Jericho

by Nini Church

  Jericho let out a low warning growl as Abe ignored him while sliding the other nylon up in the same fashion.

  With no bra on her incredible breasts were showboating all over the place. Shifting here and there, occasionally revealing a sweet pink nipple or two. His cock was rock hard, balls tight to his body once again. It was going be a long uncomfortable night.

  Her simple white thong and white bra now snuggly encasing his treasures turned his crank. So delicate, so pure. Her dress was also white. Creamy white like her skin.

  Abe shimmied into the beautiful dress, inching the zipper up. “Jericho?”

  Fuck, he loved this mate shit. Doing things for her, being there when she needed him even if it was only a zipper.

  She sucked in her breath as he pulled the zipper up. It fit like a glove. Exactly the way Abe wanted. Swishing around, she waited.

  The cashmere gown was gorgeous. Gold embroidery around a modest neckline and cuffs, it flared just below her hips, soft cashmere clinging to her curves and long legs to pool on the floor. Creamy tops of her full breasts swelled to tantalize, once again drawing his eye.

  “My Queen." He bowed deeply. "Abe, you look incredible. Truly beautiful.”

  “And you look splendid. All in black again. Like usual.”

  “What? I only switched up the shirt. It’s gotta be black.” Tie dangling around his neck, he pulled on the jacket – it was a nice fit. “So, I have a question or two.”

  “Go for it.” Behind the vanity stool, Abe nudged the shoebox with her toe. Her gown was too tight to bend down.

  “Did Elron pack shoes for you? Are you going to wear them and if so for how long?”

  Abe gave Jericho her best winning smile. “I’m working that angle right now. Just can’t get them out of the box. Last question, there’s no telling how long I’ll keep them on. I’m curious about being four inches taller. Kinda like the idea of nuzzling on you or getting in a lick or two because I can. Payoff could be big.”

  A shiver of pleasure drove up his spine and his cock only got harder. Abe was considering keeping her heels on maybe after she lost her dress later this evening when they were alone? Yeah he would run with that – he could never get enough of her.

  Feet buried in thick gel inserts, the white silk heels felt good. But that was always the case at the beginning. It was only when the walking and standing started that told the real horror story of wearing four-inch heels. Readily eyeing Jericho at this new height, a devious smile disappeared before he had time to see it. Yeah, up here was better in lotsa ways.

  By the gleam in Jericho’s deep blue eyes, it was evident he agreed.

  A chime sounded as they passed through wide double doors into a huge room, one wall all windows and furniture grouped comfortably. It was hard to miss the twenty or so huge naked male cherubs – life like naked – arms reaching up, hands holding light sconces, twelve feet tall. Painted gold of course.

  A hush fell over the crowd as Abe smiled, taking a big breath, her ringed finger curled around Jericho’s arm, pink diamond twinkling merrily.

  A large boned, older female converged out of the crowd. “Sir, you honor us. My lady it is a pleasure.” She smiled widely at the new Jinn Queen, eagerly trying to take in every detail and assessing if what she'd already heard was too good to be true. So much was in this world.

  Mamam always a stickler for protocol – and Abe knew not to say a word just yet.

  Jericho glanced around. “Gildwood?”

  “He’ll be right out. Welcome to his home.”

  “Indeed.” Putting on airs was part and parcel of political life and he’d mastered it centuries ago. He was thrilled that Abe was letting him lead as expected. A true Queen to his King. “Lady Melson, may I introduce my mate, Queen Sullivan.”

  Abe held tight to his arm and bowed her head ever so slightly.

  Lady Melson returned the bow deeply. “Again, it is a pleasure to meet you."

  Abe’s answer came automatically. “Well met.”

  "Sir." Lady Melson bowed her chin to Jericho. "Queen Sullivan we have pledges to be presented to you. Can you spare some time? Is it possible?"

  Abe smiled. "Indeed, but Merry..."

  Lady Melson dared to cut the Queen off with a gentle smile. "My apologies, but these pledges are not from the Jinn, but a number of other races."

  "Well that is wonderful news, Lady Melson. Thank you, yes."

