Kiss Before Dying

by

Aline Hunter

To my editor, who believes in my work and asks for more. Ann, you’re the bestest.

Chapter One

Tonight I will have him, my Master and vampire lord. And tonight I will die.

As a blood slave I have never known passion or pleasure. We are never to know what it means to be taken into bed. Our virginal blood is our worth, given in exchange to the lords who offer the most lucrative bargain for ten years of our servitude. When the time is served, our minds are cleansed of the past and we are allowed to return to the dregs of a society that know nothing about them.

Most blood slaves are born of the human families who—for generations—have served the lords and ladies of the keep in a place hidden within the mortal realm. These most cherished servants are treated with the utmost respect, for their bloodlines nourish and provide for their keepers and ensure survival.

Then there are those like me.

Mortal females snagged from a life of poverty, desolation and misery. There is no choice for us. Once we’ve been marked, all that is required is an unexpected happenstance with The Collector to seal our fate. The vampire slave hunter is known for his exceptional eye for beauty and grace, as well as his ability to see the aura of purity as it radiates from the source.

Although I resisted my entrapment, spewing every vile word in my vocabulary and demanding to be released, it wasn’t long before I met my Shellar—the stunning male who paid the price for my companionship and thereby held all rights where I was concerned.

Lord Sebastian Arsov.

It seemed destined that we should meet, as though it was meant to be. The moment I first laid eyes on him, I knew I would never be able to fight that which would occur regardless. With thick white-blond hair, vivid and impossibly bright mushroom blue eyes, a face beautiful enough to grace heaven and a chiseled body that moved with such intent and precision he actually appeared to ripple, Sebastian was unlike anyone or anything I’d ever seen.

Yet it was his tenderness in that first, tentative contact between us that proved to be my undoing. He enraptured and enthralled me, and I knew I had to be with him. No matter the price, regardless of the cost.

No longer am I content with his fangs at my throat, followed by the most heartbreakingly tender pulls as he feeds at my veins. I need more than the hours spent conversing privately about his past and my future while wrapped in sheets that know nothing more than the most innocent of touches as we sleep side by side.

The dichotomy has changed. I have changed. The seventeen-year-old girl taken from a harsh life on the streets has gone, replaced by a woman full-grown.

I want his kiss of sexual longing at my neck while his large hands explore my breasts. I want to feel the fullness of his cock buried deeply inside my untried body as his moans of pleasure echo inside my ears when he finds release.

Months of preparation have brought me to this place, sitting in a tapestry chair, to appear before him when he enters, having committed a betrayal of sorts. For the time with my lord is nearing an end, and the thought of never remembering Sebastian is more than I can bear, something I’m not willing to allow.

Although it will mean my death, I am content in knowing our last moments will be shared together, in the most intimate and beautiful of ways. And my beloved Shellar will be none the wiser until the deed is done and the piper is paid his due. It is vampire law. You must not bed those you drink from—as you can never fully wipe their memories clean—unless their lives are taken during the physical union.

Blood drinkers survived by one rule above all.

No one must know they exist.

It was amazing, when I thought of it. Mortals fail to recognize the supernatural creatures around them. Despite the fact they are as beautiful as the stories depict, lovely in their absolute grace and sensuality. But they are often isolated and separate from all those around them, which makes the vampire race lonely creatures.

Often Sebastian longed for nothing more than conversation as we sat before the roaring fire. It was how we spent a majority of our time, sharing and nourishing our chaste yet endearing friendship. We were as close as lovers, even though we’d never taken our relationship to that level and—if Sebastian had his way—never would. My Master wouldn’t consider such a thing. My life, to him, was worth far more than my death. A night of love and pleasure in his arms wasn’t worth the sacrifice involved.

I knew that, had tried to accept it.

Until I realized I’d only been lying to myself.

The large oak door opened with a protest of squeaking hinges, interrupting my thoughts and memories. Sebastian entered the bedchamber. His massive frame took up a large portion of the bedroom, as did his intimidating presence. He pulled the door closed, walked to the center of the room and stood before me. I knew what to expect. I had seen him come to those fortunate enough to grace his bed in those early days of my tenure. I’d been jealous of each one, even if it had been wrong to resent the poor creatures. True, they’d experienced what I longed for. They’d known the touch of my master as a lover. Yet even as they gloried in the pleasures of his body it was I who shared a portion of his mind. We’d become connected through blood, even if we were destined to be nothing more than friends. The only time I left his chamber was when he entertained, taking women to his bed, breaking my heart each time in the process.

As required, I donned a black mask embossed with blood-red jewels that revealed only my cherry-stained lips and darkly kohled chocolate brown eyes, which worked in my favor. It was essential to keep my identity hidden. Fortunately the lords preferred to think of their bed partners as little more than disposable pleasures. None of them enjoyed killing, even when it was necessary. The mask also held an enchantment, obscuring my unique scent. Otherwise Sebastian would easily recognize the fragrance of my blood and, by association, my identity.

To enhance the illusion, I chose a long pale blonde wig to disguise the brunette waves collected beneath. Sebastian loved my hair. He claimed it was a prize of its own. Masking those heavy strands was as important as obscuring my face.

