Flash Fiction Friday - Love's Garden Part 2

Usually it takes forever for Friday fun to get here but this one snuck up on me. I must be working to hard. I'll have to stop that. This week's prompt is birthstones. We only had to reference one but I used all except two.

Check out my fellows FFF ladies
Night Tempest, Elaina M. Roberts, and Tempest Wolf



Love's Garden 

“I hate to break it to you but you don’t know the first thing about gardening.” Ve rose from her seat. Her knee boots clicking on the hardwood floor as she made her way over the Rycah. The oversized bedroom was autumn red with gold accents and deeper crimson alcoves. Light shined from the open window over the sparse walls before bouncing of the metal instruments decorating his lair. Pursing her ruby red lips she took in the tiny peridot colored plant. 

“It’s cute like one of those little do it yourself seed thingies you see in grocery stores except those never actually grow.”

Rycah braced his hands on the table leaning over the potted sprout. “This one has to.”

“If you need this thing to grow so bad why not just give it to Kami? He lives for this stuff. Literally.” Her leather skirt strained as she plopped herself on the mahogany table next to him crossing her legs. Feigning interest in the rose crystals hanging from her necklace, she secretly studied the determination on his face.

“That is not an option right now. Hence why I’ve called you.” 

”I’m no better than you at this stuff.” She pointed a finger at herself. “We spend most of our day tearing shit down not making it grow Rycah. You and I are not nurturers.”

“I can be nurturing.” He snapped. Ve’s insinuation stung for reason he wasn’t ready to admit to her.

“Yeah you nurture the hell out of that sword.” She snorted. 

“Ve-” 

“And the way you sliced that demon bitch up the middle yesterday tenderness at it’s finest.”

“Enough!” 

Her emerald eyes widened almost jumping at the boom in his voice. “Touchy. I was just teasing.” 

“If you are not going to be of assistance than you are welcome to leave.”

Ve had never seen him so tense in the infinite time they’d spent together. She’d struck a nerve she just didn’t know which one. 
“Why is this thing is so important?” Looking back at it for something she’d missed.

Rycah’s eyes bore into hers sending a silent but clear message. She rolled her eyes waving off his macho stare down. She might not break him today but there was always tomorrow she smirked.

”Fine I’ll help but I’m warning you if this doesn’t work it’s not my fault.”

“Fine.”

“So now what?”

“I don’t know.” 

The two stood starring down at the small plant as if it was the source of all evil. 

“Did you water it?” 

“Yes. Should I add more?”

“I don’t know. Would that be too much water?” 

“Maybe.” 

“That’s not a lot of dirt.” 

“Is that not enough dirt? 

“I don’t know? Should we add more?” 

“Is there a such thing as too much dirt?”

“I don’t know!” Ve hopped off the table waving her arms emphatically. 

Rycah knew he’d taken a chance with this. He had no idea what what to do. If this heart did grow where would he put it? He couldn’t keep it in this little pot. What if it never grew?  He was already on thin ice taking it in the first place. He couldn’t handle losing Kami?

“Ok lets think logically.”

“Are plants logical?”

“One more stupid question and so help me...” Ve pointed a finger at him. “Let’s think what does Kami usually do with these things?”

Trying to remember the countless times he’d watch Kami from afar tending to his seedlings, all he’d focused on was Kami. He admired the love and care he put into them but never noticed how he did it. Rycah slumped down to the floor feeling like he’d failed already and he hadn’t even started. Closing his eyes, he let his head fall back with a defeated exhale. He could hear Ve’s movements but didn’t trust himself to look into her questioning gaze without faltering. She sighed catching a flicker of the pain in her leader’s eyes before he hide them. Kneeling down by his side she cupped his face.

“I may not understand all this but if it’s important to you than it’s important to me. We said we’re going to do this and you are not going to make a liar out of me. Stop feeling sorry for yourself. It’s not very attractive. We’re going to the plant store and we’re buying every piece of plant mumbo jumbo they sell. Now let’s go.” Anger she could deal with but self pity was another thing entirely. She didn’t believe in it and wasn’t about to let him start down that path. He smiled weakly as she pulled him up forcing him off the floor.  Several hours and arguments later the duo returned more confused than when they started. Rycah frown at half the store he was carrying in his arms. 

“I’ve never seen Kami use half this stuff.”

“I’ve never seen Kami use anything. I go in, I make small talk, I dig, I leave. Why can’t we ask for his help again?”

Ignoring the question, Rycah pulled instruments that looked more like torture devices that gardening tools out of the bags. Ve huffed parking herself beside him starring at down at the battle ahead of them.

The weeks that past became more and more hectic. On top of taking care of his normal responsibilities, he had another living thing to look after. He found himself fretting over the tiny heart endlessly. Startled from a deep sleep just to check on it. If he had a spare moment it was spent with his new charge. He could’t imagine how Kami took care of billions of these. Just this one was kicking his ass. It’s pear shaped bud started to turn a pale aquamarine as the days went on. He had no idea what it meant but took it in good faith.

Taking the terrain quickly he harnessed his power breaching the sapphire water into the field beneath. It had been a weeks since he last saw Kami. Constantly caring for and thinking of him without having the time to be physically there had him aching to be close to his angel. 

Kami was covered in dirt from the knees down massaging the leafs on one of his hearts. The topaz coloring betrayed it’s youth. Rycah could see his mouth moving and a sweet smile gracing his lips. He knew Kami was in deep conversation with his newest friend. Other’s found his connection strange but Rycah always found it endearing. The crunch of footsteps approaching stole Kami’s attention. Jumping up from his kneeling position he danced on the balls of his feet before running to embrace Rycah nuzzling his face in his chest. 

“Where have you been?” Kami’s voice muffled in the fabric of his shirt. 

Rycah stroked the top of his head relieved. “I thought you might be angry.”

“Why?” His eyes light up inquisitively.

“You seemed pretty upset last time I saw you.”

“Oh.” He pouted for a moment. “Yes I was upset but only because I failed someone not angry with you. Perhaps you were right. Maybe the heart needed to be harvested to make room for something better.” Kami put on a smile but Rycah knew he still felt the loss. 
“There’s nothing to take today though.” The spark of excitement finding him again.

