After being outside of that room, I felt like I could breathe. Though Gerta was eyeing me down. So, I could hardly relax. But much to my surprise, I found myself in her arms soon after the door closed. She called me foolish for trying to sacrifice myself for everyone.

Though most importantly was how grateful she was that I made it out alright. I tried to ignore her worries and affection, though I was quick to notice Alistair down the hall. Unable to stay in this much more, I slid my way out of the old woman’s hands and ran to him.

The moment he heard my footsteps, he turned to me and smiled. Though there was something wrong...

“Ah… I’m glad to see you safe, little lamb.” Under his eyes, there were dark circles.

It almost seemed like he hadn’t rested. Though for that to happen to a vampire, it would be multiple nights without sleep. Even Loki gave the impression of being fine after not sleeping for almost two days.

Is he not feeling well?

I had to drown the desire to ask. After all, it was not my place. Especially to call him out in the halls would be a mistake. Andrea would use anything to control him.

“And I you. Is Lucas…?” I asked, hoping that he was alright.

The moment the vampire’s name rolled off my tongue, Ali chuckled.

“He’s fine.” He answered, gazing at me.

Something about him seemed off. Yet again, I wasn’t used to seeing him that tired. After all, he was usually late for his spars too. Not that the maids tried for him to wake up in time. Though, I couldn’t see them following him today.

They usually weren’t far behind him. And they hadn’t been the ones who died. It had only been Emma and a few other guests who were murdered by the beast that appeared during the ball.

“That’s good,” I mumbled, tapping my fingers on my arm.

Alistair gazed towards the old woman while ignoring Zoe, with who he barely ever interacted. She didn’t mind, though. They were strangers to one another, after all.

“Gerta… good to see you safe,” he simpered.

It appeared they hadn’t seen each other until now. Then again, everyone had spent the day inside their rooms. That made me wonder if he had spent the night with Lucas.

Can that be why he seems this way?

“Prince Alistair, it’s a blessing to be back.” The old woman bowed her head.

I couldn’t help but feel sad about her situation. They were her grandkids, yet she couldn’t tell them. And it wasn’t my place to out her either. Though, was that something I could keep from Loki? And if I told him, would he tell the rest of them?

Unlikely. I can’t hide anything from him anymore.

I even outed his elder brother, though he hadn’t said a thing to Alistair. Though, I doubted it would come up. If anything, it would piss my vampire off after I stepped on his foot. I only expected anger to come from him after he exited that room.

“I was coming to see Grandfather, but he isn’t in his room.” Alistair gazed at me, wondering why we were here.

He didn’t know that there was a meeting being conducted without him. It made me feel bad for him. After all, he might have caused Loki’s predestined demise, but surely it wasn’t by desire. I could tell how much he cared for his two younger brothers, even when they held him at arm’s reach.

This was something I hoped I could change. This boy deserved his family. Especially after my coven took his father.

“No, he’s with the Silver Fang family,” Gerta answered, honestly, much to my surprise.

I thought she would lie to him. The poor prince winced. Of course, it stung for him to not be there. But he knew Rem didn’t like him. Too bad she didn’t know him. This boy also deserved to be saved.

If not the only one of us who did.

“Ah… and I’m not invited again, it seems.” He sighed with a bitter look on his face.

Who wouldn’t be hurt if their family rejected him? Well, I wouldn’t be like them. After losing Emma, I wouldn’t lose any more of my friends. If that was what I could call them. Though he didn’t know who I truly was.

Would he be scared if he knew? Or would he hate me, too?

There was no way to know unless I told him. After all, Oswald and Thea were allies.

That’s all they are, right? Damn it, why did they have to get into my heart?

Everything was a mess because they couldn’t mind their own business. Though I wouldn’t ignore this young boy.

“They just don’t know how nice you are, Ali,” I reassured him, grabbing onto his shoulder.

A soft smile came from his lips, chuckling a bit.

“And I’m guessing Rem chased you out?” he queried with that same soft smile.

It appeared so gentle.

Has his surrounding air been like this? Or is it because of Lucas? Surely, they must’ve spent the night together.

The prince’s face lit up when I said that.

Yes… this feeling isn’t wrong.

“Heh… Kind of? I told you she doesn’t like me either. I don’t think any of them do.” A sigh left my lips, shrugging.

I was the one who stormed out of there, though. It wasn’t Rem. Though I would do anything to make him smile. And it wasn’t like she wouldn’t have chased me out right after Loki went crazy.

He lost his mind.

Though my cheeks turned pink upon remembering what he said.

“Even after you saved her kids. Eh, it sounds like her though.” He chuckled before wincing again.

He reached for his head, shaking it a bit.

Did he hit his head?

“Well, Gerta, will you tell grandfather about me?” Alistair asked, holding his head.

He didn’t seem to be injured. Though with what happened the previous night, anyone would have a headache. Mine was still slightly present. Though he seemed odd.

“Yes, my prince. Shall I call you after the meeting is over?” Gerta acknowledged his request.

She was in full work mode. How fast she could switch between them surprised me. Though she was an expert. I could also tell she was studying Alistair’s demeanor. Something was off.

“No… I think I’ll lie down. I’ve been having this damn pain since this morning.” He complained, gazing at Gerta.

Though… I couldn’t help myself.

“Is that because you slept little last night?” I chuckled, teasing the little vampire.

His cheeks flushed redder than blood itself. I guess the tone of my voice was enough to alert him to what I meant. It also appeared whatever was hurting him appeared to take a second spot.

“Oi… You’re a noisy one.” Alistair hissed, eyes twitching.

It was all rather cute. These brothers were one of a kind. Though, I didn’t know how far I would go for them.

“You’re the one who called me your friend, remember? Those are noisy.” I smirked, crossing my arms.

