Firebird- Part Six

Firebird copyright (c) 2006 T.A. Chase

Part Six-

Vlatko lay in his bed and focused on the warm body beside him. It was the thief, Rue and the skinny man snuggled closer to him with one leg thrown over his own hip.

He sighed. Running a hand over Rue’s back, he realized a decision would have to be made soon as to what to do with about the man. Should he do as all his years of training in the I.U.M. said he should do? Should he contact the Way Station and have them come to arrest the man?

He pushed his body up to lean on his elbow, staring down at the thief. Vlatko knew who Rue was, no matter how innocent the man pretended to be. Rue was one of the best thieves in the universe. Authorities first started paying attention to Rue when he was caught and branded at the age of ten. After that Rue had never been captured again and by the time the thief was sixteen, he was commanding large sums of inter-universal credits for hired jobs.

At twenty-four, Rue still looked innocent and so young, but Vlatko knew the man could be ruthless and cold-hearted when he needed to be. Vlatko ran a finger down over Rue’s nose. “Who paid your price for stealing the President’s Heart,” he wondered out loud.

“I don’t know. They never tell me their names,” Rue’s answer was sleepy and rough.

“Ah, so you were hired to steal it for someone.” Vlatko laughed.

“Shit.” Rue came wide-awake, swearing and pushing away from Vlatko. “I was just talking in my sleep. I don’t have any idea what you’re talking about.”

Vlatko pressed a finger to the thief’s lips. “Don’t. I knew who you were the moment I saw you tied to the tree. You don’t need to steal to survive anymore. You steal because someone’s paying you.”

Rue looked like he wanted to argue, but seemed to think better of it. “So are you going to turn me in? There’s quite a bounty on my head.”

Vlatko climbed out of bed. After stuffing towels and a bar of soap into a bag, he threw it into Rue’s arms. Then he plucked the man off the cot

“Where are we going?” Rue wrapped one lean arm around Vlatko’s neck.

“To clean up.” Vlatko shouldered open the hut’s door and carried Rue to a steamy pool of water.

“Clean up? I don’t see any sanitizers.” Rue looked around as Vlatko set him down next to the pool.

“You won’t see one. This isn’t a modern planet, Rue. In some places, indoor toilets are still things of the future.” Vlatko waded into the pool, holding out a hand to Rue. “Don’t worry. I’ll keep you safe.”

The thief laughed. “Most men aren’t worried about my safety. They’re more concerned about getting the reward the I.U.M. is offering.”

Vlatko shrugged. “I’m not concerned with the reward.” He soaked one of the clothes and soaped it up. Taking one lean arm, he washed Rue.

Rue studied Vlatko’s primitive hut and gave a disbelieving snort. “Man, you live like a homeless man. If I were you, I would have called the I.U.M. the minute you saw my naked ass tied to that tree.”

Vlatko looked around, trying to see his surroundings through Rue’s eyes. So he didn’t have all the comforts of modern men. His house was a one-room hut. He had very little contact with the natives or any other people for that matter. He finished cleaning Rue. “I don’t need much. Money just gives you a false sense of worth.”

“Spoken like a man who doesn’t have any.” Rue’s amber eyes twinkled at him as a smile graced those plump lips.

“Maybe it’s just sour grapes.” He cleaned and rinsed himself. “I won’t turn you in.”

“Why not?”

Vlatko could tell Rues was looking for the catch. “I don’t owe the I.U.M. anything. In fact, I’m a deserter.”

Happy Hunk Day

Half way through the work week, everyone. Figured we could use a pick-me-up to get us through the rest of the week. :) Enjoy.

Here's a mini blurb that I (with help from a friend *wink*) wrote up for Angel's Evolution:

"I’m a monster. Or so my father would have me believe. I’m imprisoned in a world I hate and fear. As heir to my father’s title, I’m expected to marry, but my secret desires may keep me from fulfilling those expectations.

One night a stranger kisses me. In his touch, I see the possibility of a life beyond my prison. My name? Just call me Angel and this is my evolution."

Firebird and a few of my other stories are coming along nicely. I'm enjoying Rue and Vlatko from Firebird. They're both funny, a little sarcastic and sexy. I can't wait to dig deeper into their story. See where they lead me. :)

Hope everyone has a grea day.

Firebird-Part Five

Firebird copyright (c) 2006 T.A. Chase

Part Five-

Shit! Rue’d never been this full before. Vlatko’s cock was buried deep in his ass.
He took another deep breath and braced his hands on the wall again. “Move,” he ordered as he pushed down.

Vlatko laughed. “So demanding.”

Rue didn’t think the man was complaining. “Damn right. Now fuck me already.”

“Yes, sir.” Vlatko pulled out and then slammed back in. The blunt head of his cock bumped Rue’s gland as it went by.

“There. Again.” He rocked his hips in time with Vlatko’s thrusts. He planted his feet on the cot, tilting his ass at a better angle for Vlatko to fuck him deeper.

The big man leaned forward, kissing Rue and giving Rue’s cock a hard stomach to rub against. Rue had been surprised by the first kiss Vlatko had given him. He had demanded one earlier, but never expected to actually get one. Men didn’t kiss street thieves. It was a lesson he’d learned when he was younger and selling his body was the only option to survival.

Vlatko didn’t seem to have a problem kissing. In fact, he did it so well that Rue found himself on the edge. In fact, the combination of tongue in his mouth, hard abs rubbing on his shaft and Vlatko’s thick cock pegging his gland with each thrust drove him right into the fastest climax he’d ever had.

“Fuck,” he groaned as his come shot from his cock. Lights danced in front of his eyes. His back arched and his inner muscles clamped down on Vlatko.

Vlatko grunted and shoved his shaft hard into Rue. The thief felt the throbbing of the thick rod as moist heat spilled from the man and filled Rue’s ass.

“I’m screwed,” Vlatko mumbled as the big man pulled out and collapsed at Rue’s side.

Rue stretched, testing his muscles to make sure nothing had been hurt. A pleasant ache filled his body and his ass gave a spasm of lingering passion. “I think I’m the one who got screwed.” He smiled as he snuggled close to Vlatko’s body.

His lover reached and grabbed a shirt off the floor. Rue was surprised when Vlatko cleaned him off and then himself. He’d never had anyone take care of him like that.

Vlatko settled back down, pulling him tight to that massive chest. A heavy arm wound around his waist and a large hand landed on his ass.