He continued standing in front of me, impossible to ignore, observing me with a trained and critical eye. He was covered in expensive materials, each piece custom fit to his frame. The black jacket molded to his wide shoulders had been left open along the center to reveal the crisp white shirt beneath. Pearly white buttons were opened at the collar, displaying a tantalizing flash of flesh.

“Rise,” he murmured in a thick voice, slightly accented and entirely erotic.

The mere word caused my thin panties to become drenched with hot, liquid arousal. I shivered, goose bumps making me painfully aware of my sexual need. Wantonly, I envisioned the lips that uttered the order against my breasts—sucking, biting, exploring. My nipples hardened at the prospect, forming into beaded points. I shifted uncomfortably in the chair, clit throbbing, trying to steady my breathing.

Sebastian chuckled at my reaction. “Rise, little beauty, and come to me.”

This time, I did.

The four-inch heels I’d chosen were odd to walk in, but they were necessary to add to the illusion and to alter his perception. I purposely rotated my hips with each step, every stride bringing me closer. I had to force myself not to peer into the magnificent face of the man I had decided to give myself to.

The man I was willing to die to be possessed by completely.

“You are exceptional,” he breathed. Reaching out, he pushed aside the thick red velvet cape around my shoulders to reveal the—until now unseen—treasures hidden beneath.

The heavy material clung to the clasp at my throat and allowed him uninhibited access to my body. He started at the base of my neck, fingers skimming across the surface of my chest. One large hand cupped my right breast. He massaged the mound through my thin corset as his thumb caressed the hard bud beneath. Knowing he enjoyed hearing the sounds of the pleasure he created, I didn’t mute my soft moan.

“Tonight I want to hear my name on the tip of your tongue each time you come.”

It wasn’t difficult to make my voice husky and unrecognizable, not with the heat in his gaze, his attention riveted entirely on me. “Tell me your name, sire.”

“Sebastian.”

I repeated the word in a heady tenor, voice quaking, “Sebastian.”

As his face descended, I waited, captivated. How many years had I longed for that plush mouth against my own? To know exactly how he tasted and smelled? His blood was thick, spicy and masculine.

Would the rest of him be as well?

Just before our lips made contact, he whispered, “Tell me your name, sweet.”

Panic almost ruined everything but I quickly recovered, remembering the ruse, how important it was for my plan. “Arianna,” I expelled in a rush, using the middle name I had never revealed to him or any other in his enclave.

“Arianna.” He sampled the name, rolling it off his tongue. “A beautiful name to match a sensual vixen.” His grin made my pussy spasm, heat building between my thighs. “I approve.”

Lips met and parted, tongues darting out. As expected, his taste was intoxicating.

The headiness of his nearness swept through my entire body. The laps of his tongue were tender, brushing against mine as he coaxed a response. Unwilling to disappoint I mirrored his actions, thrusting my tongue into the cavern of his mouth, reveling in his throaty groan of approval.

His hands trailed down to my waist and cupped my ass. Each squeeze became harsher, nearly bruising, but it was the most delicious kind of agony. Years of longing were finally being fulfilled and I wanted to experience it all—both pleasure and pain. The slick wetness between my legs became a raging fire and I moaned at the empty ache.

“Christ, your scent,” he growled, lifting me into the air and forcing me to wrap my legs around his muscular waist as he strode purposely for the bed.

The massive four-post structure was situated against the far wall, next to the old stone fireplace. Sebastian kept his resting place there for the sake of his bedmates, to keep them warm. His body temperature depended on the stretch of time since his last feeding. As I was his provider, I knew it had been several days. It was to be expected that he went to his lover thirsty. Bedmates were loved well before they were drained. Afterward their bodies were taken to the basement and turned into ash inside the incinerator.

Those thoughts were cast aside when Sebastian released my ass and brought my heeled feet to the dark wood floor. He unlatched the toggle at my throat and the red velvet cape pooled at my feet in a cascade of crushed crimson. The outfit beneath matched the material. The red-and-black lace, combined with patches of matching velvet, molded to my curves. The bone corset was incredibly tight, accenting my waist and enhancing the rounded swell of creamy white at my breasts.

I had chosen the colors thinking of him, inspired by the blood-red satin sheets adorning his bed. They were changed daily, but one thing remained consistent—the shade.

“Exquisite.” He exhaled the compliment, bringing his hands to my mask. “I want to see all of you.”

“Please, don’t,” I cried out in alarm, capturing his much larger fingers in mine. My voice trembled when I explained, “My face is marred, sire.”

For a moment he hesitated, and I worried the ruse had failed. Vampires had an uncanny ability to filter through and sense lies. After a moment he smiled, returning his focus to my body. His touch was impossibly soft, fingers barely whispering over my breasts. Somehow the teasing caresses were erotic, each brush leaving me yearning for more.

“Your skin is as warm and soft as silk left to bask in the sun. I can’t wait to taste you.”

Unable to resist, I arched into his experienced hands and pressed against him. My breasts went flush against his crisp white dress shirt, the mildly starched cotton painful against my tingling nipples. The skin beneath his clothing would be much better to touch—cool, pale and smooth.

Completely brazen, I purred, “Allow me to undress you, sire.”