“I’m happy to hear but that’s not why I came. I was hoping to relax is a bit. Spend some time in a peaceful place.”

Rycah led them out into the clearing reserved for Kami’s afternoon sun gazing. The droplets of water sparkled on top of the blade of grass like tiny crystals. Taking a seat in the grass he patted the spot next to him inviting Kami to join him. Kami laid down on his back. His silver tresses fanned out around him contrasting against his skin. The amethyst tunic gathered around his thighs as he starred up into the bright sky with a content sigh. He was happy to have the company but specifically Rycah’s company.

“Do you like it here?” Rycah gazed at their surroundings with newfound wonder.

“Yes very much. I know it doesn’t seem like much but it brings me joy to help others.”

“Actually it seems like a lot. I love that about you.”  He chuckled catching the rosiness appear in Kami’s cheeks. “I also love that.” Brushing his fingers across the blushing face. 

Kami flung an arm over covering his telltale blush. Grabbing both tiny wrists in one hand, Rycah held Kami’s hands tight to his chest over his heart. He placed his free hand in the grass next to Kami’s face positioning himself over the smaller man.

“Don’t hide from me.” 

Kami observed the flexed forearm wanting to nibble the flesh so close to his senses. Rycah leaned down inches from Kami’s face. He knew he was playing a dangerous game. Kami wasn’t like the others. He wasn’t use to such forwardness. The last thing Rycah wanted was to scare him. Still the glimmer of lust he caught in Kami’s eyes made him bold. Kami uncurled his fists laying his hands flat against the hurried thumping under Rycah’s shirt. Rycah let his fingers play over the slender arms skimming down his shoulder and collarbone. Soft kisses trailed. 

Kami lay trembling. He’d dreamt of what it would feel like to have Rycah touch him in more than the casual manner he was accustom to. Now that it was happening he wasn’t sure what to do. He questioned if he should try to will away his impending erection but the reciprocating hardness pressing into his hip eased any concern. He shuddered feeling a finger circle his fabric covered nipple pulling on the stiffening bud. Becoming so hard it hurt, he welcomed the painful pleasure. He knew the tent in his tunic must be visible. He turned his head allowing Rycah to nestled into the crook of his neck. Opening his mouth Kami struggled to pull in air. 

Rycah’s hand roamed the taut stomach to the bulge under Kami’s tunic. Hovering, he ghosted his hand over a small wet spot. There was nothing between him and the object of his desire but this thin barrier. Underneath, Kami’s naked body lay waiting. He considered how easy it would be to rip the irritating thing from him and take what was his. He was as hard as the blood red garnet that graced the hilt of his sword, probably the same color. Unconsciously his hand tightened around the fabric covered cock. Kami jerked his hips arching toward the hand around him.

“Rycah”

His body tingled with the moan of his name only further rousing the caged beast within him. He could feel his blood thudding in his ears. Kami’s erratic breathing thrilled him but also reminded him of just what he was about to do. Closing his eyes he summoned every bit of strength he had. 

“I should go.” Rycah whispered into his ear. 

It took a moment for Kami’s lust filled haze to wear off. He shot to his elbows searching Rycah’s eyes for what he had done wrong. 

“I should apologize for my behavior.” Rycah straightened himself before getting to his feet. His arousal still visible. “You deserve much better than I have shown you.” He helped Kami up brushing the stray blades of grass from his hair, kissing head. He didn’t only want Kami physically, he wanted all of him. He had no intentions of sullying there first time together by being impatient as much as not touching his angel was killing him. Kami already missed the weight of him. He needed to feel Rycah’s breath on his neck and the grass rubbing against his back again. He wanted to argue, urge him to continue but instead let himself be held, gasping at the feelings surrounding him.

Flash Fiction Fridays - Love's Garden part 1

Hi all! So this week I'm switching it up a bit. I was in the mood to write a cutesy love story. This is the first time in the history of everdom I've finished before the wee hours of the night. This all sort of came to me. I broke it into three pieces. Hope you like it :)

This week we had to use one of these locations for our prompt

Anain Fortress
Doeoak Crossing
Enandr Strait
Arokus Hill
Matran Bluff

Check out fellow FFF writers
Night Tempest, Elaina M. Roberts and Tempest Wolf


Love's Garden Part 1



The caretaker tended to a small bud that sprouted seasons ago but never grew more than a few inches above the dirt. Despite being older than many plants in his care, the tiny sprout still held the pale green color of immaturity. Kami took to watering the fields of flowering hearts who dominated his existence. The rows of florets seem to span an eternity though he could take a single row in seconds. He showered each one, his feet landing in the same prints he’d left moments ago only to move on to the next row. Physically his job was monotonous but he found constant joy in watching the hearts sprout forth clinging to each other.  Once a heart bloomed he knew that person had found their love. The hearts were never the same and it was his responsibility to ensure they grew strong and healthy. Nurturing each one that blossomed, he allowed their owners to share in the love of one another.

His job was a lonely one but he made friends with each unique heart imagining the characteristics that embodied it’s owner. Curiously he wondered which hearts were their other halves. They came with no names or associations only the pet names he given them. He knew only what he could tell from staring at the vibrant colored plants. Every now and then, as he watched them mature and grow, he wished the same for himself. He knew of passion from the other angels but hadn’t experienced anything like that for himself outside of his need to serve and guide. The sacrifice he made to tend this garden was well worth it. Forged from tears and love, he was given a choice to live out his purpose here nurturing the souls of his mortal sisters and brothers or choose his own destiny. He knew he was the only one who could care for the fragile hearts. The others were too harsh. They were full of light but spent far too much time in the trenches of good and evil for this delicate labor of love. This was his gift. He would bring joy to everything around him even if it meant nothing for himself. 

Finished his tending for the moment, Kami took a rest laying out in the recesses of the garden. He couldn't help but feel a little lonely amongst the consuming beauty. Most hearts that made it here grew into towering masses high enough to sprout from mortal ground and still paint the tips of heaven. Each one he gazed upon gave him a sense of fulfillment. Still there was a small void in his own heart they could not fill. He closed his eyes to nap before another came looking to harvest the few plants that withered making room for fresh blossoms. He always took it hard when another came to take the dead ones away sealing the dried flowers in books of their history. No one knew the painstaking love and care he put into every seedling leaving a piece of himself imbedded. Many days he sat by a wilted heart weeping for it’s loss. 

