongue. Then he let his fangs slightly brush the tip. Natalie withered beneath him.
Nick gently pushed Natalie on her back. His hand trailed down
Natalie's body until it found her freshly moist curls. His fingers parted her labia, finding her engorged nub. He stroked it until he felt her fingernails piercing his shoulders, as her breathing became more labored. Nick smiled wickedly. Two of his fingers slipped inside of her, his thumb still applying gentle pressure to her clit. Nick's fingers stroked in and out of Natalie, slowly increasing their rhythm. "Nick! Please!" Nick slipped a third finger inside of Natalie. He started to suck on her nipples, alternating between
the two. Nick looked into Natalie's eyes as she screamed his name, her secretions covering his fingers. He stroked her gently until her breathing slowed to normal, and she opened her eyes again.
Natalie smiled as she saw Nick starting to lick her wetness from his fingers. It was a side of him she had never seen, and it aroused her. She took his fingers, brought them to her lips, and gently sucked each of them in succession. Nick's eyes grew wide. The Natalie that lay beside him, the one he saw in her blood, was not like any Natalie he had ever dreamed.
"We do need to get you something to eat."
"What about you? We need to take care of you, too." Natalie's hand had trailed down Nick's body, finding his hardened shaft.
"I can wait. You can make it up to me later." Nick kissed Natalie and removed her hand from his hardness. "Let's get you into a shower and dressed. I feel the need to show my lady to the world."
"Your lady?" Natalie smiled at his words and kissed Nick again. "I need to stop by my apartment and feed Sydney. I know he is wondering what happened to me. What about my car? We just left it on the side of the road! And I'm supposed to be at work in an hour!"
Nick smiled and helped Natalie to her feet. Reality was crashing in on their fantasy, and he did not like it. "I'll call for a tow truck for the car and then to the morgue to let them know you won't be in tonight. I need to call the station and let them know I'm going to be out, too."
Natalie stopped halfway to the bathroom and looked at Nick. "We're not going in to work?"
"I thought we might find something better to do." Nick let his eyes turn golden as he looked lustfully at Natalie's naked body.
"You are a bad boy, Nicholas Knight, and you've been hiding it from me!"
"Never again!" Nick swooped Natalie into his arms and carried her upstairs.Nick sauntered down the stairs, whistling to himself. He went to the kitchen and poured himself a glass of cow's blood. Natalie was upstairs in the shower, and he needed to make the necessary calls. He sat on the sofa and picked up the phone, but stopped when he heard the lift engage. Schanke stepped out of the lift and looked at Nick clothed, only in his pajama bottoms. "Have you seen Natalie? Her car was towed in late last night with the door torn off its hinges. We haven't been able to find her anywhere."
Natalie chose that moment to start down the stairs while towel-drying her hair, wearing Nick's robe. "Hi, Schanke." Natalie continued downstairs and kissed Nick on the lips before going to the kitchen to search for food.
Schanke just stood there, staring first at Natalie then at Nick. "I think I missed something here. Like when you two went from being 'just friends' to walking around almost naked in front of each other." He turned to Nick and said, "Partner, is there something you would like to tell me?"
"Yes, Nick, what do you want to tell him?" Natalie's eyes filled with mischief.
"Natalie and I aren't just friends."
"And?" Schanke waited impatiently for Nick to continue.
"And what? We're together."
"So, how long have you been together, and when did you start sleeping with our coroner?"
"Schanke!" Nick was enraged. He turned his back to Schanke and joined Natalie in the kitchen.
"We've been together, well, I guess about 18 hours. Made love for the first time last night, and the second time, too." Natalie smiled at Nick, his eyes turning golden.
"So, Nick," Schanke tapped Nick's shoulder, "what are your intentions towards our coroner?"
Nick took a deep breath, trying to gain control. "My intentions?" He turned to face Schanke.
For the first time in a long time, Schanke realized why Nick was
referred to as the Knightmare by most of the department. Nevertheless, Schanke stood his ground. "Yes, Nick, what are your intentions?"
"Cut the man some slack, Schank. He's still getting adjusted to the idea of me wearing his robe!"
"I am not! I love you in my robe. It looks better on you." Nick caught Natalie in his arms and kissed her deeply.
Schanke let out a whistle.
Nick released Natalie. He looked into her eyes but spoke to Schanke. "I'll take good care of her, Schank. Don't worry. She is the most important thing in my life. She always has been. I've just been too scared to tell her."
Natalie smiled up at Nick, blushing at his words. Nick pulled her into his arms again, hugging her to his chest. He turned to Schanke and said, "Will you tell everyone that Nat is ok and that we won't be into work today?"
"I guess that's my cue to leave you two alone again. Well, don't let me stop you from getting as much bed rest as possible." Natalie smiled wickedly at Nick.
Schanke smiled at Nick and Natalie when he entered the lift. He knew the precinct and morgue night shifts were going to be celebrating tonight. He smiled when he thought of their young trainee's reaction. Yes, Tracey would love this.Nick dropped Natalie at her apartment so she could pack some stuff to bring to his loft. The words had never been spoken between them, but they had both silently agreed that Natalie would stay with Nick. Nick had suggested she pack a few things to bring to his place. In the end, they smiled at each other, both knowing what the other was thinking.
Nick drove to the Jaguar car dealership. He had managed to call them while Natalie was dressing, and they had the car waiting for him when he arrived. It was a light blue, four-door convertible. He didn't know if Natalie would want a convertible, but he liked them. He hoped she wouldn't mind. Nick paid for the car and arranged for it to be delivered tomorrow night to the loft.When Natalie and Nick went to leave for work the next day, he covered Nat's eyes with his hands as he opened the garage doors.
"Nick! What are you up to?"
"I have a surprise for you." He guided Natalie toward where her new car was parked. He removed his hands from Natalie's eyes.
"NICK!!!" Natalie couldn't believe her eyes. It was the car she
always dreamed about owning. The car she knew she would never buy for herself, because it was just too decadent. "Nick, I can't believe you did this." She ran her hands down the hood of the car, stroking it lovingly. "It's the color of your eyes."
"That is what you wanted, isn't it?"
"Yes. And it's a convertible!"
"I couldn't resist."
"Nick." She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him
repeatedly. "Thank you, thank you, thank you!" She smiled at Nick, her eyes glowing with joy. Abruptly, Nat's smile faded. "How are we going to explain being able to afford this?"
"Don't worry. I've arranged for it to look like an investment I made took off and made us a large sum of money. The paperwork is already in place." He handed Natalie the keys and she squealed again, kissing him quickly before she hopped behind the wheel. "I'll see you for dinner later?"
"Yes. Meet me at the precinct?"
"Ok, and Nick, we don't know if Janette's cure is working or what its effects will be on you, so be careful with bullets and other deadly objects."
Nick leaned into the Jag and kissed Natalie goodbye. "I'll be careful. Promise." He closed the door and watched Natalie drive away.Natalie pulled into the parking lot of the morgue. She loved the way her new car drove, like a dream. The slope of the Jag's hood gave her ideas about enjoying Nick's hunger for her. She was amazed that they had held their passions for each other at bay for so long.
She sat in her car, tears falling from her eyes. She felt so lucky to be loved by Nick. To have the man who was her soul-mate and her best friend as her lover, too. They had made love again and again in their two days of togetherness. Her body was sore from the workout it had received. When she walked, the slight pain that she felt between her thighs reminded her of Nick's desperate thrusts. He wanted to be one with her so badly that he thrust hard inside of her, trying to unite them more than they already were. Now, for the first time in her life, she understood that the childhood dream of finding Prince Charming was true. He wasn't in the package she expected,
but he was the one she had waited for patiently. Now that they had started to express their emotions, she couldn't get enough of Nick. She wanted to touch him, join with him, and become a part of him over and over again, until they were lost in the oblivion of their love.
She was no longer simply Natalie Lambert; she was a part of Nick, and he a part of her. Two parts that could not be separated. She dried her eyes and prepared herself for the onslaught of questions Grace and the staff would have for her.To be continued
(02/18)
Nick whistled on his way to work. The joy that filled his very being was overwhelming. For 800 years he had searched. Finally, he had found her. In her curls, sweet sighs, and soft moans, she had given him back his humanity. Every time they made love he only wanted to touch her more. Her presence in the room drove him mad. He wanted to touch her and love her. The short time they would be apart while at work tore his heart to pieces. He was thankful for the vampire, because it allowed them to join in a way no mortal couple could. They shared everything they were, are and desired to be with each other. Their love wasn't just expressed, it was felt in each other's soul.
He would be forever grateful for his damnation, because it allowed him to live long enough to be with Natalie and, also, to share everything with her. Her love was unconditional. His blood knew it, and so did his soul.Natalie walked into the morgue. Grace ran up to her, wrapping her arms around her friend. "Natalie! Is it true? You and the blond wonder detective are finally together?" The smile on Grace's face was priceless to Natalie. Her friend was truly pleased for her.
"Yes, Grace, it is true. Nick and I finally decided to move beyond being friends."
"Well, from the word going around the departments, you moved way, way beyond friends!"
Grace and Natalie entered Natalie's office, and Grace leaned toward Natalie conspiratorially and whispered, "So, how was he?"
"Grace!" Natalie blushed. Her legs protested as she sat down, causing Natalie to grimace slightly.
"He must have been good to put you in this shape! I always thought you two needed to relieve each other's tension. And I swear you are glowing, girl! Just radiant. I've never seen you look so beautiful! Want to go to dinner and tell me all about it?"
"I'd love to, Grace, but Nick's already got dibs on me."
"Why am I not surprised?" Grace patted Natalie on the shoulder and left her friend to the pile of work in front of her.When Nick pushed the door open to the precinct, a loud round of
applause and wolf whistles greeted him. He now had no doubts that Schanke had told everyone what he had seen when he stopped by the loft the night before.
"Way to go, Nick!"
"About damn time, Detective!"
The commotion continued as Nick made his way to his desk, shaking hands and being slapped on the back repeatedly. The last to shake his hand was Schanke.
"Did you have to tell everyone?" Nick growled underneath his breath.
"Yes, I did. We've all known you two loved each other. And we've put up with you being an absolute brick about your feelings toward Nat. Not to mention your grouchiness for not getting enough. We deserve this moment. We have suffered along with you. And we are going to savor every minute."
Nick just shook his head. Work would be a living hell for a long time. He opened the folder on his desk, attempting to focus on work, but there staring up at him was a small aluminum package with a note attached. "Don't get her pregnant, yet! Love, Tracey." He picked up the condom and tried to sneak it into his desk drawer, but when he opened it, it was filled with package after package of condoms. There was another note lying on top. "There are multiple sizes. We can all only hope for the sake of Natalie's pleasure that you need Magnums. Also included are pink, purple and glow-in-the-dark condoms for when you want to get kinky! Give Natalie your best. Love, Tracey." Nick slammed the drawer shut and laid his head on his desk. It was going to be a very long night.When Natalie walked into the precinct, heads started to turn. She could hear the whistles, and the whispers. Everyone at the morgue had pointed out to her again and again how much she glowed. They also speculated as to why she was glowing. She was afraid Nick now had quite a reputation as a lover.
Natalie blushed at the attention. One rookie cop was so engrossed in her beauty that he walked right into a desk, possibly hurting his chances of ever siring children.
"Natalie, you look, well, stunning." Schanke kissed Natalie on the cheek.
Natalie turned a darker shade of pink. "Thanks, Schank."
"Wow, Natalie, what did you do? You look great!"
"Yeah, Nat." The men in the precinct were circling Nat, some even propping themselves on Schanke and Nick's desks to flirt with her. "Are you sure Nick here is man enough for you?"
"Yeah, what about the rest of us?" The newest detective to the
division, Henry, put his arm around Natalie's waist, letting his hand fall on her rear.
Nick rose from his chair and removed Henry's arm from around Natalie. "The rest of you will just have to find someone else." The crowd cleared. They all knew Nick's wrath well enough not to push him too far.
Nick put his arm protectively around Natalie. He kissed her on the temple and whispered in her ear, "Shall we get you away from the wolves and go to dinner?"
"Yes! Chinese?"
"Whatever you desire."
They walked out of the precinct arm in arm, with smiles on both of their faces.Nick parked the Caddie at the far end of the parking lot. He liked walking with Natalie on his arm, feeling her warmth pressed against his cool body. Nick held the door to the restaurant open for her. She patted his butt on her way inside. Nick gasped in surprise and followed Natalie through the door. Nick stood behind Nat, letting her feel how she was affecting him. Nat leaned back into Nick while they waited for Mr. Woo, the restaurant owner, to seat them.
"Nick! Nat! Is that you?" Tracey's bright face was in front of them in no time, followed shortly by Vachon's more somber one. Tracey hugged Nat. "I'm just so happy for you both. Did Nick tell you about the presents I left for the two of you in his desk? Put them to good use. Who knows? Before long I might have use for one." Tracey looked at Vachon and smiled.
Nick had to control himself. The urge to take Vachon by the collar and fly him to another planet was growing. The younger vampire purposefully avoided Nick's gaze.
"On second thought, Nick, just surprise her with the glow-in-the-dark ones!"
"What? Nick, what is she talking about?"
"I'll tell you later," Nick whispered in her ear.
"Well, enjoy your dinner. We're off to the movies now."
Tracey and Vachon disappeared as quickly as they had appeared.Mr. Woo sat Nick and Natalie at a back corner table. They were both glad it was secluded so they could talk.
"I think I need to have a talk with Vachon. He's getting too close to Tracey. She doesn't know what she is getting herself into."
"Nick, she knows he's a vampire."
"I know, but she doesn't understand what we are the way you do. She's naive about so many things. I just " Nick's eyes tinged gold as he suddenly felt Nat's shoeless foot stroking his right calf.
"You were saying?" Natalie looked innocently at Nick. Her foot
trailed up Nick's leg until it reached his lap. She started stroking him slowly.
Nick couldn't believe Nat's brazen behavior. It was so unlike her. She had never acted this way before with him. Then again, they hadn't been lovers until yesterday. He closed his eyes, trying to gain control of the beast long enough for Natalie to eat dinner. "Natalie," Nick softly whispered, "what are you doing?"
"I'm getting you hard, at least I think I am. That isn't your gun, is it?"
"No, that's definitely not my gun."
Mr. Woo picked that moment to come to the table to take their order. "And what will you two 'friends' have tonight?" From the way Mr. Woo smiled, they knew that Tracey had shared their news with Nat's favorite restauranteur.
"I take it Tracey told you our little secret?"
"With Miss Vetter knowing, I doubt it will be a secret much longer."
Nick groaned. "You are right, Mr. Woo. I won't be surprised if we are the lead story on the six o'clock news tonight."Nat placed her order and was surprised when Nick ordered a bowl of soup for himself. Nat's foot stayed in Nick's lap, teasing him the entire dinner. They talked about how their co-workers had reacted to them being together. They both believed the worst teasing was behind them.
Natalie eased her foot down Nick's leg and slipped her shoe back on her foot. "I'll be right back. I have to go to the ladies' room. Try not to get into trouble while I'm gone." Natalie kissed Nick on top of the head.
Nick tried another spoonful of soup while Nat was gone. It still
turned his stomach, but it tasted better than it had in the past. Who knows, he thought, maybe Janette's cure was working.Natalie walked through the bar on the way to the ladies' room. A man leered at her, but she marched straight to her destination. She knew better than to pay men like that attention.