I couldn’t help but gaze at him as his eyes turned tender towards me. He cared for me as a friend, that much I could tell. It warmed my heart. I couldn’t allow what happened with Emma to him. But how far would I go to protect the prince?

“I didn’t sleep as much. If you must know. And yes, it was because of them.” Alistair chuckled, enjoying himself.

His smile warmed my heart differently than Loki did. I wouldn’t shove him away like the rest of his family. No, I would try to save this young boy who was probably about to be used. The tournament was where fates would collide.

Something in my gut told me that. Perhaps it was the peak of everything since the fate of the crown would be decided then. How I wished they would cancel the damn thing. Though Edna’s warning was ringing in my mind.

The crown prince killed Loki… Did that mean that Alistair beat Loki in a duel? Or…

I didn’t have a good feeling about the tournament. Especially with gods after the boys, too.

“Good,” I smirked, happy to hear that.

He deserved happiness. And I wouldn’t trouble him with things from my world. No, I would try to protect all of them from the celestial plains. We divines were a cruel bunch.

“Will they join you later?” I teased, this time biting my lip.

The expression on his face was glorious. Though, it seemed I broke something inside of the poor boy. Those red orbs were staring at me with such embarrassment that I knew Lucas was probably still in his room.

That headache was probably secondary to the real reason he wanted to go back quickly.

“Uh, you’re stepping on my toes here.” Alister gushed, cheeks bright red.

He was too adorable. Part of me couldn’t help myself from teasing the poor boy. Though I had to stop somewhere. None of Leonard’s kids were bad, and that made me feel responsible. I had to make this right.

Somehow…

“You know, I’m rooting for you, Ali. I know you’ll be the best king in all of Celnaer’s history.” I beamed, feeling accomplished with this friendship that had bloomed within us.

I couldn’t believe how I thought of him as nothing more than a pest before. One should get to know someone before lumping them with everyone else. Before I knew it, I was in his arms as he hugged me tenderly.

The entire motion even surprised Gerta, who had been silently watching us. His embrace was so warm, though I couldn’t respond the same. Not while I hid so much from him. He held me so close that I could smell a soft vanilla scent on his shirt.

It didn’t give me the same peace my prince did, but I didn’t mind it. Though… a memory rose…

Warmth surrounded me as muffled sounds erupted around me. There were three presences around.

“What an awful fate awaits us.” A familiar female voice erupted.

Sadly, it wasn’t as clear…

“What makes you say that Edna?” another familiar female asked.

Nothing was clear, everything was fuzzy.

“Just a feeling…” Edna sighed.

“Hmm… do you think our baby can hear us?” A familiar male voice queried.

“They say a fetus can hear after noises from twenty-four weeks onward.” The unnamed familiar female informed.

“Maybe… But she isn’t like a normal baby. She is a full soul placed into a soulless body. I will seal away her memories when we finish the bond. So… I think she can hear us.” Edna chuckled.

I felt even warmer. Was I happy to hear them? But I couldn’t see them.

“How are you feeling? Will it be long now?” The familiar female questioned.

“No, sadly, I don’t think I can hold her in me for much longer, Lilith,” Edna informed.

Suddenly, I didn’t feel as warm as I did before. Was I causing trouble?

“Isn’t it too early? You got pregnant after Vera.” The male voice worried.

“She’ll live, Cain. And she’ll have you to guide her.” Edna assured.

A soft groan left her lips, as I could feel her distress. Something was wrong. The strength of holding a god was too much.

“It seems our deal will have to be fast-forwarded a month, Vera. They have to be born before her.” Edna added.

Her voice wasn’t as clear as before. She was struggling with something.

“Shit… your water broke? It’s too early.” Cain voiced concern over our safety.

“As I said, I can’t hold her. Be a dear and prepare to send the gate with the ancient god in it.” Edna dismissed his worries.

“I understand, mistress.” The warlock sighed.

Edna hummed a lullaby while she soon became the only presence I felt near me.

“The crown prince will kill his brother, and the world will turn on him. Vivian… how I wish I could know how everything will turn out.” She mumbled, groaning soon after.

“Please… hold on for a little longer. Mommy has to make sure you’re safe.”

Before I knew it, it was gone. I was still in Alistair’s hands.

“Stay safe, okay?” he whispered, pulling away.

I nodded, feeling disorientated. 

That memory…

Alistair gazed at Gerta, bowing his head.

“Good day, young master,” she responded the same way.

Though the moment he was out of view, Gerta turned to me again. There wouldn’t be a moment of silence, though. Luckily, since I did not want to digest that memory.

“Seems you have tamed all three demons. Call me impressed.” Gerta chuckled.

I could feel cold sweat slowly break out.

Oops… I forgot there is a shark here.

This came to me as a blessing, though.

“I don’t know what you mean.” I dismissed, trying to not gaze at her.

Sadly, Zoe didn’t help as she giggled. It was the first time I had seen her laugh all day. Though she wasn’t one to laugh as she had conquered a Lycan herself. The little witch, however, seemed unaware of her accomplishment. 

After all, the wolf hadn’t even gotten to first base with her. She was blissfully unaware of how he looked at her, too. Though she wasn’t here for a relationship. However, neither was I and I had…

Wait… no, we aren’t in a relationship! Why is he even in my mind so much?!

My lips still felt hot from his earlier kiss. His scent radiated off me, too. Though Alistair seemed to rub on me a bit. However, the moment Gerta hummed, I felt the hair on the back of my neck stand up.

This hall wasn’t safe to have this conversation. But she didn’t care.

“Well, let’s see… Loki’s utterly in love with you. Oswald cares about you, as he wouldn’t have spoken out otherwise. And I haven’t seen Alistair that happy in years. I think that’s the first time I have seen him hug anyone other than Tania.” Gerta pointed out.