  Lady Melson's smile was deep with satisfaction and her watery brown eyes danced. What a treasure! “Do you care for a drink, Queen Sullivan?”

  “Yes something soft, but I would ask a favor of you – please call me Abe.”

  “Er…” Lady Melson sputtered. “Of course, of course. Ah, Abe.”

  Jericho leaned in and in a deep baritone whispered in Abe’s ear. “The shock value never wears off.”

  With only enough time for a quick drink before dinner, Jericho took great pleasure introducing his mate until the gong sounded for dinner. Smugly, he took note many were awed by her just as he was.

  She accepted the new pledges graciously, explaining that each brick purchased could bear a name carved into it and would be placed throughout the first hospital. Abe spoke about setting up panels with non-negotiable no-conflict rules, making it clear to one and all this was never gonna be a money grab.

  Intelligent emerald green eyes told the true tale – anyone caught doing that would answer to Abe.

  Many were too polite to notice Jericho’s heavy contingent of warriors dotting the room. Hard core warriors trying to blend in their monkey suits. They too were enraptured by this female – their new Queen – and they were honored to protect her. Actions to them spoke much louder than words ever could and the way Annabelle Evergreen Sullivan was laying it out – was the real thing. All who needed medical care could find it if her dream came true.

  Dinner was lively, ideas and panels forming as they ate. It was a somewhat short meal; the days of fifteen courses long gone. Roald Gildwood’s chair remained empty, as did that of his mate.

  Mated less than a year, Jericho had an inkling why they weren’t at dinner. If that were the case, he’d do the same for a few extra hours with Abe.

  Afterwards they milled about, mingled and met many. So many Abe forgot who was what or whom. Regally, she carried it off without a sweat, except her shoes were starting to pinch.

  Jericho stayed tight at her side, refusing private conversations, letting Reno and Conn take over the negotiating end of the evening. Earlier in the day, he had briefed his elite team on the results he was after – all while keeping watch and ensuring Abe’s safety.

  So far it was going well – hell Abe was a fucking hit – no doubt about it.

  He noted Matty working the room like a pro, stopping to chat here and there, often laughing loudly. He also noted Zulu closely eyeing Matty’s every move. Inching around on his feet, the tribal warrior was so obviously ready to rip and tear anyone that gave Matty grief.

  To take a break from the crowd, Jericho led Abe over to Reno and Zulu where Reno sat casually sprawled at a small table next to the dance floor.

  “What? You’re not out there busting your moves, swinging your shit around?” Jericho grinned at Reno. “Not much gets by me, you know that. So yeah, Lon shared that you also busted a few moves of your own when you two went into town dancing.”

  Abe smiled sheepishly at the idea of anyone busting their moves.

  Reno hung his head. He’d get Lon for that. Even if it was the truth. He had gotten whipped up on seventies disco, a throw back to what Abe listened to for her music therapy during her amnesia.

  The only time Reno left the dance floor that night was to bang a cute brunette in a closet off the kitchen. He couldn’t do blondes anymore and didn’t want to think about why.

  Zulu stood beside Jericho, keeping a close six. He was antsy – more antsy than usual. He monitored the team inside the big room, but all seemed well. The tribal warrior wasn’t fooled – he was born to follow his ins
tincts and they were telling shit was up somewhere – might even be heading towards them.

  Jericho clapped one hand on Zulu’s shoulder, jostling his big body. “You and me, we gotta have a word about her.”

  Startled, Zulu vigorously shook his head and tried to shift away.

  Jericho’s iron grip kept him in place. “She comes from a very good family, Zu.”

  “Who does? What’s going on?” Abe’s big green eyes full of curiosity roamed back and forth between the two males.

  “Matty.” Jericho threw out.

  Abe stared at Zulu. “So, he’s outing you right now, right here?” She rolled her eyes. “I’m gonna have to work on his timing.” Abe shook her head, face pinking – she didn’t need to know about Matty and Zulu’s personal life.

  Jericho winced, then quickly wiped it away. “Piccola, my timing is just fine.”

  “Nuh, uh. And, your presentation stinks too.” She waved her left hand in the air, diamond flashing as it caught the light from a massive cherub next to her.