“Rue, don’t try to run. No transport is scheduled to land for another month. And I wasn’t kidding about the natives killing you.” Vlatko’s voice rumbled under Rue’s ear.

Rue gave running serious thought for a second or two. Then Vlatko squeezed his ass and Rue decided he’d stay with the person he knew. He wasn’t what the man planned on doing about him, but Rue figured Vlatko wasn’t going to kill him.

He put his hand on Vlatko’s chest, feeling the man’s heart beat. A stray thought dashed through his mind just before he fell asleep.

You’re safe.

Awesome News

Here Be Dragons got a Joyfully Recommended from Shannon at Joyfully Reviewed. :) Here's just a snippet of what she had to say, "Here Be Dragons is a mind-blowing story of mythical creatures, fantasy worlds, unimaginable pain and a staggering love between two men." Click on the JR button to read the rest of the review. Thanks so much, Shannon. I'm thrilled that readers are enjoying HBD so much. Kael and Hugh were wonderful characters to write.

The other good news is that I got my contract for Angel's story from Liquid Silver this weekend. Now I can tell you that I changed the title to Angel's Evolution since I didn't feel that Seduction was quite the right name for what happens to Angel during the story. Because in reality, he isn't really seduced, but he does change and evolve into a strong man for Greyson. I'm thinking it'll be released probably in January of next year. Don't quote me on that though. As soon as I get a true date, I'll let you know. I can't wait to see the cover for this one...lol.

You'll notice that the links to Angel's story are gone from the sidebar. In the next week or so, I'll more than likely delete the entire story off my blog, now that it's contracted. But don't worry, Firebird will still be here to read. :)

Hope everyone has a great day.

Flyboys

Saw Flyboys last night. It was pretty good. No real big name actors though James Franco has been in the Spider-Man movies. It's a story about an elite group of American pilots who go and fight for the French during WWI. At time when planes were just starting to be used. It's based on a true story.

Elisa graciously translated her review of No Going Home. Click here to read and also read her article on m/m romances. It's pretty awesome. I'll be heading back to post a comment soon.

Well, it's going to be a rainy day here, so I'll probably just spend as much time as I can writing. Have several different stories I need to work on. ;)

As for my secret project...here's a hint. (It shouldn't be too hard to figure out) What does Valentine's Day and Halloween have in common? :)

Have a great day, everyone.

Some one ask for a pic...

of Mark Walhberg, half-naked. Here you go, graciously donated by Lozan. This must be from his young clean-cut rapper days, huh? Still those are some great abs. :)

I have to say Firebird is moving along quite well. I'm thrilled that you are enjoying it since it's not nearly as angst-ridden and emotional as Angel's story was.

My secret project is moving along as well. Did about 3k on it yesterday. As soon as it's done, I'll tell you more. :) I know, I'm being mean. lol

Hope you all have a great day.

"I'll wind up forgiving and probably loving you/For the rest of my life/But I don't feel like loving you today..."--Gretchen Wilson, Don't Feel Like Loving You Today.

Firebird-Part Four

Firebird copyright (c)2006 T.A. Chase

Part Four-

Vlatko was pretty sure kissing the beautiful thief wasn’t the smartest thing to do, but he didn’t believe that always doing the smart thing was the best way to live. He could admit to himself that he enjoyed taking risks and fucking Rue was the biggest risk of all.

He picked the smaller man up and carried him back to the cot. He tossed Rue down and gestured for the thief to stay put. Vlatko stripped with quick efficient movements. The inter-universal military didn’t have a rule against sexual encounters among its men, but the soldiers learned not to waste time on foreplay. He couldn’t keep a grin of pride from his face at the look of wonder in Rue’s eyes.

The thief reached out with those elegant hands to cup Vlatko’s balls and wrap his cock in a fist. They were pickpocket hands and Rue was showing him why the man was considered one of the best thieves in the universe.

Rue’s fingers moved in a soft dance up and down Vlatko’s cock. A gentle squeeze at the base of his shaft and a teasing swipe of the thumb over the head increased Vlatko’s desire. Rue’s other hand fondled Vlatko’s balls in an alternating rhythm of squeeze and tug. It had been a long time since any hands besides his own had touched him that Vlatko knew if he allowed Rue to continue playing with him, he’d come. There was no way he’d do it. He wanted to be inside Rue’s skinny ass when he spilled his seed.

He pulled Rue’s hands away. Both Rue and Vlatko’s cock protested. Holding those skinny arms up, Vlatko worked to strip the shirt from Rue’s body. The instant Rue was naked again, Vlatko dropped the man’s arms.

“Stay there,” he ordered as he knelt down to feel for his pack under the cot. He jerked from its hiding spot and opened it, searching without taking his eyes off Rue.

The thief spread his legs like a willing slut. Those talented fingers pumped Rue’s long curved cock. The man’s amber eyes flared with orange flickers again.

“Here it is.” Vlatko crowed in delight as he found the jar of lube he’d packed. He crawled up on the cot and stretched out beside Rue.

Opening the jar, he held it out to the other man. “Get yourself ready.”

Something flashed in Rue’s eyes and an instinct told Vlatko it wasn’t anger. Even though Rue was a demanding captive, Vlatko didn’t think Rue wanted to be in charge while they were fucking.

“What about protection?” Rue asked as he coated his fingers with the lube.

Vlatko shook the jar. “As well as being slick, this kind of lube acts as a sealant. No diseases in or out.”

“I’ll have to get some of that,” Rue muttered, his eyes glazing over as he ran his hands over his balls and played with the tight pink pucker between his ass cheeks.

Vlatko pushed one of Rue’s legs up and Rue grasped it behind the knees, pulling it to the side and exposing himself to Vlatko’s hungry gaze.

“Do you make all your lovers do this?” Rue’s eyes studied him for a moment.

Vlatko’s breath caught as the tip of a finger breeched Rue’s ass. “Only the ones I like.” He ran his hand over Rue’s chest and started plucking at the thief’s nipples.

“Gods, that feels great.” Rue arched his back, silently pleading for more.

“Two now,” Vlatko instructed, his eyes glued to where Rue was finger-fucking himself. His own hands pinched and twisted Rue’s dusky brown nipples until they were red. Vlatko enjoyed how Rue shivered every time he touched those hard nubs.

He felt the tingling at the base of his spine. His climax was rushing in on him. He slicked up his cock and moved to lie between Rue’s thighs.

“It’s been too long. More build-up later.” He pulled Rue’s fingers away.