I couldn’t even see her expression, though I could feel how smug it was. She was a formidable opponent. One I couldn’t hide things from, but I would not play her game.

“All I hope is Alistair’s happiness keeps.” I sighed, getting serious.

Without hesitating, I turned to her. The expression on her face was not one of happiness. She knew what was coming.

“If it’s what I suspect. The queen won’t tolerate it.” Gerta informed.

All that meant was the queen needed to be eliminated. Once the rift closed, it would be the first thing I did.

“All because of an heir? Right?” I asked plainly.

How hard can it be to kill a queen without it falling on anyone? Well, hard… Harder than anything in this world.

For that to happen, I would have to erase everything about her. And to accomplish that, I would have to access my god-like abilities. The one good thing was that the queen was old. And old fools do mistakes.

Though, in all my time there, I had only seen her once. Part of me couldn’t help but think she was hiding from everyone. Or at least would only come to places she was safe.

“Yes,” Gerta answered.

I gazed at Zoe. Finding out information about that woman would be something our coven could take care of, probably. It would be a task I would leave to her once I had the chance to talk to her. Though I think she got my meaning as she nodded.

Maybe I had given her the look of “this bitch has to go”.

“Well… hopefully, everything will work out.” I sighed, walking to Zoe.

“Hopefully.” Gerta shook her head.

Once I was with Zoe, I whispered to her a message I needed her to give to the coven. In response, she smirked, nodding before excusing herself. Even though we were still grieving, things had to do. And mortal things were simple to handle.

However, divine ones weren’t. Though I had little time to worry about my god problems. The moment I saw Tania coming toward us, everything else became secondary. She was supposed to meet with them, too. From the way she walked, it seemed there were no lasting effects of what I had done to her.

Though I couldn’t help but avert my eyes away from her. Luckily, she opened the door without noticing me. Thankfully, I was another passerby to her. It seemed my memory wipe worked. That came as a relief.

A couple of hours of standing there with Gerta passed. We spoke about simpler things, though. At one point, she tried to make me have a heart attack. She mentioned how she did not mind if a great-grandchild came from me and Loki.

I slurred in my words, assuring her that wasn’t happening. She then answered me most readily.

“For now, you mean, though, use protection, my dear. Though, oops, events are pleasant too. I would know.” She chuckled.

I found myself unable to answer her. Loki finally emerged out of the room. He didn’t seem to be in the best of moods when he grabbed onto me. Without even looking at Gerta, he yanked me away. I had never seen him so angry before.

Luckily, I could see Eli was still black. That meant my prince’s annoyance was not about that, since that would’ve been scary. However, the moment he opened the door to his room, he threw me onto the bed.

Is he angry about me stomping on his foot earlier?

The silence was killing me. If he was angry with me, he should’ve yelled at me already. Eli locked the door before Loki undid his shirt. Bewildered, I gazed at him from the bed. I didn’t know what was going through his mind.

But… I would know soon enough.

“Remi said I had to fire you. That she doesn’t trust you.” Loki huffed, clearly annoyed.

Oh, it isn’t about me stepping on him. Shit...

I guess this was worse. Rem wasn’t an easy adversary to deal with.

“Well, you already knew that.” I pointed out, trying to fix myself on the bed.

However, a second later, he was straddling me. I couldn’t keep up with their speed.

“Letting you go isn’t something I’m willing to do. No matter how abusive you can be.” He growled, kissing my neck.

A gasp left my lips as I gripped onto his undone shirt. I guess Rem didn’t like it when I stomped on him. So, perhaps, it was my fault. Though I couldn’t help it. He was talking about a mortal ritual that would need acknowledgment from everyone.

Though… it wasn’t like we weren’t married already. The bond united us for all eternity.

“Well, it isn’t like you didn’t know how I was before the bond started.” I licked my lips in anticipation of his touch.

Though he pulled away from me, gazing at me with a pained expression.

“Oh, love, I was smitten by you since I picked you up.” He confessed, pinning my hands on the bed.

Did he mean when I got him killed? Or in the lineup?

For a moment, he flashed his fangs in annoyance as Eli slid into the bed with us.

“And that little sadistic attitude you put in is your way of handling embarrassment. You don’t like to feel vulnerable. Though I make you feel that way.” He smirked, eyes glowing slightly.

It was like he hit the nail on the head. I didn’t like feeling weak. I hated it. Yet it was all this boy did to me. I was brittle in his hands. Something I couldn’t deny when he pointed it out so straightforward.

“I…” I mumbled, unable to answer him fully.

He narrowed his eyes, leaning into my ear.

“Take away the spell in your womb,” Loki whispered, setting my heart ablaze.

He can’t be serious!? I-I must’ve misheard him. Surely…

“W-what?!” I yelped, gazing at him bewildered.

Much to the detriment of my heart. He appeared very serious.

“I want you to bear my child.” Loki declared like he had lost his mind.

I could barely keep up anymore. Even though I didn’t know what was said to him. This wouldn’t stand.

“Are you crazy!? We can’t have a kid! We barely know each other! The bond is already bad enough! And now you want to bring a child into this messed up world!?” I snapped.

His eyes widened as his grip on my hands tighten. The only reason I wasn’t hitting him at this moment was that he held them hostage.

“Shit! I know! I just…” he sighed, bringing it down a couple of degrees.

My heart, though, was thumping loudly. Although I think he was too. Luckily, his grip eased a bit, allowing me to escape his hands. I cupped his cheeks, gazing at him worriedly. He was such a fool to think they would separate us.

Even after I saved him, we were stuck for life. Nothing would change that. Rem could do nothing about it too. The only god who could do anything was long dead.

“Calm down, we can’t be separated even if Rem wants it.” I smiled, trying to assure him we would be fine.

After all, the Amor Aeternum wouldn’t let us go. We would be linked forever. This reassured me a bit. Though I feared it would lead to something worse later. I could only hope those feelings were only fueled by fear.