  Hooded and surprised, his deep blue eyes glared in her direction. She didn't have to stuff it in his face that he had blown it – giving her the ring the way he did. His female wanted romance and he was gonna have to work that up. Real hard.

  “It’s true, muffin.”

  Reno snorted so hard, spit sprayed just missing Zulu, still eyeing Matty and unaware of the near catastrophe – Zu was a known germophobe.

  Abe preferred not to notice, looking over her shoulder spying a big handsome male and on his arm a gorgeous petite brunette, making their entrance and heading directly for them.

  “Ah finally, Gildwood arrives.” Jericho wore a Cheshire smile, telling he knew exactly why they were so late – both had that great-sex-after-glow. “Thought you might take a pass to your own Gala.”

  Roald Gildwood grinned. “Almost, but we had to show for appearances.”

  Jericho bowed deeply. “My Lady Eshter, beautiful as ever. Allow me to introduce my Queen, Annabelle Sullivan. Abe meet Esh.”

  Both females smiled briefly aware all eyes in the room were on them as they each bowed.

  "Well met," Abe said automatically.

  Esh gushed, “I’m glad to meet you. I love your dress, it’s absolutely divine! Cashmere?”

  “Yes and thank you. Your dress is gorgeous. The color really suits you.”

  Low cut, rich burgundy velvet fell straight down from an empire waist to within an inch of the floor. The deep maroon highlighted the red hints in Eshter’s hair and also accentuated her beautifully smooth complexion.

  Esh smiled widely. “I hope you don’t mind, but cashmere is a new possibility for me.”

  “You have to try it. Truly, it's like wearing a dream and there's no pinching.”

  "Can't say that for my dress. Listen, poke your foot out, I want to see your shoes because I'm going to steal some of your style, girl."

  A wide smile ripped across Abe's face and she laughed. "A female after my own heart. I'm going to give your empire dress a try too." She poked out her foot to reveal sweet silk four inchers with a peep toe.

  "Divine. Are they nubbed silk?"

  "Yeah, I thought it gave them a nice texture. You like? I'm a size six and a half. Just so you know."

  A smile beamed across Eshter's face as she giggled. "Me too, although I can wear a six at times."

  It was wonderful that within minutes they had warmed to one another like old friends who had known each other for ages.

  Roald took the opportunity to study Abe over his mate’s head. The first and last time he saw her, she was covered in blood and badly wounded. He wasn't going into the fact her rescuer was a First Order Giant Kodiak and the biggest of his known kind. Supposed to be extinct too.

  It was easy to appreciate that Abe was down to earth, not only friendly and approachable, but she also had a healthy sense of humor. Queen Sullivan was exquisite in her long white gown with blonde curls dancing down her back, her face glowing.

  Roald couldn’t help but notice Abe carried herself well or that there was a somewhat natural, regal aura about her. Hell, she had to have the lineage to mate Jericho so it went without question she might very well be his equal.

  The big Kodiak shifter smirked. Abe seemed to handle Jericho well too – never imaginable before now. No one had ever managed King of the Jinn and gotten away with it. Without even knowing her, he liked Jericho's new Queen.

  Roald was glad that Esh and Abe were getting along like a house on fire. That was fine with him as his Esh needed female companionship. Besides, he admired and respected Jericho, always had.

  He didn't reveal how much it shook him all to hell and back that King of the Jinn had chosen his Queen – without a fucking hint to anyone nor banns as was the norm with a King taking a mate. Not one word had leaked out before the event and Jericho didn’t obviously query any of those in the know – those who mattered – like the Council of Nine.

  No indeed, King of the Jinn kept his mating under the wire until after it was done.

  It shocked everyone, including him for he never imagined seeing Jericho mated. For centuries he’d spouted his mantra: I’ll never mate.

  CHAPTER 22

  Eyes wide and alarmed, Abe tensed – words dying on her lips as horror struck home. She noted warriors moving towards her, reading her fearful expression as others fanned across the room, scanning faces, seeking out danger.