Nick saw the way the man at the bar looked at Natalie. He didn't like it, but he knew Natalie could handle herself. He didn't like the way his fellow police officers had looked at her tonight, either. He could see how she glowed, a radiant light surrounding her. He was pleased to know it was because of him, but he still wasn't happy with how it turned other men's heads.
Mr. Woo approached the table with their bill. "She looks very happy."
"Yes. She does, doesn't she?"
"I think it is because of you. Her eyes have always sparkled when she looks at you. So have yours, detective." Mr. Woo left the bill on the table and went to seat some other late night customers.
Nick took out his wallet and paid the bill.On Natalie's way back to the table, the man stepped in front of her. "Hello, honey. What is a fox like you doing out so late? Can't find a man to take you home and love you?'
"Excuse me, you are in my way." Natalie tried to push the man aside, but he wouldn't budge.
"I bet you like me being in your way. I bet you are just looking for a man to complete you. To plant his seed in your womb and give you a baby."
Natalie was infuriated. "Pardon me!" Natalie tried to go around the man, but he grabbed her arm.
"Come on, sweetcakes, admit it. You need a man."
That did it. Natalie stomped hard on the man's toe while twisting her arm free. "I would suggest that you stay away from me, or my boyfriend will pulverize you. That is assuming that I don't do it first!" Natalie turned and walked toward the table. She walked right into Nick's chest.Nick had seen Natalie exit the ladies' room. He started to get up when the man stepped in front of Nat, but he thought it best to let her handle it. He knew how independent Natalie was, and he did not want to take that from her. He listened to the exchange, his anger growing. When the man grabbed Natalie, Nick rose from the table and walked toward the bar. He laughed to himself when Natalie stomped on the man's foot.
Nick kissed Nat on the head when she ran into him, but he then
continued toward the man. "I believe you were bothering the lady. I would suggest that you don't do that again, ever." Nick looked at the man, his eyes intent upon their quest to capture the man's small mind and bend it to his will. Nick grabbed the man by his lapels, lifted him off the floor and slammed him up against the wall.
"You will never speak to a woman like that again." Nick held the man's gaze.
"I will never speak to a woman like that again."
"You will treat women with respect."
"I will treat women with respect." Nick sat the man back on the ground and turned to gather Natalie in his arms. He escorted her quickly out the door.To be continued
(03/18)
When they were safely at the car, Nick turned to Nat, his anger finally under control. "Are you ok? Did he hurt you?"
"No, I'm fine, Nick." Nick looked closely at Natalie's arm. He kissed her palm when he was satisfied that the man had not physically hurt her.
"I tried not to interfere, Nat, but I couldn't just stand by and let him talk to you that way."
"Nick, it's ok. I'm just glad you made it so he won't talk that way to anyone else." Natalie smiled up at Nick, her hand caressing his face. "There are certain advantages to your condition." Natalie let her other hand lightly run down the front of Nick's pants.
Nick closed his eyes, enjoying Natalie's touches. "You have been
driving me crazy all night. Do you have any idea what torture you put me through with your foot?"
"Yes, I do. I have been thinking about you all night. I haven't been able to catch up on any of my work."
"What about me? I have a drawer full of condoms to remind me of you back at the office."
"Condoms? You can't give me any diseases, and for now I don't think getting pregnant is very likely."
Nick pulled Natalie to him. His hands cupped her breast on the
outside of her suit.
Natalie covered Nick's mouth with her own as he leaned her back on the hood of the Caddie.
He led her hand back to his groin, placing it on his hardened member. "Natalie, I want you." Nick kissed Natalie passionately, his hands traveling down the front of her skirt until they found its hem. His hands then slowly inched their way underneath her skirt and up her naked thighs.
Natalie's hand stroked Nick through the confines of his pants. She moaned as his cool fingers encountered her skin. "Nick Nick We're in a public place. Shouldn't we "
Nick silenced her protest when one of his hands rubbed her moist
panties into her slit. "It's ok, Nat. We're in the far corner, and no one can see us. I'll know long before anyone gets here."
Natalie closed her eyes, lost in the sensation of Nick's cool hand pressing against her. She opened her eyes when she felt Nick easing her panties down her rear. "Nick, stop! We can stop by my apartment on the way back to work." She put her hands on Nick's, making her skirt bunch at her waist.
"I don't want to wait, Nat. I want you, now. Here." Nick kissed Natalie passionately. He started to pull her underwear down again. This time, Natalie helped him. She stepped out of her panties, and Nick's fingers quickly went back to work.
Natalie unzipped Nick's pants, tenderly pulling him free of his
constraints. She stroked him as she deepened her kisses, caressing his fangs.
"Natalie, I need "
Natalie wrapped her legs around Nick's hips and inserted his engorged head into her tightness. She was sore from their lovemaking earlier, but it was a delicious sensation that filled her body as Nick moved inside of her.
Nick hadn't wanted to rush things. He wanted Natalie to enjoy their lovemaking. From the way she was moving beneath him on the Caddie's hood, she was enjoying herself.
Nick held himself above Natalie with one hand and caressed her breast through her shirt with the other. Her nipples quickly hardened under his touch.
He saw Natalie's hand moving down her body until it found her clit. He raised himself further so he could see Natalie touching herself. He looked at her making slow circles on her nub.
Natalie stopped, suddenly becoming self-conscious.
"Nat," Nick looked up at Natalie, "don't stop." He covered her fingers with his and started moving them, copying Natalie's movements.
Natalie gave in totally to her desires, to her lust. With her other hand, Natalie pulled her jacket apart and unbuttoned her blouse. She reached inside and stroked her nipple through her bra, gently pinching it between her fingers. Nick growled. The site of Natalie touching herself, bringing herself closer to orgasm, aroused him even more.
Natalie could see and feel the effect she was having on Nick. "Nick?" Natalie moaned.
"Natalie. You're incredible." His eyes trailed down her body,
entranced by Natalie's movements.
"I touched myself like this while I thought about you making love to me."
"And?" Nick was losing himself in the feel of Natalie's body, the sight of her touching herself, and the sound of her voice.
"I would imagine that my hands were your hands. That it was you
stroking me, making my wet."
Nick tried desperately to wait before he took Natalie's blood.
Natalie's fingers stopped playing with her clit. She held them to Nick's lips for him to lick. Nick took them in his mouth, his tongue caressing each one, deeply breathing in her scent. When he was finished, Natalie pulled his lips to hers.
Nick increased his thrusts. He nuzzled Natalie's neck, finding the sweet vein that offered him the possibility of salvation. His fangs slipped inside her as they both crashed headlong into their orgasm.
Nick opened himself to Natalie again, showing her how much he loved her. In return, Natalie showed Nick her darkest fantasies, including the times she had touched herself while thinking of him. She was surprised when she saw images of Nick doing the same. Their bond swirled through them, their blood humming with each other's love. Their thoughts became one just before Nick's fangs left their contact with Natalie's blood.
Nick cradled Natalie in his arms. "I love you," he whispered into Natalie's ear as he gently nibbled its lobe.
"I love you, too." Natalie stroked Nick's hair and gently kissed his neck.
Nick pushed himself off Natalie. He buttoned her shirt back up, while Natalie gently placed his manhood back into his boxers and zipped his pants. Nick bent down, looking for Nat's panties as she straightened her skirt. He saw them underneath the Caddie. "Natalie, I may need to buy you some more lingerie."
"Why?"
"Well, let's just say that I hope you don't mind walking around how they did in my time."
"Nick, don't tell me. You can't find my underwear?"
"I can find it, Natalie. It's right here under the Caddie."
Natalie shook her head. "We can stop by my apartment on the way back. I can't go around like this!"
"Why not? I kind of like it."
"Nick!" She kissed him again, then walked around to her side of the Caddie.
"Nat, we just made-love on the hood of my Caddie in a parking lot. I would think walking around without underwear would pale in comparison to that."
"Nick, my apartment, now!" Natalie climbed inside the Caddie.
Nick opened his door and smiled, hopeful he could convince Natalie that she didn't need any more clothes.He watched Nicholas and Natalie drive away. Their little tryst on his son's Caddie had interested him. It seemed his son had much more control than he had believed. He walked toward the space the Caddie had occupied. He picked up the panties that they had left. He quickly put them in his pocket when he heard the heartbeat approaching him.
LaCroix turned around and faced the man that walked toward him. He had heard the comments the man had said to his son's lover and he did NOT approve. If Nicholas was going to choose to be with this woman, sooner or later she was going to be a part of his family. LaCroix would stand for no one insulting a member of his family.
LaCroix stared at the man, a smile crossing his lips. It had been much too long since he had fed properly. Unlike Nicholas, he had no need to control himself.To be continued
(04/18)
Nick lost his battle with Natalie. Clad in clean underwear, she went back to work at the morgue. When Nick walked into the precinct, he saw a group of people quickly leaving his desk. He could hear them whispering about him needing a helping hand. Another stray whisper found Nick's ear. "Well, he hasn't done it in a while. Maybe he might need instructions!" Instructions! Nick thought. I'm 800 years old. I don't need instructions. I could teach them a thing or two!
Nick sighed at the stack of catalogs on his desk. He looked around, but Schanke was nowhere to be found. He listened intently, and he could hear his partner's familiar heartbeat. He was hiding in the men's room. He sat in his chair and flipped through the catalogs. His eyes grew wide at some of their choices.
The Victoria's Secret catalog held his interest for several minutes. Several of the items he could easily picture Nat wearing. The next one was a Frederick's of Hollywood catalog. Flipping through it, he noted several things he would love to see Nat wearing, but none that he thought she would actually consent to being on her body. He particularly thought she would look smashing in the leather bodice on page 12.
Next was a catalog from Adam and Eve. He had never heard of the
company, but thought it had an intriguing name. He opened the catalog and his eyes quickly grew wider. It was a catalog of sexual toys and aids. He noticed that several corners were turned down. Next to certain pictures his fellow officers had written comments about him and Nat trying this or that. There were some things whose use Nick wasn't entirely sure of. He was rotating the catalog, trying to understand one such item, when Schanke walked up behind him.
"What's got your attention, Nick? Thinking of getting something for Nat?"
Nick quickly closed the catalog and shoved it in his desk drawer with the multitude of condoms Tracey had left him. "I take it you had something to do with this?" Nick pointed to the catalogs.
"Me? I'm hurt, Nick. I would never tease you about your private life. No, not me. So, what have you got there?" Schanke started looking to see which catalogs had been left on Nick's desk. "Frederick's! I always get Myra something out of there every Christmas. I bet Nat would like some of their stuff."
"I was thinking of ordering her something out of the Victoria's
catalog."
"Ok, partner. Whatever you say. I still like the leather collection in Frederick's."
Nick couldn't believe his ears. "Schank, did you actually buy Myra something from it?"
"Yeah, last Christmas. She hasn't worn them yet. She said she was waiting for the right moment." Schanke sat at his desk. "I'm starting to think she doesn't like thigh-high boots. But hey, winter is coming!" Schanke rubbed his hands together, his eyes lighting up at the thought of his wife in all that leather.
"All the same, Schank, I think I'll stick with Victoria's Secret."
"Somehow it figures you two would be so so normal. You don't know what you're missing. A little something different or exciting--well, Nick, it can put the bounce back in your stride. Trust me. You and Nat have got to learn to let the animal in you out to play."
Nick smiled, thinking about earlier. "We will, Schank. I promise." Nick picked up the phone and dialed the number for Victoria's Secret. He started to wonder if they had next-day delivery.Natalie walked into the morgue and immediately noticed the big box topped with a red bow that sat on her desk. She wondered if it was from Nick. Natalie grabbed the card and read its message. "To Natalie and her loverboy, for dining in, or eating out. With love, the staff."
By the time Natalie finished reading the card, she was surrounded by her co-workers. Grace pointed to the package. "Go on. Open it, girl. I promise you'll enjoy the contents!"
Natalie tentatively took the box top off the package. She parted the tissue paper and looked inside. There were lots of bottles in various shapes and sizes, and a smaller box. Natalie picked up a bottle whose contents were bright red. The label read "strawberry motion lotion."
"Motion lotion? What's that?"
Grace took the bottle from Natalie and opened it. She squeezed a
little on Nat's hand and spread it around. "Smell it."
Natalie breathed in and smiled. "Ooo, that's nice. It actually smells like strawberries."
"It gets better. Blow on it."
Everyone had gathered closer watching the exchange between Grace and Nat.
"It's getting hot! How does it do that?" Natalie picked up the bottle and started reading the ingredients. Grace grabbed it from her hands.
"Honey, it doesn't matter what it is made of. It only matters that Nick will like it when you use it. Here, lick your hand."
Natalie stared at Grace, a confused look on her face. "Lick my hand?" Grace shoved Nat's hand up to her mouth, and Natalie tasted the lotion that was on it. A smile spread across her face. "This might have potential."
"I'm sure Nick will feel the same way. We got you raspberry-flavored too. We didn't know what Nick liked."
Natalie was alternately blowing and licking her hand. She wondered if a certain part of Nick's anatomy could tolerate how she wanted to make use of it.
"Natalie, there is more!" Grace reached in the box and pulled out a glass bottle filled with light brown liquid.
Natalie was starting to get excited by her presents. She grabbed the bottle from Grace and asked, "What's this? Chocolate-flavored massage oil? Yummy." Nat opened the bottle and put a few drops on her other hand. It was slippery and smelled like chocolate.
"That one doesn't get hot, but it does taste like chocolate."
"Yummy. What else is in this wonderful box?"
The staff couldn't believe how excited Natalie was. They thought she would be embarrassed and want to kill them. Instead, she was excited and visibly flushed. They could only imagine how she was going to use their gifts.
Natalie pulled out several bottles whose contents were blue, red,
yellow, white and black. "This looks like paint."
"It is. Body paint. You can lick it off. Nick paints, doesn't he? He can just use you as his next canvas."
Natalie blushed at the thought of Nick using her as a canvas. Quickly, she changed the subject. "What's in the small box?" Natalie pulled out the small box and opened it. Her eyes grew wide, and she blushed a deeper shade of red. It was a black leather bodice and matching thong.
"We thought with how much Nick seems to like wearing leather, he would like to see you in some."
Natalie held up the thong and said, "This doesn't look comfortable!"
"Natalie, you don't wear them for comfort!"
"And what is this? A sling shot?" Nat examined the bodice.
"Girl, we've got to get you out of here more often!"
"It looks like something you use for target practice."
"In a way." Grace leered at Nat. She turned Nat around and held the bodice in place over Nat's clothes. "You wear it like this. It pushes everything up and out. Nick will love it. My boyfriend loves mine."
"Grace?"
"Well, it's a larger version and it goes down further in front, but trust
me, he's a very happy man."
Natalie looked around at the smiling faces that surrounded her.
"Thanks, guys. I promise Nick and I will put everything to good use."
"We want reports!"
"No, we want play-by-plays!"
"Pictures, if at all possible!"
Natalie tried to hide her embarrassment by focusing on putting the gifts back into the box. Everyone but Grace filed out of her office.
"Natalie, I hope you and Nick will be happy together, all kidding
aside."
"We are, Grace. We are. Nick is wonderful."
"I only hope he knows how lucky he is."
"We both are, Grace." Natalie hugged her friend. They both had tears in their eyes. "I guess I better get back to work. I have a reason to get home early now!"Natalie took the long way to the loft that night. She enjoyed driving her new car. It was decadent, not at all practical. She knew it would probably be in the shop a fair amount of the time, but she didn't care. She loved the way it handled and the wind blowing through her hair. She couldn't believe Nick had seen her daydreams about owning one in her blood, but she was happy he did. She parked her car, grabbed her big box of stuff, and headed inside.