He lowered his hands and his lips curved into a sinfully delicious smile. “As you wish.”

He removed his coat, and I started removing his shirt at the buttons near his throat, unhindered by my trembling fingers. I revealed his smooth alabaster skin bit by bit. When each button was undone I slid the material from his shoulders, dropping the garment to the floor and baring his torso. The muscles along his chest and stomach were cut and defined, each curve and crevice solid and smooth. Although fair, his skin seemed to radiate health and vibrancy from within.

“May I?” I asked and licked my lips.

He tilted his head, watching me closely, and answered, “You may.”

Starting at his chest, I pressed the lightest of kisses to his flawless skin. The flesh was cool and firm, the surface impossibly silken. Going lower, I followed the ripples of his abdomen. Darting my tongue out to taste his skin, I focused for a moment on his bellybutton, rolling the tip of my tongue around the indention. Sebastian’s breathing turned ragged, thickening into a moan. Suddenly his hands came onto my shoulders and applied subtle pressure. I didn’t resist and he lowered me to my knees.

“Finish undressing me, sweet.”

Chapter Two

The button on Sebastian’s slacks gave me trouble. He remedied that by reaching down with one hand and undoing it himself. Heart pounding and hands beginning to shake, I slowly pulled the zipper down. I’d never seen Sebastian naked, nor had I seen a naked man. Although I had pored over the books in his collection for guidance—including the ever-valuable sex manual the Ananga Ranga—I was excited but nervous.

When I pushed his slacks down his thighs his cock sprang forth—solid, long, thick and hard. The pink flesh was engorged, blue-hued veins prominent beneath the surface of the slicked skin. The length strained forward, a temptation and promise.

I brought my hands around that impressive part of him, caressing him in the manner that the books described as pleasurable. The rounded, plumlike head was swollen and large, much broader than the root. As I worked his length a bead appeared at the tip, like a crystalline diamond at the thin slit. I stared at the shimmering drop, mesmerized, longing to taste him.

“You may,” he groaned and shifted his hips, fisting the base of his shaft along with the heavy sac beneath in his hand.

I took the cool bead from the bulbous head with the tip of my tongue and brought it into my mouth. It was a slightly salty taste, bitter but not entirely unpleasant. I savored the gift, finally knowing more than the delicious flavor of his blood. Intrigued, wanting to explore him further, I moved in for a second lick. Every part of Sebastian was magnificent. This was certainly no different.

His hand shifted from his shaft to my hair. His fingers twined at the base of the fake strands and tugged. “No more teasing. Adore my cock as you should. Show me how much you want me.”

Widening my mouth and parting my lips, I brought my tongue out to cradle the meaty head. The rounded tip held my attention and I made sure to suck firmly and work my hands in harmony with the movements of my lips. Up and down, hot and wet. I sucked and relaxed my jaw. Within seconds I tasted more of his saltiness on my tongue, his pre-cum spilling into my mouth.

“More,” he demanded, thrusting. “I don’t like to be teased.”

It was difficult taking his length, even though I wanted to. As much as I tried to press my mouth down his cock, he was simply too long to sheathe completely. I sucked harder to compensate, brushing my tongue against the underside of the crown.

“That’s it,” he groaned, rocking his hips and going deeper into my throat. “Just like that. Worship my cock with those glorious lips and that wicked little tongue. Get me hard, Arianna. Get me ready.”

I moaned, wetter and wetter by the second. My pussy clenched, panties now drenched. His ragged inhalations told me he was enjoying my attempt to bring him pleasure. His thrusts turned forceful, a glorious rocking. I pictured him gliding his cock in and out of my sex in exactly the same way, using long, hard thrusts. He was strong but gentle, insistent but patient.

“I’m going to come.” His voice was throaty. He sounded precariously close to losing control. “Your mouth feels so good, so hot and wet. Suck me, sweet. Suck me hard.”

I moaned again, vocal cords sending vibrations up my throat. He must have felt them against his cock. He groaned loudly, gliding past my lips, bringing my head forward as his pelvis bucked against me. As the motions increased in intensity I sucked harder, wanting to taste him, to know what it meant to belong to him.

His. I would finally be his.

“Take it all.” His muscles went tight, hard thighs flexing. “Suck me dry.”

I wasn’t fully prepared for his climax and nearly choked. Thick, salty seed poured into my mouth, torrents of semen coating my tongue. I opened my throat and swallowed, breathing through my nose, steadily drinking him down. I continued even when he stopped moving, worshiping him in the only way I could until he tugged my head back.

“Enough,” he ordered, moving away.

Sebastian removed the last of his clothing, shucking out of his slacks, shoes and socks. He lifted me from my knees, swept me into his arms and carried me across the short distance to the bed.

He settled me atop the pillows so that I was upright and started removing my clothing—shoes first then garters. “You’re so beautiful,” he murmured. “Completely breathtaking.”

“No more than any other, sire.” I gasped, unnerved by his fingers tickling a path down my thighs. He removed my hose, bringing the thin material down my legs, taking his time. His fingers played against my skin, creating a chorus of sensation.

“Even more so,” he said and paused to gaze up at me with his luminous sapphire eyes. “I wonder why you agreed to share my bed. How could you? Knowing you’ll never return from it.”