“Fine with me.” Rue placed his hands against the wall at the head of the cot. He arched his hips and grinned up at Vlatko. “I’m all yours.”

Vlatko placed the blunt head of his cock at Rue’s opening. He eased in as Rue pushed down. Rue’s eyes shut tight and the thief took a deep breath. Vlatko knew he was big and he hadn’t given Rue a lot of time to stretch, so he took his time sliding in.

“So big.” Rue bit his bottom lip as Vlatko eased another inch in.

“You’re so tight.” Vlatko put his hands on Rue’s hips. “Take a deep breath and try to relax.”
He waited until Rue started to breathe in and then he pushed his full length deep inside.

“Don’t move. Oh gods.” Rue’s hands scrabbled at the wall as if he was looking for something to hold on to.

Another Football Movie

I tried to find a better picture of Mark Walhberg, but couldn't find one that I really liked. :) So here he is. I saw his new movie, Invincible this weekend as well. Aside the 70s style clothes and hair, it was a really good movie. He's becoming one of my favorite actors. Besides the fact that he's just plain yummy to look at.

Nothing much to report on the writing scene. Our cable will be fixed today. *keeping my fingers crossed on that*

I got my first review for Here Be Dragons. It's from Larissa at The Romance Studio. "TA Chase has woven a contemporary tale filled with magic of old and a love that is as timeless as history itself." 5 hearts and click here to read the rest of the review. Thanks a lot, Larissa.

Also, Elisa from Italy has written up a review on No Going Home. It's in Italian. Woo-hoo! My first truly international review. Thanks, Elisa.

Other than that, there' s not much happening. So I hope everyone has a good day.

Firebird-Part Three

Firebird copyright (c) 2006 T.A. Chase

Part Three-

Rue stared up at Vlatko. His mind tried to focus on the question the man had just asked him, but his cock was mainly concerned with Vlatko’s large muscular body pressing him down into the blankets. Rue shifted a little, trying to act as if he wanted to get away, but he just wanted to rub their groins together.

A moan burst from him as the smooth material of Vlatko’s leather pants teased his naked cock. Through half-closed eyes, he saw lust burst into Vlatko’s dark eyes. He lifted his head until their lips were only inches apart.

“Kiss me,” he demanded.

Vlatko closed those last few inches, but instead of Rue feeling those thin lips, all he got was a stroke of Vlatko’s tongue over his lips.

“For being a thief and at the mercy of my will, you’re rather demanding. Your kiss will come, but at my discretion, no your demand.”

Vlatko pushed off the bed and stood beside it, staring down at him. Rue had a never felt before wave of embarrassment as the man’s gaze roved over him. He turned his head away, searching for something to cover himself with. Without a word, Vlatko handed him a shirt.

“Thanks,” he mumbled while pulling the fabric over his head. He climbed out of bed and the hem dropped to his knees. He was swimming in fabric. Shit. Now he looked like a twelve year old which was so sexy. He had to find clothes that fit him soon. There was no way he’d be able to convince Vlatko to fuck him and believe his lies while looking like a kid playing dress-up. Rue scowled up at Vlatko as the man smiled.

“I’ll find clothes that fit you later, but first you haven’t answered my question. What did you steal?” Vlatko crossed his thick forearms in front of that wide chest.

Again Rue’s brain tried to short-circuit, but he managed to stay on topic. “I’m hurt. What makes you think I took anything?” He placed his hand on his chest and pouted, trying for his best wounded innocent look.

“Besides the brand on your arm, just a hunch. Oh and the fact that I got a call from the security detachment at Way Station Nine, telling me to be on the lookout for a thief matching your description.” Vlatko raised an eyebrow. “Want to try that innocent act again?”

“Fuck.” Rue searched for a way out. Vlatko stood in front of the hut’s door, the only visible escape route. Yet Vlatko had the look of a solider about him, so Rue was pretty sure there’d be another exit hidden somewhere. “Damn. I didn’t think they’d get a BOLO out so soon.”

“Don’t try to run, Rue. It’ll only get you killed.” Vlatko relaxed against the door.

Rue was amazed the wood managed to hold up under Vlatko’s weight. “So you’re going to kill me after all?” He shook his head. “I should have known. I’m trying to make a living, surviving the best I know how and everyone says I’m a thief.”

“I didn’t say I’d kill you. Just that if you ran, you’d get killed.” Vlatko dropped his arms, hooking his thumbs in his belt and framing the bulge behind his zipper with his fingers.

“Um…if you aren’t going to…” Rue’s eyes zeroed in on the large hard-on Vlatko was sporting. “Um…kill me, who will?”

“The people who live on this planet. It’s the birthmark on your back.” Vlatko nodded at him while stroking his fingers up and down the front of his pants. “It’s a symbol of their most sacred religious icon. The tree you were tied to, they’d kill you under it and let your blood water its roots.”

Rue shivered, but he wasn’t sure if it was from lust or fear. “I don’t know what I took.” That was the truth. His client had asked for a certain stone and he made sure he grabbed it. He didn't know why the man wanted that one.

“So you were just stealing?”

Rue wondered if Vlatko was being sarcastic, but there wasn’t any emotion on the big man’s face except curiousity.

“It’s what I do and I’m good at it, considering I’ve been doing it since I was five years old.” It wasn’t bragging when it was the truth.

He’d only been caught once when he was ten. After the inter-universal military finished branding him, they dumped him back on the streets. He got an infection, but didn’t get a clue. Stealing and conning people was all he knew. Until he learned some other way to eat, he’d keep doing it.

“I was just making my way through the crowd at the way station. There was a group of six or seven people standing by the loading dock for a transport to Villaria. They were well-dressed, so I thought I’d relieve them of some of their baubles.” He shrugged as he moved closer to Vlatko. Rue licked his lips. He wanted to taste the big man.

Vlatko’s black hair was braided into a thousand small intricate braids with beads, feathers and ribbons entwined amongst them. His skin was a dark brown. It reminded Rue of a leather couch he once saw in the living room of a house he was robbing. He wondered if Vlatko’s skin would be as soft to the touch as the leather had been. Vlatko wore a simple green leather tunic. It was sleeveless and laced up the sides. Tight black leather pants and black military issue boots completed the masculine picture that was trying to overwhelm Rue’s brain.

“The group you ran amuck in was from a small outer universe planet called Mitchov.” Vlatko didn’t stop Rue from coming closer. “Besides money and baubles, one of the things you relieved from them was the key to Mitchov’s survival.”

