She released his neck. “Play later,” she growled before latching onto his lips. Her tongue met his. His fingers rubbed hard at her swollen flesh. She was ready. Soaked for his cock. She would take him a little easier now.
Roman nipped at her tongue with his fangs, playing with her as she retreated from his advance. His hand released her hair and closed around one large round globe. She hissed as he squeezed where he had last bitten her. Roman did not stop his ministrations. If she really wanted him to stop she would pull away. He would never hold her against her will, unless her life was in danger.
Hot tears filled Bethany's eyes as two fingers pushed into her body. Never had she noticed until now how big Roman's hands were. She pulled away from his kiss, looking him in the eyes. He was not lost in the sensations of their touch. She could see the overpowering lust in his gaze as he watched her.
His fingers thrust harder into her depths. When her eyes widened in shock he smiled. “Too much?” he questioned innocently.
"No!” she nearly screamed. Her hips pushed down with his hand, needing to feel his every touch. “Roman, please."
Roman grabbed her wrist and glided her hand down to his aching shaft. When her hand closed confidently around him he jerked as the tension left his body. She was no longer afraid. “Stroke me,” he ordered.
Bethany tried to make a fist around him but her fingers could not meet. He was a thick man. He would definitely stretch her. Her hand tightened as she slowly stroked him up and down, wanting to find the right rhythm to pleasure him as his fingers pleasured her.
When his thumb pressed harder into her clit she screamed as her body convulsed in orgasm. Her body shuddered, covering his hand with her running juices. Sweaty and limp, she bit Roman playfully in the ear. “More!"
Roman, happy to oblige, released her pussy and she lifted her body. Roman reached between their sweaty bodies and positioned his straining erection. Slowly Bethany lowered her body until she felt the head of him lodge in her opening.
"Damn, damn, damn,” he muttered. She was so tight. Just the first inch and he could already feel how snug she was going to cradle him. Roman grabbed her hips, afraid she would impale herself on him and cause unneeded pain to herself.
"Roman.” Blind with desire, Bethany sank her teeth hard into his straining shoulder. Her nails dug into his back, blood welled from the deep scratches.
Blind to the pain, Roman thrust up as he held her still for his possession. Bethany released his shoulder to scream but before she could feel the pain he thrust through her Psi block. It took the pain away. Their foreheads locked together in trust as he held her in his lap, thrusting his hips up as she sank down heavily.
"I need more,” Roman panted. Without stopping he flipped until Bethany was on her back. He covered her without missing a stroke. Her sheath was so tight. Never in all his millennia had a woman taken him with such passion or vigor.
Her red hair spread around the grass. He could not help but fist it around his hand. Not releasing eye contact, he slowed his strokes, pulling out until only the tip of him touched her slick walls. When he forced his way back into her pussy tears of frustration fell down her cheeks. “Roman,” she begged, pleaded for her release. “Why are you teasing me?"
He cupped her chin in his hand. His thumb wiped away one errant tear. “Because I can.” He thrust hard and fast into her this time, not giving her a moment to think of a comeback.
She closed her eyes and opened her mind. She had felt his Psi Touch only a moment ago.
Roman felt her untrained mind seeking entrance into his thoughts. If he let her in it would be so hard to shut her out after sharing something this climatic with her. But if he did not allow her entrance she may leave his life forever. Roman didn't know if he was ready for that. Hell, he was barely ready for the clues slowly coming clear in his mind.
Their fledgling Link slowly formed.
They should have nearly killed each other by now with how much they have been feeding from one another.
His nearly blinding jealousy burned at the thought of another man touching her.
Roman wasn't ready to face that road yet.
Bethany easily read each thought he had. His fear of their union. His disbelief despite all the facts. They were fated to be together. He wasn't ready to embrace that. She wasn't willing to lose him. Not after tonight.
Her legs tightened painfully around his hips, dragging Roman from his thoughts. His hand clamped around her thigh. When he went to squeeze in warning for some reason his hand moved to her shoulder instead, positioning her for deeper penetration. Bethany threw her head back at the new sensations.
She threw her arms over her head, arching her back into every hard thrust of his thick cock. She had to come soon or she was going to...
"What will you do if I don't let you come?” he dared.
Bethany managed to open her eyes while he continued to thrust in perfect rhythm. She couldn't think of a single thing she could use to really threaten him. After all, there was nothing she would not do for this man.
He knew it.
Roman smiled in satisfaction. Of course he knew she would do anything he asked. She had not kept her willingness a secret from him. “Please, Roman."
Roman looped her other leg high around his hip. Keeping his movements hard and deep, he pushed into her. Over and over he thrust until finally he could feel her body suddenly loosen and shudder as each orgasm swept through her body.
Her orgasm triggered his own. Bethany could feel his cock inside her as he jerked in time to his release. Seconds later he collapsed and rolled off of her. He brought her body toward him until she lay sprawled over him. Their body heat kept the night chill away.
When he did not release her from his embrace, Bethany cuddled closer to his strong body. “Never fear that I would not want you, Bethany. That has never been in question with us."