Another part of the façade was pretending to be born into slavery, and I answered evenly, gazing into his eyes. “My death will enrich the lives of my family. It’s an honor to serve you.”

He looked away then, tracing circular designs with his fingers along my calf. “So you’re doing this for your family?”

No. I wasn’t. But I couldn’t tell him that so I nodded.

“I see,” he said and moved up my body, his chest brushing against mine. He settled his shoulders between my outspread legs, forcing them to part. His fingers brushed against the outside of my pussy in a lover’s caress and a new wave of electricity shot through my spine, radiating throughout me. Wetness soaked the area between my legs, coating my sex with pure molten fire and need.

“Silky smooth,” he growled, fingering my tender slit. Sex slaves were always waxed before they entered the bed, and while it had hurt to have it done the reward of his guttural voice made it all worthwhile.

“Oh God,” I whimpered, arching my back and feeding my aching core into his palm. He knew precisely what to do, using his fingers to part my labia, pushing his thumb against my hammering clit.

“So wet, so incredibly hot and liquid. But are you equally as sweet, Arianna? Do you taste just as good?”

I stopped breathing, grasping his meaning. He refused to look away, vivid sapphire eyes studying me as his face lowered. His tongue flicked and tasted me for the first time. I cried out, unable to remain still. Grinning up at me, he licked again, this time long and deep, parting the lips of my pussy.

“More than sweet,” he groaned. “You are delectable.”

Grasping my hips, he pulled me closer and lowered his eyes. I couldn’t silence my cries, fisting the red satin sheets as he tongued, licked and sucked my sex. He rotated between bathing my outer lips and then moved inward, tonguing me deeply before licking me gently. When I couldn’t take it anymore—as that pinnacle of release beckoned for the first time in my twenty-seven years of existence—I begged him mindlessly not to stop.

“Remember, Arianna. I want to hear you cry my name as you come.” He latched on to the swollen center in front and drew my clitoris into his mouth.

The entire room disappeared as I did as I was told, screaming, “Sebastian!”

It was more than an explosion, more than a detonation of the body. It was letting go of the world around me, floating in a place that existed but remained unseen. I rode the waves of pleasure and wanted them to last forever. Ever so slowly my body stopped trembling and the room came into a blurry focus.

“I want to take the vein here before I claim you,” Sebastian rested little kisses upon my thigh. “You smell divine.”

Fear almost sent me off the bed. I could mask the scent of my blood—as well as the taste—but only for a short while. The enchantment I’d had placed on my mask would only work for minutes after the piercing of my skin, then the magic faded.

“S-sire,” I stammered, my voice high-pitched and afraid. “I would prefer a kiss before dying.”

“I’ll still give it to you.” He scraped his fangs along my skin. “I want to taste your virgin blood before I take your body.”

I struggled to speak, unnerved that he knew of my virginity. “How did you—”

“I smell your purity,” he answered before I could finish.

“Please.” My limbs trembled, fear coursing through my body. “I don’t want to feel my death.”

“You won’t.” He sounded confident, but I knew better.

Even vampires couldn’t prevent idle gossip.

“I’ve heard about women who didn’t ease into their deaths.” The kitchen staff loved to share the information they’d gained over the years, much to my relief. “I know what might happen if I consent to your wish and something goes wrong.” Beheading a bed slave in order to prevent his or her slow, agonizing death was rumored to be the preferred method of vampires. The shudder that swept over me was very real when I whispered, “Don’t ask me to take the risk.“

He hesitated, his breath cool across my skin. I froze, hoping the rumors held some truth. Otherwise, he’d take what he wanted and everything I’d hoped for would be lost.

With a tiny scrape of his fangs against my skin, he moved away. “Very well.”

He maneuvered his muscular frame up the bed, coming over me. He was much taller and wider, blanketing me as he rested his weight between my legs. His head came down and he kissed me. I tasted myself on him. His lips were no longer cool but warm. Each nudge of his tongue heightened my senses. After a moment I realized he’d bitten his tongue to share his blood with me.

Although I had taken Sebastian’s blood to ensure his scent marked me and cemented our bond through the years, sharing blood was a rare gift. Not only did vampire blood make humans stronger, it also enhanced and multiplied all their senses. Due to that I’d been allowed to drink from him once per year on the anniversary of our introduction. No more, no less. Given just enough to know what I was missing, leaving me aching for more.

My eyes burned as tears formed. Knowing he’d share his blood in such a selfless way—for someone who was nothing more than a bed slave and a stranger—made me love him all the more. Due to his generosity I would experience things with better clarity and enjoyment. His blood would also ensure my final orgasm would last long enough to dim the awareness of my death.

“Take this off.” He lifted his chest away and tugged at my corset.

I forced back tears and sat up as he untied the strings and worked the corset free. He pulled the constrictive garment over my head and threw it carelessly to the floor. His eyes lingered on my breasts, his stare potent.

“Again, Arianna,” he bent down and brought his mouth to a rosy peak, “beautiful.”

The tug of his teeth against my nipple sent a ripple through my pussy, causing my core to clench. It was as though there was a connection between the two most erotic zones in my body, each encouraging the other. Each tiny flip of his tongue or nip of his fangs increased my arousal, building it higher.