“Fuck me. I didn’t steal anything like that.” He thought back to the pocketful of items he’d taken off them before he moved to the next loading dock. He hadn’t had time to go through and make sure he’d actually gotten what his client wanted. Now Vlatko was telling him, he’d been successful.

“Yes, you did. You stole the President’s Heart, Rue and they’ll stop at nothing to find and kill you.” Vlatko’s grabbed Rue’s wrist and yanked Rue up against the man’s body.Your client’s going to kill you if he finds you first and without the stone. That was the last thought that ran through Rue’s mind before it shut down as Vlatko’s lips took his without mercy.

Hey There

I really didn't mean to disappear over the weekend. I had plans on posting about the two movies I saw, but our cable is down and they can't get out to see what's wrong with it until Wednesday. Argh! It's like being back in the Stone Ages..lol

I saw Gridiron Gang on Friday. A football movie starring the Rock..oh yum! It was actually a very good movie about trying to help kids overcome the power of the gangs. :) I recommend it.

I'll tell you more about the other movie on Wednesday. ;)

I did do a little writing, so the weekend wasn't a total waste.

Hope everyone has a great day.

TGIF

Don't you just love this guy's smile? You know he's saying "He's all mine and you can't have him." lol

It's kind of a dreary day here and I would have prefered just to stay in bed. But nope, the day job needs to be done. Goodness knows I'd rather spend time with all my guys, getting their stories written.

I've come up with an idea for a new series, but until I know for sure if it's going to work out, I'm not saying anything else about it. don't want to jinx it.

Nothing much got written last night. Oh well. I'm not on any deadline except my own. :)

Hope everyone has a great day.

Firebird- Part Two

*If I do this the right way, Tuesdays will be from Rue's pov and Thursdays will be from Vlatko's pov. Hope it won't be too confusing.*

Firebird copyright (c) 2006 T.A. Chase

Part Two-

Vlatko stared at the strange man tied to the sacred tree. He hadn’t believed the scouts when they came running into the temporary camp, yelling about the ships and the men. He’d hoped it had been their active imaginations making things up, but he had gone out to investigate anyway.

Amazement swamped him when he stepped into the clearing and saw the man. As Vlatko walked closer, the man started praying to his gods. Vlatko knew it was futile to pray to any gods. They were on their own in the universe. Which is why he chose to get lost on a small planet as close to the edge of nowhere as he could get.

He traced the red mark on the man’s back. He knew that it was just a birthmark, but the simple people of this planet were going to freak when they saw it. A stranger with a birthmark in the shape of a firebird tied to their sacred tree was going to push these people into a frenzy.

The naked man bent his head forward, as if he were offering up his body as a sacrifice. Vlatko couldn’t help himself. He leaned in and breathed the man’s scent in. The acidic tang of fear was there, but buried beneath that was the arousing smell of man. It had been a long time since he let his body react to the male scent. But there was no one with him in the clearing, so he loosened his control.

His cock swelled and his balls tightened. Lust flowed through him. His breathing came quicker. He fought the urge to lick the exposed neck, tasting the helpless man before him. The man laughed and Vlatko could hear the fear in the man’s voice. Now wasn’t the time to indulge in his own urges.

He moved around to where the man’s face was. The stranger had his eyes scrunched shut. Probably didn’t want to see his killer, Vlatko thought. He didn’t really blame the man. Not everyone was brave enough to face their own death.

“Open your eyes.”

The stranger’s eyes popped open and Vlatko had to muffle his gasp. The man had firebird eyes; a strange amber with gold sparks and orange flames burning in them. Vlatko blinked and looked again. The eyes staring back at him were still amber, but there were no orange flames in them anymore.

“Who are you?”

Vlatko smiled at the nerve of the helpless man to question him. “Tell me your name and then maybe I’ll share mine.”

“Why should I tell you who I am?” The square chin lifted and those amber eyes glared at him arrogantly.

“It seems to me that you’re in no position to make demands or ask questions, sir. I’m surprised you lasted this long tied to the firebird’s tree. She isn’t tolerant of strangers.” Vlatko gestured up into the tree branches, where a large bird sat staring down at them.

“Yet she let you get near enough to kill me.”

“She and I have an understanding. She doesn’t try to light me on fire and I don’t try to kill her.” Vlatko pulled his knife. “I haven’t killed you yet.”

“Which is rather amazing in itself because I don’t usually inspire patience in anyone I meet.” The man laughed.

Vlatko couldn’t tell if the stranger was crazy or just resigned to his fate, whatever it might be. He sliced through the ropes holding the man to the tree. The firebird above them screeched and a cascade of sparks rained down on them.

“We’re leaving, you old biddy.” Vlatko didn’t wait to see if the stranger could stand on his own or not. He leaned down and slung the man over his shoulder.

A moment or two of silence covered them as Vlatko made his way out of the clearing. The man chuckled a few minutes later.

“I guess I should introduce myself since you have your hand on a very private part of my anatomy.” The man flexed his ass cheeks.

Vlatko realized that while one of his arms was wrapped around the man’s legs, the hand of his other arm rested on the man’s tight little ass. He didn’t drop it though. “Sorry. Please do tell me your name. I need to know whose name to listen for in the news reports.”

“I’m Rue and I’m crushed that you think my name will be mentioned at all. I’m very good at what I do.” Rue’s voice was filled with pride and laughter.

Vlatko slapped the firm flesh under his hand. “I’m Vlatko and I recognize a street thief when I see one. Even without the brand on your arm.”

“Damn. One mistake and you’re branded for life. So what are you going to do with me, Vlatko?” Rue’s hand slid over Vlatko’s back.

Vlatko tried not to think about how Rue’s warm hand felt on his skin. It had been a long time since he allowed anyone to touch him.

What was he going to do with the thief? It was a good question, but not one Vlatko could answer at the moment. He still had to get Rue into his hut without the others getting a glimpse of the man’s birthmark. With the kind of ethics Rue had, if the thief knew how the simple people of this world worshipped the firebird, he’d be ruling the planet within days.

He pushed open the door to his hut, making his way to his cot after kicking the door shut. He tossed Rue on to his cot and followed him down, pinning the smaller man to the cot.

“So what did you steal to warrant being left on a planet like this?” He wasn’t really sure he wanted to know the answer.

Green Day

I know I usually post some hunky picture, but I was listening to Green Day's American Idiot cd driving to work this morning.