To be continued
(05/18)
Nick had debated about bringing the catalogs home. His hands were full of them when he saw Natalie approaching with a big box. "What is in the box?"
"A gift from the morgue staff. It's for both of us."
Nick took the box from Natalie, inadvertently handing her the catalogs. "What did they give us?" They entered the lift together.
"Motion lotion, chocolate-flavored massage oil, body paints, and a leather bodice and thong set."
"Motion lotion? What's that?"
"You'll have to wait to find out."
"Body paints--that sounds interesting."
"They bought them for you to paint me with."
"I like the sound of that!" Nick smiled at Natalie. "Now, about that leather bodice and thong."
"It looks painful, Nick."
"You never know until you try."
"Nick!" Natalie slapped Nick with the catalogs. They exited the lift and dropped their stuff on the table. "Nick, where did you get these catalogs?" Natalie flipped through them, her eyes growing wider with each title.
"Someone left them on my desk for me. I think they are trying to
educate us."
"Adam and Eve? Oh, my. What do you do with this?"
"I was hoping you could tell me."
Natalie shook her head and picked up the Victoria's Secret catalog. "Oooo. I like the stuff in this one."
"That's good. I placed an order this afternoon. I got a Victoria's Secret credit card for both of us. That way you can order what you want."
"You placed an order?"
"Yes, it should be here tomorrow."
"Well, what did you get me?"
"You'll just have to wait and see!" Nick pulled Natalie into his arms and kissed her. "Hungry?"
"A little. I thought I would fix some popcorn."
"Do you want to watch a video?"
"No. Let's just curl up and talk. We have so much to discuss, Nick. Everything has changed."
"It certainly has." Nick held Natalie close. "I'm going to go change clothes." Nick kissed Natalie again and let her go. He went to the kitchen and got a glass of cow's blood, then headed upstairs.When he heard Natalie's popcorn popping, he reached into her overnight bag. He needed to get her bra size for the order he placed. He pulled out the handful of bras she had brought to the loft. He looked at their sizes and scratched his head. They were all three slightly different. He wondered if he should take the average of the three. Then he wondered how you take the average of a bra size. Nick just decided he would let Samantha, his personal sales consultant, make a decision. Nick walked across the room and dialed the number for catalog orders, and then Samantha's extension.
Natalie finished making her popcorn and headed upstairs to change
clothes. Nick heard her footsteps on the stairs and quickly told Samantha to send whatever size she thought was best. He hung up and dashed into the bathroom to change. He noticed that he wasn't able to move as fast as he usually did. He still could move faster than the human eye.
"Nick, did I hear you talking?"
"Just talking to myself." Nick walked out of the bathroom attired in his pajamas and robe. "I'm going to go make us a fire and a nice place to lay down."
"That would be nice. I thought I would change, too. Do you have
another set of pajamas? I like how they feel on my skin."
Nick went to his dresser and pulled out a pair of his silk pajamas for Nat. "I'll meet you downstairs." Nick kissed Natalie and went downstairs to get their cuddling spot ready.Natalie and Nick curled up together in front of the fire. Nick propped himself up against the sofa, and Natalie reclined onto his chest.
"I can't believe we are able to make love to each other."
"Me neither, Nat. I can't believe I was so reluctant to try Janette's cure. I was so afraid that I would hurt you, Natalie. I had no idea how much I was hurting you by trying to keep my true feelings from you."
"I know you were trying to protect me. I'm just glad that we're
together. I need to run some tests on you. See if things are changing. I probably should have done them before now."
"It's ok, Nat. I wasn't looking forward to you taking the skin and blood samples. We can do it tomorrow."
"Have you felt any changes?"
"I think so, but I can't tell for sure. Mortality matters to me,
Natalie, don't get me wrong, but you matter much more. Just being able to make love to you is a triumph."
Natalie kissed Nick and stroked his face. "You are very special,
Nicholas Knight, and I love you."
Nick pulled Natalie closer to him. His hand stroked her hair. He loved feeling her soft curls in between his fingers. "I love you too, Natalie."
They sat in silence, enjoying each other's closeness and the fire. "Nick, what is it? Something is bothering you."
"I'm worried about Vachon and Tracey."
"Nick, she has to choose her own path."
"I know, but I'm going to go have a talk with Vachon. I don't want him to take advantage of her."
"He might really care about her, Nick. You never know."
"And he could have her for dinner one night."
"Nick, you didn't have me for dinner."
"No, I didn't. I'm still rather proud of that fact." Nick started to tickle Natalie. She squirmed in his lap.
"Nick! Stop that!" Natalie's giggles filled the loft. Finally, she gave up trying to get away and just kissed Nick instead. Nick stopped tickling her. He drew her into his embrace, returning her kisses.
When their lips finally parted, they both stared into each other's eyes. "Nick, let's go to bed."
"My sentiments exactly." Nick gathered Natalie in his arms and carried her upstairs to their bed. He laid her gently down and crawled into bed beside her. They lay on their sides, staring at each other, each gently stroking the other's body.
"I could get used to sleeping here."
"Well, why don't you? We could move your stuff here on our next night off, put some of it in storage if we needed."
"Nick, are you asking me to move in with you?"
"I thought you already were living with me. Yes. I am officially asking you."
Natalie kissed Nick. "I have wanted to live in sin with you since I met you."
"You did?" Nick kissed Natalie, his fingers lightly running over her breasts.
"Uh-huh." Natalie closed her eyes, enjoying Nick's caresses.
Nick pulled Natalie into his embrace. Quickly, they were asleep in each other's arms.Natalie had taken samples from Nick every day for the next week. Each time the vampire cells had diminished. She warned Nick repeatedly about watching for stray bullets and the like. Nick had managed to stay out of trouble. He could feel the changes in his body. His hearing wasn't as acute, and he couldn't move as quickly. Each time he and Natalie made-love he needed less of her blood. He could still feel the intensity of her emotions, but the connection between them was diminishing.
Nick had talked to Vachon. It had ended with Vachon calling him a hypocrite and asking him to leave the church. Nick knew that Vachon was right. Who was he to tell another vampire that he shouldn't love a mortal? He just didn't want to see Tracey ending up dead. He could handle her being a vampire. At least that way she would still be alive, and she and Vachon could express their love. Now that Nick knew that taking Natalie's blood was changing him, he debated whether to tell Vachon. No matter how hard Natalie searched, she couldn't find a reason for why Nick was changing. There was no guarantee that it would work for Vachon and Tracey.Natalie went to her apartment early the next day she and Nick both had off. She was greeted by a very distressed Sydney. She wasn't sure how well Nick and Sydney were going to get along at the loft. If she had to choose, she knew Sydney would have to find a new home. She dropped Sydney off at the neighbors and started to pack.
Nick had hired movers to help them pack and move Natalie's things. The movers arrived shortly after Natalie and started to pack the kitchen, while she worked on packing what china and crystal she owned. They had finished the kitchen by the time Nick arrived and were working on packing Nat's books and videos.
"Hi, Nat. Where should I help?"
"They seem to have the living room under control. Want to help with my clothes? And we need to decide what furniture we are taking with us and what's going into storage."
Nick put his arm around Natalie as they walked into her bedroom.
"Whatever you want to do is fine with me. I was thinking we could turn the extra room into a study for you. We could put your computer, books, and desk in there."
"Nick, that would be great. I have needed to buy new furniture for a while. Why don't we just donate the rest to the battered women's shelter instead of storing it?"
"Are you sure?" Nick pulled Natalie into his arms.
"Yes. Unless you are thinking of kicking me out in the near future."
"No, I don't plan on ever doing that. You are my drug, anyway. I couldn't live without you." Nick smiled and brought Nat's lips to his. They kissed passionately. Their arms entwined as they deepened their kiss.
"Ma'am. OH! Excuse me."
Nick and Natalie quickly broke apart. Natalie blushed and turned away from the mover. "Yes?"
"We've finished packing the kitchen and den. We need to know where you want us to take the furniture."
Nick walked toward the man and guided him out of the bedroom. "We are donating most of it to charity. I'll point out what you need to deliver to our loft."
Natalie started packing her clothes, content to be leaving her old life behind her.To be continued
(06/18)
Several nights later, Nick rushed home after work. He knew a storm was headed toward Toronto, and he wanted Natalie to have a safe place to ride it out. He flew around the loft, lighting candles and arranging the flowers he had picked up on the way home. He was glad that the fifth order he had placed with Victoria's Secret had arrived. He ordered a sapphire-blue, silk pajama top for Natalie and the matching bottoms for himself. He was upstairs changing when Natalie arrived.
Natalie was glad to be home. It had started to rain on her way to the loft. She was startled when she opened the lift. Candles were lit on every available surface, and there were several bouquets of flowers scattered about. Natalie smiled. Nick was a very romantic and tender lover. She loved how one day he was soft and gentle, and the next he was pushing her on her desk at work, insisting that he have her then and there.
Natalie saw the pajama top spread on the sofa for her. Nick had been showering her with gifts. The way things were going, she wouldn't have to buy herself any bras or panties for a few decades. Natalie slipped out of her coat and headed upstairs to change.
Nick smiled when Natalie entered their bedroom. He hadn't finished lighting the candles and incense. "You got home too soon, or I'm getting slower."
"You're getting slower." Natalie giggled and crossed the room to give Nick a kiss. "I love the new pajama top. I see your pajama bottoms match."
"Well, they were selling them for couples. I thought we were perfect for them."
"We are." Natalie started to take off her clothes. Nick sat on the bed, watching Natalie undressed. "Nick, you are turning into a voyeur! Every time I get undressed you're watching me."
"Are you telling me you don't want me to?" Nick walked up to Natalie as she took her bra off. "I enjoy watching you. Is that a crime?" Nick cupped Natalie's breasts in his hands.
Natalie ran her hands through Nick's hair, pulling his lips to hers. She kissed her way to his ear and then whispered, "I don't mind you watching me, as long as I get to watch you."
Nick laughed softly, pulling Natalie's naked chest toward his. "I have never been as happy as I am now." He released Natalie and reached for her new pajama top. He slipped it up her arms and then buttoned it closed. "What do you say I play piano for you and tell you stories of Beethoven while we wait for the storm to pass?"
"Sounds wonderful!" Nick and Natalie walked downstairs hand in hand.Over the next week, Natalie had continued to run daily tests on Nick's blood. Slowly, he was becoming mortal. Natalie had been able to determine that there was a rapid change in the vampire cells after they made-love. Within two to three hours about 75% of the changed cells would revert to their original vampire form. Natalie hadn't been able to determine if the changed cells would revert if they didn't make-love for a span of time. They hadn't been able to resist each other long enough for Natalie to find out.
Nick had decided to tell Vachon about the cure. From the way Tracey was talking at work, he knew it wouldn't be long before they were together. Nick believed they had a right to know all of their options. LaCroix was out of town and he had decided to meet Vachon at the Raven. Natalie was going to meet him there later. She had been hinting about wanting to go dancing at the Raven ever since she was privy to his fantasies. With LaCroix gone, it was an opportune time.
Nick entered the Raven and saw Vachon waiting for him at the bar. Vachon ordered a glass of Nick's regular and had it waiting for him when he sat down. "Nick."
"Vachon. Thanks for meeting me tonight. I've been thinking about what you said. You are right. I am a hypocrite. I have a romantic relationship with Natalie yet I would deny you the same thing with Tracy."
"I know you are protective of her. I can understand she is very naive about some things."
Nick saw an empty table and indicated it to Vachon. "There aren't as many ears over there." They rose and moved to the table. "I have some news about Natalie and me that I wish to share with you." Nick looked around and leaned closer to Vachon. He whispered as quietly as possible, "We are lovers."
Vachon's eyes grew wider. "You mean you take care of her needs? Or do you bite yourself? How?"
"Shhhh. I make-love to her, Vachon. I bite her, not myself. I'm able to stop."
"HOW?"
Nick looked at Vachon, his eyes telling him to quiet down. "I don't know how. I just can. I think it is because we truly love each other and she is not afraid of me. I am becoming mortal again, Vachon. With each drop of her blood, more and more of my cells change back to their mortal state."
Vachon whistled, unable to assimilate what Nick was saying to him. "There is a cure, then."
"Yes, but I don't know if it will work for you or not. I know you and Tracey are getting closer, and I know she wants to be with you. I thought you had a right to know all the possibilities that you have open to you."
Nick stopped talking when Nat walked into the Raven. He had heard her heartbeat instantly and looked for her. She was stunning, and she was his. Vachon turned to see what had captured Nick's attention. His mouth dropped open when he saw Natalie. Nick rose from his chair and walked towards her. Vachon still could not believe how Natalie glowed.To be continued
(07/18)
Natalie went to the loft after work to change before going to the Raven. She had bought a new red, low-cut slip dress that she wanted Nick to see her wear. In the past three weeks that she and Nick had been lovers, she had gotten quite good at covering her 'hickeys.' Turtlenecks, a new fondness for scarves, and a weekend continuing education class on special effects makeup had helped her disguise the multiple fang marks she had on her neck, breast, legs, and back. Every mark she cherished.
Even if she lived a thousand years, she would always remember Nick giving her the bites on her back and legs. Her eyes glazed as she recalled last night's lovemaking.The night had started out playfully. It was Nick's night off, and she had come home to find him painting. He was painting swirls upon swirls. Natalie ate dinner, cuddled Sydney and changed clothes for bed. She knew when Nick was painting it was best to leave him alone until he was done. He was very serious about his painting. When he finished, he asked her to come look at his work.
"I love it, Nick. It's very moving."
"I'd like to paint more. I'm in the groove, so to speak, but I'm out of canvasses."
"I'll get you some more tomorrow."
"I was hoping to continue painting tonight, on you." Nick held up the edible body paints that the morgue staff had given Natalie. Nick reached for Nat's pajama top and started to unbutton it. "I spread out some old blankets on the bed. That way things won't get messed up. I figured I could take pictures when I get done and then, well, clean you off."
"Nick." Natalie moaned at the feeling of Nick's cool fingers on her skin. "It might make you sick."
"Don't worry. I've already figured out how to deal with that."Nick took Natalie upstairs and laid her naked on top of the old
blankets. Natalie stared up at Nick, wondering what he would do to her. Nick dipped his fingers into the blue paint and walked toward Natalie, a wicked smile on his face. His fingers traced circles around Natalie's breasts, then down on her stomach. He applied layer after layer of paint to Natalie's breast, stomach and thighs. Natalie looked at Nick. He was totally engrossed in turning her body into a work of art. Every now and then he would stop, look at her with a mischievous twinkle, and kiss her.
When he was done, Nick reached for the camera. Natalie screamed.
"Nicholas Knight, you put that down right now. No one hour photo lab is going to see my naked, painted body."
"Natalie, it's art."
"Nick, it's my naked body."
"I think Vachon knows how to develop pictures."
"NICK!" Natalie rose from the bed and headed straight for Nick and the camera.
Nick ducked and ran to the other side of the bed. Natalie climbed over the bed, trying to get at him. "Nick! Give me the camera."
"I think Aristotle does film developing. He's seen thousands of women naked."
"Nicholas Knight, if you ever, and I do mean EVER, want to get any EVER again, you better give me that camera!"