And it was all for him—only for him.

“Please,” I begged when he moved to the other breast while he glided a finger into my drenched core.

“Soon, sweet,” he said, brushing his tongue against my nipple. “I want nothing but pleasure for you.”

He worked a second finger into my body, forcing my virgin center to stretch and accept the invasion. The heat from my excitement wet his fingers, allowing him to slide in and out of my body. While uncomfortable at the start, I was soon whimpering and undulating, crazed and incensed.

“You’re very tight,” he whispered, continuing to work my sex with practiced fingers. “As tight as a fist. I can only imagine how you’ll feel, all wet and hot around my cock.”

The explicit statement worked me up, got me hotter. Another orgasm built, threading through my muscles, burning under my skin. I started panting as the promise of pure bliss neared, wanting it so badly that I thrust into his hand and tightened the walls of my pussy around his fingers. I could feel the pulsating tingles beginning, bristling and rippling under my skin.

When he spread his fingers and massaged the tight inner walls, it was over.

“Bastian,” I groaned, throwing back my head, crying out as my body erupted. A release even more powerful than the first overcame me. The combination of his lips and hand were too much, bringing on levels of pleasure I never knew existed. This time when I came down from the cloud of bliss I remained lax on the pillows, breathing quickly.

Nothing had ever felt so incredible—nothing.

“So good,” Sebastian purred, removing his fingers then placing them in his mouth and licking them clean. “I could get spoiled by the taste of you on my tongue, Arianna.”

I watched through weighted lids as he slid up my body, licking a path from my bellybutton to my throat. This was what it all came down to—the consummation. Once he claimed me, and just before he came to orgasm, he would give me my kiss—the bite that would ultimately end my life.

“Don’t be afraid,” he murmured as if sensing my thoughts, pressing his lips against each of my hardened nipples. “I promise there will be no pain.”

“I know,” I whispered, bringing my hands to his broad shoulders. I knew Sebastian would never hurt anyone unless it was deserved. It was his way—one of the many reasons I had fallen in love with him.

His hand came between our bodies and he fisted his cock. He slid the round head over my drenched labia, carefully working his way past the wet folds. The tip slid past the crease and lodged in the mouth of my pussy. I whimpered, wanting more, knowing he’d give it to me. He lowered his head and kissed me as he thrust his hips. Each tiny plunge sent him deeper, bringing us closer together.

He brought his hands down, caressed my rib cage and then grasped my hips with determined hands. He pulled back, removed his cock from the heat of my body and waited until he was nearly unsheathed before driving forward in a smooth, firm stroke. My strangled cry was caught in his mouth. It hurt but felt so good, so much better than I’d imagined. He stopped, remaining utterly still, gazing down at me.

As I adjusted to the feel of him he kissed me again and rolled my nipples between his fingers. He brought his hand around, pinched the peaks and soothed the sting with tender, featherlight flutters. Each motion of his tongue and hands sent electricity soaring over my skin. Soon any pain was long forgotten.

Finally. Even if the cost is high, I have him.

He’s mine.

“Arianna,” he rasped, “I was wrong. You feel better than heaven. You’re so tight and hot around me. It’s a most pleasurable kind of torture.”

I gasped in ecstasy when he moved, thrusting his hips, guiding me to meet his thrusts. The feel of his long, hard shaft moving in and out of my pussy was nothing short of extraordinary. With each joining, I knew I had made the right decision.

I never could have known Sebastian like this—just like this—otherwise.

Perfect.

Our friendship came first, then my love for the vampire, but neither of those emotions matched the intimacy I felt at our bodies being connected so closely together. We were one, beginning and ending, a key turned in the perfect lock. I gazed into his face and wished for a moment that I could remove my mask and reveal myself. Instead I communicated my love for him through my eyes and motions, rising up to meet each of his steady plunges. He moved his hand down to my sex. I gasped as he fingered the swollen nub in the front. Unbelievably, I felt my body respond and clench, orgasm almost at hand.

“Bastian.” I sighed his name as I neared climax, writhing against him. I wanted to extend the moment but my body wasn’t willing to wait. He brought out emotions and sensations in me I’d imagined but never fully understood. It was worth it. No cost too high. No sacrifice too significant.

“So beautiful,” he whispered, rising onto his elbows to watch my eyes and mouth as I came. “So damn beautiful, Arianna.”

The world shifted and evaporated into nothing, leaving me soaring. My muscles flexed, spun so tight I worried they might snap. My throat became dry as I tried to scream but made no sound. I knew my kiss was at hand. The time had come. Instead of fear, there was only acceptance.

Mine. Finally. After all this time.

I felt his teeth pierce my throat as I climaxed, scoring my skin cleanly. His fangs sank deep, penetrating my vein. Euphoria mingled with the deep draws at my throat. Within seconds weakness overcame me and I drooped against the bed. My breaths turned shallow, harder and harder to take. He trembled, arms shaking. Jets of come erupted inside me, semen pumping into my sex. His arms wrapped around my back, surrounding me as he drained my life’s blood.

