Emerald Fire

by Valerie Twombly

  Positioning herself to her knees, she wrapped her fingers, still glistening with her cream, around his throbbing flesh. He fought for oxygen. His body went tense with apprehension when she leaned in closer. So close her hot breath bathed his cock and threatened to scorch him. She parted her lips and flicked her tongue out, tasting his pre-cum but not touching him. He clenched his fists.

  “Fuck woman. I have a mind to break these bonds then shove my cock so deep inside you you’ll forget your name.”

  Sarah leaned back, her brow arched. “Do that, demon, and you’ll miss the real fun.” She reached under the bed and brought back a bottle of chocolate syrup.

  “Oh, what a wicked woman you are.” Brock tried to tamp down his desire to a more manageable level. Otherwise, he’d blow a gasket within seconds.

  She snapped open the top, flipped the bottle upside down and let the dark thick goo coat the tip of his cock and run down his shaft. His dick jerked, but he was unsure if it was from the sensation of the chocolate or the anticipation of what was next.

  Setting the bottle aside, she leaned closer and touched her tongue to his tip, igniting an inferno in his veins.

  He gasped and thrust his hips.

  She flashed a seductive grin right before running her tongue from the base of his shaft to the head. She scraped chocolate into her mouth on a moan. She repeated the process all the way around his cock, licking it like a treasured lollipop until finally her lips encompassed him and sucked his shaft to the back of her throat. The sensation overwhelmed him, causing him to dig his nails into his palms. Stars flashed, he went dizzy with desire but fought his release. He wanted to enjoy every second with this beautiful female.

  Power consumed Sarah, but it wasn’t the magic. No, it was a raw kind that filled a woman who held all the control. She knew Brock wouldn’t be able to hold out for long. His desire burned like a fire through him, and it was all because of her. She dug her nails into his thighs and worked his shaft. The sensation flooded moisture to her already hot sheath as she slid her tongue along the velvet skin of his cock. It took all her reserve not to climb on and ride him until they both went over the edge. She’d hold out. He was not like a human male and could stay erect for hours.

  Sarah raked her nails along his balls and sucked him deep, swallowing in the process. He arched his back and let out a moan. So close, she felt the swell of the head of his cock so she quickened her pace.

  He pulled on his restraints. The muscles of his abdomen and thighs flexed until they were rock hard. His lids slid shut, and his moans became louder. “Darlin’, I’m gonna fill your mouth.”

  She felt the first pulse followed by his salty goodness. She continued her pumping action until she had squeezed every drop from his manhood. When she was positive there was no more, she let his cock pop free of her mouth. “You enjoy?”

  He stared back at her through lids at half-mast. “Holy hell, woman. It was spectacular.”

  “Good. I’m not done with you yet.” She traced the hard lines of his abdomen with her tongue, noting how each muscle tightened under her ministrations. Sarah moved up his chest, the skin smooth and free of hair as was typical of their males. She stopped to suckle a nipple, eliciting a moan.

  Unable to wait a second longer, she nipped his bottom lip as she straddled him. He tried to thrust his hips toward her, but she held herself just out of reach. He parted his mouth and pushed his tongue out to run along her lips. It was her turn to moan. The way he affected her…it was more than sexual. Sarah felt her heart slipping away from her control, and she’d only known this man for a couple of days.

  Their mouths fused, and she pushed her tongue past his lips, sweeping and tasting as she slid her pussy down his cock. They groaned in unison. He was a perfect fit, made just for her. She moved up then down, the motion rubbing her G-spot, causing her to clench.

  Brock pulled on his tether again, his jaw tightening. “You have no idea how bad I want to sink my fingertips into your ass cheeks and work you up and down my cock.”

  She smiled. “Am I not moving fast enough for you?” She stopped with him fully inside her and rocked her hips.

  He lifted off the bed as if trying to get in even deeper. “You’re driving me crazy with need is what you’re doing. Play with yourself and let me watch.”