Nick let Natalie catch him and pull the camera from his grasp. He held her to him, the paint smearing on his pajamas as he covered her mouth with his. "If I paint your back, can I take a picture of it? It wouldn't expose too much of your body."
"Only if you promise it won't be Vachon who develops it."
"Agreed." Nick kissed Natalie passionately and led her back to the bed. Natalie laid on her stomach, exposing her naked back to Nick to be used as his canvas.Nick made swirls up and down Natalie's backside. Natalie moaned in appreciation. When he was finished, Natalie allowed him to take two pictures.
"Now comes the fun part." Nick stripped his pajamas off and climbed into bed next to Natalie. She tried to turn over, but Nick stopped her. "I thought I would remove the paint for you. It is edible."
Nick leaned over and started to lick Natalie's back. His stomach
lurched after a few seconds, letting him know he couldn't ingest the paint yet. He gently let his fangs enter Natalie's skin, causing a drop or two of blood to surface. The blood mixed with the paint, making it deliciously edible to Nick.
Natalie gasped when Nick's fangs gently pierced her skin. "I'm sorry, Nat. The blood makes it so I can ingest the paint. Maybe we should shower instead."
"Maybe you should continue biting me."
Nick looked at Natalie, stunned. Natalie turned her head to face Nick. "I can't believe you haven't felt it in my blood. I like it when you bite me. It's very very erotic, Nick."
Nick smiled wickedly. He climbed on top of Nat, straddling her. He leaned down and gently bit her back between her shoulder blades. Natalie moaned.
"Did you like that?" Nick whispered.
"Yes."
Nick moved further down and bit her again. "And this?"
"Uh-huh."
Nick bit Natalie repeatedly down her back and rear end. When he
reached her legs, he worked his way down to the back of her knees. He gently suckled on the soft flesh as Natalie withered on the bed. "Nick. I need you."
"Not yet. I'm not done." Nick worked his way back up Natalie's legs and rear. He stopped at the curve of her back and sucked the blood from her body for a second. He could hear Natalie's fingernails tearing the old blankets.
He worked his way up her delicate spine, gently letting his fangs
scrape her skin. His tongue licked the blood and paint off Natalie's body. Natalie let out a growl, which startled Nick. "Nick. Now! Please!"
Nick knew from Natalie's blood what she wanted. He pressed his cool body to hers, absorbing her warmth. "All in due time, my Natalie. All in due time."Natalie shook herself back to the present. She needed to finish
getting ready to meet Nick at the Raven. She covered the last of the bite marks on her legs. She was always amazed at how quickly they healed, Nick's saliva helping her body to heal when he licked the wounds closed. Natalie grabbed her purse and headed to the Raven.To be continued
(08/18)
Natalie came into the Raven, smiling instantly when she saw Nick. She held out her hand to him when he reached her. Nick kissed it, pulling her into his arms. They kissed briefly and headed toward the table where Vachon was seated.
"Hello, Vachon." Natalie smiled at him.
Vachon couldn't get over how radiant Natalie was. He always found it amazing how women who were in love glowed, their beauty radiating from their very essence. "Natalie, it is a pleasure." He took Nat's offered hand and kissed it. Nick was a lucky man, he thought. "Well, Nick thanks for hmm everything. I've got a movie date with Tracey."
Nick nodded to Vachon on his way out. As if on cue, an
uncharacteristic slow and sultry song started to play. Without asking, Nick led Natalie to the dance floor. He held her close, breathing in the essence that was the woman he loved. Her hands played with his hair. Their eyes locked.
Natalie brought her wrist up to Nick's lips, mischief filling her eyes. "You know you want to."
Nick moaned and kissed Natalie's wrist, his fang gently scraping her skin, the drops of blood telling him of her desire for him. Their dancing slowed as Nick savored the desire he felt in Natalie's blood. When Natalie pressed her body closer to his and blew in his ear, Nick could stand no more. He danced Natalie to the back of the Raven.
When they were out of sight, Nick backed Natalie against the nearest wall. He captured her hands in one of his and held them above her head. Nick's other hand freely explored Natalie's body, tracing the outline of her breasts and hips through her dress. Nick kissed Natalie's neck, making his way to her ear. He whispered in a throaty growl, "Is this what you wanted?"
Natalie moaned her consent and lost herself in the feel of Nick's cool breath on her face and the feel of his tongue on her skin. He ripped the straps off her dress and pushed the top part down to her waist. Nick reached behind Natalie, removing her strapless bra. He buried his head in her cleavage, licking, kissing and biting. Natalie arched her back, pushing her breast out further. She could feel his hardness pressing against her, and she wanted to touch him. She tried to loosen her hands from his grasp, but Nick pushed her hands back against the wall again and raised his head from her breasts. "Who do you belong to?" Nick softly growled.
"You." Natalie moaned as Nick's mouth covered hers, his tongue
searching its depths. She remembered the first night they had made love when it had been she who had asked that question. Nick had given himself fully to her. Now she gave herself fully to him.
He ground his crotch into Natalie's, making sure she could feel his desire for her. Natalie captured Nick's tongue in her mouth and gently sucked on it. When she released it, her tongue slipped into his mouth. She flicked her tongue back and forth across his fangs.
Nick pushed Natalie's dress up above her hips and caressed her bare thighs. The past three weeks had been an exploration of a Natalie he hadn't known existed. She was sensual and erotic beyond his wildest dreams. He reached up and ripped her underwear off her body. Natalie gasped for breath when she felt Nick touching her sensitive folds.
Nick stopped touching Natalie and unzipped his pants. His golden eyes locked with hers as he pulled himself free of his pants. Natalie leaned forward, trying to capture Nick's mouth with hers, but he backed out of her reach. She looked at him with pleading eyes, but Nick smiled wickedly at her. He pushed her back against the wall, his body pressing against hers. Natalie looked down and saw Nick stroking himself. She purred at the sight, becoming more aroused. Nick released her hands and lifted her up and onto his hardness. Natalie gasped and leaned back against the wall for support. Nick held her firmly and started to move in and out of her moist core. Natalie
ripped the front of Nick's shirt open, her fingernails leaving trails down his chest. Nick reared his head back and growled, pushing himself further into Natalie. Natalie wrapped her hand around Nick's neck and pulled his lips back to hers. Her tongue slowly caressed his fangs. Nick's thrusts increased, each harder and quicker than the last. When she knew Nick was ready, Natalie released his mouth and turned her head, exposing her neck to Nick. As Nick's fangs entered her neck, she whispered, "Now who is in control?"
Natalie lost herself in Nick and in the feelings of their orgasm. Each time they were together, she could feel their blood bond making them one. Nick knew her love and her desire for him. Slowly, the guilt had melted away from Nick and his love and desire for her had taken control. He showed her all the sides of him and she accepted them.
Nick withdrew his fangs from Natalie's neck and kissed the wounds
closed. He pressed kisses on her breasts, neck, face and lips in quick succession. "I love you," Nick whispered. He eased Natalie's feet back on the ground.
"I love you, too." Natalie looked down at her disheveled appearance and then at Nick's torn shirt. "We've been very bad," Natalie giggled.
"I thought we were pretty good." Nick nuzzled Nat's neck again.
Nick's eyes grew wide as he heard a pair of heartbeats approaching. His mouth covered Natalie's again, pulling her body protectively against his. The approaching lovers stopped when they saw Natalie and Nick kissing. Nick growled, "Leave!" The couple quickly retreated.
"We better pull ourselves together." Nick pulled Natalie's dress down and tried to fix the straps.
"Nick, please tell me you know a back way out of here." Natalie picked up her bra and put it back on. She tucked the top of her dress into the top of her bra.
"I do." Nick tried to straighten his clothes. "What did you do to my shirt?"
"Think of it as a souvenir." Natalie smiled seductively at Nick.
Nick led Natalie to the back exit down the hall. Once outside they headed toward his Caddie, trying to avoid contact with others.LaCroix returned from his visit with Socrates that evening. He
surveyed the entire Raven for security breaks. In the back hallway, he picked up a ripped pair of panties that had been left there. He closed his eyes and inhaled the scent. He knew the woman who owned them. And he knew the vampire that had obviously torn them from her body. He searched his link with Nick and discovered him quite happy. LaCroix smiled, depositing the panties in his pocket. It seemed things were going as planned.To be continued
(09/18)
The next day Natalie received the news that she would need to make a trip to Vancouver for a Medical Examiners' convention and workshop. A Vancouver college there was sponsoring workshops on the latest in forensic technology. Originally, the department was sending Dr. Jasper, but his wife had been called out of town, and he would need to stay with his children. Natalie was the next in seniority, so she was asked to be the replacement.
Natalie knew Nick would not be pleased. She would be out of town for 10 days, including two weekends. They hadn't been apart for more than eight hours in the three weeks they had been together. The only up side was that she could test the effects of lack of exposure on Nick's cells. Somehow she didn't think Nick would be excited about collecting that data.
Nick sneaked up behind Natalie and kissed her neck. "I'm here for my doctor's appointment. Do you want to examine me?"
Natalie slapped Nick on the arm and laughed. "Nick! I'm glad you're here. I just got some news." She reached for her tray of instruments to take samples from Nick.
Nick sat on the slab and rolled up his sleeve. "What's the news?"
Natalie inserted the needle into Nick's arm, drawing out the necessary blood. "I have to go to a workshop in Vancouver for ten days."
"Ten days! I won't let you go!" Nick smiled at Natalie and pulled her into his arms. "I can't live without you for that long."
"Well, you're going to have to try. The good news is I'll be able to see the effects of diminished exposure."
"Diminished exposure? Try no exposure! I don't like this test." Nick started to kiss Natalie's neck.
"Nick! I still have to get skin samples from you. Stop that!"
Natalie wiggled her way out of Nick's grasp and picked up her scalpel.
Nick turned to Natalie, his eyes glowing and fangs descended. "I think I need more exposure!"
Nick proceeded to chase Nat around the lab. They both laughed, giving in to the playfulness of the moment. They did not hear Tracey when she walked in the room. They did hear her scream.
Nick and Natalie stopped in their tracks. Nick turned toward her with golden eyes and descended fangs. "Tracey!" they both screamed.
Nick quickly turned around, collecting himself. Grace rushed into the room along with several other members of the morgue staff. "Is everything all right here?"
"We're fine, Grace. Nick and I were just playing around, and Tracey scared us."
"Playing around? I like the sound of that!" Grace laughed heartily and exited the room with the rest of the staff.
Tracey was speechless. "You're .you're a NICK! Why didn't you tell me?" She walked over to Nick and punched him in the arm.
Nick turned to Tracey, locking her eyes with his. "You will forget, Tracey. You will forget."
"Don't even try that on me! I won't forget. Vachon couldn't make me forget, and you won't either!" Tracey broke away from Nick's gaze. She was furious with him. She knew he objected to Vachon, but she always thought it was because he projected a bad boy image, not because he was a vampire. "How could you not tell me, Nick? I already know about your kind. You had to know that because of Vachon. Why?" The tears started to fall down Tracey's face. Natalie went to Tracey and put her arm around her.
"Tracey, Nick would've put you in more jeopardy if he did tell you. There are members of the community that would have you killed, because you know what they are. They could have me killed also."
"You and Nick are lovers. How? Are you a ?"
"No, I'm not a vampire, and yes, we are lovers. You can't tell anyone about us being lovers. Vachon knows, and he can explain it to you."
Nick walked over to Tracey and put his hand on her shoulder. "I'm sorry that I could not tell you. I hope one day you will understand and forgive me. I do believe that Vachon cares deeply about you."
Tracey turned to Nick and wiped the tears from her eyes. "You are such a hypocrite, Nick! You have been trying to keep me away from Vachon while you have been lovers with Natalie! I know Vachon cares about me. I'll think about forgiving you AFTER I talk to him about you guys being lovers." Tracey turned and hugged Natalie. "Regardless, I am very happy that the two of you are together. You belong together. Nick, book me off when you get back to the station. There is a certain Spanish vampire I need to see."
Tracey left Nick and Natalie in the morgue and headed for the church to find Vachon.Natalie finished taking the skin samples she needed from Nick. They did not speak until she was finished. "I wonder what Vachon will tell her."
"I thought we should leave it up to him. He may not want to become mortal, Natalie."
"I didn't think Vachon was into hunting."
"He's not. It's just that some vampires enjoy, well, they enjoy the other parts of us that are vampires."
Natalie cast a puzzled look at Nick. "Such as?"
"Such as flying. It is incredible to be able to soar above the city. And the bloodlink we have with those we share blood with. You know everything about each other. It's the closest to becoming one soul that you can get." Nick paused, his eyes glazing over. He couldn't imagine what it would be like to share his blood with Natalie. The completeness of being one, his blood becoming hers, hers becoming his and then returning.
Natalie looked at Nick. She could tell by the tone of his voice that he enjoyed those things about being a vampire. She could understand the lure of the bloodlink. Even though she and Nick shared themselves when he took her blood, she knew it would be more intense if she too were a vampire. As Nick gradually became mortal, the link between them diminished. She wondered if Nick was able to see her emotions as clearly as he did in the beginning. "Nick?"
Nick shook his head, trying desperately to block his thoughts of
Natalie drinking his blood from his mind. "Sorry, Nat. I guess I'm just worried about Trace."
Natalie noticed the sadness in Nick's eyes. She didn't think it was because of Tracey. "Do you think she will be at greater risk now that she knows about you?"
"No. Tracey knows many in the community. If the enforcers were going to hunt her, they would've done so by now."
"Keep an eye on her and Vachon while I'm gone."
"I'm going to miss you." Nick hopped off the table again and gathered Natalie into his arms. "Our phone bill is going to be outrageous."
"I'm just glad the phone is in your name." Natalie kissed Nick and sent him back to work. She needed to run some more tests before the night was through. She sat at her desk and looked through the microscope. The results were what she expected. Nick's mortal cell count had increased again. For the first time, she didn't smile when she looked at his changing blood.Nick returned to the precinct in time to meet Schanke as he headed out the door.
"We've got a call. Where's Trace?"
"She's gone for the night. Personal business."
"Well, then I guess it's back to our little twosome for this chase. They have a shooter cornered at Yonge and Queen. Just like old times, Nick, before our little addition."
Nick could feel his partner's excitement. They both enjoyed having Tracey as their third musketeer. At first they both complained about baby-sitting, but now the three of them were a team. Still, every now and then he and Schank liked to relive their "bachelor days," as Schank referred to their partnership before Tracey. Tonight would be such a night.Nick parked the Caddie a block from the shooter's last known location. Schanke took the street side, Nick, the alleyway. He could tell that his vampire senses had weakened. He could not hear the shooter's heartbeat or breathing. His eyesight was hampered by the darkness for the first time in centuries. He heard Schanke yell for the perp to halt. He quickly rushed toward the sound.
Nick's stomach lurched when he reached where the perp was trapped. Schanke and the man both had their guns pointed at each other.
"Give it up. Put the gun down!" Schanke yelled at the perp.
The man whispered under his breath, "Must shoot."
Nick flew toward the man, knowing he was going to fire. He was too late. He tackled the man as the bullet entered Schanke's chest. For the first time since they had been partners, Nick had been unable to protect Schanke.
Nick flew to his friend and applied pressure to his wound. Damn his mortality, if his friend's life was the price he paid for it.LaCroix watched from a building top as they loaded the injured
detective into the ambulance. He knew his son had not detected his presence, just as he had been unable to tell it was he who had approached Natalie's car in the storm. He had wanted to bring Natalie across that night. If he had taken her as his daughter, he would have denied Nicholas the intense link with a child. Nick's arrival had startled him.