Rycah halted at the entrance as he reach the maze that made up Anain Fortress. The outer walls of the enormous angel made structure were boulders made up of liquid pearls adhering to each other. The self contained globules appeared to be nothing more than stilled water anyone could easily wade through. The peaks of the fortress spiked like tips of a crown resting on atop the hill’s head. Under the high sun, the watery stones glistened with golden leaves traversing the surface. The wall rippled under Rycah’s touch. Despite it’s serene appearance, he knew it was impenetrable. The fortress walls created a triangle. Each end devoted to it’s intangible leading lady. The power of will that shaped Destiny.  The inevitability that was Fate. Lastly the path that lead to Karma. While any angel had access, most didn’t have the ability to navigate the passages as nothing stayed in the same place. A person could walk miles and end up in the exact same spot. Only those who tended or guarded a treasure truly knew how vast this place was. The fortress housed the things most precious to Rycah’s creator. Things his children needed both mortal and immortal. One of which was Kami’s garden in the center of the protected plain. 

"Enjoying yourself little nymph" startled by the familiar voice, Kami scrambled to his knees tugging the modest gold tunic over his slender legs only to lose the shoulder. Rycah's presence sent chills through Kami’s body. Other's helped with harvesting but Rycah was his favorite. Taking in every inch as his eyes drifted upward. Rycah was beautiful to Kami in every sense of the word. His black boots laced up his calves. His thick thighs were incased in pants so tight Kami couldn’t imagine how me managed to move. A sheath crossed over his broad chest housing a well used sword wrinkled his crimson shirt. A few inches taller than Kami, his muscular body denoted that of a warrior. His auburn hair was cut close as he claimed it was easier to manage. His eyes gray with specks of light flutter through like flurries in a snow globe. Kami stared at the sword protruding behind his back. Rycah was always armed though it wasn't necessary here. In this place nothing grew but love. Following the path of Kami’s gaze, Rycah adjusted his sheath hiding the weapon completely behind him. Taking him by the shoulders Rycah gently lifted him to his feet. 

"Didn't mean to frighten you." embracing the smaller angel, he wrapped an arm around his waisted and the other at the nape of his neck fitting Kami to his chest. His tiny frame molded perfectly into Rycah. He took a whiff of the faint floral scent wafting off his luscious silver mane. Holding him tight, he relished the quick beating in Kami’s chest mimicking his own. The smooth tanned shoulder freed from his tunic mocked Rycah. He longed to feel the soft skin hidden under the fabric against his.   

“You didn’t scare me.” deep plum eyes looked up to Rycah. “I dozed off for a few minutes. I didn’t expect anyone so soon.” he smiled.

The innocence in his face only made him that much more beautiful to Rycah. Though he was several millennia old, he still held the sweetness of one of his young blossoms. Kami’s smile always turned Rycah to mush. Rycah was use to being in control. He’d become accustomed to the harsh realities of the moral world and battlefield where he'd spilled more than his fair share of blood. He was kind but dominated everything in his presence. That was his role to play in the greater good. Yet here he felt more like a lovesick boy than a warrior. Watching Kami’s rosy lips part as he spoke, Rycah couldn't help but wonder what they would feel like on his. What he would taste like. Kami had no idea the power he held over his larger counterpart. He inhaled deeply willing himself to release Kami before he gave the smaller man more than he bargained for.

“I figured I’d get started early and maybe have a little time to doze off in the fields like some of my fellow angels.” pinching Kami’s side eliciting a giggle. 

Kami loved how tactile Rycah was. Casting his gaze down to hide the heat in his cheeks, he often wondered why the attentions he received from the others never affected him in quite the same way. He cared for all of them but he was indifferent to their advances. With Rycah he longed for the touches they shared though he could never bring himself to say it to him out loud.

“There’s not much to harvest this time.”

“Oh?" Rycah asked looking around at the towering tree like masses that surrounded them. 

Rycah wasn’t surprised. He secretly watched day in and day out as the tiny angel knelt in the dirt coddling each plant under his care. He knew Kami didn’t just lead them to fleeting infatuation. He wanted them to find their other half. He poured every bit of fate his tiny yet powerful hands could muster into these hearts to make sure that happened. No one else could do what Kami could. No one loved as hard as he did. Rycah assumed the keeper even tended to his own heart somewhere in the vast vegetation though neither of them knew which. Rycah only knew from unbearable urge that built in his chest at the sight of Kami that he must be the one nurturing his heart. 

“My only problem seems to be this one.” Kami pointed to the little sprout. “It’s been trying for so long to grow but I don’t understand what’s wrong.” 

Noting the tiny flower not yet formed Rycah nodded. Kneeling down Rycah cupped his palms around the tiny plant though never touching it. 

“I remember you mentioning this one. This little guy has been here since I first started helping out.” Rycah recalled his visit to the garden for the first time. It seemed like a forever ago. He’d been to Anain Fortress more times than he could count but never bothered with the garden hidden deep in it’s core. He had no reason to. His job was to protect. He left it to others more qualified to love and guide. He probably would have never come here if not asked by his creator. The one time was all it took. Once he set eyes on Kami he never had to be asked again. 

Kami nodded kneeling beside him. “That’s when it first sprouted.” 

So many times Rycah prayed for Kami. The answer was always the same. Neither a yes or no. Kami’s heart belonged to whoever claimed it. He never understood but looking at this sad little bud he wondered if he’d found his answer. He knew if it didn’t grow soon it would be harvested or trampled by one of his less sensitive brethren to make room for something else. Something that wasn’t him. 

Looking at the intense concentration on Rycah’s face, Kami had never seen anyone else take such an interest in his plants. 

Rycah lifted his eyes smirking at Kami’s surprised expression. "I don't bring war everywhere I go." he laughed. 

"You've never brought anything but joy here." Kami could feel the flush in his cheeks again at his admission. 