I love this cd. Not only is the music rocking and the vocals awesome. I love the lyrics to their songs.

Wake Me Up When September Ends and Boulvard of Broken Dreams are two of my favorite songs. There's a certain poigancy to these songs.

"here comes the rain again../falling from the stars../drenched in my pain again../becoming who we are

as my memory rests../but never forgets what I lost../wake me up when september ends"- Wake Me Up When September Ends by Green Day.

"I walk this empty street../On the Boulevard of Broken Dreams../Where the city sleeps../And I'm the only one and I walk a...

My shadow's the only one that walks beside me../My shallow heart's the only thing that's beating../Sometimes I wish someone out there will find me../'Til then I walk alone..."-Boulevard of Broken Dreams- Green Day.

Didn't do much writing last night. Just kind of relaxed and watched HOUSE, M.D. Love Hugh Laurie. :)

Hope everyone has a great day.

New Story- Firebird

*picture doesn't have anything to do with the story. I couldn't find the one I really wanted to use. So enjoy him. And enjoy the new story. I'd love to hear what you think Rue sees when he opens his eyes. It's a futuristic/sci-fi story. I wrote it late last night, so I'm sorry if it seems disjointed. :)*

Firebird copyright (c) 2006 T.A. Chase

Part One-

Hanging from the tree, waiting for darkness to fall gave Rue a lot of time to contemplate his life. He’d made tons of mistakes in the twenty some years he’d lived, but his biggest had to be stowing away on the cargo ship. It was the only option left to him. He really needed to leave Way Station Nine before security caught him.

He rested his head against the tree truck and prayed there weren’t any ants or insects living in the bark. Insects and his naked body just didn’t mix. And he was naked. Damn those guys. They took his clothes and left his naked ass tied to a tree waiting for some fucking huge animal to come and eat him alive. They were pretty graphic about what would happen to him.

So maybe his biggest mistake wasn’t stowing away on the cargo ship. It might have been offering to do whatever the captain wanted as long as he could stay aboard. And he meant anything, even if it was sexual. Unlucky for him, the captain was a Castan from the planet Casta, one of those places where gay anything was frowned upon to the extent that two men caught touching in any way could be killed. Lucky for Rue, the captain didn’t feel like killing him at least right away. The Castan was into torture, Rue guessed because waiting until the big animals arrived to kill him was driving him insane.

The undergrowth rustled and Rue hugged the tree tighter. His mother had always said only the smart died young, so he’d figured he was destined to live forever. Yet somehow there was a miscommunication with his gods and they abandoned him to his gruesome death. A totally unrelated thought popped into his head. The ugly birthmark on his back was really beginning to itch. He wished there was some way he could scratch it, but his arms had been fastened to the tree with ropes and he couldn’t move. His arms were numb.

Whatever was in the bushes moved closer. Rue shut his eyes and started praying. “God, if you’re out there, please save me. I promise no more stealing or whoring. No more taking advantage of blind beggars and cripples. I’ll go to Temple every Holy day.”

He was babbling, but hell, the gods should be used to people ignoring them until the person praying needed to be saved. He thumped his forehead against the tree. Maybe praying now wasn’t a good idea. The gods had no reason to help him out. He wasn’t exactly a shining example of a good person. He tried to shrug. What did the gods expect? His parents abandoned him on the streets when he was five. He survived any way possible. Maybe it wasn’t following the golden road to the Heavens, but he didn’t go hungry too often.

A sound caught his ear. The creature stalking him had stepped into the clearing. This was it. He was going to be ripped to shreds without anyone anywhere mourning his passing. Warm breath brushed over his neck and he bent his head forward. He offered his naked neck, hoping for a quick death. The scent filling his nose wasn’t that of an animal. It was a strange combination of musk and orange. A finger or claw-he didn’t know which one-traced the outline of his birthmark.

A crazy urge came over him to beg his soon-to-be killer to scratch his back. He laughed wildly. The things you think about when you’re about to die. His own breath caught in his chest as the creature moved to stand where Rue could see it, if his eyes were open.

“Open your eyes.”

The order came as such a shock that Rue’s eyes popped open without a thought from him. Rue was happy he was tied to the tree because he would have fallen over in shock at the sight greeting him.

A Day for Remembering

Sorry I wasn't around this weekend. Things got busier around here than I planned. :)

Wrote a little bit on Tony's story and wrote down an idea for another cool sci-fi/futuristic one.

Don't have much talk about today, I guess. Just I hope everyone takes a moment to remember all the men and women who died and all the families who lost someone on Sept. 11, 2001.

Hope everyone has a good day.

Finally Friday.

Is it really terrible that I'm so excited about it being Friday when I've only worked four days this week...lol. :)

Just to ease some worried minds, I'm not abandoning my blog...just Blogger. ;) When my website is up and running, I'll be blogging away on my site. Hopefully it'll mean no problems with pictures and things like that. Because really we know the pictures are the most important thing on my blog.

I started typing in Tony's story. 660 words typed in but a lot more written. Also, worked on a few other ideas. Basically just fleshing them out and seeing if they'll actually work or if I need to dump them.

Have a great Friday, everyone.

"I live not in dreams but in contemplation of a reality that is perhaps the future."--Ranier Marie Rilke

Contest and a new Review

hey everyone...I know, it's a little depressing to realize that there won't be any more Angel scenes, but don't worry. I'm working on another story I think you'll like just as much. :)

Now for the contest. Here's the information. It runs from today until Sept.30th. It's being run by Kayelle Allen, but you can enter to win a book from any of these authors. :)

Enter to win 15 free books from MM Romance authors Evangeline Anderson, Laura Baumbach, Ally Blue, TA Chase, Jules Jones, Sean Michael, DJ Manly, Jet Mykles, Luisa Prieto, ML Rhodes, Kira Stone, Tory Temple, BA Tortuga, Stephanie Vaughan, and Kayelle Allen.
One winner will receive a book from each of these authors! Five more will each receive two books of the reader's choice and a copy of Tales of the Chosen: Wulf, by Kayelle Allen.
To enter, click the link below and complete the entry form. What are you waiting for? Spend Autumn's cool nights curled up between two hot guys.