“I know… I’m angry she doesn’t listen to me. Or to Thea or anyone.” He let himself fall onto the bed next to me.

I couldn’t help but cuddle myself in his chest. It was my favorite place to be. Even silent Eli, slithered by my legs.

“That’s just how Rem is. It isn’t bad though. She cares for you.” I reassured him, remembering Edna’s words.

His mother was stubborn, but at least he had one. Changing her views after everything that happened wouldn’t be easy. After all, we killed one of the most influential persons to her. Well, three: Vera, Leonard, and Ben.

“How can you defend her?” he questioned my state of mind.

Though I was relishing in his scent and warmth. That memory made me realize something else, too. All Rem wanted…

“Because I understand her. She wants to protect you.” I giggled, trailing my hand down his exposed skin.

It was all I wanted. Rem and I shared that feeling, and it would probably be the one thing that united us. Our love for Loki was true. Hers as a mother and mine as… a lover.

“I’ll end up hating her if she does something to you.” His voice sounded so broken when he said that.

I couldn’t relish in his warmth while he felt like that. Instinctively, I lifted myself off his shirt, gazing at him. His blueish purplish orbs quickly met with mine.

“Don’t say that. She’s your mother. That isn’t something you can throw away! No matter what!” I huffed, glaring at him.

He winced, knowing it was true. Although she didn’t birth him. She raised him since he was orphaned. The love she gave him was not one I could replace. It was why I wanted to leave him behind. But yet…

You’ll take my heart with you. It’ll be the same as killing me! His words replayed in my mind.

The love I could give him was one no one else could. Even though he didn’t remember everything from his past life, it wouldn’t override his current life. He was reborn, unlike me, who was set into this body. I was a leech who he loved.

I had never thought about who this girl would’ve been if they hadn’t placed me in her. Or perhaps she was part of me.

Why does he love me so much? Does he really not see the monster I am?

“Fuck! I know,” He breathed, pulling me into his chest.

There I snuggled with him, not knowing how to make it better for him. Though there was one thing I could try.

“Should we shower before or after making love?” I mumbled, feeling a bit flustered.

Loki drew away from me with a smirk on his face. I knew it would have it after what I said.

“Making love… not calling it fucking today?” he teased, trying to see if I would react.

It took everything in me to not take it back. Though my cheeks wanted to fall off while he was rosy.

“No…” I grumbled, trying to be nice.

He placed a light kiss on my lips.

“Adorable… shower first, then I’ll hold you in my bed.” He declared, catching me off guard.

“Alone?” I pouted, almost unable to believe what came out of his mouth.

I mean, after all, that happened; I wanted to fuck him more than anything. Especially after all the teases from earlier.

“Yeah, I have to ask Oz something. I won’t be long, and Eli will be here.” My vampire announced, gazing towards the door to his brother's room.

I couldn’t help but sulk again.

“He can’t get in the shower with me though.” I frowned, unhappy at the turn of events.

The day before had been so hot in the bathroom that I desired a redo. And if Loki wasn’t there, then it meant no sex in the tub.

“I can’t?” Eli asked, snickering.

Though I suspected he was playing with me. His laugh gave him away.

“You can’t get wet, remember!” I huffed, standing up from the bed, annoyed.

These two were too much.

“Shame,” Eli chuckled, wrapping himself around my neck.

Loki suddenly pulled me by my waist and onto him. My back hit his chest, pulling my chin up to meet with his lips. A short, dry kiss followed.

“I’ll pleasure you thoroughly once I come back.” He smiled, heading for the door to his twin's room.

I couldn’t help but stand there feeling disappointed. Somehow I felt played.

“Fine…” I grumbled, heading to the bathroom.

There was nothing else I could do. I mean, I could drag him in here with me, but... in the end, I ended up having a warm shower alone. Feeling refreshed, I dressed in light pajamas, hoping for them to be peeled off soon after I left the bathroom.

Though the moment I stepped into the room, I saw Loki was missing. Utter disappointment flushed through me as I threw myself on my bed. Eli was quick to join me, though. But unlike Loki, he lacked the organs to make me feel pleasure.

A soft sigh left my lips as I gazed at Eli.

“Where is he?” I mumbled, feeling off.

“Rem’s in there with them.” He informed, lifting his head off the bed.

Well, that explains why Loki’s missing on the sex.

A soft sigh left my lips, feeling frustrated over it. Luckily, Eli’s contacts seemed in place and all his scales appeared to be black.

“Hmm… are you comfortable?” I asked, trailing my hands on his body.

It didn’t feel the same. Part of me wished to wash the paint off, but I couldn’t. Not without exposing us. He nodded, flicking his tongue out. Another soft sigh left my lips as I stroked his scales, which used to be smooth to my touch.

I wanted him to be his usual self. Though that wasn’t possible, so I placed my thoughts elsewhere.

“How much of your past life can you remember?” I continued to query, gazing towards the wall.

Eli snickered, slithering by my arms. I felt at peace with him.

“Every time you say my former name, my end becomes clearer.” He answered.

Pulling him into my chest, I snuggled with him. This was the perfect chance to ask him about everything I had been holding back.

“You’re a god who can play with emotions. How did you lose to them?” I traced my fingers down his wings.

We were mumbling, though we were close enough to hear each other. They were so soft even with the paint. And there were parts there were white if I scuffled them.

“Yama was resistant to my power. So, to not endanger you, I gave up. Though I thought he would let my sister go, at least.” He replied, enjoying my touch as much as I loved his.

Though Loki was much more appealing to me.

Resistance…

“Do you mean he killed off his emotions?” I huffed, not knowing how a god would be capable of thing such a thing.

After all, we divine had emotions. That was undeniable. For Elias to be powerless, would’ve meant Yama had none.

