Monsters Under My Bed Ch. 05

Chapter 5

Lani awoke the next afternoon with her body stiff, aching, and reluctant to move. She forced herself up when she didn't feel Theo's protective arm wrapped around her waist. Her heart thudded like he had been taken and she looked around the room frantically, blurry eyes scanning the unfamiliar place. The events of last night rushed back to her like a tidal wave of unresolved emotions. She shook her head and pushed her palms into her eyes, trying to erase the horrific memories flashing behind her eyelids. Lani froze when she finally noticed the man lounging on the couch across from her, like something out of a fairy tale.

Emil remained silent, red eyes watching her over a small pair of reading glasses perched on the end of his nose, the ruby orbs gentle despite their intense color. Lani struggled to comprehend the dark blue figure sitting with an all too normal hardback book in his large hand with stiletto-like nails or claws, she wasn't sure. Her body remained still like she was under the gaze of a predator, while her curious green eyes examined him slowly in the soft light that poured through the skylight. His lip upturned into a half smile that revealed a dimpled cheek, the black van dyke style goatee and mustache reminding Lani of a caricature of the devil.

Her eyes tracked the movement of his hand as he brushed strands of long black hair out of his face, and noticed how his forearms appeared to be clad in armor with scales like a snake. Next, she followed the outlined shapes of his protruding horns, they pointed up and around his head almost like a crown. He broke the silence with a soft chuckle that rumbled in his chest, and Lani drifted her gaze up again to his face.

What the hell, why is he kind of cute? She thought with a blush, realizing she'd been staring too long, and pinched her arm to be sure she wasn't dreaming. Wincing, she watched as the strangers' small smile spread wider across his face, the thin mustache on his lip curling upwards with it, revealing a set of white pointed teeth.

"Good afternoon, it must be odd for you to see me like this after our meeting in the woods yesternight. This is my normal appearance, I apologize if it upsets you." His voice rang brighter than it did in his shadow form, but Lani recognized it.

"Emil." She said slowly, piecing everything together sluggishly. "What--" Lani hesitated, stepping towards him while rubbing at her eyes. "Why are you blue?" She asked after a moment, pulling the hem of her shirt down, fully aware now that she still didn't have on any underwear. Emil could see the bruises that had formed along her ankles and wrists, as well as the small cuts she'd gotten while riding on Theo's back through the woods. He frowned, and Lani stepped back.

Wow, that was the most racist thing I've ever asked. Lani thought, seeing the discomfort on his face. His eyes were unfocused for a moment as he tried to comprehend her question while he faced the evidence of his failure on her delicate skin, the marks intensifying his resolve to keep her safe.

"Luck of the draw really, one of my brothers is red. Dragon-folk come in a variety of shades." He finally answered, as she continued to gaze at him with morbid curiosity, bravery, or disgust, he wasn't sure.

"Dragon?" Her eyes widened. "I was thinking demon with the horns and the shadow stuff." She admitted, casting her eyes down to the floor.

"I'll forgive your unfamiliarity with my lineage. You look like you need a hot meal and a shower." Emil said, trying to put her at ease. His strange appearance had distracted Lani and as if on cue her stomach growled loudly.

"Yeah, I'd like that. I should eat first, don't want to pass out in the shower." Lani said with an anxious giggle.

"Yes, a wise choice. The kitchen is bare but there are some dry goods. Make yourself comfortable, we won't be able to leave until night--" Emil was cut off by her sudden outburst.

"Alister!" She shouted, with sudden realization.

"Fret not, he will be upset about missing breakfast, but he'll survive. We are going back to your apartment to collect your things before we leave." Emil tried to soothe.

"Oh fuck! My job! I'm supposed to be there right now." Lani blinked wildly. "Wait what? Leave? Where? What am I saying? I can't fucking leave! I'll lose my job, my apartment." Her breath came out in quick pants, her throat feeling like it was closing.

"Lani, you aren't thinking clearly!" Emil said sternly, rising from the couch and closing the distance between them. "People tried to kill you last night." He reminded softly, cupping her face with his large hands. He did it so gently, with such care and reverence that Lani couldn't look away as he tipped her head up to lock his eyes with hers. "We barely arrived in time to save you and I don't know what those cultists may have done to you." His voice wavered, feeling how close they'd been to being too late. Lani couldn't argue, her throat too dry to speak, eyes brimming with tears as memories of the ritual filled her head again, no matter how hard she tried to think of anything else.

"You're right." She said after a long moment, in a slow monotone voice that felt distant, the true realization of how close she had come to death undeniable. "Cultists." She repeated slowly, the word feeling strange on her tongue as tears slid down her cheeks. "They knew my name, my personal information, my family. What's going to happen to my mom? My brother? I've already lost..." Lani's voice faltered.

"Slow down." Emil hushed, wiping her tears with his thumbs softly. Her chest heaved, lungs gasping for air as she rambled on.

"Something happened to me last night. I was so scared, my heart felt like it was trying to break out of my chest. I... I was dying and something inside me burst out all at once." She said rapidly, breaking out into a cold sweat.

"Take a deep breath for me. Come on, breathe with me. Good, hold it, release, and again." He coached. "You are doing so well, hold, exhale all the way." Breathing slowly with her until her heartrate settled closer to normal. Emil wanted to wrap his arms around her and hold her but he felt like he was already overstepping. He slowly pulled away, releasing her from his gentle grasp, and looked down at her fragile state with sympathy.

"I'm offering you my home as sanctuary. I won't fail in protecting you again, that I swear. I just need you to trust me. Can you do that?" He asked in a soft voice, almost like a wish.

"How? How can I put my future in your hands? I don't even know you." Lani said in befuddlement, pulling further away from him. Her words hurt Emil, but he knew they were true, and he shoved that hurt down. Lani needed him at his best and that pain would have to be delayed until he finally laid in his bed.

"You're right, you don't know me, but as fate would have it, I am the Guardian sworn to protect you. Our fathers made this arrangement years ago." He said reassuringly.

"What? My dad and your dad?" Lani repeated, renewed shock in her voice.

"Yes, but there is much of that story even I do not know. I want to give you more of a choice in the matter but there is no other place where I can assure your safety than with my family. Come with me and we can figure out what's happened to you, together." Emil implored her, trying very hard not to sound portentous.

What will I do if she refuses to come with me? He worried, knowing he wasn't really giving her another option. I doubt she would ever forgive me if I stole her away like those kidnappers.

"I don't know what to think anymore... If my dad was a part of this somehow, I want to know why. I guess I have no other choice. I have to trust you." Lani said resolutely.

"Good, but for now, let's focus on getting you fed. Your vampire companion will rise in a few hours." Lani stood there with a blank expression on her face. Emil walked over to the pantry, pulling out a box of crackers and a can of tuna.

"Vampire?" Lani repeated, still in shock. Emil watched her eyebrows knit tighter together as she tried to rationalize this new piece of impossible information.

She will never eat at this rate. Emil thought to himself, pulling open every drawer until he found a can opener. The longer Lani thought about it though the more things were starting to line up.

I've never seen him out during the day. He's gorgeous. He left that bruise on Stacy's neck, and there was blood on his lip that first night. Fuck, he even stopped at the doorway to my apartment. And last night, he carried me on his back for hours while running insanely fast.

"Oh, my fucking God! Theo's a vampire." She said aloud, stunned by the realization. "Where is he?" She asked looking around for any sign of him but found none.