Here's the link to the entry form: http://www.kayelleallen.com/choosemeauthors.html

Hope you decide to enter. :)

Also, No Going Home received another awesome review. This time it's from Nannette at JoyfullyReveiwed. Here's a snippet of what she has to say about my boys. "No Going Home is a beautiful story and the heat that Les and Randy create in the bedroom is scorching! "

Click on the review site name to read the rest of the review. :)

Well, some progress was made on Tony's story last night. I'm getting an inkling of what some of the problems he'll face in this story. But I'm really starting to like his hero, Ed.

C and I started working on my website. Woo-hoo! I'm hoping it'll be up sometime next week. Just to give you a heads-up, I'll be moving my blog to my website, but it's not happening today, so don't panic...lol. I'll let you know all the details when the site's up and running.

Have a great Thursday, everyone.

"Sanity is a madness put to good use."--George Santayana

Happy Wednesday!

Happy Wednesday, everyone. Woo-hoo! The work week is already half over..lol.

I've been writing. A little bit on a bunch of different stories. I've got Tony's story started. Doing some editing and adding some more to Angel's story. :) Never satisfied, I guess.

Not much to say today, so just dream about joining this guy in the shower.

"God created love. Priests created marriage."---Voltaire

Available Now-Here Be Dragons!

It's out! The first book I ever finished. :) Click here or on the link in the sidebar to buy it. (Not subtle at all...lol)

Here's the blurb:

Herpetologist, Kael Hammerson is hiding in Ireland working at a research lab. While Ireland may seem a strange place for someone in his field, it was the furthest away he could get from his abusive ex-partner. Now, a year later, his heart is ready to heal.

Kael's boss, Hugh Price, is very interested in Kael, but is afraid to cross the line from employer to lover. When a strange sea creature is brought into the lab, Hugh and Kael are swept into a fight for their lives and the lives of mankind.

Dragons have returned and the men must decide if their own love can survive the interference of a goddess.

And an excerpt:

“Hammerson, come and look at this.”

Hugh’s voice broke whatever spell had been holding Kael. He looked over to where his boss stood next to a crate. When he looked back to thank George and Ed for saving him, the men were gone. It was as if they had never been there, but he could still taste George in his mouth and feel the press of Ed’s hand against his chest. Shaking his head, he figured they moved off so they didn’t get in trouble for talking to him.

Arriving at where the captain and his boss were standing, he managed to stop a squeak when Hugh reached out, grabbed his arm and pulled him to stand in front of him. At first, he couldn’t focus on anything except his body’s fervent wish that there weren’t so many layers of clothes between his ass and Hugh’s cock.

“What do you think it is, Hammerson?” Hugh’s cinnamon-scented breath danced over his ear.

Kael had to draw on all his strength so he wouldn’t groan and rub back against the warm male body behind him.

“Kael?” His name was said in a soft whisper.

“Huh? Oh right, your snake,” he muttered, than closed his eyes with a helpless little laugh when he realized what he’d said.Opening them, he looked down at the creature placed on the crate. Within seconds, he forgot about the man behind him. He heard a sharp intake of breath as he bent forward to get a better look at the unusual specimen.

______________________________________________________

Enjoy and I'll try to post another excerpt later on today. :)

Angel's Seduction-Part Thirty-Seven

Angel's Seduction copyright (c)2006 T.A. Chase

Part Thirty-Seven:

I’m roused from my pain-induced stupor when Greyson hands me to a footman so the duke can climb out of the carriage. Greyson enfolds me in his arms again and moves into the house, calling for Johnson, the butler and the housekeeper.

They convene in our bedroom. Greyson lays me on my stomach in the middle of the bed. I don’t know who sobs, but I’m sure my back isn’t a pretty sight. I manage to move my head, so I can see them.

“Have a footman go for the doctor,” Greyson orders the butler. From the housekeeper, he asks for warm water and sheets torn into bandages. “We’ll have to soak your shirt off, love. It’s dried to the wounds.”

“It’s happened before.” Quite a few times, but I’m not interested in telling those stories. I close my eyes to rest.

* * * *
“Love, the doctor’s here.” Greyson’s voice and touch on my shoulder wakes me up.

I find I’m naked with a sheet covering me from the waist down. I must have lost consciousness since I never felt them cleaning or moving me.

“Fine.”

I close my eyes again. Greyson’s hand trails down my arm to grasp my hand. The mattress dips a little and I peek through half open eyes to see the duke sitting next to me. I squeeze his hand each time the doctor probes a deep wound.

Finally the doctor finishes with my back. He takes a quick glance at my nose. He rinses his hands after bandaging my torn flesh.

“Some of the wounds are deep, so I’d keep an eye on them. They might fester. You’ll get a fever. We’ll deal with that when it comes. The best I can tell you, my lord is you’ll heal, but it’ll take a while and you’ll have more scars to add to your collection.” The doctor frowns. “I’ll be back tomorrow to check on you.” He nods to both of us and Johnson escorts him out.

Greyson moves from the bed to a chair set beside it. He’s farther away than I like, but he reaches out to take my hand.

“What did he do to you, love?” His voice is broken and fills with sorrow.

“He freed me, Greyson.” My voice is hoarse from exhaustion and pain.

A puzzled frown appears on Greyson’s face. “He put you in chains and whipped you until your back looks like raw meat.” He caresses my palm. “How does this free you?”

“I no longer fear him. I no longer hate myself. I understand what love is and I’m strong enough to embrace it when I see it.” I bring his hand to my mouth and kiss it. “He has no power over me any more. I’m free.”

“What happened?”

I shake my head. I’m not ready to tell Greyson about my ordeal. Maybe I never will. “When we left Father’s house, you told Uncle to take care of him. How will he do that?”

Greyson let me change the subject. Maybe in his heart, he knows he isn’t ready to hear it. “It seems your father owed a few men quite a bit of money. So between your uncle and I , we bought the markers. As long as he leaves us alone and quits spreading rumors, we won’t call in the debts. The minute he tries anything, we send him to debtor’s prison.”

“Will it work?” I’m fighting to stay awake.

He squeezes my hand and smiles. “Rest now. I’ll be here when you wake up. You’re home.”

I allow my eyes to drift shut. For the first time I believe it’s true. I am safe and I’m home. Like a caterpillar that shed its skin to become a butterfly, I’ve had my skin stripped from me and found a beautiful being beneath it. My soul is strong now, forged by the hammer of my father’s hand and strengthened by the adoration of my lover’s heart. I am loved and I am free.

The End.

Angel's Seduction-Part Thirty-Six

Angel's Seduction copyright (c) 2006 T.A. Chase

Part Thirty-Six:

“You seduced my son and have perverted his immortal soul with your evil ways. He’ll be dead before I let you have him back.”