  “Oh, I like how you think.” Without hesitation, she moved her right hand to her clit and her left to her nipple. She hovered, ready to spill over the edge into a sea of ecstasy. Energy vibrated off her skin, firing nerve endings she didn’t know she had. It took her a moment to realize it was Brock who stroked her with his magic.

  Her body tensed as the first wave lifted her toward the heavens then dropped her back to earth in a shattering orgasm. After what seemed an eternity, she calmed slightly, but Brock still thrust, and she wondered when he had broken his bonds and gripped her hips. She tried to meet his gaze through the fog that surrounded her but found it difficult to focus.

  “Come for me again,” he commanded, his rhythm increasing.

  “Oh god,” she screamed.

  Brock yelled out, his orgasm wrapping around her and pulling her into the light. Bright colors exploded before her eyes then faded away. She lay atop him. His arms encircled her. His heartbeat matched her own, and their breaths synchronized. She wondered if this was the beginning of their bond. Deep down, she wondered if he’d break her heart, because damn it, she was indeed falling in love with him.

  “You okay?” he asked in a breathy voice.

  “Mmm. I thought the last time was fantastic. Shit, was I ever wrong. This was mind blowing.” She planted her palms on his chest and pushed herself up to look at him. “Wait, you commanded me to have an orgasm. I’ve had sex with our kind before, and none ever did that.”

  “A connection is beginning to form between us.”

  She blinked several times and tried to clear her mind. Wasn’t this what she’d wanted all along? For some reason, apprehension filled her. Could she be what he needed? However, more important, would she be what he wanted? She laid her head back on his chest. The rhythm of his heart caused her lids to flutter shut. A quick nap then she could think with a clear mind.

  Chapter Eight

  Brock sipped his coffee, watching Sarah while she wiped down the counter after making them breakfast. Last night had been unlike any he’d ever experienced unless he counted Mina. He’d never controlled a woman’s orgasm except for hers, and now in the light of day, he wasn’t sure how he felt about it.

  He had a second chance standing right in front of him. Any other man would be honored and thrilled to have Sarah as his mate. She was not only beautiful on the outside, but the inside as well. The woman had a heart of gold. She’d given him friendship well before either of them knew they might be mates. Not many others would have offered to help him tear apart his past and bury it once and for all. Yet, she had.

  He was so confused. Were the feelings coming to the surface real or simply his desire to be complete again? With every fiber of his being, he wanted to be what she needed. Was it selfish of him to want to be normal again? The one thing that held him at bay was his ability to protect her from harm. He’d failed once, and his wife and son had paid the ultimate price.

  “All set. Are we ready to go work on the house?”

  He jerked from his thoughts and caught the smile she flashed him. It would melt any man’s heart, including his.

  He rose and walked to the sink, rinsed his cup and placed it in the dishwasher. He pulled her into his arms and kissed the top of her head. Her silky hair was like a caress on his lips. “Thanks for helping. You’ve been a rock through all this, and it means a lot to me.”

  She tipped her head up, gazing at him as if searching for something. “I’m happy to be there for you.” She placed her palm on his cheek. “Even if we weren’t mates, I’d still be your friend.”

  He waggled his brows. “Friends with benefits?”

  She laughed. He loved her laughter. It lightened hi
s heart and made him forget his troubles, even if briefly. He would have to remember to make sure she laughed often. Here I go again, planning a future with her.

  “Well, considering I was teetering on the edge of insanity due to the lack of sex, I’d say it would have been a good possibility.” She traced a finger down the center of his chest. Her lips curled into a seductive smile. “I’m looking forward to sharing a shower with you later.”

  He pulled in a breath. “Darlin’, we’d best be going before I strip you right here and now.”

  He took her hand and pulled her out the door before either of them could change their mind. Elias would be coming over to help them soon, and he didn’t want the younger prince standing around waiting. Brock led Sarah across the sandy beach to the back of his house.

  “Didn’t you say you have a friend coming to help today?” Sarah asked, stepping through the open door.