“Good.” Rycah tapped Kami’s nose with the tip of his finger. “Get the shovel so I can dig this little guy out.” he ordered trying to keep his voice even as he contemplated his next move. 

Kami's wide eyes brimmed with tears staring at Rycah who pretended to ignore the pleading look tearing him to pieces. His shoulders slumped in defeat as he got up without a word to fetch the small hand shovel. 

“And a pot.” he heard Rycah call out. He returned with both handing them over to the kneeling giant. Rycah stuck the shovel into the dirt only to stop with a puzzled look. 

“What’s wrong?”

“I don’t know how to remove this without damaging it. I’m afraid this is not my strong suit.” handing the tools back to Kami.
Confused he took the tools from Rycah. What difference did it make if the plant was to be disposed of anyway? 

“You want the plant undamaged?” Kami asked in a curious tone.

“Yes. Please.” thrusting the pot forward.

Sitting the shovel aside, Kami dug in with his hands scooping a wide section. Bring up the tiny plant roots and all he placed it in the pot. 

“Here” the tears in Kami’s eyes finally spilling over.

Rycah raised his hands to caress the wet cheeks. “Please don’t cry. Perhaps something better will grow.”

Flash Fiction Fridays Part 5

So I'm ending this one next week (at least that's the plan) I think it will be a good place to stop and rewrite as a complete story so I can post it back here. Maybe some time dedicated strictly to my blog instead of pieces of story written on my phone at work. Shhh they'll never notice. If I ever lose that thing I'm screwed. Anywho Night Tempest, Elaina M. Roberts, and Tempest Wolf are still entertaining the masses with their FFF. This week's prompt was a visual I liked a lot. I interpreted the picture in a slightly unconventional way.

"Why the hell would you invite him here!" furious, Liam didn’t exactly have a plan but he knew Quinn being served like shrimp at an all you can eat buffet was not part of it. 

“He’s safe here." Richard moved towards him trying to alleviate his concerns. “Besides you wanted Quinn to see the truth here’s your chance.”

"Fuck you!" he spat. “I don’t want him here.”

“Now now boys play nice.” Faye intervened with Quinn following so close he bumped her at every stop. He'd hoped to make things right between them but he was reaching his emotional limit snapping at the source of his angst. “Sorry I’m such a bother.”

"Quinn" With an exasperated sigh Liam called to him. He wanted a calm quiet place to try round two with Quinn but nothing ever went the way he planned. Why should this be any different he thought.

“No I get it Richard, and naked men, and whatever the fuck else you have going on. Please don’t let me interrupt. Maybe I’ll just hang out with Faye instead. Or maybe some of the man candy walking around. Please go back to enjoying your camp lust. Come on Faye!” Storming off, he had no idea where he was headed but his pride wouldn’t let him stop. He wore is anger like a shield of armor venturing into the unknown. Faye looked at the boys not sure what she’d walked into but never one to shy away from a little drama. 

On a shrug "I am the friendly neighborhood ambassador.”  Faye accompanied Quinn into the dim woods towards the voices and flashes of light. 

“Where can I put my stuff?” he fought taking his anger out on her but it fueled everything he did at the moment.

“You can stay at the cabin back by the stream.” Unfazed by his shortness, Faye knew the harsh tone wasn’t about her."Why did Richard invite you here might I ask?" 

"Talk to Liam. He’s been avoiding me for weeks. Making me” poking his own chest harder than he meant to “feel like shit and he’s up here having the time of his life with Richard and orgy men and whatever the fuck else you said!”

“I don’t believe I ever mentioned an orgy...” placing her finger to her lips. “Though it’s not uncommon.”
Realizing her mistake, daggers shot in her direction as she vehemently shook her head. “Though I’m sure that’s not what he has in mind.”
Her curiosity was working overtime to figure out Quinn’s place in all this."Wait are you the boyfriend?" clasping her hands together in excitement.

"Boyfriend?” Quinn tried to mask it with his anger but the blush could be seen even in the cover of darkness. “Liam said that?"
"Mmhm" she nodded blinking sweetly.  

“Still” his voice had lost it’s edge. He never meant to react so harshly but the hurt and anger he’d been holding in bubbled to the surface when he laid eyes on him. They halted at the clearing with people standing around a fire. For second he thought he could make out someone dancing in the middle. 

“Quinn wait a second!” Liam called out catching up to the pair. 
“Shh” Faye hushed. 

In the middle of the fire Liam recognized Francis. His naked body was covered in smudged soot. The fire danced with him following his lead. Flames rolled off his skin leaving it unmarred. Pulling a young woman standing nearby in with him, she yelped at the heat nipping her. Francis wrapped his arms around her moving her body with his as he continued to seduce the fire. Her sweaty skin pressed against him, there was no pain only a pleasant warmth on her flesh. Inside she welcomed the overwhelming burn coursing through her. Flames followed his hands as he ran them down. Gripping her thighs to hoisting her up, she locked her ankles around his waist feeling the beads of heat and moisture tie them together. She arched her back letting her head fall savoring the feel. 

"Boys?" Faye whispered. 

"Gentlemen" Richard tried. 

"Huh" was the only reply they could muster. Just as the young woman in the flames, they were spellbound.

"I think they like it." Richard laughed recalling his own fond memories.

"Do you remember the fire festival in Croatia?" Faye looked to Richard. Her dark eyes creating the perfect background for the flames reflected in them.

"Of course I do. I only wish we had photos back then. We had some amazing times." Rubbing this thumb along the back of her hand, the affection he felt needed an outlet even if only a subtle one. He forced himself to forget how much he loved being with her. He’d learned a lot from his parents but Faye showed him things they’re uptight nature couldn’t make sense of. Feeding the man in him with companionship and passion while acting like children with no thought outside of their moment of want. Loving something as simple as the feel of the grass between his toes was all Faye. Her proximity left him feeling shattered and whole all at once. For years he kept his distance not because of his mother but because of Faye. She possessed the strength and knowledge to rule if she desired but she was a free spirit. She went where the wind took her. That kind of impulsive nature was sexy and exciting when you were part of it but being left in the dust was a feeling Richard couldn’t chance. She cared but not enough to ease his worry. He knew the potential she had to get lost in something or someone else too easily. His heart wouldn't survive it. Welcoming the small act of affection, Faye stood quietly letting her memories take her. 