As he fed, I longed to wrap my fingers in his hair. Sebastian loved to be petted, especially when he drank. Determined to do so, I tried. My heart sank when I realized I lacked the energy. My languid limbs refused to obey. My body was dying, scattering to ash from the inside out.

The light from the fireplace dimmed. I watched the reflected licks of flame and fire dance across the ceiling, creating shadowy figures and shapes that mingled together. I listened to the sounds of his rhythmic swallows and lowered my lids when they became too heavy, allowing my eyes to drift closed.

Everything I thought it would be. Everything I hoped.

This was our moment. I’d finally gotten what I’d wanted most.

I didn’t want it to end, holding on as long as possible.

Darkness swirled, becoming dark.

Then, there was nothing.

Chapter Three

I lifted extremely heavy eyelids, lashes fluttering rapidly against my cheeks. I was disoriented and confused, trying to remember where I was and how I had gotten there. The room was dark. A fire in the hearth had nearly gone out. I shifted and found I was sore, but in the most wondrous of places.

Suddenly the night before came rushing back, and I thrust a hand to my face. My fingers landed on my nose and bare cheeks. Oh no. I couldn’t conceal my identity without the mask.

“Are you looking for this, Katja?”

I stilled at Sebastian’s voice, heart hammering.

I remembered the kiss before dying. It was everything I’d heard it was and then some. A drifting off that ensured a host didn’t feel any pain. I remembered the draws at my neck, the weakness, the lethargy, and the moment I had finally surrendered to his power by closing my eyes.

I’d died. I knew I had. He’d drained my very life’s blood.

Sebastian walked around the side of the bed, tossing my mask and blonde wig to the floor. He was wrapped in his thick plush black velvet robe, his contrasting blond hair uneven around his neck and wide shoulders. The bed sank beneath his weight and I peered up at him. Dying without pain I had contemplated but not this.

Would I be punished?

Would I experience a slow, agonizing death minus a beheading?

“Marietta told me of your plan.” He regarded me closely, his blue eyes bright in the dark room. “She said you wouldn’t be swayed to leave well enough alone, regardless of what she said.”

“It’s not her fault.” I tried to defend the house witch and control my panic. I didn’t want to get anyone in trouble for my choice. “I would have done the same thing with or without her help.”

Amused, Sebastian said, “Marietta will receive no punishment. She helped you because I allowed her to do so. I gave her my permission.”

With heart pounding, I found the courage to ask, “Why did you let me to believe you didn’t know? Why didn’t you call me out? Why play along?”

“Katja.” He bent over, urging me onto my back. “Do you know why blood slaves are virgins?”

I nodded, suddenly solemn and torn. “Our blood is pure, it’s more potent.”

“No, love.” He shook his blond head. “Though that is what we tell our blood slaves to make the need for purity credible.”

“I don’t understand,” I murmured.

“Vampire royalty can’t claim a bride who comes into a family tainted. Just as they cannot claim a bride who doesn’t choose a life with a vampire for eternity of her own free will.”

“A bride?” I echoed, frowning.

“Yes, sweet, a bride.” He smiled and brushed the hair that had fallen across my forehead to the side. “Keeping our existence secret is of paramount importance. As our numbers dwindled, we were forced to look at mortal society to find eternal companions. The chemistry must be there, of course, which is why we allow a ten-year period for slaves to become attached to their masters. But only those who would willingly offer their lives to be with one of us are worthy of the honor of being changed. It’s rare, to be sure. Most mortals aren’t willing to sacrifice their life for love.”

Sebastian stood and removed his robe, allowing the plush material to fall to the floor to reveal his magnificent body. “I am honored to be so fortunate.”

“B-but,” I stammered in confusion, almost losing my train of thought at the glorious sight of his naked frame as he returned to the bed. “I don’t understand. I remember what happened.”

“Do you?” he asked, slightly arrogant, one of his least desirable traits.

“Yes.” I glared at him. “I died.”

“No.” He bowed his head and exhaled against my lips. “You were reborn.”

His mouth felt warm—lips too—and I shoved at his chest. “What did you do? What have you done to me?”

“I changed you,” he said simply, without a trace of remorse. “You’ve taken enough of my blood in the past to ensure a shift from mortal to immortal upon a draining. While your body transformed I’ve waited, anticipating the moment you finally opened your eyes.”

“Why,” I whispered, slightly afraid. I knew nothing of created vampires, only those born.

“I love you, Katja Arianna Morgan.” He spoke with a familiarity that revealed he knew far more about me than I was aware. “I have since I saw you on the platform at Telliandria’s auction. Even then, standing before the lords and ladies with your head held high, I knew you were special. But…” He sighed, hands forming into fists. “As your time in my keeping passed, I feared you wouldn’t choose to come to me. I thought I was going to have to let you go.”

“You told me we couldn’t be together, Bastian,” I reminded him, recalling the tears I shed when I questioned our future and he broke my heart. “You said it could never happen, that making love to one another meant death.”

“And I didn’t lie,” he replied tenderly, caressing the curve of my cheek. “You did die to your mortal life. But in the doing you have been reborn. It is against our laws to tell anyone outside our kind that only the selfless giving of life is worthy of the gift of the change. Had you not come to me as you did—with love and no fear for what it would mean for you—I never could have claimed you.”