  “Yep. The prince’s younger brother, Elias.” He watched Sarah’s face turn five shades paler. His gut dropped and filled with dread. “What’s wrong?”

  Sarah licked her lips. “I… I’m sure it’s a coincidence.”

  “What?”

  “The other demon I met…his name was Elias.”

  Brock’s jaw dropped, but he quickly regained his composure. “I don’t know any other demons named Elias, so the chance it’s him is pretty good.” Sarah made a beeline for the door, but before she could pull it open and make the escape she seemed intent on, Brock grabbed her arm. “Where are you going?”

  She swung to face him, panic on her face. “I need to leave before he gets here.”

  He suddenly wondered what had happened between the two of them. Did they have sex, and she’d lied about it? He couldn’t imagine what reason she’d have to not be truthful. “Did he do something to you? Hurt you in some way?”

  She shook her head. “No. I told you he kissed me, but that was it.” She gave a nervous glance out the window then back to him. “He’s your prince. What will he do to you if he finds out you’re the competition?”

  “Elias is a good man, and he’s not going to do anything to me.” He shrugged. “Besides, technically, he is not in charge. His brother is.”

  She tried to pull from his grasp, but he held firm.

  “Sarah, you keep telling me to face my demons and let go of the past. Perhaps, you need to take you own advice.”

  She stopped struggling, sucked in a deep breath then let it out. “You’re right.”

  “Well, well. What do we have here?”

  They both looked up to see Elias standing in the living room. Apparently, he’d come in through the front sliding doors. Brock released his grip on Sarah and crossed the kitchen to where his friend stood, looking a bit confused. Brock extended his hand, and the demon grasped it in a firm shake.

  “It would seem my friend that we share the same mate,” Brock said.

  Elias raised a dark brow. “So you’re my competition?”

  “I guess so.” Brock’s gut dropped. Things had changed. Earlier, he’d wondered if he was worthy of Sarah but had considered giving things a chance. Now? Things had changed. He was no fool and knew damn well Elias was the better man. He could provide everything Brock couldn’t.

  Elias chuckled. “I wondered who was in the area besides us, and now, I know.” He slapped Brock on the back. “I’d wish you luck, but you can understand why I don’t.” Elias moved away and stepped closer to Sarah. “You look lovely. So,” he crossed his arms over his chest, “when do I get my chance to show you the pleasures that awaits you?”

  Sarah was speechless and unsure how to handle the situation currently unfolding before her. Having two mates was bad enough, but this was ludicrous. She sifted through her memory and couldn’t remember hearing about anything like this. Two mates, yes. However, ones who knew each other? Never.

  Guilt settled in her gut and rolled around, causing bile to rise. Part of the process in choosing a mate was having sex. With both of them. Again, normally, this wouldn’t be a problem, but these two were friends.

  “Thanks.” She intentionally ignored his question and cast her gaze in another direction. She couldn’t look at either of them. She shoved her hands deep in her pockets to keep from touching Elias. The need to trace her fingers across his hardened muscles was as alluring as drugs to an addict. Desperate. How the hell am I going to get through this day? The pheromones in the air would drive her to her knees.

  Brock stepped up. “Sarah, would you like to start upstairs with painting while Elias and I work down here getting the kitchen updated?”

  She let a sigh of relief escape. Working on the upper level would at least take some of the edge off. She could only imagine the tingling sensation that would rack her body if she had to witness both men with their shirts off, all slick with sweat.

  Shit. She pinched the bridge of her nose and wondered why she had to conjure that mental image. “I’d love to. Just tell me what I need to do.”

  Brock looked over at Elias. “Do you mind getting started while I show Sarah what needs to be done upstairs?”

  Elias’ brows shot up. “As long as you don’t take unfair advantage.”

  Sarah rubbed her forehead and looked down at the floor, wishing she could slither away. She heard Elias chuckle. Did he think her position she was funny? She lifted her gaze and shot him a menacing look. It was enough to wipe the smirk off his face.