"The basement, it's better shielded against the sun. Now eat." Emil said more sternly, pushing the bowl of tuna and crackers towards Lani. She wasn't afraid, but his scowl stopped her next question until she'd sat at the small kitchen table, and took a small bite of the simple meal he'd prepared for her.

"So, if dragons and vampires are real, does that mean Mothman is real too?" She mused, trying to keep her mind off what had happened. Emil chuckled, as he took the seat across Lani, thankful that she changed the subject.

"I have met one, but they are quite rare. Human pop culture has long celebrated the werewolf, but there are as many variations of humanoids as there are creatures, myself included." He explained, watching her wipe crumbs from her mouth.

"Werewolves are real too? How the hell hasn't anyone noticed?" Lani wondered, trying to think of anyone she knew who might be a creature of the night.

"The schism was a dark time for non-humans, many like my family, took refuge in the Other. Those that remained on Earth waged a civil war over enslaving humanity or assimilating into their society. Not to mention the human hunter factions that sought to eradicate anyone that wasn't entirely human. As you can imagine there was much bloodshed and loss of life." Emil continued.

"Since I'm not enslaved, I can only assume team assimilation won." Lani reasoned, rising from the table to retrieve a glass of water.

"Yes, a major alliance was forged between the three major factions, after millennia of war and squabbles. The fae, the vampires, and the werewolves, all groups set aside their problems to deal with the extermination of non-humans. Their framework, was based on covert assimilation and preserving life. Smaller groups also joined, but that union of forces turned the tide of the war, at least that is what is written in textbooks." Emil summarized, based on his studies.

"That is really bonkers, I think I might have hit my head harder than I thought." Lani said with disbelief, settling into her seat again, in awe of the hidden history she had no idea existed. "What is the Other like?" She asked, then took a cleansing sip of water.

"It's a magical interdimensional city-state created as a sanctuary for non-humans." Lani almost shot water through her nose, choking on the liquid. "Are you alright?" Emil asked, bringing a clean dish towel over. Lani coughed.

I'm not sure how much more world-shattering information I can take. Lani thought, as she wiped her face.

"Sorry, you were saying something about a sanctuary for non-humans." Lani sputtered out, before taking another small sip of water.

"Yes, that's not to say there are no humans in the Other. Magic users such as yourself also reside there. The weather is controlled by mages, the light artificial, away from the city center are farmlands, we try to be as self-reliant as possible. All kinds of people live there, it may be a shock at first, but I'm sure you'll adjust." He explained, a little excitement in his voice.

"Magic." Lani's arms bristled with gooseflesh, her next question trembling in her throat. "Is... Is that why they wanted me? For the ritual?" She didn't want to think about last night, but the events were buzzing around her like gnats.

"We can only assume, but it seems likely." Emil said solemnly. Lani looked down at her hands as he continued, inspecting the dirt under her nails. "You have to be careful Lani. You don't have control over your power yet. If you over extend yourself, it could kill you." A long pause of silence followed.

"Is that why I feel so weak?" She questioned, feeling more than just muscle soreness slowing her down.

"Yes, you released a massive amount of energy last night. It was so powerful it broke the enchantment on the shackles restraining you and the ritual circle from within. Something as advanced as that usually takes years of practice and study, but you managed to do it on pure instinct. With proper training, you could become quite formidable." His words weren't as reassuring to her as he'd hoped, judging by the sudden change in her expression.

"I didn't ask for this!" Lani spat, her pent-up frustration lashing out at Emil. "I don't fucking want it." The anger in her voice flared but quickly snuffed out as she crumbled before him. "Can you... take it out of me?" She asked quietly, her voice low, and unsteady.

"No." He admitted soberly. "Attempting to do so would be like removing a vital organ like your heart. It is as much a part of you as the blood that runs through your veins. There are spells you can learn to suppress its aura, but we can discuss that later." He elucidated.

"Oh. Okay." Lani responded in almost a whisper, her eyes glazing over.

Fuck! Why do I even have this power? I'm nobody. What the hell was Dad doing messing with dragons? I might be going crazy. She panicked silently, loosing focus on their conversation.

"I know you are scared, but I have the resources to help you once we are safe in the Other." He said, but Lani seemed far away, and was unresponsive. "I rummaged around earlier and found some clothes that should fit you. I placed them on the coffee table. There is a bathroom down the main hall where you can get clean." Emil informed, unsure of what else to say to snap her back to herself.

"Right... clean... shower." Lani blinked, pushing the chair back from the table, and gathered the clothes. "Thank you, Emil." She turned to say but it felt automatic, like she wasn't really paying attention to the words or her movements.

"You're welcome." Emil said, but he was unsure if she had heard him as she walked away. When the bathroom door closed, she allowed her body to fall into the routine of bathing.

For a while the water just poured down Lani's back, the room filling with steam. She eventually lathered with a fresh bar of soap she'd found under the sink, rubbing over her whole body until her tan skin was blushed pink from scrubbing. A pit in her stomach had steadily formed as she washed, horrible memories of what she'd gone through, what that man had done and promised to do to her plaguing her mind. Lani curled into a small ball on the shower floor, aching sobs making way for the stream of tears that mixed with the water running down her face. She stayed like that until the water turned icy cold, the chill bringing her back to the present. Lifting from the floor with creaky joints, she turned the water off, and wrung out her locks. Stepping out of the shower, she wrapped herself in a large white towel to dry off.

She hadn't bothered to look too closely at the clothes Emil had found for her until now, unfortunately there were still no undergarments. With a grumble she slid the leggings over her bare ass, glad that they were not too tight at least, then pulled on the oversized novelty Disney sweater over her head.

Let's do this monopoly mouse. She joked, looking at herself in the mirror before padding back out into the living room. Emil sat in a similar spot as he had before, but with a different book in his hands this time. She cocked her head and read the title aloud.

"Homer's The Odyssey and The Iliad. I read that in high school." She commented, picking up the remote from the coffee table, and sat on the couch beside him.

"It's not terrible. I like Odysseus's intellectual strength, and how the story showcases his pride as a weakness of man, but there is obvious bias towards the 'other'. Homer portrays anyone non-human as monstrous, aside from the beautiful and seductive enchantress Circe. If you ask me, she should have turned Odysseus and his men all into pigs, but alas man's heroes are conquerors and he makes the powerful mage submit with advantage given to him by the Gods." He scoffed darkly, rolling his eyes to show his disgust.

"My English teacher would have loved you. It's definitely heavy on the male power fantasy, Odysseus took Circe as his lover for a whole year, even though the end goal of his decades long journey was to reunite with Queen Penelope. It's all just excused away, and she gets back with him after all of his atrocities of war, the death of his men, his infidelity. Oh shit, spoilers. Sorry." Lani expressed, then clasped her hand over her mouth.

"It's okay, I'm only reading to pass the time anyway." Emil admitted, placing the book down on the side table, focusing on their conversation.

"Want to watch trashy reality TV with me?" Lani asked, with a silly smile that hid how broken she really felt.

"I don't know what that means, but I'm willing to try." He replied, unfamiliar with human television.

A few hours later Theo ascended the basement steps and found the two of them on the couch with old reruns of Say Yes to the Dress playing quietly on the large flatscreen. Lani's head rested softly on Emil's shoulder. She'd fallen asleep after a few episodes, but he hadn't dared to move and disturb her.