"Can you do that?" Quinn whispered to Liam. 

"Sorry you won't get a fire dance out of me but I may have a few other tricks." he winked. Grabbing his hand he pulled Quinn back a few feet taking cover behind a tree. 

"Before you say anything I need you to know I’m sorry about how I reacted. A little part of me always believed you but it’s so insane. Everything about this is insane."Quinn waved his hands around. "then you’re here and Richard’s here and I don’t know what this is but I love you and I'm here no matter what and..."
Quinn's ramble was stifled by a tongue teasing his mouth open to accept it. Liam's weight pressed him into the tree but soft lips on his eased the feel of rough bark scratching his back. Liam pulled away breathing heavy from the power beating in his chest. 
“Love you too.” resting his forehead on Quinn’s.
Quinn craved this moment since they parted ways. He didnt want to ruin it by letting Liam know he was worried. What did Liam's abilities mean for them? Nothing he'd researched left him feeling confident yet there was no place he could imagine being other than here feeling Liam’s breath on him. 

Richard noticed the boys departure turning to Faye she was still in deep contemplation. Nudging her he motion for them to do the same. Without hesitation she followed.

“Did you not notice those two take off?” Faye was generally the first to notice everything.

“No are they ok?” looking around she tried to sense anything off in the air. 

“Yeah they’re fine. Spending some much need quality time.” 

A nod his only response. 

“Are you ok?” stopping in front of her he questioned her unusually reserved demeanor. 
Without a word Faye reached down coming away with a fist full of dirt. She cupped her hand in front of his face letting the earth swirl in her palm. A small clear vile formed housing a foggy liquid. Looking closer Richard could make out trees and mountains forming in the liquid base of the round potion vile. His eyes brightened with the realization as he watched the changing scenery of the countries they’d seen together. The pictures formed and melted away leaving a new scene within moments. He opened his mouth to say something but no words came out. Attaching the corked vile to a straw string, she tied it to his neck. 
Acknowledging his appreciation with a sad smile “Better than photos.”

Liam lay next to Quinn starring as he sprawled out on the ground with his feet dangling in the water. 
"What?" not being able to read his face made Quinn uneasy. 

"Wondering if I’m actually here right now or if I’m locked in some padded white room drooling over my jello." 

Scooting over Quinn wrapped his arm around squeezing the reassurance into Liam. “You feel real to me.”

Molding their chests together Liam no longer cared about anything else outside of this moment. He loved it when things were good between them. It wasn’t just love he felt anymore. Quinn was his safe place now. The place he wanted all along. 

 "What's been going on. I want to hear everything." resting his chin on Liam’s chest. 

"I told you the most important parts. Most of it I’m still learning myself. Richard has been teaching me everything. He’s a life saver." 

"I’m sure" Quinn teased narrowing his eyes.  He wasn’t sure what box to put Richard in but he didn't have the overwhelming jealousy he expected hearing the admiration in Liam’s words.

Liam stroked Quinn’s head swearing he heard him purr. "Completely platonic I promise.” 

"Liam? I know we can't pick up where we left off but can we start new? Really let each other in this time. I feel like neither of us did that. Not completely."

He nodded kissing Quinn’s head. "It's my fault..." he started.

"No it's not anyone’s fault but I want to make sure we move forward together. If that's what you want." Quinn never believed their love was one sided nor the blame for the way things turned out. He wanted Liam to understand how serious he was. Good or bad it was theirs to share. 

“Considering I’ve been crazy about you since the moment we met, yea this is what I want too.” the sight of Quinn’s rosey cheeks brought a smile to his face. “Mind if we finish this in the comfort of our own room? The mosiqitoes are eating me alive.” Picking himself up, he took Quinn's arm helping him to stand. 

“I left my stuff in the car” Liam remembered walking up to the tiny home they would share for the duration of their trip.

"Me too. We shouldn’t need it tonight anyway.” Quinn opened the door to a rush of anxiety hitting him in the gut. There were no pictures or anything personal in the space but he recognized this place. Purple flowers decorated the the tables next to a white couch. In the corner sat a white leather chaise blending into the walls. On the far end was a white and gray stone wall that made up the fireplace just as he remembered it. A faux leaf fan spin above them. Walking straight ahead he opened the door to a bedroom. Deep brown wood made up the bed posts next to a mahogany dresser accented with gold trim. He could feel the hands around his wrists again as he turn surveying his surroundings. 

“This is really weird but I dreamt about this place?” he explained fighting the nerves creeping in.

“You dreamt about a cabin?”

“No this cabin.”

Flash Fiction Fridays Part 4

This was originally a one shot, then two, three, and now it's going to be at least 5. I'm going to revise this and make it into a longer piece because I like the characters but need to expand it. Next week (which will be posted on time) will probably be the last part for now anyway.

For this week me, Night Tempest, Elaina M Roberts, Tempest Wolf used three of the following items in our story:

christmas ornament
mushroom
light bulb
scissors
lighthouse
bowie knife
ivy
broom
rocket
spool of thread
sticker book
cowboy hat
pine cone
tea pot
snow globe
necktie
chalk
a locket


Scooping him into his arms, Richard placed Quinn on the bed sandwiched between him and Liam. 

"Remember what I told you. Feel your power.” Quinn's arms were forced firmly behind his back as he lay chest to chest Liam. His head was in a fog as tried to make sense of Richard’s comment.

Richard held his arms locked tightly while snaking Quinn’s underwear down with his free hand.

"Wait" was all he could manage. Every touch resonating with his body like words to a spell. Trying to shake the power from his mind before he was lulled into submission. He tested the flesh restraints around his arms but Richard’s leverage gave him the advantage. 

"You can do this Liam." The voice coming from Richard was no longer human.  

With Quinn’s fabric barrier gone, Richard pushed even harder behind him crushing his pelvis into Liam’s while an erection threatened his entrance. 

"It's no different than you've practiced." 