Desperate to hear it, I asked breathlessly, “Do you really love me?”

He nodded and smiled, flashing fang. “Allow me to show you how much, Katja. I’ve dreamed of how it would be when we could truly be together. After your little show earlier, I know I am not alone in harboring fantasies.”

Smiling at the desire in his eyes, I tossed the duvet aside and bared my naked body. The air sizzled, electrified and charged between us. His lips descended and I opened my mouth in welcome but found things were markedly different. His flavor was headier, his scent more prominent.

Behind it all was the most luscious smell…

“It’s your hunger.” He groaned. “I feel it beating at me. You need to feed.”

His solid erection pressed against my thigh as he slid between my legs and brought other impulses to mind. I found myself pushing at him, forcing Sebastian onto his back. His cock was fully erect and jutted proudly from the light scattering of blond hair along his thighs.

I didn’t ask for permission, crawling on hands and knees until I reached him. With one hand I cupped his heavy sac, massaging the sensitive tissue carefully. With the other I gripped the base, brought the head to my lips and licked the skin around the tip that formed the crown.

“I’m glad to see my library has been put to good use.” He clasped the sheets with his fingers, just as I had when he pleasured me with his mouth. “Exceptionally good use.”

I grinned, finally understanding why I’d found erotic novels on the table near my journals. “You left them for me on purpose, didn’t you?” I said and then licked his cock.

“Of course,” he hissed, pausing as I took his head into my mouth and sucked. “Every time I returned to our chamber and the scent of your desire hung heavy in the air, I knew you’d been reading them. It took every ounce of self-control I possessed not to toss you onto our bed and eat you up. I wanted to hear you scream my name over and over again.”

I moaned, picturing him doing just that. He brought a hand to my head and twined his fingers into the strands. He didn’t instruct me this time, enjoying the slow and sensual exploration of my mouth against his straining flesh. This time I worked to take more of his length, trying to relax my throat. Before long he pumped his hips and pushed my head down to match the movement.

“I’ll come if you keep doing that.”

I stopped long enough to offer, “Don’t fight the feeling.”

He didn’t.

His thrusts were rough now, his hand at the back of my head almost violent. He came in a rush, cock jerking as wave after wave of his pleasure spilled onto my tongue. I sucked greedily, unable to get enough. I devoured him, drinking him down. He tasted different—salty but no longer bitter.

Like this, he was addictive.

“One day in our future, I’m going to go by the gentlemanly adage,” he told me in a hoarse voice, “ladies first.”

He changed our positions in a smooth motion and propped me against the pillows. He lowered himself, coming between my legs.

“This time I’m tapping this vein,” he said, parting my thighs for easy access.

Sharp fangs skimmed the sensitive skin of my inner thigh, followed by the caress of his tongue. Then I felt a fiery white-hot pain shoot from the area. I braced myself for the ecstasy that always followed his bite, holding my breath, quivering in anticipation. Pleasure bloomed, radiating from his bite, but the miserable burn didn’t go away.

He growled as he drew on my pierced flesh, fingers rough as they slid beneath my thighs and cupped my ass. I brought my hand to my mouth to muffle any cries before they escaped. Sebastian’s bites had always been kind and gentle. They had never beenquitelike this. Pain and pleasure consumed me. As much as I adored the tenderness of his lips, I also craved the harshness of his teeth buried in my skin.

I wanted them both—needed them both.

“What’s happening?” I thrashed as he held me in place, aching for something I didn’t understand, driven by the dull throb in my abdomen that spread through my torso.

Sebastian licked my thigh to seal the punctures. Then he moved, coming to the apex of my thighs. Taking his time, he licked in small laps, driving me mad, leaving me gasping for breath.

“Please,” I begged, gyrating my hips. “Please.”

He slid his tongue between my folds, bringing his hand around. His fingers invaded my tight center, forcing the snug walls to part. I knew it wouldn’t be long until I climaxed—something that never should have been possible, considering. Everything was hypersensitive. Sounds, scents, feelings, sensations—everything was magnified. As the crest arrived and my body exploded, I lost the ability to formulate words. The bed supported me as I shattered, shaking and trembling, arching my back.

“Bastian,” I croaked and sagged weakly into the pillows, unable to move and gasping for breath.

My lover appeared above me, palmed the back of my head and brought my face to his chest. “You must feed. Drink from me, love. Take what you need.”

I almost asked how such a thing was possible when I felt my incisors lengthen, growing sharp against my lower lip. He pressed my mouth to his throat and held me.

“Drink, beloved. Take from me.”

My nostrils flared, going wide. I could smell his blood. The most delicious of aromas. It sang to me, enticing me to sink my teeth within and gorge until my fangs no longer ached.

“Drink.” He sounded impatient, his voice nearly breaking with emotion. “You can’t know how long I’ve waited. No other but brides are permitted to pierce the veins of a vampire. Taste me. Bring me into your body. Deliver yourself into my keeping. Claim me, love. Give yourself to me.”