"Didn't take you for a reality TV kinda guy Emil." Theo said, snatching up the remote from the coffee table and flipping to the nightly news.

"Lani chose the program. At first, I found it shallow, was disgusted by the blatant capitalism that pressured the young brides. The terrible mothers and so-called friends who fat shame the gorgeous, beautiful brides, it was detestable. After a while though... I was surprised that I was looking forward to the next episode, cheering on the sales consultants who acted as emotional counsel." Theo laughed again, and this time Emil laughed with him, but it woke Lani, and she pulled away. A light blush crept across her cheeks and she turned towards Theo with a wide smile. Emil watched as she almost lept from the couch and into Theo's arms. His heart stung like he'd been stabbed as Lani released a soft giggle as Theo spun her around gently before placing her feet back on the ground, and planting a chaste kiss on her lips.

"Good evening, gorgeous." Theo said across her lips when they parted. Emil stood from the couch and made his way towards the bathroom. He needed space, a quiet place to catch his breath, and unclench his jaw before he broke a tooth.

It was nothing! She's still drained and recovering. She has no affection towards me. He tried to reason as he splashed cold water onto his face. His heart ached, pounding in his chest. Emil locked onto his reflection in the mirror. Remain focused on your duty. I'll allow Theo to travel with us and find his true intentions. If they displease Lani, I will remove him. If it comes to that. He was shaken from his thoughts, as muffled sounds of Lani squealing playfully echoed through the hall.

A one-sided connection is nothing more than strangers. I'll show her who I am. When Emil returned, his emotions were hidden behind a mask of professionalism as he sat across from the couple snuggling together.

"We have to discuss our plans and keep moving." He said simply to get the conversation rolling. He could sense Lani's accelerated heartrate, see her blushed cheeks, one of her small hands rested on Theo's thigh as she pulled away from the latest kiss. Emil's front wavered for a moment, as he felt the pang of rejection, then guilt, knowing full well he had no right, then his expression stoned over again.

"You've told me of this place--the Other, but how do we get there?" Lani asked first, pulling her attention away from Theo.

"I have a portal in your residence. We go there, pack your essential things, Alister, and close the portal behind us." Emil summarized.

"Why do you have a portal in my residence?" Lani asked with obvious upset.

"I assure you it was only to check in on you, vanquish any lower demons that sought to feed from you." Emil answered, hoping his cheeks weren't purple with embarrassment, as he tried desperately to think of anything other than the dream they had shared together. Theo cleared his throat to break the tension.

"It may not be safe to go back at all, those cultists knew right where to strike." Theo shivered at the memory and Lani rubbed his arm reassuringly.

"Is there another way to get there?" Lani asked, looking back to Emil.

"None that I have access to. My portal would be the quickest route." He responded.

"Okay, that's settled." Lani said with satisfaction, and turned to face Theo. "When were you going to tell me, you are a vampire?" It was Theo's turn to blush, his secret revealed by another. He shot a glare at Emil before turning back to Lani's waiting gaze.

"Originally, after the third or fourth date. It's not something you wanna spring on someone right away. Last night was hard enough for you, I didn't want to add on to everything you have to deal with right now." He admitted, softly squeezing her outer thigh.

"Are you going to turn me into a vampire or something?" She followed up, twisting a strand of hair around her finger nervously.

"Gods no! I'd only turn you if you wanted. There would be paperwork, plans made with LEMA." It wasn't a complete lie, he wouldn't do it, no matter how much the council pressured him if she didn't consent to the change, with full knowledge of what it meant.

"Hmm, never really contemplated immortality before. Seems kind of sad in the long run." Lani mused aloud.

"Glad that's cleared up. Theo, will you be joining us to the Other?" Emil asked pointedly.

"I have never been before, but if Lani will have me, I'd like to accompany her to make sure she is settled and safe there." He answered, gripping onto Lani a little tighter.

"I can assure you; my family's estate has plenty of spare rooms for the both of you."

"How long will we be hiding there?" She asked curiously.

"The timeline is somewhat unpredictable. With the cultists at large, it would be best to lay low as long as possible. The time dilation in the Other means that one day here is about a week there. It will feel strange at first to acclimatize to the different speed of the passage of time, but after a while it will seem normal." Emil explained.

"If we had more time, we could have gotten the kidnappers identities. I lost my head last night and wasn't thinking straight." Theo admitted, feeling foolish for only thinking of that now.

"I'll say, you almost killed that woman after telling me you don't kill." Emil disclosed, eyeing Theo with a harsh look.

"Thank you for stopping me. My beast was angry at her for staking me and taking Lani." Theo admitted, turning to face Lani. "You've become important to me in a short amount of time." He confessed, holding onto her gaze intently.

"Your beast? Am I... ever in danger?" Lani asked, somewhat hesitantly.

"No. I never want to hurt you or do anything you aren't okay with." He tried to assure, but saw the nagging doubt in her eyes.

"But you might. Lani's powers are unpredictable and by your own admission you struggled to stay in control." Emil reminded. "Her magic is depleted now, but it will return."

"I'm not a monster. I drink from willing donors and take blood substitutes to stay safe. If I keep the beast fed, I can keep it under control. Last night, I ran for miles at top speed and it took a lot of energy out of me. It's not an excuse for almost killing a woman, but my beast had never been that angry before." Theo tried to explain. "It's not like she was innocent, but it shouldn't have happened." He apologized, feeling the weight of the words Ms. Margrave had said to him, echoing in his mind.

'Have you even considered what your beast would do if you lost her?' Theo fell silent, grappling with these new feelings, a weakness, for Lani that blended the line he'd drawn between the man he was and the hungry animal he caged within.

"I don't like the idea of additional danger to Lani, especially until she can block her aura. I insist on separate sleeping arrangements for the time being." Emil said, clearing his own throat, and shooting Theo a warning look.

"Okay, moving on." Lani interjected. "I've watched enough true crime to know that if I vanish, Theo will be suspect number one. What the hell am I going to tell my job? My mom? Stacy? Someone is going to start looking eventually." Lani asked, concerned for whatever lies she'd have to craft.

If I tell anyone what's actually going on, they'll put me in the looney bin. I'd put me in the looney bin. Lani thought, pinching herself again just to be sure this was real.

"I'm sure we can come up with some reason. A spontaneous vacation perhaps?" Emil offered.

"If I'm understanding the timey-wimey stuff correctly, that would mean it'd take months in the Other to wait out two weeks here. Will Lani continue to age normally?" Theo asked curiously.

"Yes and no. 'Normal' time as you know it here passes seven times slower than in the Other. For example, say you stepped through a portal for one hour, you could read a book for one hour in the Other. You'd have aged for that hour and when you returned to Earth, roughly only eight minutes would have passed. Prolonged stays appear like rapid aging upon return, since biologically speaking you'd have lived seven times longer than however long you'd been gone. Normally Guardians do not stay in the material realm long, we only hop in and out quickly since time moves so fast here. Speaking of which, my family is probably worried for me now too." Emil simplified, only now realizing how much time had passed at home.

"You didn't tell anyone where you were going?" Lani asked curiously.

"My leaving was routine, checking in on you, but my return has been delayed. I was too sapped of energy to send word last night. Excuse me." Emil said, standing from the couch to one of the bedrooms.