I lean against the doorframe, staring into the drawing room where my father and Greyson stand, face-to-face. Father is gesturing wildly, his anger turning his face beet red. Greyson’s eyes are as hard and cold as diamonds. He doesn’t move as my father pokes a finger at his chest.

“You were killing him anyway. All I did is love him and give him a normal life. I didn’t hold him captive or chain him in a room. I didn’t take everything away from him. Unlike you, I know how to love someone and treat him like a person.” Greyson steps closer to Father. “If you’ve harmed him in any way, I’ll kill you where you stand.”

I know the threat is real. As much as I’ve always dreamed of my father dying, I don’t want my lover to be the one who kills him. “Greyson.”

My soft voice explodes in the room. Everyone turns to look at me. Father’s eyes are filled with fear and anger. My uncle’s face holds relief. Greyson stares at me, tears making his eyes shine.

“Angel,” he whispers, taking a step towards me.

I straighten up and try to move to him, but my strength disappears. My knees buckle, but Greyson cradles me in his arms before I hit the floor. His arms wrap around me tight. I cry out as he presses against my back. He frowns, touching my face lightly with his fingers. The duke helps me sit up and then glances at my back.

In a flash, he’s on his feet and stalking towards my father. Without hesitating, he hits Father in the face with his fist. My uncle comes and kneels beside me. I try to say something, anything to make Greyson stop beating my father.

Tears roll down my cheeks. I’m tired of the anger and violence. I want to go home. I want to curl up in our bed with Greyson’s arms around me. I need to feel safe.

“No.” I moan, trying to climb to my feet. “No more.”

Uncle holds me down. “Don’t move. Greyson, get your ass over here. Angel needs you.”

Greyson pulls away from my father and races across the floor to me. He joins me on the floor, reaching out to touch my face and my chest. He’s seen the blood and I think he’s afraid that by touching me, he’ll cause me more pain.

“Oh, my beautiful Angel. How can I help you?” His voice breaks and tears stream down his face.

I lean forward, even as my back protests any movement and bring our lips together. It’s a gentle kiss, full of promise and healing.

I pull back enough to say, “I love you.”

His hands cup my face and he rests his forehead against mine. “You love me.”

“Yes. I’m sorry I didn’t say it before this. I’m sorry I was too scared to trust in myself.” I place my trembling hand over his chest where his heart beat strong and true.

“Never be sorry, Angel. You love me.” He gathers me in a soft embrace as if he held a baby bird and lifts me up. A sharp groan explodes from me. He looks down with a worried frown. “I’ll try not to hurt you, my love.” He moves slow, not jostling my body the best he can.

“Don’t be sorry. No matter what you do, I’ll hurt. Just take me home.” I rest my head on his shoulder.

“I’ll do that, love.” He glances at my uncle. “Take care of this.”

“Certainly, your grace.” My uncle brushes a hand over my shoulder. “I’ll see you in a day or two.”

“Thank you.” I smile as best I can through the pain.

A movement catches my eye and I see my brother standing at the top of the stairs. He nods and I know I’ll be seeing him again. There is nothing to be envied about being Father’s heir. I’ve discovered we might not be able to chose our relatives, but we can chose our family.

I believe my brother will reach a moment when he realizes he has nothing to lose as well. When he comes to me, I will receive him with open arms and no anger. We all do what we must to survive.

We make our way outside and settle into the carriage. I press my face above Greyson’s shirt and against his warm scent. I breathe as deep as my ribs will allow, taking in his scent. I’m safe. My heart, mind and body know it.

Angel's Seduction-Part Thirty-Five

*borrowed the picture from Sherrill. :)*

Angel's Seduction copyright (c)2006 T.A. Chase

Part Thirty-Five:

Who do I belong to? I know what he wants me to say. It is a game he likes to play. Before this moment I would have said what he wanted to hear, if only to try and get a reprieve from the beating. It never worked and this time I know the true answer to his question.

“Whom do you belong to?” He screams again. The other man grabs my hair at the back of my head and jerks back hard enough to make my neck hurt.

“I belong to no one.” My words are forced between gritted teeth. My back throbs with pain as blood pours down from my wounds.

“You belong to me. You carry my name. You’re mine.” Father’s face flushes red and I see the fury building in him.

“If I belong to anyone, it would be Lord Greyson. I’m not your son. I am Greyson’s lover.” These words might push him over the edge, but they are my truth.

“Pervert. That sodomite has seduced you into believing perversion is love. What is your name?” This is another game he plays with me, having me repeat my name over and over. He is re-enforcing the idea that I belong to him since our names are the same.

I stare at him and grin through my pain. “My name is Angel.”

Rage takes hold of him and his fist rams into my face. I feel my head snap back and my nose break. My knees start to buckle. I tense. There is no way I’ll allow myself to fall to my knees in front of my father. When I kneel again, it will be without pain and only to bring pleasure or comfort. I glare defiantly at him, blood dripping from my chin.

“Hit me,” I challenge him. I wave a weak hand towards the man holding me. “Beat me.” I scrub my hand over the blood on my face and hold it out towards my father. “Spill my blood until it pools beneath me. I’ll never deny my love or my lover.”

Shock pushes through the anger in my father’s eyes. He steps away from my hand.

“I no longer fear you.” I throw back my shoulders and straighten so I’m standing taller than he is. My body screams in agony. Pain is beginning to return. “I pity you. You live in fear and face the world with anger. You’ll never know love from anyone, not even your own family. At least while I’m burning in hell for my perversions, I’ll know I’m loved.”

I take a shallow breath. That’s all my battered body will allow. I look for the whip the man dropped. I spot it and make my way slowly over to it. Bending is torture. I’m afraid I’ll fall over, but I grasp the handle. I hand it to the man. When I make sure he's holding it, I turn and offer my back to him.

“Take a pound of flesh, Father. Try to beat the demons from me. Kill me if that’s the only way you know of to drive this disease from me. It matters little to me what you think. I love Lord Greyson, and I’ll die loving him.”

In that instance with those words still ringing through the air, I feel the last chain holding my heart captive break. Fear flees before the truth I’ve spoken. In the love I have for Greyson, I’ve found the ability to love myself. No one will ever be able to make me believe I’m a monster because I love a man. No opinion will matter to me so much that I lose myself.