“I don’t know. I just knew that it was useless to try.” He flapped his wings.

I sighed, shaking my head. There was no way to confirm this unless Yama was right in front of us. And that was a sight I didn’t want happening soon. Or ever, really.

“Okay, one last thing… is there anything you remember about our bond?” I mumbled, feeling a bit flustered about bringing it up between us.

He chuckled, gazing at me tenderly. How I wished those lenses could come off.

“Just that they banned it, naughty goddess.” He teased, leaving me to puff my cheeks.

Before a word could leave my mouth, though, Loki came into the room, slamming the door, startling me. He stormed into the bathroom, where he luckily didn’t slam the door again.

“Hmm… What happened?” I grumbled, sitting up.

He appeared to be in an awful mood. Eli seemed to be fine. Though he didn’t have to deal with Rem, as Loki did.

“Keke… he’s angry. Rem once again insisted he let you go.” Eli informed.

It stung to hear that, but it was nothing surprising. After all, I killed so many people like a madwoman yesterday. Although those deaths were in self-defense. I doubted Rem wanted anyone like me near her son, let alone fucking him.

“Miracle, she isn’t in front of my face demanding that.” I breathed, allowing myself to fall onto the bed again.

Is he showering? Should I join him? Ah… just what am I thinking?!

I felt my cheeks burn hot as I tossed to the side. Eli chuckled, unaware of why I was feeling like that. Though in his eyes, I was cute.

“That’s because Loki said if she did that. It would be the last time she saw him.” He added, leaving me annoyed.

I didn’t need protection from him or anyone. Though I didn’t want to get in between their family affairs.

Will I destroy this family? I don’t… want that…

“Idiot… I can handle Rem just fine.” I huffed, clasping onto my chest.

A few moments of silence passed by before Loki emerged from the bathroom refreshed. Though the moment he spotted me on the wrong side of the room, his eyes narrowed.

“Why are you in that bed?” he questioned, not liking it.

He was already in a horrible mood. Yet I couldn’t stop myself from being like that.

“Well, I didn’t know if you were coming or not. So, I decided to sleep in mine.” I pouted, grabbing onto my pillow.

He chuckled as his eyebrows raised.

“We don’t fit comfy there.” He pointed out, placing his hands on the footboard.

“So… you left without telling me the reason. And then you came late.” I shrugged, shaking my head.

A sigh left off his lips, rolling his eyes.

“I wanted to ask Oz how to make mom back off, but she got there before I left. And he’s going to bring us dinner later. Without walking in on us.” He informed, tapping the board before walking towards me.

It wouldn’t be long until the bed sunk under his weight.

“Hmm…” I hummed, turning to him.

With those blue orbs gazing at me, I felt like I could melt into them. He wasn’t wearing a shirt, so every feature was out for my eyes to see. It took everything in me to not touch him when he climbed on top of me.

“Come, my bed’s way comfier.” He whispered, trailing his fingers down my cheek.

Though his expression was alluring to me. It was almost as if he was asking me to eat him up. His scent was so fresh, too. I loved it.

“No,” I gazed away from him.

In response to me, he leaned on me, allowing drips of his wet hair to fall on me. His scent was so strong that I had to grip the sheets to keep my hands off him. I couldn’t help shivering in anticipation as the itch of wanting him grew stronger.

There was no way I could ever resist him. I even wanted his bite, but that was something I wouldn’t voice that freely.

“Why?” he huffed, taking off the blankets that covered me.

“Because…” I trailed off, not wanting to finish that.

It would’ve been a lie, and I didn’t want to do that to him right now. Though I had my hands firmly on the bed.

“Fine, I’ll just make love to you in this tiny bed again.” He declared, causing me to sit up.

Our lips were hovering over one another as I smirked. He knew how to rile me up. The last time we made love in this bed, he made me crazy for him. Something I wouldn’t allow to happen that easily.

“The only way you’re doing anything is if you sit,” I announced, trailing my fingers on his chest.

Watching him shiver because of my touch allured me even more. Everything about this vampire was adorable, especially how he wouldn’t push me to do anything I didn’t want.

“What?” he nervously chuckled, grabbing onto my hand before pulling it to his lips.

I tugged away, shoving him onto the bed. He was in such a way that he easily lost his balance, landing with me in between his legs. Before he could recover, I undid his pants as I jerked his underwear down to expose his semi-stiff heat.

“Oh, baby girl, what are you doing?” he breathed, grabbing onto my hair.

I gazed up at him to see his cheeks rosy.

“I want to pleasure you,” I smirked.

His eyes glowed lightly when I grabbed onto his member, stroking it. I wondered what expression I was making for him to look at me so tenderly.

“But I want us both to feel good.” He sighed, holding my hair off my face.

Every stroke made his heat firmer. Eventually, it was the size it usually was.

“I enjoy seeing your expressions and hearing your voice go crazy for me.” I went to lick it, only to stop when he pulled my hair.

There I got to see his expression again. It was one of pure desire.

“Oh, sweets… you like my voice?” he chuckled, simpering.

My heart skipped a beat upon seeing him like that.

Such a fool… Why is he so cute?

His voice always made me feel like I was in the clouds. Soft and smooth in my ears. An emotion build to the point it boiled over.

“I love you.” The words left me before I realized what I was saying.

Though the moment I said them, his eyes glowed brighter. His cheeks turned pure red. Covering his mouth with his hand, he shifted his gaze towards the side.

“Go on… you better suck and lick me all you want. Or else I’m going to jump you.” His voice was unsteady.

Is it nerves? Why would he be nervous after everything we had done? Such an adorable lover I have.

His words caused my heart to beat madly, making shivers run down my spine. I wanted to ruin him. To corrupt him until there was nothing left but his adoration for me. Without hesitating, I yanked him into my mouth, producing a groan to leave his lips.