I don't want to call upon him, but I can't fail in protecting Lani again. He thought, swallowing his pride, and pulled a stone from his pocket. It required more energy to send across the planes, he knew his message would be delayed because of the difference in time, but he subconsciously contacted his father. There was a pregnant pause as he waited to feel the connection take hold.

"It's Aemilius. I have rescued my ward, Leilani Veron from a cultist kidnapping and attack, please have armed guards ready in the nexus in case the villains return. She is safe, and I will be escorting her and one other to our home for sanctuary soon--relatively speaking." His voice was firm and professional, sure in its conviction. He didn't want to feel like a child seeking approval from his parent, but a small part of him did. Emil rubbed the enchanted stone with his thumb one final time, the surface smooth and cool as he tucked it away into his pocket, awaiting his father's response.

We'll have back up if we need it. No more unnecessary risks. He thought, as he pulled himself together again and returned to the others.

"Authorities have been informed of our impending arrival." Emil notified, as the two pulled away from another kiss.

"I've ordered a ride share to come pick us up, it'll be about an hour wait." Theo said, his voice husky with desire. Beside him Lani blushed behind her hair, and leaned in to whisper in Theo's ear.

"Can I talk with you privately?" She asked, biting into her lip. It was a concerning phrase but Theo was aching to have her alone and to himself.

"Yes, we should discuss some things in private." Theo answered, eyes glancing over to Emil who seemed on the brink of an outburst behind his red glare. Lani stood first, pushing open one of the unused bedrooms. Theo closed it behind them, his hands resting on her hips as he pulled her into a kiss from over her shoulder. Lani's breath seemed stolen, her head dizzy with want, and arousal pooling between her thighs.

"That's not what I intended, but it was nice." Lani said with a sigh, relaxing into his chest. "What are we?" She asked softly, enjoying how his arms wrapped around her tighter.

"We can be whatever you want us to be. I'll admit it might get a little complicated, there are non-human customs you aren't familiar with." Theo explained hesitantly.

"What kind of customs?" Lani probed, rubbing her hands over his arms around her.

"Courting customs." He answered. "I want you. I want to kiss every inch of your body until you are trembling beneath me, begging to cum around my cock." He husked into her ear, pulling her harder against him. Lani tried ignoring his hardening erection poking into her ass, but his lust filled words were affecting her too. Surprisingly, Theo pulled away suddenly, Lani missed his touch immediately, but he needed to gather his thoughts.

"What aren't you telling me?" Lani asked, crossing her arms in front of herself.

"We could date for a while, but there would be an expectation of... more." Theo said, cautiously choosing his words.

"You're beating around the bush." She accused, turning around to face him. "What kind of more?" She asked sternly.

"We'd be expected to marry. That's a lot for someone who just found out about their powers like you have, and--" He faltered.

"Tell me, I need to know." She implored him, placing a gentle hand on his strong chest. "I want to know."

"I'd be expected to turn you. To make you a vampire too. We'd be eternal partners. You'd have a choice of course. I won't force this life on you. For now, I'd be happy with being your beau. Only if that's what you want too." He said, smoothing his hands up her arms slowly.

"Does that mean you want to be exclusive?" Lani asked, renewed shock in her voice.

"If you agree to be mine, I'd do the same with you. I'm old and you know I don't mind sharing so if that was something you wanted to do again, and I also liked the person I'd be open to the experience. If you don't want that, I'd respect your decision as well." He answered.

"Hmm, how old we talking?" Lani asked, shifting subjects suddenly.

"It will be my 71st birthday in August. I was turned when I was 21, in 1974. The same year President Nixon resigned." He clarified, thinking back all those years.

"Wow, so you're a GILF. I've never dated a guy that old before." She blurted, with a small chuckle.

"I'm pretty young as far as vampires are concerned, and I don't have any children, so I don't think I can claim that title." He said playfully, moving both his hands back down to lightly grip her hips. "However, I do like hearing that you'd like to fuck me." He smiled wickedly, pulling her against his erection again.

"I didn't mean it in a bad way. Look at you. You're incredibly handsome. You make 70 look fucking hot babe." Lani recovered, her cheeks red as he rubbed the seam of her pants against her mound.

"Mmm, yes. Keep telling me how handsome I am. If you do, maybe I'll forgive you Kitten." He purred into her ear, easily lifting her from the floor and carrying her towards the bed. Lani giggled as he gently dropped her onto the soft comforter.

"Can I ask about the BDSM?" Lani asked after catching her breath.

"Sure. What do you want to know?" Theo asked, standing at the foot of the bed to admire her sprawled out before him, her hair a dark halo against the cream sheets around her head.

"Is it something you need every time?" She bit her lip as she looked up at him, heat and curiosity behind her eyes.

"To varying degrees. It helps me keep the beast in check, and allows me to make sure my partner isn't being pushed too hard. Does it bother you?" He asked in response, unsure if he'd misinterpreted her enthusiasm in their play together in any way.

"No, I guess I'm curious about it. That night with Stacy was insanely hot, but I don't want to disappoint you in bed when it's just me." Lani admitted, turning her head away from his probing gaze. He was propped up on his elbows now, keeping his full weight off of her.

"Darlin', you could never disappoint me. You didn't disappoint me last night." He said, hovering over her. "You're an absolute sex kitten." He praised between a path of kisses up her throat. "I want you every moment I'm awake. I'm holding myself back even now." He pressed his erection against her core for emphasis, making Lani moan softly.

"It feels selfish to ask, but I'd like the distraction." Lani blushed deeper, unable to look him in the eyes.

"Oh, Kitten. That's not selfish." He purred, tilting her head to look back up at him. "Tell me what you need." Lani's insides gushed, the low rumbling in his chest hardening her nipples.

"I need..." She panted out, feeling his hand graze over her inner thigh, going tantalizingly close to her sex. Theo intentionally avoided where she wanted him to touch most, as he continued upwards at a snail's pace.

"You can tell me Kitten." He encouraged, his fingers drifting up her ribs, gently caressing the swell of her breast through her shirt.

"I need you to make me cum." Lani struggled to admit, but the lust in Theo's eyes made her inner walls flutter.

"Good girl, thank you for being honest with me. I'd love to make you cum. It would be my absolute pleasure to do so. I want you to use colors to tell me your comfort levels. Green is keep going, yellow is slow down, and red is stop. Do you understand?" Lani nodded, but that wasn't what Theo needed to proceed.

"Use your words darlin'. What's your color right now?" He asked again, more overtly.

"Green. I want your fingers first, please." Lani begged, pressing herself up into him.

"I love it when you ask so sweetly like that. Let's get you out of these clothes first." Theo said, lifting the hem of the oversized sweater above her head. Lani's naked breasts bounced pleasantly, and he brushed his fingertips down her sides slowly, making her shiver. His deft hands tugged at the waistband of the leggings, smoothly pulling them down her shapely legs until they joined her other garment on the floor. All their kissing and petting had already excited her, so when his hand closed around her sex it was slick and ready for him.

"You smell so good Kitten, hopefully you will want my tongue on you next." He complimented, tracing the tip of one finger slowly through her puffy labia, spreading her wetness up. Lani moaned when his finger massaged around her clit, her hips jerking up towards his hand for more.

"I could toil away the centuries between your succulent thighs." He praised, circling her opening with one digit until she was writhing on the bed.