Either direction he moved, Quinn could feel hardness pressing into his sensitive flesh. Legs intertwined with his spreading them further apart. Liam guided his shaking hands over his slender hips. Richard nipped the at Quinn's collar inviting Liam to taste. Liam mimicked his actions leaving a pink bite mark. Quinn was out of his mind. He felt Liam's power engulfing them. Liam's touches became more intense as his power latched onto Quinn's passion. 

Startled awake, he hadn’t realized he’d drifted off. His body shaking, the dream left him unnerved. He’d had fantasies before but this was different. He wasn’t sure if it was repressed desires or an omen but this made up his mind for him. He mapped out the mystery address on his phone. Still in his work clothes, he loosened his necktie. Throwing it across the room landing on the snow globe Liam’s grandmother had bought him last Christmas. The settled flakes glittered at the bottom of his winter wonderland. He’d meant to call her earlier but gotten distracted. All these small instances he took for granted suddenly didn’t seem like coincidence anymore. He need her to calm his nerves and set him straight before he took off into god knows what.

“ Hi Nana” 
Her voice always had a way of making him feel like a little child again. 

“Quinn? What’s wrong kitten?” Quinn could have been a 6’5 burly lumberjack and he’d still be kitten.

“Have you talked to Liam lately?” he took the steps to his front door grabbing his keys off the nearby coffee table.

“Just this morning actually. Said he was going out of town but planned to come see me when he got back. Why? What’s wrong?”

“You know Liam and I have been trying to be friends.” he heard the sound of acknowledgment. He could see her nodding her head on the other side. “Well he’s avoiding me and I’m pretty sure he hates me.” 

“Oh now that’s not possible. Only thing Lili loves more than you is my mac and cheese.”

Quinn sighed giving his surrogate grandmother a tearful smile she couldn’t see. “He told me some things. Personal things but I think I blew it.”

Quinn could feel her warmth through the phone. He wanted to run and snuggle into her arms. She was the only thing that felt safe right now. He started the ignition focusing on Nana to keep him anchored to the world. “Has Liam ever talked to you about stuff like what kind of person he thinks he is?”

“Not sure what you mean. What did Lili tell you?” her tone changing from comforting to concerned. 

“He doesn’t think he’s normal. Whatever that is. I know his mom had some problems.” Quinn instantly regretted mentioning his mother. That had to be a sore spot for her. “I’m sorry I don’t mean to...”

“First they said my Lizzy was suffering from an imbalance due to her pregnancy. Then they said it was postpartum. Then it might be schizophrenia. Something was wrong but it wasn’t any one of them.” she clipped. 

“You don’t think she was cra...imbalanced?” he corrected.

“My daughter was fine until her pregnancy. I know Lizzy must have seemed crazy but I also know there’s things in this life we can’t explain kitten.” her voice was almost a whisper “ Things in our own kin and we don’t even know it.”

“You believed her then?” He wrecked his mind for reason not to. He had a million good ones but they didn’t feel right. Quinn knew they were on the same page and this was the reassurance he needed to believe in the unbelievable. 

“It’s hard seeing the ones you love suffer and you can’t do a damn thing to help. I may not know what my grandson is but I know who he is. He’s got a big heart and he’s a good man. He just needs to feel it.”

Quinn rubbed his face trying to massage a good idea into his mind before they came face to face. “I want to talk to him.”

“So talk to him. And after you do send him my way.”

“Yes Nana. Love you.” he flexed his fingers around the wheel. At least he had sometime to think about what he was going to say.

Liam spent the day with Richard explaining how this festival would go watching Faye run around directing everyone as only she could. Evening approached and Richard hadn't mentioned sleeping arrangements. He wasn't big on camping and hoped one of those cabins had his name on it.

“What I miss?” Faye ran back to them in a huff. If it was possible she was more interested in Liam’s development than he was. 

“Nothing major. Richard was telling me about your traditions...”

“Our traditions.” she corrected.

“Right. Still getting use to that.”  hoping she didn't take it as a slight. 

“That’s ok dear. One life altering revelation at a time.” 

Richard flashed the buzzing phone pulled from his pocket. “Faye my darling why don’t you show Liam around some more and make nice while I take this.”

“I can make nice.” Faye jumped like her daddy just handed her a brand new toy. Taking Liam by the hand she trotted off into the festivities being set up.

“Not that nice!” Richard shouted losing them in the crowd. 

Being alone with her was awkward though she never seemed out of place. Her expression was cheerful and relaxed as if she was strolling the grassy path with an old friend. The smell of burning wood permeated the air. Most looked like hippy farmers carrying over bushels of fruits, flowers, wood. Clusters of mushrooms grew at along the base of the wooden skyscrapers. The lanterns that were strung through the branches flickered replacing the sunlight in the dust sky. It reminded him of when his grandmother use to take him to the street carnivals.  

"You said you didn't know anything about your family?" Faye questioned.

"Nope. Never met my father and my mother wasn’t much help with this."

"Did you ever get a name by chance?" 
Liam shook his head. Biting her lip in thought, she hated when her kind abandoned their own. If she ever got wind of who he was there would be hell to pay. Liam caught a flash of something within her so quick he wasn't sure it happened at all. 

"You ok?" he asked genuinely concern. 

"Yes dear" she flashed her smile instantly reverting back to the sweet little 
girl. 

"So what about you? You seem nice but." Liam wasn’t sure how to finish that sentence without insulting her.

“But what doll?" 
He stuttered looking for an answer only causing Faye to giggle more. 

"Oh sweetie you’re so cute I can’t stand it” pinching his cheeks. “As Richard mentioned I'm a succubus. Been around for oh... I lose track of time." throwing her hands up.

"So you and Richard are friends? Or?" 

Laughing she pondered for a moment. "Hmm friends yes that’s a good description. I've always been fond of Richard. His mother on the other hand."

"What wrong with her?"

"We took a little impromptu trip" closing her thumb and pointer together "and she got all upset.” 

"You mean you kidnapped him." 

"Kidnapped implies he was a child or unwilling. Neither if which were true.” Faye placed her hands on her hips. “ He was technically legal and he loved it. We spent months traveling the world. Greece, Venice, Sahara, Morocco.”  Faye’s eyes were focused but not on anything in this time. Liam could tell she was in her own world. In that moment he wished he could see what she saw. 