Since that night he had felt the vampire in his son diminish. That was not something he could tolerate. The cameras he had hidden in the back hallways of the Raven had recorded a different story. His son had backed his lover against the wall, then exposed her body. LaCroix had been able to magnify portions of Natalie's body. The bite marks covering her breast and neck were visible to his vampire eyes. On his quest toward mortality, his son embraced his vampire side with increasing vigor.
LaCroix smiled. The pieces were falling in place. He could feel the anger in his son. When he probed deeper, he could sense Nick's hatred of his increasing mortality. Soon, he thought. Soon things would be as they should.To be continued
(10/18)
The news of Schanke being shot had traveled quickly to Natalie. She called Tracey on her cell phone and headed to the hospital. She arrived at the same time as Nick. His pain was evident on his face. He collapsed into Natalie's arms, tears forming in his eyes.
"I couldn't move quickly enough, Nat. My senses were dulled. I could have "
"Shhhh. It's ok, Nick. We don't know how badly he has been hurt. I love you, and we will get through this together."
"The question is, will Schank?" He took Natalie's hand and kissed it. They embraced and then headed for the emergency room. Tracey and Vachon appeared out of nowhere to join them.
Nick shot them a questioning glance. "He was the fastest form of
transportation," Tracey said as she nodded toward Vachon. "What happened, Nick?"
"Schanke was shot before I could disarm the guy. He took one in the chest. He was bleeding badly when the ambulance departed the scene."
They walked in silence. Each knowing the reason Nick hadn't reached the shooter in time--his mortality.Nick and Natalie entered the loft just before sunrise. They had gotten the news right before they had left. Schanke was going to live. The bullet had missed all his vital organs, but had managed to shatter part of his collarbone.
Nick headed straight for the refrigerator. He pulled the door open and reached for the emergency human blood in the back. He pulled the cork out with his fangs and guzzled the contents of the bottle. With each swallow, he hoped the vampire in him would return.
Natalie stared at Nick, blood running down his chin. "NICK! What are you doing?" She reached for the bottle, trying to knock it from his grasp. Nick growled at her and backed away.
"Nick, talk to me!"
Nick stared at Natalie, the vampire fully surfaced. "Natalie, my
partner almost died tonight because I was trying to reclaim my mortality."
"Was trying! Nick, what are you saying?"
Nick put the empty bottle down, wiped the blood from his face, and walked towards the fireplace. "I don't know what I'm saying, Nat."
Natalie walked to Nick and put her hand on his shoulder as he started the fire. "Nick, tell me what you are feeling. Please."
"I felt blinded tonight. I couldn't hear the guy's heartbeat or
breathing. I couldn't sense where he was. Hell, I couldn't see three feet in front of my face!" Nick rose and moved away from Natalie. "If I had been a full vampire, my partner would not have been shot! I miss my abilities. I was helpless without them."
"You were not helpless, Nick. You are a good cop."
"Am I, Nat? Is it the man or the vampire that is the good cop? Do I rely on my enhanced senses to do my job? I miss flying through the air faster than your eyes can see! That ability would've saved Schank tonight."
"What are you saying, Nick? Do you wish that we weren't together, that we never had made love, that my blood wasn't changing you?" Natalie yelled at Nick, letting her anger vibrate through the room. At the very moment she had been the happiest, she feared losing him forever.
Nick turned and looked at Natalie. His anger and self-hatred flowed out of his body. He reached for Natalie, but she shrugged him away. "Natalie, I love you. I do not regret being with you. I'm not going to lie to you. I miss some of the benefits of being a vampire. Benefits that I didn't understand until they were diminished." He reached for Natalie again. This time she let him pull her toward him.
"I know how much you trust and love me, Natalie. It's in your blood and in your eyes. I can't lie to you. I miss feeling as connected to you as I did the first night we were together. I don't want to give up feeling your blood, feeling us being one. I don't want to stop tasting you, joining with you, being a part of you!"
Nick collapsed on the floor at Natalie's feet, tears of shame streaking down his face. "Nat, please forgive me. Please say you forgive me."
"How do you think I feel? Have you not felt it in my blood? Have I been able to block it from you so well? I love you biting me. I love feeling like we are one, my blood becoming a part of you. How do you think it makes me feel when I realize that I am in love with the vampire as much as the man!" Nat turned away from Nick, tears streaming from her eyes.
Nick rose from the floor and moved further away from Nat. "I thought they were my desires, not yours. I dreamed of you taking my blood, of feeling the completed link between us. My blood becoming yours, yours becoming mine. How do you think I feel when as I become mortal I start to treasure the vampire in me?"
Natalie turned and faced Nick. "What does this mean, Nick? What does this mean about us?"
"I don't know, Nat. I don't know what I want or what this means. I just know I want you."
They looked into each other's eyes, tears streaming down their cheeks, and ran to each other. They held one another until their tears subsided. Their lips found each other's, seeking comfort. Natalie bit Nick's neck, suckling at the same place he took her blood. Nick moaned his approval as his hands hungrily traveled over Nat's body. He picked her up and carried her to their bed, not caring what the consequences were.Natalie awoke, still unsure about how she felt about her and Nick's lovemaking the previous night. Their mouths had been hungry, their hands insistent. There had been a desperation in their lovemaking. A desperation to understand what they wanted for their future. Each desperately needing the other's acceptance, yet petrified that it wouldn't be forthcoming. She felt it in herself and she felt it from Nick. It was in the link when he drank of her essence.
Nick had drunk deeply, deeper than he ever had in the past. It only left Natalie more confused. She could now admit to herself that she had fantasies of being a vampire. Her desire to taste Nick's blood grew each time they made love. She wanted the connection to be deeper and complete. The ramifications of her desires scared her. What Nick truly wanted was obscured from her view. She was no closer to understanding where they went from here.
Natalie took a shower, dressed and started to gather her clothes to pack. Nick awoke as she packed her last bag. The panic was evident in his eyes when Natalie turned to face him.
"Nat. Please. I'm sorry. Don't leave."
"Nick, I leave to go to the convention today, remember?" Natalie
walked over to the bed and sat next to Nick. She stroked his face with her fingertips. "I'm not leaving you. I couldn't leave you. You are a part of me."
The tension drained from Nick's face. He reached out and cupped
Natalie's chin. "And you are a part of me, Natalie." Their lips met. Nick tried to pull Natalie back into bed, but she resisted.
"Nick, my plane leaves in just over an hour. I'm just going to make it. I've already called the taxi. They should be here in ten minutes." Natalie rose from the bed and gathered her things. "I left the hotel's phone number downstairs on the table. Call me tonight?"
"Of course." Nick got out of bed, put on his robe and helped Natalie carry her bags downstairs. They kissed quickly when they heard the taxi's horn.Natalie boarded her plane to Vancouver and tried to relax. She had replayed in her mind the fight she and Nick had the night before. Was it even a fight, she thought? She wasn't sure what it was, except for emotional. Again and again, she returned to their lovemaking. Nick had drunk deeply, almost causing her to lose consciousness. What bothered her was for the first time, Nick wasn't completely open to her. He had blocked her from feeling all his emotions. The strength of their link diminished with Nick's increasing mortality. Nat knew it disturbed Nick.
Nat shook her head. The more she thought, the further she got from finding any answers. The one thing she did know was that she needed to understand why Nick would block his emotions from her. More than anything that scared her the most.
She went to the in-flight phone and slid her credit card through the slot. This was going to cost her, but she hoped it would be worth it. Nick didn't answer the phone. He's in the shower, she thought. When the machine picked up, Natalie said what was on her mind.Nick got out of the shower. He saw the light flashing on the answering machine and hit play. The hair on the back of his neck stood up when he heard Nat's voice.
"Nick, there is something that I have to say to you, and it can't wait. You blocked me from your emotions last night. You searched mine with a fine tooth comb, but you wouldn't allow me the same. Why? I need to know, Nick. I love you, but you should know that by now."
Nick stared at the machine as it beeped. She had noticed, but did she know that no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't find the answers he sought in her blood? It only made him ache with the need for the eroticism of their bloodlink, which frightened him even more.To be continued
(11/18)
LaCroix hypnotized the guard at the jail's entrance. He only needed access to the cell for a brief moment. His prey was alone on the cell block. He opened the door with a flick of his wrist. Picking locks was a skill he picked up centuries ago from a midnight snack he had greatly enjoyed. The man in the cell backed away from him. LaCroix smiled wickedly at the frightened man. In an instant, the man was lying on the floor, his neck slit from side to side. LaCroix wiped the blood from his lips and vanished.
Although it was his day off, Nick wanted to talk to the shooter. He still wondered why he heard the man whisper, "Must shoot." It was as if the man had been hypnotized, Nick thought. When Nick entered the cellblock, he smelled the fresh blood. He ran toward where the shooter was being held. He wasn't surprised by what he found there. He yelled to the guard to call for an ambulance.
Nick examined the slash in the man's neck and found what he was looking for. A set of fang marks. He dipped his fingers into the man's blood and brought them to his lips. The blood made his senses reel. It had been decades since he had tasted the blood of a mortal as they died. The images were fresh and clear. Anger filled Nick's body as he ran from the cell. He took to the air as soon as he was safely away from the jail, thankful that he still could fly.LaCroix had felt the anger in his son. Nicholas knew. LaCroix went to the loft. He easily bypassed the alarm system, entered, and deposited his souvenirs of Nicholas and Natalie's trysts on the dining room table. He sat and awaited his son's arrival.
Nick headed toward the Raven, but felt his master pulling him in a different direction. He turned and headed for the loft. Nick felt
LaCroix's presence before he landed. He entered the loft through the skylight and landed in front of LaCroix. Master and son stared at one another. LaCroix broke the silence.
"So, Nicholas, it seems you have found me. I left some gifts for you on the table." LaCroix indicated the items with a wave of his hand. "I'm sure you won't mind if I help myself to a beverage. You are still able to drink blood, aren't you, Nicholas?" LaCroix crossed the kitchen and poured himself and Nicholas a glass of bloodwine.
Nick's eyes widened as he approached the dining room table. He
recognized the panties as much from their scent as from their appearance. They were Natalie's. He picked up the videotape and turned to face LaCroix. "What is this?"
"You have a VCR. I suggest you watch it for yourself. You've never been inclined to believe me."
Nick put the tape in the VCR and hit play. His eyes turned golden as he watched the TV screen. LaCroix placed a glass of bloodwine in his hand. Nick eagerly drank the contents.
"As you can see, I have made several improvements to the Raven's
security. I must admit the new cameras do have their benefits. It seems Natalie does bring out the vampire in you. The bite marks on her stomach particularly intrigued me. It seems Janette's cure wasn't an anomaly."
Nick let the anger fill his body as his father spoke. The image of him and Natalie making love at the Raven played in front of him. He would not let LaCroix harm her. Nick turned and flew at his father, intent on killing him.
LaCroix easily tossed Nicholas aside. "Nicholas, have you forgotten what it was like to be mortal? How vulnerable you are? How vulnerable your Natalie is?" Nick looked up at LaCroix. "Who will protect you when you are mortal, Nicholas? Do you think you will be able to stop me from taking Natalie from you then?"
Nick lunged at LaCroix, but his father flew out of his path.
"Nicholas, you really should consider your actions more carefully. Mortals, they are so delicate." LaCroix exited the loft.
Nick went to the refrigerator. He opened its door and stared in
amazement. It was filled with bottle after bottle of the Raven's finest. There was a note from LaCroix propped against the bottles.
"Mortality. A simple word, a simple existence. But will it be enough to satisfy the beast that is in your soul?"
Nick tossed the note aside and grabbed a bottle. He finished the
bottle then went to call Natalie."Hello."
"Natalie? Are you ok?"
"I'm fine now." Natalie sat on the bed, propping herself up with the pillows. "I miss you."
"I miss you, too. Nat, about the message you left this afternoon I did block you. I was afraid if you saw what I really felt, if you felt my turmoil, you would leave."
"You can't shut me out. If you don't trust me, Nick, there is little point to us being together."
"I know, Nat. I wanted to understand what you truly wanted, but I couldn't. The images aren't as clear as they were before."
"Our link has diminished." Natalie was silent as she decided whether to continue. She breathed deeply and opened herself to Nick, this time with her words. "I miss the intensity of our original bloodlink, Nick."
A smile spread on Nick's face. "I do too. Natalie, I don't understand all that I'm feeling. I didn't think I would ever treasure a part of the vampire in me."
"I'm confused, too, Nick. I have emotions that I didn't expect to surface or even to be present. I guess we both have some things to think about."
"I don't have to think about loving you, Nat. I know I love you and I don't want to lose you."
"We need to decide how we are going to be together, Nick."
"Natalie, LaCroix visited me tonight. He has been watching us. I don't know what he is planning."
"LaCroix?" Nick could hear the fear in Natalie's voice.
"Yes. I'm going to go talk to Vachon and see if he has heard
anything."
"Nick, be careful. You might want to talk to Vachon about some other things, too. He might understand better than anyone else can." Natalie checked her watch; she was late for the happy hour reception she had volunteered to help host. "I've got to go, Nick. I'm late."
"I'm going to go by and check on Schanke. Call me before you go to bed?"
"I'll leave a message if you aren't there. I'm glad you called, Nick. I love you!"
"Me too, Nat. Me too."
Nick hung up the phone. He grabbed his coat and headed to the hospital to check on his partner.Vachon was at the hospital with Tracey when Nick arrived. They nodded to each other as Nick entered Schanke's room. "Hey, partner! How are you doing?"
"I would be doing a lot better if they would let me out of this place!"
"Schank, you got shot. Give it a day or two."
"In a day or two I will be dead of starvation. Have you tasted
hospital food lately? Here--try what they call applesauce!"
Schanke held out a spoonful of applesauce for Nick to try. Nick backed away. "No thanks. I trust your opinion."
"Come on, guys, spring me from here. I'd do the same for you."
The nurse came into the room and informed everyone that visiting hours were over until tomorrow.
"Well, Schank, take care of yourself. Let me know if you need
anything."
"I did. I want out of here!"
Tracey came to Nick's rescue. "You'll be out of here soon enough." She bent down and kissed him on the forehead. "See you tomorrow, partner."
Tracey, Vachon and Nick exited the room together. Tracey linked her arm with Nick's. "He's going to be ok, Nick. Don't worry. And I'm not mad at you anymore." She smiled at Vachon.
"I'm glad, Trace. You're working tonight, aren't you?"
"Yeah. I have to get back to the station. The captain is nuts over the shooter being knifed. I heard you ran out of there pretty quickly. Did you see anything?"
"Nothing that could be of service to the department. Vachon, do you have plans tonight?"
Vachon looked at Nick, the surprise showing on his face. "No, thought I'd go back to the church and play guitar."
"Mind if I join you? I'll bring the refreshments."
"I'm going to go with Tracey back to the station. Meet me there in about half an hour."
"Good. See you then." Nick broke away from Vachon and Tracey. When he was out of sight, he took to the air.To be continued
(12/18)
Natalie knew she was drinking more than she usually did, but tonight she didn't care. It was called 'happy hour' for a reason, she thought. She saw her friend Danielle across the bar and waved. Danielle smiled and headed in Natalie's direction. "NAT!" Danielle and Natalie hugged each other tightly.
"How long has it been, Danielle?"
"Oh, I think 2 years! You look radiant!"