My lips came back instinctually, baring the razor-sharp edges of my teeth. I followed the path of my nose and allowed it to guide me. Drawing out the moment, I scraped the sensitive tips of my fangs against his flesh until I could no longer bear it. His skin made a soft pop as my teeth broke through, the vein beneath giving way as a gush of warmth splashed against my tongue. The instant I pulled the liquid into my mouth everything went warm. I basked in waves of comfort, love and security.

“Katja,” Sebastian sighed lovingly, playing with strands of my hair just as I did when he fed. “My love. My bride.”

With each swallow my body grew stronger. Lethargy evaporated, replaced with a strength and fortitude I had never known. I drank deeply, savoring blood that was as rich as the finest Bordeaux.

Sebastian finally interrupted me. “Not too much. I don’t want you to be ill. We have unfinished business.”

I closed the tiny holes with my tongue and lapped at his skin. Sebastian said the gesture was a vampire display of affection. When I opened my eyes and lifted my head I truly saw my love for the first time. He was beautiful, a god among men. His skin was so fair it seemed to glow.

“I love you,” I said without thinking, caressing his face.

“And I love you,” he mirrored the sentiment hoarsely, “for eternity, Katja.”

He shifted me and I spread my legs to straddle him, bringing my feet around and behind his waist. Using one arm to lift myself, I took his cock into my free hand and guided him to the pulsing outer lips of my sex. Fisting himself, he fed the wide head into my core inch by slow inch.

“So good.” He leaned down to kiss me, his tongue trailing along my bottom lip. “I knew you’d be like this. I’ve dreamed about this moment so many nights. It’s been hell keeping my hands to myself.”

“I never knew it could be like this,” I said, pressing down on his shaft, shivering with the anticipation of cradling him inside my body.

He pulled away to gaze lovingly into my eyes. “It’s not. Believe me. It’s only going to get better. It’s ingrained in our kind, to ensure we always remain with those we have chosen to share our life. As the time passes your pleasure will grow. We’ll share everything with each another—life, love, blood and pleasure.”

As I settled on his hips, his cock buried deep inside my pussy, I imagined us a hundred years from now. I’d never even considered this would be the outcome of my actions. But here I was, claimed for eternity by the only man I had loved, and ever would love.

That notion in itself made me flush. I ground against the nest of hair between his legs until I felt his sac at my ass. Sebastian growled, grasping my ass in his hands. He lifted me, forcing me to retreat from his shaft, bringing me up until only the head remained inside.

“Get ready,” he warned in a deep, throaty voice. “I’m going to make you come so hard you’ll think you’ve truly died and gone to heaven.”

I did scream with the first thrust of his hips. He brought me down on his cock, impaling me. The head of his shaft bumped my cervix, digging into the giving skin. As my sex clenched around him Sebastian moaned. Throwing his head back, long blond strands drifted along his shoulders. He repeated the motion, lifting me and then bringing us together. We both cried out, enraptured by the bliss, clinging to one another.

“Ride me until the need has left our bodies,” he ordered, guiding my hips with his hands. “We need to rest, sweet. The dawn is approaching. I want to feel your tight, slick cunt wringing me dry before we succumb to sleep.”

“Yes, Shellar,” I demurred without thinking, using the title out of habit.

“No,” he corrected, grasping my chin firmly and forcing me to meet his eyes. “Never again am I your master. If you must refer to me in my tongue, then do so properly. I am your other half now, your vhirimir.”

My heart melted as I gazed into his intense and unwavering eyes. “Yes, vhirimir.”

He smiled, unhinging my feet and moving me back against the headboard and pillows. He situated himself without separating our bodies, keeping himself firmly in my core.

“Ride me, little love. Take us to the stars.”

I did, taking him slow and then fast, plunging down on his hard length again and again. He cupped my breasts, pinched and teased my nipples and watched through weighted lids as I took my pleasure. But he gave the same in turn. Grasping my hips, he slammed me down as he drove up.

It was that fast. Almost immediate.

We came at the same time, crying out together. We moved until there was nothing left to give. Aftershocks rocked me, the pulses of his cock going on and on.

“I do love you.” I yawned and tried to resist the overwhelming lethargy sapping my strength and lulling me to sleep as I collapsed against his chest.

“I love you too. I have for so long.” Sebastian kissed my brow. I relaxed, drowsing as something inside me comprehended that the sun was starting to rise. “Sleep now. Rest safely in my arms.”

As we nestled together as lovers instead of friends, I knew what it meant to bask in sheer happiness and contentment. I had sacrificed an old life for a new one. Due to that I would have my love for an eternity.

“Sleep, beloved,”he whispered.“The future is ours.”

I went into the world of dreams with images and thoughts of my lover in mind, aware that in the gloaming, Sebastian and I would rise together.

Forever.

About Aline Hunter

Aline Hunter is the alias of multi-published author J.A. Saare, who has written stories featured in horror magazines, zombie romance anthologies and flash fiction contests. Her work has a notable dark undertone, which she credits to her love of old eighties horror films, tastes in music and choices in reading, and has been described as “full of sensual promise,” “gritty and sexy” and “a breath of fresh air.”

Currently she is penning multiple projects within the urban fantasy, erotic and contemporary, and paranormal romance categories.

Aline welcomes comments from readers. You can find her website and email addresses on her author bio page at www.ellorascave.com.