“Of course when we got back. Valla had a fit. Forbid me from seeing him. Forbid ME! As if she has the authority to make demands of me!" Liam thought he detected a slight accent but couldn't place it.  Faye lowered her voice settling back down. "Nonetheless out of respect for him and his mother I behave.” Liam wondered if demons could fall in love. The longing he saw in her answered his unspoken question.

"He means a lot doesn't he?"

"You know you couldn't have found anyone better than Richard. He's a friend you want to keep around sweetie." ignoring the question.

"Yeah he's amazing.”

“Hello beautiful it’s been too long.” A large man stopped in front of them with only a pair a muddy brown fatigues. He carried blocks of wood on his shoulders leaving his broad chest open for display. Faye stood on her tip toes as the man bent to receive the quick peck.

“I was headed over but I caught wind of you. Who’s your friend?”

“Liam this is Franny.” Faye maneuvered to his side holding her hands up to him like some game show host raffling off a prize.

“Francis” the large gentleman corrected with amusement. 

“Nice to meet you.”

“You know Franny, Liam is new to all this.”

“Is he now.” Francis eyed him.
Liam didn’t like the hunger in his eyes. The guy was enough to take his breath but his ultimate goal hadn’t changed. If he could control this it meant a real chance at a life with Quinn. 

“Yeah I’m just trying to get a handle on all this for my boy...well friend or whatever.”
Liam unconsciously took a step back from the duo. 

“Boyfriend? You never mentioned a boyfriend! Who? Tell me everything! Oh it was good to see you Franny.” With that the large man was forgotten and Faye attached herself to Liam bouncing on the balls of her feet.

“What are you up to? You look like the cat who swallowed the canary.” Richard teased catching up to them. 

“Liam was just about to tell all about his boyfriend.”

“Yeah speaking of that...” Richard interrupted.

“Fuck" Faye looked around. "Something's up. Hold that thought doll I'll be right back.” She turned away only a wisp of smoke remained where she once stood. 

“How did she do that? Can we do that?” Amused by the childlike excitement Richard laughed at Liam stunned face. 

“Afraid not. Only full succubus have that ability.”

“Damn that would have been nice.” 

Quinn pulled up the site. Checking his phone at the address Richard sent he hoped he was in the right place. A long drive to meet a stranger and crazy person in the middle of nowhere, he must be crazy too he thought. He couldn’t make out anything in the distance other than lush forest for miles. Making his way up the trail to an iron gate his breathing hitched. Suddenly his skin was on fire and his clothes felt like the foreign objects they were. Drawn by the lusty pheromones rushing from him, one by one creatures gathered circling Quinn.

“Back vultures” Faye ushered the gathering back to see who had erupted this frenzy. Resting her eyes on Quinn she licked her lips.
“My my sweetie aren’t you a long way from home.”

Flash Fiction Friday Part 3

So this week's prompt was all about characters. Our options were...

1.Is flirtatious towards the character, and is stubborn about it. They get their beliefs about the character from local gossip. Not likely to act on these feelings.

2.Is somewhat worshipful towards the character, and feels passionately about it. The source of their attitude is first impressions.
3. Is highly unfriendly towards the character, and feels very strongly about it. Their feelings spring from a business contact.
4. Is extremely suspicious towards the character, and feels very strongly about it. The source of their attitude is a recent event involving the character.
5. Is unfriendly towards the character, and not looking to change their view.  The source of their attitude is from past experience

I kind of have both 2 and 4 in there but I'm guessing that's not against the rules. As always stop by and read fellow FFF writers Night Tempest, Elaina M. Roberts, and Tempest Wolf. 

“This is the third time Michael. What happened to working together?" Quinn couldn’t suppress the anger his voice even if he was speaking to his boss. 

“He’s getting his end of things done just like you have yours.” 

Quinn sat with his legs hanging out the open driver’s side door. The street was eerily quiet outside of the occasional dog walker that crossed his path. On the other end, Michael sat in mid sandwich trying to defuse a situation he wasn’t even aware was happening. 

Quinn crossed his legs nervously tapping his fingers on the wheel. “I haven’t spoken to him in two weeks.”

“You’ve gone longer without speaking to Liam.” Michael countered. He knew there had been tension between the two though he was never sure why. Their work was always top notch so he never bothered to pry any deeper. 

“No we haven’t especially during an important assignment.” And him being held hostage with a handsome stranger. “I’m out of the loop.”

Michael liked his guys busy. Richard was his client and happy clients meant more money. Nonetheless he knew Quinn wasn’t letting up. “We’ll have a phone conference tomorrow. Check in see how everything is progressing ok?”

“Yeah ok.” 

Quinn threw his phone onto the seat next to him. He was pissed at Liam, at the whole situation, but mostly at himself. He had been calling Liam for the past two weeks to no avail. If Liam didn’t want to be with him anymore that was one thing but to be completely shut out of his life was unacceptable. He had missed 2 meetings and hadn’t shown up to this last one either. Richard always had some excuse on Liam’s behalf but he knew it was a lie. Liam hated him now. That was the real reason. The realization brought tears threatening to spill. Despite his earlier reaction, he didn’t care what Liam was. If he was mental then he’d be right there with him holding his hand while they threw skittles at the nurses. And if he was paranormal then so what. It was still his Liam. He wasn’t going to walk away that easily. 

On the other hand, whatever attraction Quinn had felt for Richard had long faded. He was now public enemy number one. He knew Richard didn't exactly steal Liam but it felt that way. No matter what had gone on between them in the past, Liam never ignored him like this. He knew Richard was tied into this somehow. Was he being brainwashed? Everything started to spin out of control as soon as he showed up. That couldn’t be a coincidence. He needed to know Liam was ok and if he didn't talk to him soon he was taking the fight to Richard’s door. 

Going out of his mind, there was only one person Quinn could think of who would tell him if he should worry or if he was just obsessed. During the course of their relationship he’d gotten close with Liam’s grandmother. She reminded him of his own. She was kind, welcoming, and a pistol. She said she was too old to bite her tongue. She might kick the bucket before she got the chance to let people know how she truly felt. He knew if something was wrong she’d be the one to go in guns blazing with him. He picked up his phone to dial her noticing an unusual text pop up. 