His back rested against the footboard as one hand held my hair up, the other trailed behind my back. Trying to concentrate on pleasuring him, I ignored his rogue limb, which ended on my bum.

He squished it before pulling me closer to him. It curved my body a bit, not that I minded it. Though the bed was small for this. A soft moan left his lips, enjoying the feeling I was giving him.

I gazed up to look at his expression, to see one of pleasure. Though his eyes weren’t locked on my face. No, he was staring at my bum. A second later, his hand trailed down my hips, into under my pajama and underwear.

The moment I felt him touch my vulva, I couldn’t help but shiver.

“Wow… You are already this wet. Do you enjoy sucking me off that much?” he breathed, playing with his wet fingers.

Instead of answering him, I continued to suck on his tip. Though a gasp left me when his fingers invaded my walls. I couldn’t help but stop what I was doing. Trying to gaze towards where he was touching, I met him pushing my head down towards his member.

“Don’t stop,” he licked his lips, breathing unsteadily.

Unable to refuse him, I took him back into my mouth, making him moan because of it. Though with the way his fingers were stroking my insides, I could barely keep it up. The moment my taste buds savored something salty, I knew he was close.

Sucking on his head, I caressed the base when he tugged his fingers out of my depths. Bringing them to his lips, he lapped them before leaning to the side. Before I knew it, we were both laying on the bed. There, he took off my pants and undies in one tug.

Eli wrapped around my legs, holding them apart for his other half. A second later, a whine left me when I pulled away from his heat, feeling a bite on my inner thigh. It was like a fire was lit once again, as every touch made me quiver.

Licking the blood off, Loki chuckled, noticing me tremble from his slightest touch. Feeling another bite, I remembered how I hadn’t taken my daily tea since the prior day. That meant my blood…

“Loki,” I breathed, barely able to keep up with what he was doing.

Though he wouldn’t stop.

“You taste so fucking good. Don’t stop, make me cum!” he panted, feeling all flustered.

Unlike any other vampire, he wouldn’t drain me of my blood. I knew that much, but even so, I felt every bite. He swiftly switched in between biting and licking my sensitive bell. Ecstasy was building within, especially feeling him plunge his fingers into my depths.

I could feel the blood drip from my thighs and onto the bed. This alerted me, he wasn’t healing my bites as he usually did. No, he was in a frenzy, though it wasn’t painful. His venom didn’t allow me to feel it.

Vampire bites would also heal soon after, even if he didn’t seal them up with his magic. This was a new feeling. I tried to concentrate on his heat, taking it again into my mouth, though mewls were leaving me now too.

With the hand holding my head, he pushed me down as his hips bucked in pleasure. Before I knew it, it felt like he was fucking my throat and vulva in one go. Tears welled at the corners of my eyes; I was not used to it being this rough.

The gag reflex was almost overwhelming my novice body, too. Though, I didn’t particularly hate it. Well, not when he was sending pleasures throughout my body. The air was hard to come by, and that was something Loki was blissfully unaware of.

I had never seen him be this rough with me, but I guessed the reincarnated god of emotions was being overwhelmed by his. It was rather cute, well, if I hadn’t been almost choking on his heat. Eli, however, appeared a bit concerned about me.

Though his over half was too frenzied to notice what was happening. Luckily, a few moments later, he exploded in my throat. A relief since I also found my release too. The moment he drew away from me, I coughed loudly.

Saliva dripped off my lips and onto the bed, too. I didn’t have the time to taste the salty liquid that had filled my mouth and throat. Loki finally snapped out of his frenzy, noticing what he had done.

He cupped my cheeks in his hands, assessing me.

“Oh, god. Vivi, I’m so sorry.” He seemed concerned too.

I struggled to fill my lungs as his hands shone a gentle blue light. I wasn’t nervous or anything, but it helped soothe me. The silly vampire probably thought I was angry with him.

“You were so rough…” I voiced, though it was hoarse.

Loki winced, wiping my face with the sheets of the bed.

“I’m sorry, baby girl,” he repeated.

The vampire seemed to regret allowing that to happen, but I didn’t mind it. I rolled my eyes, allowing myself to fall onto the bed. There I held my legs apart, offering myself to him. He had made a mess of me, so it seemed it was my loss after all.

Not that I minded.

“You don’t scare me,” I smirked, still out of breath.

His eyes glowed again, though this time he gazed away. I could see some of Eli’s paint on my legs. I guess sweat counted as water, too. Though, I was too into this to care.

“Drink your tea first or I fear I’ll hurt you.” He tried to hold himself back.

Besides him were feathers. I hadn’t seen them before, but they had come out at the moment of it all. However, all I could feel was the fire that only he could quench.

“After how gentle you were yesterday. Oh, please make a mess out of me.” I trailed my hands down to my vulva, splitting my moist lips apart for him to see.

It was mostly his saliva than lubrication, well probably both. Though my heart jumped when he appeared before me suddenly. His eyes were glowing brightly as I felt his tip press against my entrance.

Though instead of slipping it in, he rubbed it on my lips and bell. A soft, hoarse whine left my lips, wanting more.

“Are you sure? I can’t say I won’t lose control again.” Loki warned, holding himself back one last time.

I simpered, wrapping my hands around the back of his neck.

“I’m all yours, Loki,” I assured, pulling myself to meet with his lips.

It was a moment, though. I tugged away, not knowing if he wanted to taste himself. It surely was still on my lips.

“Sorry, I…” I wouldn’t finish that since he sealed my lips with his.

A moment later, he slipped inside of me as Eli slid between my legs again. The snake yanked them apart, allowing Loki better access to me. Though one of his hands held my bum as his thrusts were deep and harsh.

Though every single one sent pleasure through my whole being, filling me to the brim. If he wanted, he could break me apart, so even though he was rough. There was nothing tough about what he was doing.