  Jericho didn't miss it either as the lead warrior signaled him they were fucking on point – danger was near. Taking a moment, he tuned into the vibes and immediately sensed evil. Worried now, he leaned into Abe, folding his hands around her waist and drawing her close. “Myn lykyng?”

  “It’s Amadan! He’s here.” Abe gulped. “Reno, stay close to Jericho, Zulu grab Matty. We need to stay tight.”

  Frightened, Esh blurted, “Who’s Amadan?”

  Abe winced. “He’s Mamam’s Destroyer." She turned to Jericho. "She’ll obviously do anything to get me home.”

  “Ro?” Esh needed reassurance. Their babes only just begun to grow.

  “My love, I’m right here. Stan and Blake are with us and Wim and his crew are close. Jericho has the room blanketed in his warriors not to mention his elite team is surrounding us. No worries, honey." Not wasting any time, Roald asked Abe, "So, you know Amadan personally?”

  Abe nodded, "I do."

  Roald flicked his attention to Jericho. “You know he’s gonna be hard to put down.”

  Jericho blinked rapidly when Abe automatically answered – “Yes. I'm well aware it’ll drain me to hold stasis and go up against Amadan. Stand far enough away from me and no one will be tripped into it.”

  “You?” Roald didn’t care that humor sat on his face as he motioned to Jericho to shut the fuck up. “Why?”

  Abe grimaced before answering, “He’s mine. I want to be the one to take him down.” She spun around surveying Jericho's armed warriors, catching the lead warrior's eye, she signaled him to stand down.

  The lead warrior's eyes darkened, but he nodded acceptance.

  Jericho watched it all and didn't countermand her orders.

  Zulu raced back with Matty tucked into his arms. “What’s plan A?”

  Jericho shook his head. “Don’t have one. Yet. Never met a Destroyer. They’ve a bad rep, Zu.”

  Roald nodded, holding Eshter tighter. “Our females need to leave. We've more than enough warriors between us to keep them safe.”

  Abe shifted away from Jericho’s long reach.

  Near the doorway armed warriors froze in place as the crowd peeled back when a long sinister shadow loomed down the entry hall followed by ominous clanking and jangling.

  Taking a big gulp of air, Abe frantically admitted. “I know his weakness. Please, let me do this. It’s been a long time coming.”

  Clanking and clinking, Amadan strode in eyes sweeping over those gathered, noting the sizable contingent of armed warriors – small boys with toys and nothing but – no worries there.


  The crowd scattered to cluster against walls, all eyes and ears.

  As he turned his head, Amadan spotted his Annabelle. What was left of the crowd parted, giving him a real wide berth.

  It suited him, big as he was.

  Mean as he was.

  He expected deference. His reputation well known amongst these gnats. What they didn't know was that he no longer had a master – he had left Giaa's command only moments before arriving here – to snatch his princess.

  Abe felt the extra beat of a heart deep within, then an echo. She paused only for a second, stepping forward, meeting his hard black eyes before tilting her chin at a regal angle, left hand on her hip, pink diamond glittering.

  Amadan’s attention skittered to the colorful gem she wore on her mating hand. He tore his eyes away and let them wash over her beauty, her famous emerald eyes hard and unforgiving.

  He wanted to destroy what she was – take her freshness and rip it to shreds with his bare hands. Make her bleed and whine for him to stop. He craved her, always had and always would.

  Behind her, Jericho and Roald whispered, no doubt, working out plan A or B. Maybe even plan C. Abe loosened her innate power not letting it touch the Destroyer. But, it did draw from the earthly elements he wore, making them heavier, his body too.

  Amadan’s chains rattled ominously as if he sensed the minute adjustment in weight. Just a slight draw for now and then a little more before Abe harnessed her power so that stasis couldn’t freeze those closest to her. Amadan didn’t so much as twitch, so full of himself he didn’t notice the subtle draw on the elements he wore on his body. No one did.

  Amadan stopped ten feet away, laser black eyes boring into his Princess. Face covered in black tattoos showed his true evil. Few to none ever looked at him for long. Peripherally, he counted how many warriors were around him. Never worried by numbers, he knew he was much stronger and faster than her puny guards.