Liam spent the last couple weeks with Richard getting a crash course in Incubi 101. From the moment he met Richard there was something about him he didn’t want to like but couldn’t help. Even in the midst of his jealousy, he felt a kindred spirit. He wondered if Incubi could enchant their own. Richard assured him they were immune but the bond he felt was so bizarre to him he couldn’t fathom it was genuine. 

Richard had become not only his mentor but his confidant. During the course of teaching him what it meant to be half incubus, they’d revealed intimate parts of themselves talking for hours on end. This was the first time he felt cared for outside of Quinn. Only difference was Richard knew everything. He didn’t need to hide. There was no guilt or judgment. He could be himself. A weight had been lifted off of him and he was grateful for Richard’s friendship. For the first time he allowed himself to ponder the possibilities feeling good about his future. He was still avoiding Quinn’s calls, ignoring Richard’s suggestions to talk to him. He wasn’t sure what his game plan was but he knew the next time he met Quinn in private he wanted to be in complete control. He watched the rush of tress go by as Richard made the 5 hour drive to the Crollifus festival with him in tow. 

“So wait. If your mother was a Succubus and your father was a Cambion wouldn’t that make you mostly demon?” he shifted in his seat to face Richard who furrowed his brows in mock anger.

“What did I tell you about the demon thing?” Richard had a lengthy discussion with him about the notion of demons. All creatures possessed light and dark innately but the choice was always theirs he explained. 

“Yeah yeah I’m just saying”

Richard shrugged having never gone too deep into the technicalities of his heritage. “Yes in theory I suppose I’m less human than you buttercup.” sticking his tongue out at his inquisitive sidekick. “Fact is some of us are demons. Some don't give a fuck what they do or who they hurt. Then there are those like you who’s heart bleeds for everyone. I tend to categorize them a little differently.”

Liam sat back in his seat focusing on the passing road again. “Lucky me”

“A conscience  is a gift not everyone is lucky enough to have. Be grateful.”

Richard pulled into a makeshift driveway. Whatever once grew there had been crushed under years continuous usage.

He followed Richard up a mulch like path to a decorative iron gate running, from what he could see, an infinite span of forest. Standing in front like an angelic keeper was a young woman. Her golden sundress and rich curls blew in the passing wind. Taking the trail towards them, her bare feet hastened as she made her way to Richard. Jumping to wrap her arms and legs around him, she squealed kissing any open space she could fine. 

“How have you been? Where have you been!” her face so close their lips brushed as they spoke.

“You know me can’t ever seemed to stay put.” Richard balanced the tiny brunette on his hips waving Liam closer. 

“Liam I’d like you to meet an old and very dear friend of mine Faye. Faye this is Liam.” 

She took in Richard once more before sliding down his body making her way to Liam. Ignoring Liam’s extended hand, she opted for an introductory hug instead. She buried her face in the crook of his neck taking a deep inhale. Liam allowed the tiny temptress full reign as he studied her as well. 

“Aw look at him. We’re we ever this innocent?” holding him out at arms length.

“I was, you not so much my dear.” Richard teased.

Faye’s laugh was like warm honey matching her sweet little girl demeanor but he could feel there was more to her. The power in her tiny fingers was ever present as she wrapped her arm around Liam’s waist leading him up the trail. She was not to be crossed. 

“Your first?” 

Liam nodded taking in his surroundings. 

“Don’t worry everyone here is good people. You are however giving off that fresh meat vibe so don’t be surprised if they jump all over you sweetness.”

Liam shot Richard a wide eyed look of concern. He could take care of himself at home but this was new territory. He wasn’t sure how dangerous a room full of lust crazed creatures could be even if he was one of them.

“Don’t be nervous doll. You’ve got big bad over here should anything get out of hand.” Faye stroked his side in reassurance.

“Don’t be fooled, she’s big bad.” he returned.

“Well as long as everyone behaves they’ve got nothing to worry about now do they.” 

The soft sunlight peeked through the canopy of trees that met the sky covering this place in an inviting glow. The ground was soft underfoot with trampled grass as he traversed the slender trees along the mead into a clearing made for cabins. 

“Most sleep outside but a few of us prima-donnas who can’t make it without modern amenities use the cabins.” she explained. 

Small clusters of people littered about the place hanging decorations from branches and rooftops. Liam wasn’t sure if it was the beauty of this place or the energy of being with so many of his own but there was a spark in the air that crackled against his skin. There was a peaceful vitality here. 

“How do you two know each other?” curious about the relationships formed in this unique group. His feelings for Richard weren’t romantic but they were unusually strong. He wondered if they all responded to each other the same way. 

“Oh me and dick here go way back” Faye laughed licking her lips as she took in Richard once more.

“I haven’t seen Faye in ages. She’s usually in charge of these things since she spends more time with humans and cambions than anything. It's rare you see full bloods mingle with humans other than for obvious reasons.” 

Liam didn’t think it was possible to find this beautiful beast more fascinating but here he stood stunned 

“You’re a succubus? Why do you spend time with humans if you’re not yanno sucking their souls out or something?”  

Richard threw his palm up to his face while Faye could barely stand. Her tiny frame shook with laughter. 

“Oh he’s precious! Can I keep him.”

Richard placed his hands on his hips with a smirk “No you may not.”

She gave him a pout before turning her attention back to Liam’s question. 

“As you can see I find humans far more interesting.” she grabbed his chin as if he was a child rather than a man towering over her. 

Liam raised an eyebrow in disbelief “I guarantee we are infinitely less interesting.” 

Faye’s smile was the most disarming thing he’d ever seen. If this was a power all succubi had they were in trouble.

“More importantly how do you and Richard know each other sweetheart?”

“We work together sort of. He’s been teaching me how all this works.”  Liam waved his hands around at the going ons around them.

“Is that so Richard. The student has become the teacher.” she prodded him. 

His eyes deepened reflecting the wave of power that built in him “I stopped being a student centuries ago.”