Bethany hid her flushed face in his neck. She forgot that once a Link was established it would become harder to block her thoughts. Since Roman was also a Link, capable of sending mass information to many vampires at once, he would be able to see through any block she tried to build against him.
Roman lifted her chin until she had no choice but to look to him. “This will not be easy."
A silent tear fell as she answered. “I know, Roman."
He pulled her to him. Meeting her lips with his tongue, he licked until she smiled. “Roman,” she mumbled. Her limbs ached as unused muscles made themselves known. But if he wanted she would go another round.
He laughed aloud at the thought. “Another round."
"This isn't fair,” she muttered, burrowing back into his neck. “You have the advantage. I can't read you as easily as you read me."
Roman closed his eyes, curling her hair between his fingers. “I will teach you if you like,” he offered.
Bethany lifted to her elbow. She knew the honor he gave by offering to teach her to Link. She was an untrained Link already, levels below Roman's expertise. He could order another Young One to teach her the Link properly. But instead he offered. “The city Link or the Psi Link?” She held her breath waiting for his answer.
The city Link was the Link certain vampires had that, when properly trained, could be used as a mass library. Any information needed could be transferred from one Link to another.
The Psi Link was a sacred, private Link used only between Chosen Mates. It was a path between male and female so they would always be able to find one another. The more the Psi Link was used the stronger it became. Emotions, thoughts, even secrets were shared with this Link. Once Chosen Mates gave in to each other this Link was never closed. Closing the Psi link could be very dangerous for both. It was a sign of distrust and doubt. To close the Link may cause death if never reopened or accepted.
Roman held her tightly. Knowing his answer would change their lives forever. Acknowledging their Chosen status was a huge step for him, one he believed she may have already taken. She was just waiting for
him to be ready. Roman wanted her happiness above all else. He wanted her safe.
Being Bethany's Chosen would be like nothing he had ever experienced. She was wild. Free with thought, and friendship. She had no enemies. To be with her would always keep him on his toes, waiting anxiously for the next close call she would get herself into.
She may be the friendliest vampire he had ever known, but she was also the most curious. Nothing was taboo when it had Bethany's attention. He would be with her during every misstep, every adventure, and all the heartbreak. Because she would never choose to let another suffer alone, Roman only hoped he was up to the challenge that was Bethany.
Roman leaned over her naked body. He clasped her hand with his and held it over his heart. Their foreheads touched as he whispered, “I choose you as you are, as you can be, as you will be. All that you are I see with clear eyes and an open heart. From this day until forever our hearts will become one. My breath will sustain you. My strength to keep you and yours safe. My heart to do with as you will.” His voice trailed off as he completed the Sacred Oath of their people.
Tears fell as Bethany quietly but clearly repeated the vows that would wed her to him forever.
Six
Rosalind entered the mansion slamming the door behind her. She watched as people froze to look, then quickly continued when they noticed it was her. She was beginning to be known for her odd outbursts. When all but the vampires scurried away from her she laughed. “Same old, same old."
"With an entrance like that, it is no wonder mortals rush into hiding."
"And yet you are still here, Will."
Will, her only male mortal friend, lifted her from the ground in a bone crushing hug. “What are you doing here?” As far as Rosalind knew Will rarely came into Darius’ home.
Will revealed little to nothing. “Just delivering a little merchandise."
"Merchandise?” she asked suspiciously. “Will, I thought you gave up..."
"I thought we agreed not to talk about my shadowed past.” He tugged her hair in affection.
Rosalind laughed. “Right, I forgot."
"How are you doing, Roz?"
"I'm okay."
"Just okay?"
"I have a plan, Will. Then, hopefully, I will be happy.” On my terms, she added to herself.
Will, familiar with Rosalind's schemes, only smiled. “I wish you and Darius the best of luck."
"Really?” she questioned in surprise. It was common knowledge that Will and Darius only tolerated one another for her sake.
"I love you, Roz."
"Will.” She instinctively took a step in retreat.
"And you love him. I have accepted that, Rosalind. I want only your happiness. If it is with the King, then so be it."
Rosalind hiccupped. She knew she had been close to losing a good friend. When tears fell, Will gently flicked them away.
"You are a good friend, Will."
"That is all he better be.” A voice stormed from the stairs.
Rosalind flashed an amused look. “Bite me, Darius."
Darius hesitated only for a second. It would not look good to show uncertainty in front of an audience. He continued down the stairs. “Anytime, Roz. Anywhere."
"I'll see you around, Will.” She gave him a hug and sauntered out of the room.
"Oh, shit.” A term that hadn't been used for Rosalind in many years was resurrected.
"For once, Darius, I am glad not to be you where that woman is concerned."
"She is up to something.” Darius’ mind raced with possibilities.
"She is always up to something."
"Goodbye, Will.” Darius spoke dryly.
Will gave the King of all Vampires a look of sympathy. “Later, vampire."
Darius looked at the door leading to the kitchen. Straightening his shoulders, he gathered the determination needed to face the confrontation he knew was long in coming.
Letting the door open before him, Darius watched as Rosalind rummaged through the cold storage unit. She pulled out bowls and platters as she went. “What are you doing?"
"Eating."