"Please Theo, I need it inside. I want to cum for you." She begged, hands squeezing her own breasts for any kind of release.

"There's my needy girl." He purred, slipping one finger in to the second knuckle slowly. Theo felt her warm pussy constrict around him. "Such a pretty pussy, dripping and holding me so tight." Lani didn't have a coherent response to his words, as his finger slid over her g-spot. Teasingly slow at first, then he brought his thumb to circle over her clit.

"Fuck!" Lani panted, thighs shuddering. "I need more." She pleaded, green eyes staring up at him.

"I've got more for you Kitten." He said pulling his hand away, making her groan from the sudden emptiness. He sucked her tangy juices off his finger, wetting his middle fingers, and plunged them smoothly into her aching sex. "How's that?"

"Green, yes. Please don't stop." She spoke between moans. Theo smiled, thrumming her clit with supernatural speed, it buzzed against her like a vibrator as his fingers found the spots that made her insides squeeze around him harder.

"Fuck! Close." She keened, panting with her mouth slightly open.

"That's it, I can feel it too. Let go of whatever is bothering you, cum for me. Be my good girl and come undone for me." Theo commanded, enthralled by her look of pure ecstasy.

"Yes! Oh yes, Theo! Just like that. Fuck!" She wailed, as the tension in her core released, her walls clenching tight, juices gushing into Theo's palm as she came. He dragged out her pleasure with soft strokes, before pulling his fingers out of her dripping slit. He spread her arousal over the parted lips of her mouth until she began to suck greedily at his fingers.

"Has anyone ever told you how amazing you look when you are cumming?" Theo asked.

"Um... maybe Stacy once." Lani admitted shyly, her chest rising and falling fast as she caught her breath. "Has anyone ever told you how good you are with your hands?" Lani giggled.

"I may have been told a time or two." He chuckled with her, then kissed her softly, trailing kisses down her jaw and neck. "Do you want to keep going?" He asked into her ear hotly.

"I uh, I'd like to make you feel good too." She said bashfully, running her hand over his thighs, carefully exploring his hardness through his pants. Theo groaned, his body tensing above her.

"If that's what you want, I'd like that too." He kissed her again, this time more hungrily, then climbed off the bed.

"Yes, I want to taste your cock again." She said, her eyes blown wide with arousal. He grabbed a pillow and placed it at the foot of the bed.

"I'm happy to oblige." Theo replied with a sly smile, helping her kneel on the pillows. He slid his shirt over his head, shoving his pants and boxers down in two swift motions. Lani watched with hungry eyes as his cock bobbed close to her face, and she licked her lips.

"Is my baby girl hungry for me? Take what you need Kitten, I'm all yours, however you want." He said in a lusty voice, her hand gripping the base of his shaft. With a wordless flick of her eyes upward, Lani rubbed the swollen cock head over her plump lips, sucking it into her mouth gently. His precum was salty and made her mouth water as she swirled her tongue around the tip. Theo hissed, the muscles in his thighs flexing.

"Fuck baby, your mouth feels so good. You are so good to me." He praised, and felt her sink a few more inches of his cock into her mouth, suckling softly as she pumped the remaining length of his shaft in one hand. Theo panted as she worked him deeper, reaching down to gather her hair in a loose grip to keep the strands out of her way.

Such a good mate. The beast praised, his cock pulsing harder against her tongue. He felt her hum, the vibrations tickling his swelling balls. Lani pulled off of his cock with a gasp, a strand of spit webbing between them as she caught her breath. She looked like a goddess between his pale legs, her other hand rubbing at her sensitive clit. Lani gripped him tightly, close to his patch of blonde pubic hair, shoving his throbbing member deeper into her mouth.

"Fuck, I love when you take me deep. You are such a good little cum slut. Sucking me off so good. Kitten wants my love milk?" He teased, watching how her thighs pressed together and her hand quickened with his encouraging words.

"I'm close too. Stroke me faster." He threw his head back. "Yes, just like that. Fuck, you ready Kitten?" Lani looked up at him again through her lashes, working them both over the edge. Theo's balls tightened, and shot his hot load down her throat with a feral grunt as her own orgasm had her moaning around him. Lani stroked him softly, milking him for all his worth, opening her mouth to show him his seed before swallowing it with the lick of her lips.

"You have me cumming like a young buck." Theo laughed. "Such a good girl for me, so quick to please. You are incredible." He praised, brushing her hair gently as she planted soft kisses on his sensitive cock head. Lani smiled up at him, satisfied with herself, and released his him.

Emil had heard everything through the thin walls of the house, the moans, the dirty talk, the gurgling of Lani's mouth on Theo's dick. His own cock was engorged to full-mast, angry and neglected as he tried his best to ignore their sounds of pleasure. He had half a mind to interrupt them, but the other half just wanted to relieve himself of his current predicament. He tugged at the base of the bulge in his pants, unable to hold out any longer as he heard the bed creak and Lani's sweet moans echoing through the hall again.

The satisfaction of milking Theo's seed had invigorated Lani, she stood from the floor, gently pushing Theo's chest so he laid back on the bed. She crawled over him, grazing her lips up his torso, tongue swiping over his nipples, and up towards his throat. Theo shuddered under her hungry mouth, his lips reaching for her as she found his, and she stole his breath away.

"I want your mouth now." She sighed against his lips, her pelvis rubbing against him in excitement.

"You have it darlin'." He husked, his breath short and winded. "Come here." He growled, pulling her hips towards his face with ease. She settled above him, knees on either side of his face as she sank down. Theo lapped up her new arousal with long flat strokes of his tongue from the base of her slit up to her clit.

"Oh, fuck." Lani whimpered, as he circled her swollen bud with his tongue slowly, kissing and sucking it into his mouth wetly.

"Mmm, you taste so good Kitten." Theo said, muffled by her thighs as he spread her ass cheeks wider for better access. His tongue circled her dripping hole before darting into her sex, lapping up her folds hungrily with his lips. He groaned under her as she began writhing and bouncing against his mouth.

"Yes, green, yes!" Lani panted out, her thighs flexing around his head.

Out in the living room, Emil's pointed cock head was weeping with precum, swollen and purple as he pumped his shaft with his own furious need. If they thought they were being quiet, they were sorely mistaken. He imagined himself between her quivering thighs, his lips bringing her to bliss. He heard a loud slap, then another moan of Lani's pleasure as the bed squeaked louder. Emil hoped they couldn't hear the slippery squelch of his hand around his cock as he chased his release.

Fuck, I'm close. Emil thought, his hand pumping himself full and hard as more sounds came through the thin walls.

"Ride me like a good girl!" Theo demanded from between Lani's thighs, slapping her other ass cheek to keep her bouncing against his face. His beast growled with lust, wanting his cock buried deep in her cunt. Instead, Theo slid his hands up, seeking out her swaying breasts. Lani moaned as he tweaked her hardened nipples roughly. "Cum! Cum for me again. Cum right now." He commanded. The extra stimulation and his encouraging words had Lani crashing over the edge with a strangled yowl, holding on to his hair tightly as she rode out her release on his face. Theo slurped her juices with a muffled groan, flicking his tongue against her clit relentlessly until she came again from the overstimulation.