The man with the whip growls and I hear the leather whistle through the air. Pain rips through my body, but I accept it. I no longer fight it, not even when my legs give out and I fall to my knees. For my brain has taken the suffering away and all I can see before me is Greyson smiling and loving me.

A knock interrupts the beating. Father walks to the door while he gestures for the man to stop. “What is it? I said I didn’t want to be disturbed.” He yanks open the door.

A nervous footman shifts from side to side. “My lord, the Duke of Northamptonshire and the Earl are here. We told them you were unavailable, but they demand your presence.”

Relief surges through me. Edward kept his promise and they came. I manage a chuckle. “I told you I’d be free again.”

“That’s what you think. Come with me.” He heads out of the room with the stranger behind him. “Keep an eye on that one and make sure he doesn’t get out,” Father orders the footman.

“Yes, my lord.” The servant bows his head, but I see his gaze dart over to me.

Disgust fills the young footman’s face after my father disappears down the hall. The servant moves towards me and I find myself tensing, expecting him to hit me.

“Bastard.”

The hate-filled words surprise me. I glance up at him and see he’s staring at the slices across my back. I want to shrug my shoulders to show I didn’t care what he thought but the pain was too much. I struggle to gain my feet.

“Don’t move, my lord.” The footman touches my shoulder. “Master Edward will be here in a second. He’ll help you.”

“Shouldn’t” is all I’m able to force out.

“I turned my back for too long, brother.” Edward enters the room. He has a shirt over his arm. He hands it to the footman. “James, hold on to this. I’ll get Robert up and we can cover him with that.”

“Angel,” I hiss, his hands bracing me as I push myself off the floor.

“Right.” He manages to work the remnants off my wrists.

“I have this.” James holds up a small key.

“Good man.” Edward grabs it and frees me from the cold iron cuffs.

“You shouldn’t help me. If he knows you did it, he’ll punish you.” I wobble, trying to pull the clean shirt on.

Edward tugs it over my head and gently lays it over the wounds on my back. I can tell the fabric is soaking up the blood.

“He won’t. We’ll help you to the stairs and then we disappear. James has already been fired, though Father doesn’t remember he did it. So it won’t matter for him.” He lets me lean on him as we make our way down the hallway to the stairs.

I study the stairway. It’s the pathway to my permanent freedom, but I don’t know if my body has the strength to move.

“Where is Angel, Williamson? I demand to see him. I won’t leave without him.” Greyson’s voice drifts up to where we stood on the landing.

My love is down there and I’m not willing to wait any longer to be with him again. I take the first step towards true freedom.

Angel's Seduction-Part Thirty-Four

*as promised, we're having an Angel marathon. I only have a few more scenes to post so I'll post them over this weekend* Violence (rather graphic)

Angel's Seduction copyright (c) T.A. Chase

Part Thirty-Four:

“Wake up.”

The order breaks through the blackness clouding my mind. I moan to myself as I roll over and push myself to a sitting position. I force my gaze to meet my father’s. It is difficult since he has often punished me for daring to look him in the eye.

His grin is filled with pride. “I told you I would have you back,” he gloated.

“Yes. It seems that you were right for once.” Surprise ripples through me. Who is speaking? The boy I was would never challenge his father like that. The child knows the consequences of defiance.

He hisses and slaps me. “Don’t talk back, boy. I’m your father and I own you.”

“You don’t own me. You’ve never owned me. All you’ve done is held me captive and abused me because of your own fears and ignorance.” I find I have the strength to climb to my feet.

When I gain my feet, I see a flash of fear shoot through my father’s eyes. It is in that moment, I realize I’m taller than my father. For so long, he has played the roll of the devil in my nightmares. In those nightmares, my father was a monster, invincible and powerful. In the light of day, I see that he is old and small. His power over me lessens even more. He may hold me chained to this room, but he no longer controls my fear.

I stare at my father and I can tell he’s beginning to understand that I’ll no longer cower before him. He’s losing some of his confidence.

“Demon.” A hand grabs my collar and pushes me to my knees.

My first reaction is to tense, but I’ve decided I’ll take whatever punishment they feel fit to give me. They’re the evil ones, not me. They are the ones who take perverse joy in causing pain. Father moves to the other side of the room. The man who forces me to the floor unchains my cuffs from the ring they’re locked in. He tears my shirt so it hangs down around my waist and gathers at my wrists.

A crack breaks the air and my back begins to ache before the first blow lands. I know what is to come. I bow my head and spread my arms out, offering myself up to their hatred. I can endure this. I’ve survived thirteen years. I can take a few more hours or days. I’ve been free. I will be free again.

As the leather bites deep into my flesh for the first time, I swallow my scream. I allow my mind to bring an image of Greyson into my mind. His brilliant blue eyes fill with the love he holds for me. Fire burns over my back as another lash cuts into my skin. By the time I’m free, I’ll have scars on my scars, but I don’t think about that right now. I focus on the feel of Greyson’s arms around me. My back straightens and I lift my head to stare at my father. Just thinking of my lover gives me the courage to accept the whipping.

I know from experience that I will go numb after a while. The body can only take so much pain before the mind shuts down. Warm liquid trickles down my back and soaks into the waistband of my trousers. Another stripe is added to my lower back. This one cuts deep and I can feel it in my spine.

A sob lodges in my throat. I won’t beg. I won’t plead. I will continue to love Greyson with all of my soul and I’ll never deny what my heart says is right. The whipping continues and my mind slowly distances itself from my body.

My father says something to me, but I can’t hear his words. I’m remembering each moment with Greyson in my soul. As each touch and kiss takes away the pain, I realize that I’ve never once spoke of my love for the duke. I never told Greyson how much I love him.

The shock rippling through me has nothing to do with the leather marking my back. It comes from my heart. Why have I never told the duke how much I love him? Why haven’t I uttered anything to let Greyson know that my world ceases to exist without him?

A slap to the face brings my attention back to my father. He screams at me, but again I can’t hear the words. Spittle hits my cheek and I understand that this is why I never said I love you to Greyson. Deep inside me, I never really believed I’d be free of my father. I knew his reach is long and the chains with which I was bound to Father were strong. Maybe by not saying the words, I thought I would keep myself from falling apart when I returned to hell.

Yet here I kneel, bleeding and tortured, but not begging. Not asking forgiveness for a love so perfect that even if the Devil sent it, I’d accept it with open arms. I promise myself as soon as I am free, I’ll tell Greyson about my love.

“Whom do you belong to?” My father slaps me again and I realize the whipping has stopped for the moment.