"Thanks." Natalie blushed. "You look great, too. I love you with short hair. I think it fits you!"
"I just got tired of trying to take care of it. So, what has got you looking so radiant? And don't tell me it is the Bloody Mary you are drinking. What's his name?"
Nat smiled. She was glad to know it was evident by the look on her face that she was in love. "His name is Nick. We work together in Toronto. What about you?"
"His name is Anthony. I met him when he came to Montreal for a
business trip. He's in the entertainment business. You would like him, Nat. Let's get a table and talk about our men. I want to know everything!"
Natalie and Danielle found a table and ordered another round of drinks.
"So, tell me about Anthony, but skip to the good parts." Natalie
smiled wickedly at her friend. For some reason, she could always let her hair down with Danielle.
"The good parts? Well, he's just a doll. Great personality and is always making me laugh. He is just the most considerate lover. And his voice is so sensual."
"Sensual? He sounds wonderful! Now, get to the good parts."
"Well, to be honest, we haven't gone all the way, yet. Natalie, to be honest, I still haven't gone all the way."
Natalie's eyes popped wide open. "You're a "
"Yes." Danielle blushed. "Anthony knows, and he is very considerate. He doesn't want to rush me. At times I wish he would go faster, but he is very much a gentleman."
"Danielle, I had no idea. I hope Anthony knows how special he must be for you to give him such an important gift. How do you feel about him?"
"Natalie, I don't know how to describe it to you. It's intense. He's very old-fashioned, but we do love one another. I just wish there was a way for us to hear each other's thoughts, to be truly one, even if it was just for a second. But I guess we will have to make do with plain old words like the rest of the universe."
Natalie stared at Danielle, not knowing what to say. She understood her words, but unlike her friend, she had a way to join completely with her lover.
"Natalie."
Natalie looked up to see Janette standing next to her, smiling.
"Janette. What a surprise."
"Is it?"
"That you are alive and well? No. That you are here at a medical examiners' convention? Yes."
"I see. Please, introduce me to your friend."
"Where are my manners?" Natalie nervously laughed and turned to
Danielle. "This is Janette, an old friend of mine from Toronto. Janette, this is Danielle. She and I met during our residencies."
Janette and Danielle exchanged pleasantries. "Please, join us,
Janette. Natalie and I were just trading stories about our boyfriends."
The waitress came by their table and Natalie ordered another Bloody Mary. She had a feeling she would need it.
"Boyfriends. I see. And what is the name of your boyfriend, Natalie?"
Natalie quietly stared at Janette. Danielle broke the awkward silence. "She is dating Nick, a man she works with in Toronto. From the way she is glowing, I think he is good for her. Don't you agree?"
"Yes. Natalie does seem to be glowing. Tell me, Natalie, does
Nicholas please you?"
Natalie knew what Janette was asking. She chose her words carefully. "Yes, he does."
"In what ways does he please you?" Janette smiled wickedly at Natalie and her discomfort.
"You know, Janette, it is Janette, isn't it? I was just wondering that myself. She hasn't shared any details with me about their lovemaking yet." Danielle had downed another vodka and tonic since Janette's arrival and she was feeling no pain. Janette made her nervous. And when she was nervous, Danielle talked, a lot.
"Yes, Natalie. How do you and Nicholas make love?"
Natalie took a sip of her drink and decided the truth was the only option. She turned toward Janette and spoke. "We are lovers in every sense of the word. When he touches me, my body lights on fire, and when we make love he opens his soul to me."
"I had thought as much. I believe you and I need to talk, Natalie. Privately." Janette turned to Danielle. "I'm sure Danielle will understand."
"Yes. Of course. I'll see you tomorrow, Natalie." Danielle rose and quickly left Janette and Natalie alone, grateful to be out of Janette's intimidating presence.
"Perhaps we should find a more private place to talk."
Natalie swallowed the rest of her drink. She smiled at Janette, hoping she wasn't going to be her dinner. "I have a room here at the hotel."
"Shall we?" Janette rose and indicated for Natalie to lead the way.
Natalie stood and tried to get her balance. The room was moving
slightly up and down like a seesaw. She tried to walk, but stumbled into Janette instead. "I think I have had a bit too much to drink."
Janette put her arm around Natalie. "I agree. I believe you require help in walking." Arm in arm, Janette and Natalie walked toward the elevators in the lobby.To be continued
(13/18)
Natalie managed to get her hotel door opened by herself, but still needed Janette's help to get inside the room. Natalie's room was beautiful. Nick had made the reservations and was paying the bill. He wanted Natalie to be comfortable while she was gone. The room had a queen-size bed, sofa, chair and ottoman, desk, and TV/VCR combination.
Natalie turned to Janette as she shut the door. "Ok, am I dinner or an evening snack?"
Janette stared at Natalie, quite amused by her question. "Neither, if you must know. I have no desire to dine on your blood, Natalie."
"Then why are you here? I know the last time you saw Nick you didn't exactly part on the best of terms."
"I felt a disturbance in my link with Nicholas and also with LaCroix. I was hoping you would have some answers for me."
"That's it? I'm not going to be dinner?"
"No, Natalie, that was never my intention."
"Good. I'm going to get another drink then!" Natalie walked over to the minibar and opened the refrigerator. "Let's see. An itsy bottle of vodka and hmm a bottle of tomato juice. A Bloody Mary does seem appropriate, wouldn't you say?"
"Natalie, I think it would be best if you didn't have any more to
drink."
Natalie put her hands on her hips and faced Janette. "Well, I do think it would be best. I'm alone in a hotel room with my boyfriend's former lover, who he was with for almost a century. They are not exactly on the best of terms. I believe he said she probably wants to stake him. OH! And I failed to mention she's a vampire and could suck the blood out of my veins, leaving me to die. I think this is the PERFECT time for a drink!" Natalie reached for one of the plastic cups the hotel provided and mixed her drink.
"Natalie, if you insist on drinking, will you please do so while we talk?" Janette sat down on the sofa and patted the seat next to her.
Natalie considered Janette's request, then decided, what the hell, you only live once. It was only a question of how long. She crossed the room and sat beside Janette. "Ok, so what do you want to talk about?"
"I was hoping you would be able to tell me what has Nicholas so
distressed."
"That would probably be me. We decided to try your cure." Natalie unbuttoned her blouse and showed Janette the marks Nick had left on her neck and breasts. "It's working. Nick is becoming mortal again."
Janette touched Natalie's bite marks. She wondered why Natalie didn't sound more excited about Nick's increasing mortality. "You don't sound pleased at your progress."
"Janette, to be honest, I don't know how I feel." Natalie put her drink down, rose and walked across the room. Tears formed in her eyes. "I didn't expect to love the vampire in him. I didn't expect for the bloodlink to be so important to me." Natalie started to sob, and Janette was quickly at her side, comforting her. Janette held Natalie in her arms, whispering calming French phrases.
"I take it Nicholas is as confused as you are?"
Natalie gently pulled away from Janette and wiped her eyes. "He's had dreams of bringing me across, so we can share each other's blood. There is a part of me that wants that, too. I didn't expect to feel this way." Natalie started crying again. Janette led her back to the sofa and cradled Natalie in her arms, gently rocking back and forth until her tears stopped.
"I'm sorry, Janette. I don't usually cry like this."
"There is no need to apologize, Natalie. I am glad Nicholas found the courage to make love to you." Janette held Natalie's face in her hands, forcing Natalie to look at her. "He cares deeply about you. Do not be afraid. Together you will make the right decision."
"I didn't think there would be a decision, but there is. Janette, help me."
"Why do you think I am here? I'm not pleased with Nicholas, but I do want him to be happy. And I want you to be happy too, Natalie."
Natalie looked into Janette's eyes and saw her sincerity. "Thank you, Janette. There was no one for me to turn to for help."
"Well, I am here now and you can turn to me." Tears formed in both women's eyes. Natalie started to giggle first, and Janette joined her.
"I need to make some coffee, change clothes, and order some dinner. Would you like to get some supplies and join me?"
"Yes, I think that would be best. I will go to a place down the street that can take care of my dining needs. Do you perhaps have something I can change into when I return?"
"I packed several nightgowns. Nick discovered Victoria's Secret, so I have a vast supply of night wear now." Natalie rolled her eyes, and Janette laughed.
"Nicholas does have the tendency to get obsessed when he finds
something new. I'll shall return shortly." Janette was quickly out the door. Natalie went to make coffee and change into one of her many silk pajamas tops.Nick was waiting for Vachon when he returned to the church. "Vachon," Nick called from the sofa. He handed Vachon a glass of bloodwine when he entered the room. "Drink with me? It's some of the Raven's finest. My father's way of tempting me back to blood."
"I see it is working." Vachon took the offered glass and flopped into a chair.
"No. It's not because of him that I'm drinking human blood again."
"Schanke?"
"No." Nick took a long sip out of his glass, polishing off the rest of its contents.
"Well, are you going to make me guess, or are you going to tell me?" Vachon was perplexed by Nick's very un-Nicklike behavior.
"Natalie."
"Natalie?"
"Natalie."
"Did something happen between the two of you?"
"Yes." Nick poured himself another full glass of bloodwine.
Vachon was losing what little patience he had. "Nick, what happened between the two of you?"
"It's complicated." Nick drained his glass again.
Vachon started pacing around the room. He paused and looked right at Nick. "Would you like to try explaining it to me?"
Nick looked at Vachon. He knew the reason he was there was to talk to the younger vampire. "Have you and Tracey made love yet?"
Vachon shook his head, seriously considering finding a stake and
putting himself out of his misery by using it on Nick. "I don't see what that has to do with you and Natalie."
"It would help you to understand."
Vachon refilled his glass. "We did last night."
Nick looked at Vachon. He looked like the cat that ate the canary. Nick smiled. "I'm glad you were able to stop."
"Me too. Tracey especially, I think."
"Why?"
"I think what she saw scared her. She still accepts me and is not afraid of me, but I think she is afraid of some of the things I have done." Vachon returned to his chair and picked up his guitar.
"Does she like you biting her?"
"She doesn't dislike it, but I don't think she is going to list it as a top ten turn-on, if that is what you mean."
"Natalie would." Nick saw the surprised look on Vachon's face.
"She likes it?"
"A lot. How did Tracey like the bloodlink?"
"I don't think she liked me having the opportunity to know her so
well."
"Natalie loves it." Nick looked Vachon in the eye, finally getting to the point. "We both wish it were deeper, more complete."
Vachon started to laugh. "I don't believe it! Nick Knight, who has fought against his very nature, finally starts to embrace it at his very moment of redemption!" Vachon's laughter rang through out the church.
"It isn't funny, Vachon!"
"I'm sorry, man. You're right, but you have to admit it is damn
ironic." Vachon paused, taking a sip of bloodwine to compose himself. "So, does Natalie feel the same way?"
"Yes. We both desperately miss the depth of the link from when we first were together." Nick finished another goblet of bloodwine. "There is more. LaCroix came to visit me last night."
"Does he know about you and Nat?"
"Let's just say he has first-hand evidence."
"Let me guess, the cameras in the back hall of the Raven?"
"Am I the last one to find out about them?"
"I helped with the installation while LaCroix was out of town."
"He threatened Natalie and me if I was to become mortal. He was right. I wouldn't be able to protect her from him."
"You can always leave, Nick. Take Natalie with you and start over some place."
"Do you really think that would stop him?"
"No. You are right. The general would just hunt until he found you. This still doesn't answer why you are drinking human blood again."
"I need to gain my strength back. LaCroix was able to toss me around like a rag doll. Have you heard if he has any plans about Nat and me?"
"No, but I'll keep my ears open."
Nick and Vachon sat drinking bloodwine for the rest of the night. Just before dawn, Nick flew back to his loft. Vachon was asleep when Tracey arrived. She shed her clothes and climbed into bed with him.
Vachon rolled over and smiled at Tracey. "Hey. How's my girl?"
"Better now." Tracey kissed Vachon as his arms embraced her. "What did you and Nick talk about?"
"I'll tell you later." Vachon started to caress Tracey's naked body. He cupped her chin and brought her lips to his.Janette and Natalie stayed up all night talking. At first, they talked about what it was like to be a vampire and to make love to another of their kind. But before the end of the night, they had moved onto universal 'girl' topics such as clothing, make-up, boyfriends, and stock market investment accounts.
They ended the evening by melting chocolate in a metal spoon held over a lighter. Natalie was determined to find out if it could be ingested with blood. She mixed the dark chocolate with a little bit of her blood and handed it to Janette.
A deliriously happy smile spread across her face. "Oh, Natalie, this is almost as good as Ummmm."
"YES! That does it. I don't have to give up chocolate!"
Janette closed her eyes, focused on Natalie's blood in the mixture. "I, too, am glad that we are becoming friends. And, no, I don't think you will have to give up chocolate if this is any indication."
Natalie and Janette fell asleep in bed together after watching the movie "Jerry Maguire" on cable. They cried at the end of the movie when Jerry professed to his wife that she completed him. They both knew Natalie had found the man that completed her and whom she completed. They also talked about how Robert changed Janette. He had filled her life with light and love. Even though she had returned to her vampire state, she didn't lose those things. Robert's light burned brightly in her heart. And she was forever changed.Natalie and Janette spent the next week together. They went bar
hopping, dancing, chocolate tasting, and clothes shopping. Janette even consented to being Natalie's 'date' to the convention's formal dinner. When Janette returned to her new home, she truly was sad that her time with Natalie had concluded. They both had found in each other the sister they never had.To be continued
(14/18)
Nick continued to drink human blood while Natalie was gone. He could feel the vampire resurfacing. His hearing and eyesight returned to their full vampiric state. He was also able to fly with increasing speed. For the first time in centuries he was reveling in the part of him that was vampire.
Schanke had returned to work two days after his release from the
hospital. No matter how much everyone protested, Schanke refused to listen. Tracey and Nick had decided that Myra was driving him crazy and he was taking refuge at the police station.
Natalie had been gone for less than a week, but Schanke was seriously thinking of throwing Nick in the trunk of the Caddie and driving him to Vancouver to be with her. Nick was miserable, and he was making everyone else miserable along with him. The only person who didn't seem to be affected was Tracey. She just smiled at Nick when he growled, patted his cheek and bounced out of the room. Together the two of them were going to drive Schanke nuts. Still, he thought, it was better than being stuck at home where Myra was driving him nuts.It didn't help Nick's disposition any that he and Sydney were having fights on a nightly basis. They both missed the mistress of the loft and were grumpy. They expressed their unhappiness by growling and hissing at one another. Sydney would scratch at Nick, and Nick would let his fangs descend and growl at Sydney. The night usually ended with Sydney hiding under the sofa and Nick cradling the phone in his lap waiting for Natalie to call.
Natalie called Nick late on her eighth evening away. "Natalie? Where have you been? I was starting to get worried!"
"Janette and I were just enjoying our last night together."
Nick paused, his mouth wide open. "Janette?"
"Janette. We spent the last week getting to know each other."
"How well did you get to know each other?"
"Pretty well. I showed her my bite marks." Natalie was enjoying
teasing Nick.
"All of them?"
"All of them." A smile spread on Natalie's face
Nick's smile faded. "Is there something you need to tell me, Natalie?"
Natalie couldn't stand the painful sound in Nick's voice any longer. "No, I'm still the same as when I left you. We just talked and shared. I don't think either of us has ever had another woman with whom we were close."
"No. Janette hasn't had a close female friend since she was brought across."