Lani's whimpering cries were joined by Emil's quiet grunts as his member throbbed, once, twice, then spewed his large load across his belly and chest. Emil's breath was heavy and panting, his body damp with sweat, the drowsy euphoria was quickly replaced by sinking shame. With a practiced incantation, he magicked away his spend and stuffed his half-mast hard on back into his pants before he was caught.

Theo smiled up at Lani with a wolfish grin, licking his lips to savor the taste of her, then helped her into a more comfortable position. He spooned in behind her overheated body, smoothing the hair out of her face, and placed soft kisses across her shoulder.

"Feeling better?" He asked sweetly, gliding his hand down her arm and wrapping his own around her.

"If by better you mean turned into Jello and head empty, then yes." Lani joked sleepily, interlacing her fingers with his, her heart slowing. "God, I hope I wasn't too loud." Lani absorbed, a flush of embarrassment running through her.

"You sing like an angel. I don't regret it, not for a second, and neither should you. Our other ride should be here soon. Let's enjoy this while we can." He said, snuggling closer to her.

"Are you okay with just this? No sex, I mean." Lani asked hesitantly, feeling his renewed erection poking into her ass.

"Of course, this has already been so amazing. I'm flattered at how much you have already given me. The part that most people don't understand about power play is that when it's done right, the Sub gives the Dom permission to take control." He shared, tracing his fingers lightly over her skin.

"So, it's about trust." Lani summarized, thinking about the experiences they'd shared. He'd stoked the warmth inside her sex with words like wood to a bonfire, made her face her desire, look directly at it, and then made her beg for it.

"Yes, trust and consent. I want you to fall apart, to trust that I'll catch you, and make sure you feel good. It might be intense, but that's not the only thrill for me, it's holding you close after, like this. Praising you, breathing with you. When you feel good, I do too." Theo said with another gentle squeeze around her. Lani hummed in response, enjoying the closeness and adoration he poured into her. She turned in his arms to look into his eyes, her limbs wrapping around him in return.

"When I'm checking in, I'm trusting you to be honest with me so I don't push you farther than you are comfortable with." He finished, making sure she knew he had no expectations for her to push beyond what she truly wanted and enjoyed.

"I know my life just got infinitely more complicated, but-- do you wanna go steady?" She asked, unable to stop the blush that crawled over her tan skin. She didn't let her eyes leave his as she waited for his answer, and she didn't have to wait long.

"I'd be honored to call you mine Lani." He said with reverence, closing the distance between their lips with a passionate kiss, his fingers lacing through her hair, holding her head tenderly.

Mine. Purred the beast as Lani melted deeper into his touch, a contented sigh leaving her as they laid together, and for a while at least she felt at peace. She wasn't bombarded by the traumas she'd narrowly escaped, the frightening new power that thrummed inside her, or that her whole world view had shifted. Lani wasn't worried that Theo was more than twice her age, an immortal being, or possibly dangerous. In this moment, she was a satisfied woman in the arms of a man who loved her, and that was enough.

All too soon, Theo's phone rang with a notification of the driver's nearness. Theo slowly unfurled his arms around Lani, giving her cheeks small kisses to rouse her, and pulled away. He was dressed in a blink, vanished for a moment, then returned with a warm wash cloth in one hand, and her clothes in the other.

"Thank you, this is excellent service." Lani joked, taking the warm cloth to clean her slickened thighs, and sopping core.

"Your ass looks great in these leggings by the way." Theo remarked as he watched her slide the stretchy material over her wide hips. She gave her ass a little shake as she pulled her shirt over her head, and walked towards the door. To her surprise, Emil was poised just outside, his hand prepared to knock.

"Oh!" Lani said, surprised, not only by his presence but also by his new appearance. Shadow one-minute, blue dragon man the next, and now. "Whoa, Emil is this magic?" His horns and tail had somehow disappeared, leaving him looking very much human. She reached out to his arm, the skin pink and smooth, but when she touched him, she felt the scales she had seen before.

"Yes, a trick of the light you might say. I believe our ride is here, we should depart." He said with a slight shiver, but remained calm and composed. Even his outfit appeared more mundane and boring, a blue t-shirt and jeans furthering his disguise. "Are you ready?" He asked Lani directly, avoiding eye contact with Theo.

"Yes." Lani answered. "Theo?" She called back but he had vanished again, reappearing behind Emil with her band t-shirt rolled into a bundle in his hands.

"We're ready now. This is limited edition, we shouldn't leave it." He remarked, sidling up next to Lani as he made for the exit. Emil frowned when both their backs were turned, the scent of sex billowing out from the room, and clinging to their skin. The ride was quiet, the driver accommodating with free water bottles and friendly chit-chat. Lani sat in the center with Emil to her left and Theo to her right, hoping everything would make sense once she had some answers.

"You kids have a nice night. Please leave a five-star review, if you enjoyed your ride today. It really helps out." The older male driver said, idling in the drop off loop of Lani's apartment complex.

"I will, thank you sir. Have a safe night." Theo called out to him, as he helped Lani out of the luxury SUV. Emil followed close behind as the three of them ascended the stairs and followed Lani inside. When they arrived at the door, Theo took point, trying to sense if anyone was inside. When it seemed empty, he tried the knob and it turned, still unlocked. Pushing open the door slowly, he stepped in first, Emil behind him, and Lani last.

"Al, I'm home." She called out, hoping the cat would come out to greet her. A moment of worry passed as he eventually trotted out from behind the sofa, whiskers askew from a deep nap. The black cat yawned with a big stretch, then meowed loudly at Lani with obvious annoyance.

"I'm sorry I was gone so long." Lani apologized to the feline, stroking him head to tail before scooping him into her arms. He purred, head butting her hand for more affection.

"He's my little man. I'll get changed and start packing a bag." She said to the men, watching her reunion with Alister. Lani stepped behind the screen divider in her bedroom and began to undress. "I feel like I'm running off to Vegas. I don't know what to pack. What's the weather like in the Other Emil?" She pulled open a drawer and grabbed a clean tan bra, reaching behind to fasten the clasp quickly.

"Moderate most days, some hot." Emil answered, calling out to her from the living room. She peeled the leggings off, pulling on a matching pair of tan panties in a comfortable cut, and replaced the tight spandex. Opening another drawer with rolls of tank tops, she grabbed a few to pack, and a black one to wear.

"What about money, I don't suppose y'all use US currency?" She asked, pulling out a roll of bills from her sock drawer, and slipping on a matching pair. Stepping out from behind the changing screen, she shrugged into a long sleeve flannel to hide her bruised wrists.

"No, your human money won't get you far. Are you decent?" He asked.

"Yes. Come in." She called back, as she rummaged through the closet.

"I can provide you with whatever you require should the need arise." Emil continued, peering his head cautiously into her room now. He watched as she retrieved a duffle bag from the small closet and began stuffing it with various folded garments pulled from the many opened dresser drawers. "I applaud you for your expedience, but it definitely looks like you've been robbed now." Emil chuckled, eyeing the mess she'd made in a matter of minutes.

"Yes, well one does rush when psycho cultists try to kill you." She replied with macabre humor, that had Theo cackling in the kitchen too.

"Do you want to bring anything special from the kitchen darling?" Theo called out to her, pulling open the pantry door and peering inside.

"Oh, my Oreos! On top of the fridge." She called back, grumbling quietly about just buying groceries and regretting that everything would most likely be bad before she could return. Theo found her packing bathroom toiletries into a smaller bag, as he stuffed the blue packaged cookies into her duffle. He swiftly made his way around the room with vampiric speed, refolding discarded garments neatly and tidying the space.