He was gentle with me, even when he wanted to plunge me into oblivion. If I was another vampire, he wouldn’t have to worry about breaking me. Though that was something he didn’t mind.

His kiss was too much to bear. I quickly gave up on trying to win the fight for dominance this time. Tonight, he would be the only one on top. The moment he let my lips free, I mewled his name.

He flashed his fangs at me, thrusting deep into me. Saliva dripped down my vampire’s chin as I clasped onto his bum. His wings spread wide, allowing me to see the light gold in the white. My body moved at his rhythm, allowing my voice to go free.

I was smitten by this vampire, too. This was all I ever needed.

“I love you, Vivian, so fucking much.” Loki howled, burying his face into my neck.

His moans were music to me. They even made my body respond to him more. Though I went over the moment, I felt his fangs penetrate my nape. A loud mewl left me when I felt the heat of it all rush through my body.

In an instant, my mind went white. I loved it when this happened. Nothing else mattered while I was in his arms. Though, he didn’t allow me to ride my high without overstimulation. He continued to shove himself into me while I convulsed under him.

His moans and the sound of skin slapping were all that filled the surrounding air. Though, maybe I was tuning out mine. Eventually, he found his release too. My thighs were trembling while he whined, still thrusting himself into me.

Even though he came, he was still going, making me reach for his face. The moment my fingers touched his cheeks, he pulled away from my neck. I shivered under his eyes, who glowed brightly.

The affection wasn’t stopping. Watching him move into me made me feel even hotter. His venom was something, but his love for me was even more addicting. On his lips, there was blood dripping down his chin.

I felt lightheaded, but it was nothing I couldn’t handle. It probably had nothing to do with anemia.

“I love you too.” I simpered, trying to fill my lungs.

Though it was hard, his thrust never stopped. Though he made it impossible when he stole my lips along with my breath. The taste of iron filled my senses, but I didn’t mind it. As long as anything came from him, I wouldn’t mind it.

I nibbled on his bottom lip when he tried to tug away. It caused him nervously to chuckle. A moment later, he spun me around, pulling my shirt up to my shoulder. He halted in his tracks, though.

“Vivi, your mark’s gone.” He announced, trailing his fingers down my back, surprised.

It appeared our connection to Oswald was gone or changed. A blessing in disguise since our future only had pain. A future that was trying to correct itself. Sadly, it couldn’t get rid of me. Though the words Edna said in that memory were lingering in my mind.

Something not for this occasion, though. I didn’t want him to stop.

“My mark’s on my breast now.” I gazed back at him, smirking.

He trailed his fingers on my back. It made me jittery, though he suddenly cupped my left breast with his other hand. A gentle hold though, not like earlier. It appeared he had more of a leveled head now.

Not that I wanted him to.

“Oh, you mean this one.” He chuckled, squeezing it.

Eli’s tail coiled around my abdomen and back.

“Don’t be mean,” I huffed, feeling flustered.

Though the moment he touched my mark, I felt my skin get hotter.

“Oh, sweets, I can’t be nice tonight.” He licked his lips, holding my hips with his other hand.

Unable to take it, I pushed myself on him. My motion caused him to sigh, growling at me playfully.

“Then move,” I ordered, wanting more.

That was something he would give me as his thrust went deep into my core. Though the way his fingers played with my nob made me whine. And a yelp left me when he squeezed it in between his fingers.

“Ah… Don’t get tighter… you’ll end up milking me dry,” he moaned, burying himself into me.

“What if I want to?” I panted, feeling bliss.

For a moment, he stayed quiet, leaning down on me. His chest was on my back. Though Eli was partly between us.

“Fuck me, you’re driving me insane.” He moaned, grabbing onto my hips with both hands.

Feathers were floating around me. I gazed up to see the fake light of Night city shining through the window. The sound of skin slapping against one another was what filled the night. I lost myself in him.

And that was bliss for me. The only time he stopped was when Oswald messaged him with food. There were other times his phone shone, but he ignored the rest. Though there were multiple messages from Rem, asking him to talk.

Though mostly from what I saw was her apologizing to him. Not that he cared to see it right now. Pulling away from me, I fell onto the bed, shivering. Though the smell of food, as he thanked Oz before closing the door, rose me from the bed.

There I could see the paint from Eli better. Though I couldn’t help but scowl at the partly white snake.

Does Thea even have more paint?

Noticing I was displeased, he chuckled, “If the price of loving you is Rem angry, so be it.”

He didn’t just say that!

“She’ll be more than angry, you stupid snake!” I growled, throwing a pillow at him.

Though at that moment, I also felt some of our love juices drip down my thigh.

Ah… shit…

My legs were already shaky, too. This didn’t help my stance. Flustered, I gazed at Loki, who smirked upon noticing it.

“You didn’t need to get up. I mean, I worked hard to put that in there.” He chuckled, handing me the box of food.

Does he always have to be a damn tease?

He was lucky my tummy was rumbling. Though, I couldn’t help but sit back on my bed in a pout.

“But…” I mumbled, grabbing the fork from the box.

Feathers were scattered around my part of the room. Though the blood on the sheets was what was most eye-catching. There wasn’t a trace of blood on me or any wound of any kind. Though there were plenty of renewed kiss marks on my thighs.

Well, everywhere I looked.

“Eat, I’ll continue to pleasure you after.” Loki licked his lips, opening his box.

He was standing by the divider of our rooms. I couldn’t help but shift my eyes to the tv. It was on the wall by the desk Oswald loved to sit by. And it was paper-thin, making it seem like it was not there while it wasn’t on.

“Hmm… can we see a movie?” I asked,

“Even after receiving all those bites?” he chuckled, surprised by what I had said.

His eyes gave a soft shimmer, too. I couldn’t help but shiver because of it. He had trained my body so well to know what that glow meant.