Natalie answered Nick's silent question. "She is still not pleased with what you did, but she accepts that in the end it was her choice to make, not yours."
"Thanks for telling me, Nat."
"So what have you been doing while you waited for me to call?"
"Thinking about making love to you."
"Really?"
"Really."
"Where?"
"Sitting on the couch."
"No. Where were we making love?"
"On the couch." Nick smiled.
"What were we doing?"
"Making love." Nick loved teasing Natalie. He knew what she wanted to hear, but he was going to make her ask for it.
"Nick!"
"Yes?" Nick could barely control his laughter.
"Tell me! Details!"
"Oh, so you want me to talk dirty to you."
"Please " Natalie's breath was becoming labored because of her thoughts of making love to Nick again.
"I was sitting on the couch, and you were straddling me."
"I have wanted to do that, but I didn't know if you would be able to control yourself."
"I didn't."
"You didn't?" Natalie whispered, unable to speak. She settled down into the bed, closing her eyes.
"I was able to touch your whole body while you rode me. I left little trails of bites all over your breasts."
"What was I doing?"
"You tell me," Nick growled softly. His eyes closed, picturing
Natalie making love to him.
"Ah " Natalie's mind was racing. She knew what Nick wanted to hear. "My hands caress your shoulders as my lips kiss your neck."
"And?"
"And I start to gently bite your neck. I nibble on your ear lobe, whisper to you how much I love you, and want you. I work my way down your neck and start to suckle at the vein." Natalie was breathing heavy, losing herself in her thoughts of being with Nick. She missed their lovemaking.
Nick's fangs descended. Natalie's soft, seductive voice was driving him mad. "Natalie, would you kiss me and caress my fangs, licking each of them?"
"Only if you did the same for me."
"I would caress each of them with such tenderness "
Nick and Natalie's eyes both flew open, the seductive moment coming to an abrupt end.
"Natalie?"
"Nick?"
"Do you know what you said?"
"Yes. I know what I said. I didn't plan to say it, Nick. Do you know what you said?"
"Yes." There was a long pause before Nick spoke again. "We need to talk, Natalie."
"I'll be home in a few days." Silence filled the phone wires again. "Are you mad at me? Disappointed?"
"I'm not mad or disappointed. Please, tell me you aren't disappointed with me?"
"Nick, I love you. I have never been disappointed in you. I guess we have a lot to decide when I get home."
"Yes, I guess we do."
"Nick, will you drop the Jag at the airport tomorrow? I may try to come home early if I can get a flight out. I miss you."
"I'll drop it tonight. I miss you too."Nick hung up the phone, not knowing if he should be elated and
devastated. He did know that he needed to be ready to protect Natalie. LaCroix was not going to take her away from him, regardless of what their future held.Natalie stared at the phone. She knew Nick was worried about
something. She guessed that it was LaCroix. She picked up the phone and called the airport. She and Nick had spent enough time apart.LaCroix smiled to himself. Danielle had just called to say that
Janette had left Natalie's company. The two women had been so inseparable that some conventioners wondered if they were sisters. Danielle had stopped by Natalie's room and discovered that Natalie was taking a four o'clock flight home tomorrow. LaCroix licked his lips. It would be nighttime when Natalie arrived in Toronto.
Danielle had proved to be quite useful. He was amazed at his luck. He met her on a business trip to Montreal. He had slowly seduced Danielle until she was under his control. She had easily yielded to both his mind and his hands. LaCroix had enjoyed making the woman scream repeatedly in ecstasy. He looked forward to his next visit to Montreal later in the month, when he could bring their lovemaking to a climax. It was decades since he had taken a woman's virginity, and he would enjoy sweet Danielle's body and blood. The
only question was how many return tickets he would need.To be continued
(15/18)
The Jag was exactly where Nick said he parked it the night before. Natalie was glad to be home and quickly tossed her bags into the trunk. She slipped behind the wheel just as the sun finished setting.
Natalie called Nick on her cell phone as soon as she exited the airport parking lot.
"Knight."
"I was hoping so."
"Natalie! I wasn't expecting you to call until later, after the
seminar."
"You weren't expecting me to be driving home to you either."
"You're back in Toronto?"
"I'm in the Jag headed toward the loft as we speak. I couldn't be away from you any longer. I missed you too much."
"Natalie, I'm glad."
"Anything exciting happen while I was gone?"
"I'll tell you all about it when you get here."
"No, tell me now! When I get home, I don't think either of us will feel very much like talking."
"Umm. You are probably right. I have news about Tracey and Vachon. They decided to try the cure."
"And?"
"And things were successful. Tracey is still alive and breathing, and they are both very satisfied, from what I have heard."
"That's wonderful. I can't wait to talk to Trace tomorrow."
Something flew in front of Natalie's car. She screamed and swerved to miss it, dropping the phone in the process. As soon as Natalie straightened the car, the animal made another pass. She swerved off the road to miss whatever was aiming for her new Jag, coming to a stop in a ditch. She picked up the phone to let Nick know she was ok.
"NATALIE!" Terror filled Nick's voice. He had the skylight open, ready to fly to Natalie's rescue.
"I'm ok, Nick. Something keeps flying in front of the car."
"Or someone! Where are you?"
"The " Natalie's response was cut off as she screamed. The animal landed on the car hood. LaCroix bared his fangs and growled. Natalie put the car in reverse and the gas pedal to the floor. LaCroix was thrown from the hood of the car, disoriented only for a moment.
Natalie maneuvered the car back onto the road and into drive. She drove as fast as she could, trying desperately to out-race an animal that she knew she couldn't.Nick heard Natalie scream a second time. He flew out the skylight, frightened of what he would find when he reached her.
LaCroix quickly recovered and flew after Natalie's car. Damn mortal, he thought, she never was cooperative.
Natalie was terrified. She didn't know if LaCroix meant to bring her across or to kill her. Either way, she knew she had to devise a plan, quickly. She didn't see the deer that jumped in front of her car as she went around a sharp curve. The buck's rack pierced the window, driving deeply into Natalie's chest. The Jag swerved off the road and headlong into a tree. The impact threw the deer from the car, ripping his antlers out of Natalie's chest.
Tears slid down Natalie's face as pain flooded her body. On the way to embrace immortality, her mortality hit her square in the face. LaCroix landed in front of the car and leered.
"Delicious." LaCroix licked his lips. "What should I do with you?"
"Just do it."
"I'm having trouble making a decision, you see. Should I savor every last drop of your blood, denying Nicholas your love forever, or should I offer to bring you across, denying both of you the link you so deathly crave?"
"You won't have the opportunity to do either." Nick grabbed the collar of his father's coat and threw him back onto the freeway. Nick raced to Natalie's side. He gasped at the sight of her bleeding chest. He looked into her eyes and knew what he must do.
"I love you, Nick."
"And I you, Natalie." Nick pulled her free of the wreckage, cradled her in his arms, and sunk his fangs into her neck. He drank of her human blood for the last time. Her love washing over him in waves, giving him the strength to stop before her heartbeat faded completely. Nick tore his wrist open, allowing the blood to drip into Natalie's mouth.LaCroix returned while Nick drank Natalie's blood. He looked at his son and laughed. "You will not be able to bring her across, Nicholas. You will fail. The same way Janette failed to bring Robert across. You no longer have enough vampire blood in your system."
As the blood started to flow from Nick's wrist into Natalie's mouth, he turned to LaCroix. "I have been reveling in what you made me. What you could not make me understand in almost 800 years, Natalie did in one drop of her sweet blood." He looked down at Natalie and gently stroked her face. "She will come back to me. It is the way things should be." At that moment Natalie awoke and drank deeply of Nick's blood.
LaCroix was furious. The anger of being denied his revenge for Fleur filled him. He looked on the ground and found a broken limb from the tree. He flew at Nicholas, intent upon making his son hurt just as he had been hurt all those years ago.Natalie felt herself slipping into the void. She was dying. The blood loss had made her weak, and she could feel herself slipping away. She was mortal, she thought. This would be the end. When she saw Nick arrive and dispose of LaCroix, her heart beat with hope. She managed to find the strength to tell Nick that she loved him. She prayed he would make the right choice. The same one they both knew they wanted, car wreck or not. She had rejoiced when Nick's fangs delicately slipped into her vein. Salvation was at hand. For the first time, she completely lost herself in the images of Nick. His life flashed before her eyes with blinding speed. A darkness descended upon her, engulfing her in its vast emptiness, until a bright light appeared, blinding her. She could hear the light calling to her, singing her name, wanting to embrace her. She walked hesitantly toward it. Where was Nick? Where was his blood that was her redemption? She wasn't ready for her Earth-walk to end. She wasn't ready to leave Nick.
Just before the bright light surrounded her, Natalie felt the call of Nick's blood. She rejoiced. Her lover, her soul-mate, her best friend, was calling her home. Home to his arms, his love, his friendship, and their life together.
The light stopped singing and gently faded away, but it left one strong message in its wake: "One day, centuries from now, we will return for both of you." Natalie returned to the darkness. She never looked back.LaCroix flew at Nick, his makeshift stake poised to damage his son. Right before impact, Nick tore his wrist from Natalie's grasp, and together they stopped LaCroix. Natalie ripped the stake from his hand as Nick threw LaCroix back. LaCroix landed. The buck's antlers pierced his chest and abdomen. His blood flowed freely on the ground.
Nick gathered Natalie in his arms. He knew her first hunger would hit soon, and he needed to get her back to the loft. He turned to LaCroix and smiled. "My daughter and I are going home."To be continued
(16/18)
Nick set Natalie down in the kitchen. He opened the refrigerator and reached for the finest bottle his father had left for him.
"Nick," Natalie cried, doubled over with pain, "the hunger--it's
horrible."
"I know, my love. Nick pulled the cork out of the bottle with his fangs. Natalie grabbed it out of his hands and drank greedily. Nick prepared three more bottles for her. Halfway through the fourth, Natalie begin to slow down.
"Do you need more, Natalie?"
Natalie finished the last drops of the bottle and grabbed a towel to wipe her chin. "I'm fine, Nick. The blood was incredible. It told me everything about the donors."
"How are you feeling?" Nick pulled Natalie's torn shirt apart to
examine her breasts.
Natalie looked down, remembering the pain that had coursed through her body just minutes before. The wounds on her chest had healed and no longer hurt. She also noticed that all her bite marks from Nick had faded from view. "I can't feel the pain anymore. The wounds seem to be healing quickly." She looked up into Nick's concerned eyes. "I'm fine, Nick. I promise. Thank you for trusting me and having faith in us. Thank you for bringing me across." Natalie's hand gently stroked Nick's cheek.
"I didn't want it to happen this way."
"You're kidding. I thought you had plotted with LaCroix so it turned out like this." Natalie giggled at her own comment. "Sometimes, Nick, things don't turn out as planned."
"No, sometimes they don't. Sometimes they turn out better."LaCroix grimaced as he pulled the antlers from his body. He needed fresh blood to heal. He was going to Montreal tonight. He was determined the night would not be a complete waste.
Across town in Tracey's apartment, the new lovers were kissing.
Tracey's insistent tongue explored Vachon's mouth. She stroked his gums until his fangs descended.
"Tracey," Vachon whispered, breaking away from her kisses. "Don't rush." He started to blow in her ear, causing Tracey to moan with pleasure. Slowly his tongue circled her ear and then traveled down her neck.
Tracey pushed Vachon back on their bed and climbed on top of him. He easily slid inside her. She started to grind against his hardness, her eyes closed, her complete attention focused on enjoying the feel of him inside of her. Vachon's hands kneaded Tracey's breasts, his fingers gently stroking her nipples into hard nubs that he captured in his mouth.
"I love you, Trace. You give my life a purpose it's never had."
Vachon smiled at his lady. Her eyes opened, and she smiled at his words.
"Thank you, Vachon. Thank you for loving me and for this." Tracey stopped her movements. She and Vachon looked into each other's eyes, enjoying their newfound love.
"Enough tender moments for one session." Vachon flipped Tracey on her back. He stroked in and out of her with a quickening pace. In minutes, Vachon inserted his fangs into Tracey's neck. He drank of her essence, of her energy, and for a brief moment, they were one. Tracey moaned and hugged Vachon to her neck. Her climax washed over her body seconds before Vachon retracted his fangs. He held her tightly against his body.
Tracey quivered as the after-effects of her orgasm shivered through her body. Vachon rolled onto his back, bringing Tracey with him. She smiled up at him. "I love what you do to me."
Vachon laughed. "I'm glad, otherwise this would be pointless."
"Oh, it definitely has a point. I just hope you aren't thinking your job's done for the night."Don Schanke settled into his bed. His wife was locked away in their bathroom doing God-knows-what nightly ritual. Schanke had tired of his wife's constant fawning after the shooting. He knew Myra was happy that he was alive, and that was the reason for all her attention. The problem was that Schanke was about to go crazy.
"Myra, are you coming to bed?"
"Just a minute, dear."
"What do you want to watch tonight on TV?"
"Sometimes, sweetheart, you don't realize what you have until you
almost lose it. And when you do realize how much another means to you, you want to do anything to make them happy."
"That's nice, but, Myra, what channel do you want me to put on the TV?"
"I don't want to watch TV tonight, Don." Myra opened the bathroom door. She walked out and stood at the foot of the bed.
Schanke's mouth dropped wide open. Myra was wearing the leather
lingerie he had bought her for the last four Christmases, including the boots.
"I love you, Don, and I'm glad I am your wife."
Schanke rose from the bed and pulled his wife into his arms. "Me too, honeycakes, me too." They both started to giggle as they fell onto the bed. "So, this is why you wanted Jenny to go spend the night at a friend's house."
"Uh-huh." Myra covered Don's mouth with her own. Their hands moved in beautiful harmony, one gained through years and years of practice.Several hours later, LaCroix landed on Danielle's balcony. He opened the sliding glass door, letting himself into her apartment. He could hear Danielle's heartbeat. It was slow and steady. She was sleeping. Perfect, LaCroix thought, perfect.
He entered her bedroom and stared at Danielle as she slept. She was like a princess, he thought, an innocent princess. He was going to take that innocence from her and savor every drop. He placed his bag next to the bed, just in case.
LaCroix sat beside her on the bed and gently stroked her face.
Danielle gasped when she opened her eyes and realized that someone was in her room. She smiled when she realized it was Anthony. "Anthony. I wasn't expecting you."
"I didn't want to spend one more minute away from you." LaCroix pulled her lips to his. He smothered her in kisses, his hands running over her body. Quickly they were between her legs. His fingers stroked her nub, making her wetter, readying her for his entrance.
"Do you wish to know what I truly am? Do you wish to be lovers in every sense of the word?"
"Yes, Anthony, yes. Please, make love to me."
"I will do more than make love to you."
LaCroix removed his clothes and tore Danielle's nightgown from her body. His hands descended on her body as his hips parted her legs. Soon, she would be his.Natalie and Nick cuddled together in front of the fire. They each sipped from a glass of bloodwine. Nick shared with Natalie the things she would need to learn to survive. Natalie was not thrilled with having to learn to hunt, but she understood the necessity. Nick also explained to her that she would be able to 'feel' when other vampires were nearby.
"There is a special link between a master and his or her children. You can find me, Natalie, by following that link."
"So, you are my master now, is that what you are saying?"
"Technically, yes. Realistically, no. I know no one could ever
control you, nor would I ever want to try. I only want you to be with me and to stay with me because you desire to be here, not because I am your master."