"Wow! If I wasn't leaving, I'd ask if I could hire you to come by once a week." She joked, looking around the near spotless room as she returned from the bathroom. Hair untangled and brushed, a spray of perfume settling around her, and resting on her collarbone, the gorgeous green gemstone necklace. Lani felt more whole with it on, like her father was with her.

"For you, I'd do it for free. Have you thought about what you'll tell your job? Your family?" Theo asked, stopping her in her tracks.

"Oh shit, Stacy has probably blown up my phone by now." She reached for her cell on the charger where she'd left it. A few emails, social notifications, but no texts or calls. "Weird, she usually hounds me for details." She thought aloud, as she tossed the charger into her bag.

"Well, you did set her up with a horny werewolf last we saw her, so I wouldn't be surprised if he's still fucking her now. I hear they have crazy stamina." Theo said nonchalantly, taking a seat at the foot of her bed.

"Wait... Juan. Juan is a werewolf? You've got to be shitting me. Is every decent guy in this city non-human?" Shock made Lani's jaw go slack, as she absorbed this new information.

"The nose doesn't lie, he's were-folk alright." He said, tapping one nostril. "And I'll take that as a compliment, thank you." He said with a smile. "What's left to pack?" He asked, trying to get her back on track.

"Just a few more small things, and Alister's stuff. Gosh, I'm starting to get nervous." Lani admitted, it wasn't like Stacy to ignore their check-ins. Using speed dial, she called her best friend, waiting while the line rung a few times. Uneasiness filled her that maybe something had also happened to her friend.

What if Stacy doesn't pick up? Lani thought with hesitation and fear, until finally Stacy answered.

"Lani! Now's not really a good time." She heard Stacy say with a stifled moan. Lani couldn't help but blush.

"Seems like things are going well with Juan then? I wanted to check in with you, is he treating you alright?" Lani asked with concern.

"Yes, he's treating me so well. God, Lani he's got endurance like you wouldn't believe." Stacy panted out, obviously close to cumming.

"I also wanted to tell you that I'm leaving town. Taking that vacation, I've been talking about. I'm being adventurous!" Lani lied, trying to believe that she was being brave.

"What?" Stacy was struggling to comprehend what Lani was talking about while Juan slurped at her swollen pussy lips hungrily. "You're leaving? Where to?" She practically whimpered.

"To Italy." Lani lied again. "Theo and I are going together, he knows people out there. I've been saving long enough to feel comfortable about going. I just wanted to let you know before I disappear for a while." Lani twisted a strand of hair around her finger nervously, trying hard to keep her tone excited.

"Oh Lani, I don't know what to say." Stacy said seriously now. "I'm going to miss you like crazy. You better eat everything and tell me all the juicy details when you get back. How long will you be gone?" Stacy asked, a little sadness in her voice.

"I'm going to miss you too. We'll be gone a month or more, I'm not sure yet. Can you put Juan on the phone?" Lani requested.

"Sure." Stacy agreed, and held the phone to Juan's ear, since his hands were slick with her juices.

"Hola, Lani." Juan said in a casual deep voice. "Thank you so much for introducing me to Stacy, she is a most amazing woman." He praised, looking up at Stacy's naked body between her thighs.

"She is, and I expect you to treat her like the treasure that she is. That being said, she has a job, bills to pay, and so do you. I won't have you distracting her indefinitely." Lani said more firmly.

"Oh, what's the harm in one sick day?" Juan said, licking his lips. "Or two." He added with a sultry look at Stacy who was growing hungrier with need, so he rubbed her sensitive clit softly with his thumb.

"I'm serious Juan, I need someone I trust to look after her while I'm gone. She can be reckless sometimes, and..." Lani wasn't sure how much to say. "The city isn't always safe. Promise me you'll look out for her and your own." She finished, urgency evident in her tone.

"Is everything okay?" Juan asked with concern, sensing her underlying fear.

"Yes, no. It's going to be. Just keep an eye out for creeps and watch over my best friend, please." Lani begged.

"Sí, lo prometo. I will, I promise. I'll keep mi cariño safe." He swore sweetly in Spanish, eyes locked on Stacy, another unspoken promise he would satiate her soon. "And Lani?"

"Yeah?" She responded, feeling his serious intent.

"You sure about this?" Juan probed, searching for any kind of doubt or whiff of coercion.

"Yeah, I'm sure. It's better for me to get away right now." She said, feeling like it was true after everything that had happened.

"I don't know what kind of adventure you've found, but I wish you the best of luck on your journey. Keep yourself safe too amiga." Juan encouraged, trying to sound hopeful and not alarm Stacy.

"I will, I've got help. Thanks, Juan." Lani said, trying desperately to hold onto her positive front.

"Good, I'll hand you back over." He said before Stacy returned the phone to her ear.

"What did you say to him?" Stacy asked curiously, uncertain of what had transpired between them.

"Just that he needs to keep an eye on you while I'm away. I don't have much time now, but I love you Stace. Be good." Lani felt like she needed to cut this short, before she broke down into tears.

"No promises." Stacy smirked. "I love you too Lani. You deserve this bestie, relax, enjoy the time away." She encouraged, knowing better than anyone how hard Lani worked, how much she needed time for self-care.

"Talk to you later." Lani said cheerfully, hoping it wasn't a falsehood, and that they would stay in relative contact.

"Later Lani, safe travels." The line went quiet and she hung up as well, silence followed by an aching sadness. Emil had been keeping himself preoccupied by playing with Alister with a small mote of magic light while Lani made her call.

I can't rush her, not now. Not when she's saying goodbye to her realm. Emil thought, practicing patience while he watched her take a couple of deep breaths.

"Emil? What about my phone, my laptop? Is there internet over there?" She asked, trying not to spiral out of control as another bombshell of truth was about to be dropped on her.

"No, human technology is rarely used. The device will function but would not be able to connect to anything." He responded, then another voice rang in his mind, the stone in his pocket thrumming with power.

'Glad to hear you are well son, your mother was beginning to worry. Sentinels will be sent, and I'll inform Xarissa of your arrival. A carriage will be waiting to escort you to the manor from the Scriptorium. You have done well in protecting my pact, we will talk soon.' The low timber of his father's voice was smooth and familiar.

"Bring it, we can figure out a way to accommodate you." Emil said, hopeful now that his father had responded, but not comfortable in sitting idly by for danger to come. Theo stepped back in from the hall, finishing his own call with Max to come pick up his car and hide it somewhere.

"Take a break darling. Send whatever goodbyes you must. I'll pack anything you ask." Theo said soothingly, leading her over to a comfortable chair. Once Lani was settled, he placed a gentle kiss on her cheek.

"Thank you." She sighed, and gave him a weak smile. It felt like she was in mourning, leaving the one place in the world that she had carved for herself. It was decorated with small pieces of her life, achievements big and small, milestones, memories. Too many to take with her, and now she had to say farewell for an unknown amount of time.

Get your shit together girlie pop. Let's do this! Lani tried to encourage herself, opening her work email to composed a message to her manager. She focused on the lies she'd have to weave together to make this all seem normal, and began typing.