“No one said we had to finish it,” I grumbled, knowing that I would probably feel all bothered by the time I finished my meal.

After all, his venom was in me. And even though I had grown somewhat used to it. It still made me have an itch that couldn’t be quelled that easily.

“So, while we eat, got it, princess. Come over to my bed then.” My vampire smirked, turning towards the device.

I was quick to hop on his bed. It was always fun to watch movies with him. It was something I never did while I was in the coven. He turned the tv on and grabbed onto the controller. It wasn’t long before he joined me in his bed.

I ended up giggling when he pulled me into his arms. Though, the meal itself was delicious. And much like I had said, we didn’t finish watching the film. The moment a flash of romance appeared on the tv. I couldn’t help but turn to Loki.

Something he didn’t mind. Though when we made out, I could taste the sweets he ate. Of course, it led to more. Before I knew it, I had fallen asleep in a warmth that I never wanted to let go of. The next morning, brought the news that Rem and Alijah had left.

Their jobs always kept them away, though it seemed Loki and Rem’s relationship was still strained. Thea stayed behind this time and wasn’t pleased to see Eli discolored when she came. Once again, the city was in rebuilding mode.

Most of the elves that came for the ball stayed to rebuild the city. Though Lilith, Fenris, and their son, Aiden, had to return to Silverant. Night city guards were reinforced and what was worse, Caden had stayed behind with his eldest daughter Lola, who was a hybrid like Rem.

Tania was another storm I had to avoid in the coming days before the sword tournament. The damn thing was still ongoing. Anyone in their right mind would’ve called the damn thing off. But according to Gerta, this was because queen Andrea wanted a successor named.

This was to have the winner married off to this female vampire she was choosing. Something Asher had little say in as he had tried to get the boys to pick from the nobles at the party. And that went up in flames.

Neither Loki nor Alistair wanted their bride to be picked for them. Fortunately, Andrea didn’t feel threatened by my relationship with Loki. Probably thought we were a fling, much like Gerta and Asher were.

Loki had no intention of winning the tournament too. He even skipped training on the days that led up to it. The only exercise he said he needed was me in his bed. Something that wasn’t right. Luckily, I got him to go visit Oswald in the library on the days he wanted to play hooky.

There I tried to pick any books related to the god of death, but sadly there was nothing on him. Most of the information from the gods was lost, and those that didn’t lurk in the elven lands. The elves were always a religious bunch, even after the gods abandoned them.

If I remembered correctly, they worked with the eternal witches to commune with the gods. However, that connection was lost when the vampires polluted their minds with lies. What those were, sadly, were lost in time.

Though, it probably had to do with something that insulted their faith. That was what usually led to wars, and something we mortals didn’t learn. Well, until the races finally came together, when the soul cairn leaked into this world.

Sadly, it took the same event to happen twice for people to react. But that itself wasn’t enough. We were lazy and cost-efficient in the end. If we could cut corners, we would. After all, the most wealth was what would prosper.

That was probably something close to what Andrea was thinking. Thoughts like this had to be eliminated. If it only were that easy. To bring order, chaos was needed. That was the balance in this world, so there was no way to eliminate human greed without destroying this world.

And to be realistic, without greed, the world would be no fun. There would be no drive to gain and achieve. A boring realm wouldn’t be one I wished to live in. This world was getting more complicated with every passing moment, and I could not figure out how to save it.

Not that I wanted to save the damn thing. All I ever desired was a place where I could live in peace. Though that wish was slowly changing into a world where Loki and I could live. One where we wouldn’t be hunted or judged by who we were.

If that was possible, was yet to be seen. Our future was full of hurdles to make that a reality. On the leading days to the tourney, Alistair’s headaches seemed to get worse, too. Most of it seemed to be stressed as they would force him to marry someone who he didn’t want if he won.

I mean, they weren’t even part of the gender he was born to love. Though I wished I could check him with my magic, the rift hadn’t closed yet. This had been the longest one since I was born. I knew this because Zoe had received no messages from my father since that day.

He had gone deathly silent. The coven hadn’t heard from him in an entire month. I couldn’t help but worry about what Lilith and he had found. However, this was something I didn’t share with Loki and Oswald.

There was no reason for them to worry, too. Though I asked Oswald to check Alistair, it came back with nothing wrong with him. This meant there was nothing magically wrong with him. Well, at least that Oswald could detect.

Perhaps it was stress getting the best of the poor prince. Sadly, I had my hands bound throughout the whole thing. All I could do was hope for the best. And all news that came from Andrea was not good. It seemed the bitch was spectacularly wary.

Well, rightfully so in this case. They tested everything she ate for every known spell and substance. And only trusted people were allowed into her chambers. Though the only time, she would show her face was during the tournament.

She desired to watch it, though she would be right next to Asher. Other than that, there was no way to get to her by normal means. If father was around, I could get Lilith to murder her, but it seemed they both were out.

Every day that passed came closer to the tournament, which left me feeling off about the whole thing. Loki seemed done with it, while Alistair appeared close to the breaking point. The poor older brother even closed himself to everyone on the last days of the event.

Not even Lucas was allowed into his room. Even though Loki didn’t want me to go near his brother, who appeared odd, I found myself standing in front of his room often. Of course, with my lovely vampire behind me.

Though no matter what, he wouldn’t open the door for me. But it didn’t matter who stood there. He wouldn’t open the door for anyone. Gerta was the only one who could get him, and that was for food. The old woman seemed concerned for the elder prince, too.

I felt powerless to help him. I was a goddess, but a useless one. If only I didn’t need to hide. Oh, the things I would do for those I cared about. Sadly, time waited for no one. And although my days weren’t full of adventures, mostly filled with worries.

Time moved towards where fates would once again collide. If I knew this was the end, I would have wanted to do much more. There were so many movies I wished to see.