"There you go, calling yourself my master again."
"Well, technically, I am." Nick smiled playfully at Nat.
"Your much more than that. You're my lover, my best friend, my
companion, and hopefully my flying teacher." Natalie stroked Nick's face, amusement filling her eyes.
"I think I like all those things better." Nick cupped Nat's chin and kissed her gently. Natalie tried to pull him into a closer embrace, but he resisted. "Not yet. I want to answer all your questions. I don't want to keep anything from you."
Natalie cuddled against Nick's chest. She loved the feeling of his arms encircling her, holding her safely to him. She closed her eyes, enjoying the new connection that was between them.LaCroix's tongue explored Danielle's sweet mouth. She was soft and yielding to his touch. When he pushed, she gave way. When he grinded into her, she moved in harmony with him. She returned his kisses, her tongue eagerly exploring his mouth. Her hands caressed his rear, pulling him deeper inside of her.
Danielle moaned under LaCroix's expert touch. He pulled out of her and she whimpered. Her eyes looked at him, pleading. "Please!" was the only word she could find the strength to mutter. LaCroix gently turned her over and pulled her to her knees. He placed himself behind her, caressing her back. He entered her again. Danielle screamed as he penetrated her deeper, filling her to her core.
Slowly, LaCroix moved inside of her. His rhythm was slow at first, but increased steadily with his growing need. One of his hands guided her hips while the other caressed her clit. "Harder! Anthony, I need you to fill every part of me!"
"I will, my love. I will." LaCroix caressed Danielle's back. He ran his hand through her hair. He pulled Danielle's hair, bringing her up on her knees, her back against his chest. He swept her hair to the side, exposing her neck. He breathed in deeply, enjoying her scent. Her blood called to him. He suckled on her neck, his fangs descending.
"Do you want to know what I truly am? Do you want me to be your
master?"
"My master? Oh, yes. I am yours, Anthony. Take me."
"I will. And I also will be your slave, forever." LaCroix pounded into Danielle, her orgasm washing over her. His fangs entered her neck, drinking of her essence as his blood sperm filled her body. He drank deeply. Her heartbeat started to fade.
Her strength washed over him, its depth surprising him. Behind her innocence, there was a woman who was alluring, sensual, and erotic. Visions danced in LaCroix's mind of her making love to herself, desiring a man who could guide her, teach her. LaCroix pulled his fangs free of Danielle's neck.
LaCroix ripped his wrist open with his fangs. He held his arm above Danielle's mouth and let his blood run down her throat. "Come back to me, Danielle. Come and let me guide you, teach you and love you. Come be my companion."
Danielle's eyes opened, and she looked into LaCroix's eyes as she drank his blood. Her eyes grew wide with the visions she saw. LaCroix tore his wrist from her eager mouth and reached for his bag.
"Lucien you're Lucien." Danielle smiled, crushing her master's lips with her own.To be continued
(17/18)
Nick had continued to tell Natalie about being a vampire. Natalie had closed her eyes and listened to Nick's voice, losing herself in the gentle humming of their link. Finally, she tired of Nick's ramblings. "Nick?"
"Do you have a question, Nat?"
"Yes. When are we going to make love?"
Nick stopped midway to forming an answer. "I've been rambling, haven't I?"
"Uh-huh." Natalie sat up and looked at Nick. Her hand stroked the side of his face. "I thought it was time we explored our link." She pulled his lips to hers. Natalie's hands went instinctively to Nick's jeans. She unbuttoned them and quickly pulled the zipper down. Her hands reached inside, pleased to feel the softness of his silk boxers.
Natalie pushed Nick back on the floor and climbed on top of him, while Nick pulled the tattered, bloody remains of her shirt from her body. His hands made quick work of discarding her bra. Natalie leaned down and kissed Nick gently on the lips, then nipped her way down his neck over to his ear. Each time she nipped a drop of his blood would surface, and she would eagerly lick it up. She felt Nick's hands on her naked back, gently stroking her. His fangs gently nibbled on her neck, enjoying droplets of her blood.
Nick pushed Natalie up into a seated position. "Slowly, my love,
slowly."
Natalie glared at Nick, her eyes turning golden. "I don't want to go slowly. I want to taste you."
"It's better if you take it slow." Nick's hands started kneading
Natalie's breasts. He lightly stroked her nipples. They hardened under his touch. He pulled her down toward him, capturing one of her nipples in his mouth. He gently sucked one, then the other. Each time he sucked harder, until Natalie was moaning, begging him to take her blood. "I can feel your desire. Can you feel mine? Reach into our link, Natalie. Feel it." Natalie closed her eyes and let Nick's desire rush over her, colliding with her own. Nick waited until he felt her smile, then sunk his fangs into her nipple, her blood filling his mouth. He quickly removed his fangs and licked the wound. Natalie forcefully moved his mouth to her other nipple, demanding that it receive the same attention. Nick obliged his lady's wishes.
Natalie ripped open Nick's shirt and sucked on his nipples. She
quickly bit each of them, enjoying the lust and love she found in Nick's blood. She had never felt so desired and beautiful. She nibbled her way down Nick's chest to his jeans. Her hands reached inside his boxers and eased them and his jeans down his body. Natalie bit around Nick's most sensitive area, but never let her lips touch his manhood. Her tongue lightly stroked the inside of Nick's thighs. She looked at Nick, her fangs completely descended. "What do you want me to do, Nick?"
Nick could barely control his desire to pull her neck up to his fangs and drink deeply. He studied Natalie. Her hands had wrapped around his manhood, and her mouth poised just above the tip. "Natalie, you don't have to if you don't want to."
"The question is, do you want me to?" Natalie let her tongue slightly touch the tip.
"Oh, Nat. Ye..." Nick moaned as Natalie's mouth descended on his manhood.
Natalie took Nick's hardness into her mouth completely. She slowly moved back up his manhood, then her tongue caressed every inch. She took the tip back into her mouth and swirled her tongue around the head as she sucked. She alternated between caressing the head with her tongue and taking him deeply into her mouth.
Nick gripped the edge of the sofa, his fingers ripping the upholstery. His fangs hurt with the desire to taste Natalie. He reached out to her through their link and flooded her with his need.
Natalie stopped sucking Nick and looked at him. "Do you want me, Nick? Do you want my blood?"
Nick looked at Natalie. "Yes," he growled.
"What was that you said about going slow?" Natalie smiled wickedly at Nick.
Nick growled and reached for Natalie, pulling her up to his waiting mouth. He kissed her deeply, his tongue caressing her new fangs. Natalie moaned at the new sensations that were coursing through her body. Nick bit Natalie's neck repeatedly until he reached the vein that would give him her essence and relief. He quickly flipped Natalie on her back and pinned her hands on either side of her head.
Natalie looked at Nick, surprised. She growled, her lips reaching for his. Nick pulled away from her. "Slowly, my love. Slowly." He leered at her, and Natalie knew instantly she was in for some delicious torture. Nick kissed each of Natalie's arms, gently stopping to suckle at the inside of her elbow. His fangs slipped into the veins at her wrists. He enjoyed the visions he saw in Natalie's blood. She wanted him. She wanted to please him and for him to please her. Her desire for the completed bloodlink was almost
overwhelming.
Nick gently sucked each of Natalie's fingers and worked his way back to her neck. He stopped and looked into her golden eyes, just inches from her face. "Anticipation is a wonderful thing, don't you think?"
Natalie growled at Nick, and he laughed. He released her hands and worked his way down her body first to her breasts, then her stomach, and lastly to the place she longed for him to fill. He ripped her pants and underwear from her body.
Nick parted her lips and gently stroked her nub. He insert one of his fingers into Natalie, and moved it slowly in and out. His strokes came to an abrupt halt as his mouth descended to within inches of Natalie's moist core. "What do you want me to do, Natalie?"
"Nick. Please!"
"Please, what?"
"Nick!"
"Yes?" Nick's eyes twinkled. His desire was under control now, and he was going to fill Natalie with as much desire as she had him. His tongue lightly grazed her clit. "Is this what you want me to do?"
"Yes. Nick, taste me, all of me."
Nick's mouth descended upon Natalie's mound. His tongue licked
furiously at her nub, as his fingers dove in and out of her sweet core. Natalie moaned, her body arching up toward Nick's mouth. She closed her eyes and let their link rush through her body.
Nick could feel his lover's longings, her needs. He stopped his
ministrations and kissed his way back up Natalie's body. His mouth found hers, and she hungrily licked his fangs. "I love you, Natalie." Nick stood up and looked down at his new daughter. "Thank you for coming back to me." Nick gathered Natalie in his arms and flew her to their bedroom.
They laid side by side on the bed. Nick ran his fingertips slowly over the curves of Natalie's body. He caressed her face and pulled her toward him. Their lips hungrily met. Nick rolled Natalie onto her back and eased his body on top of hers. He ran the tip of his manhood up and down her clit. Natalie whimpered beneath him. Her eyes looked pleadingly into his. Nick suddenly slid into Natalie fully. She gasped, her body arching up to meet his.
"Look at me, Natalie." Natalie opened her eyes and stared into Nick's eyes. Nick moved slowly in and out of Natalie's softness. "Feel our link. Feel the connection between us. Reach out to me, Natalie."
Natalie opened herself to Nick as she let his eyes enchant her. She stretched out with her new senses. She could feel the movement of the blood in Nick's veins, and she could smell his scent. It intoxicated her, calling her nearer. His eyes were the windows to his soul, and eagerly she reached into them to touch the deepest, darkest parts.
Nick could feel Natalie searching with her senses. In her eyes was the acceptance he had so desperately sought. Her love flickered over him like a flame. It stoked his desires, driving him deeper and faster into her. She was his, for now and forever.
Together they rode the crests of wave after wave until they built their passions to a frenzied need that insisted on fulfillment. Natalie pulled Nick's lips to her own, exploring his mouth with her tongue until she found his fangs. She lovingly caressed them as she quivered from Nick's ministrations to her fangs.
Nick drove harder into Natalie, her body rising to meet each thrust. Their need for each other's blood could no longer be denied. Natalie sought Nick's vein, her fangs aching with need. She found it, as Nick found hers.
His blood filled her body, his desires, his passions becoming hers. Her blood filled him, comforted him, and changed him. They moved in perfect union as their bodies climaxed, their secretions coating each other with evidence of their love. As they continued to circulate their blood, the boundaries between their bodies blurred. They soared together through climax after climax until their minds, bodies, and souls joined as one.
They withdrew their fangs and held each other. Their tears fell
silently as they realized the beauty of their link and their love.
"I have never experienced anything so beautiful, so breath-taking in all my life." Natalie whispered.
"And that, my dear, sweet Natalie, was only the beginning." He could feel Natalie's amazement as it filled their link and his body. Nick smiled, pulling Natalie closer.
Natalie relaxed completely in Nick's arms, peace filling her body. They snuggled together. The memory of being one body, heart, mind and soul filled their link. Each was no longer alone. Together they drifted into a contented sleep.To be continued
(18/18)
Epilogue:
6 months laterNick entered the abandoned church that had served as Vachon's home before he and Tracey became lovers. Nick could hear Vachon's heart beating strongly. He stopped and looked at the Spaniard dressed in a dark gray, double-breasted suit. Vachon was tearing up the sofa looking for something. "Vachon, what are you looking for?"
Vachon jumped. He wasn't used to being mortal again. "Hey, Nick. Come help me hunt for the rings. I can't find them."
"That's because you gave them to me to keep."
"I did?"
"You did."
"Well, that was bright of me. I have to tell you, Nick, I am a little bit nervous about tonight."
"I thought you and Tracey were happy living together and were going to wait awhile before you got married. Natalie and I were surprised when you called yesterday and told us you were getting married tonight."
"Nick, we just thought it best to hurry things along, considering."
"Considering what?"
"Considering that Tracey is pregnant. I'm going to be a daddy."
Nick smiled happily at Vachon. "You got her pregnant?"
"I forgot how fertile I was when I was mortal." Vachon smiled wickedly at Nick. "After 400 years, I guess it's time I grew up. I've been running from taking responsibility for my actions my entire life. Tracey gives me a reason to stop running."
"How are you adjusting to your mortality?"
"For now, I'm doing ok. I'm working at the Raven for LaCroix, the hunters are leaving Tracey and me alone, and your lady is using me as a human pincushion for her tests. Overall, I'd say I'm doing ok. But I don't promise not to come asking you to bring me back across in a few decades. I just take it day by day. How about you? How's immortality these days?"
"Better than it's ever been. I finally have learned to accept what I am and to value it. The bloodlink between Natalie and me is wonderful. I don't know that I would ever want to give it up. I don't know how you adjusted to losing your link with Tracey."
"It wasn't that hard. Perky, though being an adorable part of Tracey's personality, is ridiculous on me."
Nick laughed and looked at his watch. "We better be getting on our way. The girls should be at the courthouse by now."After the wedding, Nick and Natalie flew back to the loft and landed on the roof. They both had taken the night off. They sat on the roof, looking out on the city. Nick held Natalie in his arms. They could feel and hear the storm approaching.
"I still can't believe Tracey is pregnant."
"I know, Natalie. It's hard to imagine her and Vachon as parents."
"It will be nice to have a baby around."
Nick frowned. He and Natalie had never discussed children. "I'm sorry that we can't have children right now, Natalie."
"Nick. Don't be sorry. I'm happy just being the two of us. I don't want a child in the picture, yet. I know one day, maybe in a few years or maybe a few centuries from now, I will want to have your child, but I really am happy just being us."
"We may never have children."
"We will have children, Nick, and we will be mortal again. I am able to put the pieces together faster with my new vampire mind, and Vachon has been a wealth of information. I won't have a cure tomorrow, but I will in the next couple of years, given that you let me out of bed enough." Natalie playfully kissed Nick. Their eyes locked, each intently staring at the other.
"That soon?"
"Nick, we don't have to use it when I develop it. We can wait until we are ready, however long that is."
Nick kissed Natalie. "I love you, Natalie Lambert. Hmm I don't like the sound of that."
"What do you mean, you don't like the sound of that!" Natalie
disengaged herself from Nick's arms. "Well?"
"I mean that Natalie Knight has a much better ring, wouldn't you say?"
Blood tears filled Natalie's eyes. "Are you asking "
"Yes."
Natalie smiled at Nick. "Then the answer is yes."
Nick reached in his pocket and pulled out a ring. He slipped it on Natalie's left ring finger. Her mouth was wide open the entire time. Rain started to fall gently from the sky.
"Do you like it?"
Natalie stared down at the rock on her hand and smiled. "I love it."
Nick pulled Natalie into his arms and covered her mouth with his.
Their link was humming with their desire for each other. The rain had started to fall hard, and the thunder was moving closer to them. Nick guided Natalie toward the skylight to go inside. Natalie stopped him.
"Take me, Nick. Here." Thunder roared over their heads, but Nick could feel no fear coming from Natalie. "I feel safe in your arms. You have melted all my fears away."
"And you have melted mine." Their lips met, then their bodies. The rain drenched their clothes, so they shed them. Nick held Natalie's wet, naked body in his arms, loving her again and again. When the time came, they drank lovingly of each other's essence, both realizing that living fantasies are the best kind.The end probably for now at least!
By Tyra
Send all comments and Nick to: Branwwolf@aol.com.
Sister Voyeura - Convent of the DSS
N&Npacker/ NatPacker/ Light Cousin and Dark Knight tendencies
So, how did you like it?