Dear Karen,

As you may have noticed, I was unable to come into work today. I've had a family emergency that requires my immediate attention. I will be using my saved PTO effective immediately. Unfortunately, due to the nature of the emergency, my exact return is unknown, and I will be using all five weeks of PTO. I'm sorry for any inconvenience this might cause, but my priority is to my family right now. All of my working files for current projects can be found on the shared cloud drive, should the team need anything.

Thank you for understanding,

Leilani Veron

She was sure to also CC the head of HR so that Karen couldn't outright ignore her request, and hoped the vague wording wasn't too suspicious as she sent the email.

"Damn, this is really happening, isn't it?" Lani asked in astonishment, tucking her knees to her chest. "I'm leaving my family, my friends, everything."

"I know it's not much, but you've got me darlin'. I've never been to the Other before either. Can't say I'm not a little curious how the other half lives, out I mean. All I've ever known is hiding. It's a damn good place to keep you safe until we can figure out what those kidnappers wanted." Theo encouraged, looking over to Emil who only nodded in response.

"I've got one more conversation to have, then we can go." Lani said, taking another deep breath to calm herself. She opened the family group chat that included not only her mom but also Joe, her younger brother.

Lani: I've finally done it! I'm cashing in all that PTO I've been saving.

Severely overdue for a vacation.

Don't know how much cell reception I'll have but I'll try to send pics.

Mom: That's so great honey. I hope you have lots of fun! Are you traveling alone?

L: No, Theo is coming with me.

M: Oh, sounds serious. ????

L: STOP!

Joey: Who the hell is Theo? Should I be worried?

L: He's my new boyfriend, relax.

J: Come on, you gotta give me more than that. Who the hell is this guy?

M: Joseph, that's no way to talk to your sister.

J: Sorry Ma. Just the first I'm hearing bout a new boyfriend. Why am I the last to know?

Also, surprise! I'll be home next week.

M: Can't wait for my baby boy to come home ♥

L: Damn, wish I'd known but we've already got tickets.

We plan to stay with a friend of his in Italy.

M: Italy! So lucky, I want pictures of all your adventures. ✈

"Theo, can I ask you for something silly?" Lani called out, and saw his head poke around the corner.

"Anything darling." He said, walking over. "How can I assist?"

"Can you take a selfie with me, so my little brother doesn't freak out about not knowing you?" Lani asked shyly, she wasn't the kind of partner that demanded pictures usually.

"That is certainly not silly, it's nice to hear you have people who care about you." He kissed her cheek softly. "Let me grab the bag, it'll make the photo look better." Theo left and returned quickly. The stuffed duffle bag was hoisted over his shoulders in a way that flexed his muscular arm deliciously. Lani snapped a picture of him just like that, savoring that one for herself before flipping the camera around and joining him to snap a couple shots of them together. Lani blushed when he pulled her waist closer, and kissed her lips sweetly. She took another more focused picture of them smiling together.

"Thank you, these are great." Lani said, planting a soft kiss on his lips. She swiped through the photos and selected the best one to send. After another moment Lani's phone pinged again.

M: Aww honey, you two look so happy. ????

You tell him, I expect him to treat my girl right and keep her safe overseas.

Theo smiled as he read the message when Lani turned her phone around for him.

"Yes ma'am, I'll do everything I can." He said, serious as a soldier, making Lani giggle.

L: He said, 'Yes ma'am.' I think I'm in safe hands.

Feel better now Joey?

J: No, but at least I know what he looks like.

Be careful sis. You need anything I'm just a call away. Okay?

L: Heard, loud and clear. Love you guys ♥

M: Love you so much sweety xoxox

J: Love ya, safe travels.

Lani couldn't help the small smile plastered on her face. She almost forgot that everything she'd said had been a lie. This wasn't an impulsive vacation, she was running away from people who wanted to hurt her, and that hidden threat twinged inside her chest.

"Is there anything else you need to finish before we depart?" Emil asked, a gentle expression on his brow. He wasn't blind to her anxieties, how she'd powered through these difficult goodbyes laced with lies.

She's so strong, I wish I could carry some of her burden. Emil thought, waiting for her response.

"I have to move some money around, pay some bills, but it'll be quick." It was easy with how convenient online banking was these days.

"Very well." Emil acknowledged, stepping towards the front door, and latching the lock. He lathered his thumb with spit, and drew a simple eye shape above the door while speaking a soft ancient tongue to cast a scrying eye over Lani's home.

If anyone enters, I will know. He thought, drying his thumb on his shirt, and returned to the living room where Lani quickly paid off her credit card, and moved enough money to keep her checking account from over drafting when her monthly subscriptions and rent automatically withdrew. When she was done, she stood, stretching her arms above her head.

"There, that should do it. Theo, is there anything else you need to do?" Lani asked, walking over to the entryway closet for a pair of sneakers.

"No, I'm ready. I've already sent word to my job and have Max dealing with moving my things.

"Is it stupid that I feel scared right now?" Lani queried, looking back to both of the men waiting on her.

"No, it's not stupid. Some of the best choices in life are scary. That's why they call it a leap of faith. I'll make sure you land all right. I don't know Emil well, but he seems like the honest kind. I wouldn't be here with you now without him." Theo admitted, feeling some kinship towards the mysterious shadow dragon, guarded and closed off as he was.

"Thank you both, I feel, truly lucky. Whatever those assholes were doing wasn't good, and I've been thinking... what if I'm not the only one? People who don't even know they have something inside them, like me. Or people like Theo, hiding in plain sight just getting taken in the night. It's not right!" Lani looked down at her hand, wondering if the magic would come forth but she was left staring as it tightened into a fist. "Let's go, before I change my mind."

"We'll find the answers you seek. I will go into the portal last, to close it from this side. There may be armed guards on the other end, do not be afraid, tell them your name. I will follow behind shortly. It is also best to keep your eyes closed during transport." Emil explained in rapid succession. Lani only nodded in response, feeling hesitant again, but the danger of staying was scarier than what lie ahead. "The portal is here." Emil stated, stopping at the foot of Lani's bed. He hoisted the bedframe, mattress and all upwards to allow them easier entry.

Lani watched as his red eyes shifted with magic as he whispered the spell to open the portal, the rug shimmered slightly, almost imperceptibly. A sock caught at the portal's edge stretched oddly, like a visual glitch, and Lani couldn't believe her eyes. Alister, ever the gentleman rubbed at her leg and meowed to shake her back to reality.

"You go first with the cat darlin'. I'll be right behind you with the bags." Theo heartened.

"Once inside, the portal will do the work. If it helps, imagine you are jumping into a body of water. You don't have to hold your breath of course." Emil said, trying to prepare her for the interdimensional jump.

"Okay." Lani said nervously, scooping up Alister into her arms. She felt the adrenaline pumping in her veins, but she calmed her breathing, imagining as Emil had said. Chlorine and pungent plastic, water gun wars with Joey, summers in the sun by the lake. She squeezed her eyes shut, took a final gulp of air, and stepped in like a drop from the deep end of a pool.

*Authors Note*

As always, I hope you enjoyed dear reader. I'm honored that you took the time out of your hectic life to read the madness that's lived in my head for too long. The farther I get into this story, the more it feels like the characters are taking me places I hadn't considered in my outline, and I'm glad you are here on this journey with me. ♥ Can't express how tempted I was to write Stacy and Juan's first night together, but this chapter is plenty long already. Maybe I'll consider a side story off shoot... hmm.