  “Sorry. It seems I’m once again apologizing for my conduct.” He flashed a sexy smile, but this time she would not be placated.

  “Seems so.” She turned and headed for the stairs, not caring if Brock followed or not. She needed space away from both of them so she could think clearly. It didn’t take long before Brock slid in next to her.

  “Look, Elias isn’t that bad. He just has a warped sense of humor sometimes. Once you get to know him, I’m sure you’ll like him.”

  “It sounds like you want me to get to know him better,” she retorted, her nerves on edge.

  “Well, of course, I do. How can you make a sound choice otherwise?”

  Sarah stopped in her tracks and turned to face him, only to realize where she’d ended up. They were in the master bedroom, the place where Brock and Mina used to sleep together. A chill ran up her spine, but she shook it off. Her head needed to be clear. “Are you even in this competition, Brock?”

  He shoved his hands into his jeans pockets. “What do you mean?”

  Right. His body language said it all. Her anger rose until her cheeks felt flushed. “I mean you sound as if you have no intention of fighting for me. For us.” She studied his reaction carefully, looking for any sign she was wrong.

  He rocked back on his heels, giving away nothing. “You know the rules. You must sate your sexual desire for Elias before you can even state there is any us.” He glanced around the room as if only at that moment realizing where he was. He couldn’t hide the sadness in his eyes when he looked to where the bed used to sit. The bed they had once shared.

  “You’re never going to move on, are you?” She fought for control of her emotions, not wanting to be angry with him.

  He met her stare. “Look, I told you I’d take this slow, but that was before I knew about Elias. He’s not damaged like me, Sarah. He will love you and I…I can’t make that promise.”

  Her heart shattered. He would give up a chance at happiness for a dead woman. A cold draft swept past her and caused her to shudder. Brock didn’t seem to notice.

  “If you’re in agreement, I think you and Elias should sleep together tonight. It’s best you figure it out now.”

  “I see.” She headed to the center of the room and began opening the paint can. She knew he was right, and there was no reason to put it off. It was better for all involved. She reined in her emotions. “Will you be joining us then?”

  “I will do whatever you wish. If you want me there, I will be, but the two of you need to spend time together without my touch.”

  She looked up from the pai
nting supplies. “It’s your duty as first chosen to make sure I am safe.” Sarah knew it was a low blow, but at the moment, she didn’t really give two shits.

  “I am well aware of my duty, but I also trust Elias with my life and of course yours. He won’t try to force a mating on you.” There was absolutely no emotion in his voice, and she hated this situation even more.

  “Good. Since you’re aware of the rules, I’ll expect your presence tonight, as well.”

  He nodded. “Shall I inform Elias, or would you like to do the honors?”

  “You can tell him.” She had no desire to face the other man at the moment, too afraid she would lose the last bit of restraint she held on her emotions.

  Brock nodded again then turned and left the room. As soon as the door shut, Sarah let the tears streak down her cheek. She liked Brock, and something deep in her heart said he was the right choice, but could she live without his love? Would he ever come around?

  “Don’t give up on him.”

  She gasped and spun toward the voice. A ghostly woman stood on the other side of the room, and it took her only a second to realize who she was. “Mina.”

  “Yes.” The woman floated closer.

  “Why are you here?” Sarah knew Mina should have moved on to the next plane of existence. She’d never heard of someone coming back once they’d left their world.

  “Brock’s broken heart has kept me grounded here. I can’t move on until he lets go. You are his last hope.”

  Nothing like a little guilt to spice up the pot. “I’m so sorry.” Suddenly, she felt her face flush for what she and Brock had done last night. Had Mina been witness to it? “I-I’m not sure what I’m supposed to do.”

  “He needs to move on. You are his new potential, Sarah. This will be difficult for him, and he is going to need your help.”

  “Are you saying I should choose him? I’m not sure he can ever love me like he does you.” Saying the words hurt.