Darius stepped back when she sat a platter of meat in front of him. “Meat?” Revulsion shuddered through him.
Rosalind stepped up to Darius. Looking him in the eyes, she smiled when he cringed. “Mortal."
Darius had to force his hands behind his back to keep from pulling her closer. It had been a very long week watching her travel through the mansion and not be able to touch her. For the whole week she had been sending hands-off signals. Now, she was open to him. Not completely, but enough so that he was somehow able to breath easier.
"What is the mortal going to eat?” he queried politely.
Rosalind moved to the counter. “I am fixing lunch for us.” She smiled up at him while opening a tin of lettuce. She held it up for his inspection. “Vegetables."
"You want me to eat with you?” He wondered if she planned to poison him. He watched as she absently nodded while slapping a variety of odd things into a sandwich.
"You haven't eaten with me since I was young, Darius.” Her green eyes caught his. “Eat with me, Darius."
It had been a while since he had bothered to eat human food. With the way she kept looking at him Darius knew he would have to restart the practice. “If it makes you happy.” A Chosen would do anything to keep his mate satisfied.
She grabbed his hand and pulled him to the counter.
His heart swelled with joy as her touched lingered on his arm. She was happy. Something finally allowed his Rosalind to let go of her anger. He wasn't blind. Darius knew they still had many things to talk through. Issues to adjust, feelings to share. It would be hard on both of them, but it was a good start for their future.
He looked down at the head of lettuce. It didn't look very appealing but, he exhaled in relief, there was a dish of carrots sitting at the corner. He picked up the carrot slice and rolled it between his fingers.
Rosalind watched him in amusement. He had the same look on his face the first time he had eaten with her. “Come on, Great King. A vampire with your strength should be able to eat a few carrots with no problem.” She teased him without mercy.
Darius lifted a brow. Only this woman ever dared to tease him. They had lost so many things. There were slowly getting it all back. Friendship, loyalty, happiness and laughter. “Come here."
Rosalind stayed on the opposite side of the counter. “Why?"
"If I am going to eat I want it to be with you by my side."
Rosalind left her untouched sandwich where it was, knowing having the meat too close to a vampire would aggravate his senses. She circled the empty room until she came to his side. Her breast pressed to his arm. “Is this close enough?” she breathed into his ear.
Darius grabbed her hips and lifted her to the countertop. Rosalind latched onto his shoulders in surprise. “This is cold, Darius!” she laughed.
He tapped her nose with his carrot stick. “And this tastes funny.” He popped it into his mouth anyway.
"It is orange. What do you expect it to taste like?"
"I don't really know. It has tasted the same for more than four thousand years."
After all this time, speaking of Darius’ age always caused her heart to tighten. She squeezed her eyes shut, trying to push away old thoughts and feelings. She had always wondered what his life was like living for centuries.
Millennia upon millennia.
Darius could see the questions in her eyes. It was unlike Rosalind to not voice every thought. He leaned closer to the counter. Even with her on the counter he still stood a head taller than her. Darius lowered his head to her ear. He blew gently before he spoke. “What is on your mind, little one?” he purred.
Her stomach tingled as the sound of his voice flowed through her. “Darius,” she whispered in defense.
He smiled to himself as their Link slowly grew stronger with every caress. “You can ask me anything, Rozzy. There will never be any secrets
between us."
She glanced at him, uncertainty in her every move. “I have often wondered what your life was like through all the years."
"Four thousand years is a long time to live.” He laughed without humor.
By the guarded look in his eyes Rosalind feared she had hurt him. “I'm sorry, Darius. If you do not wish to speak of it then I..."
Darius could feel her sadness through their Link. He tried to cheer her up. “Rosalind, this is the first time you have ever regretted speaking your mind before."
"This is your life we are talking about. I know all about wanting only privacy while people try their best to find your every weakness. I do not want you to believe I would trick you that way."
Darius looked at her in amazement. Sometimes he forgot she was so young. With every conversation they shared, every fight they had, he realized how little she really knew about being a Mate to a vampire. Everything was shared. Thoughts, actions, secrets. There was no such thing as a private thought with Chosen Couples. Especially once they completely opened the Psi Link. No other vampire could use it to harm them or influence one against the other.
Chosen have complete trust between them, an unending love that binds them forever. Darius knew they had a long way to travel before Rosalind would ever completely trust him again. She had to come around. His very life depended on her decisions.
"Darius?” Rosalind spoke his name as she playfully tugged his ear.
"What is it you wish to know about me, little one?"
She smiled seductively. “Everything,” she purred. “But first we eat.” She held a carrot stick to his lips.
You eat. His plea was ignored.
"Darius.” Rosalind lifted her legs until one foot rested on either side of his hips.
Darius held his breath as felt her body heat through the thin trousers he wore. Thank the Historians he was sitting down. Hopefully she did not look down. At least, not yet. “You move any further and you will fall into my lap."
Her brow lifted but she ignored his challenge to look. Instead she leaned further into him. Her ankles locked behind his back. Darius leaped to his feet so fast the chair crashed across the room. He grabbed her thighs to tighten her legs around his body.
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